The Beast In Court: A Serial Killers Legal Thriller (The Serial Killers Legal Thriller Series Book 1) Kindle Edition by Ellis Keler

 Book Excerpt:

"Vivienne Cross is no stranger to monsters in the courtroom. But Mason Grey is unlike any client she's ever faced.

Accused of gruesome murders and chilling atrocities, Mason insists he's more than just a killer—and Vivienne is drawn to uncover the truth. But representing him comes with a price: public revulsion, threats to her career, and a growing fear that she might be playing into his hands.

As secrets about Mason's dark past and the system that failed him come to light, Vivienne must confront a terrifying question: Is justice ever truly blind—or has Mason Grey already won?

The Beast In Court is an exciting, blood-pumping legal thriller written by Ellis Keler and published by Cobalt Fairy.

Title:  The Beast in Court

Author:  Ellis Keler

Publisher:  Cobalt Fairy LLC

Series: Book 1

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating: 5

Review:

"The Beast In Court" by Ellis Keler

My Insight: 

"The Beast in Court" is a gripping legal thriller that captivates from start to finish. The narrative follows lawyer Vivienne Cross as she takes on the challenging case of Mason Grey, who stands accused of multiple murders. As Vivienne delves deeper into Mason's complicated past, she finds herself not only fighting for his life against the death penalty but also wrestling with the darker implications of her defense. The book is packed with unexpected twists and turns, and the array of intriguing secondary characters adds depth to the story. Readers will find it hard to put down as they race toward the electrifying conclusion. Don't forget to check out the extended epilogue, which goes deeper into Mason Grey's story and offers even more suspense!

Butterscotch Bliss: A Clean and Wholesome Sweet Second-Chance Christmas Romance Cecelia Dowdy

Book Excerpt:

"Raquel's father died when she was a baby - that's what she thought...
She receives a mysterious phone call - stating her father is alive and in hospice. He must see her before he dies. Why has her mother lied to her for all these years about her father's "death"?

She must rely on Patrick, her ex, to help her make the trip to see her father during a massive snowstorm. Patrick has his own set of problems - he never told Raquel the real reason why he abandoned her three years ago."

BUTTERSCOTCH BLISS is a tasty Christmas unforgettable romance!

Title:  Butterscotch Bliss

Author:  Cecelia Dowdy

Publisher:  Divine Desserts Publishing LLC (January 8, 2025)

Reviewed By: Arlena Dean

Rating: Five

Review:

"Butterscotch Bliss" by Cecelia Dowdy

My Insight:

"Butterscotch Bliss" by Cecelia Dowdy is a captivating story about how Raquel and Patrick reunite and resolve their past issues. Once deeply in love, they were tragically separated. Now, Raquel discovers that her father is not dead, prompting questions about the truth behind his absence.

To uncover the secrets of Raquel and Patrick's relationship, you must read this engaging story to see how Cecelia Dowdy skillfully reveals the unfolding drama. It's a delightful tale of how things can work out for Raquel and Patrick. The secondary characters are equally inspiring, adding depth and insight to the narrative.

Buzz Books 2025: Spring/Summer by Publishers Lunch

 Book Excerpt:

"Welcome to Buzz Books 2025: Spring/Summer, the 26th edition of our celebrated sampler series. This collection offers readers an exclusive preview of nearly fifty of the season's most anticipated releases, curated to showcase established voices and emerging talents. You will find a link to the full galley on NetGalley at the end of most excerpts!

Readers will discover new works from beloved bestselling authors, including Emma Donoghue, Georgia Hunter, Louis Sachar, V. E. Schwab, Mia Sosa, and Maggie Stiefvater. The collection also features compelling releases from acclaimed literary voices Ron Currie, Stuart Nadler, Dolen Perkins-Valdez, Ivy Pochoda, Jessica Stanley, and others who continue to push boundaries in contemporary fiction.

Continuing our tradition of spotlighting the most promising new voices in literature, this edition introduces several remarkable debuts. Salvadorean-American author Darrow Farr's The Bombshell draws partial inspiration from Patty Hearst's kidnapping and radicalization to create a thought-provoking narrative. Other exciting debut authors include Katie Yee, Fred Lunzer, India Hayford, Nanda Reddy, and Josh Duboff, each bringing fresh perspectives to contemporary storytelling.

Powerful new releases in nonfiction explore the depths of human experience. Sophie Elmhirst's A Marriage at Sea leads this collection with its gripping account of a couple's survival in the Pacific Ocean after a whale destroys their boat. The other works delve into the complexities of communication, corporate culture, institutional power, and family dynamics.

The young adult section showcases Graci Kim's Dreamslinger, a fantasy adventure set in Seoul where dreams materialize and dragons take flight. Other standout YA titles include Shampoo Unicorn, a heartfelt story connecting rural queer teens through podcasting, and Kaya Morgan's Crowning Achievement, which weaves themes of grief and identity into a Renaissance Faire setting.

Watch for Buzz Books 2025: Fall/Winter, arriving in May, to discover next season's literary conversations in the making."

Title:  Buzz Books 2025

Author:  Publishers Lunch

Publisher:  Publisher Buzz Books

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating: 5

Review:

"Buzz Books 2025" by Publishers Lunch

My Insight:  

I enjoyed the Buzz book collection sample previews. I will find interesting reads from this list, and I look forward to reading them. It was wonderful to get the book cover and a summary of the novel. 

Thank you, Publishers Lunch, for allowing me to preview many of these good reads.

Justice for Miranda Chase: A Miranda Chase Legal Thriller (Miranda Chase Legal Thriller Series Book 3) Kindle Edition by Freya Atwood

 Book Excerpt:

"Miranda Chase has dedicated her life to uncovering the truth, but now the truth might destroy her.

Accused of murdering her father decades ago, Miranda faces damning evidence, buried family secrets, and a brother whose loyalty she can no longer trust.

As the courtroom unravels her carefully guarded past, Miranda must confront a shocking truth that could free or destroy her forever.

The fight for justice has never been so personal…

Justice for Miranda Chase is an exciting, blood-pumping legal thriller written by Freya Atwood and published by Cobalt Fairy.

Title:  Justice for Miranda Chase

Author:  Freya Atwood

Publisher: Cobalt Fairy LLC (January 2, 2025)

Series: Miranda Chase Legal Thriller Series Book 3

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating: Five

Review:

"Justice for Miranda Chase" by Freya Atwood

My Insight: 

'Justice for Miranda Chase' by Freya Atwood is a compelling legal thriller that explores Miranda's journey as she finally comes to terms with her past involving her father. The book is filled with drama and unexpected developments. I was quite frustrated with her brother, Tyler, as the truth about him unfolded. The ending was shocking, leaving readers with a significant twist in the plot. 

The extended epilogue is a must-read. It will definitely leave you wanting the next series. 

Justice for the Black Widow: A Miranda Chase Legal Thriller (Miranda Chase Legal Thriller Series Book 2) Kindle Edition by Freya Atwood

 Book Excerpt:

"The sensational "Black Widow" trial grips the nation, thrusting defense attorney Miranda Chase into the spotlight.

Her client, Lila Kingston, stands accused of poisoning her wealthy husband. As damning evidence emerges, Miranda uncovers disturbing secrets—ones that could prove Lila's guilt or reveal a darker conspiracy.

Torn between justice and her haunted past, Miranda must decide: how far will she go for a client who might be playing her?

When the verdict is read, the truth could destroy them both."

Justice for the Black Widow is an exciting, blood-pumping legal thriller written by Freya Atwood and published by Cobalt Fairy.

Title:  Justice for the Black Willow

Author:  Freya Atwood

Publisher:  Cobalt Fairy LLC (December 4, 2024)

Series:  Miranda Chase Legal Thriller Series Book 2

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating:  Five

Review:

"Justice for the Black Widow" by Freya Atwood

My Insight: 

'Justice for the Black Widow' is an engaging read that keeps you turning the pages until the end. In this novel, Attorney Miranda takes on another unusual case involving a woman accused of killing her husband. Will she be able to assist her client, given the struggles she faced just to get this case? We also discover that Miranda is dealing with issues that have haunted her and her brother, Tyler, for over twenty-five years. 

Prepare yourself for a suspenseful thriller that will hold your attention throughout. The ending is genuinely inspiring. You must pick up this great read to see how the author unfolds the story.

Touched Down: A Football Romance Audible Logo Audible Audiobook – Unabridged Shani Greene-Dowdell

 Book Excerpt:

"Wayne

The media brought my brother's marriage to a fatal end, and I refuse to let the same thing happen to me. As the star quarterback, they speculate about my lifestyle, put me with random women, and call me an eligible bachelor. I don't care about any of it. I'll do anything to keep my personal life personal except lose my girl.

Leslie
I'm not in the wives' box at the games. I'm not even with the girlfriends and sidepieces. No one knows I'm now engaged to the NFL's hottest player in America. I thought I was okay with our decision to keep our relationship out of the media, but I'm tired of being a secret, and why should I be?

Touched Down 1 (Leslie and Wayne's story) has been previously Published on Kindle Vella.
Part 2 (Jasmine, Eddie, and Jeremiah's story) is written and published exclusively by Vella."

Title:  Touched Down

Author:  Shani Greene-Dowdell

Publisher: Imperial Publishing House - January 13, 2024

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating:  Four

Review:

"Touched Down"     A Football Romance by Shani Greene-Dowdell

My Perception:  

'Touched Down' immerses readers in the captivating love story between Leslie and Wayne, who face the unique challenges posed by Wayne's status as an NFL superstar. Their love is genuine, yet his career brings forth obstacles that create tension and drama, ensuring an engaging ride for the audience.

After two years of a secretive relationship, the question of a wedding hangs in the air—will they finally choose to reveal their love to the world, or will Wayne's insistence on privacy keep them apart? With his protective alpha demeanor and deep care for Leslie, Wayne navigates both his high-profile life and his commitment to her. The intriguing supporting characters enrich the plot, making every twist and turn more compelling. The bond that Wayne and Leslie share is inspiring, highlighting the challenges of balancing love and professional success. For anyone seeking a thrilling mix of passion, drama, and the struggles of a concealed romance, 'Touched Down' promises an unforgettable experience. The author skillfully crafts their journey into a compelling narrative that will keep you hooked from start to finish.

Wreck Me : A Savage Boss Billionaire Romance Kindle Edition by Shani Greene-Dowdell

 Book Excerpt:

"He's ruthless in the boardroom, but she's about to take him down in ways he never expected…

Archer is a master of corporate takeovers, always in control—until he meets Tahani. Her innocent beauty stirs a desire he's never felt before. Simply being around her threatens his unshakeable focus.

Tahani's life work is in the hands of her new boss. She's frustrated by his grueling demands and uncertain future, but the magnetic pull between them leaves her wondering what stealing just one forbidden kiss would be like.

With sizzling late-night encounters, Archer and Tahani walk a fine line. Will they maintain their professionalism, or are they destined for a steamy collision neither can resist?"

Title:  Wreck Me

Author:  Shani Greene-Dowdell

Publisher:‎ Imperial Publishing House (October 22, 2024)

Reviewed  by:  Arlena Dean

Rating: Four

Review:

"Wreck Me" by Shani Greene-Dowdell

My Perception:  

'Wreck Me' was quite an interesting read about Archer and Tahani and how they were with each other. Was it the chemistry and love they seemed to have for each other? Many characters will keep one's attention as you turn the pages to see what is coming next, especially for these two...Archer and Tahani.    

 You must pick up this book and see how the author ties it all together by the end.

Justice for the Miller Brothers: A Miranda Chase Legal Thriller (Miranda Chase Legal Thriller Series Book 1) Kindle Edition by Freya Atwood

 Book Excerpt:

"To save them, she'll have to face the past she's tried to forget…

Highly reputable lawyer Miranda Chase knows all about surviving trauma. But when she takes on the "Miller-Killer" case, she doesn't expect to see herself in the two brothers accused of murdering their parents.

Caught in a storm of twisted family secrets and relentless media scrutiny, Miranda dives deeper into a horrifying legacy of abuse. But as she fights to defend the brothers, she questions everything—even their innocence.

Someone wants the truth buried and will stop at nothing to make Miranda abandon the case. But nothing can prepare her for the secrets waiting to be uncovered in court…

Title:  Justice for the Miller Brothers

Author:  Freya Atwood

Publisher:  Cobalt Fairy LLC (November 6, 2024)

Series: Book 1 of 1:  Miranda Chase Legal Thriller Series  

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating:  Five

Review:

"Justice for the Miller Brothers" by Freya Atwood

My Insight:

'Justice for the Miller Brothers' was quite an engaging read, showcasing lawyer Miranda Chase's efforts in the Miller Brothers' case. The novel also delves into the haunting abuse that Miranda and her brother endured. In this criminal trial, the question arises: can Miranda clear the names of these brothers, Paul and Brian, who are accused of murdering their father?

To truly grasp how well Miranda navigated this complex case, readers must turn the pages, uncovering the author's thought process and experiencing how the narrative unfolds brilliantly.

Identity Crisis (a Lawyer's Tale): How Divorce Nearly Ended My Life Kindle Edition by Robert Wegman

 Book Excerpt:

"Identity Crisis (A Lawyer's Tale): How Divorce Nearly Ended My Life is a gripping, heart-wrenching memoir that takes you on an unforgettable journey through the depths of personal despair and the heights of human resilience. Robert L. Wegman, Esq., a distinguished lawyer and former military officer, lays bare his soul in this candid account of his battle with identity loss and self-doubt following a devastating divorce. In these pages, you will find a raw and powerful narrative that transcends the typical memoir. Mr. Wegman navigates the reader through the darkest corners of his mind and heart, revealing how his seemingly perfect life unraveled and how he fought to reclaim his sense of self.

This story is about survival, transformation, and triumph against overwhelming odds. With profound insights and a touch of grace, Identity Crisis delves into universal themes of love, loss, and redemption. It offers invaluable lessons on coping with life's most challenging transitions and finding strength in vulnerability.

Whether you're facing a personal crisis or simply seeking inspiration, Identity Crisis is a beacon of hope and a testament to the enduring power of the human spirit. Discover how one man's journey through the abyss can inspire us all to find light, even in our darkest moments. Identity Crisis is more than a book—it's a lifeline for anyone striving to rebuild and thrive in the face of life's uncertainties."

Trigger Warning:

This book contains sensitive content that may be distressing to some readers. It addresses topics such as divorce, emotional distress, mental health struggles, and suicidal thoughts. Readers affected by these themes should proceed cautiously and seek support if needed."

Title:  Identity Crisis

Author:  Robert Wegman

Publisher:  Fruition Publishing Concierge Services® (September 16, 2024)

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating: Five

Review:

"Identity Crisis" by Robert Wegman

My Perception:  

"Identity Crisis" is a touching and relatable book about the pain of losing love and the journey of starting over after a difficult divorce. It illustrates how divorce can be devastating but ultimately lead to personal growth and strength.

The story conveys valuable insights and offers solid advice. It encourages readers to persevere through their struggles, hoping for brighter days. It reminds readers there is a path to recovery and renewal even after hitting rock bottom.

Forsaking All Others: What Did You Vow? Kindle Edition by Lakisha Johnson

 Book Excerpt:

"Raven loves her husband Russell and the life they've created over the past nineteen years with their two children. He'd always kept his promises since meeting her senior year of theology school. He kept his word when they stood before God, vowing to forsake all others, and she had no reason to doubt him. He was right there when she stepped out on faith and planted Faith Covenant Church five years ago.

Until lately.

Lately, he's been different. Russell says he's not cheating, but then he calls her name. Peah. Peah is his weakness and the one he runs to. She's the one he'll lie to protect. She's the one who truly has his heart. And Raven won't contend with that.

In Forsaking All Others, will Raven and Russell's marriage survive when the vows made before God, family, and friends no longer seem to hold the weight they once did?"

Title:  Forsaking All Others:  What Did You Vow?

Author:  Lakisha Johnson

Publisher:  Twins Write 2 (November 13, 2024)

Series:  What Did You Vow Book 5

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating: Five

Review:

"Forsaking All Other: What Did You Vow?" by Lakisha Johnson

My Perception:  

'Forsaking All Others: What Did You Vow?' is an engaging read addressing addiction's struggles. The author skillfully incorporates scriptures, prayers, and character development, making this story powerful and relatable. It offers hope for anyone seeking to transform their life.

Secrets of the Courtroom: A legal thriller collection Kindle Edition by Freya Atwood

 Book Excerpt:

"Three Gripping Legal Thrillers. Three Unstoppable Lawyers. One Fight for Justice.

Tears of Innocence

To uncover the truth, she must challenge the powerful—and risk everything. A highly respected attorney, Amanda Stoll never expected to return to her hometown to defend her own family. But when her cousin is accused of terrorism, Amanda finds herself at the center of a deadly conspiracy involving influential leaders and politicians. Caught in a web of lies and deceit, Amanda must uncover the truth before it's too late—before someone silences her for good.

Frozen Truth

A murder case brings her face-to-face with the past—and a haunting personal reckoning. Lawyer Spencer Adams thought she'd left her dark past behind, but when social media influencer Kevin is accused of killing his girlfriend, she's thrust into the courtroom spotlight. As she fights for justice, Spencer must navigate public outcry and the dangers of the digital world. One misstep, and she could lose more than the case—she could lose everything she holds dear.

Cursed Lawyer

A hopeless case. A mysterious cult. A lawyer who refuses to give up. After losing his wife and daughters, John Crox dedicated his life to defending the innocent. When a homeless woman is accused of brutally murdering the town's priest, John takes her case despite overwhelming evidence against her. But as John digs deeper, he uncovers a secretive cult lurking within the church. The more he investigates, the closer he gets to the truth—and the deadlier the danger becomes.

This a collection of three exciting legal thrillers. Each book is approximately 90.000 words (around 450 pages), written by Freya Atwood and published by Cobalt Fairy.

Title: Secrets of the Courtroom
Author: Freya Atwood
Publisher: Cobalt Fairy LLC (October 24, 2024)
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:
"Secrets of the Courtroom" by Freya Atwood

My Perception:
Tears of Innocence:

Amanda Stoll has returned to Twin Peaks after being gone for twenty years and working at a law office with two other lawyers, Rebecca and Harriett. So why did Amanda return after all of this time? It had something to do with her brother Harry which seemed to be a pain in the..., however, she loved him. And it looks like she is needed as it looks like her cousin Laura is being charged with terrorism. How will all of this work out for Amanda? Also, she has an ex-boyfriend who does not take no for an answer.

As Amanda continues to work on the case, she finds out a lot about this town she had grown up in and that things were not as it seemed for what was going on in this corrupt system that involved a judge, along with some in the police department and who else that went along in all of this chaos. Will Amanda break this all down and get her cousin acquitted? How will all of this corruption come out? You must pick up this good read and see how well this author brings it all out.

Also, it seemed that her brother Harry was involved in something criminal. He was not right about what he was doing or who he was dealing with in this position. Will Amanda be able to help him get out of that situation?

Be ready for an exciting read of how this story showed the importance of family and what happens when corruption hits the town. There will also be an extended epilogue that does add to complete the story.

Frozen Truth:

'Frozen Truth' was another one of this author's crime legal thrillers that will keep one's attention till the end. Will prosecutor Spencer Adams and her associate Melody be able to prosecute this case against Kevin Orton, who was a celebrity where there was evidence of him being an abuser of his girlfriend who had been murdered? Also, what was up with the video evidence of this boyfriend dropping off blood-stained clothes in a dumpster? To get into this compelling case of what is going on in the 'Frozen Truth' story, which was quite an emotional rollercoaster ride, pick up this read to see how well this author brings this legal crime thriller out.


Cursed Lawyer:

'Cursed Lawyer' was another of this author's good reads that will keep one's attention turning the pages to see what has gone on in this Canyonville town. We find the lawyer John Crox had been through a lot after losing his wife and daughters. After that tragic event, he started picking up his life again, opening up a non-profit law firm when a priest was murdered. John takes on the job pro bono of helping Camilla Rockwell, a black homeless woman who had been accused of the murder. It seems like everyone has her convicted even before this trial begins. The plot will be interesting as this church seemed involved in 'a mysterious cult.' Were there secrets being hidden about this priest? When there seems to be no one who answers many of the critical questions, how will John solve this uphill battle in all of the courtroom drama? Be prepared with many twists and turns that keep one interested in who this murderer could be. After the verdict has been delivered, will the reader be surprised at whom the murderer was?

With the extended epilogue, you can get the whole story and more. Pick up "Cursed Lawyer" to see how well this author presents it to the reader; you will not be disappointed.

These were three well-written legal thriller collections.

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

 Book Excerpt:

"When Alex Peterson's son becomes a criminal, the seasoned lawyer must risk everything to protect him.

With powerful enemies closing in and buried secrets threatening to surface, Alex faces an impossible choice: betray the law he swore to uphold or sacrifice his son's future.

Justice has its price, and Alex Peterson will stop at nothing to shield his family—even if it means losing everything."

Title:  Innocent Law

Author:  Ellis Keler

Publisher:  Cobalt Fairy LLC (November 6, 2024)

Series:  Alex Peterson Legal Thriller Series Book 6

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating: Five

Review:

"Innocent Law" by Arlena Dean

My Perception:  

'Innocent Law' was a good series in which we found Alex Peterson having to defend his son Lucas from the murder of his girlfriend, Madeline.  Will he be able to do this?  All that is left is for you to pick up this good read and see how well this author brings it out to the reader.  It was excellently done from start to finish.  

The Perfect Home by Daniel Kenitz

Book Excerpt:

"Fixer Upper meets Gone Girl in this suspenseful and witty domestic thriller set in home renovation TV—featuring a woman who becomes public enemy #1 after a horrifying discovery prompts her to flee her celebrity husband with their twin babies.

Dawn Decker is an American everywoman and the salt to her husband Wyatt's sweet, media-friendly charm on their Tennessee-based home renovation reality TV show, The Perfect Home. While Dawn bristles at the trappings of their D-list celebrity status, Wyatt hungers for greater fame. The couple also faces infertility issues stemming from Wyatt's low sperm count. He secretly orders experimental fertility drugs, and they conceive, but his personality takes a dark turn—he becomes moody, withdrawn, and even cruel.

When Dawn discovers his horrifying plot to manufacture a tragedy to skyrocket their celebrity status, she takes their infant twins and goes on the run. Wyatt ears on national television to turn the public against her, painting Dawn as an unstable kidnapper suffering from postpartum psychosis. His character is so compelling that even Dawn's closest friends doubt her. She must dig deep into the past—hers and Wyatt's—to find allies, protect her children, and beat this beloved all-American celebrity at his own game.
Told from dual perspectives by both husband and wife, this smart, captivating, and twisty thriller is a fun, addictive read from the first page."

Title: The Perfect Home
Author: Daniel Kenitz
Publisher: Scribner
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Four
Review:
"The Perfect Home" by Daniel Kenitz

My Insight:

"The Perfect Home" is an intriguing thriller that will keep you turning the pages to see what happens next for Dawn and Wyatt, who star in a reality TV show called "The Perfect Home." But was their life really perfect?
Daniel Kenitz delivers an engaging read. Wyatt's charm and good looks contrast sharply with Dawn's role as the decorator. However, Wyatt's desire for a picture-perfect family leads him down a dark path. The story takes a shocking turn after Dawn gives birth to twins, discovering sinister truths about her husband that compel her to flee. The tension escalates as Dawn strives to protect her children from Wyatt, especially as some who claim to be her friends turn out to be less trustworthy.

Kenitz has crafted well-developed characters and a captivating plot that hooks you from the start. I highly recommend picking this book up to see how this suspenseful and entertaining story unfolds. It's definitely worth the read!

Thank you to NetGalley, Daniel Kenitz, and Scribner for this ARC.