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51 pages 1 hour read

The Whistler

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2016

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Book Brief

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John Grisham

The Whistler

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2016
Book Details
Pages

480

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Florida • Contemporary

Publication Year

2016

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Lexile Level

840L

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Super Short Summary

In John Grisham's The Whistler, investigator Lacy Stoltz from the Florida Bureau of Judicial Conduct (BJC) probes allegations of a corrupt judge, Claudia McDover, who has been aiding a criminal enterprise led by Vonn Dubose to exploit a Native American casino. Lacy uncovers deep-seated corruption, risking her life and pushing for justice while dealing with the fallout of her partner Hugo's suspicious death. This novel includes themes of murder, corruption, and injustice.

Suspenseful

Mysterious

Dark

Challenging

Gritty

Reviews & Readership

4.1

244,568 ratings

77%

Loved it

17%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

The Whistler by John Grisham is generally praised for its fast-paced plot and rich legal details. Readers appreciate the complex, engaging story and the strong, ethical protagonist. However, some critiques mention predictable elements and a less satisfying character development for secondary figures. Overall, it delivers a compelling narrative for legal thriller enthusiasts.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Whistler?

A reader who enjoys The Whistler by John Grisham likely appreciates intricate legal thrillers with moral complexity, akin to Grisham's The Firm or Scott Turow's Presumed Innocent. They seek suspenseful narratives exploring corruption and justice within the legal system.

4.1

244,568 ratings

77%

Loved it

17%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

Character List

Lacy Stoltz

An intelligent and determined investigator who navigates complex cultural dynamics and dangerous criminal activities. She is known for her strong connections with other women and her drive to pursue justice.

Lacy's work partner who is an easygoing and pleasant father of four. His untimely death serves as motivation for Lacy to continue with their investigation.

A disbarred lawyer with a history of criminal behavior, who acts as Lacy's informant under an alias. He has a strong interest in a monetary payout in exchange for information about a corrupt judge.

A beautiful and intelligent judge with questionable morals and past motives rooted in revenge. Her involvement in legal corruption highlights the broader themes of integrity within the justice system.

A leader steeped in a culture of corruption, known for his intimidation tactics. His failure to understand people outside of his world often leads to miscalculations.

Lacy's superior who is cautious and mindful of the boundaries of their department in organized crime cases. He eventually pushes the case to the FBI and tries to temper Lacy's more reckless instincts.

Eager and action-oriented, Pacheco is interested in both pursuing the case and getting to know Lacy. He represents the physical force to complement Lacy's investigative skills.

Lacy's brother, whose extroverted and bold nature offers comic relief and shows a more aggressive approach to challenges. He shares a deep bond with Lacy and provides emotional support.

Book Details
Pages

480

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Florida • Contemporary

Publication Year

2016

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Lexile Level

840L

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