Policed by Alana Terry

Terry does not shy away from serious topics and in this novel it is race issues. Kennedy and Reuben on on their way to an event. Kennedy is driving and pulls over when she sees the flashing lights behind her. But it is Reuben, Kennedy's lab partner, who is harassed by the belligerent policeman. Reuben, a black man, is bruised and battered by the time the policeman leaves, even though he has been reserved and non-combative.

The rest of the novel is a good exploration of what college age young people should or could do when there has been an obvious racial incident. The police department is trying to cover up the incident, much to Kennedy's frustration. And there seems to be something in Reuben's past he is hiding so he tries to convince Kennedy to drop the whole thing.

Kennedy is a thinking character. Much of the book is what Kennedy is thinking during the unfolding events. One of the questions she struggles with is why God allowed it all to happen. This is a good book for readers who like to get in the mind of the main character.

Kennedy is a hard character for me to like. She frequently makes unwise decisions that get her into troubling situations. I have to remind myself she is just a freshman in college.

There is a good discussion guide included with the book. Terry has provided questions on three levels so the discussion could be light hearted or more serious.

I recommend this novel to high school and college age readers who are ready to tackle some serious issues regarding race relations.

This is the third book featuring Kennedy. It reads well on its own but you can read my reviews of the earlier books in the series: Unplanned, Paralyzed.

My rating: 4/5.

Alana Terry is a pastor's wife, homeschooling mom and Christian suspense author. Her novels have won awards from Women of Faith, Book Club Network, Grace Awards, Readers' Favorite, and more. She and her family live in rural Alaska. You can find out more at www.alanaterry.com.

You can purchase a copy here.

I received a complimentary digital copy of this book from the author. My comments are an independent and honest review.