Review of The Brushy Ridge Militia

Nazma P · Post by **Nazma P** » 25 Apr 2025, 10:44

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "The Brushy Ridge Militia" by Roger Chiocchi.]

4 out of 5 stars

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When losing a loved one to gun violence gets tangled with political inaction, the aftermath can be unimaginable. Roger Chiocchi's "The Brushy Ridge Militia" explored how grief can morph into a radical, constitutionally debated call for change. You'll find yourself in a never-ending conflict between the heart and mind as you read through this heart-wrenching, poignant narrative.

The story centers around the result of a mass school shooting at Brushy Ridge High School in Ohio. The horrific event cost the lives of eleven children and a teacher, who lost her life while trying to protect a student. It sent a shock wave throughout the community. This tragic event brought attention to the gun laws of the state of Ohio. The lack of appropriate legislation that allows anyone 18 years old and above to buy an assault weapon without any background check. The deeply affected parents of the victims felt compelled to make a change, to bring more restricted gun laws. They first sought change through conventional means, by protesting and attempting to meet with government officials. However, all they got in return was indifference and ignorance. Especially from the speaker of the house, Frederick Grantham, who appears contemptuous of their suffering and influenced by the powerful gun lobby.

Extremely disappointed and frustrated with the lack of response, the parents started to question the very structure of their government. One of them, named Hank Patrick, who's a lawyer, drawing on an interpretation of the Second Amendment, proposed to the group of parents to form a "citizen militia" to challenge what in their eyes is a "tyrannical and unresponsive federal government." They decided to commit an extremely audacious act of civil disobedience, which included taking Speaker Grantham hostage and forcing him to hear their plea for bringing reasonable gun control legislation to a vote. The story details their careful planning, acquiring necessary resources, and executing this complex, risky operation. Their intention was never to harm the speaker but to make their case directly to him. From here, you are not ready for how the events will unfold.

One aspect that truly stands out to me is the intense emotional core of the book. The raw grief and pain of the parents were so palpable and vivid that my heart ached for them. The author's ability to evoke such strong emotions within readers deserves commendation. The unbearable pain of the parents also set the foundation for their actions. As a reader, I can feel their urgency to bring more restrictive gun laws and why they went as far as defying the law. The book also offers a bold and thought-provoking exploration of the Second Amendment.

It was astonishing to witness how the characters, being ordinary people, planned the kidnapping with such meticulousness. The execution of the mission was the most intense part for me to read. When I reached the end part of the book, I literally wept at that one sentence that fulfilled my whole reading experience. That one dialogue from the conversation between Hank Patrick and Steven DiSimone during a call was the most anticipated moment for me. I can't say much because of the risk of giving away spoilers. But you will understand what I'm talking about as you read the book.

I do want to mention that I was a little disappointed when I noticed that there was a detail that was missing from the narrative. After the tragedy, we get to know about every parent's whereabouts. But there wasn't any information about the parents of Austin McGuirk. Although they were not part of the group that fought for change, and that's probably why the author didn't mention them, I felt like it created a gap. Their perspective was also important because, given the circumstances, their sufferings were probably even more cruel than the other parents involved. I can't say much because of spoilers, but as a reader, I felt curious to know about their whereabouts.

I only noticed a few errors. Given my reading experience, I rate this book 4 out of 5 stars. The book offers a depthful, heartfelt, yet contemplative and politically charged story. It forces the reader to grapple with difficult questions about political efficacy, the nature of resistance, and the interpretation of fundamental rights in modern society. I recommend this book to anyone interested in novels that blend intense emotional depth with sharp political commentary and a unique look at constitutional debates. This was a challenging yet engaging read for me.

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The Brushy Ridge Militia
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Hills Christopher Albert · Post by **Hills Christopher Albert** » 25 May 2025, 11:25

Wow, this review really moved me. It sounds like The Brushy Ridge Militia doesn’t shy away from tough truths and moral complexities. I’m intrigued by how it explores grief, political frustration, and the Second Amendment through such raw, emotional storytelling. Definitely adding this to my reading list.

Nazma P · Post by **Nazma P** » 25 May 2025, 13:54

Hills Christopher Albert wrote: ↑25 May 2025, 11:25 Wow, this review really moved me. It sounds like The Brushy Ridge Militia doesn’t shy away from tough truths and moral complexities. I’m intrigued by how it explores grief, political frustration, and the Second Amendment through such raw, emotional storytelling. Definitely adding this to my reading list.

Thank you so much for your thoughts. It indeed was a thought-provoking yet an intensely emotional read. I can assure you, that you wouldn't be disappointed if you decided to read this book. Once again, I appreciate your comment.