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Eddie Flynn #8
Witness 8
This riveting psychological thriller from Steve Cavanagh, author of Kill for Me, Kill for You, asks: What if the witness was more dangerous than the killer?
Something is wrong with Ruby Johnson.
A former resident of the ultra-elite Manhattan upper class, Ruby now works as a maid in the type of houses she used to live in. Unassuming, she sees everyone’s dirty secrets from the inside of their beautiful, renovated brownstones. But when Ruby witnesses a murder, she has wicked plans in mind that don’t involve telling the authorities the truth.
Eddie Flynn, streetwise ex con-artist-turned-defense attorney, is the only lawyer in New York City willing to take on hopeless cases. And none is more hopeless than John Jackson’s—the gun that killed his neighbor found, with Jackson’s DNA, in his own home. Flynn and his unconventional team will need to use every trick they know to keep an innocent man from being locked up. But to save his client’s life, Eddie must first protect his own, as the scariest organized criminals in the city are out for his head.
Something is wrong with Ruby Johnson.
A former resident of the ultra-elite Manhattan upper class, Ruby now works as a maid in the type of houses she used to live in. Unassuming, she sees everyone’s dirty secrets from the inside of their beautiful, renovated brownstones. But when Ruby witnesses a murder, she has wicked plans in mind that don’t involve telling the authorities the truth.
Eddie Flynn, streetwise ex con-artist-turned-defense attorney, is the only lawyer in New York City willing to take on hopeless cases. And none is more hopeless than John Jackson’s—the gun that killed his neighbor found, with Jackson’s DNA, in his own home. Flynn and his unconventional team will need to use every trick they know to keep an innocent man from being locked up. But to save his client’s life, Eddie must first protect his own, as the scariest organized criminals in the city are out for his head.
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First published August 1, 2024
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About the author
Steve Cavanagh
31 books11k followersSteve Cavanagh is a critically acclaimed, Sunday Times best-selling author of the Eddie Flynn series which has sold a million copies in the UK. His third novel, The Liar, won the CWA Gold Dagger for Crime Novel of the year 2018. Thirteen won the Theakstons Old Peculier Crime novel of the year 2019. FIFTY FIFTY was a Richard and Judy Book club choice, and the BBC Between The Covers book club choice. All of his novels have been nominated for major awards. He is a consistent International bestseller.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 2,655 reviews
September 20, 2024
This story was fantastic! I've come to expect no less when it comes to a Steve Cavanagh novel.
˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗ 4 Stars ˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗
Twists and turns, multiple villains, unexpected surprises along with Eddie's gang of well-rounded and quality crew that you can't help but admire as they tackle another high-profile case.
˚ ༘✶ ⋆｡˚ ⁀➷ 𝓠𝓾𝓲𝓬𝓴 𝓢𝓾𝓶𝓶𝓪𝓻𝔂 ࿐ ࿔*:･ﾟ
The story opens up with a lavish party on West 74th street, Manhattan, New York. All the neighbors are in attendance. Ruby, the nanny/housekeeper for many of the residents along the street is walking on her way home when she witnesses one of the neighbors get shot and killed in their home. She knows the killer, watches them run away from the scene. She calls 911 but doesn't tell them the entire truth...
Suddenly, an anonymous tip points the police in the direction of a neighbor- one who appears to be a kind, caring and ethical person, husband and father. The evidence is pointing at him, but Eddie and crew believe he's innocent and have to come up with a plan to clear his name despite the piling evidence.
˚ ༘✶ ⋆｡˚ ⁀➷ 𝓜𝔂 𝓣𝓱𝓸𝓾𝓰𝓱𝓽𝓼 ࿐ ࿔*:･ﾟ
I find that sometimes it's so hard to give a quick summary of a mystery/thriller lol. I'm always afraid of saying too much, even if it's in the blurb. I've never been much of a blurb reader myself, especially when it comes to thrillers- I prefer to go in blind.
╰⪼ Whether you choose to go in blind or not... the scene is certainly set in this one and as the story progresses you have multiple storylines, characters and possibilities that you're following which makes the story move at a quick pace and avoid any dragging points.
Your brain does put in a bit of work on this one lol mine was surely spinning all kinds of thoughts and predictions throughout.
╰⪼ I do want to say this... This is the 8th installment in this series, but you can read any one of them as a standalone. I've mentioned it before, but I just want to add that Cavanagh gives quick reminders of who reoccurring characters are, or who another character is that isn't in the current novel in the event you haven't read the series in its entirety. Super helpful and it's quick and to the point so that if you have read the entire series, it's not repetitive.
˚ ༘✶ ⋆｡˚ ⁀➷ 𝓜𝓸𝓿𝓲𝓷𝓰 𝓪𝓵𝓸𝓷𝓰.... ࿐ ࿔*:･ﾟ
I'm not the biggest fan of Bloch and Kate. For whatever reason they come across a little stiff to me - kind of rigid personalities? This could very well be the intention, but I would love to see a little more flair from both of them. The glimpses we get of Kate while she's in lawyer mode doing her thing in court- I appreciated. She seemed to come into her own a little more during those scenes and I'd love more of that.
The chapters are fairly short, and the pacing moves pretty quickly with all of the moving parts in the story. Often the chapters end on mini cliffhangers that do a great job at keeping you flying through the pages.
Some of the twists weren't necessarily shocking to me considering the many morally black and dark heather gray characters we have here but others left me with my jaw dropped.
I think Cavanagh did a stellar job at tying everything up at the conclusion while also leaving us some breadcrumbs for the potential to see some characters again.
╰⪼ Steve Cavanagh has built quite the Eddie Flynn world here and continues to do so. It's expansive, vivid and filled with incredible characters good and bad. Can't recommend this series enough. If you need a change of pace and something you can sink your teeth into that offers genuine characters, twists and turns and shocking surprises - give Eddiboi and his team a shot.
Many thanks to NetGalley, Atria Books and Steve Cavanagh for the advanced digital copy, all thoughts and opinions are my own. 💐
˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗ 4 Stars ˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗
Twists and turns, multiple villains, unexpected surprises along with Eddie's gang of well-rounded and quality crew that you can't help but admire as they tackle another high-profile case.
˚ ༘✶ ⋆｡˚ ⁀➷ 𝓠𝓾𝓲𝓬𝓴 𝓢𝓾𝓶𝓶𝓪𝓻𝔂 ࿐ ࿔*:･ﾟ
The story opens up with a lavish party on West 74th street, Manhattan, New York. All the neighbors are in attendance. Ruby, the nanny/housekeeper for many of the residents along the street is walking on her way home when she witnesses one of the neighbors get shot and killed in their home. She knows the killer, watches them run away from the scene. She calls 911 but doesn't tell them the entire truth...
Suddenly, an anonymous tip points the police in the direction of a neighbor- one who appears to be a kind, caring and ethical person, husband and father. The evidence is pointing at him, but Eddie and crew believe he's innocent and have to come up with a plan to clear his name despite the piling evidence.
˚ ༘✶ ⋆｡˚ ⁀➷ 𝓜𝔂 𝓣𝓱𝓸𝓾𝓰𝓱𝓽𝓼 ࿐ ࿔*:･ﾟ
I find that sometimes it's so hard to give a quick summary of a mystery/thriller lol. I'm always afraid of saying too much, even if it's in the blurb. I've never been much of a blurb reader myself, especially when it comes to thrillers- I prefer to go in blind.
╰⪼ Whether you choose to go in blind or not... the scene is certainly set in this one and as the story progresses you have multiple storylines, characters and possibilities that you're following which makes the story move at a quick pace and avoid any dragging points.
Your brain does put in a bit of work on this one lol mine was surely spinning all kinds of thoughts and predictions throughout.
╰⪼ I do want to say this... This is the 8th installment in this series, but you can read any one of them as a standalone. I've mentioned it before, but I just want to add that Cavanagh gives quick reminders of who reoccurring characters are, or who another character is that isn't in the current novel in the event you haven't read the series in its entirety. Super helpful and it's quick and to the point so that if you have read the entire series, it's not repetitive.
˚ ༘✶ ⋆｡˚ ⁀➷ 𝓜𝓸𝓿𝓲𝓷𝓰 𝓪𝓵𝓸𝓷𝓰.... ࿐ ࿔*:･ﾟ
I'm not the biggest fan of Bloch and Kate. For whatever reason they come across a little stiff to me - kind of rigid personalities? This could very well be the intention, but I would love to see a little more flair from both of them. The glimpses we get of Kate while she's in lawyer mode doing her thing in court- I appreciated. She seemed to come into her own a little more during those scenes and I'd love more of that.
The chapters are fairly short, and the pacing moves pretty quickly with all of the moving parts in the story. Often the chapters end on mini cliffhangers that do a great job at keeping you flying through the pages.
Some of the twists weren't necessarily shocking to me considering the many morally black and dark heather gray characters we have here but others left me with my jaw dropped.
I think Cavanagh did a stellar job at tying everything up at the conclusion while also leaving us some breadcrumbs for the potential to see some characters again.
╰⪼ Steve Cavanagh has built quite the Eddie Flynn world here and continues to do so. It's expansive, vivid and filled with incredible characters good and bad. Can't recommend this series enough. If you need a change of pace and something you can sink your teeth into that offers genuine characters, twists and turns and shocking surprises - give Eddiboi and his team a shot.
Many thanks to NetGalley, Atria Books and Steve Cavanagh for the advanced digital copy, all thoughts and opinions are my own. 💐
July 20, 2024
Ruby Johnson used to live on Manhattan's West 74th Street, with her parents. This is a very exclusive area, but the family lost everything, including their home, due to her father’s gambling. Her father disappeared leaving Ruby and her mother to deal with the aftermath.
Now she works on that very street as a maid to some of the wealthy families, but she hates not being ‘one of them’. Ruby knows all their precious secrets, so when she witnesses a murder in one of the homes, she sees an opportunity to make some cash and change her mother’s life - and her own!
Ruby knows the victim, and the killer, and so it is that she makes an anonymous call to the police and names the killer, but she’s telling a lie, and, as we eventually find out, she has a very good reason for doing so!
Eddie Flynn, conman turned lawyer, represents the man who Ruby named, and let’s not forget that this guy is completely innocent. However, Ruby is intelligent and extremely devious - she has some big plans and will endeavour to ensure that he is found guilty of murder in order to start her new life.
Eddie Flynn is not your average lawyer, he can be completely reckless, and plays dirty if he needs to, but you’d definitely want him in your corner.
Lots of twists and turns and a cold and clinical character in the guise of Mr Christmas (a name normally associated with love and joy) no sir, not on this occasion! Recommended.
*Thank you to Netgalley and Headline for my ARC in exchange for an honest unbiased review *
Now she works on that very street as a maid to some of the wealthy families, but she hates not being ‘one of them’. Ruby knows all their precious secrets, so when she witnesses a murder in one of the homes, she sees an opportunity to make some cash and change her mother’s life - and her own!
Ruby knows the victim, and the killer, and so it is that she makes an anonymous call to the police and names the killer, but she’s telling a lie, and, as we eventually find out, she has a very good reason for doing so!
Eddie Flynn, conman turned lawyer, represents the man who Ruby named, and let’s not forget that this guy is completely innocent. However, Ruby is intelligent and extremely devious - she has some big plans and will endeavour to ensure that he is found guilty of murder in order to start her new life.
Eddie Flynn is not your average lawyer, he can be completely reckless, and plays dirty if he needs to, but you’d definitely want him in your corner.
Lots of twists and turns and a cold and clinical character in the guise of Mr Christmas (a name normally associated with love and joy) no sir, not on this occasion! Recommended.
*Thank you to Netgalley and Headline for my ARC in exchange for an honest unbiased review *
September 21, 2024
Kickbacks and Greenbacks-That is what New York runs on…
Fortunately, for Eddie Flynn-lawyer and former Con Artist, he knows exactly what to do with that fact, as he deals with a crooked cop, and an Assassin called “Mr. Christmas” hired to take him out.
We also have Ruby Johnson-a nanny and maid to many of the wealthy families on West 74th Street, in Manhattan. But “once upon a time” she used to be “one of them”. They may have forgotten this-but she definitely hasn’t!
She knows their secrets-like who is cheating on who. And, late one night, while on her way home from a job, Ruby witnesses one lover kill another.
She knows the victim-AND she knows the killer.
So, she will make an anonymous call to the police naming the murderer.
But the DESPICABLE Ruby Johnson didn't tell the truth...
Because Ruby has her own agenda.
The latest in the Eddie Flynn legal thriller series opens with Eddie in court doing what Eddie does best-pulling a Con to get a client off. But this time, he has pulled the con on the wrong person-a crooked cop, and he will spend his time trying to stay one step ahead of the trouble that causes, while his associate, Kate, defends the innocent man, Ruby has framed for Murder.
Harry is back as a sounding board, and Bloch and Lake provide the muscle as the team tries to figure out WHO has framed their client, renowned surgeon John Jackson, and WHY.
I always look forward to a reunion with Eddie Flynn and his associates, but I have to admit that I did miss having Eddie in court, as Kate is more of a straight shooter and not quite as much fun-But Ruby and Christmas were GREAT new characters!
I do recommend that you read the series in order so you can meet the characters who become part of his ever growing team, but note, that the first may seem a bit cliche but Cavanagh’s writing has really grown since his debut!
U.S. Publication Date is: March 11, 2025
Thank You to Atria Books for the gifted ARC provided through NetGalley. As always, these are my candid thoughts!
Fortunately, for Eddie Flynn-lawyer and former Con Artist, he knows exactly what to do with that fact, as he deals with a crooked cop, and an Assassin called “Mr. Christmas” hired to take him out.
We also have Ruby Johnson-a nanny and maid to many of the wealthy families on West 74th Street, in Manhattan. But “once upon a time” she used to be “one of them”. They may have forgotten this-but she definitely hasn’t!
She knows their secrets-like who is cheating on who. And, late one night, while on her way home from a job, Ruby witnesses one lover kill another.
She knows the victim-AND she knows the killer.
So, she will make an anonymous call to the police naming the murderer.
But the DESPICABLE Ruby Johnson didn't tell the truth...
Because Ruby has her own agenda.
The latest in the Eddie Flynn legal thriller series opens with Eddie in court doing what Eddie does best-pulling a Con to get a client off. But this time, he has pulled the con on the wrong person-a crooked cop, and he will spend his time trying to stay one step ahead of the trouble that causes, while his associate, Kate, defends the innocent man, Ruby has framed for Murder.
Harry is back as a sounding board, and Bloch and Lake provide the muscle as the team tries to figure out WHO has framed their client, renowned surgeon John Jackson, and WHY.
I always look forward to a reunion with Eddie Flynn and his associates, but I have to admit that I did miss having Eddie in court, as Kate is more of a straight shooter and not quite as much fun-But Ruby and Christmas were GREAT new characters!
I do recommend that you read the series in order so you can meet the characters who become part of his ever growing team, but note, that the first may seem a bit cliche but Cavanagh’s writing has really grown since his debut!
U.S. Publication Date is: March 11, 2025
Thank You to Atria Books for the gifted ARC provided through NetGalley. As always, these are my candid thoughts!
August 12, 2024
Want to know what I crave more than anything? A new book by this author. My heart speeds up in anticipation and I have to put everything else off. I’ve been waiting for this release for a while now, plenty of time to feel that tingle inside intensify until I could take it no more and had to dive in. And what a perfect dive it was. My stomach lurched, everything around me disappeared while I was fully engrossed in the moment. Flynn again found himself in a life and death situation while having to handle a case at the same time, and there were also two other intriguing characters with their stories to tell. I expected nothing other than being throughly entertained and amazed by what cavanagh would pull out of his hat, and was wow-ed again and again. He must have Mensa iq or just a very clever imagination, because everything was intelligent, complex and original. If I haven’t convinced you this will be a masterfully crafted Flynn novel, I just ask you to give it a chance anyway.
September 9, 2024
A new installment in author Steve Cavanagh’s Eddie Flynn series is always among my most anticipated reads, so much so that I don’t mind ordering a copy from the UK so as not to wait for the book to become available in the US ( Thank you, Blackwell’s for the getting the book to me a day before UK publication day!).
I’ve enjoyed (to varying degrees) all the previous books (including one short story and one novella) in this series and I’m glad to say that the latest installment Witness 8 is a worthy addition to the lot!
Ruby Johnson, a young woman in her twenties, works as a maid and nanny in several houses in an affluent New York neighborhood. Once a resident of the same neighborhood, she is haunted by the events that caused her family’s downfall. She is cunning and perceptive and one night, after witnessing the murder of the wealthy socialite, she decides to use this information and manipulate the truth to further her own agenda. The narrative follows Eddie Flynn and his team as they work on defending the successful surgeon who is accused of murdering his neighbor, based on evidence recovered at his home. Complicating matters further for Eddie is the fact that in the course of one of his previous cases, he has provoked a few very corrupt yet powerful people who have taken out a hit on him. Therefore, now, along with working to prove his client’s innocence, he has to dodge the hitmen and assassins (including a very interesting Mr. Christmas, who has a history with one of Eddie’s team) out to collect the bounty on his head while also trying to figure out how to deal with the friction with the criminal entities in the mix.
Needless to say, a lot is going on and Eddie and his team will have their hands full!
It’s always a pleasure following our con man-turned-lawyer, who now works with a very competent team comprising his mentor retired Judge Harry Ford, fellow defense attorney Kate Brooks, investigator Melissa Bloch, former FBI profiler Gabriel Lake and their office manager Denise. In the past, we've seen that Eddie never hesitates to reach out to his friends and associates from his former life as “Eddie Fly" for assistance and this time was no exception!
The author deftly weaves the numerous threads of the plot and multiple perspectives into a consistently paced, twisty, tension-filled narrative. I enjoyed the dynamic between Eddie’s team members and thought they made a formidable team. I should mention that we don’t see Eddie as much as in the previous books, but I do appreciate that each of the characters has a distinct role to play. The author always infuses a healthy dose of humor into these books, and I find these segments-both in and out the courtroom and, of course, Eddie’s very creative methods of fact - finding and besting his opponents - very entertaining. I will admit that there were aspects that were not entirely unpredictable and while the twists were well-executed, overall, this wasn’t as complex as some of the previous books, but this in no way makes this installment less enjoyable! I found Mr. Christmas to be a very interesting character and hope that we do get to see more of him in future books.
Overall, I did find this to be an absorbing and entertaining read and I eagerly await the next book in the series!
Please note that this book would work well as a standalone, but I definitely recommend reading the books in series order. You won’t be disappointed!
3.75⭐
Connect with me! ✏ Instagram ✏ My Blog ✏ The StoryGraph
I’ve enjoyed (to varying degrees) all the previous books (including one short story and one novella) in this series and I’m glad to say that the latest installment Witness 8 is a worthy addition to the lot!
Ruby Johnson, a young woman in her twenties, works as a maid and nanny in several houses in an affluent New York neighborhood. Once a resident of the same neighborhood, she is haunted by the events that caused her family’s downfall. She is cunning and perceptive and one night, after witnessing the murder of the wealthy socialite, she decides to use this information and manipulate the truth to further her own agenda. The narrative follows Eddie Flynn and his team as they work on defending the successful surgeon who is accused of murdering his neighbor, based on evidence recovered at his home. Complicating matters further for Eddie is the fact that in the course of one of his previous cases, he has provoked a few very corrupt yet powerful people who have taken out a hit on him. Therefore, now, along with working to prove his client’s innocence, he has to dodge the hitmen and assassins (including a very interesting Mr. Christmas, who has a history with one of Eddie’s team) out to collect the bounty on his head while also trying to figure out how to deal with the friction with the criminal entities in the mix.
Needless to say, a lot is going on and Eddie and his team will have their hands full!
It’s always a pleasure following our con man-turned-lawyer, who now works with a very competent team comprising his mentor retired Judge Harry Ford, fellow defense attorney Kate Brooks, investigator Melissa Bloch, former FBI profiler Gabriel Lake and their office manager Denise. In the past, we've seen that Eddie never hesitates to reach out to his friends and associates from his former life as “Eddie Fly" for assistance and this time was no exception!
The author deftly weaves the numerous threads of the plot and multiple perspectives into a consistently paced, twisty, tension-filled narrative. I enjoyed the dynamic between Eddie’s team members and thought they made a formidable team. I should mention that we don’t see Eddie as much as in the previous books, but I do appreciate that each of the characters has a distinct role to play. The author always infuses a healthy dose of humor into these books, and I find these segments-both in and out the courtroom and, of course, Eddie’s very creative methods of fact - finding and besting his opponents - very entertaining. I will admit that there were aspects that were not entirely unpredictable and while the twists were well-executed, overall, this wasn’t as complex as some of the previous books, but this in no way makes this installment less enjoyable! I found Mr. Christmas to be a very interesting character and hope that we do get to see more of him in future books.
Overall, I did find this to be an absorbing and entertaining read and I eagerly await the next book in the series!
Please note that this book would work well as a standalone, but I definitely recommend reading the books in series order. You won’t be disappointed!
3.75⭐
Connect with me! ✏ Instagram ✏ My Blog ✏ The StoryGraph
August 3, 2024
I would expect nothing less from Mr Cavanagh! Eddie Flynn is as entertaining as ever, solving another case, and off course a hitman hot on this trail. Brilliant plot line, intricate yet easy to follow.
March 20, 2025
Why am I only finding out about author Steve Cavanagh now?
Witness 8
is a legal thriller with a side of psychological thriller. Set in New York City, much of it takes place on West 74th Street in Manhattan as well as at the Manhattan Criminal Courthouse. The novel is the eighth book in the Eddie Flynn series and is told from multiple points of view. Those include Eddie as well as Ruby Johnson, a maid and nanny that works for many of the families.
Eddie is a streetwise former con-artist who is now a defense attorney with an unconventional team. He is cunning and has a quick wit, but he can be reckless at times and doesn’t always follow conventions. Ruby used to live on West 74th Street until she and her mother were forced to move. She tends to see and hear everyone’s secrets, is greedy, a liar, and a manipulator of people and situations.
The prologue immediately pulls readers into the story as they get to know the kind of person Ruby is. On her way home one night, she witnesses a murder. She doesn’t tell the authorities the truth since she has a much more complicated and diabolical plan in mind. Eddie is introduced in the first chapter in court and readers get a feel for his trial law capabilities.
Eddie and his team are willing to take on hopeless cases if they believe their client is innocent. John Jackson’s case seems hopeless, but they take the case after meeting with John and his wife, Alison. Readers would think this might be enough on Eddie’s plate, but organized criminals have a grievance with him that have him looking for trouble around every corner.
With a complex and multi-layered plot, an unreliable narrator, distinctive characters, a murder investigation, and a trial, this story kept me rapidly turning the pages. This is not your typical murder mystery or legal thriller. It has more depth and is thought-provoking and full of surprises and twists. The pacing is fast and the ending brings everything to a satisfactory conclusion that is well done. Many themes run throughout the novel including secrets, knowledge as power, family, lies, friendship, and much more.
Overall, this is a compelling, entertaining, and suspenseful story that kept me rapidly turning the pages. This is my first book by the author and I’m looking forward to reading more of his works. I can’t wait to see what happens next. Readers of legal thrillers that are unique as well as fans of the series will likely enjoy this high-stakes book.
Atria Books and Steve Cavanagh provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own. Publication date is currently set for March 25, 2025.
-----------------------------------------
My 4.48 rounded to 4 stars review is coming soon.
Eddie is a streetwise former con-artist who is now a defense attorney with an unconventional team. He is cunning and has a quick wit, but he can be reckless at times and doesn’t always follow conventions. Ruby used to live on West 74th Street until she and her mother were forced to move. She tends to see and hear everyone’s secrets, is greedy, a liar, and a manipulator of people and situations.
The prologue immediately pulls readers into the story as they get to know the kind of person Ruby is. On her way home one night, she witnesses a murder. She doesn’t tell the authorities the truth since she has a much more complicated and diabolical plan in mind. Eddie is introduced in the first chapter in court and readers get a feel for his trial law capabilities.
Eddie and his team are willing to take on hopeless cases if they believe their client is innocent. John Jackson’s case seems hopeless, but they take the case after meeting with John and his wife, Alison. Readers would think this might be enough on Eddie’s plate, but organized criminals have a grievance with him that have him looking for trouble around every corner.
With a complex and multi-layered plot, an unreliable narrator, distinctive characters, a murder investigation, and a trial, this story kept me rapidly turning the pages. This is not your typical murder mystery or legal thriller. It has more depth and is thought-provoking and full of surprises and twists. The pacing is fast and the ending brings everything to a satisfactory conclusion that is well done. Many themes run throughout the novel including secrets, knowledge as power, family, lies, friendship, and much more.
Overall, this is a compelling, entertaining, and suspenseful story that kept me rapidly turning the pages. This is my first book by the author and I’m looking forward to reading more of his works. I can’t wait to see what happens next. Readers of legal thrillers that are unique as well as fans of the series will likely enjoy this high-stakes book.
Atria Books and Steve Cavanagh provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own. Publication date is currently set for March 25, 2025.
-----------------------------------------
My 4.48 rounded to 4 stars review is coming soon.
August 6, 2024
3.5 stars
“There’s something wrong with Ruby…”
Ruby Johnson knows her grandmother is right. Knowledge is power hi yeah and Ruby has plenty of that especially about the clients she works for on wealthy West 74th Street in New York. However, Ruby is in trouble and desperately looking for a solution. One evening, returning to the rundown home she shares with her mother, she witnesses a fatal shooting and knows exactly who the perpetrator is. Remember, Ruby knows knowledge is power, maybe this is her way out of difficulty as she now has a plan. Enter our Eddie who has to defend an innocent man in John Jackson as Ruby’s deadly plan plays out. As if Eddie hasn’t got enough on his plate, there are a few nefarious types out to get him. What’s new there you might well ask?!
My overriding thoughts on the latest in this excellent series is one of disappointment as it’s nowhere near as good as the previous seven with few fireworks. Starting with the positives without question the characters are great especially Eddie whose thinking is speed of light, he’s humorous and I enjoy the odd con, well he is Eddie the Fly in a previous life! There are two new ‘intriguing’ characters in Ruby and Mr Christmas and I’m sure we haven’t heard the last of them. The humour makes me laugh out loud and there are some strong images that pop from the pages and I like how that plays out. The second half is stronger than the first with the plot starting to zing in places here. The courtroom scenes are good but it’s mostly Kate and not the more entertaining Eddie.
Here goes with my quibbles. There are NINE povs. Yes, nine and I’d say five are unnecessary. There are seven in the first half and when SC introduces two more in part two I nearly fall off my chair!! It impacts the pace slowing it down, reduces suspense and makes it feel disjointed. There’s one serious incident that is a repeat from a previous book and how that plays out requires disbelief suspenders and stretches credulity. There’s repetition in other ways too.
As for the plot, it’s not the author’s best tbh. There is one plot reveal that is pretty blinking obvious and others are predictable too and I have no moments where my jaw drops stunned by what unfolds. Eddie is not in the courtroom enough and on this occasion it’s not him that provides a clever solution for the jury and this is what I look forward to as well as his clever trickery.
So, sorry this one didn’t wow me but I am still a fan and will continue to read the series. Maybe the next one will be back with a bang.
🏝️🙋♀️
“There’s something wrong with Ruby…”
Ruby Johnson knows her grandmother is right. Knowledge is power hi yeah and Ruby has plenty of that especially about the clients she works for on wealthy West 74th Street in New York. However, Ruby is in trouble and desperately looking for a solution. One evening, returning to the rundown home she shares with her mother, she witnesses a fatal shooting and knows exactly who the perpetrator is. Remember, Ruby knows knowledge is power, maybe this is her way out of difficulty as she now has a plan. Enter our Eddie who has to defend an innocent man in John Jackson as Ruby’s deadly plan plays out. As if Eddie hasn’t got enough on his plate, there are a few nefarious types out to get him. What’s new there you might well ask?!
My overriding thoughts on the latest in this excellent series is one of disappointment as it’s nowhere near as good as the previous seven with few fireworks. Starting with the positives without question the characters are great especially Eddie whose thinking is speed of light, he’s humorous and I enjoy the odd con, well he is Eddie the Fly in a previous life! There are two new ‘intriguing’ characters in Ruby and Mr Christmas and I’m sure we haven’t heard the last of them. The humour makes me laugh out loud and there are some strong images that pop from the pages and I like how that plays out. The second half is stronger than the first with the plot starting to zing in places here. The courtroom scenes are good but it’s mostly Kate and not the more entertaining Eddie.
Here goes with my quibbles. There are NINE povs. Yes, nine and I’d say five are unnecessary. There are seven in the first half and when SC introduces two more in part two I nearly fall off my chair!! It impacts the pace slowing it down, reduces suspense and makes it feel disjointed. There’s one serious incident that is a repeat from a previous book and how that plays out requires disbelief suspenders and stretches credulity. There’s repetition in other ways too.
As for the plot, it’s not the author’s best tbh. There is one plot reveal that is pretty blinking obvious and others are predictable too and I have no moments where my jaw drops stunned by what unfolds. Eddie is not in the courtroom enough and on this occasion it’s not him that provides a clever solution for the jury and this is what I look forward to as well as his clever trickery.
So, sorry this one didn’t wow me but I am still a fan and will continue to read the series. Maybe the next one will be back with a bang.
🏝️🙋♀️
April 4, 2025
I honestly don’t know how anyone who loves a riveting crime/legal thriller wouldn’t fall for Eddie Flynn hook, line, and sinker. Reprised for the eighth time in Witness 8, this streetwise con artist turned wily defense attorney protagonist was the epitome of morally gray in the best possible way. He wasn’t, however, the only gem of a character. With a long list of multiple POVs—including a motley crew of strong individuals—it was a frenzy of fast-paced action within a complex but well-thought-out plot. Addictive, deceptive, and exceptionally well-constructed, I couldn’t put this book down no matter what and finished it in only a handful of hours.
Just as Cavanagh’s last book, Kill for Me, Kill for You kept my guessing in the extreme, his newest addition to the Eddie Flynn series did so as well. With plenty of blind turns and head-scratching short, cliffhanger chapters, there wasn’t a chance of me working it all out before each timely reveal. From the multiple villains and their dastardly deeds to the various plates that Eddie had up in the air, there was plenty going on that kept me firmly—and happily—in suspense as I ripped through the each and every page. After all, these interconnected plot lines just couldn’t go wrong and quickly gave me a very Harlan Coben-esque feel.
All said and done, I’m happy to shout from the rafters that Mr. Cavanagh has done it again. You see, from the explosive beginning to the somewhat open-ended conclusion, my attention never wavered as I inhaled page after page. Due to plenty of crooked dealings, shady individuals, and a few shameless wealthy people behaving oh so badly, time seemed to stand still as I ignored the world around me. But fear not, for while this is the eighth book in the series, it’s fine as a standalone and won’t leave you scratching your head despite the continuing characters and hinted at past cases. So what are you waiting for? Order it—and the rest of the series—right now! Rating of 4.5 stars.
SYNOPSIS:
A former resident of the ultra-elite Manhattan upper class, Ruby now works as a maid in the type of houses she used to live in. Unassuming, she sees everyone’s dirty secrets from the inside of their beautiful, renovated brownstones. But when Ruby witnesses a murder, she has wicked plans in mind that don’t involve telling the authorities the truth.
Eddie Flynn, streetwise ex con-artist-turned-defense attorney, is the only lawyer in New York City willing to take on hopeless cases. And none is more hopeless than John Jackson’s—the gun that killed his neighbor found, with Jackson’s DNA, in his own home. Flynn and his unconventional team will need to use every trick they know to keep an innocent man from being locked up. But to save his client’s life, Eddie must first protect his own, as the scariest organized criminals in the city are out for his head.
Thank you to Steve Cavanagh, Atria Books, and NetGalley for my complimentary physical and digital copies. All opinions are my own.
PUB DATE: March 25, 2025
Content warning: cursing, kidnapping, gun and knife violence, blackmail, violence
Just as Cavanagh’s last book, Kill for Me, Kill for You kept my guessing in the extreme, his newest addition to the Eddie Flynn series did so as well. With plenty of blind turns and head-scratching short, cliffhanger chapters, there wasn’t a chance of me working it all out before each timely reveal. From the multiple villains and their dastardly deeds to the various plates that Eddie had up in the air, there was plenty going on that kept me firmly—and happily—in suspense as I ripped through the each and every page. After all, these interconnected plot lines just couldn’t go wrong and quickly gave me a very Harlan Coben-esque feel.
All said and done, I’m happy to shout from the rafters that Mr. Cavanagh has done it again. You see, from the explosive beginning to the somewhat open-ended conclusion, my attention never wavered as I inhaled page after page. Due to plenty of crooked dealings, shady individuals, and a few shameless wealthy people behaving oh so badly, time seemed to stand still as I ignored the world around me. But fear not, for while this is the eighth book in the series, it’s fine as a standalone and won’t leave you scratching your head despite the continuing characters and hinted at past cases. So what are you waiting for? Order it—and the rest of the series—right now! Rating of 4.5 stars.
SYNOPSIS:
A former resident of the ultra-elite Manhattan upper class, Ruby now works as a maid in the type of houses she used to live in. Unassuming, she sees everyone’s dirty secrets from the inside of their beautiful, renovated brownstones. But when Ruby witnesses a murder, she has wicked plans in mind that don’t involve telling the authorities the truth.
Eddie Flynn, streetwise ex con-artist-turned-defense attorney, is the only lawyer in New York City willing to take on hopeless cases. And none is more hopeless than John Jackson’s—the gun that killed his neighbor found, with Jackson’s DNA, in his own home. Flynn and his unconventional team will need to use every trick they know to keep an innocent man from being locked up. But to save his client’s life, Eddie must first protect his own, as the scariest organized criminals in the city are out for his head.
Thank you to Steve Cavanagh, Atria Books, and NetGalley for my complimentary physical and digital copies. All opinions are my own.
PUB DATE: March 25, 2025
Content warning: cursing, kidnapping, gun and knife violence, blackmail, violence
November 21, 2024
4.5🌟
Careful who you choose to invite into your home.
Ruby grew up among the upper-crust on west 74th street in New York. But after her father left her and her mother high and dry, they found themselves holed up in a small apartment in Hell’s Kitchen.
But Ruby isn’t ready to leave the old neighborhood behind. She finds work among the wealthy families she used to live among. Working as a maid, a nanny, really whatever they need, she will do.
But make no mistake, Ruby has an agenda. And when the perfect opportunity lands in her lap she jumps at the chance to set her plan into action.
Detective Eddie Flynn is back! A former con artist, now a top criminal attorney in New York. Fiercely loyal to his friends, and if he believes in your innocence he will fight with everything he has to get you acquitted.
Eddie has a lot on his plate on in this this latest installment - in one of the best legal thriller series out there. Not only is he defending a doctor accused of murder, but Eddie is also dodging bullets as someone has put a hit out on him.
Can Eddie stay focused on the trial while staying one step ahead of an assassin’s bullet?
You’ll just have to read this book to find out. And though it’s book eight of the series it can definitely stand on its own.
Thank you to Atria Books via both NetGalley and Edelweiss.
Careful who you choose to invite into your home.
Ruby grew up among the upper-crust on west 74th street in New York. But after her father left her and her mother high and dry, they found themselves holed up in a small apartment in Hell’s Kitchen.
But Ruby isn’t ready to leave the old neighborhood behind. She finds work among the wealthy families she used to live among. Working as a maid, a nanny, really whatever they need, she will do.
But make no mistake, Ruby has an agenda. And when the perfect opportunity lands in her lap she jumps at the chance to set her plan into action.
Detective Eddie Flynn is back! A former con artist, now a top criminal attorney in New York. Fiercely loyal to his friends, and if he believes in your innocence he will fight with everything he has to get you acquitted.
Eddie has a lot on his plate on in this this latest installment - in one of the best legal thriller series out there. Not only is he defending a doctor accused of murder, but Eddie is also dodging bullets as someone has put a hit out on him.
Can Eddie stay focused on the trial while staying one step ahead of an assassin’s bullet?
You’ll just have to read this book to find out. And though it’s book eight of the series it can definitely stand on its own.
Thank you to Atria Books via both NetGalley and Edelweiss.
April 12, 2025
The book cover shares a question at the top which states…
“What if the witness was more twisted than the killer?”
Entering the prologue, readers can’t help but be left with a lot of questions about Ruby Johnson, especially when her own grandmother shared ‘there is something wrong with Ruby.’ Is Ruby the twisted witness #8? And, who is the killer? And, why?
Enter Eddie Flynn, defense attorney. This book is part of the Eddie Flynn series, so it is recommended that readers consider reading these books in order to gain a better perspective and history of the characters. Still, the author does a good job of catching readers up, so it could be read as a stand-alone.
A murder occurs. A witness sees what is happening and decides to use it to their advantage. And, a respected doctor is wrongly accused of the murder, a lot because of what the witness has put in motion. Why? What were the motives of the witness? Will Eddie Flynn and his team be able to find out the truth, and thus, prove their client innocent?
This is a twisted thriller with a captivating and riveting surprise outcome. Told from multiple points of view, this well-paced but imperfect plot page-turner with flawed and multi-layered characters will keep readers engaged.
“What if the witness was more twisted than the killer?”
Entering the prologue, readers can’t help but be left with a lot of questions about Ruby Johnson, especially when her own grandmother shared ‘there is something wrong with Ruby.’ Is Ruby the twisted witness #8? And, who is the killer? And, why?
Enter Eddie Flynn, defense attorney. This book is part of the Eddie Flynn series, so it is recommended that readers consider reading these books in order to gain a better perspective and history of the characters. Still, the author does a good job of catching readers up, so it could be read as a stand-alone.
A murder occurs. A witness sees what is happening and decides to use it to their advantage. And, a respected doctor is wrongly accused of the murder, a lot because of what the witness has put in motion. Why? What were the motives of the witness? Will Eddie Flynn and his team be able to find out the truth, and thus, prove their client innocent?
This is a twisted thriller with a captivating and riveting surprise outcome. Told from multiple points of view, this well-paced but imperfect plot page-turner with flawed and multi-layered characters will keep readers engaged.
October 5, 2024
Witness 8 is another gripping, entertaining, well written, and well thought addition to the Eddie Flynn series! I enjoy Eddie Flynn who is a former conman turned defense attorney who knows both sides of the law which make him a force to be reckoned with. In Witness 8 he has been called in to help an innocent man who has been accused of murder. I enjoyed being back in Eddie Flynn's world. He is tough, smart, cunning, and clever. Eddie, as usual, has gotten on the bad side of someone and a man called Mr. Christmas is hot on his tail. But that won’t stop Eddie as there is a man to defend and a case to be solved!
Ruby is the maid and nanny for the man accused of killing a neighbor. When she was younger, Ruby lived in the same posh Manhattan neighborhood as the family who employs her. It is a hard pill to swallow having been one of the elite and now having to clean their homes and care for their children. Ruby makes a call one night, seizing a chance to change her life......
This book kept me on my toes and turning the pages. I enjoyed the mystery, the tension, the banter, the humor, the relationships between the series characters, and the writing. I enjoyed the cat and mouse aspect of this book. I also enjoy seeing Eddie being vulnerable with his mentor, Harry in this book.
Steve Cavanagh continues to write a gripping and well thought of series. I enjoy his characters, their relationships with each other, and the cases they work on. I enjoy how Eddie has not forgotten where he comes from and continues to have a relationship with his childhood friend who is now a crime boss. I also continue to enjoy his bonds with not only with Harry but with those he works with. I am always on the lookout for new books in this series and look forward to reading what comes next for Eddie and the gang.
Thank you to Atria Books and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookposts.com 📖
May 6, 2025
No but the way he weaves everything together???? I COULD NEVER! 🤯
Waiting impatiently for book 9 🤧 Officially one of my favorite series now and will read them as long as he writes them 🫡
Waiting impatiently for book 9 🤧 Officially one of my favorite series now and will read them as long as he writes them 🫡
June 17, 2025
Another gripping, entertaining and twisty legal thriller by one of my favorite authors.
The only negative was that there were too many characters.
The only negative was that there were too many characters.
August 17, 2024
I finally finished!! And it pains me to say this, but this instalment was bland as. Aside from one unexpected twist, the crime plot and the court case were dull and tedious, and the antagonists, especially Ruby the Nanny, were neither threatening nor juicy enough for my tastes. The regular characters were the highlight, and the only thing that held my interest, and kept me reading. I love this series, and will continue to read it, but Witness 8 was the only one out of the four others I’ve read that I haven’t rated 5 stars. Still have three more to read - so hopefully I have more luck with those. My opinion is very much in the minority though - most have loved Witness 8.
February 3, 2025
Eddie Fly is back in action in the eighth installment in the Eddie Flynn series, Witness 8. Out August 1st in the UK. First and foremost if you have not read any part of this series, YOU’RE MISSING OUT! Eddie Flynn is an all around badass, period. End of story! In fact, if I’m ever on trial for murder I’m calling
—- STEVE CAVANAGH— 🙌🙌🙌🙌
Ruby Johnson witnesses a murder one night in her neighborhood. As the local outcast who once was a part of, she now is a nanny and maid to the rich. Suddenly she decides to rewrite the narrative, using the suspect as an opportunity. However, something just isn’t right with Ruby Johnson.
Eddie is defending the man who has been accused of the crime, John Jackson. Deep in his gut he truly believes the man is innocent. With his powerhouse team in action, everyone is kicking ass and taking names! Bloch, Harry, Lake, Kate and Tony Two F**ks are back!
Do yourself a favor and READ THIS SERIES!!! Eddie Flynn, a natural conman by nature who is NOW the BEST defense attorney EVER! Brilliant! Hilarious! Shocking reveals!
5 BRILLIANT ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thank you from the bottom of my heart, @sscv for the gorgeous gifted ARC copy! Thank you @headlinepublishing
Out August 1st in the UK.
- US can order Blackwells UK with no shipping!
—- STEVE CAVANAGH— 🙌🙌🙌🙌
Ruby Johnson witnesses a murder one night in her neighborhood. As the local outcast who once was a part of, she now is a nanny and maid to the rich. Suddenly she decides to rewrite the narrative, using the suspect as an opportunity. However, something just isn’t right with Ruby Johnson.
Eddie is defending the man who has been accused of the crime, John Jackson. Deep in his gut he truly believes the man is innocent. With his powerhouse team in action, everyone is kicking ass and taking names! Bloch, Harry, Lake, Kate and Tony Two F**ks are back!
Do yourself a favor and READ THIS SERIES!!! Eddie Flynn, a natural conman by nature who is NOW the BEST defense attorney EVER! Brilliant! Hilarious! Shocking reveals!
5 BRILLIANT ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thank you from the bottom of my heart, @sscv for the gorgeous gifted ARC copy! Thank you @headlinepublishing
Out August 1st in the UK.
- US can order Blackwells UK with no shipping!
August 20, 2025
Witness 8 is the 8th-installment in Steve Cavanagh's Eddie Flynn series, but the 1st-book I've read in the series. There's nothing like starting at the end. LOL
I'm so excited that I already have 2-other books from the series on hand, because I'll definitely want to be picking them up as soon as possible. This was captivating and a thoroughly-intriguing mystery!!
If you aren't familiar with the series, as I wasn't, it does indeed follow Eddie Flynn, a criminal defense attorney, as well as his team, as they investigate, work and defend various cases in and around New York City.
In this novel, they're representing John Jackson, a wealthy man from the Upper East Side, who has been accused of shooting one of his neighbors. Jackson's DNA was on the gun, which was also found in his home.
It seems like a hopeless case, but Eddie is confident Jackson is innocent and he fully intends to clear his name.
Also involved in the case is the girl who actually witnessed the crime, Ruby, who works as a maid in the upper-class neighborhood. Unfortunately, she's anxious to use her knowledge for her own benefit, not the benefit of the police, and certainly not to the benefit of the Jacksons.
There were some other side-plots that were a little less compelling for me, but nevertheless, they made the book stacked with content to keep the Reader entertained.
I have a feeling, one of the side-plots in this, which revolves around Eddie, would be more intriguing to Readers who have read the series from the start, as they would be more attached to him emotionally.
With this being said, I enjoyed the entire thing, though I was a little less invested when it was exploring topics outside of the main murder case.
I immediately vibed with Cavanagh's writing and he wasted no time kicking off this story, which I appreciated. It pulled me in from the very first pages.
It's not an uplifting story, to say the least, I felt bad for many of the characters and what was happening to them, but it is a gripping story nonetheless.
Thank you to the publisher, Atria Books, for providing me with a copy to read and review. I'm really looking forward to reading the backlist books in this series!
I'm so excited that I already have 2-other books from the series on hand, because I'll definitely want to be picking them up as soon as possible. This was captivating and a thoroughly-intriguing mystery!!
If you aren't familiar with the series, as I wasn't, it does indeed follow Eddie Flynn, a criminal defense attorney, as well as his team, as they investigate, work and defend various cases in and around New York City.
In this novel, they're representing John Jackson, a wealthy man from the Upper East Side, who has been accused of shooting one of his neighbors. Jackson's DNA was on the gun, which was also found in his home.
It seems like a hopeless case, but Eddie is confident Jackson is innocent and he fully intends to clear his name.
Also involved in the case is the girl who actually witnessed the crime, Ruby, who works as a maid in the upper-class neighborhood. Unfortunately, she's anxious to use her knowledge for her own benefit, not the benefit of the police, and certainly not to the benefit of the Jacksons.
There were some other side-plots that were a little less compelling for me, but nevertheless, they made the book stacked with content to keep the Reader entertained.
I have a feeling, one of the side-plots in this, which revolves around Eddie, would be more intriguing to Readers who have read the series from the start, as they would be more attached to him emotionally.
With this being said, I enjoyed the entire thing, though I was a little less invested when it was exploring topics outside of the main murder case.
I immediately vibed with Cavanagh's writing and he wasted no time kicking off this story, which I appreciated. It pulled me in from the very first pages.
It's not an uplifting story, to say the least, I felt bad for many of the characters and what was happening to them, but it is a gripping story nonetheless.
Thank you to the publisher, Atria Books, for providing me with a copy to read and review. I'm really looking forward to reading the backlist books in this series!
June 23, 2025
I can barely contain my excitement after diving into Eddie Flynn for the first time! First, I would like to thank all the Goodreads friends who recommended the series and wrote fantastic reviews offering great insight and honesty. After hearing countless rave reviews from my friends on Goodreads—dedicated fans of the series—I finally picked up Witness 8, and it totally blew me away!
Witness 8, the eighth installment of Cavanagh’s phenomenal Eddie Flynn series, starts with a gripping murder that hooks the reader from the first page. Meet Ruby Johnson, a nanny and maid working for Manhattan's elite on West 74th Street. She knows their routines and secrets like the back of her hand, making her an unexpected witness to a jaw-dropping crime. One dramatic night, Ruby witnesses her neighbour being murdered, and she knows both the victim and the killer. In a shocking twist, she makes an anonymous call to the police, revealing the murderer but leaving out crucial details!
Enter Eddie Flynn, the charismatic defence attorney who takes on the case of the accused—a renowned brain surgeon from New York. Eddie believes in his client's innocence, but he has no idea how Ruby’s actions will continually throw a wrench in his defence strategy. As the case escalates, Eddie gets pulled deeper into New York’s criminal underworld, facing off against crooked cops and various threats to his life—all while racing to clear his client's name. The plot races forward at breakneck speed, loaded with jaw-dropping twists and unexpected turns that will leave you breathless!
The courtroom scenes? Absolutely addictive! The looming threat of hitmen hunting Eddie injects a thrilling dose of danger that keeps you on the edge of your seat. Cavanagh’s writing is sharp and fast-paced, cutting straight to the heart of the action and propelling the story toward a spectacular climax.
New characters, like the quirky hitman Mr. Christmas, add a delightful twist and inject a fresh dynamic into the narrative. The book offers fascinating insights into the darker sides of the U.S. legal system while ensuring you can’t look away for a second.
Sure, you might find a few minor things to nitpick, and keeping track of eight different POVs can be a challenge, but why focus on that when you can immerse yourself in Cavanagh’s exhilarating ride? I honestly can’t recommend this series highly enough!
I want to thank Atria Books and NetGalley for providing me with an e-arc through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
pre-read: I just wanted to share that I’m enjoying "8th Witness," the first book in the Eddie Flynn series. The story captivated me from the very first line with its intriguing premise. As I delved deeper, I found the characters remarkably flawed and complex, each with motivations and secrets.
After reading various reviews, I noticed that some people loved it while others were disappointed and felt it wasn't their favourite from the series. I'm eager to see how it all ends and how I’ll feel after finishing the book.
I've purchased all seven books in the series and plan to start reading the first two on January 31. Since that's a weekend, I intend to hunker down with my favourite reading blanket and socks, enjoy coffee or tea, and immerse myself in the story while ignoring my husband and dogs—just joking! I could never forget my dogs all weekend! 😂
Witness 8, the eighth installment of Cavanagh’s phenomenal Eddie Flynn series, starts with a gripping murder that hooks the reader from the first page. Meet Ruby Johnson, a nanny and maid working for Manhattan's elite on West 74th Street. She knows their routines and secrets like the back of her hand, making her an unexpected witness to a jaw-dropping crime. One dramatic night, Ruby witnesses her neighbour being murdered, and she knows both the victim and the killer. In a shocking twist, she makes an anonymous call to the police, revealing the murderer but leaving out crucial details!
Enter Eddie Flynn, the charismatic defence attorney who takes on the case of the accused—a renowned brain surgeon from New York. Eddie believes in his client's innocence, but he has no idea how Ruby’s actions will continually throw a wrench in his defence strategy. As the case escalates, Eddie gets pulled deeper into New York’s criminal underworld, facing off against crooked cops and various threats to his life—all while racing to clear his client's name. The plot races forward at breakneck speed, loaded with jaw-dropping twists and unexpected turns that will leave you breathless!
The courtroom scenes? Absolutely addictive! The looming threat of hitmen hunting Eddie injects a thrilling dose of danger that keeps you on the edge of your seat. Cavanagh’s writing is sharp and fast-paced, cutting straight to the heart of the action and propelling the story toward a spectacular climax.
New characters, like the quirky hitman Mr. Christmas, add a delightful twist and inject a fresh dynamic into the narrative. The book offers fascinating insights into the darker sides of the U.S. legal system while ensuring you can’t look away for a second.
Sure, you might find a few minor things to nitpick, and keeping track of eight different POVs can be a challenge, but why focus on that when you can immerse yourself in Cavanagh’s exhilarating ride? I honestly can’t recommend this series highly enough!
I want to thank Atria Books and NetGalley for providing me with an e-arc through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
pre-read: I just wanted to share that I’m enjoying "8th Witness," the first book in the Eddie Flynn series. The story captivated me from the very first line with its intriguing premise. As I delved deeper, I found the characters remarkably flawed and complex, each with motivations and secrets.
After reading various reviews, I noticed that some people loved it while others were disappointed and felt it wasn't their favourite from the series. I'm eager to see how it all ends and how I’ll feel after finishing the book.
I've purchased all seven books in the series and plan to start reading the first two on January 31. Since that's a weekend, I intend to hunker down with my favourite reading blanket and socks, enjoy coffee or tea, and immerse myself in the story while ignoring my husband and dogs—just joking! I could never forget my dogs all weekend! 😂
January 19, 2025
I’ve only read a few of the Eddie Flynn books by Steve Cavanagh. But I’ve enjoyed the ones I’ve read. He’s known for legal thrillers with multiple plot lines, lots of action and plenty of twists. Witness 8 is no exception. It’s not at all believable and if that’s important to you, you’ll struggle with this. But it is fun entertainment and I read it quickly.
The story starts when Ruby, a former resident of the Upper West Side, now works as a nanny and maid in her former neighborhood. When she witnesses a murder walking at home one night, she decides to turn things to her own advantage. Meanwhile Eddie takes the case of the surgeon accused of the murder. The mystery here is why Ruby has focused on the good doctor and what she hopes to gain from it. I had my suspicions early on and I was spot on. This is one part of the story that totally beggars belief and I was disappointed in Cavanagh.
Eddie also has some complications in his own life when a corrupt police mafia places a hit out on him. I thought the resolution to this subplot was great.
Cavanagh has created a great group of characters, not just Eddie but his whole team. Even Mr. Christmas, a hit man, was unique. The only one I struggled with was Ruby who came across as just a little too psycho for my taste.
While this is the 8th in the series, it can easily be read as a standalone.
My thanks to Netgalley and Atria Books for an advance copy of this book.
The story starts when Ruby, a former resident of the Upper West Side, now works as a nanny and maid in her former neighborhood. When she witnesses a murder walking at home one night, she decides to turn things to her own advantage. Meanwhile Eddie takes the case of the surgeon accused of the murder. The mystery here is why Ruby has focused on the good doctor and what she hopes to gain from it. I had my suspicions early on and I was spot on. This is one part of the story that totally beggars belief and I was disappointed in Cavanagh.
Eddie also has some complications in his own life when a corrupt police mafia places a hit out on him. I thought the resolution to this subplot was great.
Cavanagh has created a great group of characters, not just Eddie but his whole team. Even Mr. Christmas, a hit man, was unique. The only one I struggled with was Ruby who came across as just a little too psycho for my taste.
While this is the 8th in the series, it can easily be read as a standalone.
My thanks to Netgalley and Atria Books for an advance copy of this book.
March 19, 2025
I started this series a while back, then got sidetracked (oops). When I requested Witness 8, I thought, “Okay, the perfect excuse to finally catch up on the earlier books.” Spoiler alert: I didn’t. But here’s the great part—I didn’t need to! This book stands strong on its own, and now I’m fully committed to going back and reading the rest. No more distractions this time.
A Defense Attorney Like No Other
Let’s talk about Eddie. At book eight, I feel I do have some catching up to do with him and his team but I felt like I picked up where we left off. He’s a defense attorney with a con artist’s mind, which makes him fascinating to follow. He takes on hopeless cases, spots angles no one else does, and manipulates the system. He’s a hustler, a risk-taker, and so sharp that I sometimes struggle to keep up. His approach is unique, giving something fresh to the crime fiction genre.
Playing to Win: Ruby’s Dangerous Move
Then there’s Ruby. She works for Eddie’s wealthy new client, who’s accused of killing a neighbor. Ruby’s had a rough past, and she’s not just sitting back and letting things happen—she’s playing her own game, trying to manipulate her way out of the hole she is in. How does she fit into the bigger picture? That’s the best part! The way the plot weaves her story in is captivating and kept me guessing what she is going to do next. And it’s not just her—the side stories, and unexpected twists make this book impossible to put down.
Twists, Turns, and (Almost) a Jaw-Dropper
The pacing is sharp, the stakes are high, and the tension never lets up. Cavanagh knows exactly how to keep you on edge. However, I do have to admit while the case came together well, I was expecting a jaw-dropping twist that didn’t quite land.
Those side stories now that’s where things came together in that thrilling way for me and won me over.
Now, time to go back and read the rest—this time, no sidetracks!
I received a copy from the publisher through NetGalley
A Defense Attorney Like No Other
Let’s talk about Eddie. At book eight, I feel I do have some catching up to do with him and his team but I felt like I picked up where we left off. He’s a defense attorney with a con artist’s mind, which makes him fascinating to follow. He takes on hopeless cases, spots angles no one else does, and manipulates the system. He’s a hustler, a risk-taker, and so sharp that I sometimes struggle to keep up. His approach is unique, giving something fresh to the crime fiction genre.
Playing to Win: Ruby’s Dangerous Move
Then there’s Ruby. She works for Eddie’s wealthy new client, who’s accused of killing a neighbor. Ruby’s had a rough past, and she’s not just sitting back and letting things happen—she’s playing her own game, trying to manipulate her way out of the hole she is in. How does she fit into the bigger picture? That’s the best part! The way the plot weaves her story in is captivating and kept me guessing what she is going to do next. And it’s not just her—the side stories, and unexpected twists make this book impossible to put down.
Twists, Turns, and (Almost) a Jaw-Dropper
The pacing is sharp, the stakes are high, and the tension never lets up. Cavanagh knows exactly how to keep you on edge. However, I do have to admit while the case came together well, I was expecting a jaw-dropping twist that didn’t quite land.
Those side stories now that’s where things came together in that thrilling way for me and won me over.
Now, time to go back and read the rest—this time, no sidetracks!
I received a copy from the publisher through NetGalley
March 22, 2025
When the Unseen See
"Th1rt3en" by Steve Cavanagh was such a brilliant read, one of my favorite courtroom thrillers, so I had high hopes for his new book, "Witness 8." Could it live up to my expectations?
Ruby Johnson is a maid and nanny, nearly invisible now to her former social circle. She sees everything that goes on, including a murder. This is an opportunity to score big and escape the life she has been walled into. She is more than capable of manipulating the situation, with counseling from a less than pious conscience.
Eddie Flynn, the protagonist of the book and series, is a clever, streetwise defense attorney. He and his team are defending John Jackson, an innocent man accused of the murder. Jackson’s neighbors have turned against him, leaving him with only his family and Eddie to rely on. Oh, and of course, they can count on their trusted nanny, Ruby.
A significant subplot involves Eddie getting into trouble with corrupt police officers, which results in a bounty being placed on his head. This ushers in a colorful set of assassins, including the polite, classy, and dapper old professional hitman, Mister Christmas.
The captivating plot and rich characters in Cavanagh's work make it impossible to put down. “Witness 8” is the eighth in the Eddie Flynn series and it delivers as a standalone, although you are going to risk the temptation of adding the other titles to your to-be-read list. If you ever find yourself stuck in a reading slump, grab one of these and watch the pages fly,
Thank you to Atria Books and Edelweiss for providing an advance reader copy in exchange for an honest review.
"Th1rt3en" by Steve Cavanagh was such a brilliant read, one of my favorite courtroom thrillers, so I had high hopes for his new book, "Witness 8." Could it live up to my expectations?
Ruby Johnson is a maid and nanny, nearly invisible now to her former social circle. She sees everything that goes on, including a murder. This is an opportunity to score big and escape the life she has been walled into. She is more than capable of manipulating the situation, with counseling from a less than pious conscience.
Eddie Flynn, the protagonist of the book and series, is a clever, streetwise defense attorney. He and his team are defending John Jackson, an innocent man accused of the murder. Jackson’s neighbors have turned against him, leaving him with only his family and Eddie to rely on. Oh, and of course, they can count on their trusted nanny, Ruby.
A significant subplot involves Eddie getting into trouble with corrupt police officers, which results in a bounty being placed on his head. This ushers in a colorful set of assassins, including the polite, classy, and dapper old professional hitman, Mister Christmas.
The captivating plot and rich characters in Cavanagh's work make it impossible to put down. “Witness 8” is the eighth in the Eddie Flynn series and it delivers as a standalone, although you are going to risk the temptation of adding the other titles to your to-be-read list. If you ever find yourself stuck in a reading slump, grab one of these and watch the pages fly,
Thank you to Atria Books and Edelweiss for providing an advance reader copy in exchange for an honest review.
August 17, 2024
I read this, my first Eddie Flyn novel as a stand alone. Others have raved about this author and I wanted to see what I was missing so I skipped ahead and went to his most recently published book.
Smooth writing woven with humor and a multitude of characters relating their own stories added interest to the main plot of defending a wrongly accused man of murder. Although NINE different points of view were a little much, I found their narratives intriquing enough to almost not notice that this aspect fractured the main premise.
My only quibble is that there were a few phrases repeated often enough that they became cliche' to me. Otherwise, I'm happy to have read this and will backtrack for more of the series.
In discussing this with GR friends, I was told that the clever court rooms scenes they'd coveted were scaled back in this book and that I should read a few of the previous Eddie Flynn books to understand why they loved this series so much. I've already a few picked out for upcoming reads.
Purchased at Blackwells.
Smooth writing woven with humor and a multitude of characters relating their own stories added interest to the main plot of defending a wrongly accused man of murder. Although NINE different points of view were a little much, I found their narratives intriquing enough to almost not notice that this aspect fractured the main premise.
My only quibble is that there were a few phrases repeated often enough that they became cliche' to me. Otherwise, I'm happy to have read this and will backtrack for more of the series.
In discussing this with GR friends, I was told that the clever court rooms scenes they'd coveted were scaled back in this book and that I should read a few of the previous Eddie Flynn books to understand why they loved this series so much. I've already a few picked out for upcoming reads.
Purchased at Blackwells.
June 7, 2025
**Many thanks to NetGalley, Atria, and Steve Cavanagh for an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review!**
"That's the problem with being a semi-reformed criminal: you are never free from guilt. Exposure is always just a phone call away." - Eoin Colfer
Although Eddie Flynn has been careful to keep his checkered past under wraps, there's always the lingering threat of being discovered to keep him TRULY on his toes. Life as an ex-con is complicated enough, but Eddie has chosen to put his years of being on the wrong side of the law to good use: he works as a defense attorney willing to take on cases that nobody else would EVER consider...and you'd better BELIEVE he's going to win every last one. With his solid knowledge of New York's seedy underground network of criminals, lawyers, judges, and those on both the right side (and wrong side) of the law, Flynn has made a name for himself...and he has no intention of letting up, no matter how challenging the case.
...And he's about to land a real doozy. Ruby Johnson, who has been working as a maid for some of New York's brownstone-dwelling elite after a fall from social graces of her own, has had a horrifying day: she has witnessed a murder. But Ruby has far more on her mind than helping to reveal the killer...and curating a perfectly crafted story of what REALLY happened that fateful day is at the top of her list. It is neighbor John Jackson's DNA that is found on the murder weapon and he becomes an easy suspect. As we soon learn, however, Ruby's own malicious and revenge-fueled desires might be purposely leading Eddie Flynn in the OPPOSITE direction of protecting his client John Jackson. Can Eddie and his crack team get to the heart of the matter before Jackson gets locked up for good? Or will the same group of mafia thugs that has been tailing Eddie for so long FINALLY get their chance to bring his empire crashing down to dust...permanently?
Whenever a book series has more than say, 3 or 4 installments, I tend to doubt it's going to be for me. It takes SUCH a strong and prolific writer to not only world build at a level that justifies so many books but demands them. When it comes to thriller serials, especially, I am not one to gravitate towards the James Pattersons of the world (or even Agatha Christie novels... YET! They are on my list!🙂) so despite an enthusiastic fan base and several glowing reviews from trusted fellow readers, I still had quite a bit of hesitation picking up this EIGHTH installment of the Eddie Flynn series from Steve Cavanagh...and even more so because I opted to read this as a stand-alone novel to sort of 'get a feel' before diving in more or exiting the pool (so to speak). 🤽
But I'm glad summer thriller season is upon us and my beach towels are at the ready...because my first experience with Eddie Flynn and his colorful cast of characters got me PSYCHED to dive even deeper into this particular backlist (and to stay and splash around for QUITE a while!) 🏖️
After LOVING my first encounter with Cavanagh in Kill for Me, Kill for You, a standalone psych thriller with a Hitchcock-inspired plot, I knew Cavanagh could write a stunning twist...and needless to say, this book does have a couple. Moreso though, rather than the thrill-a-minute psychological warfare of my prior Cavanagh read, the Eddie Flynn series focuses more on the syndicate as a whole and reads as a cross between a legal thriller and an action thriller. And while I do feel that reading the series in order would be beneficial, I was relieved to feel confident in the decision to read this book as a stand-alone novel: Cavanagh gives quick and efficient recapping of important characters, and although a main cast of 7+ characters would NORMALLY be enough to give me the ick all on its own, I felt an affinity for them fairly quickly and can see why the fan base feels the same.
So what exactly makes these characters sort of spring to life? Solid, intriguing narration from several perspectives is enough all on its own to keep the plot moving - Ruby has all the devious hubris of an unreliable narrator that you will absolutely LOVE if that's your jam, and hitman-for-hire Christmas could have his own series too! Though perhaps the 'hunting Eddie' plot would be more thrilling and better informed by the prior books, I got invested in the character and his devious methods and brilliant mind pretty quickly, and was rooting for his victory from the jump. Though the plot definitely moves at an action thriller pace (read: breakneck at times) the legal proceedings and some emotional scenes help to balance out the chaos and add a bit of gravitas to keep this from dipping into pure popcorn territory. Though I'm not sure if I'd want Eddie representing me, since he IS a Defense Attorney, I guess that says something about me? (HOPEFULLY that I'm just a law abiding citizen... but it wouldn't be so bad having him on speed dial just in case, that's all I'll say! 😉)
And with the next installment right around the corner (although at the time of this review, it is only slated for a UK release) it seems that wily, crafty, and and cunning protagonist might have '9' lives after all! 🐈
😉
4 stars
"That's the problem with being a semi-reformed criminal: you are never free from guilt. Exposure is always just a phone call away." - Eoin Colfer
Although Eddie Flynn has been careful to keep his checkered past under wraps, there's always the lingering threat of being discovered to keep him TRULY on his toes. Life as an ex-con is complicated enough, but Eddie has chosen to put his years of being on the wrong side of the law to good use: he works as a defense attorney willing to take on cases that nobody else would EVER consider...and you'd better BELIEVE he's going to win every last one. With his solid knowledge of New York's seedy underground network of criminals, lawyers, judges, and those on both the right side (and wrong side) of the law, Flynn has made a name for himself...and he has no intention of letting up, no matter how challenging the case.
...And he's about to land a real doozy. Ruby Johnson, who has been working as a maid for some of New York's brownstone-dwelling elite after a fall from social graces of her own, has had a horrifying day: she has witnessed a murder. But Ruby has far more on her mind than helping to reveal the killer...and curating a perfectly crafted story of what REALLY happened that fateful day is at the top of her list. It is neighbor John Jackson's DNA that is found on the murder weapon and he becomes an easy suspect. As we soon learn, however, Ruby's own malicious and revenge-fueled desires might be purposely leading Eddie Flynn in the OPPOSITE direction of protecting his client John Jackson. Can Eddie and his crack team get to the heart of the matter before Jackson gets locked up for good? Or will the same group of mafia thugs that has been tailing Eddie for so long FINALLY get their chance to bring his empire crashing down to dust...permanently?
Whenever a book series has more than say, 3 or 4 installments, I tend to doubt it's going to be for me. It takes SUCH a strong and prolific writer to not only world build at a level that justifies so many books but demands them. When it comes to thriller serials, especially, I am not one to gravitate towards the James Pattersons of the world (or even Agatha Christie novels... YET! They are on my list!🙂) so despite an enthusiastic fan base and several glowing reviews from trusted fellow readers, I still had quite a bit of hesitation picking up this EIGHTH installment of the Eddie Flynn series from Steve Cavanagh...and even more so because I opted to read this as a stand-alone novel to sort of 'get a feel' before diving in more or exiting the pool (so to speak). 🤽
But I'm glad summer thriller season is upon us and my beach towels are at the ready...because my first experience with Eddie Flynn and his colorful cast of characters got me PSYCHED to dive even deeper into this particular backlist (and to stay and splash around for QUITE a while!) 🏖️
After LOVING my first encounter with Cavanagh in Kill for Me, Kill for You, a standalone psych thriller with a Hitchcock-inspired plot, I knew Cavanagh could write a stunning twist...and needless to say, this book does have a couple. Moreso though, rather than the thrill-a-minute psychological warfare of my prior Cavanagh read, the Eddie Flynn series focuses more on the syndicate as a whole and reads as a cross between a legal thriller and an action thriller. And while I do feel that reading the series in order would be beneficial, I was relieved to feel confident in the decision to read this book as a stand-alone novel: Cavanagh gives quick and efficient recapping of important characters, and although a main cast of 7+ characters would NORMALLY be enough to give me the ick all on its own, I felt an affinity for them fairly quickly and can see why the fan base feels the same.
So what exactly makes these characters sort of spring to life? Solid, intriguing narration from several perspectives is enough all on its own to keep the plot moving - Ruby has all the devious hubris of an unreliable narrator that you will absolutely LOVE if that's your jam, and hitman-for-hire Christmas could have his own series too! Though perhaps the 'hunting Eddie' plot would be more thrilling and better informed by the prior books, I got invested in the character and his devious methods and brilliant mind pretty quickly, and was rooting for his victory from the jump. Though the plot definitely moves at an action thriller pace (read: breakneck at times) the legal proceedings and some emotional scenes help to balance out the chaos and add a bit of gravitas to keep this from dipping into pure popcorn territory. Though I'm not sure if I'd want Eddie representing me, since he IS a Defense Attorney, I guess that says something about me? (HOPEFULLY that I'm just a law abiding citizen... but it wouldn't be so bad having him on speed dial just in case, that's all I'll say! 😉)
And with the next installment right around the corner (although at the time of this review, it is only slated for a UK release) it seems that wily, crafty, and and cunning protagonist might have '9' lives after all! 🐈
😉
4 stars
March 21, 2025
3.5 stars
Eddie Flynn, you can do it all! A former conman turned brilliant defense lawyer has his work cut out for him as he an his team take on the case of Dr John Jackson, a prominent surgeon who is accused of murder.
The good doctor, residing with his family on a tony elite street in Manhattan was supposedly witnessed shooting the frivolous Maggs, (another resident), by their help Ruby. Problem is Jackson is innocent and Ruby is intent on seeing him "hang". Why is the prevailing question and Flynn and his former contacts and friends are on the case of finding the real killer. They make some eye opening discoveries.
There are lots of twists and murders. Even Flynn's life is in jeopardy. ...and who is this Ruby and her connection to a painting of a red priest?
I enjoyed this fast paced story, especially after making my way through a very slower previous book. It was my first book by this author.
Eddie Flynn, you can do it all! A former conman turned brilliant defense lawyer has his work cut out for him as he an his team take on the case of Dr John Jackson, a prominent surgeon who is accused of murder.
The good doctor, residing with his family on a tony elite street in Manhattan was supposedly witnessed shooting the frivolous Maggs, (another resident), by their help Ruby. Problem is Jackson is innocent and Ruby is intent on seeing him "hang". Why is the prevailing question and Flynn and his former contacts and friends are on the case of finding the real killer. They make some eye opening discoveries.
There are lots of twists and murders. Even Flynn's life is in jeopardy. ...and who is this Ruby and her connection to a painting of a red priest?
I enjoyed this fast paced story, especially after making my way through a very slower previous book. It was my first book by this author.
March 20, 2025
3.5⭐️ Eddie Flynn, ex-con turned lawyer, is back on the scene as he works to clear his newest client, John Jackson, the sole suspect in a murder when the neighborhood maid places him at the scene, along with the weapon. But as Eddie and the gang work to save their client, he will come under fire from some of the most dangerous criminals in the city who are out for blood.
I have only read one other book in this series so far, Thirteen, but am already completely in love with Mr. Eddie Flynn. His character is whip-smart, full of sarcastic wit, and of course, has a heart of gold. I appreciate each and every scene he is in, and cannot get enough of him, especially as he works to figure out what happened and who is out to get him. A new character to this story that also completely drew me in is Ruby, one of the most cunning characters I have read lately. I found myself most drawn to her chapters as I tried to parse out just how much of her was smart versus insane.
While I enjoyed the overall plot line and, of course, Eddie Flynn, I found the story as a whole to be a little confusing as we bounced back and forth between so many characters and subplots. Looking back, I wish I had read this one solely with my eyes, or combined the audio with the physical book, and not relied solely on the audio due to the large cast of characters and complex storyline. All of that said, I would still recommend this book, and will definitely be continuing on with the series myself.
Read if you like:
▪️legal series
▪️unreliable narrators
▪️psychological thrillers
▪️police procedurals
▪️interesting characters
▪️multiple storylines and POVs
Thank you Atria and Simon Audio for the gifted copies.
I have only read one other book in this series so far, Thirteen, but am already completely in love with Mr. Eddie Flynn. His character is whip-smart, full of sarcastic wit, and of course, has a heart of gold. I appreciate each and every scene he is in, and cannot get enough of him, especially as he works to figure out what happened and who is out to get him. A new character to this story that also completely drew me in is Ruby, one of the most cunning characters I have read lately. I found myself most drawn to her chapters as I tried to parse out just how much of her was smart versus insane.
While I enjoyed the overall plot line and, of course, Eddie Flynn, I found the story as a whole to be a little confusing as we bounced back and forth between so many characters and subplots. Looking back, I wish I had read this one solely with my eyes, or combined the audio with the physical book, and not relied solely on the audio due to the large cast of characters and complex storyline. All of that said, I would still recommend this book, and will definitely be continuing on with the series myself.
Read if you like:
▪️legal series
▪️unreliable narrators
▪️psychological thrillers
▪️police procedurals
▪️interesting characters
▪️multiple storylines and POVs
Thank you Atria and Simon Audio for the gifted copies.
August 22, 2024
3,5 🔫⚖️🖼⭐️s
You can’t cheat a conman.
My dear and one of a kind Eddie Flynn had more of a presence in this book and it made me extremely happy!!!
Sadly, I can’t say the same for Ruby, for her lengthy story was boring... 😔
To tell you the truth I got a little tired of her storyline and its development had a slow progression.
There was court room drama in this part - though without much of Eddie - but not to the extent of the first books. The mystery thriller outweighed the legal one.
Some of the secondary characters could have had a smaller role, as well as all those opinions expressed.
I will undoubtedly read S. Cavanagh’s next release despite my lack of enthusiasm for this Witness.
You can’t cheat a conman.
My dear and one of a kind Eddie Flynn had more of a presence in this book and it made me extremely happy!!!
Sadly, I can’t say the same for Ruby, for her lengthy story was boring... 😔
To tell you the truth I got a little tired of her storyline and its development had a slow progression.
There was court room drama in this part - though without much of Eddie - but not to the extent of the first books. The mystery thriller outweighed the legal one.
Some of the secondary characters could have had a smaller role, as well as all those opinions expressed.
I will undoubtedly read S. Cavanagh’s next release despite my lack of enthusiasm for this Witness.
dnf
March 20, 2025Dnf at 35%
This was my first Eddie Flynn novel and I was expecting a legal thriller. Or at least a psychological thriller as the synopsis promised.
This actually is more of an action thriller. With a LOT of characters and side plots.
The book opened strongly and I would have enjoyed it more had the book focused on that case. I don’t enjoy stories where there’s more hit men, the mob, dirty cops, and killing/cracking of heads than investigation. The added theme of the wealthy behaving badly is not one I enjoy either (unless it’s tongue-in-cheek/funny)
This is a case of it’s me, not the book. Perhaps this isn’t the best book to start with in this much-loved series.
* I received a digital review copy via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
This was my first Eddie Flynn novel and I was expecting a legal thriller. Or at least a psychological thriller as the synopsis promised.
This actually is more of an action thriller. With a LOT of characters and side plots.
The book opened strongly and I would have enjoyed it more had the book focused on that case. I don’t enjoy stories where there’s more hit men, the mob, dirty cops, and killing/cracking of heads than investigation. The added theme of the wealthy behaving badly is not one I enjoy either (unless it’s tongue-in-cheek/funny)
This is a case of it’s me, not the book. Perhaps this isn’t the best book to start with in this much-loved series.
* I received a digital review copy via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
February 14, 2025
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐
Genre: Mystery Thriller
When I requested this book on NetGalley, I had no idea it was a part of a series! Nothing on the cover, synopsis, or information on NetGalley suggested that this was the 8th book in a series. Of course, I should’ve checked Goodreads first before requesting it. It’s not that I regret reading this book, but I prefer to start with the first book in a series to experience character growth.
Witness 8 is supposed to be about Ruby Johnson, a maid and nanny who works for high-class families. She witnesses the murder of one of her neighbors. She knows the killer, too! But being the wicked and manipulative person she is, she decides to hold that information and use it for her own benefit.
On the other side, Eddie Flynn, the defense attorney (who used to be a conman), takes the case of the accused of the murder, whom he believes is innocent despite the strong evidence against him.
The plot is very clever and intriguing. It is the strongest aspect of the story. The courtroom scenes were quite compelling and showed the author’s expertise in writing them. However, I didn’t enjoy reading the book as much as I was expecting. I feel the many perspectives spoiled it for me. The main story was overshadowed by numerous distractions, some of which were unnecessary to the plot and only served to lengthen the pages.
Perhaps if I had read the previous books, my view on this book would’ve been different since I see mine as an unpopular opinion. I’m not giving it a negative rating because the story has its moments and merits. I’m just disappointed because I was looking forward to enjoying this one more than I did.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC of this book.
Genre: Mystery Thriller
When I requested this book on NetGalley, I had no idea it was a part of a series! Nothing on the cover, synopsis, or information on NetGalley suggested that this was the 8th book in a series. Of course, I should’ve checked Goodreads first before requesting it. It’s not that I regret reading this book, but I prefer to start with the first book in a series to experience character growth.
Witness 8 is supposed to be about Ruby Johnson, a maid and nanny who works for high-class families. She witnesses the murder of one of her neighbors. She knows the killer, too! But being the wicked and manipulative person she is, she decides to hold that information and use it for her own benefit.
On the other side, Eddie Flynn, the defense attorney (who used to be a conman), takes the case of the accused of the murder, whom he believes is innocent despite the strong evidence against him.
The plot is very clever and intriguing. It is the strongest aspect of the story. The courtroom scenes were quite compelling and showed the author’s expertise in writing them. However, I didn’t enjoy reading the book as much as I was expecting. I feel the many perspectives spoiled it for me. The main story was overshadowed by numerous distractions, some of which were unnecessary to the plot and only served to lengthen the pages.
Perhaps if I had read the previous books, my view on this book would’ve been different since I see mine as an unpopular opinion. I’m not giving it a negative rating because the story has its moments and merits. I’m just disappointed because I was looking forward to enjoying this one more than I did.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC of this book.
August 25, 2024
This started out with a bang and I was thinking “oh this is going to be good!” But then there were just too many different points of view and too many side stories that didn’t matter. It was disappointing. Maybe it’s because I haven’t read the others in this series so I can’t fully appreciate all the characters? Because to me, this felt all over the place. I wish it had focused on the beginning scene and went another direction.
I am very picky about the books I request on netgalley, because I hate having to give a bad review to a book that hasn’t been released yet, but I also have to be honest and this wasn’t what I thought it would be.
Thank you to netgalley for this free advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
I am very picky about the books I request on netgalley, because I hate having to give a bad review to a book that hasn’t been released yet, but I also have to be honest and this wasn’t what I thought it would be.
Thank you to netgalley for this free advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
September 28, 2025
Еди Флин е много нестандартен адвокат, все пак преди правото е имал кариера на успешен измамник. Това често му помага в битките за справедливост, които той непрекъснато води в съда и извън него.
"Свидетел 8" е напрегната кримка, в която той и екипа му се опитват да отърват от затвора още един невинен човек. Сложна работа, когато всички доказателства за убийство са срещу клиента му.
Отделно е обявена награда за главата му и това привлича цяла менажерия от наемни убийци в Ню Йорк. Еди трябва много да внимава!
Кавана успешно продължава серията и започвам следващата книга незабавно!
"Свидетел 8" е напрегната кримка, в която той и екипа му се опитват да отърват от затвора още един невинен човек. Сложна работа, когато всички доказателства за убийство са срещу клиента му.
Отделно е обявена награда за главата му и това привлича цяла менажерия от наемни убийци в Ню Йорк. Еди трябва много да внимава!
Кавана успешно продължава серията и започвам следващата книга незабавно!
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