Book Review: The Color of Law

I just finished a book that I really enjoyed, and wanted to share this novel with those that are looking for something to read this summer.

The Color of Law was given to me by my mother. It was a break from some of the normal books I read. Typically I enjoy reading books dealing with CIA Operatives thwarting terrorist attacks on U.S. soil.

This book... MUCH different.

First of all, it's a murder mystery that focuses on the aspects of the law. Secondly, it's centered around a character whose life is perfect (and has been perfect!) and has to deal with threats and conflicts to his "normal" life. And finally, the entire setting takes place in Dallas.

This was the first novel I've ever read where I knew all of the places the author was describing. Highland Park, Turtle Creek, Harry Hines, South Dallas, etc. He not only describes sites, but he delves into some of the history (ugly at times) of Dallas. At times, I actually learned a few things about my hometown.

Here is a description from Amazon:

A. Scott Fenney, the hotshot young Dallas attorney of Gimenez's debut, has a beautiful house, an idle, social-climbing wife and a spoiled daughter; his most lucrative client is local magnate Tom Dibrell, whom he regularly rescues from sexual harassment suits. When Clark McCall, the no-account son of Texas' senior senator (and presidential hopeful), is murdered, Fenney is forced by his firm to pro bono the suspect, heroin-addicted prostitute Shawanda Jones. Jones claims innocence, and refuses to plead out to avoid the death penalty--giving Fenney fits." With Jones's life on the line, Fenney agonizes about whether he can do the trial, losing wife, job, and country club membership as he slowly uncovers the truth about McCall. Along the way, Fenney takes custody of Jones's precocious daughter, Pajamae, in a cross-cultural subplot with more cliché than life-lesson.

Overall, I think most people will enjoy it. There are some adult situations (and language) that could make some uncomfortable. However, if you enjoy reading "John Grisham-type" books, then you'll thoroughly enjoy this one.