The Intern

Legal Thriller Done Right

“The Intern” by Michele Campbell is a spine-tingling, thought-provoking legal thriller that will keep you at the edge of your seat from beginning to end. If reading could be a full-time job, delving into well-crafted thrillers like this one would make it a dream come true. Michele Campbell has masterfully woven a gripping narrative that's impossible to put down, and I owe my discovery of this gem to NetGalley, which introduced me to the talented author.

My journey through this enthralling tale was made even more immersive by the outstanding narration in the audiobook version. The skillful narrator breathed life into the two main characters, making them not just voices but individuals we genuinely care about. It's a testament to the audiobook's quality that I couldn't stop listening, driven by an insatiable desire to uncover the mysteries and secrets lurking in every corner of the story.

Campbell's genius lies in her ability to balance character development and plot pacing flawlessly. The heart of the novel beats strongly through its main protagonists, Madison Rivera and Judge Kathryn Conroy. Madison, a determined Harvard Law student, lands her dream summer internship working for the esteemed Judge Conroy. However, her dreams collide with harsh reality when her brother, Danny, is arrested on federal drug charges, and Judge Conroy is assigned to his case. The weight of Madison's ambitions and familial loyalty intertwine as she endeavors to help her brother and unveil the truth behind his vehement claims of innocence. Madison's character arc is a compelling exploration of the relentless pursuit of justice and the sacrifices one must make in that pursuit.

Kathryn Conroy's perspective, on the other hand, offers readers a glimpse into her dark past, marked by poverty, adversity, and the difficult choices she made to rise to her esteemed position. It's a testament to Campbell's storytelling prowess that Kathryn's character is just as engaging and relatable as Madison's. The contrast and synergy between these two characters drive the narrative forward, creating a mesmerizing dynamic.

“The Intern” doesn't rely on implausible plot twists or senseless explanations to maintain its intrigue. Instead, it weaves a web of revelations that are both shocking and entirely plausible within the context of the story. The author ensures that every twist and turn is rooted in the characters' motivations and actions, resulting in a deeply satisfying and well-executed conclusion.

In conclusion, Michele Campbell's “The Intern” is a remarkable legal thriller that skillfully navigates the realms of ambition, justice, and family loyalty. The dual perspectives of Madison and Kathryn provide a rich and multifaceted narrative that keeps readers engaged and invested. With a well-constructed plot, believable revelations, and a satisfying resolution, this book is a must-read for anyone who enjoys a thought-provoking mystery that keeps you guessing until the very end. Many thanks to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for the opportunity to experience this gripping tale.

When I started this book I was so excited. I had heard the excited chatter about this book and I was so in.

It started off really slow and really quite dry. It take ages for me to feel any real excitement. Didn't much care for any of the characters. It was probably the last third of the book that really got my pulse going. The twists were pretty incredible but over all the book was just ok for me.

3.5 stars

3.5 ⭐️ This was a fun read! It gave off some serious HTGAWM or Scandal vibes.

I enjoyed the story overall but the last third of the book felt rushed, which made the ending somewhat underwhelming. 50 more pages and this could be 5 stars.