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Thane Banning #3
Confession
The Third Book in the Bestselling Legal Thriller Series, Contempt
He got the revenge he had been looking for. Now he must confess to the one he loves the most.
Thane is haunted by the man he has become. After being framed for a murder he didn’t commit and landing on death row, he was finally able to prove his innocence. But the anger drove him to seek revenge, and now Thane has to grapple with the fact that he’s not the innocent man he used to be.
When his wife tries to help a young sex worker accused of murdering a popular university football coach, Thane gets the opportunity to do good by exposing a ring of corruption that has been festering for decades. But this time, there’s no hope of winning the case because his client already confessed to the murder.
Thane faces mounting pressure from the university, business tycoons, and a public that idolizes the coach. But the most dangerous threat comes from his client’s pimp, a ruthless psychopath named Stick, whom Thane and his team crossed paths with during their last trial. Stick’s brutal methods make it clear that he’s willing to kill again to keep his name out of the trial, and that killing could include Thane’s wife and unborn daughter.
The only way Thane can keep his family safe is to get a plea deal for his client, but she won’t be silenced—she rejects the plea deal and demands the public hear the truth.
Thane will have to use all the cunning he has to keep himself and his client out of prison once again.
He got the revenge he had been looking for. Now he must confess to the one he loves the most.
Thane is haunted by the man he has become. After being framed for a murder he didn’t commit and landing on death row, he was finally able to prove his innocence. But the anger drove him to seek revenge, and now Thane has to grapple with the fact that he’s not the innocent man he used to be.
When his wife tries to help a young sex worker accused of murdering a popular university football coach, Thane gets the opportunity to do good by exposing a ring of corruption that has been festering for decades. But this time, there’s no hope of winning the case because his client already confessed to the murder.
Thane faces mounting pressure from the university, business tycoons, and a public that idolizes the coach. But the most dangerous threat comes from his client’s pimp, a ruthless psychopath named Stick, whom Thane and his team crossed paths with during their last trial. Stick’s brutal methods make it clear that he’s willing to kill again to keep his name out of the trial, and that killing could include Thane’s wife and unborn daughter.
The only way Thane can keep his family safe is to get a plea deal for his client, but she won’t be silenced—she rejects the plea deal and demands the public hear the truth.
Thane will have to use all the cunning he has to keep himself and his client out of prison once again.
- GenresLegal Thriller
348 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 3, 2025
297 people are currently reading
11 people want to read
About the author
Michael Cordell
4 books31 followersMichael Cordell is a novelist, playwright and produced screenwriter. He has sold three screenplays to Hollywood, including Beeper, an action-thriller starring Harvey Keitel and Joey Lauren Adams.
Michael currently lives in Charlottesville, Virginia, where he has taught screenwriting at the University of Virginia and at Writer House.
You can reach Michael at michaeljcordell@gmail.com
Michael currently lives in Charlottesville, Virginia, where he has taught screenwriting at the University of Virginia and at Writer House.
You can reach Michael at michaeljcordell@gmail.com
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Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews
November 1, 2025
Haha! I messed up big time!
Ok, so that's a weird way to start a book review, I know. Let me start over:
Confession by Michael Cordell is a legal thriller following lawyer Thane Banning on his latest case: defending a young sex worker who's accused of murdering a high profile football coach. The kicker? She looks to be guilty as all hell.
So where did I mess up?
This is the third book in the series! *cue sitcom laugh track*
Not that it matters - this is still a standalone book in the series, and you don't need to have read the previous books to pick up what's going on and what's happened so far. To be fair, all of that backstory is perfectly laid out in a way that gives you a grasp of how Thane has become the man he is and what he's been through, without feeling forced.
The only problem is I have the two other books, and planned to read them in order. *cue laugh track again* Honestly, I should have picked up on it and put this book down and started the first, but I was too invested. Oh well.
Because this book is good. Great, in fact! It pulled me in immediately, and I loved every minute of it. Cordell writes in a captivating, but easy-to-grasp way, and his book is seasoned with so much detail and intrigue that I suspect he has background in the legal field - or he's just a damn good researcher.
So, I'm definitely going back and reading the other books. I love the genre, legal thrillers have always captivated me and Cordell is up there with the best of them. If you're anything like me, I highly recommend it.
Ok, so that's a weird way to start a book review, I know. Let me start over:
Confession by Michael Cordell is a legal thriller following lawyer Thane Banning on his latest case: defending a young sex worker who's accused of murdering a high profile football coach. The kicker? She looks to be guilty as all hell.
So where did I mess up?
This is the third book in the series! *cue sitcom laugh track*
Not that it matters - this is still a standalone book in the series, and you don't need to have read the previous books to pick up what's going on and what's happened so far. To be fair, all of that backstory is perfectly laid out in a way that gives you a grasp of how Thane has become the man he is and what he's been through, without feeling forced.
The only problem is I have the two other books, and planned to read them in order. *cue laugh track again* Honestly, I should have picked up on it and put this book down and started the first, but I was too invested. Oh well.
Because this book is good. Great, in fact! It pulled me in immediately, and I loved every minute of it. Cordell writes in a captivating, but easy-to-grasp way, and his book is seasoned with so much detail and intrigue that I suspect he has background in the legal field - or he's just a damn good researcher.
So, I'm definitely going back and reading the other books. I love the genre, legal thrillers have always captivated me and Cordell is up there with the best of them. If you're anything like me, I highly recommend it.
October 11, 2025
4.5 Stars rounded to 5
The third book in the bestselling legal thriller series, Contempt, is set against the vibrant backdrop of Los Angeles, California. Cordell delivers another enthralling installment that continues the journey of Thane Banning, a character who has captured the hearts of readers with his determination and resilience.
A Complex Case
After being released from prison two years ago, Thane Banning is striving to reopen his law practice. For those curious about how he ended up in prison and managed to reestablish his career, those details are explored in the second book, Conviction. In this book, however, Thane faces a new challenge when his wife asks him to investigate a case.
Bonnie “Boo” Cruise ends up being the woman at the center of this case. She has just been arrested for murdering the coach of the University of Los Angeles. What makes this case particularly intricate is Boo's admission to the murder and her life as a prostitute. But that's just the start. Thane must navigate the maze of complexities and unravel the truth, all while facing his own personal and professional challenges.
A Series Worth Reading
I must admit, I read the first book in the series but somehow missed the second. This did slow down my understanding of certain plot points in Confession, but Cordell's storytelling is compelling enough that I still thoroughly enjoy the book. For those who prefer a seamless reading experience, I would recommend reading the series in order, as each installment builds on the last.
Cordell’s Craftsmanship
Cordell's writing is a testament to his skill in crafting well-developed characters and gripping narratives. The plots of both the first and third books kept me turning pages, eager to see how each twist and turn would unfold. Thane Banning's journey is one of growth, and it is this evolution that makes him such an engaging protagonist.
A Memorable Ending
The ending of Confession left a lasting impression on me. It was a twist that was undoubtedly well thought out, achieving its intended impact. While I can't quite pinpoint why it didn't entirely resonate with me, it is a conclusion that will linger in my mind for some time. It’s one of those books that leaves you pondering long after you've turned the last page.
In conclusion, this is a novel that provides both intrigue and reflection. Watching Thane progress toward becoming a better lawyer and a better man is particularly satisfying. Cordell's legal thriller series is certainly worth exploring, and I look forward to seeing where Thane's journey will lead next.
My thanks to the author and publisher for a #gifted copy. I was under no obligation to post a review.
The third book in the bestselling legal thriller series, Contempt, is set against the vibrant backdrop of Los Angeles, California. Cordell delivers another enthralling installment that continues the journey of Thane Banning, a character who has captured the hearts of readers with his determination and resilience.
A Complex Case
After being released from prison two years ago, Thane Banning is striving to reopen his law practice. For those curious about how he ended up in prison and managed to reestablish his career, those details are explored in the second book, Conviction. In this book, however, Thane faces a new challenge when his wife asks him to investigate a case.
Bonnie “Boo” Cruise ends up being the woman at the center of this case. She has just been arrested for murdering the coach of the University of Los Angeles. What makes this case particularly intricate is Boo's admission to the murder and her life as a prostitute. But that's just the start. Thane must navigate the maze of complexities and unravel the truth, all while facing his own personal and professional challenges.
A Series Worth Reading
I must admit, I read the first book in the series but somehow missed the second. This did slow down my understanding of certain plot points in Confession, but Cordell's storytelling is compelling enough that I still thoroughly enjoy the book. For those who prefer a seamless reading experience, I would recommend reading the series in order, as each installment builds on the last.
Cordell’s Craftsmanship
Cordell's writing is a testament to his skill in crafting well-developed characters and gripping narratives. The plots of both the first and third books kept me turning pages, eager to see how each twist and turn would unfold. Thane Banning's journey is one of growth, and it is this evolution that makes him such an engaging protagonist.
A Memorable Ending
The ending of Confession left a lasting impression on me. It was a twist that was undoubtedly well thought out, achieving its intended impact. While I can't quite pinpoint why it didn't entirely resonate with me, it is a conclusion that will linger in my mind for some time. It’s one of those books that leaves you pondering long after you've turned the last page.
In conclusion, this is a novel that provides both intrigue and reflection. Watching Thane progress toward becoming a better lawyer and a better man is particularly satisfying. Cordell's legal thriller series is certainly worth exploring, and I look forward to seeing where Thane's journey will lead next.
My thanks to the author and publisher for a #gifted copy. I was under no obligation to post a review.
August 31, 2025
“So that’s why I want you representing my daughter. A good man willing to paint outside the lines in order to help his client, even if the shade of paint is morally gray.”
Set in Los Angeles, California.
It’s been two years since Thane Banning was released from prison—after being framed for murder…and spending five years on death row.
Thane continues to struggle with this trauma and his actions subsequent to his release. The past weighs heavily on him.
Wife Hannah is now the Director of a local women’s shelter. She is seven months pregnant with their daughter.
Gideon Spence is still keeping his nose clean. It’s his longest stint on the outside since his very first arrest as a teenager.
Kristin Peterson remains loyal as she contemplates a career change.
Spitfire Letitia is now in law school herself.
Great to be back with this motley—and very awesome—crew.
Cash Dixon, the coach of the University of Los Angeles’ successful football team, is founded murdered. The suspect? A prostitute named Bonnie “Boo” Cruise, 22.
Stick, the trafficker and pimp from hell, returns—front and center.
Detective Vince Struthers persists in nosing around certain cases.
Fearlessly tackles racial issues head on. And like book one, Cordell knocks it out of the park. Gone is the weak, woke apologism of book two.
The courtroom drama and theatrics are excellent. Thane’s style is 👌🏻 as is this author’s trial writing.
Thane’s inner turmoil—trying to be like how he was before incarceration is proving to be impossible.
He needed to find a way to move forward. He needed to find a way back to the man he used to be before all that betrayal and revenge changed him.
Bonnie’s parents. 🎤 drop
Luther Fournier.
Megan.
Shoot-out at the dive bar.
And we get several confessions for the “price” of one.
🫂
Love the ending—for every single character. 🤩
“For whatever reason, it’s important to me you realize this isn’t who I am. Not as a detective and not as a human being.”
“I doubt there’s anyone who understands that better than me.”
Set in Los Angeles, California.
It’s been two years since Thane Banning was released from prison—after being framed for murder…and spending five years on death row.
Thane continues to struggle with this trauma and his actions subsequent to his release. The past weighs heavily on him.
Wife Hannah is now the Director of a local women’s shelter. She is seven months pregnant with their daughter.
Gideon Spence is still keeping his nose clean. It’s his longest stint on the outside since his very first arrest as a teenager.
Kristin Peterson remains loyal as she contemplates a career change.
Spitfire Letitia is now in law school herself.
Great to be back with this motley—and very awesome—crew.
Cash Dixon, the coach of the University of Los Angeles’ successful football team, is founded murdered. The suspect? A prostitute named Bonnie “Boo” Cruise, 22.
Stick, the trafficker and pimp from hell, returns—front and center.
Detective Vince Struthers persists in nosing around certain cases.
Fearlessly tackles racial issues head on. And like book one, Cordell knocks it out of the park. Gone is the weak, woke apologism of book two.
The courtroom drama and theatrics are excellent. Thane’s style is 👌🏻 as is this author’s trial writing.
Thane’s inner turmoil—trying to be like how he was before incarceration is proving to be impossible.
He needed to find a way to move forward. He needed to find a way back to the man he used to be before all that betrayal and revenge changed him.
Bonnie’s parents. 🎤 drop
Luther Fournier.
Megan.
Shoot-out at the dive bar.
And we get several confessions for the “price” of one.
🫂
Love the ending—for every single character. 🤩
“For whatever reason, it’s important to me you realize this isn’t who I am. Not as a detective and not as a human being.”
“I doubt there’s anyone who understands that better than me.”
August 18, 2025
This really is such a completely captivating series. I was so happy that I could start book 3 yesterday, and I was so absorbed in it that I read it all in one day. It was simply impossible to put it down, because you just want to know what amazing twists the author will come up with next. I can already assure you that it’s brilliant again, and just when you think you know everything, you’ll be surprised once more.
Thane is still struggling with himself. Even though he’s been free for a while now, it’s very difficult for him to find his old self again. Where he used to be a very calm person, he had to learn to survive in prison and use methods that were completely foreign to him. Those are still ingrained in his subconscious, and sometimes he has to call himself to order.
Thane and his team are once again fighting to keep someone out of prison, and although Boo has already confessed to the murder, there are practices going on that urgently need to be exposed, even if not everyone agrees with that. The defense has therefore once again been presented with quite a challenge. Hopefully it won’t be their downfall...
Thane is driven into a corner, but then suddenly help appears from an unexpected direction...
For me, this was again one of those stories that I read with my mouth wide open, just like the other two parts of this series. I am an absolute fan. There is nothing to criticize. 5 stars.
Thank you
Thane is still struggling with himself. Even though he’s been free for a while now, it’s very difficult for him to find his old self again. Where he used to be a very calm person, he had to learn to survive in prison and use methods that were completely foreign to him. Those are still ingrained in his subconscious, and sometimes he has to call himself to order.
Thane and his team are once again fighting to keep someone out of prison, and although Boo has already confessed to the murder, there are practices going on that urgently need to be exposed, even if not everyone agrees with that. The defense has therefore once again been presented with quite a challenge. Hopefully it won’t be their downfall...
Thane is driven into a corner, but then suddenly help appears from an unexpected direction...
For me, this was again one of those stories that I read with my mouth wide open, just like the other two parts of this series. I am an absolute fan. There is nothing to criticize. 5 stars.
Thank you
September 27, 2025
Legal thrillers are not my cup of tea. Maybe that’s because my dear hubby likes to watch them ad nauseam on the television. But every now and again I pick up one of these to read, hoping that they will grab my attention and change my pace. So, when I was asked to review Confession, I heartily grabbed the opportunity.
Perhaps from watching (or listening to) all those police procedurals on tv, I expected a certain formula to be followed. Unfortunately, this story seemed to be all over the place. Bearing in mind that this is the third book of a series, I failed to see many of the connections between the characters. A bit of backstory would have been helpful. The characters themselves seemed to be confused about the story as well. Except for the opening scene, the next one hundred pages or so seemed unnecessary. The action in the courtroom was well defined and moved smoothly, however, this occurred in the final two-thirds of the book. And, as most legal/murder mystery writers are aware, the culprit is usually introduced in the beginning of the book although not obviously. That didn’t happen with this story. At times I found myself reading paragraphs that had no bearing on the story.
Some minor typos caused me further angst (but hey, I’m not perfect either); not enough to worry about though.
Note: My copy was provided by the publisher for review. Just wish they had added the page numbers to the final two chapters.
Rating: 3.5 stars
Perhaps from watching (or listening to) all those police procedurals on tv, I expected a certain formula to be followed. Unfortunately, this story seemed to be all over the place. Bearing in mind that this is the third book of a series, I failed to see many of the connections between the characters. A bit of backstory would have been helpful. The characters themselves seemed to be confused about the story as well. Except for the opening scene, the next one hundred pages or so seemed unnecessary. The action in the courtroom was well defined and moved smoothly, however, this occurred in the final two-thirds of the book. And, as most legal/murder mystery writers are aware, the culprit is usually introduced in the beginning of the book although not obviously. That didn’t happen with this story. At times I found myself reading paragraphs that had no bearing on the story.
Some minor typos caused me further angst (but hey, I’m not perfect either); not enough to worry about though.
Note: My copy was provided by the publisher for review. Just wish they had added the page numbers to the final two chapters.
Rating: 3.5 stars
August 3, 2025
Some duplication?
All three Contempt books make for compelling reading and puzzle solving. Just to note that Ch 26 in Conviction and Confession are identical, and Confession has what look like accidental cut-and-past lines and at least one reference to an incident that wasn't in the story.. A bit of a burr to the enjoyment of the story
All three Contempt books make for compelling reading and puzzle solving. Just to note that Ch 26 in Conviction and Confession are identical, and Confession has what look like accidental cut-and-past lines and at least one reference to an incident that wasn't in the story.. A bit of a burr to the enjoyment of the story
December 30, 2025
An excellent continuation of the Thane Banning legal thriller series. Cordell is an excellent story teller and has created a page turner with suspense, emotional ups and downs and a compelling, thought-provoking underlying moral challenge for Banning.
I’ve read all of the author’s books and have thoroughly enjoyed each of them.
I’ve read all of the author’s books and have thoroughly enjoyed each of them.
June 15, 2025
Michael Cordell wrote a great thriller that has well developed characters and the story kept you interested and wanting to keep reading so you could see how it ended. I thoroughly enjoyed it and would definitely read another with the same characters and law firm.
August 16, 2025
What is stunningly wonderful book.
I would definitely put this in my top 20 books. I couldn't put it down. The moral dilemmas were fascinating and it was amazing to see it play out the way it did. This is a must read.
I would definitely put this in my top 20 books. I couldn't put it down. The moral dilemmas were fascinating and it was amazing to see it play out the way it did. This is a must read.
October 12, 2025
Confession
I've been sitting here for a few minutes wondering what I was going to write in my review but the only thing that comes to mind is WOW.
I'll gladly read anything Michael Cordell writes.
I've been sitting here for a few minutes wondering what I was going to write in my review but the only thing that comes to mind is WOW.
I'll gladly read anything Michael Cordell writes.
August 31, 2025
outstanding
The series of Thane is outstanding! Hope more will be coming! Look forward to that and more from Mr. Cordell
The series of Thane is outstanding! Hope more will be coming! Look forward to that and more from Mr. Cordell
September 6, 2025
Great third book in the series!
I reread the first two to remind myself-not sad I did! All three were
Fantastic! Sad that I am at the end!
I reread the first two to remind myself-not sad I did! All three were
Fantastic! Sad that I am at the end!
September 30, 2025
One major twist
Even though this book was fairly predictable, it was interesting. I liked that the characters seemed like they could be real people.
Even though this book was fairly predictable, it was interesting. I liked that the characters seemed like they could be real people.
Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews