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Nate Shepherd #7
Swift Judgment
Attorney Nate Shepherd returns to represent a city councilman accused of murder. His client is unlikeable, abrasive, and rude. But is he a killer?
Nate Shepherd must try a murder case. Fast.
When a powerful politician is arrested for killing a local business owner, he hires Nate on one condition—Nate must try the case within ninety days. He has a rock-solid alibi and wants to prove his innocence before his opponents can destroy his career.
Working with his fiery associate and his two oldest friends, Nate scrambles to pull the case together. But once the trial date is set, Nate’s strategy falls apart as new witnesses and damning facts emerge, evidence which Nate’s client curiously forgets to mention every single time.
Battered by a collapsing case and an ungrateful client, Nate barrels ahead. But on the eve of trial, an unexpected shock in Nate’s family threatens to derail it all. Fighting through doubt of his client, and worse, of himself, Nate enters a trial he must not lose.
Nate Shepherd must try a murder case. Fast.
When a powerful politician is arrested for killing a local business owner, he hires Nate on one condition—Nate must try the case within ninety days. He has a rock-solid alibi and wants to prove his innocence before his opponents can destroy his career.
Working with his fiery associate and his two oldest friends, Nate scrambles to pull the case together. But once the trial date is set, Nate’s strategy falls apart as new witnesses and damning facts emerge, evidence which Nate’s client curiously forgets to mention every single time.
Battered by a collapsing case and an ungrateful client, Nate barrels ahead. But on the eve of trial, an unexpected shock in Nate’s family threatens to derail it all. Fighting through doubt of his client, and worse, of himself, Nate enters a trial he must not lose.
458 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 22, 2023
1999 people are currently reading
390 people want to read
About the author
Michael Stagg
11 books324 followersMichael Stagg has been a trial lawyer for more than twenty-five years. He has tried cases to juries and he's won and he's lost and he's argued about it in the court of appeals after. He still practices law so he's writing the Nate Shepherd series under a pen name.
Michael and his wife live in the Midwest. Their sons are grown so time that used to be spent at football games and band concerts now goes to writing. He enjoys sports of all sorts, reading, and grilling, with the order depending on the day.
For more information about Michael and his books, sign up for his newsletter at michaelstagg.com/newsletter/ or go to michaelstagg.com.
Nate Shepherd Legal Thrillers - Reading Order
Lethal Defense
True Intent
Blind Conviction
False Oath
Michael and his wife live in the Midwest. Their sons are grown so time that used to be spent at football games and band concerts now goes to writing. He enjoys sports of all sorts, reading, and grilling, with the order depending on the day.
For more information about Michael and his books, sign up for his newsletter at michaelstagg.com/newsletter/ or go to michaelstagg.com.
Nate Shepherd Legal Thrillers - Reading Order
Lethal Defense
True Intent
Blind Conviction
False Oath
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 68 reviews
June 6, 2024
Swift Judgment is #7 in the Nate Shepherd series. Poor Nate! Could he possibly have had a more difficult client than the one he has in this book?? The accused is rude and demanding! He also seems to have a selective memory and "forgets" to mention things until Nate brings them up. And, as if that weren't enough, Nate is dealing with a family health crisis...
Another great addition to a series filled with heart, wisdom, and a sweet dog!
Another great addition to a series filled with heart, wisdom, and a sweet dog!
November 25, 2023
This is the seventh installment of the Nate Shepherd’s serie and it’s a good one.
This time we follow a powerful politician who is arrested for killing a local business owner. He reluctantly hires Nate on one condition: Nate must try the case within ninety days because the client seems to have an airtight alibi. Then everything goes sideways. And on the eve of trial, an unexpected shock in Nate’s family threatens to derail it all. And manage it all with a client that is really unlikeable.
Incredible dialogue and the deepest plot of the serie. I actually like the nods to the previous books and it creates a rich and vast universe with well defined characters. Probably one of the best books of the year so far for me.
5*
This time we follow a powerful politician who is arrested for killing a local business owner. He reluctantly hires Nate on one condition: Nate must try the case within ninety days because the client seems to have an airtight alibi. Then everything goes sideways. And on the eve of trial, an unexpected shock in Nate’s family threatens to derail it all. And manage it all with a client that is really unlikeable.
Incredible dialogue and the deepest plot of the serie. I actually like the nods to the previous books and it creates a rich and vast universe with well defined characters. Probably one of the best books of the year so far for me.
5*
May 1, 2025
This series doesn't disappoint. Nate defended a city council member charged with murder. The city council member named Paul was an A-hole. I couldn't stand his character and I secretly wish he got the short end of the stick.
There was a little of a drug case in the background and I couldn't quite figure out how it played a part in this story.
Overall, another great addition to the series.
There was a little of a drug case in the background and I couldn't quite figure out how it played a part in this story.
Overall, another great addition to the series.
December 5, 2023
I didn't like #7 as much as I liked the first 6. I really disliked the defendant. I do like how Michael Stagg describes swear words in layman's terms. I also like his family.
March 5, 2024
My lawyer boyfriend in Nate Shepherd never fails to disappoints. I have been waiting for book 8 to release on Audio book as I love how Nate is brought to life. How the court case is told and unfolds.
Can not get enough of this series and excited to see that a book 8 is coming later this year.
Another brillaint story, another great case and has just simply left me wanting more of the great Nate Shepherd.
Can not get enough of this series and excited to see that a book 8 is coming later this year.
Another brillaint story, another great case and has just simply left me wanting more of the great Nate Shepherd.
March 17, 2024
Just awesome
I will try to be succinct but I just enjoy this author so much it is hard to he brief. As a courtroom procedural it is tops but to me what makes it stand head and shoulders above others is the witty repartee, as well as the feeling you are part if this extended family. The way they talk to each other is like you would talk to your own family and friends (if you were very smart and witty). I also like how he includes the reader - for example he will write something like - if you have met my family you know who they are but if not, let me introduce them to you. A very clever way to include old and new readers. He does this type of thing several times in each book. I could go on and on but suffice it to say I would give his books 10 stars if I could. Can't wait until the next book comes out in November.
I will try to be succinct but I just enjoy this author so much it is hard to he brief. As a courtroom procedural it is tops but to me what makes it stand head and shoulders above others is the witty repartee, as well as the feeling you are part if this extended family. The way they talk to each other is like you would talk to your own family and friends (if you were very smart and witty). I also like how he includes the reader - for example he will write something like - if you have met my family you know who they are but if not, let me introduce them to you. A very clever way to include old and new readers. He does this type of thing several times in each book. I could go on and on but suffice it to say I would give his books 10 stars if I could. Can't wait until the next book comes out in November.
January 3, 2024
Always a satisfying read.
November 28, 2023
This is an excellent tory and a super series. I love reading Nate shepherd tales and lawyer strategies/
I just want to know
Who really killed the guy???
I haven't figured that out yet/
Looking forward to Book #8.
I just want to know
Who really killed the guy???
I haven't figured that out yet/
Looking forward to Book #8.
March 3, 2024
I can't read these books quickly enough. Michael Stagg draws you into a plausible mystery where you're left asking yourself, "did he really do it?!". This story is no different. This time Nate is defending a completely unlikable character who has zero redeeming qualities. You have no reason to even WANT him to be innocent. But Nate works around the unlikability issues and concerns himself with finding the truth about what happened, and providing his client with the best defense possible. Listen. I don't even LIKE defense attorneys. But I find myself rooting for Nate every single time. Enough said. Read this series...you won't be disappointed.
November 26, 2023
Nasty, belligerent, hostile, insulting client keeps Nate's focused
Very difficult to defend an accused murderer who blocks key information. Nate and colleagues create a fascinating investigation and defense. Nate's close knit family faces a health crisis by supporting one another. I like this series; ordered the upcoming book.
Very difficult to defend an accused murderer who blocks key information. Nate and colleagues create a fascinating investigation and defense. Nate's close knit family faces a health crisis by supporting one another. I like this series; ordered the upcoming book.
December 5, 2023
I love this series. I’m not at all happy that I have to wait a year for the next one!!
March 10, 2025
Swift Judgment, the seventh installment in the Nate Shepherd series, represents a deliberate pivot toward character development and series-long storytelling. While it improves upon Lost Proof in key areas, it diverges from the self-contained legal puzzles that initially defined the series, opting instead to lay groundwork for future narratives.
The defendant in this case is arguably more unlikeable than in Lost Proof, but the portrayal feels intentional rather than grating. His abrasive demeanor serves the story’s tension effectively, avoiding the frustration that overshadowed the previous book. That said, Nate Shepherd’s role in the courtroom is notably subdued. The trial scenes lack the strategic brilliance and “aha” moments that defined earlier entries, as the narrative prioritizes broader series arcs over courtroom theatrics. This shift may disappoint readers drawn to the series for its legal ingenuity.
The book’s most striking feature is its focus on the evolving metaplot. From the opening chapters, it is clear that Swift Judgment exists to bridge past events and future conflicts. While this ambition is commendable, it comes at the expense of the procedural depth that typically grounds these stories. Key members of Nate’s team are absent or underutilized during the investigation phase, diminishing the camaraderie and methodical detective work that once balanced the courtroom drama. Instead, the story leans heavily into Nate’s personal life, exploring his struggles with work-life balance and familial relationships. These moments are well-crafted and add emotional resonance to his character, but they feel disconnected from the central mystery, which itself feels underdeveloped compared to prior cases.
The central mystery, while serviceable, lacks the intricacy and payoff of earlier installments, leaving the procedural elements feeling secondary. This emphasis on long-term storytelling risks making the book feel like a stepping stone rather than a fully realized entry, particularly for readers who prefer tightly contained legal puzzles.
Despite these trade-offs, Swift Judgment remains engaging. Michael Stagg’s prose retains its sharp, accessible quality, and Nate’s relatability as a protagonist continues to anchor the series. The family drama, though tangential to the mystery, offers some of the book’s most compelling moments, reinforcing Nate’s humanity in a genre often dominated by plot over character.
Final Thoughts: Swift Judgment earns a 4/5 for its strong character work and ambitious series-building, even if it sidelines the legal thrills that define the series at its best. Fans invested in Nate Shepherd’s journey will appreciate the groundwork laid here, though those seeking a tightly plotted courtroom puzzle may miss the series’ earlier focus.
The defendant in this case is arguably more unlikeable than in Lost Proof, but the portrayal feels intentional rather than grating. His abrasive demeanor serves the story’s tension effectively, avoiding the frustration that overshadowed the previous book. That said, Nate Shepherd’s role in the courtroom is notably subdued. The trial scenes lack the strategic brilliance and “aha” moments that defined earlier entries, as the narrative prioritizes broader series arcs over courtroom theatrics. This shift may disappoint readers drawn to the series for its legal ingenuity.
The book’s most striking feature is its focus on the evolving metaplot. From the opening chapters, it is clear that Swift Judgment exists to bridge past events and future conflicts. While this ambition is commendable, it comes at the expense of the procedural depth that typically grounds these stories. Key members of Nate’s team are absent or underutilized during the investigation phase, diminishing the camaraderie and methodical detective work that once balanced the courtroom drama. Instead, the story leans heavily into Nate’s personal life, exploring his struggles with work-life balance and familial relationships. These moments are well-crafted and add emotional resonance to his character, but they feel disconnected from the central mystery, which itself feels underdeveloped compared to prior cases.
The central mystery, while serviceable, lacks the intricacy and payoff of earlier installments, leaving the procedural elements feeling secondary. This emphasis on long-term storytelling risks making the book feel like a stepping stone rather than a fully realized entry, particularly for readers who prefer tightly contained legal puzzles.
Despite these trade-offs, Swift Judgment remains engaging. Michael Stagg’s prose retains its sharp, accessible quality, and Nate’s relatability as a protagonist continues to anchor the series. The family drama, though tangential to the mystery, offers some of the book’s most compelling moments, reinforcing Nate’s humanity in a genre often dominated by plot over character.
Final Thoughts: Swift Judgment earns a 4/5 for its strong character work and ambitious series-building, even if it sidelines the legal thrills that define the series at its best. Fans invested in Nate Shepherd’s journey will appreciate the groundwork laid here, though those seeking a tightly plotted courtroom puzzle may miss the series’ earlier focus.
June 16, 2025
this is one of the best series, highly recommend
I’m beginning to notice that these last two books are ending in cliffhanger. There’s something about these organizations that appear to intertwine in the same plot starting with book 6. I think there’s some connection between them. I just pray Nate doesn’t get entangle by representing the wrong person. I just love Nate character and his compassion and loyalty to his clients but, it’s no way I could’ve represented Paul. That man was a horrible human being. Even when Nate was experiencing family emergency, Paul showed no compassion, empathy or mercy. Nate continued to fulfill his commitments to represent Paul, even though Paul didn’t appreciate it. Speedy recovery to Mr. Shepherd. A family that prays together, stays together.
I’m beginning to notice that these last two books are ending in cliffhanger. There’s something about these organizations that appear to intertwine in the same plot starting with book 6. I think there’s some connection between them. I just pray Nate doesn’t get entangle by representing the wrong person. I just love Nate character and his compassion and loyalty to his clients but, it’s no way I could’ve represented Paul. That man was a horrible human being. Even when Nate was experiencing family emergency, Paul showed no compassion, empathy or mercy. Nate continued to fulfill his commitments to represent Paul, even though Paul didn’t appreciate it. Speedy recovery to Mr. Shepherd. A family that prays together, stays together.
August 13, 2024
Michael Stagg's *Swift Judgement* is a masterful exploration of legal and moral dilemmas that captivates from start to finish. The novel's strength lies in its intricate plotting and well-developed characters, which combine to create a compelling narrative about justice and ethics. Stagg's keen eye for detail and his ability to weave a suspenseful tale keep readers engaged and questioning at every turn. The pacing is expertly handled, balancing intense courtroom drama with deeper reflections on human nature. *Swift Judgement* is not only a gripping read but also a thought-provoking commentary on the complexities of legal systems and personal responsibility.
April 3, 2024
Nate Shepherd is a fabulous character, and this series is one of my favourite courtroom dramas. Nate is pushed to his limits in this book, with a client who thinks he can do and say whatever he feels, is untouchable because of his social standing and only reveals the truth when Nate finds out through his investigations. If Nate could have told this guy to do one, he would have. It's frustrating to read, but you can feel for those poor lawyers who do have clients like this. Once again, Michael Stagg nailed it.
September 15, 2024
One of the more irritating parts of the past few Nate Shepherd books has been his partner's dull real estate law stuff. So what happens here? Let's build Nate's story around just that. This one was boring. Taking a break until this spices back up. And Stagg, man, I know defendants are usually dicks but it's hard to care of the entire story when I don't care what happens to the defendant at all. The last 2 have been detestable characters that I'd rather see thrown in jail regardless of their innocence.
Read
November 3, 2024Justice needs to be quick in Michael Stagg’s Book 7 of the Nate Shepherd Legal Thriller Series for a politician accused of murder before an election. Trying to sort through evidence and get a straight answer out of his client proves to be challenging, filling Nate’s case with holes. He also faces personal and family issues, adding worries he carries along with the problems with this case.
Again, Stagg’s characters help Shepherd in this latest defense challenge, while adding depth to the story. This series continues to deliver solid legal thrillers that are engaging and entertaining.
Again, Stagg’s characters help Shepherd in this latest defense challenge, while adding depth to the story. This series continues to deliver solid legal thrillers that are engaging and entertaining.
August 29, 2024
I’ve read this series on and off throughout the summer. The author is easy to read and I enjoy the setting of the small city lawyer who has deep roots in the community. In this book, he takes on a client who is an ungrateful pr*ck. I like how Nate must keep his cool and try his best to control his jerky client during trial. With his father experiencing a health crisis Nate must navigate the twists and turns of the case to establish reasonable doubt within the 90-day time limit. A fun read.
July 13, 2025
Absolutely loved Swift Judgment! Michael Stagg nails it again with smart courtroom drama and a relentless pace that kept me hooked. I give it a solid 5 stars. One of the best parts was how the legal strategy kept shifting—it made every chapter feel like a chess match. Also, the dialogue was razor sharp, especially in the courtroom scenes. You can tell Stagg knows his stuff. If you like legal thrillers that make you think, this one’s a must-read. Highly recommend!
January 26, 2024
Good story
Love your series. I enjoy the characters and the story lines. I would suggest bringing your books to audio soon. My eye sight not being what it was, I truly enjoy the audio versions. I can listen to a book in 24 hours while doing other tasks. Reading a book takes me about 2 weeks. Please keep on writing.
Love your series. I enjoy the characters and the story lines. I would suggest bringing your books to audio soon. My eye sight not being what it was, I truly enjoy the audio versions. I can listen to a book in 24 hours while doing other tasks. Reading a book takes me about 2 weeks. Please keep on writing.
October 26, 2024
I have enjoyed all of the books in this series. The main characters are interesting and NICE folks. I love the twists and turns of legal procedurals. Nate Shepherd gets talked into representing a truly obnoxious individual who has been accused of murdering a guy who was holding up the start of a new multi-use development he was very interested in.
January 16, 2025
Better than the last one
Defending an obnoxious client against a charge of murder can be difficult and extremely challenging. Nate Shepherd has to wade through his abusive client's omissions of the truth, his extreme reluctance to reveal certain facts, and overcome the prosecutor's nearly insurmountable proof.
Great read!
Defending an obnoxious client against a charge of murder can be difficult and extremely challenging. Nate Shepherd has to wade through his abusive client's omissions of the truth, his extreme reluctance to reveal certain facts, and overcome the prosecutor's nearly insurmountable proof.
Great read!
January 26, 2025
Oh My Gosh! I loved this one! That Paul is quite the character! He must have been fun to write! I mean the story is great as well but that Paul really set tone for the book. We spend a lot of time in court which I loved as well. That Nate is wonderful in the courtroom. I look forward to more of his actions!
May 26, 2025
I found it unrealistic that the novel did not investigate any thing about why there was no investigation into the reason for the murder victim Dirk Lansdale to go to that remote location where he was found murdered. There is an implication that the nefarious relationship with Nate's father to his long ago severed relationship with that privileged family may be involved with a series of murders.
August 18, 2025
Mind- blowing!
Ya gotta love Nate Shepherd! He's down to earth and honorable on top of that!
His clients are another matter. Some I've liked, enjoyed, found irritating, but before this, I've never detested one. Which leaves me with mixed feelings. Especially considering the family drama.
Yet, I can't wait to read the next book!
Ya gotta love Nate Shepherd! He's down to earth and honorable on top of that!
His clients are another matter. Some I've liked, enjoyed, found irritating, but before this, I've never detested one. Which leaves me with mixed feelings. Especially considering the family drama.
Yet, I can't wait to read the next book!
January 5, 2026
just okay…
I love all the Nate Shepherd series but the characters in this read were unlikable. I did not like the accused killer Nate was defending. He had a horrible attitude and he was always nasty towards Nate. Also, I missed Danny. This book took me the longest to read because of the characters. I do love Nate’s family.
I love all the Nate Shepherd series but the characters in this read were unlikable. I did not like the accused killer Nate was defending. He had a horrible attitude and he was always nasty towards Nate. Also, I missed Danny. This book took me the longest to read because of the characters. I do love Nate’s family.
December 24, 2023
Another excellent story. How I hated the client, what an arrogant so and so, reminded me of an ex-president!! Love the family back stories in this and enjoy the way the author writes as if he is 'telling' you the story.
February 29, 2024
This might have been my favorite Nate Shepherd novel. It ran SO smoothly. I honestly toyed with giving it 5 stars, but I really try to reserve those for truly exceptional novels. This was great, probably his best, but I'm not sure it was exceptional.
March 2, 2024
Bravo
I really enjoyed Nate Shepherd legal thriller. Michael Stagg way of telling a story keeps me engaged until the very last word. I can not wait until the next book in the series.
I really enjoyed Nate Shepherd legal thriller. Michael Stagg way of telling a story keeps me engaged until the very last word. I can not wait until the next book in the series.
March 2, 2024
I liked the other six books much better. The end of this was so muddled with confusion. Trying to tie dig dealers with phones, real estate, etc. It was just left hanging. Also, bad on Nate for not staying with family at their time of need. Just like when his wife died.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 68 reviews