Most of the books I read are fiction and I occasionally mix in a biography or memoir. Every once in a while, a nonfiction book looks too compelling to pass by. In Framed: Astonishing True Stories of Wrongful Convictions, John Grisham has partnered with Jim McCloskey, the founder of Centurion Ministries, a nonprofit organization dedicated to exonerating the wrongly convicted. The two authors alternate presenting ten unforgettable cases that will make your blood boil.
The cases presented are both horrifying and riveting. They demonstrate examples of severe injustice within the American judicial system. Deceit and corruption are found everywhere, involving government officials, prosecutors willing to go to any lengths to secure a conviction, unqualified experts, questionable selection of jurors, coerced confessions, and more. Particularly troubling and prevalent is the presence of lying witnesses. These "snitches" are relied upon to say anything, despite their lack of credibility, to lessen their own jail time. It is astonishing how these individuals continue to emerge as key witnesses. Framed does not claim that these practices are widespread and acknowledges that improved DNA analysis and recent reforms have taken place. Nonetheless, the services of Centurion Ministries remain needed.
This is a fascinating book and a hard one to read. The saying "truth is stranger than fiction" certainly applies here. Many thanks to Doubleday Books for the opportunity to read this book in advance.
Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars.
Nonfiction | True Crime.
Publication Date: October 15, 2024.
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