Jonathan

As usual Flanagan has created a story that entertains and teaches at the same time. Bullys who wound through words and deeds, personal and interpersonal challenges (alcoholism, facing disabilities, etc) all addressed through the bonds of friendship and teamwork. Great for kids and something for adults too.

Grisham takes a different tact in this book. A lawyer in jail (hmmm) entertaining but the narration is slow and plodding. The book is predictable, including the ending, but it is an enjoyable story for a long trip in the car.

I was 4 when the President was shot and yet I can still remember where I was and what I was doing. The men in this story are remarkable and dedicated. Their emotional pain over what they perceived as a failure to protect the President is so carefully detailed and thus you can not help but empathize with their experiences.
It is a true rendering of the life of those who protect the President then and now, and how the men (and now) women who provide for the President's safety givie up their commitment to their own families. In times like, where we are always on the brink of conflict, I can not help but implore audible readers to read this book and applaud the dedication of the Secret Service of today.

RR is at this best here. One can see that he is building to the climax of the story to date. Characters are getting closer and closer to each other. Its narrative foreplay..Can wait till it culminates.