Judge Stone

Brought to you by Penguin.

Viola Davis and James Patterson have written an incredible courtroom drama and created the most unforgettable character in years.

All rise…for Judge Stone.

The most respected citizen in Union Springs, Alabama (population 3,314), is Judge Mary Stone. She holds two responsibilities sacred: running her family farm and presiding over her courtroom. Everything changes when she draws the most controversial case in the history of the South.

Criminally, it’s open-and-shut.

Ethically, there is no middle ground.

Essentially, it’s a choice between life and death.

No judge can satisfy everyone. It would be dangerous to try. But Judge Stone is willing to fight to bring justice to the people and place she loves.

An explosive legal thriller that will keep you turning pages until the stunning conclusion.

James Patterson is 'the master storyteller of our times' - HILLARY RODHAM CLINTON

Viola Davis is 'one of the greats' - TIMOTHÉE CHALAMET

© James Patterson and Viola Davis 2026 (P) Penguin Audio 2026