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David Brunelle Legal Thriller #6
Corpus Delicti
A murder case without a dead body. Even on his best day, Assistant D.A. Dave Brunelle would have trouble winning a homicide case where the police could never find the victim's remains. But it's been a while since Brunelle has had a good day. His love life is a mess and his best friend doesn't want anything to do with him. Throw in a top-notch defense attorney and a defendant with ice in his veins, and it will take everything Brunelle has to hold a killer responsible.
235 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 14, 2015
992 people are currently reading
136 people want to read
About the author
Stephen Penner
62 books157 followersStephen Penner is an author, artist, and attorney from Seattle, Washington. He has written more than 30 novels and specializes in courtroom thrillers known for their unexpected twists and candid portrayal of the justice system. He draws on his extensive experience as a criminal trial attorney to infuse his writing with realism and insight.
Stephen is the author of several top-rated legal thriller series. The DAVID BRUNELLE LEGAL THRILLERS feature Seattle homicide D.A. David Brunelle and a recurring cast of cops, defense attorneys, and forensic experts. The TALON WINTER LEGAL THRILLERS showcase tough-as-nails Tacoma criminal defense attorney Talon Winter and her closest allies. And the RAIN CITY LEGAL THRILLERS deliver the adventures of attorney Daniel Raine and his unlikely partner Rebecca Sommers. Stephen is also the author of the MAGGIE DEVEREAUX PARANORMAL MYSTERIES, recounting the exploits of an American graduate student in the magical Highlands of Scotland, and several other stand-alone works.
In his spare time, Stephen enjoys painting, drawing, and spending time with his family. For more information, visit his website www.stephenpenner.com.
Stephen is the author of several top-rated legal thriller series. The DAVID BRUNELLE LEGAL THRILLERS feature Seattle homicide D.A. David Brunelle and a recurring cast of cops, defense attorneys, and forensic experts. The TALON WINTER LEGAL THRILLERS showcase tough-as-nails Tacoma criminal defense attorney Talon Winter and her closest allies. And the RAIN CITY LEGAL THRILLERS deliver the adventures of attorney Daniel Raine and his unlikely partner Rebecca Sommers. Stephen is also the author of the MAGGIE DEVEREAUX PARANORMAL MYSTERIES, recounting the exploits of an American graduate student in the magical Highlands of Scotland, and several other stand-alone works.
In his spare time, Stephen enjoys painting, drawing, and spending time with his family. For more information, visit his website www.stephenpenner.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
November 16, 2024
Always a good story line, but idiot protagonist
David has the emotional maturity of a 13 year old especially with regard to women. For a supposedly brilliant attorney he’s remarkably inarticulate and easily distracted and “solves” most of his cases by sheer luck, as in this story, despite his interfering incompetence. But fast read for the beach.
David has the emotional maturity of a 13 year old especially with regard to women. For a supposedly brilliant attorney he’s remarkably inarticulate and easily distracted and “solves” most of his cases by sheer luck, as in this story, despite his interfering incompetence. But fast read for the beach.
September 10, 2019
Good
Well written book. Hope you will enjoy reading this one as much as I have. Needed to keep reading till IT ended.
Well written book. Hope you will enjoy reading this one as much as I have. Needed to keep reading till IT ended.
May 28, 2020
I don't know how Brunelle gets any convictions. Too much sidetracking stay focused.
June 1, 2022
4.5 stars. Best of them all so far, but....
Despite this being the sixth book with no proper jury ruling, (AGAIN!), I can't help but gush over it being the best one of the entire series so far (for me personally). It had a little bit more sophistication than I was used to, a lot more dramatic legalities that legit frustrated me. It was even the first book in this series that kind of triggered me into thinking about how corrupt our justice system can truly be. Hiding things from juries on purpose because of some legal such and such crap? I just hate stuff like that happening in the justice system, deliberate manipulation of facts. So of course, reading about such intricate procedural mumbo jumbo grated on my nerves a little (in a good way) and held my focus. I loved this book so MUCH that I almost, ALMOST broke my own rule about refusing to grant five stars for closing it out without a jury verdict and doing so very abruptly (something every single one of the previous entries has done). The best I could do was give it a half star more, but it's not like Goodreads allows half stars anyway.
I was actually super desperate to give this one a full 5-star rating simply because of how much more "grown up" it felt. Perhaps it's the lack of the two main women complicating matters in Brunelle's life? I was glad to see the break-up from Kat stuck since I really don't like that woman. Robyn is slightly better, but still no good in her own way. I'm still clinging to a hope that Brunelle can find another woman who would suit him best. At any rate, this particular drama was significantly lessened, which made the case itself really POP. There was something this go around that made Brunelle feel a little more rounded. I like that he was bothered by this case. I like that he really wanted justice. I was ravenous for a resolution, as it involved the potential murder of someone whose body hasn't been found. A murder without a body? Like how can that even be a thing? That's so unbelievably interesting. And how stressful a load it must be when sitting on Brunelle's shoulders. Dude may not function the best when it comes to the ladies in his life, but I love him as a lawyer. He's smart and ambitious and even a little inspiring this time.
But alas, this favorite entry was still a stained entry, one that still committed the same formulaic sin that I've been complaining about in all my previous reviews. Strenuous efforts to build the case to the point of a finish line, only to have something wildly fantastical happen to force it into a screeching halt. Yet again. I sighed. I sighed hard. So very close to 5 stars. I almost feel like I should stop caring about the lack of jury verdicts in these books. After all, by now it's seemingly going to continue to be the norm for them to be thwarted by some other dramatic means. But come on, this is a LEGAL series. To continually deny me the thrill of jury involvement is just too annoying in all its formulaic blahness. It really does take away from it all. So much crescendo only to fizzle out. So nope, not giving in. No 5-star rating until I get a good story with a properly closed out ending with the damn jury actually doing their thing and being more a part of the story.
So now for the condensed update on all books' endings up till now:
Book 1 --Defendant miraculously bailed out at the last minute, then killed. No verdict.
Book 2--Defendant on house arrest visits dying friend, then killed. No verdict.
Book 3-- Witness incapacitates Brunelle, holds lawyer hostage, then killed. Mistrial. No verdict.
Book 4--Witness confesses. Case dismissed despite the same issue remaining. No verdict.
Book 5--Brunelle has closing argument. Original plea changed, then jury dismissed. No verdict.
Book 6--Brunelle catches defendant trying to move the dead body he's been accused of murdering, gets shot, guy gets caught. Mistrial, then a new case and arraignment. No verdict, (at least not one for the readers to see).
Here's looking at YOU book 7! What shall stop the verdict this time?
Despite this being the sixth book with no proper jury ruling, (AGAIN!), I can't help but gush over it being the best one of the entire series so far (for me personally). It had a little bit more sophistication than I was used to, a lot more dramatic legalities that legit frustrated me. It was even the first book in this series that kind of triggered me into thinking about how corrupt our justice system can truly be. Hiding things from juries on purpose because of some legal such and such crap? I just hate stuff like that happening in the justice system, deliberate manipulation of facts. So of course, reading about such intricate procedural mumbo jumbo grated on my nerves a little (in a good way) and held my focus. I loved this book so MUCH that I almost, ALMOST broke my own rule about refusing to grant five stars for closing it out without a jury verdict and doing so very abruptly (something every single one of the previous entries has done). The best I could do was give it a half star more, but it's not like Goodreads allows half stars anyway.
I was actually super desperate to give this one a full 5-star rating simply because of how much more "grown up" it felt. Perhaps it's the lack of the two main women complicating matters in Brunelle's life? I was glad to see the break-up from Kat stuck since I really don't like that woman. Robyn is slightly better, but still no good in her own way. I'm still clinging to a hope that Brunelle can find another woman who would suit him best. At any rate, this particular drama was significantly lessened, which made the case itself really POP. There was something this go around that made Brunelle feel a little more rounded. I like that he was bothered by this case. I like that he really wanted justice. I was ravenous for a resolution, as it involved the potential murder of someone whose body hasn't been found. A murder without a body? Like how can that even be a thing? That's so unbelievably interesting. And how stressful a load it must be when sitting on Brunelle's shoulders. Dude may not function the best when it comes to the ladies in his life, but I love him as a lawyer. He's smart and ambitious and even a little inspiring this time.
But alas, this favorite entry was still a stained entry, one that still committed the same formulaic sin that I've been complaining about in all my previous reviews. Strenuous efforts to build the case to the point of a finish line, only to have something wildly fantastical happen to force it into a screeching halt. Yet again. I sighed. I sighed hard. So very close to 5 stars. I almost feel like I should stop caring about the lack of jury verdicts in these books. After all, by now it's seemingly going to continue to be the norm for them to be thwarted by some other dramatic means. But come on, this is a LEGAL series. To continually deny me the thrill of jury involvement is just too annoying in all its formulaic blahness. It really does take away from it all. So much crescendo only to fizzle out. So nope, not giving in. No 5-star rating until I get a good story with a properly closed out ending with the damn jury actually doing their thing and being more a part of the story.
So now for the condensed update on all books' endings up till now:
Book 1 --Defendant miraculously bailed out at the last minute, then killed. No verdict.
Book 2--Defendant on house arrest visits dying friend, then killed. No verdict.
Book 3-- Witness incapacitates Brunelle, holds lawyer hostage, then killed. Mistrial. No verdict.
Book 4--Witness confesses. Case dismissed despite the same issue remaining. No verdict.
Book 5--Brunelle has closing argument. Original plea changed, then jury dismissed. No verdict.
Book 6--Brunelle catches defendant trying to move the dead body he's been accused of murdering, gets shot, guy gets caught. Mistrial, then a new case and arraignment. No verdict, (at least not one for the readers to see).
Here's looking at YOU book 7! What shall stop the verdict this time?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 2, 2025
3.5 Stars
Corpus Delicti is the sixth instalment in the David Brunelle Legal Thriller Series. And so the book binge began ... this series turned out to be a gripping and masterfully crafted collection of legal dramas set against the backdrop of Seattle’s criminal justice system. The series follows David Brunelle, a dedicated and sharp prosecutor, as he navigates the complexities of law, morality, and justice.
What makes this series stand out is the balance between intense courtroom drama with deeply human stories. David Brunelle is an intriguing character - intelligent, principled, and yet flawed in ways that make him even more relatable. Mr. Penner’s writing easily brings the legal world to life with authenticity, offering a fascinating glimpse into the challenges prosecutors face, from gathering evidence to battling wily defense attorneys.
Each book in the series presents a unique and thought-provoking case, often delving into some morally ambiguous territory. The plots are tightly woven, with twists that are both surprising and satisfying. Mr. Penner’s ability to build the tension and suspense is noteworthy, as is his knack for creating vivid, multidimensional characters – both the heroes and villains.
So, whether you’re a fan of legal thrillers, crime fiction, or simply enjoy a well-told story, then the David Brunelle series delivers on all fronts.
Happy Reading…
Corpus Delicti is the sixth instalment in the David Brunelle Legal Thriller Series. And so the book binge began ... this series turned out to be a gripping and masterfully crafted collection of legal dramas set against the backdrop of Seattle’s criminal justice system. The series follows David Brunelle, a dedicated and sharp prosecutor, as he navigates the complexities of law, morality, and justice.
What makes this series stand out is the balance between intense courtroom drama with deeply human stories. David Brunelle is an intriguing character - intelligent, principled, and yet flawed in ways that make him even more relatable. Mr. Penner’s writing easily brings the legal world to life with authenticity, offering a fascinating glimpse into the challenges prosecutors face, from gathering evidence to battling wily defense attorneys.
Each book in the series presents a unique and thought-provoking case, often delving into some morally ambiguous territory. The plots are tightly woven, with twists that are both surprising and satisfying. Mr. Penner’s ability to build the tension and suspense is noteworthy, as is his knack for creating vivid, multidimensional characters – both the heroes and villains.
So, whether you’re a fan of legal thrillers, crime fiction, or simply enjoy a well-told story, then the David Brunelle series delivers on all fronts.
Happy Reading…
April 24, 2024
a good and simple easy to read legal thriller, recommend
I love me some Dave but I don’t think his elevator go to the top sometimes. Where Dave been for 40+ years of his life because he be acting so weird sometimes. He’s portrayed as a womanizer but he act like he’s scared of women. I hate Robyn played him like that because he really likes her. But one thing for sure, he’s the best prosecutor ever in book-land. He’s very smart, competent, compassionate when it comes to justice. He doesn’t give up, very determined. Man, I didn’t know what was wrong with Chen. Why he was so mad with Dave because he didn’t want Kat? If he thought so highly of Kat, he should’ve been her boyfriend, sheesh. I glad they all smoked the peace pipe and are friends, hooray. Dave can stop feeling guilty about breaking up with Kat. I love your series author. Great writing, few errors.
I love me some Dave but I don’t think his elevator go to the top sometimes. Where Dave been for 40+ years of his life because he be acting so weird sometimes. He’s portrayed as a womanizer but he act like he’s scared of women. I hate Robyn played him like that because he really likes her. But one thing for sure, he’s the best prosecutor ever in book-land. He’s very smart, competent, compassionate when it comes to justice. He doesn’t give up, very determined. Man, I didn’t know what was wrong with Chen. Why he was so mad with Dave because he didn’t want Kat? If he thought so highly of Kat, he should’ve been her boyfriend, sheesh. I glad they all smoked the peace pipe and are friends, hooray. Dave can stop feeling guilty about breaking up with Kat. I love your series author. Great writing, few errors.
August 22, 2024
free ebook
i like this series
the da was trying a murder case with no body
a hooker saw her hooker friend being beaten by the pimp who thought she ripped him off (she didnt)
she disappeared and everyone knew she was dead but he had to try the case without the body
the witness was murdered before the trial
the other hookers were scared to testify
but the pimp heard he was going to force one to testify and the pimp got to her first and made her lie on the stand
so the lawyer set him up by saying they were going to find the body the next day
so they followed the pimp and he was digging the body up only the lawyer ended up there by mistake. the pimp shot him in the leg but being the cops were there they got to him in time to save him
i like this series
the da was trying a murder case with no body
a hooker saw her hooker friend being beaten by the pimp who thought she ripped him off (she didnt)
she disappeared and everyone knew she was dead but he had to try the case without the body
the witness was murdered before the trial
the other hookers were scared to testify
but the pimp heard he was going to force one to testify and the pimp got to her first and made her lie on the stand
so the lawyer set him up by saying they were going to find the body the next day
so they followed the pimp and he was digging the body up only the lawyer ended up there by mistake. the pimp shot him in the leg but being the cops were there they got to him in time to save him
December 15, 2017
I will be reading some more of his books. It was a good read. Brunelle charged Kenny Brown with murdering one of his girls - he was a pimp , but they didn't know where her body was. But he still brought the case to court. Lots of it is what happened with the trial and all. The big blow out was at the ending of the book.
March 19, 2019
Definitely 5 stars
Really, really liked the story. The novel had action, mystery and a great ending. I have enjoyed all of the author’ stories in the David Brunelle legal Thriller series (the Talon Winters series not so much). The reader learns a lot about the legal process and how it can be used positively and at times negatively. Recommend
Really, really liked the story. The novel had action, mystery and a great ending. I have enjoyed all of the author’ stories in the David Brunelle legal Thriller series (the Talon Winters series not so much). The reader learns a lot about the legal process and how it can be used positively and at times negatively. Recommend
February 8, 2023
Another winner!!
One can't help but admire the tenacity of Dave Brunelle who conducted his case without the evidence of a body and struggled through the whole case without much to prove his case only for the sake of getting justice for the dead person!
Another exemplary example of a book that is impossible to put down without finishing it !!!
One can't help but admire the tenacity of Dave Brunelle who conducted his case without the evidence of a body and struggled through the whole case without much to prove his case only for the sake of getting justice for the dead person!
Another exemplary example of a book that is impossible to put down without finishing it !!!
June 15, 2018
Good Story With Plenty of Twists & Humor
A Seattle prosecutor deals with personal issues while trying to prosecute a murder with no body and more judicial limitations than foreseen.
A Seattle prosecutor deals with personal issues while trying to prosecute a murder with no body and more judicial limitations than foreseen.
January 20, 2020
Another really good installment in the Dave Brunelle legal series. This time Dave is out to prove a missing prostitute is dead, having been murdered by her pimp. Not easy when he has no body.
Loving this series. Can't wait to start on the next one.
Loving this series. Can't wait to start on the next one.
May 6, 2021
Loved it!
No assumptions, looked bad for Brunelle. Story development worked to layout the story. Legalize is startling with loopholes to shield justice. Looking forward,the next episode of Dave Brunelle at 'work'.
No assumptions, looked bad for Brunelle. Story development worked to layout the story. Legalize is startling with loopholes to shield justice. Looking forward,the next episode of Dave Brunelle at 'work'.
May 27, 2021
This was an easy-to-read novel. I especially like the realistic court scenes in Mr. Penner's books. I'm also thrilled that he gives some of his novels away on Amazon. I've read about half a dozen of them when I've noticed that one is being offered free.
August 14, 2023
Very Decent Read
Easy, well paced. No major editing errors. Good to go!!! Also liked the characters. Will read more of Penner's work. Filling a family crisis (mine) with being able to concentrate on someone else's written words. Works for me.
Easy, well paced. No major editing errors. Good to go!!! Also liked the characters. Will read more of Penner's work. Filling a family crisis (mine) with being able to concentrate on someone else's written words. Works for me.
August 28, 2023
Great action!
I really enjoyed the action in this legal thriller. The main character makes some questionable choices but in the end they work for him. I am enjoying the development of his character.
I really enjoyed the action in this legal thriller. The main character makes some questionable choices but in the end they work for him. I am enjoying the development of his character.
August 30, 2023
An awesome Series
Follow this character with all his flaw’s and strengths. This author makes it so interesting m you find yourself with a page turner, that keeps you vesyed from book to book.
Follow this character with all his flaw’s and strengths. This author makes it so interesting m you find yourself with a page turner, that keeps you vesyed from book to book.
September 4, 2023
Nothing burger
Some interesting courtroom procedure. Minimal plot. One dimensional characters. Inept protagonist. Coincidences galore at the very last minute. Overall an adolescent performance.
Some interesting courtroom procedure. Minimal plot. One dimensional characters. Inept protagonist. Coincidences galore at the very last minute. Overall an adolescent performance.
October 3, 2023
A different aspect of the law.
Using the same characters, Steven Penner gives us stories about the law. He also lets David think about what law applies to educate his audience.
Why David is so stupid in his personal life is not so easy to understand.
Using the same characters, Steven Penner gives us stories about the law. He also lets David think about what law applies to educate his audience.
Why David is so stupid in his personal life is not so easy to understand.
February 10, 2024
Different
More legal haggling than I liked but in the end the bad guy was caught. The best action is in the last five or six pages when our hero stumbles on to all of the evidence.
More legal haggling than I liked but in the end the bad guy was caught. The best action is in the last five or six pages when our hero stumbles on to all of the evidence.
March 4, 2024
Good read
I really enjoy the character and story lines. He is a casual read, which I like. Characters are fun. I do wish less cursing and F bombs. It takes away from his writing and lowers the intellectual value.
I really enjoy the character and story lines. He is a casual read, which I like. Characters are fun. I do wish less cursing and F bombs. It takes away from his writing and lowers the intellectual value.
November 25, 2024
Corpus delicti
Another of the slightly confusing tales of the lawyer that muddles along and succeeds in spite of himself. I have to hope he is sharper on his other cases than he was on this one. The premises of the law were interesting but somewhat convoluted.
Another of the slightly confusing tales of the lawyer that muddles along and succeeds in spite of himself. I have to hope he is sharper on his other cases than he was on this one. The premises of the law were interesting but somewhat convoluted.
February 22, 2025
Kat
Dave was a jerk. The progression of friendship carries through everything. True friendship forgives everything. Perhaps Dave will progress out of being a jerk into a true friend. B
Dave was a jerk. The progression of friendship carries through everything. True friendship forgives everything. Perhaps Dave will progress out of being a jerk into a true friend. B
May 12, 2025
Corpus Delicti
Very clever story telling by Stephen Penner. I always expect a page turner and he never disappoints. A murder without a body and witnesses who either did or are too afraid to tell the truth.
Very clever story telling by Stephen Penner. I always expect a page turner and he never disappoints. A murder without a body and witnesses who either did or are too afraid to tell the truth.
July 12, 2025
They keep getting better and better!
This book especially has a great pace that won't let you put it down. Anyone who likes a legal thriller plus mystery too is lucky to grab this book. 4 stars are for another excellent story. On to the next read by Mr. Penner.
This book especially has a great pace that won't let you put it down. Anyone who likes a legal thriller plus mystery too is lucky to grab this book. 4 stars are for another excellent story. On to the next read by Mr. Penner.
August 25, 2025
Trouble, death, forensics...
David once again takes a fairly strong case and gets it thrown down. No REAL EVIDENCE OF PROSTITUTION AND PIMPS can be discussed in trail. Leaving him with little to present.
David once again takes a fairly strong case and gets it thrown down. No REAL EVIDENCE OF PROSTITUTION AND PIMPS can be discussed in trail. Leaving him with little to present.
October 10, 2018
Corpus Delicti
Great book . Really enjoyed this thriller. This book is the best in the series so far. I highly recommend this book.
Great book . Really enjoyed this thriller. This book is the best in the series so far. I highly recommend this book.
November 19, 2018
Stephen Penned is one of my favorite authors. This legal thriller didn't disappoint. Looking forward to his next one.
April 26, 2019
I thought this was the worst Book in the Brunell series. The story line was very weak, the Ending saved the Book . Overall it was just an average story at best.
March 17, 2020
Enjoy Stephen Penner. Thank you Amazon for consistently having wonderful to reads.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews