The Right of Way — Volume 01

"The Right of Way — Volume 01" by Gilbert Parker is a novel set in the late 1800s that dives into ideas of right and wrong, fairness, and how people connect with each other. It follows Charley Steele, a smart and mysterious lawyer who's known for his unique ways of thinking and handling cases. The story kicks off with a big murder trial where Steele defends Joseph Nadeau, a man who seems guilty, but unexpected truths come out that make everyone question what guilt and innocence really mean. The courtroom scenes are gripping, especially when Steele surprises everyone with a powerful defense, winning an impossible "not guilty" verdict for Nadeau. This act not only shifts public opinion but also reignites feelings between Steele and Kathleen, a woman from his past. Their complicated history and growing affection intertwine with themes of love, finding oneself, and dealing with the consequences of past actions, setting the stage for a changing relationship as the story progresses.