The Alibi: A Sean O'Brien Novel

Sean O'Brien #18

by Tom Lowe

Seven years after a murder conviction, Jennifer Harmon—a woman with terminal cancer—approaches private investigator Sean O'Brien with a stunning revelation: the police convicted the wrong man. As the alibi who never came forward, Jennifer now seeks redemption before she dies.

When detectives refuse to reopen the case, O'Brien takes it on, only to discover that powerful forces are determined to keep the truth buried. A gripping mystery crime thriller about second chances, deadly secrets, and the courage to uncover the truth.

360 pages, Kindle Edition

Published June 10, 2025

About the author

Tom Lowe is an American novelist known for writing atmospheric, high-stakes thrillers that blend crime, mystery, and psychological suspense with a strong sense of place. His novels often explore the darker side of human nature where belief, greed, and obsession collide. Tom's books are grounded in authentic investigative detail and morally complex characters.

He is the author of more than 30 novels, including the acclaimed Sean O’Brien mystery-thriller series. Also, he writes the Elizabeth Monroe psychological thrillers, and the Paul Marcus books of international suspense. Tom has written two standalone novels of love and redemption - The Painter and Midnight’s Whisperer, winner of the Spur Award from the Western Writers of America.

Drawing from a career as a journalist, award-winning screenwriter, and world traveler, Tom writes emotionally rich stories of loss, courage, and second chances. His books span the globe and the human heart, blending suspense, moral complexity, and unforgettable characters.

Tom lives in Florida with his wife, Keri. To receive the latests updates on his novels, appearances, and writing - please visit Tom's website to subscribe to his quarterly newsletter. tomlowebooks.com

Reviews

[Paul · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another excellent Sean O'Brien thriller. A woman who helped send a man to prison for murder seven years ago by not confirming his alibi is dying and hires Sean to help free him. The suspected guilty parties don't want to be caught, even if it means killing again. Tom Lowe is at his best when he keeps O'Brien near Florida. A wonderful ensemble cast of friends and family is always a plus. Read on my new Kindle gifted to me by my daughter. So far, I like the Kindle,I can read and hold a cigar or a drink.

[David Ludwig · Rating 4 out of 5]

The story flows well and has the right amount of action to keep it interesting. I didn’t like that there were two characters who were thanked and praised for coming clean years after their lies put people in Prison. One because she was dying and one because he was confronted. They both lied and ruined lives. Also, Sean in an attempt to bring out a killer, creates a news story with witnesses interviewed. One witness is killed because of the news story and there is no remorse. It only becomes another clue.

[Joyce Parsley · Rating 5 out of 5]

More stars needed

Five stars are not enough for this book. On the one hand, the dangerous, frightening parts of the story have you concerned about what’s going to happen and on the other hand, the heartwarming parts of the story have you cheering for the good guys. As always, spending time with Sean, Wynonna, Angela, Connor, Nick and Dave is like being with old friends. However, the very best part is spending time with Max!

[Tonstant Weader · Rating 2 out of 5]

A good plot but the dialogue was wooden more like prose narrative than conversation,however, it was fair and complex enough. the characters are a bit flat like their Dial alicia, a bit. one-dimensional the good characters who he tried to make more complex did their bad thing in the past and are on the good side now.

[Carol Michael · Rating 5 out of 5]

Heart warming

Thank you Tom for once again taking me on a beautiful journey, one with some heart stopping moments. There are times with our belief in God and belief that there are good people that give us hope that life is to be cherished.

But with the end of this beautiful case you have left us with a question regarding Dave which I am hoping that isn’t serious. ❤️🇦🇺

[Dee · Rating 5 out of 5]

This series just keeps getting better!

I think I’ve read every Sean O’Brien that Tom Lowe has written. This may be his best yet! The setting (in our area of Florida) and his descriptions of the area makes me feel like I’m right there. I Love the characters. Like visiting old friends.

[Carol · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m a Sean O’Brien fan and this story was a great one, with good action and Sean O’Brien toughness. I particularly appreciate that it was not written in the first person because it actually defines who he is better without him “speaking.” There are multiple diverse happenings that need to coverge as the story progresses and his creativity keeps you interested

[Margaret Vanzo · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love these books

I love the characters in this series its like you know them personally. I love Prince Inlet have been there many times.

[Michael Molley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another outstanding Sean O'Brien novel. I have read them all and enjoyed all, never disappointed
Look forward to the next one !

[Kathy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved it!

[Joe Farr · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good read. Good to know that Sean O'Brien is still bulletproof and can leap tall buildings with a single bound!😀