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Small Town Lawyer #4
Burning Evidence
In a small town, it’s all too easy for secrets to stay buried…
When a young woman dies in a late-night restaurant fire, the owner, Bobby Carter, is charged with arson and murder. The evidence is stacked against him, but something doesn’t add up. And his only chance for justice rests on the shoulders of small-town lawyer, Leland Munroe…
Leland’s client insists he’s innocent. But the local media is quick to demonize Carter, and powerful forces behind the scenes are determined to keep the truth from coming out. Leland must navigate a web of corruption and deceit to expose the real culprit.
Meanwhile, defending a young athlete accused of selling drugs has Leland facing off against a former colleague with an axe to grind. The two cases seem unrelated, but in Basking Rock, things are rarely as straightforward as they appear. Can this quick-witted lawyer outsmart the real killer? Or will he become their next victim…
When a young woman dies in a late-night restaurant fire, the owner, Bobby Carter, is charged with arson and murder. The evidence is stacked against him, but something doesn’t add up. And his only chance for justice rests on the shoulders of small-town lawyer, Leland Munroe…
Leland’s client insists he’s innocent. But the local media is quick to demonize Carter, and powerful forces behind the scenes are determined to keep the truth from coming out. Leland must navigate a web of corruption and deceit to expose the real culprit.
Meanwhile, defending a young athlete accused of selling drugs has Leland facing off against a former colleague with an axe to grind. The two cases seem unrelated, but in Basking Rock, things are rarely as straightforward as they appear. Can this quick-witted lawyer outsmart the real killer? Or will he become their next victim…
346 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 26, 2023
2579 people are currently reading
496 people want to read
About the author
Peter Kirkland
19 books113 followersPeter Kirkland grew up in Beaufort, South Carolina. As a kid, Peter loved history and learning about his area. One year in school, he was given a project to research a few South Carolina law cases and the precedents they set and their effect on people’s lives.
This research project lit the flame for his passion for law and creating a more equal justice system since. Soon after this, Peter began reading legal thrillers voraciously and enjoyed the legal maneuvering and justice found within. As an adult he has continued researching the law and understanding the system and its effects on individuals. A few years ago, he decided to try writing his own legal thriller.
Now a full-time writer, he uses his research, passion for justice, and real case studies to bring together courtroom dramas with deep, rich characters, and gripping twists and turns. New to the industry, Peter would love to hear from readers and other authors and invites you to connect with him.
This research project lit the flame for his passion for law and creating a more equal justice system since. Soon after this, Peter began reading legal thrillers voraciously and enjoyed the legal maneuvering and justice found within. As an adult he has continued researching the law and understanding the system and its effects on individuals. A few years ago, he decided to try writing his own legal thriller.
Now a full-time writer, he uses his research, passion for justice, and real case studies to bring together courtroom dramas with deep, rich characters, and gripping twists and turns. New to the industry, Peter would love to hear from readers and other authors and invites you to connect with him.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews
October 28, 2023
Burning Evidence, the fourth installment in the Small Town Lawyer series by Peter Kirkland, took me on a thrilling and unexpected journey. As a newcomer to the series, I was pleasantly surprised by the author's skill in introducing the characters in a way that made me instantly connect with them. Each twist and turn in the story made me root for their success, and I found myself mentally high-fiving them at every corner.
The plot revolves around a small-town lawyer, Leland Munroe, who takes on a seemingly impossible case. When the owner of a local restaurant is charged with arson and murder following a late-night fire, the evidence is overwhelmingly against him. Leland's determination to prove his client's innocence leads him down a treacherous path filled with corruption and deceit. The author skillfully weaves together multiple storylines, including Leland's defense of a young athlete accused of selling drugs, creating a narrative that keeps you guessing until the very end.
I'm a fan of courtroom dramas, and Burning Evidence did not disappoint. The story is compelling, filled with unexpected twists, and leaves you on the edge of your seat. Even without prior knowledge of the series, I found this book to be a must-read. I am looking forward to more from Peter Kirkland in the future, as his storytelling prowess has left me hungry for more legal thrillers like this one.
The plot revolves around a small-town lawyer, Leland Munroe, who takes on a seemingly impossible case. When the owner of a local restaurant is charged with arson and murder following a late-night fire, the evidence is overwhelmingly against him. Leland's determination to prove his client's innocence leads him down a treacherous path filled with corruption and deceit. The author skillfully weaves together multiple storylines, including Leland's defense of a young athlete accused of selling drugs, creating a narrative that keeps you guessing until the very end.
I'm a fan of courtroom dramas, and Burning Evidence did not disappoint. The story is compelling, filled with unexpected twists, and leaves you on the edge of your seat. Even without prior knowledge of the series, I found this book to be a must-read. I am looking forward to more from Peter Kirkland in the future, as his storytelling prowess has left me hungry for more legal thrillers like this one.
September 2, 2025
5.0 stars. Just WOW! Never saw that surprise ending coming. Once again Leland is dealing with two court cases, both with plenty of plot twists that kept me on edge. The closer I got to the end, the more anxious I got for all parties involved. Exciting drama with a big finish. Looking forward to book 5.
October 27, 2023
I must admit, though I had always liked the "Small Town Lawyer" series for the protagonist Leland Munroe's representation of the society's underdog, the fourth book "Burning Evidence" is by far my most favourite of the series. As we had seen in the previous books, Leland has finally been able to develop a solid clientele and get good retainers from his clients. He is starting to get a name for himself in the town, in spite of the attempts made by his newspaper nemesis to discredit him.
In this book, Leland handles two high profile cases, one is that of a drug charge faced by a college kid Jacob and the other is a arson case in which an innocent man might be convicted. As usual he faces a lot of hurdles both within the system and from the people around him, as he tries to help both of them to get out of these charges they have been accused of. The story meanders through a lot of false mirrors and twisted passages to arrive at the crux of truth and get justice for the wronged people, the accused and victims alike.
The author has presented a very clear and crisp narrative in this story. The surprising twists occuring throughout don't seem forced upon and help hold the interest of the reader. Leland's character has come a long way since we saw him first; his character seems to have grown on me and it was such a rewarding reading experience because of it. I particularly loved the way Leland's work partner Terri's character has been written. The progress in their relationship
has been depicted beautifully and most important of all, believably. I can't wait to see what the author is going to come up with in the next issue.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
In this book, Leland handles two high profile cases, one is that of a drug charge faced by a college kid Jacob and the other is a arson case in which an innocent man might be convicted. As usual he faces a lot of hurdles both within the system and from the people around him, as he tries to help both of them to get out of these charges they have been accused of. The story meanders through a lot of false mirrors and twisted passages to arrive at the crux of truth and get justice for the wronged people, the accused and victims alike.
The author has presented a very clear and crisp narrative in this story. The surprising twists occuring throughout don't seem forced upon and help hold the interest of the reader. Leland's character has come a long way since we saw him first; his character seems to have grown on me and it was such a rewarding reading experience because of it. I particularly loved the way Leland's work partner Terri's character has been written. The progress in their relationship
has been depicted beautifully and most important of all, believably. I can't wait to see what the author is going to come up with in the next issue.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 29, 2025
He reminds me of the Lincoln Lawyer
Great book and great story I always get into it too much where I can’t put the book down and I have to read it and one sitting definitely recommend!
Great book and great story I always get into it too much where I can’t put the book down and I have to read it and one sitting definitely recommend!
October 8, 2023
Burning Evidence is an excellent legal thriller that had me hooked from the very first page. With its gripping and intricate plot lines, it kept me on the edge of my seat throughout, making it a true page-turner. Fortunately I had read the other books by this author which made it even more enjoyable!
One of the standout features of this book is the author's writing style, which is incredibly easy to read. The prose flows effortlessly, making it effortless to immerse oneself in the story. It's a rare talent to combine legal intricacies with such accessible language, and the author does it brilliantly.
The character development in this book is outstanding. The main characters are multi-dimensional, and their growth throughout the story is both believable and compelling. I particularly enjoyed how the relationships between the main characters evolved over the course of the book. It added depth and emotional resonance to the narrative, making me care deeply about their fates.
One of the few downsides of this book is that it had to end eventually. When I reached the final page, I was left with a strong desire for more. I became so invested in the story and the characters that I didn't want to say goodbye.
In summary, Burning Evidence is a must-read for fans of legal thrillers. Its gripping plot, easy-to-read writing style, outstanding character development, and evolving relationships between the main characters make it a standout in the genre. The only disappointment was that it had to end. I eagerly await more from this talented author. I was provided a copy of this book by the author, and am leaving this review that reflects my opinion of the book voluntarily.
One of the standout features of this book is the author's writing style, which is incredibly easy to read. The prose flows effortlessly, making it effortless to immerse oneself in the story. It's a rare talent to combine legal intricacies with such accessible language, and the author does it brilliantly.
The character development in this book is outstanding. The main characters are multi-dimensional, and their growth throughout the story is both believable and compelling. I particularly enjoyed how the relationships between the main characters evolved over the course of the book. It added depth and emotional resonance to the narrative, making me care deeply about their fates.
One of the few downsides of this book is that it had to end eventually. When I reached the final page, I was left with a strong desire for more. I became so invested in the story and the characters that I didn't want to say goodbye.
In summary, Burning Evidence is a must-read for fans of legal thrillers. Its gripping plot, easy-to-read writing style, outstanding character development, and evolving relationships between the main characters make it a standout in the genre. The only disappointment was that it had to end. I eagerly await more from this talented author. I was provided a copy of this book by the author, and am leaving this review that reflects my opinion of the book voluntarily.
September 28, 2023
Excellent legal thriller. The storyline was attention grabbing and kept me intrigued right until the end. The book was well written and the dialogue was folksy without being corny. I enjoyed it, as well as all the other Leland Munroe books, very much. Looking forward to more!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 12, 2024
Burning Evidence
Small Town Lawyer, Book 4
By: Peter Kirkland
Narrated by: J J Hosenfeld
A Brilliant Legal Thriller! STUNNING!
Overall: 5 of 5 stars Performance: 5 of 5 stars Story: 5 of 5 stars
Reviewed: 02-12-24
A restauranteur accused of arson resulting in death … a young man accused of possession with the intent to distribute … both clients of Leland Munroe, former prosecutor turned criminal defense attorney. Two unrelated cases and someone doesn’t want them defended… Only one word describes “Burning Evidence” and that word is STUNNING, from start to finish, absolutely stunning! The plot is beautifully woven, interesting, entertaining and holds just the right amounts of mystery and suspense. I love that any “legalisms” that might need explaining are brilliantly worked INTO the story so that even a legal newbie listener will have no issues understanding or following along! The plot itself is gloriously full of twists and surprises, and I’ll not be giving any details so that they remain just that, surprises for future listeners, though I will say my jaw IS a bit sore from hitting the floor … The characters are diverse, fully developed and have complete personalities. I really felt for the two defendants! I came to care about them, as well as the other characters. They became real to me as I listened, becoming one with this fabulously engrossing story. As with people in life, not all of the characters are ones I would choose to associate with, but to protect the guilty, I’ll refrain from naming names 🙂. All of the characters, and this engrossing story, came beautifully alive through fantastic narration! Emotionally on point, perfectly timed, and clearly voiced, leaving no doubt what the characters were feeling at any given time, truly giving life to the authors vision. I absolutely loved this stunning, five star story.
Small Town Lawyer, Book 4
By: Peter Kirkland
Narrated by: J J Hosenfeld
A Brilliant Legal Thriller! STUNNING!
Overall: 5 of 5 stars Performance: 5 of 5 stars Story: 5 of 5 stars
Reviewed: 02-12-24
A restauranteur accused of arson resulting in death … a young man accused of possession with the intent to distribute … both clients of Leland Munroe, former prosecutor turned criminal defense attorney. Two unrelated cases and someone doesn’t want them defended… Only one word describes “Burning Evidence” and that word is STUNNING, from start to finish, absolutely stunning! The plot is beautifully woven, interesting, entertaining and holds just the right amounts of mystery and suspense. I love that any “legalisms” that might need explaining are brilliantly worked INTO the story so that even a legal newbie listener will have no issues understanding or following along! The plot itself is gloriously full of twists and surprises, and I’ll not be giving any details so that they remain just that, surprises for future listeners, though I will say my jaw IS a bit sore from hitting the floor … The characters are diverse, fully developed and have complete personalities. I really felt for the two defendants! I came to care about them, as well as the other characters. They became real to me as I listened, becoming one with this fabulously engrossing story. As with people in life, not all of the characters are ones I would choose to associate with, but to protect the guilty, I’ll refrain from naming names 🙂. All of the characters, and this engrossing story, came beautifully alive through fantastic narration! Emotionally on point, perfectly timed, and clearly voiced, leaving no doubt what the characters were feeling at any given time, truly giving life to the authors vision. I absolutely loved this stunning, five star story.
February 14, 2024
Two Cases to Adjudicate, But the Narrator!
I’ve listened to every book in this series up to this point, and I’ve enjoyed every one. This is no exception, I’m happy to say. The author crafts a well-written legal thriller, and I like the small personal touches he weaves into every tale. For instance, in this book, our protagonist’s son is now on his own. Throughout the series, the single father/only child dynamic has been a small spotlight I’ve enjoyed watching evolve. Their relationship has the complexity of real father/son ones, which has certainly changed since their lives will change as the son becomes an independent adult.
But a legal thriller is about the cases, and this book has two. Those in trouble with the law are complex characters with rough edges who still come across as sympathetic. Not an easy line to toe, but the author does it well. The cases themselves are complex and fascinating—especially one, as I am an addictions nurse—and getting justice is a rocky road, as it must be. I really enjoy this author's stories and characters.
I’m not wild about the series’ narrator, however. One minor quibble and one broader issue. Small quibble: I wish he gave the hero a hint of a Southern accent. He seems to do this with most other Southern characters but not the lead. More significant issue: He doesn’t voice female characters well, any of them. I’m particularly annoyed by the voicing of the protagonist’s assistant/investigator (not sure of her specific title) whenever she shows up. She’s actually a great character, and I like her on that level, especially how she complements the protagonist and isn’t afraid to take him to task. But, yikes, that VOICE. Still, all in all, this is a great book and fantastic series.
I received a promo code for this audiobook, but that did not affect my review.
I’ve listened to every book in this series up to this point, and I’ve enjoyed every one. This is no exception, I’m happy to say. The author crafts a well-written legal thriller, and I like the small personal touches he weaves into every tale. For instance, in this book, our protagonist’s son is now on his own. Throughout the series, the single father/only child dynamic has been a small spotlight I’ve enjoyed watching evolve. Their relationship has the complexity of real father/son ones, which has certainly changed since their lives will change as the son becomes an independent adult.
But a legal thriller is about the cases, and this book has two. Those in trouble with the law are complex characters with rough edges who still come across as sympathetic. Not an easy line to toe, but the author does it well. The cases themselves are complex and fascinating—especially one, as I am an addictions nurse—and getting justice is a rocky road, as it must be. I really enjoy this author's stories and characters.
I’m not wild about the series’ narrator, however. One minor quibble and one broader issue. Small quibble: I wish he gave the hero a hint of a Southern accent. He seems to do this with most other Southern characters but not the lead. More significant issue: He doesn’t voice female characters well, any of them. I’m particularly annoyed by the voicing of the protagonist’s assistant/investigator (not sure of her specific title) whenever she shows up. She’s actually a great character, and I like her on that level, especially how she complements the protagonist and isn’t afraid to take him to task. But, yikes, that VOICE. Still, all in all, this is a great book and fantastic series.
I received a promo code for this audiobook, but that did not affect my review.
February 1, 2025
I get so caught up in these stories, in fact at one point I actually said 'oh no' out loud, so as long as you don't mind being embarrassed, then sit back and enjoy the roller coaster ride. This is the fourth book in the series and we have seen the characters grow and develop over that course, the author has certainly put the characters through some trying and difficult situations, as they fight for the under dogs in each story. The story doesn't always go the way you expect but that is what keeps it entertaining and exciting. This time Leland is working on two very different high profile cases at the same time, this does mean it keeps you on your toes as they switch between the two instead of dedicating a chapter to each case. I think this works well as it keeps the story fast paced and moving. You also don't need to wait long for the next court motion or test results, unlike real life. I can't wait for the next book to see where we are headed next.
When a man suffering from Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) after his time in the army is charged with starting a fire that a young woman died in, his wife turns to Leland for help. The pizza restaurant was doing well and he had no reason to burn it to the ground but his return from action didn't go smoothly at first and everybody is quick to believe his guilty, especially the media. Can Leland keep his client claim and find the answers he needs? At the same time he is working on freeing a college student arrested on drug charges. He claims he is innocent and the drugs belongs to his roommate, who has been arrested for dealing before. With his Olympic dreams hanging in the balance it up to Leland and his private investigator Terri to help.
I like the narrator. He helps create the scene and transports you into Leland's world.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
When a man suffering from Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) after his time in the army is charged with starting a fire that a young woman died in, his wife turns to Leland for help. The pizza restaurant was doing well and he had no reason to burn it to the ground but his return from action didn't go smoothly at first and everybody is quick to believe his guilty, especially the media. Can Leland keep his client claim and find the answers he needs? At the same time he is working on freeing a college student arrested on drug charges. He claims he is innocent and the drugs belongs to his roommate, who has been arrested for dealing before. With his Olympic dreams hanging in the balance it up to Leland and his private investigator Terri to help.
I like the narrator. He helps create the scene and transports you into Leland's world.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 19, 2024
Over the last two years, I have read 4 books in the Small Town Lawyer Book Series. Peter Kirkland is now one of my favorite authors. I look forward to the release of his fifth book in early 2025. The series follows an attorney Leland Monroe who moved away from the small town as a young adult to become a successful big city prosecutor. After the death of his wife in a DUI car accident (she was the one under the influence), he moves back to the small town with his High School aged son, who was also injured in the DUI accident. He has to adapt to the struggles of adapting back to living in a small town where everyone knows everything. The struggles of operating a small law firm after working as a government lawyer. And then living with the guilt of whether he could have done more to stop his wife's history of drug/alcohol abuse.
Book 4 includes Leland's defense of a man for arson and murder, as well as a defense of a young athlete for drug dealing. In the meanwhile, he has to deal with courtroom corruption, political corruption, and a possible drug conspiracy that may involve significant powerful people around the small town.
I always enjoy Kirkland's writing and I look forward to Book 5.
Book 4 includes Leland's defense of a man for arson and murder, as well as a defense of a young athlete for drug dealing. In the meanwhile, he has to deal with courtroom corruption, political corruption, and a possible drug conspiracy that may involve significant powerful people around the small town.
I always enjoy Kirkland's writing and I look forward to Book 5.
July 15, 2024
I just love my Leland Munroe, no other man like him. recommend
I love this author books. His plots, twists and turns are awesome. I don’t believe I have chosen the right perp yet. When I’m so sure I have the right person, I’m wrong. I love how author draws you in the story and makes you think you on the right tracks and then snatch the rug from under you. Leland is still an amazing man, father and lawyer. He genuinely love people and will fight to the end for his clients if he believes in them. In this series, Leland is portrayed as a noble man and he proves this by showing noble aspirations to Brandon and other people. I admire this author ✍️ bc he sticks to his concept. He doesn’t try to mix too many categories in his books. He doesn’t try overpowering his books with romance while saying it’s a thriller. Even though he hints at some romance, the series is strictly thriller and suspense. I don’t mind a little romance but I don’t like it when it’s so overwhelming romance. I love my legal thrillers.
I love this author books. His plots, twists and turns are awesome. I don’t believe I have chosen the right perp yet. When I’m so sure I have the right person, I’m wrong. I love how author draws you in the story and makes you think you on the right tracks and then snatch the rug from under you. Leland is still an amazing man, father and lawyer. He genuinely love people and will fight to the end for his clients if he believes in them. In this series, Leland is portrayed as a noble man and he proves this by showing noble aspirations to Brandon and other people. I admire this author ✍️ bc he sticks to his concept. He doesn’t try to mix too many categories in his books. He doesn’t try overpowering his books with romance while saying it’s a thriller. Even though he hints at some romance, the series is strictly thriller and suspense. I don’t mind a little romance but I don’t like it when it’s so overwhelming romance. I love my legal thrillers.
October 22, 2023
I received an ARC through "Booksprout" and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
This story has Leland has a client who has been charged with drug dealing. Leland soon is hired to defend a client that is being charged with Arson resulting in a death. The 1st case is his because the client's father is also a client of the firm. The 2nd client is one that comes to Leland directly.
Follow Leland's efforts as he and Terri, his PI, chase cluse to aid in the clients' defense. Learn the basis for Leland's client's arrest and what efforts are taken to get Jacob, his client, clear. Discover what event happened as a result of the arson and why Bobby, Leland's client, is the main suspect. Discover how both case end up in the end.
This is definitely a good read and continues the excellence of this series.
This story has Leland has a client who has been charged with drug dealing. Leland soon is hired to defend a client that is being charged with Arson resulting in a death. The 1st case is his because the client's father is also a client of the firm. The 2nd client is one that comes to Leland directly.
Follow Leland's efforts as he and Terri, his PI, chase cluse to aid in the clients' defense. Learn the basis for Leland's client's arrest and what efforts are taken to get Jacob, his client, clear. Discover what event happened as a result of the arson and why Bobby, Leland's client, is the main suspect. Discover how both case end up in the end.
This is definitely a good read and continues the excellence of this series.
November 3, 2023
Impossible to put down.
I used to love courtroom dramas but with so many television legal dramas, I tend not to go for this genre now. I am so happy that I made an exception with this novel. It is well-written, and informative, keeping you interested and at the edge of your seat throughout with very good character description and providing a great insight into the law and the little "side doors" around it.. I can not recommend this book strongly enough.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I used to love courtroom dramas but with so many television legal dramas, I tend not to go for this genre now. I am so happy that I made an exception with this novel. It is well-written, and informative, keeping you interested and at the edge of your seat throughout with very good character description and providing a great insight into the law and the little "side doors" around it.. I can not recommend this book strongly enough.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 28, 2023
This is the 4th installment of Leland Munroe serie. In this one, Leland handles two high profile cases; one is a drug charge a college kid named Jacob faces and the other is an arson case in which an innocent man might be convicted. As usual, Leland faces a lot of hurdles, both within the criminal justice system and from the people around him, as he tries to help both of the defendants the allegations they face.
This is the weakest of the serie so far for me, you can start to see the mechanics behind the storytelling. But it’s still a good read.
3,5*
This is the weakest of the serie so far for me, you can start to see the mechanics behind the storytelling. But it’s still a good read.
3,5*
February 9, 2024
Again, Leland finds the most simplistic cas3s that actually turn out to be deeply complxed and thraught with people that are one way in public and something totally different behind closed doors...and his clients are innocent. He has this ability to take on two cases and solve both with sheer cunning with the help of Terri...his crush.
I am loving this series and looking forward to more on Leland and Terri...does Terri feel the same as him? We shall see.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I am loving this series and looking forward to more on Leland and Terri...does Terri feel the same as him? We shall see.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 18, 2024
This is the first Peter Kirkland book that I've read, and it certainly won't be the last.
I'm usually not a fan of legal thrillers because they can be terribly boring sometimes, but this one was a pleasant surprise. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book.
The pace of the book was a bit slow for my liking, but it had an excellent mix of interesting characters, so I didn't really mind.
* I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.*
I'm usually not a fan of legal thrillers because they can be terribly boring sometimes, but this one was a pleasant surprise. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book.
The pace of the book was a bit slow for my liking, but it had an excellent mix of interesting characters, so I didn't really mind.
* I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.*
November 1, 2023
This is the first book that I've read from this author but it won't be the last. I really enjoyed this book as it was full of twists and turns, murder, arson and other wild things. A young woman dies in a restaurant fire in the night and the owner Booby is charged with arson and murder. Booby puts all his faith and his life in the hands of a small town lawyer Leland. Leland faces powerful forces trying to clear Bobby but could lose his own reputation and life in the process.
December 25, 2023
An enjoyable legal story with a strong, believable lead character and a pair of criminal defense cases that intersect nicely. The South Carolina setting and some of its peculiar laws, court rules and job titles is a bit bothersome to this California reader, but the story moves along well enough overlook the oddities. I get a sense that this trial attorney-author has a lot of stories to tell and so I will be reading more of Mr. Kirkland's work.
February 4, 2024
I’m so glad Leland Monroe fits into another year’s reading theme - from 2023’s series’ to 2024s courtroom dramas. I’m always so happy to read a procedurally correct story and not have mistakes distracting from the story. Kirkland writes twists like they’re no big deal and I have enjoyed following the happenings of this small town lawyer.
(I will say that a military man would absolutely have known what redacted meant, though…)
(I will say that a military man would absolutely have known what redacted meant, though…)
October 29, 2025
Very good book, looks at a crime from several different angles and the real angle is not what the reader expects. I like that it takes place in a town that is a part of a series, you know the characters you know the venue. You just don't know the surprise twists. I have yet to figure out if this Relay publisher just hands stories out, if Peter Kirkland is one person or several of a stable, because the styles sometimes change between books. But they are all good reads.
October 25, 2023
This is a well written legal thriller with strong characters and a page turning storyline. The author does a great job developing the story and pulled me in with the intriguing story. He paints his scenes perfectly and moves the story fluidly, delivering a fantastic read.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and freely given.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and freely given.
October 26, 2023
Burning Evidence - My first read by this author and I enjoyed it. A constant pace with a good blend of interesting characters, interesting story lines and good dialog. The lawyer and the PI make good co-workers professionally and privately. Also interesting is the relationship between the businessman and his wife. Source: Booksprout. 4*
October 29, 2023
Really enjoy reading a good drama full of twists and turns. There are characters in this story that are questionable and you wonder what makes them do what they do. You also have the hero of the story who is the lawyer and the road he takes is full of bumps. Can he get to the truth? Hard to put down.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 2, 2023
This story is well written, but too slow in the beginning, and the dialogue is good, but there's too much of it. The plot is basically based on a legal system that obviously is very bad, and I don't get any entertainment from that. And I'm old fashioned and prefer the main characters to be smart, not stupid.
November 24, 2023
Love this small town lawyer character
From book 1 to book 4 of the small town lawyer series, it is the unpredictability of the outcome of the case, the hard to predict perpetrator of the crime and anticipation of who the real culprit is that makes one read until the end of the story.
Looking forward to more of this work by Peter Kirkland.
From book 1 to book 4 of the small town lawyer series, it is the unpredictability of the outcome of the case, the hard to predict perpetrator of the crime and anticipation of who the real culprit is that makes one read until the end of the story.
Looking forward to more of this work by Peter Kirkland.
January 17, 2024
I’ve read all 4 of the books in the Leland Monroe “Small Town Lawyer” series by Peter Kirkland, and I thoroughly enjoyed all of them. Interesting, engaging storylines and relatable characters. I hope there are more books in this series in the future. I’m interested in how things will continue for Leland and Terri, and also for Noah.
December 30, 2024
The best of the series so far. Two cases in this one that on the periphery look totally independent, but alas, small town and nothing is always as it seems. Leland is fighting everyone around him in this one, making his job incredibly difficult. With people trying to keep the truth hidden, this is Leland's toughest case yet, and could also be the most dangerous.
October 28, 2023
Exciting—read it in one sitting (great to be retired). Following one lawyer as he moves from case to case in this series is always a good read. Love the character development.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 1, 2023
This pull you in and doesn’t let go. The characters are developed well and easy to tell apart. The story is complex but not hard to follow. There are surprises the keep everything interesting. Love this kind of crime mystery
December 21, 2023
Peter is my number 1 favorite.
Goodness. I just love how you capture every story. I love the legal thrill of the books. But I won't lie I was praying he went back to Roy. Maybe next book... can't wait!
Goodness. I just love how you capture every story. I love the legal thrill of the books. But I won't lie I was praying he went back to Roy. Maybe next book... can't wait!
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