Girls, Crimes, and the Ruling Body

by Barry R. Ziman

A legislative intern with secrets that could unravel the governing elite vanishes into the night in Albany, New York. Seven years later, another young woman disappears in a suburb of the nation’s Capital. The only connection between both missing women is Ryan McNeil, the chief of staff to a rising congressman.

Under suspicion, Ryan must now prove his innocence in these women’s abductions; but in the ruthless world of politics—where the line between crime and moral authority blurs—there is no one he can trust. With his life at stake, Ryan confronts the elaborate lies of his lover, his wife, and his political mentor to uncover the identities of a murderer and manipulator.

While Ryan tries desperately to maintain his relationship with his wife and stepdaughter, the desires and deceits of those around him undermine his family and also the integrity of government. Innocent of murder, but implicated in this political world of deception, Ryan discovers the only truth is power

273 pages, Hardcover

Published August 24, 2021

About the author

Barry R. Ziman started his career as a Director of Legislation in New York State in the 1980s. In the 90s, he became a lobbyist first in New York City and later in Washington, DC. He is a graduate of the Bronx High School of Science and the State University of New York, College at Oneonta. In October 2021, he was awarded the runner-up prize in the F., Scott Fitzgerald short story competition.

In 2022, his novel "Girls, Crimes, and the Ruling Body" was selected by the American Fiction Awards as a Winner for Political Thriller and a Winner for Fiction/Mystery by the Pencraft Book Awards. In addition, the novel was also selected as a Political Thriller Finalist in the National Indie Excellence Award competition. His novel was also awarded as a Political Thriller Finalist in the 2022 International Book Award competition of Readers' Favorite.

Reviews

[PamG · Rating 3 out of 5]

Politics, disappearing women, and relationships play a large role in the political thriller by Barry R. Ziman. Ryan McNeil tries to pick up Cathy Wilet in Albany, York. He believes she gets in a limousine. She disappears. Seven years later, another young woman disappears in a suburb of Washington D. C. Ryan, now the chief of staff to Congressman Somatos. The only connection between the two women appears to be Ryan who decides he must prove his innocence.

Ryan’s character is well-defined. He’s a successful political operative and great speechwriter. He’s also loyal, wants to do what is right, and is somewhat insecure at times. Additionally, he likes women and doesn’t tend to be faithful. The other characters have varying degrees of depth appropriate for their roles. However, most of the characters were not likeable, which always affects how much I enjoy a book.

The writing is descriptive and gave a good sense of place. However, in the first half of the novel, it feels like it is all narrative and very little dialogue. This caused the story to drag somewhat. The second half of the book improved and the ending was a surprise. I did not see all of the events coming. I was fascinated by some of the political maneuvering that occurred. Themes of political intrigue, trust, colleague relationships, romantic relationships, disappearing women, power, and much more are woven into the story line.

Overall, this was suspenseful in the second half and had a great premise. The ending was dramatic and somewhat shocking. My review is an outlier and but while the novel didn't quite resonate fully with me, it is worth reading.

I purchased a copy of this novel. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own.
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My 3.23 rounded to 3 stars review is coming soon.

[Suz · Rating 3 out of 5]

Ryan McNeil works in the murky power muddled world of legislature in Albany New York. He is the chief of staff to a man with all the lines, Samatos. Money, sex, power and greed rule the world here, and men are on top in every way. It really is a man’s world. Thus the title I guess.

I was interested in the subject matter as I had not read a book like this before; it was compelling and easy reading. Short chapters meant I could read ‘just one more’ before turning off the light.

Two women seven years apart go missing, and Ryan is implicated in this, and innocent with pretty good morals compared to all the rest. Ryan is no angel, but he believes in innocence and truth, and would very much like to prove it here when it becomes very clear he is being framed. Ryan is married to a cold woman, who shows no love at all, which is sad as Ryan really isn’t a bad man. We see him oscillate between respect and frustration with his relationship with Samatos, who often shows his ‘wolf like’ grin.

No characters are likeable (which I often take issue with), I did in the most like Ryan, but he was floored, but the least floored of an awful bunch. The storyline was engrossing, but the further it progressed, I was left more troubled regards to happenstance and things becoming more and more farfetched.

What did work for me was the interesting world of American politics – is it really that corrupt? I guess so! The easy writing style and the ease of which I could pick up and put down this book.

What I found more troubling or just not to work for me to well was the man centric vibe. Men wanting to get off, and to hell with the consequences. I know the characters were not angels and the men were meant to be quite awful, but the kind of ‘I want this’ attitude, and I will get felt a little morally questionable or alarming. It felt obviously written by a man.

One scene was to show someone returning to the scene of the crime and was interrupted. The interruption came in the way of a couple, two young woman, about to have sex for the first time. Just not too sure about this.

I initially was planning this to be a four star read, but it lost me a little toward the last third, but I happily give this a 3.5★ rating as it was a topic I have never broached before and was interested and read the book quite quickly.

A little tighter editing may have been needed, with some minor grammatical issues. Some less important irritants were everyone smoked. I feel Ike that’s really not a thing anymore, but the time setting was vague, which again challenged my quirks, and women characters called the men brutes frequently. That’s not (to me) a term used by younger women.

With many thanks to the author for sending a signed physical copy for me to review.

[Lena Andrews · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved the book with the weaves of ins and outs all the way to end. You don't know what is going to happen and you have to wonder and keep guessing.

The characters were interesting as I listened to them speaking in my head. Each with their own distinctive personality. I love that.

Thank you for allowing me to travel on this journey with you.

[Celeste · Rating 4 out of 5]

It has been long since I read a book as compelling and thrilling as Girls, Crimes, and the Ruling Body written by Barry R. Ziman. The story hooked me from the very beginning and the unexpected twists and turns in the plot kept me reading without stopping until its last page. It is very well written; crime, mystery and political intrigue are skilfully woven into its pages. The descriptions of events and settings, and the construction of the characters are excellent. Some of the passages are spine-tingling and the book is unputdownable. In my opinion, that reflects the great ability of the writer and the quality of the novel.
The story follows Ryan McNeil, the chief of staff to a rising congressman. When he is related to the disappearance of two women who vanished seven years apart, he will have two navigate the rough waters of politics to clear his name and uncover the identities of the real criminals. I really enjoyed this story and I recommend it.

[Julie Porter · Rating 4 out of 5]

Spoilers: In the hallowed halls of the rich, famous, and powerful lie some of the darkest secrets: sexual assault, rape, pedophilia, abuse, shady business deals, racketeering, corruption, fraud, mismanagement, cooking account books, workplace violations, safety and health violations, double dealing, treason, murder, supporting and sometimes committing genocide. They think that their wealth and famous names will prevent them from facing any accountability or punishment. Unfortunately, in many cases, they are right. Barry R. Ziman’s Girls, Crime, and The Ruling Body is about people like that, how the wealthy and powerful do terrible illegal things and quite often get away with it.

Ryan McNeil is the chief of staff for Assemblyman Nickolas Somatos, a brilliant and ambitious New York based politician who has his sights set on higher positions of power. Cathy Wilet, a beautiful intern, is reported missing and foul play is suspected. This concerns Ryan because by chance he was one of the last people to see Cathy alive. He is questioned by police after he reveals his connection with her. Ryan is considered a person of interest so he becomes obsessed with the case and Cathy. This puts him at odds with his job when Ryan's notoriety affects Somatos’ approval ratings and affects his relationship with his girlfriend, Caroline so she leaves him. Seven years later, Ryan is still chief of staff to Somatos who is now a U.S. Congressman. He also has an advantageous though unhappy marriage to his sophisticated but troubled wife, Annie. Ryan's new life begins to crumble when another woman ends up missing in a case similar to Cathy's and because of the similarities, Ryan becomes a primary suspect.

What is particularly striking about Girls, Crime, and The Ruling Body is the inside look at the wealthy and powerful and how they function, operate, and maintain control over the United State's population. It's the type of world where everything and everybody has a price and quite often that price is high.

Somatos is a politician who might have started out with good intentions and ideals, a real concern and desire to change the world. However, idealism has been replaced by pragmatism. The good intentions became mired in compromise and gain. He still has certain beliefs that he wants to come to fruition but knows that the price is his soul to become the arrogant hypocritical judgemental politician that he once ran against. He is one of many in this book who live a life of unchecked privilege, of wealth, power, influence, and glamor. Decisions are made by people like him on behalf of the people who are expected to follow along without complaining.

It's the type of glamorous surface that occurs so often in these types of works. We might admire or envy those people from afar but fear or are suspicious towards them when we learn what is inside. Various other characters in the book are seduced and fall susceptible to this life: politicians, business people, lobbyists, spouses, lovers, interns, media. Everyone is held under a microscope as their inner selves are revealed. Quite often those inner selves are repellant, repugnant, and filled with naked aggressive, hateful, decadent, violent, and murderous intentions.

This behavior is seen by Ryan who stands on the outside and wants in. He is no better than anyone else. He has frequent affairs and has an ambitious drive to climb higher in this cesspool. Even his concern for the welfare of Cathy and the other women isn't based on any real concern but is actually based on his lustful obsession for them and fear over what these cases could mean for his long term career and family plans.

This book has a very cynical view towards politics, justice, and the American system. That cynicism carries over to the end. For spoiler’s sake specific points won't be mentioned. Let's just say it doesn't end the way many mysteries and thrillers do. Instead it continues the cycle of powerful people doing horrible crimes to innocent people and facing no accountability for it. Everything gets swept under and covered by complacency, apathy, and insulating privilege.

We want to believe that everyone is created equal but unfortunately some are born at the finish line and are able to influence everyone and everything else in their favor. Money, fame, and power often interfere with the actual pursuits of justice, equality, mercy, and compassion. That won't keep many from pursuing them and helping people to actually be seen as equal no matter their race, sexuality, gender identity, country of origin, faith, beliefs, or income status. Maybe then when we are truly seen as equal, justice can truly be met.

[Jacqui · Rating 4 out of 5]

Two women have gone missing. Their seemingly unrelated cases have one thing in common: Ryan McNeil. Having been the last person to see the first before she went missing, and having the second’s bloody clothes in his car makes him a person of interest indeed. However, in the political world he lives in, he can’t afford to be connected to either. One wrong move and his career could be over.

Now settled down and married, Ryan is initially content, but soon longs for the excitement he used to enjoy when he was single. As his connection to the cases comes under scrutiny, Ryan finds himself at odds with his marriage and his career. He’d better watch out as the web of lies within the political sphere he is in all comes down to “I’ll scratch your back and you scratch mine…”

The story was good even though a little farfetched in places, but definitely showed the darker side of politics and the things that people who you think are morally sound do. It highlights how puppet strings are pulled and that even when trying to do the right thing, someone behind the scenes is controlling the narrative.

The characters were an interesting mixed bunch. Ryan pulled you in two ways – sometimes rooting for him and sometimes pursing lips at his actions. Caroline’s character was one I felt strongly about as her dubious choices must have come from somewhere and her decline was sad to see. Tantalus was just awful and the more that came out about those in powerful political seats, the more you realised how crooked they were. It takes skill to write a good story about a bunch of not-so-great characters!

I had a few issues with the book. The writing, while flowing well, came across in some places as using unnecessary words for effect. Some areas were written in plain English and the reading became faster as there were fewer adjectives, while in other places words like insouciant and specious were used. It became a bit jarring as they felt out of place. There was quite a bit of head hopping and a lack of section breaks. A few grammatical errors like your/you’re and they’re/their popped up and the maths didn’t always make sense. Some dates versus ages didn’t seem right and 770k plus 330k do not make a million. The biggest problem I had, though, was I felt the story was being told at me and didn’t involve me as such.

The ending came from nowhere and was indeed a surprise, which, while out of the blue, was the right way to end the story, considering the tangents it had been on. A good political thriller overall that I definitely enjoyed. Many thanks to the author for the opportunity to review the book.

[Janalyn, the blind reviewer · Rating 4 out of 5]

Girls Crime in the ruling body by Barry R Zieman, in the beginning of the book we watched as an unknown girl and her anonymous lover, after being intimate in an isolated cabin.Discuss political files with the chapter ending in her death. Then we meet Ryan McNeil, a new husband to Anne and stepfather to three-year-old Jessica. He is a campaign coordinator for a senator who is an up-and-comer, but as well versed in the New York state political scene. when he arrives home, he sees a strange van in front of his house and soon he is chasing it down the interstate because due to strange events, he thinks they may have kidnapped his stepdaughter, Jessica, and while in pursuit, it looks as if they throw her out of the van only for him to stop and learn it’s the clothing of the newest missing young woman. As if that wasn’t bad enough, the police also find something that ties him to a missing girl in Albany at the time he lived there. his wife thinking him a killer kicks him out and he is living in a hotel. He gets suspended from his job and feels he has lost everything so he takes it upon himself to investigate. Not just the missing girls but other strange things that’s been happening in the political sphere where he works. Soon he learns this isn’t just dangerous for his freedom, but his life will be on the line as well. there is so much I want to say about this book but like most of my reviews don’t want to give anything away. There is so much much greatness in this political thriller that I found it hard to put down and I’m not just saying that this really is a story that will keep you on the edge of your seat. There was just one thing in the book. I wasn’t a fan of, but I’m going to leave that out so as not to give anything away… Of course. If you love, great political thrillers, then trust me when I say this book would stand up against the best of them. It is so so good. Then you will definitely love this book.

[Mishael · Rating 2 out of 5]

Ryan McNeil tries unsuccessfully to pick up Cathy Wilet on an Albany street corner. Minutes later, she gets into a black limo and is never seen again.

Years later, Ryan and his boss are promoted to D.C., where another girl disappears. She has ties to both Albany politics and the missing Cathy Wilet.

When Leslie Warren's bloody clothes are found on the street near where Ryan runs his car off the road, the police search his house. They find newspaper clippings of the Wilet case and suspect Ryan is responsible for both deaths.

With his marriage on the rocks, his relationship with his mistress complicated, his career in jeopardy, and his future uncertain, Ryan seeks answers to who is responsible for these crimes and what, if anything, it has to do with past legislation on the death penalty and genetic testing.

Answers someone is determined to not let him find.

The writing, at times, was brilliant and poetic. This was somewhat shattered by the many typos and misuses of "there/their/they're" throughout. More than that, though, I just didn't care at all for the overarching misogyny and nihilism.

[Karyn H · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Go-To For Lovers Of Politics And Mysteries

A story with well-developed characters and a twist at every turn. This is a novel for individuals who appreciate puzzles with a dash of politics and power. A unique account of Ziman's takeover of Albany, Washington, and their ensemble of opportunistic and cutthroat politicians. The storyline of this work is so intricately intertwined that there are little bits of vital facts provided both clearly and delicately, making it feel like a forty-nine-course luxury feast throughout the 49 chapters.

Nothing is absent to unravel the riddle, and you go alongside Ryan (the main protagonist) as he pieces together every piece of evidence. Excellent work has plenty of the markers of superb storytelling that you will have the luxury of discovering. After the novel, you discover you have all the knowledge you need to piece together a few twists and turns to find out exactly what happened. The author constructs an elaborate story that blends suspense and love with a political dimension that distinguishes it from other works in the category.

[Elaine · Rating 4 out of 5]

Girls, Crimes, and the Ruling Body by Barry R. Ziman was a fast and thrilling read.

The book's MC is Ryan McNeil, who is chief of staff to a rising Congressman Nicolas Somatos.
There are a lot of characters and a lot of political intrigue, but Ziman does a good job of writing so they are not talking in jargon 24-7.

There are definitely "girls in peril" or worse in this book, and although you root for some, many, if not all of the characters are very flawed.

In a subtle way, this book explores how the exercise of power shapes many relationships, and the way many relationships have an unequal power footing.

It also speaks to the world of politics and quid pro quo, how nothing is done without something in return. Kind of makes you sad thinking that is the way our world and system works.

The ending was very interesting, and the final/epilogue chapter was key to understanding everything that had gone before.

I highly recommend this book for anyone who likes thriller or political intrigue stories.

[Märtha Custis · Rating 4 out of 5]

Just how far will a politician go to protect their career and do you really know who your friends are? Both of these hypothetical situations form the base of Barry R. Ziman’s Girls, Crimes, and the Ruling Body, a complex and intriguing murder mystery novel.
The story follows two murders seven years apart, and the unfortunate Ryan who happened to have key information which gets him drawn into the complex and deadly web of political coverups. Jumping between New York and Washington D.C. the storyline twists and turns and leaves you guessing until the final pages of the book and even after finishing, makes you want to go back and reread to confirm the shocking truth.
Overall, a well written mystery novel; lovers of intrigue and crime alike will find something to enjoy in Girls, Crimes, and the Ruling Body.

[Aneley Sánchez · Rating 5 out of 5]

A must read!

I love stories in which the reader finds small pieces of an incredible puzzle but only notices it when they see the complete image at the end. This is one of those books.
Girls, Crimes, and the Ruling Body by Barry R. Ziman talks about the power struggle, the dark secrets and the complicated relationships of government members. In this frame, a legislative intern vanishes into the night in Albany, New York; the same place where a young woman disappears seven years later. Ryan McNeil, the chief of staff to a rising congressman, is the only connection between both disappearances, and now he must prove his innocence.
Characters are fascinating and the author hatches a captivating plot with turns and twists that kept me on the edge of my seat. I couldn't stop reading it. It is great, I loved it!

[CarlitasFox · Rating 5 out of 5]

A compelling, page-turning novel

I love reading mystery novels, that's why I chose 'Girls, crimes and the ruling body', which is an enticing reading penned by Barry R. Ziman. The moment I started reading it, I was hooked by the plot.

After the abduction of two people, Ryan, a legislative intern who has some skeletons in his closet, becomes the main suspect. So, he must struggle to prove his innocence and keep his family together, as well.

What a twisted story! It's well-written and very compelling since it deals with common themes, such as corruption, power, lies, among others. It's interesting the way the characters are portrayed, their dialogues are realistic and makes the plot easy to follow. It's a page-turning novel worth reading.

[S Tyty · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ziman’s suspense tale is one of those vibrant and colorful narratives that draws you in on a fun ride. Its title says a lot; crimes and girls are the main protagonists of an intriguing situation that make up the storyline here and the author has been witty enough to weave two parallel stories of mysteries together.
This book resembles those of Sherlock Holmes where suspense and fast-paced mystery are sustained all along. It is written in a meticulous manner, so much so that until the very last minute we can’t guess what the ending would be. Girls, Crimes and the Ruling Body is one of those novels
with an explosive ending that will surprise readers.

[Liz · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a Thriller like few others. "Girls, Crimes, and the Ruling Body” is an engaging book written by Barry R. Ziman, where we get to know Ryan McNeil, the chief of staff of a rising congressman, who must now prove that he is innocent of two women's abductions. Power can do anything, but is Ryan willing to sacrifice everything to get out of this mess clean?
This is the first book I have read by author Ziman and I must admit that his writing style is fascinating. Elegant and descriptive, that's how I would describe his writing. I literally devoured this gripping book in two days! I loved it.

[Brenda · Rating 5 out of 5]

In this enthralling thriller there is a lot going on, the reader has to be very conscious and active to be on top of things in order to discover who is to blame. The story takes place in a political and bureaucratic context. Ambition, power and elite are three words that explain the surroundings in this book.

Ryan McNeil is the chief of staff of a congressman that is wrongfully being accused of some very serious accusations. He will have to prove his innocence surfing a world where lines tend to blur.

“Girls, Crimes, and the Ruling Body" is a well written thriller with a great build up and a fantastic ending. Really enjoyed it!

[Saya Jacaranda · Rating 4 out of 5]

very good!

“Girls, crimes, and the Ruling Body” by Barry R. Ziman is an incredibly stimulating and entertaining crime novel that will keep you 100% engaged throughout every single page and plot twist. Two missing women and one man in common raise plenty of questions and suspicions. The innocent doesn’t always win, and in front of the court it doesn’t really matter what actually happened but rather what events theoretically make more sense. And this book shows how hard it can be to prove your innocence if you are at the wrong place and at the wrong time.
I personally really liked this book. I read it in 2 days because I just couldn’t put it away.

[Chico's Mom · Rating 5 out of 5]

A thrilling political mystery novel.

Girls, Crimes, and the Ruling Body by Barry R. Ziman is a thrilling political mystery novel. It's like an episode of Madam Secretary or better yet, How To Get Away with Murder. The story plot is as intriguing as its cover photo. I love how Ryan fought for what he believes is right and has done everything to protect his family. The ending though can be interpreted in so many ways. “We are all guilty of something”, that is very chilling really. I don't want to give out any spoilers so I would recommend to read it. Great plot twist and ending. Is it a happy ending or not, it was a great ending though.

[Bridget Ball · Rating 5 out of 5]

A legislative intern goes missing in Albany New York. Seven years later, another girl vanishes, this time in D.C. Ryan Mc Neil, the chief of staff to a congressman is the only link between them. Now Ryan must prove his innocence and find a murderer.
This is one of the best political thrillers I have read in a decade. It was captivating from the very first chapter and had me thinking many nights trying to gather clues and figure out the puzzle.
I would recommend this book for fans of John Grisham. Ziman writes in a style that is intellectual as well as fast paced with action that is pulled off flawlessly. I am looking forward to reading more by Ziman in the future.

[Cheryl · Rating 5 out of 5]

Looking for your next mystery, suspense, thriller then you need to pick up a copy of this book. I really enjoyed it a lot. It started out strong and hooked me with the first chapter. The story moved at a fast pace and there was never a dull moment. Love or hate the characters, it means that I was invested in them either way.

Ryan is one of those characters that you feel for him. I kind of figured out where the storyline was going but still there were some twists that I did not see coming like that one moment need the end of the story. Talk about a big bang. I look forward to reading more books by Mr. Ziman. He definitely knows how to write stories that suck you in.

[Heather Barksdale · Rating 4 out of 5]

“Girls, Crimes, and the Ruling Body” introduces Ryan McNeil, the chief of staff to a rising congressman in DC.

Overall, I was a bit mixed on this one. The tale is told mostly through Ryan’s POV, but sporadically through others in order to reveal events central to story development. Ryan has relatable characteristics- he’s motivated and often insecure leading him to be unlikable with many of his choices which can be found as cowardly, self-serving and adulterous.

Find the full blog review at heatherlbarksdale.com

I received a copy of this story in exchange of a fair and honest review.

[Ashley Mitchell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great tension!

Girls, Crimes, and the Ruling Body is a mystery novel by Barry Ziman. Ziman has spun a web of intrigue, political tension, and cut-throated characters, all leaving a mess for protagonist Ryan to untangle to solve a mystery.
This book was really good, as the stakes were intense, the plot and dialogues well-written, and the ending not too guessable. It’s a page turner for sure. The author’s narration style is interesting, because you’re told exactly what’s weird or off or dangerous about character actions instead of having to infer that for yourself. Within the first chapter, I felt that I was sinking into a pit of quicksand that I couldn’t pull myself out of, let alone Cathy.

[David Wilson · Rating 5 out of 5]

This tense politic thriller grabbed me from page one and did not let go. This is one of those books that is hard to put down, so start early. You're going to be up late. Fast-paced and suspenseful with complex characters and surprising twists and turns at every corner. Ziman is a master storyteller who knows his stuff. I loved the main character… hell, I loved all the characters and Ziman’s writing style kept me engaged and on the edge of my seat. I highly recommend!.

[Gail · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is a fast-moving and chilling story of crime, corruption, deception and power. Ryan McNeil is the protagonist determined to reveal the truth behind murders in government. But the old-boys club reigns supreme. Though not without his own secrets and deceptive ways, you can't help but root for him as he sacrifices everything to protect his family and himself. The ending blew me away.

[Tara Dodson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I literally could not put this book down!

What a read! This book was full of mystery and intrigue. While this was a work of fiction, it closely mirrored the corrupt world of politics in the modern era. With every chapter being more fulfilling than the last, every moment I read was exhilarating.

[Lionel · Rating 5 out of 5]

An enjoyable quick reading first novel enhanced by the author's work experiences in the scene descriptions. The primary characters are well described and developed in a fast paced and unexpected ending. Well done Barry Ziman.

[Cassie · Rating 2 out of 5]

A suspenseful thriller, but one that needs lots of work. The author is articulate, logical, and daring. However, the book has several grammar and spelling issues as well as a general monotone voice that is forced upon each of the characters that makes it difficult to read.

[Nancy · Rating 4 out of 5]

The author keeps the reader guessing throughout the entire book. Many characters to keep straight, politics and schemes come to light. I found the descriptive language used to be quite advanced and this detracted from the story for this reader.
I will add to this review shortly.

[Silena · Rating 5 out of 5]

A political thriller and murder mystery with "House of Cards" vibes.