This review is published on Reedsy/Discovery
As the title indicates, this book is about a horrific anti-semitic event involving a trusted neighbor who may or may not be a wolf in sheep’s clothing. An underlying theme is a woman’s struggle for professional recognition and respect in a predominantly male environment within the FBI. In tandem, these themes are attention-grabbing and carry momentum throughout the book.
The story is compelling and timely, given current geopolitics. The narrative emphasizes heightened awareness of heinous language and the extended violence as a consequence of a distant religious war. The inference is to combat prejudice through vigilance and unity rather than silent protest and desensitization, which too often results from the inability to process grief and horror.
The author focuses on the main characters central to the crime, which includes the bar mitzvah boy (Josh), his parents (Gail and Rich), their friend/attorney (Zach), their neighbor (Chip Ellis), an FBI agent (Clare) and an investigator (Micah). Each character has a backstory, a personal agenda and varied drivers. However, there is a missing element worth exploring relative to the concept that evil hides in plain sight. I think the author could have delved more deeply into how a culprit’s spouse and children can be as clueless as strangers.
The ending is an extraordinary wrap-up, though I found the narrative to be too heavy on sermonizing, unnecessary because the witty dialogue, interesting characters and intriguing chain of events allow the powerful message to stand on its own: “I will not cede ground to these bigots, nor will I remain silent.” The story is strong enough to convey the essence without any exhortation.
I recommend this book as a legal and FBI thriller, particularly in the investigation of hate crimes. This book is part of a series but does not require reading the books previously published.
Disclaimer: I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
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