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David Brunelle Legal Thriller #7
Accomplice Liability
There is no honor among thieves. But what about murderers? Seattle homicide prosecutor David Brunelle faces a prosecutorial nightmare. A drug addict-turned-police informant is found murdered, his body dumped publicly as a warning to others. The prime suspect is the drug lord the dead man was snitching out. And the only witnesses to the murder were also accomplices to it. Decisions have to be made, and deals have to be cut. Brunelle struggles through a maze of coconspirators and defense attorneys to answer the questions at the core of his dilemma: Who deserves a break? And who deserves the full punishment of the law? Will a collection of scared drug addicts and loyal hangers-on be willing to testify against a man who already killed one police informant? And even if they are, will the jury believe anyone whose testimony was purchased with a plea bargain? Brunelle encounters new friends and past opponents as he tries to hold a killer responsible, both aided and hindered by the doctrine of ACCOMPLICE LIABILITY.
315 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 23, 2016
1489 people are currently reading
224 people want to read
About the author
Stephen Penner
62 books156 followersStephen Penner is an author, artist, and attorney from Seattle, Washington. He has written more than 30 novels and specializes in courtroom thrillers known for their unexpected twists and candid portrayal of the justice system. He draws on his extensive experience as a criminal trial attorney to infuse his writing with realism and insight.
Stephen is the author of several top-rated legal thriller series. The DAVID BRUNELLE LEGAL THRILLERS feature Seattle homicide D.A. David Brunelle and a recurring cast of cops, defense attorneys, and forensic experts. The TALON WINTER LEGAL THRILLERS showcase tough-as-nails Tacoma criminal defense attorney Talon Winter and her closest allies. And the RAIN CITY LEGAL THRILLERS deliver the adventures of attorney Daniel Raine and his unlikely partner Rebecca Sommers. Stephen is also the author of the MAGGIE DEVEREAUX PARANORMAL MYSTERIES, recounting the exploits of an American graduate student in the magical Highlands of Scotland, and several other stand-alone works.
In his spare time, Stephen enjoys painting, drawing, and spending time with his family. For more information, visit his website www.stephenpenner.com.
Stephen is the author of several top-rated legal thriller series. The DAVID BRUNELLE LEGAL THRILLERS feature Seattle homicide D.A. David Brunelle and a recurring cast of cops, defense attorneys, and forensic experts. The TALON WINTER LEGAL THRILLERS showcase tough-as-nails Tacoma criminal defense attorney Talon Winter and her closest allies. And the RAIN CITY LEGAL THRILLERS deliver the adventures of attorney Daniel Raine and his unlikely partner Rebecca Sommers. Stephen is also the author of the MAGGIE DEVEREAUX PARANORMAL MYSTERIES, recounting the exploits of an American graduate student in the magical Highlands of Scotland, and several other stand-alone works.
In his spare time, Stephen enjoys painting, drawing, and spending time with his family. For more information, visit his website www.stephenpenner.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews
July 26, 2017
Very good legal thriller.
If you're planning on becoming lawyer or studying to practice as attorney, this fictional story has many teachable moments. Good arguments in the courtroom, interchanges between prosecutors and defense attorneys. One Seattle police officer, his informers and known drug dealer. How to take him down? Do this by the book or fudge in some parts?
If you're planning on becoming lawyer or studying to practice as attorney, this fictional story has many teachable moments. Good arguments in the courtroom, interchanges between prosecutors and defense attorneys. One Seattle police officer, his informers and known drug dealer. How to take him down? Do this by the book or fudge in some parts?
June 2, 2022
5-stars for being the FIRST book of the series with an actual verdict! FINALLY!
After getting through the previous six books without a jury verdict, I was a bit taken aback that this seventh book didn't follow suit with that tired formula. I was legit so convinced that it was never gonna happen, that when it actually DID happen, I was like.... wait, what? I was shocked. Shocked I say! And given how enthralled I was about the actual story itself (as has been the case in all former books), I was very happy to give that 5th star. At last. This being said, though, I do feel inclined to mention that while I was super pleased that the buildup finally brought me to a verdict, I was admittedly still bummed that I didn't get to read it as it happened. Instead, I was told about it via Brunelle's narration, a sort of quick mention without much flare. But given how starved I was for a frickin' verdict, I forgave the rather cheap presentation of it. I'll take what I can get. For now.
At any rate, like all its predecessors, the actual case in this story was excellent and very unique. When a man is killed for snitching on his drug supplier, the only witness accounts to rely on are those who were potential accomplices to his murder. Each of them has a reason to lie and reason to be truthful. It's quite the fascinating conundrum. I'd say this is the first legal thriller I've read to have so many lawyers in one sitting. It was lawyer central in this book. That was quite overwhelming to read and yet, so entertaining seeing them interact with one another, each of them representing one of the witnesses with Brunelle at prosecuting end. I liked the new character Gwen and thought she'd have made a great new love interest for Brunelle if it wasn't for that pesky lesbianism thing. Character interactions and dialogue are as great as always, and the story still has that wonderful flow that I've come to appreciate in this series. I love the quickness of my reads.
On a side note, in regard to the only subplot of these stories (Brunelle's love life), I really felt for the dude this go around. I can tell Penner is trying to grow him up a little bit (despite him being a mid-40's guy already), so I'm hoping he'll find someone more fitting for his type of personality, someone not named Kat or Robyn. I liked him for Kat at first until she exposed herself for the manipulative belittler she is. Then I liked Robyn because she seemed to have depth until she mutated into just one big tease. Gwen turned out to be gay, so.... can Brunelle find love? Speaking of Kat, though, as much as I grew to dislike her character, I wish Penner would have explained her absence in this book, especially given the peaceful resolution the two shared at the end of the previous book. Hopefully it will be explained later, but I guess even if it isn't, I don't miss the woman and would be fine if she doesn't return. I'd rather Brunelle be placed with someone else who can appreciate the guy for what he is.
At any rate, a satisfying entry through and through, including finally having a jury verdict. To update my summary of all book endings (super condensed):
Book 1 --Defendant killed. No verdict.
Book 2--Defendant killed. No verdict.
Book 3-- Defendant killed. Mistrial. No verdict.
Book 4--Case dismissed. No verdict.
Book 5--Jury dismissed. No verdict.
Book 6--Defendant detained. Mistrial and retried. No verdict (for the readers to see).
Book 7--WINNER! Defendant and a single accomplice found GUILTY!
I'm coming for you, book 8....
After getting through the previous six books without a jury verdict, I was a bit taken aback that this seventh book didn't follow suit with that tired formula. I was legit so convinced that it was never gonna happen, that when it actually DID happen, I was like.... wait, what? I was shocked. Shocked I say! And given how enthralled I was about the actual story itself (as has been the case in all former books), I was very happy to give that 5th star. At last. This being said, though, I do feel inclined to mention that while I was super pleased that the buildup finally brought me to a verdict, I was admittedly still bummed that I didn't get to read it as it happened. Instead, I was told about it via Brunelle's narration, a sort of quick mention without much flare. But given how starved I was for a frickin' verdict, I forgave the rather cheap presentation of it. I'll take what I can get. For now.
At any rate, like all its predecessors, the actual case in this story was excellent and very unique. When a man is killed for snitching on his drug supplier, the only witness accounts to rely on are those who were potential accomplices to his murder. Each of them has a reason to lie and reason to be truthful. It's quite the fascinating conundrum. I'd say this is the first legal thriller I've read to have so many lawyers in one sitting. It was lawyer central in this book. That was quite overwhelming to read and yet, so entertaining seeing them interact with one another, each of them representing one of the witnesses with Brunelle at prosecuting end. I liked the new character Gwen and thought she'd have made a great new love interest for Brunelle if it wasn't for that pesky lesbianism thing. Character interactions and dialogue are as great as always, and the story still has that wonderful flow that I've come to appreciate in this series. I love the quickness of my reads.
On a side note, in regard to the only subplot of these stories (Brunelle's love life), I really felt for the dude this go around. I can tell Penner is trying to grow him up a little bit (despite him being a mid-40's guy already), so I'm hoping he'll find someone more fitting for his type of personality, someone not named Kat or Robyn. I liked him for Kat at first until she exposed herself for the manipulative belittler she is. Then I liked Robyn because she seemed to have depth until she mutated into just one big tease. Gwen turned out to be gay, so.... can Brunelle find love? Speaking of Kat, though, as much as I grew to dislike her character, I wish Penner would have explained her absence in this book, especially given the peaceful resolution the two shared at the end of the previous book. Hopefully it will be explained later, but I guess even if it isn't, I don't miss the woman and would be fine if she doesn't return. I'd rather Brunelle be placed with someone else who can appreciate the guy for what he is.
At any rate, a satisfying entry through and through, including finally having a jury verdict. To update my summary of all book endings (super condensed):
Book 1 --Defendant killed. No verdict.
Book 2--Defendant killed. No verdict.
Book 3-- Defendant killed. Mistrial. No verdict.
Book 4--Case dismissed. No verdict.
Book 5--Jury dismissed. No verdict.
Book 6--Defendant detained. Mistrial and retried. No verdict (for the readers to see).
Book 7--WINNER! Defendant and a single accomplice found GUILTY!
I'm coming for you, book 8....
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 2, 2025
4 Stars
Accomplice Liability is the seventh instalment in the David Brunelle Legal Thriller Series. And so the book binge began ... this series turned out to be a gripping and masterfully crafted collection of legal dramas set against the backdrop of Seattle’s criminal justice system. The series follows David Brunelle, a dedicated and sharp prosecutor, as he navigates the complexities of law, morality, and justice.
What makes this series stand out is the balance between intense courtroom drama with deeply human stories. David Brunelle is an intriguing character - intelligent, principled, and yet flawed in ways that make him even more relatable. Mr. Penner’s writing easily brings the legal world to life with authenticity, offering a fascinating glimpse into the challenges prosecutors face, from gathering evidence to battling wily defense attorneys.
Each book in the series presents a unique and thought-provoking case, often delving into some morally ambiguous territory. The plots are tightly woven, with twists that are both surprising and satisfying. Mr. Penner’s ability to build the tension and suspense is noteworthy, as is his knack for creating vivid, multidimensional characters – both the heroes and villains.
So, whether you’re a fan of legal thrillers, crime fiction, or simply enjoy a well-told story, then the David Brunelle series delivers on all fronts.
Happy Reading…
Accomplice Liability is the seventh instalment in the David Brunelle Legal Thriller Series. And so the book binge began ... this series turned out to be a gripping and masterfully crafted collection of legal dramas set against the backdrop of Seattle’s criminal justice system. The series follows David Brunelle, a dedicated and sharp prosecutor, as he navigates the complexities of law, morality, and justice.
What makes this series stand out is the balance between intense courtroom drama with deeply human stories. David Brunelle is an intriguing character - intelligent, principled, and yet flawed in ways that make him even more relatable. Mr. Penner’s writing easily brings the legal world to life with authenticity, offering a fascinating glimpse into the challenges prosecutors face, from gathering evidence to battling wily defense attorneys.
Each book in the series presents a unique and thought-provoking case, often delving into some morally ambiguous territory. The plots are tightly woven, with twists that are both surprising and satisfying. Mr. Penner’s ability to build the tension and suspense is noteworthy, as is his knack for creating vivid, multidimensional characters – both the heroes and villains.
So, whether you’re a fan of legal thrillers, crime fiction, or simply enjoy a well-told story, then the David Brunelle series delivers on all fronts.
Happy Reading…
February 2, 2020
This was a fun read. I mean as fun as a courtroom drama based on a murder case can be fun. In this case, the DA has to decide which of the suspects to make a deal with in exchange for their testimony. Six were possibly present when the victim was murdered and thus culpable, but who was least culpable? One suspect agrees to testify in exchange for possible immunity. The DA, Brunelle refuses to give blanket immunity without first hearing what they intend to testify to, which was good in this case because the defendant used a Murder on the Orient Express fabrication. He said, someone shot the victim, then handed him the gun and told him to shoot him, then hand the gun to another. The real story does turn out to be a bit of a twist, however. If you like courtroom dramas, this is a good read.
April 26, 2024
the plot thickens, who did it, recommends
Ok, now author, stop doing my man Dave like this, take him out of his torture about Robyn. Please give him Robyn or write her out his heart. He’s a nice, cool man, he deserves someone. This storyline had me captivated because I was trying so hard to put them all in jail because I felt they all should’ve been punished. And I did have a weird feeling about Jackson and an even weirder feeling about Gwen. After all the open statements at the trial, I don’t trust no defense lawyers🤷🏽♀️, they be fibbing. I enjoyed this book, it has some funny punch lines. I had to laugh out loud at some of it. Author, give Dave a woman preferably Robyn because that’s who in his heart.
Ok, now author, stop doing my man Dave like this, take him out of his torture about Robyn. Please give him Robyn or write her out his heart. He’s a nice, cool man, he deserves someone. This storyline had me captivated because I was trying so hard to put them all in jail because I felt they all should’ve been punished. And I did have a weird feeling about Jackson and an even weirder feeling about Gwen. After all the open statements at the trial, I don’t trust no defense lawyers🤷🏽♀️, they be fibbing. I enjoyed this book, it has some funny punch lines. I had to laugh out loud at some of it. Author, give Dave a woman preferably Robyn because that’s who in his heart.
October 10, 2020
A good legal procedural
I have been reading other genres for a while and this was a good book to return to one of my favorites. The reason I only gave it a 4 was because of some unneeded profanity. Some of it was realistic but there were a few instances where it was used just for the shock and was inappropriate. The other reason for only a 4 was there was so much sexual innuendo that didn’t add anything to the story. I’m not a prude but unnecessary language and sexual innuendo don’t make a book more interesting. Without that, I would have happily given it 5 stars. The story line was good, the legal procedure was fairly factual and the ending was a total surprise.
I have been reading other genres for a while and this was a good book to return to one of my favorites. The reason I only gave it a 4 was because of some unneeded profanity. Some of it was realistic but there were a few instances where it was used just for the shock and was inappropriate. The other reason for only a 4 was there was so much sexual innuendo that didn’t add anything to the story. I’m not a prude but unnecessary language and sexual innuendo don’t make a book more interesting. Without that, I would have happily given it 5 stars. The story line was good, the legal procedure was fairly factual and the ending was a total surprise.
July 18, 2024
Generally entertaining, but a little wonky, and the resolution was anticlimactic. Seemed like a novel in search of a concept. I especially don't understand, though, why Brunelle keeps pining for Robyn Dunn, this defense attorney who in an earlier book broke up what seemed to be a great relationship he had with Kat, the medical examiner. Back then she used him, apparently intentionally caused the breakup, then dumped him. Whenever she shows up in this series she's selfish and narcissistic. He should have seen that long ago, and dismissed her as a bad dream.
June 20, 2022
Wow, another great legal writer emerges from my first read of his. I like how he starts with the key characters and gets you involved before more people get into the fray. His style is very interesting and he keeps you hooked like a good writer would. I also like how he unearthed a bad detective, who could think of such a thing. Also a nice ending .Fantastic to find more good books to read. 5
May 16, 2025
Accomplice Liability
This was was completely different from the previous stories and it was hard to see them pulling this prosecution off.
I have the story 1 star less for lack of essential details. Where was the murder weapon? Did they find traces of blood at the murder scene? Did forensics find anything in the vehicle that moved the body? There was no testimony about the order to clean up the blood.
I'm a detail person and I thrive on them.
This was was completely different from the previous stories and it was hard to see them pulling this prosecution off.
I have the story 1 star less for lack of essential details. Where was the murder weapon? Did they find traces of blood at the murder scene? Did forensics find anything in the vehicle that moved the body? There was no testimony about the order to clean up the blood.
I'm a detail person and I thrive on them.
May 25, 2017
Accomplice liability
Another fascinating tale that seems like the 're-telling of an actual case and trial that the author knows of. The hero is flawed in a very human way but managed to triumph in spite of himself. The characters were real and believable while the story was totally unique and made me wonder how often it happens without the attention this read offered.
Another fascinating tale that seems like the 're-telling of an actual case and trial that the author knows of. The hero is flawed in a very human way but managed to triumph in spite of himself. The characters were real and believable while the story was totally unique and made me wonder how often it happens without the attention this read offered.
May 9, 2019
This was one of the better books in the Brunelle series. It really breaks down what goes on behind the scenes between the DA s office and the Defense team, the inter action between the Police Department and the importance of the Police Officer doing the right thing. The ending was excellent and was very believable.
October 8, 2020
Interesting
From the beginning,this story caught my interest. The details of getting someone to give up information,recording it,making deals...I was really surprised with Jackson lying about the interview, making a false “ report “ - and laughing like it didn’t matter! Wow ! Really good book ! !
From the beginning,this story caught my interest. The details of getting someone to give up information,recording it,making deals...I was really surprised with Jackson lying about the interview, making a false “ report “ - and laughing like it didn’t matter! Wow ! Really good book ! !
October 13, 2020
Dependable entertainment
The Brunelle books are always good reading. Brunel himself is an excellent, if disorganised prosecutor and without fail his daydreams of love and love and passion interfere with his thought processes. A hopeless serial luster, always making a play for the wrong girl. Good job he is a better lawyer!
The Brunelle books are always good reading. Brunel himself is an excellent, if disorganised prosecutor and without fail his daydreams of love and love and passion interfere with his thought processes. A hopeless serial luster, always making a play for the wrong girl. Good job he is a better lawyer!
December 1, 2020
Absolutely enthralling
This work of Stephen Penner has held me in t oral suspense throughout. Just like a Christie novel, there are more twists and turns than a corkscrew and more surprises than a mystery lucky dip. I thoroughly recommend this book to all aficionados of murder/mystery books.
This work of Stephen Penner has held me in t oral suspense throughout. Just like a Christie novel, there are more twists and turns than a corkscrew and more surprises than a mystery lucky dip. I thoroughly recommend this book to all aficionados of murder/mystery books.
April 12, 2022
Good book
A little to much drama for my taste but all in all a good book. Storyline is kind of worn out, but for people that like just reading it will suit their taste. I like a little more intrigue myself. Characters were well written. Will be reading another of this author's books to see if they follow suit. Keep on writting.
A little to much drama for my taste but all in all a good book. Storyline is kind of worn out, but for people that like just reading it will suit their taste. I like a little more intrigue myself. Characters were well written. Will be reading another of this author's books to see if they follow suit. Keep on writting.
November 10, 2023
I usually enjoy courtroom books, but this one was a chore to read, definitely NOT a thriller.
It painfully went thru every statement that anyone uttered and ended on the down side.
The detective was charged because he revealed the name of the snitch, causing him to get shot.Tin
The DA's co-counsel revealed herself as being gay, and the other woman he was interested in just didn't pan out.
It painfully went thru every statement that anyone uttered and ended on the down side.
The detective was charged because he revealed the name of the snitch, causing him to get shot.Tin
The DA's co-counsel revealed herself as being gay, and the other woman he was interested in just didn't pan out.
December 11, 2023
Mr. Penner should keep his day job.
His novels are boring, full of the legal jargon that makes trials dull. The plot is predictable, interspersed with moments of unrequited lust. The ending is abrupt and unfulfilling. This review applies to the three novels I read. Why three? Because hope springs eternal and they were free!
His novels are boring, full of the legal jargon that makes trials dull. The plot is predictable, interspersed with moments of unrequited lust. The ending is abrupt and unfulfilling. This review applies to the three novels I read. Why three? Because hope springs eternal and they were free!
August 8, 2024
free ebook series i like
a drug informant who was a friend of the cops son was found shot and murdered
they found the drug dealer who shot him and the people who cleaned up
they tried to get them to turn on each other to get the top person who did the killing
the da assigned a woman lawyer to help him as there are 4 people involved all having the case at the same time
the cop had snitched on the snitch, wanting to get him killed so they could arrest the drug dealer for murder since they couldnt get him on drugs
a drug informant who was a friend of the cops son was found shot and murdered
they found the drug dealer who shot him and the people who cleaned up
they tried to get them to turn on each other to get the top person who did the killing
the da assigned a woman lawyer to help him as there are 4 people involved all having the case at the same time
the cop had snitched on the snitch, wanting to get him killed so they could arrest the drug dealer for murder since they couldnt get him on drugs
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 29, 2017
Sorry. Too m any players to remember. I could not remember that cast of character s.
Too many players to remember and get invested in. This is only the second book of his so maybe I'll try again.
Too many players to remember and get invested in. This is only the second book of his so maybe I'll try again.
March 23, 2019
An interesting novel
Which I felt was a bit confusing with all the different aspects of the case with multiple characters involved as to whom actually was involved in the murder of the drug kingpin.
Which I felt was a bit confusing with all the different aspects of the case with multiple characters involved as to whom actually was involved in the murder of the drug kingpin.
February 12, 2020
Good book
The book was well written. It read really fast. I liked the characters in the book and especially the lead character. The book was very exciting and kept me suspense throughout the reading.
The book was well written. It read really fast. I liked the characters in the book and especially the lead character. The book was very exciting and kept me suspense throughout the reading.
December 9, 2020
The Prosecutor
David Brunelle is an ADA with a clear grasp of the law, but a very unclear understanding of women. He’s a realistically portrayed Prosecutor who gets convictions through clever but legal applications of the law.
David Brunelle is an ADA with a clear grasp of the law, but a very unclear understanding of women. He’s a realistically portrayed Prosecutor who gets convictions through clever but legal applications of the law.
March 12, 2024
Liability
Very interesting case the search for truth sometimes isn't what you think it is.The ending of the trial was quite interesting as was the total end of the book. Great read thank you for writing it.
Very interesting case the search for truth sometimes isn't what you think it is.The ending of the trial was quite interesting as was the total end of the book. Great read thank you for writing it.
February 1, 2025
accomplice liability
This book was as good as all the Brunelle series. I have a suggestion. There were so many characters who interacted in many different ways, I lost track of who did what and with whom. Give a cast of characters in the beginning. I would have appreciated that.
This book was as good as all the Brunelle series. I have a suggestion. There were so many characters who interacted in many different ways, I lost track of who did what and with whom. Give a cast of characters in the beginning. I would have appreciated that.
February 8, 2025
not the best of. the 7 books.
For ME there were just to many people to keep track of. It also kink of dragged things out a little too much. Having said all this. I would still recommend this book.
For ME there were just to many people to keep track of. It also kink of dragged things out a little too much. Having said all this. I would still recommend this book.
October 12, 2018
Accomplice Liability
This is a great series and a great book. I really am enjoying this series. I highly recommend this book and series
This is a great series and a great book. I really am enjoying this series. I highly recommend this book and series
May 25, 2020
There was too much courtroom testimony in the book. It's too bad there wasn't a side story to give readers a break from the witness interrogations and actual court scenes.
June 25, 2020
Love the series and the author but way too much detail about the legal process. Boring and not the usual adrenaline hit you usually get from this author.
September 25, 2020
Mr Penned should have ended this before now. And the nonsense about Ms.Dunn is ridiculous.
September 26, 2020
Excessive f words
App the author things using the f word makes for interesting reading!? Not so. I quit at chapter 12. I will not read another book by this "author"
App the author things using the f word makes for interesting reading!? Not so. I quit at chapter 12. I will not read another book by this "author"
Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews