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Recommend this book:
Class Action
What You Don't Know CAN Hurt You
Gail Ward Olmsted
2026 Finalist
233 Pages
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Fiction - Mystery - Legal
Reviewed by Carol Thompson for Readers' Favorite
Class Action by Gail Ward Olmsted begins with a portrait of Charlene Gallagher in 1999, a young woman battling addiction as she navigates friendships, fractured loyalties, and impulsive choices that will shape her future. Charlene’s flawed and unpredictable world becomes the foundation for a much larger story two decades later. The present-day storyline follows Lennon, Charlene’s daughter, and a law student interning on a major class-action lawsuit related to a devastating data breach. Her legal work quickly intersects with her personal life when she suspects the lead plaintiff might be the father she has never met. Olmsted uses the structure of a lawsuit to explore privacy, accountability, and the consequences of negligence. The human cost of the data breach, especially the tragedy involving a well-known sportscaster, adds to Lennon’s professional dilemma.
The writing style is conversational, engaging, and character-driven. Gail Ward Olmsted uses humor, introspection, and dialogue to reveal the protagonist's personality, emotions, and relationships. The tone is informal and relatable, often incorporating witty remarks and vivid descriptions to draw the reader into the protagonist’s world. Readers who enjoy contemporary fiction focused on personal growth, complex family ties, and ethical challenges of modern life will find much to appreciate in this insightful, engaging novel. Class Action is reminiscent of Erin Brockovich in its focus on legal battles and the pursuit of justice, combined with the personal struggles and resilience of a flawed yet determined protagonist, akin to The Glass Castle by Jeannette Walls, yet with its own distinctiveness.
Class Action by Gail Ward Olmsted begins with a portrait of Charlene Gallagher in 1999, a young woman battling addiction as she navigates friendships, fractured loyalties, and impulsive choices that will shape her future. Charlene’s flawed and unpredictable world becomes the foundation for a much larger story two decades later. The present-day storyline follows Lennon, Charlene’s daughter, and a law student interning on a major class-action lawsuit related to a devastating data breach. Her legal work quickly intersects with her personal life when she suspects the lead plaintiff might be the father she has never met. Olmsted uses the structure of a lawsuit to explore privacy, accountability, and the consequences of negligence. The human cost of the data breach, especially the tragedy involving a well-known sportscaster, adds to Lennon’s professional dilemma.
The writing style is conversational, engaging, and character-driven. Gail Ward Olmsted uses humor, introspection, and dialogue to reveal the protagonist's personality, emotions, and relationships. The tone is informal and relatable, often incorporating witty remarks and vivid descriptions to draw the reader into the protagonist’s world. Readers who enjoy contemporary fiction focused on personal growth, complex family ties, and ethical challenges of modern life will find much to appreciate in this insightful, engaging novel. Class Action is reminiscent of Erin Brockovich in its focus on legal battles and the pursuit of justice, combined with the personal struggles and resilience of a flawed yet determined protagonist, akin to The Glass Castle by Jeannette Walls, yet with its own distinctiveness.
Recommend this book:
And So It Goes
Gary E Smith
2026 Honorable Mention
322 Pages
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Fiction - Mystery - Legal
Reviewed by Rabia Tanveer for Readers' Favorite
And So It Goes by Gary E Smith is a mystery/thriller novel that takes readers to Italy as our protagonist tries to survive. Jenny Stone is a prosecuting attorney who has just concluded a money laundering case when she becomes a target herself. A thumb drive in her possession contains some sensitive information shared by a suspect, and Jenny believes she is being followed for it. To protect herself and the thumb drive, Jenny decides to take a “vacation” to Italy and meets with Warren Steelgrave, a writer and investigator. Cousins by marriage, Warren tries his best to protect Jenny and keep her alive as they are constantly followed and their lives are threatened. With an assassin dogging their every step, it is up to Warren and Jenny to uncover money laundering and corruption and try to survive.
Author Gary E Smith offers readers a fantastic mystery with incredible characters and a solid story. I loved the element of surprise and the intensity of the story. The connection between Jenny and Warren is fascinating. They were a great team as they traveled through Italy to find an end to the nightmare. Jenny was sharp, clever, and her attention to detail was brilliant. She noticed things that were a little out of place or when things weren’t making sense. Warren, on the other hand, was quietly intelligent and observant. They work well together, and they make sure readers are engaged until the end. The fast pace, the narrative style, and the overall feel of the story keep readers invested. I loved And So It Goes to bits and highly recommend it!
And So It Goes by Gary E Smith is a mystery/thriller novel that takes readers to Italy as our protagonist tries to survive. Jenny Stone is a prosecuting attorney who has just concluded a money laundering case when she becomes a target herself. A thumb drive in her possession contains some sensitive information shared by a suspect, and Jenny believes she is being followed for it. To protect herself and the thumb drive, Jenny decides to take a “vacation” to Italy and meets with Warren Steelgrave, a writer and investigator. Cousins by marriage, Warren tries his best to protect Jenny and keep her alive as they are constantly followed and their lives are threatened. With an assassin dogging their every step, it is up to Warren and Jenny to uncover money laundering and corruption and try to survive.
Author Gary E Smith offers readers a fantastic mystery with incredible characters and a solid story. I loved the element of surprise and the intensity of the story. The connection between Jenny and Warren is fascinating. They were a great team as they traveled through Italy to find an end to the nightmare. Jenny was sharp, clever, and her attention to detail was brilliant. She noticed things that were a little out of place or when things weren’t making sense. Warren, on the other hand, was quietly intelligent and observant. They work well together, and they make sure readers are engaged until the end. The fast pace, the narrative style, and the overall feel of the story keep readers invested. I loved And So It Goes to bits and highly recommend it!
Recommend this book:
Plausible Liars
Dr. Lindsey McCall Medical Mystery
Lin Wilder
2026 Bronze Medal
Kindle Edition
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Fiction - Mystery - Legal
Reviewed by Angelique Papayannopoulos for Readers' Favorite
Plausible Liars by Lin Wilder is a medical drama inspired by actual events and information on transgenderism, based on studies of material found on medical gender-affirmation websites. Dr. Lindsay McCall contends with transgender politics and becomes caught up in a provoking and challenging situation. Kate Townsend is a Pulitzer Prize-winning investigative journalist and has published controversial articles on the dangers and impact of gender transitioning. We are also introduced to the sad and confused world of Joey Carmichael, a transgender teenager, who is befriended by Dr. McCall’s daughter LJ, and her unique friend Morgan. Indictments for unintentional murder have been filed against best friends Lindsay and Kate, placing them under the control of a dangerous conspiracy by the US Department of Justice. There is no doubt that both sides make compelling arguments.
Author Lin Wilder has created an eye-opening novel filled with detailed medical research and a realistic court case that will keep you captivated to the end. Transgenderism is presented diversely and plausibly for each of the characters introduced. The plot builds up intensely and one feels deeply emotionally immersed in the courtroom drama. Families, friends, and professionals are entangled in the medical and legal debates during the explosive court case with an unexpected twist in the end. There are recurring themes of social relations based on stereotypes, emotions, hardships, courage, justice, and faith. Plausible Liars is an informative and educational read and is highly recommended for those who are open-minded and willing to have their beliefs challenged. Truly, an eye-opener for both sides of the argument!
Plausible Liars by Lin Wilder is a medical drama inspired by actual events and information on transgenderism, based on studies of material found on medical gender-affirmation websites. Dr. Lindsay McCall contends with transgender politics and becomes caught up in a provoking and challenging situation. Kate Townsend is a Pulitzer Prize-winning investigative journalist and has published controversial articles on the dangers and impact of gender transitioning. We are also introduced to the sad and confused world of Joey Carmichael, a transgender teenager, who is befriended by Dr. McCall’s daughter LJ, and her unique friend Morgan. Indictments for unintentional murder have been filed against best friends Lindsay and Kate, placing them under the control of a dangerous conspiracy by the US Department of Justice. There is no doubt that both sides make compelling arguments.
Author Lin Wilder has created an eye-opening novel filled with detailed medical research and a realistic court case that will keep you captivated to the end. Transgenderism is presented diversely and plausibly for each of the characters introduced. The plot builds up intensely and one feels deeply emotionally immersed in the courtroom drama. Families, friends, and professionals are entangled in the medical and legal debates during the explosive court case with an unexpected twist in the end. There are recurring themes of social relations based on stereotypes, emotions, hardships, courage, justice, and faith. Plausible Liars is an informative and educational read and is highly recommended for those who are open-minded and willing to have their beliefs challenged. Truly, an eye-opener for both sides of the argument!
Recommend this book:
 Bouvier is an idealistic lawyer who has followed the path of Public Defender in Murrieta County, California, to uphold the judicial principle that everyone is entitled to the best legal counsel to ensure a fair trial....){kind=link}
The Ghost Case Posse
Joe Greco
2026 Silver Medal
Kindle Edition
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Fiction - Mystery - Legal
Reviewed by Grant Leishman for Readers' Favorite
The Ghost Case Posse by Joe Greco is a courtroom drama that plays out in the daily lives of each of the participants. Jedediah (Jed) Bouvier is an idealistic lawyer who has followed the path of Public Defender in Murrieta County, California, to uphold the judicial principle that everyone is entitled to the best legal counsel to ensure a fair trial. A recovering alcoholic, Jed is aware of the public sentiment surrounding his latest capital murder case. Dexter Wayne Jones, a known serial rapist, is facing his second trial, after the first attempt resulted in a hung jury. Jed and his co-counsel know that Jones is almost certainly guilty and the evidence against him is overwhelming, and yet, somehow, the first jury couldn’t reach a unanimous guilty verdict. Jed must not only defend Dexter, but also himself against people who consider his actions in representing such a clearly evil man to be immoral. But there is a secret cabal, bent on vengeance and vigilante justice, acting behind the scenes to ensure Dexter Wayne Jones is found not guilty.
The Ghost Case Posse shows the impossibility of idealism within a totally corrupt and broken justice system. Joe Greco has created a believable scenario where a hidden group of wealthy and committed vigilantes seeks to undermine the justice system to exact vengeance on criminals that they deem too evil to be allowed to live. I particularly appreciated the reflection that this cabal arose and was necessary because of the movement to abolish the death penalty in many states, leaving murderers and serial rapists able to live out their days peacefully in jail. Jed Bouvier was a wonderful character, reminiscent of Mickey Haller from The Lincoln Lawyer. He was caught between his dream of making a difference and his desire to lead a healthier, well-adjusted life. His burgeoning relationship with Amy gave the story real depth. I appreciated the different perspectives, allowing the reader to get inside the minds of many of the actors in the unfolding story arcs. This book is well-written, eminently readable, and exciting, with some excellent twists. I enjoyed it immensely and highly recommend it.
The Ghost Case Posse by Joe Greco is a courtroom drama that plays out in the daily lives of each of the participants. Jedediah (Jed) Bouvier is an idealistic lawyer who has followed the path of Public Defender in Murrieta County, California, to uphold the judicial principle that everyone is entitled to the best legal counsel to ensure a fair trial. A recovering alcoholic, Jed is aware of the public sentiment surrounding his latest capital murder case. Dexter Wayne Jones, a known serial rapist, is facing his second trial, after the first attempt resulted in a hung jury. Jed and his co-counsel know that Jones is almost certainly guilty and the evidence against him is overwhelming, and yet, somehow, the first jury couldn’t reach a unanimous guilty verdict. Jed must not only defend Dexter, but also himself against people who consider his actions in representing such a clearly evil man to be immoral. But there is a secret cabal, bent on vengeance and vigilante justice, acting behind the scenes to ensure Dexter Wayne Jones is found not guilty.
The Ghost Case Posse shows the impossibility of idealism within a totally corrupt and broken justice system. Joe Greco has created a believable scenario where a hidden group of wealthy and committed vigilantes seeks to undermine the justice system to exact vengeance on criminals that they deem too evil to be allowed to live. I particularly appreciated the reflection that this cabal arose and was necessary because of the movement to abolish the death penalty in many states, leaving murderers and serial rapists able to live out their days peacefully in jail. Jed Bouvier was a wonderful character, reminiscent of Mickey Haller from The Lincoln Lawyer. He was caught between his dream of making a difference and his desire to lead a healthier, well-adjusted life. His burgeoning relationship with Amy gave the story real depth. I appreciated the different perspectives, allowing the reader to get inside the minds of many of the actors in the unfolding story arcs. This book is well-written, eminently readable, and exciting, with some excellent twists. I enjoyed it immensely and highly recommend it.
Recommend this book:
Bad Day for Justice
Warren & Carmichael Legal Thrillers - Book 2
Charlotte Stuart and Don Stuart
2026 Gold Medal
Kindle Edition
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Fiction - Mystery - Legal
Reviewed by Angelique Papayannopoulos for Readers' Favorite
Bad Day for Justice by Charlotte and Don Stuart is an intense, multilayered legal thriller involving two families and spanning a period of almost 40 years. Navy pilot Danny Ortez hijacks a Navy jet and disappears into the Canadian wilderness. He leaves behind his wife, Julia, and young daughter, resulting in the Navy terminating any spouse benefits. She hires top-notch lawyer Duncan Carmichael to help her buy some time to relocate. In the meantime, her father, Harold Dawson, is murdered, and the accused is a work colleague. He employs the similarly brilliant Sydney Warren, Carmichael's law partner. Things, however, are not as clear-cut as they appear. Many years pass, and the two cases reemerge when the adult children of both families engage the same legal counsel to clear their families’ names. Years of buried secrets resurface, revealing a sophisticated conspiracy.
Charlotte Stuart and Don Stuart's Bad Day for Justice is a compelling criminal and legal thriller. Since the story spans over two generations and involves two related families, the narrative holds the reader’s attention as they try to find the connection between the two stories. A lot is going on in this well-paced plot, which is full of exciting turns. The authors’ subject matter knowledge is evident in this well-written story, making the scenes and characters realistic. A cast of complex characters and strong protagonists gives the plot a genuine and engaging structure. While the novel explores themes such as family, secrets, cold cases, and legal systems, intricate clues are exposed, leading to a surprising climax. Fans of crime thrillers, legal dramas, and detective novels will find this story riveting!
Bad Day for Justice by Charlotte and Don Stuart is an intense, multilayered legal thriller involving two families and spanning a period of almost 40 years. Navy pilot Danny Ortez hijacks a Navy jet and disappears into the Canadian wilderness. He leaves behind his wife, Julia, and young daughter, resulting in the Navy terminating any spouse benefits. She hires top-notch lawyer Duncan Carmichael to help her buy some time to relocate. In the meantime, her father, Harold Dawson, is murdered, and the accused is a work colleague. He employs the similarly brilliant Sydney Warren, Carmichael's law partner. Things, however, are not as clear-cut as they appear. Many years pass, and the two cases reemerge when the adult children of both families engage the same legal counsel to clear their families’ names. Years of buried secrets resurface, revealing a sophisticated conspiracy.
Charlotte Stuart and Don Stuart's Bad Day for Justice is a compelling criminal and legal thriller. Since the story spans over two generations and involves two related families, the narrative holds the reader’s attention as they try to find the connection between the two stories. A lot is going on in this well-paced plot, which is full of exciting turns. The authors’ subject matter knowledge is evident in this well-written story, making the scenes and characters realistic. A cast of complex characters and strong protagonists gives the plot a genuine and engaging structure. While the novel explores themes such as family, secrets, cold cases, and legal systems, intricate clues are exposed, leading to a surprising climax. Fans of crime thrillers, legal dramas, and detective novels will find this story riveting!
Recommend this book:
The Weight of Guilt
An Annie Collins Mystery
Helen Starbuck
2025 Finalist
272 Pages
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Fiction - Mystery - Legal
Reviewed by Angelique Papayannopoulos for Readers' Favorite
In The Weight of Guilt by Helen Starbuck, Annie Collins, now a private investigator, uses her nursing expertise to solve a mystery. Defense attorney Angel Cisnero, Annie's husband, is tasked with defending Mia Stewart, an operating room nurse, and his senior law partner's niece. Mia is suspected of brutally murdering a surgeon at the hospital where she works. Despite the victim being a known womanizer, evidence points to Mia, who had a motive, opportunity, and no alibi. Mia's arrogant and self-entitled demeanor may worsen her situation, but immense pressure from her uncle, Angel, must somehow secure an acquittal. He asks Annie and her partner Frost to investigate any evidence that could prove her innocence. Despite their efforts and the presence of other potential candidates with motives, this case poses a significant challenge that could jeopardize Angel's position at the firm.
A gripping suspense thriller, The Weight of Guilt is the fifth installment in The Annie Collins Mystery Series, but can be read independently. Helen Starbuck's character and plot development expertise shine through with gritty realism, especially in the meticulously detailed medical investigative components. By plunging readers into the characters' realities, the author leaves them uncertain as to who may be innocent and who is guilty. The relationship dynamics are portrayed authentically, ensuring readers connect with Annie's and Angel's challenges. The story moves at a measured pace, gradually building toward the gripping drama and mystery. Readers will be captivated as they wonder how the tale will unfold. With its clever twists and turns, the narrative surprises with an unexpected ending, while exploring themes of love, romance, trust, and justice. Enthusiasts of mysterious and suspenseful thrillers will find this novel an invigorating read!
In The Weight of Guilt by Helen Starbuck, Annie Collins, now a private investigator, uses her nursing expertise to solve a mystery. Defense attorney Angel Cisnero, Annie's husband, is tasked with defending Mia Stewart, an operating room nurse, and his senior law partner's niece. Mia is suspected of brutally murdering a surgeon at the hospital where she works. Despite the victim being a known womanizer, evidence points to Mia, who had a motive, opportunity, and no alibi. Mia's arrogant and self-entitled demeanor may worsen her situation, but immense pressure from her uncle, Angel, must somehow secure an acquittal. He asks Annie and her partner Frost to investigate any evidence that could prove her innocence. Despite their efforts and the presence of other potential candidates with motives, this case poses a significant challenge that could jeopardize Angel's position at the firm.
A gripping suspense thriller, The Weight of Guilt is the fifth installment in The Annie Collins Mystery Series, but can be read independently. Helen Starbuck's character and plot development expertise shine through with gritty realism, especially in the meticulously detailed medical investigative components. By plunging readers into the characters' realities, the author leaves them uncertain as to who may be innocent and who is guilty. The relationship dynamics are portrayed authentically, ensuring readers connect with Annie's and Angel's challenges. The story moves at a measured pace, gradually building toward the gripping drama and mystery. Readers will be captivated as they wonder how the tale will unfold. With its clever twists and turns, the narrative surprises with an unexpected ending, while exploring themes of love, romance, trust, and justice. Enthusiasts of mysterious and suspenseful thrillers will find this novel an invigorating read!
Recommend this book:
Four Women
Crime Mysteries by Norman Shabel
Norman Shabel
2025 Honorable Mention
Kindle Edition
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Fiction - Mystery - Legal
Reviewed by Demetria Head for Readers' Favorite
Norman Shabel's Four Women is a gripping legal thriller set against the vibrant yet decaying backdrop of Miami Beach in 1968. The novel dives into a web of corruption, greed, and political maneuvering, brought vividly to life through the struggles of four remarkable women: Helen, Rachel, Mary, and Lilly. Their fight to save their home from a malevolent real estate developer known as "the Austrian" is not just a battle for land but a confrontation with hidden pasts and dark secrets. With the aid of Helen's nephew, attorney Joshua Logan, the women confront not only their formidable adversaries but also their demons. Shabel expertly weaves a tale that keeps readers on the edge of their seats, eager to unravel the mystery and witness the women's resilience.
The pacing of Four Women is relentless, ensuring that readers are constantly engaged. From the vivid opening scene at the Dade County Courthouse, Norman Shabel paints a picture of a city teetering on the brink of chaos and corruption. The characters are richly developed, each carrying the weight of their histories and personal struggles. Helen's harrowing past as a Holocaust survivor and Rachel's heroism during World War II add profound depth to their personas, making their fight against eviction deeply personal and emotionally charged. Joshua Logan's character, flawed yet determined, provides a compelling contrast and a beacon of hope amidst the darkness. Fans of the legal thriller genre will find much to admire in Four Women. Shabel's intricate plot, filled with unexpected twists and turns, combined with his keen insight into human nature, makes this novel a standout. The story's historical context and moral complexities provide a rich tapestry that goes beyond mere courtroom drama, offering a poignant exploration of justice, survival, and the unyielding strength of the human spirit.
Norman Shabel's Four Women is a gripping legal thriller set against the vibrant yet decaying backdrop of Miami Beach in 1968. The novel dives into a web of corruption, greed, and political maneuvering, brought vividly to life through the struggles of four remarkable women: Helen, Rachel, Mary, and Lilly. Their fight to save their home from a malevolent real estate developer known as "the Austrian" is not just a battle for land but a confrontation with hidden pasts and dark secrets. With the aid of Helen's nephew, attorney Joshua Logan, the women confront not only their formidable adversaries but also their demons. Shabel expertly weaves a tale that keeps readers on the edge of their seats, eager to unravel the mystery and witness the women's resilience.
The pacing of Four Women is relentless, ensuring that readers are constantly engaged. From the vivid opening scene at the Dade County Courthouse, Norman Shabel paints a picture of a city teetering on the brink of chaos and corruption. The characters are richly developed, each carrying the weight of their histories and personal struggles. Helen's harrowing past as a Holocaust survivor and Rachel's heroism during World War II add profound depth to their personas, making their fight against eviction deeply personal and emotionally charged. Joshua Logan's character, flawed yet determined, provides a compelling contrast and a beacon of hope amidst the darkness. Fans of the legal thriller genre will find much to admire in Four Women. Shabel's intricate plot, filled with unexpected twists and turns, combined with his keen insight into human nature, makes this novel a standout. The story's historical context and moral complexities provide a rich tapestry that goes beyond mere courtroom drama, offering a poignant exploration of justice, survival, and the unyielding strength of the human spirit.
Recommend this book:
Beneath the White Coats
A Jack Ryder Murder Mystery
Owen Parr
2025 Silver Medal
Kindle Edition
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Fiction - Mystery - Legal
Reviewed by Asher Syed for Readers' Favorite
Beneath the White Coats by Owen Parr follows former Wall Street executive turned crime novelist Jack Ryder, investigating the suspicious death of Dr. Everett Sullivan during cardiac surgery performed by his longtime friend, Dr. Samuel Kohn. Kohn is arrested for murder amid revelations of Sullivan’s affair with Kohn’s wife, Judy. Assisted by Dakota, a data forensics student, Jack uncovers inconsistencies in the case, including a hospital error that led to Sullivan’s cremation, eliminating forensic evidence. As the trial unfolds, Jack digs deeper into the surgical team’s actions, uncovering possible medication tampering, staff conflicts, and financial motives tied to the hospital’s for-profit transition. When Dakota disappears, Jack fights to rescue her as his team dives into possible conspiracies involving contaminated drugs, financial fraud, and multiple embolism deaths across hospitals.
Beneath the White Coats: A Jack Ryder Murder Mystery by Owen Parr is a spectacularly intensive thriller that is marked by its consistently clear and tightly precise writing, even for someone like me who has zero medical knowledge and can barely understand what WebMD throws at me. That said, as someone who works for the Justice Department in real life, the testimonies are spot-on. Parr does so well in balancing procedural elements with organic dialogue, with some real fist-pump moments during Ryder’s tense confrontations, the best coming along unexpectedly at the Miccosukee Reservation. The pacing is fast and perpetually anxiety-laced in the best possible way, whether it is a surgery complication or a chase through the swamp. Overall, this is a brilliant story and a polished and satisfying read, perfect for fans of procedural, medical, and action-packed crime fiction alike. Very highly recommended.
Beneath the White Coats by Owen Parr follows former Wall Street executive turned crime novelist Jack Ryder, investigating the suspicious death of Dr. Everett Sullivan during cardiac surgery performed by his longtime friend, Dr. Samuel Kohn. Kohn is arrested for murder amid revelations of Sullivan’s affair with Kohn’s wife, Judy. Assisted by Dakota, a data forensics student, Jack uncovers inconsistencies in the case, including a hospital error that led to Sullivan’s cremation, eliminating forensic evidence. As the trial unfolds, Jack digs deeper into the surgical team’s actions, uncovering possible medication tampering, staff conflicts, and financial motives tied to the hospital’s for-profit transition. When Dakota disappears, Jack fights to rescue her as his team dives into possible conspiracies involving contaminated drugs, financial fraud, and multiple embolism deaths across hospitals.
Beneath the White Coats: A Jack Ryder Murder Mystery by Owen Parr is a spectacularly intensive thriller that is marked by its consistently clear and tightly precise writing, even for someone like me who has zero medical knowledge and can barely understand what WebMD throws at me. That said, as someone who works for the Justice Department in real life, the testimonies are spot-on. Parr does so well in balancing procedural elements with organic dialogue, with some real fist-pump moments during Ryder’s tense confrontations, the best coming along unexpectedly at the Miccosukee Reservation. The pacing is fast and perpetually anxiety-laced in the best possible way, whether it is a surgery complication or a chase through the swamp. Overall, this is a brilliant story and a polished and satisfying read, perfect for fans of procedural, medical, and action-packed crime fiction alike. Very highly recommended.
Recommend this book:
An American Tragedy
Dan Flanigan
2025 Gold Medal
Kindle Edition
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Fiction - Mystery - Legal
Reviewed by Demetria Head for Readers' Favorite
Dan Flanigan’s An American Tragedy plunges readers into the intense and controversial era of the Satanic Panic of the late 1980s. In the scorching summer of 1988, private detective O’Keefe is unexpectedly drawn into a harrowing legal battle when Virginia Montrose, known affectionately as “Miss Ginny” to her students, is accused of committing horrific crimes against her students. As the beloved teacher of O’Keefe’s daughter Kelly, Miss Ginny’s indictment throws O’Keefe into a moral and professional dilemma. Determined to clear Miss Ginny’s name, O’Keefe finds himself up against shadowy child protection figures and a frenzied public gripped by paranoia.
Dan Flanigan masterfully crafts a legal mystery that is both compelling and thought-provoking. The plot is tightly woven, maintaining a high level of suspense as O’Keefe navigates through a maze of accusations, hidden agendas, and societal hysteria. O’Keefe is a well-rounded protagonist, and his character is portrayed with depth and nuance. His journey from a fledgling detective to a determined advocate for justice highlights his resilience and moral integrity. The depiction of the 1980s Satanic Panic era is both vivid and unsettling, providing a stark backdrop for the unfolding drama. Fans of legal mysteries will appreciate the intricate plot, well-developed characters, and the exploration of themes such as justice, truth, and moral courage. An American Tragedy is a gripping read that not only entertains but also challenges readers to reflect on the darker aspects of human nature and the consequences of mass hysteria.
Dan Flanigan’s An American Tragedy plunges readers into the intense and controversial era of the Satanic Panic of the late 1980s. In the scorching summer of 1988, private detective O’Keefe is unexpectedly drawn into a harrowing legal battle when Virginia Montrose, known affectionately as “Miss Ginny” to her students, is accused of committing horrific crimes against her students. As the beloved teacher of O’Keefe’s daughter Kelly, Miss Ginny’s indictment throws O’Keefe into a moral and professional dilemma. Determined to clear Miss Ginny’s name, O’Keefe finds himself up against shadowy child protection figures and a frenzied public gripped by paranoia.
Dan Flanigan masterfully crafts a legal mystery that is both compelling and thought-provoking. The plot is tightly woven, maintaining a high level of suspense as O’Keefe navigates through a maze of accusations, hidden agendas, and societal hysteria. O’Keefe is a well-rounded protagonist, and his character is portrayed with depth and nuance. His journey from a fledgling detective to a determined advocate for justice highlights his resilience and moral integrity. The depiction of the 1980s Satanic Panic era is both vivid and unsettling, providing a stark backdrop for the unfolding drama. Fans of legal mysteries will appreciate the intricate plot, well-developed characters, and the exploration of themes such as justice, truth, and moral courage. An American Tragedy is a gripping read that not only entertains but also challenges readers to reflect on the darker aspects of human nature and the consequences of mass hysteria.
Recommend this book:
Unjust
A Jason Michelson Legal Thriller
Brooke Holmes
2024 Finalist
334 Pages
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Fiction - Mystery - Legal
Reviewed by Lucinda E Clarke for Readers' Favorite
In Brooke Holmes' Unjust, Jason Michelson is hired by one of the most prestigious law firms in Minneapolis and works an average of 120 hours a week. He lives frugally and, as a workaholic, he is a rising star in Goldstein Brandt Miller and Fredrickson as a fourth-year associate in the commercial law section. He loved his profession but was dismayed when he was instructed to add extra to his caseload with one hundred hours of pro bono work. He is directed to help Rachel Nix in the case of Maxwell Williams who, forty years earlier, had been sentenced for raping and killing his girlfriend. Now evidence had come to light and they were tasked with preparing for a new trial to exonerate the innocent victim. Despite a rocky start, Jason and Rachael are attracted to each other and work hard to prepare a new defense and maybe discover who murdered Amelia Marie Jackson. Weaving through the intricacies of the law does not make life easier, and the outcome is not what they expected.
I enjoyed reading Unjust by Brooke Holmes and despite knowing that the law is not fair, the points made are shocking. The story is so believable and authentic since Holmes is a lawyer and knows her subject intimately. To a reader not familiar with the legal profession, the author clearly describes the various points of law as Jason and Rachel work hard to prepare a case for a wrongly accused man and secure his release from jail. It is heartwarming to know that there are non-government organizations that attempt to right the wrongs of an unjust law. A large part of the book is the trial and I was riveted to the pages as the prosecution and defence argue their cases. Once I started reading, it was difficult to put this book down. The characters leaped off the page as they were so realistically drawn and you cared about them, always a sign of a good book. It never flags in pace and the developing romance between Jason and Rachel adds an extra dimension. Holmes takes us behind the scenes to share what really happens in a court of law and it is a fascinating read. Highly recommended.
In Brooke Holmes' Unjust, Jason Michelson is hired by one of the most prestigious law firms in Minneapolis and works an average of 120 hours a week. He lives frugally and, as a workaholic, he is a rising star in Goldstein Brandt Miller and Fredrickson as a fourth-year associate in the commercial law section. He loved his profession but was dismayed when he was instructed to add extra to his caseload with one hundred hours of pro bono work. He is directed to help Rachel Nix in the case of Maxwell Williams who, forty years earlier, had been sentenced for raping and killing his girlfriend. Now evidence had come to light and they were tasked with preparing for a new trial to exonerate the innocent victim. Despite a rocky start, Jason and Rachael are attracted to each other and work hard to prepare a new defense and maybe discover who murdered Amelia Marie Jackson. Weaving through the intricacies of the law does not make life easier, and the outcome is not what they expected.
I enjoyed reading Unjust by Brooke Holmes and despite knowing that the law is not fair, the points made are shocking. The story is so believable and authentic since Holmes is a lawyer and knows her subject intimately. To a reader not familiar with the legal profession, the author clearly describes the various points of law as Jason and Rachel work hard to prepare a case for a wrongly accused man and secure his release from jail. It is heartwarming to know that there are non-government organizations that attempt to right the wrongs of an unjust law. A large part of the book is the trial and I was riveted to the pages as the prosecution and defence argue their cases. Once I started reading, it was difficult to put this book down. The characters leaped off the page as they were so realistically drawn and you cared about them, always a sign of a good book. It never flags in pace and the developing romance between Jason and Rachel adds an extra dimension. Holmes takes us behind the scenes to share what really happens in a court of law and it is a fascinating read. Highly recommended.
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