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Mother of the Accused
After the tragic death of her husband, Meredith Morgan spends a decade raising her son, Zach, alone. On the verge of Zach's graduation from high school, Meredith moves in with her fiancé, Dr. Reed Edwards, excited to begin a new chapter. But, when Zach is accused of sexually assaulting the daughter of a prominent lawyer, Meredith's life spins out of control. Reed's ex-wife does not want their daughters in the same house as Zach; Meredith's best friend distances herself and her sons from the fray. Only childhood friend and lawyer, Peter Flynn, remains by Meredith's side.
As Peter and Meredith team up to prove Zach's version of the events, long buried feelings resurface, complicating an already difficult circumstance. Meanwhile, evidence mounts against Zach and Meredith faces the ever-increasing likelihood her son is guilty. Struggling to cope with the idea of Zach behind bars, Meredith learns just how far a mother will go to protect her own.
As Peter and Meredith team up to prove Zach's version of the events, long buried feelings resurface, complicating an already difficult circumstance. Meanwhile, evidence mounts against Zach and Meredith faces the ever-increasing likelihood her son is guilty. Struggling to cope with the idea of Zach behind bars, Meredith learns just how far a mother will go to protect her own.
- GenresFiction
Unknown Binding
Published June 1, 2021
434 people are currently reading
655 people want to read
About the author
Leanne Treese
9 books92 followersLeanne lives in New Jersey with her husband of twenty-five years and their three wonderful children. When Leanne is not cheering her children on in their activities, she can be found running, watching Philadelphia 76ers basketball, and spoiling her two beloved dogs. Favorite locations include the Jersey shore, Martha's Vineyard, and any place that sells books or coffee, preferably both! A passionate student, Leanne's dream life would include going back to college and majoring in everything.
Leanne is a graduate of Lafayette College and The Dickinson School of Law. A former attorney, Leanne is now lucky enough to write full-time!
Leanne is a graduate of Lafayette College and The Dickinson School of Law. A former attorney, Leanne is now lucky enough to write full-time!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 78 reviews
July 23, 2021
A mother and son who will never be the same after this life altering mess. This was such an emotional read and as a mother who lost her only child I was drawn in and could not turn the pages fast enough.
This is a must read for all mothers. You will not put this book down until you have rad the very last page. You will still be thinking about the Mother and son long after you finish reading this one.
4 stars and one I recommend.
The Mary Reader received this book from the publisher for review. A favorable review was not required and all views expressed are our own.
This is a must read for all mothers. You will not put this book down until you have rad the very last page. You will still be thinking about the Mother and son long after you finish reading this one.
4 stars and one I recommend.
The Mary Reader received this book from the publisher for review. A favorable review was not required and all views expressed are our own.
July 28, 2021
Leanne Treese, Author of “Mother of the Accused” has written an intriguing, captivating, contemporary, and significant novel. The genres for this book are Legal Thrillers, Single Women Fiction, Contemporary Fiction, and Fiction. The timeline for this story is set in the present and goes to the past when it pertains to the characters or events. The author describes her dramatic characters as complex and complicated. This is really an important and controversial book that I highly recommend especially for parents with high school and college students.
Meredith Morgan has been a single mother raising her son Zach. When Meredith gets engaged to Dr. Reed Edwards, both she and Zach move into his house. His ex-wife brings his children to visit, and his elder daughter is Zach’s age. The ex-wife worries about Zach bringing his friends to the house when his daughter is visiting.
Zach goes to a party with kids from a different school and finds himself being accused of sexually assaulting a girl at the party. The problem is that Zach doesn’t remember very much. He only remembers going to the bathroom.
With the media and gossip, the only person that seems to side and wants to help Meredith and Zach is Peter, Meredith’s childhood friend who is also an attorney. Unfortunately, he doesn’t specialize in criminal law. As more evidence seems to point to Zach being guilty, Meredith is devastated. What mother wants to think of her son headed to jail? Zach has been an exemplary student and was headed to college.
I love the way Leanne Treese discusses important contemporary and controversial thought-provoking problems in this novel. I would highly recommend this novel to others.
Meredith Morgan has been a single mother raising her son Zach. When Meredith gets engaged to Dr. Reed Edwards, both she and Zach move into his house. His ex-wife brings his children to visit, and his elder daughter is Zach’s age. The ex-wife worries about Zach bringing his friends to the house when his daughter is visiting.
Zach goes to a party with kids from a different school and finds himself being accused of sexually assaulting a girl at the party. The problem is that Zach doesn’t remember very much. He only remembers going to the bathroom.
With the media and gossip, the only person that seems to side and wants to help Meredith and Zach is Peter, Meredith’s childhood friend who is also an attorney. Unfortunately, he doesn’t specialize in criminal law. As more evidence seems to point to Zach being guilty, Meredith is devastated. What mother wants to think of her son headed to jail? Zach has been an exemplary student and was headed to college.
I love the way Leanne Treese discusses important contemporary and controversial thought-provoking problems in this novel. I would highly recommend this novel to others.
April 30, 2025
Nothing in life is ever clear cut, guilt and innocence, truth and lies, they all live in the grey spaces between. Mother Of The Accused by Leanne Treese is a compelling, emotional story that asks how well we truly know the ones we love, and what it really means to stand by them when the unthinkable happens.
Meredith Morgan’s world is torn apart when her son Zach is accused of an unspeakable crime, and Leanne Treese captures the anguish, the fear, and the desperate hope of a mother unwilling to give up on her child. As evidence piles up and friendships fall away, Meredith clings to loyalty even as doubt creeps in, making for a story that is as heartbreaking as it is gripping.
This is a beautifully written, emotionally charged novel about love, loyalty, betrayal, and the painful reality of believing in someone even when your heart is no longer sure you should.
You can follow my reviews at
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Meredith Morgan’s world is torn apart when her son Zach is accused of an unspeakable crime, and Leanne Treese captures the anguish, the fear, and the desperate hope of a mother unwilling to give up on her child. As evidence piles up and friendships fall away, Meredith clings to loyalty even as doubt creeps in, making for a story that is as heartbreaking as it is gripping.
This is a beautifully written, emotionally charged novel about love, loyalty, betrayal, and the painful reality of believing in someone even when your heart is no longer sure you should.
You can follow my reviews at
Blog: https://thebookreviewcafe.wordpress.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebookrevi...
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/@reviewcafe
July 15, 2021
What an emotional head spinning book, my heart broke in so many pieces while reading this book.
Meredith a mother has her entire world turned upside , when her son Zach is accused of a sexual assault at a Halloween Party. She immediately jumps to his defense there is no way her son would do this horrific crime. The prosecutors office has evidence that shows he did do it. Her entire world is falling apart, she begins to question her own sanity and wonders what she will do if he actually did commit this crime, she finds solace and comfort in an old friend, and she finds her own inner strength that she never knew she had. In the end this book is about the love of a mother who will go to the ends of the earth for her son, as she goes through the trial and the town gossip she tries to come to terms that her life and the life of her son will never be the same.
Meredith a mother has her entire world turned upside , when her son Zach is accused of a sexual assault at a Halloween Party. She immediately jumps to his defense there is no way her son would do this horrific crime. The prosecutors office has evidence that shows he did do it. Her entire world is falling apart, she begins to question her own sanity and wonders what she will do if he actually did commit this crime, she finds solace and comfort in an old friend, and she finds her own inner strength that she never knew she had. In the end this book is about the love of a mother who will go to the ends of the earth for her son, as she goes through the trial and the town gossip she tries to come to terms that her life and the life of her son will never be the same.
September 8, 2021
One of the best books of 2021 for reasons galore. I was actually excited on reading the blurb. Then as the pages turned, the prose actually lived up to the blurb.
Meredith was a good mom to Zach, the best. Her life was looking on the up and up, with engagement to Reed and playing happy family with his kids. Until Zach was accused of molesting a girl at a Halloween party.
My first book by author Leanne Treese, I loved how she captured the emotions of a mother, wanting to do right by the girl but at the same time, knowing her son couldn’t have done such a thing. The constant tug of war was brilliant to read.
I loved how the dreams came crashing down on Meredith, the mother of the accused. Life changes were well shown. I couldn’t help but love when a beacon of light came into Meredith’s life where childhood friendship helped her through this atrocious time.
The author had sheer talent in the strokes of her pen. Emotions flowed easily, revealing her excellent command over the words. Hope and sadness, fear and new dreams, anger and helplessness were beautifully juxtaposed to each other.
A book I wanted to read fast to know the ending and read slowly to prevent the end from coming up too soon was what spiked my pulse. I had to know the ending. So I finished the book.
There is a tiny error in a medical fact, but the reader in me asked the doc inside to hush up. This is not a hard core crime or legal thriller but a suspense but with moments of women’s fiction too. The best that is!!
What could I say more? Read the book!! It is simply wonderful.
Meredith was a good mom to Zach, the best. Her life was looking on the up and up, with engagement to Reed and playing happy family with his kids. Until Zach was accused of molesting a girl at a Halloween party.
My first book by author Leanne Treese, I loved how she captured the emotions of a mother, wanting to do right by the girl but at the same time, knowing her son couldn’t have done such a thing. The constant tug of war was brilliant to read.
I loved how the dreams came crashing down on Meredith, the mother of the accused. Life changes were well shown. I couldn’t help but love when a beacon of light came into Meredith’s life where childhood friendship helped her through this atrocious time.
The author had sheer talent in the strokes of her pen. Emotions flowed easily, revealing her excellent command over the words. Hope and sadness, fear and new dreams, anger and helplessness were beautifully juxtaposed to each other.
A book I wanted to read fast to know the ending and read slowly to prevent the end from coming up too soon was what spiked my pulse. I had to know the ending. So I finished the book.
There is a tiny error in a medical fact, but the reader in me asked the doc inside to hush up. This is not a hard core crime or legal thriller but a suspense but with moments of women’s fiction too. The best that is!!
What could I say more? Read the book!! It is simply wonderful.
November 24, 2021
“ Mother of the Accused” by Leanne Treese opens with Meredith Morgan sitting behind her son Zach on the opening day of trial.
One year ago, Meredith was engaged and building a life with a new fiancée after the death of her first husband and Zachs’ father. After a Halloween party Zach attended an accusation is made and lives are changed. Meredith is introduced to a side of the legal system she never gave thought to, what happens to those without the means to pay bail, what is the purpose of a preliminary hearing if only one side gets to speak? How many defendants plead guilty out of fear of not being believed by a jury and being sentenced to a far longer sentence?
While the inequalities of the justice system are brushed on, this book is not really a look at the topic. This is more a story of one mother and her son dealing with an accusation on a night that he cannot remember. How do you defend yourself if you and the victim were both under the influence? This seemed like a Lifetime movie type of story, if light afternoon reading that will hold your attention, this may be a good choice.
One year ago, Meredith was engaged and building a life with a new fiancée after the death of her first husband and Zachs’ father. After a Halloween party Zach attended an accusation is made and lives are changed. Meredith is introduced to a side of the legal system she never gave thought to, what happens to those without the means to pay bail, what is the purpose of a preliminary hearing if only one side gets to speak? How many defendants plead guilty out of fear of not being believed by a jury and being sentenced to a far longer sentence?
While the inequalities of the justice system are brushed on, this book is not really a look at the topic. This is more a story of one mother and her son dealing with an accusation on a night that he cannot remember. How do you defend yourself if you and the victim were both under the influence? This seemed like a Lifetime movie type of story, if light afternoon reading that will hold your attention, this may be a good choice.
August 1, 2021
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“Mother of the Accused” is a gripping contemporary thriller about what happens to a mother when her son gets accused of a heinous crime.
It is never an easy situation when you find out your loved ones are in trouble. Your primary instinct is to protect them no matter what and do your best to get them out of the situation. The author beautifully takes this theme and applies it to this emotional tale.
Moreover, the author wrote the main characters nicely. Meredith is a strong character who does her best to fight for Zach. The author portrayed her emotions realistically, and I felt she acted the same way I would have if I were in her role. Similarly, Peter is great as the emotional support. I loved the budding romance between Meredith and Peter. Another reason why I liked this book because the author paces the romance nicely but does not let it overshadow the plot. As Peter and Meredith get closer, we also see how inferior Reed feels for his nonchalance attitude towards the story.
Speaking of which, I enjoyed the plot of the story too. The author throws in quite a few twists and turns as Meredith and Peter investigate what happened that night. We meet new characters and get shocking revelations of what is happening. The author also tells the story suspensefully and, at times, makes you wonder if Zack is, in fact, guilty. The secondary characters like Nate and Donna also add nicely to the mix.
Overall, “Mother of the Accused” is a nicely penned emotional thriller that makes you wonder how you would have reacted in a similar situation.
July 28, 2021
4.5 ⭐️
Wow! This book had me on the edge of my seat!
For years it’s been just Meredith raising her only son Zach, after losing her husband tragically, but now they are moving in with her fiance, Reed. It’s an exciting time in her life, with Zach in his senior year, applying to colleges, and Meredith planning her wedding.
But one night of partying and one girl’s accusations - changes everything. Now Meredith finds herself facing the nightmare scenario of her son going to jail for sexual assault. As those closest to her begin to question Zach’s guilt and turn their backs, Meredith turns to an old childhood friend to help prove her son’s innocence.
This book is so well-written. Leanne Treese brings in so many emotions yet makes sure the story is balanced. Of course Meredith, as Zach’s mother, believes her son, but she also feels a woman should be heard. Does this create doubt, or does it just mean she has to work even harder to prove what really happened?
With the tension of a legal thriller and the emotions of a family drama, you’ll be flipping pages to find out the stunning conclusion of 𝐌𝐨𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐨𝐟 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐀𝐜𝐜𝐮𝐬𝐞𝐝.
Thank you to @suzyapprovedbooktours and @leannetreese for an invitation to the tour and a gifted copy.
Wow! This book had me on the edge of my seat!
For years it’s been just Meredith raising her only son Zach, after losing her husband tragically, but now they are moving in with her fiance, Reed. It’s an exciting time in her life, with Zach in his senior year, applying to colleges, and Meredith planning her wedding.
But one night of partying and one girl’s accusations - changes everything. Now Meredith finds herself facing the nightmare scenario of her son going to jail for sexual assault. As those closest to her begin to question Zach’s guilt and turn their backs, Meredith turns to an old childhood friend to help prove her son’s innocence.
This book is so well-written. Leanne Treese brings in so many emotions yet makes sure the story is balanced. Of course Meredith, as Zach’s mother, believes her son, but she also feels a woman should be heard. Does this create doubt, or does it just mean she has to work even harder to prove what really happened?
With the tension of a legal thriller and the emotions of a family drama, you’ll be flipping pages to find out the stunning conclusion of 𝐌𝐨𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐨𝐟 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐀𝐜𝐜𝐮𝐬𝐞𝐝.
Thank you to @suzyapprovedbooktours and @leannetreese for an invitation to the tour and a gifted copy.
July 26, 2021
Mother of the Accused by @leannetreese is an emotional story about a mother and how far she would go to save her son.
I will keep this as short as possible so I don’t spoil it for you.
Meredith is excited to start a new chapter in her life, But when her son, Zach, is being accused of sexually assaulting a renowned lawyer’s daughter, her life is turned around. Everyone starts distancing from her and her son. She doesn’t believe Zach did this and they are going through trial with lots of evidence, but all Meredith is thinking is what she will do and how far she will go if Zach is guilty.
Her old friend Peter who is a lawyer, teams up with her to prove Zach’s Innocence.
This was a heartbreaking page-turner. I found Meredith's character, amiable and strong. A well-written story of a mother’s love. The author beautifully penned the details which were difficult to read at times.
It was very interesting to read about Meredith’s fight for her son.
I will keep this as short as possible so I don’t spoil it for you.
Meredith is excited to start a new chapter in her life, But when her son, Zach, is being accused of sexually assaulting a renowned lawyer’s daughter, her life is turned around. Everyone starts distancing from her and her son. She doesn’t believe Zach did this and they are going through trial with lots of evidence, but all Meredith is thinking is what she will do and how far she will go if Zach is guilty.
Her old friend Peter who is a lawyer, teams up with her to prove Zach’s Innocence.
This was a heartbreaking page-turner. I found Meredith's character, amiable and strong. A well-written story of a mother’s love. The author beautifully penned the details which were difficult to read at times.
It was very interesting to read about Meredith’s fight for her son.
September 12, 2023
Full of cussing and multiple errors
I can’t believe I actually finished this book. Had I been caught up on my Goodreads reading goal for the year I wouldn’t have. There are far too many cuss words, especially when one is too many, but this book has so many unfortunate words chosen. Also, the editing must have been done very rushed, there were so many instances where double words or omitted words caused me to reread the sentence the correct way after reading the error.
If you’re someone that can look past foul language, and bad editing doesn’t bother you, you’ll enjoy the book. The storyline is intense most of the whole book. There are many emotions all fully felt from all characters.
I can’t believe I actually finished this book. Had I been caught up on my Goodreads reading goal for the year I wouldn’t have. There are far too many cuss words, especially when one is too many, but this book has so many unfortunate words chosen. Also, the editing must have been done very rushed, there were so many instances where double words or omitted words caused me to reread the sentence the correct way after reading the error.
If you’re someone that can look past foul language, and bad editing doesn’t bother you, you’ll enjoy the book. The storyline is intense most of the whole book. There are many emotions all fully felt from all characters.
June 26, 2021
I loved the way the story is told
This book is about a boy who is accused of molesting his girlfriend at a party, and its legal consequences. Mostly, it is seen from the perspective of the boy’s mother. Even though the mother is protective of her son, worried about the consequences of his actions, socially ostracized, and having her own romantic issues, the author is also able, through the mother, to show empathy towards the girl’s pain and her family’s point of view.
It is well developed and has a good ending.
This is perfect summer reading if you like a story well told.
This book is about a boy who is accused of molesting his girlfriend at a party, and its legal consequences. Mostly, it is seen from the perspective of the boy’s mother. Even though the mother is protective of her son, worried about the consequences of his actions, socially ostracized, and having her own romantic issues, the author is also able, through the mother, to show empathy towards the girl’s pain and her family’s point of view.
It is well developed and has a good ending.
This is perfect summer reading if you like a story well told.
May 3, 2021
Leanne Treese has written a page turner about a single mother whose teenage son is accused of sexual assault. Treese paints a realistic portrait of mom, Meredith, as she fights to save her son from a bleak future behind bars even as she’s unsure of the truth. As Meredith’s life spirals out of control, she finds comfort and support in an old friend and discovers a strength and perseverance she didn’t know she had. In the end, this is a story about the fierce love of a mother who will stop at nothing for her child. I could not put this book down.
October 19, 2025
Easy read. Keeps your attention to the end.
June 1, 2021
A mom’s worst nightmare. A teenage son’s worst decision. We all know that a moment in time can change the course of many lives—not only the actor’s but his or her family’s. In this compelling page-turner, the reader learns right up front what traumatic event has transpired to turn a family’s world upside down, yet we need to know the back story. Ms. Treese does this masterfully, and the story unfolds through two points of view—the mother’s and interestingly, the attorney’s. Amongst the trauma is a sweet love story that tugs on one’s heartstrings. I wholeheartedly give this novel five stars.
February 19, 2022
I was intrigued by the premise of the book. I have a friend who was accused and then acquitted of sexual assault so I know a little about the trauma it can cause not just for the innocent party but for his family. I thought the details of Zach’s case were well plotted and well paced.
I struggled to connect with Meredith. Perhaps this was because there was nothing she could do to alleviate the stress in her life. I found both Meredith and Peter frustratingly passive and lacking depth. I thought the romance arc had significant plot holes, especially in regards to Meredith’s relationship with Reed.
I struggled to connect with Meredith. Perhaps this was because there was nothing she could do to alleviate the stress in her life. I found both Meredith and Peter frustratingly passive and lacking depth. I thought the romance arc had significant plot holes, especially in regards to Meredith’s relationship with Reed.
March 4, 2022
Mixed feelings for this one.
First, the storyline was intriguing. I wouldn’t call it a twisted ending, as it was somewhat predictable. The characters seemed genuine. However, I don’t like bad editing. This book was filled with very obvious errors. There were missing words and misspellings. This is a big distraction for me. But, it was an easy read and it filled a few hours of time.
First, the storyline was intriguing. I wouldn’t call it a twisted ending, as it was somewhat predictable. The characters seemed genuine. However, I don’t like bad editing. This book was filled with very obvious errors. There were missing words and misspellings. This is a big distraction for me. But, it was an easy read and it filled a few hours of time.
January 18, 2025
Good story, plot, characters…..But
This was a good story with a true to life plot and characters. The problem though was the editing! Actually, the lack of consistent editing. I can understand (maybe) not catching 1 or 2 errors, but when there are several mistakes in every chapter it becomes frustrating.
This was a good story with a true to life plot and characters. The problem though was the editing! Actually, the lack of consistent editing. I can understand (maybe) not catching 1 or 2 errors, but when there are several mistakes in every chapter it becomes frustrating.
February 11, 2025
Honestly would have given this a higher review because I did enjoy the story,but the grammatical errors and inconsistencies were horrible.
I'm not sure if the actual book has them or if it was because I read it on a kindle and on my kindle app but they were both poorly edited.
I actually feel bad for this author because it has completely turned me away from wanting to read more from her.
I'm not sure if the actual book has them or if it was because I read it on a kindle and on my kindle app but they were both poorly edited.
I actually feel bad for this author because it has completely turned me away from wanting to read more from her.
August 24, 2022
This book is well written and a page turner, but it felt like there was no editing. Sometimes words were left out, other times extra words were inserted, and there were some obvious grammar mistakes. I liked the book, but the lack of editing was distracting.
January 6, 2024
Great story
Great story barring the grammatical errors. Likeable characters, great plot and this story does make you stop and think as a mother of a son. Overall enjoyed the story, just get a better Editor next time.
Great story barring the grammatical errors. Likeable characters, great plot and this story does make you stop and think as a mother of a son. Overall enjoyed the story, just get a better Editor next time.
January 17, 2025
Needed proofread
Overall, the storyline was good. I did feel that if this were a movie, the actors would have been trying too hard.
Lastly, there were a lot of typos in this book. The manuscript was definitely not proofread very well.
Overall, the storyline was good. I did feel that if this were a movie, the actors would have been trying too hard.
Lastly, there were a lot of typos in this book. The manuscript was definitely not proofread very well.
August 2, 2021
About the Book
Meredith is a widow and has one son, Zach that has been her life’s center. Zach is a rising high school senior, a good kid, and working on his college applications. In the blink of an eye, instead of high school soccer games and proms, Zach is accused and arrested for sexually assaulting a girl at a Halloween party.
Meredith has found legal help and given her trust to childhood friend, Peter Flynn.
With a community that doesn’t believe in “innocent until proven guilty”, a fiancée that is more worried about his reputation and ex-wife than Meredith, and Zach’s own self-doubt, Meredith must navigate being the mother of the accused.
My Thoughts
Wow! That’s what I want to say about this read.
This was a multifaceted book in my opinion which drew me in and made this read very hard to put down. You had the dynamics of Meredith and her support, protection and belief in her son’s innocence. You had the question of, did Zach actually do it. You have Meredith’s romantic relationships. You also have the issues and emotions of dealing with the fallout of sexual assault allegations.
Nestled among this complex plot is a group of very relatable characters. Parents and children of all ages are the backbone of these characters and their protectiveness is prominent in their actions and words.
I also was very interested in the way the legal system progresses and thought that brought a lot of realistic substance to this book.
This is a read that will capture in the first chapter as Zach’s trial begins and then you go back over the course of the year leading up to that time. And the ending…page turning!
Meredith is a widow and has one son, Zach that has been her life’s center. Zach is a rising high school senior, a good kid, and working on his college applications. In the blink of an eye, instead of high school soccer games and proms, Zach is accused and arrested for sexually assaulting a girl at a Halloween party.
Meredith has found legal help and given her trust to childhood friend, Peter Flynn.
With a community that doesn’t believe in “innocent until proven guilty”, a fiancée that is more worried about his reputation and ex-wife than Meredith, and Zach’s own self-doubt, Meredith must navigate being the mother of the accused.
My Thoughts
Wow! That’s what I want to say about this read.
This was a multifaceted book in my opinion which drew me in and made this read very hard to put down. You had the dynamics of Meredith and her support, protection and belief in her son’s innocence. You had the question of, did Zach actually do it. You have Meredith’s romantic relationships. You also have the issues and emotions of dealing with the fallout of sexual assault allegations.
Nestled among this complex plot is a group of very relatable characters. Parents and children of all ages are the backbone of these characters and their protectiveness is prominent in their actions and words.
I also was very interested in the way the legal system progresses and thought that brought a lot of realistic substance to this book.
This is a read that will capture in the first chapter as Zach’s trial begins and then you go back over the course of the year leading up to that time. And the ending…page turning!
July 18, 2025
As a mother of two sons, Mother of the Accused struck a chord deep within me—one that was both unsettling and illuminating. The main character’s story is a raw, contemporary exploration of how quickly life can fracture when a single accusation sends shockwaves through every relationship.
After losing her husband, Meredith Morgan has spent ten years building a life for her son, Zach, only to see that fragile foundation shatter when he’s accused of sexually assaulting the daughter of a prominent attorney. Her entire world is falling apart. Friends she trusted distance themselves, she’s no longer welcome in her fiancé’s home, and she begins to question her own sanity. What if her son actually did commit the crime? What kind of mother would she be if she didn’t at least ask herself that question?
The author’s prose is powerful. Emotions flowed seamlessly from one scene to the next. I found myself aching for Meredith, thinking of my own boys, also college athletes, and the terrifying possibility of seeing them in a situation like Zach’s. The story reminded me of the Duke lacrosse case back in 2006—when young men’s reputations and futures were dragged through the court of public opinion long before the truth emerged.
Mother of the Accused is a deeply emotional, heart pounding read. It dares to show us the gray areas of justice and motherhood. It raises important, controversial, thought provoking questions which will make for a great book club discussion with interesting perspectives from mothers of sons and mothers of daughters.
After losing her husband, Meredith Morgan has spent ten years building a life for her son, Zach, only to see that fragile foundation shatter when he’s accused of sexually assaulting the daughter of a prominent attorney. Her entire world is falling apart. Friends she trusted distance themselves, she’s no longer welcome in her fiancé’s home, and she begins to question her own sanity. What if her son actually did commit the crime? What kind of mother would she be if she didn’t at least ask herself that question?
The author’s prose is powerful. Emotions flowed seamlessly from one scene to the next. I found myself aching for Meredith, thinking of my own boys, also college athletes, and the terrifying possibility of seeing them in a situation like Zach’s. The story reminded me of the Duke lacrosse case back in 2006—when young men’s reputations and futures were dragged through the court of public opinion long before the truth emerged.
Mother of the Accused is a deeply emotional, heart pounding read. It dares to show us the gray areas of justice and motherhood. It raises important, controversial, thought provoking questions which will make for a great book club discussion with interesting perspectives from mothers of sons and mothers of daughters.
March 18, 2022
Interesting story, but…
This is the story of an 18 year old high school senior who is accused of sexual assault, told from his mother’s viewpoint. Meredith and her son Zach have just moved in with Meredith’s fiancé Reed. All seems to be going smoothly except for Reed’s ex-wife Lara, who acts like a potential stepbrother in the house is a danger to their three daughters. Then there’s Peter, Meredith’s old friend from high school days; he’s been in love with her since eleventh grade when they were biology lab partners, but she thinks they’re just friends. Zach seems to be settling in and making friends. On Halloween he goes to a party which is attended by students from his school and from the local private school and everything changes. He’s accused of sexually assaulting one of the girls at the party. The rest of the book is taken up with finding a lawyer, preparing a defense, trying to find witnesses, and all that entails. Reed’s ex tells him that he can’t have their daughters on the weekends as long as Zach is in his house. Peter offers Zach and Meredith his carriage house for as long as they need it and they accept. I enjoyed this book except that the ending (no spoilers) felt a bit contrived. It seemed like the author was in a hurry to get to the end and rushed things. Thus 4 stars rather than 5.
This is the story of an 18 year old high school senior who is accused of sexual assault, told from his mother’s viewpoint. Meredith and her son Zach have just moved in with Meredith’s fiancé Reed. All seems to be going smoothly except for Reed’s ex-wife Lara, who acts like a potential stepbrother in the house is a danger to their three daughters. Then there’s Peter, Meredith’s old friend from high school days; he’s been in love with her since eleventh grade when they were biology lab partners, but she thinks they’re just friends. Zach seems to be settling in and making friends. On Halloween he goes to a party which is attended by students from his school and from the local private school and everything changes. He’s accused of sexually assaulting one of the girls at the party. The rest of the book is taken up with finding a lawyer, preparing a defense, trying to find witnesses, and all that entails. Reed’s ex tells him that he can’t have their daughters on the weekends as long as Zach is in his house. Peter offers Zach and Meredith his carriage house for as long as they need it and they accept. I enjoyed this book except that the ending (no spoilers) felt a bit contrived. It seemed like the author was in a hurry to get to the end and rushed things. Thus 4 stars rather than 5.
July 27, 2021
As a mother of two sons, this book was both captivating, and difficult, to read. I absolutely would go to the ends of the earth to protect my children......but, I honestly don't know what I would do in Meredith's situation.
Treese's characters, Meredith, Zach, Reed and Peter.....all of them, really, were perfectly chiseled. The intense plot line really came to life for me and I was turning the pages long into the night. I needed to see what happened to Zach. I needed to see what Meredith would do.
As a mother, I felt every single, raw emotion that Meredith felt. Every time she and Peter tried to prove his innocence, I felt my heart squeezing. I just could not imagine that happening to my sons and myself in real life. It was absolutely heart breaking!
If absolutely recommend this with 4 stars and two thumbs up! Treese truly brought to life an incredible plot line and had me on the edge of my seat so many times! If you are mother, I highly recommend you grab this up.....then hug your babies tight. I can't wait until the next amazing novel from this talented author!
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from Author/Publisher and was under no obligation to post a review, positive or negative.*
Treese's characters, Meredith, Zach, Reed and Peter.....all of them, really, were perfectly chiseled. The intense plot line really came to life for me and I was turning the pages long into the night. I needed to see what happened to Zach. I needed to see what Meredith would do.
As a mother, I felt every single, raw emotion that Meredith felt. Every time she and Peter tried to prove his innocence, I felt my heart squeezing. I just could not imagine that happening to my sons and myself in real life. It was absolutely heart breaking!
If absolutely recommend this with 4 stars and two thumbs up! Treese truly brought to life an incredible plot line and had me on the edge of my seat so many times! If you are mother, I highly recommend you grab this up.....then hug your babies tight. I can't wait until the next amazing novel from this talented author!
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from Author/Publisher and was under no obligation to post a review, positive or negative.*
August 24, 2021
Who loves a page-turning family drama here!?
This one opens with a bang... literally. And has you scrambling to reach the end to find out what that bang brings.
It opens in courtroom, where a verdict is about to be announced, but something interrupts the trial. Meredith's 18-year-old son Zach has been accused of sexual assault and it has been a life-altering few months for the family and all those involved.
The story is perfectly paced and incredibly crafted - you can feel the emotional devastation and fear Meredith feels throughout the ordeal, as she prepares to face a future of her only child in prison.
All evidence points to a guilty verdict, but with the comfort of an old friend, determination and hope pours through onto the pages, proving that power of a mother’s love may just be what ends a mother's worst nightmare.
Another captivating story by Leanne Treese with a beautifully complex and intense plot that is a superbly thought-provoking and engrossing read!
This one opens with a bang... literally. And has you scrambling to reach the end to find out what that bang brings.
It opens in courtroom, where a verdict is about to be announced, but something interrupts the trial. Meredith's 18-year-old son Zach has been accused of sexual assault and it has been a life-altering few months for the family and all those involved.
The story is perfectly paced and incredibly crafted - you can feel the emotional devastation and fear Meredith feels throughout the ordeal, as she prepares to face a future of her only child in prison.
All evidence points to a guilty verdict, but with the comfort of an old friend, determination and hope pours through onto the pages, proving that power of a mother’s love may just be what ends a mother's worst nightmare.
Another captivating story by Leanne Treese with a beautifully complex and intense plot that is a superbly thought-provoking and engrossing read!
April 15, 2025
Good story
Meredith and her son are moving on after the death of their husband\father. Meredith is engaged and the two families seem to be blending well. Everything changes when her teenaged son attends a Halloween party and is subsequently arrested for sexual assault. He denies the charges but admits to being drunk and not remembering much of the night . He has no proof that he did not commit the assault while his accuser has witnesses to back up her allegations. Will he go to jail for the crime and will his life be forever changed? The author does a good job of presenting this life altering event through the eyes of the boy and his mother but the impact on the victim is seriously lacking. This story held my interest mostly for the suspense of what the outcome would be. The main characters are likeable but the accuser in the story is a minor character that the reader doesn't really get to know.
There are lots of little mistakes in the book (omitted words, grammatical errors) that are annoying. What ever happened to editing?
Meredith and her son are moving on after the death of their husband\father. Meredith is engaged and the two families seem to be blending well. Everything changes when her teenaged son attends a Halloween party and is subsequently arrested for sexual assault. He denies the charges but admits to being drunk and not remembering much of the night . He has no proof that he did not commit the assault while his accuser has witnesses to back up her allegations. Will he go to jail for the crime and will his life be forever changed? The author does a good job of presenting this life altering event through the eyes of the boy and his mother but the impact on the victim is seriously lacking. This story held my interest mostly for the suspense of what the outcome would be. The main characters are likeable but the accuser in the story is a minor character that the reader doesn't really get to know.
There are lots of little mistakes in the book (omitted words, grammatical errors) that are annoying. What ever happened to editing?
February 2, 2022
My Review:
Loved, loved, loved this book!!!! Amazon recommended this gem to me while it was on sale and it was worth every penny I spent. With that being said, I would have given it a five for the rating if there weren’t so many grammatical errors. No, it didn’t take away from the book in any way shape or form but it drove me nuts. This was a heart wrenching novel about a mother and son coping with shocking allegations. At one point the mother even questions if her son did it or not. The book moved quickly and had a love story attached which was great. I normally don’t go for a sappy story like this but once in a while you just need a good cry. I definitely found that cry in this book. I would highly recommend this book to anyone that will listen.
In conclusion, the plot, the characters and all the twists in this book made this book an enjoyable read. I would definitely recommend it and happily give it 4 Hearts❤️❤️❤️❤️
Loved, loved, loved this book!!!! Amazon recommended this gem to me while it was on sale and it was worth every penny I spent. With that being said, I would have given it a five for the rating if there weren’t so many grammatical errors. No, it didn’t take away from the book in any way shape or form but it drove me nuts. This was a heart wrenching novel about a mother and son coping with shocking allegations. At one point the mother even questions if her son did it or not. The book moved quickly and had a love story attached which was great. I normally don’t go for a sappy story like this but once in a while you just need a good cry. I definitely found that cry in this book. I would highly recommend this book to anyone that will listen.
In conclusion, the plot, the characters and all the twists in this book made this book an enjoyable read. I would definitely recommend it and happily give it 4 Hearts❤️❤️❤️❤️
March 13, 2025
How far would you go for your child? Would you lie for them? Cheat for them? Believe the worst of them? Mother of the Accused digs deep into the mother/son relationship. Meredith is engaged and moving in with her fiancée Reed. She has one son; he has three daughters. Their life seems perfect. Until Meredith gets a call from her son Zach saying the police have just left their house after questioning him. Questioning him for what though? Sexual assault. As Meredith tries to wrap her head around this, she begins to question what she knows about the son she raised. The young man he has become. The issue is also that Zach doesn't remember that night too much. He was drinking, the girl was drinking, they kissed and then he passed out. Or did he? Did he assault her and just not remember? Is that possible. This book will take your through all your feelings and have you questioning everything you know. A good quick read!
January 27, 2025
Throughout this book, Zach was truly the best character. Even though it was about him, his attitude towards the whole thing, his willingness to go to jail on the possibility that he might have hurt someone in a moment of unclarity, all adds to this young man's great personality. Even from the beginning it seemed as if Zach didn't do it and there was someone else that slipped in and hurt Paige. Was I surprised it was one of Donna's boys? Not really. Something told me that it could have been one of them. One part I did not enjoy was Meredith's reaction towards Peter and the plea. I'm so glad she got over it and they actually lived happily ever after. Girl, I get it. They kept it from you. Be mad but get over it. And, she did. Overall, this was a really good read. Good plot and steady pacing.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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