Elliot has a substantial gambling problem and due to losses he could not cover, became indebted and then involved with a leading west coast syndicate family. His alibi is entwined with the presence of the Don’s son Tony in San Francisco on the night of the murder. Since Tony was in violation of his parole, the Don elects to “assist” Elliott by other methods rather than permitting him to be truthful about being with Tony that night.

The other method is having a prestigious corporate law firm represent Elliott. Their high profile attorney will represent him, but the firm has decided that Barrett Dickson will do the court work. Since Barrett has only tried and lost one major criminal case, even a novice court watcher can detect a sell-out. However, the judge at least respects Barrett’s integrity.

Grace Harris is the head of the D.A’s homicide team. She is an experienced prosecutor, hard line but fair and quickly realizes this case is a little too perfect to be true. Missing evidence becomes her first substantive clue that all may not be as it appears. She also believes that Elliot is basically too smart to murder his wife without establishing an alibi.

The Alternate has everything. A realist would say that the judicial system is accurately painted requiring honorable attorneys to fight through the layers of greed and corruption that often clothe those in power. An idealist will merely enjoy the court battles, perhaps without even knowing how accurately the author has portrayed them in the ultimate search for justice.

Both the realist and the idealist will enjoy the diversity of the multi-layered characters and the incredibly complex plot. The pacing throughout the court scenes is perfect, with the author taking just enough time to make his point however technical.

Throughout this, the reader is drawn to the very bright, troubled Barrett. His character is greatly enhanced with his wonderful sense of humor. His evolving relationship with Grace adds a love story which will satisfy readers who enjoy the duality of suspense with romance. Don’t miss this book!

--Thea Davis