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Philadelphia Legal #2
An Engineered Injustice
What if the deadliest train wreck in the nation’s history was no accident?
When a passenger train derails in North Philadelphia with fatal results, idealistic criminal defense attorney Vaughn Coburn takes on the most personal case of his young career. The surviving engineer is his cousin Eddy, and when Eddy asks Vaughn to defend him, he can’t help but accept. Vaughn has a debt to repay, for he and his cousin share an old secret—one that changed both their lives forever.
As blame for the wreck zeros in on Eddy, Vaughn realizes there’s more to this case than meets the eye. Seeking the truth behind the crash, he finds himself the target of malicious attorneys, corrupt railroad men, and a mob boss whose son perished in the accident and wants nothing less than cold-blooded revenge. With the help of his ex-con private investigator and an old flame who works for the competition, Vaughn struggles to defeat powerful forces—and to escape his own past built on secrets and lies.
When a passenger train derails in North Philadelphia with fatal results, idealistic criminal defense attorney Vaughn Coburn takes on the most personal case of his young career. The surviving engineer is his cousin Eddy, and when Eddy asks Vaughn to defend him, he can’t help but accept. Vaughn has a debt to repay, for he and his cousin share an old secret—one that changed both their lives forever.
As blame for the wreck zeros in on Eddy, Vaughn realizes there’s more to this case than meets the eye. Seeking the truth behind the crash, he finds himself the target of malicious attorneys, corrupt railroad men, and a mob boss whose son perished in the accident and wants nothing less than cold-blooded revenge. With the help of his ex-con private investigator and an old flame who works for the competition, Vaughn struggles to defeat powerful forces—and to escape his own past built on secrets and lies.
319 pages, Paperback
First published January 23, 2018
2656 people are currently reading
1753 people want to read
About the author
William L. Myers Jr.
6 books537 followersWilliam L. Myers, Jr. is the No. 6 best-selling author on Amazon Kindle in 2017 for his debut novel, A Criminal Defense. That was the first in what has become the Philadelphia Legal Series. The third book in that series, A Killers Alibi debuted earlier this year.
A Killer’s Alibi has had rave early reviews including New York Times Bestselling author, Bill Lasher—
“William Myers’ riveting new novel is not just a crackerjack legal thriller, it is a wrenching portrayal of a whole range of farther-daughter relations, showing how they can damage, how they can nourish, how they go dangerously off track. A story not to be missed.”
Born in 1958 into a blue-collar family, Mr. Myers inherited a work-ethic that propelled him through college and into the Ivy League at The University of Pennsylvania School of Law. From there, Mr. Myers started his legal career in a Philadelphia-based mega defense firm. After ten years defending corporate America, he realized his heart wasn’t in it. So, with his career on the fast track to success--he gave it all up and started his own firm. It was time to start fighting for the common guy.
That was twenty-five years ago and since then, he has focused on representing railroad employees and other honest, hard-working people who have been injured by others. He has represented thousands of clients in his tenure and has become a highly-regarded litigation attorney up and down the Eastern Seaboard.
A Killer’s Alibi has had rave early reviews including New York Times Bestselling author, Bill Lasher—
“William Myers’ riveting new novel is not just a crackerjack legal thriller, it is a wrenching portrayal of a whole range of farther-daughter relations, showing how they can damage, how they can nourish, how they go dangerously off track. A story not to be missed.”
Born in 1958 into a blue-collar family, Mr. Myers inherited a work-ethic that propelled him through college and into the Ivy League at The University of Pennsylvania School of Law. From there, Mr. Myers started his legal career in a Philadelphia-based mega defense firm. After ten years defending corporate America, he realized his heart wasn’t in it. So, with his career on the fast track to success--he gave it all up and started his own firm. It was time to start fighting for the common guy.
That was twenty-five years ago and since then, he has focused on representing railroad employees and other honest, hard-working people who have been injured by others. He has represented thousands of clients in his tenure and has become a highly-regarded litigation attorney up and down the Eastern Seaboard.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 362 reviews
December 17, 2017
First and foremost, a large thank you to NetGalley, William L. Myers, Jr., and Thomas & Mercer for providing me with a copy of this publication, which allows me to provide you with an unbiased review.
After his sensational debut legal thriller, William L. Myers, Jr. is back with another explosive novel that is sure to grab the attention of the reader from the opening lines. Vaughn Coburn is a young and fairly astute lawyer in Philadelphia whose meticulous work and passion for the job show on a daily basis. Arriving back at the firm one afternoon, Vaughn finds everyone glued to the television as they watch the latest developments in a fatal passenger train crash. Soon thereafter, the dreaded phone call comes, his cousin, Eddie, was the engineer and is being blamed for the entire event. As the body count mounts and media outlets are quick to point blame, Vaughn hastily accepts the request to represent Eddie. How could he not have seen the ninety-ton train car ahead of him? Might he have been distracted by his cell phone? When his blood test comes back, Eddie is clear of any narcotics or alcohol, but nothing makes sense, and the current state of amnesia is not helping Vaughn put together a reasonable case. Turning to an unlikely source, Vaughn begins to peel back the layers while two high-profile attorneys begin gathering up suits against Amtrak and Eddie. Problems only get worse when it turns out one of Philly’s finest mobsters had a relative on board and vows retribution. Vaughn can see no light at the end of the tunnel, but he will have to find something quickly, as he owes it to Eddie to clear him of this crime. A shared secret seems to cement Vaughn’s commitment to a man who has had a string of bad luck. With the country watching and the noose fit and ready, Vaughn must do the impossible and explain how Eddie Coburn could be innocent of such a straightforward crash. Might this be too much, even for a legal go-getter, to handle? Myers does a sensational job at piecing the story together, pacing the narrative in such a way that the reader will not be able to help but demand a little more with each page turn. Perfect for those who loved the debut novel and fans of a near-perfect legal thriller.
I came across Myers’ work earlier this year when I saw his novel, A Criminal Defence, receiving a great deal of hype. I loved that novel and hoped to find myself with a copy of this, the follow-up, in short order. Myers uses his knowledge of both the law and Philadelphia to pull the reader into the middle of something realistic. Using strong characters, Myers is able to offer up a wonderfully complex legal web. Vaughn Coburn is the ideal young lawyer to forge into his legal minefield. His past grit and determination paired with a desire to see justice done helps move the story forward, even when things appear bleak. Working alongside many others, both in the legal field and those who are trying to sink Eddie’s case, Vaughn is able to shape the story and keep the reader wondering. Layering much backstory into the narrative, Myers portrays both Coburn men as inseparable, though also having taken paths that could not have differed more. Pompous legal minds and gritty Amtrak employees balance the hope that Vaughn seeks to bring to Eddie’s case, leaving the reader to make the final decision as to what they will accept. Turning to the story itself, Myers offers his superior writing abilities to weave together a strong piece that has the ability to pull on the reader’s heartstrings. The horror of such an incident, a fatal train accident, adds dramatic flair to an already high-impact thriller. Myers uses not only his skill but draws on real-life events to deliver a novel that will be talked about long after it hits bookstands around the world. Mixing shoer chapters with those seen to develop the already strong foundation, Myers ensures the reader is presented with a high caliber novel that does not fade at any point. I can only hope that many others will discover Myers and increase his fan base. That said, it might leave some leery of travelling the rails for the foreseeable future.
Kudos, Mr. Myers, for such a powerful legal thriller. I will be insisting that many people rush out to get their hands on this book soon. I trust that this will get rave reviews from others who enjoy your style and delivery.
Like/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
A Book for All Seasons, a different sort of Book Challenge: https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/...
After his sensational debut legal thriller, William L. Myers, Jr. is back with another explosive novel that is sure to grab the attention of the reader from the opening lines. Vaughn Coburn is a young and fairly astute lawyer in Philadelphia whose meticulous work and passion for the job show on a daily basis. Arriving back at the firm one afternoon, Vaughn finds everyone glued to the television as they watch the latest developments in a fatal passenger train crash. Soon thereafter, the dreaded phone call comes, his cousin, Eddie, was the engineer and is being blamed for the entire event. As the body count mounts and media outlets are quick to point blame, Vaughn hastily accepts the request to represent Eddie. How could he not have seen the ninety-ton train car ahead of him? Might he have been distracted by his cell phone? When his blood test comes back, Eddie is clear of any narcotics or alcohol, but nothing makes sense, and the current state of amnesia is not helping Vaughn put together a reasonable case. Turning to an unlikely source, Vaughn begins to peel back the layers while two high-profile attorneys begin gathering up suits against Amtrak and Eddie. Problems only get worse when it turns out one of Philly’s finest mobsters had a relative on board and vows retribution. Vaughn can see no light at the end of the tunnel, but he will have to find something quickly, as he owes it to Eddie to clear him of this crime. A shared secret seems to cement Vaughn’s commitment to a man who has had a string of bad luck. With the country watching and the noose fit and ready, Vaughn must do the impossible and explain how Eddie Coburn could be innocent of such a straightforward crash. Might this be too much, even for a legal go-getter, to handle? Myers does a sensational job at piecing the story together, pacing the narrative in such a way that the reader will not be able to help but demand a little more with each page turn. Perfect for those who loved the debut novel and fans of a near-perfect legal thriller.
I came across Myers’ work earlier this year when I saw his novel, A Criminal Defence, receiving a great deal of hype. I loved that novel and hoped to find myself with a copy of this, the follow-up, in short order. Myers uses his knowledge of both the law and Philadelphia to pull the reader into the middle of something realistic. Using strong characters, Myers is able to offer up a wonderfully complex legal web. Vaughn Coburn is the ideal young lawyer to forge into his legal minefield. His past grit and determination paired with a desire to see justice done helps move the story forward, even when things appear bleak. Working alongside many others, both in the legal field and those who are trying to sink Eddie’s case, Vaughn is able to shape the story and keep the reader wondering. Layering much backstory into the narrative, Myers portrays both Coburn men as inseparable, though also having taken paths that could not have differed more. Pompous legal minds and gritty Amtrak employees balance the hope that Vaughn seeks to bring to Eddie’s case, leaving the reader to make the final decision as to what they will accept. Turning to the story itself, Myers offers his superior writing abilities to weave together a strong piece that has the ability to pull on the reader’s heartstrings. The horror of such an incident, a fatal train accident, adds dramatic flair to an already high-impact thriller. Myers uses not only his skill but draws on real-life events to deliver a novel that will be talked about long after it hits bookstands around the world. Mixing shoer chapters with those seen to develop the already strong foundation, Myers ensures the reader is presented with a high caliber novel that does not fade at any point. I can only hope that many others will discover Myers and increase his fan base. That said, it might leave some leery of travelling the rails for the foreseeable future.
Kudos, Mr. Myers, for such a powerful legal thriller. I will be insisting that many people rush out to get their hands on this book soon. I trust that this will get rave reviews from others who enjoy your style and delivery.
Like/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
A Book for All Seasons, a different sort of Book Challenge: https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/...
June 21, 2018
This fast paced thriller moves quicker than a roaring locomotive to its breathtaking conclusion.
It has been ages since I have read good legal thrillers but this one caught my attention for multiple reasons, not the least of which was the topic of a massive train crash. Anyone keeping up with the news in the US is aware that there has been a number of Amtrak wrecks in 2018, so this book is as timely as it is captivating.
In An Engineered Injustice, one of the largest and deadliest train wrecks has just occurred and as Vaughn Coburn is frantically searching for news on his co-worker, he receives a call from cousin’s wife: his cousin was the engineer on the train. While Vaughn’s loyalty is torn between sympathizing with his injured co-worker and his duty to his family, he owes a debt to his cousin that has to be repaid. Vaughn agrees to represent Eddy, his cousin, and begins searching for the answers that Eddy, due to amnesia, cannot remember – why did Eddy plow into an obstruction on the tracks without ever applying the brakes or slowing down. As tension mounts and evidence against Eddy grows, Vaughn slowly begins to realize that there is far more to this case than a train wreck and blame. The nefarious undertones and implications will have you, the reader, turning the pages so quickly you will not stop for a break until the very end. The story is compelling, unique and, sadly, extremely plausible.
I had no idea that this was a follow-up to William Myers, Jr.’s best seller, “A Criminal Defense.” Since I haven’t been reading legal thrillers, I had not read the first book but it didn’t in any way affect my enjoyment of this book. It works fine as a stand-alone. If you enjoy thrillers of any type or legal thrillers specifically, then this is definitely a “must read.” Myers is a very successful attorney and his writing reflects his skill and knowledge. 4 out of 5 stars.
I greatly appreciate #ThomasandMercer, #Netgalley and Mr. Myers for their generosity in providing my copy of this book for review.
January 27, 2018
A passenger train derails in the North Philadelphia with fatal results, and criminal defence attorney Vaughn Coburn takes on the most personal case of his young career. The surviving engineer is his young cousin, Eddy. Vaughn has a debt to repay, as he and his cousin share an old secret.
Wow. I don't really know how to praise this book as I'm afraid I will do it an injustice. This is the best courtroom drama I have read in a long while. The book takes you on a fast running roller coaster ride where curve balls are continually being thrown at you. The tension keeps building throughout the story. The plot line is very believable. I did not realise that this is the second book in this series. Now, I'm going to have to try and fit into my busy reading schedule, A Criminal Defense, before , A Killer's Alibi come out next year.
I would like to thank NetGalley, Thomas & Mercer and the author William L. Myers Jr. for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Wow. I don't really know how to praise this book as I'm afraid I will do it an injustice. This is the best courtroom drama I have read in a long while. The book takes you on a fast running roller coaster ride where curve balls are continually being thrown at you. The tension keeps building throughout the story. The plot line is very believable. I did not realise that this is the second book in this series. Now, I'm going to have to try and fit into my busy reading schedule, A Criminal Defense, before , A Killer's Alibi come out next year.
I would like to thank NetGalley, Thomas & Mercer and the author William L. Myers Jr. for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
January 28, 2018
If you like reading legal thrillers, this book is for you.
After reading his first book couldn't wait for this one. Train derail in North Philadelphia, many dreads and injuries. Train engineer Eddy, is lawyer Vaughn's cousin. Eddy was injured and doesn't remember the accident. Was this accident or someone else engineered it? Many twists will keep you reading this novel.
After reading his first book couldn't wait for this one. Train derail in North Philadelphia, many dreads and injuries. Train engineer Eddy, is lawyer Vaughn's cousin. Eddy was injured and doesn't remember the accident. Was this accident or someone else engineered it? Many twists will keep you reading this novel.
May 8, 2018
3 Stars— I decided to read “An Engineered Injustice” primarily because of how much I enjoyed Myers’ first book “A Criminal Defense.” First of all, Myers is a very good writer and gets you invested in the story very quickly. The book is centered around Vaughn, a lawyer who is enlisted to represent his cousin who was the engineer of a train that wrecked killing numerous passengers. The author does an excellent job of making the engineer a sympathetic defendant and his lawyer a Rocky-like underdog that has to overcome insurmountable odds to prove his client’s innocence. The book contains so many twists and turns that I flew through the book. Although fast paced, this book contains so many cliches and ridiculous coincidences that I was finally unable to suspend my common sense and started realizing how bad the plot was. The first half of the novel is definitely 5 Stars, but when Myers has to resort to amnesia, spies, mobsters, and a drone filming an important event for absolutely no reason other than it helped the storyline, I lost interest fast. Throw in multiple murders at the hands of multiple established lawyers and other unbelievable twists, and the whole plot eventually implodes leaving only a stupid happy ending that can be seen coming a million miles away. Hopefully, Myers next book will be as strong at the end as it is in the beginning. If so, Myers might be the next Harlan Coben.
January 9, 2018
An Engineered Injustice follows the same law firm from A Criminal Defense which I purchased and loved recently, but either could be read as a standalone and I highly recommend both especially if you have been lacking good legal thrillers in your reading life…
A train crash, a huge loss of life, and immediately there are lawsuits – but in the case of Vaughn’s cousin Eddy, a possibility of criminal charges as it may well be that he is responsible for the crash, an event he has no memory of.
This is a clever, absorbing and often thought provoking read – with some excellent characters, proper full on courtroom drama and a mystery element that is unpredictable and highly intriguing. History comes into play as we learn more about the relationship between the cousins and the wider family – we have a mob boss out for blood, a nefarious civil litigation firm and a horrifying incident tying them all together..it is a fast, addictive read and one that really gets the blood up.
If you watched “Goliath” and enjoyed it you’ll probably love this – whilst Vaughn is not quite a lone wolf he is often the lone voice supporting Eddy, often having to push against his own colleagues and friends – danger lurks, not only from the mob but also in unexpected places. The story twists and turns towards a really excellent finale, overall it is just a really really good read.
Highly Recommended.
A train crash, a huge loss of life, and immediately there are lawsuits – but in the case of Vaughn’s cousin Eddy, a possibility of criminal charges as it may well be that he is responsible for the crash, an event he has no memory of.
This is a clever, absorbing and often thought provoking read – with some excellent characters, proper full on courtroom drama and a mystery element that is unpredictable and highly intriguing. History comes into play as we learn more about the relationship between the cousins and the wider family – we have a mob boss out for blood, a nefarious civil litigation firm and a horrifying incident tying them all together..it is a fast, addictive read and one that really gets the blood up.
If you watched “Goliath” and enjoyed it you’ll probably love this – whilst Vaughn is not quite a lone wolf he is often the lone voice supporting Eddy, often having to push against his own colleagues and friends – danger lurks, not only from the mob but also in unexpected places. The story twists and turns towards a really excellent finale, overall it is just a really really good read.
Highly Recommended.
January 4, 2018
Last summer I read (and loved) Myers debut, A Criminal Defense and realized how much I’ve missed reading a good legal thriller. When the author contacted me about reviewing this one it was a no brainer, I loved that while the law most definitely plays a huge role in his writing it’s not over complicated and confusing. Things are told in a fast paced manner with legal terminology laid out in simple terms while the plot itself is complicated with many puzzle pieces and various angles making it impossible to work out on your own. I’m thrilled that this book was executed in the same impeccable manner and I now I have a go to author to satisfy my legal thriller craving.
I actually didn’t realize this was going to be a follow up to ACD but as soon as I started I recognized the characters. While it’s not necessary to read both, this works fine on it’s own, I highly recommend both of them and with reoccurring characters it’s always best to have as much background as possible. The idea behind this both terrifies me and intrigues me, the notion that someone could engineer a horrific train crash for their own gain is just about as awful as it gets. It’s pretty clear from the blurb alone that this isn’t what it seems but the path to the truth was riveting and shocking.
I fear saying much more regarding the plot because it’s so strong that it’s best uncovered on your own and I would hate to ruin even a small part of that brand of enjoyment. Besides a clever plot the writing style is sharp and the last part of the story that is actually in the courtroom is just amazing. The tension is palpable, I had no idea what would happen next and then the very ending was unexpected and so satisfying.
I actually didn’t realize this was going to be a follow up to ACD but as soon as I started I recognized the characters. While it’s not necessary to read both, this works fine on it’s own, I highly recommend both of them and with reoccurring characters it’s always best to have as much background as possible. The idea behind this both terrifies me and intrigues me, the notion that someone could engineer a horrific train crash for their own gain is just about as awful as it gets. It’s pretty clear from the blurb alone that this isn’t what it seems but the path to the truth was riveting and shocking.
I fear saying much more regarding the plot because it’s so strong that it’s best uncovered on your own and I would hate to ruin even a small part of that brand of enjoyment. Besides a clever plot the writing style is sharp and the last part of the story that is actually in the courtroom is just amazing. The tension is palpable, I had no idea what would happen next and then the very ending was unexpected and so satisfying.
December 23, 2017
An intriguing legal thriller where a defense attorney faces unimaginable evil. I was hooked by the first page, where a fatal train crash on tv grabs the attention of Vaughn Coburn,an attorney, as he realizes that his boss is on the train and his cousin Eddie usually drives that route! He quickly hears that Eddie was the engineer and he is being blamed for what happened. The deaths from the crash mount, many have serious injury, and the questions come from all over, from the media, other lawyers, and there is a deep involvement of a 'mafia' type bunch.
The author creates great characters we can love or hate, I felt myself right with them on this amazing legal journey. He uses his knowledge of the law to keep readers interested in the whole courtroom drama. His writing carries you along ,waiting to see what is around the next corner. We see family try to stand together, while learning that evil does exist and it can be in very high places. A powerful story that is written very well, with small important moments placed perfectly to entice you to keep turning the page.
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley, from which I could read this story and write my review, therefore I thank them very much.
The author creates great characters we can love or hate, I felt myself right with them on this amazing legal journey. He uses his knowledge of the law to keep readers interested in the whole courtroom drama. His writing carries you along ,waiting to see what is around the next corner. We see family try to stand together, while learning that evil does exist and it can be in very high places. A powerful story that is written very well, with small important moments placed perfectly to entice you to keep turning the page.
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley, from which I could read this story and write my review, therefore I thank them very much.
December 27, 2017
Review to follow.
January 25, 2018
Perfect title for this book, with Amtrak and Eddy, their engineer under the gun for a horrific crash. Eddy is Vaughn's cousin, and Vaughn, as Eddy's lawyer, owes him and his whole family a legal reprieve, an "innocent", a stay of execution. The forces roiling around Eddy's conviction are rich, powerful and sleazy. Vaughn is out of his depth. And then there is the mob.
Meyers portrayal of middle class, blue collar characters is compelling, especially Eddy's and Vaughn's family dynamic weaving in and out of the intricate plot.
Land marks in Philadelphia are richly depicted and add a neatly, sculpted back drop to the layers of various high wire intensities playing out.
Does injustice prevail? In this tangled and mangled tale, it depends on who you are.
Meyers portrayal of middle class, blue collar characters is compelling, especially Eddy's and Vaughn's family dynamic weaving in and out of the intricate plot.
Land marks in Philadelphia are richly depicted and add a neatly, sculpted back drop to the layers of various high wire intensities playing out.
Does injustice prevail? In this tangled and mangled tale, it depends on who you are.
May 30, 2020
An Engineered Injustice has references to events in the first book but works perfectly well as a standalone and, if anything, the consequences of past actions help to propel its plot. There are also return appearances for some of the characters from A Criminal Defense, including some particularly unsavoury ones although sometimes even they can have their uses. Having to live with the consequences of past actions is especially the case for lawyer, Vaughn Coburn. Despite his lack of experience with the type of litigation involved, he feels an obligation to his family to clear his cousin Eddy, the driver of the derailed train, against charges of culpability for the crash. Along with a keen sense of justice, Vaughn has personal reasons – a secret buried for sixteen years – why he must succeed: ‘What he owes his cousin is nothing less than victory. And with it, salvation.”
What seems an open and shut case of driver error initially, proves to be anything but as Vaughan, with the assistance of some unlikely allies, gradually uncovers a web of corruption and breathtakingly evil intent. The case involves Vaughn going out on a limb like never before, risking his reputation and livelihood.
Given the author’s legal background, it’s no surprise the book is full of detail about legal and judicial procedure. The final courtroom scenes during the preliminary hearing of the case are not only convincingly realistic but as tense and thrilling as you could wish for. Will Vaughn’s unconventional ploy succeed? Does justice prevail? You’ll have to read the book to find out and, if you do, be prepared for surprises.
An Engineered Injustice is another fast-moving, intricately plotted and compelling crime thriller from the pen of William L. Myers, Jr.
What seems an open and shut case of driver error initially, proves to be anything but as Vaughan, with the assistance of some unlikely allies, gradually uncovers a web of corruption and breathtakingly evil intent. The case involves Vaughn going out on a limb like never before, risking his reputation and livelihood.
Given the author’s legal background, it’s no surprise the book is full of detail about legal and judicial procedure. The final courtroom scenes during the preliminary hearing of the case are not only convincingly realistic but as tense and thrilling as you could wish for. Will Vaughn’s unconventional ploy succeed? Does justice prevail? You’ll have to read the book to find out and, if you do, be prepared for surprises.
An Engineered Injustice is another fast-moving, intricately plotted and compelling crime thriller from the pen of William L. Myers, Jr.
March 4, 2018
What can I say I had high hopes for this novel. I gave his first novel 4 stars last year and thought this one would be a winner. I even had the library order it since my ereader is down. The novel had an interesting premise but it was pretty hollow and boring after that lol. In the first 200 pages there were hardly any thrills. I did not really care about the so called good guy, his family, his cousin the lawyer , The girlfriend the lawyer was banging, and the bad guys were boring and not plausible. The whole story was not strong and the bad guys were really a leap at best to believe . At the half way point it is bad when you sense the novel has no hope of a higher rating ,and the end will be cartoonish and hard to believe another leap of faith. When you read ten pages and it feels as if you read a marathon. I would say not to give this novel a spin unless your bored or really enjoyed first one. I might maybe perhaps read the next novel if I am bored and have nothing to read.
March 19, 2018
William L. Myers Jr. is a new author to me and having read and loved A Criminal Defense, I was delighted to be able to read this follow-up. I’m a big fan of legal thrillers and An Engineered Injustice is another excellent addition to the genre
A passenger train derails with fatal results, and Vaughn Coburn takes on the case. His cousin, Eddy, was the engineer driving the train when it derailed. Coburn sets out to defend Eddy against claims that he caused the crash.
This case is very personal to Coburn, not least because he and Eddy share a secret from their past that imapcted both of their lives. What follows is a completely engrossing story, with more twists and turns than I was expecting. I found it impossible to put down. I was eager to learn what happened that caused the train to derail.
An Engineered Injustice is a very clever thriller, with some seriously shady characters. I loved how the author wove the story together, feeding the reader little nuggets of information along the way.
If you are a fan of John Grisham, Steve Cavanagh etc, then you need to add this book to your TBR immediately.
Highly recommended!
A passenger train derails with fatal results, and Vaughn Coburn takes on the case. His cousin, Eddy, was the engineer driving the train when it derailed. Coburn sets out to defend Eddy against claims that he caused the crash.
This case is very personal to Coburn, not least because he and Eddy share a secret from their past that imapcted both of their lives. What follows is a completely engrossing story, with more twists and turns than I was expecting. I found it impossible to put down. I was eager to learn what happened that caused the train to derail.
An Engineered Injustice is a very clever thriller, with some seriously shady characters. I loved how the author wove the story together, feeding the reader little nuggets of information along the way.
If you are a fan of John Grisham, Steve Cavanagh etc, then you need to add this book to your TBR immediately.
Highly recommended!
January 25, 2018
I read the author’s latest book, An Engineered Injustice, as a follow up to his first book, A Criminal Defense. I thoroughly enjoyed A Criminal Defense for its dense plotting, deep character development and the stunning surprise at the end. I enjoyed An Engineered Injustice every bit as much; the story hooked me from the outset and kept me glued with compelling characters—both good and evil—and a plot packed with twists and turns overlaying ever-increasing personal risks for the protagonists. By the end I found myself fully engaged with, and rooting for the good guys. I wholeheartedly recommend this book!
February 15, 2018
I wanted to read this book the moment I saw it because I know how devastating a train wreck can be. My uncle was the engineer of train in Iowa. Someone switched another train onto the track he was on. It was around a curve, and there was no time to stop before it crashed. He died immediately. It took years for the railroad to give his pension to my aunt. Through litigation it was finally settled and my uncle was found to be not at fault. I wanted to read how this system worked.
This book demonstrates how it works, how the blame is immediately on the engineer, and how things from his past were leaked. His cousin who is his lawyer are compelling characters and evoke sympathy. The plot is a bit far-fetched, I think. But I do know litigation is at its worse when lawyers run with glee to personal injury lawsuits.
I would definitely read a book by this author again.
This book demonstrates how it works, how the blame is immediately on the engineer, and how things from his past were leaked. His cousin who is his lawyer are compelling characters and evoke sympathy. The plot is a bit far-fetched, I think. But I do know litigation is at its worse when lawyers run with glee to personal injury lawsuits.
I would definitely read a book by this author again.
April 30, 2018
Well my, my, my! What a way to start the 2018 reading season off with a legal thriller so exciting, it’s literally begging Hollywood to turn this novel into a major feature film!
Talk about ripped from the headlines? A catastrophic train derailment not only tore up the tracks and anything that came within inches of its wrath, but destroyed the lives that it carried within its cars. These passengers were thrown about like clothes tumbling in a dryer. Some came out with major injuries, while others lost their lives right upon impact.
What on earth could have caused this derailment? If you were to ask Eddy Coburn, the engineer of Amtrak 174 train, he’d tell you he can’t remember what caused the accident. For you see, Eddy sustained life-threatening injuries and was placed in an induced coma due to his brain swelling. The doctors didn’t want him to wake up or try to move while they tried to put his body back together again. His wife was beside herself with grief for the pain her husband was in and all those lives that would forever remain changed.
Of course, the media became frenzied with the story and trying to figure out who and/or what caused this derailment? But it didn’t take long to figure out who would ultimately be blamed for this tragedy. Yes, you guessed it, the engineer, Eddy Coburn. While the media continued to spin the story in every direction it would bend, Kathy, Eddy’s wife, called the only person she knew would be able to help her family out. Enters, Vaughn Coburn, cousin to Eddy.
Vaughn is a brilliant attorney working on his cases never dreaming that a matter this huge would end up in his lap. When he got the call, he had to answer. This, for Vaughn, was a no-brainer. Eddy is family for God’s sake and there wasn’t any way he was going to let his cousin fry for this. After he visits with Eddy and his wife to get an assessment of what he was dealing with, it will soon become very clear to the reader that this case isn’t going to be so cut and dry after all. There are forces so strong that you will not see the circumstances coming.
Hot Damn, we’ve got a damn good thriller now! Man, Oh Man was this book good! I could not get enough of this story line. If you thought Myers outdid himself with his last novel, his newest one is going to knock your damn socks off for real. Myers is an exceptional writer and he puts the story right up in your face and you just can’t ignore or hide from what is happening. I became so frustrated with the bullshit that was happening to Eddy, I hated when I had to stop reading because I couldn’t wait to find out what the hell the system was going to do to him next? These characters were so lifelike, raw, gritty, telling, witty and vicious. Myers didn’t miss a trick in this latest installment. There’s a little bit of everything going on in here and I couldn’t control my excitement. This novel gave my mind quite an orgasmic stimulation, I hated when the story ended. When a book makes you feel that damn good, you already know it will last with you for years to come.
What an outstanding read! Damn, Intellectual Minds, as I told you last year when I read Myers A Criminal Defense, I knew I stumbled across a masterful writer. He does not let you down in this latest novel. If you love legal thrillers as much as I do, I am ordering you to get this book, An Engineered Injustice.
Mello & June gives An Engineered Injustice five locomotive speed-lightening stars! This, by far, was one of the best legal novels I’ve read. The story is so enticing and with Myers’ legal knowledge brings to life a story so horrible, yet so intriguing, you will not be able to put this down! If Hollywood doesn’t come knocking on Myers door soon, I don’t know what the hell they’re waiting on? This would be a blockbuster for real! Awesome, Awesome read! Until next time, Intellectual Minds, keep on reading! An Engineered Injustice goes on sale, Tuesday, January 23, 2018! You can pre-order now. Don’t delay!
Talk about ripped from the headlines? A catastrophic train derailment not only tore up the tracks and anything that came within inches of its wrath, but destroyed the lives that it carried within its cars. These passengers were thrown about like clothes tumbling in a dryer. Some came out with major injuries, while others lost their lives right upon impact.
What on earth could have caused this derailment? If you were to ask Eddy Coburn, the engineer of Amtrak 174 train, he’d tell you he can’t remember what caused the accident. For you see, Eddy sustained life-threatening injuries and was placed in an induced coma due to his brain swelling. The doctors didn’t want him to wake up or try to move while they tried to put his body back together again. His wife was beside herself with grief for the pain her husband was in and all those lives that would forever remain changed.
Of course, the media became frenzied with the story and trying to figure out who and/or what caused this derailment? But it didn’t take long to figure out who would ultimately be blamed for this tragedy. Yes, you guessed it, the engineer, Eddy Coburn. While the media continued to spin the story in every direction it would bend, Kathy, Eddy’s wife, called the only person she knew would be able to help her family out. Enters, Vaughn Coburn, cousin to Eddy.
Vaughn is a brilliant attorney working on his cases never dreaming that a matter this huge would end up in his lap. When he got the call, he had to answer. This, for Vaughn, was a no-brainer. Eddy is family for God’s sake and there wasn’t any way he was going to let his cousin fry for this. After he visits with Eddy and his wife to get an assessment of what he was dealing with, it will soon become very clear to the reader that this case isn’t going to be so cut and dry after all. There are forces so strong that you will not see the circumstances coming.
Hot Damn, we’ve got a damn good thriller now! Man, Oh Man was this book good! I could not get enough of this story line. If you thought Myers outdid himself with his last novel, his newest one is going to knock your damn socks off for real. Myers is an exceptional writer and he puts the story right up in your face and you just can’t ignore or hide from what is happening. I became so frustrated with the bullshit that was happening to Eddy, I hated when I had to stop reading because I couldn’t wait to find out what the hell the system was going to do to him next? These characters were so lifelike, raw, gritty, telling, witty and vicious. Myers didn’t miss a trick in this latest installment. There’s a little bit of everything going on in here and I couldn’t control my excitement. This novel gave my mind quite an orgasmic stimulation, I hated when the story ended. When a book makes you feel that damn good, you already know it will last with you for years to come.
What an outstanding read! Damn, Intellectual Minds, as I told you last year when I read Myers A Criminal Defense, I knew I stumbled across a masterful writer. He does not let you down in this latest novel. If you love legal thrillers as much as I do, I am ordering you to get this book, An Engineered Injustice.
Mello & June gives An Engineered Injustice five locomotive speed-lightening stars! This, by far, was one of the best legal novels I’ve read. The story is so enticing and with Myers’ legal knowledge brings to life a story so horrible, yet so intriguing, you will not be able to put this down! If Hollywood doesn’t come knocking on Myers door soon, I don’t know what the hell they’re waiting on? This would be a blockbuster for real! Awesome, Awesome read! Until next time, Intellectual Minds, keep on reading! An Engineered Injustice goes on sale, Tuesday, January 23, 2018! You can pre-order now. Don’t delay!
January 25, 2018
GNab An Engineered Injustice is an excellent novel, a young, fairly naive Philadelphia attorney trying to protect his engineer cousin from ambulance chasing lawyers, the NTSB, a biased press and Philly's own mob boss following a questionable train wreck. Add to that the head of his firm was a victim in the train crash that resulted in 30-something deaths, including the 20 year old son of the Philly mafia boss, and over 200 injured. William L. Myers, Jr brings us a fast paced well balanced novel with believable protagonists you can think of as friends. I can happily refer it to my neighbors, friends and family.
The timing on this was an interesting irony of fate - just lately Amtrac had the horrendous crash of a passenger train resulting in derailed cars piling down on the freeway below in Washington state. Before the dust settled the press were blaming the engineer.
This is the second lawyer based author Netgalley has exposed me to. I enjoyed both William L. Myers Jr and Victor Methos. Thank you, Netgalley!
I received a free electronic copy of this novel from Netgalley, William L. Myers, Jr., and Thomas and Mercer in exchange for an honest review. Thank you all for sharing your hard work with me.
pub date Jan 23, 2018
Thomas and Mercer
The timing on this was an interesting irony of fate - just lately Amtrac had the horrendous crash of a passenger train resulting in derailed cars piling down on the freeway below in Washington state. Before the dust settled the press were blaming the engineer.
This is the second lawyer based author Netgalley has exposed me to. I enjoyed both William L. Myers Jr and Victor Methos. Thank you, Netgalley!
I received a free electronic copy of this novel from Netgalley, William L. Myers, Jr., and Thomas and Mercer in exchange for an honest review. Thank you all for sharing your hard work with me.
pub date Jan 23, 2018
Thomas and Mercer
February 5, 2018
I'm finished with An Engineered Injustice: After Reading Philadelphia Legal 1# A Best seller for our Author
I was hooked I already had "And Engineered Injustice" on my kindle ready to go,
I wasn't disappointed as the book took off and was like a
Runaway train . if you love a good Thriller you must try a
legal thriller this is a good place to start.
a sure 5 star read I am know waiting for Philadelphia Legal 3 #
I was hooked I already had "And Engineered Injustice" on my kindle ready to go,
I wasn't disappointed as the book took off and was like a
Runaway train . if you love a good Thriller you must try a
legal thriller this is a good place to start.
a sure 5 star read I am know waiting for Philadelphia Legal 3 #
May 5, 2025
Great writer. This is the second book i have read by w l myers. I could not put either book down. The story flows? It has plenty of suspense and keeps one guessing. The book has very accurate information which is obviously drawn from research and the writers own knowledge of his profession. I learnt a few things about trains and the justice profession
If there is another book written by this author i will be lining up for a copy
If there is another book written by this author i will be lining up for a copy
January 17, 2018
I read Mr. Myers debut novel A Criminal Defense and enjoyed it. I picked up the second book in the series, An Engineered Injustice, and loved it. The book grabbed me from the start and raced me through an emotional roller coaster.
Both books involve the same Philadelphia criminal defense firm. The protagonist in An Engineered Injustice is Vaughn Coburn, an associate at the law firm. His cousin, and client, Eddy is a train engineer for Amtrak.
The inciting incident in An Engineered Injustice is the crash of an Amtrak passenger train. The event triggers a flurry of activity, including the swarming of personal injury firms seeking to drum up clients, and threats against Eddy and Vaughn by Jimmy Nunzio, a notorious Philadelphia mobster whose son was killed in the crash.
To help him vindicate Eddy and uncover the real cause of the crash, Vaughn enlists the aid of his sexy ex, Erin Doyle, who works for one of the mega PI firms taking the lead in the civil litigation.
Vaughn’s task becomes more complicated, and dangerous, when Eddy is caught lying about the accident and charged criminally for the crash. But Vaughn has no choice but to represent his cousin; he owes Eddy as a result of something that happened between the two when they were younger, something that caused Eddy’s life to derail completely while Vaughn skated.
As the legal hearing progresses, Eddy and Vaughn’s lives are imperiled by the dark forces behind the crash and by Jimmy Nunzio.
When reading An Engineered Injustice, I couldn’t imagine how it would end. The courtroom scenes are intense and involve one reversal of fortune after another.
I strongly recommend both An Engineered Injustice and A Criminal Defense. This is a new author and he is very good.
Both books involve the same Philadelphia criminal defense firm. The protagonist in An Engineered Injustice is Vaughn Coburn, an associate at the law firm. His cousin, and client, Eddy is a train engineer for Amtrak.
The inciting incident in An Engineered Injustice is the crash of an Amtrak passenger train. The event triggers a flurry of activity, including the swarming of personal injury firms seeking to drum up clients, and threats against Eddy and Vaughn by Jimmy Nunzio, a notorious Philadelphia mobster whose son was killed in the crash.
To help him vindicate Eddy and uncover the real cause of the crash, Vaughn enlists the aid of his sexy ex, Erin Doyle, who works for one of the mega PI firms taking the lead in the civil litigation.
Vaughn’s task becomes more complicated, and dangerous, when Eddy is caught lying about the accident and charged criminally for the crash. But Vaughn has no choice but to represent his cousin; he owes Eddy as a result of something that happened between the two when they were younger, something that caused Eddy’s life to derail completely while Vaughn skated.
As the legal hearing progresses, Eddy and Vaughn’s lives are imperiled by the dark forces behind the crash and by Jimmy Nunzio.
When reading An Engineered Injustice, I couldn’t imagine how it would end. The courtroom scenes are intense and involve one reversal of fortune after another.
I strongly recommend both An Engineered Injustice and A Criminal Defense. This is a new author and he is very good.
July 18, 2018
7/10. The premise is interesting and unique. The last part of the novel is based on absurd actions and, as somebody else noted, was like a Perry Mason episode. Still I think the author has potential and would read another.
March 6, 2018
Really enjoyed this. 4.5 stars. I admit I was getting antsy almost halfway through the book, but Myers came through with satisfying plot turn, a couple of roller coaster nail-biting twists, and fabulous conclusion. Couldn’t put it down, so I finished it in record time. I love how richly and believably he develops backstories and environment, making everything so incredibly believable because of those details. I’m pleased because often an author’s second novel isn’t as amazing as the first. I suspect that Myers will continue to deliver highly imaginative and thought-provoking follow-ups that will be my new go-to lawyer series. Can’t wait for the next one.
January 10, 2018
This is a carefully plotted and nicely written but most importantly entirely plausible legal thriller. Vaughn Coburn may be a fairly new attorney and he knows that he might be a bit out of his depth but he's determined to do his best for his cousin Eddy, an engineer on a fatal train derailment in Philadelphia. Myers has done a terrific job of raising all the possibilities that can come in this situation, from the criminal issues to the hugely complex civil litigation. There are good guys and bad guys, conspiracies, greed, lies, and so on but it's all very real. I was impressed with Myers' first novel and this cemented the positives. Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC. Try this one (and it's fine as a standalone) if you like old fashioned genuinely suspenseful legal thrillers.
February 7, 2018
I read the first book and this one is just as good. It keeps you engaged and wondering what will happen next. If you like thrillers and mystery and quick turns you will enjoy this read.
February 2, 2018
This ripped from the headlines legal thriller kept me riveted from page one. I thoroughly enjoyed Mr. Myers' first novel, A Criminal Defense, but I just couldn't put this book down. I like that the author continued with some of the same characters from the first book but brought other minor players to the forefront while introducing some new ones. I also loved the whole mafia angle with Jimmy Nunzio (one of my favorite movie genres). For a while, I had gotten bored with legal thrillers because it was like reading the same book over and over, but Mr. Myers has definitely gotten me hooked once again. I am really looking forward to more books by this author.
February 5, 2018
I just finished reading this book and it is very timely given all of the recent railroad accidents. The characters in this book are well-developed and the writing is compelling. I liked this book better than the first on which was A CRIMINAL DEFENSE. Actually, I couldn't put it down. A great snowy weekend book or a cross country plane ride book. Worth reading.
March 18, 2023
In this second book in this series, Vaughn takes on the legal defense of his cousin Eddy who was the engineer on a train that crashed head-on into an obstruction on the tracks. Many people were killed and more injured in the crash, and the media is quickly after Eddy and his family.
This was a very well developed plot, and the characters were engaging, all in all a good story.
This was a very well developed plot, and the characters were engaging, all in all a good story.
January 23, 2024
An Engineering Injustice (Philadelphia Legal #2)
Politics, corrupt cops/lawyers, and Amtrack workers bring this story to life. Some people will do whatever to make 💰 and get paid! Fortunately for Eddy Coburn, his cousin Vaughn is a hell of a lawyer who represents him. Vaughn fights until the 11th hour of the trial. There is mystery with plenty of suspicious characters that are intriguing, but from a 👍 vs 👎 standpoint. Good rules.
I now recognize this is a series, so I will read the other two 📚.
2/7/2018
Politics, corrupt cops/lawyers, and Amtrack workers bring this story to life. Some people will do whatever to make 💰 and get paid! Fortunately for Eddy Coburn, his cousin Vaughn is a hell of a lawyer who represents him. Vaughn fights until the 11th hour of the trial. There is mystery with plenty of suspicious characters that are intriguing, but from a 👍 vs 👎 standpoint. Good rules.
I now recognize this is a series, so I will read the other two 📚.
2/7/2018
August 11, 2018
An Engineered Injustice (William Myers Jr., Thomas & Mercer, 320 pp.) is the sophomore effort in the Philadelphia Legal series, following A Criminal Defense (reviewed on the blog here.) As in other series (e.g., the Kindle County books by Scott Turow, the Dublin Murder Squad books by Tana French), a peripheral character becomes the main character. Mick McFarland, the law partner protagonist of A Criminal Defense, is supplanted by his associate Vaughn Coburn. Coburn takes on the defense of a train engineer after the train crashes and dozens of people are killed - the engineer is his cousin, a sober alcoholic who has put his life back together. But his job is complicated by one of Coburn’s colleagues, injured in the crash, the engineer’s head injury and amnesia, and pieces of the scene that don’t fit. As Coburn muses, “The scenario is a paradigm for how vulnerable everyone is, how each and every one of us depends for his life on the care and diligence of people we don’t even know.”
Whereas A Criminal Defense reminded me of Scott Turow’s oeuvre, An Engineered Injustice was closer to John Grisham’s in its plotting - more dramatic, with more flamboyant bad guys. With the end of summer approaching, this would be a good choice for your last beach read, despite a conveniently unlocked door that does a deus ex machina job on the plot climax.
Read if: You’ve already devoured A Criminal Defense (the better of the two, for my money) and can’t get enough of legal thrillers.
Thanks to NetGalley, the author, and the publisher for an advance reader’s copy in exchange for an honest review.
Whereas A Criminal Defense reminded me of Scott Turow’s oeuvre, An Engineered Injustice was closer to John Grisham’s in its plotting - more dramatic, with more flamboyant bad guys. With the end of summer approaching, this would be a good choice for your last beach read, despite a conveniently unlocked door that does a deus ex machina job on the plot climax.
Read if: You’ve already devoured A Criminal Defense (the better of the two, for my money) and can’t get enough of legal thrillers.
Thanks to NetGalley, the author, and the publisher for an advance reader’s copy in exchange for an honest review.
April 30, 2018
Fast Paced Legal Thriller
A major train crash occurs. Can lawyer Vaughn Coburn clear the name of the engineer/train driver before the mob take justice into their own hands?
Set in Philadelphia the action in this fast moving legal thriller takes place over 3 months. Vaughn Coburn is fighting public opinion, the law courts and the underboss of the Philly mob to save his cousin, who was driving the train, from a long prison sentence - or worse. Sense, and his bosses, say he should drop the case, but a secret in his background means Vaughn must fight to win his cousin's freedom.
Some heart stopping moments and plenty to think about in this great thriller. The twists and turns come fast, as the reader is given just enough information to keep them intrigued and guessing until it all becomes shockingly clear. Vaughn Coburn is a great character, likeable and decent. The mob are a frightening bunch of people, however their violence though ever present and chilling, is not graphically portrayed.
This is the first book I have read by this author. It is completely stand alone, though is the second book in a series of 3. The third book is due out in early 2019; I'm looking forward to reading that. William L. Myers Jr is a practising attorney in Philadelphia - which makes everything seem even more real.
5*s from me, as it was a great read, and contained quite a bit of material that made me really stop and think. Should I hear of a train crash now, this novel will influence my reaction.
A major train crash occurs. Can lawyer Vaughn Coburn clear the name of the engineer/train driver before the mob take justice into their own hands?
Set in Philadelphia the action in this fast moving legal thriller takes place over 3 months. Vaughn Coburn is fighting public opinion, the law courts and the underboss of the Philly mob to save his cousin, who was driving the train, from a long prison sentence - or worse. Sense, and his bosses, say he should drop the case, but a secret in his background means Vaughn must fight to win his cousin's freedom.
Some heart stopping moments and plenty to think about in this great thriller. The twists and turns come fast, as the reader is given just enough information to keep them intrigued and guessing until it all becomes shockingly clear. Vaughn Coburn is a great character, likeable and decent. The mob are a frightening bunch of people, however their violence though ever present and chilling, is not graphically portrayed.
This is the first book I have read by this author. It is completely stand alone, though is the second book in a series of 3. The third book is due out in early 2019; I'm looking forward to reading that. William L. Myers Jr is a practising attorney in Philadelphia - which makes everything seem even more real.
5*s from me, as it was a great read, and contained quite a bit of material that made me really stop and think. Should I hear of a train crash now, this novel will influence my reaction.
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