Official Review: Money Matters by Brian Finney

EmunahAn · Post by **EmunahAn** » 14 Feb 2019, 01:18

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "Money Matters" by Brian Finney.]

4 out of 4 stars

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In his brief and outstanding novel, Money Matters, Brian Finney explores and reveals modern issues prevalent in the Los Angeles Area, especially on matters pertaining to immigration.

To her sister Tricia, Jenny appears to be weak-willed, too trusting of people and also a walk-over. However, Jenny only sees the world differently. Even when surrounded by political drama, bigotry, and materialism she is one of the few who chooses to be empathetic and not make all her important decisions based only on money. Unfortunately for her, Jenny is caught up in the whirlwind going on, making her question her own decisions and point of view. In the end, she will have to learn to stand up for herself and fight for what she believes in but not before she is able to get rid of the toxic people around her and survive the threats of a ruthless drug cartel.

The feature of the book that I appreciated the most was its inclusion of modern and relatable matters. The author adeptly explores the topic of immigration while revealing the unfortunate lives of some of the victims. Brian Finney discerns political agendas and discloses self-centered intentions. Ultimately, the author seeks to challenge the reader to become cognizant of the drivers behind various political plots before making a decision on whom and what to support.

The life of Tricia, a driven and opinionated person who ascribes to popular notions is paralleled to that of Jenny, the main character. The comparison between their outlooks on politics, career choices, and life, in general, is used to bring out the ideas of two opposing sides that are popular in our modern world. Jenny, as the main character is expertly developed to represent the voice of the minority who find themselves questioning their own unpopular believes.

Most of the scenes and dialogues in the book are suspenseful which makes the novel even more captivating. Jenny faces a cruel gang whose actions are unpredictable. The conversations are realistic and the characters are imperfect which adds to the surprising nature of the story.

The subplots complement the main plot and the ends of the plot tie together. The issues that Jenny faces at the beginning are solved by the end which makes reading the book satisfying. The absence of any major grammatical errors also makes reading seamless. I only identified one insignificant error. Money Matters by Brian Finney is definitely worth reading especially for readers curious about immigration and other related issues. Readers who may not relate to similar themes may not enjoy the book. I rate it 4 out of 4 stars.

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Money Matters
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janinewesterweel · Post by **janinewesterweel** » 17 May 2019, 13:31

It seems like this is another, quite topical novel that reflects a sign of our times. I will put it on my list. Thanks for your review!

Stephanie Elizabeth · Post by **Stephanie Elizabeth** » 17 May 2019, 15:26

Looks like a great book! Thanks for the thorough review!

brown09 · Post by **brown09** » 18 May 2019, 03:01

Jenny's character sounds like an interesting perspective for the novel to use for topical purposes (such as the immigration angle). The challenge she faces from the drug cartel, and probably so much more, is also an interesting conflict for a novel based in this part of the U.S.A. Thank you for your review, I may go check it out!

Uinto · Post by **Uinto** » 18 May 2019, 04:10

Immigration being a common theme in U.S politics currently makes this book something I'd like to read. Thanks for your insights.

Rachel Lea · Post by **Rachel Lea** » 18 May 2019, 14:16

I love how the characters seem to be developed well and I also like how the author urges readers to consider the true motivations behind different political plots, instead of taking everything at face value. I think that's a great message. Good review!

kdstrack · Post by **kdstrack** » 18 May 2019, 14:59

The title is very clever! This is not at all what I was expecting and it is a pleasant surprise! I enjoyed your review and like that the author motivates readers to reflect on modern societal issues. Thanks for the wonderful recommendation!

Letora · Post by **Letora** » 19 May 2019, 10:01

It would be interesting to read about the parallels between the two characters. It's also based on a subject I am not very familiar with and would keep my attention. Thank you for reviewing!

Mai Tran · Post by **Mai Tran** » 20 May 2019, 02:39

Thanks for the review. I'm skeptical whenever political topics are being explored in fictions, but it would be interesting to follow the two characters with opposing viewpoints.