This is why I love author John Grisham. He is such a talented, extraordinary writer, fiction or nonfiction, that I was barely into the first chapter of Framed and was already incensed, outraged and sick at heart. This book is so compelling, but I hardly know where to begin to review it because it is astonishing and beyond belief that these miscarriages of justice happened over and over and over. Framed reads like bad fiction, where the chain of events, unreliable witnesses, corrupt officials, illogical happenings feel like something you couldn’t even make up. It’s chilling when you realize these things really did happen, but even more chilling when you also realize that while the fact that the seventy people serving life or death sentences for the crimes of others Centurion has freed to date is amazing and commendable, it is likely nothing more than a drop in the bucket. How many more people are suffering in prison for crimes they did not commit.

Each of the ten cases presented is unique, but they all also have far too much in common. Their convictions were not accidents but a result of deliberate actions taken by people who work in law enforcement and the medical and judicial systems and for some unfathomable reason decide they are judge and jury and want to be the executioner as well. They lie in suspect interviews, threaten, withhold evidence from the defense because they deem it irrelevant, use scare tactics with children, make deals with jailhouse snitches, conduct procedures and testify when they are not qualified or licensed, fail to follow leads even when the actual guilty party is known; it just goes on and on.

Are these supposed-to-be-trustworthy officials all evil? It’s hard to not believe that, when so many of them work tirelessly to get someone sentenced to death when they know there is no reliable evidence, when few of them suffer consequences for their behavior and in fact get promoted to judges or other high positions. They operate not from a presumption of innocence but of guilt – or is it pride or laziness or power or what that makes them refuse to look elsewhere once they have settled on a suspect, no matter how unlikely their guilt seems. An example: for one judge, as a way to demonstrate his appreciation for his District Court Clerk’s twenty years of devoted service to courthouse administration, he picked her birthday as the date for the subject to die. What??

Framed is a hard book to read, but it should be required reading. It is horrible, heartbreaking, impossible to put yourself in their shoes. It’s eye-opening: when we read or see on television that new evidence has been found, enough to justify a new trial we feel relief, like, wow, it’s finally over for that person. But this is seldom the case. The “system” fights back to keep them incarcerated; it’s decades before most of them are released, if ever.

Framed is masterful and will stay with you a long, long time. When there is finally a release, it’s uplifting and you are glad because so many are working on their behalf, but it’s really more relief than joy, because these poor people have had their lives ruined, taken away, and for many, many years. No, life is not fair, but this is well beyond unfair. Is there any way to avoid this? It’s like a dark domino chain: this points to this, that points to that, then to who, on and on, all based on a false premise, and how on earth can you make someone not be corrupt anymore?

Thanks to NetGalley and authors John Grisham and Jim McCloskey for providing an advance copy of Framed. I voluntarily leave this review; all opinions are my own.

This book lays heavy on my heart, I had to put it down and then pick it up multiple times. My heart and soul ache for these victims and the victim's families. John and Jim give insight to people who have been wrongfully accused.

PROVING THE INNOCENCE

Imagine you are arrested for a heinous crime that you did not commit. However, because of crooked law enforcement officers who were lazy, neglectful, racist, or any combination of those things or in league with crooked District Attorneys or other such agencies, you were questioned relentlessly for hours on end without any legal representation present. Then you find yourself convicted and sentenced to many years in a horrible prison system, even though there was not one piece of DNA tying you to the crime you allegedly committed. Your family does not have the money to hire anyone to file an appeal, but someone may come along and take your case because they believe you. It does not matter because, despite all appeals, you are locked up and waiting for execution. After all, a life sentence was insufficient for those who railroaded your case. After ten, twenty, or more years of your life passing by, someone steps in, takes up your case again, and finally proves your innocence! You can never reclaim the years you have missed, the damage that has been done to you mentally, physically, or otherwise, or the price that your family and other loved ones have paid.

This scenario made John Grisham known worldwide for his legal thrillers and a lifelong passion for real justice. This passion made him want to team up with Jim McCloskey of Centurion Ministries, the first organization dedicated to exonerating innocent people who have been wrongly convicted. Together, they have chosen ten cases out of the myriad they have found: the Americans who were innocent and wrongfully convicted while the guilty parties remained free. These true stories will astound readers with the horrific way that so many individuals' lives were treated with such callousness. It makes one wonder if the criminal judicial system needs an overhaul from top to bottom! It is a compelling piece of journalism, and the story will stay with the reader long after the last sentence is read.

Doubleday and NetGalley provided me with a complimentary copy of this book. However, my opinions are entirely my own and uninfluenced.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
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Framed
Authors: John Grisham, Jim McCloskey
Source: NetGalley
Date Published: Oct.15, 2024

When I first saw this book, I thought this was going to be like Patterson, who now “co-authors” books with newbies. But I was wrong. This book uncovers a shocking, shocking story about the injustice in our legal system and a rush to judgment at all costs. Mr. McCloskey founded Centurion Ministries, devoted to helping wrongly convicted prisoners. The two authors, both lawyers, share 11 stories about people wrongfully convicted of a crime, innocent yet sitting on death row. One prisoner could not be saved in time. I know I said I would spend the month of October trying to read horror stories, but there is nothing more horrific than what happened to these people. The lengths that this organization takes to save convicted yet innocent prisoners who are sitting for years in jail based upon lies and deceit by prosecutors and detectives is the most terrible story I have read in a while. I applaud Mr. Grisham for getting this book out to readers since his name is synonymous with trustworthiness. But I especially thank Jim McCloskey for taking up this cause and working to save the innocent. I challenge you to read this book, which could be one of the most important books you will read this year. @johngrisham #JimMccloskey #injustice @centurionwitnessministries @doubledaybooks @Netgalley #legalsystem #laws #prisoners #truecrime #wrongfullyConvicted #deathrow #police #nonFiction #corruptDetectives
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I received a complimentary copy of this book. The opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own. Thank you to the publisher, Netgalley, and the authors for the opportunity to read this novel.
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#book #books #bookaddict #booksofinstagram #bookstagram #bookstagramer #bookreviewer

This incredibly moving non-fiction book covers 10 different cases of wrongfully convicted men. It is very difficult to read at times because the subject matter is so frustrating. Police incompetence and corruption and many people who refused to do the right thing at every turn makes each of these stories absolutely soul-crushing. But Grisham and McCloskey are very talented storytellers, and the stories read like real page-turners. There is a lot of graphic detail about some of the crimes, so this isn't for the faint of heart, but it seems like when these men have lost decades of their life, we owe it to them to at least be present for their stories.

Most of the books I read are fiction and I occasionally mix in a biography or memoir. Every once in a while, a nonfiction book looks too compelling to pass by. In Framed: Astonishing True Stories of Wrongful Convictions, John Grisham has partnered with Jim McCloskey, the founder of Centurion Ministries, a nonprofit organization dedicated to exonerating the wrongly convicted. The two authors alternate presenting ten unforgettable cases that will make your blood boil.

The cases presented are both horrifying and riveting. They demonstrate examples of severe injustice within the American judicial system. Deceit and corruption are found everywhere, involving government officials, prosecutors willing to go to any lengths to secure a conviction, unqualified experts, questionable selection of jurors, coerced confessions, and more. Particularly troubling and prevalent is the presence of lying witnesses. These "snitches" are relied upon to say anything, despite their lack of credibility, to lessen their own jail time. It is astonishing how these individuals continue to emerge as key witnesses. Framed does not claim that these practices are widespread and acknowledges that improved DNA analysis and recent reforms have taken place. Nonetheless, the services of Centurion Ministries remain needed.

This is a fascinating book and a hard one to read. The saying "truth is stranger than fiction" certainly applies here. 

4.5 stars.

John Grisham brings to his nonfiction the same intense skills that make his nonfiction so popular. I've read and reread his books so often, this was a must read for me. As a lawyer, his skills lend a sense of authenticity to everything he writes. The research for this book is evident in each of the ten stories. It's beyond belief that in this age of technology, so many people are convicted and remain in prison though innocent. An excelent read by one of my favorite authors.

Wow. These stories are shocking. Full of police, lawyers, judge, and others ineptness. Too stubborn to accept their mistakes and admit they were wrong. Years taken away from innocent people as evidence was not followed but bias instead. Not surprised to see TX on the list. The book only has six examples but there are so more. I found the Grisham written ones the best probably because I like the way he writes and explains things.

For readers who:
- like/appreciate nonfiction
- read true crime with a purpose
- understand (or suspect) the justice system has flaws

John Grisham is notorious for his criminal fiction, but his foray into nonfiction alongside Centurion's Jim McClosky is one of the most powerful books I've read this year.
In FRAMED, the authors alternate telling stories of innocent people who were incarcerated by inept/prejudical/racist/etc law enforcement + judges, often for many, many years. They missed their children growing up, the chance to build a career, and so much more.

It's so, so important to draw attention to these stories. These are not outliers - every day, law enforcement let's bias interfere with judgement, and innocent people suffer.

I was enthralled (and horrified and saddened, and all the feelings in between) by these stories. One woman was arrested and wrongly convicted when her daughter was two; she was released from prison when her daughter was EIGHTEEN. She missed her daughter's entire childhood - all because law enforcement targeted her with false/no evidence.

If you believe we need to build a better justice system, read this book. Then follow Centurion (and also The Innocence Project) and support their mission.

Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this eARC.

John Grisham, renowned for his legal thrillers, teams up with Jim McCloskey, a pioneer in the innocence movement, to present Framed: Astonishing True Stories of Wrongful Convictions. This compelling nonfiction work sheds light on the harrowing experiences of individuals who were wrongfully convicted and the arduous battles fought to clear their names.

Framed recounts ten true stories of men who were unjustly imprisoned, highlighting the flaws and failures within the criminal justice system. Each narrative delves into the personal sacrifices these individuals made, from losing decades of their lives to the emotional toll on their families.

The protagonists of these stories are real people whose lives were upended by wrongful convictions. Grisham and McCloskey bring their stories to life with empathy and precision, portraying their struggles and triumphs in a deeply humanizing way. The authors also highlight the tireless efforts of lawyers, advocates, and organizations dedicated to overturning these miscarriages of justice.

Grisham’s narrative prowess combined with McCloskey’s firsthand experience creates a powerful and engaging read. The writing is clear and compelling, making complex legal proceedings accessible to a broad audience. The authors’ ability to convey the emotional weight of these stories without sensationalism is particularly noteworthy, allowing readers to fully grasp the gravity of each case.

Framed explores themes of justice, resilience, and the profound impact of wrongful convictions on individuals and their families. The book also serves as a critique of the criminal justice system, highlighting systemic issues such as prosecutorial misconduct, inadequate defense, and the fallibility of eyewitness testimony. Through these stories, Grisham and McCloskey advocate for reform and greater accountability within the legal system.

Framed: Astonishing True Stories of Wrongful Convictions is a thought-provoking and emotionally resonant book that underscores the importance of justice and the human cost of its failures. Grisham and McCloskey have crafted a work that is both informative and deeply moving, making it essential reading for anyone interested in the criminal justice system and the fight for innocence.

Highly recommended for readers who appreciate true crime, legal dramas, and stories of resilience and redemption.

This book will make you stop and think how easily anyone could be in the same position as the people were in this book. Our legal system failed these wrongfully convicted individuals while the true criminals roamed free. The stories will chill you for many different reasons, including corruption within our legal system. It is hard to imagine being incarcerated at all, but especially being there for something you know you did not do.

This collection of ten stories told by John Grisham and Jim McCloskey will stick with you long after you finish it. It is astounding just how messed up some of these cases were. You will not forget this book after reading it. I am still sitting here a little dumbfounded.

Thank you to Doubleday Books and NetGalley for this ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily.

All these stories were told in such a beautiful way. I felt so much anger at how, in most cases, law enforcement officials decided to focus on one individual despite the evidence or lack of evidence just because they felt like they needed to quickly find someone to blame. I was angry, disappointed, and cried throughout the book—not just for those who lost their lives but also for those who were wrongly convicted.

While I was familiar with many of the stories in the book, I was surprised to learn some new details. The authors did a fantastic job in presenting these stories, which kept me engaged and eager to learn more. I have no words to express how amazing this book is. It not only sheds light on these tragic cases but also inspires further learning about the work of organizations like the Innocence Project.

Thank you for allowing me to read an early copy of this fantastic book! If you want to read a well-written true crime book, check this out!

This was a hard to read book. Seeing the errors and the blatant disregard for human rights and due process was maddening. The authors said they had to pick 10 cases but there were multitudes to choose from is heartbreaking. If you read this book and don't feel anything but disgust and outrage, I would be extremely surprised.

Framed is an account of 10 wrongly convicted individuals and the blunders on behalf of the prosecution that got them there. I cannot believe all this was allowed to stand. Yet, I can since the geographic area, and era, where most of the cases take place is notorious for placing people in the fast lane to the death penalty. I cannot imagine the amount of time and money, shortened for this book or it would be too heavy to lift, not to mention the psychological suffering of those wrongly convicted. The book is absolutely infuriating.

While I notice most of these cases initially took place prior to 1980, thank goodness for DNA analysis now, I am sure unfortunately there are ongoing miscarriages of justice not covered in these pages. The emergence of forensic science and stronger regulations for crime analysis have given more fuel for the fire for the innocent but humans are still human, errors happen and things get lost.

The story The Fire Doesn't Lie hit me the hardest. No spoilers but left me baffled.

My heart goes out to the individuals in these pages and their families, not to mention the victims' families who never got closure. This is the kind of stuff they rarely show on those lawyer and cop shows. It's also incredibly sad that even when someone is finally proven innocent, it still takes them weeks or even months to actually be released.

Thank you to Netgalley and Doubleday for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.

True Crime fans and Grisham fans alike will enjoy this collection of stories of those who faced unimaginable injustice at the hands of those who were supposed to protect them. These stories will have you questioning how anyone could make such a terrible mistake. Grisham and McCloskey takes turns recounting the detailed stories, and both do it well. While at times the narrative can be slowed down by the numerous court decisions and legalese, slightly more that a typical Grisham novel, the authors try to be as concise as possible without leaving out important details. Each of these stories could be their own book or movie, and readers will no doubt want to investigate one or two further.

I received an ARC through "NetGalley" and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.

This is a compilation of stories which are written by two different authors. Each one tells a story of where a person or multitude of people were erroneously convicted and sent to prison for a crime they didn't commit. Each story tells of the crime that resulted in each conviction. It then goes into detail how law enforcement, prosecutors and even judges worked to prevent disclosure of evidence which would have exonerated the. The police made up their mind that the party was guilty and made no effort to find if someone else was responsible. Most of the cases bring to mind the time of the good old days where individuals that were considered outsides became the main suspects.

This is definitely a book that you need to read and will leave you questioning how many other similar instances are still around.

Riveting, sad, stupidity, loss of trust, prejudice people, lacking the ability to say your wrong, downright asinine are just a few of the things that went through my head as I read these stories. Well written, researched, heartfelt care and determination are what make this book. You'll never look at the world again through rose-colored glasses. I highly recommend this book.

Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for sharing this galley. It was a difficult, heart wrenching read, but shared a very important message; one that stays with the reader long after the final page has been read. A must read for anyone with a conscience.

Several weeks ago I read an opinion piece in the New York Times that argued for the abolishment of the death penalty. While it was a very well written piece, I was still undecided on the issue.

Then I read Framed, co-written by John Grisham and Jim McCloskey. As someone who was raised to always obey a police officer, believe in our judicial system, and uphold the concept of innocent until proven guilty, this book was shocking. Each author wrote 5 different stories of individuals who had been wrongly convicted and sentenced to death. There was police corruption, witnesses tampering and judicial misconduct just to name a few of the misdeeds.

This book has changed my opinion on the death penalty. Is the death penalty ever justified? That is a question that each individual has to answer.

I’m not looking to get political. I realize this can be a sensitive topic. Reading Framed can be an important source of information for anyone who is struggling with an answer.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley. The publication date is October 15, 2024.

I have been a fan of John Grisham for a long time. I didn’t discover his first novel, A Time to Kill, until it’s second release after The Firm and The Pelican Brief (which I devoured) shot up the bestseller lists. Experts say to write what you know. Grisham certainly knows the law since he was a practicing attorney long before he retired to write full-time.

In this non-fiction work, Grisham teams up with Jim McCloskey, retired founder of Centurion, a non-profit organization dedicated to seeking the overturning of wrongful convictions. The two authors outline the facts of five cases each, telling in detail how mistakes were made and sometimes outright lies were coerced. Even in the face of clear evidence of innocence, some of the convicted never were exonerated. One of the men was even executed for something he didn’t do.

As I read the first chapter of Framed, I felt shocked at how badly the case was bungled, at how manipulative the police and the prosecutors were. It made me realize what lengths people will sometimes go to in order to avoid admitting that they made a mistake or how focused they get on one suspect and ignore all evidence that proves they have it wrong. I kept thinking it couldn’t get worse, but it always got worse.

Then I read the second chapter and the third. Chapter after chapter, case after case, all with a common theme—law enforcement and prosecutors so focused on manipulating the narrative to the detriment of the truth. It made me sad…and shocked…and angry that these kinds of things happen. In all of the cases, clear evidence is uncovered and ignored, sometimes for decades. This book is a testament to the fact that our justice system is far from perfect.

I don’t know that I could continue to fight as long as some of these defendants did. In so many of the cases, we read about confessions that were given just to stop the hours upon hours of interrogation, about suspects so sleep-deprived they start to believe they actually did what they were accused of. I cannot imagine being in their situations, let alone knowing how I would handle them.

I would never say that all police are bad. I won’t even say most are bad. Plenty of my friends and family include people in law enforcement. My grandmother was a clerk in the Circuit Court, so we learned very young what to do if we were ever stopped by the police. (And no, it was not to give her name. 😉) Knock on wood, I have never had a negative interaction with law enforcement. I also recognize that I come from a place of privilege to be able to say that.

I am not a huge reader of non-fiction. I sought this one out because John Grisham’s name is on the cover. It is worth the time you will spend on it. It can seem convoluted at times, but I feel like that’s the nature of these cases. Lover of true crime? Pick this one up. Believe in “truth, justice, and the American way”? Pick this one up. Think that these things could never happen to you? Definitely pick this one up. You won’t be sorry you did.

Framed is a collection of ten short stories based on the United States Judicial system. I use the word "stories" lightly as they are are all true wrongful convictions and the book written by best selling author John Grisham and Jim McCloskey, founder of Centurion Ministries who has worked for 45 years trying to free the innocent parties to these and many many more wrongful convictions.

I read this book with fascination and incredulousness as these stories are completely outrageous as to how the interrogations and gathering of false evidence took place, from wrongful interrogations to judges who refused to be budged by the truth and "experts" in their fields who had done no more than take a very short course and clearly had no real knowledge of the subject.

It is completely outrageous how so many innocent people, families and lives have been ruined by these miscarriages of justice. A big well done to Jim and the lawyers and many others involved who fought on every occasion, but so much time and lives have been lost in the process.

I'm glad I read this book and hope perhaps that some of these stories may be made into movies or tv shows to bring to the forefront of more people's minds in the hope that things like this don't continue to happen.