A TERRIBLE GUILT

Atlanta lawyers fight to save an innocent man on death row in Rothman’s debut novel.

When a north Georgia diner’s owner and chef turn up dead, police arrest Joseph Owens, a busser who was fired just three days before and apparently had altercations with other employees. Owens goes on trial for murder and armed robbery, and though there’s no hard evidence that he committed the crimes (the .45 the victims were killed with is missing, for one thing), the circumstantial case is enough for the majority-white jury to reach a guilty verdict for the Black defendant, who receives a death sentence. Attorney Elena Samuels of the law firm Fox Stern, however, is so sure of Owens’ innocence that she convinces Greg Williams, her colleague at the same firm, to take the man’s case pro bono. They volunteer themselves as Owens’ counsel in the habeas corpus proceedings, where they intend to “raise every constitutional violation” they’re able to dig up in the trial record. When they’re not arguing with their firm’s managing partner, who’s unhappy about the lawyers’ dwindling billable hours, Elena and Greg reexamine the case and make a startling discovery. Rothman maintains a brisk narrative while showcasing the complexities of the American judicial system. The depiction of Owens’ trial isn’t merely a transcription of witnesses’ testimony; there’s a pretrial hearing, jury selection, and a sentencing hearing, as well, all delivered with succinct rounds of questioning and high-speed dialogue. All the major characters are well developed; the defendant is sympathetic but has his flaws (he’s undeniably quick to anger), and public defender Michael Delaney is a smart and capable attorney. The story ultimately shifts its focus to Elena and Greg, especially the latter’s troubles; for instance, he may be suffering from PTSD. He and Elena’s mutual respect enlivens their scenes together, and a touch of romance doesn’t hurt the duo’s solid professional relationship.

A dynamic cast drives this worthwhile legal thriller.