The Legal Limit

In 1984, Gates Hunt murdered a man in cold blood. His brother Mason helped him cover up the crime by providing an alibi and disposing of the murder weapon. Both brothers vowed to keep the secret...until one of them, motivated by greed, decided not to.The Legal Limit is a moderately paced legal thriller about the ensuing blackmail. Gates becomes a prisoner while Mason becomes a lead prosecutor and Gates presents Mason with an ultimatum: help me get out of jail or I tell the police that you committed the 1984 murder. So, Mason can help his brother and betray the law, or be a 'straight shooter' while facing a murder indictment.This book is equal parts a legal thriller and a character exploration. Earlier, I wrote that the book is 'moderately paced." Those wanting a real "page turner" may be disappointed with this book's first half, which follows the simulteneous rise of Mason Hunt and fall of his brother, Gates. Martin Clark does a great job in "setting the stage" by painting two very intriguing characters.Even though the book may be slow-going for some, the patient will be amply rewarded by a chock-full-of-tension storyline that dominates the second half of the book. One of the most enjoyable, and tense, aspects of this book is the fact that there is no clear "right" or "wrong" side in it. While we can't help but feel sympathy for Mason Hunt, we are constantly reminded of his dilemma. If he helps his brother out of prison to save himself, he breaks the law. If he denies any involvement, he lies. If he admits involvement in covering up his brother's crime, he betrays his brother and opens himself up for possible imprisonment. Sometimes, "no win" situations are the most tense.I reccomend this book to anyone who wants the not-so-typical legal thriller. This is far more "literary" and even philosophical than John Grisham, while containing all of the firey tension (albeit not at such a blistering pace). Very entertaining.

I do not usually read legal novels, but this one is gripping, because the characters are so human, likeable or hateful, realistically portrayed and the story is so interesting.

The difference between "The Legal Limit" and other books about lawyers/court cases is that in "The Legal Limit" the reader gets an in-depth honest look at the complicated issues lawyers and judges face in their jobs and in their personal lives. This is true of "The Legal Limit" in part because it is based on a true event, Clark uses many real people in his book, and he is himself a judge.However, this is more than a book about a crime in a specific locale. "The Legal Limit" is a fast-paced, riveting story that could be set anywhere. It's a story about relationships (about which Clark writes so well) as well as difficult situations where the law must be followed but sometimes is unjust.I read this book in a day. When I finished, I was impressed by Clark's skill as a writer. His previous books (The Many Aspects of Mobile Home Living and Plain Heathen Mischief) are excellent, but it's clear Clark's heart is in "The Legal Limit." He must be a compassionate judge, which is good for anyone who comes into his court, but after reading this book, I think readers hope he will give up his full-time job for writing.

Of the three "Virginia Gentlemen" (Clark, Grisham and Baldacci)Clark is definitely the most literary, sort of reminds you of Walker Percy, and, in this book, on a par with Grisham as a story-teller. The tale of two brothers who choose separate paths, this novel is full of twists and surprises and also full of all kinds of interesting insight into the legal system. It'll also make you think about what justice really is and how the courts should work. I read this book and Clark's other two in reverse order, and Plain Heathen Mischief and The Many Aspects of Mobile Home Living are top-notch also. The Richmond paper recently quoted Grisham as saying he reads Martin Clark. I can see why. My only complaint is that unlike the other two writers, Clark has done only three books in ten or more years, and I'd also mention that other pure "legal thrillers" don't spend as much time devleoping character, place and themes, and for some people that might be a problem, depending on what you enjoy. Overall, for me, The Legal Limit is a nearly perfect book.

A little too legalistic for my taste.

A good story, witty dialogue, take-your-breath surprises -- all set in a legal setting. What more could one ask in these stay-at-home times? A couple of legal wits, black and white, share discoveries, set-backs, secrets, and successes. You think you know where it's all headed? Well, buckle up -- it's a good ride.

There are simply not enough ways to say how well Martin Clark writes. Like all his other books - and I have read them all - this is well crafted with interesting characters and a great, twisting plot. He richly deserves a more visible seat at the table of excellent writers of the legal procedural. He is every bit as good as the folks with well known names. I hope someday to be able to say, "Yes. I found his books years ago and they are great! Glad you have found them, too."

First, let me admit I have OCD when it comes to books so, although I read frequently, I am prone to leave many a book unfinished due to boredom. Some books put me to sleep within a few pages. This, however, was one of those rare stories that kept me reading till midnight. Martin articulated the scenes so well I felt I was present. No Hollywood contrived, predictable lines. But full of twists and surprises. It's a novel so the author took us on a journey of the main character's life, with details and drama to where I felt really connected to the characters, and, of course, rooted for the main character. Talked about the story line with many others because I was so engaged. Hated for it to end, yet couldn't wait to get to the finish.

Superbly written - great story

Tedious plot ,unsympathetic characters , managed only 100 pages until I gave up.Did not grab my attention