Let's set the scene. We're in fashionable Parisian society, where Dr. Claude Larcher is a star. He's wealthy, respected, and known for his surgical skill—and his massive ego. His world shatters when a wealthy patient dies on his operating table under suspicious circumstances. The family accuses him of murder, claiming he operated recklessly for money. The press has a field day, turning public opinion against him almost overnight.

The Story

The book follows Dr. Larcher's dramatic fall from grace. We see the trial unfold through multiple perspectives: the doctor fighting for his name, the grieving family seeking justice, and a legal system buzzing with scandal. Flashbacks reveal the tense relationship between the doctor and his patient, filled with class tension and personal slights. Just when you think you have it figured out, new witnesses and buried secrets come to light, making you question everything you thought you knew about guilt and innocence. The title, 'The Infallible Justice,' becomes deeply ironic as the story asks whether true justice is even possible when pride and prejudice are in the room.

Why You Should Read It

I was hooked by how modern this 19th-century story feels. It's not about dusty court procedures; it's about the court of public opinion. Ohnet nails the frenzy of a media circus and how quickly heroes become villains. Dr. Larcher is frustrating and fascinating—you won't always like him, but you'll understand his desperation. The real tension isn't just 'Did he do it?' but 'Can a flawed man still be wronged?' The supporting characters, especially the tenacious lawyer and the patient's conflicted daughter, add layers of moral ambiguity that kept me turning pages.

Final Verdict

This is perfect for anyone who loves a smart, character-driven mystery with a historical backdrop. If you enjoy authors like Émile Zola for their social commentary but wish they had more courtroom suspense, you'll find a great match here. It's also a solid pick for readers curious about classic novels that explore themes still relevant today—cancel culture, professional integrity, and the search for truth in a noisy world. Just be ready to stay up late arguing with yourself about the ending.