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Rain City Legal #2
Trial By Jury
Murder is an art form. And this one is a masterpiece.
Attorney Daniel Raine has recently gone out on his own and now is struggling to make rent. So when he’s invited to a fundraiser gala at a downtown Seattle art gallery, he sees it as a chance to find some new clients among the city’s wealthy elite.
And it works in the most unexpected way – when a young artist is found dead in the women’s restroom.
The assigned detective declares it a suicide and the young woman’s parents promptly sue the gallery owner for driving their daughter to take her own life. Raine is hired to defend the lawsuit and embarks on a mission to exonerate his client.
He soon realizes that the Rain City art world is a hotbed of intrigue, treachery and secret deals and becomes convinced that the young artist was murdered. But why? And by whom?
Raine finds himself navigating an unfamiliar world peopled by rich collectors, starving art students, and the beautiful and beguiling director of a local art school. Can he piece together what really happened on that fateful night and save his client from ruin?
Trial by Jury – the second in the brilliant legal thriller series featuring attorney Daniel Raine.
What readers are saying about Trial By Jury:
“Definitely didn't expect that ending! There were a lot of twists and turns that kept me from wanting to put the book down. 5 stars.” -Booksprout Reviewer
“Fast paced read, there is a conclusion… I didn’t see it coming! Truly a brilliant execution from Stephen Penner.” -Netgalley Reviewer
“…engrossing, fast paced, and well written legal thriller. Will be looking forward to new additions to the series.” -Netgalley Reviewer
“A well written and plotted legal thriller… This is fast becoming an interesting series well worth following. The plot is original with twist and turns and an unexpected denouement.” -Netgalley Reviewer
“I enjoyed the mystery and the characters were realistically described.” -Netgalley Reviewer
Attorney Daniel Raine has recently gone out on his own and now is struggling to make rent. So when he’s invited to a fundraiser gala at a downtown Seattle art gallery, he sees it as a chance to find some new clients among the city’s wealthy elite.
And it works in the most unexpected way – when a young artist is found dead in the women’s restroom.
The assigned detective declares it a suicide and the young woman’s parents promptly sue the gallery owner for driving their daughter to take her own life. Raine is hired to defend the lawsuit and embarks on a mission to exonerate his client.
He soon realizes that the Rain City art world is a hotbed of intrigue, treachery and secret deals and becomes convinced that the young artist was murdered. But why? And by whom?
Raine finds himself navigating an unfamiliar world peopled by rich collectors, starving art students, and the beautiful and beguiling director of a local art school. Can he piece together what really happened on that fateful night and save his client from ruin?
Trial by Jury – the second in the brilliant legal thriller series featuring attorney Daniel Raine.
What readers are saying about Trial By Jury:
“Definitely didn't expect that ending! There were a lot of twists and turns that kept me from wanting to put the book down. 5 stars.” -Booksprout Reviewer
“Fast paced read, there is a conclusion… I didn’t see it coming! Truly a brilliant execution from Stephen Penner.” -Netgalley Reviewer
“…engrossing, fast paced, and well written legal thriller. Will be looking forward to new additions to the series.” -Netgalley Reviewer
“A well written and plotted legal thriller… This is fast becoming an interesting series well worth following. The plot is original with twist and turns and an unexpected denouement.” -Netgalley Reviewer
“I enjoyed the mystery and the characters were realistically described.” -Netgalley Reviewer
248 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 23, 2023
1312 people are currently reading
238 people want to read
About the author
Stephen Penner
62 books156 followersStephen Penner is an author, artist, and attorney from Seattle, Washington. He has written more than 30 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.
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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Displaying 1 - 30 of 65 reviews
August 28, 2023
‘Murder is an art form. And this one is a masterpiece.’ I absolutely love a courtroom thriller, especially ones with a maverick good guy attorney with a slightly messed up private life and a sassy sidekick, and this one did not disappoint! The protagonist is attorney Daniel Raine who, along with his private investigator Rebecca Sommers defends a local art gallery owner who is being sued by the parents of a young art student who took her own life at one of his fundraising galas. Or did she? Daniel is not convinced and sets out to prove his clients innocence and save his career and gallery whilst trying to catch the real killer.
What I really enjoyed about this was the fact that the courtroom scenes were not drawn out and described in every minute detail. The reader is given the important information without dragging out the story with unnecessary dialogue and long winded legal statements and jargon. Whilst I did suss out where the story was going and who the ‘baddie’ was, this in no way dampened my enjoyment as the narrative was cleverly navigated.
The story was interesting and kept me hooked and the short punchy chapters made me keep on reading late into the night. Fans of Steve Cavanagh’s Eddie Flynn will love Raine and I am looking forward to reading more in this series.
Thanks to the author, the publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this book.
What I really enjoyed about this was the fact that the courtroom scenes were not drawn out and described in every minute detail. The reader is given the important information without dragging out the story with unnecessary dialogue and long winded legal statements and jargon. Whilst I did suss out where the story was going and who the ‘baddie’ was, this in no way dampened my enjoyment as the narrative was cleverly navigated.
The story was interesting and kept me hooked and the short punchy chapters made me keep on reading late into the night. Fans of Steve Cavanagh’s Eddie Flynn will love Raine and I am looking forward to reading more in this series.
Thanks to the author, the publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this book.
August 23, 2023
Trial By Jury🙌
Another enjoyable story by this author❣️Raine attends an art exhibition by art students at a well known gallery with Sommers, to drum up some clients for his law business. When an art student commits suicide, Raine is asked to represent the gallery owner when he is sued by the parents of the art student that died in his gallery for wrongful death😳
I enjoyed this story and I’m intrigued to see what other adventures Raine and Sommers get caught up in, in the future🤔 I received an advanced copy via Netgalley and willingly leave my honest review.
Another enjoyable story by this author❣️Raine attends an art exhibition by art students at a well known gallery with Sommers, to drum up some clients for his law business. When an art student commits suicide, Raine is asked to represent the gallery owner when he is sued by the parents of the art student that died in his gallery for wrongful death😳
I enjoyed this story and I’m intrigued to see what other adventures Raine and Sommers get caught up in, in the future🤔 I received an advanced copy via Netgalley and willingly leave my honest review.
August 23, 2023
This is the second book I have read by this author and it's another excellent read. Dan is hired to represent Duncan Finch who is being sued by the parents of a young art student who committed suicide in his art gallery.
I really enjoy legal thrillers and this is anothe one, along with a lot of investigative work carried out by Dan and his unofficial investigator Rebecca. It was an easy read as I enjoy these characters and the story had me gripped from the start. There were a few twists along the way and I had things sussed before the end. I deducted a star from the overall rating as I thought the ending was a bit too abrupt but otherwise, it's a highly recommended read.
I really enjoy legal thrillers and this is anothe one, along with a lot of investigative work carried out by Dan and his unofficial investigator Rebecca. It was an easy read as I enjoy these characters and the story had me gripped from the start. There were a few twists along the way and I had things sussed before the end. I deducted a star from the overall rating as I thought the ending was a bit too abrupt but otherwise, it's a highly recommended read.
May 9, 2025
Equally as good as the first book, this sees a thriller based on the art world.
Dan is at a student art exhibition, from there he is drawn into a case involving the gallery owner.
Lots of twists and great court action this time with a law suit rather than a criminal trial.
Lots of drama and quite a few twists.
I love these books exactly what you want from a courtroom thriller.
Dan is at a student art exhibition, from there he is drawn into a case involving the gallery owner.
Lots of twists and great court action this time with a law suit rather than a criminal trial.
Lots of drama and quite a few twists.
I love these books exactly what you want from a courtroom thriller.
May 16, 2025
It's always great to see and grab a boxset, especially within this genre where our setting and characters continue through the series.
Having read the first book in this set - Burden Of Proof - last year, I was keen to dive into the second book.
Having this boxset means that it's so easy to dive straight into the next book and continue the story on.
This review is just for book 2 of the Rain City Legal Thriller series, but this set actually contains the first four books.
Following on from our introduction to Rain City, we are back with Dan, still struggling to make ends meet, but an invite to a fundraiser proves to bring more opportunity than he first expected.
It was great to see Dan and Rebecca taking on a new case and especially due to the nature of this one where the narrative changes as the story unfolds.
I really enjoyed this storyline which was full of twists that kept us guessing....although I did work things out a little before the ending.
The writing style was immersive again and I think now that the setting and characters were familiar, this gave us much more focus on the case in hand.
We still follow this at a much more steady pace than the psychological thrillers that I normally read - but I actually really enjoyed this for a change.
This also fits the fact that we follow things from the more serious legal side too.
Another great read and I'm so happy to know that I have book 3 waiting and ready to go....
Having read the first book in this set - Burden Of Proof - last year, I was keen to dive into the second book.
Having this boxset means that it's so easy to dive straight into the next book and continue the story on.
This review is just for book 2 of the Rain City Legal Thriller series, but this set actually contains the first four books.
Following on from our introduction to Rain City, we are back with Dan, still struggling to make ends meet, but an invite to a fundraiser proves to bring more opportunity than he first expected.
It was great to see Dan and Rebecca taking on a new case and especially due to the nature of this one where the narrative changes as the story unfolds.
I really enjoyed this storyline which was full of twists that kept us guessing....although I did work things out a little before the ending.
The writing style was immersive again and I think now that the setting and characters were familiar, this gave us much more focus on the case in hand.
We still follow this at a much more steady pace than the psychological thrillers that I normally read - but I actually really enjoyed this for a change.
This also fits the fact that we follow things from the more serious legal side too.
Another great read and I'm so happy to know that I have book 3 waiting and ready to go....
February 22, 2025
**In the same vein as its predecessor**
It wasn't better, wasn't worse. Just the same. Short and sweet, tame and careful, lacking in the type of thrills I'm more interested in from my legal thrillers, though still kept me more or less engaged. I still like Raine as a character, though at times it's tough to get a solid read of him because he often does some pretty outlandish or unexpected things. Not that that's always a bad thing, but....it's just a thing that doesn't solidify him. Of course, perhaps that's just how he's always meant to be: unpredictable. I definitely enjoy reading his interactions with characters, namely the fun banter between him and Sommers.
I'm just mildly bummed that this entry wasn't really bold or exciting. Oh sure, there were times where I was surprised and glued to the pages, but those moments were so fleeting. There were definitely cool developments that made me rub my hands with anticipation of what was to come. But alas, too many of those moments were either anticlimactic or rushed. Even the very title of this entry suggested one thing, only to deliver another. Resolutions weren't all that satisfying. My imagination constantly got the better of me, making me think something extravagant would happen only for that not to be the case at all.
At any rate, given the synopsis of the 3rd book, it's possible that I may not find what I'm looking for in this series, despite my love for Stephen Penner as an author. But I'm just SO accustomed to the higher stakes of murderous crime thrillers that I've come to know and love with Penner's Brunelle series. I don't know if I'll continue this series or not, but as of now, I don't really see it happening. Yet. But maybe in the future.
It wasn't better, wasn't worse. Just the same. Short and sweet, tame and careful, lacking in the type of thrills I'm more interested in from my legal thrillers, though still kept me more or less engaged. I still like Raine as a character, though at times it's tough to get a solid read of him because he often does some pretty outlandish or unexpected things. Not that that's always a bad thing, but....it's just a thing that doesn't solidify him. Of course, perhaps that's just how he's always meant to be: unpredictable. I definitely enjoy reading his interactions with characters, namely the fun banter between him and Sommers.
I'm just mildly bummed that this entry wasn't really bold or exciting. Oh sure, there were times where I was surprised and glued to the pages, but those moments were so fleeting. There were definitely cool developments that made me rub my hands with anticipation of what was to come. But alas, too many of those moments were either anticlimactic or rushed. Even the very title of this entry suggested one thing, only to deliver another. Resolutions weren't all that satisfying. My imagination constantly got the better of me, making me think something extravagant would happen only for that not to be the case at all.
At any rate, given the synopsis of the 3rd book, it's possible that I may not find what I'm looking for in this series, despite my love for Stephen Penner as an author. But I'm just SO accustomed to the higher stakes of murderous crime thrillers that I've come to know and love with Penner's Brunelle series. I don't know if I'll continue this series or not, but as of now, I don't really see it happening. Yet. But maybe in the future.
August 24, 2023
I received an ARC through "Booksprout" and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
In this story, Daniel has gone to an art exhibit where he hopes to gain new clients. This exhibit features the works of students from an art school. As the evening comes to an end, the body of one of the students is discovered in the ladies' restroom. Cause of death was determined to be a suicide.
The next day, Daniel is visited by the owner of the gallery and wants Daniel to represent him. It seems that the parents of the student who committed suicide want to sue him. David agrees to take the case and he looks into it later along with his investigator, more facts begin to show up. Later, Daniel and his investigator suggest to the owner that another exhibit for the student's should be held. As it so happened, another student's body was discovered and once more the cause of death was suicide. Daniel then learns that the student's parents have also joined the case suing. the gallery owner as well. The trial is then held and the prosecution has rested. It is now Daniel's turn. Daniel's investigator has found new information to help.
To discover who was behind the student's deaths, what new information Daniel's investigator, Sommers, learned that Daniel felt would exonerate his client, then you need to read this book, it is well worth it.
In this story, Daniel has gone to an art exhibit where he hopes to gain new clients. This exhibit features the works of students from an art school. As the evening comes to an end, the body of one of the students is discovered in the ladies' restroom. Cause of death was determined to be a suicide.
The next day, Daniel is visited by the owner of the gallery and wants Daniel to represent him. It seems that the parents of the student who committed suicide want to sue him. David agrees to take the case and he looks into it later along with his investigator, more facts begin to show up. Later, Daniel and his investigator suggest to the owner that another exhibit for the student's should be held. As it so happened, another student's body was discovered and once more the cause of death was suicide. Daniel then learns that the student's parents have also joined the case suing. the gallery owner as well. The trial is then held and the prosecution has rested. It is now Daniel's turn. Daniel's investigator has found new information to help.
To discover who was behind the student's deaths, what new information Daniel's investigator, Sommers, learned that Daniel felt would exonerate his client, then you need to read this book, it is well worth it.
August 20, 2023
The second book of the Rain City series, Trial By Jury by Stephen Penner is a legal crime mystery. Set in Seattle, Daniel Raine is the sole attorney in his own law firm. After a successful trial, Dan attends an art exhibition at a local gallery displaying art students’ paintings. When one of the students is found dead in the bathroom, the attending police detective classifies it as a self-inflicted shooting. When the gallery owner is faced with a civil court case for damages, he hires Dan as his defense attorney. As Dan prepares for trial, he must create some form of reasonable doubt in order to win and ensure his fees are paid. As the trial nears, another student is discovered dead, complicating the case but the trial proceeds and a startling revelation is made. A twisty crime thriller with an absorbing court case that makes for a four and a half stars rating. Having not read the first book makes this a standalone review and a truly enjoyable legal fiction tale. Many thanks to Inkubator Books and the author, for an uncorrected advanced review copy for review purposes. As always, the opinions herein are totally my own, freely given and without inducement.
August 24, 2023
Read his full post on Rosepoint Publishing.
A lovely young lady dies during her art debut at Finch Art Studios and the death is declared a suicide. Raine is engaged to defend the owner of the studio against a lawsuit from the parents of the girl for negligence. The lawsuit will likely bankrupt the studio’s owner.
The suit being brought, however, threatens both Raines’ payday and the livelihood of his client. And then the worst happens, another young woman and another suicide. Really?
Stephen Penner has put together a provocative tale of avarice and intrigue in the commercial business of art. The teacher and her students are simply trying to be recognized and possibly sell a painting but it can be a world of deception. I recommend this well-written story with a twist I did not see coming. 4 stars – CE Williams
The second in the series, this could work as a standalone. Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with the opportunity to read and review this book. These are my own opinions.
A lovely young lady dies during her art debut at Finch Art Studios and the death is declared a suicide. Raine is engaged to defend the owner of the studio against a lawsuit from the parents of the girl for negligence. The lawsuit will likely bankrupt the studio’s owner.
The suit being brought, however, threatens both Raines’ payday and the livelihood of his client. And then the worst happens, another young woman and another suicide. Really?
Stephen Penner has put together a provocative tale of avarice and intrigue in the commercial business of art. The teacher and her students are simply trying to be recognized and possibly sell a painting but it can be a world of deception. I recommend this well-written story with a twist I did not see coming. 4 stars – CE Williams
The second in the series, this could work as a standalone. Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with the opportunity to read and review this book. These are my own opinions.
September 19, 2023
attorney Daniel Raine's attended an art exhibition for a local gallery, only to find himself getting involved in what is deemed to be a suicide by one of the young women, who is said to have committed suicide in the bathroom. At least thats what the police have decided after what they call their investigation!
When the parents of the young woman decide to sue the owner of the art gallery, Raine is hired to defend Finch! Before the trial begins Raine needs to do what he can to make sure he is going to get paid, and gets Finch to do a second art exhibition to raise the money. But again another death happens, and for the second time the police call it another suicide! So now Raine's client is being sued by both sets of parents. But as things unfold both in and out of the court room, things take a startling turn, and hopefully Raine can prove his theory!
This was book 2 in the series, but the first one I've read, and I truly enjoyed it, so can honestly recommend it to those that enjoy a good mystery.
I want to thank the author the publisher and NetGalley for letting me have this book to read and enjoy!
When the parents of the young woman decide to sue the owner of the art gallery, Raine is hired to defend Finch! Before the trial begins Raine needs to do what he can to make sure he is going to get paid, and gets Finch to do a second art exhibition to raise the money. But again another death happens, and for the second time the police call it another suicide! So now Raine's client is being sued by both sets of parents. But as things unfold both in and out of the court room, things take a startling turn, and hopefully Raine can prove his theory!
This was book 2 in the series, but the first one I've read, and I truly enjoyed it, so can honestly recommend it to those that enjoy a good mystery.
I want to thank the author the publisher and NetGalley for letting me have this book to read and enjoy!
August 16, 2023
“Murder is an art form. And this one is a masterpiece”
The book is so engrossing and mysterious. Attorney Daniel Raine is a well known attorney. He helped Avery Jefferson to get the sole custody of her children and ensure their safety. Later things get upside down when Raine was invited to a fundraiser gala at Seattle art gallery. The unthinkable happens there. A young artist kills herself in the women restroom and her death has been given the name of a suicide but soon another young artist is found dead. And the mystery becomes complicated and twisted. Attorney Daniel Raine is trying to figure out the truth behind those murders.
The author has shared insights about art, painting,architecture of the gallery, guilty conscience, law and court procedurals.
•Legal Thriller
•Trial
•Court Procedurals
•Twisted Truth
•Art Gallery
•Psychology about Guilty
Thank you Netgalley, Author & Publisher
The book is so engrossing and mysterious. Attorney Daniel Raine is a well known attorney. He helped Avery Jefferson to get the sole custody of her children and ensure their safety. Later things get upside down when Raine was invited to a fundraiser gala at Seattle art gallery. The unthinkable happens there. A young artist kills herself in the women restroom and her death has been given the name of a suicide but soon another young artist is found dead. And the mystery becomes complicated and twisted. Attorney Daniel Raine is trying to figure out the truth behind those murders.
The author has shared insights about art, painting,architecture of the gallery, guilty conscience, law and court procedurals.
•Legal Thriller
•Trial
•Court Procedurals
•Twisted Truth
•Art Gallery
•Psychology about Guilty
Thank you Netgalley, Author & Publisher
May 20, 2025
Title: Trial By Jury
Author: Stephen Penner
Publisher: Inkubator Books
Series: A Rain City Legal Thriller Book 2
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:
"Trial By Jury" by Stephen Penner
My Insight:
'Trial By Jury' is an enthralling legal thriller that will keep readers engaged from start to finish in this second book of the series. The characters are well-developed and add a lot of excitement to the story. It was enjoyable to see the dynamic between Daniel Raine and Rebecca Sommers as they navigated their professional challenges, with their humorous banter adding a nice touch.
Expect plenty of twists and turns throughout the narrative, along with humor, compelling courtroom drama, and suspense that will keep you on your toes. The surprising conclusion leaves you pondering, "I didn’t see that coming!"
This author has crafted an intriguing plot that sets the stage perfectly for the next installment in the series.
Author: Stephen Penner
Publisher: Inkubator Books
Series: A Rain City Legal Thriller Book 2
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:
"Trial By Jury" by Stephen Penner
My Insight:
'Trial By Jury' is an enthralling legal thriller that will keep readers engaged from start to finish in this second book of the series. The characters are well-developed and add a lot of excitement to the story. It was enjoyable to see the dynamic between Daniel Raine and Rebecca Sommers as they navigated their professional challenges, with their humorous banter adding a nice touch.
Expect plenty of twists and turns throughout the narrative, along with humor, compelling courtroom drama, and suspense that will keep you on your toes. The surprising conclusion leaves you pondering, "I didn’t see that coming!"
This author has crafted an intriguing plot that sets the stage perfectly for the next installment in the series.
August 25, 2023
From the get-go, the reader is enveloped in an atmosphere where art, ambition, and mystery coalesce. The picturesque backdrop of Seattle's art scene sets the stage for a tale that is as multifaceted as a finely cut diamond. At its heart, this isn't just a legal thriller, but a deep dive into the intricacies of the human psyche, the lengths one might go to protect secrets, and the high stakes of reputation and legacy in the art world.
Daniel Raine, a struggling attorney with an unyielding sense of justice, is a character who evolves throughout the story. Through him, we explore not only the complexities of the case but also the challenges and responsibilities that come with setting up an independent legal practice. His dedication to truth, even in the face of personal hardship, makes him a protagonist to root for.
Daniel Raine, a struggling attorney with an unyielding sense of justice, is a character who evolves throughout the story. Through him, we explore not only the complexities of the case but also the challenges and responsibilities that come with setting up an independent legal practice. His dedication to truth, even in the face of personal hardship, makes him a protagonist to root for.
May 26, 2024
I would recommend this series, very enjoyable
The twist was impressive. I appreciate the suspense, because I was so wrong this time but close to the truth. I loved the fact that Dan generalized in different laws so he can defend different types of cases, which makes each book crime storyline different and interesting. I really wanted Dan to take Stone down. She acted so entitled and was so annoying to me. I just love Dan and Sommers relationship and their bantering. But Dan is hilarious. I’m glad Dan missed that disaster relationship with that crazy woman. I could see from a mile away, that wasn’t it. I didn’t like her from the start. Dan wants Nat back. I pray it happens for him and the boys.
The twist was impressive. I appreciate the suspense, because I was so wrong this time but close to the truth. I loved the fact that Dan generalized in different laws so he can defend different types of cases, which makes each book crime storyline different and interesting. I really wanted Dan to take Stone down. She acted so entitled and was so annoying to me. I just love Dan and Sommers relationship and their bantering. But Dan is hilarious. I’m glad Dan missed that disaster relationship with that crazy woman. I could see from a mile away, that wasn’t it. I didn’t like her from the start. Dan wants Nat back. I pray it happens for him and the boys.
August 19, 2024
Gave it 4 stars because I enjoyed it (mostly) until the end. Best I can say is it was lame and very disappointing.
Plot was set up for a potential David vs Goliath kind of confrontation, complete with nefarious bad guys, greedy speculator and unscrupulous law firm perpetrating, or at least supporting, murders for hire. What we got was an unbelievable court room confession and an even more unbelievable admission of guilt from the actual guilt party.
Badly done and lazy writing in my opinion.
The main character, Raine, is increasingly frustrating as a spineless wimp; not a power lawyer in the mold of a Jake Brigance. Where is the character development?
Probably won't read any more in this series.
Plot was set up for a potential David vs Goliath kind of confrontation, complete with nefarious bad guys, greedy speculator and unscrupulous law firm perpetrating, or at least supporting, murders for hire. What we got was an unbelievable court room confession and an even more unbelievable admission of guilt from the actual guilt party.
Badly done and lazy writing in my opinion.
The main character, Raine, is increasingly frustrating as a spineless wimp; not a power lawyer in the mold of a Jake Brigance. Where is the character development?
Probably won't read any more in this series.
April 9, 2025
Here was me thinking how good 'Burden of Proof's was and worried that the rest of the series wouldn't measure up. How very wrong I was!!!
Once again, the pairing of a lawyer and real estate agent working on a criminal case, which shouldn't work, actually works perfectly. Again I reiterate, the duo we didn't know we needed!!
This time Raine is pulled into a case, a horrific incident at an art gallery which was displaying art from students at a local artist school. I'd say a more complex plot and even more twists and turns. All characters involved were well crafted and the progression of our two main characters was great.
I stumbled on this series pretty much by accident but I am so glad I did. Well written, great pacing and a plot that will leave your head spinning!
Once again, the pairing of a lawyer and real estate agent working on a criminal case, which shouldn't work, actually works perfectly. Again I reiterate, the duo we didn't know we needed!!
This time Raine is pulled into a case, a horrific incident at an art gallery which was displaying art from students at a local artist school. I'd say a more complex plot and even more twists and turns. All characters involved were well crafted and the progression of our two main characters was great.
I stumbled on this series pretty much by accident but I am so glad I did. Well written, great pacing and a plot that will leave your head spinning!
April 21, 2025
This is the second book in the series. This time, Daniel Payne is defending a client accused of causing the suicide of two young art students. With the help of his investigative real estate agent, Rebecca Sommers, he begins to assemble his case to prove his client's innocence. Facing off against a lawyer from a well-respected law firm, he certainly has his work cut out for him. The story is filled with behind-the-scenes scheming and the heart-wrenching grief of parents coming to terms with the loss of their children, making it a real page-turner. I enjoyed reading this book and can confidently say that it’s worth your time.
Thank you to the author for providing me with an advance copy. I am leaving this honest review voluntarily.
Thank you to the author for providing me with an advance copy. I am leaving this honest review voluntarily.
March 3, 2025
Attorney Daniel Raine has recently gone out on his own and now is invited to a fundraiser gala at a downtown Seattle art gallery… where a young artist is found dead in the women’s restroom.
The assigned detective declares it a suicide and the young woman’s parents promptly sue the gallery owner for driving their daughter to take her own life. Raine is hired to defend the lawsuit and embarks on a mission to exonerate his client.
This is well written and plotted legal thriller. The plot is original with twist and turns and an unexpected denouement worth itself of a star!
The assigned detective declares it a suicide and the young woman’s parents promptly sue the gallery owner for driving their daughter to take her own life. Raine is hired to defend the lawsuit and embarks on a mission to exonerate his client.
This is well written and plotted legal thriller. The plot is original with twist and turns and an unexpected denouement worth itself of a star!
August 20, 2023
"Trial by Jury" is a book about a lawyer and hun being in the wrong place at the wrong time, or the right place at the right time perhaps..
This is not a typical book I would read but as I enjoy legal tvshows I thought I'd give it a read. I was impressed to say the least! This book gripped me from the first chapter to the very last one. It's well written, structured well and there are twists you won't see coming in the end! If you love legal drama then this a must read for you!
This is not a typical book I would read but as I enjoy legal tvshows I thought I'd give it a read. I was impressed to say the least! This book gripped me from the first chapter to the very last one. It's well written, structured well and there are twists you won't see coming in the end! If you love legal drama then this a must read for you!
August 26, 2023
I enjoyed reading Trial by Jury; it has a good storyline, is well-written, and got me hooked from the start. Raine is a good-humored character that positively adds to the plot and he also addresses all difficulties faced by a divorced couple and of aging. I'm looking forward to reading another book in this series!
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.
August 25, 2023
Book 2, the story works as a standalone. The story follows Raine's character as he insists the suspicious death of Hailey is murder. This is a descriptive police and judicial procedural story as Raine takes it upon himself to prove the deaths are not suicide.
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.
September 4, 2023
Not very realistic
As an attorney for over 45 years, I found the story intriguing, but not very realistic. No attorney goes to trial without deposing the other side. It’s malpractice if you lose. There are so many more places in the story that any attorney would not remain silent or object, but were not, that I don’t have the space to list them.
As an attorney for over 45 years, I found the story intriguing, but not very realistic. No attorney goes to trial without deposing the other side. It’s malpractice if you lose. There are so many more places in the story that any attorney would not remain silent or object, but were not, that I don’t have the space to list them.
October 23, 2023
The author wrote a good mystery. When two art students end up dead at an Art Gallery, it appears they committed suicide. It's not until the owner of Gallery is sued and goes to trial that things change. When the defense lawyers shows photos of the dead students to a witness, that things change dramatically for the better.
October 23, 2023
Raine is great
Love the new characters Stephen Penner has introduced in the first two Raine novels. Dan Raine as a down to earth lawyer fighting the good fight. Rebecca Summers superb as a part time unlicensed investigator. Super smart, ambitious and knows everyone. Hope more Dan Raine keeps coming.
Love the new characters Stephen Penner has introduced in the first two Raine novels. Dan Raine as a down to earth lawyer fighting the good fight. Rebecca Summers superb as a part time unlicensed investigator. Super smart, ambitious and knows everyone. Hope more Dan Raine keeps coming.
August 23, 2023
Trial By Jury by Stephen Penner Second in the series featuring, Stephen Raine is an engrossing, fast paced, and well written legal thriller. Will be looking forward to new additions to the series.
Author, Stephen Penner and Inkubator Books and NetGalley for the opportunity to preview the book.
Author, Stephen Penner and Inkubator Books and NetGalley for the opportunity to preview the book.
March 1, 2024
Lots of court battles!
If you enjoy reading courtroom legal thrillers then this read is awesome!! Plus the villain(s) will not be expected until the last chapter. ENJOY IF YOU PURCHASE!!
If you enjoy reading courtroom legal thrillers then this read is awesome!! Plus the villain(s) will not be expected until the last chapter. ENJOY IF YOU PURCHASE!!
May 20, 2024
Second book in series delves into the art world. Another fast paced legal thriller wit Daniel Raine and his " investigator" . Enjoying this series along with the really likeable main thriller characters
July 22, 2024
Good read
Enjoyed this book very much. The main characters are very interesting. The length of the book is excellent without unnecessary wording just to make the book longer. I look forward to reading the next book in this series.
Enjoyed this book very much. The main characters are very interesting. The length of the book is excellent without unnecessary wording just to make the book longer. I look forward to reading the next book in this series.
August 4, 2024
Good One
When I first started the book I wasn't too thrilled about it , the part of the cops calling the first one a suicide was not too believable but once I got to the trial part it got very interesting .
When I first started the book I wasn't too thrilled about it , the part of the cops calling the first one a suicide was not too believable but once I got to the trial part it got very interesting .
October 1, 2024
Art is deadly
3*
Stunning plotline, all methodical, I did find the story overwhelmingly bland and slow paced in parts and didn't grab my attention compared to the first book. I will try the next book
3*
Stunning plotline, all methodical, I did find the story overwhelmingly bland and slow paced in parts and didn't grab my attention compared to the first book. I will try the next book
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