Ten years ago Maya was on the LA jury that acquitted Bobby Nock, accused murderer of one of his students with whom he was having an inappropriate relationship. The jury’s names were leaked to the press and none of them have had any peace since. Most of the public believed Bobby was guilty and they could neither understand the jury’s decision nor leave them alone after the trial. In the intervening years, Maya has become a defense attorney, determined to make the system work better. Most of the jurors haven’t really kept in contact, but for the 10th anniversary, a reality TV show wants to get them all together to rehash the trial and their verdict. Rick, another juror, claims to have found evidence that will prove Bobby did in fact commit the crime; Maya is still convinced he was innocent and would rather pass on the TV show, but her boss convinces her it would be good for the firm for her to be on the show. When another murder takes place during the reunion, Maya is propelled into a search for the truth in both the past and the present.
Told from varying perspectives–each juror has a story–interwoven with Maya’s story, The Holdout is a thriller that does not disappoint. Readers of Moore’s earlier novel, The Sherlockian, will enjoy this one as well. Suspense, mystery, a level of both unpredictability and storytelling skill that is sadly lacking in most thrillers.
If you are looking for something to read while you wait out the Corona Virus, pick this one up.
Discussion Questions:
- Do you agree with the premise that most people who have jury duty see it as an important responsibility related to self-government? Why or Why not?
- Do you think the setting of Los Angeles adds to the story, or could the novel be set anywhere? Why or why not?
- Before the final reveal, where had you landed on Bobby’s guilt? What made you think what you did?
- Which juror’s story did you most identify with? Why?
- How does this novel change the way you view the justice system? If not, why not?