The First Stone: A Novel

by John Briley

Under the direction of the Israeli secret service, a beautiful American spy marries a rich Saudi, but when the Mossad calls her to action, she is torn between duty and a new-found love for her husband.

Genres: Fiction

356 pages, Hardcover

First published December 12, 1961

Reviews

[Shiran · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is not a genre or topic that I would normally read about but I was very interested in how the events would play out and took a stab at it.

The First Stone is very well written and well researched. Even though the main character is female, Briley still writes an accurate character and you don't get the impression that the author is male. It is an intense book with a very political undertone. Some of the events that take place are violent and some people will find it hard to believe, but they are real and do happen everyday. I'm not sure I liked the ending but that is more of a personal thing.

John Briley is well known for his accurate portrayals of events and attention to detail. So when reading this book you are very aware that every detail of life for women in a Harem is true. This book really opens your eyes to the oppression and abuse women suffer and gives you a unique insight into what most people believe is a mad lifestyle.

This book is not for those with a weak stomach.

[Heather Walton · Rating 5 out of 5]

I learned a lot from this book, history and the current culture and lives of women in the middle east.

[Jessica · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved it! I wish that there had been more. Got me very interested in the life of women in Saudi Arabia. It was a very well researched book. A worthwhile read.

[Bianca Mariën · Rating 5 out of 5]

Best Book ever.

[Jim Moffett · Rating 3 out of 5]

07-97

[Claire · Rating 3 out of 5]

I really liked a lot of it, but also didn't feel like some parts were believable.

[Brimorse · Rating 4 out of 5]

Reena became one of my all time favorite characters.