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An Appearance of Impropriety: A Romantic Legal Drama

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3 days and 20:30:57

50 copies available
U.S. only
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With a great story, well-developed characters, and a tale that explores the value of second chances and giving back, the latest from Breigh is a must-buy. —Library Journal, Starred Review


As the youngest female judge in LA, Mahalia Jackson has her career goals carefully aligned. But when her mentor tells her she needs to break her shell of professionalism and show a little heart by volunteering for the Junior Jurors program, her plans begin to falter.


Attorney JD Cash heads up the Junior Jurors program, a project born out of his own troubled past. He leverages his position as an attorney to fulfill God's calling on his life, supporting the orphans and widows of society who have lost beloved husbands and fathers to TransNation's eighteen-wheeled time bombs roaming America's freeways.


Mahalia's rule — never date a lawyer — is a straitjacket that tightens when she presides over the case where JD serves as a young widow's attorney. But when an earthquake leaves JD and Mahalia in a vulnerable position, her resolve begins to waver, and she finds herself opening up to the empathetic lawyer. But online, anonymous colleagues and adversaries attempt to destroy Mahalia's reputation and career.



A romance threaded with legal intrigue, An Appearance of Impropriety will show readers that real love is worth the risk

312 pages, Kindle Edition

Published January 27, 2026

11 people are currently reading
843 people want to read

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Jayna Breigh

2 books113 followers

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews
Profile Image for Hannah Ruth.
122 reviews10 followers
January 24, 2026
I have discovered something new about myself--I really like legal dramas.

Nearly everything about this book was perfection. Mahalia with her stack of accomplishments and sky-high standards. JD with his heart for kids. Even the surprise twist at the end was well-executed, even if I wish it had been given more time to settle in. There was so much to keep me wondering--the text messages, the Facebook group... I needed to know what was going on.

I was also way too invested in the TransNation case. The author's experience in law shines through in her detailed writing, and I was introduced to many new vocab words!

The side characters were all excellently executed, and I love that Mahalia has both good and bad memories of her grandfather and grandmother who somewhat raised her. I feel, as authors, it's easy to make a character all good or all terrible, and Breigh's take was refreshing.

The faith content, too, was on point for these characters, and it felt so natural and realistic. Thirty-somethings will relate to the career-driven MCs and enjoy watching their journeys through some significant life changes.

Overall, An Appearance of Impropriety was an excellent read, and I'd love to read more by Breigh in the future!

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are my honest opinion.
Profile Image for Andrea Cox.
Author 4 books1,746 followers
February 4, 2026
FTC Disclosure: I received a complimentary copy of this book. These are my honest thoughts.

This might be Jayna Breigh’s sophomore book, but she’s already proving she’s got a unique point of view to present to the world. Learning about aspects of the law I didn’t know existed (hunted heirs in her debut, The Hunted Heir; and the appearance of impropriety rule for judges in this new novel) is a definite highlight of her stories so far. I can hardly wait to see which piece of law she’ll showcase next! And she doesn’t bash the reader over the head lecture-style; instead, she wraps the fascinating law aspects into the larger tapestry of an entertaining story with characters that are easy to root for.

When I first met Judge Mahalia Jackson, two things entered my mind: 1) why name a character after a world-famous Gospel singer (and would that be addressed) and 2) was I in for yet another racism trope story that I’m beyond weary of? The character’s name took me a while to get used to and not to think of the singer as often while reading, and I was sad that the connection was not addressed in the least. Did her parents admire the singer and name their daughter after her? Was there a Mahalia in their family history, so the connection was coincidental (though not since the author could have chosen any name under the sun)? I guess I might never know.

The racism issue actually surprised me in a positive way this time. This story provided a different take on it than I’ve ever seen done in Christian fiction: it focused on colorism, which is racism within a single ethnic group that’s based on the shade of one’s skin. For Mahalia, who has rich ebony-hued skin (the cover model was perfectly cast for this role), this meant that she was bullied because her skin wasn’t a light enough shade to satisfy her childhood peers. This was fascinating to learn about, and I’m glad this book was my first exposure to such a ridiculous way of judging each other. The author handled this with grace and honesty and realism. My trepidation about one more racism trope story was put at ease pretty quickly, which enabled me to settle in to enjoy the story and see how Mahalia would overcome this lingering self-consciousness she carried with her on the daily.

I wasn’t a fan of the plethora of backstory dumps. I much prefer backstory to be woven in with a lighter touch and in smaller snippets so as not to distract from the current-day storyline but rather to enhance it. It was jarring at times and kept the pace slower for me through the first third of the book. Thankfully, once the action picked up more, the backstory dumps came fewer and farther between (though they still appeared really deep into the story). However, I admired how the characters leaned on God to overcome their rocky pasts and suffocating fears throughout the present-day portion of the story. This part was written to perfection.

There were a few odd typos and inconsistencies that slipped through. I got a good chuckle out of them, but they disrupted my reading experience. (Note: This might not be the case for every reader. I am a copyeditor, so it’s my job to notice these things. Sadly, that isn’t something I can turn off when I read for fun.)
* reigns when reins was meant
* El Niña when El Niño was meant
* one of the “skins” players didn’t shuck his shirt before playing basketball
* a preacher said to “consult the manual” (Bible) but didn’t seem to do the same where tithing was concerned

I absolutely loved the chapter-ending extras that enhanced the story by adding more mystery and suspense along the way. They weren’t at the end of all the chapters, but I adored them when they showed up. They were in the form of several different technology-related things such as DMs and emails and Instagram posts and discussion boards. The intrigue in this thread kept me flipping ahead to see when the next one would show up (but not to read it until I reached it, of course). This felt so unique and new. I hope it doesn’t get overdone by bunches of copycats, because this book rocked it beautifully.

The cover was deliciously moody and gorgeous. I absolutely love that shade of emerald in that amount of saturation, and the model is beautiful. I love her hairstyle and the pops of pink that perfectly complement the judicial robe. I also loved that the United States flag was featured since the law is a vital part of her inner workings. The designer did a magnificent job!

Mahalia’s personality makeover was a wonderful thread. I loved how she was forced outside her comfort zone with the Junior Jurors and that she reluctantly wanted to improve the more difficult things to grow in, in her personal journey. It’s not easy admitting weaknesses and even harder to work on them and earn improvements. This was written really well and showcased the challenges and the accomplishments that can be made in such a struggle toward improving oneself.

The claustrophobic forced proximity during a natural disaster was one of my favorite things. I’m such a weather nerd, and having earthquakes play a central role made me super happy. The rickety compartment was amazing too; it was played up exquisitely. The tension and banter throughout those chapters were spot-on and cemented my compassion for the leads. From that point forward, I yearned for Mahalia and JD to discover they could have a sweet romance if they were both willing to risk their reputations, livelihoods, and futures to give love a fresh chance.

The Junior Jurors was an amazing thing to watch unfold. The kids’ attitudes at the beginning were realistic, as were their personal problems, and it was neat to see how the program shaped each teenager as they went along.
Americano the cat was so spunky and fun! That little furball made me miss the kitties of my childhood and teen years.

The most magnificent thread of this entire book, for me, was the theme of seeking God’s will for one’s life. This was beautifully written in a tangible way that nearly had me reaching for my Bible to read alongside Mahalia. I loved how prayer was woven in, especially in the back half of the book. It was particularly lovely to see both leads learning to lean heavier on God than on the abilities He gave them. What a beautiful, fantastic display of real and growing-deeper faith.

I’m now curious to see what story, characters, pets, and themes Mrs. Breigh will give us next!

Content: expletives, alcohol, crude sexual term, tobacco, replacement expletives, premarital intimacy and unwed pregnancy were talked about, drugs and gambling mentioned, shower scenes
Profile Image for Jeanne Alfveby Crea.
984 reviews108 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
January 26, 2026
What a great story! I loved it and absolutely could not put it down. If you love legal drama with mystery and romance you will LOVE this story! Amazing characters (main and side), and a captivating & compelling storyline that kept me reading all day (while ignoring my chores)!

Jimmy Dean Cash is the most endearing hero. Because of the hard life and the losses he experienced in his youth, he's worked hard to get out of poverty and put himself through law school. He uses his education and degree to live out the purpose God has for his life. Now he defends widows and orphans in court, and runs a Junior Jurors program with a local judge to help disadvantaged youth gain some great experience. He has no time for relationships with his 60+ hour work weeks.

Judge Mahalia Jackson is the youngest female judge in LA. She is smart, beautiful, very focused on her career trajectory, and closed off to just about everything else. She has definite preconceived ideas of what her future person should be like, and she's absolutely ruled out lawyers and anyone else who works in the courthouse. When her mentor Judge Goldstein has a health emergency, she takes over and helps JD Cash with his Junior Jurors Program.

This line cracked me up: ""The jingle jingle of "I Walk the line" by Johnny Cash bounced out of the speakers. Walk the line was an understatement. He'd be on a tightrope juggling bowling balls, between all these kids and his unexpected attraction to Judge Jackson."

I LOVED it, the good people, good causes, the humor, the kids, the mystery, the surprising and wonderful journey that both main characters take. I highly recommend An Appearance of Impropriety!

Thank you to the author for allowing me to read an early copy. I can't wait for my preordered copy to arrive on release day. I ordered it as soon as it was available for preorder. It will be positioned right next to Jayna Breigh's excellent debut novel on my keeper shelf!
Profile Image for Lisa M..
1,027 reviews42 followers
January 28, 2026
I am not usually someone who likes legal drama, but the title and the cover of this newest release by Jayna Breigh caught my attention. This book is legal drama/romance although there is a case that plays out in the sub-plot. I appreciated that both of these characters were in their 30s unlike most of the books these days.

The female MC is a highly successful young black judge who was raised by her grandparents and given the best of everything from private schools to elite opportunities. She's able to see her success by the framed certificates and diplomas on the wall. Now she's ready to meet her Midnight Prince of her dreams...God owes her. right? I really liked seeing her internal battles of recognizing that she's chased the worlds accolades over prioritizing her faith and what to do next. It's not just a flip the switch. She struggles.

The male MC has made it his responsibility to "save the world" as a lawyer. To make up for not being able to save his mama all those years ago living as "white trash". His sole focus as a workaholic is to save every woman/child who is abused by the system. How many will it take to absolve himself of the guilt he feels? a lifetime perhaps.

A friend brings them together thru community service. A case puts him in front of her as lawyer/judge. She makes him realize there is more to life than a bank account and judicial wins. He makes her question her pursuit of the perfect black partner. Both see God working in their lives.

I high recommend this book to all my Christian fiction lovers. Even if you aren't hot on legal dramas. The story is lovely.

As a white woman, I enjoyed being immersed in the life of Mahalia. Being in her thoughts about the world around her and the challenges she faced even in her own black community. The teens Mahalia and JD worked with were my favorite for sure.

4.5 stars

*Thank you to the publisher for an ARC of this novel. All opinions are 100% my own.
Profile Image for Connie Saunders.
1,848 reviews159 followers
February 6, 2026
I was impressed by Jayna Breigh's debut novel last year, and this second book proves that she won't be considered a "one-hit wonder author"!  Breigh's knowledge and experience as a retired lawyer are evident in both the characters and plot of An Appearance of Impropriety. Mahalia Jackson is a career-driven judge who has no desire for a personal life until she encounters lawyer Jimmy Dean Cash.

I loved the legal jargon, compelling suspense, and intriguing characters in this story, but there was so much more! The thought-provoking plot often challenged me personally as I followed the spiritual and emotional growth of an "all by myself" judge and a "help somebody today" lawyer!

if you enjoy legal drama that's woven with faith and romance, grab a copy of An Appearance of Impropriety. You won't be disappointed!

I received a digital ARC from the author, and I also purchased my own print copy. I was under no obligation to write a review. 
82 reviews4 followers
January 21, 2026
I received an advance reader copy of this book, the thoughts and opinions are my own.

If you enjoy legal drama this book is for you. It’s not usually my genre, but I enjoy learning about different facets of life, and there is a lot to learn about the judicial system through this book. There are a few twists and turns I didn’t see coming. It’s always fun when characters from previous books make an appearance, and that did not disappoint in this book. Jayna paints a vivid picture through words. This book is a great reminder that we can’t do things on our own, we need to hand things over to God. It also reminds us that it isn’t our job to save everyone and play God, it’s all in God’s hands!

I enjoyed the dynamic pull between Mahalia and JD. The way they are both on the same page that pursuing each other is out of the question, but they are drawn to each other like bees to honey. What a great reminder that God is working things out for our good!
Profile Image for Melmo2610.
3,662 reviews
February 7, 2026
After reading Janyna’s first book, I was an instant fan, so I was thrilled when this story released. This legal drama was so good! I really enjoyed the layers of the storyline from Mahalia and JD’s backstories, to the case JD is working on, Mahalia and her desire to advance her career and what brings JD and Mahalia together over the course of the story. I loved the surprise JD finds out about during the book and the elements that brought to the story. I don’t read a ton of legal based fiction, but I am here for Jayna’s stories. She writes them so well, that you don’t want to put them down. I am already looking forward to whatever she writes next!

I received a copy of this book through JustRead Tours and was not required to post a positive review. All thoughts are my own.
Profile Image for Lisa Taylor.
115 reviews5 followers
January 27, 2026
Oh, my goodness what a great, realistic and super interesting faith-based story filled with amazing characters and certainly a page turner from the very beginning, that I didn't want to put down.

Jayna Breigh is a new to me author and I will be looking forward to reading more. 
Profile Image for Lisa.
606 reviews66 followers
February 5, 2026
If y’all have tagged along here for a while, you might remember that I loved Jayna Breigh’s debut novel, The Hunted Heir. I am just as enamored of her second novel, An Appearance of Impropriety.

Mahalia Jackson (no relation to the famous singer of the same name) is the youngest female judge in Los Angeles. She’s in the running for a pretty sweet promotion, and she’s determined to achieve that goal, to make her family proud. She has some hard and fast rules about her life, one of the big ones being “no dating a lawyer” (or anyone who works in the courthouse). But plaintiff’s attorney Jimmy Dean “JD” Cash, who shows up in her courtroom ready to fight for a widow’s justice against a major trucking company, presents a big challenge to that rule. Mahalia’s struggle only grows when she’s voluntold that since her mentor, Judge Goldstein, is sidelined with a health issue, she’ll be participating in the Junior Jurors program, a mock trial program for teens—led by none other than Mr. Cash. As they get to know each other, attraction pulls at them, but maintaining a professional appearance—avoiding any appearance of impropriety—compels them to stay apart. Both are mindful of the ethical requirements imposed on them by their professions, and JD Cash, while certainly appealing, doesn’t fit Mahalia’s vision of her “Midnight Prince,” her happily ever after that she’s had in mind for years.

But not everyone wants to see Judge Jackson succeed. Soon, allegations of the dreaded appearance of impropriety are circulating, coming from those in the shadows who would like to see the young judge’s career derailed and reputation ruined. Can Mahalia and JD keep their relationship professional and above reproach? Will they risk everything to take a chance on each other?

This book, y’all! Once again, Breigh writes an engaging story set in a legal environment – she writes what she knows. Both Mahalia and JD are wonderful characters. Both had their own challenges growing up: Mahalia, the expectation that she would make something of herself, as all her family members had done; JD, the difficulty of growing up with no father, with a mother who tried her best as she fought to keep poverty and her own addiction from consuming her family. Mahalia is driven to live up to her family’s expectations by advancing up the ladder. JD spends his life saving others, fighting the guilt he feels at his inability to save his mother. Despite their very different backgrounds, they are very much alike.

The book looks at racism in a different light. The issue is not that Mahalia is black and JD is white. No, the racism comes from within Mahalia’s own people. The darker tone of her skin is often viewed as less desirable than a lighter tone, and some people have no problem expressing their thoughts about that.That just hurt my heart for her. Bad enough to be judged by people different from you. How much worse for your own people to find you somehow lacking simply because they think your skin tone is too much.

Breigh uses snippets of text messages and what appear to be social media chat conversations at the end of some chapters to convey information about situations. I liked the device, and I thought it was very effective at sharing hints without completely giving away who was saying what.

The romance is absolutely clean, but oh so swoonworthy! The tension between Mahalia and JD is deliciously frustrating, and I found myself really cheering for them to be able to put expectations aside and just let their relationship blossom. They both drew heavily on faith, especially as the story got further along, to guide their choices.

Sweet romance, a suspenseful threat to reputation and career, excellently written legal scenes, characters I love – Jayna Breigh has written another winner in my book. She’s on my must-read list!

Disclaimer: I received a copy of the book from JustRead Publicity Tours. I was not required to leave a review. All opinions here are mine, and I don’t say nice things about books I don’t actually like.
Profile Image for Becky Lewis.
1,070 reviews60 followers
January 28, 2026
“There would be allegations of impropriety against Judge Jackson if there was even a hint of something between her and someone whose case she presided over.”

Courtroom drama-romance? Yes, please! Having served on several juries in my lifetime, I’ve gained some perspective about our judicial system. So when the opportunity to read a legal drama by a former lawyer arises, my antennae rise as well. What is an insider’s scoop of the courtroom?

Jayna Breigh does not disappoint. She starts with a beautiful, young, accomplished African-American judge, Mahalia Jackson, in an LA courtroom. Mahalia is desperate to continue climbing the ladder of prestige as a judge, and is being considered for an important promotion.

Since her mentor is involved in an accident, Mahalia is dismayed to meet Jimmy Dean Cash in court, herself the judge, JD the attorney. He is the billboard “traffic stopper” attorney who encourages the public to sue for road accidents. Mahalia can’t stand him from his billboard ads.

When Mahalia discovers she must have some kind of service project on her record, she reluctantly joins JD in leading his ragtag band of Junior Jurors. “This whole project lived so far from her comfort zone that it had a different area code.” Yet, Mahalia participates and begins to see the heart that JD has for these kids. Kids who could just as easily fail before their future starts, as be successful.

Knowing that any supposed connection between them would be cause for her to be strongly disciplined and his court case to be thrown out, Mahalia and JD try to curtail their growing feelings.

I loved the angst the novel caused me. I wanted JD and Mahalia to find a way to be a couple. But if doing so meant shame? Both already had enough shame in their pasts. “They both had the need to prove themselves. When she had been elected, she was the youngest judge on the bench, and she was a woman. He came from nothing. No people. No money.”

I found that, yet again, my fave secondary character is deceased the whole book through. But we get great glimpses of Mahalia’s loving, if strict, preacher Granddaddy. He shares so many valuable insights that come back to help guide Mahalia in her life’s direction.

I loved this novel. The idea of a forbidden love, on several levels, a granddaughter who has been running from the faith she grew up with, and who has allowed hurt to direct her life. Will Mahalia ever be able to say the following? “All to Jesus I surrender, All to him I freely give;
I will ever love and trust him, In his presence daily live.
I surrender all.” Or will she continue on the path she’s charted for herself?

I could see myself in Mahalia in some ways. Not in a position of power, but worried about what those around me might think of my actions. Determined to rise above (on my own).

The more I saw of JD, the more I really loved him. He is trying to rise above his past, but his care for others is real! I pray I can learn to more like that.

I received a copy of the book from the author and Kregel Books. I also bought my own ecopy. No positive review was required, and all opinions are my own.

Notable Quotables:

“All these years she'd nursed emotional wounds because of colorism, but she'd ignored her own elitist and classist attitudes.”

“Are you freelancing in your life? Making up your own rules? Or are you following his Word?” - Steve
Profile Image for Rebecca.
2,374 reviews166 followers
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
January 19, 2026
4.5 stars
"Sweet Mahalia baby," . . . . "For what profit is it to a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul?"

She was so close. Moving steadily towards her next goal, Judge Mahalia Jackson could almost feel the heels of her shoes climbing higher up the ladder of success, gaining additional prestige, earning more respect in her field. There was only thing standing in her way, securing that upcoming appointment as assistant supervising judge. Then, much like a seasoned major league pitcher, the author throws a few perfectly timed curve balls which neither her readers or characters could have anticipated.

Jimmy Dean Cash, attorney at law, had vowed to stay on the straight and narrow, fully concentrating on his God given ability to defend widows and children. In doing so, he had been blessed with a wide measure of success. Unexpectedly, Cash finds himself presenting an argument before Judge Mahalia Jackson with regards to a large settlement, and for the first time in forever, JD has trouble concentrating on his case; the woman was absolutely stunning!

As if the heavens have declared their paths to cross again, Mahalia is called upon by her mentor to assist JD with a group of at-risk teens in a program called the Junior Jurors, thus demonstrating that she has a vested interest in community service while vying for her promotion. Unknown to Mahlia, not everyone is anxious to see her succeed, undercurrents of malicious intentions are bantered about in private messages and chat boards. By contrast, time spent with JD serves as a balm to her overworked soul, while being totally aware that any hint of personal connection could jeopardize everything they have worked so hard to protect . . . appearances of impropriety and all.

The inner struggle to be who you have always dreamed of being, versus who God may want you to become, is remarkably fleshed out within these characters. Not only is their spiritual tug-of-war quite authentically portrayed, but it is also swathed with rich biblical truths placed strategically within the narrative at just the right times and in all the right places.

And of course after reading this book, I'm of the opinion that every good romance needs an elevator scene!

I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book from the publisher. I also purchased a copy. The opinions stated above are entirely my own.
1,016 reviews33 followers
February 6, 2026
Mahalia has climbed high in her profession but still plans to rise. In the process, she's been very careful to avoid any appearance of impropriety, perhaps at the cost of becoming somewhat hard. But when her mentor is injured in an accident and she takes some of his roles, she's thrown together with a man who ticks none of her official boxes but somehow intrigues her in a way she's never felt before. JD failed his mother, but he refuses to fail anyone else again. His attorney work in favour of widows and orphans keeps him more than busy, but when a brilliant judge crosses his path, he begins to question his life goals and the reasons behind them. But with a secret smear campaign working to undermine Mahalia and a secret from JD's own past coming home to roost, can they have any hope of a future together?

An enjoyable legal drama with a side of romance. It can feel a times like the big guys always have everything their own way, so it was nice to see a 'David' winning against Goliath, pitched battle and all. It was also great to watch the kids in the Junior Jurors program growing and developing, albeit with hiccups along the way. As for the romance, the pair were clearly attracted to each other from the start but had good reasons for not getting together for a long time. However, the result was that most of the book didn't have a lot of romance in it, so if that's your main interest, you might be disappointed. Personally, while I'd hate to work in the field, I found the legal background interesting - though the ending did feel a bit rushed and I would have liked to see more of them actually getting together finally. One last point: from the buildup, I kind of expected more of the campaign against Mahalia. In the end, it didn't feel very serious, or like it had a very big effect on her. Nevertheless, a good read and I look forward to more by the author. 4.5 stars.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Profile Image for Hallie (Hallie Reads).
1,513 reviews153 followers
February 5, 2026
from the author of the hunted heir comes another worth-reading romantic legal drama!

mahalia jackson's the youngest female judge in los angeles, working to prove she deserves a promotion. one day, jd cash walks into her courtroom with a widow to help and a corporation to take down, and she can't deny the immediate attraction. of course, she winds up working with him on a program for troubled teens, too... but her life is subject to the public eye, and no matter the connection she feels with jd, she must avoid any appearance of impropriety, especially with a promotion on the line.

throughout an appearance of impropriety, mahalia and jd continue to cross paths, and there's such a delicious tension of "they want to, but they can't." both of them are workaholics anyway, so it's maybe a little too easy for them to put aside personal feelings for the sake of their careers—but they really are admirable with the commitment to ethics and morality. i enjoyed seeing them navigate the challenge of the situation, amidst their own individual challenges.

the legal aspect of their story kept me fascinated as jd and mahalia kept the romance at bay. i know very little about the day-to-day life of a judge or lawyer, but their roles definitely intrigued me. i just loved getting a peek into what they might be like.

if you're looking for a character-driven read with some legal drama and a complicated romance—plus uplifting threads of faith—an appearance of impropriety is definitely worth the read.

(i received a complimentary copy from the author and/or publisher. i was not required to write a positive review, and all the opinions i have expressed are my own.)


considerations:   
—language: none  
—spice: kisses only
—faith: strong themes and mentions
—content: mentions of parental abandonment/loss, drug use, abuse, and illness
425 reviews36 followers
January 28, 2026
Jayna Breigh's sophomore release "An Appearance of Impropriety" is a fast-paced romantic legal drama that will keep the reader interested in the story from beginning to end.

Judge Mahalia Jackson is the youngest judge in LA County and with her upbringing from her strict grandparents, she comes across as cold and businesslike in her interactions. Her mentor keeps trying to find ways for her to thaw and show people who she really is, so when he's injured he asks her to work with a junior jurors program with high schoolers where Mahalia learns more about herself than any other place he could have placed her. She's also searching for her "Midnight Prince" but does God know more about what she needs than she does?

Attorney JD Cash comes from the south and grew up dirt poor. Due to how his mother was treated and ended up, he has compassion for widows, children and underprivilege individuals. His face is up around billboards and he's come a long way from the trailer park to one of the wealthier attorneys in LA.

Jayna's writing is so compelling and her expertise in law shines in this book. Her Christian faith elements are strong in the book and she weaves it into the book in an organic way. Her characters are well-developed and the character growth in the book is apparent. The romance has many bumps along the way including a love triangle which adds some interest into the book.

The ending is shocking and the twist will have the reader gasping! I love books that keep the reader guessing and this is one of them.

I was honored to win a copy of the physical book from the author. I was not required to write a review or positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.
Profile Image for Stephanie - Books Less Travelled.
222 reviews1 follower
February 6, 2026
*I was given a copy by the publisher. This does not affect my review. This review is voluntary.*

I have been looking forward to reading this book for MONTHS, and now that I've finished it I can say it's definitely lived up the the hype I gave it. I loved Jayna's writing, here tone is beautifully vivid and her characters... I can't even express how much I love her characters... We'll not the villains, she makes them far to easy to dislike! Which I love, because that just further shows her skill at bringing them to life!

This story is so good, and definitely going down as a new favorite. I enjoyed meeting Mahalia and JD, and loves seeing them working together with the Junior Jurors program! I also really loved Dean. This book tackles some difficult topics and has a beautiful theme of redemption, surrender, and trusting in God that shines brightly throughout the book.




I loved the teens in this one. I always seem to gravitate to the mentor-type characters who welcome others into their circle and offer a listening ear and wise advice. This book isna beautiful example of that, and I especially appreciated Mahalia's efforts to be more available and caring as she grows as a person. It made her more relatable, but also makes her an inspiring character that I found encouraging. Such a beautiful reminder to surrender it all to the One Who Cares, and to be more like Him along the way.
Profile Image for Christi.
1,176 reviews37 followers
February 7, 2026
I guess you can judge a book by its cover! Talk about gorgeous!!! With its moody look and enticing title, how could I not take a chance? I am so glad I did. JD’s heart quickly won me over, and while Mahalia seemed like a one-note, career-focused woman, she has so many layers beneath her tough exterior that was fascinating and, at times, heartbreaking to unpack. JD is a perfect complement to her in every way, and I really enjoyed seeing their chemistry simmer and grow.

The scene in the elevator was one of my favorite moments. With the confined space serving as a real-life truth serum, I was able to see both JD and Mahalia connect in such a natural way, which was quite the juxtaposition from the tone of the rest of the story thus far. The subject of colorism is one that I’ve known about on a personal level, and to see it in this novel was truly refreshing. It’s a subject that doesn’t get talked about enough in my opinion, so it was nice to see it highlighted with such care and consideration.

One thing I am learning about myself is that I do not particularly care for work-based fictions. They tend to be boring to me, but there’s something different about An Appearance of Impropriety. It goes so much further than a court room and shows a heart and depth that is usually lacking in other legal dramas. It is clear that the author continues to have a passion for law, and it shines through the pages. I have never really been a fan of legal dramas in particular, but I think Jayna Breigh just converted me. Amazing book!

*I have voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book which I received from the author/publisher. All views and opinions expressed are completely honest, and my own.
Profile Image for Kendra Neal.
1,800 reviews49 followers
February 6, 2026
I really enjoy Christian Fiction and a new category has been found, Romantic Legal Drama. An Appearance of Impropriety by Jayna Breigh is the latest book in this genre that I have read. I had the opportunity to read her Debut Novel and this is her "sophomore novel".

WOW, the storyline of this novel caught my attention immediately and I could not put it down. The main characters in this book are Mahalia Jackson(a Judge in LA) and JD Cash(an Attorney). Mahalia is a very young Judge and she has achieved much success and she is confident future success is imminent. She is quite surprised when she is thrust into a project with JD Cash. JD runs a program, Junior Jurors, and all the Volunteers recently stepped down. Mahalia believes her knowledge about the Legal System will be an asset to the Program. Junior Jurors was JD's idea, as he wanted something for the Teens of today, so they didn't have a troubled past like himself. His passion for the Teens and for the Widows is faith based as he feels this is God's calling for him. Mahalia wasn't anticipating falling for JD, especially since she has a rule for herself not to date other lawyers. I found it interesting that both JD and Mahalia are weary about having Romantic feelings for one another, although they also see they can't deter those feelings. I really felt the Drama in this book wasn't as prominent in this book as in the first, yet there was enough. The book is one of Faith, Romance and listening to God's Calling for your life. ! I HIGHLY recommend this book to anyone who enjoys Faith Based Romance books! WONDERFUL BOOK!
Profile Image for Andrette Herron.
Author 1 book15 followers
February 3, 2026
As a fan of legal dramas, I loved An Appearance of Impropriety! Judge Mahalia Jackson has her eyes set on moving up the ladder as high as she can as fast as she can. Then one day, not only does attorney JD Cash enter her courtroom, but soon she is also forced to work with him on the Junior Jurors community project. The more time Mahalia spends with JD, the more she begins to reevaluate the goals and plans she set for herself, including what kind of man could win her heart.

I love the interactions between JD and Mahalia. His character is one I loved from the start because of his heart for the underdog and righting the wrongs for people who cannot stand up for themselves. At first Mahalia seems only concerned with advancing her career, but I really enjoyed the growth we see in her character as she becomes invested in the Junior Jurors program with JD. I don’t want to give too much away about the story, but there are some underlying plot twists that challenge both Mahalia and JD in their personal and professional lives. I really love the faith thread woven into the story and how Mahalia’s roots help bring her back to a relationship with the Lord.

I have so many tabs in my book marking favorite passages, and I can’t share them all. However, there is one quote in particular describing how Mahalia sees JD:"His eyes carried the weight of a man of character." Wow! Wow! Wow! Jayna Breigh did a fabulous job with the story, the characters, and the legal drama. I am so excited to recommend this book.

I was provided an advance reader copy by the publisher. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Daniellehullreads.
332 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
January 27, 2026
An Appearance of Impropriety is another amazing romantic legal drama by Jayna Breigh!

I love how the main characters are introduced: The FMC isn't lovable, and we're not sure if we can take the MMC seriously. We see their work life, then their personalities, and learn about their childhoods. As they examine themselves and change their thinking and/or actions as needed, we grow to love them both.

The legal drama is intriguing and suspenseful. The title of this novel is perfect, as those in the legal world must be aware of their actions and how they appear to others at all times. The FMC learns and grows, discovering that while professionalism is important, you need to show kindness, too.

My favorite theme from both of this author's books is mentorship! I love how she shows older characters walking alongside the younger to teach and guide.

Since this is also a romance, here are the tropes: enemies-to-more and forced proximity. Can you imagine this in the legal world?! It's so good! It's definitely a slow burn, which makes it realistic.

I enjoyed this novel immensely!. I feel as if I know the characters; the author shared their thoughts and feelings so well. They're relatable, even though I have never been part of the legal world. The story is easy to follow but intriguing, as I finished in two nights of reading! Highly recommended!

I received an early copy of this book from the publisher. Opinions are my own.
1,257 reviews
February 3, 2026
I loved Jayna Breigh’s debut novel, The Hunted Heir, so I was really excited for the opportunity to read An Appearance of Impropriety. Breigh again brings her knowledge of the law and the courtroom in this legal drama with a good dose of romance. Mahalia Jackson is on track to achieve all her (and her family’s) career goals. But her personal life has been less than stellar. An accidental fall leaves her mentor unable to preside over his cases, and he taps Mahalia to fill in. Enter JD Cash, a brash and committed personal injury lawyer, and soon the sparks fly. There’s intrigue and betrayal behind the scenes in the courthouse, plus complicated pasts and insecurities that stand in the way of their relationship. But this seemingly mismatched pair are perfect for each other. I loved the youth program the two are involved in, and the heart and passion that each brought to both sides of the bench. The spiritual thread is strong as the two characters struggle with being good enough. I especially liked the growth that Mahalia experienced. And if you are a fan of Breigh’s first book, you will love the cameo appearance of one of its main characters. IYKYK! 😉

An Appearance of Impropriety is a delight! Make sure you put this book on the top of your TBR.

Highly Recommended.

Audience: Adults.

(Thanks to Kregel for a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are mine alone.)
Profile Image for Debra Slonek.
385 reviews79 followers
February 4, 2026
I really enjoyed this legal drama with a side of sweet romance. The characters are all so well developed and connected. The pacing of the storyline was excellent, I felt compelled to just keep reading it. A theme of faith was seamlessly woven into the storyline.

I loved Mahalia, a strong and yet vulnerable woman who wore many hats. In her professional life, she was successful, confident, wise and fair. In her personal life, when she allowed herself, she was able to love deeply and completely with unchecked joy. Quite a barrier had been built to separate her two lives. Protective boundaries were in place and closely monitored.

What or whom would it take for this accomplished lady to let her guard down, even just a bit? Could it be a group of teens that she had been tricked into spending time with? Could it be a successful and talented young lawyer who she keeps bumping into?

JD, what’s not to love? He is a man of integrity and is filled with compassion for his fellow humans. He is confident and yet humble. And, he has a heart for serving others.

Pick up a copy of this book and start reading it. You will not be disappointed.

So very well written!

So very much enjoyed!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Kregel Publications. All thoughts expressed in this review are mine.
937 reviews1 follower
January 28, 2026
Jayna Breigh is making a name for herself in the Christian mystery and suspense area. When she combines the suspense with a healthy dose of inspiration, a hunky hero, and an overachieving judge for a heroine, Breigh checks all the boxes for an enjoyable and fascinating story. Breigh also brings her legal background and knowledge into the tale to authenticate it and educate the reader. I enjoy learning new things while reading an engrossing book, so this was very entertaining to me.

Attorney Jimmy Dean Cash is a fantastic hero with a troubled past, but a heart for kids, widows, and people who’ve been wronged. Mahalia Jackson is the youngest female judge in LA and has her career all mapped out. She’s very beautiful and focused but needs someone like JD Cash to ruffle her feathers a bit. When they get thrown together to mentor some teens in the Junior Jurors Program, their preconceived futures get shaken up.

The characters are well-drawn and engaging, the plot is compelling and interesting, and the inspirational themes add depth to the story. I’m looking forward to more stories from this talented author. 4.5 stars

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Paula Shreckhise.
1,544 reviews143 followers
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
January 26, 2026
I absolutely loved this story. The author makes leagalese understandable. The characters were stellar. J.D. was a flawed, redeemed, upright lawyer who fought for the underdog. Mahalia was a by-the-book judge who learned to loosen up and went back to her Christian roots. Since she was raised by a preacher granddaddy, those Bible quotes keep popping into her head.
Ms. Breigh writes in a natural, flowing way that put me right in the story, the elevator scene was epic. I loved the way J. D. calmed the situation by playing 20 questions to pass the time.
What started out as an at-odds relationship, blossomed into quite the romance. It goes to show that God might change the plans you thought were written in stone. The side characters rounded out the story to show the personality traits of J.D. and Mahalia.
What’s not to love when you mix an earthquake, someone making things difficult, and romance with interesting legal information.
Another excellent story by a very talented author.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from Kregel on behalf of the author. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are mine alone.*
Profile Image for Deena Peterson.
1,194 reviews3 followers
January 30, 2026
I love a good multilayered story, and that’s what you’ll find with the new novel by Jayna Breigh. Her legal thriller is more than meets the eye.

The characters are multilayered. Judge P. Mahalia Jackson is new to the bench and she’s got something to prove. Moments from her past have made her no nonsense, but it’s left her ridged and unable to connect on a personal level.

Attorney Jimmy Dean Cash seems like nothing more than an ambulance chasing lawyer. Scars from his past have turned him into a man who’s compassionate and approachable.

When the two meet in the courtroom things get interesting, very interesting. Judge Jackson has to avoid even a hint of impropriety to keep her position and her standing. JD makes that very difficult for her, with his hidden layers and his gentle way.

The story itself reads very authentic and even within the courtroom you’ll find a story within the story. It’s a race to find out the truth, and it’s a race you’ll be glad to run with Mahalia and JD (I just love their names).

I received an advance copy from the publisher. I’m under no obligation and my review has not been solicited. Highly recommend!
Profile Image for Carla Bruns.
107 reviews20 followers
February 5, 2026
The amount of tears that welled up into my eyes over the course of this book cannot be counted. From the inner thoughts and experiences of Mahalia's life as a Black woman, to JD's childhood, and the teenagers Mahalia and JD mentored, I could not control the emotional toll this was taking on me.

I connected with both Mahalia and JD. I found a little bit of myself in both of them. I could relate to small bits of their past and enjoyed that they were both fashion forward. Their commitment to helping others, especially JD's commitment with the kids and helping the poor and widowed, was especially touching. Mahalia's faith journey was special, and once she opened her life to God's will and decided to give him control, it changed so much. The romance was total slow burn and took time to evolve. It kept me rooting for their romance to happen. Throughout the book there are moments of sadness, things that made you chuckle, or little spots of life that are so true that you feel like you’re right there.

People who enjoy books that have a strong legal leaning will enjoy this book. For Christian readers who really like faith as a central part of the story, this book will definitely deliver. And if you like totally unexpected surprises after the 50% mark, then Breigh has you covered. Overall, an excellent read worth spending time with.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Jennifer BB.
9 reviews1 follower
February 6, 2026
A Legal Thriller That Will Keep You Up Past Midnight

If you're craving a legal drama that delivers both courtroom tension and genuine romance, An Appearance of Impropriety by Jayna Breigh is your next must-read. This book hooks you from page one and doesn't let go.
Breigh masterfully balances pulse-pounding legal battles with a romance that feels earned, not shoehorned in. The courtroom scenes crackle with authenticity and high stakes, while the chemistry between characters adds just enough heat to keep your heart racing alongside the plot twists.
What sets this apart from typical legal thrillers? The characters feel like real people making messy, complicated choices under impossible pressure. You'll find yourself frantically flipping pages during trial scenes, then catching your breath during quieter moments that pack an emotional punch.
Perfect for fans of John Grisham who wish his books had a little more heart, or romance readers ready to trade meet-cutes for cross-examinations. Fair warning: clear your calendar before you start this one. You won't want to put it down.
Bottom line: Smart, sexy, and suspenseful. What more could you want
Profile Image for Lori Parrish.
104 reviews27 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
January 20, 2026
This courtroom drama puts me in the mind of the show The Goodwife.
It's certainly different than my normal reads but I still loved every minute of this book. I love trying new authors. I'll be back for the next book!!
The characters were wonderful and I was drawn into the drama. I was kept turning the pages long into the early morning hours because I simply couldn't put this story down!
I've certainly enjoyed meeting these characters and watching them turn into who they're supposed to be. Their life's journey has been a pleasure to read
I think my favorite thing about this story is the faith theme. Breigh has done well with this story.
I must say I've learned much. Very well written and realistic!
There are a few scenes that I really liked and made me smile at the same time lol
Im giving this story 5 stars for keeping me interested all the way through and I'll be thinking about this book for awhile to come.
Thanks for the opportunity to read and review! I was NOT required to write a positive review. All opinions are mine.
Profile Image for Sarah.
48 reviews3 followers
February 7, 2026
She’s done it again! An Appearance of Impropriety by Jayna Breigh is another excellent romantic legal drama full of relatable characters, witty dialogue, and an interesting behind-the-scenes peek into the civil judicial system.

The novel follows Mahalia Jackson, the youngest judge elected to the bench in Los Angeles, and Jimmy Dean Cash, a compassionate attorney and head of the Junior Jurors program for underprivileged teens which Mahalia volunteers with at the request of her mentor. The more these two characters work together, the more they each begin to wonder if their jobs are enough.

I would describe the major theme of An Appearance of Impropriety as learning and living out the truth that Christ (and His sacrifice) is enough. Throughout the book, Breigh invites readers to recognize that all their effort, hard work, and careful planning will not satisfy the deep desires of their hearts. Instead, fulfillment can be found in living a life fully surrendered to the Lord, steeped in His Word and prayer, and enriched through fellowship with other believers.

FTC Disclaimer: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, which I received from the author. All views expressed are solely my honest opinion.
Profile Image for Courtney Pityer.
754 reviews42 followers
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
January 21, 2026
An Appearance of Impropriety is the first book I have read by this author and I must say I was quite impressed with what I read. This contemporary novel was a nice change from the historical fiction stories that I usually read. This novel does an excellent job of exploring the the leadership of women in the Legal System. The fact that our main character was a judge despite her young age was truly an empowering and admirable element to the story.

Our main heroine Mahalia has always set high standards for herself by always putting her career first and maintaining dignity.However, she is told that she needs to lossen up. Mahalia is reluctant at first but that changes when she meets JD a very sucessful Lawyer. Will she finally let her hair down and allow a little bit of friendly rebellion?

I received a complimentary copy from the publisher and all opinions are of my own.
Profile Image for Staci.
2,315 reviews673 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
January 26, 2026
Jayna Breigh's sophomore novel is a winner! I love her style of weaving in strong characters, a faith element and humor into an engaging legal storyline.

As a judge, Mahalia Jackson, has achieved already some of her goals, but she continues to strive for more success. When her mentor is injured and Mahalia is asked to work with a group of teens, she learns a lot about herself and what's most important.

Attorney JD Cash is the main male character and spectacular. Due to JD's career choice, he isn't the knight in shining armor Mahalia is seeking.

I loved the storyline twist along the way.

My gratitude to the author for a complimentary e-copy of the novel. I was not required to post a review and all opinions expressed are my own.
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