53 pages 1-hour read

The King of Torts

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2003

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Book Brief

John Grisham

The King of Torts

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2003
Book Details
Pages

384

Format

Novel • Fiction

Genre
Mystery & Crime Fiction

Horror & Suspense
Setting

Washington, D.C. • Contemporary

Topic
Crime & Law
Publication Year

2003

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Lexile Level

850L

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Super Short Summary

The King of Torts by John Grisham follows disillusioned public defender Clay Carter, who is assigned a seemingly routine murder case involving his client, Tequila Watson. Clay discovers the crime is linked to an experimental drug with dangerous side effects, leading him into a high-stakes legal battle against a powerful pharmaceutical company, revitalizing his passion for justice. Topics include drug addiction and unethical medical practices.

Suspenseful

Mysterious

Dark

Challenging

Gritty

Reviews & Readership

4.0

98,213 ratings

62%

Loved it

28%

Mixed feelings

9%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

John Grisham's The King of Torts is praised for its fast-paced legal thriller plot and incisive critique of the legal profession's darker aspects. However, some reviews note a lack of deep character development and a somewhat predictable storyline. Overall, it remains a compelling read for Grisham fans and enthusiasts of legal dramas.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The King of Torts?

Readers who enjoy fast-paced legal thrillers with ethical dilemmas will find The King of Torts by John Grisham captivating. Fans of Michael Connelly’s The Lincoln Lawyer or Scott Turow’s Presumed Innocent will appreciate the intricate courtroom drama and moral complexity.

4.0

98,213 ratings

62%

Loved it

28%

Mixed feelings

9%

Not a fan

Character List

A lawyer who begins his career in the Office of the Public Defender and is later drawn into the lucrative world of mass-tort litigation. He is initially principled but becomes morally compromised as he ascends to power and wealth.

A mysterious corporate fixer who tempts Clay with a high-stakes opportunity in mass-tort litigation. His role is crucial in leading Clay into the ethically complex and profitable world of secret legal settlements.

Clay's primary love interest who is initially critical of his lack of ambition. Her relationships reflect the personal and societal pressures surrounding wealth and status.

A successful and flamboyant mass-tort lawyer who becomes Clay’s mentor. He is known for his extravagant lifestyle and provides insight into the ethically ambiguous world of mass torts.

Rebecca’s father and a real-estate developer who pressures Clay into securing a more prestigious career. He epitomizes the societal prioritization of wealth and status.

Clay's father, who was once a successful lawyer but fell from grace due to financial crimes. His downfall serves as a cautionary tale for Clay.

A model who becomes Clay's girlfriend, representing the superficial lifestyle associated with his wealth. She remains detached from Clay’s personal and legal issues.

Members of Clay’s law firm, initially drawn by the prospect of wealth. They highlight contrasting loyalties and ambitions within the firm.

The mother of a murder victim and one of Clay’s first clients in a mass-tort case. Her character illustrates the personal tragedies that underlie the legal proceedings.

Book Details
Pages

384

Format

Novel • Fiction

Genre
Mystery & Crime Fiction

Horror & Suspense
Setting

Washington, D.C. • Contemporary

Topic
Crime & Law
Publication Year

2003

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Lexile Level

850L

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