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Kate Lange #2
Indefensible
What if you were accused of a terrible crime—by your own child?On the heels of the explosive instant bestseller Damaged, the Kate Lange Thriller Series is back with heart-pounding suspense that will keep you on the edge of your seat."Indefensible is a superbly plotted and suspenseful thriller..."—Omnimystery
When Elise Vanderzell plummets from her bedroom balcony one gorgeous summer night, her children awaken to a nightmare.
Their mother is dead. Their father is charged with her murder.
"...the suspense is intense, the action shocking and the plot intriguing..."—RT Book Reviews
Lawyer Kate Lange knows all about nightmares. She's survived the darkest period of her troubled life and the wounds are still raw. Now she's been handed a case that seems utterly defending her boss, high-profile lawyer Randall Barrett. A prosecutor's dream suspect, Randall is a man who was cuckolded by his ex-wife. A man who could not control his temper. A man who had argued bitterly with the victim the previous day in full view of his children.
"Indefensible is a one-seat read!"—Manic Readers
With limited criminal law experience, Kate finds herself enmeshed in a family fractured by doubt. Randall's teenage son is intent on killing him. His daughter wants only to feel safe again. And the entire legal community would like nothing better than to see Randall receive a public comeuppance. As Kate races to stay a step ahead of the prosecution, a silent predator is waiting for the perfect time to deal the final blow.
"Do yourself a favor and jump in the middle of these amazing books. You won't be able to put them down until the final page."—Fresh Fiction
Buy Indefensible today for twisty domestic and psychological suspense that digs into custody and divorce, homicide investigations that have more to them that meet the eye, an amateur woman sleuth who must distinguish fact from perception, a complex cast of characters whose motives are questioned at every turn, and heart-stopping action that will keep you flipping the pages.
With over one million readers, the bestselling Kate Lange Thriller Series is perfect for fans of John Grisham, Harlan Coben, James Patterson, Kathy Reichs, Tess Gerritsen, David Baldacci, and Lisa Scottoline.
When Elise Vanderzell plummets from her bedroom balcony one gorgeous summer night, her children awaken to a nightmare.
Their mother is dead. Their father is charged with her murder.
"...the suspense is intense, the action shocking and the plot intriguing..."—RT Book Reviews
Lawyer Kate Lange knows all about nightmares. She's survived the darkest period of her troubled life and the wounds are still raw. Now she's been handed a case that seems utterly defending her boss, high-profile lawyer Randall Barrett. A prosecutor's dream suspect, Randall is a man who was cuckolded by his ex-wife. A man who could not control his temper. A man who had argued bitterly with the victim the previous day in full view of his children.
"Indefensible is a one-seat read!"—Manic Readers
With limited criminal law experience, Kate finds herself enmeshed in a family fractured by doubt. Randall's teenage son is intent on killing him. His daughter wants only to feel safe again. And the entire legal community would like nothing better than to see Randall receive a public comeuppance. As Kate races to stay a step ahead of the prosecution, a silent predator is waiting for the perfect time to deal the final blow.
"Do yourself a favor and jump in the middle of these amazing books. You won't be able to put them down until the final page."—Fresh Fiction
Buy Indefensible today for twisty domestic and psychological suspense that digs into custody and divorce, homicide investigations that have more to them that meet the eye, an amateur woman sleuth who must distinguish fact from perception, a complex cast of characters whose motives are questioned at every turn, and heart-stopping action that will keep you flipping the pages.
With over one million readers, the bestselling Kate Lange Thriller Series is perfect for fans of John Grisham, Harlan Coben, James Patterson, Kathy Reichs, Tess Gerritsen, David Baldacci, and Lisa Scottoline.
424 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 28, 2010
772 people are currently reading
982 people want to read
About the author
Pamela Callow
10 books222 followersPamela Callow, JD, MPA, is the bestselling author of the Kate Lange legal thriller series. With over one million readers, Pamela Callow’s critically-acclaimed series has been compared to works by Robin Cook, Tess Gerritsen and John Grisham. Her debut novel DAMAGED was a Levy Home Entertainment “Need to Read Pick”, with Top Ten Bestseller placement everywhere books were sold across North America. The series is currently under option for network television development.
A member of the Nova Scotia bar, Pamela Callow also holds a Master’s degree in Public Administration. Prior to making writing a career, she worked as a Strategic Services manager with an international consulting firm.
She would love to visit all the countries where the Kate Lange books are published, but in the meantime, she drinks copious amounts of coffee, daydreams, spoils her pug Peaches, and sings in a barbershop chorus.
A member of the Nova Scotia bar, Pamela Callow also holds a Master’s degree in Public Administration. Prior to making writing a career, she worked as a Strategic Services manager with an international consulting firm.
She would love to visit all the countries where the Kate Lange books are published, but in the meantime, she drinks copious amounts of coffee, daydreams, spoils her pug Peaches, and sings in a barbershop chorus.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 176 reviews
February 7, 2019
This was a well written thriller that I wanted to finish in one sitting, but alas work got in the way.
What I enjoyed most about this story was, that it was set in the maritime province of Nova Scotia.
I will now be on the lookout for the other books in this series.
What I enjoyed most about this story was, that it was set in the maritime province of Nova Scotia.
I will now be on the lookout for the other books in this series.
March 31, 2021
Not my jam. Was pretty much bored the whole way through and had to force my self to finish it.
February 5, 2011
The beginning of this book was so slooooow. It wasn't until a couple hundred pages in that I felt things were starting to heat up. Now usually with a slow beginning there's important facts that have to be teased out or something like that. I didn't feel that way with this though. A lot of the information provided could have easily been slimmed down or taken out completely.
Though I might feel this way because I have not read the first book featuring Kate Lange, Damaged. Looks promising, and it will fill the spots in the second book I couldn't connect with. So I may be reading this as well.
I was annoyed with the point of views being shifted around so much. I don't usually mind, but every P.O.V. was bland, monotonous. It was difficult to get into the groove of a new person's thought process, only to switch again once you get the hang of it. Kate was enjoyable as a heroine. I wanted to root for her the whole way. And Randell, hmm, he seemed steamy, but a little bipolar. Sorry but I am crazy enough for me and whoever my lover would be. Not crazy I kill people, or anything along those lines. Noo, more like a bouncy WHAT'S UP?! kind of crazy. I've been told I would make a wonderful elementary teacher. :]
Anywho, good book. Little bit predictable, but there were many 'Where did that come from?' moments as well.
Though I might feel this way because I have not read the first book featuring Kate Lange, Damaged. Looks promising, and it will fill the spots in the second book I couldn't connect with. So I may be reading this as well.
I was annoyed with the point of views being shifted around so much. I don't usually mind, but every P.O.V. was bland, monotonous. It was difficult to get into the groove of a new person's thought process, only to switch again once you get the hang of it. Kate was enjoyable as a heroine. I wanted to root for her the whole way. And Randell, hmm, he seemed steamy, but a little bipolar. Sorry but I am crazy enough for me and whoever my lover would be. Not crazy I kill people, or anything along those lines. Noo, more like a bouncy WHAT'S UP?! kind of crazy. I've been told I would make a wonderful elementary teacher. :]
Anywho, good book. Little bit predictable, but there were many 'Where did that come from?' moments as well.
December 9, 2012
This is the book that hooked me on this writer. It's an incredible work of suspense. A must read for anyone who wants to try out the suspense/thriller/mystery genre.
******************
If you like thrillers (or even if you don’t) this is one book that should be on everyone’s TBR list! With Indefensible, Pamela Callow has managed to tap into our deepest fears.
Think about it for a minute...what do you fear most? Death? Prison? The death of someone close to you? Something bad happening your children? Human predators? Divorce? Backstabbing and betrayal at work? Whatever your fear may be, you’ll most likely find it in this book.
I loved the flawed and all too human characters. When nightmares and fear kept Kate awake at night, I sympathized with her. When former spouses, Randall and Elise, argued and fought over almost everything, I understood their anger. When their children withdrew or acted out in response, it was all too familiar. These characters are the people we read about in the newspaper every day. They are us.
Ms. Callow explores the dynamics of family and workplace, exposing the weaknesses. Just as in real life, sometimes what you see is merely illusion – a façade worn to protect a fragile ego or to hide sins better left unknown or simply to protect one’s privacy. She holds a mirror before us and the reflection isn’t pretty.
I simply couldn’t put the book down even though I was on the edge of my seat with my knees bouncing nervously and my heart pounding. I had to know how the book ended before I could sleep, but once in bed sleep wouldn’t come. The emotional toll on the characters kept playing through my mind and I found myself trying to reconcile their futures.
I try not to use any type of rating system in my reviews, but in this instance, I’m making an exception. This book rates a rare Gold Star. Make that five of them.
Book courtesy of NetGalley
******************
If you like thrillers (or even if you don’t) this is one book that should be on everyone’s TBR list! With Indefensible, Pamela Callow has managed to tap into our deepest fears.
Think about it for a minute...what do you fear most? Death? Prison? The death of someone close to you? Something bad happening your children? Human predators? Divorce? Backstabbing and betrayal at work? Whatever your fear may be, you’ll most likely find it in this book.
I loved the flawed and all too human characters. When nightmares and fear kept Kate awake at night, I sympathized with her. When former spouses, Randall and Elise, argued and fought over almost everything, I understood their anger. When their children withdrew or acted out in response, it was all too familiar. These characters are the people we read about in the newspaper every day. They are us.
Ms. Callow explores the dynamics of family and workplace, exposing the weaknesses. Just as in real life, sometimes what you see is merely illusion – a façade worn to protect a fragile ego or to hide sins better left unknown or simply to protect one’s privacy. She holds a mirror before us and the reflection isn’t pretty.
I simply couldn’t put the book down even though I was on the edge of my seat with my knees bouncing nervously and my heart pounding. I had to know how the book ended before I could sleep, but once in bed sleep wouldn’t come. The emotional toll on the characters kept playing through my mind and I found myself trying to reconcile their futures.
I try not to use any type of rating system in my reviews, but in this instance, I’m making an exception. This book rates a rare Gold Star. Make that five of them.
Book courtesy of NetGalley
February 22, 2011
INDEFENSIBLE is Pamela Callow’s latest release in the Kate Lange series (MIRA).
In her debut novel, DAMAGED, we found Kate battling it out with the Body Butcher, a serial killer with a nasty habit of leaving bodies in less than pristine condition.
I loved the taught thrillfest that was DAMAGED. If you haven’t checked it out, by all means do – you won’t be disappointed.
The great thing about INDEFENSIBLE was the emotional intensity brought to bear by the nature of story. It brings back several of the characters you met in her debut and then adds a few more layers by introducing new ones. My personal favourite is Eddie Bent, a lawyer who has seen better days, both personally and professionally.
But what I loved most about INDEFENSIBLE was how much Callow made you care about the victim, who, although only in the book for a very brief period, was vividly realistic as the spurned ex-wife of Randall Barrett. The book takes a hard look at a domestic situation gone horribly wrong and the fall-out such an event can have and leaves the reader enthralled as it develops the story page by page. This is a great follow up to a great debut!
In her debut novel, DAMAGED, we found Kate battling it out with the Body Butcher, a serial killer with a nasty habit of leaving bodies in less than pristine condition.
I loved the taught thrillfest that was DAMAGED. If you haven’t checked it out, by all means do – you won’t be disappointed.
The great thing about INDEFENSIBLE was the emotional intensity brought to bear by the nature of story. It brings back several of the characters you met in her debut and then adds a few more layers by introducing new ones. My personal favourite is Eddie Bent, a lawyer who has seen better days, both personally and professionally.
But what I loved most about INDEFENSIBLE was how much Callow made you care about the victim, who, although only in the book for a very brief period, was vividly realistic as the spurned ex-wife of Randall Barrett. The book takes a hard look at a domestic situation gone horribly wrong and the fall-out such an event can have and leaves the reader enthralled as it develops the story page by page. This is a great follow up to a great debut!
July 23, 2017
Man oh man...Kate Lange is kick ass. I really love this series. I especially love how her mind works. This series and its characters really stand out. And again I love a female heroine!!!!
February 15, 2019
This book was so outstanding. This mystery-thriller kept me on the edge of my seat from the very first page until the final page. For majority of the book i was trying to figure out who killed Elise and why. Then when I finally found out who did it, I was completely blown away. I definitely wasn't expecting that at all. I felt the book was very well written. I definitely recommend this book to anyone who loves a good mystery-thriller.
August 22, 2022
The second book in the Kate Lange series is as electrifying as the first. We get to know the characters a bit better . I feel like I’m in their social circle now :) The heat is rising and the chemistry is obvious between two of the characters. I’m anticipating it to spontaneously combust in the next book !
I love that it all takes place in Halifax with descriptions of downtown locations. There is mention of harm coming to children and sometimes that’s hard to digest so just a bit of a trigger warning.
I love that it all takes place in Halifax with descriptions of downtown locations. There is mention of harm coming to children and sometimes that’s hard to digest so just a bit of a trigger warning.
April 12, 2017
Its always difficult for an author to top their first great book, but Callow was able to do so. I have a lot of respect for that kind of tenacity. This thriller was extremely well written. I often see thriller authors filling up space in their novels with useless information and plot holes to just propel the reader to their 'amazing' twist at the end. Using this strategy they can barely get to 350 pages and many chapters just feel so boring and repetitive. Great examples of this are I See You, The Couple Next Door, Maestra, or Luckiest Girl Alive. All were awful and had huge plot holes and lazy writing (Luckiest girl alive might be the worst of those but its a pretty close contest...). BUT Callow can write over 400 pages and have them fly by because she actually puts in pertinent information and multiple viewpoints.
This book also seems so steller BECAUSE of the horrible thrillers that have been recommended to me or are best sellers. In comparison this thriller is in its own category.
The strongest part of this series, besides the plot, is Kate Lange. It is so tiresome to try to find a smart, hard-working, fit female main character who doesn't have some sort of annoying of inappropriate sexual relationship (i.e. YA love triangle or leading multiple men on and complaining that they follow you around and like you...). One of my pet peeves is when women lead on men and can't make up their mind on whether they want to date them or not so they live in this perpetual circle of confusion and heartbreak for both them and the significant other involved. Its all their own doing and incredibly annoying to listen to. Kate Lange does no such thing. Sure she worries over her love interest or goes out on dates, but once she makes a decision she sticks to it. She told Ethan no and meant it. She told Curtis no later and meant it. Good for you Kate.
This book also seems so steller BECAUSE of the horrible thrillers that have been recommended to me or are best sellers. In comparison this thriller is in its own category.
The strongest part of this series, besides the plot, is Kate Lange. It is so tiresome to try to find a smart, hard-working, fit female main character who doesn't have some sort of annoying of inappropriate sexual relationship (i.e. YA love triangle or leading multiple men on and complaining that they follow you around and like you...). One of my pet peeves is when women lead on men and can't make up their mind on whether they want to date them or not so they live in this perpetual circle of confusion and heartbreak for both them and the significant other involved. Its all their own doing and incredibly annoying to listen to. Kate Lange does no such thing. Sure she worries over her love interest or goes out on dates, but once she makes a decision she sticks to it. She told Ethan no and meant it. She told Curtis no later and meant it. Good for you Kate.
February 9, 2011
What do you fear? Losing the respect of your peers, losing a parent, getting divorced, being betrayed by someone you thought you could trust, your child becoming a person you don't even recognize, being sent to jail for a crime you didn't commit or something terrible happening to your child? Those fears and more are in this book.
The characters were all so well written that I can't tell you a favorite. I felt their every emotion and was so engrossed that I didn't hear anything that was going on the the rest of the house. No phone, no tv, nada!
About one third the way through the book I thought I knew what had really happened to Elise, but I was so off that when the truth came out I was shocked. I LOVE books like that! The book got better and better as it went along and by the end I could barely go to sleep for wanting to finish it. I did fall asleep around 2:30 am but something woke me up at 5:03 and I couldn't go back to sleep. I kept thinking about the book. So I did what any book lover would do, I started reading again. And finally at 7:30 am I read the last paragraph. And was sad it was over. And that's saying something since I don't usually read anything over 300 pages. Most books I've read over that seem to drag on and on with a lot of rambling nothings. This book has 502 pages. And I loved it, and wanted more. It took me almost a week to even start reading it because I had to talk myself into reading it since it was so long. This just goes to prove you can't judge a book by it's pages.
This is the first book I've read by Pamela Callow but I will definitely be reading more from her. I especially want to read the first in the Kate Lange series, Damaged.
If you haven't read this yet, what are you waiting for? It's GOOD!
The characters were all so well written that I can't tell you a favorite. I felt their every emotion and was so engrossed that I didn't hear anything that was going on the the rest of the house. No phone, no tv, nada!
About one third the way through the book I thought I knew what had really happened to Elise, but I was so off that when the truth came out I was shocked. I LOVE books like that! The book got better and better as it went along and by the end I could barely go to sleep for wanting to finish it. I did fall asleep around 2:30 am but something woke me up at 5:03 and I couldn't go back to sleep. I kept thinking about the book. So I did what any book lover would do, I started reading again. And finally at 7:30 am I read the last paragraph. And was sad it was over. And that's saying something since I don't usually read anything over 300 pages. Most books I've read over that seem to drag on and on with a lot of rambling nothings. This book has 502 pages. And I loved it, and wanted more. It took me almost a week to even start reading it because I had to talk myself into reading it since it was so long. This just goes to prove you can't judge a book by it's pages.
This is the first book I've read by Pamela Callow but I will definitely be reading more from her. I especially want to read the first in the Kate Lange series, Damaged.
If you haven't read this yet, what are you waiting for? It's GOOD!
October 4, 2018
INDEFENSIBLE (Kate Lange: #2)
Written by Pamela Callow
2010; Mira (401 Pages)
Genre: series, fiction, mystery, law, canada
4 STARS
A great follow up book to Damaged. Randall Barrett is looking forward to spending time with his children this summer but things go wrong from the beginning. First his son decides to go camp instead of sailing with him, and his ex-wife reveals a devastating secret in the heat of an argument. The next morning his ex-wife is found dead from a fall of the balcony and he is the main suspect.
Kate lange is an associate at his law firm and just months ago they had sparks fly and they are still burning. Will Kate be able to help Randall when everyone else has left him to drown.
I love that these novels are set in Halifax, Nova Scotia (Canada) versus the usual Vancouver or Toronto setting. Callow being a lawyer and from Halifax brings out the realism in the novel. It is a quick pace thriller.
My Novelesque Blog
Written by Pamela Callow
2010; Mira (401 Pages)
Genre: series, fiction, mystery, law, canada
4 STARS
A great follow up book to Damaged. Randall Barrett is looking forward to spending time with his children this summer but things go wrong from the beginning. First his son decides to go camp instead of sailing with him, and his ex-wife reveals a devastating secret in the heat of an argument. The next morning his ex-wife is found dead from a fall of the balcony and he is the main suspect.
Kate lange is an associate at his law firm and just months ago they had sparks fly and they are still burning. Will Kate be able to help Randall when everyone else has left him to drown.
I love that these novels are set in Halifax, Nova Scotia (Canada) versus the usual Vancouver or Toronto setting. Callow being a lawyer and from Halifax brings out the realism in the novel. It is a quick pace thriller.
My Novelesque Blog
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November 5, 2025Staff Read #6
I couldn't wait to start book 2-Indefensible in Pamela Callow's 'Kate Lange' series. We had just finished book 1-Damaged, as a staff read, when it was unanimously decided that we just HAD to read the next one in the series 'Indefensible'. And it didn't disappoint!
With the introduction of a couple new characters, Kate is drawn into yet another delicate case and I once again found myself totally absorbed. I love all the characters, especially her elderly neighbours whom Kate has come to rely on, and the new lawyer who Kate partners with towards the end. I hope we see him and Kate team up in the next book. I am loving this series so much that I ordered all four books, (that's all that's out so far) so that I can share them with my sisters and staff. I highly recommended this series!
I couldn't wait to start book 2-Indefensible in Pamela Callow's 'Kate Lange' series. We had just finished book 1-Damaged, as a staff read, when it was unanimously decided that we just HAD to read the next one in the series 'Indefensible'. And it didn't disappoint!
With the introduction of a couple new characters, Kate is drawn into yet another delicate case and I once again found myself totally absorbed. I love all the characters, especially her elderly neighbours whom Kate has come to rely on, and the new lawyer who Kate partners with towards the end. I hope we see him and Kate team up in the next book. I am loving this series so much that I ordered all four books, (that's all that's out so far) so that I can share them with my sisters and staff. I highly recommended this series!
August 12, 2012
Speaking as a writer and a parent, I've never been able to go where Callow bravely treads - the subject of children in jeopardy. The greatness of the story comes through the intimate portrayal of the characters - their strengths and more importantly their vulnerabilities.
It's a different sort of thriller than her first book, Damaged, but I enjoyed it just as much, and I'm really looking forward to the next book, Tattooed.
It's a different sort of thriller than her first book, Damaged, but I enjoyed it just as much, and I'm really looking forward to the next book, Tattooed.
August 18, 2023
REVIEW: A slow train wreck with overly emotional, horny characters. A twist or two. Takes 70 pages to kick in.
RATING: 2+ stars, not rounded up to 3. Perhaps just a book "not for me." I'll be wary of books with "MIRA" on the spine from now on.
RATING: 2+ stars, not rounded up to 3. Perhaps just a book "not for me." I'll be wary of books with "MIRA" on the spine from now on.
August 9, 2018
Wonderful series!! Well deserved 5 stars!!
There was nothing not to like about this book. Attorney turned investigator. Similar to Eve Dallas ..Could not figure out who the killer was even with several options offered. Wonderful Thriller, suspense, investigative series. Again, a read all night book!!!
There was nothing not to like about this book. Attorney turned investigator. Similar to Eve Dallas ..Could not figure out who the killer was even with several options offered. Wonderful Thriller, suspense, investigative series. Again, a read all night book!!!
September 1, 2023
Ik wist het.
Vorige boek die ik las eindigde bijna prc ook zo, maar ja dan maak het Nederlands.
Still very good, eazy peasy
Vorige boek die ik las eindigde bijna prc ook zo, maar ja dan maak het Nederlands.
Still very good, eazy peasy
January 29, 2019
Great mystery with plenty of twists. I will definitely be reading more books by this author.
February 6, 2019
A great thriller series!
The Kate Lange series is remarkable! I have thoroughly enjoyed the first two books and look forward to reading the next two.
The Kate Lange series is remarkable! I have thoroughly enjoyed the first two books and look forward to reading the next two.
July 7, 2017
This is the second book I've read from this author and I went in expecting a legal thriller. It was not. It was also not a thriller or a suspenseful novel. It felt like the author was having an identity crisis....felt more like a romance/young adult themed novel or something you would see on a television drama like gossip girls.
The story was predictable; there was no rising action, no surprise, no climax. Characters were not likable... they were not morally upstanding, good characters and it's difficult to care about their fate when they behave badly, inconsistently and were overly dramatic and selfish. I really disliked how the author made the main characters overly complex and attempted to justify their actions with circumstances. Perhaps this is a theme in contemporary novels where protagonist are a shade of grey rather than being a more black and white character.
I personally prefer books that inspire readers to be good and to have hope. I strongly believe fiction should be a means for us to escape into a world where we can admire a person's choices and actions and are encouraged to be stand up individuals like Atticus Finch, Harry Potter, John Snow, Frodo, etc.. Even if a character starts as a coward and/or are bad, there would a chance to rise up to a challenge or an opportunity for redemption by doing something good. It's important to have hope and inspiration; I've always appreciated works that gave me this. This book failed to deliver and just normalized being average, distrust and selfishness. And really, there's enough of that in real life.
I had high hopes for this author and thought she would get better with experience. This book however was disappointing and I'm unsure if I would be willing to give her another chance. Time is after-all, valuable.
The story was predictable; there was no rising action, no surprise, no climax. Characters were not likable... they were not morally upstanding, good characters and it's difficult to care about their fate when they behave badly, inconsistently and were overly dramatic and selfish. I really disliked how the author made the main characters overly complex and attempted to justify their actions with circumstances. Perhaps this is a theme in contemporary novels where protagonist are a shade of grey rather than being a more black and white character.
I personally prefer books that inspire readers to be good and to have hope. I strongly believe fiction should be a means for us to escape into a world where we can admire a person's choices and actions and are encouraged to be stand up individuals like Atticus Finch, Harry Potter, John Snow, Frodo, etc.. Even if a character starts as a coward and/or are bad, there would a chance to rise up to a challenge or an opportunity for redemption by doing something good. It's important to have hope and inspiration; I've always appreciated works that gave me this. This book failed to deliver and just normalized being average, distrust and selfishness. And really, there's enough of that in real life.
I had high hopes for this author and thought she would get better with experience. This book however was disappointing and I'm unsure if I would be willing to give her another chance. Time is after-all, valuable.
November 4, 2010
I am a big fan of mysteries and legal thrillers. In fact, for about ten years I read those two genres almost exclusively. David Baldacci, Sandra Brown, Nora Roberts, John Grisham, John Lescroart, Brad Meltzer, Jeffrey Archer, they were my favorite authors for quite some time. That was before I rediscovered YA as an adult.
Anyway, I became kind of picky about mysteries and legal thrillers after having read so many excellent books by those bestselling authors. I decided to try Indefensible when I saw it on NetGalley, and I'm so glad I did. It was just as good as any of my favorite thrillers. The plot was exciting, the book moved at a good pace, and the identity of the killer was a surprise. The story grabbed me from the first page, and I found myself reading when I should have been doing other things, just because I couldn't wait to see how the story ended.
I liked Kate's character a lot, and even though I did not read the first Kate Lange book, there were enough flashbacks to book one to keep me from getting confused. There was excellent character development in this book. The characters grow throughout the book, especially Kate and Nick. I love to read about character growth!
I would recommend Pamela Callow's work to fans of mysteries, legal thrillers, and anyone wanting a fast-paced story.
Just One Gripe:
The ending was not super concrete with regards to the love story.
The Best Thing About This Book:
The pacing and character development.
Appropriate for a younger audience:
Possibly. Parents, read it first and then decide.
Score:
Characters: 4/5
Plot: 4/5
Setting/Imagery: 4/5
Originality: 4/5
Ending: 4/5
Total Score: 20/25
Anyway, I became kind of picky about mysteries and legal thrillers after having read so many excellent books by those bestselling authors. I decided to try Indefensible when I saw it on NetGalley, and I'm so glad I did. It was just as good as any of my favorite thrillers. The plot was exciting, the book moved at a good pace, and the identity of the killer was a surprise. The story grabbed me from the first page, and I found myself reading when I should have been doing other things, just because I couldn't wait to see how the story ended.
I liked Kate's character a lot, and even though I did not read the first Kate Lange book, there were enough flashbacks to book one to keep me from getting confused. There was excellent character development in this book. The characters grow throughout the book, especially Kate and Nick. I love to read about character growth!
I would recommend Pamela Callow's work to fans of mysteries, legal thrillers, and anyone wanting a fast-paced story.
Just One Gripe:
The ending was not super concrete with regards to the love story.
The Best Thing About This Book:
The pacing and character development.
Appropriate for a younger audience:
Possibly. Parents, read it first and then decide.
Score:
Characters: 4/5
Plot: 4/5
Setting/Imagery: 4/5
Originality: 4/5
Ending: 4/5
Total Score: 20/25
July 27, 2016
Kate Lange is still recovering from the events that transpired in Damaged, living with nightmares and insomnia when she finds herself in the middle of another murder investigation. Her boss, Randall Barrett, is suspected of murdering his ex-wife, Elise, in the middle of the night. Kate is shocked because she had just seen the woman and her children earlier in the day - not that she knew who they were - taking their stuff into a house down the street. Once Barrett is arrested, he hires Kate to defend him even though she hasn't ever practiced criminal law. She's up against the investigative smarts of her ex-fiance, but there might be something they're both missing. And the missing information might just save a life...
I enjoyed Damaged greatly and Indefensible is even better! Kate Lange is back - and finding herself once again in a situation she's not sure she can make it out of intact. I love Kate's character because she's so real - strong, yet vulnerable - and doesn't let anything get in her way of finding out the truth. No matter what it takes. Ms. Callow has a genuine hit on her hands with Kate Lange!! I had a hard time putting the book down to get anything else done - very engrossing and fast-paced. The action, suspense, and strong plot makes this story a tight thriller that will keep you coming back for more.
Kate Lange Series: Damaged (1), Indefensible (2), Tattooed (3)
I enjoyed Damaged greatly and Indefensible is even better! Kate Lange is back - and finding herself once again in a situation she's not sure she can make it out of intact. I love Kate's character because she's so real - strong, yet vulnerable - and doesn't let anything get in her way of finding out the truth. No matter what it takes. Ms. Callow has a genuine hit on her hands with Kate Lange!! I had a hard time putting the book down to get anything else done - very engrossing and fast-paced. The action, suspense, and strong plot makes this story a tight thriller that will keep you coming back for more.
Kate Lange Series: Damaged (1), Indefensible (2), Tattooed (3)
June 4, 2013
Kate Lange, civilrättsadvokat, har haft ett fall i sin kariär.
Det fallet slutade med att hon nästan blev mördad av en seriemördare.
Nu, flera månader efter händelsen kan hon fortfarande inte släppa det.
Känslan av att bli neddragen under vatten... Hemsöker henne varje kväll.
Men det är inte bara det ho int ekan sluta tänka på.
Det är hur hennes chef Randall Barret såg på henne den natten.
Och hur hennes före detta fästman Ethan bett Kate att ta tillbaka honom.
Besluten att fortsätta framåt i sitt liv går Kate nu till en psykolog, och joggar mycket med hennes hund Alaska. Men en sen kväll då hon ser Randal sitta helt själv, och så full man bara kan bli i en bar, har hon en känsla av att någonting kommer att gå snett.
Dagen efter får hon veta att Randalls ex- fru Elise har blivit nedslängd av en balkong. Polisen, med Ethan i spetsen, är säkra på att det är mord.
Och Randall är huvud misstänkt.
Hans son har angivet honom, av rent hat för fadern.
Hans dotter vet inte vad hon ska tro.
Ethan vill få Randall till fängelse till varje pris.
Även om Kate inte är övertygad om Randalls oskyldighet väljer hon att försvara honom.
Men då måste hon hitta den riktiga mördaren.
Det kommer bli svårt.
"Tvivel" var andra boken om Kate Lange och lika bra som första, "Sargad". Nu i Juni kommer ju tredje boken "Dödsmärkt", som förhoppningsvis kommer fortsätta att sätta prov på Kates hjältemod och goda hjärta.
Det fallet slutade med att hon nästan blev mördad av en seriemördare.
Nu, flera månader efter händelsen kan hon fortfarande inte släppa det.
Känslan av att bli neddragen under vatten... Hemsöker henne varje kväll.
Men det är inte bara det ho int ekan sluta tänka på.
Det är hur hennes chef Randall Barret såg på henne den natten.
Och hur hennes före detta fästman Ethan bett Kate att ta tillbaka honom.
Besluten att fortsätta framåt i sitt liv går Kate nu till en psykolog, och joggar mycket med hennes hund Alaska. Men en sen kväll då hon ser Randal sitta helt själv, och så full man bara kan bli i en bar, har hon en känsla av att någonting kommer att gå snett.
Dagen efter får hon veta att Randalls ex- fru Elise har blivit nedslängd av en balkong. Polisen, med Ethan i spetsen, är säkra på att det är mord.
Och Randall är huvud misstänkt.
Hans son har angivet honom, av rent hat för fadern.
Hans dotter vet inte vad hon ska tro.
Ethan vill få Randall till fängelse till varje pris.
Även om Kate inte är övertygad om Randalls oskyldighet väljer hon att försvara honom.
Men då måste hon hitta den riktiga mördaren.
Det kommer bli svårt.
"Tvivel" var andra boken om Kate Lange och lika bra som första, "Sargad". Nu i Juni kommer ju tredje boken "Dödsmärkt", som förhoppningsvis kommer fortsätta att sätta prov på Kates hjältemod och goda hjärta.
December 27, 2010
I enjoyed this book even more than the first one in the series. The first one was good, but this one was even better. The mystery was less complex than the first book, and I was able to follow along easier. I did figure out who the bad guy was before the author actually revealed it, but the bad guy was so creepy that it didn't really matter--I still wanted to keep reading.
I thought the author did a great job of creating believable characters. Kate Lange's personality and strengths were even more well-defined this time around. I like the growing feelings I see developing between her and her boss and I appreciate the fact that they have common sense about their situation and the ability to recognize when the timing is not right. Nick, the teenager in the story was a great character. He displayed just the right amount of teenage attitude towards his parents, and the rage that developed in his character was very credible. All in all, the entire cast of characters were satisfying and easy to connect with.
This book is the perfect example of why I love thrillers! The more I read, the less I wanted to put the book down. It was a page turner in the true sense. A thoroughly captivating story complete with thrills, kills, and creepy bad guys. The only regret I have is the fact that I have to wait so long for the next book in this series!
I thought the author did a great job of creating believable characters. Kate Lange's personality and strengths were even more well-defined this time around. I like the growing feelings I see developing between her and her boss and I appreciate the fact that they have common sense about their situation and the ability to recognize when the timing is not right. Nick, the teenager in the story was a great character. He displayed just the right amount of teenage attitude towards his parents, and the rage that developed in his character was very credible. All in all, the entire cast of characters were satisfying and easy to connect with.
This book is the perfect example of why I love thrillers! The more I read, the less I wanted to put the book down. It was a page turner in the true sense. A thoroughly captivating story complete with thrills, kills, and creepy bad guys. The only regret I have is the fact that I have to wait so long for the next book in this series!
February 3, 2011
4.5 stars
Pamela Callow enters the illustrious realms of favoured suspense/thriller authors after turning out a brilliant 2nd book in the Kate Lange series. I was sceptical trying Pamela's debut novel, Damaged but that scepticism proved to be completely unwarrranted and I'm now convinced that Pamela Callow is a writer to be reckoned with in this genre.
Indefensible is a thrilling page turner with great character development, a clever plot and the necessary suspense and pace to keep you enthralled. I really enjoyed seeing Kate's growth from book 1 and I also got my wish to learn more about Kate's enigmatic boss, Randall Barrett. The cast of characters is very well portrayed; Nick and Lucy (Elise & Randall's children) Eddie, (Randall's disbarred lawyer) & furry characters Alaska & Charlie. I did have an inkling about the identity of the baddie before the author actually revealed it but that inkling came late in the book so it was quite refreshing to be kept in suspense for so long.
I guess Indefensible could be read as a stand-a-lone novel but as I'm rather obsessive about reading a series in order I recommend reading Damaged first. I'm sure it makes for a more cohesive, enjoyable experience.
The next installment, Tattooed is due for release January 2012 and as a Kate Lange fan I'll be keenly awaiting this one :)
Pamela Callow enters the illustrious realms of favoured suspense/thriller authors after turning out a brilliant 2nd book in the Kate Lange series. I was sceptical trying Pamela's debut novel, Damaged but that scepticism proved to be completely unwarrranted and I'm now convinced that Pamela Callow is a writer to be reckoned with in this genre.
Indefensible is a thrilling page turner with great character development, a clever plot and the necessary suspense and pace to keep you enthralled. I really enjoyed seeing Kate's growth from book 1 and I also got my wish to learn more about Kate's enigmatic boss, Randall Barrett. The cast of characters is very well portrayed; Nick and Lucy (Elise & Randall's children) Eddie, (Randall's disbarred lawyer) & furry characters Alaska & Charlie. I did have an inkling about the identity of the baddie before the author actually revealed it but that inkling came late in the book so it was quite refreshing to be kept in suspense for so long.
I guess Indefensible could be read as a stand-a-lone novel but as I'm rather obsessive about reading a series in order I recommend reading Damaged first. I'm sure it makes for a more cohesive, enjoyable experience.
The next installment, Tattooed is due for release January 2012 and as a Kate Lange fan I'll be keenly awaiting this one :)
May 22, 2012
I'm still thrilled that I found DAMAGED, Callow's first book, on a used book rack in a tiny U.S. airport. I've never been a great fan of crime novels, but Callow creates characters who lack the single dimensional quality found in so much of the crime fiction out there. I'm looking forward to the upcoming release of her third novel.
Kate, a Halifax lawyer, finds herself defending her boss (a senior partner in the firm) against murder charges based on circumstantial evidence and the information provided by a prejudiced eyewitness who happens to be his son. Callow does such a magnificent job of developing her characters that the reader aches with those who face troubles and feels furious with those who cause trouble for our heroine. Those who appear to be good are sometimes not, and those who appear evil may surprise you, as well; Callow keeps the reader on his/her toes as one is drawn into this mesmerizing story.
Kate, a Halifax lawyer, finds herself defending her boss (a senior partner in the firm) against murder charges based on circumstantial evidence and the information provided by a prejudiced eyewitness who happens to be his son. Callow does such a magnificent job of developing her characters that the reader aches with those who face troubles and feels furious with those who cause trouble for our heroine. Those who appear to be good are sometimes not, and those who appear evil may surprise you, as well; Callow keeps the reader on his/her toes as one is drawn into this mesmerizing story.
February 8, 2019
I’m becoming a big fan of Pamela Callow!
What I love about Kate Lange & the stories so far is her self awareness yet modesty. She isn’t naive, she’s strong, sexual and intelligent but you can identify with her crises just with how she handles her thoughts running round!
The style that Callow writes in is fantastic. The focus isn’t always on Kate, we get glimpses or deep dives into other characters. I love that we get to see so many different POVs and build the story in our minds - warts and all.
‘Tattooed’ is now downloaded and will 100% be my next read.
What I love about Kate Lange & the stories so far is her self awareness yet modesty. She isn’t naive, she’s strong, sexual and intelligent but you can identify with her crises just with how she handles her thoughts running round!
The style that Callow writes in is fantastic. The focus isn’t always on Kate, we get glimpses or deep dives into other characters. I love that we get to see so many different POVs and build the story in our minds - warts and all.
‘Tattooed’ is now downloaded and will 100% be my next read.
February 18, 2011
Pamela Callow is one of my favorite new authors. She has an unbelievable talent to weave a story and develop characters that is really rare in new authors, although debut authors are rarely boring,sometimes their characters can be. Indefensible is no different. A story which sucked me in from the beginning and was a quick read, even at over 500 pages, because the story is so good. I cannot wait for more from this author. She definitely is not to be missed!
December 27, 2010
Pamela Callow's second book is every bit as good as her first. I wasn't able to put it down until I'd reached the end. Indefensible is cleverly plotted and perfectly paced. The tension climbs as dog-loving heroine, lawyer Kate Lange, tries to unravel the mystery but is pulled closer to a twisted killer. The action moves fast as most of it takes place outside the courtroom. Eagerly looking forward to the third installment in this legal-thriller series.
February 8, 2013
I've been away from suspense/thrillers for a while, but I'm baaaaaack! I loved the way Pamela Callow's characters could have been the woman next door, or the kid you've seen at school ... and that includes the incredibly BAD guys! The ones you'd never suspect. She has two more books out (this was #2 and I do wish I'd read #1 first) and I'll be getting them for sure.
It's also great to know that not only is Ms Callow Canadian, she's from Nova Scotia. Practically my neighbour!
It's also great to know that not only is Ms Callow Canadian, she's from Nova Scotia. Practically my neighbour!
January 24, 2013
A solid score of 3.
Very good start but in my opinion faltered a little in the middle otherwise I would have marked it a 4 star. That said I enjoyed this fast paced thriller and I am sure she will get better.
My first Pamela Callow book and I will be reading more.
Very good start but in my opinion faltered a little in the middle otherwise I would have marked it a 4 star. That said I enjoyed this fast paced thriller and I am sure she will get better.
My first Pamela Callow book and I will be reading more.
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