The Independent

by Justin Lowe

"In a time of razor thin margins in the United States Senate and the US house, debut novelist Justin Lowe produces a fantastic page-turner for anyone interested in American politics." – Former U.S. Representative Robert J. Dold (IL)

When former professor Parker Stowe finds himself as the tie-breaking Senator in an evenly divided bi-partisan room, he makes a decision that will not only affect his family’s safety, but will have repercussions throughout the halls and backrooms of Washington and beyond. How far will each party go to try and secure their best interests? And who is the man in the hoodie that seems determined to undermine everything?

Almost mirroring current events—but written and conceived of years earlier—The Independent invites us into the private conversations and negotiations of power-centric Washington DC, while examining potentially outdated practices that impact everyone, especially those who have been pulling the strings out of sight.

349 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 2, 2023

Reviews

[Bridget Miklausich · Rating 5 out of 5]

To begin, I acknowledge that I have bias in this review - the author, Justin, and I were friends at Vanderbilt. That being said, I thoroughly enjoyed the book! I do like political novels, and this one was a little different in that the protagonist is an Independent who breaks with Republican rhetoric in areas and Democratic in others. The religion and some more conservative aspects were not in line with my beliefs, but the overall message of leading by example and not by judgment or legislating "morality" helped soften the conservative leaning.Overall a great debut novel and 4.5 rounded up for me.

[Christina Rogers · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great political novel turned mystery that kept you wanting to read more. Hoping there's a sequel that continues the Parker Stowe story!

[Catherine Cox · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really enjoyed this books. The characters are well developed and the plot twist was great.

Looking for to the next book!

[Tina · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Independent is a sharp, suspenseful political thriller that feels uncannily timely. Set against the backdrop of razor thin margins in the U.S. Senate and House, Justin Lowe’s debut novel plunges readers into the high-stakes world of Washington, D.C., where every vote can shift the balance of power and every decision carries a price.

[Kevin Coleman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well developed characters and an interesting plot leaves you wanting for more. Hopefully there will be a second.

[Martina Faulkner · Rating 5 out of 5]

When I first read this book, I was hooked! It's the perfect book for the times we live in, offering insight into what goes on behind closed doors in DC while also providing realistic suggestions for how to make things better.... all on the back of fast-paced and intriguing plot lines! What more could you want? If you're even remotely interested in politics, or you enjoy a good thriller with political plot lines, it's a must-read!

[Disclaimer: My indie publishing company (IOM) co-published this book with another indie press. This review is my personal review—as a reader and fellow author.]

[Kellee Casebeer · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an incredible read! I enjoyed the story from start to finish. Justin Lowe is truly a talented author, and I anxiously await his next book.

[Amy Williams · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book! I can't wait for the sequel!

[Rachel Stockton · Rating 2 out of 5]

Too many characters. the changing POV made it difficult to follow. Interesting concept of an independent winning, but it felt like there really wasn’t a story here.