title: Stained Glass
author: Odom, Patsy
description: Stained Glass is a southern gothic novel narrated by Erin, a curious and intuitive child growing up among eccentric southern characters that she does not always understand. Following her Daddy's advice, she questions everything around her including the ugly southern norms of the 40s and 50s. She experiences loss and deep grief at a young age and finds solace and escape through books and a vivid imagination that skirts on the magical. As a teen, she is drawn to the unknown and captivated by the mysterious Luke who lives on the edge and sweeps her out of her small Southern town. Their tumultuous journey takes Erin down a path of adultery, deceit, violence and ultimate betrayal. She discovers that love can be destructive. The complex Leah, Erin's mother, remains a constant in her life, although vacillating between sisterhood and debilitating darkness. Erin's early nurturing from her father, her spirituality and unconditional love for her children help her survive. Discovering her voice through writing, Erin tells her story of love, forgiveness and healing.   ~ Kim Wright Bayha