Step into the electrifying world of Rosato and Associates, where sharp-witted women lawyers tackle high-stakes cases in the gritty streets of Philadelphia! Lisa Scottoline’s legal thriller series blends heart-pounding suspense, complex female protagonists, and a dash of humor, making it a standout in the genre. With an all-female law firm at its core, Rosato and Associates delivers stories that are as empowering as they are thrilling, captivating readers and sparking buzz about a potential TV adaptation.
From courtroom showdowns to personal vendettas, this series follows the fierce attorneys of Rosato and Associates as they navigate murder, corruption, and betrayal. Whether you’re a fan of legal dramas or just love a good mystery, this series promises a rollercoaster of emotions and twists that keep you guessing until the final page.
How Rosato and Associates Began
Lisa Scottoline, a former Philadelphia litigator, launched the Rosato and Associates series in 1993 with Everywhere That Mary Went. Drawing on her legal expertise and love for her hometown, Scottoline crafted an all-female law firm led by the formidable Benedetta ‘Bennie’ Rosato. Her goal? To create smart, relatable heroines who could hold their own in a cutthroat profession. Inspired by her own experiences and the lack of strong female leads in legal fiction, Scottoline built a vibrant world that resonates with readers and critics alike, earning her an Edgar Award nomination for the series’ debut.
The Heart of Rosato and Associates
The series kicks off with Everywhere That Mary Went, where Mary DiNunzio fights to make partner while dodging a sinister stalker. In Legal Tender, Bennie Rosato goes on the run to clear her name after being framed for murder. Rough Justice sees lawyer Marta Richter racing against a blizzard and a cunning client to uncover the truth, while Mistaken Identity throws Bennie into a web of corruption involving her own twin. Each novel spotlights a different lawyer—Bennie, Mary, Judy Carrier, or Anne Murphy—delivering standalone stories with evolving character arcs.
Set against Philadelphia’s bustling backdrop, the series weaves legal intrigue with themes of loyalty, justice, and resilience. Scottoline’s trademark humor and vivid prose bring the city and its heroines to life, while her focus on women supporting women sets the series apart. Whether it’s battling mobsters or unraveling personal secrets, the Rosato lawyers face challenges that test their wits and hearts, making every case a gripping journey.
Why Rosato and Associates Resonates
Rosato and Associates has left a lasting mark on the legal thriller genre, proving that women can lead with strength and vulnerability. With over 20 books, the series has hit the New York Times Best Seller list multiple times and built a loyal fanbase. Its blend of suspense, humor, and empowering themes has inspired readers and paved the way for more diverse voices in crime fiction. The buzz around a potential Lionsgate TV adaptation only amplifies its cultural impact, promising to bring these dynamic women to a new audience.
The series’ enduring appeal lies in its ability to balance pulse-pounding plots with relatable characters. Scottoline’s Philadelphia feels like a living character, grounding the high stakes in a world readers can feel. As the franchise grows with the Rosato & DiNunzio spinoff, its legacy as a trailblazer in legal thrillers remains undeniable.
- First book published: 1993 (Everywhere That Mary Went)
- Total books: 20 in Rosato and Associates, plus Rosato & DiNunzio spinoffs
- Awards: Edgar Award nomination for debut; multiple NYT Best Sellers
- TV adaptation: Optioned by Lionsgate in 2019
Ready to dive into Philadelphia’s most thrilling law firm? Grab Everywhere That Mary Went and join the Rosato and Associates team for a legal adventure packed with suspense, heart, and humor!