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Mike Daley/Rosie Fernandez Mystery #2
Incriminating Evidence
Special Circumstances introduced an exciting new voice in legal fiction - a talent so original, it drew comparisons with the very top tier of courtroom thriller writers. Now Sheldon Siegel delivers a new challenge for defense attorney Mike Daley - ex-priest, ex-husband, ex-public defender - and it's a high-profile zinger: a case he doesn't think he can win for a client he can't stand. It starts with a phone call Mike Daley never expected to get, from District Attorney Prentice Marshall Gates III, San Francisco's chief law enforcement officer and front-runner candidate for California attorney general. Friends they're not; Skipper Gates had led the charge to get Mike fired from his job as a partner in a prestigious law firm. But Gates needs Daley now - and needs him badly. He's just been arrested. It seems that a couple of hours earlier he woke up in an armchair in his hotel room and found the dead body of a young male prostitute in the bed. The details that continue to emerge from the crime scene are tabloid heaven. The SFPD is certain Gates did it. The prosecutors are already talking the death penalty, and there's nothing in the mounting evidence, and certainly not in Gates's unpersuasive denials, to convince Daley and his partner (and ex-wife) Rosie of his innocence. But even if he's lying, it's their job to defend him, and that means finding out what really happened. Sure enough, the deeper they dig, the seamier their findings. An array of influential power brokers is all too ready to cover questionable activities that may - or may not - connect with the victim. There's a campaign manager with his own dirty secrets, a shady Internet entrepreneur who trades flesh for cash, a prominent businessman who uses muscle to keep his enterprise prospering. Mike and Rosie chase down trails that take them from the lowest depths of the Mission District, where drugs and bodies are always for sale, to the gated mansions of Pacific Heights, all the while contending with a trial that gets under way even as they are frantically trying to piece together what is really at stake in the case against Gates. Its riveting blend of inside knowledge, powerful suspense, courtroom intrigue, and ironic humor makes Incriminating Evidence an edge-of-the-seat novel that will hold readers from the very first page to its startling denouement.
440 pages, ebook
First published July 31, 2001
4228 people are currently reading
1018 people want to read
About the author
Sheldon Siegel
64 books504 followersSheldon Siegel is a New York Times Bestselling novelist and author best known for his works of modern legal courtroom drama.
Siegel was born on the south side of Chicago, Illinois. He attended New Trier High School in Winnetka, Illinois, and later went on to attend the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign as an Accounting major. He graduated with a Juris Doctor from Boalt Hall at the University of California, Berkeley in 1983. He has been in private practice in San Francisco, California for over twenty years and specializes in corporate and securities law with the law firm Sheppard, Mullin, Richter & Hampton LLP.
Series:
* Mike Daley Mystery
Siegel was born on the south side of Chicago, Illinois. He attended New Trier High School in Winnetka, Illinois, and later went on to attend the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign as an Accounting major. He graduated with a Juris Doctor from Boalt Hall at the University of California, Berkeley in 1983. He has been in private practice in San Francisco, California for over twenty years and specializes in corporate and securities law with the law firm Sheppard, Mullin, Richter & Hampton LLP.
Series:
* Mike Daley Mystery
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 412 reviews
August 27, 2019
I enjoy this genre as a relaxing read, but I challenge my mind trying to figure out how the story will end before the actual ending of the book. I enjoyed the first book of the series, but this one did not matchup to my expectations.
The book is well written, the plot twists and turns and the characters are interesting. Siegel has an excellent command of the English language. The story takes place in San Francisco. Daly and Fernandez used to be married but are now just law partners. This adds some spice to the story. Like Perry Mason, Daily tries to complete his case in the Preliminary Hearing but in this instance unsuccessfully as the case went on to trial. I am looking forward to reading the next book in the series.
I read this as an audiobook downloaded from Audible. The book is ten hours and thirty-five minutes. Tim Campbell does a good job narrating the book. Campbell is an Australian actor and voice over artist. He has won numerous Earphone Awards.
The book is well written, the plot twists and turns and the characters are interesting. Siegel has an excellent command of the English language. The story takes place in San Francisco. Daly and Fernandez used to be married but are now just law partners. This adds some spice to the story. Like Perry Mason, Daily tries to complete his case in the Preliminary Hearing but in this instance unsuccessfully as the case went on to trial. I am looking forward to reading the next book in the series.
I read this as an audiobook downloaded from Audible. The book is ten hours and thirty-five minutes. Tim Campbell does a good job narrating the book. Campbell is an Australian actor and voice over artist. He has won numerous Earphone Awards.
June 18, 2021
"I look around the table: my ex-wife, my ex-girlfriend and me. We aren’t a law firm— we’re a support group. Somebody will probably name a 12-step program after us."
"While we’re both willing to admit that the current state of our domestic situation is somewhat less than optimal, everyone gets lonely. Rosie says that sleeping with your ex-husband beats sleeping alone, but not by much."
Yes, this is the second book in this series and it is as much about family as it is about Mike and Rosie’s case. But that is not bad since this “courtroom procedural” gets a nice boost from the complicated family relationships of these two criminal lawyers who are partners in a boutique San Francisco law firm and divorced parents of a sub-teen girl.
"It occurs to me that whenever we’re working on a case together, we learn as much about ourselves as we do about our clients."
Almost the entire story is told from Mike’s perspective with what he says interspersed with what he thinks.
"I can’t think of a better way to end my week. I get to spend some quality time with the man whose grandstanding and sloppiness resulted in the execution of one of my clients.
“Nice to see you again, Mike,” he lies.
“Same here, Ed.”"
Congratulations to Siegel for making this work well. It is entertaining and educational (at least for those of us for whom criminal trials are a novelty rather than a business). I am including the following long quotation as an easy way for you to decide whether you will enjoy Siegel’s approach.
"“Your Honor,” I begin, “we have a serious problem.”
Judge Vanden Heuvel studies our standard motion requesting a gag order. She’s in her mid-fifties, a former prosecutor with a pale complexion, a willowy frame and a stoic air. She’s been listening to motions like ours for the last twenty years. She never raises her voice, but her tone is nonetheless commanding.
“What’s the problem, Mr. Daley?”
“The prosecutor’s office is leaking highly prejudicial information to the media. It will be impossible for Mr. Gates to get a fair trial. I have no choice but to ask you to dismiss the charges.” There is no chance she’ll do this, but it can’t hurt to ask.
Payne starts to stand and Vanden Heuvel raises her hand. “Ms. Payne, we’ll hear from you in a moment.” She turns back to me and chuckles. “Mr. Daley, you don’t seriously believe that I will dismiss the charges, do you?”
I will seriously believe you have lost your mind if you do. “Yes, Your Honor, my client’s rights have been damaged, if not ignored.” Admittedly, this is bullshit.
Payne pops up again. She’s starting to look like a pogo stick. Vanden Heuvel motions her to sit down and gives me a bemused look.
“With all due respect to your client and his rights, I’m not going to dismiss the charges.”
“At the very least, Your Honor, we request that you impose a gag order. We are reaching a point where the prosecution’s irresponsible leaks are making it extremely difficult for us to have any chance of empaneling an impartial jury.”
The judge nods to Payne. “Now it’s your turn, Ms. Payne.”"
"While we’re both willing to admit that the current state of our domestic situation is somewhat less than optimal, everyone gets lonely. Rosie says that sleeping with your ex-husband beats sleeping alone, but not by much."
Yes, this is the second book in this series and it is as much about family as it is about Mike and Rosie’s case. But that is not bad since this “courtroom procedural” gets a nice boost from the complicated family relationships of these two criminal lawyers who are partners in a boutique San Francisco law firm and divorced parents of a sub-teen girl.
"It occurs to me that whenever we’re working on a case together, we learn as much about ourselves as we do about our clients."
Almost the entire story is told from Mike’s perspective with what he says interspersed with what he thinks.
"I can’t think of a better way to end my week. I get to spend some quality time with the man whose grandstanding and sloppiness resulted in the execution of one of my clients.
“Nice to see you again, Mike,” he lies.
“Same here, Ed.”"
Congratulations to Siegel for making this work well. It is entertaining and educational (at least for those of us for whom criminal trials are a novelty rather than a business). I am including the following long quotation as an easy way for you to decide whether you will enjoy Siegel’s approach.
"“Your Honor,” I begin, “we have a serious problem.”
Judge Vanden Heuvel studies our standard motion requesting a gag order. She’s in her mid-fifties, a former prosecutor with a pale complexion, a willowy frame and a stoic air. She’s been listening to motions like ours for the last twenty years. She never raises her voice, but her tone is nonetheless commanding.
“What’s the problem, Mr. Daley?”
“The prosecutor’s office is leaking highly prejudicial information to the media. It will be impossible for Mr. Gates to get a fair trial. I have no choice but to ask you to dismiss the charges.” There is no chance she’ll do this, but it can’t hurt to ask.
Payne starts to stand and Vanden Heuvel raises her hand. “Ms. Payne, we’ll hear from you in a moment.” She turns back to me and chuckles. “Mr. Daley, you don’t seriously believe that I will dismiss the charges, do you?”
I will seriously believe you have lost your mind if you do. “Yes, Your Honor, my client’s rights have been damaged, if not ignored.” Admittedly, this is bullshit.
Payne pops up again. She’s starting to look like a pogo stick. Vanden Heuvel motions her to sit down and gives me a bemused look.
“With all due respect to your client and his rights, I’m not going to dismiss the charges.”
“At the very least, Your Honor, we request that you impose a gag order. We are reaching a point where the prosecution’s irresponsible leaks are making it extremely difficult for us to have any chance of empaneling an impartial jury.”
The judge nods to Payne. “Now it’s your turn, Ms. Payne.”"
August 24, 2020
In this second offering in the Mike Daley/Rosie Fernandez legal mystery series, Siegel continues to develop Mike Daley as an appealing defense attorney with moral scruples. Not that Mike’s life isn’t a bit messy. His law firm comprises his ex-wife, an ex-girlfriend and himself (an ex-priest, ex-public defender, and ex-partner from an exclusive law firm). In this offering, Prentice ‘Skipper’ Marshall Gates III, the former head of the prestigious law firm that fired Daley and current District Attorney, has been found in a hotel room with a very dead boy prostitute. It is a convoluted case that Daley has to unravel.
Siegel places the reader in the head of Mike Daley as he pursues the investigation and subsequent trial. So, the reader is privy to Mike’s strategy and his snarky, entertaining thoughts about the witnesses, and evidence. Clearly, I have read too many crime novels as I had a pretty good idea of the villain long before the ‘big reveal’, but enjoyed the plot development none-the-less. Enjoy!
Siegel places the reader in the head of Mike Daley as he pursues the investigation and subsequent trial. So, the reader is privy to Mike’s strategy and his snarky, entertaining thoughts about the witnesses, and evidence. Clearly, I have read too many crime novels as I had a pretty good idea of the villain long before the ‘big reveal’, but enjoyed the plot development none-the-less. Enjoy!
December 19, 2024
A while ago, I read the first in this series, “Special Circumstances.” I am a fan of courtroom drama and legal thrillers. And this one with character, Mike Daley, who has quite the resume is one for readers to consider, even if the books came out in the early 2000’s. As an ex-priest, ex-public defender, and ex-partner of one of San Francisco’s most prominent law firms, he is an interesting character to follow. Currently, he is a partner with his ex-wife, Rosie Fernandez. Although, don’t let the ex-wife fool you. Their partnership runs deep. Which makes this character driven series work so well. And, it still can be read as a stand-alone.
Now, Daley has landed a case that he isn’t exactly thrilled to take. But Rosie feels he should take it. Another ex-partner, from his former law firm, who happens to be the current District Attorney running for re-election, happens to get arrested for murder. What? How could this possibly have happened? Just the scenario alone will keep readers intrigued as it is explored through the defense team and police investigation.
This story will have readers who enjoy courtroom drama, fleshed out characters, and plenty of dramatic twists turning pages rapidly. And, just when you think you have everything figured out, another twist has readers going in another direction. Stay with it, because readers will want to know, who really is guilty and who is innocent? What really happened in that hotel room with the District Attorney? And, what is the incriminating evidence?
4.5 stars
Now, Daley has landed a case that he isn’t exactly thrilled to take. But Rosie feels he should take it. Another ex-partner, from his former law firm, who happens to be the current District Attorney running for re-election, happens to get arrested for murder. What? How could this possibly have happened? Just the scenario alone will keep readers intrigued as it is explored through the defense team and police investigation.
This story will have readers who enjoy courtroom drama, fleshed out characters, and plenty of dramatic twists turning pages rapidly. And, just when you think you have everything figured out, another twist has readers going in another direction. Stay with it, because readers will want to know, who really is guilty and who is innocent? What really happened in that hotel room with the District Attorney? And, what is the incriminating evidence?
4.5 stars
September 20, 2015
I enjoyed reading this legal mystery. I give it a solid 4 out 5 stars. It is book 2 in the Daley/Fernandez mystery series. The main characters that were introduced in book 1 return. Prentice Marshall Gates III, the newly elected District Attorney has been found with a dead body in a hotel room. The police arrest him for murder and have a great deal of incriminating evidence. Gates hires Michael Daley, even though he forced Daley out of their previous law firm for not producing enough money. He does do because he knows Daley is honest and a tenacious lawyer. Gates is a pompous ass who calls Daley for his help by saying: "We have a situation." Daley calls this "Skipper(Gates' nickname at their firm) speak. When somebody else screwed up, Skipper called it a fuck up. When Skipper screwed up, it was a situation.
There are many twists and turns in the plot and I did not identify the killer until the author revealed it at the end. I read this in one day, although it was over 500 pages. It was hard to put down.
There are many twists and turns in the plot and I did not identify the killer until the author revealed it at the end. I read this in one day, although it was over 500 pages. It was hard to put down.
April 6, 2014
4-5-14
Wouldn't you love to be on a jury? Just once? (Once would be enough, I think). I do not know why I worry so about the jury. Could it be their importance is so short lived? I liked this author's main characters -- Mike and Rosie. They make a good team. By far, Nick the Dick is my favorite PI character. He stands proud at 4'11". He he eighty five years in age and two years in energy and charm. I see Danny Devito with a toupee when Nick enters the courtroom. This is where the fun starts. Nick cannot step into the witness chair, so he climbs into it. He pours a glass of water and offers it to the judge. 'Sober as a judge' has no meaning when Nick the Dick is on the stand. The author's writing mechanics are good. There are several throw away characters and actions that added unnecessary pages to the book, and I still do not know for certain 'whodunit.' But isn't 'uncertainty' all that this defense must show the jury?
Thank you, Mr. Siegel, for a good read.
Wouldn't you love to be on a jury? Just once? (Once would be enough, I think). I do not know why I worry so about the jury. Could it be their importance is so short lived? I liked this author's main characters -- Mike and Rosie. They make a good team. By far, Nick the Dick is my favorite PI character. He stands proud at 4'11". He he eighty five years in age and two years in energy and charm. I see Danny Devito with a toupee when Nick enters the courtroom. This is where the fun starts. Nick cannot step into the witness chair, so he climbs into it. He pours a glass of water and offers it to the judge. 'Sober as a judge' has no meaning when Nick the Dick is on the stand. The author's writing mechanics are good. There are several throw away characters and actions that added unnecessary pages to the book, and I still do not know for certain 'whodunit.' But isn't 'uncertainty' all that this defense must show the jury?
Thank you, Mr. Siegel, for a good read.
August 22, 2017
Not so great!
So to any Trump fans, I am giving you fair warning this writer believes we conservatives are fascists and democrats are honorable and great. I enjoyed the first book because honestly it's okay to write whatever you feel makes a great story, and the first was really good, but I can not tolerate such bias especially while trying to enjoy a story. If you support PRESIDENT TRUMP then you will be disappointed with this story.
So to any Trump fans, I am giving you fair warning this writer believes we conservatives are fascists and democrats are honorable and great. I enjoyed the first book because honestly it's okay to write whatever you feel makes a great story, and the first was really good, but I can not tolerate such bias especially while trying to enjoy a story. If you support PRESIDENT TRUMP then you will be disappointed with this story.
April 5, 2015
I read this as book 2 of a four-book box set. I liked the first book and gave it four stars. This second volume was so much like the first book that I have deducted one star. The plot was extremely similar; Mike & Rosie defend a client against murder charges and the client is one of Mike's former partners. The client denies he did it, and won't say a thing in his defense, but new damaging evidence keeps getting uncovered one piece at a time. Then at the very end, Mike manages to get his client off by pinning the murder on somebody else. Same story in both books - refreshing the first time, tiresome and repetitive the second time! I am desperately hoping that Siegel finds a new plotline for the next volume!
August 1, 2020
I like books with realistic (as far as I can tell, anyway) courtroom scenes with lawyers slowly building cases. Siegel does this very well. This is the second in his series I have read. I liked it and the mystery of who actually committed the crime was intriguing. The relationship between Rose and Mike is developing, but having just read the first in the series, it felt vaguely formulaic, i.e., overwhelming evidence against their client with a surprise ending just at the moment of jury decision.
Still, it's a good formula, well-executed, so on to #3.
Still, it's a good formula, well-executed, so on to #3.
June 25, 2012
Good premise, but executed poorly. I couldn't care about any of the characters, regardless of how much backstory the author provided, and it seemed endless, and thrown in for "depth." The story itself seemed like it was stretched out to novel size. If told in novella size, straight to the point, it could have been more compelling. It took 300 and some pages to get to the grit of the evidence--that's just ridiculous! I only read the first 100 pages consecutively and from then on I skimmed, and found even that was a waste of time. The author writes in the present tense--who writes like that!? I found it annoying, and probably one of the reasons why I couldn't get through the book.
dnf
March 7, 2020I like the author and I like the main character and I loved the first book… But I could not get into the case in this book. I may give the third book a try in the future, but this one wasn’t doing it for me. ☹️ dnf.
July 6, 2017
3.5 * rounded up to 4.
March 17, 2024
These are okay, but I'm not sure I want to commit myself to reading another 14 of them. But I really would like a series about one of the side characters, octogenarian Nick, "The Dick" Hanson, who runs a PI firm with two generations of his family. That would make for some good reading!
December 30, 2015
There are lots of characters in this novel. If you read several books at the same time as I do (work, home, mobile device while in transit) you might want to highlight some names, particularly at the beginning. It can be difficult to find your place in the story after brief interruptions to your reading.
Just as a preview: Skipper is a nickname for the DA. He is charged with murder after being found in a hotel room with the dead body of Johnny, a gay drug dealer. Given that Skipper called the police, should he have been charged with the murder? The race, and the story, is on. Natalie is Skipper’s long suffering wife, not oblivious to his infidelities. But we are not sure why she is long suffering. Ann, Skipper’s irascible daughter, is loyal mainly to Ann, and is full of surprises. Although the reader develops a sense of confidence that Skipper is not gay, it seems he has slept with or propositioned every female character in the novel (OK, maybe not Ann). Michael, a somewhat rogue lawyer is a partner with Rosie, his former wife who is also a lawyer. Although they are divorced, they are frequently together for comfort sex when other partners are not available. Both are lawyers for Skipper, who tried to sleep with Rosie (but not Michael). Carolyn, the third lawyer in the firm and thus also an advocate for Skipper, has also slept with Skipper. Then there is the growing number of professionals who surface saying they have also slept with Skipper, but all ceased to do so when the sex went rough. Michaels’ brother Pete is a private investigator helping the firm, Rosie’s brother Tony is a local businessman with innocent ties to the criminal element; he only uses his connections to find information to help Michael. Then there is a host of named characters that support Skipper’s growing political ambitions, another host that support the opponents of Skipper, yet another host of social workers concerned with the dead guy and his family, and a few members of the clergy thrown in. As an aside, Michael, our hero lawyer, used to be a priest, so we have confessional anxiety. This was like trying to follow the family tree of England’ Henry VIII.
For those interested, as voyeurs of course, in drug dealing operational methodology, terminology related with rough sex, and the seemingly inherent corrupt behavior of political aspirants this is a novel for you.
Other good news is that this is a novel in a series. I am not good at reading things in order; this was book 2. It was fascinating enough that I will definitely read book 1 (there is an excerpt in this epub). I am just guessing that I will continue with other books in this series and other works by this author. I recommended this novel to my ex-cop colleagues.
Just as a preview: Skipper is a nickname for the DA. He is charged with murder after being found in a hotel room with the dead body of Johnny, a gay drug dealer. Given that Skipper called the police, should he have been charged with the murder? The race, and the story, is on. Natalie is Skipper’s long suffering wife, not oblivious to his infidelities. But we are not sure why she is long suffering. Ann, Skipper’s irascible daughter, is loyal mainly to Ann, and is full of surprises. Although the reader develops a sense of confidence that Skipper is not gay, it seems he has slept with or propositioned every female character in the novel (OK, maybe not Ann). Michael, a somewhat rogue lawyer is a partner with Rosie, his former wife who is also a lawyer. Although they are divorced, they are frequently together for comfort sex when other partners are not available. Both are lawyers for Skipper, who tried to sleep with Rosie (but not Michael). Carolyn, the third lawyer in the firm and thus also an advocate for Skipper, has also slept with Skipper. Then there is the growing number of professionals who surface saying they have also slept with Skipper, but all ceased to do so when the sex went rough. Michaels’ brother Pete is a private investigator helping the firm, Rosie’s brother Tony is a local businessman with innocent ties to the criminal element; he only uses his connections to find information to help Michael. Then there is a host of named characters that support Skipper’s growing political ambitions, another host that support the opponents of Skipper, yet another host of social workers concerned with the dead guy and his family, and a few members of the clergy thrown in. As an aside, Michael, our hero lawyer, used to be a priest, so we have confessional anxiety. This was like trying to follow the family tree of England’ Henry VIII.
For those interested, as voyeurs of course, in drug dealing operational methodology, terminology related with rough sex, and the seemingly inherent corrupt behavior of political aspirants this is a novel for you.
Other good news is that this is a novel in a series. I am not good at reading things in order; this was book 2. It was fascinating enough that I will definitely read book 1 (there is an excerpt in this epub). I am just guessing that I will continue with other books in this series and other works by this author. I recommended this novel to my ex-cop colleagues.
February 25, 2018
A great book, a great series and, above all else, a GREAT author! Since the second book in this series was just as good as the first I've made up my mind to read the whole series. And since these are true page turners (since it only took me 3 days for this one) I'm sure I'll have them all read in a month lol.
Seriously, Mr. Siegel is, in my opinion, in the same league as Grisham, Martini and the rest of the great Classic Legal Thriller writers. Awesome story, believable and likable characters, and all the twists and turns of a great Whodunit.
I highly recommend this book to anyone who loves a great Whodunit / Legal / Mystery / Thriller you won't be sorry you picked this one up. However, start it when you have time to read it straight through because it isn't only a page turner, it's a page BURNER! ENJOY!
Seriously, Mr. Siegel is, in my opinion, in the same league as Grisham, Martini and the rest of the great Classic Legal Thriller writers. Awesome story, believable and likable characters, and all the twists and turns of a great Whodunit.
I highly recommend this book to anyone who loves a great Whodunit / Legal / Mystery / Thriller you won't be sorry you picked this one up. However, start it when you have time to read it straight through because it isn't only a page turner, it's a page BURNER! ENJOY!
May 22, 2016
Incriminating Evidence by Sheldon Siegel is a book I came across second-hand. I had no idea until reading it that it was the second book in a 7 part series. I love legal thrillers, and this one was no exception. I only wished I read the first book first. Having said that, however, it did not detract from the story at all. Murder, politics at its ugliest, and kinky sex - what more do you need to keep you mesmerized. Loved the voice, the characters were well developed, the plot thick and intriguing, and the fast paced. I was thoroughly entertained and can't wait to read his next one! Highly recommend. Incriminating Evidence (Mike Daley/Rosie Fernandez Legal Thriller Book 2)
August 3, 2012
Interesting only because of it's 2001 San Francisco locations and, maybe, in what not to do in writing a mystery (tell everything, lack of action, lack of protagonist action in solving the mystery, anti-climax).
June 24, 2017
This is a story with twists and turns throughout. The very likable lawyers Mike and Rosie work together like the seasoned team they never were as a married couple. This is a complicated case which takes a steep turn the weekend the jury is deliberating. It was another genre hit for me.
March 26, 2010
A long book with just what the title implies. I went into it expecting the outcome provided. The characters were weak and the story tedious.
November 19, 2020
This time one of Mike Daley's former bosses is found in a hotel room early one morning with a dead body...it looks very suspicious, to say the least. Skipper Gates, former boss, hires Mike to defend him.
This was another enjoyable and quick read by Siegel. There was less about the relationship between Daley and his ex-wife Rosie and their relatives, all of which made his first in the series so much fun. The trial also consisted of less interesting and snappy dialogue. I like his writing though, and recommend them for fast, escapist reading. No need to read them in order; Siegel fills the reader in each time with the characters' backgrounds.
There was an interesting twist at the end. I'm enjoying murder mysteries...maybe I'll read one of the Grisham novels lying around the house.
This was another enjoyable and quick read by Siegel. There was less about the relationship between Daley and his ex-wife Rosie and their relatives, all of which made his first in the series so much fun. The trial also consisted of less interesting and snappy dialogue. I like his writing though, and recommend them for fast, escapist reading. No need to read them in order; Siegel fills the reader in each time with the characters' backgrounds.
There was an interesting twist at the end. I'm enjoying murder mysteries...maybe I'll read one of the Grisham novels lying around the house.
September 1, 2022
Another wonderful book in this series and what a series it is turning out to be. To be honest, I wanted to give this book 4.5 on 5 because it has every element consistent with the previous book but the final nail on the coffin was somehow missed for me. But giving 5 on 5 stars is worth, for this book. Apart from Mike and Rosie, I wanted McNulty's character arc and I wanted to see where his character goes as we move forward in the series.
November 14, 2024
I’ve read several of this series and plan on reading several more. Mr. Siegel really knows how to let a murder / trial story unfold. I always look forward to the trial. I love the silent dialogue. It can be quite humorous at times. It can also be very informative in the workings of the law.
January 15, 2023
3.7? Plot is ok but a bit slow and the good bits come at after 70%, a bit similar to first one especially with court stuff, I will give book 3 a go and see if the series is worth pursuing
April 2, 2018
This is a really good legal thriller that left me guessing up to the end. Once again attorney, Mike Daley, is called upon to defend a client accused of murder. Only this time its the District Attorney, Prentice Marshall Gates III, or Skipper, as he's known around the courthouse. Skipper is responsible for getting Mike fired from their firm, forcing him to go out on his own. Skipper woke up in his hotel room to find a very young male prostitute, Johnny Garcia, handcuffed to the bed. His eyes, nose, and mouth had been covered over with duct tape, causing him to suffocate. Skipper's fingerprints are on the handcuffs, the tape, and all around the room. There are two champagne flutes present and both test positive for rohypnal, the date rape drug, which explains why Skipper at first seems disoriented and confused. Not too confused, however, because he has the presence of mind to call the police and caution the room service waiter not to touch anything.
Although Skipper has his own ideas about how his defense should be run, Mike insists Rosie Fernandez be second chair. Mike and Rosie used to be married and have a daughter, Grace, together. Even though they are divorced they work well as a team and still see each other on a personal basis as well.
Mike and Rosie have their work cut out for them as strong evidence points to their client. It doesn't help that Skipper and his wife, though married for years, agreed a long time ago to see other people as long as they were discreet. It comes to light that Skipper did indeed pay Johnny for his services that night and because Skipper was running for public office, his opponent had hired a private investigator to follow Skipper and had video of Johnny entering Skipper's room the night he was killed.
Given the evidence, I wasn't sure how Mike was going to get Skipper off, which is what made the story so riveting. It was very well written and its obvious the author knows his stuff. I've really enjoyed the first two books in this series and can't wait to crack open the next one.
Although Skipper has his own ideas about how his defense should be run, Mike insists Rosie Fernandez be second chair. Mike and Rosie used to be married and have a daughter, Grace, together. Even though they are divorced they work well as a team and still see each other on a personal basis as well.
Mike and Rosie have their work cut out for them as strong evidence points to their client. It doesn't help that Skipper and his wife, though married for years, agreed a long time ago to see other people as long as they were discreet. It comes to light that Skipper did indeed pay Johnny for his services that night and because Skipper was running for public office, his opponent had hired a private investigator to follow Skipper and had video of Johnny entering Skipper's room the night he was killed.
Given the evidence, I wasn't sure how Mike was going to get Skipper off, which is what made the story so riveting. It was very well written and its obvious the author knows his stuff. I've really enjoyed the first two books in this series and can't wait to crack open the next one.
August 17, 2019
I really liked the first book in this series, and I wanted to like this, but I was disappointed. It was an engaging read, but then the ending came. It felt unfinished (was he trying for a cliffhanger for the next book?) and confusing.
Another problem I have is that I appreciate it when authors do the research so that things are accurate. This author certainly knows the legal system, and I have no doubt the legal/courtroom stuff is accurate. But he puts in an incident where the main character goes to confession. He is divorced, and confesses to sleeping with his ex- wife. If you know the Catholic church's teaching on marriage, you would know that the church doesn't recognize civil divorce as ending a marriage. The church will analyze some marriages and sometimes annul them, and only then is the couple no longer married. Therefore, this couple is still married in the eyes of the church, and the church would not consider it a sin for them to sleep together. The priest gives the man penance for this non-sin, and encourages the character to date other women. This would never happen! Do your homework, Mr. Siegel.
Another problem I have is that I appreciate it when authors do the research so that things are accurate. This author certainly knows the legal system, and I have no doubt the legal/courtroom stuff is accurate. But he puts in an incident where the main character goes to confession. He is divorced, and confesses to sleeping with his ex- wife. If you know the Catholic church's teaching on marriage, you would know that the church doesn't recognize civil divorce as ending a marriage. The church will analyze some marriages and sometimes annul them, and only then is the couple no longer married. Therefore, this couple is still married in the eyes of the church, and the church would not consider it a sin for them to sleep together. The priest gives the man penance for this non-sin, and encourages the character to date other women. This would never happen! Do your homework, Mr. Siegel.
May 18, 2022
Copy and Paste
I was excited to read book 2 in this series, but 6 chapters in I realized it was cookie cutter from book 1. The relationship with Rosie (no funeral alone, sex w/ex) 2. Bring in unwanted help from another attorney who’s a jerk, I have final say! 3. Arraignment drama, request for bail, special circumstances, reduced sentence offer 4. Unstable wife of dependent 5. Take trial out of SF idea 6. Waiving time 7 Wives wearing dark glasses at trial 8 The unwanted attorney sits at end of table 9 analogy of a prelim hearing to a BB game 10 witnesses adjusting microphone 11 not using defendants name 12 trying to break rhythm of questioning or slowing the freight train 13 kinds of objections of the prosecution 14 always back to Daley’s divorce 15 have another burger and shake.
Skip to the last 2 chapters for mildly interesting conclusion. Need some SF lawyer thriller? Re-read the first book!
I was excited to read book 2 in this series, but 6 chapters in I realized it was cookie cutter from book 1. The relationship with Rosie (no funeral alone, sex w/ex) 2. Bring in unwanted help from another attorney who’s a jerk, I have final say! 3. Arraignment drama, request for bail, special circumstances, reduced sentence offer 4. Unstable wife of dependent 5. Take trial out of SF idea 6. Waiving time 7 Wives wearing dark glasses at trial 8 The unwanted attorney sits at end of table 9 analogy of a prelim hearing to a BB game 10 witnesses adjusting microphone 11 not using defendants name 12 trying to break rhythm of questioning or slowing the freight train 13 kinds of objections of the prosecution 14 always back to Daley’s divorce 15 have another burger and shake.
Skip to the last 2 chapters for mildly interesting conclusion. Need some SF lawyer thriller? Re-read the first book!
December 15, 2017
Really liked this series so far. In this case, Mike is sort of shanghaied into defending the SFO DA although the two have never gotten along. The usual situation where The Defendent is completely damned by circumstantial and forensic evidence.
The usual cast of characters -- his former wife (now law partner), Nick the Dick (the PI in his 80s), Mort the Sport (legal commentator on local station, although a lesser role than in #1) and others. On to #3, but probably when we're back from Christmas in Chicago with younger son and family.
The usual cast of characters -- his former wife (now law partner), Nick the Dick (the PI in his 80s), Mort the Sport (legal commentator on local station, although a lesser role than in #1) and others. On to #3, but probably when we're back from Christmas in Chicago with younger son and family.
May 13, 2017
I thought it was a good follow up in the series. I enjoy the main characters and it was a pretty good court case. I thought the novel had a good pace to it and not too much filler. I enjoy the novel also for the fact that I live near the area where the stories happen. I thought the novel was pretty realistic and the ending made sense-maybe a little bit of a surprise. I will read the next one in the series.
December 1, 2017
This series by Sheldon Siegel is absolutely one of the best ever legal thriller series I have found. I hope the Mike Daley/Rosie Fernandez Mystery series continues for a long time.
February 7, 2021
Wow!!!! The dynamic duo ex-spouses, Mike Daley and Rosie Fernandez, are at it again in this explosive legal thriller that had me on the edge of my damn seat! Yassss, this novel had everything in it to tantalize all the legal reader connoisseurs out there.
Mike was settling into a decent groove with his meager legal office he shared with ex-wife, Rosie. Their legal offices weren’t like some of your more upscale law offices, but it’s what they did behind those four walls that clients were more interested in. Money was tight, but they were making due and as luck would have it, or as some might view as a curse, a new case was about to slap them both to attention.
Skipper Gates, the law partner that got Mike Daley fired from his previous job, which landed him renting space at his ex-wife’s legal practice, calls him in need of his services. Mike is shocked to receive this call from his ex-boss. And of all the people in the world needing his assistance, Skipper Gates wants to hire him. Hmm? Why? Unfortunately, Skipper found himself in hot water when he was awakened by a hotel employee and across from his chair on the bed, was a young man lying on his stomach unresponsive. What the hell? Was he dead? Skipper had no idea. As he examined the body more closely, there was duct tape on his eyes, nose and mouth. The young man was in fact dead.
Skipper immediately asks the hotel employee to call the police. Of course, once the police arrive, it is automatically assumed he committed the murder. And what makes matters even worse, Skipper doesn’t have a viable excuse as to how this young man ended up in his hotel room dead.
Needless to say, Skipper needs the best legal defense team he can think of and the first person that pops into his head is Mike Daley. The same Mike Daley that he was instrumental in getting fired from his old law firm. Will wonders ever cease? Mike was up for the challenge, but before he agreed to take Skipper’s case, he wanted some assurances.
Like over a hundred thousand dollars to get the case started. There wasn’t any way he was taking anything less. He also wanted to make sure he would be first chair in trial and that he’d be the only attorney calling the major shots. Once Skipper agreed to those terms, Mike and Rosie became Skipper’s legal trial counsel. First things first, Mike tried as he might to get the Prosecutor to realize this was all a horrible misunderstanding and that his client was innocent. Of course, she laughed in his face!
Mike and Rosie had an uphill battle in trying to get Skipper off. It also didn’t help matters none that Skipper wasn’t that very forthright where his own case was concerned. Even though he, too, was a lawyer, he just wouldn’t give Mike and Rosie anything to work with. Skipper’s bottom line was that he was being setup. Well, a blind man could see that, but give your attorneys something to work with. When I tell you that they had to work for all the little blessings they received throughout this trial, that is truly an understatement.
OMG! This book was so damn good! I could not put it down! This book had all the ingredients for a great legal thriller. Murder, politics, lies, lust and greed! Man oh man this was smoking hot! I could not get enough! Siegel is a mastermind at writing legal novels. He’s one of my all-time favs. This is the second installment in the Mike and Rosie series and I’ve got a long way to go to get to the finish line with this awesome series. It was such a pleasure revisiting the legal duo handling their business.
To read original post, please go to: https://www.thesexynerdrevue.com/2021...
Thanks.
Mike was settling into a decent groove with his meager legal office he shared with ex-wife, Rosie. Their legal offices weren’t like some of your more upscale law offices, but it’s what they did behind those four walls that clients were more interested in. Money was tight, but they were making due and as luck would have it, or as some might view as a curse, a new case was about to slap them both to attention.
Skipper Gates, the law partner that got Mike Daley fired from his previous job, which landed him renting space at his ex-wife’s legal practice, calls him in need of his services. Mike is shocked to receive this call from his ex-boss. And of all the people in the world needing his assistance, Skipper Gates wants to hire him. Hmm? Why? Unfortunately, Skipper found himself in hot water when he was awakened by a hotel employee and across from his chair on the bed, was a young man lying on his stomach unresponsive. What the hell? Was he dead? Skipper had no idea. As he examined the body more closely, there was duct tape on his eyes, nose and mouth. The young man was in fact dead.
Skipper immediately asks the hotel employee to call the police. Of course, once the police arrive, it is automatically assumed he committed the murder. And what makes matters even worse, Skipper doesn’t have a viable excuse as to how this young man ended up in his hotel room dead.
Needless to say, Skipper needs the best legal defense team he can think of and the first person that pops into his head is Mike Daley. The same Mike Daley that he was instrumental in getting fired from his old law firm. Will wonders ever cease? Mike was up for the challenge, but before he agreed to take Skipper’s case, he wanted some assurances.
Like over a hundred thousand dollars to get the case started. There wasn’t any way he was taking anything less. He also wanted to make sure he would be first chair in trial and that he’d be the only attorney calling the major shots. Once Skipper agreed to those terms, Mike and Rosie became Skipper’s legal trial counsel. First things first, Mike tried as he might to get the Prosecutor to realize this was all a horrible misunderstanding and that his client was innocent. Of course, she laughed in his face!
Mike and Rosie had an uphill battle in trying to get Skipper off. It also didn’t help matters none that Skipper wasn’t that very forthright where his own case was concerned. Even though he, too, was a lawyer, he just wouldn’t give Mike and Rosie anything to work with. Skipper’s bottom line was that he was being setup. Well, a blind man could see that, but give your attorneys something to work with. When I tell you that they had to work for all the little blessings they received throughout this trial, that is truly an understatement.
OMG! This book was so damn good! I could not put it down! This book had all the ingredients for a great legal thriller. Murder, politics, lies, lust and greed! Man oh man this was smoking hot! I could not get enough! Siegel is a mastermind at writing legal novels. He’s one of my all-time favs. This is the second installment in the Mike and Rosie series and I’ve got a long way to go to get to the finish line with this awesome series. It was such a pleasure revisiting the legal duo handling their business.
To read original post, please go to: https://www.thesexynerdrevue.com/2021...
Thanks.
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