Keeping me glued to my Kindle, Scott Pratt’s An Innocent Client marks the electrifying debut of defence attorney Joe Dillard, a protagonist who breathes fresh life into the legal thriller genre. Set against the backdrop of rural Tennessee, this expertly crafted novel delivers gripping courtroom drama intertwined with deeply personal stakes, proving that Pratt excels at both taut suspense and emotional depth.
A case that will keep you guessing
When a young preacher is brutally murdered in a seedy motel, all evidence points to Angel Church, a beautiful and enigmatic stripper with a troubled past. As Joe Dillard takes on her defence, he quickly realises this is no ordinary case – Angel insists she’s innocent, and the deeper Joe digs, the more he uncovers a web of corruption, hypocrisy, and long-buried secrets.
Pratt’s intricate plotting keeps readers on edge, with twists that feel earned rather than contrived. The courtroom scenes crackle with authenticity, showcasing Pratt’s own legal expertise while remaining accessible to readers.
A protagonist who stands apart
Joe Dillard is one of the most compelling heroes in modern crime fiction – a man torn between his ideals and the harsh realities of the justice system. A former prosecutor turned defense attorney, Joe battles not only the prosecution but also his own demons, including a terminally ill mother and a strained marriage.
Pratt infuses him with wry humour, moral complexity, and relentless determination, making his journey as engrossing as the mystery itself. Supporting characters, from Joe’s fiercely loyal sister to the enigmatic Angel, are equally well-drawn, adding richness to the narrative.
Themes of justice and redemption
Beyond its pulse-pounding plot, An Innocent Client grapples with weighty questions about morality, faith, and the often-blurry line between guilt and innocence. Pratt doesn’t shy away from the darker aspects of the legal system, exposing how wealth, power, and public perception can distort justice. Yet, amid the grit, there’s an undercurrent of hope – Joe’s unwavering belief that everyone deserves a fair defence lends the story both gravitas and heart.
Why this book shines
Pratt’s prose is lean and muscular, propelling the story forward with precision. His dialogue crackles with authenticity, and his depiction of rural Tennessee adds a vivid sense of place. The pacing is flawless, balancing courtroom tension with quieter, character-driven moments that make the stakes feel intensely personal.
A must-read for legal thriller fans
An Innocent Client isn’t just a whodunit – it’s a why-dunit and a how-far-will-he-go-to-save-her. Pratt’s debut announces him as a formidable talent in the genre, delivering a story that’s as intellectually satisfying as it is emotionally resonant.
If you crave legal thrillers with depth, An Innocent Client is your next obsession. Pratt doesn’t just write about the law – he brings it to life.