The Finder of Forgotten Things

Written by Sarah Loudin Thomas

Narrated by Pilar Witherspoon

It’s one thing to say you can find what people need—it’s another to actually do it.

It’s 1932 and Sullivan Harris is on the run. An occasionally successful dowser, he promised the people of Kline, West Virginia, that he would find them water. But when wells turned up dry, he disappeared with their cash just a step or two ahead
of Jeremiah Weber, who was elected to run him down.

Postmistress Gainey Floyd is suspicious of Sulley’s abilities when he appears in her town but reconsiders after new wells fill with sweet water. Rather, it’s Sulley who grows uneasy when his success makes folks wonder if he can find more than
water—like forgotten items or missing people. He lights out to escape such expectations and runs smack into something worse.

Hundreds of men have found jobs digging the Hawks Nest Tunnel—but what they thought was a blessing is killing them. And no one seems to care. Here, Sulley finds something new—a desire to help. With it, he becomes an unexpected
catalyst, bringing Jeremiah and Gainey together to find what even he has forgotten: hope.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Recorded Books, Inc.
• Release date: Dec 7, 2021
• ISBN: 9781705039274

Sarah Loudin Thomas

Sarah Loudin Thomas is the ECPA bestselling author of numerous acclaimed novels and winner of the 2021 Selah Book of the Year and of the 2015 INSPY Award. She has worked in public relations for Biltmore Estate and was the founding director of Jan Karon's Mitford Museum. She now divides her time between writing and leading a ministry serving foster and adoptive families. Learn more at SarahLoudinThomas.com.

Reviews for The Finder of Forgotten Things

[Christy Janes · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

This was my first experience reading this author, and it certainly won't be my last! Each one of these characters - Sulley, Jeremiah, Gainey - felt like living, breathing people. Sulley was not a very likable character at first, having stolen all the money from the hardworking people of a small town, but he grew on me. He started feeling guilty for his past sins, and sought a way to make up for them as he ambled from place to place. I especially loved the scene where he found the button that's pictured on the front cover.

Jeremiah was determined to find Sulley, but stumbled upon Gainey and things changed in more ways that one. Lots of sub-characters found their way into the story, too, which made it that much more delightful to read.

Readers who enjoy Chris Fabry will love this book set in the hills of Appalachia. I also recommend listening to the audiobook if you have the opportunity as the narrator did a marvelous job conveying all the emotion in the story.

[ellenh_28 · Rating: 3 out of 5 stars]

A sweet, unexpected book with surprising depth. Surrounds the Hawks Nest Tunnel tragedy with consideration and dwells on the surrounding characters lives, their hopes and growth. Like a good historical fiction story it makes one curious to look into the events written about.

[khoyt-43756 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Set against the backdrop of a real-life tragedy in depression-era West Virginia, Sarah Loudin Thomas has written a well-crafted novel as unpredictable as it is heart-wrenching. Her wonderful characters are inspirational and great world-builders. The novel reminds us all that family is of utmost importance. We must not judge others. We must forgive and ask for forgiveness.

[beautyinthebinding · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

The Finder of Forgotten Things by Sarah Loudin Thomas thoroughly entertained me with its characters. Sulley Harris, a charming scoundrel who dowses for water, fascinated me with his occupation and mindset. Gainey Floyd inspired me with her intelligence, love of poetry, and unselfishness. Jeremiah Weber served as the handsome, strong hero, but became far more than that. I loved the way these characters’ relationships tied together. Sulley inexplicably wants to earn Gainey’s good opinion and slowly steps toward integrity. Jeremiah and Sulley provide comic relief through their unlikely friendship. Gainey and Jeremiah find themselves romantically drawn to each other after spending most of their lives single. Unexpectedly, the entwining of their lives opens new opportunities for each of them.

Beyond the character dynamics, The Finder of Forgotten Things by Sarah Loudin Thomas examines the long-lasting effects of societal judgment, the creation of family outside of blood relationships, the racial tensions of the Great Depression Era, and the tragedy of the Hawks Nest Tunnel construction. This novel had the potential to be a heavy read, but focuses on the main characters rather than the horrific happenings at the Hawks Nest Tunnel. The story possesses depth and authenticity without being depressing.

The Finder of Forgotten Things lands as the third book by Sarah Loudin Thomas that I’ve read. In each novel, I’ve enjoyed her writing, characters, and unique settings. I recommend this story for Christian fiction readers who enjoy a satisfying historical tale. 4.5 Stars!

Disclosure of Material Connection: I was provided a copy of this book by the author or publisher. All opinions in this review are my own.

[fcplcataloger · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

I must confess that I took longer than usual to read The Finder of Forgotten Things, because I wanted to savor this absolutely stunning book. It's obvious that Sarah Thomas Loudin has invested much love and research to spotlight this West Virginia tragedy by creating characters that I won't forget, a faith message that should never be overlooked, and a history lesson that must never be forgotten. In 1931, Gainey Floyd is still looking for the baby that she had to give up many years ago, and Jeremiah Weber's efforts to find a con man is taking him on a journey he never expected to make. Sullivan Harrison is that charming con man, and he is proof positive that good can be found in everyone, even if it's buried deep inside. I loved the special chemistry between Gainey and Jeremiah, and I found myself caught up with the possibility that Sulley could be Gainey's son. There are many surprises, with many twists and turns, but there is no disappointment in the connections that are about to be forged in Mount Lookout, West Virginia!

This book isn't light and fluffy, because there is sadness and heartbreak for the miners affected by the Hawks Nest Tunnel disaster at Gauley Bridge, West Virginia. Thomas poignantly portrays the hurt and despair, and the ill treatment from our government. There is, however, joy and hope in her depiction of man's overwhelming urge to love and the universal need to belong. Thomas is a masterful storyteller, and The Finders of Forgotten Things is a beautifully written testament to the power of love, faith, and family. This heartwarming book has gained a spot on my keeper shelf!

I received a copy of this book from the author and publisher, but there was no obligation for a favorable review. These are my own thoughts.

[estherfilbrun · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

What an excellent book! For once, this book sucked me in from very early on, which is quite unusual for me. Not a lighthearted read; the historical side was quite heavy, but I loved the grace and skill Thomas showed as she pulled the whole story together. This wasn’t an easy story to tell, but I’m grateful she chose to tell these men’s stories. They deserve to be remembered. Where it could have ended up quite discouraging, it had a sweet ending, and I think I’m the better for it. A great story, and highly recommended (aside from the water witching element, which I didn’t appreciate so much).

I was given a review copy of this book, and this is my honest opinion of it.

[alekee_1 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

This story begins in 1932 in West Virginia, and is set with so many emotions, there will be tears and smiles, and you will be quickly turning pages for answers. I'll admit my mind went to the TV show The Walton's, and in a way the time period is the same. Times are hard, but come and meet Gainey, Jeremiah, and Sulley, wonderful characters, all with flaws but we see how much they care for their fellow man.

I didn't know about the Hawks Nest Tunnel, but it made me so upset, so much injustice, for me I remember part of a song the said, you owe your soul to the company story, and it sure played out here.

I loved the way this story played out, and what a great ending!

I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Bethany House, and was not required to give a positive review.