Book Review: ‘In Her Defense: A Novel’ By Philippa Malicka

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The book is in stores on Tuesday, Feb. 3rd from Scribner. Click on the link to buy a copy. https://amzn.to/3YSLzlp

A London libel trial is the setting for this page-turning thriller. Anna Finbow, who hosts a cooking show, is married and has a 22-year-old daughter. She is being sued by Jean Guest, who is an unlicensed psychotherapist, who treated Anna’s daughter, Mary, who then cut off all contact with her mother, and even began an affair with Jean. Anna publicly criticized her, and this is what the suit is about. Jean claims she was libeled and is suing for a lot of money. Also involved in the whole mess is Gus, a young woman who idolizes Anna and gets a job walking her dog. Gus could be the whole key to this case, from what she learned working for Anna. The novel goes back and forth to tell the story of what has happened leading up to the court case. When Gus takes the stand, all bets are off as to what she will say. This is a masterful debut novel that will keep you reading right up to the very end. More novels like this, and author Malicka will be a force in the publishing world.