What do you think?
Rate this book
Marc Kadella Legal Mystery #2
Desperate Justice
Marc Kadella is back and he has a new client. His antagonist on the Hennepin County bench, Judge Gordon Prentiss has been accused of a murder. Despite his lack of respect for Marc, Prentiss wants him to represent him because he is innocent and knows Marc will fight hard for him.
Marc's initial reaction is to let Prentiss have whatever he gets but, he becomes convinced that the judge is in fact innocent so he agrees to take the case. A criminal defense lawyer does not have to like his client. In fact, they rarely do.
Fighting for the judge's life, Marc and his investigators, the beautiful and deadly Maddy Rivers and the street wise ex-cop, Tony Carvelli, uncover a criminal organization that is corrupting the entire community, including Gordon Prentiss. When it looks like Prentiss will get out from under it, he is framed for the murder. Except the gangster that Marc believes is responsible is an asset of the federal government and is totally protected no matter what he does including drug dealing, gambling, prostitution and even murder. The gangster makes a huge mistake when he crosses paths with the matriarch of a very wealthy and connected family. A mistake he will come to regret because even the feds cannot protect him from her.
Marc's initial reaction is to let Prentiss have whatever he gets but, he becomes convinced that the judge is in fact innocent so he agrees to take the case. A criminal defense lawyer does not have to like his client. In fact, they rarely do.
Fighting for the judge's life, Marc and his investigators, the beautiful and deadly Maddy Rivers and the street wise ex-cop, Tony Carvelli, uncover a criminal organization that is corrupting the entire community, including Gordon Prentiss. When it looks like Prentiss will get out from under it, he is framed for the murder. Except the gangster that Marc believes is responsible is an asset of the federal government and is totally protected no matter what he does including drug dealing, gambling, prostitution and even murder. The gangster makes a huge mistake when he crosses paths with the matriarch of a very wealthy and connected family. A mistake he will come to regret because even the feds cannot protect him from her.
385 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 8, 2013
1528 people are currently reading
539 people want to read
About the author
Dennis Carstens
32 books115 followersDennis Carstens was born in Worthington, MN, and has lived most of his life in the Twin Cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul. He received a BA from the University of Minnesota and his J.D. from a highly respected private law school, William Mitchell, in St. Paul. A veteran of the U.S. Air Force and a retired trial lawyer, Carstens brings these life experiences to his fiction for a dose of realism and accuracy missing from much of the legal thriller genre today.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 104 reviews
September 8, 2019
What a fascinating novel! The author takes the reader on a non-stop roller coaster ride in which a despicable man who is also a former Judge, who recently convicted and over sentenced one of Kadella’s clients, hires Kadella to defend him on first degree murder charges which the reader knows from the onset are not true. It is gripping and will keep the reader involved throughout. Thanks to the author for an e-Galley for an honest review.
April 22, 2017
Intriguingly Story but beware
Mr. Carstens plots a good story with lots of unexpected twists, and I perseverd to the end to see how each part turned out. However, I have to say that doing so was painful.
First, I found the characters to be predictable and one-sided, with cliched dialog. I can deal with that for the sake of a good story, though with limited enjoyment.
The problem I could not get past was the constant intrusion of grammatical errors. I don't say this only as an admitted member of the grammar police, since I am also fairly forgiving in that respect. But the unending barrage of extra or missing commas, the inexplicable arrangement of phrases, the lack of continuity in a single paragraph, and at least one dangling participle that was like an example from an English textbook, forced me to re-read many sentences multiple times, just to figure out what in the world was being said.
E-publishing is a wonderful process that gives us access to reading we would otherwise be denied, and Dennis Carstens undoubtedly formulates an interesting tale. But, sir, please consider the services of a proofreader before finalizing your manuscripts. Grammar is not just some silly rules we learned in school, to be tossed aside as elite fluff. It helps the readers to understand the writing, and ignoring it is distracting, annoying, and totally unnecessary.
Sadly, this is the second Marc Kadella book I have struggled through, and it will be my last. Be forewarned.
Mr. Carstens plots a good story with lots of unexpected twists, and I perseverd to the end to see how each part turned out. However, I have to say that doing so was painful.
First, I found the characters to be predictable and one-sided, with cliched dialog. I can deal with that for the sake of a good story, though with limited enjoyment.
The problem I could not get past was the constant intrusion of grammatical errors. I don't say this only as an admitted member of the grammar police, since I am also fairly forgiving in that respect. But the unending barrage of extra or missing commas, the inexplicable arrangement of phrases, the lack of continuity in a single paragraph, and at least one dangling participle that was like an example from an English textbook, forced me to re-read many sentences multiple times, just to figure out what in the world was being said.
E-publishing is a wonderful process that gives us access to reading we would otherwise be denied, and Dennis Carstens undoubtedly formulates an interesting tale. But, sir, please consider the services of a proofreader before finalizing your manuscripts. Grammar is not just some silly rules we learned in school, to be tossed aside as elite fluff. It helps the readers to understand the writing, and ignoring it is distracting, annoying, and totally unnecessary.
Sadly, this is the second Marc Kadella book I have struggled through, and it will be my last. Be forewarned.
June 10, 2020
What a good book this is. There are lots of elements twisted around each other to make a really thought-provoking story. In the end, the author asks the reader to think about the feelings engendered by the outcome, and it is a valid question. It is hard enough to watch a guilty man get his just desserts, but it is even harder to watch an innocent man get his just desserts. How guilty are each of us in our own way? How often do we reap our just desserts, even when the crime we are charged with is not the crime we committed? The end of the book contains violence; it is not graphically spelled out for the reader, but we are certainly aware of the brutality of it just by being told about it. Once again, are these just desserts? These are valid questions the author asks, and we would do well to answer them in our heart of hearts.
May 4, 2019
This is my second Dennis Carstens novel in the Marc Kadella series and, as with the first one, I found it thoroughly engaging and entertaining. The evil characters are horrific (e.g., Leo, Gordon) and the good ones beatific (e.g., Maddy, Vivian) making for a striking contrast between opposites. There is enough action although, in this plot, it doesn't build to a crescendo as in some legal thrillers. The dialogue made sense to me throughout the story and I enjoyed the legal/courtroom drama of which there was plenty. I definitely plan to continue the series after a short respite...
December 16, 2017
A brilliant legal cum murder thriller!!!
It is an extremely well written narrative that keeps the reader eager and anxious to move on to check where the story goes. The characters are well etched and brilliant. The book keeps the readers enthralled with its rollercoaster events, the techniques the characters use to get results.
A thoroughly enjoyable book! Thank you, Dennis Carstens.
It is an extremely well written narrative that keeps the reader eager and anxious to move on to check where the story goes. The characters are well etched and brilliant. The book keeps the readers enthralled with its rollercoaster events, the techniques the characters use to get results.
A thoroughly enjoyable book! Thank you, Dennis Carstens.
April 18, 2020
I have just discovered this series. I was reading out of line starting with book #3. I have fallen in love with these books! The author keeps you interested without useless words. I started back at book #1
and have read the first 100 pages and Mr. Carsten does not disappoint. I have DL'd books up to #5 and plan on reading to #10. I haven't found a series that took my fancy since "Whispering Pines" That is another that I highly recommend. If you have not read any of this series, do it.
and have read the first 100 pages and Mr. Carsten does not disappoint. I have DL'd books up to #5 and plan on reading to #10. I haven't found a series that took my fancy since "Whispering Pines" That is another that I highly recommend. If you have not read any of this series, do it.
April 24, 2018
A fabulous and scintillating read!
The characters in this book are so fascinating and the plot so incredible that I simply could not put it down! The twists and turns are so brilliantly executed that I felt like I was experiencing heart palpitations. I highly recommend this book to anyone yearning for a thriller to entertain them.
The characters in this book are so fascinating and the plot so incredible that I simply could not put it down! The twists and turns are so brilliantly executed that I felt like I was experiencing heart palpitations. I highly recommend this book to anyone yearning for a thriller to entertain them.
April 24, 2018
I am enjoying this series very much. This book is better than the first, and it was very good. Several people get what is coming to them. Some get what they shouldn't. Lot like real life. The trial cases are false, but they sure sound like they could be true. That is what brings the stories to life.
May 1, 2014
Desperate Justice: Dennis Carstens
Leo Balkus has insulated himself against all forms of justice. Dealing with Leo means being placed within his hip pocket, owned by his lock stock and barrel and having your every move controlled by what makes him happy. Leo is evil. Leo is dangerous and will think nothing of eliminating even closest friends or family. Heartless, relentless and definitely loyal to no one but himself Leo Balkus has managed to get the goods on judges, lawyers, congressmen, businessmen, police, FBI agents and many court officials. When Leo wants a case thrown out of court he knows exactly who to pay off or threaten to do it. When Robert Corwin was late with his payment Leo made sure he got the message loud and clear. But, not everything goes his way and this time his hired thugs went too far and Robert became an expendable tragedy whose family connections were widespread and quite powerful and whose death would not go with any retribution. Just who would pay and how will be determined by those who are Desperate for Justice. From the author of The Key to Justice comes a heart stopping story of corruption, deceit, betrayal, lies and murder: Desperate Justice: Dennis Carstens.
Marc Kadella has a new client that is definitely guilty. When Robert Corwin’s attackers are arrested he is called by shyster lawyer Bruce Dolan to take on the case of one of his clients. Both guilty but to different degrees, Marc hesitates but manages to get the job done. But, Robert’s family was and is quite powerful and Vivian Corwin Donahue was not about to let her nephew’s death without bringing the killers to justice. Marc Kadella received a call from Butch Dolan two days after the death of Corwin and his landlord and good friend Connie Mickelson informed him of Dolan’s presence and he learned of his request. Learning how the death took place, talking to his client Butch Koll, Marc has to make some choices both moral and ethical. How does a defense lawyer defend a guilty client? Marc spent time scanning the police reports, speaking to his client and hoping that the judge would rule in his favor. But, not every judge is on the up and up and Gordon Prentiss is just one of many in Leo’s hip pocket. Just when he things a deal has been made, hoping that the judge will rule in his client’s favor you hear the voices of Prentiss and Dolan and understand that Marc’s client will be placed under the bus. Pleading guilty was what Marc’s client did. Thinking that the sentence would be light a mistake, as you will learn when you read just what happened in court when the witnesses were called, the prosecution went through its witnesses and the final verdict decided. Blindsided to say the least and the end result read it on page 36 to learn the killer’s fate and what happens when lies are told and your life is at stake when learning just how far Leo’s power goes in chapter 9.
Vivian Donahue made one phone call to a friend. Vivian’s friend Steve Fallon would contact PI Tony Carvelli. A former police detective, doing corporate security and industrial espionage investigation, Tony received Fallon and listened to his offer. Money changing hands, retainer on the way and things get started. But, Vivian was not without other resources or powerful friends and her network went far beyond just Tony. Tony Carvelli retired from the Minneapolis PD as a detective but his manner of handling things would make those on Leo’s payroll pale by comparison. Marc Kadella and Tony Carvelli would team up to take down Leo but can they and how? There is much more. As this case proceeds and you get to know Vivian, her motive for wanting to take down Leo and her reason for wanting Tony around, you hear the voice of a sick and twisted judge named Gordon Prentiss who gets pleasure beating and torturing his wife Catherine. Afraid of her own shadow and knowing that she better do something before it’s too late, Catherine withstands the abuse, the beatings, the death threats and more that she shares with her therapist who listens but does not take any action. Confiding in her friend Ava, she devises a plan to free herself of Gordon. But, things change, Gordon’s position as a judge has been pumped to Senator, and Leo is not happy.
Conrad Nixon is a master at electronics and works for Leo Balkus. Leo owns a bar called the Blue Lady but that’s just a front for his other business. Conrad creates disks for Leo on each of his customers making sure that he has them properly tagged and stores. Leo’s business helps many judges, businessmen and others take care of their male needs but not in a normal way. Young girls and young boys are forced into S&M and to take drugs. Conrad Nixon thought he was immune to what Leo was paying him to do until Tony came into his life and made him deal he could not refuse. But, there’s more as Dolan learns of his betrayal to Leo and then Conrad is forced to play two sides against the middle as Dolan double crosses not only Leo, but also a powerful judge too.
Things heat up on all sides until Leo decides to send Judge Gordon Prentiss a message that will make him turn down the appointment he so coveted as a state Senator. Guilty of beating his wife, tampering with justice and who cares what happens to him, Leo sends his hit man to pay Catherine a visit and things turn sour. Coming home, taking a drink and wondering why he hears a scream from Catherine’s room, the judge enters and finds his wife’s body on the floor. Someone hits him over the head and the next thing he knows he’s being arrested for her murder. Rude, arrogant and lacking respect for Marc of just about anyone else, Gordon Prentiss finds himself on the other side of a jail cell wanting Marc to represent him. But, will he and what will it take for Marc to fight for him? Marc realizes that to defend him would be fighting for someone that deserves what he gets even if he’s innocent. But, circumstances warrant Marc taking the case because a prerequisite for defending someone is not liking them. You don’t even have to believe in their innocence.
Along comes Maddy Rivers from The Key to Justice who is smart, streetwise and definitely an equal match for Tony Carvelli. Working on this undercover investigation into the corruption in the community, hoping to get the goods on Leo, learn more about Gordon and possibly get a get out of jail free card, Prentiss is framed for the murder of his wife. But, let’s not forget the media as we learn more about Melinda Pace twice divorced, no children and now an anchor on the show Court Reporter who loves giving the public a taste of the seedy side of life by reporting stupid things that people do. With a degree in journalism she managed to use her good looks and other female wiles to get head. Melinda is smart and with the help of her producer she manages to stay five steps ahead of each story and other reporters.
As Marc probes into the judge’s life, listens to his account of what happened the reader understands that Leo is powerful, is important to the federal government and information comes to light that he might be in some type of protection program from the past and that his dealings in drugs, gambling, prostitution and murder will go unpunished. But, Vivian Donahue is more powerful. Wait until Leo decides to cross paths with her. Will this be his fatal error? Will the feds or anyone else be able to protect him from her?
The trial begins and the witnesses come and go as the Marc and his team tries to piece together what really happened to Catherine. But, a piece of information comes to light, a defense attorney pays the price and other victim is found as Leo Balkus seems to be the link but can they get him on the stand? What does Vivian reveal that might change things in their favor? What does Marc learn about the judge and Dolan? Would you want him to go free even is he’s innocent? Homeland security and the FBI are they on the take? Just how powerful is Leo? A trial that will keep you glued to the printed page and an author that takes you through each step as if the reader is on the jury and was going to decide on the verdict.
When the trial draws to a close and the closing arguments are given the lawyers explain the charges and what each side has to prove. A verdict that you won’t believe and a surprise twists you won’t see coming. Just who is guilty? Who is innocent? What is the fate of Gordon Prentiss? Can anyone stop Leo? Who is Leo and just what power does Vivian hold? Author Dennis L. Carstens takes the legal system on a definite ride and tests judges, lawyers and defendants to the max before we learn the true definition of Desperate Justice!
This book gets Five Stars!
Fran Lewis: reviewer
Leo Balkus has insulated himself against all forms of justice. Dealing with Leo means being placed within his hip pocket, owned by his lock stock and barrel and having your every move controlled by what makes him happy. Leo is evil. Leo is dangerous and will think nothing of eliminating even closest friends or family. Heartless, relentless and definitely loyal to no one but himself Leo Balkus has managed to get the goods on judges, lawyers, congressmen, businessmen, police, FBI agents and many court officials. When Leo wants a case thrown out of court he knows exactly who to pay off or threaten to do it. When Robert Corwin was late with his payment Leo made sure he got the message loud and clear. But, not everything goes his way and this time his hired thugs went too far and Robert became an expendable tragedy whose family connections were widespread and quite powerful and whose death would not go with any retribution. Just who would pay and how will be determined by those who are Desperate for Justice. From the author of The Key to Justice comes a heart stopping story of corruption, deceit, betrayal, lies and murder: Desperate Justice: Dennis Carstens.
Marc Kadella has a new client that is definitely guilty. When Robert Corwin’s attackers are arrested he is called by shyster lawyer Bruce Dolan to take on the case of one of his clients. Both guilty but to different degrees, Marc hesitates but manages to get the job done. But, Robert’s family was and is quite powerful and Vivian Corwin Donahue was not about to let her nephew’s death without bringing the killers to justice. Marc Kadella received a call from Butch Dolan two days after the death of Corwin and his landlord and good friend Connie Mickelson informed him of Dolan’s presence and he learned of his request. Learning how the death took place, talking to his client Butch Koll, Marc has to make some choices both moral and ethical. How does a defense lawyer defend a guilty client? Marc spent time scanning the police reports, speaking to his client and hoping that the judge would rule in his favor. But, not every judge is on the up and up and Gordon Prentiss is just one of many in Leo’s hip pocket. Just when he things a deal has been made, hoping that the judge will rule in his client’s favor you hear the voices of Prentiss and Dolan and understand that Marc’s client will be placed under the bus. Pleading guilty was what Marc’s client did. Thinking that the sentence would be light a mistake, as you will learn when you read just what happened in court when the witnesses were called, the prosecution went through its witnesses and the final verdict decided. Blindsided to say the least and the end result read it on page 36 to learn the killer’s fate and what happens when lies are told and your life is at stake when learning just how far Leo’s power goes in chapter 9.
Vivian Donahue made one phone call to a friend. Vivian’s friend Steve Fallon would contact PI Tony Carvelli. A former police detective, doing corporate security and industrial espionage investigation, Tony received Fallon and listened to his offer. Money changing hands, retainer on the way and things get started. But, Vivian was not without other resources or powerful friends and her network went far beyond just Tony. Tony Carvelli retired from the Minneapolis PD as a detective but his manner of handling things would make those on Leo’s payroll pale by comparison. Marc Kadella and Tony Carvelli would team up to take down Leo but can they and how? There is much more. As this case proceeds and you get to know Vivian, her motive for wanting to take down Leo and her reason for wanting Tony around, you hear the voice of a sick and twisted judge named Gordon Prentiss who gets pleasure beating and torturing his wife Catherine. Afraid of her own shadow and knowing that she better do something before it’s too late, Catherine withstands the abuse, the beatings, the death threats and more that she shares with her therapist who listens but does not take any action. Confiding in her friend Ava, she devises a plan to free herself of Gordon. But, things change, Gordon’s position as a judge has been pumped to Senator, and Leo is not happy.
Conrad Nixon is a master at electronics and works for Leo Balkus. Leo owns a bar called the Blue Lady but that’s just a front for his other business. Conrad creates disks for Leo on each of his customers making sure that he has them properly tagged and stores. Leo’s business helps many judges, businessmen and others take care of their male needs but not in a normal way. Young girls and young boys are forced into S&M and to take drugs. Conrad Nixon thought he was immune to what Leo was paying him to do until Tony came into his life and made him deal he could not refuse. But, there’s more as Dolan learns of his betrayal to Leo and then Conrad is forced to play two sides against the middle as Dolan double crosses not only Leo, but also a powerful judge too.
Things heat up on all sides until Leo decides to send Judge Gordon Prentiss a message that will make him turn down the appointment he so coveted as a state Senator. Guilty of beating his wife, tampering with justice and who cares what happens to him, Leo sends his hit man to pay Catherine a visit and things turn sour. Coming home, taking a drink and wondering why he hears a scream from Catherine’s room, the judge enters and finds his wife’s body on the floor. Someone hits him over the head and the next thing he knows he’s being arrested for her murder. Rude, arrogant and lacking respect for Marc of just about anyone else, Gordon Prentiss finds himself on the other side of a jail cell wanting Marc to represent him. But, will he and what will it take for Marc to fight for him? Marc realizes that to defend him would be fighting for someone that deserves what he gets even if he’s innocent. But, circumstances warrant Marc taking the case because a prerequisite for defending someone is not liking them. You don’t even have to believe in their innocence.
Along comes Maddy Rivers from The Key to Justice who is smart, streetwise and definitely an equal match for Tony Carvelli. Working on this undercover investigation into the corruption in the community, hoping to get the goods on Leo, learn more about Gordon and possibly get a get out of jail free card, Prentiss is framed for the murder of his wife. But, let’s not forget the media as we learn more about Melinda Pace twice divorced, no children and now an anchor on the show Court Reporter who loves giving the public a taste of the seedy side of life by reporting stupid things that people do. With a degree in journalism she managed to use her good looks and other female wiles to get head. Melinda is smart and with the help of her producer she manages to stay five steps ahead of each story and other reporters.
As Marc probes into the judge’s life, listens to his account of what happened the reader understands that Leo is powerful, is important to the federal government and information comes to light that he might be in some type of protection program from the past and that his dealings in drugs, gambling, prostitution and murder will go unpunished. But, Vivian Donahue is more powerful. Wait until Leo decides to cross paths with her. Will this be his fatal error? Will the feds or anyone else be able to protect him from her?
The trial begins and the witnesses come and go as the Marc and his team tries to piece together what really happened to Catherine. But, a piece of information comes to light, a defense attorney pays the price and other victim is found as Leo Balkus seems to be the link but can they get him on the stand? What does Vivian reveal that might change things in their favor? What does Marc learn about the judge and Dolan? Would you want him to go free even is he’s innocent? Homeland security and the FBI are they on the take? Just how powerful is Leo? A trial that will keep you glued to the printed page and an author that takes you through each step as if the reader is on the jury and was going to decide on the verdict.
When the trial draws to a close and the closing arguments are given the lawyers explain the charges and what each side has to prove. A verdict that you won’t believe and a surprise twists you won’t see coming. Just who is guilty? Who is innocent? What is the fate of Gordon Prentiss? Can anyone stop Leo? Who is Leo and just what power does Vivian hold? Author Dennis L. Carstens takes the legal system on a definite ride and tests judges, lawyers and defendants to the max before we learn the true definition of Desperate Justice!
This book gets Five Stars!
Fran Lewis: reviewer
May 1, 2018
(Contains spoilers ... so don't read on if you haven't read the book)
Enjoyed the book very much. Good to have a full, exciting trial in these books. As for Judge Prentiss being convicted for a crime he didn't commit, I didn't have problem with it. Certainly his criminal actions would have led to an extended sentence as well and perhaps he truly would have killed his wife at some point. And in his kink-feed, he witnessed a crime (death of young girl) and did nothing about it.
The part about Ava having an affair with Judge Prentiss didn't really resonate with me. The Judge seemed to be way too kinky at that point to have a conventional affair, unless Ava was into kink.
I also have a hard time with the forensics part, as the angle of impact with the Vodka bottle on Prentiss' head would be entirely different if hit from someone in front vs. someone from behind, thus different splatter and his wound/bruising. We also never found out why the hired assassin set up the Judge, not following Leo's instructions. Also, would have liked to know whether the scarf that Ava brought to the court really had the Judge's blood on it.
Enjoyed the book very much. Good to have a full, exciting trial in these books. As for Judge Prentiss being convicted for a crime he didn't commit, I didn't have problem with it. Certainly his criminal actions would have led to an extended sentence as well and perhaps he truly would have killed his wife at some point. And in his kink-feed, he witnessed a crime (death of young girl) and did nothing about it.
The part about Ava having an affair with Judge Prentiss didn't really resonate with me. The Judge seemed to be way too kinky at that point to have a conventional affair, unless Ava was into kink.
I also have a hard time with the forensics part, as the angle of impact with the Vodka bottle on Prentiss' head would be entirely different if hit from someone in front vs. someone from behind, thus different splatter and his wound/bruising. We also never found out why the hired assassin set up the Judge, not following Leo's instructions. Also, would have liked to know whether the scarf that Ava brought to the court really had the Judge's blood on it.
January 10, 2018
One of the best books I've read for a long time keeps you turning pages from the beginning to the end well written and a great story line with lots of action and twists and turns definitely be looking for more from this very talented writer
Would recommend this to anyone who likes a good crime thriller definitely on a par with the likes of John grisham Harlan Conan and Lee child's
Would recommend this to anyone who likes a good crime thriller definitely on a par with the likes of John grisham Harlan Conan and Lee child's
July 15, 2021
Desperate
Well, again...Couldn't put this down. The characters are well developed, the story line engaging, and good editing. There were parts that the faint of heart may have trouble with, but definitely part of this story. Human nature is a very fragile thing given the power to choose morality or depravity. Either way, the destiny chosen will come knocking. Highly recommend!
Well, again...Couldn't put this down. The characters are well developed, the story line engaging, and good editing. There were parts that the faint of heart may have trouble with, but definitely part of this story. Human nature is a very fragile thing given the power to choose morality or depravity. Either way, the destiny chosen will come knocking. Highly recommend!
August 16, 2017
I've just finished the first two books in the Marc Kadella Legal Mysteries and loved them. Mr Carstens does an excellent job of writing a fast paced suspenseful novel. I couldn't put them down so I'll have too wait a few weeks to read the next book in the series to catch up on my sleep.
December 17, 2017
Another great one!
This was an excellent read for me. Going from topic to topic could have been confusing but it wasn’t. The pages gripped you, from the very start. One of the best who done it. Doesn’t even matter why. Looking forward to reading move from this author.
This was an excellent read for me. Going from topic to topic could have been confusing but it wasn’t. The pages gripped you, from the very start. One of the best who done it. Doesn’t even matter why. Looking forward to reading move from this author.
October 15, 2018
Another great legal thriller!
This is the second book in the Marc Kadella series and a definite page turner. The story has a complicated plot with several twists and turns plus a surprise ending. I would definitely recommend this for anyone who likes legal thrillers.
This is the second book in the Marc Kadella series and a definite page turner. The story has a complicated plot with several twists and turns plus a surprise ending. I would definitely recommend this for anyone who likes legal thrillers.
December 6, 2018
A Great Book!
This is a nonstop thriller. I enjoyed the surprises and events that happened in this book. The characters were unique and ruthless. The story was complicated and full of cut throat action. I enjoyed this wonderful book!
This is a nonstop thriller. I enjoyed the surprises and events that happened in this book. The characters were unique and ruthless. The story was complicated and full of cut throat action. I enjoyed this wonderful book!
June 12, 2019
Great thriller...keeps you guessing at every turn.
This book is a bit of a psychological thriller. The plot is complex as are the major characters. It will keep you reading long past the time you intended. Very good!
This book is a bit of a psychological thriller. The plot is complex as are the major characters. It will keep you reading long past the time you intended. Very good!
October 10, 2019
Can't put it down!!
I loved every minute of it!! Dennis Carstens has gotten me hooked, i love the Marc Kadella series. I love it. He has got writing mysteries right. I can't wait to read the next book in the series.
I loved every minute of it!! Dennis Carstens has gotten me hooked, i love the Marc Kadella series. I love it. He has got writing mysteries right. I can't wait to read the next book in the series.
April 14, 2020
Desperate Justice
Did the abusive judge murder his wife? Whether he did or not, he certainly is despicable enough to deserve a lot of time in jail, isn't he? What will the jury decide? I appreciate the question the author leaves us with at the end of the story.
Did the abusive judge murder his wife? Whether he did or not, he certainly is despicable enough to deserve a lot of time in jail, isn't he? What will the jury decide? I appreciate the question the author leaves us with at the end of the story.
December 11, 2018
Engrossing
Dennis Carstens is now one of my (currently) favorite authors of legal mysteries. This is the second book in the series, and to my very critical eye, not quite up to par as the first one for two reasons. 1) It wasn't as well proofread as the first, and 2) to a well-read legal novel reader, the quite lengthy descriptions of the law and of legal tactics were just filler. To be honest, I skipped through many of them because of my prior knowledge of courtroom tactics, after spending 25+ years as a legal secretary and paralegal. As a professional proofreader, I was disappointed because I found so few errors in the first novel. Incorrect use (or lack of) commas creating run-on sentences; incorrect use of words (site where sight should be), change of tense within a sentence, dangling participles (ok to use in dialogue but not in text). The characters were fairly well-developed, and there were plenty of surprises during the trial and investigation.
Now on to the third book in the series!
Dennis Carstens is now one of my (currently) favorite authors of legal mysteries. This is the second book in the series, and to my very critical eye, not quite up to par as the first one for two reasons. 1) It wasn't as well proofread as the first, and 2) to a well-read legal novel reader, the quite lengthy descriptions of the law and of legal tactics were just filler. To be honest, I skipped through many of them because of my prior knowledge of courtroom tactics, after spending 25+ years as a legal secretary and paralegal. As a professional proofreader, I was disappointed because I found so few errors in the first novel. Incorrect use (or lack of) commas creating run-on sentences; incorrect use of words (site where sight should be), change of tense within a sentence, dangling participles (ok to use in dialogue but not in text). The characters were fairly well-developed, and there were plenty of surprises during the trial and investigation.
Now on to the third book in the series!
December 13, 2017
The Political Agenda Put Me Off
I really liked the story in this book. It needs some editing, but only for some missed typos. I would normally give this book at least four and maybe five stars. However, there was an under current of a political agenda I could not get past. It diminished my enjoyment. It was not the obvious conservative bent of all the "likable" characters, but the dismissive way even the mention of a progressive was handled. For all the self righteousness of the protagonist, Marc, he was actually very shallow. Instead of trying to put forward personal political positions, this author could use his talent to educate and suggest change within a criminal justice system badly in need of reform. The best novels make you reach into your own mind for growth; they don't plant an author's agenda there.
I really liked the story in this book. It needs some editing, but only for some missed typos. I would normally give this book at least four and maybe five stars. However, there was an under current of a political agenda I could not get past. It diminished my enjoyment. It was not the obvious conservative bent of all the "likable" characters, but the dismissive way even the mention of a progressive was handled. For all the self righteousness of the protagonist, Marc, he was actually very shallow. Instead of trying to put forward personal political positions, this author could use his talent to educate and suggest change within a criminal justice system badly in need of reform. The best novels make you reach into your own mind for growth; they don't plant an author's agenda there.
February 9, 2019
I really enjoyed the first book in this series, The Key To Justice. I felt this second book had too many loose ends at its conclusion.
We all know who killed Catherine and why. So why would her best friend, Ava, get on the stand and make up a story of Catherine committing suicide? I kept waiting for an explanation but none ever came.
Also, I wasn't happy with the judge being convicted of a crime he did not commit. He definitely belongs in jail. But not for the murder of his wife. I would have liked it more if Marc had won the trial and the judge's freedom, only to see him rearrested for the crimes he did commit. For those reasons, I only gave it 3 stars.
We all know who killed Catherine and why. So why would her best friend, Ava, get on the stand and make up a story of Catherine committing suicide? I kept waiting for an explanation but none ever came.
Also, I wasn't happy with the judge being convicted of a crime he did not commit. He definitely belongs in jail. But not for the murder of his wife. I would have liked it more if Marc had won the trial and the judge's freedom, only to see him rearrested for the crimes he did commit. For those reasons, I only gave it 3 stars.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 19, 2023
Great read. I have always enjoyed legal stuff, and this one does not disappoint. Just like the first book in this series it makes you stop to think, and about several things all at once. A bad man, who has done all sorts of horrid things any of which could and should land him in jail for life, gets arrested for a crime he did not commit and his sentenced to 30 years for it !! Has justice been served? All the while, another man, who is a well known criminal up to and including murder is protected by the Government because of the information he is able to provide them. Justice ? Read the book and decide for your self.
December 17, 2023
Overall not a bad book, although it seemed unrealistic in several ways. The plot was pretty convoluted, but Carstens did a nice job of reminding me who was who and of tying things together.
Two things I didn't like:
1) Kadella is kind of a jerk. For example: "Instead, being a little bored with the day's testimony, he decided to have a little sport with the nervous doctor." Not a great use of the court's time, nor something a decent man would do.
2) Carstens has definite political views which come through in the book. I do read quite a bit about politics of all variations, but I read this type of novel for fun. LEAVE the politics out!!
Two things I didn't like:
1) Kadella is kind of a jerk. For example: "Instead, being a little bored with the day's testimony, he decided to have a little sport with the nervous doctor." Not a great use of the court's time, nor something a decent man would do.
2) Carstens has definite political views which come through in the book. I do read quite a bit about politics of all variations, but I read this type of novel for fun. LEAVE the politics out!!
April 2, 2018
Good read
The first in this series dragged for me. The legal descriptions and details in the first one bogged it down. This book is a clear improvement. The narration is smoother and while there are a few places that could be condensed, the story builds suspense effectively, and it becomes riveting at the end. I do hope we see Judge Prentiss again because he needs justice served, and hopefully, we will see Balkus and the feds again for their ending. The implication just isn't satisfying enough.
The first in this series dragged for me. The legal descriptions and details in the first one bogged it down. This book is a clear improvement. The narration is smoother and while there are a few places that could be condensed, the story builds suspense effectively, and it becomes riveting at the end. I do hope we see Judge Prentiss again because he needs justice served, and hopefully, we will see Balkus and the feds again for their ending. The implication just isn't satisfying enough.
April 1, 2019
It was a fun thriller to read, but there was some weird political stuff ham fisted into the book.
The political stuff doesn't even play any roll in the plot. It was just forced into a few chapters, and it did nothing to move the book along. I've read a lot of different political books, and in Desperate Justice, the politics were added with little to no nuance, and it was like watching Fox News or MSNBC. Dismissive, unimaginative, and did very little to say why or how. Just regurgitated dogma with no plot point.
I give it three because it was a really fun thriller.
The political stuff doesn't even play any roll in the plot. It was just forced into a few chapters, and it did nothing to move the book along. I've read a lot of different political books, and in Desperate Justice, the politics were added with little to no nuance, and it was like watching Fox News or MSNBC. Dismissive, unimaginative, and did very little to say why or how. Just regurgitated dogma with no plot point.
I give it three because it was a really fun thriller.
April 25, 2023
Everything a reader could want in a book that keeps him reading when he really should be doing something else: a protagonist who doesn’t rely on a crutch to connect with the reader. He’s an honest man who takes his business seriously. This story also has the satisfyingly evil people who get their comeuppance and the surprising dark horse characters who show real grit. And then there’s the unexpected twists !
June 2, 2019
3 Stars
Desperate Justice is the second book in the Marc Kadella Legal Mysteries Series by Dennis Carstens. It has drama, mystery, intrigue, politics, and more.
In this instalment Marc will need to defend a former Judge on murder charges. There is much to uncover, and we are taken on a bit of a rollercoaster ride as the story unfolds. An interesting addition to the series.
Desperate Justice is the second book in the Marc Kadella Legal Mysteries Series by Dennis Carstens. It has drama, mystery, intrigue, politics, and more.
In this instalment Marc will need to defend a former Judge on murder charges. There is much to uncover, and we are taken on a bit of a rollercoaster ride as the story unfolds. An interesting addition to the series.
February 14, 2021
Another Good One
This book had some moral issues that were presented to the reader. I found it very interesting and satisfying when you were all but sure that there wasn't going to be justice and then, at last there was. I like Marc, Tony and Maddy. They are great characters and I like that we got to know them a little better. Good book!
This book had some moral issues that were presented to the reader. I found it very interesting and satisfying when you were all but sure that there wasn't going to be justice and then, at last there was. I like Marc, Tony and Maddy. They are great characters and I like that we got to know them a little better. Good book!
June 24, 2022
Gostei de algumas coisas bem pontuais neste livro: uma pessoa super arrogante e cruel que perde tudo, merecidamente; uma mulher com mais de 60 anos vivendo um amor maduro; um traidor da pátria que recebe seu merecido castigo. Não sei se concordo com o final, mas considero-o bem realista. Afinal, nem sempre o bem vence o mal, e esta série parece nos indicar exatamente isso.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 104 reviews