Alison, seemingly has it all – a husband, child, home and a rising career as a criminal defense lawyer. However, she regularly drinks too much, is neglecting her family and having a dangerous affair with a colleague. Alison knows what she is doing is wrong, but can’t stop…
At work, she’s just been given her first murder case to defend, but something doesn’t seem quite right. Alison’s wealthy, middle-aged client, Madeline, doesn’t deny killing her husband and wants to plead guilty.
Meanwhile, someone knows nearly every detail of Alison’s workplace affair. Harbouring her secrets, they want to make her pay for she’s done.
As Alison prepares for Madeline’s case, she discovers disturbing similarities in their lives. Despite the protagonist’s complex flaws, Alison is a compelling and relatable character. The suspense left my heart racing and as I frantically turned the pages, the mystery unfolded with a shocking twist. Ultimately, a realistic and satisfying ending, that doesn’t disappoint.
Blood Orange is an unexpectedly provocative blend of legal drama and dysfunctional relationships. The legal detail in Blood Orange is fascinating and Harriet’s writing is highly addictive. Blood Orange was so riveting, I can’t wait to read Harriet’s next psychological thriller.
Harriet Tyce grew up in Edinburgh and practised as a criminal barrister in London for nearly a decade before written Blood Orange. Her debut novel has been translated into 18 languages and has been optioned as a television drama series.
Reviewer: Andrea Molloy Hachette, RRP $32.99