The Waking Bell

In a town ruled by whispers, one girl hears the truth no one else dares face.

In the shadow of the Appalachian Mountains during the final years of WWII, Cady Blue lives on the edges of Oak Flatt—poor, misunderstood, and burdened with the “bells” in her head that set her apart. Taken in by her refined grandmother yet never fully accepted, Cady walks a fragile line between two worlds—one of dignity, the other of quiet judgment.

But when a child goes missing and suspicion spreads like wildfire through the tight-knit community, long-buried secrets begin to surface. As rumors twist into accusations, Cady finds herself at the center of a storm fueled by jealousy, lies, and a darkness no one wants to name.

If the truth comes out, it could destroy everything—families, reputations, and the fragile sense of belonging Cady has fought to claim. But staying silent may cost even more.

For readers who love atmospheric Southern fiction rich with heart, mystery, and moral complexity, The Waking Bell will stay with you long after the final page.

What readers are saying...

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "Reminds me of William Faulkner and Harper Lee." — Goodreads

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "Jackie Weger writes fluently, understandably, makes it flow with pitch and power." — Read Along with Sue

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "Ms. Hines’s books have such a rich, vibrant epic feel to them." — Goodreads

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "Brilliant! You can’t read this book and not be affected. The main characters are real, their struggles evident." — Goodreads