We, the Jury

Thank you NetGalley and Blackstone Publishing for the chance to read this clever, compelling legal novel. The mystery and suspense builds up based on how the jury members will vote and the outcome and repercussions of the trial.

David Sullinger killed his wife with an axe blow to the head the day before their 21st wedding anniversary. Was it premeditated murder or the result of years of both physical and psychological abuse by his wife, Amanda? The characters were well developed and interesting. I enjoyed the different perspectives of everyone involved in the trial, from the judge,the defense and prosecution, the eight jury members, the bailiff, a tabloid reporter,etc. The story brings insight into their assorted personalities and exposes their weaknesses and flaws, as well as the jury’s struggle to reach a verdict. There is tension within the jury as the members clash with one another over the evidence and some manipulation taking place.

This was an enthralling legal drama and I was left uncertain whether justice had been served. I am thankful to be introduced to the author’s book and hope to read more of his novels.

Not my usual read but surprisingly gripping and interesting. Well written and good foundation on the story

This is a quick read, an engrossing courtroom drama. This trial investigates an important legal issue: Can a man beat a murder rap by claiming he has been abused by his spouse? There is a list of concise facts of the case and parties involved on the very first page, although the book starts near the end and works backwards. The testimony and facts from the trial are unpacked during the jury deliberation and transcripts of witness testimony from the court reporter.

This book is written in a different structure than most readers are probably used to, very far from the traditional first person narratives. Each chapter has a different narrator and examines the trial from a different perspective, be that the judge, the clerk, the bailiff, the attorneys, the court reporter, a blogger, a paralegal, or the eight members of the jury. The alternating narratives give you a peek inside of each person’s mind during the trial and deliberations.

David Sullinger is on trial for killing his wife, Amanda, on the day before their anniversary. He struck her in the head with an axe, causing a massive brain injury that resulted in her death. David admitted the crime, but the issue is whether he committed a murder with malice aforethought or if he was acting in self defense.

Amanda was the bread winner for the family. She was a successful real estate agent, specializing in high end properties. David had numerous dead end jobs throughout their marriage. The couple lived in an affluent neighborhood in a very large house. Their two children had split opinions when it came to their parents and their upbringing. All parties involved have secrets to hide that will be exposed during the trial. It is ultimately up to the jury to examine the evidence presented to them and try to determine just exactly what transpired when David killed Amanda.

I would recommend this book to fans of legal thrillers and courtroom dramas. I received this as a free ARC from Blackstone Publishing on NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

We The Jury

By

Robert Rotstein

We The Jury, a fascinating work of fiction with a real twist, follows the deliberations 8 members of a jury who are expected to rule on a particularly gruesome murder. The protagonists are jury members from the community with highly varied backgrounds, which ultimately steer their decisions. We the Jury is a departure for Robert Rotstein from his immensely popular Parker Stern series of 3 books.

The fact that David Sullinger has killed his wife Amanda is undisputed. When the police arrive Mrs. Sullinger is dead, killed by a blow to head with an axe. Mr. Sullinger claims self-defense and indicates that his wife had been abusing him for years. Mr. Sullinger has a high-powered lawyer who has never lost a trial. Meanwhile the public defender Jack Cranston is considered to be a bumbling fool. The Jury’s choice seems obvious, but is it? This story centers on the jury and how they reach their conclusions. All is not what it seems.

Robert Rotstein is a master at character development. Everything we learn about the people in that room relates to the conclusions they finally reach. I particularly liked the interactions between the jurors. Their relationships deteriorate because they are stuck together trying to solve a difficult issue.

The messenger says it best: “I know I have no friends in this room. I know you think I’m just a momma’s boy, . . . We don’t have to like each other. A jury is supposed to be a cross-section of the community and that’s what we are. Maybe it’s better if we don’t like each other, because maybe that means we’re diverse like we’re supposed to be. I say let’s do the best we can to cooperate, so we can reach a verdict.”

I am a bit confused by all the time spent on the judge and her health issues. I am not sure I understand whether or not her issues contribute to the final result. Regardless, as with the other characters, Rotstein helps us really get to know her.

I highly recommend this book to anyone who is interested in human behavior and what drives people. I give it a 5 on 5. I want to thank NetGalley and Blackstone Publishing for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for a fair review.

I really liked this book. It was interesting to read all the perspectives of the main characters. I could tell by reading that the author has an excellent knowledge of the law. The only critiques I had was that the plot was slow in some parts and it was hard keeping track of the many characters. Overall a very interesting and well written legal drama.

This is a definite winner. I'm a sucker for court type dramas, and this did not disappoint. I loved the different characters at each chapter. It gave the book so much depth
Thanks to author, publisher and Netgalley for the chance to read this book. While I got the book for free, it had no bearing on the rating I gave it.

A lot can happen between two people when they have been married 21 years, but exactly one day prior to their anniversary David kills his wife Amanda with an axe to the head. Their two children told inconsistent stories about their parents relationship and the context of the killing. Was it cold blooded murder or self defense from years of spousal abuse at the hands of Amanda.

As humans we all have strengths and limitations, good intentions and unjust motivations, and exposures to different aspects of life that shape who we are. This all comes into play as a juror deciding the fate of another human being. We, the jury is a story of David and Amanda from the eyes of the jurors, judge, and people associated with the trial. It is also a character study of each of those people who are tasked with passing judgement. It is a modern-day version of 12 Angry Men. It is tedious at times, but the human behaviors are fascinating. Rotstein exposes the thoughts and personal struggles of each character as they interact and formulate decisions throughout the deliberation process. It is very relatable and quite different from anything I’ve read lately. Would highly recommend it to others.

Thank you to Blackstone Publishing and Netgalley for giving me a sneak peek at this title which debuts in October. David Sullinger is on trial for murder, after sinking an axe into his wife’s skull. Was it murder or self-defense? Having been on a jury, the glimpse it gives you into the deliberation room is spot on. However, it takes a very skilled author to tell a compelling story using only one setting and several characters. By a trial’s nature, they are boring and tedious. I found myself skipping large passages to get to the exciting parts. I also didn’t understand what a jury consultant was and why one would be on a jury. If you like to glimpse into the backstory of what goes on during a murder trial, this book is for you.

This was a quick paced book full of mystery and suspense that wasn't easily anticipated. It had me hooked until the end. Would definitely recommend it.

Thanks to NG for the ARC of this book! This one was different from any other crime/murder mystery book that I have read up until now. It took place over just two current days focusing on a jury deliberating a husband who is accused of murdering his wife. Every person in the story from the judge to the paralegal, all the jurors and even the court reporters (for the most part) has a chapter from their own view point which made the story SO interesting. The accused and his witnesses, who were his children, did not tell their story in a chapter which I think was purposeful on the authors part but would have been SO great for the reader. Clearly everyone was thinking only pf themselves for the most part. The judge was suffering from a PTSD type illness or early onset dementia because of the recent loss of her husband so she makes some mistakes. All the jurors seem pretty selfish, in my opinion, and just want to coke to a verdict so they can go back to their lives. In real life, I would hope that this type of deliberation with circumstantial evidence on both sides, would result in a longer period of discussion among the jurors. However, sadly, this probably a portrayal of a real life jury. I loved the writing, the characters (the jury were all unnamed except by their professions), the entire story and the fact that the read was able to see the story from so many different angles without getting the characters confused. Highly recommend this one!

5 stars

David Sullinger admitted to killing his wife on the day prior to his twenty-first wedding anniversary. He says he did it in self-defense. His wife Amanda was abusive to him and the children, a boy and a girl, and came after him with weapons that day.

His daughter, then eighteen, hires a very smart and manipulative attorney named Jenna Blaylock who makes the prosecutor look like a buffoon. The defense attorney is very confident and is celebrating a victory just as the jury retired for their verdict. But the story is not over yet. The jury must deliberate first.

This book is told from the points of view of several people, more than a dozen, who have their own problems, agendas, feelings and perspectives. The jurors are a cross-section of the public; some tried to get out of jury duty, some welcomed it. They come with a whole truckload of opinions. They try to determine who was telling the truth on the witness stand – not as easy as they first assumed. They plod on and in spite of the dismissal of one of the eight jurors, they finally reach a verdict.

This is a great book. It is well written and plotted. It was interesting. I kept wondering how I would react in such a situation. Would I go all wishy-washy or stick to my principals? Could I deal with the pressure? While I’ve been summoned to jury duty several times, I’ve never been chosen to serve for one reason or another. I found the psychological insights of Mr. Rotstein very valuable and perceptive. I think this is a book that all people should read as a primer of what may happen if they are chosen to serve.

I want to thank NetGalley and Blackstone Publishing for forwarding to me a copy of this very insightful and interesting book for me to read, enjoy and review.

I received a copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. This book is published on October 23, 2018.

This is about David Sullinger who is on trial for murdering his wife. He admits that he put a pick-axe in her head but he claims that it was in self defense as he was a battered spouse. His two children testify at the trial each claiming a totally different story; his daughter supports her father and agrees that her mother abused her father whereas her brother states that his father was not a battered spouse and his mother was not the person he makes her out to be.

Each chapter is seen from a different character’s point of view. For example, we hear what each juror is thinking about the case, and each other; we hear what the Judge is thinking, the bailiff and the court reporter. We also hear the testimony of certain witnesses through recollection and sometimes having the court report read back certain testimony.

I very much enjoyed this book. I thought that the way the author approached telling this story was innovative and different. I had gotten away from reading legal thrillers/mysteries and I really enjoyed going back to this genre for this particular book.

Told from different points of view We, the Jury is an interesting book. Will recommend for purchase for our library collection

Thank you to NetGalley and Blackstone Publishing for an advance read of this title. This was done in a unique manner, giving chapters to each juror, as well as the court personnel and the judge in a case where we know who did it, and how, but whether or not he was an abused husband is the question. I really thought the narrative was done well, and it was interesting to read how the trial was affecting each of them, and the realization that your life goes on, even when you're in the middle of a high profile trial. I enjoyed this a great deal, and I'd recommend it. It not only keeps you reading to find out what the outcome is, but also to find out more about the characters.

I love good legal thrillers but most are predictable and formulaic but this was a totally original book that broke the mould.

It focused upon the behind the scenes deliberations by the jurors as they struggled to come to a verdict in particularly sordid murder case.

Who was the villain of the piece, the murdered wife or the husband allegedly driven to murder after suffering long term abuse from his partner?

The dynamics of the jury room are explored in forensic detail as are the changing opinions and alliances. There is also an examination of the feelings of the key legal protagonists - the judge, suffering after the sudden death of her beloved partner and the competing attorneys.

The book grabbed my attention and never let go and I thoroughly enjoyed it.

I love, love, LOVE courtroom drama and this book hit the right spot for me! It's a completely different voice as it comes from the perspective of the jury. The story catches you from the very first page and keep you in it till the very last page.

WE, THE JURY - Robert Rotstein
Perfect 10
Blackstone Publishing
ISBN: 978-1-5384-4090-2
ASIN: B07CNQ2DZS
October 2018
Mystery

Sepulveda, California – The Present

WE THE JURY is told from fourteen viewpoints during a jury’s deliberation of a murder trial. Each chapter tells a viewpoint from the judge, the prosecuting attorney, the husband and paralegal of the defending attorney, the courtroom clerk, the bailiff, a blogger, or from one of the eight members of the jury. This approach is very different but riveting. The reader learns about the defendant, David Sullinger, through varying jury member's interpretations of court testimony on how and why he murdered his wife. Also exposed are their son Dillon, age 16, and daughter Lacey, age 17, who testify for or against their father. To complicate the issue, David's wife Amanda was his former high school teacher and the family breadwinner. David’s expensive defense lawyer, Jenna Blaylock, has presented her client as an abused spouse who defended himself. The local prosecuting attorney, Jack Cranston, is shown through these viewpoints as Blaylock’s opposite: unattractive, unfashionable, stumbling over his words, and apparently inept. The jury begins deliberations ready to acquit.

What emerges is a ‘is he guilty or innocent’ debate, but through a very convoluted set of narratives. Each juror bases their interpretation of facts on their own thoughts and beliefs about what they saw or heard, or remembered or not, in court. Each of the eight jurors comes from different social experiences, mindsets, and accompanying prejudices. They sort truth, misconception, deliberate deception, and lies based on the testimony and evidence presented to deliver the verdict. Some jurors have personal motivations behind their convictions. The jury's diversity emerges from the epithets given: the Foreperson, the Architect, the Housewife, the Grandmother, the Student, and the Jury Consultant, all women; and the two men jurors, the Clergyman and the Express Messenger/Actor. Each viewpoint gives a very different assessment of what is happening in the deliberation process. Outside the courthouse, a very determined, quasi-journalist/blogger is presenting her own agenda about the defendant and trial.

In the meantime, a reader becomes aware of the two attorneys and their mindsets about truth, lies, and justice. The presiding judge has just lost her beloved husband and leaves the reader wondering if this has possibly impaired her judgement. The dedicated and concerned courtroom clerk and bailiff help keep the judge in order and the process moving, but have concerns.

All of this shows how society and courtrooms blend in determining guilt or innocence. The author, who has a law degree, also plays the reader very effectively, taking them on a bumpy journey of belief/disbelief about innocence and guilt, but he also gives a complex view of how the justice system works, and how it also can be played. Few readers will foresee the very unexpected ending.

Robin Lee

Excellent book! Very original storyline. It is very engrossing to see the view point of different jury members, their opinions of the case, and their opinions of each other. As much as we want to believe a jury's decision is just based on facts, it is a big order, as you will see in this book. It is a struggle to stay objective. A juror may not like another juror, juror's get tired, hungry, frustrated, a juror may have an agenda for the verdict, the same is true of the judge and court staff. Definitely worth reading. It ended to soon for me. I was wishing there was more to read. I felt like a juror while I was reading. I keep changing my mind on who was guilty, and was hungry for more information to feel the gaps.

What a great idea. Tell the story of a murder trial from the perspective of the jury, the bailiff, court reporter and judge. A fascinating read!
There are a few areas that felt as if the author left out knowledge that he has that would flesh this story out a bit, give it a more solid reading. Even so, I enjoyed it very much. I would read more from this author.

We, the Jury is one of those books that just captures your interest from the first page and four hours later, you look up and have forgotten to give your kids dinner. Set in a California courtroom, the book highlights the jury of a murder/spousal abuse:self defense case. The personalities of the jurors and their reaction to each other and the facts of the case make this a page turner.

Well written, the characters are well developed and diverse, and most are unlikable. The politics of a small county in California enter into the story, as does bias. There are twists and turns, much in the style of Grisham. It's a really good read and will be enjoyable to those readers who like courtroom thrillers and fiction. I rate this four stars and would recommend you try it. It was a great beach read for me in the Caribbean on vacation.

Thanks to the publisher and #NetGalley for an advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review.

I really enjoyed this book told from the point of views of the jury, bailiff, clerk, judge , prosecutor and defending lawyer etc. We get to see their state of mind, their personal bias and insecurities, the cultural context and the filters through which their verdict will come. One aspect I’m not sure I really grasped was the motivation behind the twist -can’t say more because I don’t want to spoil it for anyone!
Thanks to Netgalley for an arc of this book.

I really enjoyed this novel. It revolves around a murder trial and each chapter is told from the POV of one of the characters who is in some way involved in the trial--the judge, the bailiff, the court reporter, a reporter for an on-line magazine, the judge's clerk, the lawyers and the individual jurors. I can sometimes find myself confused by this format, but I had no trouble with this one-each character's voice was drawn clearly and distinctly.

The book's events all occur during the court case and the jury deliberation phase, but it is not limited to the circumstances of the murder or the case. Instead it looks into the interior thoughts and feelings of the individual characters who are all in some way affiliated with the case, so that the reader comes to understand how elements of each character's personal situation come to impact the case itself in a variety of ways.

Towards the end of the book, we focus most on the dialogue and interaction between the jurors as they deliberate, and their internal thoughts during the process. I sat for jury duty on an attempted murder case where the jury ended up hung; the deliberation process described in this book felt very true to my experience, with each juror trying to listen to the thoughts of the others as they made their own decision about a verdict.

I have recently read many books that use the unreliable narrator literary device. I am always hesitant to mention that in my reviews, as I worry that making such a statement becomes a spoiler. But, I feel like the unreliable narrator has been overused, and frequently that is a major element that feeds into my dislike of a particular book, so it is difficult to leave it out of my review. We, the Jury also includes an unreliable narrator, but there are so many narrators in this story, I don't feel as if that is a spoiler. And in this particular case, I enjoyed the way it was used-resulting in a twist that I wasn't expecting at all.

All in all, this was a great read and I highly recommend it.

In this mystery thriller, "We, The Jury", the author, Robert Rotstein has shown exceptional writing talent in taking the reader into the jury room during deliberations. Many of us have wished that we could sit invisibly behind the scenes of the life and death decisions of a jury of peers. I'm this case, who is the real victim? The dead wife or the defendant husband? Who was the true abuser? Meet the Judge, the Defense, the Prosecutor, and the vast of Jurors. Be a part of the Court Room drama in this mystery novel of violent murder, Family deceit and sex.

I would like to thank NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read a Kindle ARC of We, the Jury. I read this book in three days and I didn't want to put it down. It is probably one of the most well-written stories of a trial that I've read. The story is told from alternating points of view of a jury, judge, bailiff and attorneys in the trial of David, a married man accused of killing his wife prior to their 21st anniversary. There's no dispute that he did it but his claims of self-defense and being a battered spouse both emotionally and physically are in question. The reader doesn't hear directly from David or his two children, but hear their accounts through recorded court testimony. David's son feels that his father was the monster and his daughter feels the complete opposite. The points of view of everyone but the suspect and his children is gripping. The judge, a recent widow, is losing her grip and questions her own authority and decisions. This book should do well, based on positive reviews and word of mouth. I know I'll be spreading the word to friends and family that We, The Jury is possibly one of the best fictional court dramas ever written.

This is an unusual book about all the people (judge, jury, bailiffs) involved in a murder trial. Moving from person to person narrating their feelings and experiences, it is gripping. The stories fit together like a well oiled machine. Shockingly, for a novel involving so many characters all of them are really well-developed.

This is a very original and well-written book, which will hold the readers’ interest from start to finish.

We, the Jury was such an enjoyable read. The book follows the trial of David Sullinger who has been charged with murdering his wife. David claims that his wife has been physically abusing him for years and he killed her in self-defence. This version of the story is supported by David's daughter, however, David's son provides a contradictory testimony claiming that the monster in the relationship was not the murdered mother, but the father. The problem is that the son is a drug addict and no one seems to believe his side of the story. Seemingly straight forward court case for the jury turns out to be more complicated than originally anticipated. As the jurors start deliberating, more and more doubt and questions creep in. Is David guilty or innocent??

Probably the main reason why I enjoyed the book so much was the different points of view we are exposed to as readers. Each chapter is told by a different participant of the trial - 8 members of the jury, judge, bailiff, prosecutor..., which was very refreshing and enable us understand each character's perspective. This book lets us behind the closed doors of jury deliberation which I find very intriguing. It was fascinating to see the impossible task of the jurors of finding the truth and to ensure justice has been served. Sometimes it can take only one person with excellent persuasion skills to sway others to change their opinion. 

My only minor complaint would be that for some reason I expected some kind of a twist at the end of the book or perhaps just a more satisfactory ending. I probably shouldn't have done as the book is gripping enough as it is and I would highly recommend it.

Many thanks to NetGalley and Blackstone Publishing for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.

"We, The Jury," is a mystery novel told in first person by the various characters involved in a murder trial, allowing the reader a glimpse into the jury room and each person's perspective in the case. This story also demonstrates the personal biases, cultural backgrounds, ethnicity, gender, etc., that influence a jury in the decision making process of the guilt or innocence of the accused. Great read and highly recommended.

This is an interesting story. The book is told from the perspective of everyone in the courtroom from the court reporter, clerk, bailiff all the way to the individual jurors. The story starts at the end of the trial. Which I thought was interesting. You expect a courtroom drama to start at the beginning. For this book the end was the beginning. Through all the different characters we learn the trial. David Sullinger is accused of killing his wife Amanda in self defense with an ax to the head. Their two children are divided on which parent was truly the monster in the family. We learn a lot about the couple from the different witnesses' stories. There are lots of twist and turns. Interesting characters on the jury that we learn more about. Makes you not want to be called for jury duty. If you are a fan of legal dramas and stories you will enjoy this book.

First and foremost, a large thank you to NetGalley, Rotstein, and Blackstone Publishing for providing me with a copy of this publication, which allows me to provide you with an unbiased review.

Robert Rotstein has developed this unique legal thriller, told from the perspective of the other side of the courtroom. Rather than putting the reader in the middle of a courtroom drama, the story unfolds as the legal banter is wrapping up and the case is sent to the jury. David Sullinger is accused of having murdered his wife, Amanda, the day before their 21st wedding anniversary. According to David, he was subjected to significant and ongoing spousal abuse, which led him to act in self-defence at the time he plunged a pickaxe into her skull. Told from multiple perspectives, the book opens with the judge offering jury instructions, which are bumbled, and proceeds to the deliberations in the case. In a narrative that offers the jury members’ own perspectives on the case, as well as other officers of the court (judge, bailiff, lawyers) and even some outsiders, the reader learns more about what supposedly happened through recollections of evidence presented. Additionally, Rotstein offers some outside information on the judge, who is showing signs of mental distress due to personal matters, trying to hold it all together. With tidbits of testimony added within various chapters, the reader becomes a juror themselves, as they see the arguments made in deliberation, before a decision is made. Quite the story and highly unique! Rotstein is sure to impress those who enjoy legal thrillers with a different perspective, especially the reader who likes to be the thick of a courtroom drama.

I thoroughly enjoy legal thrillers and courtroom dramas, as they are not only entertaining, but highly educational. Rotstein peppers a little of everything in this case, which sees a man’s freedom hang in the balance. Spousal abuse against men remains a new defence, though it is one that has been rolled out here. Taking the perspectives of the jurors provides the reader with a unique glimpse into what they know, how they feel, and what influences their voting. The banter between these individuals—the least legally trained but with the most legal power in a case—is amazing and Rotstein infers a great deal throughout. The characters are plentiful and each has their own perspective, which allows the reader to watch as development and flavour mix to create the most entertaining set of individuals. The story is quite well done, offering great insight into how the same set of facts can be interpreted so many ways by a group of eight (see an early explanation in the story about how eight can serve on a jury in California) common citizens. With short chapters and a variety of perspectives, the reader will not get bogged down in the legal or personal minutiae of the characters, but will seek to see how things end up when the foreperson presses the red button, indicating a decision has been reached.

Kudos, Mr. Rotstein, for such a great book. I will recommend it to anyone who enjoys legal pieces, as you have a wonderful handle on the genre.

I received this book as an ARC from NetGalley.

The story revolves about the jury deliberation in a murder case. Each chapter is told from the point of view of one of the participants: the judge, each jury member, the bailiff, the prosecuting attorney, the defense attorney, and the press.

It was interesting to learn about each character's personality and prejudices and see how this might affect their actions and influence others. Even the behavior of the judge, bailiff, and attorneys was a reflection of their personal situations. I feel that the book gives the reader insight into the fact that a jury is made up of human beings. These people cannot help but be influenced by each other's diverse backgrounds, prior experiences, and the pressures and time constraints imposed by the nature of deliberation. Who was weak? Who was overbearing? Who could be easily persuaded just to "get it over with"?

I felt that this thought-provoking novel provided a realistic view of a difficult jury deliberation.

I was not so sure about this book, and the flip flopping of narratives. The writer did wonderfully! It was fun matching the jury personality types with people i know in life. From beginning to end, I stayed entertained. Fun read!

This was a most enjoyable and enlightening account about just what goes into a jury’s verdict. Each chapter was told from the standpoint of a different person significant in the process: the 8 jurors, the bailiff, the judge, the two attorneys, the clerk and so forth. I loved the way the author characterized each, showing the reader backgrounds and hence, preconceived notions of each. I loved the way the jury’s thinking evolved – individually and as a group. I loved the way the members of the jury interacted with each other. I loved the way the lawyers and the judge along with the court employees were depicted. This was simply first class all the way.

I highly recommend this book.

This was an ARC from NetGalley and the publisher. I’m most appreciative of this pre-publication copy in exchange for an honest review.

I’m a bit of a law junkie. I love legal thrillers and anything to do with the criminal justice system. In fact, I even volunteer every year to be the defendant in a first degree murder case in a mock trial for a criminal law class at a local law school (not to brag, but I have been found “Not Guilty” twice). This fiction book We, the Jury was so much fun. Unlike a typical legal thriller, the book alternates perspectives between many participants in the trial from members of the jury to the judge to the court reporter and bailiff and legal teams. It’s better than being a fly on the wall in the jury room because you’re inside the head of the jurors and other participants. The format showcases the effects of issues like the impact of witnesses in person vs. the court transcription read back, jury interpretations, and jury interactions. I would not want to be a defendant for real because of all of these factors that could impact the jury’s decision.
Thanks to NetGalley, Blackstone Publishing, and the author Robert Rotstein for an advanced electronic reading copy.

We, The Jury, by Robert Rotstein, is a courtroom drama about spousal abuse and self-defence. The defendant has admitted killing his wife but claiming self-defence as she was physically and mentally abusing him. This book focuses on the jury and is told from their perspective, along with the views of the judge and courtroom officials.

On the day before his 21st wedding anniversary unemployed David Sullivan killed his successful real estate broker wife by smashing an axe into her head! A rather brutal way to die. 8 members on the jury must now decide whether it was premeditated murder or if he was a battered spouse and killed her in the heat of the moment in self-defence.

What should have been a straightforward case isn’t. Testimony from the defendant’s own children is contradictory, with each child (ages 16 and 17) claiming the other parent was Satan, allegations of severe physical abuse, adultery, and incest. If that wasn’t enough, the jury must also overcome personal conflictions within the jury room.

Overall, I found this to be an excellent, well-written courtroom drama. Written from the perspective of the members of the court (Judge, bailiffs, court reporter and jurors) it gives a unique take of a crime drama. It exposes the bias, prejudices, personal animosities and how the jurors have to fathom out the truth from the fiction and ultimately who they believe while trying to make the right decision and not just going along with the pack.

There is an eclectic mix of characters that make interesting reading and drawing you into the book. Each chapter goes back and forth from a member of the cast of characters, hearing their own viewpoints on the case as well as their thoughts on their fellow jurors.

A well-thought out book written in a different style than standard courtroom dramas that makes it unique and interesting.

Well worth a read.

Author Rotstein has taken an ordinary murder trial and by presenting it through the points of view of 14 people, jury members, court personnel, and the judge has made it fresh and suspenseful. All is not what you think it is — or is it? Particularly fascinating are the perspectives of the 8 jury members. Rotstein virtually puts the reader into each of their seats, akin to but even more effective than the intersections we see from a more objective perspective in the wonderful play Twelve Angry Men. We, the Jury reads quickly, except for the occasional odd word that doesn’t seem quite right. This novel will appeal to die-hard readers of legal thrillers, of course, but will also be of interests to readers looking for a new take on what is really an old story. What goes on behind the closed door of a marriage is never quite what we imagine it to be.

I loved, loved, loved this book! I work in the court system (I don't want to say which side) and this book was an intriguing look at the perspectives of the people involved in a criminal jury trial, such as the Judge, the prosecutor, the defense attorney (and her paralegal), the bailiff, the court clerk, and the court reporter. The case at issue is a murder charge, where the husband is charged with murdering his wife. His defense is the battered spouse syndrome, and the star witnesses are the couple's two children, and each tell a very different story about their parents' relationship.

I read this book in less than 24 hours, which is very rare for me. Each chapter offered a different perspective, as well as other ways of telling the story, such as partial transcripts and legal memos to move the story along. This really worked for me and I found it kept the book interesting and fresh.

I will definitely put this author on my list of must-reads and pick up his next book!

*Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for my advanced reader's copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*

A quick, engrossing court room read. A behind the scenes look at a deliberating jury. A judge under pressure. All this added up to a great read that will keep you interested till the very end.

4 Thrilling Stars!

David Sullinger is on trial in Sepulveda County, California for murdering his wife, Amanda. He claims that he was a battered spouse and that it was in self-defense.

It is up to eight jurors to decide if he is guilty. The Jurors include: a housewife, an architect, a student, a clergyman, a jury consultant, a former high school principal, an express messenger and the foreperson.

During the trial, testimony is given by David’s daughter Lacey and his son Dillon. The testimony given by David and Lacey Sullinger are nearly identical. Therefore, if you believe Lacey Sullinger, do you automatically believe her father? Dillon’s testimony is contradictory to Lacey’s but he is also unreliable. Who do you believe? Was David Sullinger credible?

It is up to the Jurors to decide:

“The truth is, it’s very difficult to tell through observation whether someone is lying.”

The Trial is told via multiple POV’s: that of the Jurors, the Judge, the Court Clerk, the Bailiff, The Defense Counsel, The Paralegal, the Prosecutor, the Tabloid Journalist and the Court Reporter. Believe it or not, the story being told through so many viewpoints is done seamlessly and kept me on my toes from the first. It is about how those individuals interact that makes “We, the Jury” different from other Courtroom Dramas.

I can attest to the fact that:

“Cases are won by spinning facts, appealing to prejudices…. when possible quibble, deflect, distract. Challenge the credibility of the most credible witnesses..”

Simply put, I had insight into this novel that perhaps others might not. I have worked in the legal field for twenty-three years, specifically in the area of Litigation and have attended quite a few Jury (and courtside) trials in the course of my career. I was analyzing this book left and right and have a few thoughts about what coulda, shoulda, woulda (but they will be left unsaid). Regardless of that, seeing this from all angles is absolutely fascinating and I commend Robert Rotstein for making “We, the Jury” such a fabulous and intriguing read. His character development is spot on and I was completely enthralled from start to finish. This is one book that I highly recommend for those who like courtroom dramas and well written thrillers!

This was a buddy read with Kaceey. Kaceey picked this one and boy am I glad she did! 

Thank you to Edelweiss, NetGalley, Blackstone Publishing and Robert Rotstein for a complimentary copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.

Published on Edelweiss, NetGalley, Goodreads, Twitter and Instagram on 10.11.18.

Thank you to NetGalley, Blackstone Publishing and Robert Rotstein for the ARC to review. I enjoy law and criminal trial type books. I have never been on a jury, so I was really interested in reading this book. It starts with the facts of murder trial, and then the jury being sent off to deliberate. I like that this book is from the jury's perspective. Each jury member gives there point of view. I really enjoyed this one.

4.5*
WOW! How refreshing! A completely innovative and original twist on a courtroom drama.

A case study revealing all the pieces of the puzzle that make up the judicial system.

For those of us who read legal thrillers - we’ve all been accustomed to the courtroom drama told from the perspective of lawyers and defendants. This book turns things sideways with a unique approach to covering a major trial.
This trial is dissected and told from the point of view of everyone involved. The judge, the bailiffs, the attorneys and every member of the jury.
So captivating in fact, that the actual crime itself becomes secondary to those who follow its journey through the judicial system

David Sullinger is on trial for the murder of his wife Amanda.
He put an ax through her head, claiming it was self-defense. Gruesome.
His claim - He was the battered spouse, and Amanda was trying to kill him! Fighting for his life, he’s hired one of the most elite defense lawyers in California and is fully prepared for trial.

Fans of any of the legal drama shows such as Law and Order or even Dateline will surely love this book! Unputdownable says it all!

With so many characters and views involved, I was concerned that keeping track and staying focused might prove to be difficult. Well...I didn’t have a single problem! In fact, I grew rather fond of both the judge and her bailiff, with all their behind-the-scenes struggles.
The Judge, wrestling with serious personal issues, and the bailiff caught between his courtroom duties and respect for the judge he works so closely with. It rang so believably true that it touched a deep sympathetic chord for me. Just the kind of insider information we’re never privy to!

Now the Jury - how fascinating (and frightening) to see what everyone brings into that jury room. Their past history of personal demons and hardships. Biases and tolerances. Each jury member had their own story and unfortunately, their own agenda. All flawed, all very human characteristics.

Robert Rotstein has put together the most unique legal thriller I‘ve ever read. Both the characters and story-line had a vast amount of credible depth, drawing you in completely. Right there within the courthouse. A fly on the wall taking in every single nuance of the courtroom drama!

If legal thrillers and crime fiction are your thing then this is a must read!

A profoundly enjoyable buddy read with Susanne!

And a thank you to Matt. Without your outstanding review I would never have come across this novel.

Thank you to Blackstone Publishing via NetGalley & Edelweiss and Robert Rotstein for an ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.

"On the day before his twenty-first wedding anniversary, David Sullinger buried an ax in his wife’s skull. Now, eight jurors must retire to the deliberation room and decide whether David committed premeditated murder—or whether he was a battered spouse who killed his wife in self-defense."

If you like thrilling courtroom drama, then you’ll like this book. The trial is told through multiple point of view’s. Not just the Jurors, which I thought it would only be through the POV of the jurors but also the Judge, the Court Clerk, the Bailiff, The Defense Counsel, and a few others. It sounds like a lot of people to be reading through the eyes of but it was so well written that it doesn't get jumbled or confusing. I loved how thought provoking and original this story was.

Thanks to #NetGalley for this ARC of #WetheJury
Pub Date: 23 Oct 2018

David Sullinger is on trial for the murder of his wife of 21 years. His wife happened s to be one of his high school teachers. She left teaching and went into a high-end real estate agent and made a great living while David for some reason couldn't hold a job to save his life.
They have two children, one Lacy who is a very poised young woman who supports her father throughout the trial and as soon as she becomes of age, she uses her inheritance to hire a high profile attorney who has adopted the defense of a "battered husband syndrome" for David and has turned this trial into a media frenzy. The youngest child, Dillion is on the side of the prosecution which has a totally different POV regarding his parent's marriage and turns out to be just another blight for the bumbling prosecutor.
The judge is suffering from personal issues that cause her to make some colossal mistakes during the trial.
This trial was only supposed to last a few weeks and it ends up being double that, the jury, of course, has started forming alliances during the trail.
When the jury finally gets the case, the battle is on.
Mr. Rotstein has done a great job of giving the POV of this trial by everyone who is involved in the case from the Judge to the Court Reporter. The diversity of the jury makes this even more enticing. He gives you a bit of background of each jurist without giving too much away.
I could totally relate to the happenings in the Jury room having served on a week-long jury, it can get pretty brutal in there. The nice little old lady that is polite during the trial turns into a virtual tiger when deliberations start. I found myself getting upset with several of the jurists.
I found this book was very cleverly written and if you like legal thrillers this is a great read. It's different from any legal thriller I've ever read; this book stays inside the courtroom. The mystery is solved, it's the verdict and the personal agendas of the jurists that is the basis of this book. As I stated above this book is very well written and I look forward to reading more from this author.
Disclosure: I would like to thank the publisher and NetGalley for providing me with an e-galley of this book in exchange for my honest opinion, the opinions I expressed above are my own.

I thorough enjoyed We the Jury by Robert Rotstein.
David Sullinger is on trial for the murder of his wife. Instead of the usual legal thriller the author has given us a unique view into the legal system. The story is told by many different narrators - members of the jury, the court reporter. The prosecutor, the defence lawyer and more. And we get an insight into the judge who has recently lost her husband, is suffering emotionally and doubting her mental acuity. Rotstein writes very well - each character was fully developed to the extent I felt I was in the jury room with the annoying foreperson and in the heads of the jury as they deliberated. I would certainly recommend this book to anybody who loves legal thrillers.

Many thanks to NetGalley for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review

This is not your typical legal thriller. The story, which involves a pretty awful series of events, is told by many different narrators all of whom are involved in some way or another. It’s a very different story but really held my interest from start to finish. It does get a little complicated with all the narrators so I found I sometimes had to backtrack a few pages. Reading this was time really well spent!

I have to admit, I'm concerned. Did I get super into this because of my job, or because of its own merits?

I work in a courthouse. I don't have anything to do with trials and juries, but I'm surrounded by judges, lawyers, district attorneys, court reporters. I nod pleasantly at jurors when I have reason to be around them, and I crack jokes with clerks and bailiffs all the live long day. This is my world represented here.

On the other hand, I've only ever served on one jury. And it was for something comparatively minor. Certainly not for a husband smashing his wife in the head with an axe.

This book is really cool, one way or the other. It's the story of a murder trial, told from the perspective of a lot of different people. From the judge to the bailiff to the court reporter, and all eight jurors individually. This is the story of David and Amanda Sullinger, a toxic marriage that ended in a gruesome murder. But was it self defense of a battered spouse, or the cold blooded murder by an abusive spouse?

I was worried the multiple POVs were going to be a problem, but far from it. Because this was POVs of one very controlled circumstance, the multiple views worked, and they worked brilliantly. I found myself alternately sympathizing with David and finding him innocent, then thinking he was a piece of shit and hoping they threw the book at his lying ass.

The twist is good. The twist is so good, so delicious. But it's a gentle twist, just the right amount, to make the story all the richer.

Mirror Mirror On The Wall....Who’s the FAIRIST of them all?

It is said that juries have something that machines still lack-a sense of moral responsibility.

But, do they really?

When each juror is bringing their personal animosities and biases to the deliberation room, can a just verdict really be reached?

Is winning more important than justice? Would you rather convince your fellow jurors to see things your way, than admit that perhaps your initial thoughts may have been wrong and change whether you will vote to convict or acquit?

David Sullinger has been accused of murdering his wife in self defense, just before their 21st wedding anniversary. His wife, Amanda was once his 11th grade history teacher. They first slept together when he was 16 or 17 years old....their children disagree on which parent was “Satan”.

The judge has just instructed the jury that David Sullinger just killed Amanda with malice aforethought. She left out the words, “It is for you to decide whether,” (David Sullinger just killed his wife Amanda with malice aforethought.)

Do you think this jury or any, would not already have some strong opinions just based on these facts alone?

Do you?

Meet your jurors:

Juror #1 A records manager in an insurance company
Juror #6. An architect
Juror #17 A Housewife with 3 young children
Juror #11. A college student
Juror # 29. A jury consultant
Juror #33. A grandmother who wears hearing aids...
Juror # 43 A clergyman
Juror #52 An express messenger/actor

This is a unique legal drama that shares with the reader, not only your jurors perspectives, but also those of the Honorable Natalie Quinn Gilbert, her clerk, Mick, the bailiff- Bradley Kobashigawa, both lawyers, and even a blogger whose job is to entertain..not to be objective.

I loved hearing from them all, but it’s TERRIFYING to realize how much the personal lives, bias, and personal agendas, can affect the outcome of a trial!

Who will prevail?

Will justice be served?

I would thank to thank Netgalley, Blackstone Publishing and Robert Rotstein for the ARC I received in exchange for a candid review! This title was just released on Oct. 23rd 2018 and I highly recommend it for readers who enjoy legal dramas!

We, the Jury is an intriguing, well-written courtroom drama. But wait, it is so much more! It is the story of a murder trial told from the perspectives of the jurors, the judge, her clerk and courtroom reporter, the defendant’s attorney….

In other words, it is a multi-perspective story that is mesmerizing and non-stop. The characters are interesting and believable. The dialogue is sharp and the question of guilt or innocence shifts almost constantly. It’s a book that makes you pay attention.

Some reviewers have called it razor-sharp and I can only agree whole heartedly. In the class of legal thrillers, Robert Rotstein’s We, the Jury is a total standout. This is a book that mystery lovers will enjoy as well as anyone who likes courtroom procedurals. I highly recommend this book. Mr Rotstein is an author I will look for in the future.

Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for providing a copy of this book for review.

I was not familiar with the novels by Robert Rotstein prior to reading We, The Jury (thanks to Blackstone Publishing and NetGalley for a copy in exchange for my honest review). He has a series of legal mystery/thrillers featuring trial attorney Parker Stern (a field he knows well, as he has thirty years’ experience as an entertainment attorney), and I just might find those, because I really enjoyed this one.

The book revolves around the murder trial of David Sullinger, whose defense is that of a battered spouse who finally broke and fought back. David’s wife, Amanda, was a successful real estate broker in fictional Sepulveda County, CA – while Davide seems to have been somewhat of a dilettante/employment failure. There is no question that David is in fact an axe murderer, the only question is why and whether it was justified.

Testimony is given by the Sullinger children, Dillon and Lacey. Dillon is an unreliable witness, being a drug addict who says it was actually David who was the abusive monster, while Daddy’s girl Lacey is not only testifying for her father, she is paying his legal bills, having hired a hotshot out-of-town attorney, using her inheritance.

The awesome thing about this, and what sets it apart from other legal mystery/thrillers is that it is told from alternating points of view from the eight jurors, judge, bailiff, court clerk, defense attorney, paralegal, and court reporter. As if that isn’t enough, the jury is quite diverse, including a housewife, an architect, a student, a clergyman, a jury consultant, a former high school principal, an express messenger and the foreperson. Tons of perspectives, and it could have gone completely wrong, but somehow it works in this book, with the transitions between chapters being smooth throughout.

Because Lacey’s testimony is so credible and she is such a great witness, one might think that David was in fact justified in his actions…but of course things aren’t as straightforward as they might appear on the surface.
Perhaps Rotstein’s extensive experience provided the basis for this well-plotted, juicy story with characters who are interesting throughout. I look forward to reading more from Mr. Rotstein! Four stars.

A trial procedural told in a very different manner. The story progresses through the eyes and voices of individual members of the jury and court staff. The storyline itself is good, the writing style elevates it to the level of a great mystery. I kept reading long after I should have turned off the light. Truly a great read!

An Exceptional & Unique Legal Thriller

Nothing is more exciting than reading a well written legal thriller. Combining suspense and drama, with lawyers battling it out in court and jury arguing back & forth to reach a verdict is simply thrilling.

We, The Jury is unique because it starts when the lawyers’ arguments end and jury deliberations begin. In a theme similar to 12 Angry Men, the story is focused more on the drama that plays out in the jury room than the actual legal arguments. Deciding a case of domestic murder, the jurors must now decide on whether the defendant is guilty or not. The story is however is not limited to the murder or the case. Beyond the case, there is a parallel drama playing out between the jurors as they battle to reach a unanimous verdict.

A jury consists of twelve persons chosen to decide who has the better lawyer ~ Robert Frost.

The story is narrated from multiple perspectives (the jurors, the judge, bailiff, the lawyers, and a blogger covering the case). Every chapter is narrated from the POV of a different person, we learn something new, either about the case or about the jurors. The character development is top notch, even for the minor characters, which helps you understand their biases and motivations. Despite so many POVs involved, the narrative remains never gets confusing. We also hear the testimony of certain witnesses that shapes your own verdict about the case. I felt the POV of some of the characters never really added to the main story. There could have been more debate among the jurors rather than these story tracks that go nowhere but overall the story never lets you down at any point.

Overall, Robert Rotstein has put together the most unique & entertaining legal thrillers, I‘ve ever read. Rotstein forces the readers to take a critical look at the jury system and the judicial system as a whole. With an engaging storyline, some great character development and incredible narration, We, the Jury is a Winner. If you enjoy reading legal thrillers & crime fiction, this is a Must Read!

Many Thanks to NetGalley, Blackstone Publishing, and the author Robert Rotstein for the ARC

Wow! Never judge a book by its cover. I snagged this book on a bit of whim from NetGalley and Blackstone Publishing and I'm so glad I did. The bland book design belies a complex look at a sordid courtroom tale.

We, the Jury takes you on a journey behind the scenes of a murder trial. [From the synopsis] On the day before his twenty-first wedding anniversary, David Sullinger buried an ax in his wife's skull. Now, eight jurors must retire to the deliberation room and decide whether David committed premeditated murderer whether he was a battered spouse who killed his wife in self-defense.

Robert Rotstein adds a brand new layer to the 12 Angry Men type narrative by including not only the perspectives of the jurors in a scandalous murder trial, but also exposing the viewpoints of the court judge, the attorneys, the bailiff and other assorted characters involved.

This book really delves into the grays of the judicial system--be it the fact that even a liar can tell the truth, that an angry man can fear, or even that an impartial jury always comes with certain prejudices. Be prepared to change your mind, about the predisposition of the jurors, the fitness of the court members and even the guilt of the accused.

Highly recommend this quick, engrossing read, even though I wish it could have created more depth for each character. 4 stars!

3.5 stars

As the book opens, Sepulveda County Superior Court Judge Natalie Quinn-Gilbert is giving jury instructions in the trial of David Sullinger. Sullinger, who split open the head of his wife Amanda with an axe, claims he was a battered husband who killed in self-defense.

The judge - recently widowed and consumed with grief - hasn't been her best self lately. Nevertheless, she oversaw the proceedings; the prosecution and defense have rested their cases; and the jury has its job to do.

The bulk of the story is about jury deliberations, told from the jurors' rotating points of view. But we also get glimpses into what's going on in the heads of the judge; court clerk; bailiff; prosecuting attorney; paralegal; and sensation-seeking journalist/blogger.

The eight jurors are a diverse group of individuals, including:

- The foreperson - an anxious, coffee-loving, middle-aged woman who works in an office.
- The clergyman - a sizable man who doesn't have much to say.
- The grandmother - a former high school Vice-Principal who has hearing problems.
- The student - the youngest member of the jury, a young lady concerned about doing the right thing.
- The express messenger/actor - an observant young man with a flippant attitude.
- The architect - a fashionable woman who's worried about her business.
- The housewife - a pushy homebody with a strong opinion about everything.
- The jury consultant - a stylish professional woman who's had experience with trials and witnesses.

When deliberations begin, all the jurors seem to have a similar opinion about whether David Sullinger acted in self-defense or whether he murdered his wife in cold blood. Great! The jury foreman can just 'push the red button' (which signals a decision) and they can go home.

Not so fast though! A couple of the jurors want to talk about specific bits of evidence such as: an incident with a hot tuna casserole; the contradictory testimony of the Sullingers' teenage children; a troubling occurrence in culinary school; the axe that killed Amanda Sullinger; a certain letter; and more. It turns out things aren't so cut and dried after all.

As the jurors debate, some become less certain about their original judgment and others refuse to budge. In fact two or three seem to have an agenda. But who and why might surprise you.

Other characters add depth and interest to the story. These are:

- The courtroom clerk who bakes cupcakes with Judge Quinn-Gilbert and worries about the jurist's health.
- The bailiff who got tossed off the 'real' police force.
- The journalist/blogger who's not too ethical about getting a story.
- The prosecutor who should have done his homework better.
- The CSR (Certified Shorthand Reporter) who reads back evidence in the required monotone.
- The defense attorney who supposedly never loses a trial.....but may be about to lose her husband.
- The presiding judge of the Superior Court (the big boss), who's concerned about Judge Quinn-Gilbert's behavior.

The book strongly reminded me of the excellent 1957 film "12 Angry Men", about a jury of 12 white men who must decide the fate of a slum dweller - probably Hispanic - accused of killing his father. Both Rotstein's book and the film examine people's preconceived notions, prejudices, and biases.

I enjoyed the novel, and thought the 'slightly addled judge' angle was a creative departure from the usual books set in courtrooms. I'd recommend the book to readers who like mysteries and courtroom dramas.

Thanks to Netgalley, the author (Robert Rotstein), and the publisher (Blackstone Publishing) for a copy of the book.

We The Jury was an interesting read. It’s about what goes on behind the scenes in a court house after the trial. A man was accused of murdering his wife.

When I first saw the description pf <b>We, the Jury</b> on NetGalley I was reminded of 12 Angry Men. While this novel is on par with that great classic, <b>We, the Jury</b> stands on its own. Woven into a fabric of a sensational trial where an alleged battered husband kills his former high school teacher come wife are threads of socioeconomic, gender and race issues. A diverse jury is used to illuminate how past experiences color perception. The impact of the judge's mental state on the direction of the trial is examined. The reliability of witness statements, credibility of expert testimony, counsel perfomance -- in Rotstein's deft hand all the players in the process of justice are given due attention.
For these reasons <b>We, the Jury</b> was not only suspenseful but thought provoking as well.

<i>Special thanks to NetGalley, Blackstone publishing and Robert Rotstein for access to this book in exchange for an honest review.</i>

We the Jury by Robert Rotstein is a 2018 Blackstone publishing publication.

Wow! What a unique look at the legal process as witnessed from every person involved in a high -profile murder case.

I absolutely love legal thrillers, but over the past several years I’ve found them lacking. Usually, the lawyers have turned into amateur sleuths and there is little or no legal wrangling or even an appearance in a courtroom. I’d become a little frustrated with the genre, but recently, I've seen a small, but promising, resurgence in the more traditional legal thriller/ courtroom drama.

This book, however, takes the usual courtroom drama to a new level by allowing the reader to review the entire process through the eyes of the judge, the bailiff, the court clerk, both lawyers, and of course-as the title suggests- the jury.

On trial is a man who admits to killing his wife, but swears it was in self- defense, claiming the battered spouse defense. After weighing the evidence presented, the jurors begin deliberations. Usually, I’m utterly enthralled by the legal jockeying between the opposing lawyers.

But, the most riveting part of this novel, for me, was the journey the jurors took in finally arriving at a unanimous verdict.

This novel was so realistic, I sometimes had to remind myself it was a work of fiction. The difficulties with a likeable judge, who may no longer be fit to do her job was at once terrifying and very poignant.

The lawyers were in many ways typical, but the prosecutor, even though he had political aspirations, was tolerable, especially when compared to the big city lawyer for the defense. The other courtroom mainstays who are often looked upon as minor players, like the court stenographer, for example, got their props a little in this story, too, and that was a nice touch, I thought.

But, again, the real drama took place during jury deliberations. Each of the jurors, which ranged from a member of the clergy, to a housewife, to a retired school principal, all have a voice, some more than others, which is also realistic. I’m not sure I liked the majority of them, but as someone who served on a jury once, this jury was uncannily familiar. My case was a civil trial, not a criminal one, but the diversity on the jury was quite similar, and the case exposed some hidden truths about the people I’d come to know in the week we were shut up together in the courtroom.

There was an ‘insider’ on the jury, someone who worked in the court system, but our foreman was much more suited to the role. Still, I was amazed that after listening to and viewing all the evidence together, that there were so many different opinions when we took that first vote. Then, slowly, and sometimes heatedly, we eventually agreed to a verdict. Since it was a civil trial, however, it did not have to be unanimous and we did still have one hold out. It was a fascinating learning experience, but not one I’m especially keen on repeating.

The story is deeply absorbing, and certainly paints the process in a such a way that it will give readers a lot to think about. It is a very different approach to the legal thriller, but a thriller, it certainly is, with a few curveballs thrown you won’t see coming.

The author did a terrific job with this one. I’m impressed!!

4.5 Rounded to 5

After reading Matt's Review of this book I knew I had to pick it up from Netgalley. I don’t typically read legal thrillers, but the premise of this was just too ‘Twelve Angry Men’ for me to pass on. Ultimately, it does have some of the feel of the old black and white movie, but it is also brought full force into the now.

A man is on trial for killing his wife. Did he kill her out of self-defense, due to ongoing abuse and humiliation at the hands of his wife? Or, is he just trying to get away with murder? I don’t want to spoil any of this story for anyone, so I’ll just say that for a legal thriller, this one really had me flipping the pages as fast as I could. Every time I thought I knew the ‘real’ truth, something happened, or a piece of evidence was discussed, that made me question my beliefs. Ultimately, I’m not jealous of anyone that served on that jury. Having been on a murder trial before, I could definitely feel the pressure of having to make the right decision based on the evidence, and it was extremely difficult to be the heads of the some of the jurors that weren’t taking the situation seriously enough. We do end up getting the POV of each of the jurors, as well as other key players within the story, and all have very unique voices and personalities. Of course, we don’t get any POV from the husband or his kids, which makes the whole story that much more realistic. You really feel like you are part of the jury trying to figure out this man’s fate.

Highly recommended to anyone that enjoys legal thrillers, or the courtroom process in general. This was very realistic.

Received via Netgalley and reviewed of my own accord.

Robert Rotstein tells the story of a trial and jury deliberation through the eyes of each juror, as well as the judge and courtroom staff. We The Jury was a slow read for me, but it was entertaining as well. As the story progressed, I began to recognize the different character voices, so I think Mr Rotstein did a good job of drawing their character portraits. There is a side story involving the judge that sets the scene for jury deliberations, and eventually for the verdict. I kept picturing the jury table/room from 12 Angry Men, which brought a the jury room discussions alive for me. I think that We the Jury might make an interesting book discussion selection as there were so many areas to discuss, debate and question. 3.5
I received my copy through NetGalley under no obligation.