The Collaborator of Bethlehem is not a mystery in the traditional sense. Instead, it belongs to a new genre of books where the mystery takes a backseat to the character development and the time and place in which the story unfolds. I absolutely loved it!

If you enjoy this type of story, rather than the more formulaic mystery, then this is definitely a novel worth picking up and investing your time in reading.

Matt Benynon Rees has crafted a very lifelike central character in Omar Yussef, a Muslim living in the West Bank. Thanks to Rees' time spent in the Middle East, the story realistically imagines Yussef's neighborhood, his family, and the turmoil felt by the average person living in a war zone. It is truly moving to read about the frustrations and violence that are an everyday occurrence.

Within this description of Yussef's life, the reader is introduced to a mystery. One of Yussef's former students is accused of being a "collaborator" with the Israeli army. Omar must overcome his initial hesitation to get involved and redeem himself by living the life he has urged his students to live. He sets out to prove his former student's innocence through clues, confrontations, and deductions.

We root for Omar Yussef as he is the everyman struggling to "make things right" in a world gone horribly wrong. This is a well-written and intriguing novel in which the answer to the mystery is less climactic than the growth that the central character, Omar Yussef, experiences. Well done!

Crime fiction that is set in Bethlehem offers a unique and captivating reading experience. In this particular story, a favourite pupil of Omar, a schoolmaster, who is now an adult, finds himself framed for murder. Determined to clear his pupil's name, Omar takes it upon himself to conduct an investigation.

The author claims that this book is based on actual incidents, which adds an element of authenticity to the narrative. It is an interesting read that I would highly recommend.

It is worth noting that, in my opinion, the political situation of the area is not particularly explored in-depth. Additionally, considering that the book was written in 2006, some things may have changed since then. However, I believe that one can still enjoy this book as a work of fiction without feeling compelled to take sides.

The fictional group mentioned in the story seems to be more of a 'gang' than a 'cause', further emphasizing the focus on the crime and the investigation rather than on broader political or social issues. Overall, it is a book that combines mystery, intrigue, and a touch of realism to keep readers engaged from start to finish.

Excellent Characterization

The story presents excellent characterization that truly brings the characters to life. It delves into a part of the world that many of us may not have a great desire to know much about. The Israelis and Palestinians are depicted in a way that makes neither side particularly likeable. There is a significant amount of violence on both sides, which adds to the intensity and complexity of the situation.

The Christians in the story seem weak and not very important, almost overshadowed by the larger conflicts. Omar Yussef, a school teacher, is a central character who is contemplating retiring to become a detective. His attempts to save his former students lead to a series of events that result in a bloodbath. The plot is filled with many twists and turns, keeping the reader on the edge of their seat and constantly guessing what will happen next.

Overall, the story offers a thought-provoking and engaging look at a complex and often overlooked part of the world, with well-developed characters and a captivating plot.

This is a story about solving murders, but it is also, and more importantly, a story about ordinary people with different backgrounds and beliefs trying to live their lives in Bethlehem.

In this small town, people from various walks of life coexist. There are those who have deep religious convictions, finding solace and guidance in their faith. Others come from diverse cultural backgrounds, bringing with them their own traditions and values.

Despite the differences, they all share a common goal - to live peacefully and pursue their dreams. However, the shadow of murder looms over Bethlehem, disrupting the lives of its residents.

The investigation into the murders becomes a catalyst for the community to come together. People put aside their differences and work towards a common cause - to find the truth and bring justice to the victims.

As the story unfolds, we see the strength and resilience of the ordinary people in Bethlehem. They face challenges and overcome obstacles, proving that even in the face of adversity, they can find hope and a way forward.

This story is not just about solving murders; it is about the human spirit and the power of community. It shows that in a world full of chaos and uncertainty, ordinary people can make a difference and create a better future.