The Burden of Proof

Oh this is my favorite in this series of three, although I believe that each one of these books can stand alone. The main character Sandy, is such a likable man, with his finesse and then bumbling faults. The author takes us along with Sandy in his new phase of life , unexpected after a long marriage. I was at times feeling heartsick with this character and his family, and at times laughed out loud. The narrator does a fine job with this text. I truly enjoyed this book, I didn't want it to end.

This is one of Scott Turow's best novels, and John Bedford Lloyd does an outstanding job as reader. "Burden" focuses on a character from "Presumed Innocent," the defense attorney, Sandy Stern.

Turow doesn't flinch from exploring some of the more unsavory areas of human experience. There are scenes in "Burden" that are challenging in that regard. However, it's to Turow's credit that he is willing to delve into his characters' inner longings so fully.

The plotting is very strong. Just as we think we're beginning to understand what's going on, a new level of chicanery introduces itself. Sandy Stern's extended family is made up of fascinating characters, well-drawn by Turow. As with all of his best novels, each step of the plot is intriguing and the ending utterly satisfying.

It's been A LONG TIME since I've read a book by Turow, so I really didn't know what to expect. I was very pleased with this book. It was much more than a legal drama. It detailed the drama going on in the life of the main character, whose life changes drastically in the opening paragraphs of this story. We're introduced to his family, friends and neighbors; all told interestingly. It's not necessarily high drama, but it is a "page turner". I've already lined up 2 more of Turow's books to follow.

This book was not awful. I had just finished listening to Presumed Innocent and was looking forward to another fast-paced suspense. This one had lots of twists and turns but it was just too long - and I happen to enjoy long novels. It went on and on and never seemed to get to the ending. The reader was excellent and the story itself was interesting. It would have been better if made somewhat less 'stream of consciousness' on the part of Sandy. Worth the listen, just be prepared to take a while to get to the ending!

Breakthrough or not, I found this book intolerable. Miserable characters living unhappy lives, uncovering progressively more miseries as the story continues. I gave up well before the end. I know that I'm in the minority, but I didn't find it gripping, compelling, or even interesting ... just grindingly unhappy and rather dull.

The book is well written and the narrator made it even better. I found it difficult to quite listening!

Scott Turow is an amazing writer. I read approximately 3 novels a week and while I enjoy many authors, there are few that can hold your attention and keep you guessing right to the last page like Scott. He has an amazing talent for plot and characters. This book, along with the others are ones I give people as gifts often because I am excited to turn other people into fans. Nobody should miss this talent. While his books can all stand on their own I suggest you read them in order since I think it will help with the storylines.
Now if we could just get him to write more - encore, encore !

I really liked Presumed Innocent & Innocent by Scott Turow. So, I was surprised by how incredibly slow this book moves. Hardly a page turner... Instead I can barely listen to more than 30 minutes before needing to turn it off. Finally stopped listening 1/2 way through the second part.

Too much character analysis, background, and thoughts for me. Not enough action.

I reccomend to read Presumed Innocent & Innocent. Leave this one on the shelf.

I enjoyed the book, but at times it somewhat dragged. It was one of those books that are entertaining to read and entirely forgettable.

I was excited to see Turow's next work - but it is disappointing. It took me weeks to get through this story - it is not interesting or compelling like Presumed Innocent. The story focuses on Sandy, the lawyer who defended Rusty Savage in Presumed Innocent. I do not recommend this book.