Blanche Brier has felt someone is out to get her, and it's causing her to live in fear for her life every moment. When she is mugged one night, she runs and hides in a church where she meets seven Franciscan friars who agree to let her stay.
Bear is in Italy, trying to figure out what he wants to do with his life, now that the drug charges have been removed from him. When he suddenly finds out Blanche is missing, and has been accused of embezzling money and drug dealing, he heads back to New York and into a search that proves dangerous for both him and Blanche.
Morality
Very high. Right is right and wrong is wrong, and sense of seeking justice for the innocent prevails.
Spiritual Content
The main characters of the book are Catholic, but the very Catholic elements mentioned are put forth more informatively. The main focus is on not doubting God's love and His plan for our lives. Also, the fact that the more you are fulfilling God's plan for your life, the more Satan wants to get rid of you. These are spiritual truths that both Catholics and Protestants will agree upon.
Violence
Blanche gets mugged on the subway, and there are a couple attempts to kill her by a homeless person. There are a few fist fights and someone gets shot.
Drug and Alcohol Content
Some ecstasy is placed in places to accuse Bear and Blanche of drug dealing. One character actually uses the drug. Someone tries to put another character into a coma by slipping a prescription drug into their food.
Sexual Content
Prior to their marriage, Bear's stepmother was having an affair with his father and he caught them "at it." Later she tries to get Bear to kiss her, but he refuses. There is a part where a character talks about "scarlet women."
Crude or Profane Language or Content
None.
Conclusion
Another very good retelling of Snow White, set in modern day New York.
The story keeps going between present events and flashbacks, which can get a little annoying, but it's done in a way that flows smoothly so there is no confusion. Again, there is some violence, but it's not overdone. And the spiritual elements, though presented through Catholicism, mainly focus on what both Catholics and Protestants share.
Over all, it was a very good story that keeps you wanting to find out what happens next.
This review is brought to you by White Rose.
