The Edge of Malice: The Marie Grossman Story

by David Miraldi

Marie Grossman seems to have it all: a devoted husband, two wonderful children, and a professional career.

But all of that changes when she drives her car into the darkened parking lot of a fast food restaurant. After Marie lowers her car window to place an order at the drive-thru, a man suddenly appears and places a gun at her temple. What follows is every woman’s worst nightmare.

The Edge of Malice is a true account of one woman’s quest for justice after a violent crime shatters her life.

When the legal system fails to extinguish her unrelenting anger and fear, she looks elsewhere for closure.

In the end, Marie’s journey for inner peace is as improbable as it is transformative.

Genres: True Crime, Nonfiction, Audiobook

250 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 5, 2023

About the author

David Miraldi is an author, attorney, and artist hailing from Lorain, Ohio. With a career in civil law that spans over four decades, David has dedicated himself to championing the cause of the common man against insurance conglomerates and corporate giants.

A graduate of The College of Wooster (1975), David earned his law degree with honors from The Ohio State Moritz College of Law. Driven by an innate sense of duty, he returned to his hometown to practice alongside his father and brother, serving the community that shaped him.

An author with a flair for narrative nonfiction, David made waves with his debut book, "The Edge of Innocence: The Trial of Casper Bennett," which was crowned the 2018 Book of the Year by the prestigious International Rubery Book Awards. He further cemented his reputation as a storyteller with his sophomore release, "The Edge of Malice: The Marie Grossman Story," earning accolades from Kirkus Reviews as a "superbly crafted nonfiction drama" and receiving a shortlisting by Rubery for its 2021 awards.

Beyond the courtroom and the written page, David's creative spirit finds outlets through photography and music. His evocative photographs often grace local exhibits, and he generously donates the proceeds from their sales to charity. A pianist with eclectic tastes, David composes original pieces and has a predilection for classical, ragtime, and contemporary music. He is also a fitness enthusiast and engages in tennis, swimming, cycling, and gardening.

David shares his life with his beloved wife, Leslee, also a lawyer, and they are the proud parents of three children and doting grandparents to three grandchildren. They continue to make Avon, Ohio, their home.

You can learn more about David at his website: http://www.davidmiraldi.com

Reviews

[☘Misericordia☘ ⚡ϟ⚡⛈⚡☁ ❇️❤❣ · Rating 5 out of 5]

Some people grab their chances to make something better than average of themselves. Some don't. These two types clash whenever meet.

Two effing idiots shoot an incredible gal in the head in the process of a robbery gone wrong. That's how this all starts. One crime, two trials. One against the robbers and one against the Burger King restaurant where the shooting took place.

A very appealing family keen on making their self-made way in the world. A powerhouse of an MC:
Q:
Throughout her life, she had sought new challenges and opportunities. She was attracted by jobs that stretched her current abilities and forced her to master new skills. After a job became routine, she hungered for something new. For Marie, life was always about the next big adventure. (c)
Q:
I’m in pain. I can stay in bed or I can get out of bed. Of course, I will get out of bed. She knew she would always choose action. (c)

A strength-inducing story of overcoming insane odds in terms of everything: life, career, health, crime, wounds. How does one get over all that stuff? That's the subject of this story.

This edition could have done great with some editing.

Also, the writing - it's so very up to the point that it feels like I'm reading some legal / consulting / marketing / strategy memo. That's rare for novels so one has to be expecting it since the book was written by a lawyer.

A very cool sneak peak at the trials is another plus I liked.

Wowsers:
Q:
The minister came to the door, and Marie explained that she was deeply troubled and needed to talk. When she explained what had happened, the clergyman was decidedly unsympathetic and blamed her for putting herself in that situation. (c) Oh, wow. What a crappy minister to do that to a young, inexperienced and distraught girl.
Q:
As she unfastened her seat belt, she realized that her lower jaw was hanging over her chest, no longer attached to its upper counterpart. Unable to move her jaw, she realized that she could not talk. (c) Gawd. Driving like that?! Wow. That's control.
Q:
Based on other social science research, we held several loose opinions about the types of people who were more likely to award large verdicts. Working-class jurors were usually the most generous. They often relished the role of bestowing a large sum of money on a deserv-ing plaintiff. Retired jurors on fixed incomes, and particularly those who had lived through the Depression, often had a difficult time awarding large verdicts. To them, one hundred thousand dollars seemed like a fortune. As a group, upper-middle-class and wealthy jurors were likely to be stingy too. They believed that they had worked hard for their financial well-being (even if they hadn’t) and it was fundamentally unfair for others to join them without “earning” it.
Although we would have only a short time to gauge a prospective juror’s personality, we favored emotional, outgoing people over de-tached, analytical types. We also wanted to avoid people who had suffered through injuries and illnesses but had never been compensated for them. If a juror had to live with a disability or chronic condition, they normally were not sympathetic toward plaintiffs who were seeking money for their bad health. (c)

[Tooter · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 Stars

[Florence Buchholz · Rating 4 out of 5]

Marie was the victim of an attempted car hijacking. She was shot in the face and survived. Years of reconstructive surgery, pain, and disability followed. Her assailant was arrested, tried, and incarcerated. At first I thought that the essence of these events had passed. Many somewhat dry chapters describing civil courtroom scenes followed. I began to question the overall significance of devoting a book to an all too common crime when, near the final pages, the narrative took a dramatic turn. I can't say more without spoiling the emotional effect of the incident for future readers. The outcome found me close to tears.

[Bill reilly · Rating 5 out of 5]

David Miraldi represented Marie Grossman in a civil lawsuit after she was shot during a robbery at a Burger King drive-through in Cleveland, Ohio. The bullet passed through her jaw and the excruciating medical procedures are described in detail.
Two young men were convicted of the crime and Marie's miraculous recovery are a testament to her inner strength. She was a practicing attorney at the time of the shooting and the second trial for civil damages are the focus of the second half of the book.
The final chapter is a gut wrenching account of the search for the true meaning of redemption. Marie's character shines through and The Edge of Malice is one hell of a good read.

[Kathleen Zichi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Miraldi's second novel doesn't disappoint! Once again, this read is a page turner. The author's style allows one to get caught up in the intrigue of a case with just enough legalese without overwhelming the reader.
The story is compelling and the details are delivered in a way that keeps you enthralled from start to finish.
I highly recommend reading this gripping story of one who comes in harm's way.

[Christy · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Edge of Malice tells the harrowing true story of Marie Grossman, a woman who was shot in the face while sitting in a Cleveland fast-food drive-thru. This book recounts the tragic event, her fight for survival, and her long journey to recovery. While difficult to read at times, Marie’s resilience and determination to ensure future patrons’ safety was truly inspiring. As someone familiar with Cleveland, I found the local connection especially compelling.

There’s nothing negative to say about this book—it’s well-written, immersive, and thoughtfully crafted. I appreciated the author’s meticulous retelling, from the incident itself to Marie’s recovery and the ultimate resolution.

All thoughts and opinions are my own.

❓ QOTD: Do you enjoy true crime books? If so, what’s the most gripping one you’ve read?

📚🔪 #TrueCrimeReads #Bookstagram #BookReview #CrimeBooks #BasedOnATrueStory #EdgeOfMalice #ClevelandReads #NonfictionBooks #BookLover #TrueCrimeBookClub #BookRecommendations #BooksThatStayWithYou #ReadingCommunity

[Suzanne Lopes · Rating 3 out of 5]

Well this is the first book that I finished in 2024. I gave the book 3 ⭐️⭐️⭐️. It is a book of a True Crime Case of a woman named Marie Grossman. She was shot in the head in the middle of a robbery I. A Burger King in Cleveland. She survived and she discusses the trial and its finality. It gave a look at how a Civil trial goes. Nonetheless, it’s a book that shows how a Courageous woman stepped up and help make changes to protect others.. It’s a good book, not a long drawn out book and what was it like after the trial.

[Amber · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Edge of Malice should be read by everyone.

I was impressed by the author's story telling skills and how easily his words flowed. Marie Grossman is an interesting woman thoroughly relatable on many levels. Richard Thompson was a good young man who made some bad choices which had a seriously detrimental affect on his future plans. Unfortunately, many schools give winning athletes a pass on scholastic grades over playing sports. Had that one teacher not failed him I wonder how Richard's life would have turned out. Perhaps not good, as his entitled attitude might have caused problems. And drugs certainly would not have helped.

I imagine Marie must have many friends. She comes across as someone immediately likeable, trustworthy, intelligent and warm. Still, I can't imagine going through all of the physical pain she endured, probably still endures, more than 3 decades later. She is one tough lady, that's for sure! Classy, determined, formidable.

Time just flew by as I read this engrossing story today. It kept my attention from beginning to end. Although I feel bad for the years of physical and mental pain Marie and her loved ones experience, the ending brought a much needed closure and release for all.

[Laurie · Rating 4 out of 5]

A compassionate book about the victims of crime and how their lives change, and what happens to the perpetrators after they enter the prison system. Richard Thompson is that rare convict who was able to rehabilitate. I assume that his partner in crime was not, since he is not mentioned after his sentencing. I had not thought of a fast food drive-in as being dangerous. I don't have a car anymore, so I don't use them. A very quick read that deals with many deep issues.

[Catherine · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fascinating story of a violent crime and its aftermath, told by one of the victim’s attorneys. It covers the crime, the dreadful injury, and two legal proceedings but winds up well after all the cases are concluded, very unexpectedly. And the very surprising outcome has got me thinking again about long settled beliefs. I hesitate to say more. Highly recommended.

[Emilio III · Rating 3 out of 5]

The Edge of Malice is a 360-degree examination of one particular crime and its aftermath. Marie Grossman stopped by a Burger King on her way to watch her son at a sporting event. That simple decision turned out to have life-altering implications for her and two black teenagers and their families. Richard Thompson and Christopher Martin (pseudonyms) needed to make some money to buy drugs. Their way of making money was to rob people. As Marie pulled up to the drive through the two teenagers approached her car. Richard Thomas pointed a gun at her and told her to let him into the car. Rather than acquiesce to his demand, she hit the gas pedal. Whether by accident or on purpose, the gun discharged, and the bullet entered Marie's jaw. This book looks at that crime and its implications for Marie and the two teenagers.

The author is a lawyer who represented Marie in a civil lawsuit filed against Burger King and the franchise owner. The book, written years after the crime and subsequent trials, is broken into three parts. The first part deals with the crime and the search for the perpetrators. The second part deals with the criminal and civil trials. The last part provides updates on Marie and Richard Thomas after Richard had served nine years of his sentence.

The middle part of the book presents a behind the scenes look into both the criminal side of our justice system and the civil side as Marie seeks changes and reparations for her injuries.

As thorough as the book is in covering this incident, it misses the mark regarding sentencing disparities. A woman was shot in the face and suffered life-altering injuries as a result. There's no question that both teenagers deserved time in prison. Richard Thomas cooperated with the police and the prosecutor, plead guilty, and testified against his friend. He received a sentence that could have kept him locked up for thirty years. Fortunately for him, he served only nine years of his sentence. His friend, Christopher Martin, chose a bench trial, claiming no involvement in the crime. He provided alibi witnesses.

The judge didn't buy the alibi witnesses. He sentenced Christopher Martin to serve three concurrent sentences of ten to thirty years, meaning that he is still in prison and won't have an opportunity for release until he has served at least thirty years. If you spend any time reading about our criminal justice system, you know that there are people who have committed heinous crimes that have received sentences that are a fraction of what Christopher Martin received.

[Rubery Book Award · Rating 4 out of 5]

Shortlisted for the Rubery Book Award 2021

This is the account of a violent robbery at a drive-thru that goes wrong. Marie, a woman living a successful life with a happy family and successful career, is shot in the head in the course of the robbery. The book charts her painful return to a life that can never be the same again with the help of friends and family, the court case that follows and the aftermath of her long-term anger, which leads her eventually to a startling course of action. The events are seen from many perspectives: the two young men who turn so casually to violence to finance their drug habits; the attorney who takes the case to court; the person who took her to the hospital; and Marie herself, a woman who refuses to allow herself to be bowed by her experience. The author is the attorney, so the legal scenes, some of the strongest in the book, are both gripping and a fascinating insight into the everyday workings of the American justice system. It is well-told, feels accurate and authentic, and it’s inhabited with rich, engaging characters. An excellent account of an event that altered many people’s lives forever.

[Shelley Jo Chappell · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good for the Soul

I originally thought this book was going to be about a lot of unbelievable and typical true crime drama. I realized early in the book that it was going to be different but it had my attention. I was able to see things from different angles throughout the story and understand the process of the trial clearer by the way the book was written. so
I am struggling with personal issues and I feel like this story has encouraged me to right my journey of a better life.
All though for a short time I thought it got a little too technical explaining the jury process I enjoyed it very much.

[julia rood · Rating 5 out of 5]

Powerful Conclusion

David Miraldi is a very talented writer. His vast knowledge and presentation are not only thought-provoking but also entertaining. This is the 3rd book I have read, one after another, and all have taught me something worth learning. The journey of this particular woman was fascinating. Although the crime and the subsequent trial and legal story had predictable ups and downs, the resolution reached by the woman who was attacked and the man who attacked her was as unexpected as it was completely therapeutic for both. It left me feeling hopeful. This book is well worth the time it takes to read it. Now, I will search for another by this author.

[Stephen Zinn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Courage to tap into non-judgmental part of mind

This is an excellent account by an author-attorney of a client proceedings from the very beginning to the resolution. There is detailed presentation of people and relationships with very readable descriptions of legal subtle arguments. However, to me, the resolution of the inner conflicts of both the plaintiff and the defendant were the high point of the book. Both parties showed incredible courage arriving at this resolution. The challenge was tapping into a non-judgmental part of their minds.

[Brenda Sindylek · Rating 5 out of 5]

Powerful

Powerful is the word I would use for this read. It made me think about how I would feel in that situation, in the moments of the court hearings and trial. Especially having the courage to talk face to face with someone who, it seems, could easily take a life. But she turned it all around and, it seems, Marie actually gave him back his saving grace. This is a rewarding read and makes you take a look inward and wonder if you could be that courageous, brave and still have the humility that this lady has, to forgive…

[Paula · Rating 4 out of 5]

Having met Marie's husband recently, he suggested I read this true crime accounting of the crime that changed Marie Grossman's life and her family. The well-written retelling of events thoroughly covered the criminal and legal issues, while vividly bringing to life the principle people of the story. I particularly found the local history interesting and accurate, and the life-affirming, restorative justice conclusion a fitting finale to such a brave, proactive woman as Marie.

[Shari L. Klasna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Riveting. Never boring. Real. Very real.

I was expecting a different kind of story. The details, the facts, though repeated in different ways, were never boring. Real people, with great background information. Love that it involved forgiving and forgiveness as crucial to a humans well-being. I don't hatred Richard either. That's an accomplishment by a great author. Kudos to you.

[Sherry Lynn Wood · Rating 4 out of 5]

Forgiveness is powerful

I am so in awe of the strength tenacity and character of the heroin in this story. I can't say I would have handled it with such grace and dignity. A heart warming story that will make you angry sad laugh cry and believe in the power of forgiveness and second chances. God is good!

[Dave · Rating 3 out of 5]

I think this would be an excellent book for someone who wants to go into law. The play-by-play commentary as the case develops and the legal system does its thing is very educational. The author speaks of his admiration and respect for Marie Grossman and by the end of the book I had joined him in that evaluation. She is a remarkable woman.

[Judith K. Monti]

Great read

Born and raised in this area made it very interesting. What a determined woman Marie was. Unfortunate more people are not like her. She cared enough to try and make things right. What she did to make peace with the ordeal is so important to both individuals in the crime.

[John Flaherty · Rating 4 out of 5]

Powerful ending

This is a compelling ,true life story of one woman’s journey of recovery ,rage, reconciliation and forgiveness. If it were a normal, the ending might seem contrived. As a true story, it’s a great life lesson for all of us

[joseph k harrison · Rating 4 out of 5]

A good and entertaining documentary. Stuck with it when I found what it turned out to be. Well written an since I’m from Cleveland it was a nice nostalgia trip. And Marie was and is quite a lady. Were it not for the coincidences I’d have given a strong 3.

[George Fryburg]

Miraldi’s second book was as gripping as his first. A read that drew me into it so I felt as though I was in the court room and his ability to make the characters come to life truly makes his writing get the reader engrossed in the story of the tragedy of Marie Grossman.

[Donni · Rating 3 out of 5]

When Marie is robbed at gunpoint in her car one night, her life changes. This book chronicles the true story of the incident, following it through the judicial system and beyond the verdict. A good look at how a traumatic event can color someone's life forever.

[Hazel Bright · Rating 3 out of 5]

Interesting enough true crime story, particularly because it focused on the survivor rather than the criminals. Marie Grossman seems like a fine and valiant person. A little too Hallmark Channel for my tastes, though.

[Robinann · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book

I really enjoyed this book. It was very well written and I couldn’t put it down. Knowing that Maria could forgive her attacker and he actually showed remorse for him crime, was inspirational.

[Jane J Bradley · Rating 5 out of 5]

I found this book to be very riveting and realize it could easily have happened to me.

[Cybersandee · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lorain County attorney writes of a a shoot attack at a Cleveland Burger King.

[Greyson Thagard · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing. I loved the whole story, I would gladly read twenty more books written by Miraldi.