Somebody's Gotta Sit on the Bench by Norman Shabel is a compelling conspiracy thriller that combines post-war paranoia with personal redemption. Larry Cantor, a former basketball champion, finds himself entangled in a web of Nazi conspirators plotting to resurrect the Third Reich in America. The story pulses with tension as Cantor and his unlikely allies race against time to prevent a political takeover that could destroy everything they fought for in the war. The historical setting comes alive through precise details that transport readers to an America grappling with its new role in the world order.

Author Norman Shabel brings much authenticity and likeability to Larry's character in this engaging read. I was completely absorbed by the combination of sports, politics, and personal redemption in this wild journey with him. The theme of a neo-Nazi conspiracy plot in America is worryingly apt. Shabel's exploration of post-war America resonates deeply with contemporary concerns about democracy and power in a way that explains how people get drawn into situations they don't want to be in. The dialogue crackles with energy, driving forward a narrative that explores justice and corruption through the lens of personal choice. I felt for Larry at every twist and new challenge the plot threw at him. The characters feel genuine in their struggles, especially as they confront moral dilemmas that force them to question their values. Shabel's ability to maintain suspense while developing complex relationships between characters shows his true mastery of the thriller genre. Overall, Somebody's Gotta Sit on the Bench is a must-read for anyone seeking a thriller that combines historical intrigue with profound human drama, and I would certainly recommend it.

Somebody’s Gotta Sit on the Bench: Crime Mysteries by Norman Shabel is a riveting thriller set in post-World War II America. The novel blends historical intrigue with modern-day conspiracy, captivating readers with its mix of historical detail and suspenseful narrative, making it a standout in the conspiracy thriller genre. The story revolves around Larry Cantor, a high school basketball star whose dreams extend beyond the court into a potential college career. However, the remnants of war and the emerging threats of a Nazi resurgence derail his aspirations. The narrative skillfully transitions from Larry’s personal struggles to a more extensive, sinister plot orchestrated by Horst Mussmann, a former Nazi colonel, and Harley Bentley, a real estate mogul in Denver. Their plan to establish a neo-Nazi stronghold in the United States sets the stage for a tense confrontation between malevolent ambitions and the determination of a diverse group of heroes.

Norman Shabel’s narrative builds tension and maintains a fast pace, keeping readers on the edge of their seats as the plot twists and turns toward a climactic confrontation. The theme of vigilance against tyranny is prominent throughout the novel, echoing historical lessons while highlighting the ongoing relevance of such themes in today’s world. Character development is masterfully done, with characters you’ll love and characters you’ll love to hate. Somebody's Gotta Sit on the Bench is a reminder of the resilience and bravery required to confront and defeat the specter of fascism. This book is an excellent choice for readers who enjoy historical thrillers that offer edge-of-your-seat suspense and a thoughtful examination of the moral complexities in fighting pervasive evil.

In Somebody’s Gotta Sit on the Bench by Norman Shabel, as Lawrence Cantor sat with his family, basking in the triumph of a championship victory in high school basketball, he realized the generational gap between him and his elders while discussing the world. Lawrence’s father Abe had survived the nightmare of a Nazi concentration camp while nearly all his family was wiped out. Lawrence’s Uncle Israel eluded the camps, but the Holocaust left him a changed man. Israel is a Rabbi, but also the leader of a vigilante group fighting a new war against hate groups in New York. While Lawrence’s friend Dov is eager to enlist in Uncle Israel’s cause, Lawrence demurs. Israel sees potential in Lawrence but doesn’t push the issue. Lawrence and Dov are set to begin college in Colorado, not yet realizing that the war Israel has been fighting will follow them westward.

Somebody’s Gotta Sit on the Bench is a powerful drama where a battle between good and evil continues despite the seeming destruction of the Third Reich. The horrors of apocalyptic war and genocide haunt the minds of men like Israel Kantorwicz, Michael Schlesinger, and Hy Levine, and motivate them to act against any attempt to revive the Nazi ideology at home or abroad. The moral quandaries of vigilantism emerge as a primary theme in this provocative narrative. A guerilla war between opposing factions threatens those near and dear to the Cantors, Schlesingers, and Levines. This novel challenges the poisonous mindset that spews intolerance while also reflecting on the merits of retribution and how it sits on a slippery slope. Norman Shabel has written a striking book with memorable characters.

Norman Shabel's Somebody's Gotta Sit on the Bench is a captivating tale that unfolds during the 1960s in New York City and Colorado. Larry Cantor, a gifted teen basketballer, and his family are targeted by anti-Semitic drive-by shooters at their home. Fortunately, they all survive the terrifying ordeal. Larry's father (Abe) and uncle (Rabbi Israel Kantorwicz) are survivors of the atrocities that took place at the hands of the Nazis during the 1940s. One of the perpetrators of these atrocities is a former Auschwitz colonel, Horst Mussmann, who was wrongfully acquitted of his crimes against the Jewish community. Israel Kantorwicz, together with his friends Michael Schlesinger, a prominent builder, and Hy Levine, a lawyer, must stop Mussmann and his conniving cohorts from orchestrating a Nazi infiltration into American politics and an eventual countrywide takeover. Will these courageous men succeed in their quest?

Somebody's Gotta Sit on the Bench is a powerful story of the resilience of the human spirit, especially during times of oppression and tribulation. This narrative touches on core themes like family, sacrifice, justice, conspiracies, prejudice, and corruption. If you are a fan of historical novels about World War II events, this novel will have your undivided attention from page one and keep you riveted until the end. What plays out is a masterfully crafted story of survival, a battle of wills, and a race against the powers that wish to stop Israel Kantorwicz and his associates from achieving justice on behalf of the Jewish community. This story may be fiction, but its basis is fact. Norman Shabel has a vast grasp of historical, legal, and political knowledge, which is incorporated well into the storyline. It is also evident that oftentimes, during the most harrowing of circumstances, some of the best narratives on heroism and courage are created. Shabel is a gifted author who knows how to weave such a tale. Job well done!