The subtitle of Garden of Souls reads, “Fact or Fiction. You be the Judge.” Whether or not author Terry Fulgham based his book on a true story or from his imagination, it is a remarkable read.

We meet Peter Knight and George Martin seconds after the end of the 1965 Michigan State Golden Gloves boxing tournament, Lt. Heavyweight title fight.  Both young men feel battered and beaten. Each prepares to suffer a loss, only to learn that they will share the championship when the fight is declared a draw.

Soon after, Peter enters law school and George goes to jail when he returns to his life of crime. Never close, the two are forever connected by the fight. George learns to accept that he actually lost the fight, while Peter can never acknowledge defeat to a two-bit criminal.

George finds himself pitted against Peter again and again. First, when Peter is an upstart District Attorney and later, when Peter is a Judge. Peter never misses a chance to make George pay for the only defeat of Peter’s life.

Years later, George is finally free of prison. He promises his family that he will give up his criminal lifestyle and never go back to jail. Meanwhile, the ambitious Peter positions himself for the Governor’s mansion. This sets up a rematch of sorts as the two meet once more in a climactic face to face.

I believe this quick read, written much like a screenplay, could become a wonderful motion picture. Fulgham’s writing style is raw and emotional. He captivates readers with the potent and believable story of two intriguing yet very different characters. The ending packs a wallop and is sure to have you drying moist eyes.

I highly recommend Garden Of Souls. If you enjoy great stories, pick up a copy at Lulu or Amazon…you won’t be disappointed.

Highly recommended by reviewer WR Potter for Reader’s Choice Reviews. 5 Stars

Garden Of Souls
Lulu 2009

978-0-557-04918-9