Buechner was able to explore the themes of The Book of Bebb by creating an ensemble of characters, both central figures and others, who are gradually revealed to the reader in all their complexity and individuality. Even relatively minor characters such as Nancy Oglethorpe (Bebb's Mary Magdalene), practical joker and Indian wiseman John Turtle and Antonio's girlfriend Ellie who drifts from one liberal cause to another are drawn with wit and described so vividly that they make a lasting impression on the reader. It is characters who may appear briefly or intermittently throughout The Book of Bebb (such as the angel/arsonist Golden) who aid in plot development and help to expose undiscovered facets of the major characters.

Volume one, Lion Country, introduces the reader to Leo Bebb, a mysterious figure who is the head of a suspect ecclesiastical organization known as Holy Love. Bebb's wife, Lucille is...