In Kincaid Burke has created an interesting character. Kincaid is not only an ambitious and talented lawyer is also a witty and personable character. Her determination drives the plot - and allows Burke to introduce her own first hand knowledge of the inner workings of the judicial system- but her personality gives it a certain flare. Kincaid is a sort of post-feminist character. She is fiercely independent and must constantly fight the callous vulgarity and arrogance of the men she works with, but she also gets pulled into complex relationship with her high school sweetheart. She indulges in junk food but is an obsessive runner. She has ambition and drive but she also realizes, if occasionally too late, that her stubbornness and independence gets her into trouble.
I don't want to over analyze this book, however, as it is mostly just an entertaining mystery/legal thriller. The plot is interesting enough to keep you guessing - even if the legal details occasionally get over-played and little dry - and the characters seem real. The writing is solid but still a little unsure; the connection between the various sub-plots seemed forced and disjointed at times for example.
Caveats aside, Burke is a promising new writer and Samantha Kincaid is a likable and interesting character. Burke brings a unique voice to the genre and her books bring the legal system to light in interesting ways. The public will be looking for more Burke and Kincaid in the future.
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