Corrupted
A Rosato & DiNunzio Novel
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- $21.99
Publisher Description
Bennie Rosato the founder of the Rosato & DiNunzio law firm hides her big heart beneath her tough-as-nails exterior and she doesn't like to fail. Now, a case from her past shows her how differently things might have turned out in Lisa Scottoline's New York Times bestseller, Corrupted.
Thirteen years ago, Bennie Rosato took on Jason Lefkavick, a twelve-year-old boy who was sent to a juvenile detention center after fighting a class bully. Bennie couldn't free Jason, and to this day it's the case that haunts her. Jason has grown up in and out of juvenile prison, and his adulthood hasn't been any easier. Bennie no longer represents those accused of murder, but when Jason is indicted for killing the same bully he fought with as a kid, she sees no choice but to represent him. She doesn't know whether or not to believe his claims of innocence, but she knows she owes him for past failures-of the law, of the juvenile justice system, and of herself.
Forced to relive the darkest period of her life, Bennie will do everything in her power to get the truth, and justice.
PUBLISHERS WEEKLY
Edgar-winner Scottoline's lackluster 14th Rosato and DiNunzio novel (after 2014's Betrayed) focuses on law firm founder Bennie Rosato. In 2002, a panic-stricken father from Mountaintop, Pa., hires the Philadelphia lawyer to appeal his 12-year-old son's juvenile conviction. Jason Lefkavick shoved bully Richie Grusini, and both boys have been incarcerated. In the Poconos town, Bennie discovers rights violations and judicial corruption and becomes involved with Declan Mitchell, Richie's uncle. When Jason's father learns of the relationship, he fires Bennie and drops the appeal; then Declan ends the affair. Thirteen years later, Bennie receives a desperate call from Jason, who's being charged with Richie's murder but insists he's been framed. Guilt-stricken, she agrees to represent him, even though she doesn't believe his story. Bennie's uncharacteristically unprofessional affair with Declan strains credibility, especially when she's utterly blindsided by the repercussions. The surprise courtroom twist lacks punch, and a predictable ending may satisfy series fans but is unlikely to win new readers. Author tour.
