Fatal Convictions, the most recent offering from Christian fiction author Randy Singer, is a courtroom thriller that deals primarily with idea of listening to one's conscience, despite what one's peers think or say. When attorney Alex Madison, who doubles as a part-time pastor, is faced with a court case in which his client, a Muslim imam, has been accused of a murder, he must do what he thinks is right. The resulting novel is one that readers will find as entertaining as it is thought-provoking.
Singer's experience as a veteran trial attorney shines through clearly, as he paints stunningly accurate court scenes. Throughout the book, unforgettable bonds are forged between Madison and his client's family, with the imam's beautiful daughter playing a surprisingly large role in the story. Filled with beheadings, kidnappings, courtroom battles, and an unexpected romance, Fatal Convictions continually sparks interest.
After Madison agrees to defend Khalid Mombassar, a prominent Muslim leader, Alex's church, already skeptical of Madison's abilities as a preacher, immediately becomes enraged. Despite the immense pressure from Madison's church and the general public, Alex continues to stay on the case, refusing to believe that Mombassar is guilty. Madison is met with a backlash of vengeance and emotion, but he perseveres, choosing to stand up for his convictions.
There is a fine line between being faithful and being stubborn. Fortunately, Alex is rewarded in the end, and is seen as an incredibly faithful lawyer. As a result, he is viewed as a brilliant example of Christianity by the Muslims, who are exceptionally grateful for his services. Though the book never overtly states that Mombassar and his family are converted to Christianity, it can be assumed that the family gained much respect for Christians in general and began to doubt some aspects of the Islam religion.
I fully enjoyed Randy Singer's Fatal Convictions. I found the book to be a compelling story and highly stimulating. Some readers may lose some interest in the court scenes, due to the legal jargon coupled with their slightly repetitive nature, but I still consider Fatal Convictions to be one of the better books I have read this year. Daniel Wenger, www.ChristianBookPreviews.com
