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Mara Brent Legal Thriller #8
Shadow of Justice
A box of grisly secrets. A daughter’s chilling accusation. A prosecutor’s fight to bring a killer to justice—before he claims another trophy.
When Hayden Simmons walks into small-town prosecutor Mara Brent’s office carrying a box of gruesome souvenirs, she delivers a shocking Her father, Jamie Simmons, murdered her aunt twenty-two years ago—and got away with it. The case, long grown cold, has haunted Hayden’s family, but she’s the only one who believes her father is guilty. The rest of her family insists she’s unstable and chasing ghosts.
But inside that box are items that could only have come from the crime scene. And when Jamie is arrested, Mara is thrust into a trial that could make or break her career. The evidence is damning, but there’s no physical proof tying him to the murder. After two decades, his alibi can’t be disproven. And with his iron grip on Hayden’s family, even his late victim’s loved ones refuse to testify against him.
Mara is their last hope. If she fails, a cunning predator will walk free—leaving the family he destroyed trapped under his control forever.
For fans of Lisa Scottoline, Scott Turow, and John Grisham, Shadow of Justice is a gripping legal thriller packed with chilling secrets, courtroom twists, and the fight for justice in a town where the past refuses to stay buried.
When Hayden Simmons walks into small-town prosecutor Mara Brent’s office carrying a box of gruesome souvenirs, she delivers a shocking Her father, Jamie Simmons, murdered her aunt twenty-two years ago—and got away with it. The case, long grown cold, has haunted Hayden’s family, but she’s the only one who believes her father is guilty. The rest of her family insists she’s unstable and chasing ghosts.
But inside that box are items that could only have come from the crime scene. And when Jamie is arrested, Mara is thrust into a trial that could make or break her career. The evidence is damning, but there’s no physical proof tying him to the murder. After two decades, his alibi can’t be disproven. And with his iron grip on Hayden’s family, even his late victim’s loved ones refuse to testify against him.
Mara is their last hope. If she fails, a cunning predator will walk free—leaving the family he destroyed trapped under his control forever.
For fans of Lisa Scottoline, Scott Turow, and John Grisham, Shadow of Justice is a gripping legal thriller packed with chilling secrets, courtroom twists, and the fight for justice in a town where the past refuses to stay buried.
- GenresLegal Thriller
372 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 12, 2025
994 people are currently reading
78 people want to read
About the author
Robin James
24 books426 followersRobin James is an attorney and former law professor. She's worked on a wide range of civil, criminal and family law cases in her twenty-year legal career. She also spent over a decade as supervising attorney for a Michigan legal clinic assisting thousands of people who could not otherwise afford access to justice.
Robin now lives on a lake in southern Michigan with her husband, two children, and one lazy dog. Her favorite, pure Michigan writing spot is stretched out on the back of a pontoon watching the faster boats go by.
Join Robin James's Legal Thriller Newsletter to get updates on her latest releases and author news. http://robinjamesbooks.com/newsletter
Robin now lives on a lake in southern Michigan with her husband, two children, and one lazy dog. Her favorite, pure Michigan writing spot is stretched out on the back of a pontoon watching the faster boats go by.
Join Robin James's Legal Thriller Newsletter to get updates on her latest releases and author news. http://robinjamesbooks.com/newsletter
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
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February 19, 2025
Twenty-two years back, Ellie Luke was a vibrant twenty-one-year-old nursing student with big dreams and a strong sense of purpose.
She was passionate about helping others, and everyone admired her for it, wishing they could embody her spirit. Unfortunately, all of her aspirations were cruelly snatched away on a desolate Dark Road.
Fast forward to today, and a determined young woman is on a mission to uncover the truth behind Ellie Luke's fate from all those years ago. In her quest for justice, she will shake up countless lives along the way.
I adore all the dynamics between Mara, Sam, Will, Gus, Kenya, and Howard! Every installment has shown us how Sam and Mara's relationship has blossomed, uncovering new layers each time. And I can't even begin to express how much Will has captured my heart—he's just the sweetest!
This story is really well put together and has a great plot. The characters are developed nicely, and the dialogue and actions feel genuine. It dives into office politics while also bringing in some intense courtroom drama.
The plot is layered enough to keep readers on their toes, packed with twists that make it even more engaging. This legal thriller is impressive, with a quick tempo and plenty of action, plus characters that are well fleshed out.
March 4, 2025
This book was so worth the wait and there aren't enough stars to demonstrate how much I loved it!
Mara is back and this case is one she isn't sure she can win. When Hayden presents Mara and Sam with a box full of deadly secrets, everything explodes.
Once again, Robin James had me captivated on page one and I didn't look up again until I'd devoured every last word.
I've read everything Robin has written and this didn't disappoint. It's far and away the best book I've read this year.
Mara is back and this case is one she isn't sure she can win. When Hayden presents Mara and Sam with a box full of deadly secrets, everything explodes.
Once again, Robin James had me captivated on page one and I didn't look up again until I'd devoured every last word.
I've read everything Robin has written and this didn't disappoint. It's far and away the best book I've read this year.
April 27, 2025
Shadow of Justice is another intense and gripping book in the Mara Brent series! I’ve read every book in this series so far, and this one definitely didn’t disappoint. The story starts off strong with a young woman, Hayden, bringing a mysterious box to Mara, claiming her own father killed her aunt over twenty years ago. That immediately pulled me in. The twists and turns throughout the investigation and the courtroom scenes kept me hooked. I really liked how the suspense built up slowly but steadily, and the emotional layers added so much depth. Mara is such a strong character, and her fight for justice really shines in this one. The ending was satisfying, and I loved how everything came together. Robin James has a great way of writing that keeps you turning the pages. If you enjoy legal thrillers with a good mix of mystery and emotion, definitely give this a try!
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February 16, 2025
When Hayden Simmons brings what she claims is her father's box of 'trophies', apparently from the scene of her aunt's murder, Mara Brent is thrown into a decades old cold case that pits her against super smooth defence lawyer Bennett Cutler. The murder of Hayden's aunt Ellie devastated Hayden's family, who refuse to believe her father is guilty of the murder. With her own office in turmoil and pressure on her to stand for the still vacant position of Chief Prosecutor (a position she doesn't want), Mara faces an uphill battle against the Simmons family's blind loyalty to and defence of Jamie Simmons.
The trial puts extreme emotional pressure on both Mara (who feels a desperate responsibility to fight for Hayden, now alienated from her family), on her relationship with Sheriff Sam Cruz, who is facing re-election, and on Detective Gus Ritter, who was almost ruined by the case. It's an exciting and tension-filled case that, at times, feels desperately bleak as Mara tries to find a way to win. Although the story occasionally veers towards feeling a little contrived at times and Cutler sometimes come across as rather a cariacature, James is skillful at building courtroom tension and it really is a gripping read. Knowing the murderer from the beginning is unusual but does not detract from the suspense in any way. It's lovely to see the growing relationship between Mara and Sam. There are hints at some major future plot developments and I wait eagerly for the next book in the series. An exciting, tension-filled page turner that was near impossible to put down.
The trial puts extreme emotional pressure on both Mara (who feels a desperate responsibility to fight for Hayden, now alienated from her family), on her relationship with Sheriff Sam Cruz, who is facing re-election, and on Detective Gus Ritter, who was almost ruined by the case. It's an exciting and tension-filled case that, at times, feels desperately bleak as Mara tries to find a way to win. Although the story occasionally veers towards feeling a little contrived at times and Cutler sometimes come across as rather a cariacature, James is skillful at building courtroom tension and it really is a gripping read. Knowing the murderer from the beginning is unusual but does not detract from the suspense in any way. It's lovely to see the growing relationship between Mara and Sam. There are hints at some major future plot developments and I wait eagerly for the next book in the series. An exciting, tension-filled page turner that was near impossible to put down.
February 14, 2025
Shadow of Justice❤️🩹
Shadow of Justice is the next book in the Mara Brent series and is another thrilling story.
When Sam and Mara are approached by a young woman holding potential evidence of a cold case from more than two decades ago, they are unprepared for the findings. But the more shocking thing is who this young woman believes killed her aunt, whom she never met and the lengths to which she’s gone to get justice.
This story is spectacular and as usual I was completely enthralled from the first chapter. Robin knows how to spin a story but make it realistic in a way which will chill you to your bones. Loved the ending and I’m excited for the next Mara adventure🙌
I received an advanced copy and voluntarily leave my honest review.
Shadow of Justice is the next book in the Mara Brent series and is another thrilling story.
When Sam and Mara are approached by a young woman holding potential evidence of a cold case from more than two decades ago, they are unprepared for the findings. But the more shocking thing is who this young woman believes killed her aunt, whom she never met and the lengths to which she’s gone to get justice.
This story is spectacular and as usual I was completely enthralled from the first chapter. Robin knows how to spin a story but make it realistic in a way which will chill you to your bones. Loved the ending and I’m excited for the next Mara adventure🙌
I received an advanced copy and voluntarily leave my honest review.
February 17, 2025
5.0 stars. Not surprised this was another edge of your seat, tense, 5 star read. The author and this series a huge favorite for me. A haunting 22 yr old cold case is back in the spotlight as new evidence is brought forward. It pits famy members against each other. A particularly tough case for prosecutor, Mara Brent, and one that's highly emotional for her young client/Hayden, as her father/Jamie stands accused. The police detective from that cold case now stands in the spotlight. I was nervous for the outcome of the trial, and the effect it would have on this broken family, the Sheriff's office and the Prosecutors office. Suspenseful and thrilling to the very end 👏 . Grateful the author released this book earlier than expected. Now that I know book 9 is up next, I can't wait.
February 24, 2025
Robin James’ latest book, “Shadow of Justice” begins with an eighteen-year-old girl coming forward with evidence that her father killed her aunt twenty years before. Prosecutor Mara Brint has her hands full dealing with a divided family, an over zealous press, and a case that is not as strong as she would like it to be. James masterfully (may I use that word describing a female author?) builds her characters, and I must say that I stayed up an hour later than usual Saturday night to see how the story ended. (386 pages)
March 14, 2025
Another home run for Mara Brent
I love Robin James writing style, which means I am addicted to both of her series. It’s always hard to wait for the next book to come out. Loved the ending but was worried that it would mean the end of the series, it appears not to be the case. I could go on and say what the book is about, but I don’t want to spoil it for anyone. Suffice it to say, if you are a Robin James fan, you will love this one as well.
I love Robin James writing style, which means I am addicted to both of her series. It’s always hard to wait for the next book to come out. Loved the ending but was worried that it would mean the end of the series, it appears not to be the case. I could go on and say what the book is about, but I don’t want to spoil it for anyone. Suffice it to say, if you are a Robin James fan, you will love this one as well.
February 25, 2025
Overall I thought the book was good. Having it taking place 22 years ago and then tracking down witnesses and evidence seemed easier that it should have been. Another last minute save - since the cousin was implicated early and they knew he lied it maybe reach talk to him before the trail started
April 1, 2025
One of the Best in the Series
This was not only a spectacular storyline and courtroom drama but a moving, emotional depiction of a family dynamic destroyed by a villain! The emotions and story didn't even diminish after the verdict (conclusion) they just kept coming... Great Psychological Courtroom adventure!
This was not only a spectacular storyline and courtroom drama but a moving, emotional depiction of a family dynamic destroyed by a villain! The emotions and story didn't even diminish after the verdict (conclusion) they just kept coming... Great Psychological Courtroom adventure!
August 24, 2025
Tumultuous dynamics blindside all involved in cold case of murder
Three generations of one family fell for the bad guy’s sick neediness. Well, not quite because one daughter/granddaughter started to inquire about discrepancies. Even law enforcement couldn’t quite nail down evidence and time lines. Fascinating, dramatic, and intense Book 8 kept me reading.
Three generations of one family fell for the bad guy’s sick neediness. Well, not quite because one daughter/granddaughter started to inquire about discrepancies. Even law enforcement couldn’t quite nail down evidence and time lines. Fascinating, dramatic, and intense Book 8 kept me reading.
November 14, 2025
Total page turner! Don’t start it until you can finish in one day!!
I love this author and series. Awesome courtroom drama. Very realistic ( what do I know???🤣) but definitely feels like it. It’s a stand alone story but with characters you get to know. Definitely recommend reading.
I love this author and series. Awesome courtroom drama. Very realistic ( what do I know???🤣) but definitely feels like it. It’s a stand alone story but with characters you get to know. Definitely recommend reading.
February 19, 2025
Great book
This story, this series, is great reading. The drama and the way things play out are so well written. I love the ways the lives of the characters are so entwined with the drama. Looking forward to the next edition.
This story, this series, is great reading. The drama and the way things play out are so well written. I love the ways the lives of the characters are so entwined with the drama. Looking forward to the next edition.
February 22, 2025
Super procedural
Robin James writes legal thrillers that keep you turning the pages. I don't read many 1st person stories, but I can't put hers down. The legal ins & outs are fascinating.
Robin James writes legal thrillers that keep you turning the pages. I don't read many 1st person stories, but I can't put hers down. The legal ins & outs are fascinating.
February 25, 2025
shadow of Justice
Another page turner and not want to put down. Mara is quite the prosecutor, Sam the loyal lover and friend. Will her son, who can cut to the chase, so to speak. One family’s story of two decades of deceit and manipulation by one man. Jamie Simmons is evil.
Another page turner and not want to put down. Mara is quite the prosecutor, Sam the loyal lover and friend. Will her son, who can cut to the chase, so to speak. One family’s story of two decades of deceit and manipulation by one man. Jamie Simmons is evil.
February 26, 2025
Another winner
Robin James knows how to keep your attention. The characters in her stories are quite genuine. Once you start one of her books it is difficult to do anything else but read.
Robin James knows how to keep your attention. The characters in her stories are quite genuine. Once you start one of her books it is difficult to do anything else but read.
March 8, 2025
A great read
Another great book to read, Robin you have such a good way of getting is to read your books, it is difficult to put the book down when we start and is very absorbing. Bring in the next one.
Another great book to read, Robin you have such a good way of getting is to read your books, it is difficult to put the book down when we start and is very absorbing. Bring in the next one.
March 19, 2025
Great read
As always Robin never fails to deliver a story that grabs you from start to finish.It is hard to believe but each book jyst gets better and better,can't wait for the next one.
Pp
As always Robin never fails to deliver a story that grabs you from start to finish.It is hard to believe but each book jyst gets better and better,can't wait for the next one.
Pp
March 27, 2025
So good!!!!
Mara Brent is good. She's very good. And Robin James???? She's even better. I thoroughly enjoy reading everything she writes. If you haven't read any of her books, this is a good time to start.
Mara Brent is good. She's very good. And Robin James???? She's even better. I thoroughly enjoy reading everything she writes. If you haven't read any of her books, this is a good time to start.
May 19, 2025
another winner in the Mara Brent series
The characters are so real that you cannot help but engage with them. Legal procedurals can get “stuffy”, but these books connect the legal with the human toll of crime.
The characters are so real that you cannot help but engage with them. Legal procedurals can get “stuffy”, but these books connect the legal with the human toll of crime.
June 17, 2025
The knife cuts deep when it's family
A courtroom drama that entangled a family for decades, only to be brought to the front by a curious person. The destruction of a family is the least traumatic respone.
A courtroom drama that entangled a family for decades, only to be brought to the front by a curious person. The destruction of a family is the least traumatic respone.
July 7, 2025
A young woman discovers a box of souvenirs that point to her father as the murderer of her aunt. He then ingratiated himself with her family so that they can no longer think for themselves. They don’t believe their own daughter/granddaughter when she reveals her evidence to the police.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 22, 2025
4/5 stars.
This was enjoyable! I found the ending a bit rushed, and some of the "big reveals" weren't really all that shocking. I expected more surprises, honestly. The story was gripping, though; and I was invested in the characters.
This was enjoyable! I found the ending a bit rushed, and some of the "big reveals" weren't really all that shocking. I expected more surprises, honestly. The story was gripping, though; and I was invested in the characters.
February 20, 2025
I just love her books. And, as usual, I was not disappointed.
February 24, 2025
When I say that Mara Brent is my favorite series ever, I mean it.
February 26, 2025
Robin James is one of my favorite authors. This book did not disappoint.
February 26, 2025
Loved it! Robin James never disappoints! I love this series and the courtroom scenes. So good! Can’t wait for the next one!
March 5, 2025
Love the Mara Brent series. I don’t need to read the synopsis to know it will be a good read.
March 20, 2025
great read
Great book! Can not wait to read the next one! I highly recommend this book. I could not put it down.
Great book! Can not wait to read the next one! I highly recommend this book. I could not put it down.
March 20, 2025
Another excellent book by Robin James. Less suspense than some but very interesting characters. As always, very well written and captivating from beginning to end.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews