Review of The Newton Code

[Danielle Swensen]

[Following is a volunteer review of "The Newton Code" by Liam Fialkov.]

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3 out of 4 stars

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In The Newton Code, by Liam Fialkov, Michael, an investigative journalism teacher and agnostic, is enlisted by a colleague to spy on a group of Christian fanatics and stop a religious war inspired by Newton's studies of the Bible. Under cover as a fellow cult follower, Michael is shocked to find that these aren't stereotypical fanatics but generally good, Christian people, with a thriving – albeit hidden – community and deep respect and love for their leader and each other. As he gets to know these Christians and their leader at an intimate level, it becomes increasingly and emotionally difficult for Michael to continue his facade and finish his objective. His experiences also further invoke him to reexamine his relationship with his wife as well as his beliefs about God.

To provide background to the story, the book switches between modern times and ancient days, telling the violent and tragic history of Jerusalem's temple through the eyes of children, who would witness more horror and bloodshed than most of today's children.

For the most part, I actually enjoyed the book. The word-flow was smooth, and it was interesting to see the different religious viewpoints as outlined by the author. Even though I, myself, have faith, I found Michael relatable as I experienced with him his doubts, questions, and spiritual experiences that led to even more questions.

I didn't find much of any grammatical errors, though there were occasional typos and some few commas that I felt were out of place.The one major issue I had with this book was that there was one part that many – especially members of more conservative faiths – will find inappropriate and that might make such readers uncomfortable: it is strongly implied that a married man has a sexual affair with someone else's wife. Though details leading to the specific event are somewhat mature in nature, the actual deed isn't shown “on-screen”. However, this isn't portrayed in a positive light at all, the character later experiences immense grief and shame at what he had done, and it's implied that there are going to be some repercussions. Instead of invoking lusts, readers might more likely take this as a powerful, even painful lesson in staying faithful and avoiding temptation. The other warning I have in that area is that this might bring back some bad memories to readers who have experienced the pain of adultery.

Overall, I'd give this book 3 out of 4 stars. The writing is well-done, the story is as gripping as any, and though I wouldn't say that the novel casts any doubt regarding faith, the viewpoints and experiences the characters undergo make readers think critically and quizzically about faith, history, and the scriptures.

I do believe this book was professionally edited. As mentioned above, there are some adult elements, with one part in particular rendering my recommendation that this book be reserved for adults. I would also add that this book, though it seems to lean toward Christian faith, doesn't take any religious side; people of various faiths – or even of no faith – might find themselves enjoying this novel. Those who enjoy a good sci-fi mystery, especially, might find this an interesting and thought-provoking adventure.

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The Newton Code
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