Protect and Defend.

Dive into the heart of American political intrigue with Richard North Patterson's gripping legal thriller, *Protect and Defend*. This New Edition paperback plunges readers into a high-stakes battle over reproductive rights that rocks the foundations of the nation. At the center of the storm is Mary Ann Tierney, a fifteen-year-old pregnant girl whose desperate fight to protect her future ignites a national controversy. Patterson masterfully weaves together multiple narratives, creating a complex tapestry of secrets, lies, and political maneuvering. The "Tierney case" quickly becomes a media sensation, capturing the attention of everyone from the President to ordinary citizens. But the case's impact extends far beyond the courtroom, threatening to expose the carefully concealed pasts of key political figures. President Kerry Kilcannon, still navigating the treacherous waters of Washington D.C., finds his administration threatened. His nominee for Chief Justice, Caroline Masters, a brilliant and formidable woman, faces scrutiny as long-buried secrets begin to resurface. And Senator Chad Palmer, Kilcannon's ambitious rival for the presidency, sees an opportunity to exploit the controversy for his own political gain, regardless of the human cost. Richard North Patterson, known for his meticulously researched and politically charged novels, delivers a page-turning thriller that explores the complex intersection of law, ethics, and power. Expect twists and turns, moral ambiguities, and a relentless pace that will keep you guessing until the very end. With over 700 pages, this doorstopper promises hours of engrossing reading. More than just a legal drama, *Protect and Defend* is a compelling exploration of the personal and political consequences of choices made in the highest echelons of power. A must-read for fans of John Grisham, Scott Turow, and other masters of the legal thriller genre. Explore the themes of Women Sleuths and Spies & Politics in a thrilling and suspenseful context.