The Best Defense

A few months back, I read and enjoyed Death Qualified, the first of the Barbara Holloway series. With The Best Defense, I listened to the audio version, skillfully narrated by Anna Fields, one of the best readers out there. The difference between the 2 experiences is striking, particularly with respect to the courtroom scenes, which occupy a good percentage of these books. Barbara reluctantly takes on the case of a woman accused of killing her little daughter and burning down the safe house where they've taken refuge from her abusive husband. Public opinion, fanned by some sensational journalism, is that she is undeniably guilty. The buildup to the trial makes for interesting reading, but the story bursts into life during the trial. Fields conjures Barbara out of the pages as a brilliant, impassioned defense attorney, willing to endure significant personal risk, and psychological pain, in her determination to see that the truth prevails. The courtroom scenes are rivetting. Barbara abhors the fact that cross examination frequently forces a lawyer to become a "shark", cutting the witness to pieces. Her struggle with her two conflicting impulses, to achieve justice and to preserve her own humanity, forms the central theme of this novel. As in real life, there are no real solutions, and Barbara must find a way to come to terms with these facets of her personality. 5 stars, one of the best in the genre.

This is a book from an obviously highly skilled author. The plotting was compelling, clever and tense and the main protagonists well drawn. The bad guys are clearly delineated if somewhat two dimensional. One slight flaw was the at times confusing detail of the plot. I am looking forward to other legal thrillers written by this author.

I'm a tough grader - reserve 9 and 10 for all-time greats. This is simply a good read. Very plot driven, with commentary on a number of contemporary issues and personal relationships. It also is about power and greed, and the corrupting influence of money. It touches on the fanatical nature of people's response to abortion, and gives the reader an emotional ride over some very difficult issues. The main characters are complex people, while the supporting characters are a little unidimensional. However, through it all you are engaged in unravelling the crime and discovering whether the truth will prevail or whether money will buy the verdict

Kate Wilhelm knows her courtroom procedure, and at the same time, she understands the human emotions that underly those procedures. Her characters are strong and believable and her story is gripping. Wonderful read