Clanton, Mississippi

The novel takes place in Clanton, Mississippi, in 1988-1989. This setting is familiar to reader who have read the author’s first novel, A Time to Kill. This is the setting of the Hailey trial that was the main plot of the first novel. This novel includes some of the same characters, such as Jake Brigance, Lucien Wilbanks, and Harry Rex. Not much has changed in this little town except the excitement and racial tensions of the Hailey trial have settled down.

Memphis, Tennessee

Memphis is not far from Clanton, Mississippi. Several of the initial lawyers in the will contest trial are from Memphis, including Sistrunk who made such a spectacle and nearly encouraged Jake to quit. It is also here that Lucien is arrested upon his return from Alaska with Ancil’s deposition.

Juneau, Alaska

Ancil Hubbard lives in Juneau, Alaska under an assumed name. After...