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THE GREATER OF TWO EVILS

A woman kills her boyfriend, shooting him six times in the back as he walks out their front door. The woman's attorney calls her a hero. Homicide prosecutor David Brunelle calls her a murderer.

The legal doctrine of necessity excuses a crime, even murder, if the harm inflicted is less than the harm prevented, so long as there was no alternative. The killer tells the cops that her boyfriend had a psychotic break and was on his way to shoot up the neighborhood elementary school, intent on slaughtering countless innocents. Brunelle is certain she's lying, but how can he prove it when the only other witness to what truly happened is dead?

It's a race against time as Brunelle battles challenges both personal and professional to find the evidence he needs to refute the killer's story and prove his case, before the jury finds the killer 'Not Guilty' because of the legal defense of NECESSITY.

Necessity is Book 16 in the top-rated legal thriller series featuring Seattle homicide D.A. David Brunelle and a recurring cast of cops, defense attorneys, and forensic experts. Each book in the series can be read as a stand-alone novel, but also follows the personal and professional growth of Brunelle and his friends and foes.

237 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 9, 2023

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About the author

Stephen Penner

80 books186 followers
Stephen Penner is an author, artist, and attorney from Seattle, Washington. He has written more than 35 novels and specializes in courtroom thrillers known for their unexpected twists and candid portrayal of the justice system. He draws on his extensive experience as a criminal trial attorney to infuse his writing with realism and insight.

Stephen is the author of several top-rated legal thriller series. The DAVID BRUNELLE LEGAL THRILLERS feature Seattle homicide D.A. David Brunelle and a recurring cast of cops, defense attorneys, and forensic experts. The TALON WINTER LEGAL THRILLERS showcase tough-as-nails Tacoma criminal defense attorney Talon Winter and her closest allies. And the RAIN CITY LEGAL THRILLERS deliver the adventures of attorney Daniel Raine and his unlikely partner Rebecca Sommers. Stephen is also the author of the MAGGIE DEVEREAUX PARANORMAL MYSTERIES, recounting the exploits of an American graduate student in the magical Highlands of Scotland, and several other stand-alone works.

In his spare time, Stephen enjoys painting, drawing, and spending time with his family. For more information, visit his website www.stephenpenner.com.

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5 stars
1,072 (50%)
4 stars
744 (35%)
3 stars
246 (11%)
2 stars
28 (1%)
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19 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
Profile Image for Matt.
5,347 reviews13.2k followers
August 31, 2026
Always looking for authors whose writing aligns with the genres I enjoy, my discovery of Stephen Penner's David Brunelle series ticked a few boxes. Having read many of the books so far, I am highly impressed. This is sure to be an exciting and well-paced legal thriller series. A woman shoots her boyfriend in the back and kills him. While Brunelle prepares for trial, the accused claims the killing was a requirement to prevent a larger crime. Will the defense of necessity apply here?

When a man is shot multiple times and killed by his girlfriend, Homicide ADA David Brunelle feels he has an easy case before him, though the defense claims it was a shooting due to necessity. Brunelle cannot stand behind this, as there is no evidence to support anything of this nature, which argues that the shooting saved a school full of children from being killed by her boyfriend. Working through the victim’s mental illness, Brunelle wants to get to the heart of the matter to see if accusations hold true, but a missing journal cannot be located, leave the case at a crossroads. Brunelle hopes to be able to move forward, as no one else knows of this school shooting plan.
After sixteen novels, Penner has kept a solid narrative at the heart of the collection. He provides legal aspects that will need keen investigative tactics to ensure a highly entertaining story. Short chapters keep the reader hooked as things move forward. The legal process is front and centre, keeping the reader hooked as Brunelle tries to make his case before a judge. Penner knows how to lure the reader in with everything on offer and provides wonderful courtroom drama to bring the story full circle.

The characters enrich Penner's writing, as they have through the series. Each individual finds their purpose, constructed through backstory and development. ADA David Brunelle shows how the law works for him, using it effectively, but never free from hurdles. I have enjoyed learning much regarding Brunelle and am always ready to see what else awaits. Some returning characters advance their own stories and add something to the larger piece, including Brunelle's second-chair, whose antics are always razor sharp for all to enjoy. Fans will see supporting characters develop and flavour the series effectively, as well as some one-offs who make a mark. Penner has never shirked on character placement or their ability to shape the larger story.

The plot points promise a solid reading experience and pepper in a legal twist or two. The reader is at the whim of Penner's creativity as he mixes criminal and legal twists to provide something worth reading. There are many surprises to keep the reader wondering about how the law might be flexible, which keeps predictability in the past. Penner provides another highly entertaining story and I am eager to see how the last few books might develop.

Kudos, Mr. Penner, for a legal theme that makes sense on the surface, but whose proof is far more complex.

Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at: http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
Profile Image for Gary.
3,204 reviews443 followers
July 24, 2026
This is the sixteenth book in the David Brunelle legal series by Stephen Penner.

A woman shoots her boyfriend six times in the back as he walks out of their front door. To her attorney, she is a hero. To homicide prosecutor David Brunelle, she is a cold-blooded murderer.

The defense rests on the legal doctrine of necessity—a rule that excuses a crime if the harm inflicted is less than the harm prevented, provided there was no other alternative. The killer claims her boyfriend had suffered a sudden psychotic break and was on his way to shoot up the local elementary school to slaughter innocent children. Brunelle is convinced she’s lying, but proving it is a nightmare when the only other person who truly knows what happened is dead.

As the trial looms, Brunelle faces a high-stakes race against time, navigating personal and professional hurdles to find the crucial evidence needed to refute her story before the jury delivers a ‘Not Guilty’ verdict.

Stephen Penner has set up another fascinating legal challenge here. The concept of using the “necessity” defense in a murder case makes for a brilliant hook, and watching Brunelle try to dismantle a claim that seems almost impossible to disprove keeps the central dilemma interesting.

I’ve followed David Brunelle through many cases now, and he remains a solid, dependable protagonist to root for. The mix of personal drama alongside his courtroom battles usually gives this series a great rhythm.

While the premise is strong, this particular entry didn’t quite hit the high marks of the previous books for me. The pacing felt a little uneven at times, and the usual sharp, tense momentum that I’ve come to love from this series wasn’t quite as potent here. It’s still a well-constructed story, but it lacked that extra spark found in earlier instalments.

Overall, Stephen Penner’s David Brunelle series is a very good legal thriller franchise that I always look forward to reading. While Necessity was a little disappointing compared to how much I thoroughly enjoyed the previous books, it’s still a decent, readable courtroom drama that fans of the series will want to check out. A fair three stars from me!
Profile Image for Angela.
10.1k reviews134 followers
November 2, 2025
3.5 Stars

Necessity is the sixteenth instalment in the David Brunelle Legal Thriller Series. And so the book binge began ... this series turned out to be a gripping and masterfully crafted collection of legal dramas set against the backdrop of Seattle’s criminal justice system. The series follows David Brunelle, a dedicated and sharp prosecutor, as he navigates the complexities of law, morality, and justice.
What makes this series stand out is the balance between intense courtroom drama with deeply human stories. David Brunelle is an intriguing character - intelligent, principled, and yet flawed in ways that make him even more relatable. Mr. Penner’s writing easily brings the legal world to life with authenticity, offering a fascinating glimpse into the challenges prosecutors face, from gathering evidence to battling wily defense attorneys.
Each book in the series presents a unique and thought-provoking case, often delving into some morally ambiguous territory. The plots are tightly woven, with twists that are both surprising and satisfying. Mr. Penner’s ability to build the tension and suspense is noteworthy, as is his knack for creating vivid, multidimensional characters – both the heroes and villains.
So, whether you’re a fan of legal thrillers, crime fiction, or simply enjoy a well-told story, then the David Brunelle series delivers on all fronts.
Happy Reading…
19 reviews1 follower
May 18, 2023
Necessity

Very good book with twists and turns with many thought provoking reroutings. Not sure Addison didn't have more than one !motive for shooting , unloading all six bullets seems excessive and an 'overkill'. Seems very odd that there was absolutely no mention of the gun the boyfriend picked up on his way out the door: where was it when the police arrived?? In his hand? In the bushes? Was it loaded?? were there finger prints on the gun ?
If the gun wasn't loaded, would there have been the same outcome at trial ? And when did the dad get the journal, must have been after the police 'missed it:, but Chen said he noticed the hiding spot under the bed & the diary wasn't there! Chen apparently looked on the day of the shooting, so when did dad get it?????? Or was Chen lying that he found the hiding spot to not be embarrassed that the prosecutor found the spot?
993 reviews4 followers
September 4, 2023
This book started off with real promise. It had an excellent legal premise and good characters, but it got bogged down with repetition. It was repeated several times what the “necessity“ rule was for court, and it was explained again and again and then again when we finally get to the trial. Again, I like the plot and the characters, but the constant repetition coupled with, rather than moving forward with the story, the author stopped to provide background to not only the two main characters but background characters. Putting the story on hold just ruined it. By the time the trial actually takes place, I just wanted to book to be over. What started as a good story, ended in disappointment.
639 reviews7 followers
May 3, 2024
After Zoey Addison kills her boyfriend Caleb Hirsch, she explains to police that she felt compelled to kill him for the sake of the children at a nearby elementary school. Caleb, who had been showing signs of paranoid schizophrenia, had announced his intention to shoot those children, believing that their parents had him under surveillance.

If Zoey is telling the truth, then she should not be held accountable for the killing. But what if she is lying? Not knowing the answer, prosecutor David Brunelle brings murder charges against Zoey, trusting that a trial will reveal the truth.

Like other books in this series, this novel provides courtroom drama and consideration of interesting points of law.

469 reviews4 followers
May 20, 2024
I will miss Dave Brunelle series

I wish Dave and Casey well. I’m still not so sure of them moving in together. I’m not convinced that Dave is ready for that level of commitment. But who knows, he has matured a lot. I think Dave’s have evolved and he’s now understanding love and relationships. He can now connect feelings and emotions. He can also understand that everything is not just black and white but there may be some gray area too. He’s an extraordinary compassionate prosecutor who believes in justice for all. I’m not commenting on the story, it’s basically the same, different scenario, storyline interesting.
15 reviews1 follower
May 6, 2024
Realistic treatment, for a novel, of mental illnees

Writer avoided stereotypes about mentally ill persons and demonstrated.compassion for everyone surrounding the homicide which was the centerpiece of the novel. I thought the characterization of the parent of a severely I'll adult son was poignant and accurate. At.the same.time.writer did a.masterful.job of describing the tortured choice of that adult's.romantic.partner
20 reviews1 follower
July 31, 2023
Dissapointing

First of all, this book is NOT a thriller. Second neither the prosecution nor the defense provide much of a case to support their claims. I would have voted to acquit since the defense provided reasonable doubt. The hero seemed to be burnt out. Perhaps 16 books were too much for him.
43 reviews
June 10, 2024
Saved at the end???

A woman is charged with murder for shooting her boyfriend in the back. The protagonist is the prosecutor. Woman claims the defense of necessity why she did it....I'm thinking at this point sure isn't following the political correct script......of course won't reveal any spoilers but don't be surprised.
91 reviews
July 16, 2024
I always expect a twist at the end

I’ve have read all 16 of the David Brunelle books, and have never been disappointed. His knowledge of the law put to the page is as good as it gets. I had never heard of the necessity defense, but can see how it can be put to use for a defendant. Keep writing those good books, Stephen.
103 reviews
Read
September 29, 2025
A lot of questions answered at the last moment

I liked this book because it came down to the last minute. Just when I thought I knew what was going to happen it changed. Another easy read with a do good cliff hanger in the end. Anyone who likes a legal mystery will totally enjoy this book from start to finish.
93 reviews
February 12, 2026
The story brings to light a little known defense against the charge of murder.

The author does a great job bring to light a little known defiance against the charge of murder.. if you are interested in legal procedures coupled with a very interesting story this book delivers that. Mr. Penney’s writing style keeps your interest through the whole book. Great read
201 reviews2 followers
September 7, 2023
Very good!

I really enjoyed this installment in the series. The issues are serious and the ending is a twist. The characters continue to develop well too. I recommend all 16 books in this series.
30 reviews
April 18, 2024
surprise ending

Far to much repetitive legal reviews. After 15 books you would think the author would have figured most readers of the series would have become familiar with courtroom protocol and etiquette.
The ending was a surprise .
2,750 reviews
April 23, 2024
free ebook

a woman shot her boyfriend in the back
he was on his way out the door to kill all the children in the school
he had mental problems

they charged her with murder

when the case went to trial it came out that the dad hid the journal that said he was going to kill the children and his girlfriend would have to kill him to stop him.

they dismissed the case
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Debbie Miles.
8 reviews
July 10, 2024
Brunelle and Seattle is a great series

I read all sixteen books in the series and enjoyed everyone. The repeating characters gives more backstory to each one. I look forward to reading more when they are finished.
Profile Image for Jim E..
386 reviews9 followers
May 15, 2023
This was an ok read. I thought that the book might end the way it did. It was a change from the normal murder trial , so that was interesting.
65 reviews
May 17, 2023
Excellent book

This is a well written story, with several twists in the plot, and an unexpected end. I highly recommend it.
12 reviews
June 20, 2023
Interesting

In the end, it had to be the dad.
It's a terrific story .I learned a lot about the law.
187 reviews1 follower
July 3, 2023
Best one yet! Bravo. Fun, easy read to n the rule of necessity. Enjoyable read.
6 reviews
July 24, 2023
wow! great read

Hard to put this one down! Super good and great ending! Can’t wait for next book to see if Brunelle and Casey get their happily ever after.
162 reviews
April 6, 2024
Necessity

Wow what a story this book keeps you never wanting to put it down. I have read all sixteen books in this series and this is by far the best.
33 reviews2 followers
October 11, 2024
Fast paced legal novel with a twist ending. Penner does a great job of describing the legal process and legal terms without bogging down the forward progress of the novel.
33 reviews
December 25, 2024
Full of surprises

This was the first legal thriller I have read that had me totally unsure of the ending. Great story leading up to surprise ending and it was very good reading
734 reviews4 followers
March 9, 2025
Wow, I didn't see that ending coming!!
237 reviews3 followers
May 1, 2025
wow

David is working on a difficult case that tests his quality as an attorney to be able to locate the truth and make sure he is able to find the justice.
425 reviews2 followers
September 9, 2025
Tragic but heart warming.

Dave always seems to find the good in the bad. He is very thought provoking to prove the truth. He is able to build the blocks with all of the links.
104 reviews
September 13, 2025
Good twist

You're kept suspended until the end. Good ending.
Again I love reading all the arguments. Well thought out. You need to read this book!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews