This is the first I’ve read of Sigmund Brouwer, and I did enjoy it. Brouwer is a good writer, and I’d consider reading some of his other work. This book though, seemed a little overly simplified at times – perhaps as if it was written for a teen audience? - but it kept a decent pace for the most part, and it kept me interested. The main characters were enjoyable and realistic, and the dialog (for the most part) flowed well.
The plot line at first glance seems to be another “Evil Catholic Church Conspiracy;” however, while it does involve a conspiracy that does go all the way to the Pope, this book isn’t another “DaVinci Code.”
Unfortunately, this book (to me) presents the Catholic Church in a negative light. It seemed every Catholic (and the Church as a whole) in this story was cast in a negative way.
I am not Catholic, but I don’t agree with the current trend of using the Catholic Church as fodder for sensationalistic plots. Many (dare I say, most) in the Catholic Church are well-meaning, upstanding people trying to do their best for God. Yes, there are some messed up folks. Yes, some wrongs have been covered up – and I don’t agree with that. But I think authors ought to start picking other villains.
Last comment: it’s important for people to realize that this is Religious Fiction, so while it’s not overly religious, it does deal with the questions of good and evil, God and the Devil. As Christian fiction though, “The Canary List” does provide some good, thought-provoking reading and an enjoyable plot.
Disclaimer: I received this book free from Waterbrook Multnomah through Blogging for Books - their book review program. I wasn't required to post a positive review. These are my own opinions on this book.
