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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.
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Plausible Liars
Dr. Lindsey McCall Medical Mystery
Lin Wilder
2024 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:
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.
Recommend this book:
Under the Ashes
Murder and Morels (Burr Lafayette Mystery)
Charles Cutter
2023 Silver Medal
276 Pages
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Fiction - Mystery - Legal
Reviewed by Danelle Petersen for Readers' Favorite
Under the Ashes: Murder and Morels by Charles Cutter is a clever and suspense-filled thriller with the good-looking but sometimes off-kilter Burr Lafayette as the lead character. Burr is an excellent lawyer but likes his Labatt beer a little too much and sometimes gets his wires crossed by mixing business with pleasure–to the utter dismay of his two loyal and supportive associates; Eve, his legal assistant, and Jacob, co-owner of their law firm, Lafayette and Wertheim. However, they have full confidence in his ability to find justice. The firm’s new client, Mrs. Molly Fagan, recently widowed wife of radio station owner Nick Fagan, hired them for what should be an open-and-shut case and is anything but. What follows a rollercoaster ride of lust, revenge, power, and Burr at his finest.
Under the Ashes: Murder and Morels was entertaining from beginning to end. The dialogue was crazy and witty; there was never a dull moment. The pace kept me on my toes, and the plot was well thought-out; just when I was sure I knew the culprit, Cutter found a new angle, and I was back to square one. The way Cutter constructed each character was great, unique, and relatable, and Zeke the Lab was adorable. Burr is good at what he does, and Cutter easily draws out the character, making him likable even with his unorthodox ways. I recommend Under the Ashes to those who love mystery thrillers, bizarre protagonists, and courtroom dramas.
Under the Ashes: Murder and Morels by Charles Cutter is a clever and suspense-filled thriller with the good-looking but sometimes off-kilter Burr Lafayette as the lead character. Burr is an excellent lawyer but likes his Labatt beer a little too much and sometimes gets his wires crossed by mixing business with pleasure–to the utter dismay of his two loyal and supportive associates; Eve, his legal assistant, and Jacob, co-owner of their law firm, Lafayette and Wertheim. However, they have full confidence in his ability to find justice. The firm’s new client, Mrs. Molly Fagan, recently widowed wife of radio station owner Nick Fagan, hired them for what should be an open-and-shut case and is anything but. What follows a rollercoaster ride of lust, revenge, power, and Burr at his finest.
Under the Ashes: Murder and Morels was entertaining from beginning to end. The dialogue was crazy and witty; there was never a dull moment. The pace kept me on my toes, and the plot was well thought-out; just when I was sure I knew the culprit, Cutter found a new angle, and I was back to square one. The way Cutter constructed each character was great, unique, and relatable, and Zeke the Lab was adorable. Burr is good at what he does, and Cutter easily draws out the character, making him likable even with his unorthodox ways. I recommend Under the Ashes to those who love mystery thrillers, bizarre protagonists, and courtroom dramas.
Recommend this book:
The Night of the Burning Car
A Mystery Thriller
Rob Lubitz
2023 Gold Medal
Kindle Edition
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Fiction - Mystery - Legal
Reviewed by Alma Boucher for Readers' Favorite
The Night of the Burning Car by Rob Lubitz is about Billy Dalton, who is on his way home and takes a shortcut through Kane County. Coming around a long bend, Billy saw a car speed off, and another car that was engulfed in flames. Running to the car, he helped a woman and her child to safety before the gas tank exploded. When he woke up in the hospital, nobody knew about the woman and child that he rescued. Billy is forced to plead guilty to drunk driving to avoid going to jail. Years later, a private detective contacted him and informed him that the woman and child he had saved wanted to thank him. For the first time, Billy had concrete evidence that he did rescue a woman and child and that it had not been just his imagination.
The Night of the Burning Car by Rob Lubitz is a mystery thriller set in Kane County where the Harkins family is the law. The action started in the first chapter and never stopped. It was unnerving that a family could do whatever they wanted and no one could stop them. The plot was original, compelling, and excellently executed. The twists and turns ensured that I never knew what to expect next. I just kept reading and could not put it down as I did not want to miss anything. The characters are authentic and well-defined. It was easy to follow the cast and their part in the story, which was well-written and intriguing. It surpassed all my expectations. The climax was extraordinary and it could not have ended in a better way.
The Night of the Burning Car by Rob Lubitz is about Billy Dalton, who is on his way home and takes a shortcut through Kane County. Coming around a long bend, Billy saw a car speed off, and another car that was engulfed in flames. Running to the car, he helped a woman and her child to safety before the gas tank exploded. When he woke up in the hospital, nobody knew about the woman and child that he rescued. Billy is forced to plead guilty to drunk driving to avoid going to jail. Years later, a private detective contacted him and informed him that the woman and child he had saved wanted to thank him. For the first time, Billy had concrete evidence that he did rescue a woman and child and that it had not been just his imagination.
The Night of the Burning Car by Rob Lubitz is a mystery thriller set in Kane County where the Harkins family is the law. The action started in the first chapter and never stopped. It was unnerving that a family could do whatever they wanted and no one could stop them. The plot was original, compelling, and excellently executed. The twists and turns ensured that I never knew what to expect next. I just kept reading and could not put it down as I did not want to miss anything. The characters are authentic and well-defined. It was easy to follow the cast and their part in the story, which was well-written and intriguing. It surpassed all my expectations. The climax was extraordinary and it could not have ended in a better way.
Recommend this book:
You Have The Right to Remain Silent
Zachary Blake Legal Thriller # 8
Mark M. Bello
2022 Gold Medal
Kindle Edition
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Fiction - Mystery - Legal
Reviewed by Anne-Marie Reynolds for Readers' Favorite
You Have The Right to Remain Silent by Mark M. Bello is the eighth book in the Zachary Blake legal thriller series. Mia Folger, a popular talk show host, doesn’t get on with her husband anymore, Congressman Bradley Crawford, and is in therapy. When Crawford's dismembered body is found, Mia comes under the spotlight as the primary suspect. Her therapist believes she is innocent and recommends Zachary Blake, a top defense attorney to defend her against the charge of murder. However, Mia went into catatonic shock when she found Crawford's body and cannot help Zack prepare her defense. It’s up to Zack and investigator Micah Love to crack the case and that's where Shari Belitz, a top jury consultant comes in. It's their job to disprove the evidence but Zack doesn’t think he needs Shari's help. Shadows in the background, evil figures, are looking to ensure that Mia goes down for the crime and it's up to the team to find the evidence to clear Mia and discover the real killer in the process.
I have not read any of the others in this series but You Have the Right to Remain Silent by Mark M. Bello has made me want to read them all. This is more than just your standard legal thriller. With twists and turns all the way, and some tough, cocky characters, nothing is as you expect. The characters are wonderfully developed; unique, real people that we can all relate to on some level. The plot is ingenious, very cleverly written, with each twist leading you closer to an explosive ending. Throw in some psychotic, evil characters to bounce off the rest, and you have the perfect legal thriller that will have you on the edge of your seat. Once you start reading, you won't put this book down until you're done. A gripping story, ideal for all fans of the legal world and social justice.
You Have The Right to Remain Silent by Mark M. Bello is the eighth book in the Zachary Blake legal thriller series. Mia Folger, a popular talk show host, doesn’t get on with her husband anymore, Congressman Bradley Crawford, and is in therapy. When Crawford's dismembered body is found, Mia comes under the spotlight as the primary suspect. Her therapist believes she is innocent and recommends Zachary Blake, a top defense attorney to defend her against the charge of murder. However, Mia went into catatonic shock when she found Crawford's body and cannot help Zack prepare her defense. It’s up to Zack and investigator Micah Love to crack the case and that's where Shari Belitz, a top jury consultant comes in. It's their job to disprove the evidence but Zack doesn’t think he needs Shari's help. Shadows in the background, evil figures, are looking to ensure that Mia goes down for the crime and it's up to the team to find the evidence to clear Mia and discover the real killer in the process.
I have not read any of the others in this series but You Have the Right to Remain Silent by Mark M. Bello has made me want to read them all. This is more than just your standard legal thriller. With twists and turns all the way, and some tough, cocky characters, nothing is as you expect. The characters are wonderfully developed; unique, real people that we can all relate to on some level. The plot is ingenious, very cleverly written, with each twist leading you closer to an explosive ending. Throw in some psychotic, evil characters to bounce off the rest, and you have the perfect legal thriller that will have you on the edge of your seat. Once you start reading, you won't put this book down until you're done. A gripping story, ideal for all fans of the legal world and social justice.
Recommend this book:
Fetch Me a Hangman
R. G. Ashcroft
2022 Silver Medal
287 Pages
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Fiction - Mystery - Legal
Reviewed by Natalie Soine for Readers' Favorite
Fetch Me a Hangman by R. G. Ashcroft is set in Clayton County in 2014. Mayor Reynold Ford and his wife Katrina have two children, Hillary and Katherine. When tragedy strikes the family, Brandeis Fields, Esq. is assigned to defend the accused, Aaron Tait. Sheriff Randy Stiner collects evidence against Aaron but could have been misdirected. With the help of attorney Bill Williams as co-counsel, Brandeis interviews witnesses who may prove his client innocent. His assistant Janet, wife Adair, daughter Becca, and son Peter may also unwittingly provide information pertaining to the case. Brandeis and Reynold have an unpleasant history which may impact Aaron’s case if Brandeis cannot remain objective. Aaron has no option but to put his faith in the very legal system that could count against him.
Fetch Me a Hangman is a thrilling, suspenseful story filled with mystery and intrigue. Author R. G. Ashcroft has created a novel second to none. The characters are well defined and easy to relate to, from old Ms. Twigg to Judge McConnell. The story is filled with twists and turns as Brandeis uncovers layer upon layer of surprising evidence both for and against his client. Ashcroft keeps the reader enthralled from beginning to end trying to predict the outcome of the court case. The scenes and locations are beautifully depicted, especially the parks and stately homes. I thoroughly enjoyed the way Ashcroft portrays Brandeis and his sense of humor, as well as his “down-to-earth” old-school persona. All-round, a fantastic novel highly recommended to everyone.
Fetch Me a Hangman by R. G. Ashcroft is set in Clayton County in 2014. Mayor Reynold Ford and his wife Katrina have two children, Hillary and Katherine. When tragedy strikes the family, Brandeis Fields, Esq. is assigned to defend the accused, Aaron Tait. Sheriff Randy Stiner collects evidence against Aaron but could have been misdirected. With the help of attorney Bill Williams as co-counsel, Brandeis interviews witnesses who may prove his client innocent. His assistant Janet, wife Adair, daughter Becca, and son Peter may also unwittingly provide information pertaining to the case. Brandeis and Reynold have an unpleasant history which may impact Aaron’s case if Brandeis cannot remain objective. Aaron has no option but to put his faith in the very legal system that could count against him.
Fetch Me a Hangman is a thrilling, suspenseful story filled with mystery and intrigue. Author R. G. Ashcroft has created a novel second to none. The characters are well defined and easy to relate to, from old Ms. Twigg to Judge McConnell. The story is filled with twists and turns as Brandeis uncovers layer upon layer of surprising evidence both for and against his client. Ashcroft keeps the reader enthralled from beginning to end trying to predict the outcome of the court case. The scenes and locations are beautifully depicted, especially the parks and stately homes. I thoroughly enjoyed the way Ashcroft portrays Brandeis and his sense of humor, as well as his “down-to-earth” old-school persona. All-round, a fantastic novel highly recommended to everyone.
Recommend this book:
Automatic Stay
Mark Shaiken
2022 Bronze Medal
406 Pages
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Fiction - Mystery - Legal
Reviewed by Asher Syed for Readers' Favorite
COVID-19 decimated the entertainment and hospitality sectors and with regard to the human body and enterprises that can only function if they are up and running, nobody and nothing was immune. In Automatic Stay by Mark Shaiken, a reader is shown the aftermath of the pandemic from an angle a lot of individuals don't know anything about, which is legal bankruptcy. Shaiken's main character is a bankruptcy lawyer named Josephina “3J” Jillian Jones in Kansas City. Her clients come to her after negotiations to resettle a loan privately fail with a man to whom they owe millions. Bankruptcy restructuring is a complex speciality that 3J understands and successfully petitions for professionally. The business owners are the Rapinoes and the lender is Phillip Dewey, whose success and understanding at successfully thwarting clients' attempts to bankrupt and short-change him means 3J is up for the fight of her career.
Automatic Stay is the second legal thriller I've read by Mark Shaiken that features 3J, the first being Fresh Start. I have an advantage that other readers possibly do not as a career Justice Department legal shark with a background in economics. I share this only to highlight that I can tell when an author is padding a story with legal maneuvers and jargon that do not exist. Shaiken is not one of those writers and the result is a story that neither requires too much suspension of disbelief and is also engrossing. The prose is clean and frequently elegant and the pacing is pitch perfect. I was also struck by the maturation of Shaiken's writing and being able to see an author grow in their work from the start makes me feel like I am a part of their journey. Fresh Start was impressive; Automatic Stay is remarkable. I look forward to the next 3J legal adventure and what comes next from the mind of a skilled author.
COVID-19 decimated the entertainment and hospitality sectors and with regard to the human body and enterprises that can only function if they are up and running, nobody and nothing was immune. In Automatic Stay by Mark Shaiken, a reader is shown the aftermath of the pandemic from an angle a lot of individuals don't know anything about, which is legal bankruptcy. Shaiken's main character is a bankruptcy lawyer named Josephina “3J” Jillian Jones in Kansas City. Her clients come to her after negotiations to resettle a loan privately fail with a man to whom they owe millions. Bankruptcy restructuring is a complex speciality that 3J understands and successfully petitions for professionally. The business owners are the Rapinoes and the lender is Phillip Dewey, whose success and understanding at successfully thwarting clients' attempts to bankrupt and short-change him means 3J is up for the fight of her career.
Automatic Stay is the second legal thriller I've read by Mark Shaiken that features 3J, the first being Fresh Start. I have an advantage that other readers possibly do not as a career Justice Department legal shark with a background in economics. I share this only to highlight that I can tell when an author is padding a story with legal maneuvers and jargon that do not exist. Shaiken is not one of those writers and the result is a story that neither requires too much suspension of disbelief and is also engrossing. The prose is clean and frequently elegant and the pacing is pitch perfect. I was also struck by the maturation of Shaiken's writing and being able to see an author grow in their work from the start makes me feel like I am a part of their journey. Fresh Start was impressive; Automatic Stay is remarkable. I look forward to the next 3J legal adventure and what comes next from the mind of a skilled author.
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