Proof

by Martina Reilly

Applegate is a small town where everyone knows each other ...or thought they did. But then Marcus Dillon finds himself on trial for the recent murder of Charles Hanratty - and the sole chance he has is the testimony of his childhood friend Sash. Because only she knows the truth about that night, fifteen years ago, when they broke into Hanratty's house. And then there's Lana, Sash's sister. Lana knows the difference between right and wrong. She sees things. She remembers them. Someone just needs to ask her the right questions. Applegate is a small town where not a lot happens ...until now.

424 pages, Paperback

Published January 1, 2016

About the author

Hi. It’s Martina Reilly here, the artist formally known as Tina Reilly! And before that, I was teen writer, Martina Murphy.

Reviews

[Noelle Grace · Rating 5 out of 5]

Breathtaking, exhausting, my book of 2016 without a doubt.

[Jim Sullivan · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.0*

This "Who Dunnit" story with plenty of courtroom action was OK.

The writing style was easy reading.

A couple of days after finishing the book though, I struggled to recall the characters or the plot. It is doesn't engender any great passion or give new perspectives on any real life issues. It is easily forgotten.

If you are looking for something to read for pure entertainment, such as when you are travelling it is ideal.

Plot
Marcus a socially awkward youth that grows into s successful graphic comic creator is charged with the murder James Hanratty, a prominent figure from a small town "Applegate". Marcus grew up in Applegate as a child before moving away.

Years later Marcus stalks Hanratty over a period of 12 months, after seeing him in photos with his childhood friend, Lana.

The history of Hanratty and Marcus and Lana, becomes the event that can save Marcus as long as Lana testifies.

The courtroom drama that unfolds reveals the past.




My rating criteria is..

I round down

5.0 - Amazing
4.5 - I loved it
4.0 - I liked it a lot
3.5 - I Liked it
3.0 - It was OK
2.5 - Just
2.0 - I wouldn't bother
1.5 - I didn't like it much
1.0 - I disliked it

[Tom MacCasarlaigh · Rating 3 out of 5]

A first read from this author for me. An excellent book from start to finish. Short chapters make it an easy read. Created in such a manner as to keep you interested throughout. Not a blood & gore plot but realistic and at times dramatic. You can't but feel for the main characters and wonder what's next for them and a nice ending to boot. Enjoyable. I'll definitely read this author again.

[Alwyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Overall a brilliant read from beginning to end. Loved it!!!

[Amy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really well carried off with an interesting topic and characters.

[Anni Campbell · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is my first book by Martina Reilly and I could not put it down - a heartfelt story including a girl with Asperger's, stalking, murder and a twist - of course!

[Barbara-ann · Rating 5 out of 5]

Once again this author has grabbed me right from the started and I couldnt put this book down. The characters came to life immediately and I was team Marcus all the way. a great courtroom story with a twist in the tale. Martina writes about one book a year and I hate finishing her books because I know ill have to wait a while for the next.

[May · Rating 4 out of 5]

Enjoyed the book though Lana’s character could have been explored more. This book reminds me a little of House Rules although it tackled completely different issues.