What do you think?
Rate this book
Adrift
In her dramatic debut, author K.T. Konkoly delivers a bold legal thriller following a tough young lawyer who leaves her thriving practice in New York City behind when a family crisis calls her home.
Kari Sharpe never expected to return to Maine. Law school and the Navy JAG Corps pulled her out of the dead-end Maine promised for her future. But Kari’s past turns out to be hard to escape. When her last living relative spirals out of control, Kari gives up everything to save him.
Leaving her position as partner in a prestigious Manhattan law firm, Kari struggles to build a new law practice in Maine. Unfortunately, her name means nothing in Portland—nothing good. The Sharpe family curse is a shackle she can’t shake as she grapples with her brother’s addiction.
When a string of brutal murders rocks the coastal city, Kari is called upon by the navy for help. A sailor stationed on board a newly built ship at the famed Bath Iron Works shipyard is accused of murdering a local woman. The city is up in arms, demanding the sailor’s conviction. Adding fuel to the fire, her client is the son of Somali immigrants. Kari digs in for the fight of her life to prove he’s innocent…and deliver justice. Now she doesn’t know if she will ever leave Maine.
Kari Sharpe never expected to return to Maine. Law school and the Navy JAG Corps pulled her out of the dead-end Maine promised for her future. But Kari’s past turns out to be hard to escape. When her last living relative spirals out of control, Kari gives up everything to save him.
Leaving her position as partner in a prestigious Manhattan law firm, Kari struggles to build a new law practice in Maine. Unfortunately, her name means nothing in Portland—nothing good. The Sharpe family curse is a shackle she can’t shake as she grapples with her brother’s addiction.
When a string of brutal murders rocks the coastal city, Kari is called upon by the navy for help. A sailor stationed on board a newly built ship at the famed Bath Iron Works shipyard is accused of murdering a local woman. The city is up in arms, demanding the sailor’s conviction. Adding fuel to the fire, her client is the son of Somali immigrants. Kari digs in for the fight of her life to prove he’s innocent…and deliver justice. Now she doesn’t know if she will ever leave Maine.
315 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 26, 2025
229 people are currently reading
3628 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews
August 25, 2025
I’m drawn to books with justice as a prevailing theme. This debut offering shines because of the author’s legal career, as well as the book’s suspenseful narrative, attention to detail, complex characters and insightful exploration of the legal system. While the pacing may have been off in places, the balance between the plausibility and the suspense was well done. I took this one slowly as it’s not a genre I often read. I knew that this was to be the first of a new series, Kari Sharpe Thrillers, and I wanted to give it the attention it deserved. The first book in a series requires readers to unpack so much and I didn’t want to miss anything. I was rewarded with not only a great opportunity to explore justice, morality and human emotion, but also the space to notice the author’s multifaceted protagonist and the moral dilemma she pondered.
If you are looking for something a little different and well-written in the legal thriller genre, this one needs to be on your list.
I was gifted this copy by Thomas & Mercer and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
If you are looking for something a little different and well-written in the legal thriller genre, this one needs to be on your list.
I was gifted this copy by Thomas & Mercer and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
September 14, 2025
Adrift hooked me right from the start. I really enjoyed the mystery at the heart of the story and how strongly it was tied to the Navy. As a Sailor myself, I appreciated the level of detail in the naval connections—it added a layer of realism that made the stakes feel personal and believable. Kari Sharpe is a compelling lead, and I liked seeing her navigate not only a difficult legal case but also the challenges of her own family struggles. As a teenager, I watched the show JAG religiously - and the connection that Kari had to the JAG corps had me really invested in this storyline.
The pacing was solid, with plenty of tension to keep me turning the pages. I also thought the setting in Maine, with its shipyard backdrop, added a gritty authenticity that fit the story perfectly. I liked how the chapters were kept pretty short, and I was surprised that I wasn’t upset that the mystery became predictable towards the ending.
If I had to nitpick, there were a few moments where I wished the secondary characters had been fleshed out a bit more, since they had so much potential. Still, the combination of mystery, legal drama, and naval themes made this an engaging read.
I’m looking forward to seeing where Kari Sharpe’s story goes next.
The pacing was solid, with plenty of tension to keep me turning the pages. I also thought the setting in Maine, with its shipyard backdrop, added a gritty authenticity that fit the story perfectly. I liked how the chapters were kept pretty short, and I was surprised that I wasn’t upset that the mystery became predictable towards the ending.
If I had to nitpick, there were a few moments where I wished the secondary characters had been fleshed out a bit more, since they had so much potential. Still, the combination of mystery, legal drama, and naval themes made this an engaging read.
I’m looking forward to seeing where Kari Sharpe’s story goes next.
August 31, 2025
Kari leaves an NYC law firm to open her own practice in her Maine hometown. As a former naval officer (JAG), she’s called in when the police want to question a navy man about an old woman found dead. The young man is a first-generation Mainer (his parents came from Somalia), and we see the racism from some of the rush-to-judgement locals including some of the local cops. Kari’s family has had to deal with unsympathetic officers in the past, so this fight becomes personal for her as well. There’s a good mystery at the heart of the book, along with moments of tension. Well-narrated audiobook. I will listen to/read more by this author, and in this series, provided the author continues to concoct additional high-stakes cases.
My thanks to the author, publisher, @BrillianceAudio, and #NetGalley for access to the audiobook of#ADrift for review purposes. It is available now.
My thanks to the author, publisher, @BrillianceAudio, and #NetGalley for access to the audiobook of#ADrift for review purposes. It is available now.
August 30, 2025
Adrift is a fantastic debut thriller from K.T. Konkoly. The book grabbed me from the beginning and kept me hooked throughout. Kari Sharpe is a lawyer who made partner at a big firm in New York. Why then is she headed back to her hometown of Portland, Maine to open her own small practice? Kari's family has a sorted past in town with problems related to alcohol and drugs. The Sharpe's are not thought well of in town and Kari hasn't missed the way people treat her once they know who she's related to. Her parents are both dead as is one of her brothers. Jimmy, the only family she has left, is getting out of rehab and Kari wants to be around for him. Her brother, Jimmy, has been in rehab before and it only lasted a short while. Kari is hoping with her in town to keep an eye on him, that this time will be different. Jimmy is an alcoholic and gets into lots of trouble when he drinks.
Soon after Kari moves back, there are several murders that take place. Kari started her law career in the Navy JAG Corps and she gets a call from them to meet with a sailor stationed on board a ship in Portland. The police are there and want to meet with him, but the Navy wants Kari to speak with him first. The young man is the son of Somalia immigrants and that is making things worse for him in Maine. Kari believes he's innocent and does her best to represent him after he's arrested. This case will bring up a lot of bad memories from Kari's past involving the police and her family. Getting her client's family to trust her is another hurdle she must take on. Will Jimmy be able to stay sober and not get on the police's radar? Will Keri be able to solve the case of the young sailor and get justice for the murdered people? Adrift is a great read and I rate it 5 stars with my highest recommendation. If you love a good murder mystery don't miss this book! I'd like to thank NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer for an advanced copy of Adrift in exchange for a fair review. #Adrift
Soon after Kari moves back, there are several murders that take place. Kari started her law career in the Navy JAG Corps and she gets a call from them to meet with a sailor stationed on board a ship in Portland. The police are there and want to meet with him, but the Navy wants Kari to speak with him first. The young man is the son of Somalia immigrants and that is making things worse for him in Maine. Kari believes he's innocent and does her best to represent him after he's arrested. This case will bring up a lot of bad memories from Kari's past involving the police and her family. Getting her client's family to trust her is another hurdle she must take on. Will Jimmy be able to stay sober and not get on the police's radar? Will Keri be able to solve the case of the young sailor and get justice for the murdered people? Adrift is a great read and I rate it 5 stars with my highest recommendation. If you love a good murder mystery don't miss this book! I'd like to thank NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer for an advanced copy of Adrift in exchange for a fair review. #Adrift
August 16, 2025
Adrift Kari by K.T. Konkoly is a debut legal thriller, and it's the first book in the Kari Sharpe series.
Kari Sharpe, a determined young lawyer, leaves her successful New York City practice to return to her hometown in Maine to help her troubled brother. Kari never anticipated going back to Maine, especially with her brother struggling with addiction. As she tries to establish a new law practice in a city where her family name carries a negative reputation, she is confronted by her past.
When a series of brutal murders rocks the coastal town, Kari is called by the Navy to defend a sailor accused of one of the crimes. Tensions rise as the city demands justice, and Kari must fight to prove her client's innocence, especially as he is the son of Somali immigrants.
Drawing from her experiences as a Navy and private practice lawyer, Konkoly creates a thrilling story filled with action and heart. As Kari confronts her family's legacy and battles to clear the sailor's name, she navigates a complex web of tragedy and hope.
I'm wondering if I read the same book as everyone else. The struggle was real! I usually finish a book a day on average, but this one took me four days to get through. I couldn't get into it at all. If it weren't an ARC, I probably would have put it down.
Typically, I’m generous with my ratings, but I can only give this one two stars because I managed to finish it. However, I want to emphasise that my opinion shouldn't influence yours; many readers have rated this book with 5 stars!
Kari Sharpe, a determined young lawyer, leaves her successful New York City practice to return to her hometown in Maine to help her troubled brother. Kari never anticipated going back to Maine, especially with her brother struggling with addiction. As she tries to establish a new law practice in a city where her family name carries a negative reputation, she is confronted by her past.
When a series of brutal murders rocks the coastal town, Kari is called by the Navy to defend a sailor accused of one of the crimes. Tensions rise as the city demands justice, and Kari must fight to prove her client's innocence, especially as he is the son of Somali immigrants.
Drawing from her experiences as a Navy and private practice lawyer, Konkoly creates a thrilling story filled with action and heart. As Kari confronts her family's legacy and battles to clear the sailor's name, she navigates a complex web of tragedy and hope.
I'm wondering if I read the same book as everyone else. The struggle was real! I usually finish a book a day on average, but this one took me four days to get through. I couldn't get into it at all. If it weren't an ARC, I probably would have put it down.
Typically, I’m generous with my ratings, but I can only give this one two stars because I managed to finish it. However, I want to emphasise that my opinion shouldn't influence yours; many readers have rated this book with 5 stars!
August 25, 2025
Sometimes when you run away you discover you're on a looped track. Kari Sharpe did everything she could to shed the place she grew up, shake the habits that gripped her family, and leave the stigma that came attached to her last name. She turns Sharpe into something respectable with a successful JAG career and position in New York's legal system. Or she would, if her brother wasn't plagued with an addiction and spiraling.
Being back in Maine does bring a few opportunities. Kari is able to connect with the very few people who she'd consider a friend. This includes a man who once watched over the orphans who now works for her firm with his PI skills. She gets to see flashes of the brother she loves. Using her savings from her plush city job, she's able to establish her new firm in a key location and keep it's head skimming above water. Now the military's call to represent one of their sailors could be the start of a new lucrative clientele resource.
She also has to put up with is remaining professional while face-to-face with one of her brother's biggest bullies. Her guts says her client is innocent but withholding key information. Her brother's mistakes get slathered onto her reputation. The prosecutor she's up against is malicious and incompetent with a double dose of empowerment fueled by local racism. Oh, and she very well could be entangled with other highly publicized crimes. It's been a week, we'll say.
Two things initially drew me to this book. It is set in my home state and it has the key word of legal attached to thriller. These will always catch my eye and more than note end up disappointing me no matter how optimistic I am. So it only feels right to start by these two things I was not let down.
“Adrift” is set in a different part of the state than myself. Regardless it captures parts of the environment and social climate in ways that have nothing to do with the beauty of the state. The synopsis and initial leads may emphasize the racism facing the client. Many novels in 'rural' areas seem to be on a rampage against tourists. These common themes are thankfully handled with much more nuance. All of these feel like a treat from the usual fare.
Portland, by state standards, is anything but the cozy vacation hideaway often depicted. People from all regions are drawn there. This diversity of influences create a region with a variety of attitudes while maintaining a recognizable state wide small knit community vibe despite the sea of people. A broad sample variety of sub-communities that are more inductive of personal philosophies also get highlighted. Public opinion isn't the only thing influenced by this. The author weaves in information about different industries in a way that feels intentional and contributes to the narrative. Friction between interdepartmental and industry also gets wedged in. That will either be loved or seen as a drag depending on reader preferences.
Most people are coming here for the puzzle, not these niche details. As to how engrossed a reader is and how they receive the story is heavily going to depend on their expectations. If you are coming in for a high stakes, fast paced, massively intricately devised, psychological twister you are going to be severely disappointed. It doesn't mean this book failed for me in this genre. Those other things just that those things are not part of the ambience.
This book takes on 2.5 jobs. It is an introduction to a broader series. A good portion of this story is dedicated to Kari's past and her relationships with those around her. This might slow down the plot for some readers and, admittedly, there were a couple parts that seemed a little repetitive in this regard. The other larger chunk is the crime to be solved. I give it the .5 because this is one of the few books I've encountered so far that really takes the legal part to heart.
Kari is not another 'woman who takes unduly risky investigating into her own hands and just happens to have to deal with a climatic trial or some paperwork' protagonist. For the most part, considering this broader genre staple, she displays a refreshingly unusual sense of self preservation. The connection between the legal system and its pitfalls gives Kari plausible roads to navigate and work through the mystery in a way that felt relevant to her job as a defender. Her actions may have pushed the envelope in what one or their proxy might do, but they never felt like outlandish leaps.
There are parts about the resolution that may feel a little anticlimactic or cliché. That factored little into my overall enjoyment. The story had become just as much or more about the process she followed, the feel of the community, and the shifts in Kari's life. I was more concerned about her client and how she connected the dots than actually unraveling the ins and outs of the crime. I loved the depiction of the diversity within Somali and other immigrant communities supporting them and their relationship with the 'local' population. It echoes with showing how tight and supportive the fishing community is. Or add on one more step, the military and the broader criminal justice system.
I thoroughly enjoyed Adrift for the sum of its parts. While this style may not be for everyone, I cannot wait to see what the next part of the Sharpe journey looks like. Thank you so much to Brilliance Publishing and Netgalley for this ARC review. It was a delight.
Being back in Maine does bring a few opportunities. Kari is able to connect with the very few people who she'd consider a friend. This includes a man who once watched over the orphans who now works for her firm with his PI skills. She gets to see flashes of the brother she loves. Using her savings from her plush city job, she's able to establish her new firm in a key location and keep it's head skimming above water. Now the military's call to represent one of their sailors could be the start of a new lucrative clientele resource.
She also has to put up with is remaining professional while face-to-face with one of her brother's biggest bullies. Her guts says her client is innocent but withholding key information. Her brother's mistakes get slathered onto her reputation. The prosecutor she's up against is malicious and incompetent with a double dose of empowerment fueled by local racism. Oh, and she very well could be entangled with other highly publicized crimes. It's been a week, we'll say.
Two things initially drew me to this book. It is set in my home state and it has the key word of legal attached to thriller. These will always catch my eye and more than note end up disappointing me no matter how optimistic I am. So it only feels right to start by these two things I was not let down.
“Adrift” is set in a different part of the state than myself. Regardless it captures parts of the environment and social climate in ways that have nothing to do with the beauty of the state. The synopsis and initial leads may emphasize the racism facing the client. Many novels in 'rural' areas seem to be on a rampage against tourists. These common themes are thankfully handled with much more nuance. All of these feel like a treat from the usual fare.
Portland, by state standards, is anything but the cozy vacation hideaway often depicted. People from all regions are drawn there. This diversity of influences create a region with a variety of attitudes while maintaining a recognizable state wide small knit community vibe despite the sea of people. A broad sample variety of sub-communities that are more inductive of personal philosophies also get highlighted. Public opinion isn't the only thing influenced by this. The author weaves in information about different industries in a way that feels intentional and contributes to the narrative. Friction between interdepartmental and industry also gets wedged in. That will either be loved or seen as a drag depending on reader preferences.
Most people are coming here for the puzzle, not these niche details. As to how engrossed a reader is and how they receive the story is heavily going to depend on their expectations. If you are coming in for a high stakes, fast paced, massively intricately devised, psychological twister you are going to be severely disappointed. It doesn't mean this book failed for me in this genre. Those other things just that those things are not part of the ambience.
This book takes on 2.5 jobs. It is an introduction to a broader series. A good portion of this story is dedicated to Kari's past and her relationships with those around her. This might slow down the plot for some readers and, admittedly, there were a couple parts that seemed a little repetitive in this regard. The other larger chunk is the crime to be solved. I give it the .5 because this is one of the few books I've encountered so far that really takes the legal part to heart.
Kari is not another 'woman who takes unduly risky investigating into her own hands and just happens to have to deal with a climatic trial or some paperwork' protagonist. For the most part, considering this broader genre staple, she displays a refreshingly unusual sense of self preservation. The connection between the legal system and its pitfalls gives Kari plausible roads to navigate and work through the mystery in a way that felt relevant to her job as a defender. Her actions may have pushed the envelope in what one or their proxy might do, but they never felt like outlandish leaps.
There are parts about the resolution that may feel a little anticlimactic or cliché. That factored little into my overall enjoyment. The story had become just as much or more about the process she followed, the feel of the community, and the shifts in Kari's life. I was more concerned about her client and how she connected the dots than actually unraveling the ins and outs of the crime. I loved the depiction of the diversity within Somali and other immigrant communities supporting them and their relationship with the 'local' population. It echoes with showing how tight and supportive the fishing community is. Or add on one more step, the military and the broader criminal justice system.
I thoroughly enjoyed Adrift for the sum of its parts. While this style may not be for everyone, I cannot wait to see what the next part of the Sharpe journey looks like. Thank you so much to Brilliance Publishing and Netgalley for this ARC review. It was a delight.
August 25, 2025
I’ve been on a Suspense Thriller reading kick lately. Adrift is more of a James Patterson law thriller from the past that I used to read, mixed with A Few Good Men. I liked that vibe. The story and characters do take some time to develop as everything gets pieced together, but it was entertaining overall.
𝘛𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘬 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘵𝘰 𝘈𝘮𝘢𝘻𝘰𝘯 𝘗𝘶𝘣𝘭𝘪𝘴𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘊𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘵𝘰𝘳 𝘗𝘳𝘰𝘨𝘳𝘢𝘮 𝘛𝘦𝘢𝘮 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘨𝘪𝘧𝘵𝘦𝘥 𝘦-𝘤𝘰𝘱𝘺. 𝘐 𝘢𝘮 𝘭𝘦𝘢𝘷𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘳𝘦𝘷𝘪𝘦𝘸 𝘷𝘰𝘭𝘶𝘯𝘵𝘢𝘳𝘪𝘭𝘺.
𝘛𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘬 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘵𝘰 𝘈𝘮𝘢𝘻𝘰𝘯 𝘗𝘶𝘣𝘭𝘪𝘴𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘊𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘵𝘰𝘳 𝘗𝘳𝘰𝘨𝘳𝘢𝘮 𝘛𝘦𝘢𝘮 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘨𝘪𝘧𝘵𝘦𝘥 𝘦-𝘤𝘰𝘱𝘺. 𝘐 𝘢𝘮 𝘭𝘦𝘢𝘷𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘳𝘦𝘷𝘪𝘦𝘸 𝘷𝘰𝘭𝘶𝘯𝘵𝘢𝘳𝘪𝘭𝘺.
August 23, 2025
4 star ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️thriller debut novel! I really enjoyed the storyline and narration on the audible arc from Brilliane Publishing. Lobster boats. Messy small town antics. Navy lawyer with a messy past. Family drama. Murder. This one has it all. Thanks to NetGalley for the early audible arc.
June 22, 2025
This book was the amazing! From chapter 1 I was hooked! The main character leaves her life behind in NY to help care for her brother back in their home town. While there was 3 murders. And a person in the Navy was blamed for one of those murders. However; she knows he's innocent and needs to prove it. Now I dont want to give away and spoilers. But does she prove his innocence?. Or does she run out of time and now a potential innocent man is in jail? Or did she realize he's connected to all 3 murders? Time for you to read and find out. Happy reading.
September 25, 2025
A compelling story!
The novel boasts meticulously developed characters that leap off the page, complemented by a compelling and well-structured narrative. The author's skillful storytelling ensures that readers remain thoroughly engaged from the first page to the last, with no moments of narrative stagnation or tedious passages. Each chapter flows seamlessly into the next, maintaining a perfect balance of suspense, character development, and plot progression that keeps readers eagerly turning pages.
The novel boasts meticulously developed characters that leap off the page, complemented by a compelling and well-structured narrative. The author's skillful storytelling ensures that readers remain thoroughly engaged from the first page to the last, with no moments of narrative stagnation or tedious passages. Each chapter flows seamlessly into the next, maintaining a perfect balance of suspense, character development, and plot progression that keeps readers eagerly turning pages.
August 24, 2025
This is the debut novel by K.T. Konkoly and it reads like a seasoned writer with nuanced character development and quick moving plot lines.
Our main character Kari Sharpe returns home to help her older brother who has succumbed to making bad decisions while drinking. The family history includes losing her other brother and parents to addiction. She’s a successful lawyer that did tours as a JAG lawyer in the Navy. I wish the reasons that Kari returned to Maine were explored more because she could have stayed in NY and provided the necessary support from there since he was in A treatment facility. The story opens with a couple who are murdered on their boat and their murder remains unsolved as a third woman is discovered murdered. This leads to pressure by higher levels in the community to demand swift closure. The rush to make the public feel there isn’t a killer among them, a black serviceman is arrested.
I really enjoyed the capabilities that the author gave her main female character. Sometimes we get smart but completely oblivious. Kari is written strong and aware. One little head scratcher is that all of her family members have addictions and she still drinks (occasionally) which I didn’t expect. I also felt that certain characters were written as possibly corrupt but make a turn towards redemption in the end. Perhaps this is the writers way of keeping the reader on their toes so that nobody is portrayed as all bad or all good.
Audiobook narration is fantastic weaving in and out of Maine accents perfectly! Loved it!
Our main character Kari Sharpe returns home to help her older brother who has succumbed to making bad decisions while drinking. The family history includes losing her other brother and parents to addiction. She’s a successful lawyer that did tours as a JAG lawyer in the Navy. I wish the reasons that Kari returned to Maine were explored more because she could have stayed in NY and provided the necessary support from there since he was in A treatment facility. The story opens with a couple who are murdered on their boat and their murder remains unsolved as a third woman is discovered murdered. This leads to pressure by higher levels in the community to demand swift closure. The rush to make the public feel there isn’t a killer among them, a black serviceman is arrested.
I really enjoyed the capabilities that the author gave her main female character. Sometimes we get smart but completely oblivious. Kari is written strong and aware. One little head scratcher is that all of her family members have addictions and she still drinks (occasionally) which I didn’t expect. I also felt that certain characters were written as possibly corrupt but make a turn towards redemption in the end. Perhaps this is the writers way of keeping the reader on their toes so that nobody is portrayed as all bad or all good.
Audiobook narration is fantastic weaving in and out of Maine accents perfectly! Loved it!
August 21, 2025
First off... huge thanks to Brilliance Publishing and NetGalley for the audiobook ARC!
I was honestly surprised this was a debut. The writing is solid and it’s a strong-ish start for what looks to be the beginning of a new series. The setup is intriguing: Kari Sharpe, a tough lawyer, returns home to Maine to keep an eye on her brother who’s struggling with addiction. But because of her family’s reputation, her last name carries more baggage than prestige, and she struggles to get clients and build her practice.
When the Navy pulls her in to defend a young sailor accused of murder, it feels like the story is about to explode into a high-stakes legal thriller. And while I did like the way the author touched on themes of racism, skin color, and religion, I have to admit that much of the middle section kinda lost steam for me. The tension dipped and it didn’t grip me the way I expected after such a strong setup. I kept expecting big twists, or at least some sharp turns in the investigation where I’d second-guess suspects.
That being said, I think the bones of a great series are here. Kari is an interesting character with plenty of room to grow, and the Maine setting (plus the Navy/legal angle) gives this series a lot of potential. For a debut, it’s well-written and I’ll be curious to see where the author takes Kari Sharpe next.
⭐ 3.5 stars for me. Not bad at all for a debut, but I’m hoping book two tightens up the suspense and pacing.
I was honestly surprised this was a debut. The writing is solid and it’s a strong-ish start for what looks to be the beginning of a new series. The setup is intriguing: Kari Sharpe, a tough lawyer, returns home to Maine to keep an eye on her brother who’s struggling with addiction. But because of her family’s reputation, her last name carries more baggage than prestige, and she struggles to get clients and build her practice.
When the Navy pulls her in to defend a young sailor accused of murder, it feels like the story is about to explode into a high-stakes legal thriller. And while I did like the way the author touched on themes of racism, skin color, and religion, I have to admit that much of the middle section kinda lost steam for me. The tension dipped and it didn’t grip me the way I expected after such a strong setup. I kept expecting big twists, or at least some sharp turns in the investigation where I’d second-guess suspects.
That being said, I think the bones of a great series are here. Kari is an interesting character with plenty of room to grow, and the Maine setting (plus the Navy/legal angle) gives this series a lot of potential. For a debut, it’s well-written and I’ll be curious to see where the author takes Kari Sharpe next.
⭐ 3.5 stars for me. Not bad at all for a debut, but I’m hoping book two tightens up the suspense and pacing.
November 2, 2025
This one pulled me in fast. I’m not usually big on legal thrillers, but the Navy angle and the main character, Kari Sharpe, had me hooked early on. You can tell the author knows their stuff. The military and courtroom details felt authentic without being overwhelming, which I really appreciated.
The pacing was smooth, and the short chapters made it easy to stay engaged. Even when I started to see where the mystery was heading, I was still invested in watching it all play out. Kari’s personal life and moral struggles added an emotional weight that made the story more than just solving a case.
My only gripe? I wanted a bit more depth from some of the side characters, especially with how much potential they had. But overall, this is a solid start to a new series. If you like legal drama with a military twist and a smart, layered lead, this one’s worth checking out. Looking forward to book two.
Thank you NetGalley, Brilliance Publishing and Brilliance Audio for the ALC and ARC in exchange for my honest review.
The pacing was smooth, and the short chapters made it easy to stay engaged. Even when I started to see where the mystery was heading, I was still invested in watching it all play out. Kari’s personal life and moral struggles added an emotional weight that made the story more than just solving a case.
My only gripe? I wanted a bit more depth from some of the side characters, especially with how much potential they had. But overall, this is a solid start to a new series. If you like legal drama with a military twist and a smart, layered lead, this one’s worth checking out. Looking forward to book two.
Thank you NetGalley, Brilliance Publishing and Brilliance Audio for the ALC and ARC in exchange for my honest review.
August 27, 2025
Many thanks to NetGalley and Brilliance Publishing for the free audiobook in exchange for my honest review. Gail Shalan does a FANTASTIC job on this and I LOVED the Maine accents!!! She nailed it!
If this is the author's debut novel, she will be on my auto buy list! I so enjoyed this fast paced story thats action packed and full of so many threads that came together in the end!
Kari Sharpe got out of her miserable home life in Maine and made something of herself. After being a JAG officer in the Navy, she begrudgingly returns home to help her alcoholic brother stay on the straight and narrow. But while she is back home there are 3 murders. The Navy reaches out to ask her to represent one man who may be responsible or involved in all 3.
The writing is top notch and I was hooked from the first chapter. The narration was fantastic, especially the Maine accent. There are a lot of characters but the narrator made the story immersive. Loved it!!!
If this is the author's debut novel, she will be on my auto buy list! I so enjoyed this fast paced story thats action packed and full of so many threads that came together in the end!
Kari Sharpe got out of her miserable home life in Maine and made something of herself. After being a JAG officer in the Navy, she begrudgingly returns home to help her alcoholic brother stay on the straight and narrow. But while she is back home there are 3 murders. The Navy reaches out to ask her to represent one man who may be responsible or involved in all 3.
The writing is top notch and I was hooked from the first chapter. The narration was fantastic, especially the Maine accent. There are a lot of characters but the narrator made the story immersive. Loved it!!!
July 27, 2025
Adrift is a legal thriller, which is different from my usual reads, but I couldn’t put it down. While it is told in third-person omniscient with multiple POVs, it was so easy to follow and full of suspense. I loved the main character, Kari Sharpe. She is a former Navy JAG turned private attorney—who returns home to Maine to assist her brother who is struggling with his sobriety. Kari takes on a case that involves a sailor being wrongly accused for a murder. The story blends legal drama, family tension, racial injustice, and emotional depth perfectly. I loved the growth within the characters and their relationships. Highly recommend if you love a layered, character-driven story with a strong female lead!
August 22, 2025
Intriguing legal thriller with some very important discussion points and areas of interest.
I like how the author touched on not only the obligations of the MC and her profession, but also Kari’s family struggles and reasons for leaving her very fabulous life in NYC. Maine provides to be very different in terms of caseload but she also has some serious demons to work through with her brother and past.
The high-stakes murder involving the Navy and themes of racism and xenophobia towards the suspect were highlighted. I was truly pulled in and got a bit lost half way but the book came back around by the end. This is going to be a great series.
Ps I also always loved the LL Bean catalogue.
Thanks NetGalley for the ARC!
I like how the author touched on not only the obligations of the MC and her profession, but also Kari’s family struggles and reasons for leaving her very fabulous life in NYC. Maine provides to be very different in terms of caseload but she also has some serious demons to work through with her brother and past.
The high-stakes murder involving the Navy and themes of racism and xenophobia towards the suspect were highlighted. I was truly pulled in and got a bit lost half way but the book came back around by the end. This is going to be a great series.
Ps I also always loved the LL Bean catalogue.
Thanks NetGalley for the ARC!
August 21, 2025
Adrift by K. T. Konkoly is a gripping start to the Kari Sharpe Thrillers. The legal twists and turns kept me on the edge of my seat, and I was fully engaged from beginning to end. The Maine setting added a wonderful atmosphere—especially enjoyable since it's one of my favorite states. I can’t wait for the next installment in the series!
Gail Shalan’s narration was outstanding. Her use of accents and distinct voices brought the characters to life and made the story even more immersive.
I can’t wait for the next installment in this series!
Thank you to NetGalley & Brilliance Publishing for letting me read this ARC.
Gail Shalan’s narration was outstanding. Her use of accents and distinct voices brought the characters to life and made the story even more immersive.
I can’t wait for the next installment in this series!
Thank you to NetGalley & Brilliance Publishing for letting me read this ARC.
August 25, 2025
A string of murders on the coast of Maine bring former JAG attorney Kari Sharpe in to defend a sailor accused of one of the murders. When it becomes obvious that he did not do it, Kari starts investigating what is really going on.
An excellent book, and a great start to a series. Kari's back story is so important to her character, and other characters were well-developed as well. I loved the brief glimpses we got into the criminals' thoughts and actions. I am curious to see if Detective Clark will continue in the remainder of the series as well. Looking forward to the next book in the series.
I received an ARC of this audiobook from #NetGalley
An excellent book, and a great start to a series. Kari's back story is so important to her character, and other characters were well-developed as well. I loved the brief glimpses we got into the criminals' thoughts and actions. I am curious to see if Detective Clark will continue in the remainder of the series as well. Looking forward to the next book in the series.
I received an ARC of this audiobook from #NetGalley
October 19, 2025
Adrift by K.T. Konkoly
A Kari Sharpe Thriller
~ Gripping prologue with gruesome murders grabbed my attention though they were not the main case to be solved ~ Great introduction to a new series ~
What I liked:
* Reading the debut novel of a new author
* Kari Sharpe: difficult backstory, survivor, ex-Lieutenant Commander JAG, supportive, has a temper, establishing her new practice in Maine, meticulous, seems to be a bit of a loner and I wonder why, impulsive, strong, does her best for her clients
* Jimmy Sharpe: Kari’s older brother, lobsterman, alcoholic, loves his sister, protective, has potential if he can get his act together
* Ruth: Kari’s excellent receptionist and paralegal, husband is retired, may have children, seems to be happier at work than at home
* Mack: ex-police, private investigator, was there for the Sharpe children when they lost their parents, divorced, interested in Ruth
* Youseff Ahmed: Navy Petty Officer First Class, arrested for killing Irene Simmons, loves his family, good person, claims innocence
* Youseff’s family: parents immigrated from Somalia before Youseff was born, business owners, well known, parents want the best for their son and daughter
* The plot, pacing, setting, and writing
* Being able to hate the bad guys and hope they’d be caught
* That everything was tied up without loose threads by the end of the story.
What I didn’t like:
* Who and what I was meant not to like
* Thinking about how easily evil acts were committed and the impact on those left behind
* Never finding out what happened to the owner of the boat that the Bakers were using
* Finding it difficult to warm up to and “know” Kari though I am sure that as the series progresses that will change
Did I like this book? Yes
Would I read more in this series? Yes
Thank you to NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer for the ARC – This is my honest review.
4 Stars
A Kari Sharpe Thriller
~ Gripping prologue with gruesome murders grabbed my attention though they were not the main case to be solved ~ Great introduction to a new series ~
What I liked:
* Reading the debut novel of a new author
* Kari Sharpe: difficult backstory, survivor, ex-Lieutenant Commander JAG, supportive, has a temper, establishing her new practice in Maine, meticulous, seems to be a bit of a loner and I wonder why, impulsive, strong, does her best for her clients
* Jimmy Sharpe: Kari’s older brother, lobsterman, alcoholic, loves his sister, protective, has potential if he can get his act together
* Ruth: Kari’s excellent receptionist and paralegal, husband is retired, may have children, seems to be happier at work than at home
* Mack: ex-police, private investigator, was there for the Sharpe children when they lost their parents, divorced, interested in Ruth
* Youseff Ahmed: Navy Petty Officer First Class, arrested for killing Irene Simmons, loves his family, good person, claims innocence
* Youseff’s family: parents immigrated from Somalia before Youseff was born, business owners, well known, parents want the best for their son and daughter
* The plot, pacing, setting, and writing
* Being able to hate the bad guys and hope they’d be caught
* That everything was tied up without loose threads by the end of the story.
What I didn’t like:
* Who and what I was meant not to like
* Thinking about how easily evil acts were committed and the impact on those left behind
* Never finding out what happened to the owner of the boat that the Bakers were using
* Finding it difficult to warm up to and “know” Kari though I am sure that as the series progresses that will change
Did I like this book? Yes
Would I read more in this series? Yes
Thank you to NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer for the ARC – This is my honest review.
4 Stars
August 22, 2025
K.T. Konkoly’s debut novel was a good legal thriller. Looking into complications of small towns and families while investigating a murder and freeing an innocent man. The story comes together well.
Kari Sharpe never expected to return to Maine. Law school and the Navy JAG Corps pulled her out of the dead-end Maine promised for her future. But Kari’s past turns out to be hard to escape. When her last living relative spirals out of control, Kari gives up everything to save him.
Leaving her position as partner in a prestigious Manhattan law firm, Kari struggles to build a new law practice in Maine. Unfortunately, her name means nothing in Portland—nothing good. The Sharpe family curse is a shackle she can’t shake as she grapples with her brother’s addiction.
When a string of brutal murders rocks the coastal city, Kari is called upon by the navy for help. A sailor stationed on board a newly built ship at the famed Bath Iron Works shipyard is accused of murdering a local woman. The city is up in arms, demanding the sailor’s conviction. Adding fuel to the fire, her client is the son of Somali immigrants. Kari digs in for the fight of her life to prove he’s innocent…and deliver justice. Now she doesn’t know if she will ever leave Maine
Kari Sharpe never expected to return to Maine. Law school and the Navy JAG Corps pulled her out of the dead-end Maine promised for her future. But Kari’s past turns out to be hard to escape. When her last living relative spirals out of control, Kari gives up everything to save him.
Leaving her position as partner in a prestigious Manhattan law firm, Kari struggles to build a new law practice in Maine. Unfortunately, her name means nothing in Portland—nothing good. The Sharpe family curse is a shackle she can’t shake as she grapples with her brother’s addiction.
When a string of brutal murders rocks the coastal city, Kari is called upon by the navy for help. A sailor stationed on board a newly built ship at the famed Bath Iron Works shipyard is accused of murdering a local woman. The city is up in arms, demanding the sailor’s conviction. Adding fuel to the fire, her client is the son of Somali immigrants. Kari digs in for the fight of her life to prove he’s innocent…and deliver justice. Now she doesn’t know if she will ever leave Maine
July 31, 2025
Incredible debut from K.T. Konkoly! Whenever I hear it's an author's first book, I come in with no expectations - suffice it to say, this debut effort was well-worth taking a chance on thanks to NetGalley.
Drawing on her experience as both a Navy and private practice lawyer in Maine, Konkoly crafts a thriller with both action and heart. Kari Sharpe has overcome her background and thrived outside her hometown while in the Big Apple, only to find herself back in Portland to build a practice while revisiting demons from her past. With a cast of supporting characters that both frustrate and give you hope, she takes on a seemingly impossible task to represent a navy man accused of murder. Getting to the bottom of it requires all her skills and an opportunity to make peace with those demons while doing so. I was intrigued and enjoyed this one all the way through to the satisfying conclusion.
K.T. Konkoly proves that, along with her husband Steven, there are two excellent writers in their household! I'm very much looking forward to volume 2 down the road.
Drawing on her experience as both a Navy and private practice lawyer in Maine, Konkoly crafts a thriller with both action and heart. Kari Sharpe has overcome her background and thrived outside her hometown while in the Big Apple, only to find herself back in Portland to build a practice while revisiting demons from her past. With a cast of supporting characters that both frustrate and give you hope, she takes on a seemingly impossible task to represent a navy man accused of murder. Getting to the bottom of it requires all her skills and an opportunity to make peace with those demons while doing so. I was intrigued and enjoyed this one all the way through to the satisfying conclusion.
K.T. Konkoly proves that, along with her husband Steven, there are two excellent writers in their household! I'm very much looking forward to volume 2 down the road.
September 2, 2025
⭐ Book Rating: 3/5
Adrift had an interesting premise and definitely gave me that classic legal thriller vibe, which I appreciated. I liked the mix of courtroom drama, small-town tension, and the way Kari’s messy family history played into the story. It took a while to find its rhythm, though, and the pacing in the beginning made it a little hard to stay engaged. I can say, I did put this book down a few times and pick it back up to finish it in between books. It did not keep my attention from the start.
Kari, as a character, was ok; she was interesting enough to follow, but I felt like I never fully got to know her in depth here. We got a lot of background, but not enough about her now to feel truly connected. However, once the plot started to pick up, it became more interesting and had me connected enough to finish.
Overall, this wasn't a high hit for me, but it showed some good elements of a thriller. If you enjoy legal plots that have a big focus on courtroom elements and a flawed MC that shows a lot of determination, this might still be worth picking up.
Adrift had an interesting premise and definitely gave me that classic legal thriller vibe, which I appreciated. I liked the mix of courtroom drama, small-town tension, and the way Kari’s messy family history played into the story. It took a while to find its rhythm, though, and the pacing in the beginning made it a little hard to stay engaged. I can say, I did put this book down a few times and pick it back up to finish it in between books. It did not keep my attention from the start.
Kari, as a character, was ok; she was interesting enough to follow, but I felt like I never fully got to know her in depth here. We got a lot of background, but not enough about her now to feel truly connected. However, once the plot started to pick up, it became more interesting and had me connected enough to finish.
Overall, this wasn't a high hit for me, but it showed some good elements of a thriller. If you enjoy legal plots that have a big focus on courtroom elements and a flawed MC that shows a lot of determination, this might still be worth picking up.
September 5, 2025
This work is told from many, many POVs. While this started off working well, the number of POVs got a little unwieldy and began to water down the focus of the plot rather than enhance it. There are also many flashbacks incorporated, some less smoothly than others. Some of these flashbacks felt like they weren’t the most necessary to include and made things feel disjointed at times. Between these two things, any real tension or atmosphere was killed. It did get a bit more balanced near the end of the work, thankfully.
This mystery is quite slow. It’s also character-driven, which I did enjoy. I did feel like overall the whole thing was a bit anticlimactic with how long the journey was to get to that resolution. It did set up decently for a book two for Sharpe, and hopefully it will end up being a bit more balanced overall.
If you like police procedurals and slower mysteries, you may enjoy this one. My thanks to NetGalley and Brilliance Publishing for allowing me to read this work. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own.
This mystery is quite slow. It’s also character-driven, which I did enjoy. I did feel like overall the whole thing was a bit anticlimactic with how long the journey was to get to that resolution. It did set up decently for a book two for Sharpe, and hopefully it will end up being a bit more balanced overall.
If you like police procedurals and slower mysteries, you may enjoy this one. My thanks to NetGalley and Brilliance Publishing for allowing me to read this work. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own.
August 22, 2025
Kari Sharpe comes from a family of addicts. They are well known to law enforcement. But she broke they cycle and became a successful NYC attorney. Until she came back to help her brother who was struggling with alcoholism. She suddenly finds herself up against a detective she knew well- and she is certain he has arrested the wrong man. But can she prove it?
We got a lot of background on Kari, but it wasn't well rounded. There were facts, but I feel like I am still missing the whole picture.
This got better as it went on. Enough that I may check out book two. Had you asked me in the beginning, I would have said no way would I continue the series.
So, while not great, there is enough promise to pick up the next book.
Gail Shalan narrates.
I received an advance audio copy in exchange for an honest review.
We got a lot of background on Kari, but it wasn't well rounded. There were facts, but I feel like I am still missing the whole picture.
This got better as it went on. Enough that I may check out book two. Had you asked me in the beginning, I would have said no way would I continue the series.
So, while not great, there is enough promise to pick up the next book.
Gail Shalan narrates.
I received an advance audio copy in exchange for an honest review.
September 5, 2025
Terrific book!
I really enjoyed this book. The story line moved along very fast, the characters were engaging, particularly Kari, the female lead character. Kari, former Navy, is called upon to defend a Navy personnel for murder. She quickly becomes convinced of his innocence and starts to investigate the crime herself. Despite conflicts with local law enforcement, one of whom is a problem from her past, she puts herself in danger in order to free her client.
I liked her style, the way she interacted with Ahmed's family, and her support of her brother Jimmy. They both came from a horrible childhood but have survived and come out the other side stronger. Highly recommend. Looking forward to the next book in the series.
Thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this book, but my opinions are my own.
I really enjoyed this book. The story line moved along very fast, the characters were engaging, particularly Kari, the female lead character. Kari, former Navy, is called upon to defend a Navy personnel for murder. She quickly becomes convinced of his innocence and starts to investigate the crime herself. Despite conflicts with local law enforcement, one of whom is a problem from her past, she puts herself in danger in order to free her client.
I liked her style, the way she interacted with Ahmed's family, and her support of her brother Jimmy. They both came from a horrible childhood but have survived and come out the other side stronger. Highly recommend. Looking forward to the next book in the series.
Thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this book, but my opinions are my own.
August 20, 2025
I received an ARC from Amazon Publishing Creator Program, distributing through NetGalley in return for a fair review.
Adrift is book 1 in the Kari Sharpe Thriller Series. It’s considered a legal thriller.
It took me from May 28th until August 20 to finish this book. I had to force myself to finish. It was for me on a personal level. It was too slow paced and very anticlimactic. It missed the mark for me in the thriller category as well.
I am typically generous with my ratings, to be fair. And I had a hard time rating this one. After much consideration I settled with a 3 star because aside from my personal feelings I don’t feel like it was poorly written or anything like that. I just don’t think it was my cup of tea.
Adrift is book 1 in the Kari Sharpe Thriller Series. It’s considered a legal thriller.
It took me from May 28th until August 20 to finish this book. I had to force myself to finish. It was for me on a personal level. It was too slow paced and very anticlimactic. It missed the mark for me in the thriller category as well.
I am typically generous with my ratings, to be fair. And I had a hard time rating this one. After much consideration I settled with a 3 star because aside from my personal feelings I don’t feel like it was poorly written or anything like that. I just don’t think it was my cup of tea.
September 6, 2025
A good first novel. The naval aspects are interesting.
The novel felt a bit crowded to me, as there's a lot of input from the POV of many characters - more than I expected. I felt some of the more minor characters didn't need quite so much screen time, as it were.
I also felt the conflict between Kari and her brother Jimmy makes for a difficult background for the stories. Kari is in Maine out of a sense of duty, but is resentful about it. That's hard to manage and it's difficult to see it progressing or resolving. But, this is the start of a series so I guess it leaves plenty of room for room for development.
The novel felt a bit crowded to me, as there's a lot of input from the POV of many characters - more than I expected. I felt some of the more minor characters didn't need quite so much screen time, as it were.
I also felt the conflict between Kari and her brother Jimmy makes for a difficult background for the stories. Kari is in Maine out of a sense of duty, but is resentful about it. That's hard to manage and it's difficult to see it progressing or resolving. But, this is the start of a series so I guess it leaves plenty of room for room for development.
June 22, 2025
This book was the amazing! From chapter 1 I was hooked! The main character leaves her life behind in NY to help care for her brother back in their home town. While there was 3 murders. And a person in the Navy was blamed for one of those murders. However; she knows he's innocent and needs to prove it. Now I dont want to give away and spoilers. But does she prove his innocence?. Or does she run out of time and now a potential innocent man is in jail? Or did she realize he's connected to all 3 murders? Time for you to read and find out. Happy reading.
August 22, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC of Adrift by K T Konkoly. This debut legal thriller had me hooked from the start. Kari Sharpe, a former Navy JAG and Manhattan lawyer, returns to her hometown in Maine to defend a young sailor accused of murder. The mix of courtroom drama and small town tensions made for a compelling and well paced read.
The narration stood out for me, moving seamlessly between male and female voices and bringing real depth to the story. Kari is a strong yet relatable lead and I will be keen to follow her journey in the next book.
The narration stood out for me, moving seamlessly between male and female voices and bringing real depth to the story. Kari is a strong yet relatable lead and I will be keen to follow her journey in the next book.
October 18, 2025
Finishes well
This story starts off with a murder. It is slow in developing the theme🤷♀️. The only character I liked was Mack. Some main characters warmed up at the closing of the story. The main character,Kari, is a great lawyer but doesn’t have much warmth, probably because she had a cold cruel life. I enjoy the military influences. I bought this book because I am a huge fan of the authors spouse. He begged us to buy it😅 just kidding🤣 The series has lot of potential, I’ll read the next one😊
This story starts off with a murder. It is slow in developing the theme🤷♀️. The only character I liked was Mack. Some main characters warmed up at the closing of the story. The main character,Kari, is a great lawyer but doesn’t have much warmth, probably because she had a cold cruel life. I enjoy the military influences. I bought this book because I am a huge fan of the authors spouse. He begged us to buy it😅 just kidding🤣 The series has lot of potential, I’ll read the next one😊
Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews