Without Precedent by J.D. Trafford

This is a story about accountability. The main focus is a giant, successful pharmaceutical company accused of contributing to the deaths of heroin addicts and a lawyer who specialises in defending corporate companies. Only, for this story, he becomes the prosecutor not the defender.

Obviously written by someone familiar with the legal system in the United States, this book gives an in-depth look at how a case is prepared and fought. At times the minutia can be a tad dull, but the precision is fascinating and easy to follow for a layman like myself.

This is also the story of the lawyer and his disjointed family, how they do not take responsibility for their own issues, instead choosing to deal with them through alcohol, drugs or stonewalling. The protagonist has a similar approach and experience in his personal and romantic relationships. In one case he abandoned a girlfriend and in the other instance he found out the romance was over by stumbling across an incident. So he wants the pharmaceutical company to be accountable for the consequences of its actions while he isn't himself.
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The climax to this interesting book comes towards the end in the trial itself. This is exciting stuff. It is not overly dramatic but clever and subtle. This highly effective style keeps the book admirably skilful with a cheeky little twist.

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Published  on 12 March 2019 by Thomas & Mercer.

​Advanced review copy supplied by the publisher.