Her Deadly Game by Robert Dugoni is a novel depicting a family of attorneys in private practice — a father and several daughters. They seemingly have disparate lives brought together by family dinners requiring almost mandatory attendance. What actually brings the family together is a case where they are engaged to represent a wealthy man accused of killing his wife. In planning and executing his defense, we become aware of family dynamics, alcohol abuse, a prior romantic relationship, a tragic accident, a prenuptial agreement and a supposed extra marital affair — all played against the background of an ongoing chess game, which this reader found to be both intrusive and unnecessary.

The writing is excellent and the courtroom scenes are extraordinary and I can wholeheartedly recommend this book to all who are interested in this genre. I thank NetGalley and Thomas and Mercer for the opportunity to read and review this book and look forward to reading Mr. Dugoni’s next novel.