National Writers Series is pleased to present Scott Turow, a writer and former practicing lawyer, who is the author of thirteen bestselling works of fiction, including Presumed Innocent and most recently, Suspect. Our guest host for this event is none other than David Baldacci!

Presumed Guilty is a sequel to Presumed Innocent, the book that redefined the legal thriller and served as the basis for Apple TV+’s most-watched drama series ever, judge and lawyer Rusty Sabich returns to the courtroom to defend his step-son against a murder indictment as the boy’s life—and perhaps Rusty’s last chance at happiness—hang in the balance.

Rusty is a retired judge attempting a third act in life with a loving soon-to-be wife. But the peace that’s taken Rusty so long to find evaporates when Bea’s young adult son, Aaron, living under their supervision while on probation for drug possession, disappears.

Aaron eventually turns up with a vague story about a camping trip with his troubled girlfriend, Mae. Dayslater, when she still hasn’t returned, suspicion falls on Aaron, and when Mae is subsequently discovered dead, Aaron is arrested and set for trial on charges of first-degree murder.

Bea begs Rusty to return to court one last time, to defend her son. For Rusty, the question is not whether to defend Aaron, or whether the boy is in fact innocent—it’s whether the system to which he has devoted his life can ever provide true justice for those who are presumed guilty.

GUEST HOST: David Baldacci is a global #1 bestselling author, and one of the world’s favorite storytellers. His books are published in over 45 languages and in more than 80 countries, with 150 million copies sold worldwide. His works have been adapted for both feature film and television.

He is also the cofounder, along with his wife, of the Wish You Well Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting literacy efforts across America. Still a resident of his native Virginia, he invites you to visit him at DavidBaldacci.com and his foundation at WishYouWellFoundation.org.

Livestreaming Underwriter: Nancy Davy

Virtual Ticket plus book (ticket fees not included): $43.50 Shipped; $37.50 book-pickup at Horizon Books in Traverse City

Each Virtual Ticket includes a private YouTube link to the event, which begins at 6:50 PM. Virtual audience members can contribute questions to the Q&A through a moderated chat.

Shipping is available anywhere in the continental U.S. by our local bookstore partner Horizon Books of downtown Traverse City, Michigan. Actual costs applied at checkout. Signed copies are only available at the live-event.

Book Release Date: January 4, 2025 – Traverse City locals who’d like to read the book in advance of the event may have the option to pick up their copy at Horizon Books. Instructions will be emailed to you after your purchase.

Additional transaction fees are applied at checkout.