Stephen L. Carter
Stephen L. Carter is an American law professor, legal- and social-policy writer, columnist, and best-selling novelist. He is known for his works that often explore themes of race, law, and religion.
Books
This list of books are ONLY the books that have been ranked on the lists that are aggregated on this site. This is not a comprehensive list of all books by this author.
-
1. The Emperor Of Ocean Park
"The Emperor of Ocean Park" is a gripping novel that combines elements of mystery, legal drama, and family saga. Set in the affluent world of African-American elites in New England, the story follows Talcott Garland, a law professor and former Supreme Court nominee, as he investigates the mysterious death of his father, a prominent conservative judge. As Talcott delves deeper into his father's past, he uncovers a web of secrets, political intrigue, and corruption that threatens to unravel his own life and reputation. With its intricate plot and richly drawn characters, the book explores themes of power, loyalty, and the complexities of race and identity in America.
The 8984th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
2. The Culture Of Disbelief
How American Law and Politics Trivialize Religious Devotion
This thought-provoking work explores the diminishing role of religion in public life, arguing that society often treats religious beliefs as irrelevant or even embarrassing. It critiques the tendency of legal and political systems to marginalize faith, suggesting that this approach undermines the moral and ethical foundations that religion can provide. The book calls for a more respectful and inclusive dialogue about the place of religious conviction in shaping public policy and cultural norms, advocating for a balance that respects both secular and religious perspectives in a pluralistic society.
-
3. Back Channel
A Novel of the Cuban Missile Crisis
Set against the backdrop of the Cuban Missile Crisis, this gripping historical thriller follows the journey of a young, brilliant college student, Margo Jensen, who is unexpectedly thrust into the world of espionage and high-stakes diplomacy. As tensions between the United States and the Soviet Union escalate, Margo becomes a key player in a secretive back channel negotiation, navigating a web of deception, danger, and political intrigue. Her intelligence and courage are tested as she races against time to prevent a nuclear catastrophe, all while uncovering hidden truths that could alter the course of history.
Purchase from Bookshop.org -
4. The Impeachment Of Abraham Lincoln
Set in an alternate history where Abraham Lincoln survives his assassination attempt, the narrative explores the political and legal turmoil that ensues as he faces impeachment. The story follows Abigail Canner, a young, ambitious Black woman who becomes entangled in the intricate web of political intrigue and conspiracy while working as a clerk for the defense team. As she navigates the complexities of post-Civil War Washington, D.C., Abigail uncovers secrets that could alter the course of history, all while confronting issues of race, justice, and loyalty in a nation still healing from the scars of conflict.
Purchase from Bookshop.org -
5. New England White
In this gripping mystery novel, the lives of an African-American couple, Lemaster and Julia Carlyle, are turned upside down when they stumble upon the body of a murdered man, who happens to be an old friend from their past. Set against the backdrop of an elite New England university, the story delves into themes of race, power, and privilege, as Julia, a university dean, is drawn into a web of secrets and lies that threaten to unravel her family's carefully constructed world. As she navigates the complex social dynamics and hidden agendas of the academic elite, Julia must confront her own past and the moral dilemmas that come with it.
Purchase from Bookshop.org