What do you think?
Rate this book
The Advocate #16
The Advocate's Phantom
A reoccurring murder, a 30-year-old disappearance, and past and present crimes colliding! Attorney Sabre Brown faces her most puzzling case yet when her young client, Maverick, insists he witnessed a brutal murder—despite the absence of a body and any evidence at the crime scene. While the police dismiss Maverick's claims, Sabre takes him seriously, until he reports seeing the same crime again.
Worried about the boy’s mental health, Sabre and her investigator, JP Torn, question friends, family, and neighbors— and are stunned to learn that thirty years earlier a woman disappeared from the exact same place Maverick witnessed the phantom murders.
When security footage reveals mysterious lights and ghostly images in that location, they dig even deeper into the powerful Callahan family connected to the missing woman. But when the threats begin, and their sole witness is murdered, it’s clear someone is determined to keep their dark past hidden.
With the case growing more treacherous and JP encountering dead-ends, Sabre faces the daunting task of clearing Maverick's name as he is charged with making false police reports. Just when hope seems lost, shocking new evidence surfaces. But can they uncover all the buried secrets in time to protect their new witness and save a young boy from wrongful conviction?
The Advocate's Phantom is Book 16 of The Advocate Series. Join Sabre and JP as they solve the mystery of the phantom crime.
Worried about the boy’s mental health, Sabre and her investigator, JP Torn, question friends, family, and neighbors— and are stunned to learn that thirty years earlier a woman disappeared from the exact same place Maverick witnessed the phantom murders.
When security footage reveals mysterious lights and ghostly images in that location, they dig even deeper into the powerful Callahan family connected to the missing woman. But when the threats begin, and their sole witness is murdered, it’s clear someone is determined to keep their dark past hidden.
With the case growing more treacherous and JP encountering dead-ends, Sabre faces the daunting task of clearing Maverick's name as he is charged with making false police reports. Just when hope seems lost, shocking new evidence surfaces. But can they uncover all the buried secrets in time to protect their new witness and save a young boy from wrongful conviction?
The Advocate's Phantom is Book 16 of The Advocate Series. Join Sabre and JP as they solve the mystery of the phantom crime.
288 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 18, 2024
122 people are currently reading
995 people want to read
About the author
Teresa Burrell
35 books427 followersTeresa Burrell maintained a private law practice where her work focused on abused minors. She has received several awards for her countless hours of pro bono work with children and their families. Burrell has also enjoyed a satisfying career as a teacher, working with children of all ages with diverse backgrounds and special needs. Now in semi-retirement, Burrell continues to educate groups about social issues impacting children and write novels, many of which are inspired by actual cases.
She has written 22 mystery novels: 17 in The Advocate Series, 4 in the Tuper Mystery Series, and one standalone, co-authored with LJ Sellers.
She has written 22 mystery novels: 17 in The Advocate Series, 4 in the Tuper Mystery Series, and one standalone, co-authored with LJ Sellers.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
June 26, 2024
Oh wow! This story has so much going on that has you questioning what is happening it keeps you reading until the very last page, trying to figure it out. And I loved every minute. Unusual for this author there was only one case going on but the story was so involved (and good) that it didn't need it. This book does work as a standalone but I have to ask why would you want to miss out on the rest of the series? The characters continue to delight with there determination to fight for those who can't fight for themselves and I love the way they work as a team, no questions asked. Ron has a wide story as he tries to track down a worthy recipient for The Angel foundation, which tugs at the heartstrings. The mystery was well thought out and cleverly crafted, I think this might be her best book yet! I can't wait for it to come out as an audio book.
Definitely an author that needs to be on everybody's to be read list.
Sabre is called to help a young fostered teenager who has witnessed if not a murder, then at least a vicious attack. The only problem is this is the third time he has reported the same crime. When the police arrest him for wasting there time after they find no evidence or other witnesses, it's up to Attorney Sabre Brown and her investigator JP to uncover what is really going on because Sabre thinks the boy is telling the truth. She just has to prove it and that means digging into the streets history and a past disappearance.
I was given this free review copy audio book at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
Definitely an author that needs to be on everybody's to be read list.
Sabre is called to help a young fostered teenager who has witnessed if not a murder, then at least a vicious attack. The only problem is this is the third time he has reported the same crime. When the police arrest him for wasting there time after they find no evidence or other witnesses, it's up to Attorney Sabre Brown and her investigator JP to uncover what is really going on because Sabre thinks the boy is telling the truth. She just has to prove it and that means digging into the streets history and a past disappearance.
I was given this free review copy audio book at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
July 4, 2024
This book is amazing!! I can feel the fear of her clients and those around her through her writing
July 10, 2024
Teresa Burrell always gives us entertaining stories, but with The Advocate’s Phantom, she goes over and above. Her characters are endearing, believable, and relatable. Her plot is imaginative and surprising. And her “JPisms” are always good for a laugh. Fans of mystery and PI books will enjoy this one.
July 11, 2024
Child advocate and attorney Sabre Brown and her partner/investigator JP Torn are drawn into investigating a phantom crime when one of Sabre’s clients thinks he sees a murder out the window of his foster home in the middle of the night. Only problem is, no one can find the body, or any evidence at the scene. Sabre takes him seriously until he reports the crime a second time and she thinks maybe he’s telling stories. While investigating, she and JP find out that 30 years ago, a woman connected to a prominent family did disappear from that location. Is the boy hallucinating or catching echoes from a long ago crime?
I am a huge fan of this series, and this entry did not disappoint. I was intrigued because I thought the author might be taking a left turn into the paranormal with the ghostly imagines the young boy kept seeing, and I thought that was an interesting direction for her to go because she usually sticks to the facts. The way that particular subplot played out, though, was clever and topical and kept my interest all the way through.
I have grown attached to Sabre, and JP, their family, their work, their relationship. I appreciate that the secondary characters are fleshed out, and I really like how the author brings in characters from her other series. It’s like getting an extended visit with favorite old friends. The court scenes always ring true to me, and I like the banter between Sabre and her law partner, Bob. If you like solid courtroom drama, well-developed, likeable characters, and interesting plots, I highly recommend this series. Of course I prefer them in order, but you could read them out of order as the author does a good job of filling in the backstories as necessary.
I am a huge fan of this series, and this entry did not disappoint. I was intrigued because I thought the author might be taking a left turn into the paranormal with the ghostly imagines the young boy kept seeing, and I thought that was an interesting direction for her to go because she usually sticks to the facts. The way that particular subplot played out, though, was clever and topical and kept my interest all the way through.
I have grown attached to Sabre, and JP, their family, their work, their relationship. I appreciate that the secondary characters are fleshed out, and I really like how the author brings in characters from her other series. It’s like getting an extended visit with favorite old friends. The court scenes always ring true to me, and I like the banter between Sabre and her law partner, Bob. If you like solid courtroom drama, well-developed, likeable characters, and interesting plots, I highly recommend this series. Of course I prefer them in order, but you could read them out of order as the author does a good job of filling in the backstories as necessary.
August 20, 2024
Rating: ★★★★☆
Teresa Burrell’s The Advocate's Phantom is a gripping legal thriller that effectively combines suspense with well-drawn characters and intricate plot twists. The novel follows attorney Sabre Brown as she navigates a high-stakes case involving a mysterious and potentially deadly adversary. As Sabre delves deeper into the case, she uncovers secrets that challenge her skills and test her resolve.
Burrell’s writing is engaging, with a clear and concise narrative that keeps the reader hooked from start to finish. The legal aspects of the story are well-researched and add authenticity to the plot, making the legal drama both compelling and realistic. The pacing of the novel is well-balanced, maintaining tension throughout while allowing for character development and plot progression.
Sabre Brown is a strong protagonist whose determination and legal acumen drive the story forward. Her interactions with other characters are well-crafted, and her personal and professional challenges add depth to her character. The supporting cast is equally well-developed, contributing to the richness of the narrative.
The plot is full of twists and turns that keep readers guessing, and Burrell skillfully builds suspense. However, some of the plot elements may feel familiar to fans of the legal thriller genre, and certain resolutions may come across as predictable. Despite this, the execution of the story and the engaging writing style help mitigate any predictability.
Overall, The Advocate's Phantom is an entertaining and well-crafted legal thriller that will appeal to fans of the genre. Its blend of suspense, strong characters, and a well-executed plot makes it a satisfying read, even if it occasionally leans on genre conventions.
Teresa Burrell’s The Advocate's Phantom is a gripping legal thriller that effectively combines suspense with well-drawn characters and intricate plot twists. The novel follows attorney Sabre Brown as she navigates a high-stakes case involving a mysterious and potentially deadly adversary. As Sabre delves deeper into the case, she uncovers secrets that challenge her skills and test her resolve.
Burrell’s writing is engaging, with a clear and concise narrative that keeps the reader hooked from start to finish. The legal aspects of the story are well-researched and add authenticity to the plot, making the legal drama both compelling and realistic. The pacing of the novel is well-balanced, maintaining tension throughout while allowing for character development and plot progression.
Sabre Brown is a strong protagonist whose determination and legal acumen drive the story forward. Her interactions with other characters are well-crafted, and her personal and professional challenges add depth to her character. The supporting cast is equally well-developed, contributing to the richness of the narrative.
The plot is full of twists and turns that keep readers guessing, and Burrell skillfully builds suspense. However, some of the plot elements may feel familiar to fans of the legal thriller genre, and certain resolutions may come across as predictable. Despite this, the execution of the story and the engaging writing style help mitigate any predictability.
Overall, The Advocate's Phantom is an entertaining and well-crafted legal thriller that will appeal to fans of the genre. Its blend of suspense, strong characters, and a well-executed plot makes it a satisfying read, even if it occasionally leans on genre conventions.
July 14, 2024
I can't even begin to tell you what a wonderful addition The Advocate's Phantom is to this series! I have loved every book written by Ms. Burrell, but this one is really something special.
The crime is so odd and the way it plays out, using a teen that's in the foster care system, just trying to lead a good life and get through high school, is such a great way to have the story unfold. I was totally stumped as to what could have happened.
Ms. Burrell's previous career plays heavily into her books and you can clearly see her expertise when describing legal issues and describes being in court and how decisions are made. I love that aspect of this author's work because it feels so genuine and I love learning things while reading.
If you haven't yet started this series, I'd recommend starting from the first book, although you could read any of them in any order, it's good to have the backstories and see the character growth from book to book. I absolutely love this series and can't recommend it highly enough.
Thank you to the author and publisher for an ARC at my request. As always, all thoughts are my own and shared happily because I love these books!
The crime is so odd and the way it plays out, using a teen that's in the foster care system, just trying to lead a good life and get through high school, is such a great way to have the story unfold. I was totally stumped as to what could have happened.
Ms. Burrell's previous career plays heavily into her books and you can clearly see her expertise when describing legal issues and describes being in court and how decisions are made. I love that aspect of this author's work because it feels so genuine and I love learning things while reading.
If you haven't yet started this series, I'd recommend starting from the first book, although you could read any of them in any order, it's good to have the backstories and see the character growth from book to book. I absolutely love this series and can't recommend it highly enough.
Thank you to the author and publisher for an ARC at my request. As always, all thoughts are my own and shared happily because I love these books!
July 12, 2024
This is #12 (P) in Teresa Burrell’s Advocate series. Sabre Brown is an attorney and advocate for children going through legal challenges. She is called on to help Maverick, a former client, who claims to have seen a crime committed outside his bedroom window. Further investigation shows no sign of a disturbance. Maverick’s 2nd report of the same instance has everyone questioning him. History does turn up a previous similar occurrence about 30 years earlier that was never solved. Sabre and her detective/partner, JP, look further into the possibility of a connection. You will think you have the answer, but even if you’re right, you won’t have it all. This is a page turner that will leave you, as they all do, breathless and happy.
October 2, 2024
Maverick, a teenage boy in foster care, claims he witnessed a murder not once but 3 times. When the police arrest him for making false police reports Sabre and J.P. start investigating. When they discover that 30 years ago a woman disappeared from the exact same spot in the exact same way that Maverick sees it doesn't make sense. Could he be seeing ghosts?
This is the 16th book in the Advocate series and I think this one is the best so far. There are so many twist and turns that it certainly keeps you engaged. The way Teresa wraps up all the different stories in one neat bow and brings them all together in a very satisfying end is what I love about her books. This one is certainly worth reading.
This is the 16th book in the Advocate series and I think this one is the best so far. There are so many twist and turns that it certainly keeps you engaged. The way Teresa wraps up all the different stories in one neat bow and brings them all together in a very satisfying end is what I love about her books. This one is certainly worth reading.
January 4, 2025
16 Advocate books and a few set with linking characters makes this one of my favorite series. I have been a fan since the first book simply titled “The Advocate” 2010. This book “The Advocates Phantom “ the latest audio book ( The Advocate’s Quandary is most recent book) is about another child dealing with the law. This one was a story that had multiple levels and mysteries. Hidden history, lies and coverups taint the truth and lead to a trial. How does a child prove he is telling the truth when no evidence can be found. This book offers suspense as multiple storylines play out. I enjoyed this book very much.
February 8, 2025
Having read a number of Teresa Burrell's books, I was eager to read The Advocate's Phantom. The book did not disappoint. Attorney Sabre and her investigator, JP, are on a daunting mission to clear a young client's name. A decades old murder and present time murder seem to be linked and the mystery deepens! The twists and turns to the story keep the pages turning.
I listened to a gift copy of the audiobook. The narrator, John Bell, did a great job giving voice to the story. I was not required to write a review and the opinions are my own. Readers who enjoy legal thrillers will not want to miss this one.
I listened to a gift copy of the audiobook. The narrator, John Bell, did a great job giving voice to the story. I was not required to write a review and the opinions are my own. Readers who enjoy legal thrillers will not want to miss this one.
July 26, 2024
The Advocate's Phantom - a review by Rosemary Kenny.
A new defence case for the eponymous advocate Sabre Brown and her investigator JP Torn begins a courtroom battle with many ramifications.
They say you can choose your friends but not your family, and the poisonous secrets hidden for so long by the Callahan men, have finally made one of its youngest members decide to unravel the lies in a most unorthodox way.
Why does fostered teen Maverick end up in jail and can Sabre and JP set him free?
Read Teresa Burrell's The Advocate's Phantom to find out!
A new defence case for the eponymous advocate Sabre Brown and her investigator JP Torn begins a courtroom battle with many ramifications.
They say you can choose your friends but not your family, and the poisonous secrets hidden for so long by the Callahan men, have finally made one of its youngest members decide to unravel the lies in a most unorthodox way.
Why does fostered teen Maverick end up in jail and can Sabre and JP set him free?
Read Teresa Burrell's The Advocate's Phantom to find out!
July 10, 2024
Amazing! Well into this series, one would assume that you know the writers tricks. Maybe convince yourself that you’ll have this figured out by Chapter 5!!! NOPE! Ms. Burrell’s writing skills and style shifts and slithers, and the tunnel you were certain led to the villain is a dead end.
JP & Sabre continue to raise their cobbled-together family, and learn how lucky they are to have one another. Great work.
JP & Sabre continue to raise their cobbled-together family, and learn how lucky they are to have one another. Great work.
July 18, 2024
The Advocate’s Phantom
The Advocate’s Phantom
A fast moving story that I couldn’t put down! Lots of action and multiple mysteries weaving together. Lana makes a cameo appearance. JP and Dubois delve into a 30 year old cold case that comes into play with the trial of Sabre’s teen client, Maverick!
The Advocate’s Phantom
A fast moving story that I couldn’t put down! Lots of action and multiple mysteries weaving together. Lana makes a cameo appearance. JP and Dubois delve into a 30 year old cold case that comes into play with the trial of Sabre’s teen client, Maverick!
July 10, 2024
This book was soooo good! Though was only one client this time, had some unexpected twists and turns that kept me to the end. Was also good to see Ron was able to do good with Aunt Goldies trust that she had helping others out. Another great read!
August 4, 2024
Lots of twists and turns
This book has several plots going on and the ending is a surprise but it is another good Sabre Brown book. It veers off at the end to solve a 30-year-old cold case. Don’t miss it.
This book has several plots going on and the ending is a surprise but it is another good Sabre Brown book. It veers off at the end to solve a 30-year-old cold case. Don’t miss it.
August 29, 2024
best ever from Teresa Burrell
Without a doubt a gripping story and the best I have read from Teresa Burrell .
I have read every Advocate’s book in the series and this one really stood out.
Without a doubt a gripping story and the best I have read from Teresa Burrell .
I have read every Advocate’s book in the series and this one really stood out.
October 20, 2024
Great continuation of the story
I enjoyed the development of the characters. They all fit together like a good puzzle. The book keeps you guessing because of the skilled narrative of Ms Burrell. Can’t wait for the next book.
I enjoyed the development of the characters. They all fit together like a good puzzle. The book keeps you guessing because of the skilled narrative of Ms Burrell. Can’t wait for the next book.
July 10, 2024
I always love the Advocate books, but I think this one is my very favorite. I couldn't stop reading it, so I finished quickly, and it didn't disappoint!
July 22, 2024
All of Teresa's books are fabulous!!!
I thoroughly enjoy her books. All of them have held my attention really well! In fact, I have let things go on my to do list, to keep reading
I thoroughly enjoy her books. All of them have held my attention really well! In fact, I have let things go on my to do list, to keep reading
July 23, 2024
Recieved this in a giveaway. What a wonderful book, just sucked me in from the first page and made me sit up late reading. Enough twists and turns to keep you going and always wonder who done it
July 23, 2024
Maverick having to go on trial seemed a little extreme. I figured out some of what was going on, but the details were revealed much later.
August 1, 2024
Good story
August 19, 2024
Another excellent book by Teresa Burrell. Each book is always better than the last. I anxiously await to read more of her books
August 21, 2024
The Advocate’s Phanton
Read all 16 books in the Advocate series. Always has a surprise at the end. Can hardly wait for the next book.
Read all 16 books in the Advocate series. Always has a surprise at the end. Can hardly wait for the next book.
September 3, 2024
It started a little slow at first. Building up to the main mystery. As usual she keeps you guessing until the end.
November 3, 2024
Great books
Loved all her books. Kept my interest, read all and wish there were more of them. I look forward to reading other books by T. Burrell.
Loved all her books. Kept my interest, read all and wish there were more of them. I look forward to reading other books by T. Burrell.
November 13, 2024
Fantastic and so surprising
December 4, 2024
Good Read
Interesting twist and turn mystery. Not as exciting as previous books, but well worth reading. Hope you enjoy this series!
Interesting twist and turn mystery. Not as exciting as previous books, but well worth reading. Hope you enjoy this series!
January 14, 2025
Another great read by Teresa Burrell…..love her books
August 9, 2025
Great reading
I have read all books in this series and have enjoyed reading each one!! I will be looking for more of her books to read!
I have read all books in this series and have enjoyed reading each one!! I will be looking for more of her books to read!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews