The Exchange - John Grisham

Have you ever wondered might happen to a character if there was a follow up tale? John Grisham's new novel, The Exchange, brings back lead character Mitch McDeere from 'The Firm.'

Nobody does legal thrillers like Grisham - I picked up this new title without even looking at the synopsis.&

Mitch has avoided Mississippi and all that happened there for fifteen years. He's now a partner in a large, wealthy firm in New York. They literally have thousands of offices across the world. And it is one of those far flung offices that desperately needs Mitch's skill set...

Now, you certainly don't have to read The Firm to enjoy The Exchange. Grisham provides lots of background in the first few chapters. I actually thought the plot was going to be similar to that first book. But it wasn't. Instead Grisham takes Mitch on a world wide search for answers. Without giving much away, this plotline seems ripped from newspaper headlines. 

I like Mitch as a lead character - and his wife Abby just as well. She has a significant role in this latest book. The novel is populated by a number of supporting characters - but it's hard to tell who is backing Mitch and who's have their own agenda.  

Grisham's background as both a lawyer and a politician add so much to his storytelling. There's a sense of urgency with every page turned and the tension is palpable with each situation and emotion. There is a lot of detail around some the agencies, legal machinations and more. I must admit, some of it was a bit too much for me.

Overall, another great read from Grisham. See for yourself - read an excerpt of The Exchange. 

As I turned the last page, I wondered if there's perhaps a third book for Mitch???