Description: Ellice Littlejohn seemingly has it all: an Ivy League law degree, a well-paying job as a corporate attorney in midtown Atlanta, great friends, and a “for fun” relationship with a rich, charming executive—her white boss, Michael. But everything changes one cold January morning when Ellice goes to meet Michael and finds him dead with a gunshot to his head.
And then she walks away like nothing has happened. Why? Ellice has been keeping a cache of dark secrets, including a small-town past and a kid brother who’s spent time on the other side of the law. She can’t be thrust into the spotlight—again. But instead of grieving this tragedy, people are gossiping, the police are getting suspicious, and Ellice, the company’s lone Black attorney, is promoted to replace Michael. While the opportunity is a dream-come-true, Ellice just can’t shake the feeling that something is off.
When she uncovers shady dealings inside the company, Ellice is trapped in an impossible ethical and moral dilemma. Suddenly, Ellice’s past and present lives collide as she launches into a pulse-pounding race to protect the brother she tried to save years ago and stop a conspiracy far more sinister than she could have ever imagined.
And then she walks away like nothing has happened. Why? Ellice has been keeping a cache of dark secrets, including a small-town past and a kid brother who’s spent time on the other side of the law. She can’t be thrust into the spotlight—again. But instead of grieving this tragedy, people are gossiping, the police are getting suspicious, and Ellice, the company’s lone Black attorney, is promoted to replace Michael. While the opportunity is a dream-come-true, Ellice just can’t shake the feeling that something is off.
When she uncovers shady dealings inside the company, Ellice is trapped in an impossible ethical and moral dilemma. Suddenly, Ellice’s past and present lives collide as she launches into a pulse-pounding race to protect the brother she tried to save years ago and stop a conspiracy far more sinister than she could have ever imagined.
Review: All Her Little Secrets is my first legal thriller that I have ever read. Since I had no expectations for the book, I ended up enjoying it a lot more. The author Wanda M. Morris is a corporate attorney and her expertise clearly shines through the book without resorting to legal jargon. I found the plot to be gripping and it quickly intensifies the further Ellice digs into the company. While Ellice does make impulsive decisions, you can actually understand her thought process as her backstory is slowly revealed. Though I had inklings on who was behind Michael's murder, the reasoning behind the company's shadier dealings caught me by surprised.
I did like Ellice with her flaws and all. I had a better understanding of how much she risked hiding her childhood secrets, her distrust in the police, and her moral compass. I did love her loving and supportive mother-figure Vera Henderson who practically raised Ellice and her brother. Morris effectively tackles workplace racism and sexism without it being heavy handed.
Rating: 4 stars
Words of Caution: There is some strong language, a reference to sexual abuse of a child, at-home abortion, neglect, an alcoholic mother, microaggressions, misogyny. Recommended for Adults only.
If you like this book try: And Now She's Gone by Rachel Howzell Hall
I enjoy a good legal drama so this one sounds good. I'm glad you've been introduced to the genre!