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Alex Hayes #4
The Bishop's Recusal
A murdered student. A privileged suspect. And a judge with too much to lose.When federal prosecutor Alex Hayes is handed a politically sensitive homicide case, it feels like a setup. The victim is the daughter of one of the most powerful judges in the country. The accused—her boyfriend—has money, influence, and something to hide. And everyone else at the DOJ has mysteriously stepped aside.
As Alex digs into the case, strange inconsistencies emerge. Forensic oddities. A missing journal. And a cryptic chess piece delivered to her doorstep—one that links this case to the shadowy conspiracy she's been chasing for years.
The deeper she goes, the more dangerous it becomes. Witnesses won’t talk. Evidence disappears. And the courtroom becomes a battlefield not just for justice, but for survival.
Because in Washington, the truth isn’t just buried—it’s protected.
Perfect for fans of John Grisham and Lisa Scottoline, The Bishop’s Recusal is a twist-filled legal thriller that delivers razor-sharp suspense, explosive courtroom drama, and a prosecutor who won’t quit—even when the system wants her silenced.
As Alex digs into the case, strange inconsistencies emerge. Forensic oddities. A missing journal. And a cryptic chess piece delivered to her doorstep—one that links this case to the shadowy conspiracy she's been chasing for years.
The deeper she goes, the more dangerous it becomes. Witnesses won’t talk. Evidence disappears. And the courtroom becomes a battlefield not just for justice, but for survival.
Because in Washington, the truth isn’t just buried—it’s protected.
Perfect for fans of John Grisham and Lisa Scottoline, The Bishop’s Recusal is a twist-filled legal thriller that delivers razor-sharp suspense, explosive courtroom drama, and a prosecutor who won’t quit—even when the system wants her silenced.
- GenresThriller
292 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 2, 2025
1450 people are currently reading
54 people want to read
About the author
L.T. Ryan
166 books1,458 followersL.T. RYAN is a USA Today and Amazon bestselling author. The new age of publishing offered L.T. the opportunity to blend his passions for creating, marketing, and technology to reach audiences with his popular Jack Noble series.
Living in central Virginia with his wife, the youngest of his three daughters, and their three dogs, L.T. enjoys staring out his window at the trees and mountains while he should be writing, as well as reading, hiking, running, and playing with gadgets. See what he's up to at ltryan.com.
BOOKS IN THE JACK NOBLE SERIES
The Recruit (prequel short story)
The First Deception (prequel)
Noble Beginnings
A Deadly Distance
Thin Line
Noble Intentions
When Dead in Greece
Noble Retribution
Noble Betrayal
Never Go Home
Noble Judgment
Never Cry Mercy
Deadline
End Game
BOOKS IN THE BEAR LOGAN SERIES
Ripple Effect
Blowback
Takedown
Deep State (coming January, 2020)
BOOKS IN THE CLARISSA ABBOT SERIES
Beyond Betrayal
BOOKS IN THE MITCH TANNER SERIES
The Depths of Darkness
Into the Darkness
Deliver Us From Darkness (coming soon)
Social Media Links
Facebook (L.T. Ryan): facebook.com/LTRyanAuthor
Facebook (Jack Noble Page): facebook.com/JackNobleBooks/
Twitter: twitter.com/LTRyanWrites
Goodreads: goodreads.com/author/show/6151659.L_T...
Contact L.T. Ryan at contact@ltryan.com
About the Author
L.T. RYAN is a USA Today and Amazon bestselling author. The new age of publishing offered L.T. the opportunity to blend his passions for creating, marketing, and technology to reach audiences with his popular Jack Noble series.
Living in central Virginia with his wife, the youngest of his three daughters, and their three dogs, L.T. enjoys staring out his window at the trees and mountains while he should be writing, as well as reading, hiking, running, and playing with gadgets. See what he's up to at ltryan.com.
Social Media Links
Facebook (L.T. Ryan): facebook.com/LTRyanAuthor
Facebook (Jack Noble Page): facebook.com/JackNobleBooks/
Twitter: twitter.com/LTRyanWrites
Goodreads: goodreads.com/author/show/6151659.L_T...
Contact L.T. Ryan at contact@ltryan.com
Living in central Virginia with his wife, the youngest of his three daughters, and their three dogs, L.T. enjoys staring out his window at the trees and mountains while he should be writing, as well as reading, hiking, running, and playing with gadgets. See what he's up to at ltryan.com.
BOOKS IN THE JACK NOBLE SERIES
The Recruit (prequel short story)
The First Deception (prequel)
Noble Beginnings
A Deadly Distance
Thin Line
Noble Intentions
When Dead in Greece
Noble Retribution
Noble Betrayal
Never Go Home
Noble Judgment
Never Cry Mercy
Deadline
End Game
BOOKS IN THE BEAR LOGAN SERIES
Ripple Effect
Blowback
Takedown
Deep State (coming January, 2020)
BOOKS IN THE CLARISSA ABBOT SERIES
Beyond Betrayal
BOOKS IN THE MITCH TANNER SERIES
The Depths of Darkness
Into the Darkness
Deliver Us From Darkness (coming soon)
Social Media Links
Facebook (L.T. Ryan): facebook.com/LTRyanAuthor
Facebook (Jack Noble Page): facebook.com/JackNobleBooks/
Twitter: twitter.com/LTRyanWrites
Goodreads: goodreads.com/author/show/6151659.L_T...
Contact L.T. Ryan at contact@ltryan.com
About the Author
L.T. RYAN is a USA Today and Amazon bestselling author. The new age of publishing offered L.T. the opportunity to blend his passions for creating, marketing, and technology to reach audiences with his popular Jack Noble series.
Living in central Virginia with his wife, the youngest of his three daughters, and their three dogs, L.T. enjoys staring out his window at the trees and mountains while he should be writing, as well as reading, hiking, running, and playing with gadgets. See what he's up to at ltryan.com.
Social Media Links
Facebook (L.T. Ryan): facebook.com/LTRyanAuthor
Facebook (Jack Noble Page): facebook.com/JackNobleBooks/
Twitter: twitter.com/LTRyanWrites
Goodreads: goodreads.com/author/show/6151659.L_T...
Contact L.T. Ryan at contact@ltryan.com
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
September 29, 2025
Move It Along
While I enjoy these books, for the most part, please pace the next ones better. Approximately 1/3 of this book was of Alex going back and forth in what she should do and in revealing to us her thought processes, which was quite boring. I like to read the whole book, not skim over multiple lengthy sections because I know it's just going to be more of the same. The concepts are good; just make the realization of those concepts better utilizing more action and less ruminating.
While I enjoy these books, for the most part, please pace the next ones better. Approximately 1/3 of this book was of Alex going back and forth in what she should do and in revealing to us her thought processes, which was quite boring. I like to read the whole book, not skim over multiple lengthy sections because I know it's just going to be more of the same. The concepts are good; just make the realization of those concepts better utilizing more action and less ruminating.
September 21, 2025
A bit repetitive
I give 4 stars only bc of inconsistencies and it was a bit repetitive.. In this book, her was a retired cop when he was actually, released from federal prison after being exonerated from being framed.. Idk what I missed in the previous books, did they retire him after they released him? Anyway, other than that, it was a bit too repetitive.. Overall, it’s a great series..
I give 4 stars only bc of inconsistencies and it was a bit repetitive.. In this book, her was a retired cop when he was actually, released from federal prison after being exonerated from being framed.. Idk what I missed in the previous books, did they retire him after they released him? Anyway, other than that, it was a bit too repetitive.. Overall, it’s a great series..
September 3, 2025
Good, but not great
I enjoyed the novel but there was too much repetition. I found myself skimming parts because it kept going back over the same information and the same internal arguments. That being said, I do recommend it and have preordered the next one.
I enjoyed the novel but there was too much repetition. I found myself skimming parts because it kept going back over the same information and the same internal arguments. That being said, I do recommend it and have preordered the next one.
September 24, 2025
The title, “The Bishop’s Recusal” doesn’t quite seem to fit the story but that’s easy to overlook because once you get reading, it is non-stop. A college student named Melissa Thatcher is murdered and all evidence points to her boyfriend, Blake Costello. Unfortunately for Blake, Melissa is the daughter of a high-profile judge, which makes this case not so straight-forward. With the powers of the judge and the “system”, prosecutor Alex Hayes must navigate the pressures that comes with such a high-profile case. She has suspicions from the beginning of this case that something is wrong as she gets met with many obstacles. Between all the opposition and advice from her colleagues and significant other, she goes through periods of doubt. This book has twists and turns at every step, which keeps you engaged throughout each chapter. I enjoyed reading this and look forward to the next book of this series.
As other reviews mentioned, there seems to be quite a bit of repetitiveness but that didn’t bother me much and I still give it five stars because it kept me gripping my book. Twists, turns, and suspense makes great ingredients for me and I got all of that in this book.
As other reviews mentioned, there seems to be quite a bit of repetitiveness but that didn’t bother me much and I still give it five stars because it kept me gripping my book. Twists, turns, and suspense makes great ingredients for me and I got all of that in this book.
October 12, 2025
A Legal Thriller Second to None
Ryan & Chase used one of Ryan’s popular characters, Alex Hayes, to deliver this great story about corruption among top level Judiciary. The death of Alex’s mother 20 years ago becomes an anchor to confirm the fraud & criminal activity controlling some Judiciary spans more than a generation. This story also describes strong friends who keep Alex grounded, a boyfriend she almost looses, and an open ending for the next chapter to pursue Justice.
Ryan & Chase used one of Ryan’s popular characters, Alex Hayes, to deliver this great story about corruption among top level Judiciary. The death of Alex’s mother 20 years ago becomes an anchor to confirm the fraud & criminal activity controlling some Judiciary spans more than a generation. This story also describes strong friends who keep Alex grounded, a boyfriend she almost looses, and an open ending for the next chapter to pursue Justice.
September 19, 2025
CC1
This was another excellent chapter in Alex journey to find the truth about her Moms murder and who murdered or was behind Melissa's murder . The corruption in the fifth district was the organization responsible. But we will see if Alex move to D.C. will work to undercover the corruption. 10 stars plus !!!! Thanks, Carl Clause
This was another excellent chapter in Alex journey to find the truth about her Moms murder and who murdered or was behind Melissa's murder . The corruption in the fifth district was the organization responsible. But we will see if Alex move to D.C. will work to undercover the corruption. 10 stars plus !!!! Thanks, Carl Clause
September 25, 2025
Excellent work of intertwining storyline with complex legal and moral issues!
The character of Alex Hayes is very complex as she navigates the manipulation of the legal system by opponents and well wishers alike! L T Ryan is one of my favorite authors! Add in Laura Chase now as well!!!
The character of Alex Hayes is very complex as she navigates the manipulation of the legal system by opponents and well wishers alike! L T Ryan is one of my favorite authors! Add in Laura Chase now as well!!!
September 25, 2025
great book!
Very carefully crafted in subtle yet powerful verse. Compelling in its subject matter yet not too overblown with unbelievable characters that are often present in fiction about lawyers and clients. Also shows care and love and support among family and friends
Chris Schiltz
Very carefully crafted in subtle yet powerful verse. Compelling in its subject matter yet not too overblown with unbelievable characters that are often present in fiction about lawyers and clients. Also shows care and love and support among family and friends
Chris Schiltz
September 30, 2025
LOVE THIS SERIES
Alex Hayes one hellava an attorney! Her determination, integrity and intelligence are outstanding! To see what others cannot, to be willing to pursue justice, and stand by her convictions is to be admired.
Ryan and Chase have developed and written what can only be described as the BEST LEGAL THRILLER SERIES.
Alex Hayes one hellava an attorney! Her determination, integrity and intelligence are outstanding! To see what others cannot, to be willing to pursue justice, and stand by her convictions is to be admired.
Ryan and Chase have developed and written what can only be described as the BEST LEGAL THRILLER SERIES.
October 15, 2025
Bishop's Recusal
Murder trial, lies, judicial wrong doings, trafficking characters that believe in the system and those who use the system for selfish corruption. Thought provoking and intense novel!the
Murder trial, lies, judicial wrong doings, trafficking characters that believe in the system and those who use the system for selfish corruption. Thought provoking and intense novel!the
October 26, 2025
One stubborn seeking justice.
A exciting book. There is so much in this story and so much more to come. Is her move the collect thing or will she continue to be in danger. I am anxious to find out.
A exciting book. There is so much in this story and so much more to come. Is her move the collect thing or will she continue to be in danger. I am anxious to find out.
October 27, 2025
The Story of Alex's Quest Continues
The story continues as Alex moves on. I am four books in and I still want to see how the story turns out . There are a few redundant phrases that kind of get under my skin but I can live with it.
Onward to book 5.
The story continues as Alex moves on. I am four books in and I still want to see how the story turns out . There are a few redundant phrases that kind of get under my skin but I can live with it.
Onward to book 5.
December 5, 2025
I am liking Alex more and more
I loved this story. Our Alex is a fierce attorney. When she has a gut feeling and smells corruption, the bad guys better look out! On to the next one in January as her life takes a giant leap!
I loved this story. Our Alex is a fierce attorney. When she has a gut feeling and smells corruption, the bad guys better look out! On to the next one in January as her life takes a giant leap!
February 4, 2026
awesome read
L T Ryan and Laura Chase have written another explosive novel with heroine Alex Hayes. Lost of adventure; action and adrenaline! Fast passed and hard to put down! Can’t wait for the next installment!!
L T Ryan and Laura Chase have written another explosive novel with heroine Alex Hayes. Lost of adventure; action and adrenaline! Fast passed and hard to put down! Can’t wait for the next installment!!
September 7, 2025
Justice
L.T. Ryan and Laura Chase have put together a compelling installment in the Alex Hayes series. A definite must read for all adults.
L.T. Ryan and Laura Chase have put together a compelling installment in the Alex Hayes series. A definite must read for all adults.
September 9, 2025
Great!
I love "legal thrillers", but this series takes it to the next level. I can't wait for the next book. Good work L.T. Ryan and Laura Chase. Keep it up!!!
I love "legal thrillers", but this series takes it to the next level. I can't wait for the next book. Good work L.T. Ryan and Laura Chase. Keep it up!!!
September 9, 2025
another great response
Once again you have Alex tilting against windmills and having success with more work ahead. Keep her doing the job!
Once again you have Alex tilting against windmills and having success with more work ahead. Keep her doing the job!
September 20, 2025
I gave 5 even
Though get tired of the repetitiveness of am I gonna die? Am I doing the right thing. The story line is good despite the repetitiveness
Though get tired of the repetitiveness of am I gonna die? Am I doing the right thing. The story line is good despite the repetitiveness
September 28, 2025
Alex’s Quest
Alex is out to solve her Mom’s murder and save the world all at once. Time will tell as to her success.
Alex is out to solve her Mom’s murder and save the world all at once. Time will tell as to her success.
October 16, 2025
thriller
I’ve loved the four books that are great. Can’t wait to read book number five and absolutely thrill packed series.
I’ve loved the four books that are great. Can’t wait to read book number five and absolutely thrill packed series.
October 22, 2025
No ending or resolugion
Don't appreciate being left hanging until next book comes out for sale. Sorry but no thanks to waiting. I'll skip to another author.
Don't appreciate being left hanging until next book comes out for sale. Sorry but no thanks to waiting. I'll skip to another author.
December 1, 2025
Great series. Looking forward to the next one in this series.
December 7, 2025
so good
It’s so well written, and you just don’t want to stop. There’s nothing boring about those series at all. Truly a great book
It’s so well written, and you just don’t want to stop. There’s nothing boring about those series at all. Truly a great book
December 22, 2025
next steps
What was Alex doing to do?
Looking forward to following her as she gets entrenched in the political battles that DC is known for.
What was Alex doing to do?
Looking forward to following her as she gets entrenched in the political battles that DC is known for.
January 1, 2026
Terrific...
Great novel, full of details....love, anger and death threats. Very well balanced with threats, love and care. Thank you for a great novel.
Great novel, full of details....love, anger and death threats. Very well balanced with threats, love and care. Thank you for a great novel.
January 9, 2026
A very solid 3.5
Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews