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55 pages 1 hour read

The Reckoning

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2018

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Book Brief

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John Grisham

The Reckoning

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2018
Book Details
Pages

448

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Mississippi • 1940s

Publication Year

2018

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

In John Grisham’s The Reckoning, World War II veteran Pete Banning returns to Clanton, Mississippi, where he inexplicably murders his church's pastor, Dexter Bell. Despite numerous efforts by his family and legal team to uncover his motives, Pete remains silent and is ultimately sentenced to death. Pete’s children, Joel and Stella, struggle to deal with the aftermath and the hidden truths of their family's past. This novel depicts incidents of racism, mental illness, capital punishment, and graphic violence.

Mysterious

Dark

Suspenseful

Emotional

Contemplative

Reviews & Readership

4.0

161,455 ratings

69%

Loved it

20%

Mixed feelings

11%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

The Reckoning by John Grisham is an engaging legal thriller that excels in its historical depth and rich setting. Reviewers appreciate the detailed research and gripping narrative, but some criticize the pacing as uneven and the plot twists as predictable. Overall, it's a compelling read for fans of Grisham's work and historical fiction aficionados.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Reckoning?

A reader who enjoys legal thrillers and historical novels would find The Reckoning by John Grisham captivating. Fans of Grisham's previous works or books like To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee and A Time to Kill by John Grisham will appreciate the blend of courtroom drama and deep South atmosphere.

4.0

161,455 ratings

69%

Loved it

20%

Mixed feelings

11%

Not a fan

Character List

Pete Banning

A former West Point graduate and military figure who returns to his family's farm with a deep sense of connection, pride, and heritage, which is influenced by his time spent in warfare.

Pete and Liza's children, who are modern young adults aiming for careers in law and journalism rather than continuing the family tradition of farming.

A minister in the Banning's community whose morally ambiguous actions complicate the narrative, involving personal failings and complex societal issues.

Pete's older sister, a divorcee who harbors family secrets while acting as a communicative bridge among various family members.

Pete's adventurous and empathetic wife, who faces societal challenges and personal crises that deeply affect her life.

A lawyer who becomes involved with Jackie Bell, aiming to capitalize on the Banning family's misfortune for his personal gain.

Pastor Bell's wife who struggles with suspicions of infidelity in her marriage; she fades into the background upon her involvement with Errol McLeish.

The Banning family’s dedicated lawyer, who attempts every possible legal angle to defend Pete Banning, despite his client’s obstinance.

Book Details
Pages

448

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Mississippi • 1940s

Publication Year

2018

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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