John Bastian only sought a temporary escape from his troubles. However, a ski trip with his best friend soon turns macabre with the death of a fellow traveler from a fall and a near-fatal collision with a tree while skiing. Upon his awakening, John is not himself in 2016. He believes he is Jack Bachman from Louisiana in 1978. After a conversation with a concerned doctor, John regains his memory. However, John can’t shake images of a striking redhead from his mind. Haunting images from Bachman’s life plague John and lead him to take a trip to Louisiana. Meanwhile, Scott and Mike hunt for a storied treasure buried deep in the swampy bayou. They don’t know the exact location but they are determined to unearth the loot, even if they have to kill to find it. The men are on a collision course of fate.

Echo from a Bayou begins as a mystery with an uncertain direction, as the fate of John Bastian seems unknown following his accident. However, the story quickly picks up momentum after he gains consciousness from a coma. The possibility of past lives is an inconceivable thought in John’s mind, yet the power of his visions begins to gnaw at his skepticism. The stark clarity of what he sees demands further exploration and his stubborn nature fuels his pursuit.  The segue from 2016 to 1978 moves seamlessly and both aspects of the narrative prove compelling in their drama. John’s benevolent desire to learn more about Bachman is juxtaposed with Scott’s malevolent search for unlimited riches. Author J. Luke Bennecke writes a winning story that hits on themes of greed, love, and spirituality. It is as fast-paced as it is twisty.