While there are references to past experiences, this book can definitely stand on its own.The book begins with Thaddeus making bail for a client that he knows will skip out and return to Mexico to save his daughter. He knows that it is illegal for an attorney to post his client's bail, but his heart wins out again after he realizes the danger his client's daughter faces without her father's protection. The judge, who dislikes Thaddeus, sees to it that his law license is suspended for a year.
When the year is up, and Thaddeus begins to practice law in Flagstaff Arizona, he takes on the case of sixteen year old Native American Turqoise Begay. He also represents the district attorney's wife. Both cases involve rape and murder. Both cases are overseen by judges with their own agenda. We are introduced to family members and acquaintances who are interesting additions to a complicated pair of stories.
I liked the book. I easily became a fan of Thad and wanted him to be the victor. I enjoyed reading about his wife and daughter and their own trials and tribulations. Ellsworth does a good job introducing characters we love to hate, but he also helps us to see the good in people as the plot builds.
There were a few parts that I wished weren't there, but I have trouble reading about the graphic parts of murder and sexual assault cases. I am not sure how I feel about the ending, but I definitely think the book is worth reading. In fact, I am looking forward to catching up on 1-4 and then going on from there.
- Beverly
Publisher - Subjudica House
Date of Publication - September 27, 2014