Rooted In Deception
From Laura Churchill Duke, award-winning author of Two Crows Sorrow, comes Rooted in Deception, another true-crime story in rural Nova Scotia.
A con man is on the move in the early 1900s, spinning stories, turning heads, and lifting whatever is not nailed down. He spins tale after tale into a web that entangles credulous Nova Scotians–until he takes one step too far. Secret identities, deception, and greed escalate to murder.
Rooted in Deception follows the career of John Kavanagh from scheme to scheme and lie to lie, from narrow escapes to the prisoner’s dock in court.
But are his troubles all of his own doing? Or is there a plot by his enemies? Is there a case for mercy for a man who may deserve none?
The author draws on newspaper articles, trial transcripts and actual letters from the accused to tell the true story of a crime spree that ends in death. She brings the dry text of the public record to life by creating scenes, encounters, and conversations as they may have happened.
Rooted in Deception follows Two Crows Sorrow, which was awarded the 2020 Bronze Award for best creative non-fiction by the Miramichi Reader and has sold thousands of copies since its publication in 2019. Both books are available from Moose House Publications, moosehousepress.com.
Praise for Rooted in Deception
I really enjoyed reading Rooted In Deception. You brought all the fascinating characters to life in this compelling murder story.
Laura Churchill Duke is a natural-born storyteller. You will love her writing!
~Dan Zupansky, Host of True Murder-The Most Shocking Killers podcast
“Two Crows Sorrow is a terrifying and fascinating rendering of a true story which should never be forgotten.”
“As I read the book, the details spoke to my imagination. I needed to visit the sites–to be in the spaces and filling my senses. I love it when words on a page come alive, compelling me to acknowledge our ancestors. Thank you, Laura, for telling our herstories..”
“ Theresa McAuley Robinson’s memory was almost obliterated in a hundred years. Laura Churchill Duke can be thanked for helping to preserve the mystery around Theresa and her fate. From tiny, tucked-away Burlington, Kings County, N.S., Theresa represents many innocent women. Churchill Duke tells an exciting story that allows someone who might be termed an exemplary farmwife and mother to represent so many women then and now.”
“Laura easily transported me to a different place and time, tugging all the way on all my senses and my heartstrings, with her use of history, colourful imagery and flowing dialogue.”
Lori Lewis
Petal and Crow Studio
“Laura easily transported me to a different place and time, tugging all the way on all my senses and my heartstrings, with her use of history, colourful imagery and flowing dialogue.”
Lori Lewis
Petal and Crow Studio
“For the first time in a long time I let myself get lost in a book. I’m typically easily distracted and jump from one thing to another, but yesterday I picked up this book from local author Laura Churchill Duke and didn’t want to put it down until I finished it. I could feel myself sweating in the hot Kentville courthouse during the summer of 1904. Get yourself this book, enjoy a terrific read, and support one of the hardest working local women I know.
Congrats Laura. I loved it!!!"
Lori Moore
“Laura easily transported me to a different place and time, tugging all the way on all my senses and my heartstrings, with her use of history, colourful imagery and flowing dialogue.”
Lori Lewis
Petal and Crow Studio
“I am on the edge of my seat. I feel like I can see everything up there the way it was.”
Candy O’Brien
Valley Ghost Walks
“A heartbreaking story reminding us that the “good ole days” weren’t always that good.”
Wendy Robicheau
Acadia University archivist
“Theresa McAuley Robinson’s memory was almost obliterated in a hundred years. Laura Churchill Duke can be thanked for helping to preserve the mystery around Theresa and her fate. From tiny, tucked-away Burlington, Kings County, N.S., Theresa represents many innocent women. Churchill Duke tells an exciting story that allows someone who might be termed an exemplary farmwife and mother to represent so many women then and now.”
Wendy Elliot
Journalist. Kings County Advertiser
“Two Crows Sorrow is a terrifying and fascinating rendering of a true story which should never be forgotten."
Christy Ann Conlin
Author. Watermark, The Memento and Heave
“This book... this story... you must read it. I devoured it! I couldn't put it down. I feel like I know the family. I wish I could have been at courthouse and to watch it. Great job Laura... I cant wait for your next!"
Kate Trevors
“I was eagerly awaiting the release of this book by local author Laura Churchill Duke and it did not disappoint!
I loved reading about the Valley in 1904; the struggles, the tight knit community life and the descriptions of the area.
When you close the cover of this book, Theresa's story will not be left there in the pages, she'll stay with you..."
Linda, Port Williams
Laura I just read your book- I loved it!! I couldn’t put it down!!
I felt you took me back in time and I could visualize myself as a bystander on the farms, coming up the tree- lined lanes and as one of the spectators at the trial.
The medical “stuff” was spot-on. The characters were very real. The history was fascinating to learn. And the “after- piece” was a real treat- I wasn’t expecting that- it finished the whole story so well.
Now- I am not a professional literary critic but I know what I like! I think you have great promise in the future if you choose to continue writing! ( I shall wait for your next book and will definitely recommend “Two Crows” to my Book Club!
Camille, Wolfville
