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Ultimatum or Dinners with Saul: Contemporary Jewish immigrants political philosophical fiction novel
Description
New York. Summer of 2020, the lives of FBI agent David Biggs, young biologist Anna Berman, and her immigrant family from Ukraine intersect in the middle of pandemics, political and social unrest, and the FBI investigation into the new and unusual biological threat. Together, they encounter and deal with racism, homelessness, suicide, anti-semitism, and illegal immigration. Social justice, good and evil, socialism and capitalism, war and peace, the idea that free will is an illusion - all these issues are at the forefront of this genre-defying and unique novel. The same country but different will David learn to see himself, others, and the world through the prism of free will is an illusion? Will he solve the most significant case of his career? Will he find something all of us are looking for—love and happiness?
“A fast-moving novel with some thought-provoking ideas. The story is set in modern times. The FBI hero is working to save the world from an anonymous group threatening...to make the world a better place! Not your typical supervillains. What makes this book even more interesting and unique are the ideas on free will, personal achievements, and nature vs nurture discussed by the characters. The book is entertaining and enlightening. This is not your typical novel and is a definite must-read.” – Amazon review
“I enjoyed reading this book very much. It is very timely with a message we all need to hear. I wish our leaders could have a few dinners with Saul because he could help them work in a bipartisan way and bring unity to our nation.” – Amazon review
About the Author
"Ultimatum or Dinners with Saul" is the first book written by Michael Veletsky, who was born in Kiev, Ukraine, and immigrated to the USA in 1978. He loves reading, singing, music, movies, and sports. Michael enjoys travel, good food, and the company of good friends and family. He and his wife live in Texas.
New York. Summer of 2020, the lives of FBI agent David Biggs, young biologist Anna Berman, and her immigrant family from Ukraine intersect in the middle of pandemics, political and social unrest, and the FBI investigation into the new and unusual biological threat. Together, they encounter and deal with racism, homelessness, suicide, anti-semitism, and illegal immigration. Social justice, good and evil, socialism and capitalism, war and peace, the idea that free will is an illusion - all these issues are at the forefront of this genre-defying and unique novel. The same country but different will David learn to see himself, others, and the world through the prism of free will is an illusion? Will he solve the most significant case of his career? Will he find something all of us are looking for—love and happiness?
“A fast-moving novel with some thought-provoking ideas. The story is set in modern times. The FBI hero is working to save the world from an anonymous group threatening...to make the world a better place! Not your typical supervillains. What makes this book even more interesting and unique are the ideas on free will, personal achievements, and nature vs nurture discussed by the characters. The book is entertaining and enlightening. This is not your typical novel and is a definite must-read.” – Amazon review
“I enjoyed reading this book very much. It is very timely with a message we all need to hear. I wish our leaders could have a few dinners with Saul because he could help them work in a bipartisan way and bring unity to our nation.” – Amazon review
About the Author
"Ultimatum or Dinners with Saul" is the first book written by Michael Veletsky, who was born in Kiev, Ukraine, and immigrated to the USA in 1978. He loves reading, singing, music, movies, and sports. Michael enjoys travel, good food, and the company of good friends and family. He and his wife live in Texas.
202 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 17, 2020
21 people are currently reading
601 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
June 1, 2021
This is a thoughtful, genre-defying novel where intimate conversation and honest argument dominate what amounts to a running Socratic dialogue about good and evil and free will in all of its political and sociological shades.
This creative and timely take on everything from contemporary questions about immigration, war, religion and technology to greed and compassion in today’s world is well worth the effort to read…but do it slowly and thoughtfully. This isn’t a breezy beach novel, nor is a fast-paced thriller with clearly defined villains and heroes. Instead, what you get is a creative take on what the novel implies: the world must straighten out its collective act or face the consequences, thanks to a threat from a group that issues the “ultimatum” of the title.
“Believing in God or believing in forces of good and evil never stopped any wars or crimes of the past,” says one of the book’s characters, a sample of the meaty imagery during a particular conversation in which Russia’s own past and present are examined: “…What has changed? They replaced socialistic dictators with capitalistic dictators.”
Homelessness, suicide and even a pending virus (of which we’re now, of course, fully familiar) are some of the other themes fleshed out by this interesting author whose thought-provoking approach to fiction is a nice change from what’s usually found in the Indie book marketplace.
If you want to think and seriously explore and analyze the world around you –– and not just escape it, then I recommend Veletsky’s unorthodox and thought-provoking story telling talents.
This creative and timely take on everything from contemporary questions about immigration, war, religion and technology to greed and compassion in today’s world is well worth the effort to read…but do it slowly and thoughtfully. This isn’t a breezy beach novel, nor is a fast-paced thriller with clearly defined villains and heroes. Instead, what you get is a creative take on what the novel implies: the world must straighten out its collective act or face the consequences, thanks to a threat from a group that issues the “ultimatum” of the title.
“Believing in God or believing in forces of good and evil never stopped any wars or crimes of the past,” says one of the book’s characters, a sample of the meaty imagery during a particular conversation in which Russia’s own past and present are examined: “…What has changed? They replaced socialistic dictators with capitalistic dictators.”
Homelessness, suicide and even a pending virus (of which we’re now, of course, fully familiar) are some of the other themes fleshed out by this interesting author whose thought-provoking approach to fiction is a nice change from what’s usually found in the Indie book marketplace.
If you want to think and seriously explore and analyze the world around you –– and not just escape it, then I recommend Veletsky’s unorthodox and thought-provoking story telling talents.
July 15, 2021
Ultimatums can bring about a good change or disaster.
This story dealt mostly with three characters whose perceptions of the world were revealed as disappointments in the system of the have and have-nots. Saul was an older Russian Jewish man who believed that life could be much better if the elite had less and the poor had more. His daughter, Anna, was patient and loving especially with her father, and David, the detective who was invited to dinner more than once, was a normally pragmatic policeman who became infatuated with both.
The ultimatum came about through a letter to the police that the world needed to change within 20 days and become kinder, or the DNA of the population would be affected to the point of change. A great deal of back and forth dialogue and several dinners, as well as the death of a shelter regular are used by the author to explain the inequalities of capitalism and how it could be made better. Not to give the next reader a spoiler as to the ending, I will say that you should read it with a kind thought.
This story dealt mostly with three characters whose perceptions of the world were revealed as disappointments in the system of the have and have-nots. Saul was an older Russian Jewish man who believed that life could be much better if the elite had less and the poor had more. His daughter, Anna, was patient and loving especially with her father, and David, the detective who was invited to dinner more than once, was a normally pragmatic policeman who became infatuated with both.
The ultimatum came about through a letter to the police that the world needed to change within 20 days and become kinder, or the DNA of the population would be affected to the point of change. A great deal of back and forth dialogue and several dinners, as well as the death of a shelter regular are used by the author to explain the inequalities of capitalism and how it could be made better. Not to give the next reader a spoiler as to the ending, I will say that you should read it with a kind thought.
November 18, 2022
Interesting. This is a mix of philosophy and politics, while also being a bit of a thriller. It's well written and probably for those seeking a light, traditional story.
Thanks very much for the free review copy for review!!
Thanks very much for the free review copy for review!!
April 21, 2021
I wasn’t sure exactly what to expect when I began Ultimatum or Dinners with Saul. It began as a thriller, with a shadowy group called The Heavenly Angels and Better Angels demanding that mankind become “kinder, less selfish, less power-hungry, and less greedy.” If this did not happen within 60 days, the group claimed to have the technology to change everyone’s DNA so that their behavior was changed to conform to the demands.
FBI Special Agent David Briggs, an experienced agent, along with the rest of the FBI and virtually all law enforcement agencies around the world, embarks upon an investigation to determine who the Angels are and how to stop them. As we follow David while he pursues his mission, we are reminded of the political behavior or our country’s leaders over the last several years that might cause a group such as the Angels to demand a change. The author and his character’s analysis are liberal and progressive, something that warmed my heart, but probably would alienate readers of another political point of view.
David meets Doctor Anna Berman, a scientist with expertise in genetics and uses her to increase his knowledge of the latest developments in the field so he can better understand what the Angels might have the ability to do to achieve their goals. It’s clear that he is falling for her. She invites him to her parents’ house, and he meets her father, who is a funny, wise immigrant to this country who loves to engage in debate on social and political issues. He also is distinctly progressive in his thinking, particularly when it comes to topics related to tolerance and immigration. David engages in banter with Anna’s father, but basically agrees with him.
The highlight of the story is when David and Anna visit a Billionaire who funds genetic research, thinking he may be involved in the Angels’ plan. While visiting, they are given a lecture on free will, particularly a challenge to the idea that free will even exists. To me, this was the most delightful part of the book. The argument is well-laid out and David, acts the perfect foil in asking questions that might challenge the point of view. I won’t spoil the book by going through any of the argument, but it’s very well presented in ordinary language and worth reading the book just to read the argument. David is partially convinced and deeply troubled as he tries to absorb the idea that free will is an illusion.
This is a political novel and a philosophical one as well as a thriller. It’s a book written to make the reader think and it works well without becoming boring or tedious. The two main characters, David and Anna and some of the lesser characters, particularly Anna’s father, are well-drawn and interesting. Because the political discussions are not abstract, but often focus on real issue and policies and real political personalities, the book will not be for everyone, although I wish it were. It’s a book well worth reading both for the lessons learned and for the entertainment it provides. I am giving it 4 stars, although I enjoyed it immensely, because I think the use of real people (Bernie Sanders, Donald Trump) and real political issues rather than metaphorical ones will make the book a difficult read for some readers who don’t share the author’s political point of view. I do, so it caused me no problem.
FBI Special Agent David Briggs, an experienced agent, along with the rest of the FBI and virtually all law enforcement agencies around the world, embarks upon an investigation to determine who the Angels are and how to stop them. As we follow David while he pursues his mission, we are reminded of the political behavior or our country’s leaders over the last several years that might cause a group such as the Angels to demand a change. The author and his character’s analysis are liberal and progressive, something that warmed my heart, but probably would alienate readers of another political point of view.
David meets Doctor Anna Berman, a scientist with expertise in genetics and uses her to increase his knowledge of the latest developments in the field so he can better understand what the Angels might have the ability to do to achieve their goals. It’s clear that he is falling for her. She invites him to her parents’ house, and he meets her father, who is a funny, wise immigrant to this country who loves to engage in debate on social and political issues. He also is distinctly progressive in his thinking, particularly when it comes to topics related to tolerance and immigration. David engages in banter with Anna’s father, but basically agrees with him.
The highlight of the story is when David and Anna visit a Billionaire who funds genetic research, thinking he may be involved in the Angels’ plan. While visiting, they are given a lecture on free will, particularly a challenge to the idea that free will even exists. To me, this was the most delightful part of the book. The argument is well-laid out and David, acts the perfect foil in asking questions that might challenge the point of view. I won’t spoil the book by going through any of the argument, but it’s very well presented in ordinary language and worth reading the book just to read the argument. David is partially convinced and deeply troubled as he tries to absorb the idea that free will is an illusion.
This is a political novel and a philosophical one as well as a thriller. It’s a book written to make the reader think and it works well without becoming boring or tedious. The two main characters, David and Anna and some of the lesser characters, particularly Anna’s father, are well-drawn and interesting. Because the political discussions are not abstract, but often focus on real issue and policies and real political personalities, the book will not be for everyone, although I wish it were. It’s a book well worth reading both for the lessons learned and for the entertainment it provides. I am giving it 4 stars, although I enjoyed it immensely, because I think the use of real people (Bernie Sanders, Donald Trump) and real political issues rather than metaphorical ones will make the book a difficult read for some readers who don’t share the author’s political point of view. I do, so it caused me no problem.
July 11, 2021
Ultimatum was an interesting and thought provoking read. It began like a thriller, with a FBI agent trying to solve the puzzle of who is behind a strange terrorist threat, one targeting all people and unlike any previous threat. To say more would absolutely be a spoiler.
But the book was not precisely a thriller, though the ultimatum of the title drives the story at times. While reading I found myself trying to classify what genre best described this book. I think that I have become very used to genre specific books. But when I let go of preconceived ideas, I found Ultimatum very interesting . It is a unique book. I have never read anything quite like it.
Ultimatum is chock full of discussions about big questions, like the nature of good and evil, the question of free will, the pandemic, terrorists, suicide—our World today faces so many problems. And this book included many thoughtful conversations about these issues.
I noticed that another reviewer spoke to the fact there are some political issues in the book. This is worth mentioning. This book may not be for all readers. But I think that any reader who brings an open mind to these pages will find much to think about, even long after they have finished the book.
But the book was not precisely a thriller, though the ultimatum of the title drives the story at times. While reading I found myself trying to classify what genre best described this book. I think that I have become very used to genre specific books. But when I let go of preconceived ideas, I found Ultimatum very interesting . It is a unique book. I have never read anything quite like it.
Ultimatum is chock full of discussions about big questions, like the nature of good and evil, the question of free will, the pandemic, terrorists, suicide—our World today faces so many problems. And this book included many thoughtful conversations about these issues.
I noticed that another reviewer spoke to the fact there are some political issues in the book. This is worth mentioning. This book may not be for all readers. But I think that any reader who brings an open mind to these pages will find much to think about, even long after they have finished the book.
April 15, 2021
Who, of us, didn’t dream about better world, without wars, greed, and poverty? And who, of us, did stop the wheel we’re running for a second, just to think about how to make the world kinder? And why doesn’t it happen? This book is for those who are looking for the answers to these questions.
In general I liked the idea and the concept of the novel though it sounds too idealistic and utopian to me. But again, as one of the characters says, 200 years ago our social system looked utopian too, so who knows. Anyway, the author makes us think about fundamental issues. And I would gladly join the conversations of the characters at dinner table, agreeing with some things or maybe disputing about other things. The sense of humor, and a light irony of a Jewish philosopher would make it even more entertaining.
The language of the author is simple and clear which makes it easy and fast to read. And “have time to question ourselves why the things are the way they are”. The end was surprising as it’s that case when you read the end between the lines. If you’re into politics, ideas of changing current system and building a better world, this book is exactly for you.
In general I liked the idea and the concept of the novel though it sounds too idealistic and utopian to me. But again, as one of the characters says, 200 years ago our social system looked utopian too, so who knows. Anyway, the author makes us think about fundamental issues. And I would gladly join the conversations of the characters at dinner table, agreeing with some things or maybe disputing about other things. The sense of humor, and a light irony of a Jewish philosopher would make it even more entertaining.
The language of the author is simple and clear which makes it easy and fast to read. And “have time to question ourselves why the things are the way they are”. The end was surprising as it’s that case when you read the end between the lines. If you’re into politics, ideas of changing current system and building a better world, this book is exactly for you.
July 22, 2021
Some great debates!
After receiving a letter claiming technogy will be used to change the DNA of all the worlds people, making everyone kinder and the world a better place, the FBI set about trying to crack the case before the 60 day deadline. There are no leads! Alongside this storyline, another delves into the thoughts and opinions of a Jewish man Saul, with indepth discussions on various past and current political issues. This is a thought provoking, detailed book and a lot of research and possibly personal experiences and knowledge of the author have gone into this story. Enjoyable read!
After receiving a letter claiming technogy will be used to change the DNA of all the worlds people, making everyone kinder and the world a better place, the FBI set about trying to crack the case before the 60 day deadline. There are no leads! Alongside this storyline, another delves into the thoughts and opinions of a Jewish man Saul, with indepth discussions on various past and current political issues. This is a thought provoking, detailed book and a lot of research and possibly personal experiences and knowledge of the author have gone into this story. Enjoyable read!
August 6, 2021
The romance is gradual, gentle, and pleasant. The scenario, unlikely as it is, allows the author to explore concepts - I have never seen the idea that we have no free will laid out so clearly with all its consequences. If you really want to make the world a better place, how far would you go? The hero is left wondering, even about the people he is closest to.
July 10, 2021
Wow! What a spectacularly thought-provoking book. I've never read anything like this before, such a unique blend of current and topical issues along with a gripping storyline. Fictional writing at its best.
January 27, 2022
Interesting philosophical discussions
April 3, 2021
This is the first book I read from this author and let me tell you that I loved it! Such a good book with great characters that keeps you obsessed with every page since the first one. The ending of this book.. come on! I just didn´t expect it! Can´t wait to read other books from this great writer! Amazing job! a must-read! A fantastic book that has it all! I happily endorse this novel to any and all who are looking for an enjoyable novel and a completely different experience than anyone could imagine on their own. ¡Great book!
March 20, 2021
Great book!
February 17, 2021
I thoroughly enjoyed "Ultimatum or Dinners with Saul," an insightful exploration of the "free will" and "nature vs nurture" debates. Do we really have free will? What affects our decisions? Genetics? Religion? Culture? Is there such thing as free will? And what does the answer to this question mean for society and the future of humanity?
The story is told in such a way that, as the reader, I often felt I was right there in the conversation with the protagonist and other characters; my mind humming along in thought as I contemplated the arguments being presented by various characters. It also helped that the author has a good sense of humour, which shone through frequently and made for some great banter between characters.
All in all, I highly recommend this book to anyone who is interested in why people think and behave the way they do, and what we can do to help create a kinder society.
The story is told in such a way that, as the reader, I often felt I was right there in the conversation with the protagonist and other characters; my mind humming along in thought as I contemplated the arguments being presented by various characters. It also helped that the author has a good sense of humour, which shone through frequently and made for some great banter between characters.
All in all, I highly recommend this book to anyone who is interested in why people think and behave the way they do, and what we can do to help create a kinder society.
March 2, 2021
Great storyline and read
November 11, 2022
Set in the early 2020s in NYC, a timely novel that is part political/social commentary and part romance, albeit not in the sense of a traditional romance model. When a straight and narrow FBI agent begins investigating what may or may not be a legitimate national security threat—a biological agent of some sort designed to make the world kinder—he meets a captivating scientist who is the daughter of Ukrainian-Jewish immigrants. Through conversations with her and her family the agent begins to look at his own behavior and assumptions and comes to a deeper understanding of himself and the world—and in the meantime falls in love.
November 12, 2022
Filled with wit and wisdom, Ultimatum inspires
Sometimes, you read a book that makes you rethink your position in the world and reminds you of all you have to appreciate. Michael Veletsky's Ultimatum or Dinners with Saul provides that kind of intellectual and emotional recalibration. The novel starts with the eponymous Ultimatum, from a mysterious group called the Heavenly and Better Angels, demanding that the world change or those angels will change it for them genetically, making people kinder, less power-hungry, and less greedy.
What follows is a journey taken by FBI special agent David Biggs. Ostensibly, that journey is to find out who these Angels are and how to stop them, but ultimately, the novel turns to conversations deeper and richer than a chase for the group members. Those explorations involve genetic scientist Anna Berman and her highly opinionated, highly amusing father Saul.
The slow-burn romance between David and Anna -- as much heady talk as heartfelt stares -- comes to serve as the reader's touchstone to a gradual embracing of, indeed, what Lincoln called our better angels. Those dinners with Saul give the novel an intellectual ballast, with numerous scenes of David's investigation (particularly one of philosophical gravity at Bell Lab) providing additional layers of meaning.
Despite the extraordinary opening premise of the novel, the narrative captures the steady rhythms of the everyday, with its quiet injustices and sufferings. In that context, a sensibility first set by Saul and developed in practical ways by both Anna and David gives this novel a conclusion that can only be described as inspirational.
Sometimes, you read a book that makes you rethink your position in the world and reminds you of all you have to appreciate. Michael Veletsky's Ultimatum or Dinners with Saul provides that kind of intellectual and emotional recalibration. The novel starts with the eponymous Ultimatum, from a mysterious group called the Heavenly and Better Angels, demanding that the world change or those angels will change it for them genetically, making people kinder, less power-hungry, and less greedy.
What follows is a journey taken by FBI special agent David Biggs. Ostensibly, that journey is to find out who these Angels are and how to stop them, but ultimately, the novel turns to conversations deeper and richer than a chase for the group members. Those explorations involve genetic scientist Anna Berman and her highly opinionated, highly amusing father Saul.
The slow-burn romance between David and Anna -- as much heady talk as heartfelt stares -- comes to serve as the reader's touchstone to a gradual embracing of, indeed, what Lincoln called our better angels. Those dinners with Saul give the novel an intellectual ballast, with numerous scenes of David's investigation (particularly one of philosophical gravity at Bell Lab) providing additional layers of meaning.
Despite the extraordinary opening premise of the novel, the narrative captures the steady rhythms of the everyday, with its quiet injustices and sufferings. In that context, a sensibility first set by Saul and developed in practical ways by both Anna and David gives this novel a conclusion that can only be described as inspirational.
June 28, 2022
The world is going to hell in a handbasket thanks to the Covid pandemic, political upheaval, racial injustices, and international finances that are on a downward spiral. But then an ultimatum is sent to several international media outlets by a group claiming they will release their technology which will change everyone's DNA to make the world a kinder, gentler place. Intelligence agents around the world, including FBI Senior Special Agent David Briggs, are tasked with finding out if this is a hoax, or a real threat. During his investigation, David meets Saul, a Russian immigrant who has an opinion on almost everything under the sun, and is more than happy to debate each topic.
Ultimatum or Dinner with Saul will have the readers wishing they could have dinner, a few vodka shots, and stimulating conversations with Saul.
Ultimatum or Dinner with Saul will have the readers wishing they could have dinner, a few vodka shots, and stimulating conversations with Saul.
September 14, 2021
'Ultimatum or Dinners With Saul' is insightful and informative.
Michael Veletsky has, through the characters of a delightful romance story, treated the reader to a philosopher's view of a unique premise on free will and an awareness of the political milieu in which we currently live.
I enjoyed this aspect of the book particularly, because if it is true that we see through a glass darkly, this author clears the glass so that we cannot only see more clearly but also see the many facets previously obscured.
Michael Veletsky has, through the characters of a delightful romance story, treated the reader to a philosopher's view of a unique premise on free will and an awareness of the political milieu in which we currently live.
I enjoyed this aspect of the book particularly, because if it is true that we see through a glass darkly, this author clears the glass so that we cannot only see more clearly but also see the many facets previously obscured.
July 7, 2021
Captivating novel -a page turner!
I started reading this novel this morning and spent every spare moment I had today reading it! It pulled me in right away. The only thing I didn’t like about it was that it ended. I found it fascinating the way it wove recent history through the pages and I found myself pondering the meaning of life and free will. David, Anna, and Saul are all characters I won’t soon forget.
I started reading this novel this morning and spent every spare moment I had today reading it! It pulled me in right away. The only thing I didn’t like about it was that it ended. I found it fascinating the way it wove recent history through the pages and I found myself pondering the meaning of life and free will. David, Anna, and Saul are all characters I won’t soon forget.
December 3, 2021
This is an interesting book that generates a great deal of philosophical and political discussion. It certainly caused me to step back and reflect on some of my thoughts. It's a fairly short and an easy read that, depending on your outlook, will make you nod in agreement or want to rage with dissent. Surrounding this a low key romance that is a warm accompaniment.
I won a copy of this book in a Goodreads giveaway for this honest review.
I won a copy of this book in a Goodreads giveaway for this honest review.
March 28, 2024
Veletsky delivers a unique perspective on philosophy in the vein of Jostein Gaarder's "Sophie's World" with a voice reminiscent of Og Mandino. A Christian FBI agent trying to bust a global threat meets a Jewish scientist he wants to get to know better on a personal level. When he "meets the parents" his worldview is turned upside down. Great read!
August 15, 2021
Thought Provoking!
This was part what-if and part social commentary on current life. It was well-written and sure to be a conversation starter. I'm looking forward to reading more by this author!
This was part what-if and part social commentary on current life. It was well-written and sure to be a conversation starter. I'm looking forward to reading more by this author!
October 11, 2021
Interesting
I always like to read works from people that come from outside of the US. The writing style is interesting. I like the plot as well. It was a neat read and im glad I stumbled onto it.
I always like to read works from people that come from outside of the US. The writing style is interesting. I like the plot as well. It was a neat read and im glad I stumbled onto it.
March 17, 2021
not really my kind of read.
March 15, 2023
4.5 ⭐️really
I really enjoyed the characters in the book and the theme of the story. I also enjoy a good romance entwined in a story. However, I just found that the lead characters courtship, while very authentic, overpowered the essence of the impended world crisis.
A very thought provoking book and Saul is someone I would love to keep company with.
Well written and engaging.
I really enjoyed the characters in the book and the theme of the story. I also enjoy a good romance entwined in a story. However, I just found that the lead characters courtship, while very authentic, overpowered the essence of the impended world crisis.
A very thought provoking book and Saul is someone I would love to keep company with.
Well written and engaging.
November 12, 2022
Filled with wit and wisdom, Ultimatum inspires
Sometimes, you read a book that makes you rethink your position in the world and reminds you of all you have to appreciate. Michael Veletsky's Ultimatum or Dinners with Saul provides that kind of intellectual and emotional recalibration. The novel starts with the eponymous Ultimatum, from a mysterious group called the Heavenly and Better Angels, demanding that the world change or those angels will change it for them genetically, making people kinder, less power-hungry, and less greedy.
What follows is a journey taken by FBI special agent David Biggs. Ostensibly, that journey is to find out who these Angels are and how to stop them, but ultimately, the novel turns to conversations deeper and richer than a chase for the group members. Those explorations involve genetic scientist Anna Berman and her highly opinionated, highly amusing father Saul.
The slow-burn romance between David and Anna -- as much heady talk as heartfelt stares -- comes to serve as the reader's touchstone to a gradual embracing of, indeed, what Lincoln called our better angels. Those dinners with Saul give the novel an intellectual ballast, with numerous scenes of David's investigation (particularly one of philosophical gravity at Bell Lab) providing additional layers of meaning.
Despite the extraordinary opening premise of the novel, the narrative captures the steady rhythms of the everyday, with its quiet injustices and sufferings. In that context, a sensibility first set by Saul and developed in practical ways by both Anna and David gives this novel a conclusion that can only be described as inspirational.
Sometimes, you read a book that makes you rethink your position in the world and reminds you of all you have to appreciate. Michael Veletsky's Ultimatum or Dinners with Saul provides that kind of intellectual and emotional recalibration. The novel starts with the eponymous Ultimatum, from a mysterious group called the Heavenly and Better Angels, demanding that the world change or those angels will change it for them genetically, making people kinder, less power-hungry, and less greedy.
What follows is a journey taken by FBI special agent David Biggs. Ostensibly, that journey is to find out who these Angels are and how to stop them, but ultimately, the novel turns to conversations deeper and richer than a chase for the group members. Those explorations involve genetic scientist Anna Berman and her highly opinionated, highly amusing father Saul.
The slow-burn romance between David and Anna -- as much heady talk as heartfelt stares -- comes to serve as the reader's touchstone to a gradual embracing of, indeed, what Lincoln called our better angels. Those dinners with Saul give the novel an intellectual ballast, with numerous scenes of David's investigation (particularly one of philosophical gravity at Bell Lab) providing additional layers of meaning.
Despite the extraordinary opening premise of the novel, the narrative captures the steady rhythms of the everyday, with its quiet injustices and sufferings. In that context, a sensibility first set by Saul and developed in practical ways by both Anna and David gives this novel a conclusion that can only be described as inspirational.
November 12, 2022
Filled with wit and wisdom, Ultimatum inspires
Sometimes, you read a book that makes you rethink your position in the world and reminds you of all you have to appreciate. Michael Veletsky's Ultimatum or Dinners with Saul provides that kind of intellectual and emotional recalibration. The novel starts with the eponymous Ultimatum, from a mysterious group called the Heavenly and Better Angels, demanding that the world change or those angels will change it for them genetically, making people kinder, less power-hungry, and less greedy.
What follows is a journey taken by FBI special agent David Biggs. Ostensibly, that journey is to find out who these Angels are and how to stop them, but ultimately, the novel turns to conversations deeper and richer than a chase for the group members. Those explorations involve genetic scientist Anna Berman and her highly opinionated, highly amusing father Saul.
The slow-burn romance between David and Anna -- as much heady talk as heartfelt stares -- comes to serve as the reader's touchstone to a gradual embracing of, indeed, what Lincoln called our better angels. Those dinners with Saul give the novel an intellectual ballast, with numerous scenes of David's investigation (particularly one of philosophical gravity at Bell Lab) providing additional layers of meaning.
Despite the extraordinary opening premise of the novel, the narrative captures the steady rhythms of the everyday, with its quiet injustices and sufferings. In that context, a sensibility first set by Saul and developed in practical ways by both Anna and David gives this novel a conclusion that can only be described as inspirational.
Sometimes, you read a book that makes you rethink your position in the world and reminds you of all you have to appreciate. Michael Veletsky's Ultimatum or Dinners with Saul provides that kind of intellectual and emotional recalibration. The novel starts with the eponymous Ultimatum, from a mysterious group called the Heavenly and Better Angels, demanding that the world change or those angels will change it for them genetically, making people kinder, less power-hungry, and less greedy.
What follows is a journey taken by FBI special agent David Biggs. Ostensibly, that journey is to find out who these Angels are and how to stop them, but ultimately, the novel turns to conversations deeper and richer than a chase for the group members. Those explorations involve genetic scientist Anna Berman and her highly opinionated, highly amusing father Saul.
The slow-burn romance between David and Anna -- as much heady talk as heartfelt stares -- comes to serve as the reader's touchstone to a gradual embracing of, indeed, what Lincoln called our better angels. Those dinners with Saul give the novel an intellectual ballast, with numerous scenes of David's investigation (particularly one of philosophical gravity at Bell Lab) providing additional layers of meaning.
Despite the extraordinary opening premise of the novel, the narrative captures the steady rhythms of the everyday, with its quiet injustices and sufferings. In that context, a sensibility first set by Saul and developed in practical ways by both Anna and David gives this novel a conclusion that can only be described as inspirational.
February 15, 2023
Absolute and pro vocative book
This book revolves around two things, one being a suspected virus that will make the people of the world more kind and loving toward each other, and second is the conversations between Saul and David during many dinners together. Their Conversations were thought provoking, causing the reader, at least this reader, wondering if free will is true or if it’s our brain automatically making our thoughts before the words come out of our mouths. But the book is even more than that, as it makes the reader wonder if there is a betterway to live without governments, running every aspect of our lives.
This book revolves around two things, one being a suspected virus that will make the people of the world more kind and loving toward each other, and second is the conversations between Saul and David during many dinners together. Their Conversations were thought provoking, causing the reader, at least this reader, wondering if free will is true or if it’s our brain automatically making our thoughts before the words come out of our mouths. But the book is even more than that, as it makes the reader wonder if there is a betterway to live without governments, running every aspect of our lives.
February 21, 2023
What a page turner!
Finally an entertaining book that makes you think. Not at all what I expected. A very satisfying read with thoughtful insights into the life of others and our own.
Finally an entertaining book that makes you think. Not at all what I expected. A very satisfying read with thoughtful insights into the life of others and our own.
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