Look Again Summary & Key Insights

Lisa Scottoline's "Look Again" centers on Bennie Rosato, a tenacious Philadelphia lawyer known for her sharp wit and even sharper instincts, and her partner, Michael "Mickey" Estrin, a brilliant but emotionally guarded investigator. Their latest case revolves around the seemingly straightforward death of a wealthy, reclusive artist, the enigmatic and eccentric Julian DeLuca. His death is initially ruled a suicide, a conclusion easily accepted by DeLuca’s distant family, preoccupied with inheriting his substantial fortune.

However, Bennie's gut feeling, honed from years of experience, screams foul play. She's intrigued by the inconsistencies in the official narrative and the mysterious circumstances surrounding DeLuca’s life. She begins to delve into his past, uncovering a complex web of hidden relationships, secret affairs, and bitter rivalries that suggest a far more sinister truth behind his demise.

Mickey, despite his initial skepticism, becomes increasingly involved, deploying his considerable investigative skills to uncover hidden clues. Their investigation leads them through the art world's shady underbelly, revealing a circle of ambitious individuals, each with a motive to eliminate DeLuca. These suspects include DeLuca's estranged family, jealous colleagues, and even a former protégé who feels unjustly overlooked.

As Bennie and Mickey peel back the layers of deception, they discover a trail of forged documents, hidden bank accounts, and a complicated history of blackmail and betrayal. They face constant obstacles, including powerful adversaries who try to intimidate and obstruct their investigation. The relentless pursuit of justice puts them both in considerable danger, forcing them to rely on their instincts and each other more than ever.

The overarching theme is the importance of questioning assumptions and trusting one's intuition, particularly in a world where appearances can be deceiving. Bennie's unwavering belief in her ability to "look again" and see beyond the surface is central to the narrative. The novel also explores the complexities of human relationships, highlighting the corrosive power of greed, envy, and ambition. The contrast between Bennie's compassionate nature and Mickey's guarded demeanor creates a compelling dynamic, showcasing the different facets of their partnership and highlighting the necessity of both intuition and meticulous investigation in solving complex crimes. Ultimately, "Look Again" delivers a satisfying resolution, revealing the true killer and exposing the layers of deceit that shrouded DeLuca's death, cementing the effectiveness of Bennie and Mickey's uniquely complementary skills.