In Her Defense

Malicka’s bewitching debut revolves around a sensational London libel trial, told from the perspective of the defendant’s former assistant turned witness. Anna Finbow, star of a kitschy cooking show and purveyor of signature ceramic cookware, found fame by promoting a “lost vision of Britain: rosebuds over the door, cricket on the village green, a huge kitchen filled with happy children. A myth, basically.” Now, she’s being sued by Jean Guest, an unlicensed psychotherapist whose treatment of Anna’s 22-year-old daughter, Mary, led her to cut off contact with Anna and begin a romance with Jean. Anna triggered the suit by publicly criticizing Jean, calling her a charlatan and manipulator. The story unfolds from the perspective of aspiring ceramicist Augusta “Gus” Bird, who idolized Anna and landed a gig as her assistant before the mother and daughter’s rupture. It’s while working for Anna that Gus learns about her ongoing conflict with Mary, whom Gus met earlier in Rome while studying art. Malicka keenly portrays Jean’s predatory nature, showing how she ingratiates herself into Mary’s life. The crackling story toggles effortlessly from past to present as the depth of the characters’ betrayals and manipulations comes out in open court, especially once Gus takes the stand. This serpentine courtroom drama will captivate readers. Agent: Jenny Bent, Bent Entertainment. (Feb.)