Ask Not!

My interest in the assassination of John F. Kennedy might make me biased, but I think most people would agree that there is not a better situation suited for a thriller. I've read one other novel/thriller that involves this moment in history, however, it ended up being a relatively small portion of the book. I was excited when Ask Not! set the stage with it in the first pages.

Hank never thought much about John F. Kennedy's assassination. He had no reason to believe anything but the official story: Three bullets shot by Lee Harvey Oswald. A random act. Suddenly he's thrust into the world of polaroids and conspiracies. What's more, is that his own life may be at risk thanks to his brother Benjamin.

There are several different theories that the book explores. While some are outlandish, some appear plausible. As Hank does his own investigation, he encounters a number of different people who have their takes, including a couple of witnesses. He doesn't know what to make of these claims, much less what to believe. He wonders if believing in a conspiracy is easier than believing that a single human can change the course of history in a single act of randomness.

Along with talk of the JFK assassination is Hank's own story and that of his brother's. Hank's drive to clear Benjamin's name from a homicide accusation is the driving force. Christine (Chris) is also a nice addition to the story and compliments Hank's character.

Fast-paced and gripping, this book flows wonderfully with fantastic dialogue and lots of action. I devoured the book in two sittings and then regretted not pacing myself more because it was over all too quickly. Having read several other books on different facts and conspiracies from this event, it was fun to see some of them presented here (and in the form of a novel). I was particularly impressed to see a section that discusses Dorothy Kilgallen. I don't understand why other authors on the subject tend to overlook her place in the theories. I was glad Tom Avitabile didn't hold back!

I appreciated the character list at the beginning of the book to help me keep track of all of the names and roles. Also included is a polaroid, again, setting the stage right off the bat. It's evident that a lot of thought, research, and care went into this book. This is a perfect read for crime/thriller fans, but also readers looking for a hint of nonfiction in their novels.