June, 2004

Rating:
Summary: Page turning view into a possible dark future
Review: A novel of political intrigue set less than six years in the future. U.S. President John T. Reltin, a charasmatic figure supported by right wing groups was elected in 2000 as a reaction to the severe world wide depression. His actions to fight the depression are constitionally questionable but go unchallenged. The broadcast media, owned by a few large conglomerates favorable to Reltin, generally toes the party line. Only the print media, most notably the New York Times, has managed to remain above the political influence, but it is threatened by hostile takeovers. As the story opens, trouble is brewing in Cuba. Aided by U.S. troops, Cuban Nationals have assassinated Castro and have taken control, installing a pro-U.S. puppet government. In the meantime, a U.S. based committee to save democracyis is on trial for treason. A Justice Department defector comes to the New York Times with documents proving the bogus nature of the case. While under the care of the Times, a "Black Ops" attempt to assassinate the defector is made but is botched setting off a chain of events leading to overwhelming proof of criminality in the White House. Spearheading the move to inform the American people of government malfeasance is protagonist Ed Watson, a crack reporter and national affaris editor for the Times. In June, 2004, Britt handles the formula adeptly and keeps the plot moving and generates a healthy measure of suspense. To his credit, Britt gambles and wins with a finale that runs contrary to our expectations that things generaly work out in the end. In fact, he clearly indicates that things will not work out at all unless we finally take to heart the Jeffersonian ideal that democracy must be maintained by vigilance against those who would undermine it. June, 2004 is a worthy effort that provides the kind of page turning good read we expect. Its message will probably be deplored by those who love Rush Limbaugh, but if your a centrist or anywhere left of that, this alone could make it worth the purchase price.

Paul Ferguson, Syndicated News Service

Rating:
Summary: A thoughtful political thriller.
Review: JUNE,2004 is a compellimg story that meets all the criteria of an excellent novel. It has a brisk pace and includes an array of believable characters. Britt adds to the intensity of the story by moving the reader through a variety of events condensed into a one week time frame. Using a chronological format, the author keeps the readers interest high amidst the fast paced detail essential to the story line. The format employed by Britt to conclude the novel may not please all readers but it provides for a gripping and fascinating conclusion. Overall, this is an important and insightful book that is eminently readible- a real page turner.It also compels the reader forward and forces one to think about issues that constantly need to be considered in a democratic society.