The Poison Flood is a novel written by Jordan Farmer. The story revolves around the life of Hollis Bragg, a hunchbacked man who lives on the fringes of society. Hollis is the son of a West Virginia hill preacher and currently resides in rural isolation next to the burned-out remains of his father’s church.

Hollis earns his living by ghostwriting songs for a popular band that has distanced itself from the poverty and corruption of Appalachia. The band members have left their hometown behind and achieved success elsewhere, while Hollis remains stuck in his isolated existence.

The book explores themes of isolation, poverty, and the struggle to escape one’s circumstances. Hollis’ physical deformity adds another layer to his sense of being an outsider in society. He grapples with feelings of inadequacy and yearns for a different life, but is unable to break free from the constraints that hold him back.

As Hollis continues to ghostwrite songs for the band, he becomes increasingly disillusioned with his own situation. He witnesses the stark contrast between his own life and the success enjoyed by those he writes for. This stark contrast serves as a catalyst for Hollis’ internal journey, as he begins to question his own worth and purpose.

Throughout the novel, Farmer delves into the complexities of Appalachian culture and the impact of poverty on individuals and communities. The story sheds light on the struggles faced by those living in rural areas, where opportunities are limited and escape seems almost impossible.

The Poison Flood is a poignant exploration of identity, ambition, and the search for meaning in a world that often seems indifferent. It delves into themes of social inequality, personal growth, and the power of dreams. Through Hollis’ journey, readers are invited to reflect on their own aspirations and consider what it truly means to find fulfillment in life.

Overall, The Poison Flood offers a thought-provoking narrative that delves into the human condition and the complexities of societal expectations. It is a story that resonates with readers, highlighting the universal desire for purpose and the struggle to overcome adversity.

• The Poison Flood

• By: Jordan Farmer
• Narrated by: Will Damron

A gripping, gritty and tender story about a reclusive musician and the local disaster that threatens his small town and changes his life forever.

Hollis Bragg lives on the edge. The humpback son of a hill preacher in West Virginia, he now lives in the isolated countryside next to the burned ashes of his father’s church, and makes a living writing ghost songs for a popular band that has left the poverty and corruption of Appalachian and never looked back. It’s the life he enjoys, without the harsh glares and constraints that only lead to heartache.

Then, to his amazement, he is discovered by Russell Watson, a local musician and fan who also happens to be the rebellious son of the local chemical company magnate. When a devastating toxic spill at the Watson chemical plant poisons the local water supply, it triggers a series of unpredictable events as Hollis witnesses a murder, confronts shocking betrayal, and begins to come to terms with her body and past.

Hollis will soon realize that by losing his identity and regaining his music, he can change his future; and when he opens his heart to the world, he can find salvation.

This book is very engaging and not at all what I expected. Well written and the various subplots are tied together in an ending that I didn’t expect. So glad I branched out and gave this book a chance!

Farmers paint a beautiful and wonderful vision of what life in rural Appalachia would be like. His characters are very developed and jump off the page. Those you choose The Poison Flood up, you can not sit down. From start to finish, it explores the dark heart of small-town West Virginia, and no one shot this site better than Jordan Farmer.

I absolutely love The Poison Flood. I can’t put it down. The colorful characters pulled me into the story line and made me feel their emotions. The novel is filled with actions and events that keep the reader engaged. The setting perfectly matches the characters and makes the story more engaging.

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