Cape May Court House: A Death in the Night

I bought a used copy of this book on impulse last year -- mainly because of the title locale, with which I am somewhat familiar. I found the book very hard to put down once I began reading it. This is the story of an accident (or was it?) that left a woman dead. Citing the Medical Examiner's report, the woman's husband (a respected dentist) sued the Ford Motor Co., claiming that a defective air bag killed his wife. Ford counterd -- with the theory that she was strangled, and the accident was used as a cover up and attempt at profiting by her death.

I can't say that I was especially impressed with how the story was told; but the events themselves kept me reading. I'm sure it took a lot of persistent research to track down all the show more information which is recounted here. I kind of agreed with the summary a previous owner of the volume scribbled on the inisde back cover: "VG" (presumably, Very Good), "but too long!" I felt there was more detail than necessary for a general reader like myself. However, I imagine readers in the legal profession would be fascinated by all the details recounted. It's amazing to see how much maneuvering can be done when a bunch of lawyers go to work on a high-stakes lawsuit; and how much money goes into fighting on each side.

The story's ending might be a let-down to some readers, simply because in non-fiction you can't tidy up all the loose ends; it is what it is. Sometimes there are no easy answers. But after reading this, I do know that I definitely wouldn't want to go up against a big company in court! show less

Difficult book to read. Very technical outline of the legal system and the way both sides can delay or change the outcome of a case. I did learn more information about the complex world of fighting large corporations and how one act can effect the lives of so many people. I hope I never get involved in a situation that requires numerous lawyers, "experts" and machines that tell us if we are telling the truth.

The players in this suspenseful legal action were engaged in a pressure packed, high stakes game conducted in an a complex litigation setting. If you find legal procedure interesting, or if you fancy becoming a trial attorney, this is for you. The ultimate resolution may disappoint, especially if you see the proceedings in the context of a "double indemnity" homicide.

An exciting to read real life mystery. Well worth the time spent on a lazy afternoon.