It was amazing seeing how this novel translated from stage to page! I would've thought that the expansion to a novel may have hurt the momentum of the story, but Suzie Miller did a really great job here. Atmospheric, damaging, rewarding. A super compelling debut novel.

Lawyer Assaulted, Legal System Fails

Prima Facie" by Suzie Miller is a compelling narrative centred around Tessa Ensler, a young and successful criminal defence barrister. Tessa has worked her way up from a working-class background to become a top-tier defence attorney, excelling in cross-examinations and courtroom strategies. Her firm belief in the legal system is shattered when she experiences a traumatic event—she is raped by a colleague, Julian, whom she had trusted. The story then follows her journey through the legal system as a victim, highlighting the challenges and biases that survivors of sexual assault often face.

Prima Facie by Suzie Miller is a powerful and thought-provoking novel that sheds light on the intricacies and injustices of the legal system. It is a must-read for anyone interested in legal dramas and social justice narratives.

Prima Facie was a compelling read that I couldn't put down!I appreciated the look at the criminal justice system from multiple angles and how it can harm.

I did an “immersive “ reading of this work reading th ebook and listening to the audiobook at the same time. The book has the feel of a play with filler about evidence and cross examination to extend it to novel length. The points were drilled home many times each. However Jodie Comer did a great job narrating this first person perspective, It is the same character she acted in the recent stage play of this story. I liked the class consciousness of the character, however her naïveté about how a rape victim suffers during the trial is difficult to believe.
Jodie Comer’s performance elevated the audiobook to 3 stars and I would recommend this version of the novel if this book sparks your interest.

Thank you to NetGalley and Macmillan Audio for this audiobook.

Tessa Ensler is an outsider to the criminal system, but is working her way up the ladder through her intelligent defenses of her clients. But her coworkers notice how often she wins cases for her clients who are accused of rape and sexual assault. Tessa views herself as just a part of the legal system, doing no more than playing her role in the process. However, after a long night where she is raped by her coworker, her view of the legal system and her role in it changes forever.

Prima Facie is a complex, intense look at the role the criminal-legal system plays in sexual assault and rape cases and its failures towards the women it is supposed to protect. Suzie Miller is able to expand on the character of Tessa Ensler from her widely acclaimed play. Flashbacks in the first half of the novel detail Tessa's past and challenges in her upbringing that shaped the barrister she would become. The courtroom sections of the novel are well constructed and easy to read, even if the content itself is disheartening. Some of the early half of the novel does drag somewhat, but it does a good job of detailing what the work of a barrister is and the people who surround Tessa in order to make the changes in Tessa's world more apparent in the second half. Miller details how every step of the process challenges victims of sexual violence and makes the choice to testify the final hard decision after years of re-traumatization. Multiple portions of the book are challenging to read, this is a book about rape and trying to use the legal system to remedy it. But I found the book a rewarding story of how the law's requirement for neat and clean evidence can fail victims of sexual violence.

The audiobook was well-done, and incredibly acted. Jodie Comer returns to her Olivier and Tony Award winning role as Tessa and her performance in the audiobook elevates Miller's already strong material. I would revisit portions I read to her her impassioned delivery of some of the book's key moments.

Special thank you to Macmillan Audio and Netgalley for an advanced listening copy of this book.

Wow. What a book. 

I had seen this book as a new release, but did not know much about it. After learning a brief synopsis about it, it sounded very intriguing. 
What I did not realize was that this book was written after a play of the same name. The lead actor currently in the role, Jodie Comer, is who reads the audiobook. I love her as an actor and really enjoyed her as a narrator. The audiobook was done amazingly. 

Right from the dedication, I knew that this was going to introduce difficult subject matter. "For all the women who represent 1 in 3."

I will say it took a minute to figure out the story in and of itself. It is not until nearly 50% in that the inciting event happens that our main character deals with. I enjoyed the development of Tessa's character during this time, but did find the first part a bit slow moving. 

I hate to say this, but I really enjoyed Julian's character at first. If I had not read the blurb, I would never had known the fate of his relationship with Tessa. I thought he was a good foil for her character. 

The violent act at the center of this was brutal to listen to. The raw emotion that was invoked and the descriptors made you feel as though you were experiencing it along with Tessa. The heartwrenching aftermath where she was building her character back up was beautifully done and represented. I enjoyed the development she went through and the path that she went down. 

It was a difficult resolution to swallow, but I feel that this is a commentary on just how misrepresented and underprosecuted sexual assault cases are, so I did not feel wrapping it up with a pretty bow in the form of a conviction of the assailant was appropriate. 

One quote by Tessa towards the end that stuck with me: "Look to your left, look to your right. I am broken too but I am still here and I will not be silenced."

It was emotional to listen to and traumatic at times. I would highly recommend the audio version of this story if you are considering reading it. Make sure to check your trigger warnings.

All I can say about the narration of this one is wow. It was absolutely fantastic. I have a hard time putting my finger on exactly what did it for me, but I was engaged the entire time and in a trance from Jodie's voice.

I went into this book a little bit blind and did not realize it had been adapted from a play, I thought it was great.

Tessa is a successful defense attorney and has devoted her life into defending those who plead not guilty. When she herself is the victim of a sexual assault, she is determined to seek justice, but realizes the law was not written for victims.

As a criminal prosecutor myself, I found this book to be very powerful and moving. It was incredibly thought provoking. Usually, I am not a fan of courtroom drama because of the unrealistic way it is portrayed, but this one just worked for me.

Having heard that this was a stage play, I am now on the search to find a video. I am sure it is as amazing as the speeches within the novel, While this is set in the UK, the bottom line is that any woman could find themselves in a situation similar to Tessa. “One in three women. look to your left, look to your right, one of us," how could this be said and not cause you to have a reaction. Thanks NetGalley for the ARC audiobook, it was powerful. All opinions are my own.

I picked up Prima Facie on a whim and didn’t realize how important this book is!

Prima Facie is an unforgettable story of what happens when a victim is asked to navigate a system that is not set up to accommodate the lived experience of sexual assault survivors.

I totally identified with hot shot lawyer Tessa who is professional in every way. Until the very justice system she upholds turns on her. This book just spoke to my heart. I think it’s an important read for us understand what survivors are going through. I also just realized this is based on a play?!?! Guess I need to go and see it now.

What was the last play you went to?

In my day job as a journalist, it's crystal clear that the legal system is not well-equipped to handle acquaintance-rape cases. So I was really looking forward to this novelization of a play (by the playwright) that tackles this exact issue.

It was a let down, and I can't recommend it.

* A lot of telling, not showing.

* The main plot turn that everyone will know who's read the book's summary (or ever read a crime novel) doesn't happen till the half-way point.

* The big speech by the protagonist indicting the legal system would never play out the way it's described. A judge just wouldn't allow it, and there were other ways she could've made the same speech.

* The beginning of the big speech was powerful enough that I could've given this 4 stars, but the author pushes it too far. It goes on way longer than it should — less would've been more. And it crosses a line where, I think, most everyone could agree and would be inspired to join the fight. Instead, the call to action becomes a diatribe that will alienate too many people, undercutting the book's goal of a legal system that meaningfully prosecutes rape so that victims feel comfortable coming forward.

I could see this working as a play as it was originally intended, but as a novel, it didn't work for me.

P.S. Five-star audio narration.

#netgalley

As a dedicated reader, I have as much interest in authors and their writing processes as I do in their books. Discovering the various methods authors employ to craft their stories, whether through meticulous outlining or a more free-flowing, stream-of-consciousness approach, is endlessly fascinating. Equally intriguing is the genesis of the initial idea for a book. This origin is readily apparent in the case of Suzie Miller's novel Prima Facie. The narrative was initially shared in the form of her highly successful play of the same name, which garnered acclaim on both the West End and Broadway. Now, Miller has adeptly adapted this compelling story into a novel, promising to enthrall an entirely new audience with this brilliant work.

Tessa Ensler has dedicated her life to justice. The young criminal defense barrister has worked her way up through the country's legal system, overcoming all the odds that were set against her to become one of the best at defending those who plead not guilty. Tessa's unwavering belief in the law and the judicial system is reflected in her brilliance at her craft. With a quick wit, intuitive cross-examinations, and an encyclopedic knowledge of legal procedures, she has amassed a string of victories. Even in emotionally challenging cases, Tessa maintains objectivity to secure the best defense for her clients, embodying the foundational principle of a civilized society—innocence until proven guilty.

Tessa's unwavering faith in the law is shattered when she becomes a victim herself, enduring a harrowing sexual assault by a coworker. Reporting the assault to the police, she acknowledges the uphill battle ahead, where her testimony stands against his. Yet, she clings to her belief in the system she has devoted her career to. Taking the witness stand, Tessa confronts doubt, trauma, and manipulation, determined to validate the harrowing reality of her situation and seek justice.

In Prima Facie, Suzie Miller delivers a compelling legal thriller that delves into themes of justice, trauma, and the relentless pursuit of truth. The novel serves as a stark critique of the legal system's rigidity, demanding flawless evidence from victims of sexual crimes while not holding the accused to the same standards. The narrative evoked increasing anger as I witnessed the protagonist navigating the legal obstacles, highlighting the unfortunate commonality of such situations. Understanding the reasons why many victims choose not to report their abuse or seek justice became distressingly clear, especially considering the staggering statistic of 1 in 3 women experiencing sexual assault.

Adapted from a play, Prima Facie initially shows signs of the story's expansion, with the first half burdened by an unnecessary backstory that threatened the narrative's momentum. However, as the main conflict unfolded, the story gained an urgency that captured my full attention. The culmination in a final courtroom scene was both infuriating and satisfying. I chose to experience Prima Facie in the audiobook format (provided by the publisher), narrated by Jodie Comer, who portrayed Tessa in the play. While the play likely had more streamlined pacing, the novel effectively conveys the story's importance and urgency. If transforming the play into a novel increases awareness of the harsh realities depicted, it's a worthwhile adaptation that also makes for a gripping read.

#PrimaFacie by @suziemillerwriter was what I listened to thanks to @netgalley and @macmillan.audio !! This audiobook was fantastically narrated/acted by @jodiemcomer in such a way that Tessa Ensler’s character was made so real to me. I felt her elation at becoming a barrister. I felt her pride. I felt her crush on her coworker and then I felt her utter disgust and fear of him. In this story Tessa, who comes from a very working class family, works hard gets to go to Cambridge law school, and finally becomes a barrister (or lawyer) working in the fabulous big city of London. She has the flat of her dreams and she enjoys the process of law. She believes in it. This books really delves into how this young woman’s life is thrown into chaos and fear due to being raped by a coworker. She dates him, even sleeps with him consensually, but when she finds herself physically sick and throwing up, and saying no I don’t feel well I need to sleep, he forces himself onto her anyway… so trigger warnings for sexual assault. What this book does is show how victimized again women are when they have to take the stand and be cross examined on their every move, while the accused sits and listens to it never having to discuss his version at all! This is how the law works. The prosecution has to present the evidence (the victims body) and relive the events (that happened to the victim) and without proof of force or damage, it’s a he said she said scenario. This is how women are soooo very vulnerable - as the book said - one in three women are sexually assaulted in some way in her lifetime. I’m not sure if that’s a UK stay but American women 1 in 6 have endured rape or attempted rape; and 81% have experienced sexual harrassment. Those are some mighty big numbers. I’ll never understand why a man could feel entitled in this manner. Although this story takes place in London, these assaults happen all over the world every day. #stoptheviolenceagainstwomen
Prima Facie (first face, first impression) is also a legal term that means, “upon initial examination, a legal claim has sufficient evidence to proceed to trial or judgment.” Give this a read!!! Highly recommend.

Thanks to MacMillan Audio & NetGalley for providing an audio ARC in exchange for an honest review.

I was excited to listen to this audiobook because I've enjoyed Jodie Comer in "Killing Eve," and, honestly, she was great. She did good accents, it was easy to differentiate between characters, and she brought excellent emotion and acting skills to the table.

The story is good, too: Tessa was brought up on a council estate in a rough area, but she rises above and becomes a criminal defense barrister against the odds. She has her own place and is a killer barrister, cunning and wily in her defense of her clients, usually getting them off their charges. But then Tessa herself falls victim to a very personal crime ...

The book is divided into two parts, "before" and "after," and there's a good bit of time between the two. As you might imagine, it's a tough listen, as Miller pulls no punches in the assault scene. but it's extremely well done. It's also a nuanced examination of class in the UK, which is always fascinating to me. The ending drags on a bit, but doesn't especially detract from the overall gut punch of the story. Well worth reading, but especially worth listening to for Comer's bravura performance. Evidently she was on Broadway starring in the play version, which must be fabulous.

This book was so interesting and written in such a real way. Check the trigger warnings before you read this book as it includes sa and rape. But if you can read about those topics, I think this was such a well written book and every women can relate.
It is written from the pov of Tessa Ensler, who is a defensive attorney. She has defended men accused of rape in the very court house she is now sitting in as the victim.
It was just so good and recommend it to everyone.

Boys will be boys.
Men will be boys.
Girls will be women.

I receive the audio version and LOVED IT. The narration was excellent.

Thank you to NetGalley and Macmillan Audio for this arc!

Wow! What can I say about this book. I guess first I'll start with the trigger warnings- explicit sexual conduct, issues regarding sexual assault and consent. This book extremely powerful, Tessa is a criminal defense barrister. She's living her best life as a phenomenal up-and-coming legal star. She is able to defend even the most undefendable cases and she loves what she does. It isn't until something happens that changes her trajectory and viewpoint of the law, what's right or wrong, and justice.
This book was difficult to read at some times due the content triggers, I think most women readers will agree that it's heavy, but the message is vital. This book looks at the nitty gritty behind the legal system and how it deals with sexual assault victims and the individuals who commit the acts.
This book will have contemplating and asking questions about is right and what is just. Extremely powerful, yet so many mixed emotions entangled with it. It's a must read!
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 Thank you #netgalley for the ARC in exchange for my honest review. I listened to the audiobook and it was truly so well done! Narrator was AMAZING!

Tessa Ensler is a working-class girl who made good. Coming from a family that's had some brushes with the law, and who lived in public housing, she's unlikely to have gotten where she is. She's an up-and-coming barrister, recognized as a strong legal mind by her colleagues and kind of a star in her family. Apart from being plagued by persistent imposter syndrome, her life is good. She has friends, work that rewards her and a strong sense of purpose defending people accused of crimes, some of them serious. Among her colleagues is another talented defense barrister, her friendly rival. Tessa and he could not be more different. He is a blue-blood, with several generations of barristers in his lineage.

When he indicates interest, Tessa is surprised. When he rapes her, she is stunned, shocked and almost destroyed. Though she knows it may well be career suicide, Tessa decides to report the rape. She also knows how remote the chances are that she will prevail in court, but the law is almost akin to her religion—she believes in it, and despite the risks, hopes against hope that it will work for her. Written as a monologue, we get deep into Tessa's mind, emotions and motivations. We watch her suffer through the sexual assault and its aftermath, including her day in court when she will finally get to confront her attacker. Except, to her surprise, it is she who is being confronted.

There was a strong feminist subtext to this book, hinted at first in Tessa's name "Ensler" which calls to mind the <b>'Vagina Monologues'</b> and its writer, Eve Ensler. Later, as Tessa considers her unique role as a female barrister, and then later, as a female victim of sexual assault the feminist undertones become overtones. And it was there, for me, that the book faltered a little, and becomes preachy. I could have done without the overt call to arms for women, in favor of a little more subtlety. But maybe this was intended to keep the book as close to its original, the play. Either way, it is definitely best suited for readers who love introspection and don't need a lot of contemporaneous action.

<b>Audiobook note:</b> There really wasn't any at all chance that Jody Comer wouldn't knock this out of the park. She was pitch-perfect, and frankly, may have been a huge part of why I never once thought of abandoning the story. Her delivery gave the sense of action in the present, even though the entire narrative is her, as Tessa, relating to the reader in the first person, something that happened in the past. Recommended.

Title: Prima Facie

Author: Suzie Miller

Narrator: Jodie Comer

Rating: 5/5

"Prima Facie" by Suzie Miller, narrated by the talented Jodie Comer, delivers a powerful and thought-provoking exploration of the justice system's failures in addressing sexual assault and the harrowing journey of a survivor seeking justice.

Tessa Ensler, a formidable criminal defense barrister, finds herself on the other side of the courtroom when she becomes a victim of rape by a coworker. Miller skillfully portrays Tessa's struggle to navigate a legal system that fails to accommodate the experiences of survivors, instead subjecting them to retraumatization and disbelief. Through Tessa's eyes, readers are confronted with the harsh reality that the very system she once believed in is stacked against her, forcing her to fight tooth and nail for the justice she deserves.

Jodie Comer's narration adds depth and emotion to Tessa's journey, capturing the raw pain and resilience of her character with sensitivity and authenticity. Comer's portrayal breathes life into Tessa's inner turmoil, making her journey all the more compelling and heartbreaking.

Miller's writing is both poignant and incisive, shedding light on the systemic barriers and prejudices that hinder survivors from seeking justice. The narrative delves into complex themes of power, privilege, and the pervasiveness of rape culture, challenging readers to confront uncomfortable truths about society's treatment of sexual assault survivors.

"Prima Facie" is a gripping and timely novel that demands attention and reflection. Miller's unflinching portrayal of Tessa's fight for justice serves as a powerful reminder of the urgent need for systemic change within the legal system. Through Tessa's story, readers are compelled to confront their own biases and assumptions, ultimately leaving a lasting impact long after the final page.

In conclusion, "Prima Facie" is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the complexities of sexual assault trials and the enduring strength of survivors. With its compelling narrative, authentic characters, and stellar narration by Jodie Comer, this novel stands as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit in the face of injustice.

I just missed this play while it was on last summer in New York and made a mental note to find the script to read. I was thrilled to learn that the author published it as a book, but so thankful I was given this arc of the audiobook, beautifully read by Jodie Comer

5/5, 10/10, this book had me sobbing in parts. As a woman lawyer, it’s also the first I’ve read that really grasps how I feel as a woman lawyer.

🤩 My thoughts - A debut novel adapted from Australian author, Suzie Miller’s stage play (of the same name). This powerful story addresses the legal system and all too real realities.

Top criminal defence barrister Tessa Ensler, works hard and believes in the fairness of the legal system. Using the law to work for her, she is successful in defending her clients who plead not guilty.

Full of energy, Miller takes us to another place through the emotional internal monologue of Tessa. Told through past and present timelines, we see Tessa transition to the other side of the court, and Tessa’s shifting beliefs. The reality of a prejudiced and male dominated system, in particularly when dealing with female sexual assault - The real life statistics are horrific, relevant and timely.

The audiobook performed by Jodie Comer was phenomenal! Accurately depicting the changing voice of our strong, female protagonist. I was entirely drawn in throughout Tessa’s journey. I don’t see many stage plays, but if this ever came to Australia I would run to see it - also performed by Jodie Comer.

Many thanks to @macmillanaudio for the audiobook 🎧

4.5 stars

Prima Facie is about a barrister in London embarking on her early career in law. Tessa is several years into her career and thriving. She is incredibly bright and astute and utilizes it in the courtroom. She views the law in a very black and white, compartmentalized way. She's there to prove the facts, not make judgements on innocence or guilt. Her perspective changes when she suffers an assault and starts to question her previous thoughts about the justice system and cases she has represented.

A large part of the novel is about her upbringing, in a working class family in Liverpool and straddling a new, posh world of law. She attended school at Cambridge and has often felt out of her depth. Though Tessa could compete academically with her privileged classmates, she didn't understand their world. I found these parts at the beginning a bit repetitive, but the author does a good job illustrating Tessa's experiences. I listened to the audiobook which was perfectly narrated by actress Jodie Comer.

Thank you NetGalley and the publishers for providing this ebook/audiobook ARC. All thoughts are my own.