Friday, January 25, 2019

The Rule of Law by John Lescroart


Dismas Hardy is now in his sixties and is looking to slow down his day to day activity at his San Francisco based law firm.  His pal, Wes Farrell has lost his re-election bid for DA and his friend, Gina Roake who is the former fiancée to Hardy’s now deceased partner, wants to return to the practice of law after a hiatus to write novels.  Hardy takes his two colleagues into his law firm and looks forward to less stressful managing partner duties as opposed to high drama defense lawyering. 

But that is not to be.  Hardy’s long time secretary Phyllis, known for her efficient work habits but private personal life, takes some unexplained days off.  The day she returns she is arrested in Hardy’s office for allegedly being an accessory to murder.  Phyllis apparently is a member of an underground railroad that helps undocumented immigrants acclimate into American society.  One such person she helps is accused of murdering a smuggler.  The new DA, Ron Jameson is delighted to tweak Wes Farrell, the former DA and Hardy for his association with Farrell by rushing to judgement in arresting Phyllis.

But Jameson has some skeletons in his own closet.  Hardy works with his best friend and former head of homicide, Abe Glitsky to dig around in the new DA’s past.  This proves to be more dangerous than anticipated.

The book is fast paced and interesting with lots of legal maneuvering.  The plot comes close to the plausibility line but the drama and unexpected twists keep you engaged.  Long time Lescroart fans should not miss this one.

Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the advance look.

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