Love a good page turner that conceals multiple secrets in its bosom. This one is better than Burke’s previous thriller, The Ex. When Angela Powell’s husband is accused of inappropriate contact with an intern, and then rape by another woman, defence attorney Olivia Randall makes another appearance as a ballsy, willing-to-cast-aside-professional-ethics-entirely-for-the-sake-of-my-client defence attorney. Angela stands by her man way longer than anyone expects, but has her own reasons for doing so. There’s a lot here for interesting discussion about victim blaming, the sisterhood, money and the role of the media. But really, it’s just an intelligent and rollicking read with a deep, dark undertone. Extra kudos for the invention of whip smart but compassionate Detective Corrine Duncan, who goes about her work with a quiet but dogged determination. Hope she makes an appearance in Burke’s next outing. And what a ripper ending. 4 stars
