Daycare Santa, By J.L. Campbell

Book Excerpt:

"The holiday season is a time of joy and celebration, but Regina Wright's world is unraveling.

A split with her business partner just as the festive rush begins leaves her drowning in the pressures of keeping her business afloat.

Her six-year-old son, Luca, takes matters into his own hands by writing an outrageous letter to Santa. His extraordinary wish puts Gina on Santa's radar.

Regina can't avoid Zack Winters, the stand-in St. Nick, who turns up in the most unlikely places as the holiday draws nearer. As she juggles business and parenthood, he throws out a challenge.

Can she enjoy the season and accept the help she needs to rescue her business before midnight on Christmas Eve?

Join Gina and Zack on a heartwarming journey filled with laughter, love, and the belief that sometimes, the best gifts come in unexpected packages."

Title: Daycare Santa
Author: J. L. Campbell
Publisher: The Writers' Suite (December 6, 2024)
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:
'Daycare Santa' by J. L. Campbell

My Perception:

"Daycare Santa" is not just a heartwarming holiday romance; it's a celebration of love, resilience, and the surprising ways life can bring us joy. This enchanting story focuses on Regina Wright, a widow and single mother who navigates the challenges of parenting her six-year-old son, Luca while trying to keep her business afloat amidst the holiday chaos.

Regina's journey of self-discovery begins as she deals with the fallout of a relationship tinged with deception, thanks to her astute friend Nichelle, who helps her see the truth about Boyd. Meanwhile, Isaac "Zack" Winters has his wounds to heal after facing betrayal, leading him to become a stand-in Santa at Wintertime Daycare, where he connects with children and brightens their holidays.

When Regina and Luca cross paths with Zack, a spark ignites. Yet, Regina's guarded heart hesitates to open up to a new connection. This story beautifully captures her struggle to embrace vulnerability while maintaining her independence. As she navigates her feelings and learns to accept help, the warmth of the holiday spirit envelops her in the most unexpected ways.

"Daycare Santa" is a must-read for anyone yearning for a delightful Christmas love story that encapsulates the magic of second chances, the strength of friendship, and the joy of community. This book will inspire you to believe that the most precious gifts often come when we least expect them. Don't miss the chance to dive into this uplifting tale—it's the perfect addition to your holiday reading list!

The Breakdown, by Robert W. Kirby

 Book Excerpt:  

"Beth thought she could escape her demons in the wilderness. She was wrong."

Title: The Breakdown
Author: Robert W. Kirby
Publisher: Flock Publishing
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Four
Review:
"The Breakdown" by Robert W. Kirby

My Perception:

"The Breakdown" is a psychological thriller that will keep you turning the pages to discover what happens next to the characters on their hiking trip to Montana. The novel's title aptly reflects the story, as a secret is revealed that may change lawyer Beth Gunning's life forever. What begins as an enjoyable trip quickly turns into a nightmare for this group of hikers.

Prepare for numerous twists and turns, including murder, a faulty GPS system, sibling rivalries, and hikers getting lost. This captivating story will make you think twice about going hiking!

Thank you to the author for quite an exciting read.

Her Vow (The Enigma Series) Kindle Edition by Aja

 Book Excerpt:

"Sarai never had it easy, but everything changed when she met Malachi Montgomery, the love of her life. With him, she finally felt at peace, like she belonged. She could be more than just a gangster's daughter. To Malachi, she was his Goddess, his everything.

But Malachi came with his own baggage—a mom who saw Sarai as a roadblock to her son's future.

Will family drama tear them apart before they can start their lives together, or will their love win out?"

Title:  Her Vow

Author:  Aja

Publisher:  She Loves Words Publishing LLC (July 27, 2024)

Series:  The Enigma Series

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating: Five

Review:

"Her Vow" by Aja

My Perception:  

'Her Vow' is a good story about Sarai finally getting her true love with Malachi. Yes, Sarai was tested by being abandoned by her mother and now by Malachi's mom, who presented problems. However, she was able to handle that situation with the help of her therapist through counseling. 

By the end, we see Sarai finally learning to love herself, her family, and Malachi.  

This author did a fantastic job presenting the reader with a good read.

Water Finds a Way a novel Kindle Edition by Meghan Perry

 Book Excerpt:

"Can coming home bring redemption? Or at least a measure of peace? Recently released from prison, Blake Alvares returns to the only place she ever felt safe, the now derelict Maine town in which she harbored as a teen. Determined to conceal her secrets and losses, she soon finds herself dragged into others' lives when she takes a job on a boat owned by a notorious young lobsterman.

Leland Savard is nearly broke, trying to support himself and 9-year-old Quinnie as he wrestles with a dangerous family legacy. Though his choice to hire Blake raises local eyebrows, Leland and those around Blake are quickly surprised and jarred by how much they come to rely on her. At the same time, Blake stumbles into love from unexpected places. When Leland's rash actions place her and Quinnie in peril, Blake feels forced to run again–only to discover the past is never more than a few steps behind her. On her quest for home, Blake must confront a daunting question: where does she belong?"

This is a book for readers who enjoy the believable eccentricity a small town offers. And for those who believe in the redemption of the sea and hard work."

Title:  Water Finds a Way

Author:  Meghan Perry

Publisher:  Delphinium Books (November 12, 2024)

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating:  Five

Review:

"Water Finds A Way" by Meghan Perry

My Perception:  

'Water Finds a Way' was an intriguing read with some well-developed characters that came alive as you read up to this suspenseful ending. Be ready for a read of the sadness and joy that comes from this complex story that was set in Maine. Will this main character [Blake Alvares]be able to return to the life she once had after being released from prison? This is where you will have to pick up this good read to see how it all comes out.  

By the end, we are given a 'masterful story of redemption and love' that will give one plenty to ponder over long after the read.  

Shine, by Aja

 Book Excerpt:

A prelude story...

A prelude story...

"In the heart of 1980s Pittsburgh, as the crack cocaine epidemic ravages the streets, Michael "Shine" Ferrell is a rising player in the city's cutthroat underworld. Hungry for more power, he sets his sights on expanding his empire—only to clash with a ruthless rival who controls the city's darkest corners. But it's not just the streets that threaten to swallow him whole. A betrayal at home shakes the foundation of the little he holds dear, forcing Shine to navigate deadly alliances and personal ruin as the epidemic spreads like wildfire."

*Does NOT need to be read in order, though reading Smoke, Maestro, and Slick will make for a better reading experience.*

Everyone has a past in the suspense-filled world of The Enigma Series characters. These are their stories.

Title:  Shine

Author:  Aja

Publisher:  She Loves Words Publishing (November 1, 2024)

Series:  The Enigma Series

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating:  Five

Review:

"Shine" by Aja

My Perception:

"Shine" was indeed a good story about Michael [Mike] 'Shine' Ferrel's life in Pittsburgh. Being brought up by his mom and having no father around, Mike's life was quite interesting regarding what he went through from birth, friendships, business, loved ones, and so much more. But the biggest thing in his life was making "money."  After meeting the love of his life[Tamia], will money destroy the love he had endured so much from her? To find out how this author brings it out so well to the readers, you must pick up 'Shine' to see how this beautiful story will end. 

JOY AND PAIN Kindle Edition by Chicki Brown

 Book Excerpt:

"Braxton Nash is the type of man Khari Phillips has always dreamed of. He is kind, motivated, handsome, and sexy. After dating for only a few months, she feels the big question is coming soon. Only Brax has a secret. When she finds out, will it matter?

After years of random dating and one serious relationship, Brax is ready to give everything he has-spirit, soul, and body-to one woman. Khari embodies everything he wants and needs. But is he willing to give up the one thing standing in the way?"

Title:  Joy and Pain

Author:  Chicki Brown

Publisher:  C.B. October 4, 2024

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating: Five

Review:

"Joy and Pain" by Chick Brown

My Perception:  

'Joy and Pain' was quite an intriguing read. It dealt mainly with Khari and Braxton, an interracial couple. Nothing was too surprising about these two. It was great to see that they truly loved each other even after Khari discovered Brax's secret. Some secondary characters were also interesting, such as Brax's best friend Cam and Khari and Brax's nanny. It was beautiful what they did to help Quay, the nanny. Then, Khari's best friend, Maya, was there for Khari. Also, I want to include Brax's mother, who was now, well, I will leave it there and say you must pick up this good read to see what happened between them.  

This was another excellent book by this author. If you are looking for a good romantic, multicultural, interracial read, you have come to the right place.  

Dem Folk At Holy Rock (My Son's Wife Book 10) Kindle Edition by Shelia E. Bell

 Book Excerpt:

"Hezekiah McCoy is a free man in more ways than one. He's roaming around seeking a place to establish "New Holy Rock Ministries" and finds himself a first lady to go along with it. Fancy McCoy is determined to live her best life after being duped by a man who was sent by her ex-husband to humiliate her. Dem McCoy Boys are still making their marks and leaving some unforgettable legacies (not necessarily all good ones). Stiles's visits to Holy Rock are growing more frequent. Is it because of his new position or the new lady in his life?"

Title: Dem Folk At Holy Rock
Author: Shelia E. Bell
Publisher: S.E.B. (July 20, 2020)
Series: My Son's Wife Book 10
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:
"Dem Folk At Holy Rock" by Shelia E. Bell

My Perception:
Be ready for many twists, turns, and drama in this series 10, 'Dem Folk At Holy Rock.' We find Hezekiah starting a new church, Holy Rock Ministries, and wanting to employ his brother Stiles as co-pastoring with him, and he seems to be looking for a new first lady. Pepper marries Xaviar, knowing that he is gay but thinking she could change him. Then there was Ian, who seemed to be there for Xaviar. Let's not leave out Fancy and her new guy, and we find that the story continues on and on, keeping the reader turning the pages to see what was coming next. And all that was left to stay was a horrible wedding, especially in how it ended with Khalil and Eiana. I am not sure who I felt more sorrier for... Pepper, Victoria, and Eliana, to name a few.

By the end of this series, we can see that Holy Rock has so many secrets, deceits, and betrayals that you will shake your head and say, "Wow," at the outrageousness of it all.

To Love Again Kindle Edition by Laura T. Johnson

 Book Excerpt:

"Siobhan Warner never thought she would be able to escape the abuse she suffered at the hands of her boyfriend. Despite the urging of her mother and best friend, she was too much in love to leave him—and was deathly afraid of the repercussions if she did. But her blind loyalty is about to be tested.

Soon, Siobhan awakes in the hospital. She also awakes to Dr. Justice Edmonds. Dr. Edmonds is drawn to Siobhan the moment he sees her. There's something about her that makes his heart skip a beat. And against his better judgment, he wants to find out more about this beautiful woman.
Can Siobhan find the courage to move on and open her heart again, or will her newfound strength cause someone to pay the ultimate price?"

Title:  To Love Again

Author:  Laura T. Johnson

Publisher:  L.T.J.  July 25, 2024

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating: Five

Review:

"To Love Again" by Laura T. Johnson

My Perception:  

'To Love Again' was an intriguing romance, especially for Siobhan Warner and Justice Edmonds. It was interesting to see how these two came together. I am still not sure how I felt about Siobhan as she dealt with that horrible boyfriend, Brian. Did Siobhan know she needed help and couldn't do this alone? She had people around her willing to help her, but for some reason, she loved that guy and thought he would change. How could she trust him after time after time of him beating her? It's a wonder that guy didn't kill her, is all that is left to say. And to think this goes on in our world today.

The story will keep your interest, and you will turn the pages to see what happens next with Siobhan. All that remains is that it was genuinely great that she met Justice Edmonds and listened to his advice as something good came out of that.

Before the Beginning: A Spirit and Sanctioned Mate Prequel - Book #0 Kindle Edition by EJ Brock

 Book Excerpt:

"Above the vast span of endless darkness, a brilliant light beams with an iridescent splendor. Streaked with various colors, prisms from that marvelous light cascade downward and pierce the blackness. Amid that kaleidoscopic glow sits a foursquare city. No variation of darkness plagues the city because its glorious illumination is impenetrable. The city is walled off by twelve pearl-sealed gates. Three on each of the city's four jewel-encrusted walls. Within the walls of the city resides a royal throne room. The throne seat is high and lifted up on an altar. It is occupied by the self-existent God. The Alpha and the Omega. The one who is reverently known as The Great I AM."

Title:  Before the Beginning

Author:  E. J. Brock

Publisher:  E.J.B.  October 14, 2021

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating:  Five

Review:

'I Am The Beginning' by E. J. Brock

My Perception:

'I Am The Beginning' was quite an exciting story about how this author created a unique, fantastical story for the readers. I loved this scripture at the beginning of the read:  "He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the human heart, yet no one can fathom what God has done from beginning to end."  Ecclesiastes 3:11 This scripture gives you a feeling of how this author displays the read.  

I enjoyed reading about these characters: Abba, Word, I AM, Michael, Wrod, YHWH, Free Will, Graviton, and many more, which will keep you turning the pages. I also loved how the verses and scriptures played very well in this story, making one feel like they were there.  

I loved how the beginning of each chapter gave the reader a little title explaining how that chapter deals with how our God created Heaven, the universe, and man. 

This author did an excellent job of bringing this all out, giving us some truth and fantasy in her thoughts about what happened before the creation of Heaven, along with a little more.   This is where you must pick up 'I Am The Beginning' to see how well she brings it all together.

I also love the Epilogue, As it ends with The Beginning: 'And God said, Let there be light: and there was light, and God saw the light, that it was good: God divided the light from the darkness. And God called the light Day, and the darkness He called Night. And the evening and the morning were the First Day! Genesis 1:3-5'

Thank you for an incredible read.

The Lawyer’s Endgame: An Island of Secrets Legal Thriller (Island of Secrets Legal Thriller Series Book 7) Kindle Edition by Freya Atwood

 Book Excerpt:

"The final battle for justice begins. But will Benjamin Wolfe survive the fight?

When Harper Brown—the sociopath who's evaded justice for years—is charged with conspiracy to commit murder, Benjamin Wolfe sees his chance to finally make her pay. But nothing is ever simple.

Harper's dangerous charm has snared the most influential people in town. Now, with hazardous enemies stacking the deck against Benjamin and a key witness terrified into silence, he must fight for justice and his very survival.

Winning means everything to Ben. But when his past mistakes come crashing down around him, he realizes one thing: even victory might not save him from the price of revenge."

Title:  The Lawyer's Endgame

Author:  Freya Atwood

Publisher:  ‎ Cobalt Fairy LLC (October 10, 2024)

Series:  Island of Secrets Legal Thriller Series Book 7

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating:  Five

Review:

"The Lawyer's Endgame" by Freya Atwood

My Perception:  

'The Lawyer's Endgame' finally ends when Attorney Ben Wolfe takes down that horrible person. This long series was due to end one way or another. There were a few characters that I felt sorry for, but seeing how the story turned out was a good one. Start the first series and read through to the end of series 7 to fully understand this story because so many twists and turns will keep you turning the pages till the end.  

Pieces of Forever: A Christian Romance (River Falls Book 1) Kindle Edition by Valerie M. Bodden

 Book Excerpt:

"\The scars on her face are nothing to the wounds on her heart. But can God help her find healing―and love?

Eight years ago, Ava and Joseph had the perfect future planned—he would go to veterinary school, she would embark on a career with an exclusive modeling agency, and they'd eventually get married and have three dogs and four children. Until a terrible accident changed everything. Unwilling to believe they could still have a future, she made Joseph promise to leave and live out their dreams without her.

Joseph has never broken a promise to Ava.

Because before he made that stupid promise to leave, they'd made each other another promise—one of forever. Now that he's done with veterinary school, he's determined to return to River Falls and show her his promise still stands. That he loves her just the way she is.

But first, he'll have to find a way to crack the safe she's erected around her heart.

Fortunately, he has help in the form of three lovable dogs, a particular group of sick kids, and more than a few slices of pie. But will it be enough to convince Ava that they are forever worth fighting for? Or will he be left picking up the pieces―alone?"

Title:  Pieces of Forever

Author:  Valerie M. Bodden

Publisher:  V. M. B. 

Series:  River Falls Book 1

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating: Five

Review:

"Pieces of Forever" by Valerie M. Bodden

My Perception:  

'Pieces of Forever' is a perfect Christian romance that will stay with readers long after they read it. It is truly remarkable how these two [Ava and Joseph] came back together after it looked like it was over for them for over 8 years being apart, and this author gives us such a good ending.  

Pick up this good read to see how Ava and Joseph are well presented in this romantic story.  

Lightning in Her Hands by Raquel Vasquez Gilliland

 Book Excerpt:

"Gifted—or cursed—with the power to influence the weather, one woman must embrace her wild heart in the following electric romance from the author of Witch of Wild Things.

Teal Flores is desperate for control over her gift of weather and a date to her ex's wedding. The first is only possible once she finds her long-lost mother, but the second has a very handsome last-ditch solution: Carter Velasquez.

Carter needs Teal, too. His chance of receiving an inheritance depends on his marriage by age thirty (blame his traditional Cuban grandmother), so who better to pose as his wife than Teal? But fake marriage and cohabitation prove tricky when mutual attraction charges the atmosphere—quite literally for Teal, whose volatile emotions cause lightning strikes.

Together, Teal and Carter embark on a quest to find her mother and the answers she's searching for. But along the way, they'll discover something even better: a love that can weather any storm."

Title:  Lightning in Her Hands

Author:  Raquel Vasquez Gilliland

Publisher:  Berkley

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating: Four
Review:

"Lightning in Her Hands" by Raquel Vasquez Gilliland

My Perception:  

'Lightning in Her Hands' was a good read about three sisters, a mother, and magic. There is another book I didn't read, but you can keep up with what is going on without reading the first book, 'Witch of Wild Things. 

Teal, one of the sisters, seems to have had her magic broken by her mom. What was that all about? Why was Teal wanting to get her control of her magic back at this time? Well, a best friend named Carter wants to mend their relationship, and when he presents a fake proposal, she accepts. Be ready for a journey that these characters will go on. I will say the two main characters [Teal and Carter]were something else in all the presented trauma. There will be 'trauma, neglect and abuse' that will continue, but I will stop here and say you must pick this story up and see how well this author presents magical realism, especially if you like magic in one's intriguing romance.   

Thank you to Net Galley and the publisher for a free ARC in exchange for an honest review.

The Wedding Engagement by Zoe Allison

 Book Excerpt:

"Planning a wedding is so romantic . . . except when it's not yours, and you're planning it with the guy you're secretly crushing on. 

Scottish schoolteacher Liv Holland has a secret. For years, she's been carrying a torch for Arran Adebayo, her brother's best friend. A blind date gone wrong cements in Liv's mind that Arran has no romantic interest in her whatsoever. But then, with her brother set to marry her best friend, she and Arran are enlisted to help plan the festivities…

After being left at the altar by his ex, single father Arran is having trouble managing his growing feelings towards the woman who is both his best friend's sister and his son's teacher: Liv. Then, his mind is blown when fate thrusts them together for an unexpected blind date, but he messes up his chance to tell her how he feels.
 
As the big day approaches and Liv and Arran's connection intensifies, their chemistry chafes against their checkered romantic histories. Risking everything for love could mean losing each other forever . . . or being the next ones to find their happy ever after."

Title:  The Wedding Engagement

Author:  Zoe Allison

Publisher:  Berkley

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating: Four

Review:

"The Wedding Engagement" by Zoe Allison

My Perception:  

If you are into a read of friends-to-lover romances, you have come to the right place.

Indeed, Liv and Arran were a lovely, cute couple, along with Arran's son Jayce.

I enjoyed reading about how these two had some problems to overcome and how well they were resolved in the end due to crossing the line of their solid friendship.  

The author did a fantastic job of bringing these two together. The secondary characters were also outstanding, and let's remember that Scotland's wedding setting gave the reader an incredible, sweet story and enjoyable ending.  

Thank you to NetGalley and the Berkley publisher for the ARC!

The Lawyer's Redemption by Freya Atwood

 

Book Excerpt:

"He betrayed everyone to survive, and now Benjamin Wolfe seeks redemption through justice.

His two life-or-death goals are to find his best friend's murderer and win the case that could save his brother—both of which he's responsible for.

But redemption comes at a price, and the highest may be sacrificing himself."

Title: The Lawyer's Redemption
Author: Freya Atwood
Publisher: Cobalt Fairy LLC.
Series: Island of Secrets Legal Thriller Series Book 6
Reviewed By: Arlena Den
Rating: Five
Review:
"The Lawyer's Redemption" by Freya Atwood

My Perception:

'The Lawyer's Redemption' series 6 was one of the best legal thrillers. The story deals with Ben Wolfe, his brother Nicholas, Lars Hansen, Sophie, Noah, Harper, Ingrid, and a few more characters, giving the reader quite a story. It would be best to keep up with the story because there are so many twists and turns. The story is a page-turner that will keep your interest until the end.

To understand this intriguing story, start reading from series 1.

Remember the extended epilog. It explains quite a bit if you still haven't figured out who killed Lar and why.

Book Club Kit: My Beautiful Black Hair by St. Clair Detrick-Jules by We Are Bookish

 Book Excerpt:

"This is a downloadable and printable resource for book clubs reading My Beautiful Black Hair by St. Clair Detrick-Jules. The kit includes an author interview, discussion questions, and more. This is not the actual book. This kit was sponsored by Chronicle Books."

Title:  Book Club Kit:  My Beautiful Black Hair

Author:  St Clair Detrick-Jules

Publisher:  We Are Bookish

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating: Five

Review:

"My Beautiful Black Hair" by St. Clair Detrick-Jules

My Perception:  

This was quite an exciting kit, including the interview with the author, which kept the subject on track during the open discussion questions. The book suggestions and bookmarks were excellent for use during the discussions. This was well put together for a book club meeting with you, and you have everything you need. This was definitely helpful for anyone 'starting to look after their hair' and a fantastic kit that any book club could use.  

Thank you to NetGalley, We Are Bookish publisher and the author of the book club kit!

Twisted Law: An Alex Peterson Legal Thriller by: Ellis Keler

 Book Excerpt:

"When a powerful lawyer is accused of murdering his wife, Alex Peterson has no choice but to help him.

Alex's life is a never-ending battle for justice, but he knows that sometimes the law must be broken. Even if it's to aid his worst enemy…

To keep a devastating secret hidden and protect his ex-wife, Alex must walk a perilous path where every decision could be his last.

Twisted Law is an exciting, blood-pumping legal thriller written by Ellis Keler and published by Cobalt Fairy.

If you are an avid fan of strong characters, action-packed courtroom drama, and mind-blowing murder mysteries, then you'll love Ellis' intriguing story."

Title:  Twisted Law

Author:  Ellis Keler

Publisher: Cobalt Fairy LLC  

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating:  Five 

Review:

"Twisted Law" by Ellis Keler

My Perception:

'Twisted Law' was quite a read. Once you start reading about how lawyer Alex Peterson handles this client he didn't like for murder, you will keep turning the pages until the end. Indeed, this attorney, Mark Anderson, who wanted Alex to defend him for murder, was something else.   However, Alex never trusted him, and it all came together so well in the end.  This was indeed a good story that ended just right!

Twined Law: An Alex Peterson Legal Thriller (Alex Peterson Legal Thriller Series Book 6) Kindle Edition by Ellis Keler

 Book Excerpt:

"When a powerful lawyer is accused of murdering his wife, Alex Peterson has no choice but to help him.

Alex's life is a never-ending battle for justice, but he knows that sometimes the law must be broken. Even if it's to aid his worst enemy…

To keep a devastating secret hidden and protect his ex-wife, Alex must walk a perilous path where every decision could be his last.

Twined Law is an exciting blood-pumping legal thriller, written by Ellis Keler and published by Cobalt Fairy.

If you are an avid fan of strong characters, action packed courtroom drama, and mind blowing murder mystery, then you'll love Ellis' intriguing story."

Title:  Twined Law

Author:  Ellis Keler

Publisher:  Cobalt Fairy LLC

Series:  Alex Peterson Legal Thriller Series Book 6

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating:

Review:

"Twined Law" by Ellis Keler

My Perception:

'Twined Law' was quite a read. Once you start reading about how lawyer Alex Peterson handles this client he didn't like for murder, you will keep turning the pages until the end. Indeed, this attorney, Mark Anderson, who wanted Alex to defend him for murder, was something else.   However, Alex never trusted him, and it all came together so well in the end.  This was indeed a good story that ended just right!