The Reckoning: A Novel by John Grisham

In John Grisham's "The Reckoning," the story unfolds in Clanton, Mississippi, in October 1946. Pete Banning, a respected war hero and pillar of the community, shocks everyone by committing a heinous crime one morning. Despite being a beloved figure, Pete refuses to explain his actions, even to his family, maintaining a stoic silence.

The narrative takes readers on a gripping journey through Pete's past, from his heroics in World War II to his present-day trial in Clanton. As his defense attorney struggles to uncover Pete's motives and save him from a seemingly inevitable fate, the novel delves into the complexities of loyalty, justice, and the human psyche.

Grisham masterfully weaves together elements of a murder mystery, courtroom drama, and family saga, drawing readers into a compelling narrative filled with twists and revelations. Set against the backdrop of the Jim Crow South, "The Reckoning" explores themes of sacrifice, redemption, and the consequences of war, delivering a powerful and suspenseful tale that keeps readers guessing until the final page.