The intern

Former prosecutor Campbell (The Wife Who Knew Too Much) returns with a goofy legal thriller about the shifting relationship between a judge and her protégé. Harvard Law student Madison Rivera was inspired to become an attorney during a high school career day speech given by Kathryn Conroy, a crusading prosecutor named to the federal bench. Now, Kathryn is one of Madison's professors, and Madison's dream of emulating the older woman seems attainable, especially when she's invited to apply for an internship in Kathryn's chambers. Before the interview, however, Madison learns that her wayward younger brother Danny has pled guilty to federal drug charges and told their mother his plea was coerced--and that Kathryn was in cahoots with the corrupt cop who arrested him. Panicked, Madison lies and tells Kathryn she's an only child during the interview. After she's hired, however, Madison uses her access to Kathryn's records to verify Danny's claims, and a little digging reveals that Kathryn is hiding a mountain of dark secrets. Is Madison being set up? Unfortunately, Campbell's experience with the law doesn't much help the undercooked cat-and-mouse game that emerges--she shows her hand too early, neutralizing most of the suspense, and the plot takes several implausible jumps. This disappoints. (Oct.)

Harvard Law student Madison Rivera has long admired federal judge Kathryn Conroy. When offered an internship with Judge Conroy, Madison is eager to accept. However, there's a significant obstacle: Madison's brother Danny has just been arrested on drug charges, and Judge Conroy is presiding over his case. Aware of the potential conflict of interest, Madison grapples with the decision to disclose her familial ties to Conroy, knowing it could jeopardize her dream internship. Meanwhile, Danny maintains his innocence, claiming that Conroy is involved in a conspiracy to frame him. Initially hesitant to believe that the charming and beautiful Conroy could be involved in unethical behavior, Madison stays silent about her family in order to keep the internship but begins secretly investigating to clear her brother's name. When her inquiries lead her into a dangerous world of deep corruption, Madison is left wondering whom she can trust. VERDICT This page-turner from the author of It's Always the Husband delivers a suspenseful narrative with empathetic characters, while also raising timely, provocative questions about corruption within the justice system. Perfect for fans of legal thrillers.--Lucinda Ward