Jake Fox: Ties That Blind

Jake Fox #1

by Michael Stockham

Jake Fox, a once-celebrated big city lawyer, finds himself at rock bottom after a devastating tragedy shatters his life. Haunted by his past and driven by a burning desire for redemption, he seeks solace in the familiar embrace of his childhood town. But when a shocking murder stains the town's tranquility, Jake's refuge transforms into a battleground for justice.

Justice and courage collide as Jake is thrust into the midst of a sinister puzzle. With each revelation, the layers of deception and danger grow deeper, entangling him in a deadly game that he cannot afford to lose. The fate of a young girl named Rose hangs in the balance, her innocence at stake as Jake races against the clock to uncover the truth.

The diverse cast of characters harbors secrets that threaten justice, Rose, and everything Jake cares about. This book is a satisfying domestic and psychological thriller. Michael Stockham crafts a narrative that is as mesmerizing as it is gripping.

Prepare to be spellbound as Jake Fox battles not only the courtroom drama but also the shadows of his own past.

Genres: Mystery, Ebooks, Legal Thriller, Fiction, Legal, Amazon, Mystery Thriller

390 pages, Kindle Edition

First published December 12, 2024

About the author

Michael Stockham has worked as a big-firm lawyer for over twenty years after receiving his law degree from Cornell Law School. He’s a sought-after litigator and speaker.

Confessions of an Accidental Lawyer is Michael Stockham’s first novel. It was an Award-Winning Finalist in both the Mystery/Suspense: Police Procedural and Thriller: Legal categories of the American Fiction Awards in 2022. It has also won a 2022 Literary Titan Silver Book Award a 2022 Firebird Book Award in the Legal Thriller category, a 2022 American Writing Awards Finalist Award in the Fiction-Mystery/Suspense category, and a 2022 International Impact Book Award in the Memoir category.

A life-long lover of books, Michael received two degrees in creative writing: a Bachelor of Arts from the University of New Mexico and a Master of Arts from Texas A&M University.

His writing has appeared in The Writer’s Forum, The Berkeley Fiction Review, and Cornell Law Review, among others. His short story, Wire Horses, received the Frank Waters’ Southwest Writing Award, judged by Rudolfo Anaya, John Nichols, and Vine Deloria, Jr., and he was a semifinalist for the Pirate’s Alley Faulkner Society Award.

Blessed by two grown daughters who are Clemson University Tigers, Michael lives in Dallas with his wife of twenty-four years, Kiersten, along with three dogs and two potbelly pigs.

Reviews

[Dez the Bookworm · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was incredibly captivated by the first chapter, wholeheartedly invested and devoured this story in an almost one sitting.

I loved the intricate balance between our young protagonist who was thrust into a dark world full of crime and corruption against the legal aspect of an emotionally scarred lawyer who struggles with his own personal demons from a life left in the shadows long ago.

I turned page after page just fearing what might happen and wanting to know what the truth really was. I was quietly begging for Fox to be able to save a young girl who seemed likely to drown in a life she shouldn’t have been brought up in. What I didn’t expect, was to be swirled into a web of possibilities, each path as likely as the next. Everything in question, nothing for certain…and all of it unfolding like exquisite origami.

This is a MUST read if you like mystery, legal thrillers, intrigue and something to pull at your heart strings a little. It’s the right mix to round out a story that I can’t wait to follow into the sequel!!!!!!!

[Maria Paula Castellanos Monroy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Extraordinary!

For those seeking a thrilling read filled with intrigue and action, this book delivers an unforgettable experience. Its unique blend of elements creates a story that stands out: the protagonist’s personal tragedy, his profound loss, and a life defined by pain and a relentless pursuit of redemption and justice. The dark, atmospheric setting adds to the tension, creating an aura of mystery that pulls the reader into Jake’s world, driving curiosity about his motivations, decisions, and how the puzzle pieces of the story fit together.
Reading this book feels like playing a life-sized game of Clue, where every chapter deepens the mystery. The reader is constantly piecing together clues, trying to uncover who did what, where, and how—all while grappling with the unsettling possibility that some truths might be better left undiscovered. The psychological depth of this book is one of its strongest features. It delves into the complexities of the protagonist’s mind, exploring how past events shape personality and decision-making. The relationships, the dark undertones of the town, and the interplay of secrets keep the narrative layered and thought-provoking. As a reader, you’re drawn to empathize with the main character, analyze his connections with others, unravel the town’s mysteries, and uncover your own interpretations before the story reveals them.
This book challenges and engages on every level, making it an engrossing and rewarding read. Highly recommended for anyone who loves stories that keep you thinking, guessing, and fully immersed until the final page!

[Daniel Moreno · Rating 5 out of 5]

The richly drawn characters are as complex as they are relatable

A remarkable debut in the legal thriller genre, blending gripping legal drama, intense domestic intrigue, and profound psychological depth. This story is an exceptional start to a series that hooks readers from the first page to the last. The protagonist, a lawyer shaped by a life-altering tragedy, returns to his hometown seeking refuge. This premise immediately drew me in, setting the stage for a tale where the promise of tranquility is quickly shattered by a mysterious murder that rocks the community. The unfolding case, filled with secrets and deceit, is captivating and keeps the tension high throughout. The narrative expertly balances courtroom suspense with the protagonist’s internal struggles as he battles not only to uncover the truth but also to confront and overcome his own haunted past. The addition of a young girl whose life hangs in the balance intensifies the emotional stakes, making the story even more compelling. The plot is masterfully crafted, filled with unexpected twists and shocking revelations. The richly drawn characters are as complex as they are relatable, each harboring secrets that escalate the tension with every turn of the page. This creates an immersive experience, placing readers in a high-stakes battle where justice and truth collide with formidable forces.
For those who love mysteries laced with drama and deeply human characters, this is an unmissable read. The story sets a high bar for the series, promising even more intrigue and excitement in the installments to come.

[Mariana · Rating 4 out of 5]

The story pulls you into a tense and intricate world where secrets unravel slowly, and danger is ever-present. The character development is one of the book's strongest aspects. Jake feels deeply real—a man grappling with profound personal loss and inner battles. His struggles are relatable, making his journey feel intimate and impactful. His return to his small hometown in search of peace, only to be thrown into a murder investigation, sets the stage for a story filled with twists and high-stakes tension. Jake’s determination to uncover the truth takes him through a labyrinth of lies and manipulation, and his connection with Rose, a pivotal figure in the case, adds an emotional depth that keeps the suspense alive. Every twist in the investigation ramps up the stakes, and just when things seem clear, a new revelation shifts the entire narrative. The unpredictability is thrilling, making it impossible to put the book down. The secondary characters are equally well-crafted, each adding depth and intrigue to the story. Their secrets and motives enrich the plot, creating layers of complexity that enhance the suspense. The balance of mystery, emotion, and unforgettable characters makes this book a standout. It’s a must-read for anyone who loves a tightly woven, character-driven thriller.

[S Tyty · Rating 5 out of 5]

Suspenseful

Jake Fox, a once-prominent lawyer whose life was upended by tragedy, retreats to his childhood town seeking solace, only to be thrust into a chilling murder investigation that shatters his peace. The collision of justice and courage drives the story forward, creating a tense and captivating narrative.
The blend of truth and deception, innocence and danger, and suspense and drama is masterfully executed. The palpable tension flows through every chapter, keeping the mystery alive and the reader guessing. The diverse cast of characters, each with unique secrets and distinct personalities, adds depth and complexity, enriching the storyline. The author skillfully crafts these characters, making them integral to the twists and turns of the plot.
This book is perfect for fans of intricate, suspenseful stories that keep you on the edge of your seat. The twists are unpredictable, and the suspense is relentless. It’s a captivating read that had me turning pages late into the night, fully engrossed in its layered and twisted narrative. An unforgettable thriller that leaves you breathless and eager for the next installment. Loved every moment!

[Lilly · Rating 5 out of 5]

Michael Stockham has written an absolute page-turner that kept me hooked from the very first chapter. As someone who loves a good legal thriller, I was blown away by how seamlessly Stockham combines courtroom drama with deep emotional stakes. Jake Fox’s character is brilliantly crafted, flawed, yet resilient, and his journey of redemption hit me on a personal level. I found myself rooting for him not only as a lawyer fighting for justice but as a man confronting the shadows of his past.
The murder mystery that unfolds in Jake’s quiet hometown is layered with twists and turns that had me guessing until the final pages. Stockham does an incredible job creating a sense of urgency, especially with Rose’s fate hanging in the balance. I couldn’t stop turning the pages to uncover the truth, and every revelation left me wanting more.
The writing is sharp and engaging, making it easy to lose track of time. If you’re a fan of John Grisham or Scott Turow, ‘Ties That Blind’ is a must-read. Trust me, this book delivers in every way!

[Margarita Garcia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great novel for any fan of thrillers.

One of the most captivating thrillers I’ve ever read. The story grips you from the first chapter. As compelling as the opening is, the story only gets better, unraveling a layered and intense plot that keeps you hooked. The introduction of Rose, a young woman accused of murdering her father, adds another emotional dimension. Her case, intertwined with organized crime and other shocking revelations, places Jake in a high-stakes fight for justice.
This novel masterfully combines tragedy, murder, and crime into a tightly woven narrative that keeps the tension high. The pacing is relentless, and the twists and turns create an atmosphere of suspense that demands your attention. Every page deepens the emotional complexity, making the story a rollercoaster of emotions. It’s incredibly well-written, thoroughly engaging, and impossible to put down. A must-read for any fan of thrillers, you won’t regret picking this one up!

[L Becerra · Rating 5 out of 5]

A must-read!

This gripping thriller drew me in from the very first page and kept me hooked until the last. The story's rich character development, compelling investigation, and unexpected plot twists made for an incredibly entertaining read. The 370 pages flew by, and I found myself wishing for more. Fortunately, the ending leaves just enough unresolved to hint at a potential sequel; fingers crossed!
The main character, Jake Fox, is brilliantly crafted as a determined and resilient investigator. Over the course of the story, he not only battles corruption and power but also confronts deep-seated personal struggles and emotional wounds. This duality makes him relatable and human, fostering a strong connection between the reader and the narrative.
This book is a must-read for anyone who loves mysteries packed with suspense and depth. Choosing this one is a decision you won’t regret!

[Lina Perea · Rating 5 out of 5]

A good Book

On one side is Jake, grappling with the heartbreaking loss of his daughter, Lucy—a tragedy that haunts him and shapes his decisions. On the other is Rose, a young woman navigating the pain and mystery surrounding her father’s death under strange circumstances. The connection between their lives unfolds in a way that feels both natural and compelling. The story is exceptionally well-crafted, with a plot that flows seamlessly, ensuring readers remain engaged without confusion. Every event and consequence is thoughtfully developed, keeping the narrative clear and immersive. The detailed writing style enhances the experience, painting vivid pictures of the settings, events, and emotions without ever feeling tedious. The emotional depth of the characters adds another layer of intensity, pulling readers into their worlds. The roller coaster of emotions—from sadness and anguish to anger and curiosity—keeps the suspense alive and the pages turning. This is a book that grips you from the start and doesn’t let go until the final page.

[Camilo · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mystery lovers will find this book a perfect blend of thriller, drama, and suspense. The seamless narrative makes it easy to immerse yourself in the story, recreating vivid scenes in your mind and feeling like an active participant in the unfolding events. The development of the main character, a lawyer, is especially compelling. His personality evolves in fascinating ways, and the ethical dilemmas he faces are gripping and thought-provoking. It’s easy to feel as though you’re stepping into his shoes as the plot thickens. The continuous suspense, unexpected twists, and moral conflicts keep the story engaging and impossible to put down. It’s the kind of book that satisfies a craving for adventure, puzzles, and high-stakes drama. For anyone who enjoys imagining themselves solving mysteries or navigating tense situations, this book is a perfect match.

[Cara · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ties That Blind is a dark and emotionally charged legal thriller centred on 15 year old Rose, accused of murdering her own father—only to reveal a deeper realm involving child trafficking.

The premise is gripping and the is plot fast paced. It was easy to follow, which made for a quick and entertaining read.

However, the execution left room for improvement. The writing felt a bit too simple at times. There were also noticeable editing issues—typos (including the swapping of names of main characters in a small section) that occasionally pulled me out of the story.

If you're looking for a quick, intense read with high stakes, it's worth checking out! I’ll be reading the next installment in the Jake Fox series!

[Lindsay Bice · Rating 4 out of 5]

good read

Loved the characters in this book. The plot was good and well thought out. It kept you guessing. A nice, easy, enjoyable read☺️

[Debbie · Rating 4 out of 5]

An enjoyable legal thriller though I didn’t like the way it ended!

[Meredith · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved the book! Great combination of legal drama and thriller! Typos kept my rating at 4 stars instead of 4.5 or 5 (various typos, including one time that Krista was referred to as Kristin, which confused me until I figured out the mistake - lol). I'm looking forward to reading the next book in the series.

[Renae Hebert · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this fast paced legal thriller. Jake Fox has Myron Bolitar vibes. Mr. Stockman successfully employs foreshadowing, weaving clues to build anticipation and suspense. Additionally, the characters are well developed. The protagonists are righteous and the villains are despicable.

I look forward to reading the second novel next December.

[Janae · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book literally sucked me in from the beginning! I don't really read crime books, but this was so good!! There are so many characters I loved and so many characters I loved to hate. I enjoyed this book so much that as soon as I finished it, I pre- ordered the next book, "Jake Fox: Don't Forsake Me". #jakefoxtiesthebind

[Janejellyroll · Rating 3 out of 5]

I liked the characters a lot, but the plot relied on too many unrealistic scare-mongering myths about teenage sex trafficking (upper middle class white girls getting kidnapped into the sex trade, there's almost nobody to trust in the entire town because too many people in power are directly involved, etc). This is also a book that ends without key components of the mystery being solved . . . I don't mind a series with a throughline of mystery, but when the book closes without us even understanding why the key victim was killed, that's frustrating. I wish authors would tell us upfront that we're not getting a full story and it will require the purchase of multiple books to resolve ANY of the key plotlines.

[Lisa · Rating 3 out of 5]

I don’t understand all the good reviews about this book. It took me forever to get through, it was predictable, and the ending fell flat. There was also one paragraph where the author mixed up the names of the primary and secondary characters.

[Kathy Miller · Rating 4 out of 5]

I won this book in a GoodReads giveaway. I'm not good at writing reviews, but it was full of surprises.
Thank you!

[Jackie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I won this book as part of a Goodreads giveaway. I thought it was entertaining! Hopefully, the next installment of the series will answer some of my remaining questions.

[Book Reviewer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Michael Stockham’s Ties That Blind is a gripping blend of suspense, drama, and raw human emotion. The story weaves through the lives of Jake Fox, a lawyer haunted by the loss of his daughter, and Rose Tucker, a teenage girl thrust into a whirlwind of tragedy and danger after her father’s murder. Set in the tight-knit, secret-laden town of Haven, Texas, the novel is a journey through grief, redemption, and the pursuit of justice. It’s a layered narrative, unflinchingly raw yet deeply human.

Stockham does not shy away from heart-wrenching tragedy. The first chapter vividly describes Jake discovering his daughter Lucy’s suicide. It’s haunting, visceral, and almost too real. The palpable grief that drives Jake’s character gives the story its beating heart. Yet, there’s a thread of hope, too. Jake’s visions of Lucy anchor him, a tender, otherworldly reminder that even in despair, there’s something to hold onto. Stockham’s portrayal of trauma feels authentic, unafraid to explore the quiet moments of despair, like Jake’s late-night struggle with a gun and his ultimate decision to keep going. These moments linger long after reading. Rose Tucker, however, steals the spotlight with her resilience. Her storyline of fleeing into the night, grappling with her father’s brutal murder, and navigating her newfound orphaned existence is both heart-wrenching and electrifying. The well-crafted tension in scenes like Rose’s escape to the storm shelter had my pulse racing. You feel her fear, uncertainty, and growing determination to uncover the truth. Her relationship with Margie, a steadfast maternal figure, adds warmth to the story’s darker themes. Margie’s down-home wisdom and kindness give Rose a sanctuary in a world turned upside down. Stockham masterfully builds a world where secrets lurk behind every picket fence and corruption festers in shadows.

Ties That Blind is a story of hope amid darkness, courage amid fear, and the ties, both broken and unbreakable, that define us. Stockham’s prose is evocative and approachable, making the characters’ struggles feel intensely personal. I’d recommend this book to fans of suspenseful thrillers with strong emotional undertones. It’s perfect for readers who appreciate layered mysteries and heartfelt stories of redemption. Whether you’re in it for the twists, the legal drama, or the poignant character arcs, this book delivers.

[Brent Hunter · Rating 5 out of 5]

I found a new series that I will continue reading. I love legal thrillers. Really, I love courtroom dramas, so all of the legal maneuvering is fun for me, but I know it isn't for everyone else. This story has much more than that.

It's a good crime and justice story. You find yourself rooting for some characters, because you connect so well with them, and others, although maybe you can identify with them in some way or another, can piss you off so badly. If I keep reading this series, maybe some of these other characters will gain more depth, but I think the only real complaint I might have going forward is that the characters do seem to fall under the traditional good guy, who is perfect and awesome, and bad guy, who is eternally awful literary rut. Maybe that isn't happening. In subsequent installments of the series, I might find that the characters flesh out more, but this is not a major problem, and it isn't universal. Rose has a temper. Her newfound buddy in jail, cassie, starts out as a member of the gang who's causing all of the trouble in this story, but she changes at some point. She starts helping Rose in whatever ways that she can. This story ends without us knowing her fate, so I'll be reading the next one and hoping to find that out as time passes.

Lilith, however, is your typical ice Queen in charge, and Zack is your typical Meathead thug. He ain't too smart, but he gets the grunt work done. As time passes, maybe some of the villains will flesh out and become three-dimensional characters, but if they don't, the story has so much good in it that this little bit of bad can be ignored. Who knows, maybe over time, I'll become a more discerning reviewer, and I'll give stories like this a four-star rating, but for now, my optimistic nature will went out, and I'll give it the whole five.

[Steven Finkelstein · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jake Fox was once the best of the best in legal circles. However, after his daughter dies and his life crumbles around him, he feels compelled to return to his childhood home. He finds no rest there. A stunning murder takes place, and Jake is thrust into the role of protector.

Jake Fox: Ties That Bind, by Michael Stockham, is a legal thriller with action-adventure and mystery overtones. It is reminiscent of works by both Michael Connelly and John Grisham. The two principal characters in the novel are Jake and Rose, and they each have a distinct part to play. Jake is the wounded but still brilliant legal mind with something to prove to himself, while Rose is the lynchpin for the action taking place in Jake’s childhood home. However, it’s a pleasant surprise that Rose has a distinct personality and is no shrinking violet, despite the tragedy of her circumstances. She works as a strong narrative counterpoint to Jake, as the reader gets two perspectives of the events that unfold in the novel’s second and third acts.

The pacing of this book is perfect. It starts with a trickle of information about Jake, Rose, and the town that acts as a backdrop for the action. As new characters are introduced, such as Hope, the sheriff, the pace and intensity pick up considerably. Like all the best murder-in-a-small-town narratives, there are layers upon layers of deception and criminality taking place. Jake, Rose, and the supporting cast of characters that we are introduced to play off of each other wonderfully. Stockham is clearly a master of this form of potboiler drama, and the emotional payoff at the end more than justifies the journey it takes to get there.

[Carole · Rating 2 out of 5]

The characters are superficially developed and not necessarily believable. The bad guys and gals are incredibly bad, and there are too few of them to enable the reader to believe they cause the evil acts they’re accused of. The good gals and guys are only sort of good by contrast to the bad guys. Everyone was two dimensional. Also, I felt from the get go that there were many undisclosed dark players in the background of this story and was irritated at how little they were mentioned.

Changing the point of view from chapter to chapter, including several chapters in which more or less random characters’ thoughts and feelings were described was annoying. There was a lot of telling from the author but not much showing in action and consequences. The depth of the whole tale was about an inch but deserved at least a foot more in just about every chapter. The courtroom behaviors were unbelievable. The story felt choppy, and the loose ends were tied up in about 20 pages at the end, pretty randomly, leaving many more questions than supplying answers.

When I reached the end I was irritated at the “happily ever after” for the victims while the presumed hero’s life was endangered but not ended, and the evil doers were not brought down or explained coherently. Overall the issues of evil, law-breaking, corruption, and self promotion to the detriment of the community raised throughout the book weren’t really well explained or resolved. The ending was not resolution so much as it was a teaser to lure the reader into buying the next book.

I really wanted to like this book but couldn’t. A good editor might have helped. I won’t be moving on to the next in the series.

[Sarah McKay · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jake Fox: Ties That Bind, by Michael Stockham, is an intense legal thriller packed with action, adventure, and mystery. The plot centers on two key characters, Jake and Rose, who each have vital roles to play. Jake is a sharp but troubled legal expert on a quest for redemption, while Rose becomes the central figure in the drama unfolding at Jake’s childhood home. Once a prominent name in the legal field, Jake's life spirals after the heartbreaking loss of his daughter, leading him back to his roots. However, he finds no peace there. A shocking murder turns his world upside down, forcing him into the role of protector. Rose, despite her tragic circumstances, has a lively spirit and is anything but passive. She offers a compelling contrast to Jake, giving readers a chance to see the story unfold from two distinct perspectives as the tension builds in the latter part of the book.

In true small-town murder mystery fashion, the plot is rich with twists and crime. The dynamics between Jake, Rose, and the supporting cast are intricately crafted. Stockham showcases his skill in this genre, and the emotional payoff at the end makes the entire journey feel rewarding.

[Ava · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jake Fox: Ties That Blind by Michael Stockham reads like a haunting conversation between grief and justice. Beneath its crime-thriller surface, it’s a story about unfinished goodbyes and the human need for redemption. Stockham paints Lake Haven with the stillness of trauma and the tension of buried secrets. The legal intrigue feels real, but the emotional stakes are what cut deepest. Every page hums with quiet ache—Jake’s broken prayers, Rose’s brave silence, Margie’s steadfast faith. It’s To Kill a Mockingbird meets Sharp Objects—only more forgiving. By the final chapter, you’re not solving a mystery; you’re healing alongside the characters.

[Aristotle · Rating 2 out of 5]

Chapter One
Well that was shocking.

Will Chapter Two hold?
No.

Didn't work as a police procedural
Didn't work as a court room drama.
The romance between Jake and Hope was awkward.
Too top it off the subplot of a human trafficking cult was bizarre.

Telegraphing a punch.
How could you not see that Rose would be charged with his murder.
Who killed her father? It was never explained.
Deputy Hope just happened to be on the highway when the lady in red was speeding? How did Hope know she was involved? Because she had red hair?
Not a well thought out ending

[Sharon Weingarten · Rating 5 out of 5]

So good, I’ve already ordered the sequel!

First book I’ve read by Michael Stockham, and I’ve already preordered the next book in the series. I usually read a lot of historical fiction and psychological fiction, but this book looked intriguing… and it is! Great character development, excellent story, and the chapters flowed together seamlessly. A mark of a good book is when you want to find out what happens next in the lives of the characters you meet! Can’t wait for the next installment in the series!

[Anne · Rating 4 out of 5]

Even though I enjoyed the book I still can’t get over the fact that Rose said her Dad was assaulted by 3 men and yet apparently there wasn’t a single bruise to present as evidence in court to support her claims. The clean underwear was obviously planted in the bed but that wasn’t used as evidence either. Also there were lots of typos, and a lot of unanswered questions. Despite all that I’ve preordered the next book but it’s not available until December 2025 so I probably will have forgotten the plot and characters by then!

[Lexi Helton · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a truly remarkable read. I was glued to this book and found myself hanging on the edge of each page before I turned it. I was hesitant when I learned this is a law and order based mystery/thriller. But reading all the legal jargon did not feel daunting at all. It was like watching an episode of law and order... but better. I fell in love with every character, their flaws and all, so I will be DYING until the next one comes out. I'm not even being dramatic. I must know how this ends!