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The Terrible Trial of Kennedy Abrams
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Expected 7 Apr 26Win a free kindle copy of this book!
3 days and 23:30:54
20 copies available
U.S. only
247 pages, Kindle Edition
Expected publication April 7, 2026
507 people want to read
About the author
Katherine Powell
15 books53 followersKatherine Powell was born and raised in Bel Air, Maryland. She has a B.A. in Political Science from Brigham Young University, with a concentration in Political Strategy and a minor in Creative Writing. She began pursuing a juris doctorate at Penn State Dickinson Law School in 2023. Katherine has been writing since she was seven years old and has won multiple awards for her work. Her multimedia novel DEAR SYDNEY has been read over three million times in 50 countries and was the recipient of a 2016 Watty Award. Her drama-mystery novel TREADMILL was shortlisted for a 2021 Watty Award, and its sequel, THE TERRIBLE TRIAL OF KENNEDY ABRAMS, won a 2022 Watty Award. When she isn’t writing or studying, Katherine can usually be found reading, listening to Taylor Swift, or rewatching a sitcom.
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Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC Review
Release date 4/7/26
Edit: After finishing, I realized this is a YA novel, which completely changed my perspective. After giving it some thought, what initially felt too simple or slightly unrealistic to me actually works really well within the YA space. Looking at it through that lens, it’s a fast-paced, engaging, and really solid read for its intended audience. In that regard as a YA novel I give it 4 ⭐️
The Terrible Trial of Kennedy Abrams was a solid middle-of-the-road read for me, not bad, but not a favorite either.
I didn’t realize going in that this leans more YA, and I think that definitely shaped my experience. It’s a fast, entertaining read with a strong premise that kept me turning the pages, but a bit too simple for my reading tastes.
Some moments felt a little too easy or not fully believable (I had questions) which pulled me out at times, but I can understand how it’s perfect for the YA audience.
The courtroom scenes were a highlight and added a great level of tension to the story. The story was well written.
Engaging and fun, I do think YA thriller fans will absolutely love this one!
Release date 4/7/26
Edit: After finishing, I realized this is a YA novel, which completely changed my perspective. After giving it some thought, what initially felt too simple or slightly unrealistic to me actually works really well within the YA space. Looking at it through that lens, it’s a fast-paced, engaging, and really solid read for its intended audience. In that regard as a YA novel I give it 4 ⭐️
The Terrible Trial of Kennedy Abrams was a solid middle-of-the-road read for me, not bad, but not a favorite either.
I didn’t realize going in that this leans more YA, and I think that definitely shaped my experience. It’s a fast, entertaining read with a strong premise that kept me turning the pages, but a bit too simple for my reading tastes.
Some moments felt a little too easy or not fully believable (I had questions) which pulled me out at times, but I can understand how it’s perfect for the YA audience.
The courtroom scenes were a highlight and added a great level of tension to the story. The story was well written.
Engaging and fun, I do think YA thriller fans will absolutely love this one!
March 17, 2026
If you love Suits and Criminal Minds, this is a book you’ll want to pick up. It follows Kennedy Abrams after she’s arrested for a hit-and-run accident, immediately pulling you into a high-stakes, tension-filled trial.
The suspense throughout the story made it nearly impossible to put down. With each new revelation, the author delivers just enough clues to keep you guessing, while still managing to weave in a few well-placed twists. I flew through this book because I had to know how it all unfolded.
There was one part that kept me from giving it a full five stars as I, personally had a difficult time believing the circumstances and questioned the motive. But that was probably just me. And the scene did add to the intensity of the book, so ultimately it was needed.
The suspense throughout the story made it nearly impossible to put down. With each new revelation, the author delivers just enough clues to keep you guessing, while still managing to weave in a few well-placed twists. I flew through this book because I had to know how it all unfolded.
There was one part that kept me from giving it a full five stars as I, personally had a difficult time believing the circumstances and questioned the motive. But that was probably just me. And the scene did add to the intensity of the book, so ultimately it was needed.
March 30, 2026
If you love courtroom drama, layered storytelling, and piecing together the truth then this one might be for your TBR.
This book was such a standout and it reads like a 3rd person multiple POV, which made it really engaging and easy to get through. Each perspective added something new, and I liked how the story slowly came together as more details were revealed.
This book was such a standout and it reads like a 3rd person multiple POV, which made it really engaging and easy to get through. Each perspective added something new, and I liked how the story slowly came together as more details were revealed.
March 14, 2026
This book was nice and short and it did have a good story line to it, it was just not something I would normally read!!!
March 29, 2026
I had the absolute pleasure of receiving this ARC directly from Katherine Powell—thank you so much! After finding out I’d be reading this early, I immediately went back and read Treadmill first, and I’m so glad I did because this sequel? It delivers in every possible way.
This book is an unhinged, high-stakes ride from start to finish—in the best way. Kennedy Abrams is on trial for murder, and the courtroom becomes a battlefield where truth feels secondary to who can tell the most convincing story. The tension is constant, and the pacing made this nearly impossible to put down.
You can absolutely feel Powell’s law background in the courtroom scenes—they’re sharp, immersive, and feel incredibly real. I was completely locked in watching Kennedy’s life, trauma, and past get dissected in such a public, brutal way.
And Kennedy vs. Rebecca?? Toxic. Messy. Addictive. I truly could not look away. Their dynamic adds such a layered emotional edge to the story—it’s the kind of relationship where you’re equal parts invested and stressed.
The twists just keep coming, and just when you think you’ve figured it out—nope. Another turn. Another reveal. I flew through this because I needed to know how it would all unfold, and the ending absolutely delivered.
If you love shows like Suits and Criminal Minds, and you’re drawn to chaotic thrillers, messy relationships, and courtroom drama packed with tension and twists—this is 100% for you.
I’ve loved being on this journey since Treadmill, and this sequel exceeded every expectation.
This book is an unhinged, high-stakes ride from start to finish—in the best way. Kennedy Abrams is on trial for murder, and the courtroom becomes a battlefield where truth feels secondary to who can tell the most convincing story. The tension is constant, and the pacing made this nearly impossible to put down.
You can absolutely feel Powell’s law background in the courtroom scenes—they’re sharp, immersive, and feel incredibly real. I was completely locked in watching Kennedy’s life, trauma, and past get dissected in such a public, brutal way.
And Kennedy vs. Rebecca?? Toxic. Messy. Addictive. I truly could not look away. Their dynamic adds such a layered emotional edge to the story—it’s the kind of relationship where you’re equal parts invested and stressed.
The twists just keep coming, and just when you think you’ve figured it out—nope. Another turn. Another reveal. I flew through this because I needed to know how it would all unfold, and the ending absolutely delivered.
If you love shows like Suits and Criminal Minds, and you’re drawn to chaotic thrillers, messy relationships, and courtroom drama packed with tension and twists—this is 100% for you.
I’ve loved being on this journey since Treadmill, and this sequel exceeded every expectation.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This was a WILD ride.
I knew it was gonna be chaos after Treadmill and it absolutely delivered, honestly even more unhinged.
And my girl really using her law school knowledge in the courtroom scenes, which made everything feel so sharp and real.
The tension?? So good.
Watching Kennedy have her entire life and trauma picked apart on such a public stage had me stressed.
And Kennedy vs. Rebecca? Toxic, messy, addictive. I hate but love these two girls! (Be besties or kill eachother already) 🫶🏼🤣
The twists just kept coming, and when another body dropped I was LOCKED in.
I loved how this plays with truth vs. perception—because at the end of the day, it’s all about who can sell their story better.
Kennedy Abrams is on trial for murder, with the whole world watching. As her past unravels and her relationship with Rebecca spirals, the courtroom turns into a battle of manipulation, secrets, and control—where the truth matters less than who tells the better story.
If you love: chaotic thrillers, messy relationships, and courtroom drama with major twists—pick this up.
Huge thank you for the early read—I’ve loved being on this journey since Treadmill 🖤
I knew it was gonna be chaos after Treadmill and it absolutely delivered, honestly even more unhinged.
And my girl really using her law school knowledge in the courtroom scenes, which made everything feel so sharp and real.
The tension?? So good.
Watching Kennedy have her entire life and trauma picked apart on such a public stage had me stressed.
And Kennedy vs. Rebecca? Toxic, messy, addictive. I hate but love these two girls! (Be besties or kill eachother already) 🫶🏼🤣
The twists just kept coming, and when another body dropped I was LOCKED in.
I loved how this plays with truth vs. perception—because at the end of the day, it’s all about who can sell their story better.
Kennedy Abrams is on trial for murder, with the whole world watching. As her past unravels and her relationship with Rebecca spirals, the courtroom turns into a battle of manipulation, secrets, and control—where the truth matters less than who tells the better story.
If you love: chaotic thrillers, messy relationships, and courtroom drama with major twists—pick this up.
Huge thank you for the early read—I’ve loved being on this journey since Treadmill 🖤
March 30, 2026
ARC Review: The Terrible Trial of Kennedy Abram by Katherine Powell
Thank you for the advanced reader copy!
Wow! This story completely caught me off guard! I truly had no idea where it was heading, and that’s what made it such a gripping read. It’s a powerful reminder that you can’t outrun the past… what’s done in the dark always finds its way back into the light—maybe not today or tomorrow, but eventually.
That’s exactly what happens to Kennedy. A tragic accident from ten years ago resurfaces, turning her world upside down. Now, with the DA murdered (who was plotting him self) and all evidence pointing in her direction, Kennedy pleads guilty. Meanwhile, her so-called best friend Rebecca lets her take the fall. It really makes you stop and think—what would you do in this situation? When everything is stacked against you, is there even a way out?
As Kennedy faces the consequences, you can’t help but hope that karma will ultimately play its part.
I really enjoyed this book! It’s a quick, fast-paced read filled with twists, tension, and just the right amount of suspense to keep you
Thank you for the advanced reader copy!
Wow! This story completely caught me off guard! I truly had no idea where it was heading, and that’s what made it such a gripping read. It’s a powerful reminder that you can’t outrun the past… what’s done in the dark always finds its way back into the light—maybe not today or tomorrow, but eventually.
That’s exactly what happens to Kennedy. A tragic accident from ten years ago resurfaces, turning her world upside down. Now, with the DA murdered (who was plotting him self) and all evidence pointing in her direction, Kennedy pleads guilty. Meanwhile, her so-called best friend Rebecca lets her take the fall. It really makes you stop and think—what would you do in this situation? When everything is stacked against you, is there even a way out?
As Kennedy faces the consequences, you can’t help but hope that karma will ultimately play its part.
I really enjoyed this book! It’s a quick, fast-paced read filled with twists, tension, and just the right amount of suspense to keep you
Review of advance copy
The Terrible Trial of Kennedy Abrams
Rating: 4.0/5
Excited to announce that I was a part of the Author’s ARC Team!
Going into this book, I did not know what to expect at all! I mean to say I was going into this book completely blind was definitely an understatement! I hadn’t read the first book in the series and I was hesitant whether or not I was going to like this one. And...I am happy to report that I ended up liking this book! The proof…I read this book in one day! It is a quick read and it was easy to catch up with what I missed in Book One. The author was kind enough to send a detailed summary of Book One which definitely helped to fill in the gaps I missed. I really liked the twist…I didn’t see that one coming! I was a little mixed about how I felt about the ending…it felt a little rushed…but nevertheless, I enjoyed this one!
Thank you Katherine Powell for sending me an e-ARC of your book and selecting me to be a part of your ARC Team!
“The Terrible Trial of Kennedy Abrams” Goes On-Sale April 7th, 2026.
Rating: 4.0/5
Excited to announce that I was a part of the Author’s ARC Team!
Going into this book, I did not know what to expect at all! I mean to say I was going into this book completely blind was definitely an understatement! I hadn’t read the first book in the series and I was hesitant whether or not I was going to like this one. And...I am happy to report that I ended up liking this book! The proof…I read this book in one day! It is a quick read and it was easy to catch up with what I missed in Book One. The author was kind enough to send a detailed summary of Book One which definitely helped to fill in the gaps I missed. I really liked the twist…I didn’t see that one coming! I was a little mixed about how I felt about the ending…it felt a little rushed…but nevertheless, I enjoyed this one!
Thank you Katherine Powell for sending me an e-ARC of your book and selecting me to be a part of your ARC Team!
“The Terrible Trial of Kennedy Abrams” Goes On-Sale April 7th, 2026.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I flew through this book. From the opening pages, it was very fast and the tension in the courtroom kept me turning pages.
The premise centers on Kennedy Abrams, who is on trial for murder of Hank. Over the course of the trial, we learn more and more secrets that each individual involved is holding. Each chapter brought more twists.
It is very clear the author understands legal settings! I found that intriguing in itself. Each new revelation changes how you feel about the circumstances and characters, which creates this evolving story.
Each chapter, another layer of the story is added, with its own twists and character building.
If you enjoy courtroom thrillers with complicated relationships, secrets, and plenty of surprise, I would definitely check this out!
Thank you to Katherine Powell for the ARC :)
The premise centers on Kennedy Abrams, who is on trial for murder of Hank. Over the course of the trial, we learn more and more secrets that each individual involved is holding. Each chapter brought more twists.
It is very clear the author understands legal settings! I found that intriguing in itself. Each new revelation changes how you feel about the circumstances and characters, which creates this evolving story.
Each chapter, another layer of the story is added, with its own twists and character building.
If you enjoy courtroom thrillers with complicated relationships, secrets, and plenty of surprise, I would definitely check this out!
Thank you to Katherine Powell for the ARC :)
Review of advance copy received from Author
I went into The Terrible Trial of Kennedy Abrams expecting a solid follow-up—but this completely surprised me in the best way.
This was a true page-turner packed with twists, drama, and just the right amount of angst between the characters. While I enjoyed the first book, this one pulled me in even more. The tension, the shifting dynamics, and the layers of secrets kept me hooked the entire time.
I especially loved how everything unraveled. Just when I thought I had it figured out, another twist came in. And the ending? Really satisfying.
If you enjoy messy friendships, betrayal, and stories where nothing is quite what it seems, this is definitely one to pick up.
Thank you to the author for the ARC—so glad I got to read this early!
This was a true page-turner packed with twists, drama, and just the right amount of angst between the characters. While I enjoyed the first book, this one pulled me in even more. The tension, the shifting dynamics, and the layers of secrets kept me hooked the entire time.
I especially loved how everything unraveled. Just when I thought I had it figured out, another twist came in. And the ending? Really satisfying.
If you enjoy messy friendships, betrayal, and stories where nothing is quite what it seems, this is definitely one to pick up.
Thank you to the author for the ARC—so glad I got to read this early!
Review of advance copy received from Author
In the Sequel to Treadmill, Kennedy is on trial and we are about to find out if she’s going to prison or not. If Rebecca will get away with her part in the events. If the empire will fall. Oh man, are we in for it.
Over the course of the trial, and the weeks afterward secrets are revealed, deals are made, and some truly scandalous events take place and I was HOOKED. I flew through this book! It was page after page of secrets, lies, and just being shocked. Right to the last pages! Thank you, Katherine, for sending me an eARC!!
Over the course of the trial, and the weeks afterward secrets are revealed, deals are made, and some truly scandalous events take place and I was HOOKED. I flew through this book! It was page after page of secrets, lies, and just being shocked. Right to the last pages! Thank you, Katherine, for sending me an eARC!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I read Katherine Powell’s first book and was so excited for The Terrible Trial of Kennedy Abrams—and it was absolutely worth the wait!
This isn’t just a courtroom drama; it’s very character-driven, which I loved. Kennedy is messy, complicated, and not always easy to root for, but that’s what makes her feel real. The supporting characters—especially the attorneys—add a lot of depth and tension without feeling overdone.
The pacing is solid, the tension builds well, and it keeps you thinking even after you put it down. If you like legal stories with a psychological edge, this one delivers.
This isn’t just a courtroom drama; it’s very character-driven, which I loved. Kennedy is messy, complicated, and not always easy to root for, but that’s what makes her feel real. The supporting characters—especially the attorneys—add a lot of depth and tension without feeling overdone.
The pacing is solid, the tension builds well, and it keeps you thinking even after you put it down. If you like legal stories with a psychological edge, this one delivers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I didn't think the first book could be beat, but this one is even better! You can tell the author is a law student, the writing shines in a number of tense courtroom scenes throughout the novel. It's also very well-structured, and a number of twists throughout do an excellent job of keeping things interesting as your ideas about the characters evolve. The best twists recontextualize the original and made me want to reread it immediately. Best book of 2026 so far, I highly recommend it.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received this as an arc from the author herself. I read Treadmill and loved it. The trial was absolutely fascinating. To get inside Kennedy’s head and feel her emotions made me feel for her. I was rooting for her for a majority of the book this time. I can’t express most of my thoughts without giving away spoilers but this book was amazing and I would absolutely love a third book.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thanks so much to the author, Katherine Powell, for the ARC. As a member of the legal community for my entire adult life, I was excited to read this and I was not disappointed. I tend to be very picky when reading stories that take place in the courtroom, but with only one minor omission of a courtroom procedure that did not in any way effect the story, I am thrilled to report Katherine was spot on!
From page one, the book is fast-paced and completely bingeable, with some twists you won't see coming. I loved this story and I am so grateful to have been part of KP's Street Team!
While it is the second book in a series, this book is a complete standalone (I did not read Treadmill before reading TTTOKA).
From page one, the book is fast-paced and completely bingeable, with some twists you won't see coming. I loved this story and I am so grateful to have been part of KP's Street Team!
While it is the second book in a series, this book is a complete standalone (I did not read Treadmill before reading TTTOKA).
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
At the end of book 1 Kennedy Abrams finds herself in a heap of trouble. Now it’s time for her trial and her former best friend is testifying against her. Could it get any worse? The answer is yes.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I'M SCREAMING AT MY KINDLE! I've never been so mad that a book ended before (in a good way).
I've had such a love/hate relationship with these girls and their bad decisions.
I've had such a love/hate relationship with these girls and their bad decisions.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book was INCREDIBLE!!! It left me on the edge of my seat truly. The characterization was spot on and I was hooked the whole time. One of the best books I have read in a while
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews