Book Review: False Witness

Reviewed By: Harriet Klausner

False Witness     Amazon US HC Amazon Canada HC
Leila Kelly
Class/Genre:   Mystery   Legal Setting   Thriller   Woman Main Character
Series: Laura Chastain # 2
Kensington, Jan 2000, $23.00, 320 pp.

Four long months have passed since the tragic night that destroyed everything Laura Chastain held dear. She lost her mentor, her lover, and her job. She tries to pick up the pieces working in Atlanta as a district attorney and seems to be coping. However, her first major case will determine if she really is succeeding.

While her husband was away on a business trip, someone kills Christine Saunders in her home. The police feel the case is a simple burglary that turned ugly. Laura thinks otherwise and soon a witness comes forward who destroys the alibi of Christine’s spouse. The police arrest James. Laura thinks she has an air tight case, but is unaware that this is only the beginning of her being placed in danger as bad as her previous incident left her in PRESUMPTION OF GUILT.

FALSE WITNESS picks up almost immediately where the events of PRESUMPTION OF GUILT end. Lelia Kelly’s protagonist is an empowered woman who refuses to allow anyone to step on her. Laura is a tough opponent in court as she plays hardball inside the “Old Boys’ network”. The author also catches the essence of Atlanta that adds flavor to the excellent story line. Fans will keenly wait for the next appearance of Laura Chastain after this taut legal thriller.

Harriet Klausner

Reprinted with permission. Do Not repost without permission from the author, Harriet Klausner