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A Time For Mercy

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2020

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Book Brief

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John Grisham

A Time For Mercy

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2020
Book Details
Pages

480

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Clanton, Mississippi • 1990s

Publication Year

2020

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

In John Grisham's A Time for Mercy, third in the Jake Brigance series, lawyer Jake Brigance defends 16-year-old Drew Gamble in 1990 Clanton, Mississippi, after Drew kills a deputy to protect himself and his sister. Set against the backdrop of a religious, rural area, the novel portrays Jake's challenging effort to save Drew from death row amidst community outrage and legal complexities. The novel includes depictions of child abuse, domestic violence, and sexual assault.

Challenging

Suspenseful

Dark

Emotional

Contemplative

Reviews & Readership

4.5

175,680 ratings

89%

Loved it

9%

Mixed feelings

2%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

John Grisham’s A Time for Mercy captivates readers with its gripping courtroom drama and complex characters, particularly the return of Jake Brigance. Positive reviews praise its suspenseful narrative and moral dilemmas. However, some criticize its pacing and predictability. Overall, it is a compelling read that fans of legal thrillers will appreciate.

Who should read this

Who Should Read A Time For Mercy?

A reader who would enjoy A Time for Mercy by John Grisham likely appreciates legal thrillers with moral complexity and strong character development. Fans of The Firm by John Grisham and Presumed Innocent by Scott Turow may find this book particularly compelling due to its gripping courtroom drama and ethical dilemmas.

4.5

175,680 ratings

89%

Loved it

9%

Mixed feelings

2%

Not a fan

Character List

Jake Brigance

Jake Brigance is a 37-year-old lawyer known for taking on challenging and high-profile court cases. He is ambitious and seeks to win difficult trials while managing his reputation in the small town of Clanton.

Drew Gamble is a 16-year-old boy accused of murder, who has a history of instability in his home life and struggles with his education. He is depicted as mature for his age due to the burdens he carries.

Josie Gamble is the 32-year-old mother of Drew and Kiera, who has faced a tough life filled with challenges such as early pregnancy and legal troubles. She works to protect her children, despite acknowledging her imperfections as a parent.

Kiera Gamble is Josie's 14-year-old daughter, who demonstrates maturity beyond her years, particularly during her brother's trial. She is one year behind in school due to family instability but shows intelligence and determination.

Stuart Kofer was a 34-year-old violent deputy with a volatile personality, presenting a dual image of a dedicated officer in public and a troubled individual in private. His actions and history heavily influence the trial surrounding Drew Gamble.

Book Details
Pages

480

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Clanton, Mississippi • 1990s

Publication Year

2020

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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