J. Robert Simpson is a Manhattan attorney and a nonstop sexual harasser. Late one evening, an unknown assailant fatally shoots him. The police later arrest Amanda Morelli, another attorney with the same law firm. Young and brilliant defense attorney David Lee reviews the evidence against Amanda, including her damaging statements to the police and an email expressing an intent to kill Simpson. He also learns a mysterious, tall blonde woman led Simpson to his death. Amanda's parents are surprisingly blasé about their daughter's predicament, and her father has suspected mafia ties. David sets aside his attraction to Amanda and takes the case to trial. When he learns the shocking truth behind the murder and other buried secrets, they rock him to his core.
Plot/Idea: 7 out of 10
Originality: 8 out of 10
Prose: 8 out of 10
Character/Execution: 8 out of 10
Overall: 7.75 out of 10
Assessment:
Plot/Idea: Against the backdrop of legal thrillers, this one is eminently readable, even for fans unfamiliar with the genre. The story is logical, with well-described characters and a polished, realistic trial. However, the surprise ending is perhaps too abrupt to be absolutely believable.
Prose: Warren delivers concise, readable prose with satisfying moments of humor to lighten the courtroom drama.
Originality: A Question of Murder is distinctive in its probing of the attraction between attorney David and the accused murderer, Amanda. That dynamic lends the novel added depth beyond typical legal thrillers.
Character/Execution: Warren's characterization skills are evident throughout; Simpson's character is especially well-depicted as a thoroughly unpleasant person with many enemies, and Amanda's parents are particularly colorful.
Date Submitted: August 26, 2023
