Defending Billy Ryan, George V. Higgins
Defending Billy Ryan, George V. Higgins
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Defending Billy Ryan
A Jerry Kennedy Novel

Author: George V. Higgins

Narrator: Adams Morgan

Unabridged: 7 hr 19 min

Format: Digital Audiobook Download

Published: 06/23/2010

Synopsis

Jerry Kennedy has been aptly described by his ex-wife as "the classiest sleazy criminal lawyer in Boston." Now, Jerry must defend the man that no one else will: Billy Ryan. The longtime commissioner of public works has cut one shady deal too many. Even Jerry harbors no illusions about the man's corruption. "If they didn't have Billy for selling the apple to the serpent who peddled it to Eve," he figured, "it was because the serpent refused to testify against him. Professional courtesy and all that." Jerry also knows that the government can always get a public official if it really wants to—particularly when a plea-bargaining crooked state legislator named Jack Bonaventre is in good voice. The drama that follows in and around the courthouse is vintage Higgins, suffused with the stylish prose and sparkling dialogue for which he is known.

About George V. Higgins

George V. Higgins (1939–1999) was a lawyer, journalist, teacher, and the author of twenty-nine books, most notably The Friends of Eddie Coyle.

About Adams Morgan

Adams Morgan is a theater-trained actor who has appeared in venues around the United States. He has also narrated for National Public Radio and performed radio dramas and historical reenactments. He lives in New York City.

Reviews

Goodreads review by Adam on November 12, 2017

This is fantastic, but in a twist for Higgins it's not the dialogue but the (cynical?) descriptions of the American legal system that stand out. Killer lines: (view spoiler)[Then we went back out into the courtroom, and in due course my genuine client’s case came on to be heard. Colin listened patiently and intentl (hide spoiler)]......more

Goodreads review by Philip on January 30, 2018

Jerry Kennedy's back: damaged, divorced, down but not out. He's a hard guy not to root for. Another exceptional novel from Mr. Higgins.......more

Goodreads review by Craig on October 20, 2007

George V. Higgins was a proscecuting attorney and a assistant U.S. attorney in Boston so he writes with precision and authority about the legal profession. The only other writer to approach him in this is Scott Turow. This is the best novel of its type out there.......more

Goodreads review by Kim on July 14, 2024

Recommended by a friend, incredibly great writing as both dialogue and description. Anyone who lived in Boston in the 70s or 80s will be transported back. The author’s description of the criminal trial practice from the defense lawyer’s perspective at the time was outstanding. The humor was that of......more

Quotes

 “[Higgins] writes with an authenticity that is unmatched.” Washington Post

 “Flawless. Never a false word, phrase, rhythm.” New Republic

“[Kennedy’s] speech is wonderful—he’s a crackling, supple raconteur…Higgins’ subtle examination of Boston Irish society is as acute as any by John O’Hara or Louis Auchincloss, but funnier.” Publishers Weekly

“Higgins writes so brilliantly, so juicily, that connoisseurs of ironic anecdotes and flamboyant talk won’t be complaining.” Kirkus Reviews

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