Chilling Effect

Another powerful and gripping novel by Marianne Wesson, with a very unusual storyline. I have read both her earlier books and enjoyed them thoroughly. Cinda Hayes is one of my favourite characters, gusty, smart and sympathetic. I was very disappointed to learn that Wesson has only written three books. I wish there were many more.

This is an interesting look at the power of film, and what affects it can have on a family. As an attorney the first amendment issues were interesting to think about. I enjoy the characters of the series, and the suspense of the books.

[...] In this intelligent and timely legal thriller Wesson pulls out all the stops to make a great case regarding the effects of unrestricted free speech. Boulder attorney Lucinda Hayes is hired to take on the case of Peggy Grayling, a woman whose daughter was raped and killed by a mentally disturbed man, and who also believes that a certain child pornographic snuff film was also directly responsible for the crime. So not only is Cinda taking on the distributor of the film but, incidentally, the whole entertainment industry as well, making what follows nothing short of spectacular. And as Cinda becomes more involved in the case, the disturbing aspects of it not only begin affect her work, but her personal relationships as well. This thought-provoking novel is both highly entertaining and intensely suspenseful. Both sides of the coin are equally represented, but Cinda's position that the First Amendment should not automatically free one from responsibility of the effects of such an unrestricted law is put forth with such conviction, that it's difficult not to at least consider the argument.  With superbly drawn characters, a story with grit and purpose, and a final denouement worthy of intense consideration, this latest mystery from Wesson comes highly recommended.  But do be warned that some of the content is very disturbing, however, in Wesson's assured hand, never gratuitously so.

This is a fascinating novel with a number of important elements. I found it to be a excellent piece of fiction, with strong characters and an interesting story line. As a legal/mystery novel it stands on its own as a very good thriller. However, it has added interest in addressing issues related to the first amendment, the pornography industry, and a variety of psychological aspects. I appreciated that the author was able to discuss the subject matter in sufficient detail to convey the message, without gratuitous use of the sexual content. All in all I strongly recommend this book to people who like legal thrillers.

I really enjoyed this novel. The characterizations are wonderful, ranging from penetrating to hilarious (the dialouge between Cinda Hayes and the postmodernist film professor is alone worth the price of the book), the moral and ethical ideas it explores are important, and the story is a real gripper. I couldn't put it down. My wife is reading it now, and missing all her appointments as a result. What's more to say? Buy the book. You won't regret it!