Oz is a former Iraq war veteran with Islamic leanings. He was apprehended and tortured by a former Iraqi “interrogator”(Nazir) who now works for the CIA. When Oz, who has now become Omar al-Jabbar, visits Kincaid, he explains that the CIA now sees him as a terrorist. While he admits that he works for a non-profit organization that protests the Patriots Act, and, in fact, dates the founder’s sister, Mina, he swears he is not a terrorist. He wants Ben to help him sue the people who wrongfully imprisoned him.
Things become more complicated when Nazir is murdered and Oz is found at the scene with a weapon. Kincaid is now embroiled in the toughest case of his career and needs the help of all of his friends and colleagues to save his client and himself. As always, Bernhardt sets his story in Oklahoma City, and I find his descriptions and references an enhancement to the story.
When one reads a series, an investment in the characters' lives becomes inevitable, and Bernhardt’s books are no exception. Kincaid’s relationships with his wife, sister and colleagues make us root for this nice guy who really wants to believe that his client is innocent. While I feel that the author might be using the novel as a forum for his political beliefs every now and again, it is his book to do with as he pleases. The story is definitely relevant politically, and I am looking forward to Bernhardt’s next book.
- Beverly
Publisher - Babylon Books
Date of Publication - October 21, 2017