What do you think?
Rate this book
Reasonable Doubt
After a tumultuous career as a criminal defense attorney, Ellery Durand enjoys life without tales of drugs, death, and double-crossing. Until she wakes up one morning to find her bank accounts frozen, her face on the front page, and the peace she’s come to treasure shattered in the wake of an FBI investigation. Can she convince the agent in charge to trust her? Can she trust the feelings that grow between them?
After years investigating heinous crimes, FBI Behavioral Analyst Sarah Flores welcomes a transfer to white-collar crime and the chance to have a life of her own. Her relief is short-lived when her first case involves a terrorist plot, and all signs indicate the terrorists’ attorney constructed the framework of their evil conspiracy. Attracted to Ellery from the start, can she trust her instincts to lead her to the truth or will their attraction cast doubt on everything she holds dear?
After years investigating heinous crimes, FBI Behavioral Analyst Sarah Flores welcomes a transfer to white-collar crime and the chance to have a life of her own. Her relief is short-lived when her first case involves a terrorist plot, and all signs indicate the terrorists’ attorney constructed the framework of their evil conspiracy. Attracted to Ellery from the start, can she trust her instincts to lead her to the truth or will their attraction cast doubt on everything she holds dear?
309 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 14, 2015
23 people are currently reading
189 people want to read
About the author
Carsen Taite
51 books293 followersCarsen Taite's goal as an author is to spin plot lines as interesting as the cases she encountered in her career as a criminal defense lawyer. She is the award-winning author of a dozen novels and numerous short stories.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
October 19, 2017
It's risky to take on a story about bombing or the war on terror in today's news cycle and bad media because of what's happening around the world with all this war,Anti-Muslim,Islamophobia shenanigans etc We have to be so careful how we as readers and human beings dive into or talk about these topics to which i give Ms.Taite so much credit for taking this risk and taking this on..the plot was excellent even though she wrote a brief scene which came out really good.. nice intensity,good plot twist and great interaction with all the characters which really kept the storyline moving all the way the to the ending..well written and recommend to everyone
October 4, 2015
Sarah Flores is an FBI behavioral analyst who specializes in serial killers. Tired of the hunt and wanting to settle down to domesticity, she transfers to a much less demanding desk job investigating paper crimes. An unexpected social call results in a meeting with a captivating woman, ex-lawyer turned furniture maker Ellery Durant, who just might be what she needs to jumpstart her social life. The attraction is mutual but then Ellery gets caught up in accusations of aiding terrorist financing. And it's just Sarah's luck that she is the nearest FBI agent on the ground who can get near Ellery--so near she may not be able to keep her hands off.
Despite what the title of the book or the author's profession may suggest, 'Reasonable Doubt' is not a courtroom drama but more of a cross between a police procedural and a legal drama with some thriller elements, and of course, a good dose of romance.
Because of the nature of Ellery's alleged crime, the investigation is centered mostly on chasing paper trails (or computer files). Certainly not the most exciting case load, but I never really felt bored, mainly because a good portion of this is devoted to the internal conflicts our leading ladies have to wrestle with in the course of the investigation. Should they or shouldn't they? Should Sarah recuse herself because of conflict of interest? Should she be trying to clear Ellery or should she just walk away because she may actually pin Ellery to the crime? On Ellery's part, can she trust Sarah or will she betray her just like the rest? Throw into that confusing mix Ellery's father and ex-law partner, who seem to have secret agendas of their own, and you have a deliciously complicated mystery to chew into.
The thing that I noticed with Ms. Taite's writing is that it is very grounded and sensible. She doesn't try for the most dramatic or histrionic but rather the most logical. For example, in the first major event, a more theatrical author would have put the leads right in the thick of the action to generate more drama. But she chose a different, more realistic situation to place our leads in. Her storyline is so well plotted, it's difficult to poke holes through. Her background in law also means that her writing doesn't just feel authentic but actually exhibits a depth of understanding of the nuances and frustrations of the legal system that other authors can only dream of.
What all of that means is this book is a meticulously-plotted, well-written, sophisticated read, punctuated with enough highlights to not be completely boring yet not over-the-top exciting as to be unrealistic. For the most part. The climactic furor at the end feels quite a bit like a concession to us genre readers--a quintessential Hollywood slam-bang finale--rather than the logical conclusion to a tight legal drama. BUT, I loved it.
4.4 stars
P.S. One of the biggest mysteries in the book was why Ellery traded law books for old furniture. I wonder if this is autobiographical? ;) And, I don't know if the author has plans to continue this book or not, but it (Ellery's reason for quitting) seems a really good premise for a sequel. :)
ARC received from Netgalley
Despite what the title of the book or the author's profession may suggest, 'Reasonable Doubt' is not a courtroom drama but more of a cross between a police procedural and a legal drama with some thriller elements, and of course, a good dose of romance.
Because of the nature of Ellery's alleged crime, the investigation is centered mostly on chasing paper trails (or computer files). Certainly not the most exciting case load, but I never really felt bored, mainly because a good portion of this is devoted to the internal conflicts our leading ladies have to wrestle with in the course of the investigation. Should they or shouldn't they? Should Sarah recuse herself because of conflict of interest? Should she be trying to clear Ellery or should she just walk away because she may actually pin Ellery to the crime? On Ellery's part, can she trust Sarah or will she betray her just like the rest? Throw into that confusing mix Ellery's father and ex-law partner, who seem to have secret agendas of their own, and you have a deliciously complicated mystery to chew into.
The thing that I noticed with Ms. Taite's writing is that it is very grounded and sensible. She doesn't try for the most dramatic or histrionic but rather the most logical. For example, in the first major event, a more theatrical author would have put the leads right in the thick of the action to generate more drama. But she chose a different, more realistic situation to place our leads in. Her storyline is so well plotted, it's difficult to poke holes through. Her background in law also means that her writing doesn't just feel authentic but actually exhibits a depth of understanding of the nuances and frustrations of the legal system that other authors can only dream of.
What all of that means is this book is a meticulously-plotted, well-written, sophisticated read, punctuated with enough highlights to not be completely boring yet not over-the-top exciting as to be unrealistic. For the most part. The climactic furor at the end feels quite a bit like a concession to us genre readers--a quintessential Hollywood slam-bang finale--rather than the logical conclusion to a tight legal drama. BUT, I loved it.
4.4 stars
P.S. One of the biggest mysteries in the book was why Ellery traded law books for old furniture. I wonder if this is autobiographical? ;) And, I don't know if the author has plans to continue this book or not, but it (Ellery's reason for quitting) seems a really good premise for a sequel. :)
ARC received from Netgalley
March 25, 2017
2.5 rounded up, grudgingly to a 3 star. This was disappointing. The story dragged on. The characters were kind of annoying. At one point one of the mains was having an inner monologue about how an overweight woman could possibly have a man escorting her to a party. Really?? This did not endear me to the lead. The mystery/crime current, but predictable. It took too long to set up and get going. The angsty romance was pretty good. The showdown with the baddies was pretty good, but overall not a satisfying read/listen. The narrator had two voices and both were pretty flat. I'm familiar with Carsen's work and I usually like her books so I would definitely read another of hers as long as these two leads don't pop up again.
July 6, 2017
3 stars for the audio book narration. The story itself is awesome. My issues were with production. Bad splices for starters. There's just no need for it. I also was offput by her Ellery voice. In my mind, it didn't need to be deep and gravely like she used for men in the narration.
November 2, 2015
Special agent Sarah Flores has left the BAU behind and moved to the Fraud Unit in Dallas in an attempt to have a more normal and stable life. She meets Ellery Durand through a mutual friend. Ellery has a secret that has caused her to leave her life as an attorney. A terrorist plot brings Sarah back to the BAU and make Ellery a suspect. Will Sarah’s personal interest in Ellery cost her her job? Will Ellery open up to Sarah and does their budding relationship stand a chance?
This is the second book of Ms. Taite's that I’ve read and I must admit that I am impressed. I thoroughly this technically sound and well written story. Sarah and Ellery are very likable. Sarah’s conflict between job and happiness is well portrayed. I felt so sorry for Ellery’s total upheaval of her life as she becomes a focus in the crime. I loved the chase to find the truth while they tried to keep their growing feelings for each other at bay. When they couldn’t, the tale was even better. I was drawn into the mystery plot line and quickly became enthralled with the book. It was suspenseful without being too intense but there were some great twists to keep me guessing. It’s a very good book. I cannot wait to read the next in line that Ms. Taite has to offer. She has definitely made it to my favorite authors list.
This is the second book of Ms. Taite's that I’ve read and I must admit that I am impressed. I thoroughly this technically sound and well written story. Sarah and Ellery are very likable. Sarah’s conflict between job and happiness is well portrayed. I felt so sorry for Ellery’s total upheaval of her life as she becomes a focus in the crime. I loved the chase to find the truth while they tried to keep their growing feelings for each other at bay. When they couldn’t, the tale was even better. I was drawn into the mystery plot line and quickly became enthralled with the book. It was suspenseful without being too intense but there were some great twists to keep me guessing. It’s a very good book. I cannot wait to read the next in line that Ms. Taite has to offer. She has definitely made it to my favorite authors list.
July 1, 2017
I love Carsen Taite’s romantic suspense books so much, even though I’m not usually a fan of the genre, because she balances the romance and suspense elements so well that neither area ever lacks. The chemistry between Sarah and Ellery is almost tangible even while neither woman knows if she can trust the other and the whole terrorism story had me hooked and kept me guessing right up until the end.
Full review: http://www.thelesbianreview.com/reaso...
Full review: http://www.thelesbianreview.com/reaso...
February 16, 2017
I listened to the audio version of this book. I didn't love the narration. It was ok. So, I'm not sure if that's why I didn't love the book or not. It was ok. The mystery was timely but predictable. There were nicely developed characters both main and secondary. But, I just didn't feel the chemistry here.
August 17, 2015
Wow, what a ride! If you are up for some light romance, well, this might not be the right book for you ;) It's so face-paced and thrilling, a light romance lover would probably get a heart attack. Nothing is what it seems. Carsen Taite did a great job! The two main characters are well written and I was into them from the first minute they appeared. It's a modern thriller which takes place in the world right now. But I don't want to spoil your reading experience, so get the book yourself and enjoy the ride!
September 15, 2015
Gosh, so many four/five star reviews! Better justify my three star real good then.
Sarah Flores is FBI. After a career in a high-pressure special unit tracking serial killers, she’s had enough. A transfer from Boston to Dallas, a move from splatter to fraud, and it’s time to settle down and do the serious work of finding herself a wife. Ellery Durant was a defence attorney who left her job, and the family firm, to make furniture and build herself anew. Although Sarah’s blunt cop outlook on life initially causes a certain amount of friction, the two have a certain amount of electricity. Meeting again at a party, it all looks fairly promising for our heroines.
Then the streets outside of the party explode, and everything goes to hell.
At its heart, this is a story about procedural injustice. Ellery gets fingered for laundering terrorism money. Although the freezing of her accounts, the ransacking of her possessions, and smearing of her reputation are all carefully presented as making sense in light of the charges, we know Ellery is innocent. That makes the governmental presumption of her guilt a salutary lesson in why these particular changes to the law are dangerous when used indiscriminately. The mystery is built around this injustice. Ellery is hunting evidence of her innocence, talking to her contacts, and piecing together how her name got on certain documents when she didn’t put it there. Running alongside is the investigation as to who set those bombs. It’s not a particularly good mystery; in fact it is more a series of deus ex machina than a coherent unravelling story.
Add a dose of… well, it’s romance, but it’s a will they/won’t they romance. Sarah is FBI, after all – the local unofficial investigator, no less. She’s still got the hots for Ellery, but on the other hand potentially said Ellery is a scum-bag lawyer funding terrorists. Certainly there is a problem there that Sarah should probably resolve by using that relationship ruthlessly to find out the truth and then cutting all ties. What actually seems to happen is Sarah ineffectually tries to find out information, has marginal success (doesn’t matter though due to the aforementioned deus ex machina), then proceeds to string together a right answer to one strand of the mystery through the flimsiest, most contrived evidence anyone has tried to suggest was a narrative a cop could possibly follow. It was disappointing; she was set up as such a tough and uncompromising character – a straight shooter with a slightly black/white worldview. That was the woman I wanted to see.
Anyone who's going to be annoyed by that as well I would recommend not read this book.
Otherwise it's perfectly serviceable. Three stars.
Sarah Flores is FBI. After a career in a high-pressure special unit tracking serial killers, she’s had enough. A transfer from Boston to Dallas, a move from splatter to fraud, and it’s time to settle down and do the serious work of finding herself a wife. Ellery Durant was a defence attorney who left her job, and the family firm, to make furniture and build herself anew. Although Sarah’s blunt cop outlook on life initially causes a certain amount of friction, the two have a certain amount of electricity. Meeting again at a party, it all looks fairly promising for our heroines.
Then the streets outside of the party explode, and everything goes to hell.
At its heart, this is a story about procedural injustice. Ellery gets fingered for laundering terrorism money. Although the freezing of her accounts, the ransacking of her possessions, and smearing of her reputation are all carefully presented as making sense in light of the charges, we know Ellery is innocent. That makes the governmental presumption of her guilt a salutary lesson in why these particular changes to the law are dangerous when used indiscriminately. The mystery is built around this injustice. Ellery is hunting evidence of her innocence, talking to her contacts, and piecing together how her name got on certain documents when she didn’t put it there. Running alongside is the investigation as to who set those bombs. It’s not a particularly good mystery; in fact it is more a series of deus ex machina than a coherent unravelling story.
Add a dose of… well, it’s romance, but it’s a will they/won’t they romance. Sarah is FBI, after all – the local unofficial investigator, no less. She’s still got the hots for Ellery, but on the other hand potentially said Ellery is a scum-bag lawyer funding terrorists. Certainly there is a problem there that Sarah should probably resolve by using that relationship ruthlessly to find out the truth and then cutting all ties. What actually seems to happen is Sarah ineffectually tries to find out information, has marginal success (doesn’t matter though due to the aforementioned deus ex machina), then proceeds to string together a right answer to one strand of the mystery through the flimsiest, most contrived evidence anyone has tried to suggest was a narrative a cop could possibly follow. It was disappointing; she was set up as such a tough and uncompromising character – a straight shooter with a slightly black/white worldview. That was the woman I wanted to see.
Anyone who's going to be annoyed by that as well I would recommend not read this book.
Otherwise it's perfectly serviceable. Three stars.
February 13, 2016
Note: This ARC was provided by NetGalley & Bold Strokes Books in exchange for an honest review.
Find the following review posted on my blog - FarNerdy.
4.5 stars rounded up to 5.
This was my first Carsen Taite read, and I was pleasantly surprised. As a personal notion, I am not usually one to enjoy the rough-and-tumble, shoot 'em up, cops and robbers romances that are found within the lesbian romance realm. With that being said, I've still found a few that I enjoy, specifically The Target by Gerri Hill. It has been a long time since I've been able to find another one that I thoroughly enjoyed though, until I read Reasonable Doubt.
Sarah Flores has settled in Dallas after a tumultuous career in the BAU division of the FBI. Now, all she wants is a home with a picket fence, actual furniture, and, if she's lucky, someone to come home to at night. Ellery (a name I love!) Durant is a retired criminal defense lawyer that has embraced the simplicity of a life based solely on the furniture she refurbishes that she finds from scattered pieces across the city. After a sudden leave from her well-established personal practice, Ellery was set on living life in the slow lane. When the two meet, sparks immediately begin to fly. But when they experience a life-altering event together, Ellery finds herself at the forefront of the prime suspects, with Sarah as the investigator.
I loved both of these characters immensely. Though stereotypical in some ways and one-dimensional, it worked for them, as their characteristics balanced each other out, coming to a great arch of personal development and meeting together in the middle. I have to admit that Ellery was my favorite, but primarily due to her name. For some reason, it stuck with me and has become something I will remember forever. With that being said, I also enjoyed Ellery because of her inner monologues - the way she talks through her tribulations and feelings, the way she embraces the parts of her that aren't as developed as she wished them to be, the way she accepts the ways in which she has conducted her life, even when they were not always in the most moralistic of views. Ellery was real, genuine, perfect in her abnormality. Her regrets, choices, and decisions she has made throughout her life were perfect evidence as to the person she turned out to be, and the one as the focus of this novel. Thus far, she is one my favorite characters ever written.
Please don't assume I didn't like Sarah Flores because of this. Her character was fascinating as well in its own ways. But seeing as Flores fell into the typical FBI agent/law enforcement persona without too much outside of that, she didn't pull my attention as much as Ellery.
The story was a great ride! Mixing both dramatic moments with fast-paced action, along with heartfelt and gentle occurrences were found a-plenty in this novel. Carsen Taite brought all of her own history as a criminal defense lawyer to the forefront of this novel in order to help tell the story. Having the real pieces of court, lawyers, and lawmakers within the words truly expressed a sincerity that, I feel, would have been difficult to replicate had the lawyer not experienced it first hand. Taite's own life in the world she uses as a backdrop to this story is evidence of how bona fide it felt to engage in that entity.
Bravo to the author! A wonderful story all around. I will be adding Carsen Taite to my list of authors to watch for when new novels are released. Thank you for a wonderful read.
While reading this novel, I have to admit my SwanQueen shipper heart came out, and I immediately saw Ellery and Sarah as a similar couple to Regina and Emma.
Find the following review posted on my blog - FarNerdy.
4.5 stars rounded up to 5.
This was my first Carsen Taite read, and I was pleasantly surprised. As a personal notion, I am not usually one to enjoy the rough-and-tumble, shoot 'em up, cops and robbers romances that are found within the lesbian romance realm. With that being said, I've still found a few that I enjoy, specifically The Target by Gerri Hill. It has been a long time since I've been able to find another one that I thoroughly enjoyed though, until I read Reasonable Doubt.
Sarah Flores has settled in Dallas after a tumultuous career in the BAU division of the FBI. Now, all she wants is a home with a picket fence, actual furniture, and, if she's lucky, someone to come home to at night. Ellery (a name I love!) Durant is a retired criminal defense lawyer that has embraced the simplicity of a life based solely on the furniture she refurbishes that she finds from scattered pieces across the city. After a sudden leave from her well-established personal practice, Ellery was set on living life in the slow lane. When the two meet, sparks immediately begin to fly. But when they experience a life-altering event together, Ellery finds herself at the forefront of the prime suspects, with Sarah as the investigator.
I loved both of these characters immensely. Though stereotypical in some ways and one-dimensional, it worked for them, as their characteristics balanced each other out, coming to a great arch of personal development and meeting together in the middle. I have to admit that Ellery was my favorite, but primarily due to her name. For some reason, it stuck with me and has become something I will remember forever. With that being said, I also enjoyed Ellery because of her inner monologues - the way she talks through her tribulations and feelings, the way she embraces the parts of her that aren't as developed as she wished them to be, the way she accepts the ways in which she has conducted her life, even when they were not always in the most moralistic of views. Ellery was real, genuine, perfect in her abnormality. Her regrets, choices, and decisions she has made throughout her life were perfect evidence as to the person she turned out to be, and the one as the focus of this novel. Thus far, she is one my favorite characters ever written.
Please don't assume I didn't like Sarah Flores because of this. Her character was fascinating as well in its own ways. But seeing as Flores fell into the typical FBI agent/law enforcement persona without too much outside of that, she didn't pull my attention as much as Ellery.
The story was a great ride! Mixing both dramatic moments with fast-paced action, along with heartfelt and gentle occurrences were found a-plenty in this novel. Carsen Taite brought all of her own history as a criminal defense lawyer to the forefront of this novel in order to help tell the story. Having the real pieces of court, lawyers, and lawmakers within the words truly expressed a sincerity that, I feel, would have been difficult to replicate had the lawyer not experienced it first hand. Taite's own life in the world she uses as a backdrop to this story is evidence of how bona fide it felt to engage in that entity.
Bravo to the author! A wonderful story all around. I will be adding Carsen Taite to my list of authors to watch for when new novels are released. Thank you for a wonderful read.
While reading this novel, I have to admit my SwanQueen shipper heart came out, and I immediately saw Ellery and Sarah as a similar couple to Regina and Emma.
April 27, 2016
2.5/3
Two women, both determined to step away from fast paced lives and all consuming careers, dragged back into the fray by a terrorist bomb and the ensuing investigation. This is a good crime thriller concept with interesting twists and turns mixed in with a hard to resist romance.
As always Carsen Taite’s knowledge of the law makes for intriguing plots and she is extremely good at creating readable stories out of what could too easily become heavy-handed legal situations. There is enough drama and conspiracy away from the purely judicial to make for a fun ride.
The main protagonists are engaging and their supporting cast of friends and colleagues broad and varied. The range of characters adds a layer of interest and engagement to the overall experience. Ms Taite plays with the fact that deception can damage and destroy relationships we thought as solid, while casual friends can be the most reliable.
I did feel that the stereotyping was a little obvious, there are teenage psychopaths in every race and religion, but a gang of young Muslim terrorists, with white blonde girlfriends being used as suicide bombers, plays too easily on typecasting. Combined with some unfortunate homophone mistakes and untidy loose ends it left me with a sense of something unfinished.
I have genuinely loved all Ms Taite’s crime thrillers to date, so was rather disappointed to be left with a feeling this was oversimplified and, quite frankly, ended too quickly to tidy up all the story lines. I loved the concept of the plot, and the pull of the attraction, but was left, ultimately, unsatisfied.
Two women, both determined to step away from fast paced lives and all consuming careers, dragged back into the fray by a terrorist bomb and the ensuing investigation. This is a good crime thriller concept with interesting twists and turns mixed in with a hard to resist romance.
As always Carsen Taite’s knowledge of the law makes for intriguing plots and she is extremely good at creating readable stories out of what could too easily become heavy-handed legal situations. There is enough drama and conspiracy away from the purely judicial to make for a fun ride.
The main protagonists are engaging and their supporting cast of friends and colleagues broad and varied. The range of characters adds a layer of interest and engagement to the overall experience. Ms Taite plays with the fact that deception can damage and destroy relationships we thought as solid, while casual friends can be the most reliable.
I did feel that the stereotyping was a little obvious, there are teenage psychopaths in every race and religion, but a gang of young Muslim terrorists, with white blonde girlfriends being used as suicide bombers, plays too easily on typecasting. Combined with some unfortunate homophone mistakes and untidy loose ends it left me with a sense of something unfinished.
I have genuinely loved all Ms Taite’s crime thrillers to date, so was rather disappointed to be left with a feeling this was oversimplified and, quite frankly, ended too quickly to tidy up all the story lines. I loved the concept of the plot, and the pull of the attraction, but was left, ultimately, unsatisfied.
September 10, 2015
Wow. I always like Carsen's books, and I love her Luka Bennett character in Slingshot, Battle Axe and Switchblade. But I really liked this book. In fact, I couldn't put it down. I can't put my finger on what exactly sucked me in -- the plot that required a lawyer's expertise (Taite is one) to accurately weave or the deep character development (halfway through the book, I wanted to be an Ellery-Sarah sandwich). At any rate, I found "Reasonable Doubt" to be her best yet, a real page turner and well worth the five stars I'm giving it.
October 26, 2015
This is a fast paced thriller with romance and intrigue (and betrayals) to spice it up. Very well written as usual by Carsen Taite. But… too many unresolved issues in the story, the ending was too sudden.
And as another matter of fact, I’d love to know more about a certain Assistant Director Aadila Rashed. Perhaps in next book.
And as another matter of fact, I’d love to know more about a certain Assistant Director Aadila Rashed. Perhaps in next book.
December 9, 2023
Suspenseful, romantic and page turning! You can't go wrong with a Carsen Taite book! The story is compelling and breathtaking in its suspense. I'd love to read more about Ellery and Sarah! Hint hint! 5 stars!
November 27, 2015
Lord I hope there is a sequel to this story. I really enjoyed the pacing and I even enjoyed the fact that I found Sarah Flores initially annoying. However, and I am sure this is by design, Ellery was the more interesting character.
My only complaint is the ending. Although, it was a logical point to conclude the story, I wanted to know more. What happens between Ellery and her Dad,Meg, her career, the aftermath. Hence the desire for a sequel.
My only complaint is the ending. Although, it was a logical point to conclude the story, I wanted to know more. What happens between Ellery and her Dad,Meg, her career, the aftermath. Hence the desire for a sequel.
July 12, 2016
wow, what a great book. A little of everything, action, suspense and love! I could not put it down!
August 1, 2016
*Contains Spoilers*
In Reasonable Doubt we follow the new careers of Sarah Flores and Ellery Durrant. Sarah Flores has seemingly had enough of her frontline FBI job and has moved to a desk-based FBI role, with the goal of settling down and starting a family. On a similar thread, Ellery has left her high-flying law career behind to make furniture for reasons that initially are unclear but heavily hinted to.
Personally, I couldn’t get into either character as they both seemed very two dimensional. Sarah is portrayed as a well-respected, all-action woman who has had a great career with the FBI. However, not long into the book, at the scene of a bombing, she is running around thinking it could be the end of the world, while those around her seem much more together and almost calm. I can’t imagine someone who had worked 9/11 being so melodramatic under pressure, it jarred with the character profile that had been built so far. Taite’s attempt at describing action just succeeded in making her lead character look unprofessional. Later in the book she goes on to take illegal copies of files and even withholds information from other departments, despite knowing the bombers are still at large.
We are supposed to think that Sarah is determined to find the culprits and simply believes her fellow agencies are inept. But I couldn’t help but think that no FBI agent would hold onto pertinent information while the threat of another attack would be so high. She is more concerned about being frozen out of the case than the safety of the public, which left a sour taste in my mouth.
Ellery Durrant’s character is just as unappealing. Having been in corporate law all her life, something happens and she decides to quit and make bespoke furniture. Inexplicably, she’s awfully good at it and is making vast amounts of pieces, all of which are beautiful and successfully sell. The lack of realism of someone who had recently entered the artistic world was again, quite jarring.
When we first see Ellery she is dating someone who fitted in with the old corporate her but not the new artistic her. We’re supposed to believe that she has had a complete personality transplant and none of her old world resonates with her.
Before long the main characters meet and there’s an immediate, and totally unbelievable, connection between them. We see Sarah breaking the law and jeopardising her job to see Ellery. We see Ellery flip-flopping from not trusting Sarah to being completely besotted with her.
At one point, Ellery’s father has flown into town and is helping Ellery after she has been accused of being in cahoots with terrorists. In one scene, he is apparently sadder than Ellery has ever seen him and in the next breath she is mooning over Sarah again without a second thought for dear old dad.
Both characters have a single-mindedness to be with one another that leads them to do ridiculous things. The strange connection they are supposed to have is completely unrealistic and we are supposed to believe that they are in love with each other after a handful of meetings. They fall into bed, despite Ellery being suspected of aiding terrorists and Sarah being sent to find out what she can about her.
From a romance point of view, I didn’t like the characters and I certainly didn’t like how they got together. The whole thing left me cold. There were a few point of view infractions, but all of these occurred when Sarah and Ellery were sharing a scene. Mainly this threw me out of the story and was confusing, but it also led me to wonder if the romance was somehow crowbarred into a crime novel which had no romance before. I often struggled to follow some of the dialogue and felt a dialogue tag or two could have smoothed out the journey through the book.
The plot was a little questionable in places but you do make allowances for fiction. However the strange actions of the characters destroyed any hope of the plot being able to carry the book. Especially when the secretive reason why Ellery left her profession is revealed, where she apparently does nothing in relation to a very serious crime having supposedly been committed. Nothing except quit and start a new career as a successful upcycler.
In Reasonable Doubt we follow the new careers of Sarah Flores and Ellery Durrant. Sarah Flores has seemingly had enough of her frontline FBI job and has moved to a desk-based FBI role, with the goal of settling down and starting a family. On a similar thread, Ellery has left her high-flying law career behind to make furniture for reasons that initially are unclear but heavily hinted to.
Personally, I couldn’t get into either character as they both seemed very two dimensional. Sarah is portrayed as a well-respected, all-action woman who has had a great career with the FBI. However, not long into the book, at the scene of a bombing, she is running around thinking it could be the end of the world, while those around her seem much more together and almost calm. I can’t imagine someone who had worked 9/11 being so melodramatic under pressure, it jarred with the character profile that had been built so far. Taite’s attempt at describing action just succeeded in making her lead character look unprofessional. Later in the book she goes on to take illegal copies of files and even withholds information from other departments, despite knowing the bombers are still at large.
We are supposed to think that Sarah is determined to find the culprits and simply believes her fellow agencies are inept. But I couldn’t help but think that no FBI agent would hold onto pertinent information while the threat of another attack would be so high. She is more concerned about being frozen out of the case than the safety of the public, which left a sour taste in my mouth.
Ellery Durrant’s character is just as unappealing. Having been in corporate law all her life, something happens and she decides to quit and make bespoke furniture. Inexplicably, she’s awfully good at it and is making vast amounts of pieces, all of which are beautiful and successfully sell. The lack of realism of someone who had recently entered the artistic world was again, quite jarring.
When we first see Ellery she is dating someone who fitted in with the old corporate her but not the new artistic her. We’re supposed to believe that she has had a complete personality transplant and none of her old world resonates with her.
Before long the main characters meet and there’s an immediate, and totally unbelievable, connection between them. We see Sarah breaking the law and jeopardising her job to see Ellery. We see Ellery flip-flopping from not trusting Sarah to being completely besotted with her.
At one point, Ellery’s father has flown into town and is helping Ellery after she has been accused of being in cahoots with terrorists. In one scene, he is apparently sadder than Ellery has ever seen him and in the next breath she is mooning over Sarah again without a second thought for dear old dad.
Both characters have a single-mindedness to be with one another that leads them to do ridiculous things. The strange connection they are supposed to have is completely unrealistic and we are supposed to believe that they are in love with each other after a handful of meetings. They fall into bed, despite Ellery being suspected of aiding terrorists and Sarah being sent to find out what she can about her.
From a romance point of view, I didn’t like the characters and I certainly didn’t like how they got together. The whole thing left me cold. There were a few point of view infractions, but all of these occurred when Sarah and Ellery were sharing a scene. Mainly this threw me out of the story and was confusing, but it also led me to wonder if the romance was somehow crowbarred into a crime novel which had no romance before. I often struggled to follow some of the dialogue and felt a dialogue tag or two could have smoothed out the journey through the book.
The plot was a little questionable in places but you do make allowances for fiction. However the strange actions of the characters destroyed any hope of the plot being able to carry the book. Especially when the secretive reason why Ellery left her profession is revealed, where she apparently does nothing in relation to a very serious crime having supposedly been committed. Nothing except quit and start a new career as a successful upcycler.
August 19, 2015
There are only two authors who have separate folders on my Kindle and Carsen Taite is one of them (the other is Radclyffe). This is another legal thriller with romantic elements where love is never simple or easy. As a practising lawyer the author knows of what she writes on the legal aspects… In this stand alone story the main character Ellery is a lawyer who has given up the big money and the fancy life style to hand make furniture from mainly reclaimed wood. No one really understands why Ellery has given up her lucrative career and she isn’t ready to tell people. This leads to conflict and confusion between Ellery and her family and ex colleagues. Then an ex-client is the subject of an investigation by Homeland Security and suddenly life isn’t simple any more…
The characters are well developed and I really like Ellery (though not as much as the second main character FBI Agent Sarah likes Ellery!). The plot is credible and exciting and the suspicions and doubt woven through various parts of the narrative do make you wonder who can be trusted. At all times Ellery is true to what she believes even when it makes things difficult for her.
I wish I could purchase some of the hand made pieces lovingly described, though even if they were real I couldn’t afford them because Ellery becomes quite famous – not how she would have wished it to happen though.
An excellent read, a well crafted story and as ever Ms Taite won’t let you down. I was given a copy of this book by Netgalley in return for an honest review.
The characters are well developed and I really like Ellery (though not as much as the second main character FBI Agent Sarah likes Ellery!). The plot is credible and exciting and the suspicions and doubt woven through various parts of the narrative do make you wonder who can be trusted. At all times Ellery is true to what she believes even when it makes things difficult for her.
I wish I could purchase some of the hand made pieces lovingly described, though even if they were real I couldn’t afford them because Ellery becomes quite famous – not how she would have wished it to happen though.
An excellent read, a well crafted story and as ever Ms Taite won’t let you down. I was given a copy of this book by Netgalley in return for an honest review.
May 19, 2016
I really, really liked this book. It was very well written, had multiple characters with their own lives and agenda, the dialogue was right on point and even with all the angst, it was totally believable. Stupid me picked up the book on the way to bed thinking I'd just read enough to put me to sleep, then I noticed daylight seeping in around the window. Last thing I remember thinking was I was going to seriously hate myself in about 3 hours when the alarm went off.
I am a sucker for well written even flowing prose, stories are hard to follow when the writing jumps all over the place. I also very much appreciate sharing the lives of the characters and the depth to which they are fleshed out as without it, it is like a drive-by reading. And why bother if that is the experience of reading a book.
This author is fast becoming a favorite!
I am a sucker for well written even flowing prose, stories are hard to follow when the writing jumps all over the place. I also very much appreciate sharing the lives of the characters and the depth to which they are fleshed out as without it, it is like a drive-by reading. And why bother if that is the experience of reading a book.
This author is fast becoming a favorite!
September 16, 2015
Action/adventure is a favorite genre of mine both in books and in movies. With Reasonable Doubt, Carsen Taite totally blew me away and I gave me a new favorite author for the genre. The mix of real world actions and possibilities along with two very strong and determined characters is a great combination that had me staying up to all hours of the night in order to finish it. The story line that Taite weaves for the reader is incredibly engaging and parallels events that are pulled from the headlines that added to the realism of the twists and turns as slowly the story is revealed to the reader. If you are looking for a story that will keep you guessing until the end I highly recommend Reasonable Doubt.
August 23, 2015
I really enjoyed this read!
I thought the story line was set up well and kept you wanting more as you read each page. I liked both of the characters and thought they were perfect for each other. In particular I enjoyed the banter between them where you could feel the tension and intensity that they had together.
One thing that did fall short for me is the ending. I have found this with Carsen Taite books in the past that she always has an abrupt ending. I just felt we could have enjoyed a few more pages giving us a small glimpse into the future.
Otherwise very much enjoyed the read and would recommend it.
I was given this book by NetGalley for an honest review.
I thought the story line was set up well and kept you wanting more as you read each page. I liked both of the characters and thought they were perfect for each other. In particular I enjoyed the banter between them where you could feel the tension and intensity that they had together.
One thing that did fall short for me is the ending. I have found this with Carsen Taite books in the past that she always has an abrupt ending. I just felt we could have enjoyed a few more pages giving us a small glimpse into the future.
Otherwise very much enjoyed the read and would recommend it.
I was given this book by NetGalley for an honest review.
July 16, 2016
Not bad. It could probably have been a third shorter if there weren't so much, "did I make the right decision changing my life like this?" from the two main characters, but overall, a fun read. The only other complaint I have were all of the acronyms. I still have no idea what ICE is.
But for a nice, light terrorism/law enforcement story, it was definitely worth it. And to be honest, I'm considering getting the next book in the series which has just come out.
But for a nice, light terrorism/law enforcement story, it was definitely worth it. And to be honest, I'm considering getting the next book in the series which has just come out.
October 28, 2015
Really good book, great plot with great characters.
December 20, 2017
3.5 Stars.
I really love Taite’s writing style and her incredible use of intrigue and drama to build a book I can’t stop reading. I’m quite fond of cop dramas and practically anything f/f nowadays, and her work always has both of those in abundance.
My only con is the quick easy ending. I’m probably used to books requiring sequels and overly fleshed out issues. The lack of consequence and reality at the conclusion and the fade to black/happiness is my only gripe. Beyond that, a quick entertaining read that kept me wanting more.
I really love Taite’s writing style and her incredible use of intrigue and drama to build a book I can’t stop reading. I’m quite fond of cop dramas and practically anything f/f nowadays, and her work always has both of those in abundance.
My only con is the quick easy ending. I’m probably used to books requiring sequels and overly fleshed out issues. The lack of consequence and reality at the conclusion and the fade to black/happiness is my only gripe. Beyond that, a quick entertaining read that kept me wanting more.
September 14, 2017
Racist, anti-islam garbage. I stuck with it probably longer than I should have because I couldn't believe the author was actually being this trash, I figured it had to be a red herring. But nope. It's just racist.
July 25, 2025
wanted more angst at the end then this would have been perfect
March 22, 2017
Review tba
August 29, 2015
Netgalley
Very fast paced thriller that was fun to read.
But that is pretty much all it has going for it (And that's more than many books have going for them). The characters weren't overly well developed, not that they were badly developed, I just feel there could have been more meat to them. The baddies were very stereotypical. No attempts to further analyze motivations than the black/white arguments we know from the media. This just isn't the medium for more and yet the book is somewhat lacking because of it.
Once more, for my taste, the ending was way too sudden and honestly, I could have done without the romance entirely.
Very fast paced thriller that was fun to read.
But that is pretty much all it has going for it (And that's more than many books have going for them). The characters weren't overly well developed, not that they were badly developed, I just feel there could have been more meat to them. The baddies were very stereotypical. No attempts to further analyze motivations than the black/white arguments we know from the media. This just isn't the medium for more and yet the book is somewhat lacking because of it.
Once more, for my taste, the ending was way too sudden and honestly, I could have done without the romance entirely.
Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews