What does it mean to fight for fairness in a world where justice often feels elusive?
This question lies at the core of They Will Be in Heaven Before the Devil Knows, the compelling new novel by Dean Amado D. Valdez, published by C&E Publishing, Inc.
In this electrifying work of Philippine legal fiction, the law is more than a profession—it’s a battleground. Within its pages, lawyers wage war not only against corruption and abuse of power but also against the moral compromises that come with navigating the very system meant to uphold justice. Its explosive opening—an attack on the Chief Justice—sets the tone for a high-stakes story where justice and injustice collide in a relentless struggle.
Yet beneath the courtroom clashes lies a deeply human narrative. Valdez explores the bonds of family, the weight of fatherhood, and the unbreakable brotherhood and sisterhood among those who dedicate their lives to the law. Themes of ambition and integrity, vengeance and forgiveness, and loss and redemption form the emotional pulse of the story—an indictment of systemic flaws and a tribute to courage and moral conviction.
Drawing from his experiences as former Dean of the University of the East College of Law, Valdez paints an unflinching portrait of the legal world—one that challenges readers to think, question, and act. More than fiction, the novel is a call to conscience, urging Filipinos to keep justice alive as a collective mission and a daily act of faith.
The novel was formally launched at Conrad Manila, where an audience of legal luminaries, Rotarians, and publishing advocates gathered for a timely conversation on justice and accountability. A thought-provoking panel featuring Justice Solomon Hermosura, Atty. Jordan Pizarras, Atty. Citos Manalaysay, and IBP President Atty. Allan G. Panolong, moderated by Atty. Teddy Kalaw, underscored the continued need for vigilance in defending fairness in Philippine society.
In his message, Eric G. Eugenio, Director of C&E Publishing, emphasized the transformative role of books in social discourse:
“Every book we bring to the public is a commitment—to ideas that challenge, to stories that matter, and to truths that must be heard.”
They Will Be in Heaven Before the Devil Knows also made its mark at the Manila International Book Fair (MIBF)—the country’s largest and longest-running book fair—and is now available through www.cebookshop.com, C&E Publishing’s e-commerce platforms, and all C&E Bookshop branches nationwide.
