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Sam Johnstone #6
Conflict of Duty
The pursuit of the truth might cost one Wyoming lawyer everything… In the wake of a trial loss and personal upheaval, defense attorney Sam Johnstone is drawn back into the legal fray by an accused drug dealer involved in a fatal fentanyl case. The dealer's tantalizing offer? Pivotal information that could exonerate the son of Sam’s former partner in exchange for representation. As Sam ventures deeper into this moral minefield, he uncovers suppressed testimony that could incriminate a former client… and threaten his own career. From Wall Street Journal bestselling author James Chandler comes the sixth book in the Sam Johnstone legal thriller series; perfect for fans of John Grisham, James Patterson, and C.J. Box.
411 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 4, 2024
3461 people are currently reading
208 people want to read
About the author
James Chandler
14 books152 followersNote: There other authors with this name.
James^^Chandler
James Chandler spent his formative years in the western United States. When he wasn't catching fish or footballs, he was roaming centerfield and trying to hit the breaking pitch. After a mediocre college baseball career, he exchanged jersey No. 7 for camouflage issued by the United States Army, which he wore around the globe and with great pride for twenty years before retiring as a Lieutenant Colonel of Air Defense Artillery. He holds a Bachelor's degree from Eastern Oregon University and a Master's degree from Marshall University. He earned his Juris Doctor by attending night school at the George Mason University School of Law while assigned to the Pentagon, and practiced law in Wyoming for twelve years before his appointment to the bench. When he isn't working or writing, he'll likely have a fly rod, shotgun or rifle in hand. He and his wife are blessed with two wonderful adult daughters and one grandson. He is a recipient of the Western Horizon Award. He loves to hear from readers and can be reached at james@james-chandler.com.
James^^Chandler
James Chandler spent his formative years in the western United States. When he wasn't catching fish or footballs, he was roaming centerfield and trying to hit the breaking pitch. After a mediocre college baseball career, he exchanged jersey No. 7 for camouflage issued by the United States Army, which he wore around the globe and with great pride for twenty years before retiring as a Lieutenant Colonel of Air Defense Artillery. He holds a Bachelor's degree from Eastern Oregon University and a Master's degree from Marshall University. He earned his Juris Doctor by attending night school at the George Mason University School of Law while assigned to the Pentagon, and practiced law in Wyoming for twelve years before his appointment to the bench. When he isn't working or writing, he'll likely have a fly rod, shotgun or rifle in hand. He and his wife are blessed with two wonderful adult daughters and one grandson. He is a recipient of the Western Horizon Award. He loves to hear from readers and can be reached at james@james-chandler.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
October 31, 2025
Good realistic read
Gives a clearer picture of addiction as well as difficult cases defense attorneys may be required to handle. Touches on loss, family and making most of our limited time here. Not a Hollywood ending
Gives a clearer picture of addiction as well as difficult cases defense attorneys may be required to handle. Touches on loss, family and making most of our limited time here. Not a Hollywood ending
October 27, 2024
Another solid legal thriller by Chandler. Excited for the next one. 4 stars.
August 1, 2024
good things always come to an end, strongly recommend
Author, I don’t appreciate you leaving me with all these unanswered twists. So much mysteries. Just imagine I got to wait until May 25, 2025. By then my imagination will have driven me crazy. But I truly enjoyed Sam and the Custer community family. I can read about Sam and the rest of these characters everyday. This series is so well written, not predictable and the courtroom drama is so good. I didn’t like Grant Lee much but I have to say, he was a good shrewd lawyer. And Trent kinda grew on me. I like his little sassy personality. I don’t know who was the most annoying Lee or Gus 💔. When Sam met that Mickey woman, I said from the beginning, throw her back, like he did those fish. But we shall see. I hate Sam missed a golden opportunity to see his dad. Sam, don’t you dare twist that top on that beer bottle, 18 months is a beautiful accomplishment. Wow, I’m going to miss Sam.
Author, I don’t appreciate you leaving me with all these unanswered twists. So much mysteries. Just imagine I got to wait until May 25, 2025. By then my imagination will have driven me crazy. But I truly enjoyed Sam and the Custer community family. I can read about Sam and the rest of these characters everyday. This series is so well written, not predictable and the courtroom drama is so good. I didn’t like Grant Lee much but I have to say, he was a good shrewd lawyer. And Trent kinda grew on me. I like his little sassy personality. I don’t know who was the most annoying Lee or Gus 💔. When Sam met that Mickey woman, I said from the beginning, throw her back, like he did those fish. But we shall see. I hate Sam missed a golden opportunity to see his dad. Sam, don’t you dare twist that top on that beer bottle, 18 months is a beautiful accomplishment. Wow, I’m going to miss Sam.
July 20, 2024
Ok. The story was good with good legal scenes but did not care for the ending. Not the story I was expecting after the ending of the previous book. Maybe the next one.
May 28, 2024
I received an ARC through "Severn River" and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
The story begins with Sam taking some time off fishing. On his way back, he makes a stop in a small town where he makes a lady friend and extends his time off. Upon arriving back in town, it seems two events have happened which will impact him. The 1st item relates to the County Attorney killing a woman, where the 2nd one involves a death of a teen due to an overdose. In this case, Sam represents one of the people discovered in a motel room where the teen died. He handles the arraignment but plans to have no other involvement. This event is the basis for the title of the book.
His involvement will preclude him representing someone else also involved in that crime, the drug dealer that wants Sam to represent him. Sam tells him no, that he can't represent him. This individual is persistent and offers Sam a so-called carrot. He will tell Sam information that will free an innocent man from prison if Sam wins his case. The conflict that Sam has is resolved and Sam eventually agrees to the representation. The teen's father is angry at Sam for him representing the drug dealer and Sam is threatened.
The time of the trial arrives and Sam is going up against Cathy, his former girlfriend who was appointed to replace the County Attorney who was involed with the killing. Sam does his best in his defense of the drug dealer. The case has now gone to the jury. Time has come and the jury has come to a verdict. Sam and his client are returning to the courthouse where an angry mob is outside. As Sam is entering the building, shots are fired.
To learn what the shots meant, what reason the conflict was eliminated, what other event happened regarding a member of Sam's family and wht the trial results were, then you need to read this book.
The story begins with Sam taking some time off fishing. On his way back, he makes a stop in a small town where he makes a lady friend and extends his time off. Upon arriving back in town, it seems two events have happened which will impact him. The 1st item relates to the County Attorney killing a woman, where the 2nd one involves a death of a teen due to an overdose. In this case, Sam represents one of the people discovered in a motel room where the teen died. He handles the arraignment but plans to have no other involvement. This event is the basis for the title of the book.
His involvement will preclude him representing someone else also involved in that crime, the drug dealer that wants Sam to represent him. Sam tells him no, that he can't represent him. This individual is persistent and offers Sam a so-called carrot. He will tell Sam information that will free an innocent man from prison if Sam wins his case. The conflict that Sam has is resolved and Sam eventually agrees to the representation. The teen's father is angry at Sam for him representing the drug dealer and Sam is threatened.
The time of the trial arrives and Sam is going up against Cathy, his former girlfriend who was appointed to replace the County Attorney who was involed with the killing. Sam does his best in his defense of the drug dealer. The case has now gone to the jury. Time has come and the jury has come to a verdict. Sam and his client are returning to the courthouse where an angry mob is outside. As Sam is entering the building, shots are fired.
To learn what the shots meant, what reason the conflict was eliminated, what other event happened regarding a member of Sam's family and wht the trial results were, then you need to read this book.
May 2, 2024
In the wake of a trial loss and personal upheaval, defense attorney Sam Johnstone is drawn back into the legal fray by an accused drug dealer involved in a fatal fentanyl case in Conflict of Duty by James Chandler. The dealer’s tantalizing offer? Pivotal information that could exonerate the son of Sam’s former partner in exchange for representation.
As Sam ventures deeper into this moral minefield, he uncovers suppressed testimony that could incriminate a former client and threaten his own career.
Conflict of Duty is a solid legal thriller. I learned some about the courts and trials, as well as a lot about drug addiction and fentanyl. It was a very good story with good characters—some likable, others not so much!
I was a bit disappointed in the ending; it felt a bit unresolved with Sam, but I’m hoping that means there will be more.
I enjoyed reading this book. The author's writing style held my interest and told a good story. I would recommend this book.
#NetGalley @SvrnRvrPublish
As Sam ventures deeper into this moral minefield, he uncovers suppressed testimony that could incriminate a former client and threaten his own career.
Conflict of Duty is a solid legal thriller. I learned some about the courts and trials, as well as a lot about drug addiction and fentanyl. It was a very good story with good characters—some likable, others not so much!
I was a bit disappointed in the ending; it felt a bit unresolved with Sam, but I’m hoping that means there will be more.
I enjoyed reading this book. The author's writing style held my interest and told a good story. I would recommend this book.
#NetGalley @SvrnRvrPublish
June 3, 2024
The darkest story of the Sam Johnston series.
As I began reading Conflict of Duty I sensed a change in the story from the five previous stories. I couldn’t tell what the difference was, but that feeling stuck with me until Sam got back to his practice and suddenly when Trent Gustafson showed up the change in tone of the story became perfectly clear. While the previous books all include murder or other heinous crimes that were resolved in the courtroom. Conflict of Duty left me with more unanswered questions than any of its predecessors. I’m hoping these questions will be answered in the next book as well as how Sam is going to come out of all his personal situations. I’d like to say this is my favorite book of the series and one day it may be, after I come to grips with the personal memories Sam’s challenges brought back to me. I received an Advance Reader Copy of Conflict of Duty from the publisher and chose to provide my review.
As I began reading Conflict of Duty I sensed a change in the story from the five previous stories. I couldn’t tell what the difference was, but that feeling stuck with me until Sam got back to his practice and suddenly when Trent Gustafson showed up the change in tone of the story became perfectly clear. While the previous books all include murder or other heinous crimes that were resolved in the courtroom. Conflict of Duty left me with more unanswered questions than any of its predecessors. I’m hoping these questions will be answered in the next book as well as how Sam is going to come out of all his personal situations. I’d like to say this is my favorite book of the series and one day it may be, after I come to grips with the personal memories Sam’s challenges brought back to me. I received an Advance Reader Copy of Conflict of Duty from the publisher and chose to provide my review.
June 5, 2024
This is a very good legal thriller. This is the sixth book in the series and though each book can be read as a standalone, as with most series, it’s best to read from the beginning to really understand the characters, how they intersect and to track storylines that carry over into other books. In each book we learn about varied aspects of the court system, which is quite interesting. There is always a blend of courtroom activity along with information on Sam’s personal life, his struggles to maintain his sobriety and coping with PTSD, adding depth to his character and giving the reader a dose of realism and humanity. This installment is a solid addition to this entertaining series.
June 17, 2025
“Conflict of Duty” by James Chandler is Book 6 in the author’s Sam Johnstone Series. Johnstone is an attorney who is a veteran that suffers from alcoholism (he’s been sober for 19 months) and PTSD, and agrees to defend a drug dealer, hoping to find information that proves that an innocent man was sent to prison for murder. He struggles with the ethical (or unethical) nature of what he is trying to accomplish as he attempts to weigh his responsibility in defending his client against his gathering of information that could possibly bring harm to a former client. I enjoy the way the author portrays the actions in the courtroom as he tells his story. (300 pages)
June 7, 2024
Solid-again!
Chandler hits another home-run with book #6. Comfortably informing the first-time reader of the necessary series background while not simply repeating information like many authors do, Chandler guides the story along like his first five books. He dangles the bait (or fly in deference to the fly-fisherman he and Sam are), entices you into the plot deftly, and keeps you in suspense throughout every page. Adroitly but again not by simply rehashing previous works, he establishes the legal framework for the layman. He closes with just enough intrigue to leave you asking for more. Great job again and well worth the read!
Chandler hits another home-run with book #6. Comfortably informing the first-time reader of the necessary series background while not simply repeating information like many authors do, Chandler guides the story along like his first five books. He dangles the bait (or fly in deference to the fly-fisherman he and Sam are), entices you into the plot deftly, and keeps you in suspense throughout every page. Adroitly but again not by simply rehashing previous works, he establishes the legal framework for the layman. He closes with just enough intrigue to leave you asking for more. Great job again and well worth the read!
June 12, 2024
Sam is battling his demons - addiction still is a big problem in his life and add to this his relationship to his father (or lack of one) and his clients, especially Gustafson, a man he doesn't like and believe is guilty but can pay him exceedingly well and can give information regarding a previous case if he walks free. The story has a very engaging plot with different players and Sam, the flawed lawyer and human being, will make good and bad choices that will hold his life on a very thin line in a very near future. Highly recommended!
I thank Mr. Chandler and his publisher for this ARC.
I thank Mr. Chandler and his publisher for this ARC.
August 3, 2024
Wonderful Series
Sam Johnstone has dealt with more issues in his life, but has gotten sober, sees his VA counselor for help with past military trauma and calls his sponsor as needed. He is a great attorney as seen in this book. He has represented many low life's, and current person he is helping is very questionable. Sam doesn't always pick out good women to have relationships with. Looking forward to reading where the next book in this series takes him, wondering, will Sam go off the wagon, will he find true love?
Sam Johnstone has dealt with more issues in his life, but has gotten sober, sees his VA counselor for help with past military trauma and calls his sponsor as needed. He is a great attorney as seen in this book. He has represented many low life's, and current person he is helping is very questionable. Sam doesn't always pick out good women to have relationships with. Looking forward to reading where the next book in this series takes him, wondering, will Sam go off the wagon, will he find true love?
May 3, 2024
I have now read all six of this fascinating and compelling series featuring the troubled alcoholic Sam Johnstone racked with guilt about his army past.
Despite his issues he is a wonderful lawyer quick to seize opportunities and capitalise upon the holes in the prosecution cases.
I so enjoy reading about his exploits and hope that he will find peace and true happiness one day - but I have my doubts.
Despite his issues he is a wonderful lawyer quick to seize opportunities and capitalise upon the holes in the prosecution cases.
I so enjoy reading about his exploits and hope that he will find peace and true happiness one day - but I have my doubts.
June 6, 2024
Complexities of addiction and sustained sobriety.
Wyoming shares boundaries with six other states. The total population rates 50th of all the states, according to my 2023 road atlas. How could such wilderness support crime, drug trafficking, overdoses, and legal shenanigans? Some residents seek revenge and leverage outside of laws and justice. Attorney Sam Johnstone litigates to right wrongs. Sam challenges himself to practice sobriety.
Wyoming shares boundaries with six other states. The total population rates 50th of all the states, according to my 2023 road atlas. How could such wilderness support crime, drug trafficking, overdoses, and legal shenanigans? Some residents seek revenge and leverage outside of laws and justice. Attorney Sam Johnstone litigates to right wrongs. Sam challenges himself to practice sobriety.
July 8, 2024
What a disappointment. The first five books in the series were good, but this one is a total disaster. It was hard to follow the various characters and issues and more than once I stopped reading and then decided to come back and see if it would get better. Then the ending was worse than the rest of the book--confusing, not clearing up some of the story lines and left me wondering why I wasted my time. I have no interest in reading more of this series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 19, 2025
Slow, it was slow.
I feel like there were several points where the time line didn’t make sense.
And what’s with Mickey? It’s like the author forgot they created that character and needed to write it back in here and there. It there is something odd about her, but I’m assuming we’ll learn more in the next book.
I’ll continue reading because I like Sam, but hopefully this next book isn’t so slow.
I feel like there were several points where the time line didn’t make sense.
And what’s with Mickey? It’s like the author forgot they created that character and needed to write it back in here and there. It there is something odd about her, but I’m assuming we’ll learn more in the next book.
I’ll continue reading because I like Sam, but hopefully this next book isn’t so slow.
June 21, 2024
Another fine legal thriller from James Chandler! This time Sam is defending a drug dealer involved in the death of a teenager. The characters are intriguing, the plot is nice and twisty and the storytelling is superb. I enjoyed this book and am looking forward to the next in the series. I received a complimentary copy of this book and chose to write a voluntary, unbiased review.
August 8, 2024
Totally enjoyed
Sam Johnstone is not what would be perceived as your “typical” attorney. He has a lot of demons he battles with, all the while of being a really good attorney. Really enjoyed this book, bummed that his next one doesn’t come out until May of 2025. Definitely looking forward to reading that one.
Sam Johnstone is not what would be perceived as your “typical” attorney. He has a lot of demons he battles with, all the while of being a really good attorney. Really enjoyed this book, bummed that his next one doesn’t come out until May of 2025. Definitely looking forward to reading that one.
September 9, 2024
not my favorite
I’ve read all of his Legal Thrillers. This one spends too much time and repetition in the courtroom, explaining over and over the duties and explanations to the jury. In a real trial, all necessary. This is a novel and those could have been included, but simplified for the reader.
Rant over. I have ordered Book 7.
I’ve read all of his Legal Thrillers. This one spends too much time and repetition in the courtroom, explaining over and over the duties and explanations to the jury. In a real trial, all necessary. This is a novel and those could have been included, but simplified for the reader.
Rant over. I have ordered Book 7.
October 15, 2024
A while ago, I took advantage of the opportunity to read his first book for free, and became hooked. I’ve read them all so far, and Conflict of Duty is one of his best. The characters seemed real, and unlike some novels of the genre, he tells the story without making it so complicated it’s hard to follow. I’m looking forward to reading the next installment of the series.
January 27, 2025
The legal drama is always well done. That said, while I really do enjoy this series, the trial ending was completely predictable. I won’t spoil it but honestly it was not satisfying. As for the rest of the story, I’m curious to learn more. Leading into book 7, I’m guessing Sam will demonstrate more of his self-destructive behavior but hoping he keeps it together. A fairly quick read.
June 13, 2024
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED THRILLER
An intense thriller surrounding very highly intriguing characters both good and bad. This fast paced drama will keep the reader totally fascinated until the very last page.
An intense thriller surrounding very highly intriguing characters both good and bad. This fast paced drama will keep the reader totally fascinated until the very last page.
July 3, 2024
Exceptionable
I love his dedication and will power. Lesser men would have folded on numerous occasions but Sam steadied himself by sheer power of will. Such a humanly person but a magnet also. Continually putting himself front and center in trouble.
I love his dedication and will power. Lesser men would have folded on numerous occasions but Sam steadied himself by sheer power of will. Such a humanly person but a magnet also. Continually putting himself front and center in trouble.
July 21, 2024
I love how James Chandler writes - he really can pull you into the story quickly. I enjoy his Sam Johnstone character who is just a relatable guy with his flaws but a great sense of virtue and honor even when he’s stuck in a corner.
July 24, 2024
Sam grapples with an ethical, personal and addiction issues in this one. Not surprised about what happened to his current client. Was surprised that he didn't take Lee on as a client. I thought that was going to be the next in the series.
September 1, 2024
Real and engaging
I’m not always sure about how I feel about this anti-hero. The author brings him to life and you can’t help caring about him.
Be prepared to engage emotionally as well as having a page turner legal thriller.
I’m not always sure about how I feel about this anti-hero. The author brings him to life and you can’t help caring about him.
Be prepared to engage emotionally as well as having a page turner legal thriller.
December 15, 2024
Once again Sam is drawn into a dangerous situation. Does he make a deal with a drug dealer to save a close friend’s son. Full of suspense, secrets and dealing with people that usually get want they want.
April 14, 2025
Page turner
I really enjoy the author's style and his way of setting a scene so vividly. His descriptions of court room drama is perfect and so easy to follow. I will keep on reading!
I really enjoy the author's style and his way of setting a scene so vividly. His descriptions of court room drama is perfect and so easy to follow. I will keep on reading!
August 25, 2025
A really engrossing legal thriller. Lots of plot points and lots of things happening. But easy to keep it all staight as the author puts you in that world.
But, at the end, several threads are unresolved - just setting up the next book. I guess I'll have to read it too.
But, at the end, several threads are unresolved - just setting up the next book. I guess I'll have to read it too.
March 26, 2024
Excellent read!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews