Viola Davis and bestselling author James Patterson reveal their inspiration for abortion courtroom drama “about America right now”

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It’s a fascinating partnership: Academy Award-winning actress Viola Davis – also a winner of Emmy, Grammy, and Tony Awards – has joined forces with bestselling author James Patterson to create “Judge Stone,” a compelling and thought-provoking new thriller. True to Patterson’s style, the story quickly grabs your attention and doesn’t let go.

I just finished reading this book and wow, it really got to me. It’s about a 13-year-old girl in a really conservative part of the South who finds out she’s pregnant. And a well-respected doctor is risking everything – potentially a serious felony – to help her. It’s set after Roe v. Wade was overturned, so abortion is basically illegal in Alabama, even in cases of rape or incest. It’s a really tense story because of all the legal risks involved, and it feels incredibly relevant to what’s happening right now.

The novel’s title hints at its central focus: a courtroom drama. However, the story delves much deeper than just the legal proceedings. We follow Judge Mary Stone as she presides over the case of Dr. Bria Gaines, and the book explores the complex lives of both women outside of court, adding layers of meaning for both the characters and the reader. The author, Patterson, explains that the book is intended as a broad commentary on the current state of America.

Viola Davis recalls getting a surprising phone call from her agent: ‘Would you like to write a book with James Patterson?’ She immediately said yes. After learning the book’s concept, she felt confident she could contribute, just like Patterson himself. Davis is known for her diverse roles, including a housemaid in ‘The Help,’ James Brown’s mother in ‘Get On Up,’ and her Academy Award-winning performance as Rose Maxson in the film adaptation of August Wilson’s ‘Fences.’

I viewed it as a fresh look at To Kill a Mockingbird, and how that story could be used to explore the heart of a community, its people, their connections, and their beliefs.

James Patterson explains that when he writes, he pictures telling a story to just one person and wants to keep them engaged until the very end. When co-writing with Viola, he envisioned that single listener sitting with both of them. The book features several key characters – Nova, a pregnant teenager, and readers will be wondering what happens to her. There’s also Dr. Gaines and Judge Stone, along with Mary’s family, and the story follows what unfolds in all of their lives, keeping you invested in each character’s journey.

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The story revolves around the main character, and Davis felt an instant connection to her. She explains that when an actor is given a role, they draw on memories of people they’ve known to build the character. This process felt familiar to her. She would often brainstorm with James while doing everyday things, like driving her daughter to soccer practice, and was surprised by how receptive he always was to her suggestions.

James Patterson frequently works with other writers – he’s co-authored books with over 30 people, including Bill Clinton and Dolly Parton, whom he jokingly calls “a pest” and “relentless.” However, this particular collaboration was surprisingly easy. He never had to reject any ideas, finding the process smooth and agreeable, consistently thinking, ‘That works,’ and ‘That’s a good idea.’

The filmmakers focused on crafting believable characters and building their stories carefully, resulting in a gripping and exciting drama that truly captivates viewers. It’s no surprise the film rights were quickly purchased, and it wouldn’t be shocking to see Davis receive further recognition for her performance as Judge Mary Stone in the future.

  • Judge Stone is available to buy now

Authors

Bill Borrows

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2026-03-16 20:48