A Time for Mercy

By: John Grisham

Narrated by: Michael Beck

Length: 10 hrs and 17 mins

Publisher's Summary

#1 NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER • Jake Brigance is back! The hero of A Time to Kill, one of the most popular novels of our time, returns in a courtroom drama that The New York Times says is "riveting" and "suspenseful."

Clanton, Mississippi. 1990. Jake Brigance finds himself embroiled in a deeply divisive trial when the court appoints him attorney for Drew Gamble, a timid sixteen-year-old boy accused of murdering a local deputy. Many in Clanton want a swift trial and the death penalty, but Brigance digs in and discovers that there is more to the story than meets the eye. Jake’s fierce commitment to saving Drew from the gas chamber puts his career, his financial security, and the safety of his family on the line. 

In what may be the most personal and accomplished legal thriller of John Grisham’s storied career, we deepen our acquaintance with the iconic Southern town of Clanton and the vivid cast of characters that so many listeners know and cherish. The result is a richly rewarding novel that is both timely and timeless, full of wit, drama, and—most of all—heart. 

Bursting with all the courthouse scheming, small-town intrigue, and stunning plot twists that have become the hallmarks of the master of the legal thriller, A Time for Mercy is John Grisham’s most powerful courtroom drama yet. 

There is a time to kill and a time for justice. Now comes A Time for Mercy.

©2020 John Grisham (P)2020 Random House Audio

Wonderful, but...

To say I LOVE John Grisham books would be an understatement. I have read every one including his non legal thrillers and his collection of short stories. I love when he continues to write in places previously written about, as it gives so much more depth to his characters. This story is no exception.

The narrative itself is “Grishamesque” in that it has legal drama with strong leading and supporting details. I enjoyed this book, but I wish the ending had been more developed. I want to know what happens to the Gamble family and to Drew specifically. I hope by leaving the ending as such, it will allow him to write another book with the Gambles. I also think another book about Porcha and her legal career would be a good spin off.

Another Grisham Great!

I really enjoyed the story, and this narrator is the best. He truly fits every Grisham story. I wish the audio book had not been the abridged version, however.

So Where Is The Rest of It?

The narration was quite excellent but it doesn't really make up for the fact the ending of this story is unresolved.

I have read all three of John Gresham's books featuring Jake Brigance and only "A Time for Mercy" seems to be lacking an ending.

For those who are content to be left wondering, the book is good. For those wanting a solid conclusion will be lefting with just that...wanting.

Good, but predictable

I like just about any Grisham book, but this was just too predictable.

Still, I would listen to Michael Beck read just about anything. Perfect voice for Grisham.

Lacked the suspense of a John Grisham novel

I am usually a Grisham Fan but not this one. It was very predictable and lacked the suspense and twists of his previous novels.

Unclear Ending

Loved this book. Hard to stop listening. Great characters and storyline. Was hopeful for a clear ending to trial outcome. Love me some Jake Brigance and little/growing family.

Another Great Book

I think that John Grissom is really my favorite author. His stories are vibrant and keep you attention until the very end. I love the Brigance clan and all of their friends and loved ones. I would recommend this book to anyone.

amazing narrator

it's hard to believe that one person did all the voices in this book. All truly believable, even the female voices.

good listen

Really liked the book right up to the end. The ending left you wondering in not a good way! What ends up happening to the kid on trial?

another great story

I found this very entertaining and interesting. I turned it on whenever I could. Recommended.