ISBN: 0-7887-2193-3 Order from: Recorded Books Amazon.com
Both an investigation and a portrayal of life in a small New England town, the novel features likable characters and Temple politics.
Reviewed by David on December 05, 2004
Genre: Mystery (Amateur Sleuth, Jewish)
Synopsis: David Small is the rabbi of the small Jewish community in Baranrd's Crossing, Massachusetts. When an elderly man dies during a fierce storm, the suspicion is thrown on some sort of medical error. But Rabbi Small, along with his friend the chief of police are not convinced. In addition to the "bad medicine", Rabbi has to contend with the highly religious group within a congregation. Not only does he not approve of their practice, he disagrees with the disposition of the property willed to the Temple. Will the Rabbi survive the political infighting?
Full Review: The investigation of the death of an elderly congregant slowly interleaves with a religious conflict in the Temple, giving the Rabbi—and the author—the leave to lecture on Judaism. Despite the lectures, however, most of the plot moves well, and the resultant conflicts create suspense.
This cosy mystery is pleasant, and the human interactions portrayed show mostly appealing if cantakerous and stubborn characters.
Overall: 6; Plot: 6; Characters: 6; Style: 5.5; World-building: 6; Originality: 6;
Copyright date 1976, Recorded Books, 1998, Audio cassette, 6 Cassettes
ISBN: 0-7887-2193-3 Order from: Recorded Books Amazon.com