Religious Conviction: A Novel by the Author of Expert Testimony - Paperback

by Grif Stockley (Author)

In this thrilling courtroom drama from the author of Expert Testimony, reluctant hero Gideon Page returns to help Blackwell County's most prominent lawyer in the murder trial of the daughter of a well-known fundamentalist minister.

Appearing as if his luck has turned at last, Gideon Page is asked by Chet Bracken, Blackwell County's foremost trial lawyer, to assist in a significant murder trial.

Working on the defense of Leigh Wallace, the daughter of a prominent fundamentalist minister who is accused of killing her husband, Gideon finds himself at the forefront of Blackwell Country lawyers, hopefully bringing an end to his private practices struggle for clients. But as Gideon and Chet prepare for the trail, his hopes for a win begin to fade as the twisted threads of the crime are revealed with the realization that the majority of the town follows the ministry of the accused's father.

As time runs out, Gideon finds out he is the only one with the wits to operate in a trial that is tainted with emotions, jealously, lust, and family loyalty. From the first page to the climatic trial scene, Religious Conviction is a gripping thriller rich with humor, local color, vivid characterization, and intrigue.

Front Jacket

Leigh Wallace, the knockout daughter of a big-time minister, is behind bars, accused of murdering her wealthy husband. Defending her is the county's legendary and dying trial lawyer, Chet Bracken, who now asks none other than lowly lawyer Gideon Page to help him on the case. Page is ecstatic -- a victory would solidify his career.
Thoughts of victory quickly dissipate as hidden truths about the serpentine case begin to emerge: that Chet has something up his sleeve...that whatever is up Chet's sleeve, Page's own daughter doesn't want him to find it...that everyone from bimbos to bible thumpers seem to fit into this case...and that jealousy, lust, and religious loyalty can be effective roadblocks to rightful conviction....

Author Biography

Grif Stockley is an author, historian, and attorney known for his dedication to advancing civil rights after coming of age in the Jim Crow South. His Gideon Page series of legal mystery novels became popular in the 1990s. Stockley has been awarded the Porter Prize, the Booker Worthen Literary Prize, and the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Arkansas Historical Association.