It's funny how books come to you sometimes. I haven't read a John Grisham novel in 20 years (The Chamber) but then Leonard Maltin recommended on his new movie podcast that I re-watch A Time to Kill. I did, and ended up ordering Sycamore Row as the credits rolled. So, of course, it was Matthew McConaughey as Jake Brigance in my mind's eye as I read this sequel. This was a good story, and reading a Grisham novel after all those years was like slipping on a warm and fluffy pair of slippers. I'm now practicing law so I truly enjoyed the primer on wills and estates and the old and new characters were engaging. I didn't know for certain how this one would all work itself out, but it ultimately did so in a satisfying way. I can't remember if all Grisham novels are as packed with legal procedure and explanations as this one is but I suspect that might be why some readers found this novel to be a bit slow and/or boring. Not so for me. I recommend that you re-watch A Time to Kill to catch up on the original Jake Brigance story which is referenced a number of times in this new one, and then settle in for another good - but not too taxing - Grisham tale ripped from the legal headlines.
Another book by John Grisham that keeps your interest from cover to cover. Rapid read without any of those dull spots that are in a lot of books.
Another excellent courtroom procedural from Grisham. This is a sequel to A Time to Kill, one of my favorite Grisham's. This one involves the litigation of a handwritten will left by a man, Seth Hubbard, who is dying with cancer and hangs himself. The will leaves a fortune to his black housekeeper and cuts out his children from any benefits. The questions is why would he leave most of his fortune to his housekeeper who he only knew for about 3 years. Was he influenced by the housekeeper? Was he in his right mind? I found this novel to be engrossing as it works it way through the motivations of Hubbard, the history of Lettie Lang, the housekeeper, and the real reason she was named as the beneficiary in the will. High recommendation!
Great story and characters. Should be made into a movie.
I don't usually review books, but this is one of Grisham's best. It gets its claws into you and doesn't let go. The ending is emotional, and you are part of it. A powerful story.
Just finished reading it yesterday,and found it to be a very enjoyable read. Think Grisham has a great ability to create suspense and is able to make his characters come alive. Look forward to reading more of Grisham.
Good read. Not my favorite John Grisham, but definitely worth reading!
