Brendan’s Alternate Tagline for Fear Is Just a Word:
Don’t mess with Miriam Rodriguez.
Quick synopsis:
The story Miriam Rodriguez as she sets out to avenge the kidnapping and murder of her daughter.
Fact for Non-History People:
In 2011, Mexico registered nearly 28,000 murders.
Fact for History Nerds:
95% of all homicides in Mexico are unsolved/unpunished.
My Take on Fear Is Just a Word:
There are very few things to be sure of in this world. One thing I am sure of is that Miriam Rodriguez is not someone you should ever mess with.
Fear is Just a Word by Azam Ahmed follows the actions of Miriam as she tracks down the people who kidnapped and murdered her daughter, Karen. Does this sound like the plot of a revenge fantasy film? Yes. Is it 100% true? Also, yes. Miriam is a perfect case study in a mother who will never take no for an answer. Even if she walks away, she will be coming back. Ahmed highlights that Miriam’s actions are in even more stark when you consider that her story takes place in Mexico where the drug trade has destroyed the country. I can’t overstate this enough. Miriam Rodriguez is a certified bad***.
Ahmed does a good job with the story. It is a bit distracting that he doesn’t always tell the story in a linear timeline. Often, it leads to repeating facts and names as well as confusing the reader about where we are in time. Ahmed is a seasoned reporter, so these quibbles don’t sink the story. Miriam made that impossible.
(This book was provided as an advance copy by Netgalley and Random House.)
Verdict:
A great but heartbreaking story. Buy it here!
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