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Hailey Dean #3
Murder in the Courthouse
Hailey Dean is in trouble again—and this time it could be deadly!
Hailey Dean, the prosecutor who never lost a case, heads to Savannah as an expert witness on the sensational Julie Love-Adams murder trial, but she soon finds herself embroiled in a mystery . . . and an unexpected love affair.
At the baggage claim, Hailey is greeted by the handsome Lieutenant Chase Billings. On their way to her hotel, they hear an APB for a murder that has just been committed. When they race to the scene, they find Alton Turner, a courthouse sheriff known for being as neat as a pin. Only he’s a hot mess now, lying sprawled in a pool of blood, severed in half by a garage door.
Hailey, never one to mind her own business, jump-starts Turner’s murder investigation while juggling the Julie Love trial. The timing of the trial and murder could be a coincidence, but everyone knows there is no such thing as coincidence in criminal law!
Next, Elle Odom, a gorgeous court clerk, is poisoned at the courthouse cafeteria coffee bar. Then, the police tech who helps find Elle’s missing handbag (stuffed with her life-saving Epi-pen) turns into alligator bait at an amusement park ... and that’s just the beginning.
With Lt. Billings falling hard for Hailey, she digs deeper to find a killer with a very mysterious agenda . . . knowing full well the next murder victim may very well be herself.
It's crime sleuth Hailey Dean at her best!
Hailey Dean, the prosecutor who never lost a case, heads to Savannah as an expert witness on the sensational Julie Love-Adams murder trial, but she soon finds herself embroiled in a mystery . . . and an unexpected love affair.
At the baggage claim, Hailey is greeted by the handsome Lieutenant Chase Billings. On their way to her hotel, they hear an APB for a murder that has just been committed. When they race to the scene, they find Alton Turner, a courthouse sheriff known for being as neat as a pin. Only he’s a hot mess now, lying sprawled in a pool of blood, severed in half by a garage door.
Hailey, never one to mind her own business, jump-starts Turner’s murder investigation while juggling the Julie Love trial. The timing of the trial and murder could be a coincidence, but everyone knows there is no such thing as coincidence in criminal law!
Next, Elle Odom, a gorgeous court clerk, is poisoned at the courthouse cafeteria coffee bar. Then, the police tech who helps find Elle’s missing handbag (stuffed with her life-saving Epi-pen) turns into alligator bait at an amusement park ... and that’s just the beginning.
With Lt. Billings falling hard for Hailey, she digs deeper to find a killer with a very mysterious agenda . . . knowing full well the next murder victim may very well be herself.
It's crime sleuth Hailey Dean at her best!
273 pages, Hardcover
Published October 11, 2016
90 people are currently reading
1359 people want to read
About the author
Nancy Grace
21 books233 followersNancy Grace is an American legal commentator and former prosecutor. She frequently discusses issues from what she describes as a "victims' rights" standpoint. She was the host of Nancy Grace from 2005 to 2016 on HLN, and she was the host of Court TV's Closing Arguments from 1996–2007.
Librarian’s note: There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.
Librarian’s note: There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 71 reviews
March 18, 2021
3.5 stars
This is the third book in Nancy Grace's 'Hailey Dean' mystery series. Most people probably know Nancy Grace from her former television show on HLN, where she discussed serious crimes.....and skewered the (alleged) perps. Nancy's main character, Hailey Dean, has a lot in common with the author.
*****
Character background: Hailey Dean went into law enforcement after her fiancé, Will, was murdered shortly before their wedding. Hailey was devastated, and was driven to get justice for crime victims. Hailey was a hard-hitting, successful prosecutor in Atlanta for a decade before she moved to New York and hung her counseling shingle on a brownstone in Greenwich Village.
The story: In Savannah, Georgia, Todd Adams is being tried for the murder of his nine-months-pregnant wife, Lucie Love-Adams.
Todd claimed to be fishing off Tybee Island when Julie went missing on Christmas Eve and - coincidentally?? - the bodies of Julie and the baby washed up on that very island. Moreover, photos prove that cheating Todd went to a Christmas Eve party with a pretty blonde in a red strapless dress. (Remind you of the real life case of Scott and Laci Peterson?)
At the request of the Savannah district attorney Hailey is flying down to profile Todd's behavior and to testify at his trial. Hailey is met at the airport by her good friend, and former professional partner/investigator, Garland Fincher (Finch). Finch is a tall, black, buff ex-marine, who arrested Todd for the murders of his wife and child.
As Finch is driving Hailey to her hotel they hear an urgent dispatch about a dead body, and detour to offer their help. At the death scene Hailey and Finch observe several uniformed police and a corpse that's been nearly cut in half by a garage door. When Detective Chase Billings arrives he and the other cops seem to agree that it's an accidental death. However, Hailey convinces them it's a homicide and proceeds to enmesh herself in the investigation.
The victim is identified as Alton Turner, a desk cop at the courthouse/Sheriff's Department - who's in charge of prisoner transport.
The Alton Turner death was called in to 911 by Miss Kacynthia Sikes, an older woman who gets gussied up in a trendy workout suit every morning, brushes out her long red hair, and power walks around nice neighborhoods. The purpose of Kacynthia's exercise is twofold: to maintain her slim figure and to meet eligible gentlemen.
As it happens, Kacynthia was a 'Penthouse Pet' in 1969 and 1975, and she mentions this in every conservation, including the 911 call she makes after spotting Alton's body. This is all pretty hilarious.....a bit of comic relief.
At the Adams trial the next day, Hailey starts to worry about the state convicting Todd Adams. The prosecuting attorney is kind of a quiet wimp.....while the defense attorney is a loud showman who knows every trick in the book. And you never know what a jury will do!
Pretty soon Hailey gets tangled up with another courthouse death. A strikingly pretty courthouse calendar clerk, Elle Odom, drops dead during lunch with a bunch of jurors. Courthouse whispers suggest Elle had a stroke or heart attack but Hailey suspects murder - and plans to prove it.
Luckily for Hailey, there are plenty of breaks in the Adams trial, which gives her a chance to investigate the Turner and Odom deaths. Hailey visits relevant sites, talks to people, Googles for information, and so on. Hailey consults with Detective Billings during her inquiries.....and sparks ignite between the pair.
On the downside, someone doesn't like Hailey nosing around, and pushes her in front of a bus.
As if there's not enough drama at the courthouse, wildlife-loving clerk Cecil Snodgrass - who helped Hailey with some business at the lost and found - 'wins' a golden ticket to Gator Land. Cecil happily takes a day off to go.....which isn't a great idea. (Doesn't Cecil know it's sketchy when you win a contest you didn't enter? LOL)
All this leads to a dramatic climax where all the book's crimes are solved. I really liked this part, which has a nice twist.
The book is very atmospheric, and I got a good sense of Savannah as the characters drive around, look at historic structures, smell the breeze, gaze at the scenery, eat in nice restaurants, and so on. In fact there's a little too much of this. For example, Snodgrass's day at Gator Land is so detailed that I felt like I was reading the theme park guide (though I'm now all up on feeding gators and shopping in the Gator Land gift store. Ha ha ha).
Nevertheless, I liked the book's 'ambiance' - and appreciated the bits of humor in the story. I laughed out loud when Finch was muttering non-stop about a 'mistake' he made....though no one was paying attention to him.
All in all, this is an engaging mystery that I'd recommend to fans of the genre.
Thanks to Netgalley, the author (Nancy Grace), and the publisher (BenBella Books) for a copy of the book.
You can follow my reviews at https://reviewsbybarbsaffer.blogspot....
November 7, 2024
While on the way to testify in a case (as an expert witness) that looks similar to Scott Peterson’s murder case of his wife Lacey and their unborn child, main protagonist Hailey Dean and her crime investigator, Garland Fincher hear over the police radio of an “officer down.” They decide to stop by and check it out.
As it turns out, the officer down was Alton Turner, a desk officer who was very meticulous at his job and well-liked. The first officers on the scene thought his death was an accident, but Hailey Dean, a seasoned former prosecutor who is now a therapist, could tell it was murder, and pointed out her observations to the homicide detective on duty.
For readers, we can’t help but wonder if this murder has anything to do with the current trial that Hailey has been brought in to testify for the prosecution.
When another murder occurs of a court clerk at the courthouse, (Hence: the title of the book!), Hailey can’t help but wonder if her demise is linked to Alton Turner’s murder.
What will Hailey discover?
Apparently, Hailey Dean mysteries are a series by this infamous author who is an American legal commentor and television journalist. This is the 3rd and final one in the series, which was originally published in 2016. I have not read her earlier books in this series. And, even though I haven’t read the previous two books at this point, I still felt I could read this one as a stand-alone.
I am, however, curious as to why the author hasn’t published anything further since this book. In researching that answer, I discovered that Hallmark did create a Hailey Dean Mystery movie series which has taken up a considerable amount of the author’s time. Perhaps this is why?
One thing is clear about this book, the author knows her way around a courtroom and a crime scene. Her characters are well-fleshed out, and some who may seem comical in nature, do reflect a bit of what we as readers would normally imagine if we were to meet them in person. Or see them in a Hallmark movie version.
This was a twisty, somewhat over-the-top thriller mystery with what appeared to be close to a HEA ending. And, that ending, might be what answers the question as to why this is the last Hailey Dean book. (No spoilers from me.)
As it turns out, the officer down was Alton Turner, a desk officer who was very meticulous at his job and well-liked. The first officers on the scene thought his death was an accident, but Hailey Dean, a seasoned former prosecutor who is now a therapist, could tell it was murder, and pointed out her observations to the homicide detective on duty.
For readers, we can’t help but wonder if this murder has anything to do with the current trial that Hailey has been brought in to testify for the prosecution.
When another murder occurs of a court clerk at the courthouse, (Hence: the title of the book!), Hailey can’t help but wonder if her demise is linked to Alton Turner’s murder.
What will Hailey discover?
Apparently, Hailey Dean mysteries are a series by this infamous author who is an American legal commentor and television journalist. This is the 3rd and final one in the series, which was originally published in 2016. I have not read her earlier books in this series. And, even though I haven’t read the previous two books at this point, I still felt I could read this one as a stand-alone.
I am, however, curious as to why the author hasn’t published anything further since this book. In researching that answer, I discovered that Hallmark did create a Hailey Dean Mystery movie series which has taken up a considerable amount of the author’s time. Perhaps this is why?
One thing is clear about this book, the author knows her way around a courtroom and a crime scene. Her characters are well-fleshed out, and some who may seem comical in nature, do reflect a bit of what we as readers would normally imagine if we were to meet them in person. Or see them in a Hallmark movie version.
This was a twisty, somewhat over-the-top thriller mystery with what appeared to be close to a HEA ending. And, that ending, might be what answers the question as to why this is the last Hailey Dean book. (No spoilers from me.)
September 13, 2017
This is the third Nancy Grace book featuring Hailey Dean, once a very successful Special Prosecutor, now a psychologist who is frequently called on to testify in murder cases. Which is exactly what has happened.
Todd Adams is accused of killing his 9-month-pregnant wife and their unborn child. Their bodies are found in a body of water where coincidentally, he had been fishing. Think Scott and Lacey Peterson of a few years back.
She meets her old partner, now crime investigator, Garland Finch at the Savannah airport. Hearing an All Points Bulletin on a murder that has just been reported, they decide to swing by to see if they can help. What they find is a courthouse sheriff, severed in half by a garage door.
Hailey does what she normally does ... starts investigating a case that isn't even hers. Thankfully the local police are tolerant. What they suspect is that this murder has something to do with the Adams case that begins the next day.
That's only the start of a killing spree ... courthouse regulars seem to be dropping like flies ..and Hailey may be next on the list. But who wants these particular people dead? And why?
Although third in this series, it does well as a stand alone. There is some basic info that has been in both her previous books (a lot of it resembles Nancy Grace's real life) but there are no spoilers, so read them in order .. or not.
I like the characters .. they have significant substance. Even though Hailey resembles the author in many different ways, the writing is done so well so as to forget the author and get lost in the story. There's a very little romance this time around as Hailey has caught the eye of Detective Chase Billings. But he's in Savannah and she's going back to New York City.
The author, being an attorney herself, brings realism to the courtroom scenes. There are a few surprising twists and turns that keep the reader engaged.
Many thanks to the author / BenBella Books / Netgalley for the advance copy of this crime thriller. Opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
Todd Adams is accused of killing his 9-month-pregnant wife and their unborn child. Their bodies are found in a body of water where coincidentally, he had been fishing. Think Scott and Lacey Peterson of a few years back.
She meets her old partner, now crime investigator, Garland Finch at the Savannah airport. Hearing an All Points Bulletin on a murder that has just been reported, they decide to swing by to see if they can help. What they find is a courthouse sheriff, severed in half by a garage door.
Hailey does what she normally does ... starts investigating a case that isn't even hers. Thankfully the local police are tolerant. What they suspect is that this murder has something to do with the Adams case that begins the next day.
That's only the start of a killing spree ... courthouse regulars seem to be dropping like flies ..and Hailey may be next on the list. But who wants these particular people dead? And why?
Although third in this series, it does well as a stand alone. There is some basic info that has been in both her previous books (a lot of it resembles Nancy Grace's real life) but there are no spoilers, so read them in order .. or not.
I like the characters .. they have significant substance. Even though Hailey resembles the author in many different ways, the writing is done so well so as to forget the author and get lost in the story. There's a very little romance this time around as Hailey has caught the eye of Detective Chase Billings. But he's in Savannah and she's going back to New York City.
The author, being an attorney herself, brings realism to the courtroom scenes. There are a few surprising twists and turns that keep the reader engaged.
Many thanks to the author / BenBella Books / Netgalley for the advance copy of this crime thriller. Opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
September 21, 2017
(Thank you to NetGalley and the Publisher for allowing me to read this book for an honest review)
Death in the Courthouse by Nancy Grace is the best Hailey Dean Mystery yet! This is the third book in the Hailey Dean Mysteries and they keep getting better. I enjoyed reading this very cleverly written mystery. The setting for this latest book is in Savannah, GA. I love Savannah and being able to read about some of my favorite places in Savannah and Tybee Island was like a visit. As you read the story you will have flashbacks to the Scott Peterson case, but hang on…this story has some unexpected twists!
Hailey Dean is going to Savannah to possibly be a consultation witness for the prosecution in a case involving a young pregnant woman who was murdered, Julie Love-Adams. The body of the mother and baby girl washed upon the shores at Tybee Island. Hailey’s friend and former PI, Garland Fincher, meets her at the airport to take her to The Hyatt. They hear a call for assistance and the code is for an officer being down. They race to the scene and Hailey is suspicious this is not an accidental death. As she looks closely at the body and the blood pattern, she discovers reasons to caution the first officers to call the ME.
I won’t post spoilers, but there are more victims who fall prey to a ruthless killer during the trial. The deaths are made to look like accidents or due to illness and then Hailey becomes a target and …well, I can’t tell you…You must read the book! Oh, and is romance in the air for Hailey? Get the book and grab some tea or coffee and read what happens with Hailey Dean. Enjoy!
Death in the Courthouse by Nancy Grace is the best Hailey Dean Mystery yet! This is the third book in the Hailey Dean Mysteries and they keep getting better. I enjoyed reading this very cleverly written mystery. The setting for this latest book is in Savannah, GA. I love Savannah and being able to read about some of my favorite places in Savannah and Tybee Island was like a visit. As you read the story you will have flashbacks to the Scott Peterson case, but hang on…this story has some unexpected twists!
Hailey Dean is going to Savannah to possibly be a consultation witness for the prosecution in a case involving a young pregnant woman who was murdered, Julie Love-Adams. The body of the mother and baby girl washed upon the shores at Tybee Island. Hailey’s friend and former PI, Garland Fincher, meets her at the airport to take her to The Hyatt. They hear a call for assistance and the code is for an officer being down. They race to the scene and Hailey is suspicious this is not an accidental death. As she looks closely at the body and the blood pattern, she discovers reasons to caution the first officers to call the ME.
I won’t post spoilers, but there are more victims who fall prey to a ruthless killer during the trial. The deaths are made to look like accidents or due to illness and then Hailey becomes a target and …well, I can’t tell you…You must read the book! Oh, and is romance in the air for Hailey? Get the book and grab some tea or coffee and read what happens with Hailey Dean. Enjoy!
September 21, 2017
Thank you to NetGalley and BenBella Books for the e-ARC of this title in exchange for my honest opinion. I'd probably have gone closer to a 3.5 than a true 4 for this one, for reasons I'll explain. On a good note, I enjoyed this, and I'm definitely going to read the first 2 in the series. I don't know how I missed them before.
This is the third Nancy Grace book featuring Hailey Dean, once a very successful Special Prosecutor, now a psychologist who is frequently called on to testify in murder cases. Which is exactly what has happened.
I adore books set in the south, with my favorite being Savannah. So, there are points for that, with a nice actual feel to Savannah. I also liked the mystery to this one, and I'll have to say I didn't see the twist coming at the end. At all. The plot centers on "Todd," who is accused of killing his wife when she was 9 months pregnant. Take away the location, and this is very, very close to the Scott Peterson trial. That's why I take away 1/2 point, because as an avid mystery/true crime follower, I kept putting Scott Peterson as the character and it bothered me when things were just slightly off kilter. I know Nancy Grace's background, and I love seeing her put that into the backstory of this character. I liked the other characters brought into the story, and she did a good job with the courtroom action (naturally.) There are a series of other murders that to me would've screamed serial killer, but in this case, somehow, no one was putting them together. That also suspended a bit of disbelief. BUT, the cons were few, the pros were many and I'd recommend this.
This is the third Nancy Grace book featuring Hailey Dean, once a very successful Special Prosecutor, now a psychologist who is frequently called on to testify in murder cases. Which is exactly what has happened.
I adore books set in the south, with my favorite being Savannah. So, there are points for that, with a nice actual feel to Savannah. I also liked the mystery to this one, and I'll have to say I didn't see the twist coming at the end. At all. The plot centers on "Todd," who is accused of killing his wife when she was 9 months pregnant. Take away the location, and this is very, very close to the Scott Peterson trial. That's why I take away 1/2 point, because as an avid mystery/true crime follower, I kept putting Scott Peterson as the character and it bothered me when things were just slightly off kilter. I know Nancy Grace's background, and I love seeing her put that into the backstory of this character. I liked the other characters brought into the story, and she did a good job with the courtroom action (naturally.) There are a series of other murders that to me would've screamed serial killer, but in this case, somehow, no one was putting them together. That also suspended a bit of disbelief. BUT, the cons were few, the pros were many and I'd recommend this.
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March 26, 2018Have you ever watched a TV show and got drawn into it? Have you ever wondered what being a detective is like? If so Nancy Grace’s Murder in the Courthouse is the book for you! It is the third installment in the life of detective Hailey Dean. The book is rather short, but is definitely a page turner. Every page was jaw dropping and makes you think as the reader: What if this happened in real life? The book is a quick read that is 288 pages long. The novel reads just like a movie. I’m not a person who enjoys reading but this book certainly made it fun and exciting. The book makes you question who actually did the crime and if Hailey Dean will survive?
Murder in the Courthouse is a novel centered around Detective Hailey Dean. She works from the New York precinct, but gets called down to Savannah, Florida while on her vacation. The book starts off with an airport scene. Hailey Dean gets a call from a detective in Florida. He reaches out to Hailey about a murder that involved an unborn child and a mother. Throughout the book, Hailey is being followed by this mysterious person. This individual tries to prevent Hailey from finding out who the murderer is. The question at foot is will Hailey make it to the end of the book? Will she fight back and find out who is trying to kill her? Why is the murderer targeting these people?
Hailey Dean is the main character. The other characters are her partner Nick, and the news reporter who is at every crime before Hailey gets there. In the other books in this detective series , Hailey Dean has solved crimes easily. However this book is suspenseful as it is hard for her to piece the evidence together. I highly recommend this novel to anyone who likes CSI, Criminal Minds, and Law and Order. I would also encourage anyone who likes to be drawn to the edge of their seat, or wants to work in criminal justice to read this book!
Reviewer: Nathan Gildersleeve
Murder in the Courthouse is a novel centered around Detective Hailey Dean. She works from the New York precinct, but gets called down to Savannah, Florida while on her vacation. The book starts off with an airport scene. Hailey Dean gets a call from a detective in Florida. He reaches out to Hailey about a murder that involved an unborn child and a mother. Throughout the book, Hailey is being followed by this mysterious person. This individual tries to prevent Hailey from finding out who the murderer is. The question at foot is will Hailey make it to the end of the book? Will she fight back and find out who is trying to kill her? Why is the murderer targeting these people?
Hailey Dean is the main character. The other characters are her partner Nick, and the news reporter who is at every crime before Hailey gets there. In the other books in this detective series , Hailey Dean has solved crimes easily. However this book is suspenseful as it is hard for her to piece the evidence together. I highly recommend this novel to anyone who likes CSI, Criminal Minds, and Law and Order. I would also encourage anyone who likes to be drawn to the edge of their seat, or wants to work in criminal justice to read this book!
Reviewer: Nathan Gildersleeve
November 14, 2017
I came away with questions While the story was a good one, there were areas where you knew that the deaths were all connected, but you couldn't be certain of how. I really wanted to know how she got her things back so many times when she walked away leaving them someplace or in one case where she is forced in front of a bus, her items go flying out into the street, but no where does it say that they survived being flung out (possibly run over), it just mentions that they were left or flung. I know silly things, but given that they had information on them for the court case and Ms. Grace makes a point of saying how everything for the case is on her Ipad and Iphone and her papers.
The book also seemed a bit autobiographical at times and also fictional at others. I was interested in this book compared to the movie version that had been shown on Hallmark. This book has some like the movie, but not much. I know that I will probably read the other books by Nancy Grace.
The book also seemed a bit autobiographical at times and also fictional at others. I was interested in this book compared to the movie version that had been shown on Hallmark. This book has some like the movie, but not much. I know that I will probably read the other books by Nancy Grace.
July 7, 2017
Double yuck!! Badly written, ridiculous character - what cop gets involved in a case in another jurisdiction?? Pat ending with all the strings coming together with out any foreshadowing at all. Do not recommend!
October 24, 2016
The author takes the premise of a headline from several years ago adds some dramatic twists, several unique characters, and creates an intriguing story.
Narrator Nicol Zanzarella does a superb job giving distinct voices to the characters. Her varied depth of emotions and vocals enhance the story. Zanzarella’s interruption adds a spark to the sentiments of the story.
The characters are colorful and likable. The protagonist is determined and dedicated to her work. The minor storyline unfolding in the background adds a bit of tantalizing atmosphere. The Savannah setting comes alive through the author’s rich descriptions and eye for detail. The backdrop is perfect for the feel of this story.
As the courtroom scenes play out, a murderer target several victims leaving you to ponder how they are all connected and who the killer is. The story moves at a fair pace. While there were several areas an excess of seemly unnecessary information was included the story flows smoothly. This is the third installment in the Hailey Dean Mystery series but can be read/listened to on its own.
MURDER IN THE COURTHOUSE has twists and turns to keep you guessing. Just when you think all is safe, another shoe drops. This is an entertaining story filled with surprises, murder, romance, and suspense.
FTC Full Disclosure – A copy of this audio book was sent to me by the publisher. However, receiving the complimentary copy did not influence my review. The thoughts are completely my own and given honestly and freely.
Narrator Nicol Zanzarella does a superb job giving distinct voices to the characters. Her varied depth of emotions and vocals enhance the story. Zanzarella’s interruption adds a spark to the sentiments of the story.
The characters are colorful and likable. The protagonist is determined and dedicated to her work. The minor storyline unfolding in the background adds a bit of tantalizing atmosphere. The Savannah setting comes alive through the author’s rich descriptions and eye for detail. The backdrop is perfect for the feel of this story.
As the courtroom scenes play out, a murderer target several victims leaving you to ponder how they are all connected and who the killer is. The story moves at a fair pace. While there were several areas an excess of seemly unnecessary information was included the story flows smoothly. This is the third installment in the Hailey Dean Mystery series but can be read/listened to on its own.
MURDER IN THE COURTHOUSE has twists and turns to keep you guessing. Just when you think all is safe, another shoe drops. This is an entertaining story filled with surprises, murder, romance, and suspense.
FTC Full Disclosure – A copy of this audio book was sent to me by the publisher. However, receiving the complimentary copy did not influence my review. The thoughts are completely my own and given honestly and freely.
October 31, 2016
In Savannah, Georgia, Todd Adams is on trial for the murder of his wife and unborn child. New York prosecutor Hailey Dean arrives for the trial as an expert witness. As soon as she arrives, she becomes involved in investigating the murder of a courthouse sheriff. Then a clerk in the courthouse is poisoned. And the man who finds the clerk's missing purse is drawn out to alligator feeding grounds and used as feed. What do all these courthouse workers have in common? When Hailey Dean figures out the answer to this question, she will know who the murderer is.
This book reminded me of the Scott Peterson murder trial where he was convicted of murdering his 9 months pregnant wife Lacey. I've watched author Nancy Grace on TV for many years. She obviously uses her experience as a prosecutor as she describes crime scenes and relays trial procedures in the book. The scenes with the alligators were quite descriptive and an original way to kill someone.
This book reminded me of the Scott Peterson murder trial where he was convicted of murdering his 9 months pregnant wife Lacey. I've watched author Nancy Grace on TV for many years. She obviously uses her experience as a prosecutor as she describes crime scenes and relays trial procedures in the book. The scenes with the alligators were quite descriptive and an original way to kill someone.
November 6, 2016
Hailey arrives from NY to Savannah where she will be appearing as an expert witness in a high society murder trial. On her way to the hotel, she becomes involved in a crime scene which will have connections to the murder trial. This book is very fast moving with a number of additional crimes taking place throughout the book; as yo turn the pages, you wonder what's next? I was surprised by the ending as I did not see it coming and I always enjoy books where I am surprised so kudos to Nancy Grace!
June 26, 2017
This will keep you guessing all the way to the end.
Haven't read a mind twisting end for a long time. Enjoyed every bit of it and expectantly look forward to more of Nancy Grace. Absolutely best mystery I've read in some time. Even eclipsed, if possible (not sure it could) the first three of J A Jance.
Haven't read a mind twisting end for a long time. Enjoyed every bit of it and expectantly look forward to more of Nancy Grace. Absolutely best mystery I've read in some time. Even eclipsed, if possible (not sure it could) the first three of J A Jance.
October 1, 2017
Title: Murder in the Courthouse - Haley Dean Mystery Book 3
Author: Nancy Grace
Publisher: BenBella Books
Published: 10-11-2016
Pages: 285
Genre: Mystery Thriller
Sub-Genre: Suspense, Drama, Suspense, Women Sleuths,
ISBN: 9781944648794
ASIN: B01ERNSCS2
Reviewed For Myself
Reviewer: DelAnne
Rating: 4,5 Stars
Called as an expert forensic witness for the prosecution in the Julie Love-Adams Murder trial. As connections slowly come to light between the murder trial and the strange death of Alton Turner, Haley Dean becomes the focus of the murderer. The question is , Who is it? The sociopath on trial, the mother who believes her son can do no wrong, or one of the other suspects Haley and Fincher are investigating. When Haley is nearly killed right under Fincher's nose, the two realize time is counting down and if Haley is not careful, she could be the next victim. On good thing is that Haley and Detective Chase Billings seem to finally be making some progress on the Romance front.
Will Haley survive to testify or will she finally be rejoined with her dead fiancé? Can she ferret out a Killer before a murdered is pushed to far and retaliates? Will Chase loose Haley before he can express his feeling toward her? Is Haley ready to let go of the pain of the past and embrace the joy and hope of the future?
My rating of "Murder in the Courthouse - Haley Dean Mystery Book 3" is out of 5 stars.
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Author: Nancy Grace
Publisher: BenBella Books
Published: 10-11-2016
Pages: 285
Genre: Mystery Thriller
Sub-Genre: Suspense, Drama, Suspense, Women Sleuths,
ISBN: 9781944648794
ASIN: B01ERNSCS2
Reviewed For Myself
Reviewer: DelAnne
Rating: 4,5 Stars
Called as an expert forensic witness for the prosecution in the Julie Love-Adams Murder trial. As connections slowly come to light between the murder trial and the strange death of Alton Turner, Haley Dean becomes the focus of the murderer. The question is , Who is it? The sociopath on trial, the mother who believes her son can do no wrong, or one of the other suspects Haley and Fincher are investigating. When Haley is nearly killed right under Fincher's nose, the two realize time is counting down and if Haley is not careful, she could be the next victim. On good thing is that Haley and Detective Chase Billings seem to finally be making some progress on the Romance front.
Will Haley survive to testify or will she finally be rejoined with her dead fiancé? Can she ferret out a Killer before a murdered is pushed to far and retaliates? Will Chase loose Haley before he can express his feeling toward her? Is Haley ready to let go of the pain of the past and embrace the joy and hope of the future?
My rating of "Murder in the Courthouse - Haley Dean Mystery Book 3" is out of 5 stars.
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October 3, 2017
Title: Murder in the Courthouse - Haley Dean Mystery Book 3
Author: Nancy Grace
Publisher: BenBella Books
Published: 9-26-2017
I received this book from NetGalley and BenBella Books in exchange for my honest review
Nancy Grace always puts a little of herself into her books. After all Haley Dean came out of her own experience of loosing her fiancé and changing her life dramatically. Knowing that you will realize she is meticulous to detail and authenticity. These books have some language and violence in them. Neither overloading the story or gratuitous to offend the reader.
Haley Dean is being called as forensic evidence expert in the case of The People Vs. Todd Adams for the murder of his late wife, Julie Love-Adams and their unborn son. When she arrives she is taken to the scene of the grizzly murder of Anton Turner. The man responsible to schedule the transporting of prisoners from their cells to the courthouse for trial. Turner has literally severed in two by his garage door. While police are thinking tragic accident, Haley points out the obvious signs of murder and staging of the scene.
Soon the two separate cased become tied together and Haley's own life is in Danger. When someone shoves her into busy traffic and she is near run over by a bus, Haley is determined to testify at Todd Adam's trial. So with smudged outfit and scraped knees and hands to takes the stand. Who is behind these "accidents"? Who wants Adam's cleared of charges so badly as to kill to get it? as you sort through clues and red herrings you will be surprised when Ms. Grace reveal the actual culprit and the reasoning behind it.
Author: Nancy Grace
Publisher: BenBella Books
Published: 9-26-2017
I received this book from NetGalley and BenBella Books in exchange for my honest review
Nancy Grace always puts a little of herself into her books. After all Haley Dean came out of her own experience of loosing her fiancé and changing her life dramatically. Knowing that you will realize she is meticulous to detail and authenticity. These books have some language and violence in them. Neither overloading the story or gratuitous to offend the reader.
Haley Dean is being called as forensic evidence expert in the case of The People Vs. Todd Adams for the murder of his late wife, Julie Love-Adams and their unborn son. When she arrives she is taken to the scene of the grizzly murder of Anton Turner. The man responsible to schedule the transporting of prisoners from their cells to the courthouse for trial. Turner has literally severed in two by his garage door. While police are thinking tragic accident, Haley points out the obvious signs of murder and staging of the scene.
Soon the two separate cased become tied together and Haley's own life is in Danger. When someone shoves her into busy traffic and she is near run over by a bus, Haley is determined to testify at Todd Adam's trial. So with smudged outfit and scraped knees and hands to takes the stand. Who is behind these "accidents"? Who wants Adam's cleared of charges so badly as to kill to get it? as you sort through clues and red herrings you will be surprised when Ms. Grace reveal the actual culprit and the reasoning behind it.
October 4, 2017
OK, I admit to watching Nancy Grace years ago before she was quite as…Nancy Grace as she is now. Recently I’ve just thought of her as the woman-in-danger-true-crime obsessed blonde who is quick to label males suspects as guilty (admittedly, she is often right).
Apparently, she has written other novels, including two others featuring the protagonist Hailey Dean, the prosecutor who has never lost a case. In this third in the series, Hailey goes to Savannah, GA to testify as an expert witness and, while there, she gets embroiled in other murders…so far, so good. But the details of a man murdering his pregnant wife and then hers and the baby’s (fetus’s?) bodies washing up after being dumped in a body of water…it made me wish Nancy had written a more original plot. It isn’t like she was writing a roman a clef — too many differences. In any case, that kept getting in the way of my being able to just go with the story and assess this book fairly.
I do think that this might be perfect for the people who want something light with a mystery and some twists to read while sitting on the beach. Nothing that makes you think too much, you know? But it just wasn’t my thing.
Thanks to BenBella Books and NetGalley for a copy of this title in exchange for my honest review. Two stars.
Apparently, she has written other novels, including two others featuring the protagonist Hailey Dean, the prosecutor who has never lost a case. In this third in the series, Hailey goes to Savannah, GA to testify as an expert witness and, while there, she gets embroiled in other murders…so far, so good. But the details of a man murdering his pregnant wife and then hers and the baby’s (fetus’s?) bodies washing up after being dumped in a body of water…it made me wish Nancy had written a more original plot. It isn’t like she was writing a roman a clef — too many differences. In any case, that kept getting in the way of my being able to just go with the story and assess this book fairly.
I do think that this might be perfect for the people who want something light with a mystery and some twists to read while sitting on the beach. Nothing that makes you think too much, you know? But it just wasn’t my thing.
Thanks to BenBella Books and NetGalley for a copy of this title in exchange for my honest review. Two stars.
October 2, 2017
This masterfully crafted thriller grabs you in the prologue never lets go.
This novel is one of those "ripped from the headlines" kind of stories. In fact, the main storyline very closely parallels the Scott/Laci Peterson case. Hailey Dean is called to testify at the Julie Love-Adams trial. However, while she is there she becomes deeply entrenched in two other murder cases. At first glance these two other cases are seemingly accidents and unrelated, but Hailey and her old partner Finch can see through the smokescreen. She soon joins the investigation and helps the local authorities uncover evidence to tie the cases together.
As the investigation progresses, Hailey soon finds herself in very dangerous territory. Hailey slowly fits the pieces together, leasing up to a shocking and satisfying conclusion that you will not see coming.
I would recommend this book to fans of mysteries and thrillers, legal dramas, and police procedurals. I received this as a free ARC from BenBella Books on NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
This novel is one of those "ripped from the headlines" kind of stories. In fact, the main storyline very closely parallels the Scott/Laci Peterson case. Hailey Dean is called to testify at the Julie Love-Adams trial. However, while she is there she becomes deeply entrenched in two other murder cases. At first glance these two other cases are seemingly accidents and unrelated, but Hailey and her old partner Finch can see through the smokescreen. She soon joins the investigation and helps the local authorities uncover evidence to tie the cases together.
As the investigation progresses, Hailey soon finds herself in very dangerous territory. Hailey slowly fits the pieces together, leasing up to a shocking and satisfying conclusion that you will not see coming.
I would recommend this book to fans of mysteries and thrillers, legal dramas, and police procedurals. I received this as a free ARC from BenBella Books on NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
June 30, 2025
I’d actually rate this a 3.5, because I found no surprises in the plot line. As with the second novel, I got very tired of hearing about how much Hailey loved Will, her murdered fiancée. Plus, there was a consistency glitch: novel two states she kept her gown and veil in a box at the back of her closet. This novel claims it is hanging in the closet, because she refuses to box it up.
A lovely young pregnant wife is found in a river, drowned, with her feet tied to a concrete slab. Pretty much all that’s left is bones. A guy who works in a courthouse is found gruesomely cut in two by his garage door. Also, a pretty young woman working in the same courthouse drops dead during lunch. Naturally, Hailey notices odd signs around the guy cut in half, and is highly suspicious of the lunchroom death.
A lovely young pregnant wife is found in a river, drowned, with her feet tied to a concrete slab. Pretty much all that’s left is bones. A guy who works in a courthouse is found gruesomely cut in two by his garage door. Also, a pretty young woman working in the same courthouse drops dead during lunch. Naturally, Hailey notices odd signs around the guy cut in half, and is highly suspicious of the lunchroom death.
June 4, 2017
I just couldn't get into this one. I got about three quarters of the way through and gave up. Hailey was supposed to be testifying at a trial and there was all these theatrics by the defense counsel that resulted in delays. Meanwhile people were being murdered and you had no idea why. Not even Hailey, herself, could see where something was wrong. I felt as though I was constantly chasing my tail with no end in sight.
There was one scene where Hailey gets shoved in front of a bus. She's bleeding then all of a sudden she's up and heading back into the courtroom. Again, no clue why someone shoved her and her recovery was just way over the top in being believable. I gave it two stars because the writing itself wasn't bad and I've read the author before and enjoyed it.
There was one scene where Hailey gets shoved in front of a bus. She's bleeding then all of a sudden she's up and heading back into the courtroom. Again, no clue why someone shoved her and her recovery was just way over the top in being believable. I gave it two stars because the writing itself wasn't bad and I've read the author before and enjoyed it.
September 23, 2017
This is the third Nancy Grace book featuring Hailey Dean, an ex-very successful Special Prosecutor. She now is a psychologist and is often called upon to testify in murder cases as a State Expert.
I started reading this book with high hopes and anticipation, considering all the great reviews on Goodreads but I was hugely disappointed. While I found the plot and storyline to be quite interesting, the writing was extremely choppy and clunky. The protagonist's character is way too linear to hold the interest of the reader. I also found that there were quite a few repetitions of scenes and dialogues over the chapters.
I would have loved to finish reading the book for its interesting plot, but I could not bring myself to read anymore after finishing half of it due to the style of writing.
I started reading this book with high hopes and anticipation, considering all the great reviews on Goodreads but I was hugely disappointed. While I found the plot and storyline to be quite interesting, the writing was extremely choppy and clunky. The protagonist's character is way too linear to hold the interest of the reader. I also found that there were quite a few repetitions of scenes and dialogues over the chapters.
I would have loved to finish reading the book for its interesting plot, but I could not bring myself to read anymore after finishing half of it due to the style of writing.
April 29, 2020
A solid 2 1/2 stars. I wanted to love this book because I love the Hallmark movies based on the book and I love Nancy Grace. Parts of the book were very well-written, but other parts felt almost “immature” for lack of a better phrase. For example, characters speaking and their every sentence ending with an exclamation point. After a while, it felt like they were just yelling rather than conversing.
The storyline itself was pretty good and I didn’t figure out who was guilty and why so I liked that. The relationship between Hailey and Fincher was one I enjoyed and I liked the budding relationship between Hailey and Chase.
The storyline itself was pretty good and I didn’t figure out who was guilty and why so I liked that. The relationship between Hailey and Fincher was one I enjoyed and I liked the budding relationship between Hailey and Chase.
November 29, 2021
Just finished the third book in the Hailey Dean series. Hailey Dean is brought to Savannah to testify as an expert witness on the Julie Love-Adams murder trial. No sooner has she landed that she is sucked into a murder investigation. Make that two and an attempted murder on none other than herself. What the hell is going on in Savannah? Hailey Dean is determined to find out and to help put Julie Love's murderer, her husband behind bars.
The Julie Love-Adams murder is very similar to that of Scott and Laci Peterson. I liked the added twist that Nancy Grace included with the other murders. 🌞🌞🌞 (3/5 Stars)
#thehaileydeanseries #nancygrace #haileydeanseries #murderinthecourthouse
The Julie Love-Adams murder is very similar to that of Scott and Laci Peterson. I liked the added twist that Nancy Grace included with the other murders. 🌞🌞🌞 (3/5 Stars)
#thehaileydeanseries #nancygrace #haileydeanseries #murderinthecourthouse
October 10, 2017
Hailey Dean, a highly intelligent prosecutor goes to Georgia to testify in one case and finds herself embroiled in a second. She is somewhere between Sherlock Holmes and Monk the way she zeroes in on certain elements and quickly finds what is out of place. The pacing was great and Nancy Grace adds in some interesting plot twists. Now I want to read the rest of the series!
I obtained this book through Net Galley and have left an honest review.
I obtained this book through Net Galley and have left an honest review.
June 22, 2021
Nancy Grace’s prosecutor Hailey is a wiz at everything detectives are created to be great at. Analysis of crime scenes, detecting liars and frauds, and seeing potential crimes that may result from cover ups. In this murder mystery Hailey is brought in by the defense to help free a young man accused of murdering his pregnant wife. While in Savanna, she solves a new murder and proves that the criminal they have locked up is evil.
March 30, 2018
Well written. I didn't want to put it down. Nancy Grace does a great job of describing everything. It makes you feel as if you're right there experiencing it all. I've wanted to read the Hailey Dean series, and ended up starting with this one, third in the series. I definitely want to go back now and read the others. What an ending! All I can say is 'Kudos'.
January 6, 2017
Yuck. Clunky writing, no sense of humor, the perfect protagonist. I'd say "just shoot me" but of course, despite a gunshot wound, Hailey managed to take out a crazed killer with an oxygen tank. Lordy, help us all.
June 1, 2017
Enjoyed this legal thriller
I also enjoyed and kept on the edge of my seat, with the courtroom drama. Nancy had several seemingly unrelated crimes in the plot, but wove them together in s somewhat surprise ending.
I also enjoyed and kept on the edge of my seat, with the courtroom drama. Nancy had several seemingly unrelated crimes in the plot, but wove them together in s somewhat surprise ending.
July 18, 2017
Enjoyed the protagonist Hailey Dean and her sidekick, but improbably courtroom antics of defense attorney makes it seem this was not written by an attorney. Lawyers, defense or prosecutors, do not make jurors angry or insult either jurors or witnesses. How long did Nancy Grace practice law?
November 27, 2017
Plastic, stiff, stunted, fake are just a few words I would use to describe the dialogue in this book. Even the plot was a bit lame. I mean what killer confesses the entire crime in great detail like that?
Two stars is all I can muster up..
Two stars is all I can muster up..
December 4, 2019
It hits the ground running with a murder. Then it just takes you for a thrilling suspenseful ride. I was truly very good! Hailey does sort of work your nerves at times, but she's still good at what she does.
October 23, 2022
Kept you guessing right until the very end!! And never a dull moment!! I love the sense of humor she uses when describing her characters!! Her judicial experience has given her great insight into how people act and think, including juries, lawyers, and judges! Her best work so far!!
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