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Available
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Publication
Delacorte Press (2012), 432 pages
Description
Andy Barber has been an assistant district attorney in his suburban Massachusetts county for more than twenty years. He is respected in his community, tenacious in the courtroom, and happy at home with his wife, Laurie, and son, Jacob. But when a shocking crime shatters their New England town, Andy is blindsided by what happens next: his fourteen-year-old son is charged with the murder of a fellow student. Every parental instinct Andy has rallies to protect his boy. Jacob insists that he is innocent, and Andy believes him. But as damning facts and shocking revelations surface, as a marriage threatens to crumble and the trial intensifies, and as the crisis reveals how little a father knows about his son, Andy will face a trial of his own--between loyalty and justice, between truth and allegation, between a past he's tried to bury and a future he cannot conceive.… (more)
User reviews
LibraryThing member PermaSwooned
Hmmm...generally speaking I love this type of book, but I didn't love this one. It was a good legal thriller, but I thought the author danced around way too much between time periods, and was constantly giving out teasers of things to come, without delivering on all of them in the end. We are left
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at the end without really "knowing" Jacob at all. We don't know anything about how the father was raised to be such an upstanding guy with his family history. We have no idea how the grandfather and grandmother came together. We know nothing about the narrator's childhood other than who his father is. We have no idea why the "nurturer, Mother figure" of the neighborhood would immediately think the worst of her son. We have no idea what really happened or why. Much of the writing was good, but I found it ultimately unsatisfying. Show Less
LibraryThing member arubabookwoman
This novel concerns every parent's nightmare dilemna--what would you do if your child committed murder? Andrew Barber is a state attorney in charge of the investigation of the murder of a teenage boy who happens to have attended the same school as his son Jacob. Andrew is soon relieved of this duty
This was an exciting mystery with many twists and turns, and I enjoyed it very much as a mystery. I have read two other novels, Before and After by Rosellen Brown and We Need to Talk About Kevin by Lionel Shriver, which consider similar issues, and which are much better novels. But they are not mysteries, and so perhaps should not be compared to Defending Jacob.
Defending Jacob is a page turner, and does raise such issues as what causes a criminal mindset (nature v. nurture), the guilt experienced by a parent when a child commits a crime, and questions of how far a parent goes to protect the child from suffering the consequences of the criminal act. The ending was absolutely stunning.
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because of the potential conflict of interest, but continues investigating on his own. As the investigation proceeds, the evidence seems more and more to point to Jacob's involvement in the crime.This was an exciting mystery with many twists and turns, and I enjoyed it very much as a mystery. I have read two other novels, Before and After by Rosellen Brown and We Need to Talk About Kevin by Lionel Shriver, which consider similar issues, and which are much better novels. But they are not mysteries, and so perhaps should not be compared to Defending Jacob.
Defending Jacob is a page turner, and does raise such issues as what causes a criminal mindset (nature v. nurture), the guilt experienced by a parent when a child commits a crime, and questions of how far a parent goes to protect the child from suffering the consequences of the criminal act. The ending was absolutely stunning.
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LibraryThing member EricKibler
The basic idea is that Andy Barber, an assistant D.A., takes on a murder case, but is quickly removed from it by his boss when it becomes apparent that Andy's son Jacob is the major suspect. Eventually we are led down the weird path of discussing the possibility of a "murder gene", since Andy's
This book didn't succeed for me on any number of levels. What was it supposed to be? A meditation on the expectation to be loyal to family no matter what? No. Too lurid and sensationalistic for such a serious purpose as that. A Crichton-esque thriller dealing in cutting edge science about the genetic basis for aggression? No. The book dances around this subject, but in the end ignores it as a plot point. A legal thriller? No. Those expecting that will have a case of courtus-interruptus. A whodunnit? No. About a third of the way through the book you're given some disturbing psychological revelations about a character, and there are no reversals of the reader's expectations beyond that point. As I was reading, trying to anticipate the twists and turns to come, I actually invented some outcomes more interesting than the one ultimately presented. Domestic horror? No. The depiction of violence is much too restrained and timid.
Truly, this is a Frankenstein monster of a novel. But whereas Shelley's monster is made up of the constituent parts of a human being, and can walk, talk, and impersonate a human, this story resembles more a graft of five thumbs and a spleen. You turn it over and over in your hands. The thumbs grasp ineffectively for purchase. Can you use it as the ball in some demented game? No. Eventually you toss it over your shoulder for the dog to gnaw on.
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forebears were a succession of desperadoes, ne'er-do-wells, and killers. Andy becomes afraid that the prosecutor will try to prove the case against Jacob using a genetic propensity as evidence. Folks, I work in the justice system, and that would never, ever happen. The criminal law is based on individual responsibility for wrongdoing. This theory would be ushered out the door by any competent judge so fast it would make your head spin. It runs contrary to the rules of relevance of evidence in Massachusetts (where the story is set) and every other state. Also, we are asked to believe that the traitorous prosecutor, Loguidice (pronounced La-Judas, get it?) knew about Andy's family history even though Andy's own wife didn't. My willing suspension of disbelief was killed early on. And if this genetic factor is so determinative, why isn't Andy himself a murderer? After that, the "murder gene" aspect totally fades away, as though the author realized he wasn't going to get anywhere with it.This book didn't succeed for me on any number of levels. What was it supposed to be? A meditation on the expectation to be loyal to family no matter what? No. Too lurid and sensationalistic for such a serious purpose as that. A Crichton-esque thriller dealing in cutting edge science about the genetic basis for aggression? No. The book dances around this subject, but in the end ignores it as a plot point. A legal thriller? No. Those expecting that will have a case of courtus-interruptus. A whodunnit? No. About a third of the way through the book you're given some disturbing psychological revelations about a character, and there are no reversals of the reader's expectations beyond that point. As I was reading, trying to anticipate the twists and turns to come, I actually invented some outcomes more interesting than the one ultimately presented. Domestic horror? No. The depiction of violence is much too restrained and timid.
Truly, this is a Frankenstein monster of a novel. But whereas Shelley's monster is made up of the constituent parts of a human being, and can walk, talk, and impersonate a human, this story resembles more a graft of five thumbs and a spleen. You turn it over and over in your hands. The thumbs grasp ineffectively for purchase. Can you use it as the ball in some demented game? No. Eventually you toss it over your shoulder for the dog to gnaw on.
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LibraryThing member richardderus
Rating: 3.25* of five
The Book Description: Andy Barber has been an assistant district attorney in his suburban Massachusetts county for more than twenty years. He is respected in his community, tenacious in the courtroom, and happy at home with his wife, Laurie, and son, Jacob. But when a shocking
Every parental instinct Andy has rallies to protect his boy. Jacob insists that he is innocent, and Andy believes him. Andy must. He’s his father. But as damning facts and shocking revelations surface, as a marriage threatens to crumble and the trial intensifies, as the crisis reveals how little a father knows about his son, Andy will face a trial of his own—between loyalty and justice, between truth and allegation, between a past he’s tried to bury and a future he cannot conceive.
Award-winning author William Landay has written the consummate novel of an embattled family in crisis—a suspenseful, character-driven mystery that is also a spellbinding tale of guilt, betrayal, and the terrifying speed at which our lives can spin out of control.
My Review: Courtroom legal thriller. Nothing new there.
Redeemed from two-star basement by two things: The ending, which I am surprised to say I didn't see coming. It was a gut-punch.
And also two quotes, things I closed the book and nodded sagely after reading, things that were So Well Said I had to take a pause for absorption:
It was as if there was a place called After, and if I could just push my family across to that shore, then everything would be all right. There would be time for all these "soft" problems in the land of After.
Yes, yes, anyone who has ever lived through A Tragedy knows this feeling intimately, knows how this sentence encapsulates the aching need to be normal and better and fixed...that never comes....
And this:
At some point as adults we we cease to be our parents' children and we become our children's parents instead.
Anyone who has read some of my more dyspeptic posts on Facebook will realize how little I think of the adolescent exceptionalism that pervades our adult culture. You don't have a *right* to own a gun, unless you're in a "well-regulated militia," you have a stupid-ass paranoid fear that results from imaging They are out to get you. It's a symptom of a brand of stupid arrogant vanity, a sense of self as Uniquely Valuable, that is ridiculous and borderline mentally ill.
No one is so damned important that They are Out To Get You. And that sentence, that piece of Landay's wisdom, explains why it should be okay to say "Oh just STFU and grow up!" to more people more often.
Anyway. Up from a rocklike two all the way to three and a quarter stars. An enjoyable read redeemed by surprise and wisdom...helluva job, Landay!
The Book Description: Andy Barber has been an assistant district attorney in his suburban Massachusetts county for more than twenty years. He is respected in his community, tenacious in the courtroom, and happy at home with his wife, Laurie, and son, Jacob. But when a shocking
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crime shatters their New England town, Andy is blindsided by what happens next: His fourteen-year-old son is charged with the murder of a fellow student.Every parental instinct Andy has rallies to protect his boy. Jacob insists that he is innocent, and Andy believes him. Andy must. He’s his father. But as damning facts and shocking revelations surface, as a marriage threatens to crumble and the trial intensifies, as the crisis reveals how little a father knows about his son, Andy will face a trial of his own—between loyalty and justice, between truth and allegation, between a past he’s tried to bury and a future he cannot conceive.
Award-winning author William Landay has written the consummate novel of an embattled family in crisis—a suspenseful, character-driven mystery that is also a spellbinding tale of guilt, betrayal, and the terrifying speed at which our lives can spin out of control.
My Review: Courtroom legal thriller. Nothing new there.
Redeemed from two-star basement by two things: The ending, which I am surprised to say I didn't see coming. It was a gut-punch.
And also two quotes, things I closed the book and nodded sagely after reading, things that were So Well Said I had to take a pause for absorption:
It was as if there was a place called After, and if I could just push my family across to that shore, then everything would be all right. There would be time for all these "soft" problems in the land of After.
Yes, yes, anyone who has ever lived through A Tragedy knows this feeling intimately, knows how this sentence encapsulates the aching need to be normal and better and fixed...that never comes....
And this:
At some point as adults we we cease to be our parents' children and we become our children's parents instead.
Anyone who has read some of my more dyspeptic posts on Facebook will realize how little I think of the adolescent exceptionalism that pervades our adult culture. You don't have a *right* to own a gun, unless you're in a "well-regulated militia," you have a stupid-ass paranoid fear that results from imaging They are out to get you. It's a symptom of a brand of stupid arrogant vanity, a sense of self as Uniquely Valuable, that is ridiculous and borderline mentally ill.
No one is so damned important that They are Out To Get You. And that sentence, that piece of Landay's wisdom, explains why it should be okay to say "Oh just STFU and grow up!" to more people more often.
Anyway. Up from a rocklike two all the way to three and a quarter stars. An enjoyable read redeemed by surprise and wisdom...helluva job, Landay!
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LibraryThing member KingRat
William Landay comes out with a book of crime fiction about every 5 years, and they are always worth a read. His first was Mission Flats in 2002, and The Strangler came out in 2007. I don’t appear to have reviewed Mission Flats, though I did read it. Perhaps it was before I started writing little
Another five years later, Defending Jacob became available through LibraryThing’s EarlyReviewers program. This is his best yet. It will definitely vie for the position of my favorite legal thriller ever. I have only two criticisms. First, a kind of bland title. And second, it’s hell waiting five years between Mr. Landay’s books.
Defending Jacob will get compared with Presumed Innocent a lot. For one, the marketing put out by the publisher references Scott Turow’s book. They are trying to pick up fans of that book. And if you like Scott Turow fiction, I’m betting you’ll like William Landay fiction. But beyond the marketing, there are a lot of common elements. The main character is a district attorney. He has a resentful subordinate. Instead of the D.A. himself being accused of murder, in this case it’s his son. And the lawyer turns his inside knowledge of the justice system toward defending his family. But there are layers of things going on here that make it more than Presumed Innocent’s tale of the justice system at war with one of it’s own members.
Andy Barber is the A.D.A. His son Jacob is a classmate of the murdered boy, and he initially conceals the fact that he discovered the body as well as other pertinent facts. So he looks pretty guilty, but there’s no evidence for him committing the murder itself.
Where things get interesting is that Andy Barber’s father is doing time for a murder. He’s had no contact with him for decades because he resents what his father did to the family. He also obsesses a lot over whether or not he himself has a propensity to violence because of his father. Now that Jacob is involved with a murder, he questions his heritage even more. This focus seemed a little forced at first, but the build-up is necessary.
The legal drama is far less interesting than Presumed Innocent. But this is less an actual legal thriller than it is a psychological story. The relationship between Andy and his wife, his father, his son, and himself are what are really important, not Jacob’s courtroom maneuvering. The central question for all of these relationships is What kind of man is Andy Barber?
The plot feeds that very well. One of my problems with a lot of crime fiction is that the text seems to telegraph who the bad guy is, or whether or not someone did something. If the key question above is settled too early, the rest of the book becomes superfluous. William Landay did a superb job of making everything interesting at the same time that he keeps all the balls in the air. Toward the end, the plot twists multiple different directions to keep the reader confused. All of the turns made sense, and all of them surprised me!
Jacob stays a cipher throughout most of the book, but I suppose that’s necessary in order to prevent revealing whether he’s a murderer or not. The character of everyone else gradually solidifies, first Andy’s father, then his wife, and finally Andy himself. It was a very satisfying conclusion.
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bits about books on my personal Livejournal in 2002. But I jumped on The Strangler when an A.R.C. was made available to the employees of the downtown Barnes and Noble at which I worked in 2007. I liked it.Another five years later, Defending Jacob became available through LibraryThing’s EarlyReviewers program. This is his best yet. It will definitely vie for the position of my favorite legal thriller ever. I have only two criticisms. First, a kind of bland title. And second, it’s hell waiting five years between Mr. Landay’s books.
Defending Jacob will get compared with Presumed Innocent a lot. For one, the marketing put out by the publisher references Scott Turow’s book. They are trying to pick up fans of that book. And if you like Scott Turow fiction, I’m betting you’ll like William Landay fiction. But beyond the marketing, there are a lot of common elements. The main character is a district attorney. He has a resentful subordinate. Instead of the D.A. himself being accused of murder, in this case it’s his son. And the lawyer turns his inside knowledge of the justice system toward defending his family. But there are layers of things going on here that make it more than Presumed Innocent’s tale of the justice system at war with one of it’s own members.
Andy Barber is the A.D.A. His son Jacob is a classmate of the murdered boy, and he initially conceals the fact that he discovered the body as well as other pertinent facts. So he looks pretty guilty, but there’s no evidence for him committing the murder itself.
Where things get interesting is that Andy Barber’s father is doing time for a murder. He’s had no contact with him for decades because he resents what his father did to the family. He also obsesses a lot over whether or not he himself has a propensity to violence because of his father. Now that Jacob is involved with a murder, he questions his heritage even more. This focus seemed a little forced at first, but the build-up is necessary.
The legal drama is far less interesting than Presumed Innocent. But this is less an actual legal thriller than it is a psychological story. The relationship between Andy and his wife, his father, his son, and himself are what are really important, not Jacob’s courtroom maneuvering. The central question for all of these relationships is What kind of man is Andy Barber?
The plot feeds that very well. One of my problems with a lot of crime fiction is that the text seems to telegraph who the bad guy is, or whether or not someone did something. If the key question above is settled too early, the rest of the book becomes superfluous. William Landay did a superb job of making everything interesting at the same time that he keeps all the balls in the air. Toward the end, the plot twists multiple different directions to keep the reader confused. All of the turns made sense, and all of them surprised me!
Jacob stays a cipher throughout most of the book, but I suppose that’s necessary in order to prevent revealing whether he’s a murderer or not. The character of everyone else gradually solidifies, first Andy’s father, then his wife, and finally Andy himself. It was a very satisfying conclusion.
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LibraryThing member PortM
I really enjoyed this, although the only character I could really empathize with was the mother. Honestly for nearly the entire book I wished I could smack the main character, with his willful obtuseness and irritating arrogance. I felt, in his own way, that he's as much a sociopath as any of his
I had, of course, guessed the surprise twist at the end, fairly early in the book. It would have been hard not to, with all the broad hints. But I couldn't guess the circumstances or how it happened, and the story was compelling enough to keep me reading through to the end. I wanted to find out how it all turned out. It was definitely worth the read.
This was the Audible version, read by Grover Gardner, who did an excellent job as usual.
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progenitors that he's so horrified and ashamed of. I don't feel his steadfast support of his son was really a reflection of his love for him, but more about his own self-image. Likewise, he doesn't seem to have any real feelings for his wife. Whenever he speaks of her, it's all about what she does or has done for him. He's certainly only concerned for her in the most superficial way, although he excuses that to himself as prioritizing his son's needs first. I had, of course, guessed the surprise twist at the end, fairly early in the book. It would have been hard not to, with all the broad hints. But I couldn't guess the circumstances or how it happened, and the story was compelling enough to keep me reading through to the end. I wanted to find out how it all turned out. It was definitely worth the read.
This was the Audible version, read by Grover Gardner, who did an excellent job as usual.
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LibraryThing member SamSattler
Parents will do whatever it takes to protect their children from physical harm or to defend them from anyone, or anything, that otherwise threatens their wellbeing. That is a given; it is just what we do – even for our adult children. But what if a parent suspects that a son or daughter might
First District Attorney Andy Barber, facing precisely that “what if” question, never hesitates. Jacob is the most important thing in Andy’s life, and if Andy has to place his own future in jeopardy in order to save his son’s life, well, that is what he will do.
One of Jacob Barber’s classmates, a 14-year-old boy, has been found stabbed to death along one of the walkways of the park that numerous students cross on their way to the middle school every morning. Andy Barber, once he gets over the shock of such a thing happening so close to home, is determined to find and prosecute the murderer as quickly as possible. He recognizes the fear and unease of his friends and neighbors and believes that moving quickly will help restore the community’s sense of security and normalcy.
However, Andy and Laurie Barber receive an even bigger shock when their son is arrested for the murder and Andy is forced to take a leave of absence from the District Attorney’s office. As the investigation evolves, the Barbers and the parents of the dead boy will learn things about their sons they never could have imagined. They will also learn things about themselves and their neighbors that are almost as disturbing as what is revealed about the boys.
Defending Jacob is a classic courtroom thriller that will remind the reader of earlier novels like Presumed Innocent and A Time to Kill, two other books that caught the imaginations of readers and sold in huge numbers. And like the best of his predecessors, William Landay focus on nicely developed characters, plot twists, and a major surprise or two near the end to create a memorable story. But, even though there are recognizable similarities between Jacob Barber’s case and some recent real-world teen-murderers, Defending Jacob is as much a study of family dynamics as it is a legal thriller.
The three members of the Barber family, ostracized and hated by their neighbors - every one of whom believe Jacob is the killer – have only each other for support and comfort. But, as the pressure of the trial mounts, with more and more evidence pointing to Jacob’s guilt, Andy and Laurie begin to sense that their son’s emotional response to his arrest is odd. The family’s survival is in doubt in more ways than one.
Surprisingly, the most memorable character in Defending Jacob is Jacob’s grandfather, a man who moves into and out of the picture as the plot develops. The man’s pure evilness certainly makes a lasting impression; for me, one even more striking than that made by Andy Barber’s decision to place his son’s life above the very justice system he has spent a lifetime serving.
Defending Jacob is probably a little bit over-hyped but it has its moments and will certainly be enjoyed by courtroom drama fans. Warner Brothers has already optioned the book, so read it before the movie spoils it for you.
Rated at: 4.0
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have committed a violent crime against someone else’s child? And what if that parent is the District Attorney charged with prosecuting the very crime his son has been accused of committing?First District Attorney Andy Barber, facing precisely that “what if” question, never hesitates. Jacob is the most important thing in Andy’s life, and if Andy has to place his own future in jeopardy in order to save his son’s life, well, that is what he will do.
One of Jacob Barber’s classmates, a 14-year-old boy, has been found stabbed to death along one of the walkways of the park that numerous students cross on their way to the middle school every morning. Andy Barber, once he gets over the shock of such a thing happening so close to home, is determined to find and prosecute the murderer as quickly as possible. He recognizes the fear and unease of his friends and neighbors and believes that moving quickly will help restore the community’s sense of security and normalcy.
However, Andy and Laurie Barber receive an even bigger shock when their son is arrested for the murder and Andy is forced to take a leave of absence from the District Attorney’s office. As the investigation evolves, the Barbers and the parents of the dead boy will learn things about their sons they never could have imagined. They will also learn things about themselves and their neighbors that are almost as disturbing as what is revealed about the boys.
Defending Jacob is a classic courtroom thriller that will remind the reader of earlier novels like Presumed Innocent and A Time to Kill, two other books that caught the imaginations of readers and sold in huge numbers. And like the best of his predecessors, William Landay focus on nicely developed characters, plot twists, and a major surprise or two near the end to create a memorable story. But, even though there are recognizable similarities between Jacob Barber’s case and some recent real-world teen-murderers, Defending Jacob is as much a study of family dynamics as it is a legal thriller.
The three members of the Barber family, ostracized and hated by their neighbors - every one of whom believe Jacob is the killer – have only each other for support and comfort. But, as the pressure of the trial mounts, with more and more evidence pointing to Jacob’s guilt, Andy and Laurie begin to sense that their son’s emotional response to his arrest is odd. The family’s survival is in doubt in more ways than one.
Surprisingly, the most memorable character in Defending Jacob is Jacob’s grandfather, a man who moves into and out of the picture as the plot develops. The man’s pure evilness certainly makes a lasting impression; for me, one even more striking than that made by Andy Barber’s decision to place his son’s life above the very justice system he has spent a lifetime serving.
Defending Jacob is probably a little bit over-hyped but it has its moments and will certainly be enjoyed by courtroom drama fans. Warner Brothers has already optioned the book, so read it before the movie spoils it for you.
Rated at: 4.0
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LibraryThing member dpappas
I won this book from the first reads GoodReads giveaway. That being said I am so glad that I won this book. From the moment I first started reading this book it was so hard to put down. I literally was late to all appointments and meetings that I had while reading this book. I just couldn't stop
The way William Landay has written everything out in this book I can see everything in my mind as though I was watching a movie. He kept me hooked throughout the story with the many twists and turns. I won't give away anything from the book because I don't want to ruin it for anyone.
I would definitely recommend this book to fans of thrillers, legal dramas, and basically fans of great books.
The back of the book says that it is "The most buzzed-about Thriller of the year" and it definitely is for good reason.
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reading it. This book is a legal thriller which may make some people reluctant to read it but I found it be to easy to understand the legal aspects and it wasn't dry at all. The story is about assistant district attorney Andy Barber and his journey to defend his son Jacob, when Jacob is accused of the murder of one of his classmates. This book really makes you think about the relationship you have with your child and just how far you will go for them.The way William Landay has written everything out in this book I can see everything in my mind as though I was watching a movie. He kept me hooked throughout the story with the many twists and turns. I won't give away anything from the book because I don't want to ruin it for anyone.
I would definitely recommend this book to fans of thrillers, legal dramas, and basically fans of great books.
The back of the book says that it is "The most buzzed-about Thriller of the year" and it definitely is for good reason.
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LibraryThing member mckall08
It's never good when the reader develops an intense dislike for the main character. Andy Barber an Assistant D.A., whose son is on trial for murdering a classmate, comes across as impulsively stupid at times, needlessly insensitive, and working against his own interests.
"Defending Jacob" is spotty,
The only character development is through lengthy awkward biographical descriptions. The plot drags on jumping around amid different confusing time frames that breaks any momentum. Then it's almost as if Landay loses interest and winds it all up without resolving many loose ends.
A suspensful mystery is like a jazz improvisation, it needs to be suprising but not confusing, My opinion: too much wrong with this book.
"Defending Jacob" is spotty,
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well written in parts, but terribly trite in others; like a screen play proposal replete with stock characters, with cues added in for a prospective buyer: Example at end of chaper: "We walked out of the courtroom that afternoon feeling victorious. It didn't last."The only character development is through lengthy awkward biographical descriptions. The plot drags on jumping around amid different confusing time frames that breaks any momentum. Then it's almost as if Landay loses interest and winds it all up without resolving many loose ends.
A suspensful mystery is like a jazz improvisation, it needs to be suprising but not confusing, My opinion: too much wrong with this book.
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LibraryThing member jghewson
Do not understand what the hype is about.
LibraryThing member lupoman
I received this Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) through LibraryThing Early Reviewers.
I liked this book a lot; in fact, so did the hundreds before me that read this ARC. It's the best book I read of its genre. Period. This is the author's third book, and even though the first two stories won him many
The beginning of the book sets the stage, and I could feel the tension building right from page one. At first I thought it was me, that it's my fault I'm tense and anxious, so I closed the book for twenty minutes or so. My blood pressure went down, my tense feeling stopped and my general well-being calmed down. When I reopened the book and continued reading, the cycle began again. So, it's not me, it's the book. This is one page-turning murder mystery that you won't be able to put down, and the ending blew me away.
I highly recommend this book to Tudrow and John Grisham fans. I learned things from this book especially about law.
I liked this book a lot; in fact, so did the hundreds before me that read this ARC. It's the best book I read of its genre. Period. This is the author's third book, and even though the first two stories won him many
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awards, "Defending Jacob" is the one that's going to put him on the map. The book has already been compared to Scott Tudrow's "Presumed Innocent", but in my eyes it blows that book out of the water.The beginning of the book sets the stage, and I could feel the tension building right from page one. At first I thought it was me, that it's my fault I'm tense and anxious, so I closed the book for twenty minutes or so. My blood pressure went down, my tense feeling stopped and my general well-being calmed down. When I reopened the book and continued reading, the cycle began again. So, it's not me, it's the book. This is one page-turning murder mystery that you won't be able to put down, and the ending blew me away.
I highly recommend this book to Tudrow and John Grisham fans. I learned things from this book especially about law.
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LibraryThing member KimSmyth
An excellent page turner! This book is well written on all accounts--the father-son relationships, the courtroom scenes, the reactions of everyone around the main characters. The ending delivers a powerful twist that you will NEVER see coming. I highly recommend this book!
LibraryThing member bell7
Andy Barber, the first assistant DA in Newton, recounts the horrible murder of his son's classmate, Ben Rifkin, and his attempt to find Ben's killer, until he is taken off the case because evidence seems to point to his son, Jacob.
Can you imagine a more terrible thing than your child being accused
Can you imagine a more terrible thing than your child being accused
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of murder? Barber's story is harrowing in more ways than one. We jump right into the story with Andy being interviewed by a former co-worker in a grand jury indictment - just exactly what this indictment is and for whom, we don't know, but the pace drives towards the merging of these two story lines as the reader starts to imagine what really happened one fall day before school started. This is the rare book that I'm absolutely wowed by but don't think I could ever reread because it was so emotionally draining. Show Less
LibraryThing member Britt1075
This is by far the best book I have read in a really long time. William Landay writes a truly suspenseful novel that keeps you wondering until the very end of the book. A quick read that cannot be put down until the wee hours of the night. The main character, Andy Barber is a well liked DA for the
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prosecuters and has just landed a new case. A local teen is stabbed to death in a park on his way to school and Andy likes a local child molestor for the crime but soon fingers start pointing to Andy's son. Andy finds himself kicked off the case and instead defending his son.... who didn't do it, did he? Show Less
LibraryThing member WeeziesBooks
The novel “Defending Jacob” by William Landay is a mixture including searching for a murderer, lawyer and law enforcement interactions, and the portrayal of family dynamics during crisis. Jacob Barber, a 14 year old rather solitary boy and his family are suddenly confronted with the murder of
As the story develops, both family and individual secrets of the various characters are revealed and the reader is taken on a fast and emotional ride. Jacob proves to be a moody and secretive teen and is not always easy to like or empathize with. His parents stand behind him as he is going through these accusations and charges and it takes its toll on everyone. His father Andy is a hard hitting and determined prosecutor who is now finding himself on the outside of the law. His mother is a strong and determined advocate. This story shows what terrible pain and turmoil horrendous acts of violence cause in the lives of individual families and across communities, upsetting what seems to be the natural balances of life.
One of the dynamics in the book that was particularly interesting to me was the way the teen community of Jacob and Ben’s friends and family were portrayed. The issue of bullying was addressed but in a way that was slightly different. The characters were well developed and believable. The only part of the characterization that was challenging to me is how Jacob's father Andy, a trained prosecutor could make some of the decisions and take some of the actions that he did.
The book was chosen a a book club read for a local group and I am pleased to have read it. It was not just another murder mystery as the family and community dynamics were developed as a significant part of the story and that caused me to reflect on the roles we each play as parents, community members, and friends. I enjoyed this book and would recommend it with a 4 star rating.
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one of his classmates Ben Rifkin. Ben and Jacob are acquaintances at school and live in todays world of instant communication and information provided by technology such as Twitter, Facebook and Instant messaging. Jacob comes from a seemingly happy and stable family with his father an Assistant District Attorney. Jacob is accused of the murder and his father begins the process of trying to find the murderer and prove that his son Jacob innocent. As the story develops, both family and individual secrets of the various characters are revealed and the reader is taken on a fast and emotional ride. Jacob proves to be a moody and secretive teen and is not always easy to like or empathize with. His parents stand behind him as he is going through these accusations and charges and it takes its toll on everyone. His father Andy is a hard hitting and determined prosecutor who is now finding himself on the outside of the law. His mother is a strong and determined advocate. This story shows what terrible pain and turmoil horrendous acts of violence cause in the lives of individual families and across communities, upsetting what seems to be the natural balances of life.
One of the dynamics in the book that was particularly interesting to me was the way the teen community of Jacob and Ben’s friends and family were portrayed. The issue of bullying was addressed but in a way that was slightly different. The characters were well developed and believable. The only part of the characterization that was challenging to me is how Jacob's father Andy, a trained prosecutor could make some of the decisions and take some of the actions that he did.
The book was chosen a a book club read for a local group and I am pleased to have read it. It was not just another murder mystery as the family and community dynamics were developed as a significant part of the story and that caused me to reflect on the roles we each play as parents, community members, and friends. I enjoyed this book and would recommend it with a 4 star rating.
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LibraryThing member dennisonjill
What would you do if your teenage son were accused of murder? The child with whom you’ve lived day-in and day-out for fourteen years is suddenly accused of murder. Can you believe it? Can you fathom it? DO you believe it? Now, add to that the fact that you are the Assistant District Attorney for
This is the story of the Barber family – Adam, Laurie and son Jacob. One of Jacob’s classmates has been stabbed to death in a park on the way to school. Coincidentally, Jacob recently bought a knife similar to the type that must have killed the young boy, Ben. Within days, Jacob is arrested and bound over for trial. The District Attorney finds herself with no choice to put Andy, Jacobs’s father, on paid administrative leave until the trial is over and possibly beyond.
The character of Jacob is best described by a classmate, “Well, it’s like there’s jocks? He definitely isn’t one of those. And there’s smart kids? Only he isn’t really smart enough to be one of them either. I mean, he’s smart, okay?, but he isn’t like that smart … Like just a regular kid, and nobody knows what to call you – you’re nothing, but not in a bad way. And that’s kind of like what Jacob was, you know? He was just like a regular kid.” Jacob is a smart-aleck, surly and narcisstic, but what 14-year-old boy isn’t? Jacob is perhaps the most believable of the three main characters. Andy and Laurie seemed a little less well-defined and less credible, but then never having been in their situation, who knows how any of us would act?
There is one other suspect, Leonard Patz, the town’s pedophile and Andy had begun questioning him when Jacob was arrested, but the DA chose, for reasons unknown to the reader, not to pursue that avenue.
I cannot tell you if Jacob committed the murder or not. I don’t believe in spoilers, but more than that, because I’m still asking myself that question. As it turns out, it really isn’t the most important issue by the end of the book. Have I piqued your curiosity yet?
The story made me question myself. What would I do as the parent of a child accused of murder? In the words of Andy Barber, “I don’t think any parent can be completely objective about his kid …” The evidence in this case is not overwhelming, but there IS evidence and Jacob did tell lies, so …??? I will leave you to form your own opinion. The book was interesting and thought-provoking, and well worth the time spent reading it.
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the county and this will likely cost you your job. Further, add to that the fact that there is a history of violence in your family that includes your great-grandfather, your grandfather, and your father; a history of which you have told nobody in your circle of relationships, not even your wife or your son. Is evil sometimes a genetic result? This is the story of the Barber family – Adam, Laurie and son Jacob. One of Jacob’s classmates has been stabbed to death in a park on the way to school. Coincidentally, Jacob recently bought a knife similar to the type that must have killed the young boy, Ben. Within days, Jacob is arrested and bound over for trial. The District Attorney finds herself with no choice to put Andy, Jacobs’s father, on paid administrative leave until the trial is over and possibly beyond.
The character of Jacob is best described by a classmate, “Well, it’s like there’s jocks? He definitely isn’t one of those. And there’s smart kids? Only he isn’t really smart enough to be one of them either. I mean, he’s smart, okay?, but he isn’t like that smart … Like just a regular kid, and nobody knows what to call you – you’re nothing, but not in a bad way. And that’s kind of like what Jacob was, you know? He was just like a regular kid.” Jacob is a smart-aleck, surly and narcisstic, but what 14-year-old boy isn’t? Jacob is perhaps the most believable of the three main characters. Andy and Laurie seemed a little less well-defined and less credible, but then never having been in their situation, who knows how any of us would act?
There is one other suspect, Leonard Patz, the town’s pedophile and Andy had begun questioning him when Jacob was arrested, but the DA chose, for reasons unknown to the reader, not to pursue that avenue.
I cannot tell you if Jacob committed the murder or not. I don’t believe in spoilers, but more than that, because I’m still asking myself that question. As it turns out, it really isn’t the most important issue by the end of the book. Have I piqued your curiosity yet?
The story made me question myself. What would I do as the parent of a child accused of murder? In the words of Andy Barber, “I don’t think any parent can be completely objective about his kid …” The evidence in this case is not overwhelming, but there IS evidence and Jacob did tell lies, so …??? I will leave you to form your own opinion. The book was interesting and thought-provoking, and well worth the time spent reading it.
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LibraryThing member Pam1960ca
Wow - this book was amazing and so well written. I could not put it down. I will definitely be looking for other books by Mr. Landay.
LibraryThing member ei214
Unbelievable book! I literally couldn't stop reading it. I HAD to know what was going to happen.
Great incite into how our trial system works and how the prosecution and defense lay out their plans. Fantastic story!
Great incite into how our trial system works and how the prosecution and defense lay out their plans. Fantastic story!
LibraryThing member walterqchocobo
A well written crime/family drama where Jacob, a teenage boy, is accused of killing a classmate. His father is an assistant DA initially assigned to the case. The book covers the investigation along with the trial and especially the impacts on the family as they defend their son from the charges.
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It was interesting to watch the parents deal with their teeny bit of doubt that maybe, just maybe, their child did it and he needs help. My biggest complaint is that you don't really get to know Jacob very well at all--the story is told from the point of view of the father in flashbacks and court transcripts. A minor complaint as I enjoyed the book. Show Less
LibraryThing member Sandraelaine
A father believes in his son innocence regardless of all the evidence which points otherwise. Ending was somewhat of a surprise. I felt the book "dragged" a bit but others who read it, couldn't put it down.
LibraryThing member etxgardener
A 14-year-old boy is stabbed to death in a park on his way to school in Newton, Massachusetts. Andy Barber, the second in command in the District Attorney's office is assigned to the case. But before long he is removed because his son, Jacob, is charged with the crime, throwing the family into
This is a taut legal thriller that explores the age old question of which matters most: nature or nurture. I was disappointed that I found none of the characters really sympathetic and I knowing a bit about criminal procedure, I had some problems with how the author twisted the legal bits of the plot. However, it is a page-turner that kept me engrossed until the very last page.
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turmoil and revealing secrets about Andy's family that he had hoped were long buried. And now, while trying to prove his child's innocence he has to come face to face with what is a troubling legacy passed down through the generations.This is a taut legal thriller that explores the age old question of which matters most: nature or nurture. I was disappointed that I found none of the characters really sympathetic and I knowing a bit about criminal procedure, I had some problems with how the author twisted the legal bits of the plot. However, it is a page-turner that kept me engrossed until the very last page.
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LibraryThing member dgmlrhodes
This book was intense from the start. It is about 14 year old Jacob who is accused of killing a classmate. Jacob's father is the district attorney (now on suspension until after the trial). During the course of the book his father continues to work to clear him of the crime and continues to believe
The book has some big curveballs and surprises throughout. This is a great story to be published in January 2012 and I would definitely recommend it to fans of this genre.
Reader received a complimentary copy from Goodreads First Reads.
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in him despite the growing volume of evidence. The.book explores many interesting concepts including the murder gene and the myriad of feelings, guilt, and disbelief of finding your child could be a monster. The book has some big curveballs and surprises throughout. This is a great story to be published in January 2012 and I would definitely recommend it to fans of this genre.
Reader received a complimentary copy from Goodreads First Reads.
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LibraryThing member liisa22
What length's will a father go to defend his son? A very well written book that while perhaps not everyone will keep turning pages, those who enjoy thought provoking crime drama certainly will! Just when you think you know what to expect, the plot turns and once again you are questioning your
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crime-solving abilities. I enjoyed it very much and look forward to reading more of Landry's work. Show Less
LibraryThing member Olivermagnus
This book deals with the accusation that Jake Barber, the 14 year old son of the local Assistant District Attorney murdered his middle school classmate. I found the interaction between the parents and son interesting. Did they see see their son the way he really was or how they wanted him to be?
I really enjoyed this book and read it at one sitting yesterday. It's very thought provoking and I'm still thinking about it today. I may try another by this author.
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How many times do we make excuses for our kids?I really enjoyed this book and read it at one sitting yesterday. It's very thought provoking and I'm still thinking about it today. I may try another by this author.
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LibraryThing member 2LZ
Defending Jacob by William Landay was a thought-provoking, engaging mystery/ psychological legal thriller. An assistant DA's only child, his fourteen year old son, Jacob, was accused of brutally stabbing a classmate in the woods close to school. Jacob's father who initially headed the team
I thought the story was very realistically portrayed. Jacob acted and sounded like a fourteen year old boy, with all of the sullenness, solitariness, and moodiness that many teenagers experience, one moment being belligerent and the next acting like a little boy. I could understand the parents' desire to believe their son, but also their confusion and fear about knowing the truth.
I wish there had been a chapter or two from Jacob's own voice. Most of the story is told from the dad's perspective, although there are revelations from Jacob's mom too.
Most of the story reads like a courtroom transcription. However, the novel would periodically break from the transcription style to allow the father to fill in some gaps and provide some details to the events being discussed. I had to adjust to the writing style, but despite my initial struggle with it, I thought the book was exceptional.
The subject matter was not an easy one, especially for those who are parents. The idea that parents with the best of intentions, who provided unconditional love and support, may not impact their child positively or for that matter, in anyway at all, is frightening. Further, doing your best may not be good enough or make any difference. The idea that involved parents may not truly know their child and the life that he or she lives shatters the belief that love conquers all and that everything can be made right with love. The novel highlighted that a good life is fragile and should not be taken for granted; things can change in a minute regardless of best efforts. It was an unsettling message. The story-line sticks with the reader and doesn't let go, thereby making for a great discussion.
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investigating the murder, unconditionally believed in his child's innocence even when there was questionable evidence uncovered. The accusation unraveled their relationships with family and friends. Loyalties were questioned. Bonds were tested. Their once seemingly perfect life destroyed.I thought the story was very realistically portrayed. Jacob acted and sounded like a fourteen year old boy, with all of the sullenness, solitariness, and moodiness that many teenagers experience, one moment being belligerent and the next acting like a little boy. I could understand the parents' desire to believe their son, but also their confusion and fear about knowing the truth.
I wish there had been a chapter or two from Jacob's own voice. Most of the story is told from the dad's perspective, although there are revelations from Jacob's mom too.
Most of the story reads like a courtroom transcription. However, the novel would periodically break from the transcription style to allow the father to fill in some gaps and provide some details to the events being discussed. I had to adjust to the writing style, but despite my initial struggle with it, I thought the book was exceptional.
The subject matter was not an easy one, especially for those who are parents. The idea that parents with the best of intentions, who provided unconditional love and support, may not impact their child positively or for that matter, in anyway at all, is frightening. Further, doing your best may not be good enough or make any difference. The idea that involved parents may not truly know their child and the life that he or she lives shatters the belief that love conquers all and that everything can be made right with love. The novel highlighted that a good life is fragile and should not be taken for granted; things can change in a minute regardless of best efforts. It was an unsettling message. The story-line sticks with the reader and doesn't let go, thereby making for a great discussion.
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Awards
Barry Award (Nominee — Novel — 2013)
Hammett Prize (Nominee — 2012)
Massachusetts Book Award (Honor Book — Fiction — 2013)
International Thriller Writers Award (Nominee — 2013)
Harper Lee Prize for Legal Fiction (Nominee — 2013)
Language
Original publication date
2012
Physical description
432 p.; 9.5 inches
ISBN
0385344228 / 9780385344227
Other editions
Defending Jacob: A Novel by William Landay (Hardcover)