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Presumption of Guilt: A Legal Thriller
- GenresLegal
370 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 20, 2026
About the author
Peter Kirkland
25 books162 followersPeter Kirkland grew up in Beaufort, South Carolina. As a kid, Peter loved history and learning about his area. One year in school, he was given a project to research a few South Carolina law cases and the precedents they set and their effect on people’s lives.
This research project lit the flame for his passion for law and creating a more equal justice system since. Soon after this, Peter began reading legal thrillers voraciously and enjoyed the legal maneuvering and justice found within. As an adult he has continued researching the law and understanding the system and its effects on individuals. A few years ago, he decided to try writing his own legal thriller.
Now a full-time writer, he uses his research, passion for justice, and real case studies to bring together courtroom dramas with deep, rich characters, and gripping twists and turns. New to the industry, Peter would love to hear from readers and other authors and invites you to connect with him.
This research project lit the flame for his passion for law and creating a more equal justice system since. Soon after this, Peter began reading legal thrillers voraciously and enjoyed the legal maneuvering and justice found within. As an adult he has continued researching the law and understanding the system and its effects on individuals. A few years ago, he decided to try writing his own legal thriller.
Now a full-time writer, he uses his research, passion for justice, and real case studies to bring together courtroom dramas with deep, rich characters, and gripping twists and turns. New to the industry, Peter would love to hear from readers and other authors and invites you to connect with him.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
August 20, 2026
Slam dunk. An attorney who quit practicing after her sister was murdered. She moved home to teach and run the dojo her sister owned. One of the student’s mother is arrested at the dojo. The story gets twisted and tangled from there. Even explaining it would make any sane person just shake their head. Suffice it to say, one of those twist has this martial arts, non-practicing attorney representing one of her students mother at her murder trial. In a case that looks like a slam dunk on any TV drama, but this is a book so don’t rush the ending, because getting there is way too good. For crime junkies and mystery lovers it is all packed in here. Overwhelming evidence, few clues, inexperienced attorney, great characters and the hope for a victory. A tough one to put down.
August 27, 2026
Lily Greco is reeling for her sister’s death and is trying to move on two years after the tragedy.
Lily finds peace running Sophia’s dojo after stepping back from her legal career- until one of her friends is accused of murder.
Destiny is a prison guard accused of killing her husband’s mistress. She needs all the help she can get, but is Lily in over her head as a former corporate lawyer?
The pacing of this one seems a bit sluggish, but there is a thriller within.
I received a copy for free, and am leaving this review voluntarily.
Lily finds peace running Sophia’s dojo after stepping back from her legal career- until one of her friends is accused of murder.
Destiny is a prison guard accused of killing her husband’s mistress. She needs all the help she can get, but is Lily in over her head as a former corporate lawyer?
The pacing of this one seems a bit sluggish, but there is a thriller within.
I received a copy for free, and am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 30, 2026
First book in the fourth new legal series by one of my favorite authors, or in this case author duo. Slow to start, but its setting the stage for what's to come. A good under dog story here with lead characters that show potential. An added plus, it includes a loveable pet. Looking forward to the next Lily Greco book.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Justice for Her Client . . .
Lily Greco and her father (who had been a criminal defense lawyer) were waiting in court for everything to get started after the arrest of Andy Davis. Lily's sister had been murdered and Andy Davis was the suspect. Judge McKenzie had arrived and they were ready to begin. Mr. Davis would be appearing on video since they were trying to avoid media attention, but the holding cells were in the same building as the magistrates’ courtrooms, one flight down. When they started, Lily thought about Sophia’s past boyfriends, but this guy wasn't one of them. Yet he looked familiar and even his voice was familiar. He looked too young to be the parent of a kid at Sophia’s martial arts school, now run by Lily. Instead of a murder charge, the attorney said it was involuntary manslaughter... and Davis said he was not guilty! Lily finally recognized him! As a lawyer, Lily was handling his girlfriend's case when he had broken her arm and Lilly got a protection from abuse order against him. Did he kill Sophia to get back at Lily? His lawyer said there was a second count for reckless discharge of a firearm because, allegedly, he recklessly fired his weapon into the windshield of Sophia Greco’s vehicle, according to the criminal complaint that’s been filed with this court. They then mentioned there was a second bullet hole in the door of the victim's vehicle, a third-degree felony. Lily knew Davis was going to get out on bail. And worse, Davis entered a not guilty plea on that second charge! His lawyer even asked that the bail be reduced.
Lily will soon be further involved in court when the mother of one of her Dojo students, Destiny Harris, is accused of murdering her husband's lover, Shannon O’Neill, who also was from the prison where three of the women worked as prison guards. With no one to help her, Lily becomes her lawyer, even though she never handled criminal law in the past. But her dad did... if she can get him to help her. Can she successfully win Destiny's case or at least get her out on bail for her daughter's sake? And is there still more danger waiting since her own sister's killer is now out on bail and walking the streets?
Lily Greco and her father (who had been a criminal defense lawyer) were waiting in court for everything to get started after the arrest of Andy Davis. Lily's sister had been murdered and Andy Davis was the suspect. Judge McKenzie had arrived and they were ready to begin. Mr. Davis would be appearing on video since they were trying to avoid media attention, but the holding cells were in the same building as the magistrates’ courtrooms, one flight down. When they started, Lily thought about Sophia’s past boyfriends, but this guy wasn't one of them. Yet he looked familiar and even his voice was familiar. He looked too young to be the parent of a kid at Sophia’s martial arts school, now run by Lily. Instead of a murder charge, the attorney said it was involuntary manslaughter... and Davis said he was not guilty! Lily finally recognized him! As a lawyer, Lily was handling his girlfriend's case when he had broken her arm and Lilly got a protection from abuse order against him. Did he kill Sophia to get back at Lily? His lawyer said there was a second count for reckless discharge of a firearm because, allegedly, he recklessly fired his weapon into the windshield of Sophia Greco’s vehicle, according to the criminal complaint that’s been filed with this court. They then mentioned there was a second bullet hole in the door of the victim's vehicle, a third-degree felony. Lily knew Davis was going to get out on bail. And worse, Davis entered a not guilty plea on that second charge! His lawyer even asked that the bail be reduced.
Lily will soon be further involved in court when the mother of one of her Dojo students, Destiny Harris, is accused of murdering her husband's lover, Shannon O’Neill, who also was from the prison where three of the women worked as prison guards. With no one to help her, Lily becomes her lawyer, even though she never handled criminal law in the past. But her dad did... if she can get him to help her. Can she successfully win Destiny's case or at least get her out on bail for her daughter's sake? And is there still more danger waiting since her own sister's killer is now out on bail and walking the streets?
August 20, 2026
LILY GRECO LEGAL THRILLERS:
PRESUMPTION OF GUILT - An immersing, interesting and entertaining story with a good variety of characters. Source: Booksprout. 5*
MAGGIE GALLAGHER LEGAL THRILLER :
THE MIDWEST LAWYER, #1 - I found another writer that I like. I like his writing style, his characters, his story lines, his dialog, and his humor. I found this book interesting and intriguing, and it was easy to get immersed in the book. I love the prosecutor's personality and actions; be careful of your words and actions should be her moto. Source: Booksprout. 5*
THE BLOODIED CLIENT, #2 - Interesting characters and story lines with a good pace. The ending seemed a bit rushed with the killer. I like Alia. Source: Booksprout and Relay Publishing Ltd. 4*
MAGGIE GALLAGHER LEGAL THRILLER end.
SMALL TOWN LAWYER:
SMALL TOWN LAWYER, Boxset Books 1 - 3, Audiobook - Finally, I'm able to read the start of this interesting series. Good characters. Easy pace. No Southerner says pe-CAN (like in can do). The narrator JJ Hosenfeld otherwise does a decent job with his characters.
DEFENDING INNOCENCE, #1 - 4*
INFLUENCING JUSTICE, #2 - 4*
INTERPRETING GUILT, #3 - 4*
Source: Booksprout. 4*
BURNING EVIDENCE, #4 - My first read by this author and I enjoyed it. A constant pace with a good blend of interesting characters, interesting story lines and good dialog. The lawyer and the PI make good co-workers professionally and privately. Also interesting is the relationship between the businessman and his wife. Source: Booksprout. 4*
PRESCRIBING DOUBT, #5 - Enjoyable and interesting. Good characters. Intriguing story lines. Wish I had discovered this author five books ago. Source: Booksprout. 4*
TWISTING JUDGMENT, #6 - Another well written story with good characters, interesting story lines, a devastating hurricane, and a tetch of romance. Source: Booksprout. 5*
SMALL TOWN LAWYER end.
SMALL TOWN TRIAL - The first book of the Spencer Dunn Legal Thrillers series. An enjoyable, interesting read with likeable main characters, good story lines, no silly drama or vulgar language. Source: Booksprout. 4*
PRESUMPTION OF GUILT - An immersing, interesting and entertaining story with a good variety of characters. Source: Booksprout. 5*
MAGGIE GALLAGHER LEGAL THRILLER :
THE MIDWEST LAWYER, #1 - I found another writer that I like. I like his writing style, his characters, his story lines, his dialog, and his humor. I found this book interesting and intriguing, and it was easy to get immersed in the book. I love the prosecutor's personality and actions; be careful of your words and actions should be her moto. Source: Booksprout. 5*
THE BLOODIED CLIENT, #2 - Interesting characters and story lines with a good pace. The ending seemed a bit rushed with the killer. I like Alia. Source: Booksprout and Relay Publishing Ltd. 4*
MAGGIE GALLAGHER LEGAL THRILLER end.
SMALL TOWN LAWYER:
SMALL TOWN LAWYER, Boxset Books 1 - 3, Audiobook - Finally, I'm able to read the start of this interesting series. Good characters. Easy pace. No Southerner says pe-CAN (like in can do). The narrator JJ Hosenfeld otherwise does a decent job with his characters.
DEFENDING INNOCENCE, #1 - 4*
INFLUENCING JUSTICE, #2 - 4*
INTERPRETING GUILT, #3 - 4*
Source: Booksprout. 4*
BURNING EVIDENCE, #4 - My first read by this author and I enjoyed it. A constant pace with a good blend of interesting characters, interesting story lines and good dialog. The lawyer and the PI make good co-workers professionally and privately. Also interesting is the relationship between the businessman and his wife. Source: Booksprout. 4*
PRESCRIBING DOUBT, #5 - Enjoyable and interesting. Good characters. Intriguing story lines. Wish I had discovered this author five books ago. Source: Booksprout. 4*
TWISTING JUDGMENT, #6 - Another well written story with good characters, interesting story lines, a devastating hurricane, and a tetch of romance. Source: Booksprout. 5*
SMALL TOWN LAWYER end.
SMALL TOWN TRIAL - The first book of the Spencer Dunn Legal Thrillers series. An enjoyable, interesting read with likeable main characters, good story lines, no silly drama or vulgar language. Source: Booksprout. 4*
August 26, 2026
"I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own."
This book was very enjoyable to read. The story provides enough information to stay interested but also leaves enough questions to make sure it doesn't get too boring.
Lily was a pleasant character to follow, smart but not knowing everything. The death of her sister and the accompanying lawsuit have shaped her as a person and show that she does not have a perfect life, but it also makes it more logical that she represents a murder case, even though she actually no longer does anything with her law degree. It gives her a clear motive and makes it almost the only logical choice for Lily.
The other characters were also nice to follow. I don't want to say too much about them because things need to stay exciting. But the other characters were also nice to follow, not because they were all so nice, but because events in their lives, character traits, and actually everything you know or come to know about the person corresponded with the characters' actions.
The story was the perfect length. Everything truly important is covered at a pace that is understandable but doesn't become boring.There are still things I would like to know, such as what Lily is going to do next—more lawsuits—and how the trial for the murder of her younger sister is going. But of course, not all of that fits into this book, and the author has given it a beautifully closed ending. But I would definitely read a sequel to this book.
To me, it didn't really feel like an emotional book; of course, you feel pity for Lily and other characters in unpleasant situations. Fortunately, the murder is not described in detail. That is not the goal of the book either; it is more about solving the murder. Because it really is a mystery, you feel the urge to keep reading and solve the mystery.
I really enjoyed finding out how Lily solves "the mystery". And I would definitely recommend the book.
This book was very enjoyable to read. The story provides enough information to stay interested but also leaves enough questions to make sure it doesn't get too boring.
Lily was a pleasant character to follow, smart but not knowing everything. The death of her sister and the accompanying lawsuit have shaped her as a person and show that she does not have a perfect life, but it also makes it more logical that she represents a murder case, even though she actually no longer does anything with her law degree. It gives her a clear motive and makes it almost the only logical choice for Lily.
The other characters were also nice to follow. I don't want to say too much about them because things need to stay exciting. But the other characters were also nice to follow, not because they were all so nice, but because events in their lives, character traits, and actually everything you know or come to know about the person corresponded with the characters' actions.
The story was the perfect length. Everything truly important is covered at a pace that is understandable but doesn't become boring.There are still things I would like to know, such as what Lily is going to do next—more lawsuits—and how the trial for the murder of her younger sister is going. But of course, not all of that fits into this book, and the author has given it a beautifully closed ending. But I would definitely read a sequel to this book.
To me, it didn't really feel like an emotional book; of course, you feel pity for Lily and other characters in unpleasant situations. Fortunately, the murder is not described in detail. That is not the goal of the book either; it is more about solving the murder. Because it really is a mystery, you feel the urge to keep reading and solve the mystery.
I really enjoyed finding out how Lily solves "the mystery". And I would definitely recommend the book.
Review of advance copy
I enjoyed this new series. This author has a number of thrilling legal series that he writes about and in this book we are introduced to Lily's world. This one is slightly different to the other books in the that Lily isn't a criminal lawyer, in fact after a tragedy she has turned her back on law and runs a Dojo. Of course that wouldn't be much of a story and the situation quickly changes and she finds herself back in court, where most of the action takes place.
The case was also unusual and interesting, in that it happened in a prison and the guards are the only suspects. Then the court battle begins. The story is a nice balance between the court battle and of course Lily's home life drama, the death of her sister and surprising for a first in series the cases both get wrapped nicely.
I liked the characters and the author has you quickly invested in the out come of the case. I can't wait for the next book.
After the death of her sister and the break down of her marriage Lily turns her back on law to run her sister's Dojo in her memory. The problem arises when the police turn up at the Dojo to arrest one of the mums for murder. The police believe she killed her husband's lover, where all three of them work as prison guards. With no other family, her friends all turning there backs on her, no job, no husband and no chance of freedom, Lily finds herself standing up for her in court. With no experience with criminal law, it seems her own client know the law better than her and Lily will have to turn to her father for advice, the man who blames her for his favourite daughters death. At the same time her sister's killer is out on bail and walking the streets. Can Lily hold it together long enough to free her client?
I was given this free review copy book at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
The case was also unusual and interesting, in that it happened in a prison and the guards are the only suspects. Then the court battle begins. The story is a nice balance between the court battle and of course Lily's home life drama, the death of her sister and surprising for a first in series the cases both get wrapped nicely.
I liked the characters and the author has you quickly invested in the out come of the case. I can't wait for the next book.
After the death of her sister and the break down of her marriage Lily turns her back on law to run her sister's Dojo in her memory. The problem arises when the police turn up at the Dojo to arrest one of the mums for murder. The police believe she killed her husband's lover, where all three of them work as prison guards. With no other family, her friends all turning there backs on her, no job, no husband and no chance of freedom, Lily finds herself standing up for her in court. With no experience with criminal law, it seems her own client know the law better than her and Lily will have to turn to her father for advice, the man who blames her for his favourite daughters death. At the same time her sister's killer is out on bail and walking the streets. Can Lily hold it together long enough to free her client?
I was given this free review copy book at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
September 5, 2026
This one was a little slow to get started, and the pacing remained somewhat sluggish in places. Still, the premise was interesting enough to keep me reading.
Lilly is a corporate lawyer whose career is derailed after she is unfairly blamed for a professional failure. She then takes over her sister’s martial arts school after her sister is killed. When the mother of one of Lilly’s students is charged with murdering a fellow prison officer, Lilly steps in to handle her defense — another of the seemingly hopeless cases she has become known for taking on.
What initially appears to be a straightforward case of jealous revenge quickly becomes more complicated, with several plausible suspects and enough uncertainty to keep the investigation interesting. A fair portion of the story takes place in the courtroom, and those scenes add much-needed tension and energy to the plot.
While I enjoyed the legal aspects and the number of possible suspects, I found the eventual resolution somewhat predictable. The slower pacing also kept the story from being quite as suspenseful as I had hoped.
Overall, this was an enjoyable legal mystery with an appealing lead character and some strong courtroom scenes, even if the journey was more compelling than the final reveal.
I received a free copy of this book from Hidden Gems in exchange for an honest review.
Lilly is a corporate lawyer whose career is derailed after she is unfairly blamed for a professional failure. She then takes over her sister’s martial arts school after her sister is killed. When the mother of one of Lilly’s students is charged with murdering a fellow prison officer, Lilly steps in to handle her defense — another of the seemingly hopeless cases she has become known for taking on.
What initially appears to be a straightforward case of jealous revenge quickly becomes more complicated, with several plausible suspects and enough uncertainty to keep the investigation interesting. A fair portion of the story takes place in the courtroom, and those scenes add much-needed tension and energy to the plot.
While I enjoyed the legal aspects and the number of possible suspects, I found the eventual resolution somewhat predictable. The slower pacing also kept the story from being quite as suspenseful as I had hoped.
Overall, this was an enjoyable legal mystery with an appealing lead character and some strong courtroom scenes, even if the journey was more compelling than the final reveal.
I received a free copy of this book from Hidden Gems in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy
Introduction to a black belt female lawyer.
This author duo have written several books about defending forlorn hope cases. This is in the same vein and features a corporate lawyer unfairly dunned for a failure and who takes over her sister's martial arts school when that sister is killed. She also has daddy issues with a critical father who used to litigate criminal cases, but is now a hot-shot personal injury lawyer. Oh, she also has a cute dog. Ways in which the local legal system can mess up are integral to the plots and the stakes are raised with her having to deal with her sister's killer getting bail on a reduced charge as well as one of her student's mother being charged with the murder of a prison officer colleague.
There were several plausible suspects for what the prosecutor was trying to present as a straightforward case of jealous revenge. Fair portion of the story takes place in the courtroom and this adds spice and tension. I felt the resolution was rather predictable and a significant story question was left unanswered. I would still be interested in hearing more of this resourceful, kind woman.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This author duo have written several books about defending forlorn hope cases. This is in the same vein and features a corporate lawyer unfairly dunned for a failure and who takes over her sister's martial arts school when that sister is killed. She also has daddy issues with a critical father who used to litigate criminal cases, but is now a hot-shot personal injury lawyer. Oh, she also has a cute dog. Ways in which the local legal system can mess up are integral to the plots and the stakes are raised with her having to deal with her sister's killer getting bail on a reduced charge as well as one of her student's mother being charged with the murder of a prison officer colleague.
There were several plausible suspects for what the prosecutor was trying to present as a straightforward case of jealous revenge. Fair portion of the story takes place in the courtroom and this adds spice and tension. I felt the resolution was rather predictable and a significant story question was left unanswered. I would still be interested in hearing more of this resourceful, kind woman.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 20, 2026
Thanks to BookSirens, the author and publisher for an advanced copy of Presumption of Guilt by Peter Kirkland and Daleth Hall. This book is the first in the Lily Greco series. I received a copy of this book for free in exchange for an honest review.
This book has two main stories. First, Lily, a former lawyer is running her late sister’s martial arts school. Her sister was killed by the someone who Lily had filed a restraining order against on behalf of a former client, Sarah. The second story is a martial arts school student’s mom, Destiny, is accused of killing her ex husband’s girlfriend. Lily is called back into service to represent Destiny. Lily has no experience in criminal cases and relies on her dad and an investigator, Jack, for help.
Lily is a very likable character. I found myself rooting for her and her client Destiny. This book was engaging and a very quick read. Looking forward to the next installment.
This book has two main stories. First, Lily, a former lawyer is running her late sister’s martial arts school. Her sister was killed by the someone who Lily had filed a restraining order against on behalf of a former client, Sarah. The second story is a martial arts school student’s mom, Destiny, is accused of killing her ex husband’s girlfriend. Lily is called back into service to represent Destiny. Lily has no experience in criminal cases and relies on her dad and an investigator, Jack, for help.
Lily is a very likable character. I found myself rooting for her and her client Destiny. This book was engaging and a very quick read. Looking forward to the next installment.
August 24, 2026
I received an ARC through "Booksprout" and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
This story introduces Lily Greco, a lawyer who has taken running the Dojo that her sister established after her death. One of the mothers of a young member, Destiny, is arrested for the murder of a fellow guard that was having an affair with her husband. Lily's background was in Civil Law, but because of Destiny's situation, she became her defense lawyer.
Read along and discover how Lily began preparing the defense position with help from a PI her father used and very little support from her father who had been a Defense Attorney. Discover the steps that she had to do to get the information she needed and what things she was able to bring forward during the trial.
The story will definitely keep your interest right till the end. This is a definite read, don't miss out!
This story introduces Lily Greco, a lawyer who has taken running the Dojo that her sister established after her death. One of the mothers of a young member, Destiny, is arrested for the murder of a fellow guard that was having an affair with her husband. Lily's background was in Civil Law, but because of Destiny's situation, she became her defense lawyer.
Read along and discover how Lily began preparing the defense position with help from a PI her father used and very little support from her father who had been a Defense Attorney. Discover the steps that she had to do to get the information she needed and what things she was able to bring forward during the trial.
The story will definitely keep your interest right till the end. This is a definite read, don't miss out!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Lily Greco had walked away from being a practicing lawyer, but still has an active bar card. Her sister had died so Lily stepped in to run the dojo, live in the apartment upstairs and take care of the dog her sister had rescued….that was now her life.
One of the mom’s of a student of the dojo gets arrested for murder of a woman who works at the prison where Destiny works and Lily gets thrown in as a lawyer in a murder case which she had never done criminal law. Her dad is full of advice having been there and done that.
The book is book is well crafted, great characters and good storyline. Look forward to the next adventure of Lily.
One of the mom’s of a student of the dojo gets arrested for murder of a woman who works at the prison where Destiny works and Lily gets thrown in as a lawyer in a murder case which she had never done criminal law. Her dad is full of advice having been there and done that.
The book is book is well crafted, great characters and good storyline. Look forward to the next adventure of Lily.
August 24, 2026
This was a good start to the series. Lily is dragged back into her legal career when the mother of one of her students is charged with murdering a colleague who happens to be having an affair with her husband. All the evidence points to Destiny so Lily has her work cut out for her.
I really enjoyed this. I enjoyed the naivety of Lily's actions, as she's so used to be a corporate lawyer rather than a criminal one so it felt real watching her make mistakes along the way. It was a riveting read and one where I'm definitely keen to read further in the series.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I really enjoyed this. I enjoyed the naivety of Lily's actions, as she's so used to be a corporate lawyer rather than a criminal one so it felt real watching her make mistakes along the way. It was a riveting read and one where I'm definitely keen to read further in the series.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 26, 2026
I loved this book. A story about a woman wronged, a lawyer making a comeback in court setting she is not familiar with, and a father who although is not warm and fuzzy is supportive. 1st in the Lily Greco series and I loved everything about it. This is her first criminal defense case and yes, she doubted herself and had to look up answers to questions that arose, but that is what made her a more real-life character. I know she briefly doubted her client's innocence, but she also knew that to defend her she had to know the whole truth. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 2, 2026
I seem to be reading more legal thrillers lately, and it is a good thing. Especially when the authors are as talented as Peter Kirkland. The legal details ring true, and the courtroom scenes are intense and realistic without feeling boring or slowing the story down. While I didn't get an actual "Perry Mason moment" in this book, it was still engaging and emotional. I even found myself tearing up a couple of times. I highly recommend Mr. Kirkland's work for all legal thriller fans. He won't disappoint you. I received a review copy from the author via BookSirens, and this review reflects my honest and voluntary opinion.
August 22, 2026
would like to thank netgalley and the publisher for letting me read this book
this author certainly knows how to write a good court room drama and this one is no exception
we first meet lily greco not really knowing to much about her just that she runs a dojo in town .... and shes a former lawyer
but when a mother is arrested at her dojo for murder lily has two choices she can watch from the sidelines or try and help
its a compelling read that wont release you until you know the verdict and i am looking forward to reading more about lily greco to see how her life pans out
this author certainly knows how to write a good court room drama and this one is no exception
we first meet lily greco not really knowing to much about her just that she runs a dojo in town .... and shes a former lawyer
but when a mother is arrested at her dojo for murder lily has two choices she can watch from the sidelines or try and help
its a compelling read that wont release you until you know the verdict and i am looking forward to reading more about lily greco to see how her life pans out
August 24, 2026
Peter Kirkland is a one man cottage industry as he produces - often with a co-writer a seemingly non stop series of legal thrillers all featuring different protagonists and - most importantly - all of an extremely high calibre.
This is no exception with a fascinating and compelling plot, a sympathetic defendant facing seemingly insurmountable odds to secure an acquittal and - of course an heroic defence lawyer. Lily Greco, seeking to achieve the impossible.
An intoxicating brew as always and this is as highly recommended as all his other books.
This is no exception with a fascinating and compelling plot, a sympathetic defendant facing seemingly insurmountable odds to secure an acquittal and - of course an heroic defence lawyer. Lily Greco, seeking to achieve the impossible.
An intoxicating brew as always and this is as highly recommended as all his other books.
August 27, 2026
Excellent start to a new series. The is the Lily Greco series and it started off with a bang. All the series by this author are amazing so make sure you check out all his other books as well. The book draws you in quickly and you are fast invested in Lily's story and the courtroom battle that takes place. After the death of her sister and the fallout of her marriage, Lily decides the law isn't for her and starts a Dojo. When one of her clients at the Dojo is arrested for murder, Lily reluctantly gets back into law to try and prove her innocence.
August 31, 2026
This Book Delivers on the Excitement!
The initial blurb caught my attention. The story built slowly, providing space and time for character development.
Then, the murder.
Page by page, the authors show just how woefully unprepared the former civil lawyer is for the challenge of a criminal case. The story builds at an increasing pace.
I ended up getting back up in the middle of the night to finish the story, despite needing the sleep very badly.
Wow!
I'm definitely going to be keeping these authors on my Must Read
lIst.
The initial blurb caught my attention. The story built slowly, providing space and time for character development.
Then, the murder.
Page by page, the authors show just how woefully unprepared the former civil lawyer is for the challenge of a criminal case. The story builds at an increasing pace.
I ended up getting back up in the middle of the night to finish the story, despite needing the sleep very badly.
Wow!
I'm definitely going to be keeping these authors on my Must Read
lIst.
September 19, 2026
A gripping read on several levels
Lily Greco is not a criminal lawyer, but she steps up to defend a single mother when that mother is accused of murder. Lily is smart and investigates the evidence assisted by a seasoned PI. Lily's dad is a well-known criminal lawyer and she has always felt that she has never measured up in his eyes. In the course of the murder trial preparation, Lily finds evidence to convict the probable murderer of her sister. Many threads are followed and the plots are fascinating. Just what I look for in a good book.
Lily Greco is not a criminal lawyer, but she steps up to defend a single mother when that mother is accused of murder. Lily is smart and investigates the evidence assisted by a seasoned PI. Lily's dad is a well-known criminal lawyer and she has always felt that she has never measured up in his eyes. In the course of the murder trial preparation, Lily finds evidence to convict the probable murderer of her sister. Many threads are followed and the plots are fascinating. Just what I look for in a good book.
August 20, 2026
I wanted to like this more than I did. Lily Greco is a civil lawyer who stops practicing civil las but then becomes a criminal lawyer. Yeah, I get why she did it but it’s a bit sloppy in the way it happened and the side story just adds confusion.
It’s a decent book and I’m glad I was given the chance to read it but it just felt off compared to the many other books I’ve read by this author.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
It’s a decent book and I’m glad I was given the chance to read it but it just felt off compared to the many other books I’ve read by this author.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 26, 2026
A dedicated fan of Peter Kirkland, Presumption of Guilt, doesn’t not disappoint. A new character, Lily Greco, is attempting to move forward after leaving a large law firm as a civil litigator and from her sister’s murder gets pulled into a murder case. Lily learns how criminal law differs from civil and quickly that it is very different while defending her client who is accused of another coworker prison guard’s murder. Very entertaining read, especially if you love legal thrillers.
September 5, 2026
I was on the edge. Of. My. Seat. Especially during the trial. Holy moly that was so good. As the reader, I knew how I wanted it to go, but without skipping ahead 🤣, you have to push through. Not going to lie, I wanted to skip ahead at the trial lol. I hope there will be more with her. I liked Lily a lot. I hope the PI makes some return visits as well. They seem like a good team. I highly recommend. Definitely pick this up as soon as possible!
September 19, 2026
Lily Greco has taken over a martial arts studio to escape the career ending mistake that ended her practicing law. However when the mother for one of her students is accused of murder, Lily must face her own demons and fight in the courtroom for as she digs deeper she realises that there might be more to the story that has been considered.
This was an interesting psychological thriller that was both enjoyable and a page turner.
This was an interesting psychological thriller that was both enjoyable and a page turner.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Lily Greco is a former civil lawyer who left the profession after her sister died suddenly and takes over her dojo. A female guard at the women's correctional facility is found murdered, and the accused is married to the boyfriend. Lily steps in to represent the accused, and the more evidence is gathered, the harder it becomes to prove innocence. But Lily is determined to get to the bottom of it.
August 23, 2026
Her life changed when her sister was killed as well as making a mistake which ended her career. She takes over from her sister which is so very hard. Get pulled into a fight in court when a young mother is charged with murder. The more you will learn the deeper you will be pulled in and wanting to see how it will end
I received an advance copy from hidden gems and a great court thriller
I received an advance copy from hidden gems and a great court thriller
September 16, 2026
I love a good legal thriller, and this one was right up there. Interesting and twisty story, great characters, and the feeling you're right there experiencing the struggle alongside them. Didn't want to put it down, and I am definitely looking forward to the next in the series. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Great story from an author who understands law and how to write a thriller. I will be looking to following Lily Greco in future books.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 24, 2026
This was a great book to read. Definitely keeps you guessing and on the edge of your seat. Once you start reading, be prepared to stay put until you read the last word!.
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.
September 15, 2026
I loved this book. It was the melding of two careers that I never thought might go together, but it worked.
The story was fast paced, a little predictable but not totally, and just interesting. I can't wait to read the next in the series.
The story was fast paced, a little predictable but not totally, and just interesting. I can't wait to read the next in the series.
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