The federal judge has before him a case of epic proportions and enormous implications - an unprecedented corporate takeover war. In a staggering turn of events, Judge Murray finds himself trapped by his love for his new wife and his dedication to the law. His decision, no matter how it turns out, will change the course of his life with everything on the his honor, his reputation, his marriage, even his own skin. First as a man, then as a judge, he must confront what is at the heart of justice.
William Jeremiah Coughlin (1929-1992), former defense attorney and judge in Detroit for twenty years, was the author of sixteen novels. He lived in Grosse Pointe Woods, Michigan with his wife, Ruth, an author and book critic.
Coughlin is usually ahead of his era on women and other issues, but not so much in this one. I'm also not so sure that the denouement passes the smell test. Nevertheless, a great plot.
Judge Paul Murray, recently promoted to the federal bench. That he has no idea his very well connected socialite wife Hope was responsible for his new position is clear. Judge Murray is a good man, diligent in his courtroom dealings. The case of corporate raiding is pretty clear but the principals are closer to the Judge than he could ever know.
The story is interesting though it kind of makes me despair for the common people when the powerful ones are so corrupt, but that’s the way it is. The favour that Hope asked for has far reaching consequences as Judge Murray finds himself compromised.
I enjoyed this book and will read more of William Coughlin’s books. Apparently this one was published posthumously.
The book..... is.. o..k.... blah... the book is all about blackmails, courts, stockplayers (is that even a word?), investors, and revenge. It's a boring book.. It's a simple book but has too many characters which isn't my favourite. It's not worst but it's slow to read. It has a very simple plot which is not worth for me to tell you. haha. sorry for a crappy review. :P
I just couldn't get into this book - and believe me, I was so looking forward to reading it,since it was Coughlin's last book. I only made it through 95 pages. I didn't like the characters, I thought the working-class-guy-makes-good-marries-rich-girl storyline was too trite, and I just had a hard time following the ins and outs of big business.