First published 2016
Patrick O'Brien struggles through each school day. The ten-year-old reads at first-grade level, battles dyslexia, and endures constant bullying due to his small size and shy nature. He hides his learning difficulties from classmates, teachers, and his caring grandfather. When Patrick gets accused of attacking a school aide, everything changes. The aide quits immediately and files lawsuits against Patrick, his family, and the entire school district. Patrick's grandfather seeks help from Rosato & DiNunzio law firm. Attorney Mary DiNunzio takes the case and becomes Patrick's fierce advocate. She fights for his security and seeks justice in what appears to be a straightforward defense. Mary discovers the situation contains hidden layers and family secrets that complicate everything. Patrick may harbor more troubles than anyone realizes. Mary faces her most challenging case yet, one that could establish her as a true defender of the vulnerable or leave her emotionally devastated.
Genres: mystery, crime, contemporary, young-adult, family-drama, legal-thriller
Vibes: emotional, fast-paced, intimate, suspenseful, thought-provoking
Tropes: enemies-to-lovers, found-family, underdog
Setting: School
405 pages · Hardcover · St. Martin's Press
Content warnings: abuse, mental-illness