In Her Defence - Philippa Malicka

In Her Defence

(Author: Philippa Malicka)

The Reese Witherspoon Book Club Pick for February 2026—a dark, gripping, and deeply unsettling debut combining high-stakes courtroom drama, psychological suspense, and toxic family dynamics.

Wealthy and high-profile Anna Finbow stands before the court, accusing private therapist Jean Guest of brainwashing her daughter Mary to manipulate her way into Mary’s multi-million-pound trust fund. Jean vehemently defends her work, claiming she merely helped Mary uncover suppressed childhood trauma and that Mary needs protection from her family's damaging influence.

But in a courtroom filled with media frenzy and competing narratives, nothing is as simple as it seems—and neither woman can be trusted.

Philippa Malicka’s star-making debut is a razor-sharp, fiercely intelligent thriller exploring obsessive friendship, the precarious nature of therapy, and the dark secrets hidden behind pristine family facades. Perfect for fans of Gillian Flynn, Patricia Highsmith’s Ripley, JP Delaney, and Abigail Dean.

Key Highlights:

• Reese Witherspoon Book Club Pick: Featured selection for February 2026.

• Gripping Courtroom Thriller: Features high-stakes legal battles, competing memories, and psychological twists.

• Critically Acclaimed Debut: Praised by bestselling authors including JP Delaney, Abigail Dean, Erin Kelly, and Megan Miranda.

• Complex Psychological Themes: Explores toxic family dynamics, therapy ethics, manipulative relationships, and shifting truths.