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A Trial for Grace
Lawyer Claire Dunning used to be able to see the tip of Manhattan from the window of her high-rise office. But after her married employer’s financial fraud is discovered—along with their secret affair—she moves from New York to a small town in North Carolina to start over, taking a job defending inmates condemned to death row.
Her first client, Grace, is a woman sentenced to death for the murder of her two-year-old daughter. After several years behind bars, Grace’s sanity is in question, and her story has been muddled by time, too much medication, and the brutal effects of isolation. Still, Claire tries to uncover the obscured details of the child’s tragic death and prove her client’s innocence—all while attempting to forget her own complicated past. Though try as she might, Claire cannot help but Once the damage is done, is the question of guilt or innocence still relevant?
Her first client, Grace, is a woman sentenced to death for the murder of her two-year-old daughter. After several years behind bars, Grace’s sanity is in question, and her story has been muddled by time, too much medication, and the brutal effects of isolation. Still, Claire tries to uncover the obscured details of the child’s tragic death and prove her client’s innocence—all while attempting to forget her own complicated past. Though try as she might, Claire cannot help but Once the damage is done, is the question of guilt or innocence still relevant?
147 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 2, 2015
130 people are currently reading
82 people want to read
About the author
Jessica Pishko
5 books20 followersJessica Pishko is a journalist and lawyer with a JD from Harvard Law School and an MFA from Columbia University. She has been reporting on the criminal legal system for a decade, with a focus on the political power of sheriffs since 2016. In addition to her newsletter, Posse Comitatus, her writings have been featured in The New York Times, Politico, Rolling Stone, The Atlantic, The Appeal, Slate, and Democracy Docket. She has been awarded journalism fellowships from the Pulitzer Center and Type Investigations and was a 2022 New America Fellow. A longtime Texas resident, she currently lives with her family in North Carolina.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
October 26, 2017
Something's missing
It just seems to be missing a big chunk of the story. I thought it was supposed to be about Grace's trial ... but that doesn't seem to happen. Claire has an exorcism or something like it and then what? Then the investigator. It's like a few good things start to develop and then you are left flat.
It just seems to be missing a big chunk of the story. I thought it was supposed to be about Grace's trial ... but that doesn't seem to happen. Claire has an exorcism or something like it and then what? Then the investigator. It's like a few good things start to develop and then you are left flat.
August 8, 2015
Okay. Left wanting.
The story meanders through the lawyer's life and at the end, you are left feeling unsatisfied. This book was not about Grace.
The story meanders through the lawyer's life and at the end, you are left feeling unsatisfied. This book was not about Grace.
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April 2, 2025Book Review: A Trial for Grace by Jessica Pishko
Overview
A Trial for Grace is a poignant and thought-provoking exploration of the intersections between justice, morality, and the complexities of human relationships, penned by Jessica Pishko. Through a blend of narrative storytelling and deep character exploration, Pishko captures the nuances of a high-stakes trial that not only tests the individuals involved but also raises critical questions about societal norms and the nature of forgiveness.
Content and Themes
The narrative revolves around a compelling legal case that serves as the backdrop for examining broader themes of grace, redemption, and the impact of personal choices. Pishko deftly weaves together the personal stories of those involved in the trial, including the defendant, the legal team, and the victims, creating a rich tapestry that illustrates the far-reaching implications of their actions.
Key themes include:
Justice vs. Morality: The book grapples with the often-blurred lines between legal justice and moral righteousness. Pishko encourages readers to reflect on what true justice means and whether the legal system can adequately address the emotional and ethical dimensions of a crime.
The Complexity of Human Relationships: Through the interactions among the characters, Pishko delves into the intricacies of human relationships, exploring how love, betrayal, and loyalty shape individual motivations and actions.
Redemption and Forgiveness: Central to the narrative is the idea of redemption, both sought and offered. The characters’ journeys highlight the struggles to forgive oneself and others, challenging readers to consider the possibility of grace in the face of deep personal pain.
Societal Reflection: Pishko also uses the trial as a lens through which to examine societal perceptions of crime and punishment, inviting readers to contemplate the broader implications of the justice system on marginalized communities.
Writing Style
Jessica Pishko’s writing is both lyrical and incisive, blending descriptive prose with sharp insights that elevate the narrative. Her ability to create emotionally resonant characters makes the story not just about the trial itself but about the lives that are irrevocably altered by its outcome. Pishko’s keen observational skills and deep empathy shine through, making the reader feel invested in the fates of the characters.
Conclusion
A Trial for Grace is a captivating and reflective read that challenges conventional notions of justice and morality. Jessica Pishko’s thoughtful exploration of these themes, combined with her engaging storytelling, makes this book a significant contribution to contemporary literature. It prompts readers to reexamine their own beliefs about forgiveness, redemption, and the complexities of human nature. This book is not only for those interested in legal dramas but also for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of the human experience. With its blend of emotional depth and social commentary, A Trial for Grace is sure to leave a lasting impact.
Overview
A Trial for Grace is a poignant and thought-provoking exploration of the intersections between justice, morality, and the complexities of human relationships, penned by Jessica Pishko. Through a blend of narrative storytelling and deep character exploration, Pishko captures the nuances of a high-stakes trial that not only tests the individuals involved but also raises critical questions about societal norms and the nature of forgiveness.
Content and Themes
The narrative revolves around a compelling legal case that serves as the backdrop for examining broader themes of grace, redemption, and the impact of personal choices. Pishko deftly weaves together the personal stories of those involved in the trial, including the defendant, the legal team, and the victims, creating a rich tapestry that illustrates the far-reaching implications of their actions.
Key themes include:
Justice vs. Morality: The book grapples with the often-blurred lines between legal justice and moral righteousness. Pishko encourages readers to reflect on what true justice means and whether the legal system can adequately address the emotional and ethical dimensions of a crime.
The Complexity of Human Relationships: Through the interactions among the characters, Pishko delves into the intricacies of human relationships, exploring how love, betrayal, and loyalty shape individual motivations and actions.
Redemption and Forgiveness: Central to the narrative is the idea of redemption, both sought and offered. The characters’ journeys highlight the struggles to forgive oneself and others, challenging readers to consider the possibility of grace in the face of deep personal pain.
Societal Reflection: Pishko also uses the trial as a lens through which to examine societal perceptions of crime and punishment, inviting readers to contemplate the broader implications of the justice system on marginalized communities.
Writing Style
Jessica Pishko’s writing is both lyrical and incisive, blending descriptive prose with sharp insights that elevate the narrative. Her ability to create emotionally resonant characters makes the story not just about the trial itself but about the lives that are irrevocably altered by its outcome. Pishko’s keen observational skills and deep empathy shine through, making the reader feel invested in the fates of the characters.
Conclusion
A Trial for Grace is a captivating and reflective read that challenges conventional notions of justice and morality. Jessica Pishko’s thoughtful exploration of these themes, combined with her engaging storytelling, makes this book a significant contribution to contemporary literature. It prompts readers to reexamine their own beliefs about forgiveness, redemption, and the complexities of human nature. This book is not only for those interested in legal dramas but also for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of the human experience. With its blend of emotional depth and social commentary, A Trial for Grace is sure to leave a lasting impact.
November 19, 2017
This was a good, poignant book. Grace is on death row for the death of her baby. The reader is in suspense as to how Grace's baby died. This Kindle Single was well written, suspenseful, I enjoyed reading it - wondering if Grace would finally be able to say what really happened to her baby.
I will look for more books by this author.
I will look for more books by this author.
July 26, 2017
Disjointed
This story was difficult to follow. I found myself going back and reading some pages again. I had to do this to see what I had missed. Did not enjoy reading this book.
This story was difficult to follow. I found myself going back and reading some pages again. I had to do this to see what I had missed. Did not enjoy reading this book.
October 9, 2017
Good idea of a story, but lacked detail. You don't get to know any of the characters and at times the book would jump from one story line to another with no warning. Not a bad read, just not as good as it could have been.
January 13, 2018
This story is confusing. Though the writing keeps you engrossed the entire time I felt like something was missing or that I hadn’t read something correctly. I didn’t really understand all that the author was trying to portray. Maybe it would’ve been a better full length novel.
November 18, 2020
Hmmmm.
Was confusing. A lawyer who got involved with a Ponsi scheme is representing a woman on death row. She can't win at love and can't win a retrial. A lot of time jumping and characters stories are not really needed. Just not my type of writing.
Was confusing. A lawyer who got involved with a Ponsi scheme is representing a woman on death row. She can't win at love and can't win a retrial. A lot of time jumping and characters stories are not really needed. Just not my type of writing.
June 16, 2017
Mixed stories
It never really seemed to resolve anything. Just a story of a lawyer and her life with a bit of a case thrown in. Not what I expected. Short read though.
It never really seemed to resolve anything. Just a story of a lawyer and her life with a bit of a case thrown in. Not what I expected. Short read though.
August 26, 2017
A Trial for Grace
An exact read but sad. A life in turmoil. Well written and an easy read. I would like to try more pic her books.
An exact read but sad. A life in turmoil. Well written and an easy read. I would like to try more pic her books.
January 2, 2018
better than most Amazon singles
June 22, 2015
Disgraced lawyer, Claire Dunning, ends up working with death row inmates on their appeals. Having had to leave a cushy job when scandal erupted, Claire is ill-prepared to meet Grace. Serving her time on death row, Grace was convicted of killing her daughter, Clementine. Suspicious circumstances had brought the child to the ER where she'd died. Child protective workers & police didn't believe Grace's explanation that her child was injured when she wasn't paying attention to her.
Exploring Grace's appeal options raise a lot of questions in Claire's mind. Accompanied by her new firm's investigator, Henderson, she revisits the facts of Grace's case, in person, one at a time.
Meanwhile, we catch glimpses into Claire's past & what brought her career change. Finding out about Clementine's short existence will lead Claire on an eye-popping journey of self-discovery & admission
'A Trial for Grace' is a novella so it's a pretty short read. Pishko packs a lot of information into it. Being that we have two running plots, we'll look at them individually. Grace's story is unique & it definitely went in a direction I didn't expect. This was a good thing. For a novella, I think the author did a fine job telling this portion.
Claire's side of things wasn't as riveting. As a heroine, Claire falls short. As a female lead, she's a disappointment. One would expect a woman of good standing & education to have a better head on her shoulders. Instead, we have a very promiscuous, impulsive, & judgmental woman with questionable morals. If Claire were a person in reality, she'd be one to avoid. She has little regard for others & her inner monologues are shallow. Her thoughts seem more tuned into to Grace's obesity than her guilt/innocence at times.
Unfortunately, it would have been more beneficial to have used a less prominent main character & only have focused on Grace's case. Hopefully, the author's next outing will include a lead character who is at least likeable.
I give it 3 stars, but as always, read & decide for yourself.
Exploring Grace's appeal options raise a lot of questions in Claire's mind. Accompanied by her new firm's investigator, Henderson, she revisits the facts of Grace's case, in person, one at a time.
Meanwhile, we catch glimpses into Claire's past & what brought her career change. Finding out about Clementine's short existence will lead Claire on an eye-popping journey of self-discovery & admission
'A Trial for Grace' is a novella so it's a pretty short read. Pishko packs a lot of information into it. Being that we have two running plots, we'll look at them individually. Grace's story is unique & it definitely went in a direction I didn't expect. This was a good thing. For a novella, I think the author did a fine job telling this portion.
Claire's side of things wasn't as riveting. As a heroine, Claire falls short. As a female lead, she's a disappointment. One would expect a woman of good standing & education to have a better head on her shoulders. Instead, we have a very promiscuous, impulsive, & judgmental woman with questionable morals. If Claire were a person in reality, she'd be one to avoid. She has little regard for others & her inner monologues are shallow. Her thoughts seem more tuned into to Grace's obesity than her guilt/innocence at times.
Unfortunately, it would have been more beneficial to have used a less prominent main character & only have focused on Grace's case. Hopefully, the author's next outing will include a lead character who is at least likeable.
I give it 3 stars, but as always, read & decide for yourself.
June 22, 2015
This was a very absorbing novella about a young attorney, Claire, whom we get to know through dual story lines. At first, it seems the story will revolve around whether Claire will be able to get her client, Grace, off a murder rap for killing her own daughter. Instead, Pishko reveals Claire's backstory in her former professional life, working for a high-rolling financial firm that is busted by the feds, and her romance with the head of the firm.
Claire's decisions are often morally dubious, and the painful repercussions lead her to a very different professional direction, representing prisoners accused of capital crimes and without other means of defense. As the reader learns more about both Grace and Claire, it becomes easier to find sympathy for both.
This is not a typical legal thriller. The mystery is not so much on what will happen to Grace, but in exploring such evergreen issues as the complexities of human behavior and motivations, and the power of faith to both heal or, in some cases, corrupt.
I look forward to Pishko's next work!
Claire's decisions are often morally dubious, and the painful repercussions lead her to a very different professional direction, representing prisoners accused of capital crimes and without other means of defense. As the reader learns more about both Grace and Claire, it becomes easier to find sympathy for both.
This is not a typical legal thriller. The mystery is not so much on what will happen to Grace, but in exploring such evergreen issues as the complexities of human behavior and motivations, and the power of faith to both heal or, in some cases, corrupt.
I look forward to Pishko's next work!
July 13, 2015
I didn't enjoy it very much!
I am really not sure why I finished this book. I just really hate not to finish plus there was no bad language in it and I really appreciate that. The book however just skipped back and forth and was very hard to keep interested in
Also the story just wasn't that great.
I am really not sure why I finished this book. I just really hate not to finish plus there was no bad language in it and I really appreciate that. The book however just skipped back and forth and was very hard to keep interested in
Also the story just wasn't that great.
May 3, 2016
Not so much about Grace
This story is less about Grace than it is about this lawyer's own personal affairs and shortcomings. But it works. I didn't want to put this down, not even to go to work. I'm looking forward to reading whatever this author writes next, no matter what it's called.
This story is less about Grace than it is about this lawyer's own personal affairs and shortcomings. But it works. I didn't want to put this down, not even to go to work. I'm looking forward to reading whatever this author writes next, no matter what it's called.
June 19, 2015
Not what expected
A Trial for Grace is not what I expected. It is not the normal lawyer story where a lawyer miraculously solves a crime and in turn frees his client. This story focuses more on internal demons and what they can drive you to do
A Trial for Grace is not what I expected. It is not the normal lawyer story where a lawyer miraculously solves a crime and in turn frees his client. This story focuses more on internal demons and what they can drive you to do
July 7, 2015
Interesting story line
First book I have read in a while .It caught my attention while waiting for an appointment. The story line was very interesting but could have been developed more .
First book I have read in a while .It caught my attention while waiting for an appointment. The story line was very interesting but could have been developed more .
July 9, 2015
My First-time to read this author , Jessica Pishko
I read "A TRIAL FOR GRACE" and was instantly intrigued. This is one story and author that I will happily recommend for my reading friends
I read "A TRIAL FOR GRACE" and was instantly intrigued. This is one story and author that I will happily recommend for my reading friends
July 10, 2015
Not bad for a discount book.
Even though it was short I think a little over 100 pages it still was packed full of story. It goes back and fourth from past to present. Some of the financial stuff to was hard to follow but I got the jist. I would recommend for short read.
Even though it was short I think a little over 100 pages it still was packed full of story. It goes back and fourth from past to present. Some of the financial stuff to was hard to follow but I got the jist. I would recommend for short read.
July 14, 2015
Stupid. Negative stars if possible.
I finished this book and am now wondering what the story was supposed to be about.
Any stars above 1 do not trust. This is a complete waste of reading time.
$1.99 down the drain. Author should give me a refund!!
I finished this book and am now wondering what the story was supposed to be about.
Any stars above 1 do not trust. This is a complete waste of reading time.
$1.99 down the drain. Author should give me a refund!!
August 12, 2015
This was a solid and well written first novella. I hope the author keeps writing and publishing more work
July 23, 2015
Good for a short read
For my first time reading one of her books, I enjoyed her writing style and was able to follow the flashbacks easily.
For my first time reading one of her books, I enjoyed her writing style and was able to follow the flashbacks easily.
October 30, 2017
Excellent, no spoilers here!!!
July 12, 2015
A lot of uncertainty
The author keeps you guessing throughout the plot. The main character never really seems to discover who she really is. The ending seemed a bit rushed.
The author keeps you guessing throughout the plot. The main character never really seems to discover who she really is. The ending seemed a bit rushed.
July 11, 2015
Very strange, dark book.
This book was a downer. The only positive thing I can say about it is that, thank goodness, it was short!
This book was a downer. The only positive thing I can say about it is that, thank goodness, it was short!
July 17, 2015
Good
I thought this book was a very good short read! It had just the right amount of mystery for me!
I thought this book was a very good short read! It had just the right amount of mystery for me!
July 21, 2015
I did not like this book at all. the main character is completely unlikable, the story line does not flow and I felt like we barely got to know grace and clementine.
July 21, 2015
Disappointed
This book was more about the main characters life conflicts and less about the trial for Grace. Not what I expected, very disappointing.
This book was more about the main characters life conflicts and less about the trial for Grace. Not what I expected, very disappointing.
August 13, 2015
Not terrible, but not good either.
August 12, 2015
Guilty?
It was an interesting read as two lives came together in an unexpected way. I was left wanting more background information for each women.
It was an interesting read as two lives came together in an unexpected way. I was left wanting more background information for each women.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews