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The One-Eyed Judge
The stunning new legal thriller from The New York Times best-selling author of The Hanging Judge, “[A] talent to watch” (The Washington Post).
When FBI agents barge into Sidney Cranmer’s home accusing him of a heinous crime, the respected literature professor’s life becomes a nightmare. Cranmer insists the illicit material found by the agents isn’t his, but the charge against him appears airtight, and his academic specialty - the life and work of controversial author Lewis Carroll, creator of Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland - convinces investigators he’s lying.
Presiding over the case against Professor Cranmer, US District Judge David Norcross fears his daily confrontation with evil has made him too jaded to become a husband and father. His girlfriend, Claire Lindemann, teaches in the same department as the defendant and is convinced of his innocence. Soon, she will take matters into her own hands.
Meanwhile - with his love life in turmoil and his plans for the future on hold - a personal tragedy leaves Norcross responsible for his two young nieces. Unbeknownst to him, a vengeful child predator hovers over his new family, preparing to strike.
Michael Ponsor’s debut novel, The Hanging Judge, was praised by retired Supreme Court justice John Paul Stevens for reminding readers “[T]hat the judicial process is not infallible” and by Pulitzer Prize-winning author Tracy Kidder for bearing “[T]he heft of authenticity”.
The One-Eyed Judge again draws on Ponsor’s 30 years as a US district judge, offering listeners an insider’s view of one of the most harrowing kinds of cases faced by the courts. Fast-paced, thrilling, and thought-provoking, this is legal fiction at its most realistic and compelling.
The One-Eyed Judge is the second audiobook in the Judge Norcross novels, but you may enjoy listening to the series in any order.
When FBI agents barge into Sidney Cranmer’s home accusing him of a heinous crime, the respected literature professor’s life becomes a nightmare. Cranmer insists the illicit material found by the agents isn’t his, but the charge against him appears airtight, and his academic specialty - the life and work of controversial author Lewis Carroll, creator of Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland - convinces investigators he’s lying.
Presiding over the case against Professor Cranmer, US District Judge David Norcross fears his daily confrontation with evil has made him too jaded to become a husband and father. His girlfriend, Claire Lindemann, teaches in the same department as the defendant and is convinced of his innocence. Soon, she will take matters into her own hands.
Meanwhile - with his love life in turmoil and his plans for the future on hold - a personal tragedy leaves Norcross responsible for his two young nieces. Unbeknownst to him, a vengeful child predator hovers over his new family, preparing to strike.
Michael Ponsor’s debut novel, The Hanging Judge, was praised by retired Supreme Court justice John Paul Stevens for reminding readers “[T]hat the judicial process is not infallible” and by Pulitzer Prize-winning author Tracy Kidder for bearing “[T]he heft of authenticity”.
The One-Eyed Judge again draws on Ponsor’s 30 years as a US district judge, offering listeners an insider’s view of one of the most harrowing kinds of cases faced by the courts. Fast-paced, thrilling, and thought-provoking, this is legal fiction at its most realistic and compelling.
The One-Eyed Judge is the second audiobook in the Judge Norcross novels, but you may enjoy listening to the series in any order.
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First published June 6, 2017
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About the author
Michael Ponsor
3 books52 followersMichael Ponsor graduated from Harvard, received a Rhodes Scholarship, and studied for two years at Pembroke College, Oxford. As an undergraduate, he spent a year teaching in Kabete, Kenya, just outside Nairobi. After taking his law degree from Yale and clerking in federal court in Boston, he began his legal career, specializing in criminal defense. He moved to Amherst, Massachusetts, in 1978, where he practiced as a trial attorney in his own firm until his appointment in 1984 as a US magistrate judge in Springfield, Massachusetts. In 1994, President Bill Clinton appointed him a life-tenured US district judge. From 2000 to 2001, he presided over a five-month death penalty trial, the first in Massachusetts in over fifty years. Judge Ponsor continues to serve as a senior US district judge in the United States District Court for the District of Massachusetts, Western Division, with responsibility for federal criminal and civil cases in the four counties of western Massachusetts. The One-Eyed Judge is his second novel featuring Judge Norcross.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
July 29, 2017
This is my second time reading a book by Michael Ponsor, after The Hanging Judge, and once again it has been a good experience. This story concerns a college professor accused of possession of child pornography. But the story goes beyond that into the workings of the college campus as well as the personal life of the principal character, Judge David Norcross. He is not always on the page, but sooner or later, everything returns to his courtroom. The accused is a somewhat eccentric man, a fact which stands against him as the legal case goes forward. Eccentricity should not be a damning character trait but it might be.
There are multiple side stories which might seem tangential initially but eventually are shown to be integral to the important central theme: the trial of Professor Cranmer. I did have some ideas of my own while reading, but then I was privy to some information that the police did not know. It's fun to be a reader!
I enjoyed the trial segments, the points of law, the investigation, the personal areas of the major characters...which broadens many aspects of the book beyond the basic criminal issue. I will read the next book Ponsor writes. He knows the system as he has worked within it.
A copy of this book was provided by the publisher through NetGalley in return for an honest review
There are multiple side stories which might seem tangential initially but eventually are shown to be integral to the important central theme: the trial of Professor Cranmer. I did have some ideas of my own while reading, but then I was privy to some information that the police did not know. It's fun to be a reader!
I enjoyed the trial segments, the points of law, the investigation, the personal areas of the major characters...which broadens many aspects of the book beyond the basic criminal issue. I will read the next book Ponsor writes. He knows the system as he has worked within it.
A copy of this book was provided by the publisher through NetGalley in return for an honest review
October 7, 2017
2.5
This is a legal fiction story about a judge, David Norcross, who is presiding over a court case involving Sidney Cranmer who has been accused of a crime involving possession of child pornography. Illicit material has been found in Sidney's home. The judge is involved with Claire Lindemann who teaches with Sidney and is having a hard time believing that he is capable of the crimes he has been charged with. A phone call changes everything....
This is Micheal Ponsoor's second novel. His first novel is The Hanging Judge and also part of his David Norcross series.
This is a legal fiction story about a judge, David Norcross, who is presiding over a court case involving Sidney Cranmer who has been accused of a crime involving possession of child pornography. Illicit material has been found in Sidney's home. The judge is involved with Claire Lindemann who teaches with Sidney and is having a hard time believing that he is capable of the crimes he has been charged with. A phone call changes everything....
This is Micheal Ponsoor's second novel. His first novel is The Hanging Judge and also part of his David Norcross series.
September 3, 2025
Still a decent legal novel, and still a novelty because it is written from judge's point of view, as will the upcoming books of the series will be, it seems. The first book was a bit better, though. This one started slow, and maybe too much of its attention had been for the background. Add a yucky main theme of children pornography and well, you have it.
Though I'm glad that it got better in the second part of the book, when the real judicial process started. Ponsor knows a lot about it (as a real life judge, no wonder he does) and this is definitely the forte of his books. All in all, a strong 3* seems like a good grade for this book. Not as good as the first one, but still has some good traits.
Though I'm glad that it got better in the second part of the book, when the real judicial process started. Ponsor knows a lot about it (as a real life judge, no wonder he does) and this is definitely the forte of his books. All in all, a strong 3* seems like a good grade for this book. Not as good as the first one, but still has some good traits.
August 3, 2017
If you want to read an authentic legal suspense novel, this is it. I usually hesitate to buy legal thrillers because I am and have been a lawyer for many decades. This is a well explained and true to life nuanced story about child pornography. The legal arguments are on point as is the process for federal courts. The characters are well developed and for the most part very likeable. Judge Ponsor may have been a bit rough on the AUSA, but it happens occasionally in the prosecution of cases. I loved the familial backstory that the judge faces when his brother's disability requires Norcross to become a stand by father to two typical young girls during a contentious and troubling court case. This is really a well done novel. I hope to read more by Judge Ponsor.
March 4, 2017
The One-Eyed Judge by Michael Ponsor
The authors note opens with Michael Ponsor stating that he has been a federal judge for more than thirty years and he tells how he has been in a small group of people allowed to view child pornography. He has had to view it within the circumstances that it leads to a criminal conviction. He goes on to say he wishes he was never put into the position of legally viewing it because of the heartbreaking representation of having to witness this disturbing matter. He says how these images linger in your mind illuminating evidence of our species at its worst. The defendants vary, some are vicious showing no regret and are predators. Some have been upstanding citizens of the community, some that are law abiding citizens drawn obsessively to this repulsive habit. Some are teenagers and students on the internet out of unhealthy curiosity. This novel includes chat-room material that he has seen as being a judge.
The book opens up with the FBI doing a sting catches an English College professor that has just received a DVD that the professor bought from a flyer from the FBI and paid for with his credit card. The judge named David S. Norcross who issued the search and arrest warrant is seeing Professor Claire Lindemann who is friends with Professor Cramer who was arrested. Judge Norcross brings up the fact that him and Claire witnessed the arrest and neither attorney thinks Judge Norcross should recuse himself of the case. The judge doesn't want to recuse himself from the case and dump it in another judge's lap. Meanwhile at a hearing the judge gets a phone call during court that his sister-in-law was killed in a plane crash and his brother is in bad shape.
The writing is very clever, in fact it is way above average. The material is not gratuitous. The author is very humble in that he says that he is sorry if the subject matter offends and he understands that it is not easy to read about child sexual abuse. It is not a subject that's easy to write or talk about or even think about. The author states that on the other hand we are learning that silence is false consolation and does little to help. I know that this author has written a book before this called "The Hanging Judge" that was very well reviewed and I plan on reading because this book was so well written. 5 stars! I hope this author continues to write because his work is so well written.
Thank you to Net Galley, Michael Ponsor and the wonderful Publisher Open Road for providing me with my digital copy in exchange for a fair and honest review.
The authors note opens with Michael Ponsor stating that he has been a federal judge for more than thirty years and he tells how he has been in a small group of people allowed to view child pornography. He has had to view it within the circumstances that it leads to a criminal conviction. He goes on to say he wishes he was never put into the position of legally viewing it because of the heartbreaking representation of having to witness this disturbing matter. He says how these images linger in your mind illuminating evidence of our species at its worst. The defendants vary, some are vicious showing no regret and are predators. Some have been upstanding citizens of the community, some that are law abiding citizens drawn obsessively to this repulsive habit. Some are teenagers and students on the internet out of unhealthy curiosity. This novel includes chat-room material that he has seen as being a judge.
The book opens up with the FBI doing a sting catches an English College professor that has just received a DVD that the professor bought from a flyer from the FBI and paid for with his credit card. The judge named David S. Norcross who issued the search and arrest warrant is seeing Professor Claire Lindemann who is friends with Professor Cramer who was arrested. Judge Norcross brings up the fact that him and Claire witnessed the arrest and neither attorney thinks Judge Norcross should recuse himself of the case. The judge doesn't want to recuse himself from the case and dump it in another judge's lap. Meanwhile at a hearing the judge gets a phone call during court that his sister-in-law was killed in a plane crash and his brother is in bad shape.
The writing is very clever, in fact it is way above average. The material is not gratuitous. The author is very humble in that he says that he is sorry if the subject matter offends and he understands that it is not easy to read about child sexual abuse. It is not a subject that's easy to write or talk about or even think about. The author states that on the other hand we are learning that silence is false consolation and does little to help. I know that this author has written a book before this called "The Hanging Judge" that was very well reviewed and I plan on reading because this book was so well written. 5 stars! I hope this author continues to write because his work is so well written.
Thank you to Net Galley, Michael Ponsor and the wonderful Publisher Open Road for providing me with my digital copy in exchange for a fair and honest review.
March 14, 2017
Sidney Cranmer is an Amherst professor whose fame rests on a book he wrote about mathematician and author of 'Alice in Wonderland', Lewis Carroll. Many of those studying Carroll's work have come to the conclusion that he was a pedophile because of the plethora of photographs he took of partially clothed and naked girls. When the FBI barges into Cranmer's home and finds a DVD filled with child pornography, his case is not very strong.
Judge Norcross, presiding over the case, is involved with Claire Lindemann, a colleague of Sidney's and she doesn't believe Cranmer is capable of the crime of which he stands accused.
The premise of the book is a good one. However, the writing is very poor, an obviously sophomore attempt at turning a good idea into a good novel. Unfortunately, this is not an easy task to accomplish.
Judge Norcross, presiding over the case, is involved with Claire Lindemann, a colleague of Sidney's and she doesn't believe Cranmer is capable of the crime of which he stands accused.
The premise of the book is a good one. However, the writing is very poor, an obviously sophomore attempt at turning a good idea into a good novel. Unfortunately, this is not an easy task to accomplish.
March 3, 2020
The trial in this second Judge Norcross novel centers on child abuse and pornography and how the first suspect is not always the correct one. The topic may very well put off readers although abuse is not described in detail; it certainly did jurors during the novel. In addition to the conflict over the truly distressing content of the case, Judge Norcross’s involvement is further complicated by the primary suspect’s collegial friendship with the Judge’s close friend/lover Claire, also a professor at Amherst College.
Multiple POV’s are present, including: Judge Norcross, Claire, a couple of sexual predators, Professor Cranmer, the defense attorney and FBI agents. Judge Norcross also has some serious family pressure; his brother (badly injured) and sister-in-law (killed) are involved in an air crash in Europe. The judge must parent his two nieces, something he never considered doing. The pressure of all these elements is enormous.
The finale is standard race to the wire thriller country. The characters are likeable and believable though a little stiff at times. The judicial perspective is an interesting one, since most legal thrillers occupy the opposite side of the bench. Lots of local detail, too. Recommended.
Readalikes:
Scott Turow – Testimony; John Grisham – The Racketeer; Elizabeth Silver – The Execution of Noa P. Singleton; John Lescroart – The Second Chair; Malin Persson Giolito – Beyond All Reasonable Doubt; Phillip Margolin – The Third Victim; Jeanne Winer – Her Kind of Case; Margot Hunt – For Better and Worse; John DeCure – He Said, She Said.
Pace: Moderately-paced
Characters: Likeable; flawed
Story: Intricately plotted
Writing style: Gritty
Tone: Disturbing
Frame: Amherst MA, contemporary
Theme: Innocent or guilty?
Multiple POV’s are present, including: Judge Norcross, Claire, a couple of sexual predators, Professor Cranmer, the defense attorney and FBI agents. Judge Norcross also has some serious family pressure; his brother (badly injured) and sister-in-law (killed) are involved in an air crash in Europe. The judge must parent his two nieces, something he never considered doing. The pressure of all these elements is enormous.
The finale is standard race to the wire thriller country. The characters are likeable and believable though a little stiff at times. The judicial perspective is an interesting one, since most legal thrillers occupy the opposite side of the bench. Lots of local detail, too. Recommended.
Readalikes:
Scott Turow – Testimony; John Grisham – The Racketeer; Elizabeth Silver – The Execution of Noa P. Singleton; John Lescroart – The Second Chair; Malin Persson Giolito – Beyond All Reasonable Doubt; Phillip Margolin – The Third Victim; Jeanne Winer – Her Kind of Case; Margot Hunt – For Better and Worse; John DeCure – He Said, She Said.
Pace: Moderately-paced
Characters: Likeable; flawed
Story: Intricately plotted
Writing style: Gritty
Tone: Disturbing
Frame: Amherst MA, contemporary
Theme: Innocent or guilty?
May 23, 2017
I had read Ponsor's first book, The Hanging Judge, and had enjoyed it. I even remembered reading it when I saw this one being offered. I immediately hit the request offer. And, I am so glad that I did. This was a tough read due to the subject matter being child pornography. The sickening part was the ages of these children - toddlers even. That part kind of grossed me out.
Usually, I'm not into legal thrillers all that much because of all the legalities that go on in the courtroom. However, this one really wasn't that bad. The prosecutors were arses and the author showed the defense to have a heart.
The ending was a little strange as I was left with still a few questions, but I enjoyed the read.
Thanks to Open Road Integrated Media and Net Galley for providing me with a free e-galley in exchange for an honest, unbiased review.
Usually, I'm not into legal thrillers all that much because of all the legalities that go on in the courtroom. However, this one really wasn't that bad. The prosecutors were arses and the author showed the defense to have a heart.
The ending was a little strange as I was left with still a few questions, but I enjoyed the read.
Thanks to Open Road Integrated Media and Net Galley for providing me with a free e-galley in exchange for an honest, unbiased review.
January 25, 2019
Another taut thriller with protagonist Judge David Norcross! Ponsor's ability to suck his readers in is unparalleled. This story if so fraught with twists an turns, you'll be on edge reading it-wanting to finish it quickly to know what happens, yet not wanting to continue because you feel more bad stuff coming! An amazing writer and an amazing story teller!
March 26, 2019
Michael Ponsor has an incredible way of writing about an uncomfortable topic but with such eloquence that it is impossible to turn away.
The action moves quickly, and the characters are realistic and empathetic, engrossing and engaging the reader from the very beginning!
The action moves quickly, and the characters are realistic and empathetic, engrossing and engaging the reader from the very beginning!
November 5, 2018
Un thriller con un buen ritmo, que no decae, aunque sea fácil adivinar por donde van los tiros.
Pop corn puro.
Pop corn puro.
March 5, 2017
Special thanks to NetGally for giving me the opportunity to read this book and provide an honest review.
Once I started reading this book it didn't take me long to get plugged in. The character development and storyline were great which made it an easy read. Judge Norcross is the presiding judge over Professor Cranmer's case because he's charged with possession of child pornography. Judge Norcross is not only involved in this case but he also has to juggle his personal life and not have it interfere with his job. Ponsor takes you on a journey to witness the ins and outs of a pornography case from the perspective of a judge. The fact that someone is into this kind of abuse against children can be very hard on the other people involved because they have to view the evidence in order to deal with the case.
Professor Cranmer's student intern Elizabeth, who had to get re-assigned to another professor due to Professor Cranmer's charges has interesting things going on in her life with her boyfriend but she takes on the challenges head on with determination. She not only deals with her boyfriend issues but she also plays a vital role in the case against Professor Cranmer.
While reading this book, you'll notice several story lines and at times you'll wonder what's the point, however, keep reading because they all come together in the end for a wonderful finish. Ponsor drops little clues along the way so if you're able to put them together, you'll see it all play out in the end. I highly recommend this book especially if you're a fan of legal thrillers and mysteries. I'm looking forward to reading his first book, The Hanging Judge in the near future.
Once I started reading this book it didn't take me long to get plugged in. The character development and storyline were great which made it an easy read. Judge Norcross is the presiding judge over Professor Cranmer's case because he's charged with possession of child pornography. Judge Norcross is not only involved in this case but he also has to juggle his personal life and not have it interfere with his job. Ponsor takes you on a journey to witness the ins and outs of a pornography case from the perspective of a judge. The fact that someone is into this kind of abuse against children can be very hard on the other people involved because they have to view the evidence in order to deal with the case.
Professor Cranmer's student intern Elizabeth, who had to get re-assigned to another professor due to Professor Cranmer's charges has interesting things going on in her life with her boyfriend but she takes on the challenges head on with determination. She not only deals with her boyfriend issues but she also plays a vital role in the case against Professor Cranmer.
While reading this book, you'll notice several story lines and at times you'll wonder what's the point, however, keep reading because they all come together in the end for a wonderful finish. Ponsor drops little clues along the way so if you're able to put them together, you'll see it all play out in the end. I highly recommend this book especially if you're a fan of legal thrillers and mysteries. I'm looking forward to reading his first book, The Hanging Judge in the near future.
February 15, 2017
This book takes you directly into the courtroom and behind closed doors to the judges chambers. All of his thoughts, actions and conversations are transparent and on display. I have not read Judge Ponser's first novel featuring Judge Norcross, The Hanging Judge, but I plan to in the future. This novel eludes to a few key elements that I'm sure stem from the first novel, but this in no way detracts from the current novel's plot. The One-Eyed Judge can be read as a standalone novel, and I hope that Judge Ponser will continue this series in the future.
Judge Michael Ponsor writes "For more than thirty years, my position as a federal judge has placed me within a small cohort of people permitted to view child pornography legally, provided, of course, that the viewing occurs only in the context of a criminal prosecution. This novel, including the chat-room material, draws from my experience with these cases in federal court. I must beg pardon if this story leads readers down some of the darker passages that judges routinely travel. It is not easy to write or to read about child sexual abuse."
This book really contains four different storylines, two of which seem minimal at first. He delves into the judge's personal life quite a bit. Then there is a small subplot that involves the main FBI agent as he carries out a separate assignment. The storyline involving professor Cranmer's intern Libby and her boyfriend is entertaining, but it takes a sinister twist and gains importance as the plot unfolds. Overall the main focus is on the case against the professor and the players involved in it.
Ponsor provides lots of subtle foreshadowing throughout. Read carefully and collect the puzzle pieces along the way. They will all fit together in the end leading up to two shocking conclusions that show the beauty of the justice system in action, flawed as it may be.
I highly recommend this book to fans of legal thrillers, courtroom procedurals, and mysteries. Judge Ponsor's writing is top notch, and I look forward to future installments in this series. I received this as a free ARC from Open Road Integrated Media on NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Judge Michael Ponsor writes "For more than thirty years, my position as a federal judge has placed me within a small cohort of people permitted to view child pornography legally, provided, of course, that the viewing occurs only in the context of a criminal prosecution. This novel, including the chat-room material, draws from my experience with these cases in federal court. I must beg pardon if this story leads readers down some of the darker passages that judges routinely travel. It is not easy to write or to read about child sexual abuse."
This book really contains four different storylines, two of which seem minimal at first. He delves into the judge's personal life quite a bit. Then there is a small subplot that involves the main FBI agent as he carries out a separate assignment. The storyline involving professor Cranmer's intern Libby and her boyfriend is entertaining, but it takes a sinister twist and gains importance as the plot unfolds. Overall the main focus is on the case against the professor and the players involved in it.
Ponsor provides lots of subtle foreshadowing throughout. Read carefully and collect the puzzle pieces along the way. They will all fit together in the end leading up to two shocking conclusions that show the beauty of the justice system in action, flawed as it may be.
I highly recommend this book to fans of legal thrillers, courtroom procedurals, and mysteries. Judge Ponsor's writing is top notch, and I look forward to future installments in this series. I received this as a free ARC from Open Road Integrated Media on NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
June 7, 2017
A Child Pornography Trial and a Family Tragedy
An Amherst professor, Sidney Cranmer, is caught in an FBI sting. Cranmer receives a DVD containing child pornography which he says he never ordered, but the FBI believes differently. Cranmer’s specialty is Lewis Carrol who some believe was a pedophile because of the pictures he took of young girls, naked or partially clothed. This specialty leads the FBI to believe that Cranmer also enjoys child pornography.
Judge David Norcross is assigned the case. He hasn’t rescued himself and now he’s caught in a dilemma. His girlfriend, Claire Lindermann, is a professor at Amherst and a friend of Cranmer. She believes he’s not guilty which puts a strain on her relationship with David. To make Norcross’ life more difficult, his brother is injured in a plane crash that kills his wife leaving David with two young nieces who he feels unprepared to care for. Having children is a contentious issue in his relationship with Claire. He doesn’t feel able to care for children, and she wants to be a mother.
This is an excellent legal thriller. The plot has a number or twists. It’s very difficult to figure out what’s happening until near the end of the book. Probably the best part is the realism of the courtroom scenes. The author, Michael Ponsor, spent thirty years as a US district judge. He uses this background to give an authentic tone to the novel.
The characters of David and Claire are realistic. People with careers trying to decide whether to make a family late in life have particular difficulty deciding whether their careers are compatible with being parents. I thought the author handled this difficult topic with great sensitivity. I highly recommend this book if you enjoy legal thrillers with well developed characters and authentic background.
I received this book from Net Galley for this review.
An Amherst professor, Sidney Cranmer, is caught in an FBI sting. Cranmer receives a DVD containing child pornography which he says he never ordered, but the FBI believes differently. Cranmer’s specialty is Lewis Carrol who some believe was a pedophile because of the pictures he took of young girls, naked or partially clothed. This specialty leads the FBI to believe that Cranmer also enjoys child pornography.
Judge David Norcross is assigned the case. He hasn’t rescued himself and now he’s caught in a dilemma. His girlfriend, Claire Lindermann, is a professor at Amherst and a friend of Cranmer. She believes he’s not guilty which puts a strain on her relationship with David. To make Norcross’ life more difficult, his brother is injured in a plane crash that kills his wife leaving David with two young nieces who he feels unprepared to care for. Having children is a contentious issue in his relationship with Claire. He doesn’t feel able to care for children, and she wants to be a mother.
This is an excellent legal thriller. The plot has a number or twists. It’s very difficult to figure out what’s happening until near the end of the book. Probably the best part is the realism of the courtroom scenes. The author, Michael Ponsor, spent thirty years as a US district judge. He uses this background to give an authentic tone to the novel.
The characters of David and Claire are realistic. People with careers trying to decide whether to make a family late in life have particular difficulty deciding whether their careers are compatible with being parents. I thought the author handled this difficult topic with great sensitivity. I highly recommend this book if you enjoy legal thrillers with well developed characters and authentic background.
I received this book from Net Galley for this review.
June 4, 2017
I received this book via NetGalley to give an honest review.
We are introduced to the case of Sid Crammer who has been accused of having child pornography, though he doesn't remember looking at anything like that or ordering anything that deals with that crime. Judge Norcross has to listen to all that is given to him from the government who is pursuing Crammer to Crammer's lawyer who is trying to defend him. This isn't just a open shut case, it seems that there is more there than meets the eye. While Judge Norcross is trying to do his job he is dealing with things being thrown his way. From his nieces who need him to his girlfriend who wants to start a family. We see how Norcross deals with all this going on while trying to make sure that he handles this case with carefully dotted t's and i's. At first it seems that Crammer is guilty of what he is being accused of, but what happens when someone can actually give evidence that will set him free, and is he truly free?
We do get to see how child predators work via the internet and it is scary! I think the author did a wonderful job with doing his research and bringing this story to life. As far as characters go I felt they were well developed.
June 15, 2017
The One-Eyed Judge is the second novel written by Michael Ponsor, a U.S. District Court judge for the District of Massachusetts, about Judge David Norcross, also a Massachusetts federal judge. As I loved Ponsor’s first novel, The Hanging Judge (see review dated October 28, 2014), I jumped at the opportunity to read The One-Eyed Judge. And once again, Ponsor does not disappoint.
Child pornography. That is the gruesome crime with which Professor Stanley Cranmer is charged. Ironic, as Cranmer is an English professor at Amherst College, specializing in Lewis Carroll. After the case is assigned to Judge Norcross, his life is thrown into turmoil – and not just because his girlfriend is a colleague and friend of Cranmer’s.
While reading The One-Eyed Judge, I was reminded of what I wrote while reviewing The Hanging Judge: as a lawyer and former federal judicial law clerk, Ponsor’s fiction is just the sort of book that I usually avoid. But, Ponsor masterfully incorporates his many years of experience on the federal bench, and The One-Eyed Judge is a realistic and gripping legal thriller.
I thoroughly enjoyed The One-Eyed Judge, and I cannot wait to read the next Judge Norcross novel.
Child pornography. That is the gruesome crime with which Professor Stanley Cranmer is charged. Ironic, as Cranmer is an English professor at Amherst College, specializing in Lewis Carroll. After the case is assigned to Judge Norcross, his life is thrown into turmoil – and not just because his girlfriend is a colleague and friend of Cranmer’s.
While reading The One-Eyed Judge, I was reminded of what I wrote while reviewing The Hanging Judge: as a lawyer and former federal judicial law clerk, Ponsor’s fiction is just the sort of book that I usually avoid. But, Ponsor masterfully incorporates his many years of experience on the federal bench, and The One-Eyed Judge is a realistic and gripping legal thriller.
I thoroughly enjoyed The One-Eyed Judge, and I cannot wait to read the next Judge Norcross novel.
May 27, 2017
I struggled with this book pretty much from the beginning. Yes, it deals with some rough subject matter, but that wasn't the issue. Really, I just couldn't deal with the slow approach to telling the story. I like books that have a decent amount of action, or at least ones where there is something happening all the time and to be honest, there were times in this book where reading it felt like watching the grass grow.
The book does get more exciting in places, but then it slows down again for periods, so it was a mix of enjoying parts of it more than some other parts. I didn't dislike this book, and I'm glad that I read it, but I think it requires a good deal of patience to get through it.
Overall, it was an interesting book for the most part.
This review is based on a complementary copy from the publisher, provided through Netgalley. All opinions are my own.
The book does get more exciting in places, but then it slows down again for periods, so it was a mix of enjoying parts of it more than some other parts. I didn't dislike this book, and I'm glad that I read it, but I think it requires a good deal of patience to get through it.
Overall, it was an interesting book for the most part.
This review is based on a complementary copy from the publisher, provided through Netgalley. All opinions are my own.
June 4, 2017
This was a well-written, fast-paced legal thriller. Professor Sidney Cranmer is arrested by the FBI, accused receiving child pornography. U.S. District Judge David Norcross is assigned to preside over the case. His girlfriend, Claire Lindemann, teaches in the same dept as the professor and believes he is innocent. A personal tragedy in the Judge's life leaves him responsible for his two young nieces. There are several storylines in this book, and they end up intersecting. I found this book hard to put down and enjoyed it very much. It can be read as a standalone book, though it is the second in a series featuring Judge Norcross. I now plan to read the first book, and look forward to reading more books in this series as well as others by this author.
June 6, 2017
This was a well-written, fast-paced legal thriller. Professor Sidney Cranmer is arrested by the FBI, accused receiving child pornography. U.S. District Judge David Norcross is assigned to preside over the case. His girlfriend, Claire Lindemann, teaches in the same dept as the professor and believes he is innocent. A personal tragedy in the Judge's life leaves him responsible for his two young nieces. There are several storylines in this book, and they end up intersecting. I found this book hard to put down and enjoyed it very much. It can be read as a standalone book, though it is the second in a series featuring Judge Norcross. I now plan to read the first book, and look forward to reading more books in this series as well as others by this author.
November 30, 2017
Judge Norcross presides over a case that turns out to have personal connections. A college professor is accused of buying kiddie porn. Norcross's girlfriend is a professor at the same college and a friend of the accused. Add in his brother's plane crash where his sister-in-law was killed, and he is now keeping his brother's two daughters. The judge has a lot on his plate and not everything is as it seems. Lawyers' underhanded dealings, conniving students, and an upright FBI agent keeps things moving. I won this book through "Murder and Mayhem" giveaway and now have another author to add to my favorites list.
June 6, 2017
This is a chilling tale that's intelligently-written and gut-wrenching in its ability to touch on every parent's worst nightmare. To be wrongly accused of the heinous crime of trafficking in child pornography, as was Professor Cranmer, has to be a living hell. How do you clear your name and regain trust of those closest to you when all signs point to your guilt? This is a harrowing tale of one man's battle against those very circumstances, and it'll hold your rapt attention from the first page to the end. Very highly recommended.
June 8, 2017
The topic of child sexual abuse is not something I look forward to reading about. For that reason I was a little slow getting into this story. I'm glad I hung in there as it developed into a suspenseful and thrilling read on many levels. The characters carried over from "The Hanging Judge" were familiar, but reintroduced well. Ponsor has a good understanding of human nature. it shows in the interactions between the characters. All were definitely complex and very realistic. The writing is clear and easy to digest. The ending was a mixed blessing, and kept the door open for more.
September 10, 2020
The 2nd story of this author that I have read. The story was well laid out from beginning to end. The initial arrest of Cranmore seem to be somewhat of entrapment. The additional storyline of Davis having to take care of his nieces brought a mor personal aspect to his life.
The trial and the information that the defense team was able to gather and how they did it was well done. The prosecution in this case was so committed to convicting this one individual that they completely ignored facts that contradicted there evidence.
Again the story kept you interest and I recommend this book highly.
The trial and the information that the defense team was able to gather and how they did it was well done. The prosecution in this case was so committed to convicting this one individual that they completely ignored facts that contradicted there evidence.
Again the story kept you interest and I recommend this book highly.
March 15, 2017
This is my first Judge Norcross book. It wasn't until I almost finished it that I found out it was book 2 of a series, which answered the question of why the book veered into Judge Norcross's private life which had nothing to do with the main plot.
The writing was easy to read and follow and I got into it right away. The thing I liked most about the book was the characters. I thought the author did a great job of making them alive and interesting. The characters can be grouped into two groups: Sid Cranmer (professor) the accused and his supporting/opposing cast from the university and the other group of law and order of justices, attorneys and law enforcement.
The first group of characters take center stage first as we see the arrest and the story around the professor. As the book proceeds, the second group of characters become more important as we get into the court procedural part.
This isn't an edge of the seat thriller type of book but the story line is interesting nonetheless as we follow the story of the different characters which eventually all tie up at the end. And there isn't a lot of mystery involved as the reader can kind of guess the endings part way through the book.
What makes the book for me are the characters. I liked the book because I liked the characters. I was sympathetic to most of them and wanted to see the story through, to make sure the guilty got their dues and the innocents got their justice. And despite Judge Norcrosse's personal life not being part of the main plot, I also wanted to things go right there.
Overall, it was an enjoyable read and I would read more Judge Norcrosse books. I got this book as a free review copy.
The writing was easy to read and follow and I got into it right away. The thing I liked most about the book was the characters. I thought the author did a great job of making them alive and interesting. The characters can be grouped into two groups: Sid Cranmer (professor) the accused and his supporting/opposing cast from the university and the other group of law and order of justices, attorneys and law enforcement.
The first group of characters take center stage first as we see the arrest and the story around the professor. As the book proceeds, the second group of characters become more important as we get into the court procedural part.
This isn't an edge of the seat thriller type of book but the story line is interesting nonetheless as we follow the story of the different characters which eventually all tie up at the end. And there isn't a lot of mystery involved as the reader can kind of guess the endings part way through the book.
What makes the book for me are the characters. I liked the book because I liked the characters. I was sympathetic to most of them and wanted to see the story through, to make sure the guilty got their dues and the innocents got their justice. And despite Judge Norcrosse's personal life not being part of the main plot, I also wanted to things go right there.
Overall, it was an enjoyable read and I would read more Judge Norcrosse books. I got this book as a free review copy.
March 5, 2023
superb writing, both books excellent.
Anyone who likes a good legal thriller enjoy these very carefully crafted novels.
Ticks every box - plot, characters, dialogue, suspense and so on and so forth.
The author was obviously writing from the heart, with much based on his own personal life experiences.
I am looking forward to his next novel. I googled the African songs mentioned, which added more enjoyment.
Highly recommended.
Anyone who likes a good legal thriller enjoy these very carefully crafted novels.
Ticks every box - plot, characters, dialogue, suspense and so on and so forth.
The author was obviously writing from the heart, with much based on his own personal life experiences.
I am looking forward to his next novel. I googled the African songs mentioned, which added more enjoyment.
Highly recommended.
March 27, 2019
One of my favorite books so far this year..
I was hesitant to purchase because of the story line, but I’m glad I did. I do enjoy legal thrillers, and this one was excellent.
I liked the different characters in the book, each one interesting in a different way. I read this in 1 1/2 days as I picked it up every break I had. I’m looking forward to more books by this author.
I was hesitant to purchase because of the story line, but I’m glad I did. I do enjoy legal thrillers, and this one was excellent.
I liked the different characters in the book, each one interesting in a different way. I read this in 1 1/2 days as I picked it up every break I had. I’m looking forward to more books by this author.
May 24, 2017
I just finished reading The One-Eyed Judge by Michael Ponsor.
This is an EXCELLENT book.
Highly recommend to anyone who enjoys legal thrillers.
5 Stars!
I will read ANYTHING by Mr. Ponsor from here on out!
This is an EXCELLENT book.
Highly recommend to anyone who enjoys legal thrillers.
5 Stars!
I will read ANYTHING by Mr. Ponsor from here on out!
November 3, 2017
Not my taste really and the underlying topic was difficult to read about, but I enjoyed the resulting conversation at my discussion group. So, no regrets for having read it. The inside view of the way the court works was fascinating to me.
August 10, 2019
Superb storytelling marks this novel about a professor defending a child pornography charge. With an emphasis on the judge's perspective, the various story lines interweave seamlessly. The author's courtroom scenes were surprisingly varied and engrossing.
July 27, 2023
The story from a bit of a different angle. The police and FBI are convinced they have the right man - they were right from the start - so they have looked no further. Though the judge sees that they have a strong case, he is uncomfortable about it.
I'll read more of these.
I'll read more of these.
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