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Darren Street #3
Justice Lost
In the Wall Street Journal bestseller, lawyer turned rogue Darren Street faces the most personal and ruthless vendetta of his life.
After forfeiting years serving time for a false murder conviction, former criminal defense attorney Darren Street finally got his freedom back and is trying to build a regular life. But when an unthinkable tragedy shatters his hard-earned normalcy, Street is left reeling from the devastating blow.
As the criminal-justice system refuses to dispense justice, he sets out—without mercy—after the man responsible. Unwilling to stop at simply righting one wrong, Street decides to dust off his legal skills and dive back in—this time to unseat the district attorney general in Knoxville, whose callous indifference nearly let a man get away with murder.
Now navigating a broken establishment already steeped in corruption, Street will find the retribution and redemption he so desperately needs—unless it draws him even deeper into the very chaos that derailed his life in the first place.
After forfeiting years serving time for a false murder conviction, former criminal defense attorney Darren Street finally got his freedom back and is trying to build a regular life. But when an unthinkable tragedy shatters his hard-earned normalcy, Street is left reeling from the devastating blow.
As the criminal-justice system refuses to dispense justice, he sets out—without mercy—after the man responsible. Unwilling to stop at simply righting one wrong, Street decides to dust off his legal skills and dive back in—this time to unseat the district attorney general in Knoxville, whose callous indifference nearly let a man get away with murder.
Now navigating a broken establishment already steeped in corruption, Street will find the retribution and redemption he so desperately needs—unless it draws him even deeper into the very chaos that derailed his life in the first place.
263 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 13, 2018
4895 people are currently reading
1168 people want to read
About the author
Scott Pratt
59 books1,572 followersScott Pratt is a Wall Street Journal and Amazon Bestselling Author whose books have sold more than five million copies. He was born in South Haven, Michigan, and grew up in Jonesborough, Tennessee. He was a veteran of the United States Air Force and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in English from East Tennessee State University and a Doctor of Jurisprudence from the University of Tennessee. He lived in Johnson City, Tennessee until his tragic, untimely passing in November of 2018.
This page is maintained by his family. We're finishing up all of the projects he was working on when he passed away. If you'd like to stay up to date on that progress, or if you'd just like to say hello, you can visit us on our Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/groups/19664...
This page is maintained by his family. We're finishing up all of the projects he was working on when he passed away. If you'd like to stay up to date on that progress, or if you'd just like to say hello, you can visit us on our Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/groups/19664...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 368 reviews
March 31, 2018
I've read all three books in this series and this third book is my favorite by far but I realize it needed the first two books to set up this book. I had wondered how Darren's life could be turned around and it looked like he was going to keep on with is murdering ways. Glad Darren could redeem himself and change his path.
Thanks to Thomas & Mercer and NetGalley for providing this ARC.
Thanks to Thomas & Mercer and NetGalley for providing this ARC.
January 25, 2018
First and foremost, a large thank you to NetGalley, Scott Pratt, and Thomas & Mercer for providing me with a copy of this publication, which allows me to provide you with an unbiased review.
As a long-time fan of Scott Pratt and his work, I was pleased to receive an early copy of his latest Darren Street thriller. Having been through a great deal over the past few years, Darren Street is starting to revisit all the criminal acts that he’s committed, covered up just enough to keep him one step ahead of the authorities. That said, he feels a sense of vindication, having disposed of a few key figures who have left him feeling empty. Now he is able to turn over a new leaf, with his girlfriend ready to give birth to their daughter. As they arrive at the birthing centre, the doctor on call is not answering his pages and when he does arrive, he stinks of a distillery. Another doctor takes the lead with the delivery, which turns into something high-risk, as Street waits for news. Tragedy strikes and Street is again plagued with devastation, blaming the intoxicated doctor for negligence. When Street approaches the District Attorney General, his request for legal action hits a wall and soon learns that friends will cover for one another, no matter what. While his conscience is trying to tell him not to, Street must handle things in his own way. Additionally, Street is talked into challenging the District Attorney General in the upcoming election. While preparing for his big day, Street uses some strong financial and political resources at his disposal, but also realises that the county is riddled with corrupt officials. Knowing that Street will soon uncover their backroom dealings, some of these officials take it upon themselves to neutralise him. As Street seeks elected office, he must also dodge those who would see him face the verdict he has handed out many time before; death at any cost. Pratt does a masterful job in this third novel in the Darren Street series. Fans of his work and those who enjoy a darker thriller will surely find something exciting in this novel.
I thoroughly enjoy Scott Pratt’s writing and his unique approach to legal matters. He has developed a strong series that keeps the reader wondering just how far Darren Street will go to balance the scales once and for all. In Street, Pratt has created an interesting character, whose development has been quite dramatic in these three series books. While Street has faced adversity and taken things into his own hands, he begins to grow a conscience and has second thoughts about all the blood he’s shed. Building on the crimes that have plagued him before, Street comes to see how fragile life and his future might be if he does not change his tune. Filled with some interesting supporting characters, Pratt is able to shape the story in many different ways, as though there are a few mini-plots that all come together in the end. While I have criticised the vigilante lawyer presented in the first two novels, they have grown on me. A mix of legal matters and Dexter-like criminal activities, Pratt develops his story in an effective way, which entertains readers until the final pages.
Kudos, Mr. Pratt, for another stellar piece of writing. I have loved this newer series and will recommend it to anyone who has an interest in vigilante justice.
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/...
As a long-time fan of Scott Pratt and his work, I was pleased to receive an early copy of his latest Darren Street thriller. Having been through a great deal over the past few years, Darren Street is starting to revisit all the criminal acts that he’s committed, covered up just enough to keep him one step ahead of the authorities. That said, he feels a sense of vindication, having disposed of a few key figures who have left him feeling empty. Now he is able to turn over a new leaf, with his girlfriend ready to give birth to their daughter. As they arrive at the birthing centre, the doctor on call is not answering his pages and when he does arrive, he stinks of a distillery. Another doctor takes the lead with the delivery, which turns into something high-risk, as Street waits for news. Tragedy strikes and Street is again plagued with devastation, blaming the intoxicated doctor for negligence. When Street approaches the District Attorney General, his request for legal action hits a wall and soon learns that friends will cover for one another, no matter what. While his conscience is trying to tell him not to, Street must handle things in his own way. Additionally, Street is talked into challenging the District Attorney General in the upcoming election. While preparing for his big day, Street uses some strong financial and political resources at his disposal, but also realises that the county is riddled with corrupt officials. Knowing that Street will soon uncover their backroom dealings, some of these officials take it upon themselves to neutralise him. As Street seeks elected office, he must also dodge those who would see him face the verdict he has handed out many time before; death at any cost. Pratt does a masterful job in this third novel in the Darren Street series. Fans of his work and those who enjoy a darker thriller will surely find something exciting in this novel.
I thoroughly enjoy Scott Pratt’s writing and his unique approach to legal matters. He has developed a strong series that keeps the reader wondering just how far Darren Street will go to balance the scales once and for all. In Street, Pratt has created an interesting character, whose development has been quite dramatic in these three series books. While Street has faced adversity and taken things into his own hands, he begins to grow a conscience and has second thoughts about all the blood he’s shed. Building on the crimes that have plagued him before, Street comes to see how fragile life and his future might be if he does not change his tune. Filled with some interesting supporting characters, Pratt is able to shape the story in many different ways, as though there are a few mini-plots that all come together in the end. While I have criticised the vigilante lawyer presented in the first two novels, they have grown on me. A mix of legal matters and Dexter-like criminal activities, Pratt develops his story in an effective way, which entertains readers until the final pages.
Kudos, Mr. Pratt, for another stellar piece of writing. I have loved this newer series and will recommend it to anyone who has an interest in vigilante justice.
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/...
March 19, 2018
Interesting story.
"At his best, man is the noblest of all the animals, separated from law and justice he is the worst." This sentence at the beginning by Aristotle says it exactly what this book about. Don't like the character is judge, jury and executioner.
"At his best, man is the noblest of all the animals, separated from law and justice he is the worst." This sentence at the beginning by Aristotle says it exactly what this book about. Don't like the character is judge, jury and executioner.
January 26, 2018
I am liking Scott Pratt. This book again doesn't disappoint. This is my second one, the first being Justice Redeemed.
Darren Street again comes into play here. He is now out of jail. His pregnant fiancee Grace dies in the operation theater during delivery due to medical negligence by the doctor. This starts off the plot where he becomes involved in the shenanigans of corrupt officials from the sheriff to the offices of the DA and FBI. Finally, he gets an offer from Granny Tipton & family to run for the DA's office himself in order to get a foothold in Knox county of Tennessee with the backing of a powerful senator. How he plays vigilante and roots out the corruption forms the crux of the story.
Short at 250 pages, fast paced and easy writing nails the book and keeps one hooked.
Darren Street again comes into play here. He is now out of jail. His pregnant fiancee Grace dies in the operation theater during delivery due to medical negligence by the doctor. This starts off the plot where he becomes involved in the shenanigans of corrupt officials from the sheriff to the offices of the DA and FBI. Finally, he gets an offer from Granny Tipton & family to run for the DA's office himself in order to get a foothold in Knox county of Tennessee with the backing of a powerful senator. How he plays vigilante and roots out the corruption forms the crux of the story.
Short at 250 pages, fast paced and easy writing nails the book and keeps one hooked.
July 2, 2018
This is book three of the Darren Street series. The way the book ended, it might be the end of the series. For the best understanding of the story, the books should be read in order.
This is an action packed fast paced story. After reading the other two books, I was surprised at the direction this book took. I have enjoyed this series. It was a nice change of pace to have the protagonist hero on the wrong side of a moral problem.
The book is well written and the characters were most interesting. The plot twists and turns. This book makes a great- get-away-from-it-all book.
I read this as an audiobook downloaded from Audible. The book is just over seven hours. James Patrick Cronin does a good job narrating the story. Cronin is an actor and audiobook narrator.
This is an action packed fast paced story. After reading the other two books, I was surprised at the direction this book took. I have enjoyed this series. It was a nice change of pace to have the protagonist hero on the wrong side of a moral problem.
The book is well written and the characters were most interesting. The plot twists and turns. This book makes a great- get-away-from-it-all book.
I read this as an audiobook downloaded from Audible. The book is just over seven hours. James Patrick Cronin does a good job narrating the story. Cronin is an actor and audiobook narrator.
September 4, 2021
The third in a trilogy (at least I think this is the last book in the series; it felt like it) Justice Lost has former criminal defense attorney Darren Street trying to get his life back together after being wrongfully imprisoned for a murder he didn’t commit (that was in the first book). But a horrible tragedy shatters his hard-earned normalcy, and Street once again is at sea. When he doesn’t get justice from the criminal-justice system, he takes matters into his own hands. One tool he uses is to run for the Knoxville District Attorney General position to try to root out the corruption from the inside out. But when people start dropping like flies, will he be able to survive? The author does a great job of bringing the characters to life (even when they’re dead!) and incorporating plot twists to keep readers on their toes. Could be read as a stand-alone but much better to read the trilogy.
March 23, 2018
Hard to like hero
I have read Darren Street series from book 1. And I am yet to warm up to him. Granted, he's a tortured man. Still, no excuse to be a judge, procecutor and executioner.
Whatever the excuse, he's a cold hearted person in that he doesn't lose sleep over the killings he's committed. And he's cold hearted person over his relationship with women too. He made so much of what he felt about Grace and yet he had jumped to bed with a first woman he saw after their fall out the first time. After they had patched up and she died giving birth to his still born child within days he found himself again, attracted (and eventually jumped to bed) to the next pretty woman he met. Oh yes, the excuse? She came in his dream and said she was disappointed with his action. So he thinks she's abandoned him thus giving him excuse to move on immediately. Hmm, how lame and laughable an excuse. Too cold hearted even to spare time to mourn the girl who had loved, saved his life and died giving birth to his child.
I have read Darren Street series from book 1. And I am yet to warm up to him. Granted, he's a tortured man. Still, no excuse to be a judge, procecutor and executioner.
Whatever the excuse, he's a cold hearted person in that he doesn't lose sleep over the killings he's committed. And he's cold hearted person over his relationship with women too. He made so much of what he felt about Grace and yet he had jumped to bed with a first woman he saw after their fall out the first time. After they had patched up and she died giving birth to his still born child within days he found himself again, attracted (and eventually jumped to bed) to the next pretty woman he met. Oh yes, the excuse? She came in his dream and said she was disappointed with his action. So he thinks she's abandoned him thus giving him excuse to move on immediately. Hmm, how lame and laughable an excuse. Too cold hearted even to spare time to mourn the girl who had loved, saved his life and died giving birth to his child.
February 26, 2018
Sad this series ended. But it was great while it lasted. Sometimes it is best to stop while your ahead. (audible review).
This was an amazing series. For those of you who haven't listened to this series I highly recommend it. So many things happened, incarceration, revenge, murder and a lot of great characters.
The narration was great. I enjoyed listening to James Patrick Cronin. He does a great job on all the voices and the females sound like females.
The first two books in this series were free read free listen with KU and the third was free read and 1.99 for the audible. A fantastic deal!
This was an amazing series. For those of you who haven't listened to this series I highly recommend it. So many things happened, incarceration, revenge, murder and a lot of great characters.
The narration was great. I enjoyed listening to James Patrick Cronin. He does a great job on all the voices and the females sound like females.
The first two books in this series were free read free listen with KU and the third was free read and 1.99 for the audible. A fantastic deal!
May 15, 2019
Complete fantasy
Book one was well crafted and drew me back to book two. I thought book two was over the top beyond believable with no basis in reality and then came book three. This book was simply hard to digest. The elected district attorney gunning for the bad guys with the help of the dirty sheriff. Only thing to top that is the Senator flying him off to Vietnam to him down the dirty FIB agent. Quite the fantasy!
Book one was well crafted and drew me back to book two. I thought book two was over the top beyond believable with no basis in reality and then came book three. This book was simply hard to digest. The elected district attorney gunning for the bad guys with the help of the dirty sheriff. Only thing to top that is the Senator flying him off to Vietnam to him down the dirty FIB agent. Quite the fantasy!
July 20, 2019
I’m sorry this series is over. In the first book, narrated by someone other than the last two of this trilogy, I was not a fan of the main character Darren Street. But the story had me so I kept on with the series. Now, woefully I need to find something else to listen to. It was a good yarn, unbelievable at times but always interesting and I learned a lot about corruption in high places what happens as a normal way of life in the court systems across this country. No one is safe.
I look forward to reading everything he has written.
I look forward to reading everything he has written.
February 22, 2018
Great read.....as usual!
Scott Pratt has consistently written interesting and fast paced books with flawed characters and great plots. This book is no exception. Keep them coming!!
Scott Pratt has consistently written interesting and fast paced books with flawed characters and great plots. This book is no exception. Keep them coming!!
July 30, 2018
Loved it! Quick read but it hooked me right off the bat and I thoroughly enjoyed it to the very end. My kind of book!
October 23, 2018
I hope there are more books in the series! The character is so different and intriguing!
May 12, 2024
What is there not to like about Scott Pratt! Read all of this series and very pleased to know how Darren’s life turned out. However, I see a glimmer of another story here.
April 19, 2018
Disappointing
After being thrilled to find out that Pratt had written two sequels to Justice Redeemed, I've been disappointed in both of them. I enjoyed Darren Street as an attorney. The whole lawyer turned vigilante just didn't work for me. I won't be looking for any further sequels.
After being thrilled to find out that Pratt had written two sequels to Justice Redeemed, I've been disappointed in both of them. I enjoyed Darren Street as an attorney. The whole lawyer turned vigilante just didn't work for me. I won't be looking for any further sequels.
May 17, 2018
Darren Street is one of my all-time favorite legal characters. He’s such a “real” character and I always feel his sense of urgency. Wow, I must say, I had absolutely no idea that Street was going to be tested in ways I don’t even think he was able to foresee. If you’ve been following the series, you already know he was unjustly accused of a crime and sent to prison, which started him on the road to being, not just an attorney, but a hardened soul. He was then thrown into another bad situation wherein he lost a very important person in his life, which further threw him into a hellish vigilante club in which he never asked to be a member. And here we are in the third part of the series, and Street is at it again!
Needless to say, I love Street, but trouble attaches itself to him like a child to a mother. He cannot seem to steer clear of it. Faced with yet another tragedy, when he reemerges from the bows of hell dealing with his loss and grief, he is presented with a rather interesting proposition. Granny Tipton has ask Darren to run for District Attorney. Of course, Darren had to wonder why on earth would he run for an office that did such harm to him in the first place, but after careful consideration, Darren realized that was actually a masterminded suggestion.
As he begins to go through the campaigning and getting all his ducks in a row, a very clear and distinct picture begins to come into focus of just how corrupt the politicians are in his town. (Hmm, that sounds like our real lives), but at any rate, bodies are falling faster than rain all around Darren and he wasn’t the executor, as he had been in previous situations. When Darren decides to follow the current District Attorney to find out more about his habits, corruption and to find a way to reason with him, he unknowingly becomes a witness to one of the most heinous acts committed. When the gun smoke cleared, there will be four additional individuals dead—including the man he was running against. That act is going to set off a chain of events that is out of this world.
Oh! My! God! This book was so exciting, I hated to put it down! I absolutely love Pratt’s Darren Street series. Street can be definitely street when need be. He is a guy you do not want to get on his bad side. He can be your best friend or your worst enemy. It’s never a great idea to cross him or kill anyone he is related to or cares about. Street can be like Columbo. Once he has you in his crosshairs, it’s a wrap for you! Damn, I loved this book! It was soooo good. Pratt, you never ever let me down. I can’t wait to find out what happens next.
Needless to say, I love Street, but trouble attaches itself to him like a child to a mother. He cannot seem to steer clear of it. Faced with yet another tragedy, when he reemerges from the bows of hell dealing with his loss and grief, he is presented with a rather interesting proposition. Granny Tipton has ask Darren to run for District Attorney. Of course, Darren had to wonder why on earth would he run for an office that did such harm to him in the first place, but after careful consideration, Darren realized that was actually a masterminded suggestion.
As he begins to go through the campaigning and getting all his ducks in a row, a very clear and distinct picture begins to come into focus of just how corrupt the politicians are in his town. (Hmm, that sounds like our real lives), but at any rate, bodies are falling faster than rain all around Darren and he wasn’t the executor, as he had been in previous situations. When Darren decides to follow the current District Attorney to find out more about his habits, corruption and to find a way to reason with him, he unknowingly becomes a witness to one of the most heinous acts committed. When the gun smoke cleared, there will be four additional individuals dead—including the man he was running against. That act is going to set off a chain of events that is out of this world.
Oh! My! God! This book was so exciting, I hated to put it down! I absolutely love Pratt’s Darren Street series. Street can be definitely street when need be. He is a guy you do not want to get on his bad side. He can be your best friend or your worst enemy. It’s never a great idea to cross him or kill anyone he is related to or cares about. Street can be like Columbo. Once he has you in his crosshairs, it’s a wrap for you! Damn, I loved this book! It was soooo good. Pratt, you never ever let me down. I can’t wait to find out what happens next.
January 7, 2022
I just loved this three book series by Scott Pratt so much and know that there will be no further books in the series since the author passed away a year or two ago. I will definitely look to his other series and books now though.
I loved how the three books were one story that kept getting more and more fleshed out. Both strong characters and strong storyline. The one thing that I really appreciated was the changes in the characters, meaning growth, and the addition of characters in each book.
The main character, Darren Street, started out a really straight laced attorney and person. Honest and kind. He went through a lot of changes, both good and bad, in parallel with the good and bad things that happened in his life. How much can one person be influenced by being unjustly put in jail? Or upon the unjust death of a loved one? It changes people. How far are you willing to go to gain justice, redemption or even retribution? What level of "punishment" is satisfactory for those that wronged you and your family in horrific ways? What type of people are you willing to associate with in order to accomplish the "punishment"? It was so interesting and engaging to watch Darren Street go through these challenges in his life and see how he reacted initially, how he changed over time, and how he viewed those changes in himself.
I read the three books in this series back to back very quickly and if there were further books in this series, I would have immediately jumped right into them next!
I definitely recommend this series and think that whatever genre a reader's favorite is, this series will catch you from the start and hold you through the entire series.
This series, and Darren Street in particular, is going to stay with me for a very long time. He has showed me things that I would never encounter in my life, as well as things that I may encounter in my life, and shown me how to look at those things and all the factors and emotions that they bring. The series has definitely made be think about how far I might be willing to go under the right circumstances to obtain satisfactory "punishment" against those who wrong me or my family.
I loved how the three books were one story that kept getting more and more fleshed out. Both strong characters and strong storyline. The one thing that I really appreciated was the changes in the characters, meaning growth, and the addition of characters in each book.
The main character, Darren Street, started out a really straight laced attorney and person. Honest and kind. He went through a lot of changes, both good and bad, in parallel with the good and bad things that happened in his life. How much can one person be influenced by being unjustly put in jail? Or upon the unjust death of a loved one? It changes people. How far are you willing to go to gain justice, redemption or even retribution? What level of "punishment" is satisfactory for those that wronged you and your family in horrific ways? What type of people are you willing to associate with in order to accomplish the "punishment"? It was so interesting and engaging to watch Darren Street go through these challenges in his life and see how he reacted initially, how he changed over time, and how he viewed those changes in himself.
I read the three books in this series back to back very quickly and if there were further books in this series, I would have immediately jumped right into them next!
I definitely recommend this series and think that whatever genre a reader's favorite is, this series will catch you from the start and hold you through the entire series.
This series, and Darren Street in particular, is going to stay with me for a very long time. He has showed me things that I would never encounter in my life, as well as things that I may encounter in my life, and shown me how to look at those things and all the factors and emotions that they bring. The series has definitely made be think about how far I might be willing to go under the right circumstances to obtain satisfactory "punishment" against those who wrong me or my family.
April 26, 2022
Vigilante Lawyer?
Finished all 3 of the Darren Street novels. Each one meticulously builds up to the conclusion in book 3.
Prior to his prison stint Street is a highly unlikely candidate to mete out vigilante justice. After being framed for a murder of a child serial killer he didn't commit by a corrupt district attorney general, he develops a certain set of skills that allow him to seek justice when the judicial system fails him and other victims. He escapes prison and clears his name with the help of criminals he defended as a criminal defense attorney and represented in prison.
Book 2 is an account of his mental struggles resulting from the newfound power attained from killing those who deserve it. He's smart, doesn't get caught. Still, many people know or suspect him of committing these murders. His enemies kill his mother and a client and attempt to kill him as well. He manages to sort through the lies and the danger to seek justice when the court system could not or would not convict deserving criminals.
Finally, in book 3, he cleans up many loose ends with the catalyst being a drunk oncall OBGYN who ignores a page when his girlfriend goes into labor leading to the deaths of both the mother and baby. The doctor is protected by another corrupt district attorney general who refuses to prosecute. This sets off a series of events that enables Street to run against and win the position to clean up the corruption that exists from highest state and federal offices.
Corruption, murder, and redemption are prevalent in this tortured man's life. Another stellar series by Mr. Pratt. (RIP)
Finished all 3 of the Darren Street novels. Each one meticulously builds up to the conclusion in book 3.
Prior to his prison stint Street is a highly unlikely candidate to mete out vigilante justice. After being framed for a murder of a child serial killer he didn't commit by a corrupt district attorney general, he develops a certain set of skills that allow him to seek justice when the judicial system fails him and other victims. He escapes prison and clears his name with the help of criminals he defended as a criminal defense attorney and represented in prison.
Book 2 is an account of his mental struggles resulting from the newfound power attained from killing those who deserve it. He's smart, doesn't get caught. Still, many people know or suspect him of committing these murders. His enemies kill his mother and a client and attempt to kill him as well. He manages to sort through the lies and the danger to seek justice when the court system could not or would not convict deserving criminals.
Finally, in book 3, he cleans up many loose ends with the catalyst being a drunk oncall OBGYN who ignores a page when his girlfriend goes into labor leading to the deaths of both the mother and baby. The doctor is protected by another corrupt district attorney general who refuses to prosecute. This sets off a series of events that enables Street to run against and win the position to clean up the corruption that exists from highest state and federal offices.
Corruption, murder, and redemption are prevalent in this tortured man's life. Another stellar series by Mr. Pratt. (RIP)
February 23, 2018
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book for review.
This is the first book in the Darren Street Series I've read although it is the third book in the series. I do not know what happened in the first two books though there are references to some things that happened before the start of this one which I assume were the bases for the first two books. I've read Pratt's Joe Dillard series, and the writing style and story telling tone are very similar. However, the Street series seems to be of a darker bent. Where Dillard was a loving family man who resorted to extremes as a last measure, Street's first response are extreme measures by default.
The story starts with the death of Street's partner and their unborn child during delivery and what happens when Street tries to take an action he thinks his dead partner would approve of. When that does not work out as planned, he takes things into his own hands and the story goes from there. Whereas bad things happen to good people in the Dillard books, even the good guys are bad guys in this one. However, despite the generally dark bent of the story, there are some positive things that come out of the darkness.
This is the first book in the Darren Street Series I've read although it is the third book in the series. I do not know what happened in the first two books though there are references to some things that happened before the start of this one which I assume were the bases for the first two books. I've read Pratt's Joe Dillard series, and the writing style and story telling tone are very similar. However, the Street series seems to be of a darker bent. Where Dillard was a loving family man who resorted to extremes as a last measure, Street's first response are extreme measures by default.
The story starts with the death of Street's partner and their unborn child during delivery and what happens when Street tries to take an action he thinks his dead partner would approve of. When that does not work out as planned, he takes things into his own hands and the story goes from there. Whereas bad things happen to good people in the Dillard books, even the good guys are bad guys in this one. However, despite the generally dark bent of the story, there are some positive things that come out of the darkness.
April 2, 2022
I found the Darren Street saga an unexpected and pleasant surprise. I completed all three books in less than a week because it is easily one of the best legal dramas without the legal drama per se. It drew me in because of the fast paced and suspenseful storytelling. Darren Street was faced with so much tragedy which continues in this third novel. Most would not be able to ensure what he has went through without contemplating harming themselves or others. In this case, Darren Street falls into a dark place in which he finds himself engaging in vigilante justice against those who have wronged him. While most were justified, I was disturbed by one vigilante act he engaged in because it was due to negligence and recklessness by the target due to addiction compared to all of the others that were driven by criminal activities and revenge. Darren Street going into politics was also a surprising part of the story that worked really well. This third installment of the Darren Street story was well written and overall, I highly recommend this series and look forward to reading more novels from Scott Pratt.
April 8, 2018
**I received a copy of this book through a Goodreads giveaway**
Not having read any other books in the Darren Street series, and not having read any other Scott Pratt books, I wasn't sure what to expect when I started this one. From the opening pages, this story really grabbed me and wouldn't let go the entire way through. It surprised me because I was pretty ambiguous about how I felt about Darren himself. I understood the terrible things he had gone through in the previous books, but I was undecided as to whether I was "on his side" or not. But that really didn't keep me from finding him a fascinating character and one that I felt compelled to read about. I did sympathize immediately with the horrible tragedy he faces at the beginning of this book, and that may be what helped me to override some sense of misgiving in feeling entirely comfortable with some of his actions. By the end, I really felt that some type of redemption had been obtained, albeit a very small one. But it was a start and makes me curious to see where this character will head next.
Not having read any other books in the Darren Street series, and not having read any other Scott Pratt books, I wasn't sure what to expect when I started this one. From the opening pages, this story really grabbed me and wouldn't let go the entire way through. It surprised me because I was pretty ambiguous about how I felt about Darren himself. I understood the terrible things he had gone through in the previous books, but I was undecided as to whether I was "on his side" or not. But that really didn't keep me from finding him a fascinating character and one that I felt compelled to read about. I did sympathize immediately with the horrible tragedy he faces at the beginning of this book, and that may be what helped me to override some sense of misgiving in feeling entirely comfortable with some of his actions. By the end, I really felt that some type of redemption had been obtained, albeit a very small one. But it was a start and makes me curious to see where this character will head next.
September 28, 2020
So very sad and diissapointed
Obviously a 5 star Not only for this book but for all the ones that I've read. I started reading Scotts books about 6 months ago I found myself just flying through each book enjoying them so much and looking forward to the next but not wanting to finish the one I was reading. I was very touched by his introduction in each book referring to his wife Kristy and their pets. A couple of weeks ago I realized that he had passed away and am so sad to know I will not be able to read and so enjoy more of his wonderful books. I recently read his obituary and he sounded like a truly wonderful and talented person what a shame I know I am really gonna miss more adventures of Joe and Darren. I have referred Scott to many of my friends. Belated condolences to Scott's family and I thank them for being able to share this part of his life! Rest in peace Scott thanks and I miss looking for my next Scott Pratt book.
Obviously a 5 star Not only for this book but for all the ones that I've read. I started reading Scotts books about 6 months ago I found myself just flying through each book enjoying them so much and looking forward to the next but not wanting to finish the one I was reading. I was very touched by his introduction in each book referring to his wife Kristy and their pets. A couple of weeks ago I realized that he had passed away and am so sad to know I will not be able to read and so enjoy more of his wonderful books. I recently read his obituary and he sounded like a truly wonderful and talented person what a shame I know I am really gonna miss more adventures of Joe and Darren. I have referred Scott to many of my friends. Belated condolences to Scott's family and I thank them for being able to share this part of his life! Rest in peace Scott thanks and I miss looking for my next Scott Pratt book.
June 10, 2023
Vigilante Justice in the Tennessee Mountains ... The title of this entertaining legal-thriller-mystery is a little off for this reader since, in the end, justice is served. It is a violent tale of corruption and greed, but the mood is considerably lightened by the author’s hilarious sense of hillbilly humor. Five stars - I loved it! – David B. Crawley, M.D. – Author of “Steep Turn: A Physician's Journey From Clinic to Cockpit” and “A Mile of String: A Boy's Recollection of His Midwest Childhood.”
February 21, 2018
This book takes off straight out of the gate! There's never a dull moment as Darren Street, the pitiful protagonist of this story, continues on his search for peace and happiness. One tragedy after another follows this guy, but he finds a way to achieve his own form of justice. Although it stretches plausibility, this story reminds me a little of an early episode of "Justified" with all of the killing. There are even characters who remind me of "Mags Bennett" (Margo Martindale) and her family. This is a wonderfully told chapter of the life of Darren Street, and I'm sure there will be many more to come. He's a likable and sympathetic guy who breaks so many laws, that it's a bit hilarious he's landed his current position. I really enjoyed this book, and it had a rather satisfying, tidy conclusion.
March 26, 2018
I'm not sure why I like these books. The books, featuring main character Darren Street, an *active* criminal attorney, play out like a power male fantasy. The books are not very believable -- the events take place in Tennessee... but if Nashville was, you know, run by crooked cops and government officials, drug dealers, con artists, vigilantes, and straight up murderers. There are some plot holes. Lots of things happen and days and months go by at rapid paces. There are some parts that are severely lacking in information and clarity. And of course, there are way too many deaths. But overall, the books themselves are extremely entertaining. Like the previous installments, in Justice Lost, Darren Street's body count continues to rise as he searches for his own personal sense of "justice." Only time will tell if he can ever make peace with the things that happen to him in life.
February 13, 2022
I think it's safe to say I won't be continuing with this series. How does a respectable lawyer go from that to a cold blooded killer, and one who's elected to precisely put criminals away at that? If nothing he did in book 2 was justified -and it wasn't- then the things he gets up to in this one cross the line into straight-up madness. I've no doubt this probably is how things work in some places, but it feels like a stretch, specially given the picture the author painted of the MC in the first book. I get that spending two years in prison having been framed is no picnic but it doesn't ring true that someone'd make that 360 change. And don't even get me started on his lack of grieving and straight jumping into a new relationship when his girl and daughter aren't even cold yet. Definitely not realistic, not even a courtroom drama anymore.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 29, 2024
Great series, highly recommend
I really hate this’s the last Darren Street book. R.I.P. Mr. Pratt. I throughly enjoyed all your books. I loved Darren storyline. I loved the person he was. He was unique and hilarious. I can’t decide what his character is. Is he considered an assassin too🤷🏽♀️. I hate what happened to Grace and Jasmine but Claire is a better match for him bc they’re cut from the same cloth. Claire really understands who he is and why he does the things he does and not judge or frown on him for doing what he deems necessary to him, even if it’s killing. She’s the real ride or die. And I loved how the Tipton family are so loyal to Darren and his way of life. And I’m happy that Sheriff Corker was able to rise to the occasion and redeem himself to save face and be a friend to Darren and be the sheriff he wanted to be.
I really hate this’s the last Darren Street book. R.I.P. Mr. Pratt. I throughly enjoyed all your books. I loved Darren storyline. I loved the person he was. He was unique and hilarious. I can’t decide what his character is. Is he considered an assassin too🤷🏽♀️. I hate what happened to Grace and Jasmine but Claire is a better match for him bc they’re cut from the same cloth. Claire really understands who he is and why he does the things he does and not judge or frown on him for doing what he deems necessary to him, even if it’s killing. She’s the real ride or die. And I loved how the Tipton family are so loyal to Darren and his way of life. And I’m happy that Sheriff Corker was able to rise to the occasion and redeem himself to save face and be a friend to Darren and be the sheriff he wanted to be.
February 14, 2018
I read this (more like devoured it) in under a day. That's how good it was.
It helps if you've followed the Darren Street series starting from the first book, so if you're contemplating reading Justice Lost, I'd highly recommend starting with Justice Redeemed and then Justice Burning.
Scott Pratt is a brilliant storyteller. His characters in both the Street and Dillard series are interesting, the main one always witty, quick and tough.
I don't need to tell you what happens in the story. You can read the synopsis and the book for yourself. I WILL say that if you're interested in what happens to Darren Street, you won't be disappointed in the way his tale unfolds here.
Highly recommended...and I am sooo hoping Mr. Pratt writes another novel VERY soon.
It helps if you've followed the Darren Street series starting from the first book, so if you're contemplating reading Justice Lost, I'd highly recommend starting with Justice Redeemed and then Justice Burning.
Scott Pratt is a brilliant storyteller. His characters in both the Street and Dillard series are interesting, the main one always witty, quick and tough.
I don't need to tell you what happens in the story. You can read the synopsis and the book for yourself. I WILL say that if you're interested in what happens to Darren Street, you won't be disappointed in the way his tale unfolds here.
Highly recommended...and I am sooo hoping Mr. Pratt writes another novel VERY soon.
February 27, 2018
Book Review: Justice Lost (Darren Street Book 3) by Scott Pratt
The book starts slow - the subconscious blurry, aching dullness of PTSD from lengthy imprisonment; visions of a ghostly Mrs. Judge. Deja vu all over again seeps in.
By Chapter 4, twists and turns begin to spark, with the unexpected demise of a would-be main character. Then, with another "Hannibal Lecter" / "Dexter" type of feeding the hogs and brutal killing for the sake of justice, you suspect the book will taste more of the same, the umpteenth helping of stale pie with the same old characters.
But not! Mr. Scott creates another vicious, evil villain and Darren Street has his hands full aided by new equally formidable allies, culminated by a shot that comes from out of nowhere to save the day.
A satisfactory 5-Star read, which leaves the avid reader salivating for Darren Street 4 or Joe Dillard 9.
This review is based on an ARC (Advance Reading Copy), with many thanks to NetGalley, Thomas & Mercer and Scott Pratt for the privilege.
The book starts slow - the subconscious blurry, aching dullness of PTSD from lengthy imprisonment; visions of a ghostly Mrs. Judge. Deja vu all over again seeps in.
By Chapter 4, twists and turns begin to spark, with the unexpected demise of a would-be main character. Then, with another "Hannibal Lecter" / "Dexter" type of feeding the hogs and brutal killing for the sake of justice, you suspect the book will taste more of the same, the umpteenth helping of stale pie with the same old characters.
But not! Mr. Scott creates another vicious, evil villain and Darren Street has his hands full aided by new equally formidable allies, culminated by a shot that comes from out of nowhere to save the day.
A satisfactory 5-Star read, which leaves the avid reader salivating for Darren Street 4 or Joe Dillard 9.
This review is based on an ARC (Advance Reading Copy), with many thanks to NetGalley, Thomas & Mercer and Scott Pratt for the privilege.
February 23, 2018
Another terrific book by Scott Pratt!
For those of you that have read Scott Pratt’s “Joe Dillard” series you know how compelling a story teller he is. He has continued this tradition in the three Darren Street novels. I recommend starting at the first book in each series, as many of the characters you meet will be in successive novels, building upon the relationship with the main character.
Scott Pratt is a talented wordsmith. In “Justice Lost”, he captures the soul of the character, both the vile and the virtuous parts. We find ourselves on a journey, sometimes questioning our own morals, as the character continues his quest. Cozying up with the latest Pratt novel bring me contentment, enjoyment and happiness. I’m looking forward to the next installment.
For those of you that have read Scott Pratt’s “Joe Dillard” series you know how compelling a story teller he is. He has continued this tradition in the three Darren Street novels. I recommend starting at the first book in each series, as many of the characters you meet will be in successive novels, building upon the relationship with the main character.
Scott Pratt is a talented wordsmith. In “Justice Lost”, he captures the soul of the character, both the vile and the virtuous parts. We find ourselves on a journey, sometimes questioning our own morals, as the character continues his quest. Cozying up with the latest Pratt novel bring me contentment, enjoyment and happiness. I’m looking forward to the next installment.
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