“The Associate” by John Grisham is ripped from recent headlines…four frat boys from a southern university are charged with rape. They are all acquitted of any charges because the female is considered promiscuous and not enough evidence can be found to support her charges. Years later, a bright young law student, Kyle McAvoy is blackmailed because of these allegations and new incriminating evidence…a video recording of the incident from a hidden cell phone.
     McAvoy must decide if he is going to let intimidation and fear of disbarment lead him to stealing secrets from a top law firm in New York. Grisham intertwines stories about three of the four friends into hard decisions they all must make…including admission of guilt or freedom for their young lives.
     Grisham interweaves tales of the fine line between guilt and innocence, repentance and forgiveness… giving the Christian perspective of what should be done.
     This was definitely a page turner for me as I like most of John Grisham’s books. Although it was full of philosophy and espionage, it held my attention pretty well. Would I recommend it? If you are a Grisham fan, yes. If you like legal drama, yes…everyone else…yes…everyone should try to read at least one Grisham novel.