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Maggie Gallagher Legal Thriller #2
The Bloodied Client
A teenage girl is charged with the unthinkable…
The crime? The brutal murder of her own parents. The prosecution’s argument seems airtight. But small town defense attorney Maggie Gallagher senses something isn’t right…
Months earlier, Zoey Conrad had already faced her worst nightmare when two men broke into her room. In the terrifying struggle that followed, one intruder ended up dead. The judge declared it self-defense and dismissed the charges, allowing Zoey to rebuild her life in their small town. But now, with her parents found murdered under disturbingly similar circumstances, the evidence against Zoey quickly piles up.
Maggie knows Zoey and she wants to believe the girl is no killer. Yet the more she learns about the twisted life the Conrads led, the stronger her compassion for Zoey grows. But the deeper she digs, the worse things get. Especially since Maggie’s own son has gotten personally involved.
As the prosecution builds an ironclad case and the clock ticks down, Maggie must race to expose the truth. If she fails, Zoey’s fate is sealed—and an innocent life could be shattered forever.
The crime? The brutal murder of her own parents. The prosecution’s argument seems airtight. But small town defense attorney Maggie Gallagher senses something isn’t right…
Months earlier, Zoey Conrad had already faced her worst nightmare when two men broke into her room. In the terrifying struggle that followed, one intruder ended up dead. The judge declared it self-defense and dismissed the charges, allowing Zoey to rebuild her life in their small town. But now, with her parents found murdered under disturbingly similar circumstances, the evidence against Zoey quickly piles up.
Maggie knows Zoey and she wants to believe the girl is no killer. Yet the more she learns about the twisted life the Conrads led, the stronger her compassion for Zoey grows. But the deeper she digs, the worse things get. Especially since Maggie’s own son has gotten personally involved.
As the prosecution builds an ironclad case and the clock ticks down, Maggie must race to expose the truth. If she fails, Zoey’s fate is sealed—and an innocent life could be shattered forever.
388 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 15, 2026
873 people are currently reading
103 people want to read
About the author
Peter Kirkland
17 books136 followersPeter Kirkland grew up in Beaufort, South Carolina. As a kid, Peter loved history and learning about his area. One year in school, he was given a project to research a few South Carolina law cases and the precedents they set and their effect on people’s lives.
This research project lit the flame for his passion for law and creating a more equal justice system since. Soon after this, Peter began reading legal thrillers voraciously and enjoyed the legal maneuvering and justice found within. As an adult he has continued researching the law and understanding the system and its effects on individuals. A few years ago, he decided to try writing his own legal thriller.
Now a full-time writer, he uses his research, passion for justice, and real case studies to bring together courtroom dramas with deep, rich characters, and gripping twists and turns. New to the industry, Peter would love to hear from readers and other authors and invites you to connect with him.
This research project lit the flame for his passion for law and creating a more equal justice system since. Soon after this, Peter began reading legal thrillers voraciously and enjoyed the legal maneuvering and justice found within. As an adult he has continued researching the law and understanding the system and its effects on individuals. A few years ago, he decided to try writing his own legal thriller.
Now a full-time writer, he uses his research, passion for justice, and real case studies to bring together courtroom dramas with deep, rich characters, and gripping twists and turns. New to the industry, Peter would love to hear from readers and other authors and invites you to connect with him.
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January 16, 2026
The verdict is in: this series just keeps getting better.
After an excellent debut in "The Midwest Lawyer", which I really enjoyed, Peter Kirkland's second installment in the Maggie Gallagher Legal Thriller series proves that lightning can strike twice - and with even more voltage. "The Bloodied Client" is a fast-paced, emotionally charged legal thriller that balances courtroom drama with moral complexity, cementing this series as a must read for me.
When sixteen-year-old Zoey Conrad is charged with the brutal murder of her parents, her small town is quick to assume the worst - and not entirely without reason: months earlier, Zoey survived a terrifying kidnapping attempt that left one man dead. Now, with her parents found murdered under eerily similar circumstances, the evidence seems damning. Defense attorney Maggie Gallagher reluctantly agrees to represent Zoey, though even she harbors doubts about her client's innocence - especially once her own son becomes entangled in the investigation. The more Maggie digs into the Conrad family's secrets, the murkier things become.
Former defense attorney Peter Kirkland once again brings the courtroom to life - not once, but twice - with the kind of authenticity only firsthand experience can deliver. His legal scenes are gripping and the pacing is perfect - he smartly trims away the procedural fluff to focus on the heart of the case. What elevates this second book above its predecessor, which was already riveting, is its perfect balance: Maggie's personal life is present but never distracting, the prosecution feels more nuanced and believable, and the central mystery delivers the best "Primal Fear" vibes (yes, the 1996 movie with Richard Gere).
Maggie remains a compelling protagonist - strong, smart, and fiercely determined to best represent her client, even though she has her doubts about her. Kirkland's portrayal of small-town justice continues to shine, exploring the gray areas between guilt and innocence, truth and perception. And while the story stands firmly on its own, it's clear the author is building something bigger here: a world, a community, and a character with staying power.
If "The Midwest Lawyer" was the opening argument, "The Bloodied Client" takes the stand and delivers the crucial piece of testimony - a taut, well-constructed, and thoroughly satisfying thriller that raises the bar for the series. I can't wait to see where Maggie goes next: the third installment, "The Wrong Victim", is slated to be released on May 21, 2026, and I truly hope it won't be the series' closing argument just yet!
Many thanks to Relay Publishing for providing me with an advance copy via NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
"The Bloodied Client" was published on January 14, 2026, and is available now.
After an excellent debut in "The Midwest Lawyer", which I really enjoyed, Peter Kirkland's second installment in the Maggie Gallagher Legal Thriller series proves that lightning can strike twice - and with even more voltage. "The Bloodied Client" is a fast-paced, emotionally charged legal thriller that balances courtroom drama with moral complexity, cementing this series as a must read for me.
When sixteen-year-old Zoey Conrad is charged with the brutal murder of her parents, her small town is quick to assume the worst - and not entirely without reason: months earlier, Zoey survived a terrifying kidnapping attempt that left one man dead. Now, with her parents found murdered under eerily similar circumstances, the evidence seems damning. Defense attorney Maggie Gallagher reluctantly agrees to represent Zoey, though even she harbors doubts about her client's innocence - especially once her own son becomes entangled in the investigation. The more Maggie digs into the Conrad family's secrets, the murkier things become.
Former defense attorney Peter Kirkland once again brings the courtroom to life - not once, but twice - with the kind of authenticity only firsthand experience can deliver. His legal scenes are gripping and the pacing is perfect - he smartly trims away the procedural fluff to focus on the heart of the case. What elevates this second book above its predecessor, which was already riveting, is its perfect balance: Maggie's personal life is present but never distracting, the prosecution feels more nuanced and believable, and the central mystery delivers the best "Primal Fear" vibes (yes, the 1996 movie with Richard Gere).
Maggie remains a compelling protagonist - strong, smart, and fiercely determined to best represent her client, even though she has her doubts about her. Kirkland's portrayal of small-town justice continues to shine, exploring the gray areas between guilt and innocence, truth and perception. And while the story stands firmly on its own, it's clear the author is building something bigger here: a world, a community, and a character with staying power.
If "The Midwest Lawyer" was the opening argument, "The Bloodied Client" takes the stand and delivers the crucial piece of testimony - a taut, well-constructed, and thoroughly satisfying thriller that raises the bar for the series. I can't wait to see where Maggie goes next: the third installment, "The Wrong Victim", is slated to be released on May 21, 2026, and I truly hope it won't be the series' closing argument just yet!
Many thanks to Relay Publishing for providing me with an advance copy via NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
"The Bloodied Client" was published on January 14, 2026, and is available now.
January 27, 2026
Will you be my lawyer?
Layered murder trial set in the small town of Kerry in Ohio. Maggie Gallagher, attorney, is woken to a banging on her front door. A teenage girl falls into her arms clutching a gun, and asks Maggie to be her lawyer. That girl it turns out is her son Ian’s girlfriend, Zoey. Zoey’s accidentally shot a strange man who’d invaded her bedroom, woken her from a deep sleep, grabbed her, and was to all intents and purposes was kidnapping her.
Maggie gets Zoey off the charge.
Three weeks later Zoey’s parents are murdered. Zoey once again asks for Maggie’s help. Maggie is ambivalent but concedes.
Things become way more complicated for Maggie. Her father, a reformed drunk turns up bringing unpleasant memories to the fore. Then there’s Zoey! Is she a killer or is something else going on?
A good story with some unexpected twists.
A Relay Pub. ARC via NetGalley.
Many thanks to the author and publisher.
Layered murder trial set in the small town of Kerry in Ohio. Maggie Gallagher, attorney, is woken to a banging on her front door. A teenage girl falls into her arms clutching a gun, and asks Maggie to be her lawyer. That girl it turns out is her son Ian’s girlfriend, Zoey. Zoey’s accidentally shot a strange man who’d invaded her bedroom, woken her from a deep sleep, grabbed her, and was to all intents and purposes was kidnapping her.
Maggie gets Zoey off the charge.
Three weeks later Zoey’s parents are murdered. Zoey once again asks for Maggie’s help. Maggie is ambivalent but concedes.
Things become way more complicated for Maggie. Her father, a reformed drunk turns up bringing unpleasant memories to the fore. Then there’s Zoey! Is she a killer or is something else going on?
A good story with some unexpected twists.
A Relay Pub. ARC via NetGalley.
Many thanks to the author and publisher.
January 10, 2026
Maggie is a lawyer. When she takes a case to defend Zoey, things are becoming challenging. Especially when her own son seems to be involved…
I like Peter Kirklands writing style, it’s very fluent and vivid. It’s so easy to get totally lost in his books. I mean this in a good way.
You can tell he is experienced in law, how things are run in a courtroom and with his imaginative mind, he creates an exiting story. His characters are consistent and trustworthy. I can easily connect with Maggie as a mother, wife and career woman.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I like Peter Kirklands writing style, it’s very fluent and vivid. It’s so easy to get totally lost in his books. I mean this in a good way.
You can tell he is experienced in law, how things are run in a courtroom and with his imaginative mind, he creates an exiting story. His characters are consistent and trustworthy. I can easily connect with Maggie as a mother, wife and career woman.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 19, 2026
4.5 stars. Small town Attorney Maggie Gallagher takes on not one complex and brutal murder case, but two. Defending the same teenage client, Zoey. Zoey's not always forthcoming with the truth and to further complicate Maggie's cases and her home life, Zoey is her son Ian's girlfriend. Suspicions and a roller coaster of emotions amp up the tension. At times the details of these cases are shocking and heartbreaking.
The author did an excellent job of keeping me on edge. Enjoyed the courtroom drama that kept me constantly questioning Zoey's innocence or guilt.
Story had a good mix of time spent in and out of the courtroom. Hope the new addition to Maggie's team, energetic side character, Alia, is around for book 3.
The author did an excellent job of keeping me on edge. Enjoyed the courtroom drama that kept me constantly questioning Zoey's innocence or guilt.
Story had a good mix of time spent in and out of the courtroom. Hope the new addition to Maggie's team, energetic side character, Alia, is around for book 3.
Review of advance copy
The second instalment of the Maggie Gallagher series is an utterly captivating tour de force of legal suspense.
Maggie faces her ultimate test when she must defend her son’s girlfriend Zoe, for a second time, only this time, the charge is the brutal murder of Zoe's own parents.
The emotional core of this story is profound and the raw strength and fierce loyalty between Ian and Zoe is deeply moving.
Maggie’s relentless pursuit of the truth, battling her own mounting misgivings while deploying brilliant legal strategies is nothing short of heroic.
It is a harrowing journey of resilience in the face of impossible odds.
With a finale that hits like a sledgehammer, this is a must-read for anyone who loves a legal thriller with the highest stakes possible.
I received an advance copy of this book and this is my own opinion.
Maggie faces her ultimate test when she must defend her son’s girlfriend Zoe, for a second time, only this time, the charge is the brutal murder of Zoe's own parents.
The emotional core of this story is profound and the raw strength and fierce loyalty between Ian and Zoe is deeply moving.
Maggie’s relentless pursuit of the truth, battling her own mounting misgivings while deploying brilliant legal strategies is nothing short of heroic.
It is a harrowing journey of resilience in the face of impossible odds.
With a finale that hits like a sledgehammer, this is a must-read for anyone who loves a legal thriller with the highest stakes possible.
I received an advance copy of this book and this is my own opinion.
Review of advance copy
I received an ARC through "Booksprout" and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
The story begins with Zoey, Ian's girlfriend, banging on the door late at night. Zoey's first words are to ask for a lawyer. It seems that she ran from home after she shot someone. As it turned out, she believed that someone was trying to abduct her and she fought them off and managed to get her father's gun. As he approached her, she thought she was being attacked and shot him. Shortly thereafter, the police arrived and she was arrested. The individual she shot wound up dying and she was charged with murder. Maggie was able to convince the judge that she did it in self-defense so Zoey was freed.
Time goes by and once more Zoey winds up being charged for murder and once again Maggie defends her. In this case she is charged with the death of her parents and the evidence looks bad. This time the case is brought to trial and Maggie learns something late in the trial that lends a new light. Maggie is now presenting the defense portion of the trial and has Zoey on the stand. It is at this time that Zoey tells the court that she saw who the killer was, but Maggie was asked why she hadn't disclosed it to the prosecution. Maggie's statement was that she hadn't been able to substantiate the claim so she wasn't required to disclose it. An event happened prior to Zoey's testimony which now shed a new light. The prosecution had done their closing and Maggie had just finished hers so the case now went to the jury.
Read along and follow Maggie and their team as they put together their defense, learn what description Zoey provided for the individual who was the real killer, learn who on Maggie's team finally found something that provided proof and what event prior to the juries verdict had an impact. Discover what thing Maggie spotted that gave her the basis for her discovery of the killer.
The story is another great one from Peter Kirkland and is well worth the read. Don't miss out !
The story begins with Zoey, Ian's girlfriend, banging on the door late at night. Zoey's first words are to ask for a lawyer. It seems that she ran from home after she shot someone. As it turned out, she believed that someone was trying to abduct her and she fought them off and managed to get her father's gun. As he approached her, she thought she was being attacked and shot him. Shortly thereafter, the police arrived and she was arrested. The individual she shot wound up dying and she was charged with murder. Maggie was able to convince the judge that she did it in self-defense so Zoey was freed.
Time goes by and once more Zoey winds up being charged for murder and once again Maggie defends her. In this case she is charged with the death of her parents and the evidence looks bad. This time the case is brought to trial and Maggie learns something late in the trial that lends a new light. Maggie is now presenting the defense portion of the trial and has Zoey on the stand. It is at this time that Zoey tells the court that she saw who the killer was, but Maggie was asked why she hadn't disclosed it to the prosecution. Maggie's statement was that she hadn't been able to substantiate the claim so she wasn't required to disclose it. An event happened prior to Zoey's testimony which now shed a new light. The prosecution had done their closing and Maggie had just finished hers so the case now went to the jury.
Read along and follow Maggie and their team as they put together their defense, learn what description Zoey provided for the individual who was the real killer, learn who on Maggie's team finally found something that provided proof and what event prior to the juries verdict had an impact. Discover what thing Maggie spotted that gave her the basis for her discovery of the killer.
The story is another great one from Peter Kirkland and is well worth the read. Don't miss out !
Review of advance copy received from Author
From the opening pages, The Bloodied Client pulls you into a case that feels both utterly shocking and heartbreakingly human. When a teenage girl is accused of brutally murdering her own parents and the evidence seems airtight, the story lures you into the gray areas of justice, memory, and loyalty — a place where clear answers are frustratingly elusive.
Maggie Gallagher, a defense attorney with deep roots in her small town, isn’t just fighting for her client — she’s unraveling the twisted history of a family that was already in pieces long before the crime. As she digs deeper, the narrative smartly balances courtroom tension with emotional stakes that hit hard. The prose is brisk but thoughtful, and the author keeps the suspense turning without ever feeling gimmicky.
What I particularly enjoyed was how the story isn’t just about who did it — it’s about how we judge trauma, how community perceptions can warp truth, and how a lawyer’s empathy becomes both her greatest strength and vulnerability. Some clues and twists surprised me; others made me pause and rethink earlier assumptions, which is just how a legal thriller should work.
The pacing is mostly steady — legal procedural fans will appreciate the strategic reveals and courtroom duels — though a few scenes dragged slightly before snapping back into tension. Still, the emotional payoff and moral complexity make it a compelling read that lingers after the final page. I’d gladly recommend this to anyone who loves character-driven thrillers with a strong sense of place and a protagonist who genuinely earns your respect.
I received an advance copy and am leaving this review voluntarily.
Maggie Gallagher, a defense attorney with deep roots in her small town, isn’t just fighting for her client — she’s unraveling the twisted history of a family that was already in pieces long before the crime. As she digs deeper, the narrative smartly balances courtroom tension with emotional stakes that hit hard. The prose is brisk but thoughtful, and the author keeps the suspense turning without ever feeling gimmicky.
What I particularly enjoyed was how the story isn’t just about who did it — it’s about how we judge trauma, how community perceptions can warp truth, and how a lawyer’s empathy becomes both her greatest strength and vulnerability. Some clues and twists surprised me; others made me pause and rethink earlier assumptions, which is just how a legal thriller should work.
The pacing is mostly steady — legal procedural fans will appreciate the strategic reveals and courtroom duels — though a few scenes dragged slightly before snapping back into tension. Still, the emotional payoff and moral complexity make it a compelling read that lingers after the final page. I’d gladly recommend this to anyone who loves character-driven thrillers with a strong sense of place and a protagonist who genuinely earns your respect.
I received an advance copy and am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 27, 2026
The Bloodied Client is the second book in the Maggie Gallagher legal thriller series. This can be a stand-alone read. Peter Kirkland is a new author for me. I was pleasantly surprised.
Maggie Gallagher is lawyer who moved from the prosecutor to the defense side of the law. She has a ragtag group helping her with the investigating for her clients. The first client is a neighborhood 16 year old girl and unbeknown to Maggie is her son's girlfriend, accused of murder in self-defense. We learn that her parents were going to send her away to help troubled teens. The men who came to get her, woke her up and grabbed her in her bed. She manages to escape and shoots one of the men who later dies. Once this is settled, Zoey is accused of murdering her parents who are packing her things to send her away to a different school.
The town quickly accuses Zoey of now killing three people. Zoey lies as teens often do, to avoid being a suspect, but her lies make her look more guilty. When the truth finally is told by Zoey on the stand, will she be able to sway the jury to an innocent verdict or guilty as the gossiping town believes.
The book has many twists and turns t0 keep the reader guessing. I expected a twist at the end, but the one I read caught me off guard. It was totally unexpected. The writing was easy to read without too much legal jargon. I enjoyed the characters and thought they were just the right touch for a small-town lawyer to have helping her.
I think this is a wonderful legal story for those that prefer not to get bogged down in legal language.
I received an ARC from NetGalley for an unbiased review.
Maggie Gallagher is lawyer who moved from the prosecutor to the defense side of the law. She has a ragtag group helping her with the investigating for her clients. The first client is a neighborhood 16 year old girl and unbeknown to Maggie is her son's girlfriend, accused of murder in self-defense. We learn that her parents were going to send her away to help troubled teens. The men who came to get her, woke her up and grabbed her in her bed. She manages to escape and shoots one of the men who later dies. Once this is settled, Zoey is accused of murdering her parents who are packing her things to send her away to a different school.
The town quickly accuses Zoey of now killing three people. Zoey lies as teens often do, to avoid being a suspect, but her lies make her look more guilty. When the truth finally is told by Zoey on the stand, will she be able to sway the jury to an innocent verdict or guilty as the gossiping town believes.
The book has many twists and turns t0 keep the reader guessing. I expected a twist at the end, but the one I read caught me off guard. It was totally unexpected. The writing was easy to read without too much legal jargon. I enjoyed the characters and thought they were just the right touch for a small-town lawyer to have helping her.
I think this is a wonderful legal story for those that prefer not to get bogged down in legal language.
I received an ARC from NetGalley for an unbiased review.
Review of advance copy
I enjoyed this book. It not only tugs on your heart strings but also takes you on a roller coaster ride of emotions, as you get swept up in the case. Like Maggie I didn't want Zoey to be responsible but with all the lies and evidence against her, I couldn't see how she couldn't have been behind it or how Maggie was going to prove her innocent. Good job Maggie was fighting the good fight.
It's scary how people treat each other and think it's okay, it makes me appreciate what I have and glad I only experience it through great stories, like this one. I liked the characters and the family bond, which is only growing stronger with each book. The addition of the puppies added a lighter side to the story. As for the case, it was well worked and stayed entertaining throughout as it kept me guessing. I can't wait for the next book.
The last thing Maggie needs is for a teenage girl covered in blood to come hanging on her door, especially as that is how she learns her son is dating. To be accused of murder once is bad enough but to happen to the same teenager for a second time is worse. Especially as this time she is accused of killing her parents, the same parents that instigated the situation that made her kill the first time. Can Maggie put her fears for her son aside and defend his girlfriend for a second time? She will have to workout the lies from the truth in order to provide the best defence but it's not just the teenage defendant who is lying.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
It's scary how people treat each other and think it's okay, it makes me appreciate what I have and glad I only experience it through great stories, like this one. I liked the characters and the family bond, which is only growing stronger with each book. The addition of the puppies added a lighter side to the story. As for the case, it was well worked and stayed entertaining throughout as it kept me guessing. I can't wait for the next book.
The last thing Maggie needs is for a teenage girl covered in blood to come hanging on her door, especially as that is how she learns her son is dating. To be accused of murder once is bad enough but to happen to the same teenager for a second time is worse. Especially as this time she is accused of killing her parents, the same parents that instigated the situation that made her kill the first time. Can Maggie put her fears for her son aside and defend his girlfriend for a second time? She will have to workout the lies from the truth in order to provide the best defence but it's not just the teenage defendant who is lying.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 19, 2026
If you like courtroom dramas where everyone is morally questionable, this one eats.
Zoey is charged with murdering her parents. Enter Maggie, her lawyer: sharp, competent, allergic to nonsense, and not a fan of puppies 😒 To complicate matters, Maggie’s son is dating Zoey — a fact Maggie hates with the passion of a thousand burning subpoenas.
As the trial unfolds, Maggie digs into the family history and discovers that Zoey’s parents were awful. Motive is therefore ironclad! And that’s where the tension really kicks in.
Kirkland absolutely nails character work. Everyone feels real, flawed, and mildly irritating in the way real people are. When Alia shows up, I could physically feel Maggie’s irritation — which is impressive writing, or maybe I'm too much like Maggie because my eye was twitching too.
The pacing is tight, the plot develops cleanly, and it’s a proper page-turner. Best part? You’re kept guessing right up until the end. You’re never fully sure what the truth is, which puts you in the exact same mental chaos as Maggie — lawyer, mother, and professional skeptic.
Verdict: smart, tense, and genuinely entertaining. I’ll 100% be picking up another Kirkland book. Court is adjourned.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Zoey is charged with murdering her parents. Enter Maggie, her lawyer: sharp, competent, allergic to nonsense, and not a fan of puppies 😒 To complicate matters, Maggie’s son is dating Zoey — a fact Maggie hates with the passion of a thousand burning subpoenas.
As the trial unfolds, Maggie digs into the family history and discovers that Zoey’s parents were awful. Motive is therefore ironclad! And that’s where the tension really kicks in.
Kirkland absolutely nails character work. Everyone feels real, flawed, and mildly irritating in the way real people are. When Alia shows up, I could physically feel Maggie’s irritation — which is impressive writing, or maybe I'm too much like Maggie because my eye was twitching too.
The pacing is tight, the plot develops cleanly, and it’s a proper page-turner. Best part? You’re kept guessing right up until the end. You’re never fully sure what the truth is, which puts you in the exact same mental chaos as Maggie — lawyer, mother, and professional skeptic.
Verdict: smart, tense, and genuinely entertaining. I’ll 100% be picking up another Kirkland book. Court is adjourned.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from Author
The Bloodied Client by Peter Kirkland is the second book in the Maggie Gallagher legal thriller series. While this book is the second book in the series, you do not need to have read the first book of the series to understand and enjoy this book. I received an advance review copy, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Maggie Gallagher is lawyer who moved back to her hometown of Kerry, Ohio to practice law and raise her family. In the Bloodied Client Maggie is defending her son Ian's girlfriend, sixteen-year-old Zoey Conrad, who is accused of killing her parents. I really enjoyed this book; the author writes interesting court room scenes that keeps the reader engaged but are not full of legalese. The book has a lot of twists and turns; just went you think you have things figured out another item is revealed that keeps you guessing who did what. I also enjoyed how the author portrayed Maggie as a tough lawyer, but also a woman filled with "mom guilt" and struggling to overcome her own difficult past. The author does a great job making the main characters relatable and interesting. I am a huge fan of Peter Kirkland's other legal thriller books, and I look forward to reading future books in this series. If you enjoy reading legal thrillers, I highly recommend this great book.
Review of advance copy
Maggie is a kick arse lawyer. She has just got this kid off of murder charges for a murder he did not commit. Now Maggie is faced with defending her sons best friend in a murder that is not her fault. Zoey shows up at Maggies doorstep and says she needs a lawyer and Maggie's son begs his mother to help her out. So Maggie decides to help her out. As Maggie is getting ready to defend Zoey she is torn between believing Zoey may have killed this guy on purpose. But Maggie does what she does best and she defends her client and gets her off.
Then a few weeks later Maggie gets a call from her son Ian that Maggie is being sought after by the police because her parents were murdered and they think Zoey did it. So Maggie represents her again but this time she is thinking that Zoey may have killed her parents because of the evidence against her and the fact that Zoey and Ian have lied to the police. As Maggie defends Zoey for her parents murder she starts to uncover some information leading her to believe Zoey didn't kill her parents but is it enough to get Zoey off again?
Thank you Booksirens for allowing me to read an ARC copy of this thriller. I really loved it!
Then a few weeks later Maggie gets a call from her son Ian that Maggie is being sought after by the police because her parents were murdered and they think Zoey did it. So Maggie represents her again but this time she is thinking that Zoey may have killed her parents because of the evidence against her and the fact that Zoey and Ian have lied to the police. As Maggie defends Zoey for her parents murder she starts to uncover some information leading her to believe Zoey didn't kill her parents but is it enough to get Zoey off again?
Thank you Booksirens for allowing me to read an ARC copy of this thriller. I really loved it!
January 16, 2026
This story definitely lived up to its description; a legal thriller! A fast, read, with very little down time to react! It keeps you guessing, wondering, asking all the "what ifs" and thinking everyone has it wrong.
Great characters - Maggie is a strong female lead that doesn't back down from any fight or challenge, and until the end you don't know if you should love or hate Zoey!
The only issue I had was with Ian, and how naive and willing to trust a new girlfriend, at every turn of events. I'm not sure teenagers these days are that loyal. At times, I did feel that it was very legal jargon heavy, but I guess you can expect that going in with the premise of it being marketed as a "Legal Thriller".
I felt so many emotions through this book, each step of the way, and learning all that Zoey has to endure - anxiety, nervousness, anger, impatience, hope and admiration! At no time was I disappointed reading this, other than wishing I had read the first book prior, but now I know what to look for.
I received this book from Hidden Gems as an ARC for my honest review, which I did give above.
Great characters - Maggie is a strong female lead that doesn't back down from any fight or challenge, and until the end you don't know if you should love or hate Zoey!
The only issue I had was with Ian, and how naive and willing to trust a new girlfriend, at every turn of events. I'm not sure teenagers these days are that loyal. At times, I did feel that it was very legal jargon heavy, but I guess you can expect that going in with the premise of it being marketed as a "Legal Thriller".
I felt so many emotions through this book, each step of the way, and learning all that Zoey has to endure - anxiety, nervousness, anger, impatience, hope and admiration! At no time was I disappointed reading this, other than wishing I had read the first book prior, but now I know what to look for.
I received this book from Hidden Gems as an ARC for my honest review, which I did give above.
January 28, 2026
The Bloodied Client by Peter Kirkland. Maggie Gallagher Legal Thriller #2. Relay Publishing, 2026.
After recovering from a vehicular ramming attack by a former defendant she convicted, Chicago prosecutor Maggie Gallagher and her teacher husband Sean (both ex-military) and their teenage son Ian moved to Kerry, Ohio, the small town where she grew up. Maggie opened a legal practice, with help from her Aunt Louise as receptionist, and consultation as needed with her cousins, local police.
Among Maggie’s current cases is Zoey, a 16 year old accused of murdering her parents. Zoey is Ian’s relatively new girlfriend. This – like Peter Kirkland’s other books – is a gripping story, great character development, well written and almost impossible to put down.
Disclosure: I received a review copy of The Bloodied Client free via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. #TheBloodiedClient #NetGalley.
After recovering from a vehicular ramming attack by a former defendant she convicted, Chicago prosecutor Maggie Gallagher and her teacher husband Sean (both ex-military) and their teenage son Ian moved to Kerry, Ohio, the small town where she grew up. Maggie opened a legal practice, with help from her Aunt Louise as receptionist, and consultation as needed with her cousins, local police.
Among Maggie’s current cases is Zoey, a 16 year old accused of murdering her parents. Zoey is Ian’s relatively new girlfriend. This – like Peter Kirkland’s other books – is a gripping story, great character development, well written and almost impossible to put down.
Disclosure: I received a review copy of The Bloodied Client free via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. #TheBloodiedClient #NetGalley.
Review of advance copy
Personally involved lawyer overcoming repeated setbacks
This is the second in the series, but could work as a stand-alone. The irony is our female lawyer has moved to her childhood small town to escape the city pressures on her teenage son. However, he is inextricably caught up in the case involving his girlfriend who knocks on their home's door asking for a lawyer whilst covered in blood. Our heroine, Maggie, has two shootings involving this girl to defend, each with legal and evidence problems, not least the lying from her client. Other family members are drawn into the defence and uncovering the truth, despite several being police officers. There is more relationship angst and less courtroom drama than in other books from Peter Kirkland.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This is the second in the series, but could work as a stand-alone. The irony is our female lawyer has moved to her childhood small town to escape the city pressures on her teenage son. However, he is inextricably caught up in the case involving his girlfriend who knocks on their home's door asking for a lawyer whilst covered in blood. Our heroine, Maggie, has two shootings involving this girl to defend, each with legal and evidence problems, not least the lying from her client. Other family members are drawn into the defence and uncovering the truth, despite several being police officers. There is more relationship angst and less courtroom drama than in other books from Peter Kirkland.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy
I absolutely loved this. It didn't matter that I hadn't read the first book. I was able to jump right in and get to know the main characters.
Maggie is asked to defend her son's girlfriend who is charged with killing an intruder in her home and later is then charged with a brutal double murder. This isn't just a legal thriller. There's a lot of personal things here and this added to the enjoyment of the book . I liked Maggie and the sense of frustration with her son and girlfriend was totally understandable with all the lies and story changes. I was riveted throughout right up to the ending. It was emotional and I did find myself second guessing my initial presumption of innocence a few times, while always rooting for Maggie. I can't wait to read the next one.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Maggie is asked to defend her son's girlfriend who is charged with killing an intruder in her home and later is then charged with a brutal double murder. This isn't just a legal thriller. There's a lot of personal things here and this added to the enjoyment of the book . I liked Maggie and the sense of frustration with her son and girlfriend was totally understandable with all the lies and story changes. I was riveted throughout right up to the ending. It was emotional and I did find myself second guessing my initial presumption of innocence a few times, while always rooting for Maggie. I can't wait to read the next one.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 23, 2026
I am really enjoying this authors legal thriller series and like the main character Maggie Gallagher. The authors writing is very good and engaging and certainly piqued and held my interest from beginning to end. Maggie finds her professional and personal life clashing when she agrees to defend a 16 year old girl who is known to her son. Secrets, lies and deceit all play their part in this very believeable read with its good plot line. I particularly enjoy the court and trial scenes that are really well wrote and had me hooked. Did Zoey kill her parents? Maggie leaves no stone unturned to find out the truth and what exactly happened that night. Overall a very good read that I'd recommend if you like legal thrillers. Whilst I think this can be read on its own I'd say read the previous book to know the main character from the start.
4 stars
4 stars
January 24, 2026
Another excellent legal/courtroom thriller by Peter Kirkland. As a die-hard fan of Perry Mason, Mr. Kirkland's courtroom drama is right up my alley. He has an excellent grasp of courtroom procedure and knows how to create spellbinding tension and suspense. He's not too bad outside the courtroom either. The characters here are relatable and realistic. I very much enjoyed the connections between Maggie and her family. She shows what a mother will do to protect her child and the complications that can arise when you are on one side of the law, and your family members are on the other. (defense lawyer against cops) If you enjoy a good courtroom thriller, I highly recommend Mr. Kirkland's work. I received a review copy from the author via BookSirens, and this review reflects my honest and voluntary opinion.
December 19, 2025
Maggie may be a small town defensive attorney but she deals with large and intriguing cases.
A few month ago Zoey had two men break into her room, one of the men died after a struggle. A Judge declared it was self defence, so allowing her to restart her life again. When her parents are also murdered and it very similar to what happened before. This time she is looking very guilty. Even with the evidence showing one thing Maggie know is innocent. It is now proving it. Worse is the more she digs into Zoey’s parents it takes her down a dark path.
This book has great characters, who you route for from the start and the twists and turns will hurt your neck from all the turning.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
A few month ago Zoey had two men break into her room, one of the men died after a struggle. A Judge declared it was self defence, so allowing her to restart her life again. When her parents are also murdered and it very similar to what happened before. This time she is looking very guilty. Even with the evidence showing one thing Maggie know is innocent. It is now proving it. Worse is the more she digs into Zoey’s parents it takes her down a dark path.
This book has great characters, who you route for from the start and the twists and turns will hurt your neck from all the turning.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 15, 2026
This story is by an author that is newer for me in which I enjoyed reading. I enojyed this author ability to pull me into the story from the start. I also enjoyed their creative details that made the twist and turns come to life on every page. This is a legal thriller and one you don't want to miss. Maggie is a great character and is my favorite of the story. The question throughout is will Maggie save Zoey before it is too late? I enjoyed how the characters are strong, determined and added so much to the story. I found this story entertaining and true to life situations that made the story easy to connect to and read as well. This is a fast paced, hard to put down story and one that I highly recommend.
January 19, 2026
Big thanks to BookSirens and the author for this ARC. Released 15th January! Legal thriller with a bad-ass female lead, big yes from me!
2nd book in a series, Maggie ends up defending teenager Zoe when she hurts someone who tried to kidnap her on her parents order to take her to a “bad kids” summer camp. Only, then Zoe’s parents wind up dead…. And Maggie is expected to defend Zoe again. And Zoe is dating her son. So all going on!
You can tell it’s written by a former court lawyer, the legal scenes are seemless & put you slap bang in the middle of the action!!
With a big finale 😮 this is a good read for anyone who loves a legal thriller with the highest stakes possible!
I received an advance copy of this book and this is my own opinion.
2nd book in a series, Maggie ends up defending teenager Zoe when she hurts someone who tried to kidnap her on her parents order to take her to a “bad kids” summer camp. Only, then Zoe’s parents wind up dead…. And Maggie is expected to defend Zoe again. And Zoe is dating her son. So all going on!
You can tell it’s written by a former court lawyer, the legal scenes are seemless & put you slap bang in the middle of the action!!
With a big finale 😮 this is a good read for anyone who loves a legal thriller with the highest stakes possible!
I received an advance copy of this book and this is my own opinion.
January 15, 2026
Another home run from Peter Kirkland. If you haven't read any of his books then please go get them all. This is the second book in the Maggie Gallagher Legal Series and it's awesome. Maggie Gallagher is a small town defense attorney and she takes on the case of her life. A teenage girl is charged with the brutal murder of her parents. The town is shocked and out for blood and has already convinced she's guilty. Zoey was already in hot water before with her killing and intruder in her room years earlier and now both her parents are found dead and Zoey is charged. Maggie takes the case and puts her reputation on the line to defend her.
Review of advance copy
Thanks to BookSirens and Relay Publishing Ltd for an advance reader copy. If you want a synopsis, click on the book.
I'm a big fan of courtroom dramas and this book proved to be a great read. It has the necessary ingredients – good and bad people, people with hang-ups, plot twists, etc and it's an easy read. What sets Peter Kirkland apart from the likes of Steve Cavanagh and John Grisham is that his books are set in small town America.
This is my second Peter Kirkland book and I'm looking forward to more.
I'm a big fan of courtroom dramas and this book proved to be a great read. It has the necessary ingredients – good and bad people, people with hang-ups, plot twists, etc and it's an easy read. What sets Peter Kirkland apart from the likes of Steve Cavanagh and John Grisham is that his books are set in small town America.
This is my second Peter Kirkland book and I'm looking forward to more.
January 18, 2026
This is the second Maggie Gallagher legal thriller and the series is gathering pace nicely. There’s a lovely juxtaposition between the demands of her career as she builds up her practice and trying to be the best mother, wife and daughter that she can.
The case she has to deal with seems hopeless at first and her son’s involvement complicates things further.
The court room scenes are well handled and draw you in as does the description of small town life and the politics involved.
Highly recommended.
The case she has to deal with seems hopeless at first and her son’s involvement complicates things further.
The court room scenes are well handled and draw you in as does the description of small town life and the politics involved.
Highly recommended.
February 18, 2026
The novel starts out strong with a teenage girl shooting and killing a man who has been hired by her parents to take her to a notoriously inhumane camp for disturbed children. Later the teen is accused of murdering her mother and father.
Unfortunately, like many series, the second book is too similar to the first — the prosecution’s weak case, the client’s lies, and other things.
The novel wasn’t bad, but because so much of the story reminded me of what happened in book 1, it wasn’t exciting enough.
Unfortunately, like many series, the second book is too similar to the first — the prosecution’s weak case, the client’s lies, and other things.
The novel wasn’t bad, but because so much of the story reminded me of what happened in book 1, it wasn’t exciting enough.
Review of advance copy
When Maggie’s son’s girlfriend is arrested for murder it’s not easy to prove it was self defense. Maggie isn’t sure if she wants Ian seeing her and tries to limit their interactions. Then Zoey is arrested again, this time for killing her parents. Maggie doesn’t know what to believe this time. Is Zoey innocent, is Ian telling her the whole truth?.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy
I liked the way most of the characters were built. As the mother of an only son I bonded well with Maggie. Sean and Auntie El were good supporting characters and Ian was a pretty typical teenager. Bouncing around with all of the lies might be realistic but it is also exhausting. It's hard to decide if you really like or hate Zoey.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 14, 2026
This story grabbed my attention right from the start and held it throughout the whole book. It's an absolute page turner and I found myself reading instead of sleeping.
Peter Kirkland is familiar to me and this story makes me appreciate his story telling ability, he had me feeling very sorry for Zoey and I was keeping everything crossed for her.
I loved the ending.
I received a free advance review copy and I am voluntarily leaving my honest review.
Peter Kirkland is familiar to me and this story makes me appreciate his story telling ability, he had me feeling very sorry for Zoey and I was keeping everything crossed for her.
I loved the ending.
I received a free advance review copy and I am voluntarily leaving my honest review.
January 18, 2026
This book had me wanting to stay up all night to finish it. Who to believe? What's the real story? I was going back and forth right up until the end. I had not read the first in the series, and it was not an issue. But now I want to go back to the start because I enjoyed this one so much. Also, although it's a series, it had an ending - no cliffhanger. Looking forward to reading more by this author. I did receive an ARC copy at no cost, but this is my honest and voluntary review.
January 20, 2026
The second in the Maggie Gallagher legal thrillers set in a small town in Ohio, this can be read as a standalone.
A teen girl accused of murder after her parents tried to have her kidnapped and enrolled in an extreme youth rehabilitation scheme results in more death, a complex series of events, lies, deceit, abuse and the angst of navigating teenhood. Maggie finds herself embroiled in a case that is close to home and casts tensions over her family. Fast paced, empathetic and a great read.
A teen girl accused of murder after her parents tried to have her kidnapped and enrolled in an extreme youth rehabilitation scheme results in more death, a complex series of events, lies, deceit, abuse and the angst of navigating teenhood. Maggie finds herself embroiled in a case that is close to home and casts tensions over her family. Fast paced, empathetic and a great read.
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