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Beau Lee Cooper #1
Worse than a Lie: A Beau Lee Cooper Novel
In this gripping thriller, truth and justice are called into question when a Black man is gunned down in cold blood—the first novel in a riveting series from renowned civil rights attorney Ben Crump.
“A sensationally good crime and legal thriller . . . This is exactly what a book should be.”—Lee Child, #1 New York Times bestselling co-author of the Reacher series
It’s the night of November 4, 2008. America’s first Black president has just been elected. And fifty-three-year-old Hollis Montrose—a Black ex–police officer from the suburbs of Chicago—has become the latest victim of a brutal attack. As the result of a traffic stop gone wrong, Hollis is shot ten times in cold blood, by four white men who could have been his colleagues back in his police days.
Beau Lee Cooper was born serious, as if on an urgent mission with little time to waste. Raised in the tumultuous world of 1970s Texas, he always dreamed of becoming a lawyer and fighting for what’s right, ever since he was a little boy reading To Kill a Mockingbird. And now, ten years into running his own law firm with his best friend and partner in crime, Nelson “Nellie” Rivers, and his suave right-hand-man, Brent “Cape” Capers, he feels he’s finally making a difference. When Beau Lee learns about Hollis’s situation, he’s determined to help.
Miraculously, Hollis survives the encounter, but the Chicago police department has already spun the narrative in its favor, and Hollis is given a wrongful prison sentence with an unreasonable bail. What really happened that night the car was pulled over? Was it random or was Hollis targeted? Beau Lee knows he’s treading in dangerous waters, and finding evidence of the truth will be his biggest challenge yet, but with troubling powers at play, one innocent man’s life hangs in the balance.
“A sensationally good crime and legal thriller . . . This is exactly what a book should be.”—Lee Child, #1 New York Times bestselling co-author of the Reacher series
It’s the night of November 4, 2008. America’s first Black president has just been elected. And fifty-three-year-old Hollis Montrose—a Black ex–police officer from the suburbs of Chicago—has become the latest victim of a brutal attack. As the result of a traffic stop gone wrong, Hollis is shot ten times in cold blood, by four white men who could have been his colleagues back in his police days.
Beau Lee Cooper was born serious, as if on an urgent mission with little time to waste. Raised in the tumultuous world of 1970s Texas, he always dreamed of becoming a lawyer and fighting for what’s right, ever since he was a little boy reading To Kill a Mockingbird. And now, ten years into running his own law firm with his best friend and partner in crime, Nelson “Nellie” Rivers, and his suave right-hand-man, Brent “Cape” Capers, he feels he’s finally making a difference. When Beau Lee learns about Hollis’s situation, he’s determined to help.
Miraculously, Hollis survives the encounter, but the Chicago police department has already spun the narrative in its favor, and Hollis is given a wrongful prison sentence with an unreasonable bail. What really happened that night the car was pulled over? Was it random or was Hollis targeted? Beau Lee knows he’s treading in dangerous waters, and finding evidence of the truth will be his biggest challenge yet, but with troubling powers at play, one innocent man’s life hangs in the balance.
358 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 17, 2026
128 people are currently reading
11802 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 126 reviews
February 24, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (rounded up from 3 1/2 ⭐️'s)
A strong legal thriller debut, the first of what is to be a series, from an renowned civil rights and personal injury attorney. The story, set in 2008, follows Beau Lee Cooper as he defends a Black ex-policeman framed by racist police officers. The pacing and the storyline kept me engaged and rooting for the defendant. The way the trialed ended was somewhat abrupt and seemed a bit unrealistic but that was one small thing in an otherwise well executed tale.
While fiction, the lawlessness of the police officers and the unwavering support they received from their departments and the courts was disturbing and depressing. The captivating read brings to light just how easily injustice can occur in the justice system and makes one wonder how often it happens in real life. Hopefully there are more attorneys like Beau Lee out there and I look forward to reading about his next case.
Posting this review as Marked as Read without a star rating and will add GR stars once the book is published and use my own in the meantime.
Disclosure: Received an uncorrected ARC of this book through NetGalley from Ballantine Bantam Dell/Penguin Random House (Thank you!) in exchange for an honest review.
A strong legal thriller debut, the first of what is to be a series, from an renowned civil rights and personal injury attorney. The story, set in 2008, follows Beau Lee Cooper as he defends a Black ex-policeman framed by racist police officers. The pacing and the storyline kept me engaged and rooting for the defendant. The way the trialed ended was somewhat abrupt and seemed a bit unrealistic but that was one small thing in an otherwise well executed tale.
While fiction, the lawlessness of the police officers and the unwavering support they received from their departments and the courts was disturbing and depressing. The captivating read brings to light just how easily injustice can occur in the justice system and makes one wonder how often it happens in real life. Hopefully there are more attorneys like Beau Lee out there and I look forward to reading about his next case.
Posting this review as Marked as Read without a star rating and will add GR stars once the book is published and use my own in the meantime.
Disclosure: Received an uncorrected ARC of this book through NetGalley from Ballantine Bantam Dell/Penguin Random House (Thank you!) in exchange for an honest review.
February 25, 2026
It was time for a good legal thriller and this showed up right on time! I love a tense and racially charged storyline.
It’s 2008, America’s first black president has just been elected. One night, a black ex-police officer from the suburbs of Chicago has become the latest victim of a brutal attack. He was shot ten times in the back by a group of white police officers. He miraculously survives.
Beau Lee Cooper takes the case, as the very man who was shot is the one on trial. The Chicago PD has an agenda and it’s a dirty one at that.
There were times where this story had me so angry. I was grunting and holding my breath throughout. What saddens me is the fact that the world is really like this and corruption is rampant.
I definitely enjoyed the first book in what will be the Beau Lee Cooper series and will be looking out for the next installment.
4 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
The audiobook was really good
It’s 2008, America’s first black president has just been elected. One night, a black ex-police officer from the suburbs of Chicago has become the latest victim of a brutal attack. He was shot ten times in the back by a group of white police officers. He miraculously survives.
Beau Lee Cooper takes the case, as the very man who was shot is the one on trial. The Chicago PD has an agenda and it’s a dirty one at that.
There were times where this story had me so angry. I was grunting and holding my breath throughout. What saddens me is the fact that the world is really like this and corruption is rampant.
I definitely enjoyed the first book in what will be the Beau Lee Cooper series and will be looking out for the next installment.
4 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
The audiobook was really good
![Profile Image for Samantha✨ [reads everythinggggg].](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fi.gr-assets.com%2Fimages%2FS%2Fcompressed.photo.goodreads.com%2Fusers%2F1773675787i%2F154238456._UX200_CR0%2C0%2C200%2C200_.jpg&w=128&q=75)
March 31, 2026
I received Worse Than a Lie by Ben Crump through a Goodreads giveaway, and I want to thank the author and publisher for the opportunity to read this book. I haven’t read many legal mysteries, so I was especially excited to dive into this one.
From the very beginning, the story pulled me in. I had a sense of the direction it might take—and I ended up being right—but I don’t think the point was just the outcome. The book feels more focused on delivering a powerful message than simply telling a story.
There were moments that genuinely made me angry. Some parts were difficult to read because they felt so real, and unfortunately, I know situations like this do happen in real life. Even understanding that doesn’t make it any less upsetting.
What stood out to me most was how powerful and honest the book felt. It highlights how complicated justice can be and how difficult it is to uncover the truth when the system works against you. It definitely gave me a lot to think about.
Overall, I’m really glad I read this book. Its message is impactful and stayed with me long after I finished it.
From the very beginning, the story pulled me in. I had a sense of the direction it might take—and I ended up being right—but I don’t think the point was just the outcome. The book feels more focused on delivering a powerful message than simply telling a story.
There were moments that genuinely made me angry. Some parts were difficult to read because they felt so real, and unfortunately, I know situations like this do happen in real life. Even understanding that doesn’t make it any less upsetting.
What stood out to me most was how powerful and honest the book felt. It highlights how complicated justice can be and how difficult it is to uncover the truth when the system works against you. It definitely gave me a lot to think about.
Overall, I’m really glad I read this book. Its message is impactful and stayed with me long after I finished it.
February 18, 2026
WORSE THAN A LIE by Ben Crump
Publication: 02/17/2026 by Bantam Books
Grade; B
Civil rights attorney, Ben Crump, brings his real-life experience to the page with a suspenseful legal thriller featuring his avatar, Beau Lee Cooper fighting for justice for those who are being silenced by the system. Crump effectively juxtaposes the celebration of the night, November 4, 2008 when Barack Obama is elected the first Black president, with the horrendous traffic stop of ex-policeman, Hollis Montrose. Fifty-three year old Hollis is returning home from his second job as a security officer, to supplement his income from working as a policeman on the Metro Transit system. He is pulled over under dubious circumstances and pulled out of his car without listening to his imploring declaration that he is a police officer.
Things quickly escalate with him being forced prone onto the pavement, and subsequently being shot ten times in the back by four white policemen. This is the first book, featuring Beau Lee Cooper, who has been “fighting for what’s right” for the last decade, with his team of childhood friends, fellow attorney Nelson “Nellie” Rivers and his investigator, Brent “Capes” Capers. While attending a settlement conference in Chicago, he is drawn into the case. Hollis lies in a hospital bed paralyzed, and the system wrongfully charges him, and he is transferred to jail without a reasonable bail. What really happened that night? What could possibly justify shooting someone in the back ten times
Crump proves to be an excellent storyteller with swift pacing that pleasantly results in a page turner with escalating tension and intrigue as the twisted plot unfolds into a tense courtroom battle of wits. The narrative supports the present day supposition that the victim is caught up in a corrupt system affected by race, and inequality of treatment that extends beyond policing into the judicial system. Crump’s life experience certainly lends procedural authenticity to this legal thriller. His portrayal of the legal system appears somewhat one sided as he paints an absolute travesty of justice. This tends to place the narrative in somewhat of an activism statement. But, rises above just preaching by his excellent in depth characterizations of the main charismatic protagonists, and his cinematic courtroom confrontations. I truly look forward to Beau Lee Cooper’s next encounter with injustice. Published at Deadly Pleasures Mystery Magazine.
Publication: 02/17/2026 by Bantam Books
Grade; B
Civil rights attorney, Ben Crump, brings his real-life experience to the page with a suspenseful legal thriller featuring his avatar, Beau Lee Cooper fighting for justice for those who are being silenced by the system. Crump effectively juxtaposes the celebration of the night, November 4, 2008 when Barack Obama is elected the first Black president, with the horrendous traffic stop of ex-policeman, Hollis Montrose. Fifty-three year old Hollis is returning home from his second job as a security officer, to supplement his income from working as a policeman on the Metro Transit system. He is pulled over under dubious circumstances and pulled out of his car without listening to his imploring declaration that he is a police officer.
Things quickly escalate with him being forced prone onto the pavement, and subsequently being shot ten times in the back by four white policemen. This is the first book, featuring Beau Lee Cooper, who has been “fighting for what’s right” for the last decade, with his team of childhood friends, fellow attorney Nelson “Nellie” Rivers and his investigator, Brent “Capes” Capers. While attending a settlement conference in Chicago, he is drawn into the case. Hollis lies in a hospital bed paralyzed, and the system wrongfully charges him, and he is transferred to jail without a reasonable bail. What really happened that night? What could possibly justify shooting someone in the back ten times
Crump proves to be an excellent storyteller with swift pacing that pleasantly results in a page turner with escalating tension and intrigue as the twisted plot unfolds into a tense courtroom battle of wits. The narrative supports the present day supposition that the victim is caught up in a corrupt system affected by race, and inequality of treatment that extends beyond policing into the judicial system. Crump’s life experience certainly lends procedural authenticity to this legal thriller. His portrayal of the legal system appears somewhat one sided as he paints an absolute travesty of justice. This tends to place the narrative in somewhat of an activism statement. But, rises above just preaching by his excellent in depth characterizations of the main charismatic protagonists, and his cinematic courtroom confrontations. I truly look forward to Beau Lee Cooper’s next encounter with injustice. Published at Deadly Pleasures Mystery Magazine.
January 21, 2026
Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
In Worse Than a Lie, renowned civil rights attorney Ben Crump brings his real-world legal experience into the realm of fiction, crafting a story that feels grounded, and urgent. The novel explores themes of systemic injustice, abuse of power, and the devastating consequences of silence—topics that anyone familiar with Crump’s legal career will immediately recognize.
One of the book’s greatest strengths in my opinion, is how closely the narrative mirrors the types of cases Crump has handled in real life. The wrongful actions of authorities, the marginalization of vulnerable communities, and the uphill battle for accountability strongly echo high-profile civil rights cases associated with his work. These similarities give the story a sense of authenticity; it doesn’t read like a detached legal thriller, but rather like a fictionalized extension of the injustices that dominate real headlines.
The book is largely favorable in its pacing and message. Crump succeeds in translating complex legal and social issues into an accessible narrative that keeps the reader engaged. The characters feel purposeful, and the story’s moral compass is clear.
That said, the ending feels somewhat abrupt. While the resolution aligns with the book’s themes, it arrives more quickly than expected. A bit more buildup or emotional unpacking toward the conclusion would have strengthened the impact and allowed readers more time to process the full weight of the story’s outcome.
Overall, Worse Than a Lie is a compelling and thought-provoking read, particularly for those interested in social justice and the realities behind civil rights litigation. Despite its rushed ending, the novel stands as a powerful fictional reflection of the real cases and causes that define Ben Crump’s legal legacy.
In Worse Than a Lie, renowned civil rights attorney Ben Crump brings his real-world legal experience into the realm of fiction, crafting a story that feels grounded, and urgent. The novel explores themes of systemic injustice, abuse of power, and the devastating consequences of silence—topics that anyone familiar with Crump’s legal career will immediately recognize.
One of the book’s greatest strengths in my opinion, is how closely the narrative mirrors the types of cases Crump has handled in real life. The wrongful actions of authorities, the marginalization of vulnerable communities, and the uphill battle for accountability strongly echo high-profile civil rights cases associated with his work. These similarities give the story a sense of authenticity; it doesn’t read like a detached legal thriller, but rather like a fictionalized extension of the injustices that dominate real headlines.
The book is largely favorable in its pacing and message. Crump succeeds in translating complex legal and social issues into an accessible narrative that keeps the reader engaged. The characters feel purposeful, and the story’s moral compass is clear.
That said, the ending feels somewhat abrupt. While the resolution aligns with the book’s themes, it arrives more quickly than expected. A bit more buildup or emotional unpacking toward the conclusion would have strengthened the impact and allowed readers more time to process the full weight of the story’s outcome.
Overall, Worse Than a Lie is a compelling and thought-provoking read, particularly for those interested in social justice and the realities behind civil rights litigation. Despite its rushed ending, the novel stands as a powerful fictional reflection of the real cases and causes that define Ben Crump’s legal legacy.
March 1, 2026
Worse Than a Lie is the first book in the new Beau Lee Cooper series by Ben Crump. The book will make you so angry that you'll be gritting your teeth and squeezing the book as you read it. The book takes place in Chicago in 2008 just after Barack Obama is elected as the President of the United States. Hollis Montrose is on his way home from work and is shocked to see blue lights flashing behind his car. He assumes they're going to pass him as no sirens are blaring and he's done nothing wrong. Hollis is a former Chicago Police officer with 16 years on the job and now works for Metra, another police job. The only thing that Hollis did wrong driving home was be a black man in a racist society. As the police officers approach his car, Hollis tells them he's a police officer and offers to show his badge. They order him out of the car, tell him to get face down on the pavement with his arms above his head. Another police car pulls up and 2 more policemen get out. One of the officers kicks Hollis in the ribs and he knows some are broken as he's in instant agonizing pain. When he reaches towards the injured area, they yell gun and all 4 white police officers begin to shoot Hollis as he lies there. Hollis is shot 10 times in the back, but somehow survives.
Beau Lee Cooper is a lawyer who has his own law firm in Texas with his best friend Nellie.and their office detective Cape. He takes on cases where he can help people fight against the injustice of society and travels wherever the cases are. His wife and daughter understand the important work he does and fully support him. When Beau learns of Hollis' situation and his wife asks him to help her and her family. he feels compelled to help. The Chicago PD has a reputation for white officers targeting black citizens and they've already spun the story their way before Beau even takes the case. Why was Hollis pulled over? Where is Hollis' wallet? How can Beau prove what really happened to Hollis that night? It's going to take a lot of work, guts, and fight to get people to open up and share anything negative about the officers involved that night. Will Beau get lucky and find someone who's brave enough to talk? This book is gripping and I read it in 2 days. It's so maddening that you will keep reading in the hopes the tides will turn. Beau Lee Cooper is a fantastic new character to cheer for and I look forward to the next book in the legal series. I rate Worse Than a Lie 5 stars with my highest recommendation. I'd like to thank NetGalley and Bantam Books for an advanced copy of Worse Than a Lie in exchange for a fair review. #WorseThanALie
Beau Lee Cooper is a lawyer who has his own law firm in Texas with his best friend Nellie.and their office detective Cape. He takes on cases where he can help people fight against the injustice of society and travels wherever the cases are. His wife and daughter understand the important work he does and fully support him. When Beau learns of Hollis' situation and his wife asks him to help her and her family. he feels compelled to help. The Chicago PD has a reputation for white officers targeting black citizens and they've already spun the story their way before Beau even takes the case. Why was Hollis pulled over? Where is Hollis' wallet? How can Beau prove what really happened to Hollis that night? It's going to take a lot of work, guts, and fight to get people to open up and share anything negative about the officers involved that night. Will Beau get lucky and find someone who's brave enough to talk? This book is gripping and I read it in 2 days. It's so maddening that you will keep reading in the hopes the tides will turn. Beau Lee Cooper is a fantastic new character to cheer for and I look forward to the next book in the legal series. I rate Worse Than a Lie 5 stars with my highest recommendation. I'd like to thank NetGalley and Bantam Books for an advanced copy of Worse Than a Lie in exchange for a fair review. #WorseThanALie
February 6, 2026
Worse Than a Lie by Ben Crump. Thanks to @bantambooks for the gifted copy ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
Civil rights attorney Ben Crump takes the case of Hollis Montrose, a fifty-three year old Black ex-police officer, gunned down by four white cops during a traffic stop.
I really enjoyed this one, especially at the end with the final court room scene. The situation and bad cops did seem overly exaggerated, but the story was entertaining. I’m looking forward to more in the series. I liked that the incident took place the night Obama was elected; it added an extra motivation to the event and made it feel more realistic.
“When you’re reminded that racism is as American as apple pie. And the words on the court wall, like liberty and justice, to you they don’t apply. Thats worse than a lie.”
Read if you like:
-Courtroom thrillers
-Legal defenses
-Bad cop tropes
-Fighting systemic racism
Worse Than a Lie comes out 2/17.
Civil rights attorney Ben Crump takes the case of Hollis Montrose, a fifty-three year old Black ex-police officer, gunned down by four white cops during a traffic stop.
I really enjoyed this one, especially at the end with the final court room scene. The situation and bad cops did seem overly exaggerated, but the story was entertaining. I’m looking forward to more in the series. I liked that the incident took place the night Obama was elected; it added an extra motivation to the event and made it feel more realistic.
“When you’re reminded that racism is as American as apple pie. And the words on the court wall, like liberty and justice, to you they don’t apply. Thats worse than a lie.”
Read if you like:
-Courtroom thrillers
-Legal defenses
-Bad cop tropes
-Fighting systemic racism
Worse Than a Lie comes out 2/17.
Review of advance copy
First, I'd like to say that I purchased this book with my own money a few days before its official release through Barnes and Noble at a NYC branch. Copies before release were there for purchase due to author Ben Crump having his book tour and signing there the day of the release.
That being said, it took me four days to read this book cover to cover, and love every moment of it. This book is a must-read. It is more than fiction, even historical fiction in my opinion in a way.
Worse than a Lie takes place in Chicago where a Black man who is wrongfully pulled over by two Chicago Police Department officers on the night President Obama is elected for the first time. Accused of swerving and a possible carjacking (apparently he "fit the description"), things escalate quickly as guns are pulled on him, the man is pulled out of his car and forced to the ground on his stomach.
But get this—the man on the ground is in fact a police officer as well, formerly an officer of the CPD himself before switching departments. Which makes you think, is this a planned attack...or simply coincidence?
Despite announcing his stature and offering his ID and badge, he is denied and told to shut his mouth because as a Black man, he holds no power.
Backup is called bringing the situation to 4 white police officers to 1 Black police officer treated like a criminal. He is stomped on and about to be kicked before he tries to brace for impact. In the process, his registered weapon is flashed at his waist. Alerted, a cop yells out "gun" and the four fill the man's backside with 10 bullets.
Miraculously he survives and is in desperate need of help as the CPD and the state of Illinois paints the picture that this decorated police officer is a no good criminal who should be taken down.
Insert our main character: Beau Lee Cooper, civil rights attorney who, like Ben Crump himself, has made a name for himself across the country serving Black people who are often disregarded solely for the color of their skin.
Throughout the story we follow the perspectives of several characters involved in the shooting—the man shot, one of the police officers that shot him, and Beau Lee and his legal team as we see sick ideologies, corruption and abuse seep through in the fight for the truth.
From reading, I've also noticed that this book is also an on-the-ground guide for communities affected by police brutality and local/state injustices as it shows not only simplified breakdowns of court proceedings, and meaning of rulings—it tells your constitutional rights as a citizen; ways to protest, fundraise, come to together as a community, and so much much more.
At the end of the day, this novel shows that what's worse than a lie, is telling the truth but no one believing you.
That being said, it took me four days to read this book cover to cover, and love every moment of it. This book is a must-read. It is more than fiction, even historical fiction in my opinion in a way.
Worse than a Lie takes place in Chicago where a Black man who is wrongfully pulled over by two Chicago Police Department officers on the night President Obama is elected for the first time. Accused of swerving and a possible carjacking (apparently he "fit the description"), things escalate quickly as guns are pulled on him, the man is pulled out of his car and forced to the ground on his stomach.
But get this—the man on the ground is in fact a police officer as well, formerly an officer of the CPD himself before switching departments. Which makes you think, is this a planned attack...or simply coincidence?
Despite announcing his stature and offering his ID and badge, he is denied and told to shut his mouth because as a Black man, he holds no power.
Backup is called bringing the situation to 4 white police officers to 1 Black police officer treated like a criminal. He is stomped on and about to be kicked before he tries to brace for impact. In the process, his registered weapon is flashed at his waist. Alerted, a cop yells out "gun" and the four fill the man's backside with 10 bullets.
Miraculously he survives and is in desperate need of help as the CPD and the state of Illinois paints the picture that this decorated police officer is a no good criminal who should be taken down.
Insert our main character: Beau Lee Cooper, civil rights attorney who, like Ben Crump himself, has made a name for himself across the country serving Black people who are often disregarded solely for the color of their skin.
Throughout the story we follow the perspectives of several characters involved in the shooting—the man shot, one of the police officers that shot him, and Beau Lee and his legal team as we see sick ideologies, corruption and abuse seep through in the fight for the truth.
From reading, I've also noticed that this book is also an on-the-ground guide for communities affected by police brutality and local/state injustices as it shows not only simplified breakdowns of court proceedings, and meaning of rulings—it tells your constitutional rights as a citizen; ways to protest, fundraise, come to together as a community, and so much much more.
At the end of the day, this novel shows that what's worse than a lie, is telling the truth but no one believing you.
March 21, 2026
Beau Lee Cooper grew up in Houston, Texas. As a youngster, he idolized Thurgood Marshall, as he became the first Black Supreme Court Justice. He was always destined to become a lawyer. He wanted to ”to live on a world where Black people can tell the truth without being afraid for their lives.”
In 2008, President-elect Barack Obama was delivering his victory speech in Chicago. Meanwhile, Hollis Montrose was stopped by four white Chicago policemen. He is shot 10 times, but is charged with numerous crimes by the Chicago Police Department.
Beau is the perfect lawyer to act as defense counsel for this seemingly impossible trial, fighting a racist police department, a racist prosecutor, and a racist judge. “Racism is as American as apple pie.”
Ben Crump is an expert on racism in America; he is knowledgeable about the law, and he is an excellent author.
In 2008, President-elect Barack Obama was delivering his victory speech in Chicago. Meanwhile, Hollis Montrose was stopped by four white Chicago policemen. He is shot 10 times, but is charged with numerous crimes by the Chicago Police Department.
Beau is the perfect lawyer to act as defense counsel for this seemingly impossible trial, fighting a racist police department, a racist prosecutor, and a racist judge. “Racism is as American as apple pie.”
Ben Crump is an expert on racism in America; he is knowledgeable about the law, and he is an excellent author.
March 15, 2026
the way this case had my blood boiling whew. i’m glad it’s over so i can breathe again 😮💨 Beau Lee Cooper did his BIG one. 👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾
March 25, 2026
I read it in one day. I couldn’t put it down. Looking forward to future books in the series.
March 13, 2026
This book was absolutely phenomenal. It’s incredibly realistic in its depiction of the injustice faced by Black Americans, specifically by police officers, as well as all the unfairness and despicable prejudices that go alongside it. I was angry, I was devastated, and I was hopeful, all throughout the story. As a courtroom drama, it was also very well-done. The author’s personal experience as a civil rights attorney was evident in the nuances of how the trial (and its lead-up) unfolded, and the tension throughout made this book difficult to put down. I highly recommend it to everyone, both as an entertaining book and as a story that continues to be incredibly pertinent to the world we are living in. I’m so excited that this seems to be the first in a series of books about Beau Lee Cooper, and will definitely be picking up the next one!
March 6, 2026
Some thrillers hook you slowly—but Worse Than a Lie had me invested almost immediately. This was the kind of book where every chapter adds another layer of tension, and before I knew it I was flying through pages because I absolutely needed to know how everything would unfold.
What really stood out to me was how gripping the story felt from start to finish. The stakes feel high, the atmosphere is tense, and the mystery slowly unravels in a way that keeps you guessing without ever feeling confusing. I loved how the author balanced suspense with emotional depth, making the story feel both thrilling and meaningful.
The pacing was spot on for me, and the writing kept the momentum going the entire time. It’s one of those reads that pulls you fully into the story and doesn’t let go until the final page.
If you love twisty, fast-paced thrillers that keep you completely hooked, this is absolutely one to add to your list.
A compelling, addictive read that I couldn’t put down.
What really stood out to me was how gripping the story felt from start to finish. The stakes feel high, the atmosphere is tense, and the mystery slowly unravels in a way that keeps you guessing without ever feeling confusing. I loved how the author balanced suspense with emotional depth, making the story feel both thrilling and meaningful.
The pacing was spot on for me, and the writing kept the momentum going the entire time. It’s one of those reads that pulls you fully into the story and doesn’t let go until the final page.
If you love twisty, fast-paced thrillers that keep you completely hooked, this is absolutely one to add to your list.
A compelling, addictive read that I couldn’t put down.
February 24, 2026
Hollis Montrose is driving after getting off his late shift as a security guard when he is pulled over by the police. Hollis tries to identify himself as being a Metro police officer but the two cops don’t pay attention to that. The cops proceed to pull him out of his car and force him to the ground and also call for backup, all while Hollis is not putting up any kind of fight. Now four policemen are at the scene and Hollis is shot in the back ten times. The cops claim their lives were in danger. Hollis survives but is in critical condition and probably paralyzed. This is all taking place in Chicago, where Beau Lee Cooper happens to be as he was meeting with another attorney over a settlement dispute. Beau Lee Cooper is a lawyer who has made a name for himself by fighting for what is right, which usually means fighting for the minorities of the country that keep getting wronged. This was a very powerful story, much like those happening in our country today. The book is written by Ben Crump, a lawyer fighting for the wronged today. He has the knowledge and experience to relate this type of story very well. The characters seem real and you care what happens to them - you want to see justice served. A few events seem a bit far fetched, but were satisfying to the story. I enjoyed the book very much, even though it was too close to events happening today. I give the book 4 stars out of 5.
Thank you to the publisher and to NetGalley for this digital ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Thank you to the publisher and to NetGalley for this digital ARC in exchange for my honest review.
February 26, 2026
I love a good legal thriller, and this one definitely delivered. It’s full of suspense, twists, and some really intense courtroom scenes. At times it was a tough read because the racial tension and corruption run deep, but that’s also what makes it powerful. The trial especially had me flying through the pages just to see how it would end. This is the first book in a three-part series that hasn’t fully come out yet, but I already know I’ll be reading them all. Since Ben Crump is a real lawyer, the legal details feel authentic and believable.
March 3, 2026
This powerful legal thriller follows attorney Beau Lee as he fights to clear a Black former police officer who is brutally shot, framed, and imprisoned after a traffic stop on election night 2008. The story blends courtroom drama with sharp social commentary on racial injustice and corruption. Fast-paced and emotionally charged, it’s a timely, thought-provoking listen with strong moral stakes.
March 8, 2026
This stumbles to find its footing a little bit in like the first 10% or so but then its off to the races! I was on the edge of my seat!
Essentially follows a civil rights attorney who is representing his client who was the victim of a police shooting but got wrongly charged for allegedly shooting at officers.
There's so many twists and turns but it builds up the suspense perfectly. Plenty of other commentary on civil rights and what Black ppl face, especially in these types of situations embedded throughout.
Def would read more with Attorney Beau Lee!
Essentially follows a civil rights attorney who is representing his client who was the victim of a police shooting but got wrongly charged for allegedly shooting at officers.
There's so many twists and turns but it builds up the suspense perfectly. Plenty of other commentary on civil rights and what Black ppl face, especially in these types of situations embedded throughout.
Def would read more with Attorney Beau Lee!
March 24, 2026
I love a good legal thriller and was excited to see Civil Rights Attorney Ben Crump had a debut novel!
Just as I hoped, his experience gave the story a unique point of view that I very much enjoyed.
Can't wait for #2.
Just as I hoped, his experience gave the story a unique point of view that I very much enjoyed.
Can't wait for #2.
March 21, 2026
This was a very compelling read. The fact that Black people have to contend with systemic racism is a given, but the judge in the trial was unbelievable! The book was so interesting from the first page. And the fact of the author's experiences as a civil rights lawyer add much to the portrayals in the book.
March 21, 2026
A great legal thriller...
March 20, 2026
Simply amazing! So straightforward, but elegant and gripping.
March 16, 2026
I was off yesterday and binged this.
What a great book! Pulled from the news about racist cops who unjustly attack a Black man in an illegal stop. I especially loved the ending. Glad to see this is the first in a series and will definitely be reading more from Mr. Crump. 5/5 stars
What a great book! Pulled from the news about racist cops who unjustly attack a Black man in an illegal stop. I especially loved the ending. Glad to see this is the first in a series and will definitely be reading more from Mr. Crump. 5/5 stars
March 16, 2026
Loved this Book! I’ve got a favorite New Author! I inhaled this book in 2 Days!! Loved it!
March 15, 2026
If you enjoy courtroom, legal books - this is the BEST!!!
March 12, 2026
3.5
Fast pacing, read this in a couple days. The writing was pretty good. The only reason it’s not 4 stars is that I thought that since Mr. Crump is a lawyer that it would be more legally accurate. I just felt the trial portions seemed very quick, only a handful of people were called by either side. There seemed to me to be lots and lots of things they could have done at trial that they didn’t - I won’t spoil anything.
I think I probably will read the next book featuring Beau Lee and his team
Fast pacing, read this in a couple days. The writing was pretty good. The only reason it’s not 4 stars is that I thought that since Mr. Crump is a lawyer that it would be more legally accurate. I just felt the trial portions seemed very quick, only a handful of people were called by either side. There seemed to me to be lots and lots of things they could have done at trial that they didn’t - I won’t spoil anything.
I think I probably will read the next book featuring Beau Lee and his team
March 14, 2026
A great courtroom drama about a black man who was shot by 4 policeman as they say he was trying to shoot them. A very good example of what has happened many times in the last few years in real life.
March 5, 2026
Wow! Worse Than a Lie was an incredible read. From the very beginning, it was a true page-turner. The pacing kept me fully engaged, and the writing style made the story feel vivid and immediate. The legal details were especially compelling — the case felt so real that at times I felt like I was living inside the courtroom and experiencing everything alongside the characters.
Ben Crump’s legal expertise really shines through in the storytelling. The way the case unfolds is detailed and believable without ever feeling overwhelming, which makes the entire narrative feel authentic and relatable.
I listened to the audiobook, and Leon Nixon’s narration elevated the experience even more. His delivery captured the tension, emotion, and intensity of the story perfectly.
Overall, this was a gripping legal drama that kept me hooked from start to finish. If you enjoy courtroom stories that feel realistic and emotionally engaging, I highly recommend it.
Ben Crump’s legal expertise really shines through in the storytelling. The way the case unfolds is detailed and believable without ever feeling overwhelming, which makes the entire narrative feel authentic and relatable.
I listened to the audiobook, and Leon Nixon’s narration elevated the experience even more. His delivery captured the tension, emotion, and intensity of the story perfectly.
Overall, this was a gripping legal drama that kept me hooked from start to finish. If you enjoy courtroom stories that feel realistic and emotionally engaging, I highly recommend it.
March 27, 2026
This was a high stakes, infuriating debut legal thriller that follows Black attorney Beau Lee Cooper as he tries to defend a Chicago policeman who was gunned down by fellow cops. Set in the days where Obama has just been elected, the American racial tensions and police gun violence are at an all time high. The story kept me on the edge of my seat rooting for the underdog, was good on audio and highly recommended for fans of authors like John Grisham and S.A. Cosby.
March 11, 2026
I enjoyed reading this book. The perspective was refreshing and we heard voices that are often unheard. I put the book down for two days because I didn't want it to end. Looking forward to the next novel.
March 10, 2026
Excellent! Couldn't put down. Will read upcoming sequels!
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