Books published by publisher Houghton

MOTHER LODE is an Amazon Bestseller and a finalist in fiction in the 2012 Amazon International Contest. It is a psychological mystery set in a Michigan mining town at the turn of the 20th century. Sheriff Foster tries to uncover the mysterious death of a town woman whose nineteen year old son is in jail as a suspect. What he discovers is shocking—about the mother-son relationship. What he does with this knowledge is both ingenious and affirming.SAMPLE REVIEWS"The memorable characters (Sheriff Foster, Jorie Radcliff and his mother Catherine) in Mother Lode by Carol Sheldon pulled me into the story-world and I did not want to leave them. I encourage writers to study this novel and learn Ms. Sheldon's (also she's a playwright) page-turning techniques. From first hook to crisis, to climax, to resolution--all beautifully plotted and narrated. Mother-Son relationship--edgy, innocent or guilty? Stunning story. What a reading experience!" . . .Teresa LeYung-Ryan, story-consultant and writer's platform-building coach; author of Love Made of Heart and of Writer's Platform & Fanbase In 22 Days."Ms. Carol Sheldon, in her wonderful novel, Mother Lode, creates a world of harsh winters filled with tragedy and hope. She explores many of the darker areas of children who are forced to grow up under the fearful mercies of their parents and the introverted communities they live in. It is a story of love and pain, of excess, and of secrets. I enjoyed this book. The writing is excellent and the story telling is even better." . . Gregory C. Randall, author of thrillers, novels and non-fiction."Carol Sheldon is a master story-teller. The historic details, the film noir atmosphere, and the gradual revelations of each of the characters and their motivations are superb. From the first foreboding moment to the startling conclusion, this is a true page turner. I could not put it down." . . Vicki Weiland, book doctor.

Mother Lode is a psychological mystery set in a Michigan mining town at the turn of the 20th century. Sheriff Foster tries to uncover the mysterious death of a town woman whose nineteen year old son is in jail as a suspect. What he discovers is shocking—about the mother-son relationship. What he does with this knowledge is both ingenious and affirming.