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MOTIVE, MEANS, OPPORTUNITY. THE SOLUTION TO THE CLASSIC WHODUNIT. BUT WHAT IF THE PERSON "WHO DONE IT" HAD NO MOTIVE AT ALL?The defendant has everything any person could fame, riches, a mansion on the shores of Lake Washington. So why would he murder some nameless drifter in a parking garage under the booming downtown of Seattle's most affluent suburb? His lawyers argue he wouldn't, and therefore he didn't. But the admittedly grainy surveillance video seems to say otherwise. Homicide D.A. David Brunelle encounters new friends, old flames, and a relentless defense attorney as he tries to hold a killer responsible. But how can he convince the jury the killer committed the crime when he has to admit there's a complete lack of motive?STEPHEN PENNER IS AN AMAZON BESTSELLING AUTHOR WITH OVER HALF A MILLION COPIES SOLDA Lack of Motive is Book 8 in the top-rated legal thriller series featuring Seattle homicide D.A. David Brunelle and a recurring cast of cops, defense attorneys, and forensic experts. Each book in the series can be read as a stand-alone novel, but also follows the personal and professional growth of Brunelle and his friends and foes."David Brunelle may or may not win his case, but Stephen Penner has definitely created a winner here." --Amazon Reader ReviewIf you're looking for an authentic legal thriller with plenty of twists and turns, A Lack of Motive is for you!

233 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 29, 2017

1713 people are currently reading
268 people want to read

About the author

Stephen Penner

62 books159 followers
Stephen 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.

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5 stars
1,222 (54%)
4 stars
765 (33%)
3 stars
211 (9%)
2 stars
45 (1%)
1 star
16 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews
Profile Image for Tulay.
1,202 reviews2 followers
July 27, 2017
Excellent whodunit.

All this series of legal thrillers are worth reading, stand alone stories. David Brunelle is very good DA, always gets the right verdict. In this story you know who killed who, but "why" is the main question. Ending was big surprise.
Profile Image for S.A. Krishnan.
Author 31 books236 followers
July 16, 2020
Wonderful mystery.
David Brunell is a criminal prosecutor looks at the crime scene and unfortunately he can find absolutely no motive for the murder. Just a little romance in the background makes sure that David does not pay too much information to the case.
Later on David is forced to pay more attention to the case as the mystery unfolds.
A Lack of Motive had enough twists and turns and it kept it unpredictable till the very end. Enjoyed it.
Profile Image for Jacob Peled.
529 reviews11 followers
June 12, 2024
Here's a refined version:

This book can scarcely be classified as a thriller. Only the first and last chapters fit within the thriller genre. The remainder consists solely of tedious courtroom proceedings in a murder trial. It appears the author had predetermined the ending and constructed a mundane narrative to lead up to it, ultimately relying on a surprise twist to salvage the story.
1,116 reviews23 followers
January 15, 2020
Top notch legal thriller. Prosecuting attorney David Brunelle is tasked with proving a wealthy businessman committed murder. A grainy video recording inside a parking garage is the only evidence they have. And it doesn't help that the defendant 's ex-wife was once involved with Brunelle. Dave has his work cut out for him.

I'm really enjoying this series. The lead character is a likeable guy but certainly has his faults. Each case is interesting and the books can be read as standalones. Definitely recommend if you're a fan of the legal thriller genre.
Profile Image for Una Tiers.
Author 6 books375 followers
July 7, 2018
Although the start was interesting, the author quickly over explained dialogue, leaving the book clinging to a three star review. Dialogue in the court room is inconsistent and off track. Sentences often have no connection to one another. Plot is pretty thin,
Profile Image for Linda.
1,085 reviews44 followers
July 18, 2020
I was in suspense to the end.

Thank you, Mr. Penner, for a good read.
Profile Image for Linda.
766 reviews18 followers
June 4, 2022
No verdict again, but dang...is that Yul Brynner on the cover?

I'm officially convinced that the lack of verdicts in these books (with the except of #7) is deliberate on the Stephen Penner's part. He seems to want his stories to more gravitate towards the unique cases he conjures up, and the procedurals involved with bringing them to the courtroom, where there will surely be some entertaining, lawyerly antics. Perhaps verdicts just aren't what he considers exciting enough to focus on, which he proves time and again. The cases have all been consistently exciting, interesting, stressful, or some combination of them all. While I may think of verdicts as the cherry on top of an eventful case, perhaps Penner doesn't feel the same, which would explain why he sticks to the formula.

Oh well. It still disappoints me, but...I can deal. Whether or not it will continue to affect my willingness to give 5 stars, though, is yet to be known. I claimed I refuse to give 5 stars until there was a verdict, which happened in the previous entry. Will I stick to that claim? Dunno. At any rate, this book in particular earned a 3-star rating. While the case was certainly still interesting, it just didn't have the same gusto as the previous books' cases. A man is found fatally shot in his car and the guy accused of shooting him doesn't seem to have a single reason for doing so. Dead man's poor, and the alleged shooter's rich. Brunelle's got the trouble of trying to prove why a rich man would even bother. It's all very interesting, and I absolutely loved the way Brunelle put all the pieces together. Still, I feel like I wasn't AS intrigued as the former entries.

I still appreciate the pacing of these books, which has been a consistent expectation. The read is always easy and I'm accustomed to it. Though I can't help but admit that I really, REALLY wish I had more thorough character developments. I totally love feeling attached to characters and caring about them. Since Brunelle is the main narrator, sure, I care about the guy's wellbeing, but the only thing I ever get from him is his lawyerly smarts and love life, or lack thereof. He drinks. And he works hard on his cases, with random sex in between. While I don't miss the woman in the least, I do think it's STILL strange that Kat hasn't at all been mentioned in two books, even in Brunelle's fleeting thoughts. Robyn, too, was conspicuously absent. I don't think it will be a good idea to keep the guy single, so I hope in future entries the dude can find someone suitable for him. Vickie seems promising, but....meh.

Anyways, an update on the verdict issue:

Book 1 - Defendant killed. No verdict.
Book 2 - Defendant killed. No verdict.
Book 3 - Witness killed. Mistrial. No verdict.
Book 4 - Case dismissed. No verdict.
Book 5 - Plea changed mid-trial. Jury dismissed. No verdict.
Book 6 - Mistrial for new case. No verdict.
Book 7 - Defendant and accomplice found GUILTY.
Book 8 - Plea changed mid-trial. Jury dismissed. No verdict.

Book 9, we shall meet soon....
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Angela.
8,695 reviews122 followers
November 2, 2025
3.5 - 4 Stars

A Lack of Motive is the eighth 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…
Profile Image for Julia Walker.
662 reviews18 followers
August 22, 2020
How does a prosecuting attorney win a case without a motive? When one of the richest men around gets caught on video shooting a homeless man at point-blank range, one would think that it was a slam dunk case for the prosecutor. In this day and age, a good defense attorney can convince the jury and public opinion that their eyes deceive them, especially if there appears to be no rhyme or reason for the shooting. In a time when money rules and most people worship the extremely wealthy, as well as thinking that they must be smart and sane or they would not have so much money, why would a multi-millionaire kill someone like that? They wouldn’t.

This is a fascinating read in terms of the legal system and how it works. It is also quite a commentary on the current trend of money gets you everything including “not guilty”. The characters are strong, know the law, and have good psychological instincts. The main character is completely human and lets love get in the way of his job. The ever-changing role of technology comes into play, not to mention the ease at which we can manipulate both it and the humans that use it. A good solid legal read!
421 reviews2 followers
July 23, 2020
Filled with holes. For example, the judge forbids the fingerprint expert to tell the jury his conclusion that the fingerprint at the crime scene belongs to the defendant. He can only point out the similarities between the defendant’s fingerprints and the one found on the elevator. No way. That’s like saying let the patient conclude whether she has cancer after the doctor explains what the pathology report found about her tumor. Many such inanities. And the ending is ridiculous.

[SPOILER] At the end we find out the motive for the crime. Turns out the defendant thought the victim was his partner (after his death their company would then go completely to the defendant). And how could he mistake the victim for his partner? Because the guy was sitting in the same make of car his partner drove. Weird.
24 reviews
June 4, 2023
Best yet!

Stephen Penned writes a tight, suspenseful, realistic storyline. Dave Brunelle isn't always my favorite character in Mr. Penner's stories, mainly due to his arrogance. But, that was tamed in this offering, and the addition of Carlisle was genius. Also loved how much Detective Emory added to the plot, interacted with Brunelle, and changed the flavor of law enforcement presentation. This is a really, really good read. Can't say I saw the twist in the ending coming, which is another plus. If you live or have lived in Seattle or on the Eastside, you'll have the added bonus of being familiar with the setting. Mr. Penner pays close attention to detail, and takes you right straight to Bellevue Way, Bell Square and the fast-changing landscape of Bellevue itself. Enjoy!
450 reviews4 followers
April 28, 2024
Dave survive another trial, a great read, recommends

Dave is so innocent and green but I love his character regardless. I just hate how everyone teases him. Just because he hasn’t indulged in a lot of simple adult things doesn’t mean he’s stupid, he’s just nonchalant, and unconcerned, and his main stress factor are being the perfect prosecutor and women, those are the only 2 things that makes his heart race and blush. But overall, Dave is a great guy who’s dedicated and loyal to his work. I figured Paul had secrets and karma can be hell. He tried to downgrade Dave but was shady himself. I appreciate author for this great book and series. I’m throughly enjoying reading your work, great penmanship. Thanks for sharing your beautiful story.
68 reviews
April 10, 2021
A Lack of Story

Very disappointed with this book as not only was it obvious from almost the beginning why the murder occurred and Brunelle notes it halfway through the story as well before finally having a lightbulb moment when it all becomes clear for him at the end. A bit slow aren't you Brunelle? Also the story consists of 90 percent court room procedure and virtually only about 8 percent crime related (the other 2 percent is dining out). I will try one more of this author but if it is of the same calibre I won't bother buying any more.
2,548 reviews
March 6, 2023
free ebook

he is prosecuting case in seattle. a very rich man walked up to a poor man sitting in a car in parking structure and shot and killed him. it was on video. but he had no motive to do that

he got a team of very smart lawyers

the prosecutor was dating the rich mans x wife, who he knew before, but they broke it off

the trial wasnt going very well, the smart lawyers wouldnt let his witnesses testify the way he wanted them to

then at the end, he figured out why the rich man shot a man he didnt know, he thought it was his partner! so he was sentenced to 25 yrs
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
98 reviews1 follower
September 1, 2018
This was a real treat for readers who love a court battle. The back and forth dynamics between the prosecution and expert defense were balanced, believable, and compelling. The resolution jumped off the very last pages in a way that did not rely on a "plot gimmick". Most readers ( like me) did not see it coming, but we might have, and that makes all the difference. The plot crafting was excellent.
Can't wait to read more...
Profile Image for Uma.
218 reviews1 follower
February 11, 2023
Faultless, mind-blowing thriller!!

This book takes the readers through all the thoughts and mental processes that Dave is going through trying to figure out the big WHY of the case without which he could lose the case allowing the perpetrator to walk free!!! Hats off to his expeditious brilliance he arrives at the correct inference!!

Wow!! What a fabulous journey enjoying this exhilarating reading experience!!
416 reviews6 followers
May 11, 2019
This was a very interesting book, because the murderer was revealed early on in the book. The motive was in doubt and because of the Wealth of the murderer . Adding to Brunell problem was an old girlfriend who was married to the murderer. The ending was awesome and bought the story to a satisfying conclusion
40 reviews
July 11, 2020
What a courtroom drama!

My goodness this book is exciting! The ending was a shocker, and some of the motions!! My, what a shark that defense attorney was, circling the prosecuting attorney and trying to take chunks out of the case. I had no idea some of these motions defense won were even possible! What an imagination!! What a courtroom battle! Definitely a courtroom drama.
Profile Image for Nancy Pinter.
38 reviews
August 14, 2021
Good legal thriller

I enjoyed this book. The characters were well developed and the story very interesting. The author detailed the legal procedure in a very dramatic way and still had a surprise ending. If you like legal mysteries you will most certainly enjoy this book. I like mysteries and I enjoyed it very much.
Profile Image for Anne-Marie Goyette.
204 reviews5 followers
August 18, 2024
intrigued

I have never read this author before: however
I will be reading more of Stephen Penner’s book
This book had some twist and turns that keep you interested in how it was going to work out
The characters felt real you could feel the emotion they were feeling whether arrogant or sad Enjoy the read
24 reviews1 follower
November 4, 2024
Another good legal thriller by Penner in the Brunelle series. Fast paced, easy to read, and you actually learn something about the legal system. Although Brunelle comes across as a moody, snobbish, moralistic jerk much of the time except that his misogynistic attitude towards women leaves little doubt as to why he is single. That aside the series is fun to read.
109 reviews1 follower
March 21, 2018
Excellent

A very good read. Mr. Penned remains one of my favorite authors. The plot pulls you in and keeps you wondering how David is going to bring it all together and win the case. And then, BINGO!!
1,507 reviews7 followers
October 14, 2018
A Lack of Motive

I can only repeat what I have already said that this is a very good book and series. I really have enjoyed this series. There is one more book in this series can't wait to read it. I recommend this series.
352 reviews1 follower
March 4, 2019
Very good murder mystery

I really enjoyed reading this novel. Not only was it a good legal novel, it was an excellent murder mystery about some one that seemed to have no possible motive to involved. Highly recommend
14 reviews
July 23, 2020
Fast read, good plot twist

While it’s hard to pick up a book in a series without reading the preceding books, the author does a good job of producing a story that stands well on its own. I’m sufficiently tempted to read another.
320 reviews7 followers
August 14, 2020
Extremely well conceived

A fast-moving very realistic murder story of greed, treachery and cover-ups. All characters were so well described that you felt as though you knew them or had met them. A wonderful ending, very thoroughly prepared so it just flowed. Well dome.
390 reviews2 followers
August 23, 2020
Exceptional courtroom drama about a prosecutor who doesn't know the reason why a wealthy man killed a drug dealer. The pace in this story was fast enough to maintain interest throughout, and the author's prose made the courtroom descriptions and testimony clear and precise.
569 reviews3 followers
December 4, 2020
Good book

I can't bring myself to like Dave Brunelle, but the plot was good. Dave has a different love interest in each of this series. He always proves his cases and puts down these crooked lawyers and I like that.
19 reviews
April 23, 2021
NOT PREDICTABLE

Not predictable!!So well ?laid out plot, characters and execution of the story very fast moving, enjoyable read. Thanks looking forward to getting into the next book.
Profile Image for Jason.
209 reviews5 followers
May 29, 2021
Hero Lawyer

A pleasure to read a well edited and proofread book about a lawyer working hard for justice. David Brunelle goes the extra mile to find a motive to guarantee justice for a murder victim. What an enjoyable story
Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews

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