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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.
Recommend this book:
Love Hate Law
A Kramer-O'Hara Legal Romance
Mark M. Bello
2024 Honorable Mention
Kindle Edition
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Fiction - Mystery - Legal
Reviewed by Essien Asian for Readers' Favorite
A young woman dies in a stampede at the Michigan State Capitol. Her distraught father hires Andrea Kramer, an up-and-coming lawyer with a struggling practice, to bring his daughter's killers to justice. Andrea believes there is a possibility that she can get justice for her client. Still, the prospect of going up against high-flying Michael O’Hara, who has all the state's resources at his disposal, is a daunting proposition. Michael believes this case will go the way of his previous victories, but there is something about the beautiful attorney opposing him that makes him suspect it may not be business as usual this time. Read Mark M. Bello's Love Hate Law to find out who wins.
Courtroom rivalry leads to romance in Mark M. Bello’s Love Hate Law. Bello’s plot integrates elements of recent political happenings into a classic love story that readers will find as entertaining as it is relatable. The characters are well-crafted, and their motivations are clear enough for the reader to understand. Bello takes time to develop an exciting subplot about Michael’s fall from grace, deep enough to spawn a complete story that can stand alone. Another striking aspect of this novel is the focus Bello puts into the court proceedings as the story gathers momentum, going so far as to explain the jury selection process in a way that makes the event an immersive experience for the reader. Bello allows the reader to decide if the ethical ramifications of Andrea's and Michael’s activities make such a dalliance appealing. Bello’s unconventional storytelling approach guarantees that mystery and romance fans will enjoy Love Hate Law as much as I did.
A young woman dies in a stampede at the Michigan State Capitol. Her distraught father hires Andrea Kramer, an up-and-coming lawyer with a struggling practice, to bring his daughter's killers to justice. Andrea believes there is a possibility that she can get justice for her client. Still, the prospect of going up against high-flying Michael O’Hara, who has all the state's resources at his disposal, is a daunting proposition. Michael believes this case will go the way of his previous victories, but there is something about the beautiful attorney opposing him that makes him suspect it may not be business as usual this time. Read Mark M. Bello's Love Hate Law to find out who wins.
Courtroom rivalry leads to romance in Mark M. Bello’s Love Hate Law. Bello’s plot integrates elements of recent political happenings into a classic love story that readers will find as entertaining as it is relatable. The characters are well-crafted, and their motivations are clear enough for the reader to understand. Bello takes time to develop an exciting subplot about Michael’s fall from grace, deep enough to spawn a complete story that can stand alone. Another striking aspect of this novel is the focus Bello puts into the court proceedings as the story gathers momentum, going so far as to explain the jury selection process in a way that makes the event an immersive experience for the reader. Bello allows the reader to decide if the ethical ramifications of Andrea's and Michael’s activities make such a dalliance appealing. Bello’s unconventional storytelling approach guarantees that mystery and romance fans will enjoy Love Hate Law as much as I did.
Recommend this book:
Plausible Liars
Dr. Lindsey McCall Medical Mystery
Lin Wilder
2024 Bronze Medal
322 Pages
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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:
In the Shadows of the Game
A Joey Mancuso, Father O'Brian Crime Mystery Book 12
Owen Parr
2024 Silver Medal
Kindle Edition
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Fiction - Mystery - Legal
Reviewed by Alma Boucher for Readers' Favorite
In the Shadows of the Game, a mystery and legal thriller by Owen Parr, starts with Ruth informing Joey Mancuso over the phone that her son, Randy Goldstein, had been taken into custody and would soon face charges related to second-degree murder. The victim was Silvio Alvarez, a teammate on Randy’s tennis team. All the evidence and circumstances pointed to Randy as the killer, and Mancuso had to track down the real killer to prove Randy's innocence. During Mancuso and his team’s investigation, they found a syndicate that forced teenage girls into prostitution as well as a syndicate that took advantage of female students making provocative videos of themselves. When people of interest were murdered, it was up to Mancuso to unravel the mystery behind these murders and find the link between them.
In the Shadows of the Game by Owen was a roller coaster ride of blackmail, courtroom drama, deceit, murder, suspense, and guilt. The plot was excellently executed and full of action and suspense, and there was never a dull moment. This page-turner hooked me from the start and kept me on the edge of my seat. The court proceedings had an engaging focus and provided an immersive experience. With all the unexpected twists and turns, I never knew what to expect next. The characters were authentic and easy to relate to. Mancuso believed in Randy’s innocence and investigated all possible aspects to prove his innocence. The story was brilliantly written and exceeded my expectations. The epilogue was an enjoyable read as Owen Parr expertly outlined the brilliant conclusion.
In the Shadows of the Game, a mystery and legal thriller by Owen Parr, starts with Ruth informing Joey Mancuso over the phone that her son, Randy Goldstein, had been taken into custody and would soon face charges related to second-degree murder. The victim was Silvio Alvarez, a teammate on Randy’s tennis team. All the evidence and circumstances pointed to Randy as the killer, and Mancuso had to track down the real killer to prove Randy's innocence. During Mancuso and his team’s investigation, they found a syndicate that forced teenage girls into prostitution as well as a syndicate that took advantage of female students making provocative videos of themselves. When people of interest were murdered, it was up to Mancuso to unravel the mystery behind these murders and find the link between them.
In the Shadows of the Game by Owen was a roller coaster ride of blackmail, courtroom drama, deceit, murder, suspense, and guilt. The plot was excellently executed and full of action and suspense, and there was never a dull moment. This page-turner hooked me from the start and kept me on the edge of my seat. The court proceedings had an engaging focus and provided an immersive experience. With all the unexpected twists and turns, I never knew what to expect next. The characters were authentic and easy to relate to. Mancuso believed in Randy’s innocence and investigated all possible aspects to prove his innocence. The story was brilliantly written and exceeded my expectations. The epilogue was an enjoyable read as Owen Parr expertly outlined the brilliant conclusion.
Recommend this book:
The Empty Kayak
Jodé Millman
2023 Honorable Mention
Kindle Edition
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Fiction - Mystery - Legal
Reviewed by Anne-Marie Reynolds for Readers' Favorite
The Empty Kayak by Jodé Millman is a mystery with a difference. Olivia and Kyle are kayaking along the Hudson River when a storm rolls in out of nowhere. While Olivia finds her way back to shore, her fiancé, Kyle, doesn’t. Detective Ebony Jones arrives at the river to help them, but discovering who the missing man is sends shockwaves through her. He’s her best friend’s ex-boyfriend, and Jessie and Kyle share a daughter. Ebony must investigate the mystery of what happened to Kyle; while Jessie seeks justice, neither woman is prepared for what they will face. Lies, betrayal, and earth-shattering secrets will drive a wedge between everyone involved, but Ebony and Jessie need to uncover the truth, no matter what. Will they learn what happened to Kyle? Will the truth tear them apart? And where does Olivia fit into everything?
The Empty Kayak by Jodé Millman is a wonderfully tense mystery with a strong focus on relationships and careers destroying lives. Although it is a police procedural novel, it is more about the personal and emotional aspects. It is part of a series, but I found it easy to read as a standalone novel. Although the characters are well-developed, reading the first two books in the series will provide an even better understanding of the two main protagonists, Ebony and Jessie. It has a unique storyline, and the tension builds with every page, reeling you in to discover the truth behind Kyle’s disappearance. The suspense draws you deeper into this gripping tale; you won’t put it down until you’re done. Of course, then you’ll want to read the rest of the series to get to know these fantastic characters better.
The Empty Kayak by Jodé Millman is a mystery with a difference. Olivia and Kyle are kayaking along the Hudson River when a storm rolls in out of nowhere. While Olivia finds her way back to shore, her fiancé, Kyle, doesn’t. Detective Ebony Jones arrives at the river to help them, but discovering who the missing man is sends shockwaves through her. He’s her best friend’s ex-boyfriend, and Jessie and Kyle share a daughter. Ebony must investigate the mystery of what happened to Kyle; while Jessie seeks justice, neither woman is prepared for what they will face. Lies, betrayal, and earth-shattering secrets will drive a wedge between everyone involved, but Ebony and Jessie need to uncover the truth, no matter what. Will they learn what happened to Kyle? Will the truth tear them apart? And where does Olivia fit into everything?
The Empty Kayak by Jodé Millman is a wonderfully tense mystery with a strong focus on relationships and careers destroying lives. Although it is a police procedural novel, it is more about the personal and emotional aspects. It is part of a series, but I found it easy to read as a standalone novel. Although the characters are well-developed, reading the first two books in the series will provide an even better understanding of the two main protagonists, Ebony and Jessie. It has a unique storyline, and the tension builds with every page, reeling you in to discover the truth behind Kyle’s disappearance. The suspense draws you deeper into this gripping tale; you won’t put it down until you’re done. Of course, then you’ll want to read the rest of the series to get to know these fantastic characters better.
Recommend this book:
Burning Justice
Innocent Prisoners Project Book 6
Marti Green
2023 Bronze Medal
Kindle Edition
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Fiction - Mystery - Legal
Reviewed by Anne-Marie Reynolds for Readers' Favorite
Burning Justice by Marti Green is Book 6 in the Innocent Prisoners Project Series. Becky Whitlaw, a young widow from Texas, stands accused of burning her house down, killing her three children. She claims she is innocent but could she have done it in a drunken blackout? The jury says she is guilty and convicts her. Twenty years on, Dani Trumball takes her case. Working with the Help Innocent Prisoners Project as a defense attorney, Dani agrees to defend Becky, even though the evidence is pointing straight at her. At the same time, California wildfires are raging closer and closer to Dani’s home; can she find the evidence she needs to get Becky acquitted at the same time as keeping her own husband and kids safe? Time is short for Dani and this case will test her to the limits.
Burning Justice by Marti Green is the sixth book in the Innocent Prisoners Project series but can be read as a standalone story. Marti Green has written a cracking legal thriller here, a story that tells another side of the justice system and shows us that not everything is black or white. The main protagonist, Dani, is very well developed, a likable, real person with real problems. This isn’t just about her legal battles; this is about her personal battles too and it makes for an intriguing read. There’s plenty of action, suspenseful mystery, and legal information along the way, some of which might cause your eyebrows to raise a little! The story is full of emotion and you will feel drawn to both Dani and Becky, rooting for them all the way. Highly recommended reading. I will be reading the rest of the series.
Burning Justice by Marti Green is Book 6 in the Innocent Prisoners Project Series. Becky Whitlaw, a young widow from Texas, stands accused of burning her house down, killing her three children. She claims she is innocent but could she have done it in a drunken blackout? The jury says she is guilty and convicts her. Twenty years on, Dani Trumball takes her case. Working with the Help Innocent Prisoners Project as a defense attorney, Dani agrees to defend Becky, even though the evidence is pointing straight at her. At the same time, California wildfires are raging closer and closer to Dani’s home; can she find the evidence she needs to get Becky acquitted at the same time as keeping her own husband and kids safe? Time is short for Dani and this case will test her to the limits.
Burning Justice by Marti Green is the sixth book in the Innocent Prisoners Project series but can be read as a standalone story. Marti Green has written a cracking legal thriller here, a story that tells another side of the justice system and shows us that not everything is black or white. The main protagonist, Dani, is very well developed, a likable, real person with real problems. This isn’t just about her legal battles; this is about her personal battles too and it makes for an intriguing read. There’s plenty of action, suspenseful mystery, and legal information along the way, some of which might cause your eyebrows to raise a little! The story is full of emotion and you will feel drawn to both Dani and Becky, rooting for them all the way. Highly recommended reading. I will be reading the rest of the series.
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