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Cover of Malice Prepense

Malice Prepense

Kate Wilhelm (1996)

SubgenreHigh Fantasy
Age groupAdult 18+
Content ratingPG-13
Pages (Standard (250-400))
SeriesBarbara Holloway #3
Setting
CSM age16
Goodreads3.84

Content levels

ViolenceModerate
Sexual contentNone
LanguageMild

Heroine archetypes

Lawyer

Tropes

Not yet tagged

Synopsis

A man with the mind of an eight-year-old is accused of murdering an Oregon senator. He is Teddy Wendover, 28, who as a child was stunted by an accident on a field trip led by the senator. For defense lawyer Barbara Holloway it's a frame-up, but who is behind it?

Is Malice Prepense appropriate for my child?

Suitable for most readers 16 and up.

This legal thriller involves a murder trial with a mentally disabled defendant, exploring themes of exploitation and political corruption. Violence is described but not graphic, focusing on courtroom drama and investigation.

What to know going in

This book has moderate violence, no sexual content, and mild language. Content notes include murder, ableism, and mental disability (see the full list above).

Who'll love this

Teens interested in legal mysteries and courtroom dramas will appreciate the clever investigation and defense of a vulnerable defendant.

Tags

Legal ThrillerMysteryContemporary FictionCrime Fiction