From celebrated national leader and bestselling author Stacey Abrams, While Justice Sleeps is a gripping, complexly plotted thriller set within the halls of the U.S. Supreme Court. We spoke with author Stacey Abrams about the inspiration for While Justice Sleeps, growing up in a library, and more!
While Justice Sleeps
By Stacey Abrams • Narrated by the author & Adenrele Ojo
“From the first pages, this crime novel from author/activist Stacey Abrams drew me into the world of the Supreme Court (and chess!) and the seedy underbelly of the U.S. government. This race through the streets of Washington, DC, also contains a deeply satisfying ending that I won’t give away.”
Megan, The Silver Unicorn Bookstore
Please tell us a little bit about what inspired you to write this book and how this story took shape for you.
I had lunch with a legal mentor, Teresa Wynn Roseborough, who—in addition to guiding me as a young attorney—had been one of my chief supporters in my avocation as a romantic suspense writer. She asked if I’d ever given thought to the fact that while the Constitution deals with presidents and legislators unable to do their jobs, it is silent on judges with lifetime appointments—all of them. I couldn’t let go of the question: What would happen if a swing vote on the Supreme Court fell into a coma. While Justice Sleeps was my way of finding an answer.
In two sentences or less, what’s something that might surprise Libro.fm listeners about your audiobook?
Although the audiobook is about a presidential intrigue and illness at the Supreme Court, I actually wrote the book more than 10 years ago. But folks in the publishing industry were dubious about a president possibly being involved in an international scandal…
Have you listened to your own audiobook? What struck you about the narration?
I have not heard the full book yet, but I have listened to snippets. I admire how Adenrele Ojo imbues each character with a wholly unique interpretation that keeps the tension high and the story moving.
Are you an audiobook listener? What are some of your favorite audiobooks?
Yes. My most recent listen was 1776 by David McCullough.
1776
By David McCullough • Narrated by the author
What have independent bookstores and/or booksellers meant to you personally and professionally?
I grew up as the daughter of a librarian, and I used to sleep in the stacks. I love the smell and feel of books, the comfort of being in their midst. Independent bookstores are havens for book-lovers, where an intrepid reader can discover a new favorite author and chat with a fellow bibliophile about what is to come.
Anything else to share with us?
I support independent bookstores and booksellers because they have turned their affinity for books into an anchor for communities. The independent booksellers in my community are among my favorite sources for new reads and fascinating conversations.
Header photo by Kevin Lowery