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Ashley Montgomery #1
Unsympathetic Victims
When a defense attorney becomes the defendant, one small town is forced to reconsider their ideas of good and evil.
When successful public defender Ashley Montgomery helps acquit yet another client, people in small-town Brine, Iowa are enraged. Following the verdict, a protest breaks out ― and the hated defense attorney quickly finds her life in danger. But little does Ashley know, things are about to get worse ― much worse.
One of her clients turns up dead, and Ashley is arrested for his murder. As local investigators Katie Mickey and George Thomanson dive into the case, they start to suspect that Ashely is being framed ― but by whom?
With Ashley’s freedom at stake, Katie and George are desperate to find out the truth. And soon, they uncover a sinister plot born of corruption, greed, and misplaced loyalty that will leave the whole town reeling ― and questioning their faith in the people they trusted most.
When successful public defender Ashley Montgomery helps acquit yet another client, people in small-town Brine, Iowa are enraged. Following the verdict, a protest breaks out ― and the hated defense attorney quickly finds her life in danger. But little does Ashley know, things are about to get worse ― much worse.
One of her clients turns up dead, and Ashley is arrested for his murder. As local investigators Katie Mickey and George Thomanson dive into the case, they start to suspect that Ashely is being framed ― but by whom?
With Ashley’s freedom at stake, Katie and George are desperate to find out the truth. And soon, they uncover a sinister plot born of corruption, greed, and misplaced loyalty that will leave the whole town reeling ― and questioning their faith in the people they trusted most.
280 pages, Paperback
First published July 23, 2021
1617 people are currently reading
831 people want to read
About the author
Laura Snider
17 books164 followersLaura Snider is a practicing lawyer in Iowa. She graduated from Drake Law School in 2009 and spent most of her career as a Public Defender. Throughout her legal career, she has been involved in all levels of crimes from petty thefts to murders. These days she is working part-time as a prosecutor and spends the remainder of her time writing stories and creating characters.
Laura lives in Iowa with her husband, three children, two dogs, and two very mischievous cats.
Laura lives in Iowa with her husband, three children, two dogs, and two very mischievous cats.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 119 reviews
August 8, 2021
I received a gifted advance reader copy of this book to read in exchange for an honest review as part of the book tour hosted by Lovebookstours.
Unsympathetic Victims is an amazingly written and written in an easy to understand format (in relation to the legal aspect) for all readers.
The two main characters are Ashley and Katie. Ashley is a defence attorney and Katie is a cop. Both women don't start out as friends or see eye to eye in this book, but they do thaw towards each other and become friends.
Ashley is being threatened by someone after the accused in two of her cases that have been acquitted , get murdered, and she becomes the suspect and gets charged with the murders.
This is when Katie steps in to help prove Ashley's innocence, but in a town full of secrets and the founders being covered for and protected at every turn, Katie keeps hitting brick wall after brick wall. Each lead she gets ends up a dead end - literally!
With the clock ticking will Katie be able to find the truth and prove Ashley's innocence before it's too late?
This legal thriller is fast paced and had me gripping my phone on more than one occasion. The story had my pulse racing and my heart pounding. You definitely need to read this!
Unsympathetic Victims is an amazingly written and written in an easy to understand format (in relation to the legal aspect) for all readers.
The two main characters are Ashley and Katie. Ashley is a defence attorney and Katie is a cop. Both women don't start out as friends or see eye to eye in this book, but they do thaw towards each other and become friends.
Ashley is being threatened by someone after the accused in two of her cases that have been acquitted , get murdered, and she becomes the suspect and gets charged with the murders.
This is when Katie steps in to help prove Ashley's innocence, but in a town full of secrets and the founders being covered for and protected at every turn, Katie keeps hitting brick wall after brick wall. Each lead she gets ends up a dead end - literally!
With the clock ticking will Katie be able to find the truth and prove Ashley's innocence before it's too late?
This legal thriller is fast paced and had me gripping my phone on more than one occasion. The story had my pulse racing and my heart pounding. You definitely need to read this!
June 8, 2021
I can usually tell right from the start if a book will keep me attention all the way through the story. This was certainly the case with “Unsympathetic Victims” by Laura Snider. What struck me first was the tension between the characters and the way their personalities were revealed, seamlessly and in very natural manner.
The whole town of Brine, Iowa is on edge. Despicable crimes have galvanized the small town, pitting the citizens against the accused and his public defender, and not for the first time. The action is swift, the dialog is sharp, and the malignant feelings toward Ashley Montgomery are openly hostile enough to make you cringe. The author tests her protagonist all the way through the gripping story, making her earn the reader’s respect.
Author Laura Snider has created a winning combination of perfectly drawn characters, seemingly clear-cut cases, and a good grasp of legal procedures that make her stories truly compelling and hard to put down. I look forward to reading more by this talented author.
The whole town of Brine, Iowa is on edge. Despicable crimes have galvanized the small town, pitting the citizens against the accused and his public defender, and not for the first time. The action is swift, the dialog is sharp, and the malignant feelings toward Ashley Montgomery are openly hostile enough to make you cringe. The author tests her protagonist all the way through the gripping story, making her earn the reader’s respect.
Author Laura Snider has created a winning combination of perfectly drawn characters, seemingly clear-cut cases, and a good grasp of legal procedures that make her stories truly compelling and hard to put down. I look forward to reading more by this talented author.
July 26, 2021
Brine, Iowa. Two protagonists: Ashley (public defender) and Katie (cop). Ashley isn't well liked due to her clientele... and when some of them begin to turn up dead, she starts getting the blame. She's definitely goinig to need Katie's help here!
For those that hesitate at legal thrillers, fear not! Even if you have the most minimal knowledge of law, you'll be able to follow along easily and this is quite the page turner as we get to know these characters. I had a few small issues with Katie and Ashley and their enemies to besties friendship - I did like their friendship, but it felt a little too quick to roll from one to another so quickly. There's plenty of twists and turns to keep you on your tippy toes and while some felt a bit over the top, it definitely made for an interesting read.
You can definitely feel Snider's experience as a lawyer seeping through the pages. This legal thriller will be fun for any thriller lover. You'll find the ending a bit abrupt but giving you that thirst for the next book. While you may have to suspend a bit of reality for certain situations, have fun and keep on guessing on what's going to happen because as soon as you think you know... you don't. *wink*
For those that hesitate at legal thrillers, fear not! Even if you have the most minimal knowledge of law, you'll be able to follow along easily and this is quite the page turner as we get to know these characters. I had a few small issues with Katie and Ashley and their enemies to besties friendship - I did like their friendship, but it felt a little too quick to roll from one to another so quickly. There's plenty of twists and turns to keep you on your tippy toes and while some felt a bit over the top, it definitely made for an interesting read.
You can definitely feel Snider's experience as a lawyer seeping through the pages. This legal thriller will be fun for any thriller lover. You'll find the ending a bit abrupt but giving you that thirst for the next book. While you may have to suspend a bit of reality for certain situations, have fun and keep on guessing on what's going to happen because as soon as you think you know... you don't. *wink*
July 27, 2021
I really enjoyed this book. I love how the story is told from both the main characters point of view so you get a full picture of life in a small town.
Ashley and Katie are at polar ends of the justice system but when one of Ashley’s clients are murdered Officer Katie is assigned to protect her. The two woman loath each other to begin with but as they get to know each other they find they have a lot in common.
The characters in the book are really well written and the mystery surrounding the murders keep you guessing. A very well paced storyline that keeps you engaged.
Ashley and Katie are at polar ends of the justice system but when one of Ashley’s clients are murdered Officer Katie is assigned to protect her. The two woman loath each other to begin with but as they get to know each other they find they have a lot in common.
The characters in the book are really well written and the mystery surrounding the murders keep you guessing. A very well paced storyline that keeps you engaged.
July 26, 2021
Unsympathetic Victims is book #1 in the Ashley Montgomery series. Unsympathetic Victims is mainly navigated from the heroine, Ashley Montgomery's perspective. However at times, it will shift to Police officer Katie Mickey's perspective (another female leading character). As soon as I read the prologue, it immediately left me with so many questions. I was really impressed with how Laura Snider started this book. Normally, I don't really read many thrillers (believe me, I'm trying to branch out, but I always end up picking up my "go to" genres) Anyway, I truly enjoyed seeing the plot unfolded, especially the setting and reading all the legal terms. And because of this setting it only enhanced my reading experience. Laura Snider did a phenomenal job! I sympathized with people, and I can totally see their point of views. But that doesn't excuse their behaviours! Because at the end of the day, Ashley Montgomery was only doing her job. Yes, the community did suffer a great deal; they are hurt and angry, and they pin point all their rage towards Ashley. I loved how Laura Snider portrayed this in her writing. It made me think, ask questions and to really look at both sides of the story/perspectives.
Being a successful defense attorney comes with it's pros and cons. Ashley can be seen the most hated person in her small town. She feels so alone and alienated, but she has to put on a brave face. Officer Katie Mickey is basically her "nemesis"; two strong head women working in the field of law and order, they are bound to clash with each other. But when Officer Katie is assigned to protect Ashley, the two women begin to bond with each other. They saw each other in a new light and an unlikely friendship began to form. The suspense never ceases, it kept me on edge throughout the book. Just as I started to connect the dots, an incident would occur throwing me off guard. My goodness! The plot twists! I was definitely on a journey! Overall, this book is amazing! And it deserves to be turned into either a movie or tv series! I'm looking forward to reading the next installments in this series.
Ashley Montgomery is a successful public defender/defense attorney in the small town of Brine, Iowa. After the win of her most recent case, the acquittal of her client caused chaos in this tightknit community. The people already had a disliking to Ashley, but now, it's worse. The community is enraged. And Ashley needs to be careful, especially after the murder of her former clients. As a defensive attorney, Ashley is use to receiving threats; she brushed them off not really caring about the threats. However, it's all becoming so real; her life is not only in danger so is her freedom.
**I received an ARC in exchange for my honest review
Being a successful defense attorney comes with it's pros and cons. Ashley can be seen the most hated person in her small town. She feels so alone and alienated, but she has to put on a brave face. Officer Katie Mickey is basically her "nemesis"; two strong head women working in the field of law and order, they are bound to clash with each other. But when Officer Katie is assigned to protect Ashley, the two women begin to bond with each other. They saw each other in a new light and an unlikely friendship began to form. The suspense never ceases, it kept me on edge throughout the book. Just as I started to connect the dots, an incident would occur throwing me off guard. My goodness! The plot twists! I was definitely on a journey! Overall, this book is amazing! And it deserves to be turned into either a movie or tv series! I'm looking forward to reading the next installments in this series.
Ashley Montgomery is a successful public defender/defense attorney in the small town of Brine, Iowa. After the win of her most recent case, the acquittal of her client caused chaos in this tightknit community. The people already had a disliking to Ashley, but now, it's worse. The community is enraged. And Ashley needs to be careful, especially after the murder of her former clients. As a defensive attorney, Ashley is use to receiving threats; she brushed them off not really caring about the threats. However, it's all becoming so real; her life is not only in danger so is her freedom.
**I received an ARC in exchange for my honest review
July 29, 2021
The prologue took me by complete surprise the introduction to Arnold and the bar. I visualised everything even though there wasn’t much detail the writing was completely realistic. Every sentence written I felt I was there watching everything that took place in the bar and beyond.
I instantly felt a great friendship and not just work colleagues relationship between Ashley and Jacob. Every small character I met along the way felt like they belonged they weren’t a spare part. I found it really interesting learning the differences between murder and homicide. Additionally, the cases that Ashley took
on and what her job role really was. The only character I started to dislike the beginning was Officer Mickey AKA Katie however, as frustrating as I found her to be initially she also grew on me.
The cover reminded me of the TV Show Scandal initially, I loved that show so I was so drawn to this read. I found this book great not only with the plot of the story but the way it was structured the days the times although most was quite close together with the half hour later etc. This made the chapters flow extremely well. I got so invested with every part of this read from the plot to the characters. Even though the book was set in Iowa, it didn’t feel far fetched like a lot of America based reads can be, I loved that.
I love that I don’t ever read the blurbs so when the main story line came into play I did not expect it at all. This was a brilliant legal thriller read and I can’t wait to read the rest of the series.
I instantly felt a great friendship and not just work colleagues relationship between Ashley and Jacob. Every small character I met along the way felt like they belonged they weren’t a spare part. I found it really interesting learning the differences between murder and homicide. Additionally, the cases that Ashley took
on and what her job role really was. The only character I started to dislike the beginning was Officer Mickey AKA Katie however, as frustrating as I found her to be initially she also grew on me.
The cover reminded me of the TV Show Scandal initially, I loved that show so I was so drawn to this read. I found this book great not only with the plot of the story but the way it was structured the days the times although most was quite close together with the half hour later etc. This made the chapters flow extremely well. I got so invested with every part of this read from the plot to the characters. Even though the book was set in Iowa, it didn’t feel far fetched like a lot of America based reads can be, I loved that.
I love that I don’t ever read the blurbs so when the main story line came into play I did not expect it at all. This was a brilliant legal thriller read and I can’t wait to read the rest of the series.
August 8, 2021
I absolutely loved this book! Laura’s career in law was clearly evident within this story, and the legal aspects took this book to a different level of police procedural.
It was sharp, pacy and packed an unapologetic punch. The twists were spot on and kept me on my toes. The dialogue was witty and edgy and I would have read this book from start to finish with no interruptions if I could (alas, toddler life haha).
But, all that said, the main reason I was so engrossed and invested in this book, and without doubt, series (did I mention it was the first in a series….? Oh yes…!) is the two absolute kick ass, don’t give a sh*t, ball busting pair that is Ashley Montgomery and Katie Mickey. Two strong women, who originally despise each other, coming together to support each other to catch the bad guy. Hell yes!! These two are now my second favourite female duo (behind Rizzoli & Isles).
This was a page turner from start to finish, and led nicely into the second book, which is due out in August!! If you like your female protagonists strong, determined and downright unapologetic, you’ll love this! Fans of Rizzoli & Isles, you won’t be disappointed!!
Out on Kindle and paperback 27th July!
Huge thanks to Kelly at Love Books Tours, Laura Snider, and Severn River Publishing for the gifted digital copy. My review is voluntary and thoughts are entirely my own.
It was sharp, pacy and packed an unapologetic punch. The twists were spot on and kept me on my toes. The dialogue was witty and edgy and I would have read this book from start to finish with no interruptions if I could (alas, toddler life haha).
But, all that said, the main reason I was so engrossed and invested in this book, and without doubt, series (did I mention it was the first in a series….? Oh yes…!) is the two absolute kick ass, don’t give a sh*t, ball busting pair that is Ashley Montgomery and Katie Mickey. Two strong women, who originally despise each other, coming together to support each other to catch the bad guy. Hell yes!! These two are now my second favourite female duo (behind Rizzoli & Isles).
This was a page turner from start to finish, and led nicely into the second book, which is due out in August!! If you like your female protagonists strong, determined and downright unapologetic, you’ll love this! Fans of Rizzoli & Isles, you won’t be disappointed!!
Out on Kindle and paperback 27th July!
Huge thanks to Kelly at Love Books Tours, Laura Snider, and Severn River Publishing for the gifted digital copy. My review is voluntary and thoughts are entirely my own.
April 16, 2021
This book is about Ashley, a public defender so good at her job she's getting the bad guys off the hook. The people of the town of Brine are not happy. Two of Ashley's clients are murdered, is Ashley next on the list?
This legal thriller while not your typical gritty thriller is definitely a page turner (I read it in less than 2 days). I enjoyed the female friendship between the two main characters and the romance element of the book too. Will look forward to reading more from this author.
This legal thriller while not your typical gritty thriller is definitely a page turner (I read it in less than 2 days). I enjoyed the female friendship between the two main characters and the romance element of the book too. Will look forward to reading more from this author.
July 28, 2021
Ashley is a successful Public Defender, unfortunately not well liked. Plenty of mystery and murder to keep your attention. First but not last book from this new author for me.
July 27, 2021
"She was in a bad position now, but she knew it could get worse. After all, of the three people listed in the anonymous letter, (1) Von Reich, (2) You, (3) Petrovsky, she was the only one left breathing."
Unsympathetic Victims by Laura Snider is the crime thriller I did not know I needed to read. I started it at 8pm and finished after midnight. I could not stop reading. This writer created a world where I was invested completely and just like the strong female protagonists I had to get to the truth.
Ashley is a winning public defender getting not guilty verdicts for the dregs of humanity. She is also truly hated in her small hometown for her almost full proof legal performances. When two of her despicable defendants are set free and then murdered somehow she finds herself in jail for the killings.
Katie is a police officer (she hates the word cop) who despises Ashley for representing these criminals and embarrassing Katie for an error that set a sexual predator free. When Ashley is arrested Katie is thrilled until she realizes Ashley is being framed. Can she get to the truth? Will Ashley let her help? Who framed her? Are they the murderer too?
The author is a practicing lawyer and her courtroom and interrogating scenes are tense, precise and drama filled. Yet there are tender scenes especially as the love story of Head Jailer Tom and Ashley unfolds. It was a nice reprieve from the intense thriller action. There is a scene with Tom sneaking in Ashley's dogs to see her that brought me to tears. I also appreciated the respect these two women had for the law.
This book needs to be a TV series Netflix or HBOMAX.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher and author for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
Unsympathetic Victims by Laura Snider is the crime thriller I did not know I needed to read. I started it at 8pm and finished after midnight. I could not stop reading. This writer created a world where I was invested completely and just like the strong female protagonists I had to get to the truth.
Ashley is a winning public defender getting not guilty verdicts for the dregs of humanity. She is also truly hated in her small hometown for her almost full proof legal performances. When two of her despicable defendants are set free and then murdered somehow she finds herself in jail for the killings.
Katie is a police officer (she hates the word cop) who despises Ashley for representing these criminals and embarrassing Katie for an error that set a sexual predator free. When Ashley is arrested Katie is thrilled until she realizes Ashley is being framed. Can she get to the truth? Will Ashley let her help? Who framed her? Are they the murderer too?
The author is a practicing lawyer and her courtroom and interrogating scenes are tense, precise and drama filled. Yet there are tender scenes especially as the love story of Head Jailer Tom and Ashley unfolds. It was a nice reprieve from the intense thriller action. There is a scene with Tom sneaking in Ashley's dogs to see her that brought me to tears. I also appreciated the respect these two women had for the law.
This book needs to be a TV series Netflix or HBOMAX.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher and author for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
August 15, 2021
Wow! What an amazing debut! This is the first instalment in the Ashley Montgomery Legal Thriller Series of books and I am already eagerly awaiting the next book!
This book is one of my favourite genres, police procedural mixed in with a legal thriller, what more could anyone ask?
The book is told through the points of view of the two main characters: Katie and Ashley. Their jobs are complete polar opposites of each other; police and a public defender. But they team up and become an unstoppable force. Girl power springs to mind. They also remind me of Rizzoli and Ives and I know that I am not the only one to liken them to each other.
This book hooked me in right from the explosive start to the bitter end, although I was happy with the conclusion, I was not happy for the book to end as I already want to find out what happens next.
Yet another book that I read in a day! It’s fast-paced, edgy and witty all at the same time. The author’s law career was evident throughout the book and for me, this took the book to a different level entirely.
I highly recommend this book to fans of legal thrillers with some police procedural thrown in too, as I mentioned earlier, I thinks it’s perfect for fans of Rizzoli and Ives.
Thank you to @lovebooktours and @laura.snider.writer for a gifted copy in exchange for an honest review.
This book is one of my favourite genres, police procedural mixed in with a legal thriller, what more could anyone ask?
The book is told through the points of view of the two main characters: Katie and Ashley. Their jobs are complete polar opposites of each other; police and a public defender. But they team up and become an unstoppable force. Girl power springs to mind. They also remind me of Rizzoli and Ives and I know that I am not the only one to liken them to each other.
This book hooked me in right from the explosive start to the bitter end, although I was happy with the conclusion, I was not happy for the book to end as I already want to find out what happens next.
Yet another book that I read in a day! It’s fast-paced, edgy and witty all at the same time. The author’s law career was evident throughout the book and for me, this took the book to a different level entirely.
I highly recommend this book to fans of legal thrillers with some police procedural thrown in too, as I mentioned earlier, I thinks it’s perfect for fans of Rizzoli and Ives.
Thank you to @lovebooktours and @laura.snider.writer for a gifted copy in exchange for an honest review.
April 17, 2021
Thank you to Laura Snider for the opportunity to read this as an ARC for an honest review.
I really enjoyed this book! This was a legal thriller, and it was in plain language which makes it a great read for anyone.
I enjoyed the strong female characters: Ashley, the defence attorney, and Katie, the police officer. The dynamic between these two characters goes from enemies to friends. Both Ashley and Katie initially struggle to see the good in the other, while they are each just doing their jobs.
As a defence attorney Ashley is used to being hated by the public. That comes with her job. This time is different though. She is personally being threatened. It’s not until Katie, and Ashley spend some time together that the pair actually realize each is just doing their jobs.
Not long after the release and acquittal of two of Ashley’s cases, they are murdered and she is charged with their murder. Katie knows Ashley could not have murdered these men, and is making it her duty to find the truth.
The truth does not come easily. This small town is rooted in secrets and protecting it’s founding people. Katie faces roadblocks, and leads are quite literally dying- Will she get the truth in time to save Ashley from life in prison or death?
I really enjoyed this book! This was a legal thriller, and it was in plain language which makes it a great read for anyone.
I enjoyed the strong female characters: Ashley, the defence attorney, and Katie, the police officer. The dynamic between these two characters goes from enemies to friends. Both Ashley and Katie initially struggle to see the good in the other, while they are each just doing their jobs.
As a defence attorney Ashley is used to being hated by the public. That comes with her job. This time is different though. She is personally being threatened. It’s not until Katie, and Ashley spend some time together that the pair actually realize each is just doing their jobs.
Not long after the release and acquittal of two of Ashley’s cases, they are murdered and she is charged with their murder. Katie knows Ashley could not have murdered these men, and is making it her duty to find the truth.
The truth does not come easily. This small town is rooted in secrets and protecting it’s founding people. Katie faces roadblocks, and leads are quite literally dying- Will she get the truth in time to save Ashley from life in prison or death?
July 25, 2021
When I first started reading, I worried I wasn’t going to take to this book as the catty behaviour of both Ashley Montgomery, public defender, and Katie Mickey, a local police officer investigating the deaths of Ashley’s past clients, had my inner feminist gritting her teeth in outrage. But I quickly realised that this was the author’s skill at work. As the vulnerability, passion and humanity of each of the women was unveiled to me, I became totally invested in them and their frustration at the institutional sexism and political bias of those they interact with. Revenge and hatred runs deep in the town of Brine and the townsfolk turn their attentions to Ashley, who they believe is as bad as the perpetrators of vicious crimes and should pay the ultimate price. As Katie and Ashley’s paths become more intertwined and their respect for one another deepens, it’s almost impossible to turn the pages fast enough to see what will happen next. I’m giving this novel 4.5 stars and would recommend this novel to fans of James Patterson’s Lindsay Boxer series or Angela Marsons Kim Stone books. I’m definitely going to look out for more books in this series!
August 18, 2021
Wow! I was intrigued from the beginning with this new series by the author since I was a paralegal for 30 years. And the author did not disappoint. Ashley, one of the main protagonists is a public defender and not very popular with the towns folk of Brine, Iowa since she represents everyone who can't afford a lawyer and gets some of her clients off which the town disagrees with which makes her a pariah in the town and with horrible crimes in town. In fact, the town is very hostile toward her. When some of her clients end up dead, and Ashley is next on the list, Officer Katie who doesn't hit it off with Ashley right away is assigned to protect her. The plot is woven so deftly when the two women end up working together realizing they have more in common than not. This is a page turner and once it grabs you in the very beginning, it doesn't let go and with all the twists and turns and red-herrings you are drawn totally into the faced paced action. Wow is all I can say. I really liked this series and look forward to reading more about Ashley and Katie! I received and ARC of this book but the opinions expressed here are strictly my own.
April 26, 2021
Any other Law & Order fans here? My favorite is SVU (obviously) so when @laura.snider.writer asked if I'd like to read an e-arc of her upcoming legal thriller, I jumped at the chance! This one had all of the Law & Order vibes.
Ashley Montgomery is a big time public defender in the small town where she grew up. Pretty much, everyone is an asshole to her because she's good at her job. Who's the worst? Katie Mickey- a badass female cop with a hot temper. When one of Ashley's clients turns up dead and she could be next on a hit list, Katie ends up having to serve as her personal protection.
This novel has a dual point of view between these two strong female characters which I think really works to propel the story forward. I thought the story was fun, though at times slightly unbelievable and I was really invested in the relationships made throughout the book. There are definitely a million ways Laura could take this series and I can't see what trouble Ashley and Katie find themselves in next!
Ashley Montgomery is a big time public defender in the small town where she grew up. Pretty much, everyone is an asshole to her because she's good at her job. Who's the worst? Katie Mickey- a badass female cop with a hot temper. When one of Ashley's clients turns up dead and she could be next on a hit list, Katie ends up having to serve as her personal protection.
This novel has a dual point of view between these two strong female characters which I think really works to propel the story forward. I thought the story was fun, though at times slightly unbelievable and I was really invested in the relationships made throughout the book. There are definitely a million ways Laura could take this series and I can't see what trouble Ashley and Katie find themselves in next!
June 5, 2021
Strong women, breaking social stigmas, and a thriller aspect! Yes!! Ashley, the local public defender doesn’t have any friends in her small town. Two murders happen to clients of Ashley’s. Could she be the murderer or is someone in this small town out to get Ashley and her clients?
I loved the evolution of Ashley and Katie’s friendship throughout the book. People are not always what they seem in the small glimpses we get of them. The plot line and twists in this book were great! Somethings I could guess and some were a surprise!
I love legal thrillers and this one has to be one of my favorites. I am looking forward to reading more of Ashley’s story in books to come.
A huge thank you to Laura Snider for giving me the opportunity to read and review this ebook early! Look for it to come out this July!
I loved the evolution of Ashley and Katie’s friendship throughout the book. People are not always what they seem in the small glimpses we get of them. The plot line and twists in this book were great! Somethings I could guess and some were a surprise!
I love legal thrillers and this one has to be one of my favorites. I am looking forward to reading more of Ashley’s story in books to come.
A huge thank you to Laura Snider for giving me the opportunity to read and review this ebook early! Look for it to come out this July!
July 28, 2021
This book grabbed my interest from the first page and refused to let go until I was done reading the book. Along with being an action-packed murder mystery, there are a number of other threads lying just barely exposed that once tied together might result in the reader figuring out who done it, or maybe not because some are well conceived twists to the story. The characters in this story are in some cases easy to like, and in others very easy to detest, but then not everything is what it seems. If you enjoy stories with plenty of action and enough mystery to keep you guessing who the murder is, grab a copy of Unsympathetic Victims and settle in for some spellbinding entertainment. I received an Advance Reader Copy and chose to provide this review.
July 29, 2021
This was a unique and extremely compelling novel; one which I found very difficult to put down once I started reading it. I liked the two strong female main characters, Ashley and Katie, who began as enemies, but became friends over the course of the book. The more time they spent together, the more they found to admire and respect about each other. I also liked Ashley’s old schoolmate Tom, who never wavered in his loyalty and affection for Ashley. The ending was very satisfying—who doesn’t love to see a mystery solved and guilty parties get what they deserve? I received an advanced copy of this book from SRP Mystery and Thrillers, and have given my honest and voluntary opinion. I look forward to future books from this author.
May 6, 2021
Ashley is a public defender and a talented one at that, she got the guilty to be off the hook. Everyone hates her for it to the point she get death threats and two of her clients gets murdered, she could be the next one.
I liked the friendship between her and Katie and how it developed maybe a bit too fast for my liking though.
I like Ashley she was a strong character who didn’t let anyone tell her what she was supposed to do.
The plot twist were good (a bit too unrealistic sometimes and a bit of a reach) but overall I enjoyed the book and it was a good ending i could read the sequel and hope justice will be done.
I liked the friendship between her and Katie and how it developed maybe a bit too fast for my liking though.
I like Ashley she was a strong character who didn’t let anyone tell her what she was supposed to do.
The plot twist were good (a bit too unrealistic sometimes and a bit of a reach) but overall I enjoyed the book and it was a good ending i could read the sequel and hope justice will be done.
June 30, 2021
Public defender Ashley Montgomery finds herself in an unpopular position, defending people who the public finds “guilty” is not the best job in the world, but one that Ashley takes seriously, she doesn’t have to like or agree with her clients. Police office Katie Mickey has a very black white approach to guilty and not guilty, and is not a fan of Ashley.
2 women unlikely to be friends, but money, corruption, family loyalty is stirring the towns pot and makes these 2 to allies.
Great 1st book in a new series, started reading and wished I could have read through the night. Looking forward to book 2 .
2 women unlikely to be friends, but money, corruption, family loyalty is stirring the towns pot and makes these 2 to allies.
Great 1st book in a new series, started reading and wished I could have read through the night. Looking forward to book 2 .
July 22, 2021
I picked this book up and could not put it down. This book alternates between the perspectives of Ashley - the defence attorney and Katie - the police officer. Both are showing up as strong female characters who are kicking butt. It jumps right in with a murder in the first chapter and the speed just ramps up from there. This story revolves around who is entitled to a defence and to receive justice and who is an "unsympathetic victim." It is an interesting concept that some victims just aren't seen as victims and how everyone is entitled to a defence. It definately had me asking myself some questions. If you love legal thrillers, pick this up!!! Can't wait for the next
August 16, 2021
Absolutely delighted to be reviewing this book. I was amazed to discover this is a debut novel - so happy to learn that this is the first in a legal thriller series. I am a huge John Grisham fan and this is very much in the same vein. A tight, gripping plot. The lead character Ashley Montgomery is so well written, it almost feels like we already know about her. This is a well thought out story and we all know how much I love a book with a strong female at the forefront. I am already looking forward to reading more by Laura Snider and if tense court room dramas and all that goes with is your thing, then you definitely need this book in your life.
July 22, 2021
Finished just in time for release date! And I LOVED it!
Public Defender, Ashley, is not a popular woman among her town of Brine, Iowa. After getting an acquittal of a child predator, she becomes the target of public scrutiny AND the target of a vigilante. She’s chased, threatened, and even framed….and the tables are then turned on her.
This legal thriller was suspenseful and fast paced - and I can’t wait for the rest to be published!!
Bravo, Laura Snider! And thank you for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!
Public Defender, Ashley, is not a popular woman among her town of Brine, Iowa. After getting an acquittal of a child predator, she becomes the target of public scrutiny AND the target of a vigilante. She’s chased, threatened, and even framed….and the tables are then turned on her.
This legal thriller was suspenseful and fast paced - and I can’t wait for the rest to be published!!
Bravo, Laura Snider! And thank you for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!
July 29, 2021
Ashley Montgomery is from Brine County, Iowa. She is now a defense attorney for those that people in this small town that the citizens have already decided were guilty of the crimes they were arrested for. Ashley has proven to be very good at her job to help those people. This causes a rift between her and the people who live there, but with the police/sheriff's department. But who knew that eyes would be opened on both sides when more trouble brews in this town? I thoroughly enjoyed this book and looking forward to the next one. I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this story from the publisher.
August 14, 2021
Seriously good!
A public defender in a small Iowa town has become a victim of her own success in exonerating two criminals. The County Attorney and a police officer whose errors led to the acquittals hate her, but the beauty of this novel is the growing change in relationships, and the basic belief in doing the right thing. The mystery element isn't challenging, most will deduce the criminals early on, but the character development more than compensates for that. This is an outstanding opening to a series, and is a definite contender for my novel of the year.
A public defender in a small Iowa town has become a victim of her own success in exonerating two criminals. The County Attorney and a police officer whose errors led to the acquittals hate her, but the beauty of this novel is the growing change in relationships, and the basic belief in doing the right thing. The mystery element isn't challenging, most will deduce the criminals early on, but the character development more than compensates for that. This is an outstanding opening to a series, and is a definite contender for my novel of the year.
August 14, 2021
Laura Snider kicks off the “Ashley Montgomery Legal Thriller” series with hutzpah. Ashley Montgomery is at once kick ass and vulnerable. She is the defense attorney that you want even if you don’t want to live her life.
I cannot wait for the next murder or crime to happen because Ashley and Katie will chase down all leads...no matter how dangerous.
I received an ARC of this book and I am writing a review without prejudice and voluntarily.
Read more of my review at Phoebe's Randoms, link is in bio.
I cannot wait for the next murder or crime to happen because Ashley and Katie will chase down all leads...no matter how dangerous.
I received an ARC of this book and I am writing a review without prejudice and voluntarily.
Read more of my review at Phoebe's Randoms, link is in bio.
July 28, 2021
Unjustified Accusations
Ashley is a Defence Attorney. Ashley is brilliant and wins her cases. So Ashley is the most hated person in her town because she defends criminals. Two murders of her defendants take place and Ashley is framed and jailed. Who is out to get her? Will she find the culprit? A brilliant gutwrenching book which is a page turner with a lot of twists. I enjoyed this legal thriller and am looking forward to the next one.
Ashley is a Defence Attorney. Ashley is brilliant and wins her cases. So Ashley is the most hated person in her town because she defends criminals. Two murders of her defendants take place and Ashley is framed and jailed. Who is out to get her? Will she find the culprit? A brilliant gutwrenching book which is a page turner with a lot of twists. I enjoyed this legal thriller and am looking forward to the next one.
July 30, 2021
Living in a small town has its perks and also its problems. Ashley soon discovers that the town does not see her performance as the town´s legal defendant in a positive light and all hell breaks loose making her doubt herself and all those that became dear and close to her. Full of action and fast-paced the Unsympathetic Victims is guaranteed entertainment!
I downloaded a free copy of this book and this is my honest opinion.
I downloaded a free copy of this book and this is my honest opinion.
November 12, 2022
This book was great! It had me eager to keep reading and find out how it all comes together. As a former Public Defender, I hesitate to pick up legal fiction books but this one was well written and kept the legal jargon easy to understand. Ashley Montgomery and Katie Mickey are great characters and you find yourself evolving with their individual stories.
Thank you Laura for writing this story and providing this much needed PD perspective. Can’t wait to pick up the next one in the series!
Thank you Laura for writing this story and providing this much needed PD perspective. Can’t wait to pick up the next one in the series!
March 16, 2023
Gripping Plot and Familiar feelings.
As a lawyer (formerly a public defender, currently a prosecutor), I feel like I can relate on the tensions between all parties. Although at the end of the day, we are all only doing our job, it can get a smidge personal. I like how the author ties in the growth of each character. As for the plot itself, the story line was easy to follow and keeps you hooked throughout. I’m looking forward to reading book 2.
As a lawyer (formerly a public defender, currently a prosecutor), I feel like I can relate on the tensions between all parties. Although at the end of the day, we are all only doing our job, it can get a smidge personal. I like how the author ties in the growth of each character. As for the plot itself, the story line was easy to follow and keeps you hooked throughout. I’m looking forward to reading book 2.
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