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Joe Hennessy Legal Thriller #5
The Southern Fraud
How much does the truth cost?
In Charleston, South Carolina, against a backdrop of racial tension, twenty-one-year-old Deon Ramsey was convicted for the brutal assault of his blonde girlfriend. The first trial stirred up feelings of hatred and angst amongst the community, bringing the city to the edge. Two years after the conviction, when new information is discovered that might prove Ramsey’s innocence, criminal defense attorney Joe Hennessy agrees to join the defense team.
Digging deep into a web of lies, desperate to find the truth, Hennessy uncovers secrets buried by one of South Carolina’s most powerful families. Battling against corrupt officials, fraudulent business owners, and violent felons, Hennessy is thrown into a world where money buys loyalty and silence.
To save his client from a grave injustice, to expose what really happened, Joe Hennessy must risk everything to bring the guilty party to justice…
In Charleston, South Carolina, against a backdrop of racial tension, twenty-one-year-old Deon Ramsey was convicted for the brutal assault of his blonde girlfriend. The first trial stirred up feelings of hatred and angst amongst the community, bringing the city to the edge. Two years after the conviction, when new information is discovered that might prove Ramsey’s innocence, criminal defense attorney Joe Hennessy agrees to join the defense team.
Digging deep into a web of lies, desperate to find the truth, Hennessy uncovers secrets buried by one of South Carolina’s most powerful families. Battling against corrupt officials, fraudulent business owners, and violent felons, Hennessy is thrown into a world where money buys loyalty and silence.
To save his client from a grave injustice, to expose what really happened, Joe Hennessy must risk everything to bring the guilty party to justice…
407 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 31, 2024
1030 people are currently reading
267 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews
January 19, 2025
I absolutely love the way this series is going. I love the way this book ended. Too bad I'm going to have to wait for Audible to make a audio version for a couple months for the last book in the series. I would recommend it to anyone who likes legal thrillers
October 19, 2024
Another excellent installment in this series. I have now binged them all!
August 9, 2025
This Hits Close to Home
I'm already a fan of this series, loving both the low country of Charleston, SC, where most of these stories take place, as well as the upstate area, where lawyer Joe Hennessy has a vineyard he's struggling to keep. But you don't have to be a fan of SC to appreciate the great writing and stories within The Southern Lawyer series.
This story is particularly notable considering the national headlines garnered by this area a couple of years ago when a notable attorney stood trial for murder. As this story unfolds, there is a reminiscent feeling to the themes found within: greed, money, power, and the family name. The South doesn't have exclusive rights to these ills, by any means. But we sure know how to do it well.
If the wranglings of court cases and attorneys (good and bad) are your jam, don't miss Peter O'Mahoney's Southern Lawyer series. His characters are well developed, his writing is crisp, and his storylines are superb.
I'm already a fan of this series, loving both the low country of Charleston, SC, where most of these stories take place, as well as the upstate area, where lawyer Joe Hennessy has a vineyard he's struggling to keep. But you don't have to be a fan of SC to appreciate the great writing and stories within The Southern Lawyer series.
This story is particularly notable considering the national headlines garnered by this area a couple of years ago when a notable attorney stood trial for murder. As this story unfolds, there is a reminiscent feeling to the themes found within: greed, money, power, and the family name. The South doesn't have exclusive rights to these ills, by any means. But we sure know how to do it well.
If the wranglings of court cases and attorneys (good and bad) are your jam, don't miss Peter O'Mahoney's Southern Lawyer series. His characters are well developed, his writing is crisp, and his storylines are superb.
April 7, 2025
SLS #5
This series is a good read. Joe Hennessey gains more depth through each book and certainly has enough adventure in his life - more than most people will ever have! I have appreciated learning more about our legal system's strength and weaknesses. The characters have their strengths and weaknesses, too, just like the rest of us. And the "punny jokes" !
I am looking forward to book six in this series.
My only real criticism of these books is the same as I have for so much of today's written material: whatever has happened to good editing? Fourth phrase spelling and punctuation errors, incorrect use of homonyms, typos that would be found by any simple spell check system have become commonplace.
This series is a good read. Joe Hennessey gains more depth through each book and certainly has enough adventure in his life - more than most people will ever have! I have appreciated learning more about our legal system's strength and weaknesses. The characters have their strengths and weaknesses, too, just like the rest of us. And the "punny jokes" !
I am looking forward to book six in this series.
My only real criticism of these books is the same as I have for so much of today's written material: whatever has happened to good editing? Fourth phrase spelling and punctuation errors, incorrect use of homonyms, typos that would be found by any simple spell check system have become commonplace.
March 9, 2025
This is the 5th installment of the Joe Hennessy series. And it’s still a great serie. In the myriad of wannabe Grisham writers, Peter O’Mahoney created an original world with a cast of interesting characters and enthralling storylines.
This time we focus on Deon Ramsey, a young black men who was convicted for the brutal assault of his blonde girlfriend. Two years after the conviction, when new information is discovered that might prove Ramsey’s innocence.
A solid 5*. Already starting to read the 6th installment!
This time we focus on Deon Ramsey, a young black men who was convicted for the brutal assault of his blonde girlfriend. Two years after the conviction, when new information is discovered that might prove Ramsey’s innocence.
A solid 5*. Already starting to read the 6th installment!
August 1, 2025
The Southern Fraud by Peter O’Mahoney is a killer legal thriller that had me locked in from page one. I’m giving it 5 stars. The standout here is Joe Hennessy—a gritty, no-BS defense attorney who’s as sharp in the courtroom as he is stubborn outside of it. He’s the kind of guy who doesn’t flinch when the system’s rigged against him. The second highlight? The layered fraud conspiracy that unravels in waves—what starts as a small-town insurance scam turns into something way bigger and dirtier. If you like flawed heroes, legal chess matches, and Southern corruption, this one’s a no-brainer.
September 7, 2024
My least favorite in this Series
I have read every book in this series, I lost interest when the author kept bringing up Sarah was a darling of the right wing. I'm conservative so I guess I could be considered right wing. It seems the author thinks the definition of right wing would be someone who falsely accused a black man of rape. Rubbish! I know many conservative black people. Are we all rubbish Mr. O'Mahoney?
I have read every book in this series, I lost interest when the author kept bringing up Sarah was a darling of the right wing. I'm conservative so I guess I could be considered right wing. It seems the author thinks the definition of right wing would be someone who falsely accused a black man of rape. Rubbish! I know many conservative black people. Are we all rubbish Mr. O'Mahoney?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 9, 2024
I love this series for so many reasons, I love Charleston and reading about so many places I’m familiar with always give me the warm fuzzies, even tho I don’t live there. (My daughter went to C of C and family near Greenville etc)
Once I began reading the first page of this book, book 5, I didn’t want to put it down until I finished. You definitely do NOT want to miss this book, or the entire series. A very gifted author and storyteller pulls you in for a wild ride. 😍
Once I began reading the first page of this book, book 5, I didn’t want to put it down until I finished. You definitely do NOT want to miss this book, or the entire series. A very gifted author and storyteller pulls you in for a wild ride. 😍
September 30, 2024
Some spiritual dynamics, please!
I liked the premise ( elites are priveleged, and the poor vicitmized).
But a win such as this one would have taken a great and concerted prayer effort on the part of locals, considering the depth and back history of the demonic forces that almost certainly had been holding sway over this South Carolina Clinton family.
This was why I did not give this writer a five star on this title. But still, quite good indeed.
I liked the premise ( elites are priveleged, and the poor vicitmized).
But a win such as this one would have taken a great and concerted prayer effort on the part of locals, considering the depth and back history of the demonic forces that almost certainly had been holding sway over this South Carolina Clinton family.
This was why I did not give this writer a five star on this title. But still, quite good indeed.
October 21, 2024
This book was actually quiet disappointing, I’ve enjoyed this series of Joe Hennessy and felt this book was rushed and the storyline fell flat. Quiet a few grammatical errors throughout the book, a whole persons name was wrong on what was being described in the storyline which was a big error for me. Lots of loose ends. Weak plot and not strong character development. My least favorite in the series
October 30, 2024
Exceptional justice
The justice series gives me a calm sensation, like sitting on the porch, sweet tea at hand, listening to stories from retired men. The gritty trail to truth and justice is not to be rushed. Reality oozes from the pages as a trial unfolds to reveal the perpetrators of sexual assaults. All the books are great stand alone novels but I recommend that you start with book one. Happy reading.
The justice series gives me a calm sensation, like sitting on the porch, sweet tea at hand, listening to stories from retired men. The gritty trail to truth and justice is not to be rushed. Reality oozes from the pages as a trial unfolds to reveal the perpetrators of sexual assaults. All the books are great stand alone novels but I recommend that you start with book one. Happy reading.
January 5, 2025
This was the first court case about racism....tied up with an attempted rape, wealthy southern men, and a wrongful conviction. Imagine that....and Joe Hennessy to the rescue. I spent too much time
finishing this and I only have one more in the series. This has been a nice foray into mysteries after so much political, historical, and frustrating literature. I am ready to go back to some heavier stuff but must finish this last book of intrigue.
finishing this and I only have one more in the series. This has been a nice foray into mysteries after so much political, historical, and frustrating literature. I am ready to go back to some heavier stuff but must finish this last book of intrigue.
July 21, 2025
This series is just great! Clean fun legal thriller.
"You've had two teenage girls then...any advice for me?...I would say that if you were close with them when they were younger and you love them unconditionally--they'll rebel against you. And on reflection their rebellion is great. It means you've done your job and they're becoming their own person. The key is loving them unconditionally through their rebellion."
"You've had two teenage girls then...any advice for me?...I would say that if you were close with them when they were younger and you love them unconditionally--they'll rebel against you. And on reflection their rebellion is great. It means you've done your job and they're becoming their own person. The key is loving them unconditionally through their rebellion."
September 11, 2024
So good for so many reasons
This is a book that keeps you involved because of the story, the twists and the characters. This was about right, wrong and the ability to stand up for the truth. As you turn each page, you're guessing to find out which one it is. I love these books. No guts. No gore. Just good storytelling.
This is a book that keeps you involved because of the story, the twists and the characters. This was about right, wrong and the ability to stand up for the truth. As you turn each page, you're guessing to find out which one it is. I love these books. No guts. No gore. Just good storytelling.
September 12, 2024
Great read
Each book in this series has its own twists and turns. Along with the unexpected. Each time I pick up the next one, I think, well Mr. I'm a honey couldn't possibly have another exciting and different story line. Each with each book he proved me wrong. You won't want to miss a single one!
Each book in this series has its own twists and turns. Along with the unexpected. Each time I pick up the next one, I think, well Mr. I'm a honey couldn't possibly have another exciting and different story line. Each with each book he proved me wrong. You won't want to miss a single one!
September 17, 2024
Good, but a bummer....
I have loved this series, my first legal thriller series.
To me, this book didn't live up to the others as far as writing. The storyline was good, but I wish it was more developed. I also predicted most of the book, which is a bummer.
I don't want to give this book three stars, but I also feel it isn't worth the four.
I have loved this series, my first legal thriller series.
To me, this book didn't live up to the others as far as writing. The storyline was good, but I wish it was more developed. I also predicted most of the book, which is a bummer.
I don't want to give this book three stars, but I also feel it isn't worth the four.
October 17, 2024
Thoroughly enjoyed this book. It’s the fifth in the series and it was an easy-fast-paced read. Knowing the main characters from the previous four novels certainly makes it even more enjoyable. The Southern setting in South Carolina is a character in its own right. Interesting plot lines and a quick- moving trial provide action. Definitely recommend it.
October 18, 2024
Captivating and easy to read
I have really enjoyed every book Peter O’Mahoney has written. Every Tex Hunter and Joe Hennessy series have been so good. He gives realistic insight to what goes on in a court room and discusses law to make it easy to understand while throwing in good jokes here and there for laughs. I recommend any of his books to people who enjoy legal thrillers.
I have really enjoyed every book Peter O’Mahoney has written. Every Tex Hunter and Joe Hennessy series have been so good. He gives realistic insight to what goes on in a court room and discusses law to make it easy to understand while throwing in good jokes here and there for laughs. I recommend any of his books to people who enjoy legal thrillers.
December 14, 2024
Looking forward to the Southern Vineyard for sure!
I’m not a southern belle but I truly enjoyed the historic detail and the very descriptive scenery Mr. O’Mahoney writes about in his books. It takes me to South Carolina and puts me right in the mix of the novel. Very entertaining series. Characters build- up is awesome!
I’m not a southern belle but I truly enjoyed the historic detail and the very descriptive scenery Mr. O’Mahoney writes about in his books. It takes me to South Carolina and puts me right in the mix of the novel. Very entertaining series. Characters build- up is awesome!
January 5, 2025
O’Mahoney does it again
I haven’t been reading much lately, but, when this book came out, I started reading again. I’ve reads all his books and they are all ‘no put down, read till the end’ books. Love them. Thank you Mr. O’Mahoney for another fabulous book. I especially like books about and in The south since that is where I live.
I haven’t been reading much lately, but, when this book came out, I started reading again. I’ve reads all his books and they are all ‘no put down, read till the end’ books. Love them. Thank you Mr. O’Mahoney for another fabulous book. I especially like books about and in The south since that is where I live.
September 5, 2024
I have absolutely loved the Southern Lawyer series! The newest addition to the series, The Southern Fraud, kept me hooked from beginning to end! I honestly thought this would be the end of the series, but the ending of the books convinced me that we have not heard the last of Joe Hennessy yet!
September 22, 2024
I'm so glad I started reading Peter O'Mahoney
Since reading off Kindle I have discovered so many new authors. The Southern Lawyer series was my first Peter O'Mahoney reads. I can't wait to read number 6.
Since reading off Kindle I have discovered so many new authors. The Southern Lawyer series was my first Peter O'Mahoney reads. I can't wait to read number 6.
October 12, 2024
A great and thrilling story.
The author has written a very intriguing and interesting story of a lawyer’s quest to get a client a new trial as others try every way to prevent him success. Very enjoyable reading.
The author has written a very intriguing and interesting story of a lawyer’s quest to get a client a new trial as others try every way to prevent him success. Very enjoyable reading.
October 30, 2024
A great read
The plot was very real for the present day south. The characters were developed properly and seemed v
ery real. Peter is a great storyteller and keeps you on the edge of your seat, a real pageturner.
The plot was very real for the present day south. The characters were developed properly and seemed v
ery real. Peter is a great storyteller and keeps you on the edge of your seat, a real pageturner.
February 15, 2025
Love the series, but it appears there isn’t an honest uncorrupt police officer, politician, or rich person in the town of Charleston, and there is always no cleaning up any of these people who are set on harassing the “underdogs “ there.
August 21, 2025
The Southern Fraud was an outstanding book to read!!!
This book was suspenseful and surprising with the turn of every page! A must read and I promise you won’t be able to put it down.
This book was suspenseful and surprising with the turn of every page! A must read and I promise you won’t be able to put it down.
September 25, 2025
4.5 🌟
I love this series. It’s been a while since I read the last one, but I was able to jump right back in. It feels a lot like Law & Order. It helps to have the back story, but each book (or episode) is uniquely its own. I can’t wait to read the next one!
I love this series. It’s been a while since I read the last one, but I was able to jump right back in. It feels a lot like Law & Order. It helps to have the back story, but each book (or episode) is uniquely its own. I can’t wait to read the next one!
November 21, 2025
The only hit I have on this entry into the series is the conclusion feels rushed. We are holding and building and building to the trial, and while the events that happened five a satisfactory ending, the pacing is off.
Otherwise, I think this is a very solid entry into the series.
Otherwise, I think this is a very solid entry into the series.
September 5, 2024
Review
Bravo! Homerun! I have read the other four and Wife listens to audio books. Hope #6 is in the works!!!
Bravo! Homerun! I have read the other four and Wife listens to audio books. Hope #6 is in the works!!!
September 17, 2024
Good series
Although a lift predictable, throughout the series the plots And scenarios have varied enough to keep me interested in the characters.
Although a lift predictable, throughout the series the plots And scenarios have varied enough to keep me interested in the characters.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews