Mark M. Bello

"The Anti-Semite Next Door" is the first Zachary Blake legal thriller I've read; it definitely will NOT be the last. Mark Bello creates an engaging tale by highlighting critically important societal issue (in this case, heinous acts of anti-semitism) through the complexities of our legal/judicial system. He evoked different emotions in me (e.g., empathy, loathing, irritation) for his uniquely crafted characters, which took me along with those characters as they worked to solve the bombing, kidnapping, and other hate crimes that are the basis of the story. Bello's insights into the criminal justice and legal systems, from local police up to the FBI--and the court system--together with the power plays that go on within and between the various layers and players, are fascinating. His knowledge of Jewish rituals and practices, as well as the diversity of Jewish expression, is well presented. Several chapters near the end of the book I thought, "Hmmm--this could almost have come from my own Facebook page" (and no, we don't know each other). I was heartened in the end that Zachary Blake was able to hold out hope that, at least in some instances, true positive change is possible.… (más)

I received an advance copy of this book. Thank you

Although this is the 9th book in the Zachary Blake series, this is the first I've read. I was completely able to enjoy this book without having read the previous ones, but I plan to read this series, starting at book one.
The book is incredibly timely and relevant to current goings on and highlights how insidious bigotry and hate crimes are becoming, and the inequity and old school mindset entrenched in law enforcement; all without being preachy.
The action is fast paced and compelling. Zack Blake, a highly successful lawyer, attends the Bar Mitzvah of the son of his best friend. What should have been a great day, celebrating this milestone, ends up with a bombing at the temple, and the young man and his neighbor being kidnapped.
Zack uses his connections to gather the best and brightest to find young Josh. There are the usual power struggles within law enforcement to be the "lead" on the investigation, that threatens to slow progress. Soon those involved wonder if more than what they originally assumed is at play, and that the players in the kidnapping are more than hateful strangers.
Great Book.… (más)