Bernie Lambek

This is a well written book that explores human character through investigations into freedom of speech and religion. The plot is along a legal vein but it is backed by well-rounded characters that are earnestly working through issues. The book does a good job at explaining the framework behind defending free speech regardless whether or not that speech is popular. It also discusses the limits of free speech protections but I was amused that he cited the fire is a crowded theater example from an overturned case about protesting the draft during WWI.

The early part of the book was frustrating for me to read because I don't like it when people, either real or literary, try to advocate for God in a way that doesn't reflect Christ's love. That being said, the book does a good job at showing good intent behind all the characters and how good intent can lead to immoral, or illegal, actions. I would have liked to have seen more of this developed early on directly from the works of the young, Christian man but I still appreciated that the reasoning was well done. Assuming good intent is something that people on both sides aren't doing enough and is crucial in fostering good dialog and debate. /soapbox

I also enjoyed seeing the character and issue development as the story progresses and facts are unveiled. One of the things that attracts me to stories is seeing characters change and what prompts that whether it be for the better (like in Beauty and the Beast) or worse (like in Mad Max). There were both legal and moral back and forths involving different characters in different parts of the plot. This showed the complexity of the issues and that people aren't always all right or all wrong. Several of the characters shift perspectives as they consider not only the law but their own actions and the actions of others.… (mais)

This legal mystery was especially enjoyable because of its Montpelier Vermont setting, but it could have taken place in any community at this time. When the local high school raises a Black Lives Matter flag, another student group demands to raise a flag for gun rights, and threatens violence against the BLM supporters. The main character Sarah is kidnapped by a staunch believer in the second amendment in order to demand that the case against the threateners be dismissed. The dialogue of the characters sounds authentic and makes them seem like people you know. The amount of legal exposition, however, seems excessive as normal conversation, and some of it might have been included in author's notes. Still, this book resonates in view of current events and today's divisive attitudes, and highlights some of the issues communities are facing today.… (mais)

The story is about a kidnapping of a woman, Sarah, who is an activist for BLM and white supremacy. It reads more like a factual news story than a novel. A lot of background filler, as I would call it that doesn’t move the plot. Didn’t think it was a mystery. Also, the partner looking for her happens near the end of the book, and is not the primary plot. There are thought provoking questions with especially what is happening in our country now, but I couldn’t get into the story, plot or even the characters. It was a quick read but left me empty.… (mais)