Lisa Scottoline's Latest

Mary DiNunzio should be on top of the world. She has been made partner at Rosato and Associates and her boyfriend has given her a beautiful engagement ring. When the firm is contacted by the high powered Gardner family, it seems like the icing on the cake. Representing the family could mean bringing in huge money for the firm. However, the Gardner case is not what Mary expects. 

Allegra Gardner, aged thirteen, wants to hire a firm to look into her sister Fiona's murder. Lonnie Stall, the man convicted of her murder, is safely behind bars, but Allegra is convinced of his innocence. Against her parents' wishes and tapping into trust fund money she is now allowed to access, Allegra wants answers. Her parents, convinced that Allegra is obsessed with Fiona's murder, are not happy about the possible reopening of the case.

Mary, experienced with the trauma that occurs when a loved one is murdered, accepts Allegra's case. She soon realizes that going up against the formidable Gardner family will not be easy. Mary is determined to help Allegra find the answers she is seeking, whatever the cost. 

Accused is the latest in Lisa Scottoline's Rosato and Associates series. For those not familiar with the series, it is set in Philadelphia and is about an all female law firm headed by Bennie Rosato. Filled with twists and turns, Accused will have you wondering to the very end if Mary can help Allegra find the answers she seeks. 

The public is invited to meet Lisa Scottoline, New York Times best selling author and Edgar award winner on Monday, November 4th at the Norcross Cultural Arts and Community Center at 7 PM. The event is free. For more information about the event, please check the GCPL Fall Into the Arts information page.

Review by Cara 

Psychological Thriller

Defending Jacob by William Landay tells the story of Andy, an assistant district attorney investigating the surprising murder a high school boy who is a classmate of his son. The shocked and frightened community wants answers, and  Andy is determined to find out who committed this heinous crime so close to home. The students at the school, not questioned until legal releases can be obtained, are not communicative about the death. Andy discovers through social media that the whole school is buzzing, and the buzz concerns his son Jacob.

Due to pressure from the district attorney's office who feel that his involvement is a conflict of interest, Andy releases the case. Andy knows that his office isn't being forthcoming, but is blindsided when Jacob is arrested for the murder. Jacob swears his innocence despite the mounting evidence. Andy is convinced of Jacob's innocence and conducts his own investigation to seek the truth.

Filled with secrets, twists, and turns, Defending Jacob is a thrill ride for those who enjoy a good psychological thriller. If you enjoyed Gone Girl, give this one a try.

Review by Cara