Customer Reviews

The Altar Boys

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I rarely read books of fiction and admittedly, have little time on my hands to sink my teeth into a good book. A few years back, I would read the occasional John Grisham book, but lost interest as they became somewhat predictable in their story lines.

I therefore began my reading of The Altar Boys thinking it could meet the same fate as other books of that genre. I was pleasantly rewarded with a book that I simply could not put down. The author did an excellent job of creating a story line that intrigues you, with just enough clues to future events to keep you wanting to read "just one more chapter". I thought I could figure out the ending, but like many readers, could not. Yet, I found myself at the end of the book saying "so that's why that happened". Truly, it is not a book that tries to confuse the reader with false clues, but one that makes perfect logical sense and effectively ties all the pieces of the puzzle together.

I give kudos to the author for explaining the different worlds of law, religion and crime in a way that was easy to understand for a reader like me who is not involved in any of those fields. I gained a true understanding of how those worlds operate. The author's ability to weave those worlds together in such an engaging way is no small feat and a bonus for the readers of his book.

I found myself wondering at the end of the book what would happen to these characters in the future. I hope the author draws on the success of this book to give his readers a chance to find out through a follow up novel. I for one, will be one of the first in line to find out.

I have never been compelled to write a book review in the past, but most definitely today. I have just read the Alter Boys in two settings and it was wonderful! Since I am a Sacramento native, the numerous (and accurate) references to the landmarks, the Delta, the heat, and people intertwined with the incredible plot twists really made for a stimulating read! I entered Borders in Roseville looking for "something different" and actually met Mr. Poswall...very glad I took a chance on a book that was "out of the box" for me. There's no reason to regurgitate the plot, but as a fallen Catholic, it was quite topical, and the writing, seamless. Great job, John...and, no, I did not see it coming....

This novel is superb on many levels. Not only is it a captivating and fascinating page turner, but it offers a veritable window into the mind of a seasoned litigator and our system of justice as he knows it. Poswall's writing runs the gamut from the absurdly funny (Andy's quixotic crusade against Ken Lay and his ilk) to the profound, the painful and, most notably, the controversial: the basis of and underpinnings of faith. Not to be missed. This novel may well inspire you to catch a few more sunsets, and "find joy every day".

Damn! Just finished Poswall's novel, "The Altar Boys". A must read! Brilliant writing and insight into the machinations of the legal system, Catholic Church and human nature. Characters are complex, well drawn and realistic. Especially Andy. His dichotomy of personality--avenging crusader for the underdog and "bad boy" are so real. I love that guy. Poswall teases you from the first chapter (couldn't put the book down) until the surprise ending. I second a quote by a very dear and great literary reviewer, "No...I didnt see it coming, and won't reveal it here."

This incredibly well-written book really delivers on its promise as a Legal Thriller. The fifty short chapters make it easy to read and each chapter advances the plot in way that is unexpected, sometimes outrageous, completely engaging and undeniably fun. At the core of the story is a great character and incredibly talented litigator testing the legal system and running on ego and wit in the battle of his life. While the main story line moves through twist after twist this book also weaves in a landscape of sex, lust, love, trust, family and faith through the eyes of several of its conflicted and colorful characters. Each of whom comes with a different set of values and beliefs. Enjoy the ride and fasten your seatbelt for the ending.

Last year I read "The Lawyers: Class of 69" by John Poswall and was drawn right back into the idealism of the 60s--and angered by the very real portrayal of how women were treated and how broken the system was. With his new book "The Altar Boys", Poswall takes on not just the Catholic Church but the hypocrisy of religion and again does it with subtlety and in the context of a very real, even if funny at times, story. Then there is the added dimension of the relationship of fathers and daughters and that strong theme of women who stand up for what is right--and wrong. In Poswall's books, the reader gains insight about law and the role of the media that is deeply intertwined in the very real background of the author who has been involved in many real high profile cases in his previous career. I agree with John Lescroart: Altar Boys is one of the best courtroom legal dramas I have read.

Kudos to John Poswall's first book, "The Lawyers;Class of 69" it held me from the first chapter on and my usual routine went out the window, I just couldn't put it down. He has captured the decades so well and though times have changed people have not. I am sure the personal trials of the characters still go on today in the lives of many lawyers. I know as I practised Law in California during this time and was there to see it just as he describes it.

He also has a new book, just published "The Altar Boys", about the church. It has much to do with what has occurred in Europe and gives insight into what is also a European issue and is a must read wherever you reside!
I wish I had read "The Lawyers; Class of 69" before I ventured into the law and I do advise any one planning a career as a lawyer to read it first. Though it may be fiction, the people and events are true to life and the characters are alive in all our communities.
More than a trip down memory lane, it exquisitely weaves together in one work, portions of the life and struggles of so many Lawyers I knew. In revealing there personal strengths and weakness's, the joy of success, the depth of despair and most importantly their personal inner struggles, Poswall sets forth what a trial lawyer will face at points along the way, the demands of the Law vs. their own Humanity.
Their is a question posed in Poswall's Novel;

"It all seemed so clear___black and white.When did it turn gray? Did they change society? The law?Anything? Or were they changed?

You decide after you read the novel. I say all of them made a difference, just helping one person to see they could have a better life! I think most did. Read and decide for yourself.

While reading " The Lawyers" the song "Sunday Mornin' Comin' Down" by Kristofferson kept running through my mind. So I looked it up on the net, read the lyrics and found out why! There are portions of that particular song that apply to Poswall's work:

It took me back to somethin',
That I'd lost somehow, somewhere along the way..

And somewhere far away a lonely bell was ringin'.
And it echoed through the canyons,
Like the disappearing dreams of yesterday.

Johnny Cash introduced the song on his T.V. show after a young Kristofferson gave it to him. Now, Poswall has given us "The Lawyers" and his new book "The Altar Boys" The song was proof Kristofferson is one of the great songwriters of our time. John Poswall with his books, "The Lawyers:Class of 69" and "The Altar Boys" will prove to be another great discovery of our times.

So, Poswall is now amongst the poet/philosphers coming out of the tumultuos '60's as well as an author and one fine lawyer! He has given us a very real insight into the lives of Lawyers.

Next up, Poswalls "The Altar Boys", It's right beside my reading chair.

Ernie Winters
Dublin, Ireland

This novel is both an exciting legal thriller and a thoughtful examination of religion. John Poswall, the author, is well situated to write such a novel for he was an altar boy and he has also been honored as one of the best lawyers in America. The book deals with the disturbing prevelance of sexual abuse of children by Catholic priests. Poswall, as a lawyer, is admired for his extensive researching of each case; Poswall, as an author, has obviously researched his subject extensively. This enables him to give the reader an understanding of the psychological and social consequences of abuse.
Poswall's plot zooms along, and unlike so many authors of this genre, he has a mastery of the law and trial strategy. He also has the ability to make the law understandable to the lay person and to teach attorneys how to be better lawyers.
One pleasure in reading this novel is the relationship between the protagonist/lawyer and his law graduate daughter. He also does a fine job of exploring the relationship between the protagonist and the Bishop.
This book has energy, wit, realism and also contains profound insights into religion, sexual abuse and justice.

My wife gave me a copy of The Altar Boys to read on our vacation. However, after starting I could't put the book down and finished before arriving at our destination. Since returning home I fracured my ankle, have been non weight bearing, with plenty of time to read. I have read 6 Lescroat books, 2 Balcacci, 2 Steve Martini, 2 Donna Leon and 2 Ian Rankin. Non of these were as riveting and entriguing as The Altar Boys. Definitely not a book to be missed.

Most probably the best book I have read in a long time. Money well spent but more improtant time well spent reading. I did not want it to end. Very clever, indeed!