I chose this book from Balas Cellar not because Grisham was new to me. I've liked his 'The Firm' and 'The Client', but because this was made into a movie with Julia Roberts as the lead lady.
Darby, the lawstudent who writes a brief about the death of pelicans in Loiusiana and the possible link to the death of two Supreme Court judges is hounded by unknown killers. Who is dependable? Who is not? Who can she turn to? How does one save oneself from predators on the hunt? Darby on the run is an example of a small fish put into a tank with a shark which survives because of its survival strategies.
The book can be called The Adventures of Darby...so full of action is it. Her smart manoeuvers and quick thinking are a delight to read about. I know that I may not be followed by killers, but if I am, I think Darby will be my hero and role model. And, I think this is precisely where the book scores - its ability to make readers believe that they have the wit and intelligence of Darby and to make them want to be a Darby in times of need.
The shady world of greedy lawyers and greedier wealthy clients with enough clout to influence presidential decisions shocks one. If one tends to disbelieve the law after this, one also tends to believe in the capability of the common man to fight back such huge corporations and conglomerates.
Rating: Three and a half Stars.