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David Brunelle Legal Thriller #5
Substantial Risk
A RECKLESS MAN CAN HURT THOSE HE LOVESA sex club. A dead "submissive." A "dominant" in custody.Homicide D.A. Dave Brunelle barely understands the terms. How can he ever hope to understand the bondage subculture well enough to hold a killer responsible for the apparently accidental death of his own girlfriend? Brunelle embarks on a voyage of discovery, both of himself and things he never even knew existed. In so doing, however, he risks losing not only his case, but everything--and everyone--dear to him.STEPHEN PENNER IS AN AMAZON BESTSELLING AUTHOR WITH OVER HALF A MILLION COPIES SOLDSubstantial Risk is Book 5 in the top-rated legal thriller series featuring Seattle homicide D.A. David Brunelle and a recurring cast of cops, defense attorneys, and forensic experts. Each book in the series can be read as a stand-alone novel, but also follows the personal and professional growth of Brunelle and his friends and foes."David Brunelle may or may not win his case, but Stephen Penner has definitely created a winner here." --Amazon Reader ReviewIf you're looking for an authentic legal thriller with plenty of twists and turns, Substantial Risk is for you!
227 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 5, 2014
903 people are currently reading
106 people want to read
About the author
Stephen Penner
62 books156 followersStephen Penner is an author, artist, and attorney from Seattle, Washington. He has written more than 30 novels and specializes in courtroom thrillers known for their unexpected twists and candid portrayal of the justice system. He draws on his extensive experience as a criminal trial attorney to infuse his writing with realism and insight.
Stephen is the author of several top-rated legal thriller series. The DAVID BRUNELLE LEGAL THRILLERS feature Seattle homicide D.A. David Brunelle and a recurring cast of cops, defense attorneys, and forensic experts. The TALON WINTER LEGAL THRILLERS showcase tough-as-nails Tacoma criminal defense attorney Talon Winter and her closest allies. And the RAIN CITY LEGAL THRILLERS deliver the adventures of attorney Daniel Raine and his unlikely partner Rebecca Sommers. Stephen is also the author of the MAGGIE DEVEREAUX PARANORMAL MYSTERIES, recounting the exploits of an American graduate student in the magical Highlands of Scotland, and several other stand-alone works.
In his spare time, Stephen enjoys painting, drawing, and spending time with his family. For more information, visit his website www.stephenpenner.com.
Stephen is the author of several top-rated legal thriller series. The DAVID BRUNELLE LEGAL THRILLERS feature Seattle homicide D.A. David Brunelle and a recurring cast of cops, defense attorneys, and forensic experts. The TALON WINTER LEGAL THRILLERS showcase tough-as-nails Tacoma criminal defense attorney Talon Winter and her closest allies. And the RAIN CITY LEGAL THRILLERS deliver the adventures of attorney Daniel Raine and his unlikely partner Rebecca Sommers. Stephen is also the author of the MAGGIE DEVEREAUX PARANORMAL MYSTERIES, recounting the exploits of an American graduate student in the magical Highlands of Scotland, and several other stand-alone works.
In his spare time, Stephen enjoys painting, drawing, and spending time with his family. For more information, visit his website www.stephenpenner.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
August 16, 2016
A grittier story
Definitely a more adult book. The main character has some real issues with women. Come to think of it apparently every woman in law enforcement, the courts and the medical field is extraordinarily beautiful, making temptation to great for this prosecutor to keep it in his pants. Hope this is a trend that does not continue.
Definitely a more adult book. The main character has some real issues with women. Come to think of it apparently every woman in law enforcement, the courts and the medical field is extraordinarily beautiful, making temptation to great for this prosecutor to keep it in his pants. Hope this is a trend that does not continue.
September 6, 2019
OK..Book
After reading Penner's other books, I found this one less exciting. Had too many swear words that were not needed, they didn't anything to this story.
After reading Penner's other books, I found this one less exciting. Had too many swear words that were not needed, they didn't anything to this story.
April 23, 2024
this book was better than book 4, more drama
Thank you author for making David life more exciting and popular because his character truly was boring. He needs more pleasure in his life besides eating food, his job and traditional sex with Kat. No matter what, I still love David. Even though he’s an older man, he hasn’t experienced a lot as an adult. He’s real naive, gullible and ignorant about a lot of things, especially relationships. He’s been so focused on perfecting his career that he missed out on a lot of adulthood life. He’s not used to a lot of things, that’s why he blush a lot. Even though Robyn played her little game, I still think he’s better off without Kat. I love this, ‘take a chance’, David. There’s nothing wrong with being confident and knowing your worth. If you’re good at what you do, then flaunt your worth. He worked hard for his career. He thrives on winning, nothing wrong with that. And this Kat situation, it wasn’t real from the start. He was forced into this relationship by Chen and Kat. David was trying to please them. Then he became infatuated with the idea after the word girlfriend was thrown at him so much, it kinda stuck but he was never comfortable saying gf. Then the relationship became a convenient for him for sex. David was never enthusiastic about the relationship or being a stepdad. He was always a womanizer and Kat knew that but she thought she could change him, so she overlooked his flaws.
Thank you author for making David life more exciting and popular because his character truly was boring. He needs more pleasure in his life besides eating food, his job and traditional sex with Kat. No matter what, I still love David. Even though he’s an older man, he hasn’t experienced a lot as an adult. He’s real naive, gullible and ignorant about a lot of things, especially relationships. He’s been so focused on perfecting his career that he missed out on a lot of adulthood life. He’s not used to a lot of things, that’s why he blush a lot. Even though Robyn played her little game, I still think he’s better off without Kat. I love this, ‘take a chance’, David. There’s nothing wrong with being confident and knowing your worth. If you’re good at what you do, then flaunt your worth. He worked hard for his career. He thrives on winning, nothing wrong with that. And this Kat situation, it wasn’t real from the start. He was forced into this relationship by Chen and Kat. David was trying to please them. Then he became infatuated with the idea after the word girlfriend was thrown at him so much, it kinda stuck but he was never comfortable saying gf. Then the relationship became a convenient for him for sex. David was never enthusiastic about the relationship or being a stepdad. He was always a womanizer and Kat knew that but she thought she could change him, so she overlooked his flaws.
November 2, 2025
3.5 Stars
Substantial Risk is the fifth instalment in the David Brunelle Legal Thriller Series. And so the book binge began ... this series turned out to be a gripping and masterfully crafted collection of legal dramas set against the backdrop of Seattle’s criminal justice system. The series follows David Brunelle, a dedicated and sharp prosecutor, as he navigates the complexities of law, morality, and justice.
What makes this series stand out is the balance between intense courtroom drama with deeply human stories. David Brunelle is an intriguing character - intelligent, principled, and yet flawed in ways that make him even more relatable. Mr. Penner’s writing easily brings the legal world to life with authenticity, offering a fascinating glimpse into the challenges prosecutors face, from gathering evidence to battling wily defense attorneys.
Each book in the series presents a unique and thought-provoking case, often delving into some morally ambiguous territory. The plots are tightly woven, with twists that are both surprising and satisfying. Mr. Penner’s ability to build the tension and suspense is noteworthy, as is his knack for creating vivid, multidimensional characters – both the heroes and villains.
So, whether you’re a fan of legal thrillers, crime fiction, or simply enjoy a well-told story, then the David Brunelle series delivers on all fronts.
Happy Reading…
Substantial Risk is the fifth instalment in the David Brunelle Legal Thriller Series. And so the book binge began ... this series turned out to be a gripping and masterfully crafted collection of legal dramas set against the backdrop of Seattle’s criminal justice system. The series follows David Brunelle, a dedicated and sharp prosecutor, as he navigates the complexities of law, morality, and justice.
What makes this series stand out is the balance between intense courtroom drama with deeply human stories. David Brunelle is an intriguing character - intelligent, principled, and yet flawed in ways that make him even more relatable. Mr. Penner’s writing easily brings the legal world to life with authenticity, offering a fascinating glimpse into the challenges prosecutors face, from gathering evidence to battling wily defense attorneys.
Each book in the series presents a unique and thought-provoking case, often delving into some morally ambiguous territory. The plots are tightly woven, with twists that are both surprising and satisfying. Mr. Penner’s ability to build the tension and suspense is noteworthy, as is his knack for creating vivid, multidimensional characters – both the heroes and villains.
So, whether you’re a fan of legal thrillers, crime fiction, or simply enjoy a well-told story, then the David Brunelle series delivers on all fronts.
Happy Reading…
January 7, 2020
Unintentional death by bondage
I liked this fifth novel about David Brunelle, prosecutor and look forward the rest of this series. This story involved the death by a bondage scenario going terribly wrong when Michael Atkins accidentally killed his girlfriend of years. Even though he didn't intend to kill her this story about the investigation of her death and ultimately the trial. He ended up taking a plea.
Dave made a foolish mistake when he broke up with his great girlfriend the Medical Examiner, Kay Anderson to explore the bondage scene with a defense attorney.I
It ended up Robyn broke up with Dave and he has badly broken Kay's heart.
I liked this fifth novel about David Brunelle, prosecutor and look forward the rest of this series. This story involved the death by a bondage scenario going terribly wrong when Michael Atkins accidentally killed his girlfriend of years. Even though he didn't intend to kill her this story about the investigation of her death and ultimately the trial. He ended up taking a plea.
Dave made a foolish mistake when he broke up with his great girlfriend the Medical Examiner, Kay Anderson to explore the bondage scene with a defense attorney.I
It ended up Robyn broke up with Dave and he has badly broken Kay's heart.
July 28, 2022
Getting much too close to porn.
It always bothered me that no woman in the Brunelle universe was anything but "drop dead Gorgeous" This one did drop dead.
You would think that someone as smart as David would be able to keep it in his head.
Thank you Mr Penner for not giving us too much detail. I am really doubtful on the rest of the series, If I wanted to go down this trail I would not be reading "Legal Thrillers".
It always bothered me that no woman in the Brunelle universe was anything but "drop dead Gorgeous" This one did drop dead.
You would think that someone as smart as David would be able to keep it in his head.
Thank you Mr Penner for not giving us too much detail. I am really doubtful on the rest of the series, If I wanted to go down this trail I would not be reading "Legal Thrillers".
May 2, 2022
Why?
OMG this book is absolutely infuriating. After finally learning to tolerate the main character after the first 4 books, Mr. Brunelle really shows how big of a jerk he actually is. We are now back to me not liking him and ONLY reading these books because the cases and what happens during the proceedings are good.
OMG this book is absolutely infuriating. After finally learning to tolerate the main character after the first 4 books, Mr. Brunelle really shows how big of a jerk he actually is. We are now back to me not liking him and ONLY reading these books because the cases and what happens during the proceedings are good.
January 13, 2024
Porno
The author is good at placing the protagonist in situations that prompt humorous thoughts and dialog. The. Hero is emotionally immature and narcissistic. Deviant sexual behavior and thoughts are rampant throughout. The term legal thriller is a misnomer. You get what you pay for. I'll not waste my time with Penned again.
The author is good at placing the protagonist in situations that prompt humorous thoughts and dialog. The. Hero is emotionally immature and narcissistic. Deviant sexual behavior and thoughts are rampant throughout. The term legal thriller is a misnomer. You get what you pay for. I'll not waste my time with Penned again.
March 1, 2025
It was good to see a more human, mistake-prone side to Brunelle. He was not as likeable as he explored his own sexuality--ostensibly to help him with this case-- and neither were the women around him! I guess we'll see in the next book how he comes out of this plunge into the dark side of human sexuality.
September 26, 2021
Risk
A middle aged successful prosecutor.....thinking/acting like a naive ignorant teenager. It was honestly irritating at best reading through all that crazy BS. The story line was good and hence, kept me engaged. Let's hope going forward the protagonist becomes less stupid.
A middle aged successful prosecutor.....thinking/acting like a naive ignorant teenager. It was honestly irritating at best reading through all that crazy BS. The story line was good and hence, kept me engaged. Let's hope going forward the protagonist becomes less stupid.
August 3, 2022
Repetitive
Details repeated way too many times. Main character acted like an overly sexed teenager which was disgusting along with repeated use of the f… word. Would definitely not recommend this book.
Details repeated way too many times. Main character acted like an overly sexed teenager which was disgusting along with repeated use of the f… word. Would definitely not recommend this book.
October 1, 2023
Narcissistic and juvenile
For a successful trial attorney to have such juvenile thoughts and behavior about sex is hard to understand. Or, is that the reason he is unmarried in his mind-forties? Or is that really the way men think? I hope not.
For a successful trial attorney to have such juvenile thoughts and behavior about sex is hard to understand. Or, is that the reason he is unmarried in his mind-forties? Or is that really the way men think? I hope not.
January 5, 2024
Disappointing
Disappointing 5th book in the series. The main character becoming more unprofessional with his juvenile behaviour. Only finished the book because the case and proceedings made it worthwhile.
Disappointing 5th book in the series. The main character becoming more unprofessional with his juvenile behaviour. Only finished the book because the case and proceedings made it worthwhile.
March 1, 2024
Pretty good
I like his writing, and it is an interesting story line. I do not appreciate his constant us of the f word. As I follow this series therecseems to be increasing explicit sexual parts. I don't read for that.
I like his writing, and it is an interesting story line. I do not appreciate his constant us of the f word. As I follow this series therecseems to be increasing explicit sexual parts. I don't read for that.
March 4, 2024
Character
As always, well written. But I prefer the main characters I follow to have a solidly good sense of honor and to be stronger, not just smarter. Brunelle demonstrates neither here.
As always, well written. But I prefer the main characters I follow to have a solidly good sense of honor and to be stronger, not just smarter. Brunelle demonstrates neither here.
September 17, 2024
Disappointed In Substantial Risk
Disliked the extreme and bizarre sexual prurient content as unnecessary. Tiring of the extreme character flaws of a person in his position. I don't intend to read any more of this series and will not recommend it to others.
Disliked the extreme and bizarre sexual prurient content as unnecessary. Tiring of the extreme character flaws of a person in his position. I don't intend to read any more of this series and will not recommend it to others.
February 20, 2025
looking forward
Brunel is a jerk but I will be reading book 6 because I want to learn about Kat. As a medical examiner he will be able to ignore her completely. At least not professionally
Brunel is a jerk but I will be reading book 6 because I want to learn about Kat. As a medical examiner he will be able to ignore her completely. At least not professionally
May 11, 2025
Substantial Risk
I'm enjoying the diversity of cases, it keeps the interest and the pages turning. The story lines are interesting with the occasional light hearted moments and I'm convinced Dave is his own worst enemy sometimes when it comes to his love life.
I'm enjoying the diversity of cases, it keeps the interest and the pages turning. The story lines are interesting with the occasional light hearted moments and I'm convinced Dave is his own worst enemy sometimes when it comes to his love life.
October 8, 2018
Substantial Risk
Really enjoyed this book. It was better than book four. I really liked the thrills in this book. I recommend this book and this series
Really enjoyed this book. It was better than book four. I really liked the thrills in this book. I recommend this book and this series
July 5, 2021
An unsatisfactory book
I did not care for this book or the subject matter and will not read any more books by this author.
I did not care for this book or the subject matter and will not read any more books by this author.
September 29, 2021
Really good story
David Brunelle can be a real ass, but Stephen Penned writes a good story. This was quite an interesting subject and is definitely worth the read.
David Brunelle can be a real ass, but Stephen Penned writes a good story. This was quite an interesting subject and is definitely worth the read.
Read
December 6, 2021Desperate for a plot
A ridiculous story. The main character, Dave Brunelle, was certainly out of character as the decent guy he's known to be.
A ridiculous story. The main character, Dave Brunelle, was certainly out of character as the decent guy he's known to be.
August 5, 2022
Disappointing
The author has turned his primary character from an interesting "ladies man" into a sex craved idiot that needs therapy or full time supervision. Too bad.
The author has turned his primary character from an interesting "ladies man" into a sex craved idiot that needs therapy or full time supervision. Too bad.
March 7, 2024
Risk
Not one of your best works. That could be because of the subject matter of this case.I'm not saying it was a bad book just not what I was ready for.
Not one of your best works. That could be because of the subject matter of this case.I'm not saying it was a bad book just not what I was ready for.
April 17, 2024
Not My Favorite
I have enjoyed Penner’s legal thrillers. His testosterone took over this book. I have to admit I couldn’t finish it.
I have enjoyed Penner’s legal thrillers. His testosterone took over this book. I have to admit I couldn’t finish it.
January 24, 2025
He is a very ugly man who only thinks of doing women. This was really bad with all the ugly sex.
January 30, 2025
goood read
This is book #5 in this long seres. I’m looking forward to reading more of these books. There’re quick and enjoyable books to read.
This is book #5 in this long seres. I’m looking forward to reading more of these books. There’re quick and enjoyable books to read.
August 25, 2025
WOW...
What a strange and delightful novel. Great trial outcome but poor David was ditched by both of his loving women.
What a strange and delightful novel. Great trial outcome but poor David was ditched by both of his loving women.
August 27, 2025
well written. Looking forward to the next book in the series.
August 12, 2024
Alright. Too much swearing in this particular one. I’m hoping the next one is better. If not then I guess it’s time for something else
Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews