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Samantha Brinkman #2
Moral Defense
“[ Moral Defense ] has it a hard-charging lawyer heroine, tough-as-nails cops…as well as fly-by-the-seat-of-your-pants pacing and page-turning twists.” ―The Associated Press For defense attorney Samantha Brinkman, it’s not about guilt or innocence―it’s about making sure her clients walk. In the follow-up to bestselling Blood Defense , Samantha is hired as the legal advocate for Cassie Sonnenberg after a brutal stabbing left the teenager’s father and brother dead, and her mother barely clinging to life. It’s a tabloid-ready case that has the nation in an uproar―and Sam facing her biggest challenge yet. Why did Cassie survive? Is she hiding something? As Sam digs in to find the answers, she’s surprised to find herself identifying with Cassie, becoming more and more personally entangled in the case. But when Sam finally discovers the reason for that kinship, she faces a choice she never imagined she’d have to make.
426 pages, Paperback
First published November 8, 2016
823 people are currently reading
1602 people want to read
About the author
Marcia Clark
21 books1,313 followersMarcia Clark is a former LA, California deputy district attorney, who was the lead prosecutor in the O.J. Simpson murder case. She wrote a bestselling nonfiction book about the trial, Without a Doubt, and is a frequent media commentator and columnist on legal issues. She lives in Los Angeles.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 372 reviews
October 27, 2016
This is the first of this new legal series featuring Samantha Brinkman that I have read. It works well as a standalone. Samantha is a flawed character who is capable of morally dubious behaviour such as outlined by her actions with Deshawn, her culpability in the killing of a man whose dangerous family want retribution and who are her clients. Samantha has a dark history of familial sexual abuse which makes the case that she takes one that goes emotionally close to the bone for her and tests her to her limits. Cassie's adopted famly, father and brother are brutally slain and her mother is hanging on by a thread in intensive care. Cassie was in the house hiding when these macabre events took place. Samantha becomes her lawyer whilst the police are beginning their initial investigations.
At first it appears there is a right wing Aryan group who are in the frame. Then it appears that Cassie herself is implicated. A history of sexual abuse by the father and son emerges. Samantha is more determined that ever to defend Cassie amidst a febrile tabloid media storm. There are some great court scenes. Further twists and surprises follow. Throughout Samantha is helped by both Michelle and Alex. I found this novel to be an okay read. For me, it doesn't match the level of chemistry and charisma of the Rachel Knight series. I accept that others might not agree with me on this. Many thanks to Thomas and Mercer for an ARC.
At first it appears there is a right wing Aryan group who are in the frame. Then it appears that Cassie herself is implicated. A history of sexual abuse by the father and son emerges. Samantha is more determined that ever to defend Cassie amidst a febrile tabloid media storm. There are some great court scenes. Further twists and surprises follow. Throughout Samantha is helped by both Michelle and Alex. I found this novel to be an okay read. For me, it doesn't match the level of chemistry and charisma of the Rachel Knight series. I accept that others might not agree with me on this. Many thanks to Thomas and Mercer for an ARC.
December 6, 2017
4 It's All in Plain Sight Stars
* * * * Spoiler Free- On Sale- $1.99!!!
Oh, Marcia Clark is a crafty one... She has taken all of her past talents in the legal profession and focused on giving us fascinating books. By creating defense attorney Samantha Brinkman, we have a woman who fights for everyone to have a voice in court... yet we also get all of the mechanics that happen behind the scenes. This way of presenting all of the moving parts of the legal system works extremely well.
The blurb gives you more than enough to dive in. The less you know, the better the read...At least it was for me.
If you think you are going to get a straightforward who done it... think again. Ms. Clark works this tale like an onion... peeling away layers... some with more weight then others... some which will hit you and make you re-think everything you read a few pages before...But all of it is artfully done with a subtle flair.
She gives a few different story lines surrounding the main one which ties to her first entry in this series. Her Samantha Brinkman is unique; not cookie cutter and has bent a few rules during her career. She has had to represent those who would make any attorney nervous and it is admirable she is smart enough to have her gun in the drawer next to her when dealing with the unknown.
All of her crew/office team have their owns personalities and backstories, flavoring the big picture nicely. What works the best is this main character's unwillingness to let things slide...to follow her instincts no matter where they lead...
Sometimes those instincts leave her open for future problems...and we will just have to see what they are...I am sure Ms. Clark with handle them equally as well as she has with these past stories.
A gifted copy was provided by Thomas & Mercer via NetGalley for an honest review.
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
* * * * Spoiler Free- On Sale- $1.99!!!
Oh, Marcia Clark is a crafty one... She has taken all of her past talents in the legal profession and focused on giving us fascinating books. By creating defense attorney Samantha Brinkman, we have a woman who fights for everyone to have a voice in court... yet we also get all of the mechanics that happen behind the scenes. This way of presenting all of the moving parts of the legal system works extremely well.
The blurb gives you more than enough to dive in. The less you know, the better the read...At least it was for me.
If you think you are going to get a straightforward who done it... think again. Ms. Clark works this tale like an onion... peeling away layers... some with more weight then others... some which will hit you and make you re-think everything you read a few pages before...But all of it is artfully done with a subtle flair.
She gives a few different story lines surrounding the main one which ties to her first entry in this series. Her Samantha Brinkman is unique; not cookie cutter and has bent a few rules during her career. She has had to represent those who would make any attorney nervous and it is admirable she is smart enough to have her gun in the drawer next to her when dealing with the unknown.
All of her crew/office team have their owns personalities and backstories, flavoring the big picture nicely. What works the best is this main character's unwillingness to let things slide...to follow her instincts no matter where they lead...
Sometimes those instincts leave her open for future problems...and we will just have to see what they are...I am sure Ms. Clark with handle them equally as well as she has with these past stories.
A gifted copy was provided by Thomas & Mercer via NetGalley for an honest review.
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
September 11, 2016
First and foremost, a large thank you to NetGalley, Marcia Clark, and Thomas & Mercer for providing me with a copy of this book, which allows me to provide you with this review.
In her latest thriller, Clark brings Samantha Brinkman back for more captivating drama and legal wrangling. Discovering her father and brother murdered and mother hanging on by a thread, Cassie Sonnenberg is at the centre of a media frenzy. Why was she spared and could the killer come back for her to finish things off? Playing the proactive approach and knowing that Cassie will need legal representation, Samantha Brinkman has the courts appoint her Cassie's lawyer. While she is cognizant that her client has been through much over the past few weeks, Brinkman is keen to get the larger picture of the entire happenings, mainly to protect Cassie from future loopholes. Brinkman engages her team--office manager, Michelle, and investigator, Alex-- to help develop Cassie's story. Adopted by the Sonnenbergs at a young age, Cassie has been able to fit nicely within the unit. However, Cassie admitted to eventually becoming the sexual plaything to both her brother and father, which fuelled not only a sense of vulnerability, but also a simmering rage. Once the police are able to disprove Cassie's witness statement on the night of the murder and stumble upon some damning evidence, she is placed into custody, forcing Brinkman to turn the representation into a full-fledged criminal defence. Brinkman brings Alex on board to flesh-out the abuse allegations and they seek to build up a solid defence based on this information, while trying to keep the practice's other cases from going stale. Alex discovers that key people in Cassie's life seem not to have been aware of some abuse claims, or recite the facts in a scripted manner when interviewed. When a key piece of evidence falls into place, an alternate set of facts comes into play and a suspect with more motive to kill the Sonnenbergs emerges. Even with this new potential killer, trouble comes when Cassie will not cooperate, the only hurdle to being able to get her off the hook. As Samantha Brinkman contorts herself in legal and personal ways she could not have thought possible, the story becomes more complicated, pitting Cassie against a set of facts that leaves her completely vulnerable and on trial for murder. Clark's legal background and strong writing ability make this another must-read in her new legal series.
Having followed Clark through her previous series, I was unsure how well I would adjust to Samantha Brinkman. My uncertainty was quickly quashed when I read the opening novel in this new series, chock-full of character development and backstories that kept the reader hooked from the early chapters. This follow-up is leaps and bounds ahead of even that story, so much so that I could not help but devour it in a few concentrated sittings. Not only has Clark used her strong protagonist in the form of Samantha Brinkman, but by bringing Michelle and Alex back in their capacities as strong supporting characters, the flow of the novel is stronger, picking up where the first novel ended. With a deeply personal story that is strengthened by a crisp narrative, Clark allows the reader not only to see how she can get to the heart of the manner, but also tap into strong emotions on the part of Brinkman. This creates a drive In the narrative and helps push the story along in a credible fashion. The novel also paces itself nicely as there are numerous cases (read: storylines) that develop throughout, forcing Clark not only to shine the spotlight on one and give the others passing mention. Each case develops and finds some resolution, though there are some delectable bits that keep the reader wondering what else Clark might have in store for future novels. With her legal background and setting the novels in and around the Greater Los Angeles area, Clark is able to keep things realistic and sustain the momentum that is essential for this type of novel, which relies on pulling the reader in and not letting go. Clark has effectively kept readers sated and curious simultaneously, while keeping her narrative as realistic as possible. There might not be any courtroom scenes that leave the reader gasping, but there is a significant amount of sleuthing and tense exchanges, which only thicken the plot. A wonderful piece of writing that has me hooked and seeking more, as soon as Clark can place Samantha Brinkman into another legal thriller.
Kudos, Madam Clark for writing at such a high caliber. You have succeeded in winning many fans with your realistic approach. I can only wonder what directions you see Brinkman going in the next few years.
Like/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
In her latest thriller, Clark brings Samantha Brinkman back for more captivating drama and legal wrangling. Discovering her father and brother murdered and mother hanging on by a thread, Cassie Sonnenberg is at the centre of a media frenzy. Why was she spared and could the killer come back for her to finish things off? Playing the proactive approach and knowing that Cassie will need legal representation, Samantha Brinkman has the courts appoint her Cassie's lawyer. While she is cognizant that her client has been through much over the past few weeks, Brinkman is keen to get the larger picture of the entire happenings, mainly to protect Cassie from future loopholes. Brinkman engages her team--office manager, Michelle, and investigator, Alex-- to help develop Cassie's story. Adopted by the Sonnenbergs at a young age, Cassie has been able to fit nicely within the unit. However, Cassie admitted to eventually becoming the sexual plaything to both her brother and father, which fuelled not only a sense of vulnerability, but also a simmering rage. Once the police are able to disprove Cassie's witness statement on the night of the murder and stumble upon some damning evidence, she is placed into custody, forcing Brinkman to turn the representation into a full-fledged criminal defence. Brinkman brings Alex on board to flesh-out the abuse allegations and they seek to build up a solid defence based on this information, while trying to keep the practice's other cases from going stale. Alex discovers that key people in Cassie's life seem not to have been aware of some abuse claims, or recite the facts in a scripted manner when interviewed. When a key piece of evidence falls into place, an alternate set of facts comes into play and a suspect with more motive to kill the Sonnenbergs emerges. Even with this new potential killer, trouble comes when Cassie will not cooperate, the only hurdle to being able to get her off the hook. As Samantha Brinkman contorts herself in legal and personal ways she could not have thought possible, the story becomes more complicated, pitting Cassie against a set of facts that leaves her completely vulnerable and on trial for murder. Clark's legal background and strong writing ability make this another must-read in her new legal series.
Having followed Clark through her previous series, I was unsure how well I would adjust to Samantha Brinkman. My uncertainty was quickly quashed when I read the opening novel in this new series, chock-full of character development and backstories that kept the reader hooked from the early chapters. This follow-up is leaps and bounds ahead of even that story, so much so that I could not help but devour it in a few concentrated sittings. Not only has Clark used her strong protagonist in the form of Samantha Brinkman, but by bringing Michelle and Alex back in their capacities as strong supporting characters, the flow of the novel is stronger, picking up where the first novel ended. With a deeply personal story that is strengthened by a crisp narrative, Clark allows the reader not only to see how she can get to the heart of the manner, but also tap into strong emotions on the part of Brinkman. This creates a drive In the narrative and helps push the story along in a credible fashion. The novel also paces itself nicely as there are numerous cases (read: storylines) that develop throughout, forcing Clark not only to shine the spotlight on one and give the others passing mention. Each case develops and finds some resolution, though there are some delectable bits that keep the reader wondering what else Clark might have in store for future novels. With her legal background and setting the novels in and around the Greater Los Angeles area, Clark is able to keep things realistic and sustain the momentum that is essential for this type of novel, which relies on pulling the reader in and not letting go. Clark has effectively kept readers sated and curious simultaneously, while keeping her narrative as realistic as possible. There might not be any courtroom scenes that leave the reader gasping, but there is a significant amount of sleuthing and tense exchanges, which only thicken the plot. A wonderful piece of writing that has me hooked and seeking more, as soon as Clark can place Samantha Brinkman into another legal thriller.
Kudos, Madam Clark for writing at such a high caliber. You have succeeded in winning many fans with your realistic approach. I can only wonder what directions you see Brinkman going in the next few years.
Like/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
November 25, 2016
This is the second in the Samantha Brinkman series. It starts off a little slow and takes a while to ramp up. Someone breaks into a house and stabs the son, father and mother; missing only the adopted daughter hiding in another bedroom. Then, she is accused of the crime.
Initially, Sam is hired as the witness representative for the daughter. As someone just representing the daughter, I found it odd that she and her team spent so much time investigating the events of the murders. Do lawyers really do this? I would think the pay wouldn't justify the time spent.
Sam is a well thought out main character. She had a harrowing childhood, with a mother that didn't care and a pedophile stepfather. The fact that her client also suffered sexual abuse from her adoptive brother and father draws Sam closer to her client. Sam is flawed. She’s willing to take justice into her own hands. Some of her past actions have landed her in hot water with other clients or landed her clients in hot water. These supportive storylines work nicely.
The book definitely gets better as you get into it. Clark does a good job wrapping up all the storylines, especially the main one.
This is a solid three star book. My thanks to netgalley and Thomas and Mercer for an advance copy of this book.
September 2, 2016
Another winner by Marcia Clark!
Samantha is hired as legal advocate for Cassie Sonnenberg, a 15-year-old accused of brutally stabbing to death her older brother, her father and the attempted murder of her mother.
Sam is determined to do her best for this teenager, especially when word leaks that she was sexually abused by her brother and her father.
As Sam digs in to find the answers, she’s surprised to find herself identifying with Cassie, becoming more and more personally entangled in the case. But when Sam finally discovers the reason for that kinship, she faces a choice she never imagined she’d have to make.
It's a roller coaster ride of emotions. There are lies and secrets. Is Cassie really a victim? There are surprises around every corner and the ending is a shocker.
I highly recommend the Samantha Brinkman books for anyone who likes legal thrillers.
Many thanks to the author / Thomas & Mercer / NetGalley who provided a digital copy in exchange for an honest, unbiased review.
Samantha is hired as legal advocate for Cassie Sonnenberg, a 15-year-old accused of brutally stabbing to death her older brother, her father and the attempted murder of her mother.
Sam is determined to do her best for this teenager, especially when word leaks that she was sexually abused by her brother and her father.
As Sam digs in to find the answers, she’s surprised to find herself identifying with Cassie, becoming more and more personally entangled in the case. But when Sam finally discovers the reason for that kinship, she faces a choice she never imagined she’d have to make.
It's a roller coaster ride of emotions. There are lies and secrets. Is Cassie really a victim? There are surprises around every corner and the ending is a shocker.
I highly recommend the Samantha Brinkman books for anyone who likes legal thrillers.
Many thanks to the author / Thomas & Mercer / NetGalley who provided a digital copy in exchange for an honest, unbiased review.
September 5, 2016
Wow - two for two! The author's first book featuring defense attorney Samantha Brinkman, "Blood Defense," was fantastic. If anything, this one, of which I also received an advance copy courtesy of the publisher, is even more so. If I could give it 6 stars, I would!
This installment, for the record, can stand on its own, but I'm sure I got a bit more out of it by reading the other one first (always my advice when dealing with a series, by the way). "Friends" from the first book return; Samantha, of course, and her longtime friend Michele and hacker-investigator Alex, both of whom work at Sam's law firm. The story begins when Sam is asked to look into the gruesome murder of a father and son and near murder of the mother, who's in the hospital and in a coma, on behalf of their adopted daughter Cassie. She was, it seems, a witness at the murder scene and is understandably traumatized.
Almost from the beginning, Sam feels a certain kinship with Cassie and signs on to help. But as more details of the murders unravel, Sam runs head-first into a psychological dilemma of tremendous magnitude. Is Cassie telling the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth?
While that case becomes ever more complex, issues from a couple of other cases rear their ugly heads - possibly putting Sam in the crosshairs of some especially nasty people. And in any of the case scenarios, including Cassie's, things could (and most likely will) head south at the slightest turn of events. All the characters get a goodly amount of face time (perhaps with the exception of Michelle), and we learn of their strong points and peccadilloes. Samantha, in particular, comes from a lurid background and has, probably as a result, what I'll term a quirky side; she's almost as prone to ignoring the law as she is to breaking her neck trying to get her clients acquitted whether or not they're guilty.
The result is plenty of twists, turns and deadly serious head games that kept me hanging on just about every word. As I neared the end, in fact, anyone attempting to pry my Kindle out of my hands would have felt a wrath greater than that which I bestow on those who unwittingly expect me to speak to them before I've had my first cup of coffee in the morning.
In short, whew! Super book, super series. More, please?
This installment, for the record, can stand on its own, but I'm sure I got a bit more out of it by reading the other one first (always my advice when dealing with a series, by the way). "Friends" from the first book return; Samantha, of course, and her longtime friend Michele and hacker-investigator Alex, both of whom work at Sam's law firm. The story begins when Sam is asked to look into the gruesome murder of a father and son and near murder of the mother, who's in the hospital and in a coma, on behalf of their adopted daughter Cassie. She was, it seems, a witness at the murder scene and is understandably traumatized.
Almost from the beginning, Sam feels a certain kinship with Cassie and signs on to help. But as more details of the murders unravel, Sam runs head-first into a psychological dilemma of tremendous magnitude. Is Cassie telling the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth?
While that case becomes ever more complex, issues from a couple of other cases rear their ugly heads - possibly putting Sam in the crosshairs of some especially nasty people. And in any of the case scenarios, including Cassie's, things could (and most likely will) head south at the slightest turn of events. All the characters get a goodly amount of face time (perhaps with the exception of Michelle), and we learn of their strong points and peccadilloes. Samantha, in particular, comes from a lurid background and has, probably as a result, what I'll term a quirky side; she's almost as prone to ignoring the law as she is to breaking her neck trying to get her clients acquitted whether or not they're guilty.
The result is plenty of twists, turns and deadly serious head games that kept me hanging on just about every word. As I neared the end, in fact, anyone attempting to pry my Kindle out of my hands would have felt a wrath greater than that which I bestow on those who unwittingly expect me to speak to them before I've had my first cup of coffee in the morning.
In short, whew! Super book, super series. More, please?
December 11, 2016
Samantha Brinkman is officially my favorite fictional lawyer <3
Cannot wait for the next installment in this perfect legal series!
Cannot wait for the next installment in this perfect legal series!
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April 29, 2017I just finished "Moral Defense" by Marcia Clark. Yes, she is the Marcia Clark that prosecuted O.J. Simpson. I really enjoyed this novel. It was fast paced and had an ending that was believable. Samantha Brinkman is a defense attorney, whose client is Cassie Sonnenberg. Cassie's brother and father were brutally stabbed to death, and her mother is clinging to life. There are other sub-plots where you ask, "Is justice blind?" I intend to take out her first book Blood Defense. -Bob K.
December 1, 2016
This is the 2nd book in the Samantha Brinkman series it can be read as a stand-alone story. I like this fast paced story that kept you reading from beginning to end. Cassie Sonnenberg discovers her father and brother dead and her mother close to death due to a brutal attack. Samantha is hired as the 15 yr old’s legal advocate and as she starts to uncover more and more answers she is beginning to see herself in this young girl. Cassie was adopted by the Sonnebergs and as she got older it seems she was sexually abused by both the father and son. Cassie’s witness statement is proven false and she becomes the suspect but she will not assist in her defense and Samantha is determined to prove her innocence. Great read. I would like to thank the Publisher and Net Galley for the chance to read this ARC.
December 6, 2016
Please note that this review spoils events from Samantha Brinkman #1
I was really intrigued by the first book in the Samantha Brinkman series. Maybe because Clark ends it with a surprising revelation that had my mouth hanging open. In Brinkman you have someone that even though they are a defense attorney, has no qualms about making sure the bad guys (even her own clients) get brought to justice.
Samantha is still dealing with the fallout of her actions in the last book. She is trying to do her best to keep a former client and somewhat friend out of trouble after the drugs she took of him come due. She is also trying to persuade another client that she does not know why his son had a mix-up that sent him off to his death while in death. While juggling this, Samantha is also dealing with a new case that involves a teenage girl who is the only one left alive after a home invasion goes wrong.
Samantha is brisk, hard as nails, and does not suffer fools lightly. She has her best friend Michelle who also works for her, and a new investigator Alex. Samantha after finding out about her mother and her real father in the last book, has cut off any interaction with her mother, but is trying her best to get to know her father, Dale.
We definitely know because of what happened to Samantha as a kid that she is still dealing with the fallout from that. There are multiple references to her nightmares and not sleeping. At least Clark has the character acknowledging that she's not 100 percent.
That said, Samantha is pure anti-hero material. I don't have much more to say than that honestly. I don't know if you can root for her because of her actions in book #1 and even her actions here. I do like the ending to the book. But the cliffhanger aspect just goes to show that Samantha is walking a dark path that is probably going to get those around her killed.
I did like the legal aspects of this book. Clark obviously knows her stuff. And she explains things to you in Samantha's voice that keep you engaged and not bored. Clark also has great commentary on women in today's world one one comment about looks really got me while reading. With everything that happened in the most recent US election, I would say yes looks/clothes did play into things. How many times did someone hear that Hillary Clinton sounded shrill or had on an ugly pantsuits?
Back to this book, the flow was good in parts, but did get a bit fouled up here and there. That's because besides the two previous cases rearing their ugly heads, Samantha has a new case, and then is asked to look into something by her father. There was seriously at least three books worth of plot happening here. It would have been fine to hold one of them off. Or at least to focus more on the new case.
Clark has the city down flat. I always thought of Los Angeles as some sparkly place, but Clark shows the underbelly and the place that regular people live, and I have to wonder why anyone stays.
As I said, the ending was a bit of a cliffhanger, and I honestly don't think I will keep reading this series. I will definitely check out Clark's work in the future though.
I was really intrigued by the first book in the Samantha Brinkman series. Maybe because Clark ends it with a surprising revelation that had my mouth hanging open. In Brinkman you have someone that even though they are a defense attorney, has no qualms about making sure the bad guys (even her own clients) get brought to justice.
Samantha is still dealing with the fallout of her actions in the last book. She is trying to do her best to keep a former client and somewhat friend out of trouble after the drugs she took of him come due. She is also trying to persuade another client that she does not know why his son had a mix-up that sent him off to his death while in death. While juggling this, Samantha is also dealing with a new case that involves a teenage girl who is the only one left alive after a home invasion goes wrong.
Samantha is brisk, hard as nails, and does not suffer fools lightly. She has her best friend Michelle who also works for her, and a new investigator Alex. Samantha after finding out about her mother and her real father in the last book, has cut off any interaction with her mother, but is trying her best to get to know her father, Dale.
We definitely know because of what happened to Samantha as a kid that she is still dealing with the fallout from that. There are multiple references to her nightmares and not sleeping. At least Clark has the character acknowledging that she's not 100 percent.
That said, Samantha is pure anti-hero material. I don't have much more to say than that honestly. I don't know if you can root for her because of her actions in book #1 and even her actions here. I do like the ending to the book. But the cliffhanger aspect just goes to show that Samantha is walking a dark path that is probably going to get those around her killed.
I did like the legal aspects of this book. Clark obviously knows her stuff. And she explains things to you in Samantha's voice that keep you engaged and not bored. Clark also has great commentary on women in today's world one one comment about looks really got me while reading. With everything that happened in the most recent US election, I would say yes looks/clothes did play into things. How many times did someone hear that Hillary Clinton sounded shrill or had on an ugly pantsuits?
Back to this book, the flow was good in parts, but did get a bit fouled up here and there. That's because besides the two previous cases rearing their ugly heads, Samantha has a new case, and then is asked to look into something by her father. There was seriously at least three books worth of plot happening here. It would have been fine to hold one of them off. Or at least to focus more on the new case.
Clark has the city down flat. I always thought of Los Angeles as some sparkly place, but Clark shows the underbelly and the place that regular people live, and I have to wonder why anyone stays.
As I said, the ending was a bit of a cliffhanger, and I honestly don't think I will keep reading this series. I will definitely check out Clark's work in the future though.
December 5, 2016
The second in the Samantha Brinkman series, it is the first one that I have read. I didn't feel I missed anything by not reading the first book in the series as the repeating characters backgrounds and personalities were filled in pretty well. The action moved along, with twists and turns as more and more of the plot was revealed. The story's action and characters were easy to follow. I probably will not seek out additional titles in this series as I didn't particularly like Samantha nor her freewheeling, personal forms of justice. I felt that as an attorney, she was almost as scary as the guilty parties introduced.
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September 3, 2016As usual, snarky and sneaky DA Samantha Brinkman is up to her old tricks. She has her own peculiar brand of justice even as she does everything she can to get even the most heinous criminals acquitted or pled out. In this second book of the series, Sam is counsel for a 15-year-old girl, Cassie Sonnenberg, who is accused of committing the brutal murders of her foster family: brother, father and mother. As Cassie reveals the despicable activities that were going on in that home, Sam can't help but get personally involved as the revelations bring back terrible memories for her.
Meanwhile, Sam and her two associates are dealing with several other creepy clients and things are getting pretty dicey. Sam has to figure out how to keep the bad guys from coming after her because of some of things she "influenced" in questionable ways. Always on the edge of crossing over to the same side as her defendants, Sam is a very unusual defense attorney.
I enjoy this series though I worry that Sam's ways and means make her just as bad as those she defends. She definitely wants to win at any cost, though she does care about the truth no matter what she presents to the court. Sam is a complex character and the writing is crisp and clear. There is a lot of action and it's easy to keep turning the pages because the reader just can't wait to see how all the cases turn out. Just when you think you have it all figured...surprise! You can tell this book is written by someone who does have an inside track - as does this author, a lawyer.
Looking forward to the next in the series. Thank you to NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer for the e-book ARC to review. I also want to read her other books.
Meanwhile, Sam and her two associates are dealing with several other creepy clients and things are getting pretty dicey. Sam has to figure out how to keep the bad guys from coming after her because of some of things she "influenced" in questionable ways. Always on the edge of crossing over to the same side as her defendants, Sam is a very unusual defense attorney.
I enjoy this series though I worry that Sam's ways and means make her just as bad as those she defends. She definitely wants to win at any cost, though she does care about the truth no matter what she presents to the court. Sam is a complex character and the writing is crisp and clear. There is a lot of action and it's easy to keep turning the pages because the reader just can't wait to see how all the cases turn out. Just when you think you have it all figured...surprise! You can tell this book is written by someone who does have an inside track - as does this author, a lawyer.
Looking forward to the next in the series. Thank you to NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer for the e-book ARC to review. I also want to read her other books.
December 21, 2016
Disturbing.
Cassie is fifteen years old, adopted at the age of four. Samantha Brinkman is trying to defend her. She has two very royal and dependable people in her small firm. She irritates police officers with her own investigating, her own troubles growing up affecting her, Cassie told many different stories about killing of her brother and father. Mother is in the hospital, in coma. Underage sexual molestation, teacher/consular lesbian pedophilia and mental problems. Sam has many unorthodox approach to do her job. Ending was shocking. This was my second book written by Marcia Clark, liked the first one more.
Cassie is fifteen years old, adopted at the age of four. Samantha Brinkman is trying to defend her. She has two very royal and dependable people in her small firm. She irritates police officers with her own investigating, her own troubles growing up affecting her, Cassie told many different stories about killing of her brother and father. Mother is in the hospital, in coma. Underage sexual molestation, teacher/consular lesbian pedophilia and mental problems. Sam has many unorthodox approach to do her job. Ending was shocking. This was my second book written by Marcia Clark, liked the first one more.
November 29, 2016
A little more than half-way through and I'm done. Enjoyed her first book, but this time the character is a little too smart-mouthed and apparently can't decide if she's a lawyer or a P.I. I kept thinking, "Oh, c'mon" and finally threw in the towel.
March 19, 2017
Interesting mystery; sympathetic, quirky characters. Moral dilemmas. Kept me guessing. (Beware: strong language & disturbing topics related to abuse--so not everyone's cup of tea.)
**Kindle Unlimited
**Kindle Unlimited
September 7, 2016
A while back I came across one of Marcia Clark's books when I was wandering the bookstore and I was intrigued that the former prosecutor had made a career change to crime author. Then I was given the opportunity to pick up "Moral Defense" from the publisher in exchange for an honest review; I jumped at the chance.
This is the second in the series and I admit to not having read the first. That being said, I didn't feel like I was missing anything terribly critical as it specifically related to the crime in this case. The author, also managed to give enough background around the main characters where , as the reader, I understood some of the nuances that were mentioned from the past without feeling lost. Admittedly, I did miss out on some character development especially as it relates to the relationship between Sam and Dale.
This is one of the few times where I can say, I enjoyed the book and the storytelling but I really don't particularly like the main character, at all. She's a defense attorney who has a seriously warped moral code. It's made clear very early that she's involved in some shady business meting out her own brand of justice. Which seems to involve getting people killed, but only if they really deserve it. I think the main reason I don't like her is because she's not a caricature like "Dexter". She could be a real person and that's as disturbing as the main crime.
I'd give this 3 1/2 stars and although I don't feel a need to read the first in the series, I anticipate that I will read the next one just to see where it goes.
This is the second in the series and I admit to not having read the first. That being said, I didn't feel like I was missing anything terribly critical as it specifically related to the crime in this case. The author, also managed to give enough background around the main characters where , as the reader, I understood some of the nuances that were mentioned from the past without feeling lost. Admittedly, I did miss out on some character development especially as it relates to the relationship between Sam and Dale.
This is one of the few times where I can say, I enjoyed the book and the storytelling but I really don't particularly like the main character, at all. She's a defense attorney who has a seriously warped moral code. It's made clear very early that she's involved in some shady business meting out her own brand of justice. Which seems to involve getting people killed, but only if they really deserve it. I think the main reason I don't like her is because she's not a caricature like "Dexter". She could be a real person and that's as disturbing as the main crime.
I'd give this 3 1/2 stars and although I don't feel a need to read the first in the series, I anticipate that I will read the next one just to see where it goes.
October 15, 2018
MORAL DEFENSE
(Samantha Brinkman: #2)
Written by Marcia Clark
2016; Thomas & Mercer (426 Pages)
Genre: series, fiction, mystery, suspense, legal drama
RATING: 4 STARS
Defense attorney, Sam Brinkman is back and finds herself with another sticky case to defend. Her newest client, Cassie Sonnenberg, a teenager is charged with murder and attempted murder. She is accused of stabbing both her adoptive father and brother, and savagely attacking her adoptive mother. Her mother is clinging to life and is the only one who could clear or damn Cassie. This case is already being aired everywhere and as accusation of sexual abuse and other secrets come out, Sam is no longer sure if she is protecting the innocent or the killer.
While I still miss Rachel Knight, I am now a fan of Sam, though I don’t always agree with her. She is more of a flawed character and as I started this book I found myself relating to her. I also liked the crazy plot as it could be realistic. I will not say too much about the plot as I am always scared I am going to accidentally include a spoiler. Like her last case, Sam is not always sure if her client is really innocent. As she veers between providing a good defense and her own morals, I find that there is where we get to know Sam. I would recommend this book, and series, if you enjoy legal suspense thrillers told from the defense side.
***I received both eARCs from NETGALLEY***
My Novelesque Life
(Samantha Brinkman: #2)
Written by Marcia Clark
2016; Thomas & Mercer (426 Pages)
Genre: series, fiction, mystery, suspense, legal drama
RATING: 4 STARS
Defense attorney, Sam Brinkman is back and finds herself with another sticky case to defend. Her newest client, Cassie Sonnenberg, a teenager is charged with murder and attempted murder. She is accused of stabbing both her adoptive father and brother, and savagely attacking her adoptive mother. Her mother is clinging to life and is the only one who could clear or damn Cassie. This case is already being aired everywhere and as accusation of sexual abuse and other secrets come out, Sam is no longer sure if she is protecting the innocent or the killer.
While I still miss Rachel Knight, I am now a fan of Sam, though I don’t always agree with her. She is more of a flawed character and as I started this book I found myself relating to her. I also liked the crazy plot as it could be realistic. I will not say too much about the plot as I am always scared I am going to accidentally include a spoiler. Like her last case, Sam is not always sure if her client is really innocent. As she veers between providing a good defense and her own morals, I find that there is where we get to know Sam. I would recommend this book, and series, if you enjoy legal suspense thrillers told from the defense side.
***I received both eARCs from NETGALLEY***
My Novelesque Life
December 26, 2016
Because I enjoyed the first book in this series, I bought this without reading anything about it. In this second Samantha Brinkman novel, as Sam works to defend her young client, Sam identifies with the abuse Cassie alleges, but also has doubts about whether Cassie is telling the whole truth.
I can handle a little sexual abuse in a story about a defense lawyer trying to defend her client accused of a double murder, but there was a point in this story where I didn’t want to keep reading because it got to be too much. It’s not graphic, but of course, your imagination can fill in details. I’m glad I did keep reading, it’s just . . . you should be warned.
Another thing I didn’t love about this novel was that at times I felt like I was living the life of defense attorney Samantha Brinkman IN REAL TIME. It’s interesting to know how other people live, but I don’t need to know every moment of her day—what she ate, how she slept, and the minutiae of the dull parts of shuttling back and forth between the court house, jail, office, and all the interviews Sam and her partner Alex conducted. I felt like Clark could have stuck to a more here-are-the-highlights-with-few-boring-details-so-you-get-the-idea-of-what-this-job-is-really-like approach. It’s not a bad read, but I didn’t enjoy it as much as the first book in the series, Blood Defense.
For more of my reviews, please visit: http://theresaalan.net/blog/
I can handle a little sexual abuse in a story about a defense lawyer trying to defend her client accused of a double murder, but there was a point in this story where I didn’t want to keep reading because it got to be too much. It’s not graphic, but of course, your imagination can fill in details. I’m glad I did keep reading, it’s just . . . you should be warned.
Another thing I didn’t love about this novel was that at times I felt like I was living the life of defense attorney Samantha Brinkman IN REAL TIME. It’s interesting to know how other people live, but I don’t need to know every moment of her day—what she ate, how she slept, and the minutiae of the dull parts of shuttling back and forth between the court house, jail, office, and all the interviews Sam and her partner Alex conducted. I felt like Clark could have stuck to a more here-are-the-highlights-with-few-boring-details-so-you-get-the-idea-of-what-this-job-is-really-like approach. It’s not a bad read, but I didn’t enjoy it as much as the first book in the series, Blood Defense.
For more of my reviews, please visit: http://theresaalan.net/blog/
November 9, 2016
Along the lines of the first book, another fantastic read. Hard to put down!
Defense lawyer Samantha Brinkman has another big case on her hands. 15 year old Cassie, who her parents adopted as a toddler, is the only one left alive in a massacre at her house. Mom, Dad, and big brother have all been killed bloody. The wide eyed teenage girl seems like an unlikely culprit, but it soon seems that may be the case. As most clients, she doesn't tell Samantha the whole truth at first. That's a time waster, as Samantha doesn't care if her clients are guilty. If they aren't, it makes things easier. But if they are, she just has to find a way to make sure they get a deal or off completely. That's her job. She begins to identify with Cassie over her rough childhood when Cassie tells her she was also molested. Is that enough for a jury to acquit? Things seems to get more and more complicated every chapter and we are left wondering if Cassie is telling the whole truth and if anyone else is involved. Samantha has some investigating of her own to do. The book also involves some entertaining side stories with previous clients from the first book, including Samantha's own father.
My thank you to Net Galley and Thomas & Mercer for allowing me to read an ARC. My review is honest and unbiased.
Defense lawyer Samantha Brinkman has another big case on her hands. 15 year old Cassie, who her parents adopted as a toddler, is the only one left alive in a massacre at her house. Mom, Dad, and big brother have all been killed bloody. The wide eyed teenage girl seems like an unlikely culprit, but it soon seems that may be the case. As most clients, she doesn't tell Samantha the whole truth at first. That's a time waster, as Samantha doesn't care if her clients are guilty. If they aren't, it makes things easier. But if they are, she just has to find a way to make sure they get a deal or off completely. That's her job. She begins to identify with Cassie over her rough childhood when Cassie tells her she was also molested. Is that enough for a jury to acquit? Things seems to get more and more complicated every chapter and we are left wondering if Cassie is telling the whole truth and if anyone else is involved. Samantha has some investigating of her own to do. The book also involves some entertaining side stories with previous clients from the first book, including Samantha's own father.
My thank you to Net Galley and Thomas & Mercer for allowing me to read an ARC. My review is honest and unbiased.
August 30, 2016
Samantha Brinkman is back with a fistful of cases she juggles like the person who can juggle three or four running chain saws at once.
Her cases, some dealing with gang bangers either fleeing for their lives and needing $100,000 from her or looking to kill her for the death of their brother, or with a 15 year old girl accused of brutally murdering her adoptive parents and their son, make her days crazily busy.
And because her days are insanity itself, this book flies! Think James Patterson, but with real characters you know you could meet at any super defense attorney’s office, and with deep issues that will make you think of those defense attorneys routinely represent in a city like Los Angeles.
Turn off your phone, grab your snacks and drinks, call in sick – you won’t be able to stop reading till you hit the last page of this incredible thriller of a mystery.
Her cases, some dealing with gang bangers either fleeing for their lives and needing $100,000 from her or looking to kill her for the death of their brother, or with a 15 year old girl accused of brutally murdering her adoptive parents and their son, make her days crazily busy.
And because her days are insanity itself, this book flies! Think James Patterson, but with real characters you know you could meet at any super defense attorney’s office, and with deep issues that will make you think of those defense attorneys routinely represent in a city like Los Angeles.
Turn off your phone, grab your snacks and drinks, call in sick – you won’t be able to stop reading till you hit the last page of this incredible thriller of a mystery.
November 10, 2016
Wow, my feelings went back and forth and back forth again. Who committed this gruesome murder? A whole family is killed but their 15 year old daughter who admits to molestation by her older stepbrother and her stepfather. That's just one, but the major plot twist in this story.
This is one with many subplots that I just could not put down. While I miss Rachael, Samantha is slowly starting to fill her shoes.
There is some legalese, but not that much. It's mostly a fight with the cops and trying to find dependable witnesses for the defense And believe me, with the defendant telling so many lies, that is a really hard job.
This was a great story, with great characters and a definitely entertaining read that I could not put down.
Thanks Thomas and Mercer for approving my request and for Net Galley for providing me with a free e-galley in exchange for an honest review.
This is one with many subplots that I just could not put down. While I miss Rachael, Samantha is slowly starting to fill her shoes.
There is some legalese, but not that much. It's mostly a fight with the cops and trying to find dependable witnesses for the defense And believe me, with the defendant telling so many lies, that is a really hard job.
This was a great story, with great characters and a definitely entertaining read that I could not put down.
Thanks Thomas and Mercer for approving my request and for Net Galley for providing me with a free e-galley in exchange for an honest review.
January 22, 2017
Defense attorney Samantha Brinkman takes on 15 year old client Cassie Sonnenberg after Cassie's father and brother are fatally stabbed in their home and her mother left for dead. Cassie is soon charged with this crime. Samantha runs her own law firm with help from computer whiz Alex and receptionist Michelle but money is tight. Samantha also agrees to her father's request to help out a local cop being sued by someone he busted and what a mess that turns into. She also has to find a way to keep a former client alive.
Samantha does pretty much whatever she need to do to keep her clients out of prison even though they may be guilty. Sometimes she metes out her own brand of justice which usually brings trouble.
I confess I didn't know until the end if Cassie was guilty or simply protecting someone else.
Samantha does pretty much whatever she need to do to keep her clients out of prison even though they may be guilty. Sometimes she metes out her own brand of justice which usually brings trouble.
I confess I didn't know until the end if Cassie was guilty or simply protecting someone else.
January 5, 2017
(2). I have now read the first two books in this series, and I think I have read enough to decide that this will be my last one for a while. Samantha Brinkman, the protagonist, is a good character, but the rest of the crew is very weak, and there has been no real character development in either of the books. The stories here (one is a carryover from book one) are reasonable, with some interesting twists and turns at the end of the main plot line . But there is nothing to really draw me back. I am putting this in the category of the Eve Dallas (J.D. Robb) series. If I am on vacation or something and see it on the shelves I may pick it up, but I will not seek it out anymore.
November 29, 2016
I found Marcia Clark's latest book a little confusing - but in a good way. Samantha Brinkman was still the same, but the plot and subplots got a little intertwined for me. But the read itself was good, almost great. I felt like it was a little long and would probably have enjoyed fewer subplots. I couldn't always tell where I was headed. But, in the long run, I couldn't stop reading so it was well-worth it.
I received this book from NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer in exchange for an honest review.
I received this book from NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer in exchange for an honest review.
July 29, 2016
I really enjoy Marcia Clark's crime fiction - her books are like my reading sweet spot. You know she's going to keep the twists coming right up until the very end. Can't wait to see what Samantha Brinkman does next.
December 20, 2016
3.5 stars
Although this book has difficult/sensitive subject matters, I found it significantly different and more well written than Book #1 in that the primary legal case and characters were much more well developed.
August 31, 2016
Cassie is one of the scariest characters I have seen in quite some time. I can not say enough good things about this series. Brinkman, Alex, Michy.....
November 28, 2017
For defense attorney Samantha Brinkman, it’s not about guilt or innocence—it’s about making sure her clients walk.
In the follow-up to bestselling Blood Defense, Samantha is hired as the legal advocate for Cassie Sonnenberg after a brutal stabbing left the teenager’s father and brother dead, and her mother barely clinging to life. It’s a tabloid-ready case that has the nation in an uproar—and Sam facing her biggest challenge yet. Why did Cassie survive? Is she hiding something?
As Sam digs in to find the answers, she’s surprised to find herself identifying with Cassie, becoming more and more personally entangled in the case. But when Sam finally discovers the reason for that kinship, she faces a choice she never imagined she’d have to make.
My Thoughts: In the first outing with Samantha Brinkman, Blood Defense, I was drawn in by this tough but vulnerable defense attorney, and in Moral Defense, I loved finding out more about her world. From the author’s descriptions, I could visualize everything about her current life, and her past had a way of poking into her world via a client with whom she identifies.
Sam’s father Dale Pearson made himself available to her in her cases as she struggles to deal with nefarious clients and a dirty cop. But would he continue to support her when he discovers some of her less than legitimate methods?
Cassie Sonnenberg was the kind of teenage girl that made me want to roll my eyes, but I could also feel empathy for her situation as more of her story came to light.
Will Sam find enough information to help her client? Will she gather enough evidence to win the case? Or will we all be blindsided when we finally see the truth?
Midway through the book, we think we know how it all plays out…but then we are thrown a curve with an unexpected character. When that twist turns everything in a completely different direction, we get to watch how Sam makes the system work for her. A 5 star read for me.
In the follow-up to bestselling Blood Defense, Samantha is hired as the legal advocate for Cassie Sonnenberg after a brutal stabbing left the teenager’s father and brother dead, and her mother barely clinging to life. It’s a tabloid-ready case that has the nation in an uproar—and Sam facing her biggest challenge yet. Why did Cassie survive? Is she hiding something?
As Sam digs in to find the answers, she’s surprised to find herself identifying with Cassie, becoming more and more personally entangled in the case. But when Sam finally discovers the reason for that kinship, she faces a choice she never imagined she’d have to make.
My Thoughts: In the first outing with Samantha Brinkman, Blood Defense, I was drawn in by this tough but vulnerable defense attorney, and in Moral Defense, I loved finding out more about her world. From the author’s descriptions, I could visualize everything about her current life, and her past had a way of poking into her world via a client with whom she identifies.
Sam’s father Dale Pearson made himself available to her in her cases as she struggles to deal with nefarious clients and a dirty cop. But would he continue to support her when he discovers some of her less than legitimate methods?
Cassie Sonnenberg was the kind of teenage girl that made me want to roll my eyes, but I could also feel empathy for her situation as more of her story came to light.
Will Sam find enough information to help her client? Will she gather enough evidence to win the case? Or will we all be blindsided when we finally see the truth?
Midway through the book, we think we know how it all plays out…but then we are thrown a curve with an unexpected character. When that twist turns everything in a completely different direction, we get to watch how Sam makes the system work for her. A 5 star read for me.
September 1, 2017
I loved the first Sam Brinkman book so couldn't wait to read the second. It was equally good. I think it helped me having read the first book as the characters are the same (obviously) and it's always nice to feel that you know people but facts and necessary information from the first book, and how the characters' relationships developed, is also explained in nice succinct precis. This story though, the crime, the case that Sam was defending was complete discrete and of this book. Family slaughtered - son, mother and father - and only one daughter remains. Guilty? Obviously. Really? Obviously not; that wouldn't make a good book and this most definitely was. The way the book was written felt less mature and more 'clunky' (use of language) than the first which is strange. Maybe it's because I was more comfortable with the characters so was concentrating on other things - such as the way the book was constructed. Anyway, I loved it and would highly recommend the book. I think though I'm going to take a wee break before moving onto book 3 in the Samantha Brinkman book. Maybe there can be too much of a good thing - a few weeks off and then I'll appreciate it more I'm quite sure!
October 23, 2018
Really good book and narration by Angela Dawe (audible review)
I think I liked this story. Maybe even more than the first one. It was a so good. I am a Samantha Brinkman fan.
The story line and plot was really good. A family murder, twists and turns and a few other stories going on in between. It was great. Again this book is written in the first person but she doesn't ramble on nonsense inner thoughts. There is tons dialogue throughout the entire book between all the characters. The story is well written and flows very well. Easy to follow along.
As for the narration, it was very good. I like Angela Dawe's narration of modern stories but her (historical romance narrations, not at all). She did a great job on this book. The men sound like men. So this was a real treat.
This was also a free read free listing with KU.
I think I liked this story. Maybe even more than the first one. It was a so good. I am a Samantha Brinkman fan.
The story line and plot was really good. A family murder, twists and turns and a few other stories going on in between. It was great. Again this book is written in the first person but she doesn't ramble on nonsense inner thoughts. There is tons dialogue throughout the entire book between all the characters. The story is well written and flows very well. Easy to follow along.
As for the narration, it was very good. I like Angela Dawe's narration of modern stories but her (historical romance narrations, not at all). She did a great job on this book. The men sound like men. So this was a real treat.
This was also a free read free listing with KU.
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