It is estimated that 1 in 3 women have suffered sexual assault and that very few report to the police and of those brave enough to do so, a small percentage make it to court, and many are unsuccessful in getting a prosecution.
A phenomenal, gripping and exhausting read, this novel hooks you from the beginning. Having seen the play, a one woman tour de force from Jodie Comer, I was excited to see how Suzie Miller could expand it into a full length novel. I was not disappointed. It is beautifully written, honest and detailed in its insight into how the law can fail women. Told from the point of view of talented rising star, successful defence barrister, Tessa, we see how even someone with all the knowledge of how the justice system works, when confronted with male privilege, women are disadvantaged from the start. Tessa is really proud of her successes as a barrister specialising in defending men against accusations of sexual assault against women. The story begins describing the clever techniques she uses to discredit the testimony of a rape victim. Then something happens to her which completely changes the way she views the way the system operates.
This is an essential read for all women, and for those involved in policing and the law.
Review by Lynne Collinson March 2024
Prima Facie by Suzie Miller 2024 Publisher: Hutchinson Heineman Isbn:1529153646
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