One Sentence Summary:
A Certain Justice is a crime novel that follows the investigation of a murder at the Old Bailey and delves into the dark secrets and motives of the victims and suspects.
Book Genre:
Crime Fiction, Mystery
Main Topic of the Book:
The book revolves around the murder of Venetia Aldridge, a successful and highly respected criminal lawyer, at the Old Bailey. As the investigation unfolds, it reveals the complex and intriguing relationships between the victim, suspects, and acquaintances, as well as the inner workings of the criminal justice system.
Key Ideas:
- The precarious balance of power and prestige in the legal profession and its impact on personal and professional relationships.
- The consequences of hidden desires and past actions on present day events.
- The role of trust and betrayal in familial and professional relationships.
- The influence of class and social status on personal and professional decisions.
Main Parts of the Book and a Short Summary:
- Part One: Chapter 1-8 – The murder of Venetia Aldridge is discovered, and Detective Adam Dalgliesh is assigned to investigate. The readers are introduced to the victim and suspects, as well as the legal world of the Old Bailey.
- Part Two: Chapter 9-15 – The investigation intensifies as evidence and testimonies are gathered. Dalgliesh questions the motives and alibis of each suspect, and new information about the victim’s personal life is revealed.
- Part Three: Chapter 16-23 – The trial begins, and the prosecution presents a strong case against the main suspect. However, new evidence and testimonies bring doubts and uncertainties into the case.
- Part Four: Chapter 24-29 – The final verdict is reached, and the truth behind the murder is unveiled. The devastating consequences of the trial and the moral dilemmas faced by the characters are also explored.
Key Takeaways:
- Good vs. Evil – The characters in the book are not black and white, and the lines between right and wrong are blurred, making the reader question who the real villains and victims are.
- The Human Psyche – Through the characters’ thoughts and actions, the book delves into the depths of the human mind and the inner battles between desire, guilt, and morality.
- The Criminal Justice System – The book provides an inside look into the inner workings of the legal world, highlighting its flaws, biases, and the impact it has on both the accused and the accuser.
Author’s Background and Qualifications:
P. D. James, born Phyllis Dorothy James, was an English crime novelist, poet, and short-story writer. She worked for many years in the British Civil Service and as a senior administrator in the National Health Service before becoming a full-time writer. James was awarded various honors and accolades for her contributions to literature, including the Cartier Diamond Dagger from the Crime Writers’ Association in 1987.
Target Audience:
Crime fiction fans, mystery enthusiasts, and readers interested in psychology, moral dilemmas, and legal thrillers.
Publisher and First Publication Date:
Published by Knopf Doubleday Publishing Group in 1997.