In Her Defense

By Philippa Malicka

Categories: Mystery, Thriller & Suspense

In Her Defense is the 2026 debut novel by Philippa Malicka, a British writer, and a Reese's Book Club pick. A beloved TV cook, Anna Finbow, is in a celebrity libel trial with Jean Guest, the unlicensed therapist she accuses of manipulating her estranged daughter, Mary. The story is told by Gus Bird, an aspiring ceramicist who once worked as Anna's assistant and met Mary in Rome. Moving between past and present, the courtroom drama builds toward Gus taking the stand with evidence that could decide the case.

Recommended by 1 person

• Reese Witherspoon: “Such a good, twisty read.”