If you’re getting tired of reading the same old, same old, or are starving for something different, come meet Angel and Ice, the stars of Redemption by Susanne M. Beck. Both convicted murderers, like hundreds of their friends and enemies who share living quarters at the state penitentiary, the relationship that evolves between these two will leave you pondering the strengths and frailties of humanity. Why do we do what we do? What lies beneath the masks we wear? Why is it so hard to be honest, especially with those whom we love? And what indeed attracts one person to another? You might be surprised by humanity’s ability to bond, to find love and even some measure of joy and peace in a prison like this. Simultaneously, as deeply as Beck moves and touches us with her story of Angel, Ice, the close members of their “good” gang, the Amazons, and even their kind guards, the author appalls us with the often violent, even murderous activity of the rival gangs and their leaders. Readers see the other side of life in a women’s prison. Susanne Beck spares no details in the often hate-filled and brutal clashes that will leave your head spinning. You come away glad that you are out here and not in there!

It’s impossible to touch on all the wonderful things about Redemption, too many to list here. A well-developed plot, captivating and unforgettable characters, excellent use of dialogue to reveal character and move the story along, graphic detail…Beck has brought it all together beautifully. But while the often ugly details make us wince, it’s the emotions Beck’s characters stir in us that we take away most from reading this brilliant story. It’s fiction, but the way it is delivered makes it so real you wonder if it is perhaps a skillfully masked memoir. Whatever the case, since this is a series, I’m definitely ready to read the two books that come next: Retribution and Restitution. Ice and Angel have grabbed my head and heart. Add this one to your reading list now!