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The Exonerated/A Plea of the Innocent #1
Judgment Call
Andy Gibbons had been sentenced to life in prison for a crime he didn’t commit. After ten years inside he had abandoned all hope and resigned himself to the fact that he would remain there for the rest of his life.
But the fact that Andy has admitted defeat and thrown in the towel didn’t mean his wife, Jamie, did.
Disillusioned and worn out by the justice system, the Honorable Judge Regan St Clair was just about to pack in too when a letter from Jamie Gibbons arrived on her desk…
Before long Regan St Clair and Jake Westley, a former Special Forces operator, stumble into a quagmire world of deceit and menace. A world where nothing is as it seems, and no one and nothing can be trusted.
Is Andy Gibbons really innocent? Can he be exonerated? At what price?
~~~
JUDGMENT CALL is a full-length novel, a crime suspense-thriller about a corrupt organization with a sinister agenda that exploits every weakness and every dark corner of the fallible justice system.
This fast-paced legal thriller is the first book in J C Ryan’s Exonerated Series.
But the fact that Andy has admitted defeat and thrown in the towel didn’t mean his wife, Jamie, did.
Disillusioned and worn out by the justice system, the Honorable Judge Regan St Clair was just about to pack in too when a letter from Jamie Gibbons arrived on her desk…
Before long Regan St Clair and Jake Westley, a former Special Forces operator, stumble into a quagmire world of deceit and menace. A world where nothing is as it seems, and no one and nothing can be trusted.
Is Andy Gibbons really innocent? Can he be exonerated? At what price?
~~~
JUDGMENT CALL is a full-length novel, a crime suspense-thriller about a corrupt organization with a sinister agenda that exploits every weakness and every dark corner of the fallible justice system.
This fast-paced legal thriller is the first book in J C Ryan’s Exonerated Series.
503 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 23, 2016
293 people are currently reading
239 people want to read
About the author
J.C. Ryan
48 books153 followersJ C Ryan writes spellbinding mystery suspense thrillers with an archaeological backdrop.
He has been a combat and intelligence officer in the military, practicing lawyer and information technology project manager.
He holds a military as well as a law degree and is married with two daughters and two dogs.
JC currently makes his home on the Gold Coast of Australia.
He has been a combat and intelligence officer in the military, practicing lawyer and information technology project manager.
He holds a military as well as a law degree and is married with two daughters and two dogs.
JC currently makes his home on the Gold Coast of Australia.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
April 12, 2017
Enjoyable but a bit slow.
Looked the continuation of the Rossler story line. The whole presidential succession thing, and the bad old military guy hungry for power, took some disbelief suspension. But an enjoyable read.
Looked the continuation of the Rossler story line. The whole presidential succession thing, and the bad old military guy hungry for power, took some disbelief suspension. But an enjoyable read.
September 12, 2017
( Format : Audiobook )
"A game of chess."
An excellent narration by Rhett Samuel Price keeps this story vibrant and intriguing. and even gave it a feeling of possibility. Ten years after the conviction and imprisonment of Andy Gibbons for a murder he claimed not to have e committed, his wife persuades Judge Regan St.Claire to re-investigate the case. There seemed to be several irregularities but after several months nothing decisive had been discovered. Then, with a new investigator, she starts to make progress - and attract opposition, beatings and threats to her life which simply make her more determined to discover the real killer, who Framed him, and get Andy released.
There are numerous and good characters, excellently portrayed by the narrator who gives each a clear and distinct voice making this more of a play than a simple reading: the communications effect was particularly impressive. The excitement is tense, the conversation realistic and the story mysterious. Sadly, the conclusion seemed very unlikely and far fetched, but it was an interesting idea, if horrifying.
This is definitely a book to hear rather than read, carried, as previously mentioned, so well by Mr.Price. I was fortunate in having been gifted a complementary copy of Judgement Call by the rights holder, via Audiobook Boom. Thank you. I was completely involved within it, carried along by the excellence of the narration and thrilling intrigue of the story even after my suspence of disbelief had started to fall apart. Would I recommend it? I'm not sure, but I will certainly be looking out for anything else narrated by Rhett Samuel Price.
"A game of chess."
An excellent narration by Rhett Samuel Price keeps this story vibrant and intriguing. and even gave it a feeling of possibility. Ten years after the conviction and imprisonment of Andy Gibbons for a murder he claimed not to have e committed, his wife persuades Judge Regan St.Claire to re-investigate the case. There seemed to be several irregularities but after several months nothing decisive had been discovered. Then, with a new investigator, she starts to make progress - and attract opposition, beatings and threats to her life which simply make her more determined to discover the real killer, who Framed him, and get Andy released.
There are numerous and good characters, excellently portrayed by the narrator who gives each a clear and distinct voice making this more of a play than a simple reading: the communications effect was particularly impressive. The excitement is tense, the conversation realistic and the story mysterious. Sadly, the conclusion seemed very unlikely and far fetched, but it was an interesting idea, if horrifying.
This is definitely a book to hear rather than read, carried, as previously mentioned, so well by Mr.Price. I was fortunate in having been gifted a complementary copy of Judgement Call by the rights holder, via Audiobook Boom. Thank you. I was completely involved within it, carried along by the excellence of the narration and thrilling intrigue of the story even after my suspence of disbelief had started to fall apart. Would I recommend it? I'm not sure, but I will certainly be looking out for anything else narrated by Rhett Samuel Price.
January 12, 2019
This is the first book in the Exonerated Series by the author. It covers the classic tale of a man, Andy Gibbons, who is on Death Row for killing a man, but who has always claimed he is innocent of the crime. Some ten years later, when his last appeal has failed, his wife, Jamie, is still looking for someone to help his case. She approaches Judge Regan St Clair, who has become somewhat disillusioned with her work in the justice system. Regan looks at is as a new challenge and a chance to do something good. The first private investigator she contacts doesn’t seem to find much and the original police case was made on some questionable circumstantial evidence.
She stumbles into another private Investigator, Jake Westley, once the first one quits, who is a former Special Forces soldier and has a stubborn streak of honour once he agrees to undertake a task. They are fighting against a large organization, with far reaching tendrils, in a new world of danger and deceit. They have others helping them, but who can they actually trust or believe, is a problem they soon run into. Trying to get evidence of whether Andy is innocent and getting him out if he is, runs contra to the organisations wishes.
They will all be surprised how far the reach of the organisation is and who they have working for them. A good, justice for the innocent, case for a judge and the long suffering wife of Andy. Lots of secrets being keep by those in control and surprises along the way. I really enjoyed this book and will look forward to reading some more of this series by the author. I received an ARC copy of this book from Hidden Gems and I have freely given my own opinion of the book above.
She stumbles into another private Investigator, Jake Westley, once the first one quits, who is a former Special Forces soldier and has a stubborn streak of honour once he agrees to undertake a task. They are fighting against a large organization, with far reaching tendrils, in a new world of danger and deceit. They have others helping them, but who can they actually trust or believe, is a problem they soon run into. Trying to get evidence of whether Andy is innocent and getting him out if he is, runs contra to the organisations wishes.
They will all be surprised how far the reach of the organisation is and who they have working for them. A good, justice for the innocent, case for a judge and the long suffering wife of Andy. Lots of secrets being keep by those in control and surprises along the way. I really enjoyed this book and will look forward to reading some more of this series by the author. I received an ARC copy of this book from Hidden Gems and I have freely given my own opinion of the book above.
September 15, 2025
“Unguilty” by JC Ryan offers readers a contemporary legal thriller filled with twists and turns that keep the pages turning. The novel follows the story of defense attorney Paul J. Reese as he takes on a high-stakes case involving a wealthy businessman accused of a heinous crime. Ryan’s narrative is fast-paced, with plenty of courtroom drama and suspense to keep readers engaged throughout.
One of the strengths of “Unguilty” lies in Ryan’s ability to craft complex characters with conflicting motivations. From the enigmatic defendant to the dogged prosecutor, each character adds depth to the story and keeps readers guessing about their true intentions. Additionally, Ryan’s attention to detail in depicting the legal proceedings lends an air of authenticity to the novel, making it feel grounded in reality.
However, despite its gripping plot and well-developed characters, “Unguilty” may not be without its flaws. Some readers may find the pacing uneven at times, with certain sections of the book dragging while others rush by too quickly. Additionally, while the twists and turns in the plot are generally satisfying, some may feel that certain revelations are telegraphed too far in advance, diminishing their impact.
Overall, “Unguilty” is a solid entry in the legal thriller genre, offering readers an entertaining and suspenseful ride from start to finish. While it may not break new ground or revolutionize the genre, it delivers on its promises and will likely satisfy fans of courtroom dramas looking for their next read.
One of the strengths of “Unguilty” lies in Ryan’s ability to craft complex characters with conflicting motivations. From the enigmatic defendant to the dogged prosecutor, each character adds depth to the story and keeps readers guessing about their true intentions. Additionally, Ryan’s attention to detail in depicting the legal proceedings lends an air of authenticity to the novel, making it feel grounded in reality.
However, despite its gripping plot and well-developed characters, “Unguilty” may not be without its flaws. Some readers may find the pacing uneven at times, with certain sections of the book dragging while others rush by too quickly. Additionally, while the twists and turns in the plot are generally satisfying, some may feel that certain revelations are telegraphed too far in advance, diminishing their impact.
Overall, “Unguilty” is a solid entry in the legal thriller genre, offering readers an entertaining and suspenseful ride from start to finish. While it may not break new ground or revolutionize the genre, it delivers on its promises and will likely satisfy fans of courtroom dramas looking for their next read.
September 14, 2017
When Judge Regan St. Clair receives a letter from Jamie Gibbons asking for help exonerating her husband Andy, she sees the flimsy evidence that convicted him and agrees to look into his case. With the help of private investigator Jake Westley, they soon realize that someone doesn't want them to find the truth.
Judgment Call is a fast-paced legal thriller with a lot of action and excitement. Murder, abduction, bombs, car chases and plenty of near misses kept me riveted. I also enjoyed the romantic element of the story. With the conspiracy to keep the truth hidden, it was difficult to discern the good guys from the bad, especially when some of the characters were a little of both. I like when not all of the characters are so cut and dry and it added another layer of intrigue. This was a long book but the narrator did a great job of moving the story along. I really enjoyed Judgment Call: The Exonerated, Volume 1 and can't wait to see what happens next. I would recommend this.
I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review. This review is my honest opinion.
Judgment Call is a fast-paced legal thriller with a lot of action and excitement. Murder, abduction, bombs, car chases and plenty of near misses kept me riveted. I also enjoyed the romantic element of the story. With the conspiracy to keep the truth hidden, it was difficult to discern the good guys from the bad, especially when some of the characters were a little of both. I like when not all of the characters are so cut and dry and it added another layer of intrigue. This was a long book but the narrator did a great job of moving the story along. I really enjoyed Judgment Call: The Exonerated, Volume 1 and can't wait to see what happens next. I would recommend this.
I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review. This review is my honest opinion.
January 19, 2019
There were several times I wanted to just put this book down and stop reading. That is unusual for me. I kept reading to the very end. The plot was okay - could have been a little better. The storyline didn't flow smoothly for the most part. There was too much filler information. Like the author was trying to meet a word count and just threw stuff in there. It kept me confused because you had the bad guys, bad guys acting like good guys, good guys acting like bad guys. The final outcome made no sense at all. The ending was disappointing.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC of this book....
I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC of this book....
October 3, 2017
A real page turner!!
As mysteries go, this one kept me on the edge of my seat. Twist after twist into a secret organization that seems to have infiltrated everywhere. Jake and Reagan try to find out why Andy Gibbons was framed and sent to prison, which opens the proverbial can of worms. Is Reagan's father, the judge, involved too? Is the whole police department dirty? I absolutely would recommend this book and am looking forward to the rest of the series.
As mysteries go, this one kept me on the edge of my seat. Twist after twist into a secret organization that seems to have infiltrated everywhere. Jake and Reagan try to find out why Andy Gibbons was framed and sent to prison, which opens the proverbial can of worms. Is Reagan's father, the judge, involved too? Is the whole police department dirty? I absolutely would recommend this book and am looking forward to the rest of the series.
January 16, 2019
A surprise at every corner!
This is my first JC Ryan book. I was given a free copy to read and so glad l did! This is one of those stories that keeps you guessing on what is going to happen next and "who done it!" Just when you think you have it figured out, JC Ryan throws another surprise that makes you rethink your theory! Surprises at every corner to keep you guessing. I wanted to share my review and hope you enjoy the story as much as l did!
This is my first JC Ryan book. I was given a free copy to read and so glad l did! This is one of those stories that keeps you guessing on what is going to happen next and "who done it!" Just when you think you have it figured out, JC Ryan throws another surprise that makes you rethink your theory! Surprises at every corner to keep you guessing. I wanted to share my review and hope you enjoy the story as much as l did!
March 30, 2018
JCR has written s novel of a husband and wife who have the perfect marriage. They even have two children. Everything is great until the husband is framed for murder. The collected evidence points to the husband. The wife knows he is innocent and sets out to prove it. This is an excellent read for the genre.
January 22, 2019
After wasting away a decade in jail for a crime he didn’t commit, Andy’s case is brought to a judge in a letter in which Andy’s wife, Jamie, shows how flimsy the evidence was for his conviction. That’s when the thrill ride and mayhem begin, because the “bad guys” don’t want their deeds exposed. I received an copy in exchange for an honest review.
January 7, 2019
I received a copy of this book to review. This was a wild ride for sure!!! Caitlin is a judge just like her father. She is contacted by Jamie, a mother of two, who’s husband is in prison for a murder he didn’t commit. With a whole cast of characters will Cait be able to help this man and his family??? Read it and find out!!!
September 7, 2017
This book was given to me for free at my request in exchange for an unbiased review.
The book was fast-paced and complex, well-developed characters.
The narrator had a very compelling voice and it worked well with the subject.
The book was fast-paced and complex, well-developed characters.
The narrator had a very compelling voice and it worked well with the subject.
March 25, 2018
I don’t know why, but I just couldn’t stay interested in this one. It seems to have been written pretty professionally; the characters well well-drawn; the story just got bogged down in details and became too tedious to read. I slugged through 50% of it.
June 21, 2018
The first of the Exonerated trilogy, this was a longer read than other mystery novels but absolutely riveting. Lots of twists and turns and the author does a good job of hiding the truth while advancing the story line and characters.
June 8, 2024
great read
This is such a good book. They way it is presented will keep you wondering and guessing and on the edge of your seat. First book I have read by JC Rain but would definitely recommend reading if you like mysteries and suspense
This is such a good book. They way it is presented will keep you wondering and guessing and on the edge of your seat. First book I have read by JC Rain but would definitely recommend reading if you like mysteries and suspense
May 25, 2017
Enjoyed this book so much I had to get the next two in the series to read!
May 26, 2017
Nonstop action
This story was a fun ride. I liked the characters and can't wait to start on their next adventure .
This story was a fun ride. I liked the characters and can't wait to start on their next adventure .
June 3, 2017
Excellent novel
Excellent novel, could not believe the end. However, with today world it's not out of the realm of being a possibility.
Excellent novel, could not believe the end. However, with today world it's not out of the realm of being a possibility.
October 19, 2017
It for me
Very dull. The. Characters are. Humdrum and the plot is unbelievable weary. I couldn't recommend d this to anyone."unless that person didn't read much.
Very dull. The. Characters are. Humdrum and the plot is unbelievable weary. I couldn't recommend d this to anyone."unless that person didn't read much.
October 26, 2017
Enjoyed the book
June 21, 2025
OH WOW
This is the most exciting crime novel I have EVER read! JC Ryan’s ability to grab the reader at page one and not let go until the very end is phenomenal! The characters are strong, believable and very interesting. I loved the twists and turns in this book.
A MUST READ
This is the most exciting crime novel I have EVER read! JC Ryan’s ability to grab the reader at page one and not let go until the very end is phenomenal! The characters are strong, believable and very interesting. I loved the twists and turns in this book.
A MUST READ
January 6, 2019
I liked this one. It started with a women and her kids, then went to a Judge. It has been non stop from there. Talk about scary, people trying to kill you. It is very exciting though. I love it, sitting on the edge of your set afraid to get up because you will miss something. That's crazy your reading it you can't miss anything. Right? It is a very good plot and keeps you turning each page as fast as you can. A long book but the twists and turns are more that worth it. I wonder if this will be a series or different people in different cases to be exonerated. I received a complimentary review copy of the book and I am voluntarily leaving a honest review.
July 25, 2023
Unguilty is fast-paced, full of action, intrigue, and romance. A man has been accused of murder and put behind bars for 25 years. He is not guilty and Reagan makes it the main thing in her life to release the man from jail and prove his innocence. This act unravels the actions of a so-called "Organization" which intimidates and manipulates people to obtain what its members desire. Will Reagan, Jake, and the rest of her team be able to make a difference and also release the unguilty? This story will keep you reading through the night. Entertaining!
May 7, 2016
Thankyou for the complete escapism. How high does the organisation go? Past the FBI apparently
Very good. Will these characters be regulars? I will be looking for them
Thank you for the escapism! I enjoyed the time to read it
Very good. Will these characters be regulars? I will be looking for them
Thank you for the escapism! I enjoyed the time to read it
May 19, 2016
Conspiracy
I guess I am not much of a fan of conspiracy. I had difficulty staying with the story. The ending was just too much, the good guys win by the skin of their teeth and the way is left open for more books to be written.
I guess I am not much of a fan of conspiracy. I had difficulty staying with the story. The ending was just too much, the good guys win by the skin of their teeth and the way is left open for more books to be written.
May 27, 2016
Judgment Call
I am an avid fan of JC Ryan's books and series. I really enjoyed the storyline and the suspense and a bit of romance thrown in.
I am looking forward to the next book in the series.
I am an avid fan of JC Ryan's books and series. I really enjoyed the storyline and the suspense and a bit of romance thrown in.
I am looking forward to the next book in the series.
July 11, 2023
WOW!
Non stop action, a book you cannot put down, Oh, yeah! A great story line, a well written book. I enjoyed it immensely. A retiredj judge, his judge daughter, and a lot of interesting other people.
Non stop action, a book you cannot put down, Oh, yeah! A great story line, a well written book. I enjoyed it immensely. A retiredj judge, his judge daughter, and a lot of interesting other people.
September 26, 2023
Great read
I was greeted reading and could not know who was behind the Organization. Regan and Jake relationship was like water and oil at first. I'm looking forward to reading morning in this series.
I was greeted reading and could not know who was behind the Organization. Regan and Jake relationship was like water and oil at first. I'm looking forward to reading morning in this series.
April 11, 2024
This was just about ok thats all, hard work in places and nearly did,nt finish it. I won,t be reading any more j c ryans books anyway. The ending to me was very far fetched so with no more ado goodbye mr ryan.
March 13, 2024
3.9 stars
There was some inconsistency in the plot but not so much as to sink the ship, so far it’s an enjoyable read.
There was some inconsistency in the plot but not so much as to sink the ship, so far it’s an enjoyable read.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews