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The Judge
Previously published as The Cross Examination of Oliver Finney . When a brilliant billionaire is diagnosed with inoperable brain cancer, he realizes that all his considerable wealth cannot prepare him to meet his Maker. But he has an idea that he will stage the ultimate reality show. With his true agenda hidden, he auditions followers from all the world’s major religions, inviting them to the trial of their lives on a remote island, where they must defend their beliefs against spiritual challenges.
Oliver Finney, a feisty old judge with his own secrets, is chosen to defend Christianity. As the program takes a strange twist, he quickly realizes he is trapped in a game of deadly agendas that may cost him his life. With Internet access monitored, Finney sends coded messages to his law clerk, Nikki Moreno. Aided by a teen crypto-geek, Nikki soon discovers the key to understanding Finney’s clues in an apologetics book Finney wrote and must race against time to decipher the mysteries contained in the ancient words of Christ before her boss dies defending them.
Oliver Finney, a feisty old judge with his own secrets, is chosen to defend Christianity. As the program takes a strange twist, he quickly realizes he is trapped in a game of deadly agendas that may cost him his life. With Internet access monitored, Finney sends coded messages to his law clerk, Nikki Moreno. Aided by a teen crypto-geek, Nikki soon discovers the key to understanding Finney’s clues in an apologetics book Finney wrote and must race against time to decipher the mysteries contained in the ancient words of Christ before her boss dies defending them.
417 pages, Paperback
First published March 21, 2006
82 people are currently reading
725 people want to read
About the author
Randy Singer
24 books452 followersRandy Singer is a critically acclaimed author and veteran trial attorney. He has penned nine legal thrillers, including his award-winning debut novel Directed Verdict. In addition to his law practice and writing, Randy serves as a teaching pastor for Trinity Church in Virginia Beach, Virginia. He calls it his "Jekyll and Hyde thing"—part lawyer, part pastor. He also teaches classes in advocacy and ethics at Regent Law School and serves on the school's Board of Visitors. He and his wife, Rhonda, live in Virginia Beach. They have two grown children.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 145 reviews
March 18, 2017
A SIMPLE MAN'S REVIEW:
The description of this book sounded awesome - a mix between Survivor and a comparative religion course. Bring it on! Oh, but no. I was wrong. This was bad.
First off, there wasn't really any comparing of religions. Other than Christianity (the author's preference), the other three religions were limited to what you'd probably find in the first paragraph on Wikipedia. And the characters were mere caricatures of the stereotypes for each religion. This book was actually merely an obtuse way to promote Christianity and the author's other book (about Christianity).
As for the reality show aspect, it was pretty basic. Not really very suspenseful considering we were supposed to be finding out about a potential murder mystery. There was also a cryptography angle that could have been interesting, but instead felt more like the author lecturing a classroom to prove how much he knows. I ended up skimming most of those sections.
On to the main characters: Nikki - the judge's assistant - was exactly the opposite person that any young woman interested in a career in law would want to aspire to. Judge Finney - he actually personified the reasons people are leaving organized religions in droves. Nothing but quotes from the scripture, condescending comments about other religions, and claims not backed by mainstream historians.
Look, if you're a Baptist and want a little "preaching to the choir" time, you'll probably enjoy this book and his other one (I don't need to tell you the name because it is referred to 100+ times in this book). But if you thought it would be fun to learn about other religions and solve a potential murder, keep walking. This is not the book for you.
The description of this book sounded awesome - a mix between Survivor and a comparative religion course. Bring it on! Oh, but no. I was wrong. This was bad.
First off, there wasn't really any comparing of religions. Other than Christianity (the author's preference), the other three religions were limited to what you'd probably find in the first paragraph on Wikipedia. And the characters were mere caricatures of the stereotypes for each religion. This book was actually merely an obtuse way to promote Christianity and the author's other book (about Christianity).
As for the reality show aspect, it was pretty basic. Not really very suspenseful considering we were supposed to be finding out about a potential murder mystery. There was also a cryptography angle that could have been interesting, but instead felt more like the author lecturing a classroom to prove how much he knows. I ended up skimming most of those sections.
On to the main characters: Nikki - the judge's assistant - was exactly the opposite person that any young woman interested in a career in law would want to aspire to. Judge Finney - he actually personified the reasons people are leaving organized religions in droves. Nothing but quotes from the scripture, condescending comments about other religions, and claims not backed by mainstream historians.
Look, if you're a Baptist and want a little "preaching to the choir" time, you'll probably enjoy this book and his other one (I don't need to tell you the name because it is referred to 100+ times in this book). But if you thought it would be fun to learn about other religions and solve a potential murder, keep walking. This is not the book for you.
September 6, 2012
Randy Singer is one of my favorite authors and I just loved this book The Judge. It was so full of suspense that you didn’t know what would happen next. I couldn’t put my book down.
Finney is such a fantastic character. He is a Christian, a judge and someone who loves people. I love the idea of this book about having a reality show where the contestants are from all different religions and must compete against each other in different trials and hardships to see whose faith will stand firm.
The Judge is really surprising and completely inspiring. Things happen that shouldn’t happen, there is even talk of someone dieing at the end of the show.
I especially like the relationship between Finney and Nikki. Finney’s law clerk. They have a sweet daughter/father relationship even though she doesn’t realize it at first.
The only thing I didn’t really care for in the book is how much was written about the codes and ciphers they used. I don’t mean to say that I don’t like codes/ciphers, but I believe it was explained and talked about to much. Talking about some of the codes takes several pages, when I just wanted to get back to the action and get on with the story.
Even though I didn’t care for the explaining of the codes would I recommend this book? Yes, I love it and it’s really worth reading. Another book that I love. I especially love the ending and how things played out. Quite a surprising ending, but one that satisfies.
Thanks to Tyndale House Publishers for providing this book for review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255
Finney is such a fantastic character. He is a Christian, a judge and someone who loves people. I love the idea of this book about having a reality show where the contestants are from all different religions and must compete against each other in different trials and hardships to see whose faith will stand firm.
The Judge is really surprising and completely inspiring. Things happen that shouldn’t happen, there is even talk of someone dieing at the end of the show.
I especially like the relationship between Finney and Nikki. Finney’s law clerk. They have a sweet daughter/father relationship even though she doesn’t realize it at first.
The only thing I didn’t really care for in the book is how much was written about the codes and ciphers they used. I don’t mean to say that I don’t like codes/ciphers, but I believe it was explained and talked about to much. Talking about some of the codes takes several pages, when I just wanted to get back to the action and get on with the story.
Even though I didn’t care for the explaining of the codes would I recommend this book? Yes, I love it and it’s really worth reading. Another book that I love. I especially love the ending and how things played out. Quite a surprising ending, but one that satisfies.
Thanks to Tyndale House Publishers for providing this book for review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255
June 18, 2018
I took a few breaks reading this one as I always find religion to be a bit heavy. I did like the reality show aspect of this mystery-type novel. Made the Christianity piece a little easier to bear. I’m intrigued by the tie-in with the nonfiction novel The Cross Examination of Jesus Christ by the same author. But I fear it would be too hard going for me to get through.
February 2, 2014
The title I chose for this review is interesting, I'll admit, and is the most accurate description that I can think of for the book. This book is a really neat mix of fiction, apologetics, and descriptions of the art of intelligence work.
The main character, Judge Oliver Finney is dying from terminal lung cancer. He has less than a year to live. He decides to enter the running for a reality show called *Faith on Trial*. The show brings together a diverse group chosen to represent the world's major religions and worldviews. Judge Finney represents Christianity, and there is also a representative for Islam, Buddhism, Hinduism, and an atheist biologist, Dr. Victoria Kline.
On the island, Finney gets wind of a potential plot to kill one or more of the finalists in spectacular fashion, all for ratings. He starts to communicate to the outside world via codes embedded in WestLaw searches that correspond to a book he wrote under a pseudonym, *The Cross-Examination of Jesus Christ*. In reality, Randy Singer wrote that book at the same time as this one, and it is fun for readers to follow along, but it is not necessary. I did not, and I still grasped the meanings and clues well enough.
The first chapters will have readers thinking that they have the clues to figure out what is really going on, if only they can catch the name of the elusive billionnaire funder of the show. I will not say everything except that it is not that easy, in the end. All that I will say is that the twists and turns are there, leading to an ending I had hoped against, but partly suspected.
Some folks will say that this style of writing, especially in the reveal, was like Agatha Christie's notorious style of not revealing all of the information, thus thwarting the reader from even being able to hazard a proper guess as to the conclusion. Singer is definitely not that type of author. The clues are definitely there, and they may *seem* insignificant, but they are not. If the reader pays close attention, the reveal will make sense. I could not figure it out ahead of time, but it can be done, if proper thought and attention is given to the "clues".
The book had only one major flaw. The intense focus on cryptanalysis. The focus is quite methodical, and *quite* difficult to follow. I actually didn't mind it that much, because I enjoy this type of detail. But if, with my preference, I *still* found it somewhat tiresome, then I presume that a general audience will find it quite so.
That said, the good of the novel *far* outweighs this minor bit of bad. The detailed information on Christianity, and on the false religions of the world that we, as believers, must deal with in order to reach out to the lost, was very in-depth. Yet it was in-depth without being boring. Randy Singer constructed a scenario that enabled him to communicate this useful information to the readers, without being tedious. Perhaps someone who needs Christ will see the Truth and accept Him as Savior.
I also must say that I loved reading a book that was actually realistic in it's depiction of the legal system. None of the melodramatic fakery on television. The few court scenes in the novel really depict the actual ins and outs of the real-life courtroom. It was nice to see a court scene that was actually believable.
The other great part of the book, was the characterization. The two other main protagonists assisting Finney, Nikki Moreno and Wellington Fairnsworth were great fun to read. They really fleshed out the story, by adding depth to Finney's person. The three characters are not just players in the story, they are a family of sorts. The end where Nikki learns of how Finney has always viewed her as a daughter, was truly touching, as was seeing the testimony of Finney.
You see, Finney is not perfect, but he tried his best, and that made a difference to other characters. Nikki is not miraculously saved at the end, but she is on a path to redemption. It is all so human and real. In that way, it reaches out to the soul of the believer as well as to that of the unbeliever. I learned an important lesson of exhibiting a better public testimony for my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, but not beating myself up over every weakness. Sometimes I fail, so I try my best. Other times, I do not have the best of abilities in certain areas, so I glorify God in those areas in which He has given me talent. Whatever happens, I never give up, because serving God and winning souls to Him takes time, and happens in *His* good pleasure, *not* mine.
These are the lessons I learned from the characters. Please read this book. It is a masterful work of suspense, mystery, and apologetics. You will be glad you took my advice. God bless all.
Highly Recommended.
The main character, Judge Oliver Finney is dying from terminal lung cancer. He has less than a year to live. He decides to enter the running for a reality show called *Faith on Trial*. The show brings together a diverse group chosen to represent the world's major religions and worldviews. Judge Finney represents Christianity, and there is also a representative for Islam, Buddhism, Hinduism, and an atheist biologist, Dr. Victoria Kline.
On the island, Finney gets wind of a potential plot to kill one or more of the finalists in spectacular fashion, all for ratings. He starts to communicate to the outside world via codes embedded in WestLaw searches that correspond to a book he wrote under a pseudonym, *The Cross-Examination of Jesus Christ*. In reality, Randy Singer wrote that book at the same time as this one, and it is fun for readers to follow along, but it is not necessary. I did not, and I still grasped the meanings and clues well enough.
The first chapters will have readers thinking that they have the clues to figure out what is really going on, if only they can catch the name of the elusive billionnaire funder of the show. I will not say everything except that it is not that easy, in the end. All that I will say is that the twists and turns are there, leading to an ending I had hoped against, but partly suspected.
Some folks will say that this style of writing, especially in the reveal, was like Agatha Christie's notorious style of not revealing all of the information, thus thwarting the reader from even being able to hazard a proper guess as to the conclusion. Singer is definitely not that type of author. The clues are definitely there, and they may *seem* insignificant, but they are not. If the reader pays close attention, the reveal will make sense. I could not figure it out ahead of time, but it can be done, if proper thought and attention is given to the "clues".
The book had only one major flaw. The intense focus on cryptanalysis. The focus is quite methodical, and *quite* difficult to follow. I actually didn't mind it that much, because I enjoy this type of detail. But if, with my preference, I *still* found it somewhat tiresome, then I presume that a general audience will find it quite so.
That said, the good of the novel *far* outweighs this minor bit of bad. The detailed information on Christianity, and on the false religions of the world that we, as believers, must deal with in order to reach out to the lost, was very in-depth. Yet it was in-depth without being boring. Randy Singer constructed a scenario that enabled him to communicate this useful information to the readers, without being tedious. Perhaps someone who needs Christ will see the Truth and accept Him as Savior.
I also must say that I loved reading a book that was actually realistic in it's depiction of the legal system. None of the melodramatic fakery on television. The few court scenes in the novel really depict the actual ins and outs of the real-life courtroom. It was nice to see a court scene that was actually believable.
The other great part of the book, was the characterization. The two other main protagonists assisting Finney, Nikki Moreno and Wellington Fairnsworth were great fun to read. They really fleshed out the story, by adding depth to Finney's person. The three characters are not just players in the story, they are a family of sorts. The end where Nikki learns of how Finney has always viewed her as a daughter, was truly touching, as was seeing the testimony of Finney.
You see, Finney is not perfect, but he tried his best, and that made a difference to other characters. Nikki is not miraculously saved at the end, but she is on a path to redemption. It is all so human and real. In that way, it reaches out to the soul of the believer as well as to that of the unbeliever. I learned an important lesson of exhibiting a better public testimony for my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, but not beating myself up over every weakness. Sometimes I fail, so I try my best. Other times, I do not have the best of abilities in certain areas, so I glorify God in those areas in which He has given me talent. Whatever happens, I never give up, because serving God and winning souls to Him takes time, and happens in *His* good pleasure, *not* mine.
These are the lessons I learned from the characters. Please read this book. It is a masterful work of suspense, mystery, and apologetics. You will be glad you took my advice. God bless all.
Highly Recommended.
November 10, 2012
This is a fascinating novel. Combining a mystery involving a reality show about religious faiths, an assassin, revenge, the defense of Christianity, the legal profession, terminal illness, self-sacrifice for the good of others, and deciphering cryptograms, this one will have your attention the entire time. Randy Singer puts many twists and turns into his plot, some of which I figured out, and a couple which surprised me. If you enjoy a novel that makes you think, teaches you something, and is very enjoyable at the same time, I highly recommend this one. It's a very satisfying read.
September 4, 2020
A ton of fun. Great central characters, fun plot, strong ending. If you like Grisham, you ought to pick up Singer's The Judge.
January 2, 2021
Deception and a quest for revenge are woven into a new faith-based reality show. A brilliant judge - show contestant - endeavors to root out the plan and put a stop to it.
.
4 pure stars
.
4 pure stars
April 29, 2016
Another exciting book from Randy Singer. Every book I have read from him, surprises me at the end that it didn't end the way I expected it to. Again this book like the others I have read is hard to put down, as you want to see what happens next.
April 17, 2024
2.75 or 3.5
Very big difference, I know.
I don't know what I read. I liked Nikki and that was it. I didn't know what anybody looked like or the setting, really. Took four hundred pages for barely anything to happen. I also wasn't attached to the characters
I shouldn't read mysteries
Very big difference, I know.
I don't know what I read. I liked Nikki and that was it. I didn't know what anybody looked like or the setting, really. Took four hundred pages for barely anything to happen. I also wasn't attached to the characters
I shouldn't read mysteries
July 15, 2020
This is up there for one of my favorite Singer books. Likable characters and a great plot.
July 24, 2012
I’ve only watched a couple of reality shows out of Australia. Whether you love them or not, check out this Faith on Trial reality show! Hosted by an unknown billionaire who’s been diagnosed with an inoperable brain cancer, he wants to find the true religion to believe in to make it right with his Maker. Hiding this agenda, he picks contestants from the major faiths to defend their beliefs through all the trials thrown at them on the show.
The main character, Judge Oliver Finney, is a cigar-smoking Christian with terminal cancer. He signs up to defend his faith and to hopefully bring others to the Lord through this worldwide TV show. Little does he know how he will be tested!
Nikki Moreno is Judge Finney’s law clerk who thinks of him as her father figure. She’s been ‘tested’ by Finney to get her ready to pass her law exam. This information will be needed, and more, to assist the judge during the reality show. In fact, before the judge leaves for parts unknown for the show, he shows her his book on apologetics that also includes cryptograms that he worked into the book.
However, when the judge sends Nikki his first plea letter, she’s at a loss as to the meaning. She does recognize the Wellington Farnsworth name included in the letter and sets out to track him down. She finds out that he just happens to be the judge’s best known, top teenage cryptanalyst. Thus he becomes one of the crucial players in the game.
What a zinger of a book! The cover alone is ominous enough and the title brings out many innuendos that come to mind. What kind of judge is he? Is he honest? Corrupt? Is he up to something?
The relationship between the beautiful, leggy Nikki and nerdy Wellington is uproarious. The author has them play off each other to the hilt, to the chagrin of Nikki. These two become my favorite characters. Not to be outdone, the characters on the island are portrayed in such a way that you would most likely recognize them on the street if you saw them. All their quirks, characteristics, physiques, qualities, and every event they encounter are delineated with intricate detail.
Besides the feisty old Judge Finney, I enjoyed ‘Swami’ with his personable personality. Kareem’s personality was a great contrast, causing more consternation than the others put together. All of them have their own personal secrets, which are exploited to develop a deadly game. It’s those dangers that cause Judge Finney to find a way to get cryptograms off to Nikki.
The author utilizes even the titles of the book sections to cause you to critique what was to come next in the reality show and to up the ante for the contestants. Tracking the book through a trial process was genius! It truly was a Trial by Faith!
Agendas
The Contestants
Cross-Examination
Rebuttal
Verdict
To accelerate your involvement, the author adds cryptograms within the text, challenging you to figure them out either before or with Nikki and Wellington. He is very thorough in capturing and connecting your imagination and presenting the suspense at peak level from beginning to end.
This book was provided free by Susan Sleeman of The Suspense Zone in exchange for my honest review. No monetary compensation was exchanged.
The main character, Judge Oliver Finney, is a cigar-smoking Christian with terminal cancer. He signs up to defend his faith and to hopefully bring others to the Lord through this worldwide TV show. Little does he know how he will be tested!
Nikki Moreno is Judge Finney’s law clerk who thinks of him as her father figure. She’s been ‘tested’ by Finney to get her ready to pass her law exam. This information will be needed, and more, to assist the judge during the reality show. In fact, before the judge leaves for parts unknown for the show, he shows her his book on apologetics that also includes cryptograms that he worked into the book.
However, when the judge sends Nikki his first plea letter, she’s at a loss as to the meaning. She does recognize the Wellington Farnsworth name included in the letter and sets out to track him down. She finds out that he just happens to be the judge’s best known, top teenage cryptanalyst. Thus he becomes one of the crucial players in the game.
What a zinger of a book! The cover alone is ominous enough and the title brings out many innuendos that come to mind. What kind of judge is he? Is he honest? Corrupt? Is he up to something?
The relationship between the beautiful, leggy Nikki and nerdy Wellington is uproarious. The author has them play off each other to the hilt, to the chagrin of Nikki. These two become my favorite characters. Not to be outdone, the characters on the island are portrayed in such a way that you would most likely recognize them on the street if you saw them. All their quirks, characteristics, physiques, qualities, and every event they encounter are delineated with intricate detail.
Besides the feisty old Judge Finney, I enjoyed ‘Swami’ with his personable personality. Kareem’s personality was a great contrast, causing more consternation than the others put together. All of them have their own personal secrets, which are exploited to develop a deadly game. It’s those dangers that cause Judge Finney to find a way to get cryptograms off to Nikki.
The author utilizes even the titles of the book sections to cause you to critique what was to come next in the reality show and to up the ante for the contestants. Tracking the book through a trial process was genius! It truly was a Trial by Faith!
Agendas
The Contestants
Cross-Examination
Rebuttal
Verdict
To accelerate your involvement, the author adds cryptograms within the text, challenging you to figure them out either before or with Nikki and Wellington. He is very thorough in capturing and connecting your imagination and presenting the suspense at peak level from beginning to end.
This book was provided free by Susan Sleeman of The Suspense Zone in exchange for my honest review. No monetary compensation was exchanged.
May 30, 2013
Previously published as The Cross Examination of Oliver Finney.
When a brilliant billionaire is diagnosed with inoperable brain cancer, he realizes that all his considerable wealth cannot prepare him to meet his Maker. But he has an idea that might: he will stage the ultimate reality show. With his true agenda hidden, he auditions followers from all the world's major religions, inviting them to the trial of their lives on a remote island, where they must defend their beliefs against spiritual challenges.
Oliver Finney, a feisty old judge with his own secrets, is chosen to defend Christianity. As the program takes a strange twist, he quickly realizes he is trapped in a game of deadly agendas that may cost him his life. With Internet access monitored, Finney sends coded messages to his law clerk, Nikki Moreno. Aided by a teen crypto-geek, Nikki soon discovers the key to understanding Finney's clues in an apologetics book Finney wrote and must race against time to decipher the mysteries contained in the ancient words of Christ before her boss dies defending them.
The Judge by Randy Singer was an amazing book that displayed the truth of Christianity against other religions in a brilliant manner. The story line was astounding, filled with plot twists, suspense, mystery, near death experiences, and the power of the Gospel. The narration of the story switched between Oliver Finney, his law clerk, Nikki, and the unknown backer of the entire "game". This allowed the reader to have an idea of what was happening to Finney on the island and to experience Nikki's process in trying to figure out Finney's code and to understand Christianity. This narration style also gave the reader a glimpse into what the unknown opponent what was thinking and planning while also increasing the suspense since the reader still had no idea who this person was. The characters of this novel were excellently developed and very realistic. Finney and Nikki both experienced personal challenges, and it was interesting to see how each choose to deal with these. Nikki grew a lot during the novel as she begin to experience Christianity and to understand why Finney was defending the truth. This novel also clearly portrayed the importance of living according to and defending your belief in God as well as what happens when a person takes a 'death sentence' and instead of turning to God, chooses to finish their life with evil.
Overall, I really enjoyed The Judge, and I would highly recommend this novel as well as the rest of Randy Singer's novels to anyone who enjoys well written and suspenseful legal thrillers.
When a brilliant billionaire is diagnosed with inoperable brain cancer, he realizes that all his considerable wealth cannot prepare him to meet his Maker. But he has an idea that might: he will stage the ultimate reality show. With his true agenda hidden, he auditions followers from all the world's major religions, inviting them to the trial of their lives on a remote island, where they must defend their beliefs against spiritual challenges.
Oliver Finney, a feisty old judge with his own secrets, is chosen to defend Christianity. As the program takes a strange twist, he quickly realizes he is trapped in a game of deadly agendas that may cost him his life. With Internet access monitored, Finney sends coded messages to his law clerk, Nikki Moreno. Aided by a teen crypto-geek, Nikki soon discovers the key to understanding Finney's clues in an apologetics book Finney wrote and must race against time to decipher the mysteries contained in the ancient words of Christ before her boss dies defending them.
The Judge by Randy Singer was an amazing book that displayed the truth of Christianity against other religions in a brilliant manner. The story line was astounding, filled with plot twists, suspense, mystery, near death experiences, and the power of the Gospel. The narration of the story switched between Oliver Finney, his law clerk, Nikki, and the unknown backer of the entire "game". This allowed the reader to have an idea of what was happening to Finney on the island and to experience Nikki's process in trying to figure out Finney's code and to understand Christianity. This narration style also gave the reader a glimpse into what the unknown opponent what was thinking and planning while also increasing the suspense since the reader still had no idea who this person was. The characters of this novel were excellently developed and very realistic. Finney and Nikki both experienced personal challenges, and it was interesting to see how each choose to deal with these. Nikki grew a lot during the novel as she begin to experience Christianity and to understand why Finney was defending the truth. This novel also clearly portrayed the importance of living according to and defending your belief in God as well as what happens when a person takes a 'death sentence' and instead of turning to God, chooses to finish their life with evil.
Overall, I really enjoyed The Judge, and I would highly recommend this novel as well as the rest of Randy Singer's novels to anyone who enjoys well written and suspenseful legal thrillers.
November 24, 2014
Good, not great
This is a difficult book for me to review because it was pleasant, but it wasn't a stand-out novel, or, on the other hand, something atrocious I would never recommend.
I was not bored while reading the book (very important!) and it certainly wasn't a drudgery to keep reading. Singer kept me actively engaged in the story, and I read it without taking many breaks. Even though I read it more or less straight through, I wasn't left anxiously wondering what happened next - as I usually am with books of this nature.
Honestly, though, that could be me being in pregnancy brain fog where I just don't engage anymore than necessary because I don't have the brain power right now.
I enjoyed the integration of fiction mystery with some defense of Christianity. It was a little weird for me though with all of the modern pop culture references ... can you tell I usually stick to reading the classics and don't frequently venture into modern fiction?
I thought the book was tastefully written, and I don't have any qualms about recommending this book for others to read. I didn't get wrapped up in trying to decipher the codes in the book (as I would have at an earlier time in my life), but that certainly didn't detract from the book. I think it awesome that if people want to try and figure out the codes in the book they have that option because Singer wrote the book The Cross Examination of Jesus Christ which contains the codes in The Judge. One word of warning though - this book was previously published as The Cross Examination of Oliver Finney, so don't think that this is a brand-new Singer book.
This is a difficult book for me to review because it was pleasant, but it wasn't a stand-out novel, or, on the other hand, something atrocious I would never recommend.
I was not bored while reading the book (very important!) and it certainly wasn't a drudgery to keep reading. Singer kept me actively engaged in the story, and I read it without taking many breaks. Even though I read it more or less straight through, I wasn't left anxiously wondering what happened next - as I usually am with books of this nature.
Honestly, though, that could be me being in pregnancy brain fog where I just don't engage anymore than necessary because I don't have the brain power right now.
I enjoyed the integration of fiction mystery with some defense of Christianity. It was a little weird for me though with all of the modern pop culture references ... can you tell I usually stick to reading the classics and don't frequently venture into modern fiction?
I thought the book was tastefully written, and I don't have any qualms about recommending this book for others to read. I didn't get wrapped up in trying to decipher the codes in the book (as I would have at an earlier time in my life), but that certainly didn't detract from the book. I think it awesome that if people want to try and figure out the codes in the book they have that option because Singer wrote the book The Cross Examination of Jesus Christ which contains the codes in The Judge. One word of warning though - this book was previously published as The Cross Examination of Oliver Finney, so don't think that this is a brand-new Singer book.
December 22, 2020
Quite honestly, this is one of the worst books I have read.
The novel has an interesting premise. The idea of religion and reality television going hand in hand is different and unique, and from what little is actually explained of the different faiths, they are explained well. The problem is that there is actually very little of the religion within the novel. Many pages are taken up with codes, which are unnecessarily elaborated upon.
The characters are incredibly one dimensional and entirely unlikable. The characters receive little to no development. Nikki Moreno is the worst of the bunch. Intended to be one of the main characters, she is written as nothing more than a shallow young woman. Everything she does and says though the novel made me grit my teeth with disdain. The Assassin is initially presented as being a powerful, mysterious person, but in the end, this entire character fell flat. The development that was being built up completely shattered for absolutely no reason.
The ending was completely bland, uninspired, and predictable. The novel builds itself up with the promise of something "unexpected", but the only thing unexpected is just how bad it is.
If you're interested in a novel that has a good idea, but completely drops the ball in every way imaginable, then this is the book for you.
The novel has an interesting premise. The idea of religion and reality television going hand in hand is different and unique, and from what little is actually explained of the different faiths, they are explained well. The problem is that there is actually very little of the religion within the novel. Many pages are taken up with codes, which are unnecessarily elaborated upon.
The characters are incredibly one dimensional and entirely unlikable. The characters receive little to no development. Nikki Moreno is the worst of the bunch. Intended to be one of the main characters, she is written as nothing more than a shallow young woman. Everything she does and says though the novel made me grit my teeth with disdain. The Assassin is initially presented as being a powerful, mysterious person, but in the end, this entire character fell flat. The development that was being built up completely shattered for absolutely no reason.
The ending was completely bland, uninspired, and predictable. The novel builds itself up with the promise of something "unexpected", but the only thing unexpected is just how bad it is.
If you're interested in a novel that has a good idea, but completely drops the ball in every way imaginable, then this is the book for you.
November 16, 2017
This was actually a really really good book! One of my favorites of the year!!! Reality show setting where contestants have to defend their faith! Awesome concept and the twist is that the defendants are lawyers or judges so the setting is a court room on a remote island. Who will win? Or what religion will win?
September 25, 2020
Ugh, not at all I what I thought it was going to be. Got 90% through the book, although I'm not entirely sure how (I thought about bailing much, much earlier) but didn't really care about the ending. The code stuff was interesting at first and reached the ridiculous near the end. I mean, come on. The whole premise got to be too ridiculous for me.
February 9, 2018
The premise of this book is definitely one that I was excited about. It has a great plot that was intriguing and mysterious and also was setup for a great discussion on the the subject of religion but unfortunately the book fell short of expectation. I wondered how such an intense subject as religion in the compass of a reality show could be summed up in 69 chapters, but I was willing to take the ride and unfortunately the ride was rather slow and uneventful with very little highs and few twists and turns. First, let me say I could not stand the Nikki character!! She was lazy, condescending and egotistical so for her to be the sidekick to the "good guy" was just odd! Fine that she accepts Christianity at the end of the book but so what! I have no clue if that changed who she was a person. EVERY scene of the book with her in it gave me the stink face and that's not good for avoiding wrinkles. (Lol) All of the other characters were decent but as one reviewer stated ridiculously stereotypical, once again going back to my review of there being no twist and turns. The drawn out explanation of the coding was extremely unnecessary and better removed from the story altogether allowing more time to focus on the reality show aspect of the story. I felt it was a cop out and showed a lack of imagination. The ending comes together in a real neat package but was a real downer. The assassin sounds real devious and highly intelligent at the start and I just didn't get that impression of him at the end. So I only gave two stars because while I was fairly entertained I would not recommend this book to anyone, preferring to summarize it for them in what would take all of about five minutes and that would be with literally leaving nothing out.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 27, 2024
Mixing a legal thriller with code-breaking, apologetics, and a reality TV show - yes really! (5 stars)
Even good legal thrillers can feel somewhat formulaic, but Randy Singer has previously shown that he has a versatility that allows him to stretch the genre in new and interesting ways. This novel is a fine exception, because it features as the main character a terminally ill judge who is given opportunity to participate in a Survivor-style reality show in which participants must represent and defend their different religions. It may sound like a corny concept, but let's be honest, we've seen much worse on reality TV in the last decade!
Randy Singer does an excellent job of making this premise extremely plausible and interesting, and we cannot help but identify with the protagonist Oliver Finney, as he tries to uncover a sinister murder plot that lurks in the background. With the help of his law clerk Nikki and the teenage computer whiz-kid Wellington, Finney must contend not only with the faiths of his fellow contestants (the Buddhist Dr Ando, Hindu Swami, Muslim Kareem, and atheist Victoria Kline), but with the mysterious men behind the show, who seem intent on ending someone's life. In the process of a compelling story, we are taken on a thrilling ride that includes some code-breaking as well as some serious apologetics.
The author succeeds in treating the serious matters of faith without trivializing them, while at the same time not letting this bog the story down, since this is primarily intended to be an entertaining novel. Some of the twists and turns in the final few chapters may be a bit confusing and unconvincing, but overall this is a great read, that excels both as a captivating page-turner, and as thought-provoking fiction.
Even good legal thrillers can feel somewhat formulaic, but Randy Singer has previously shown that he has a versatility that allows him to stretch the genre in new and interesting ways. This novel is a fine exception, because it features as the main character a terminally ill judge who is given opportunity to participate in a Survivor-style reality show in which participants must represent and defend their different religions. It may sound like a corny concept, but let's be honest, we've seen much worse on reality TV in the last decade!
Randy Singer does an excellent job of making this premise extremely plausible and interesting, and we cannot help but identify with the protagonist Oliver Finney, as he tries to uncover a sinister murder plot that lurks in the background. With the help of his law clerk Nikki and the teenage computer whiz-kid Wellington, Finney must contend not only with the faiths of his fellow contestants (the Buddhist Dr Ando, Hindu Swami, Muslim Kareem, and atheist Victoria Kline), but with the mysterious men behind the show, who seem intent on ending someone's life. In the process of a compelling story, we are taken on a thrilling ride that includes some code-breaking as well as some serious apologetics.
The author succeeds in treating the serious matters of faith without trivializing them, while at the same time not letting this bog the story down, since this is primarily intended to be an entertaining novel. Some of the twists and turns in the final few chapters may be a bit confusing and unconvincing, but overall this is a great read, that excels both as a captivating page-turner, and as thought-provoking fiction.
September 28, 2020
In this book Singer tackles the question of which religion or lack thereof is correct. A very rich man (hereafter caller the Patient) learns he has brain cancer and only a year left to live. He realizes he can't take his billions with him. He also knows that since he's an atheist he's not prepared to meet whatever awaits him in the afterlife. So he designed and produced the ultimate reality show -- Faith on Trial. Representatives for each popular religion were all isolated together on an island. Each had to have a terminal disease, a legal or theological background, and a shameful secret. Contestants were not allowed privacy anywhere but in the bathroom or any contact with the outside world. The show would test their faith with various physical trials, as well as by a cross examination in court.
judge Oliver Finney represents the Christian religion. What he and the others on the island don't know is that a hired assassin is also on the island as part of the production staff. The reader knows, but none of the characters, including the Patient and the producer know. I won't share any more of the plot because I want to avoid spoilers.
The book does a good job of presenting and defending each religion. The suspense continues to build as each contestant is eliminated, the trials increase, and the reader sees into the mind of the assassin. Don't miss this book if you are interested in ideas and comparative religion as well as an exciting plot.
judge Oliver Finney represents the Christian religion. What he and the others on the island don't know is that a hired assassin is also on the island as part of the production staff. The reader knows, but none of the characters, including the Patient and the producer know. I won't share any more of the plot because I want to avoid spoilers.
The book does a good job of presenting and defending each religion. The suspense continues to build as each contestant is eliminated, the trials increase, and the reader sees into the mind of the assassin. Don't miss this book if you are interested in ideas and comparative religion as well as an exciting plot.
April 22, 2018
Very entertaining. I enjoyed it a lot, but I knew I would because I've really enjoyed the other Randy Singer books I've read. This one is 4 stars instead of 5 because of some nitpicky things, based on personal preference. I'm okay with everything not being tied up in a pretty bow in the end, but the loose ends here were distracting for me. I really wanted to know more about a couple characters in the end that I didn't get. There was some stuff left open with Kareem and Randolph that wasn't fulfilling or addressed at all. I think there was one sentence on Randolph's takeaway from the reality show, and it was a letdown. And a big whopper of a shock should have occurred for Kareem in the book, but we were left to assume it happened outside of the pages, and that was disappointing--I would have liked to have "been there" when he got the good news.
Other than that, I really enjoyed the story, the plot, and the writing. I didn't go into it hoping for an equal representation of all the religions, after all, the title is The Judge, it is focused on his viewpoints. So there was no disappointment when I did not get more info on the other contestants' religions.
Other than that, I really enjoyed the story, the plot, and the writing. I didn't go into it hoping for an equal representation of all the religions, after all, the title is The Judge, it is focused on his viewpoints. So there was no disappointment when I did not get more info on the other contestants' religions.
August 23, 2021
This book was published before I started writing my novel (which is now finished and in the process of finding a publisher), but I have just read it. I found it interesting because there are some similarities: both this book and my novel are mysteries and both deal with the field of apologetics. Both also have a lot of speaking by the characters in the process of the story, with most of the speaking in both cases "edited out" by the author. That is where the similarities end -- we took completely different tracks on how we dealt with apologetics.
How did this novel fare on both accounts? I might subjectively say that Singer could have been stronger on apologetics but I think he accomplished his point -- please read this to make up your own mind. As far as being a mystery, this is superb, a story that will keep you guessing. I thought I had figured part of it out, and was wrong -- and Singer gave enough hints for me to feel one could figure it out.
As usual, Singer has memorable characters. Singer has hints of being a fan of reality TV (which is also hinted at in his fourth novel, "Self-Incrimination) and of solving ciphers.
I highly recommend this book.
How did this novel fare on both accounts? I might subjectively say that Singer could have been stronger on apologetics but I think he accomplished his point -- please read this to make up your own mind. As far as being a mystery, this is superb, a story that will keep you guessing. I thought I had figured part of it out, and was wrong -- and Singer gave enough hints for me to feel one could figure it out.
As usual, Singer has memorable characters. Singer has hints of being a fan of reality TV (which is also hinted at in his fourth novel, "Self-Incrimination) and of solving ciphers.
I highly recommend this book.
June 8, 2018
This has always been my most favorite Randy Singer book!
It was the second book I read by him and I have always loved it. I love Finney, I love his law student Nikki, I LOVE dorky little code breaker Wellington.
This was a re read (first read probably 5 years ago) and I definitely remembered it as more intense and longer than it is (silly 15 year old me :P) but I still loved it immensely. The most fascinating bits are the discussions about other faiths! This is embarrassing but those were probably my first introductions to other religions and I appreciate that Singer presented them so fairly. The hate-mongers of 2018 could take a lesson from that!
Without a doubt, The Cross Examination of Oliver Finney will always be one of my favorites. :)
It was the second book I read by him and I have always loved it. I love Finney, I love his law student Nikki, I LOVE dorky little code breaker Wellington.
This was a re read (first read probably 5 years ago) and I definitely remembered it as more intense and longer than it is (silly 15 year old me :P) but I still loved it immensely. The most fascinating bits are the discussions about other faiths! This is embarrassing but those were probably my first introductions to other religions and I appreciate that Singer presented them so fairly. The hate-mongers of 2018 could take a lesson from that!
Without a doubt, The Cross Examination of Oliver Finney will always be one of my favorites. :)
January 12, 2022
Since I've seen Randy Singer billed as a combination of C. S. Lewis and Raymond Chandler, I had high expectations. They were not fulfilled. I wanted more discussion of the various world religions and discussions of differences. The first disappointment was elimination of Judaism from the discussion. Next was the inclusion of cryptography as a major (and very detailed) plot point. The discussions of cryptography just slowed the story, and it was not comforting -- the implication was that one must be an expert cryptanalyst to understand the Bible. Getting to the final scene was a slog, and I kept expecting more. The final scene was a bit rewarding, but did not make up for the disappointing elements.
January 21, 2018
Amazing!!! This was a Case for Christ written with in suspense-thriller context. I loved it!
I was challenged theologically and have a few things to study for myself. I also appreciate the introduction to ciphers. As an attorney, I feel like I was introduced to a new way of thinking about problems and applying “new” logic to clues of life that are in plain sight. Where was my law school class on this? I would have been there with bells on every session! Anyway, I liked the book. ;)
I am a big fan of Randy Singer, and this story did not disappoint.
I was challenged theologically and have a few things to study for myself. I also appreciate the introduction to ciphers. As an attorney, I feel like I was introduced to a new way of thinking about problems and applying “new” logic to clues of life that are in plain sight. Where was my law school class on this? I would have been there with bells on every session! Anyway, I liked the book. ;)
I am a big fan of Randy Singer, and this story did not disappoint.
February 9, 2021
This was an absolute joy to read. And this was my 2nd time reading this book. I read it many years ago. If you like James Grisham, you will love Randy Singer. The hero of this book, Judge Oliver Finney, is tasked to defend his faith (Christianity) in a Survivor type setting, against other religions. (Hindu, Muslim, Athiest, Buddhism) The faith that gathers the most converts will win money for their favorite charity. The story was good, the suspense had me turning chapters even when I should have been sleeping. You will like this book.
February 15, 2018
Should be 4 stars
I wanted to give this book 4 stars ,as I think the plot was unique s"and would make for a great read. I was a little let down for a few reasons.
1. I had several blank pages (2) There should be more focus on each person defending their positions. This was built up in the beginning but not well detailed (3) When the positions were being defended the points were weak..more could be done in this area
I wanted to give this book 4 stars ,as I think the plot was unique s"and would make for a great read. I was a little let down for a few reasons.
1. I had several blank pages (2) There should be more focus on each person defending their positions. This was built up in the beginning but not well detailed (3) When the positions were being defended the points were weak..more could be done in this area
July 17, 2017
Want to read a book on the caliber of John Grisham, read this book. I am so grateful to find a Christian based thriller/mystery. Really makes you think about our journey in this life and towards a life filled with Christ. Loved the book; it was so subtle and so real. As a lover of Grisham, I can't wait to get into another written by Singer!
June 2, 2018
Great!
What a great novel! It was written awhile ago and I wasn’t sure I had read it as it has been renamed, I haven’t but can’t believe it took me this long to find it. Randy Singer is a fabulous author and this book is just as fabulous. If you’re a reality show fan it’s an even better read as that is the setting. It keeps you guessing which is one of my favorite reads.
What a great novel! It was written awhile ago and I wasn’t sure I had read it as it has been renamed, I haven’t but can’t believe it took me this long to find it. Randy Singer is a fabulous author and this book is just as fabulous. If you’re a reality show fan it’s an even better read as that is the setting. It keeps you guessing which is one of my favorite reads.
February 27, 2021
This book has many plots and undercurrents besides the main story. It’s a book you will find hard to put down and you’ll try to speed read in parts because you just need to know what's next.
Randy Singer shows the humanness of the characters, and if you like puzzles, suspense, and codes - there are a lot of codes and code explanations.
Randy Singer shows the humanness of the characters, and if you like puzzles, suspense, and codes - there are a lot of codes and code explanations.
January 10, 2022
Usually I give Randy Singer's books five stars. I looked forward to this book and had the feeling, "Oh, good! I get to read this again!" This book is about a reality tv show in which contestants from various religions test their faith in the face of death. I had hoped for more examples of how participants lived their faith.
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