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Blood Is Black
Lonnie Black, a man with a dark and dangerous past, has just been elected as the new governor of the state of Tennessee.
Shortly after he takes office, some of the state’s most heinous and vile criminals see their sentences commuted to time served, releasing dangerous predators onto a vulnerable public.
Presley Carter is a bright, hungry young defense attorney plying her trade in the areas in and around Nashville. Though she’s haunted by a horrifying event from her past, she’s achieved local renown as a savvy, resourceful lawyer adept at handling–and winning–tough cases. After being approached to file a clemency petition by a father whose son committed a gruesome double-murder, Presley reluctantly agrees to file the document, knowing full well the request has no chance of being granted. When she receives a phone call informing her the convict’s release has been approved, however, she’s shocked to learn she’s been unwittingly drawn into an evil scheme that could reach as high as the halls of the state capitol. Presley must then make a difficult choice. Should she stand idly by and allow a shadowy syndicate of corruption to fester in her backyard? Or should she follow in her father’s footsteps and take a stand, placing her in the crosshairs of one of the most vicious, powerful men the state has ever seen?
Will Presley be able to uphold the righteousness of her beloved justice system? Or will the weight of a diseased and brutal criminal organization crush her along with those she loves?
Blood Is Black is an addictive thriller filled with heart that will keep you on the edge of your seat, and Presley Carter is destined to become one of the most beloved heroines in the genre.
Shortly after he takes office, some of the state’s most heinous and vile criminals see their sentences commuted to time served, releasing dangerous predators onto a vulnerable public.
Presley Carter is a bright, hungry young defense attorney plying her trade in the areas in and around Nashville. Though she’s haunted by a horrifying event from her past, she’s achieved local renown as a savvy, resourceful lawyer adept at handling–and winning–tough cases. After being approached to file a clemency petition by a father whose son committed a gruesome double-murder, Presley reluctantly agrees to file the document, knowing full well the request has no chance of being granted. When she receives a phone call informing her the convict’s release has been approved, however, she’s shocked to learn she’s been unwittingly drawn into an evil scheme that could reach as high as the halls of the state capitol. Presley must then make a difficult choice. Should she stand idly by and allow a shadowy syndicate of corruption to fester in her backyard? Or should she follow in her father’s footsteps and take a stand, placing her in the crosshairs of one of the most vicious, powerful men the state has ever seen?
Will Presley be able to uphold the righteousness of her beloved justice system? Or will the weight of a diseased and brutal criminal organization crush her along with those she loves?
Blood Is Black is an addictive thriller filled with heart that will keep you on the edge of your seat, and Presley Carter is destined to become one of the most beloved heroines in the genre.
331 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 1, 2023
2967 people are currently reading
7914 people want to read
About the author
Scott Pratt
59 books1,582 followersScott Pratt is a Wall Street Journal and Amazon Bestselling Author whose books have sold more than five million copies. He was born in South Haven, Michigan, and grew up in Jonesborough, Tennessee. He was a veteran of the United States Air Force and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in English from East Tennessee State University and a Doctor of Jurisprudence from the University of Tennessee. He lived in Johnson City, Tennessee until his tragic, untimely passing in November of 2018.
This page is maintained by his family. We're finishing up all of the projects he was working on when he passed away. If you'd like to stay up to date on that progress, or if you'd just like to say hello, you can visit us on our Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/groups/19664...
This page is maintained by his family. We're finishing up all of the projects he was working on when he passed away. If you'd like to stay up to date on that progress, or if you'd just like to say hello, you can visit us on our Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/groups/19664...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 172 reviews
August 13, 2023
Denle una oportunidad a este libro, es perfecto de principio a fin.
This was perfect. Flawless balance between characters, plot, action scenes and legal practice.
And that cliffhanger!
This was perfect. Flawless balance between characters, plot, action scenes and legal practice.
And that cliffhanger!
October 8, 2025
I thought I had read all of Scott Pratt’s books, so I was surprised to see one listed on sale at Audible. After checking my records, I realized I hadn’t read this title. I know that Pratt passed away in an accident in 2018, and apparently this new release was written by a ghostwriter. What I don’t know is whether Pratt started the manuscript before his death and someone finished it, or if it was entirely written by someone else.
I’m not a fan of the trend publishers are following where a series continues after the original author has died. In my view, the story should end with the author’s passing.
That said, the story itself was interesting, fast-paced, and at times a nail-biter. It didn’t feel like Scott Pratt’s work, though. There wasn’t much courtroom action, but there was plenty of corruption and a surprising number of bodies turning up. It’s a good, quick read.
I listened to the audiobook version from Audible, which runs eight hours and twenty-four minutes. Bailey Carr did an excellent job narrating the story.
I’m not a fan of the trend publishers are following where a series continues after the original author has died. In my view, the story should end with the author’s passing.
That said, the story itself was interesting, fast-paced, and at times a nail-biter. It didn’t feel like Scott Pratt’s work, though. There wasn’t much courtroom action, but there was plenty of corruption and a surprising number of bodies turning up. It’s a good, quick read.
I listened to the audiobook version from Audible, which runs eight hours and twenty-four minutes. Bailey Carr did an excellent job narrating the story.
July 6, 2023
Scott Pratt and his ghost writer are back with a new series that is sure to catch the eye of many readers. Filled with great writing and strong plot twists, Pratt impresses the reader with a story that flows with ease. Working through some great legal and political situations, the book captures the essence of a great Tennessee story, including some of the backroom maneuvers that are sure to catch the reader’s attention. Pratt has never shied away from unique storylines and this one fits into that category well.
Lonnnie black is the newly-elected Governor of Tennessee, which has many excited for his new blood approach. However, he brings with him a pile of baggage and some schemes that he hopes will help him develop a firm grip of politics in the state, as well as some ruthless and power hunger motives. All this while using the governor’s mansion as his home base for many a political maneuvers.
Lonnie Black’s election as the new governor of Tennessee is seen as a good thing for many who seek fresh blood. However, he is one with a dark past that so ready to do whatever it takes to abuse power. He is eager to begin some of his schemes, all while padding his pockets from the governor’s mansion.
One of the first plans Governor Black puts into practice is releasing some of the state’s worst criminal offenders back into the community, especially those who have had long sentences yet to be completed. His rationale is that people need a second chance and the prisons are bursting at the seams, forcing him to free up room to cycle the next set of guilty people through the system.
Presley Carter is a sharp defense attorney who has been taking Nashville by storm. While she has a history that haunts her, Presley is ready for whatever comes her way, hoping to tackle crime and prove the innocent do exist, rather than see people railroaded. When she is asked to file a clemency petitotion for a man who is not worthy of release, she is shocked to see Governor Black’s office quickly approve the request that sees this man go free, with a few strings attached. Shocked by what’s happened, Presley decides to create a sting operation to see what is happening and how Governor Black is running things. What she discovers is a sick and perverted system, where people can buy their family member’s freedom. Wanting to help, she agrees to cross the aisle and work for the state, hoping that she can build a case against the governor and those closest to him.
Working with her small cadre that are ready to help at any cost, Presley stumbles upon the truth, where scores of people have been forced to pay or give sexual favours to get inmates released. She hopes to nail the governor before he can corrupt the office any longer, but will have to watch her back. There are those who are keen to target her and will stop at nothing to silence the messenger before all is revealed. Presley has a lot to do and risking her life is at the top of the list. Pratt does a great job at luruing the reader into the middle of this piece.
I have long enjoyed the work of Scott Pratt, who never seems to give up when a good thing is flowing. Even after his death, members of his family took up the torch to ensure that his views were not lost. Pratt’s keen and adept nature keeps the reader on edge throughout and never lets things rest until all its revealed. With a strong base, the story grows from there, keeping things flowing with ease. Characters who work well and know how to flavour the piece provide a great insight into how the story will move along. Some plot twists keep things from getting too predictable, with a legal angle that is sure to pull the reader in a little more. With this new series, I can only hope that there will be another Presley Carter book on the horizon, as this is one character who is sure to show her true colours before too long.
Kudos, Mr. Pratt, for amazing work once more in this series debut.
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
Lonnnie black is the newly-elected Governor of Tennessee, which has many excited for his new blood approach. However, he brings with him a pile of baggage and some schemes that he hopes will help him develop a firm grip of politics in the state, as well as some ruthless and power hunger motives. All this while using the governor’s mansion as his home base for many a political maneuvers.
Lonnie Black’s election as the new governor of Tennessee is seen as a good thing for many who seek fresh blood. However, he is one with a dark past that so ready to do whatever it takes to abuse power. He is eager to begin some of his schemes, all while padding his pockets from the governor’s mansion.
One of the first plans Governor Black puts into practice is releasing some of the state’s worst criminal offenders back into the community, especially those who have had long sentences yet to be completed. His rationale is that people need a second chance and the prisons are bursting at the seams, forcing him to free up room to cycle the next set of guilty people through the system.
Presley Carter is a sharp defense attorney who has been taking Nashville by storm. While she has a history that haunts her, Presley is ready for whatever comes her way, hoping to tackle crime and prove the innocent do exist, rather than see people railroaded. When she is asked to file a clemency petitotion for a man who is not worthy of release, she is shocked to see Governor Black’s office quickly approve the request that sees this man go free, with a few strings attached. Shocked by what’s happened, Presley decides to create a sting operation to see what is happening and how Governor Black is running things. What she discovers is a sick and perverted system, where people can buy their family member’s freedom. Wanting to help, she agrees to cross the aisle and work for the state, hoping that she can build a case against the governor and those closest to him.
Working with her small cadre that are ready to help at any cost, Presley stumbles upon the truth, where scores of people have been forced to pay or give sexual favours to get inmates released. She hopes to nail the governor before he can corrupt the office any longer, but will have to watch her back. There are those who are keen to target her and will stop at nothing to silence the messenger before all is revealed. Presley has a lot to do and risking her life is at the top of the list. Pratt does a great job at luruing the reader into the middle of this piece.
I have long enjoyed the work of Scott Pratt, who never seems to give up when a good thing is flowing. Even after his death, members of his family took up the torch to ensure that his views were not lost. Pratt’s keen and adept nature keeps the reader on edge throughout and never lets things rest until all its revealed. With a strong base, the story grows from there, keeping things flowing with ease. Characters who work well and know how to flavour the piece provide a great insight into how the story will move along. Some plot twists keep things from getting too predictable, with a legal angle that is sure to pull the reader in a little more. With this new series, I can only hope that there will be another Presley Carter book on the horizon, as this is one character who is sure to show her true colours before too long.
Kudos, Mr. Pratt, for amazing work once more in this series debut.
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
June 5, 2023
Bestselling acclaimed author of the popular Joe Dillard legal series, Scott Pratt, returns with his latest new knockout riveting series, Presley Carter #1 —BLOOD IS BLACK —featuring an unstoppable tenacious strong female Southern attorney—a highly relatable heroine who will stop at nothing to take down a corrupt judge and everyone connected in a man's world.
As you can see, when I love a book, I get very wordy. I have much to discuss.
As the book opens: Meet Presley Myers at twelve. She is not asleep on a Wednesday and hears her younger brother, Aaron, across the hall breathing, sound asleep.
She gets up to go to the restroom and sees her mother turn out the light in the parent's bedroom. She walks over to the top of the steps and notices a dim light beneath the door of her father's study. Her dad, William Myers (Bill), is a lawyer who practices criminal defense and often works late.
A little after 2:00 am, she hears footsteps on the wooden deck outside the front door. The footsteps move in the direction of her dad's study. She hears the muffled voices of her dad and a man. She creeps down the stairs and hears a gun blast—One shot. She freezes. She sees a man wearing a long black coat and a ski mask walking out of his office. She is standing there and fears he will shoot her next. But nothing.
He walks over and pats her on the head. She sees his eyes: one bright blue and the other brown. Taking her life as she knows it with him. He walks out of the house.
In real life, blood isn't RED at all. In real life, it is BLACK.
She is alive, and her father is dead. There is nothing she can do about it.
Part One—Twenty Years Later.
Franklin, Tennessee: Presley is now a successful criminal defense attorney. She just turned 32 and has made a name for herself around Nashville—not on her father's level, but she was working on it. There was his legacy to uphold. A legacy she was obsessed with preserving and hopefully building upon. She even kept her maiden name when she married Mack.
After the murder of her father, she no longer saw through a child's eyes but saw the world: a chaotic, cruel place where no one was safe. Not even at home. So for the past 20 yrs, she put her head down, finished first in her class at Vanderbilt Law, started a successful firm, and carried her father's torch.
She and Mack, her husband, loved one another unconditionally. He was there for her when she kept her maiden name for her law career. He had been there when her brother Aaron fell hard into drugs and alcohol, and he was there when she discovered she could not bear children. She was relieved since she never wanted kids after her father's murder.
Mack was the Sherriff, and she was a criminal defense attorney. They made a great team. They were life partners and had a passion for one another, and they respected each other and their respective careers. She had a little bungalow office they purchased and kept no personal photos out in her office.
What begins as a series of deadly events, Pressley, after being approached to file a clemency petition by a father whose son committed a gruesome double-murder, Presley reluctantly agrees to file the document, knowing full well the request has no chance of being granted.
When she receives a phone call informing her the convict's release is approved, she's shocked to learn she's been unwittingly drawn into an evil scheme that could reach as high as the halls of the state capitol. Presley must then make a difficult choice.
Lonnie Black, a man with a dark and dangerous past, has just been elected as the new Governor of Tennessee. Shortly after he takes office, some of the state's most heinous and vile criminals see their sentences commuted to time served, releasing dangerous predators onto a vulnerable public. Could a sitting governor run a criminal conspiracy from his office?
Shortly after that, the Governor gave executive clemency to ten more prisoners in two weeks. Then one of her clients, the girlfriend, decides to wear a wire, which turns deadly for both the client and his girlfriend. There appears to be a leak, and her office is bugged—the Governor has an entire team of goons working with him.
The only way to get to this Governor is from the other side. Mack is friends with Dan Smith, the US Attorney in Nashville. They discussed Presley becoming a federal prosecutor. Mack explained that she could not tackle him as a defense attorney, and Dan was willing to give her the job. She could work with the FBI on the Black case.
She would put people in jail instead of helping them stay out.
She hates office politics but would have the federal government's power behind her. She agrees to start after her murder trial and will take Cheri, her assistant.
Part II
She would have agreed to work for free to have a shot a Governor Black! When he discovered she had become a federal prosecutor, he screamed, "witch hunt"—they were out to get him.
With a special investigative grand jury, they would hear the evidence regarding Black and his co-conspirators. The war was on, and he threatened her, but she was more determined after killing the couple. But Lonnie knows how to launder dirty money. He owned car dealerships. He is a crooked politician and speaks of the prisons being too crowded, the inmates being sorry for their sins, etc.
Pressley lived in the war room going through files and boxes seized in the raids, but she needed a smoking gun. She needs one piece of evidence. She cannot wait on the FBI.
Dobb Cole and wife, Cazzie —she would visit the convicted murderer dressed as someone else, undercover as Star—wig and all. She got the number to help pretend to get her man out of prison. They have two children.
Will her plan work, or will it backfire? Black had used her, and she was determined to get him, no matter what. But it all goes up in smoke, and now four people are dead. Black is a murderer. They need proof. She feels she has blood on her hands. These people were only trying to help.
But now they say she could have compromised the entire investigation, and a family has been murdered. Soon she is no longer an Assistant US Attorney. Had Black and his goons won?
Then she meets Sheryl Lee Everett. (she is hilarious!) Sister of Cole, Aunt of the Cole kids. She wants to go undercover. Governor Black and his cronies were still at it, soliciting executive releases for cash, even calling the sister of a man they had likely murdered. They said they could get John out of prison; she has insurance money. Paying for a federal release is a federal crime. She is all in.
Pressley is nervous about her wearing a wire. It is dangerous, but Sheryl wants to take down the Governor and get her man out of prison, but Pressley needs someone who wishes for Black behind bars as bad as she did—Agent Beard. They decided to keep it from Smith until they had evidence.
Black's guy, Chuck, was a total creep and slimy demanding sexual favors. (I loved Sherl getting the jump on old Chuck). She is smart and tough. Since Smith had fired Pressley, he could not keep tabs on her, but he needed to get back to running the state and collecting bribes for clemency and extortion without any inference.
Agent Beard and Pressley are the only ones who know this is going down. She tells Mack of her plans with Sheryl, but he is upset. Will Sheryl pull this off with Biney Beals (dangerous), without putting herself and others in danger? In the meantime, Mack, as Sherriff, is caught up in trouble in another perilous case.
Pressley must save Sheryl. Did Black have a mole in the bureau? How many more people will die to bring Black and his criminal administration to justice? Had Pressley lost, and Black got away with more crimes?
Part III
Presley will not give up. She wanted to hunt again, and it was time to return to being the wolf. Can she resume her place again with the discovery of Zeke Gibson.
Who is the mole, and who is helping Governor Black on the inside? Who else in authority is on his payroll? Then they find out the Governor is forcing businesses to pay illegal fees to him and percentages of total sales each month with bribes, murder, and more. He is preying on desperate innocent victims.
She may have to let one bee go to take down the queen and the entire hive.
From greed and power, Black's goons are moving in on Mack and Presley Carter, but will they be one step ahead with their plan? Will he go to trial and be convicted? How many more people will die before they put him behind bars? Will Presley win? Will she push too hard? Had she gotten too close?
Will she risk her life to keep her father's memory alive?
She is Presley Carter, a lawyer, sister, wife, daughter, and friend.
I LOVED THIS BOOK!!
Fast-paced and full of action, Presley Carter is a kick-ass attorney, and I loved her with her hubby, Mack. What a heroine! She is not afraid to take chances and has a heart of gold.
Pratt expertly crafts a cast of well-developed characters (good and evil), combining a smart cop procedural and legal action with award-winning courtroom drama and a twisty plot while blending in personal lives to round out this superbly written, exceptional crime legal thriller with heart.
Oh, and NO spoilers here, but it is Christmas time—The EPILOGUE cliffhanger will leave your jaw dropping and counting the days until Presley Carter #2. Please tell me if it is 2024 or sooner. We meet her mom and her mom's new boyfriend, AND Colter and DJ Cole!
OMG! are we going to find out the identity of the murderer of Presley's dad? I am dying for the next in the series. Spine-chilling! Those eyes... Please hurry!
HOLD ON: We will get Joe Dillard #10 June 1, 2023, Last Resort (5 Stars). This will tide me over until Pratt's Presley Carter's next book.
Legal crime thrillers are my favorites, and Pratt is one of the BEST— right up there with Grisham, Tutterow, Connley, and Lescroart. I had forgotten how much I loved his writing, and this one brought it front and center.
For fans of Karin Slaughter, Lisa Gardner, Michael Connelly, and John Grisham. (all favs) Highly recommend this new series to anyone who loves intelligent, sophisticated, and smartly written legal suspense thrillers with characters you both love and despise and a strong, likable heroine you will root for.
I purchased the e-book, paperback, and audiobook narrated by Bailey Carr, Audible Originals, for an outstanding performance! BLOOD IS BLACK would make for an excellent book club pick. I want a TV series or movie. 🎬 What a fabulous new series!
Blog review posted @
JudithDCollins.com
@JudithDCollins | #JDCMustReadBooks
My Rating: 5 Stars ++
Pub Date: April 1, 2023
April 2023 Must-Read Books
As you can see, when I love a book, I get very wordy. I have much to discuss.
As the book opens: Meet Presley Myers at twelve. She is not asleep on a Wednesday and hears her younger brother, Aaron, across the hall breathing, sound asleep.
She gets up to go to the restroom and sees her mother turn out the light in the parent's bedroom. She walks over to the top of the steps and notices a dim light beneath the door of her father's study. Her dad, William Myers (Bill), is a lawyer who practices criminal defense and often works late.
A little after 2:00 am, she hears footsteps on the wooden deck outside the front door. The footsteps move in the direction of her dad's study. She hears the muffled voices of her dad and a man. She creeps down the stairs and hears a gun blast—One shot. She freezes. She sees a man wearing a long black coat and a ski mask walking out of his office. She is standing there and fears he will shoot her next. But nothing.
He walks over and pats her on the head. She sees his eyes: one bright blue and the other brown. Taking her life as she knows it with him. He walks out of the house.
In real life, blood isn't RED at all. In real life, it is BLACK.
She is alive, and her father is dead. There is nothing she can do about it.
Part One—Twenty Years Later.
Franklin, Tennessee: Presley is now a successful criminal defense attorney. She just turned 32 and has made a name for herself around Nashville—not on her father's level, but she was working on it. There was his legacy to uphold. A legacy she was obsessed with preserving and hopefully building upon. She even kept her maiden name when she married Mack.
After the murder of her father, she no longer saw through a child's eyes but saw the world: a chaotic, cruel place where no one was safe. Not even at home. So for the past 20 yrs, she put her head down, finished first in her class at Vanderbilt Law, started a successful firm, and carried her father's torch.
She and Mack, her husband, loved one another unconditionally. He was there for her when she kept her maiden name for her law career. He had been there when her brother Aaron fell hard into drugs and alcohol, and he was there when she discovered she could not bear children. She was relieved since she never wanted kids after her father's murder.
Mack was the Sherriff, and she was a criminal defense attorney. They made a great team. They were life partners and had a passion for one another, and they respected each other and their respective careers. She had a little bungalow office they purchased and kept no personal photos out in her office.
What begins as a series of deadly events, Pressley, after being approached to file a clemency petition by a father whose son committed a gruesome double-murder, Presley reluctantly agrees to file the document, knowing full well the request has no chance of being granted.
When she receives a phone call informing her the convict's release is approved, she's shocked to learn she's been unwittingly drawn into an evil scheme that could reach as high as the halls of the state capitol. Presley must then make a difficult choice.
Lonnie Black, a man with a dark and dangerous past, has just been elected as the new Governor of Tennessee. Shortly after he takes office, some of the state's most heinous and vile criminals see their sentences commuted to time served, releasing dangerous predators onto a vulnerable public. Could a sitting governor run a criminal conspiracy from his office?
Shortly after that, the Governor gave executive clemency to ten more prisoners in two weeks. Then one of her clients, the girlfriend, decides to wear a wire, which turns deadly for both the client and his girlfriend. There appears to be a leak, and her office is bugged—the Governor has an entire team of goons working with him.
The only way to get to this Governor is from the other side. Mack is friends with Dan Smith, the US Attorney in Nashville. They discussed Presley becoming a federal prosecutor. Mack explained that she could not tackle him as a defense attorney, and Dan was willing to give her the job. She could work with the FBI on the Black case.
She would put people in jail instead of helping them stay out.
She hates office politics but would have the federal government's power behind her. She agrees to start after her murder trial and will take Cheri, her assistant.
Part II
She would have agreed to work for free to have a shot a Governor Black! When he discovered she had become a federal prosecutor, he screamed, "witch hunt"—they were out to get him.
With a special investigative grand jury, they would hear the evidence regarding Black and his co-conspirators. The war was on, and he threatened her, but she was more determined after killing the couple. But Lonnie knows how to launder dirty money. He owned car dealerships. He is a crooked politician and speaks of the prisons being too crowded, the inmates being sorry for their sins, etc.
Pressley lived in the war room going through files and boxes seized in the raids, but she needed a smoking gun. She needs one piece of evidence. She cannot wait on the FBI.
Dobb Cole and wife, Cazzie —she would visit the convicted murderer dressed as someone else, undercover as Star—wig and all. She got the number to help pretend to get her man out of prison. They have two children.
Will her plan work, or will it backfire? Black had used her, and she was determined to get him, no matter what. But it all goes up in smoke, and now four people are dead. Black is a murderer. They need proof. She feels she has blood on her hands. These people were only trying to help.
But now they say she could have compromised the entire investigation, and a family has been murdered. Soon she is no longer an Assistant US Attorney. Had Black and his goons won?
Then she meets Sheryl Lee Everett. (she is hilarious!) Sister of Cole, Aunt of the Cole kids. She wants to go undercover. Governor Black and his cronies were still at it, soliciting executive releases for cash, even calling the sister of a man they had likely murdered. They said they could get John out of prison; she has insurance money. Paying for a federal release is a federal crime. She is all in.
Pressley is nervous about her wearing a wire. It is dangerous, but Sheryl wants to take down the Governor and get her man out of prison, but Pressley needs someone who wishes for Black behind bars as bad as she did—Agent Beard. They decided to keep it from Smith until they had evidence.
Black's guy, Chuck, was a total creep and slimy demanding sexual favors. (I loved Sherl getting the jump on old Chuck). She is smart and tough. Since Smith had fired Pressley, he could not keep tabs on her, but he needed to get back to running the state and collecting bribes for clemency and extortion without any inference.
Agent Beard and Pressley are the only ones who know this is going down. She tells Mack of her plans with Sheryl, but he is upset. Will Sheryl pull this off with Biney Beals (dangerous), without putting herself and others in danger? In the meantime, Mack, as Sherriff, is caught up in trouble in another perilous case.
Pressley must save Sheryl. Did Black have a mole in the bureau? How many more people will die to bring Black and his criminal administration to justice? Had Pressley lost, and Black got away with more crimes?
Part III
Presley will not give up. She wanted to hunt again, and it was time to return to being the wolf. Can she resume her place again with the discovery of Zeke Gibson.
Who is the mole, and who is helping Governor Black on the inside? Who else in authority is on his payroll? Then they find out the Governor is forcing businesses to pay illegal fees to him and percentages of total sales each month with bribes, murder, and more. He is preying on desperate innocent victims.
She may have to let one bee go to take down the queen and the entire hive.
From greed and power, Black's goons are moving in on Mack and Presley Carter, but will they be one step ahead with their plan? Will he go to trial and be convicted? How many more people will die before they put him behind bars? Will Presley win? Will she push too hard? Had she gotten too close?
Will she risk her life to keep her father's memory alive?
She is Presley Carter, a lawyer, sister, wife, daughter, and friend.
I LOVED THIS BOOK!!
Fast-paced and full of action, Presley Carter is a kick-ass attorney, and I loved her with her hubby, Mack. What a heroine! She is not afraid to take chances and has a heart of gold.
Pratt expertly crafts a cast of well-developed characters (good and evil), combining a smart cop procedural and legal action with award-winning courtroom drama and a twisty plot while blending in personal lives to round out this superbly written, exceptional crime legal thriller with heart.
Oh, and NO spoilers here, but it is Christmas time—The EPILOGUE cliffhanger will leave your jaw dropping and counting the days until Presley Carter #2. Please tell me if it is 2024 or sooner. We meet her mom and her mom's new boyfriend, AND Colter and DJ Cole!
OMG! are we going to find out the identity of the murderer of Presley's dad? I am dying for the next in the series. Spine-chilling! Those eyes... Please hurry!
HOLD ON: We will get Joe Dillard #10 June 1, 2023, Last Resort (5 Stars). This will tide me over until Pratt's Presley Carter's next book.
Legal crime thrillers are my favorites, and Pratt is one of the BEST— right up there with Grisham, Tutterow, Connley, and Lescroart. I had forgotten how much I loved his writing, and this one brought it front and center.
For fans of Karin Slaughter, Lisa Gardner, Michael Connelly, and John Grisham. (all favs) Highly recommend this new series to anyone who loves intelligent, sophisticated, and smartly written legal suspense thrillers with characters you both love and despise and a strong, likable heroine you will root for.
I purchased the e-book, paperback, and audiobook narrated by Bailey Carr, Audible Originals, for an outstanding performance! BLOOD IS BLACK would make for an excellent book club pick. I want a TV series or movie. 🎬 What a fabulous new series!
Blog review posted @
JudithDCollins.com
@JudithDCollins | #JDCMustReadBooks
My Rating: 5 Stars ++
Pub Date: April 1, 2023
April 2023 Must-Read Books
May 17, 2023
Ugh!
I have waited two years for a new book by Scott Pratt. Here it is. What a disappointment!! One doesn't have to be a native Tennessean to know that Elvis Presley's middle name is not "Aaron", but " Aron". The plot lines are nothing like reality. Where is Joe Dillard when we need him?
I have waited two years for a new book by Scott Pratt. Here it is. What a disappointment!! One doesn't have to be a native Tennessean to know that Elvis Presley's middle name is not "Aaron", but " Aron". The plot lines are nothing like reality. Where is Joe Dillard when we need him?
Read
March 8, 2023BLOOD IS BLACK KINDLE PRE-ORDER IS LIVE
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AUDIBLE VERSION AVAILABLE TODAY
Audible → http://bit.ly/420dAYj
Amazon US → bit.ly/3SXjR34
Amazon CA → https://amzn.to/3J0lMz9
Amazon UK → https://amzn.to/3kVCYhg
Amazon AU → http://bit.ly/3F7CjQQ
AUDIBLE VERSION AVAILABLE TODAY
Audible → http://bit.ly/420dAYj
June 21, 2023
Surprise, surprise. I thought I figured it out. Great read!
I love a good Legal Thriller. This one was EXCEPTIONAL. I expected the hard working lawyer. But I never expected the twist and turns. The book was exciting. It was emotional, and I can't wait to read book 2.
I love a good Legal Thriller. This one was EXCEPTIONAL. I expected the hard working lawyer. But I never expected the twist and turns. The book was exciting. It was emotional, and I can't wait to read book 2.
April 28, 2023
kinda childish & Presley is a narcissist
Immature read, lacks realism, nothing exceptional to keep my attention. Surely wouldn’t recommend to any of my families or friends
Immature read, lacks realism, nothing exceptional to keep my attention. Surely wouldn’t recommend to any of my families or friends
July 2, 2023
Meh. I had expected more from Scott Pratt, this was a pretty quick listen but the twists & turns in the story just didn’t seem believable.
April 20, 2023
Scott Pratt is back with a new lead character, this time a female. Suspenseful, interesting legal plot. Quick read.
May 27, 2023
Though I devoured this in only three days there were several times when I was like that's not quite right, or how could that be, .. most didn't sit well a few fell into place . I am a bit torn 3 or 4? I went to 3
Because there were issues or details that just left me itchy that could have been left out and would have been smoother overall
...would I read a sequel? Even with my complaining, I did mostly enjoy it and would find it hard not to read the next one to see what happens. Just my opinion
(Note: won on Good Reads Giveaway)
Because there were issues or details that just left me itchy that could have been left out and would have been smoother overall
...would I read a sequel? Even with my complaining, I did mostly enjoy it and would find it hard not to read the next one to see what happens. Just my opinion
(Note: won on Good Reads Giveaway)
July 18, 2023
Doesn’t Live Up to Joe Dillard Books
This was a struggle to get through. The dialogue was often cringeworthy and difficult to stick with. It was surprising because I really enjoyed Scott’s Joe Dillard series and I was saddened to hear of his untimely death in 2018. It was also surprising to see this book published 5 years after his passing with no mention of another author…
This was a struggle to get through. The dialogue was often cringeworthy and difficult to stick with. It was surprising because I really enjoyed Scott’s Joe Dillard series and I was saddened to hear of his untimely death in 2018. It was also surprising to see this book published 5 years after his passing with no mention of another author…
April 24, 2023
this book did not seem like something Scott Pratt would write..
It was fair reading..hard to get interested in.
I have a problem with books that end with a cliff hanger to encourage the reader to purchase the next book.
It was fair reading..hard to get interested in.
I have a problem with books that end with a cliff hanger to encourage the reader to purchase the next book.
October 11, 2023
A day of reading
After getting my COVID booster I didn’t feel like doing anything but sitting and reading.
This book was a perfect choice. There were some gasps, some sad moments, and some surprises. Big ones. And if you live a good twisty plot, you’ll love this one.
After getting my COVID booster I didn’t feel like doing anything but sitting and reading.
This book was a perfect choice. There were some gasps, some sad moments, and some surprises. Big ones. And if you live a good twisty plot, you’ll love this one.
July 3, 2023
I have enjoyed the previous Scott Pratt books I have read. This was a disappointment. A literary chick flick. Mostly unrealistic, and no concept of criminal procedure.
June 19, 2024
I was able to read this book through Prime.
The story begins when Presley was young and describes the death of her father. The story continues with present time as she is working as a criminal defense attorney. As she finished one case, a new client comes asking her to write a clemency plea to free his son. Presley does not want to take this on initially, but she agrees. She advises her client that the likelihood of it succeeding is very low. She later receives a call from the Governor's office telling her that her request has been granted. This now results in Presley going on a new crusade, one which is to bring the Governor down.
Follow along and discover what happens when Presley leaves her law office and becomes a federal prosecutor. Follow the steps and see what actions she takes in her new role and what some of the fallout is that happens as a result. Read how she along with others finally develop enough for an indictment.
The conclusion presents her role in prosecuting the Governor in addition to reading about the trial itself. The ending will provide the jury's decision as well as answer a question about her father's death.
If you like a good story, then you don't want to miss this one.
The story begins when Presley was young and describes the death of her father. The story continues with present time as she is working as a criminal defense attorney. As she finished one case, a new client comes asking her to write a clemency plea to free his son. Presley does not want to take this on initially, but she agrees. She advises her client that the likelihood of it succeeding is very low. She later receives a call from the Governor's office telling her that her request has been granted. This now results in Presley going on a new crusade, one which is to bring the Governor down.
Follow along and discover what happens when Presley leaves her law office and becomes a federal prosecutor. Follow the steps and see what actions she takes in her new role and what some of the fallout is that happens as a result. Read how she along with others finally develop enough for an indictment.
The conclusion presents her role in prosecuting the Governor in addition to reading about the trial itself. The ending will provide the jury's decision as well as answer a question about her father's death.
If you like a good story, then you don't want to miss this one.
August 22, 2025
DNF at 15%. Legal thriller isn't my typical genre, but the idea of a strong FMC appealed to me. Unfortunately, I found her to be unlikeable and not too bright.
Of what I read, the writing voice and dialogue wasn't bad, but the story was shallow and not for me.
Of what I read, the writing voice and dialogue wasn't bad, but the story was shallow and not for me.
July 18, 2025
the mighty mississippi....!
I've never seen the river in person, but oftentimes, vicariously, and the strongest impression I ever got was of its unstoppable power and obvious mission. and that's exactly the way I felt as I read the beginning chapters of this story. That its author had set this tale asail and would keep it mesmerizingly afloat and me with it until the epilogue finally docked it for good.
this story is as compelling as a flood.
this story is as angry as a category 5 rapids.
this story and its corruption could drown Jim Phelps.
and this story is as full of all the good things you swallow a book whole for, and you will know when you reach for the next shore, that you just journeyed down a mighty, mighty river that transported you all the way to deliverance and redemption.
I've never seen the river in person, but oftentimes, vicariously, and the strongest impression I ever got was of its unstoppable power and obvious mission. and that's exactly the way I felt as I read the beginning chapters of this story. That its author had set this tale asail and would keep it mesmerizingly afloat and me with it until the epilogue finally docked it for good.
this story is as compelling as a flood.
this story is as angry as a category 5 rapids.
this story and its corruption could drown Jim Phelps.
and this story is as full of all the good things you swallow a book whole for, and you will know when you reach for the next shore, that you just journeyed down a mighty, mighty river that transported you all the way to deliverance and redemption.
August 31, 2025
It’s difficult to judge this book based on Scott Pratt’s Joe Dillard series so I won’t. As a standalone and new series, I enjoyed all of the twists and turns as it related to the Tennessee Governor Black. He was a power hungry, money hungry leader that cared more for himself than his citizens. There was a lot of murders and seemingly nonstop action. The defense attorney turned prosecutor Presley Myers/Clark’s father who was also a defense attorney got killed when she was young and she has followed in his footsteps until she began her mission to take down a criminal, then she became the prosecutor. Overall, this was an easy read and quite enjoyable. This wasn’t the best I’ve read but I feel it was worth reading but there was something missing but I just can’t put my finger on it so I could only give it four stars.
May 8, 2023
I was given Blood Is Black by a Goodreads giveaway.
This is the first book I have read by Scott Pratt. The Prologue immediately grabbed my attention, leaving me wanting to know more. Presley Myers is a 12 year old girl who hears the murder of a family member. The book takes the reader forward 20 years to Presley Myers, now a 32 year old criminal defense attorney. She is a smart, savvy and successful attorney following in her father's footsteps.
Pratt creates well-crafted characters and a storyline that will keep you so engrossed and wanting more! I will definitely be reading more books by Scott Pratt.
This is the first book I have read by Scott Pratt. The Prologue immediately grabbed my attention, leaving me wanting to know more. Presley Myers is a 12 year old girl who hears the murder of a family member. The book takes the reader forward 20 years to Presley Myers, now a 32 year old criminal defense attorney. She is a smart, savvy and successful attorney following in her father's footsteps.
Pratt creates well-crafted characters and a storyline that will keep you so engrossed and wanting more! I will definitely be reading more books by Scott Pratt.
December 27, 2023
wonderful! Suspenseful! Addictive!
Scott Pratt has done it again. Another top-notch Legal thriller! You will not put it down. The suspense will have you hooked! The best thing about this book is, the end of the book definitely tells us there is more to come! I cannot wait for the next book in this new series. Not only will the legal side of this book keep you addicted, but the characters will also. It takes true talent to be able to make the reader enjoy the suspense and care about the characters at the same time. Scott Pratt is on the same level as Victor Mathis and John Grisham. Definitely one of the best legal thriller authors out there!
Scott Pratt has done it again. Another top-notch Legal thriller! You will not put it down. The suspense will have you hooked! The best thing about this book is, the end of the book definitely tells us there is more to come! I cannot wait for the next book in this new series. Not only will the legal side of this book keep you addicted, but the characters will also. It takes true talent to be able to make the reader enjoy the suspense and care about the characters at the same time. Scott Pratt is on the same level as Victor Mathis and John Grisham. Definitely one of the best legal thriller authors out there!
December 29, 2023
When Scott Pratt passed away, I was so sad. I had always loved the Joe Dillard series and was sorry it was ending.
Then I found out someone was ghost writing the series to finish it. In the past, my experience with ghost writers has been somewhat disappointing. I am thrilled to say that was not the case this time!
This new book, Blood is Black, is a testement to the people now writing under the Scott Pratt name. I am thrilled to find out Scott's daughter is involved in writing this series and that there are more books planned for Presley Carter!
I strongly urge you to read both the Joe Dillard series as well as this new one. Great adventures.
Then I found out someone was ghost writing the series to finish it. In the past, my experience with ghost writers has been somewhat disappointing. I am thrilled to say that was not the case this time!
This new book, Blood is Black, is a testement to the people now writing under the Scott Pratt name. I am thrilled to find out Scott's daughter is involved in writing this series and that there are more books planned for Presley Carter!
I strongly urge you to read both the Joe Dillard series as well as this new one. Great adventures.
February 19, 2024
It’s a legal thriller. I love legal thrillers. But this is like an old western, where there are surprises, gunfights, twists and turns on every corner.
About half-way through I was pretty frustrated with Presley. For being an experienced and top-notch defense attorney and then U.S. Marshall, she manages to bungle up all her plans, and in the process, get people killed left and right. But her investigative skills trudged through. Unlike other crime solving books, there was no winding down in the end to tie up all the loose ends (most of them were dead anyway. )In the end there was still major surprises. Very exciting!
About half-way through I was pretty frustrated with Presley. For being an experienced and top-notch defense attorney and then U.S. Marshall, she manages to bungle up all her plans, and in the process, get people killed left and right. But her investigative skills trudged through. Unlike other crime solving books, there was no winding down in the end to tie up all the loose ends (most of them were dead anyway. )In the end there was still major surprises. Very exciting!
May 11, 2023
I am sorry but I was constantly wondering through the whole book…is this really by Scott Pratt?
I mean, Blood is Black is not that bad but it’s not a solid fun like those of his I’d read before. Like, different level. A lot of things in this book didn’t sit right with me. Without spoiling, let me just say this book is quite shallow, predictable and unbelievably easy considering it’s supposed to be david and Goliath kind of fight especially the courtroom drama that was very ridiculous, imo. Come to think about it, Presley is the main problem for me, she’s very scripted like a bad actor.
I mean, Blood is Black is not that bad but it’s not a solid fun like those of his I’d read before. Like, different level. A lot of things in this book didn’t sit right with me. Without spoiling, let me just say this book is quite shallow, predictable and unbelievably easy considering it’s supposed to be david and Goliath kind of fight especially the courtroom drama that was very ridiculous, imo. Come to think about it, Presley is the main problem for me, she’s very scripted like a bad actor.
July 13, 2023
Surprisingly good, despite the title
Presley Carter is a defense attorney, following in the footsteps of her father who had been murdered when she was 12 in their room. Her dad had been her hero and she was becoming a distinguished criminal defense attorney in her own right, living near Nashville with her sheriff husband. She uncovers political corruption at the highest level and despite danger, focuses her dogged energy on bringing the guilty to justice. Despite some improbable twists and some unnecessary turns, the story was enjoyable and leaves me wanting more.
Presley Carter is a defense attorney, following in the footsteps of her father who had been murdered when she was 12 in their room. Her dad had been her hero and she was becoming a distinguished criminal defense attorney in her own right, living near Nashville with her sheriff husband. She uncovers political corruption at the highest level and despite danger, focuses her dogged energy on bringing the guilty to justice. Despite some improbable twists and some unnecessary turns, the story was enjoyable and leaves me wanting more.
January 23, 2024
Blood is black
I hope there is a book to follow this one. I would recommend this book and all the books I've read from this author. I just hope he wrote more books ahead. His books keep you on your toes you don't want to put them down until you find out what happens. I would like to know if the guy her mom is dating is the INE who killed her dad and if she takes the two children on to raise them. Scott Pratt is one of my favorite authors. So sorry an accident took him from his family.
I hope there is a book to follow this one. I would recommend this book and all the books I've read from this author. I just hope he wrote more books ahead. His books keep you on your toes you don't want to put them down until you find out what happens. I would like to know if the guy her mom is dating is the INE who killed her dad and if she takes the two children on to raise them. Scott Pratt is one of my favorite authors. So sorry an accident took him from his family.
February 7, 2025
This story was a surprise. The book is based on a real TN Governor and contains examples of his actions. Yes, the book embellishes some of the criminal events by including several murders. The period when they happened was the mid-to-late 1970s, but the book has been moved to the present.
This story starts with a mystery that doesn't end with a resolution. The author intended this to be a series, but he has since passed away.
I had to laugh when I read some low-rated reviews. Reviewers said the story was unrealistic, but yet parts did happen and they were exposed.
This story starts with a mystery that doesn't end with a resolution. The author intended this to be a series, but he has since passed away.
I had to laugh when I read some low-rated reviews. Reviewers said the story was unrealistic, but yet parts did happen and they were exposed.
September 15, 2023
A little too unbelievable
And I’m not talking about the corruption and evil. I’m talking above the horrible decisions made by Pressley. And the ease of making her an assistant US attorney. Setting up her own stings? She overstepped boundaries more than once.
Another thing that bugged me was how the fact that Black’s buddiies/assistants kept disappearing.
Other than that, it was an exciting book with an interesting cliffhanger to end it.
And I’m not talking about the corruption and evil. I’m talking above the horrible decisions made by Pressley. And the ease of making her an assistant US attorney. Setting up her own stings? She overstepped boundaries more than once.
Another thing that bugged me was how the fact that Black’s buddiies/assistants kept disappearing.
Other than that, it was an exciting book with an interesting cliffhanger to end it.
February 16, 2024
Twisty tale with corrupt politicians, murder, corrupted "good" people. Book abruptly ended at 86% completion on my Kindle? Opening prologue involved unsolved murder of Pressly's dad when she was 10 and also a witness. Only tangential mention of that until last few pages when suspect appears in her home after she has successfully brought down the corrupt Gov. of Tenn. Apparently, abrupt ending is to entice reader to buy next book. If so, Pratt hooked me and I will pursue.
February 23, 2024
A very far fetched legal thriller
Blood is Black is the story of Presley, a lawyer, and her drive to convict the governor of the state, who is all kinds of corrupt. It all seemed so over the top to me. So many bad guys being killed, so much skullduggery, and then an ending that clearly leads to another book. I wish that I liked it better, but it felt like a by the numbers honest lawyer against the bad guys book.
Blood is Black is the story of Presley, a lawyer, and her drive to convict the governor of the state, who is all kinds of corrupt. It all seemed so over the top to me. So many bad guys being killed, so much skullduggery, and then an ending that clearly leads to another book. I wish that I liked it better, but it felt like a by the numbers honest lawyer against the bad guys book.
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