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Joe Dillard #9
Due Process
A young exotic dancer claims she was sexually assaulted at a party thrown by a university football team.
Three players stand accused.
In the ninth installment of the bestselling Joe Dillard series, Dillard finds himself defending one of the players accused of assaulting the young woman. The case receives national attention, quickly escalating into a platform for deep-seeded division and hatred. It also ensnares Dillard, along with his son, Jack, and Charleston Story into a web of lies and deceit spun by a mysterious figure with a hidden agenda.
Meanwhile, his wife, Caroline, continues her fight against metastatic breast cancer, and his sister, Sarah, comes back into the picture. Culminating in a courtroom scene worthy of Perry Mason, Dillard must take on one of the most difficult cases of his career. Will justice prevail? Or will the weight of the criminal justice system grind Joe and his client to dust?
"Pratt's richly developed characters are vivid and believable, especially the strong Southern women who fight their male-dominated culture from behind a facade of vulnerability." (Publishers Weekly)
Three players stand accused.
In the ninth installment of the bestselling Joe Dillard series, Dillard finds himself defending one of the players accused of assaulting the young woman. The case receives national attention, quickly escalating into a platform for deep-seeded division and hatred. It also ensnares Dillard, along with his son, Jack, and Charleston Story into a web of lies and deceit spun by a mysterious figure with a hidden agenda.
Meanwhile, his wife, Caroline, continues her fight against metastatic breast cancer, and his sister, Sarah, comes back into the picture. Culminating in a courtroom scene worthy of Perry Mason, Dillard must take on one of the most difficult cases of his career. Will justice prevail? Or will the weight of the criminal justice system grind Joe and his client to dust?
"Pratt's richly developed characters are vivid and believable, especially the strong Southern women who fight their male-dominated culture from behind a facade of vulnerability." (Publishers Weekly)
303 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 3, 2018
9147 people are currently reading
8879 people want to read
About the author
Scott Pratt
59 books1,566 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 849 reviews
June 19, 2018
Scott Pratt is back with another gritty legal thriller, the ninth in the Joe Dillard series. This piece is sure to impress series fans with more legal antics that only Dillard to justify in the cutthroat world of Tennessee law. After being picked-up by the police, Sheila Self professes that her intoxication is related to being drugged and gang-raped at a party held by the local college football team. A stripper and escort, Self explains that she was hired to perform at a house and was forceable attacked in the washroom. The authorities begin an investigation into the case as defence attorney Joe Dillard watches from the sidelines, refusing to become involved for personal reasons. However, when three black players are fingered as the culprits by Self, whose identification is nudged along by a tunnel-visioned investigator, Dillard agrees to meet with one young man and learns that the evidence is not only flimsy, but that the man before him could not be guilty. Dillard’s intuition is such that he will do everything he can to help his client, feeling that this is not a ‘sports team gone wild’ case as much as one divided along racial lines. With East Tennessee still teetering on the edge of racial acceptance, Dillard is sure that no matter what the evidence shows, race will become a key factor. Can he help his client get a fair trial? Will a young black man be safe when accused of raping a white woman? How will Dillard balance a trial with a wife whose cancer is back and getting worse? Pratt explores these and many other situations within the pages of this fabulously crafted novel. Series fans will be so pleased to see Joe Dillard back and should be ready to learn much. Also recommended to those who love a quick paced legal thriller, though beginning at the start of this well-paced series may shed additional light on the nuances woven into this novel.
I have long been a fan of Scott Pratt and the Joe Dillard series, which mixes legal matters alongside life in the southern United States. Pratt is able to convey a highly entertaining story for the reader, full of interesting characters, as well as legal matters torn from the headlines, but with a twist. Joe Dillard, who has seen much transformation throughout the series, returns with even more passion, both for his work and the family he has worked hard to keep together. His dedication to his wife is second to none and Pratt is able to mould his protagonist into being a highly compassionate man while also ready to cut the throat of anyone who crosses his path. The novel brings a number of returning characters into the story, each with their own development, though some advance more than others. The one-offs, as with many novels, prove to propel the plot and make a mark, though not usually indelible, throughout. The pace of the narrative is such that the reader loses themselves in the legal and medical matters, as well as the social commentary offered to depict the ongoing racial divide in Tennessee and surrounding area. Pratt does not pull any punches, painting Eastern Tennessee as being anything but inclusive, though it is necessary to bring his point home and the reader should see this as being more than a mere soapbox rant. Fans of the series are surely pleased to see Dillard back, on a brief hiatus to allow Pratt’s development of another series, equally enthralling. The banter within this series is well-constructed and keeps the reader from getting too bogged down in legal matters. I hope Pratt has many more novels in this series, as Joe Dillard does not appear to be losing steam whatsoever.
Kudos, Mr. Pratt, for another stellar novel. A quick read, but surely memorable and the perfect addition to any reading list!
Love/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/...
I have long been a fan of Scott Pratt and the Joe Dillard series, which mixes legal matters alongside life in the southern United States. Pratt is able to convey a highly entertaining story for the reader, full of interesting characters, as well as legal matters torn from the headlines, but with a twist. Joe Dillard, who has seen much transformation throughout the series, returns with even more passion, both for his work and the family he has worked hard to keep together. His dedication to his wife is second to none and Pratt is able to mould his protagonist into being a highly compassionate man while also ready to cut the throat of anyone who crosses his path. The novel brings a number of returning characters into the story, each with their own development, though some advance more than others. The one-offs, as with many novels, prove to propel the plot and make a mark, though not usually indelible, throughout. The pace of the narrative is such that the reader loses themselves in the legal and medical matters, as well as the social commentary offered to depict the ongoing racial divide in Tennessee and surrounding area. Pratt does not pull any punches, painting Eastern Tennessee as being anything but inclusive, though it is necessary to bring his point home and the reader should see this as being more than a mere soapbox rant. Fans of the series are surely pleased to see Dillard back, on a brief hiatus to allow Pratt’s development of another series, equally enthralling. The banter within this series is well-constructed and keeps the reader from getting too bogged down in legal matters. I hope Pratt has many more novels in this series, as Joe Dillard does not appear to be losing steam whatsoever.
Kudos, Mr. Pratt, for another stellar novel. A quick read, but surely memorable and the perfect addition to any reading list!
Love/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/...
November 30, 2021
This is the last Joe Dillard book as the author, Scott Pratt, died in a diving accident in Bonaire on November 11, 2018. He died five months after his wife died of breast cancer. I was surprised to discover that so much of Dillard’s life followed that of the author. When reading about Caroline’s (Dillard’s wife) battle with breast cancer in book it had a ring of truth. Now I know he was writing from his own experience. Like Dillard, he also had two children a boy and girl.
This book felt like it was taken right out of today’s headline. The story has to do with three black university football players accused of raping a white female exotic dancer. In the story the Klan and a militant black group start fighting. The book is well written and is fast moving. I shall have to check and be sure I have read all of Pratt’s books then I am going to hunt for another legal thriller author to read.
I read this as an audiobook downloaded from Audible. The book is five hours and fifty-nine minutes. Tim Campbell does an excellent job narrating this series. Campbell is a multi-award-winning audiobook narrator. He has also won The Audie Award. To the field of audiobook narration, it is equivalent to winning an Oscar or Tony Award.
This book felt like it was taken right out of today’s headline. The story has to do with three black university football players accused of raping a white female exotic dancer. In the story the Klan and a militant black group start fighting. The book is well written and is fast moving. I shall have to check and be sure I have read all of Pratt’s books then I am going to hunt for another legal thriller author to read.
I read this as an audiobook downloaded from Audible. The book is five hours and fifty-nine minutes. Tim Campbell does an excellent job narrating this series. Campbell is a multi-award-winning audiobook narrator. He has also won The Audie Award. To the field of audiobook narration, it is equivalent to winning an Oscar or Tony Award.
July 12, 2018
Joe is such a badass! Great addition to the series, and I can’t wait for more.
June 10, 2018
Joe Dillard is Human
Luckily for me, this series showed up as recommended reading in Goodreads. Each book can be a stand alone as Mr Pratt fills in the reader on pertinent facts from prior books as needed. But I guarantee if you pick this one up, you’ll find yourself looking for the first in the series so it’s on hand once you’ve finished #9. This series is intermixed with suspense, law, life in the south, very real family issues, and relatable characters. Finishing the final chapter leaves me looking forward to Book 10 to get back in touch with the Dillard family and friends.
Luckily for me, this series showed up as recommended reading in Goodreads. Each book can be a stand alone as Mr Pratt fills in the reader on pertinent facts from prior books as needed. But I guarantee if you pick this one up, you’ll find yourself looking for the first in the series so it’s on hand once you’ve finished #9. This series is intermixed with suspense, law, life in the south, very real family issues, and relatable characters. Finishing the final chapter leaves me looking forward to Book 10 to get back in touch with the Dillard family and friends.
June 7, 2018
Another great story
Another great story by Scott Pratt. It deals with the current racial problems that has been plaguing the U.S. in recent time.
The writing is very good, straightforward , not dragging, keeps you on edge as usual. And a quick read. Look forward to reading more of Mr. Pratt's books.
Another great story by Scott Pratt. It deals with the current racial problems that has been plaguing the U.S. in recent time.
The writing is very good, straightforward , not dragging, keeps you on edge as usual. And a quick read. Look forward to reading more of Mr. Pratt's books.
August 4, 2019
Due Process is book nine in the Joe Dillard series by Scott Pratt. Joe Dillard caught case defending a young man accused of raping a young exotic dancer at University football team party. Joe, at the beginning of this case, did not believe that it is as straight forward as the prosecutor thought. The readers of Due Process will continue to follow Joe Dillard to find out if his client and the other two accused men were found guilty.
Due Process is the first book I have read of Scott Pratt, and I enjoyed it, and I differently read more books in this series. Scott Pratt did a fantastic job in describing his settings in away the ensure I engage with the plot of this book. Due Process is well written and researched by Scott Pratt. I love Scott Pratt portrayal of his characters and the way they intertwine with each other throughout this book.
The readers of Due Process will learn about compassion fatigue and the consequences for suffers and everyone around then. Also, the readers of Due Process will learn about being a defence attorney and their role in the courts.
I recommend this book.
Due Process is the first book I have read of Scott Pratt, and I enjoyed it, and I differently read more books in this series. Scott Pratt did a fantastic job in describing his settings in away the ensure I engage with the plot of this book. Due Process is well written and researched by Scott Pratt. I love Scott Pratt portrayal of his characters and the way they intertwine with each other throughout this book.
The readers of Due Process will learn about compassion fatigue and the consequences for suffers and everyone around then. Also, the readers of Due Process will learn about being a defence attorney and their role in the courts.
I recommend this book.
April 3, 2024
Another great read. Love the Dillard's. I cannot put this series down. Seeing the family grow and go through hardships that we all have first-hand knowledge of, yet still doing your absolute best for the people you represent, is fabulous. Love the legal aspect and the investigation side. I've found this the perfect balance of both. Joe is an amazing character, and his morals are his finest quality. So sad to read that this author has now passed, but what a great legacy to leave behind. I almost feel as if I know the author through his characters.
April 2, 2019
I have read all of Scott Pratt's books...and I still did not get my fill. It was a sorry day when
I reached the end of his series. All his characters became familiar to me and I loved all the great storytelling and exciting ups and downs. I will have to begin to read them all over again because I miss Joe.
I reached the end of his series. All his characters became familiar to me and I loved all the great storytelling and exciting ups and downs. I will have to begin to read them all over again because I miss Joe.
January 31, 2019
The entire Joe Dillard series was GREAT! As good, or better, than anything James Patterson or David Baldacci can write. I'm sorry that this seems to be the end of that particular series. I'd love to know what becomes of Joe Dillard and his family and other characters that Pratt developed so well.
July 24, 2018
Love being back in Joe's world. He is such a stand up guy. He is a fierce protector which I love. Can not wait for another installment ! 4.5. Keep writing and I will keep reading
October 26, 2018
Well written. I like books that are parts of a series with a strong main character. I’m looking forward to reading more with Joe Dillard as the main character
January 1, 2019
Due Process
great read! loved it
Joe Dillard is a likeable guy and Scott does
an awesome job with the characters and stort!
great read! loved it
Joe Dillard is a likeable guy and Scott does
an awesome job with the characters and stort!
June 30, 2022
The last in the Joe Dillard series, another good book about a lawyer with a high moral code
May 16, 2018
Caroline continues to fight off death, and Joe grieves, and is grateful. And they suffer and survive another day, together.
I obtained this book through the Kindle Unlimited program; this is also the first book I have been able to read and review in over two months. Perhaps my long drought is over?
In 2006, three college athletes were accused of raping a stripper who was performing at a house occupied by three team captains. Pratt has changed the details, from an elitist sport at an elitist school, to a blue collar sport at a frayed blue-collar school, and the story is still unbelievable. That's not a criticism of the telling; Pratt writes excellently, as always, and tells a great story. It's just that the circumstances of the Duke Lacrosse Team Rape Scandal were so extreme that even when softened a bit, they are still too bizarre to have happened.
They DID happen, though, and Pratt brings the nightmare to life. I gladly grant him poetic license in dealing with the facts, because if he wrote the facts, NOBODY would believe it.
By moving the incident a decade forward, into our present day, he also is able to ring in the Monster, the one who is on the loose, and has our head into a noose, and who just sits there, watching. The Monster is stalking our streets today, and manifests in the book as armed men on opposing sides, using race as an excuse to spew hatred. As vivid as Pratt's depiction of the rogue prosecutor in the main case may be, there is absolutely no way he is able to convey the menace the Monster brings. I fear that it will not end for us as easily as it did for Dillard and his town.
Sweet Caroline remains a survivor. By continuing her fight for life, she is giving Dillard a reason to go on. Her example is breath-taking, and we must all recognize it for what it is, and honor her for all she has done. As long as she is determined to keep breathing in and out, NOBODY has permission to quit.
I obtained this book through the Kindle Unlimited program; this is also the first book I have been able to read and review in over two months. Perhaps my long drought is over?
In 2006, three college athletes were accused of raping a stripper who was performing at a house occupied by three team captains. Pratt has changed the details, from an elitist sport at an elitist school, to a blue collar sport at a frayed blue-collar school, and the story is still unbelievable. That's not a criticism of the telling; Pratt writes excellently, as always, and tells a great story. It's just that the circumstances of the Duke Lacrosse Team Rape Scandal were so extreme that even when softened a bit, they are still too bizarre to have happened.
They DID happen, though, and Pratt brings the nightmare to life. I gladly grant him poetic license in dealing with the facts, because if he wrote the facts, NOBODY would believe it.
By moving the incident a decade forward, into our present day, he also is able to ring in the Monster, the one who is on the loose, and has our head into a noose, and who just sits there, watching. The Monster is stalking our streets today, and manifests in the book as armed men on opposing sides, using race as an excuse to spew hatred. As vivid as Pratt's depiction of the rogue prosecutor in the main case may be, there is absolutely no way he is able to convey the menace the Monster brings. I fear that it will not end for us as easily as it did for Dillard and his town.
Sweet Caroline remains a survivor. By continuing her fight for life, she is giving Dillard a reason to go on. Her example is breath-taking, and we must all recognize it for what it is, and honor her for all she has done. As long as she is determined to keep breathing in and out, NOBODY has permission to quit.
August 13, 2020
Cute law stories but...
Joe Dillard character is the alpha red neck male in every story. I hope this isn't a reflection of the authors characteristics but I'm thinking it is. If we could "best beat people to near death" because our aggression can't be controlled then I am scared. This book perpetuates the dumb hick personification given to the south. I "know lots of people so you best be just getting yourself the hell outta my sight before I get my gun" and the wife with cancer? I prayed she would pass in her sleep. Poor woman. So depressing and definitely the author knows her well. The books I've read are cookie cut. Well y'all reading this here story got some explainin to do when you in church. Our great state of Tennessee don't need this man writer who went to college in Tennessee sayin we rednecks. I'll tell you somethin. If I could get away with violence against my woman i d do it. I could get it buried like joe? I'd kill him and have my sheriff friend cover.
Joe Dillard character is the alpha red neck male in every story. I hope this isn't a reflection of the authors characteristics but I'm thinking it is. If we could "best beat people to near death" because our aggression can't be controlled then I am scared. This book perpetuates the dumb hick personification given to the south. I "know lots of people so you best be just getting yourself the hell outta my sight before I get my gun" and the wife with cancer? I prayed she would pass in her sleep. Poor woman. So depressing and definitely the author knows her well. The books I've read are cookie cut. Well y'all reading this here story got some explainin to do when you in church. Our great state of Tennessee don't need this man writer who went to college in Tennessee sayin we rednecks. I'll tell you somethin. If I could get away with violence against my woman i d do it. I could get it buried like joe? I'd kill him and have my sheriff friend cover.
July 27, 2018
I've been reading through the series, and have enjoyed most, usually rating them at 4 stars. This one didn't fluff my pillow, for several reasons. I'm tired of the Black vs. White controversy, and the good White guy always aligning with the wronged Blacks. Just not interested in those story lines. As I started reading, and it looked like it was going in the race war direction, I found myself hoping that a second primary plot would come out, but it didn't.
I'm also in agreement with another reviewer's comments about the in-depth cancer story line. Cancer is all too real in my everyday life; I don't want to read about it in a novel. I think Joe Dillard has had his run. Time to move on to another author or character.
I'm also in agreement with another reviewer's comments about the in-depth cancer story line. Cancer is all too real in my everyday life; I don't want to read about it in a novel. I think Joe Dillard has had his run. Time to move on to another author or character.
May 15, 2018
I always look forward to a new book about Joe Dillard, who is a lawyer. He lives with his wife, Caroline and a faithful friend, Rio, their very protective German Shepherd. Caroline is still taking cancer treatments as the cancer has spread in her body. Jack, their son, and his girlfriend, Charlie are still at the firm helping in cases with Joe. Joe, is still Joe and you have to love his character. He is smart, and protects his family and his clients.
This one is about an exotic dancer that is paid to go to a Frat party and claims that 3 black men dragged her into the bathroom and raped her. One of the men charged, his family hires Joe to represent him. Joe usually doesn't take rape cases because of what happened to his sister, Sarah, but this time he knows his client is innocent and does take the case.
The case ignites tension on both side, the Klu Klux Clan and the Black Activists. They each want their say in the case. It has even come as far as them burning a cross in Joe's yard. But now each of these organizations are planning to be at the hearing and take care of anyone in their way, which includes Joe and his family.
Another great book, and I always look forward to reading about Joe. He doesn't take any prisoners and you have to just love the scenes where he comes out on top. Hope there is another one on this family. Love, love the books.
This one is about an exotic dancer that is paid to go to a Frat party and claims that 3 black men dragged her into the bathroom and raped her. One of the men charged, his family hires Joe to represent him. Joe usually doesn't take rape cases because of what happened to his sister, Sarah, but this time he knows his client is innocent and does take the case.
The case ignites tension on both side, the Klu Klux Clan and the Black Activists. They each want their say in the case. It has even come as far as them burning a cross in Joe's yard. But now each of these organizations are planning to be at the hearing and take care of anyone in their way, which includes Joe and his family.
Another great book, and I always look forward to reading about Joe. He doesn't take any prisoners and you have to just love the scenes where he comes out on top. Hope there is another one on this family. Love, love the books.
September 17, 2023
Audiobook.
Legal, investigative, and police procedurals. Joe Dillard is a criminal defense lawyer with flaws - specifically, a short fuse nearly always directed toward someone anyone would like to punch out. Joe is fiercely defensive of his family, particularly his wife. From early in the series, Caroline's battle with cancer is almost another character. The legal community respects Joe, and he has influential friends, including the local sheriff and law enforcement, rare for a defense attorney. Each book consists of a stand-alone story of rape, murder, missing people, mobs, addicts, crooked cops, devious politicians, amoral judges, and more - each story is unique and creative. Read in sequence for continuity and character development.
Liked. Stories! It's just a great series with excellent, page-turning plots. No sex, no objectionable language. No trouble discerning who is speaking to whom. Narration and production are fine.
Not so hot. Not much! Bumped the audio speed on the iPhone to 1.4 - a preference, not criticism.
The series consists of 10 full-length novels. Books 1-4 and 5-8 are available in two box sets, books 9 and 10 in separate purchases. Well worth the investment. Written by Scott Pratt, narrated by Tim Campbell, over 70 hours of listening in unabridged format, released from September 22 through June 2023.
Looking for a good series? Here ya go!!
Legal, investigative, and police procedurals. Joe Dillard is a criminal defense lawyer with flaws - specifically, a short fuse nearly always directed toward someone anyone would like to punch out. Joe is fiercely defensive of his family, particularly his wife. From early in the series, Caroline's battle with cancer is almost another character. The legal community respects Joe, and he has influential friends, including the local sheriff and law enforcement, rare for a defense attorney. Each book consists of a stand-alone story of rape, murder, missing people, mobs, addicts, crooked cops, devious politicians, amoral judges, and more - each story is unique and creative. Read in sequence for continuity and character development.
Liked. Stories! It's just a great series with excellent, page-turning plots. No sex, no objectionable language. No trouble discerning who is speaking to whom. Narration and production are fine.
Not so hot. Not much! Bumped the audio speed on the iPhone to 1.4 - a preference, not criticism.
The series consists of 10 full-length novels. Books 1-4 and 5-8 are available in two box sets, books 9 and 10 in separate purchases. Well worth the investment. Written by Scott Pratt, narrated by Tim Campbell, over 70 hours of listening in unabridged format, released from September 22 through June 2023.
Looking for a good series? Here ya go!!
May 10, 2018
The good guys win!
I have enjoyed this entire series. It is a little unrealistic but isn’t that what reading for pleasure is about?! Joe Dillard is the real deal. He (in my opinion) is that rare breed of man that will do what is right no matter the personal cost to himself. The intertwining of his personal life mixed with his professional throughout the series is one of my favorite things. Ive gotten to know the whole family and look forward to each new phase for them as much as whatever big case Joe is working on. The case in this book was outrageous and very applicable to our current atmosphere regarding race issues and Joe, once again, stood up for the unrepresented and underrepresented and made their voices heard and count. I just really like the character that is Joe Dillard. He’s a “Billy Bad”, extremely intelligent, handsome, and above all else, a real family man that does whatever needs to be done to take care of his family which includes his terminally ill wife. There’s not enough hours in the day to actually do all that he does but it is still very nice to imagine a real person doing all that he does!
I have enjoyed this entire series. It is a little unrealistic but isn’t that what reading for pleasure is about?! Joe Dillard is the real deal. He (in my opinion) is that rare breed of man that will do what is right no matter the personal cost to himself. The intertwining of his personal life mixed with his professional throughout the series is one of my favorite things. Ive gotten to know the whole family and look forward to each new phase for them as much as whatever big case Joe is working on. The case in this book was outrageous and very applicable to our current atmosphere regarding race issues and Joe, once again, stood up for the unrepresented and underrepresented and made their voices heard and count. I just really like the character that is Joe Dillard. He’s a “Billy Bad”, extremely intelligent, handsome, and above all else, a real family man that does whatever needs to be done to take care of his family which includes his terminally ill wife. There’s not enough hours in the day to actually do all that he does but it is still very nice to imagine a real person doing all that he does!
January 12, 2020
Note: I was shocked to learn - by reading other reviews after finishing this book - that the author passed away in an accident in November 2018.
https://www.johnsoncitypress.com/law-...
My condolences to his family. On the whole I really enjoyed this 9-book series and am glad I was able to read them all. My thoughts on this one follow.
While very engaging and readable, similar to the first 8 books in this series, I really didn’t enjoy the plot or characters in this one - Really very cliched to the point of being caricatured. SPOILERS AHEAD. Corrupt/racist police officers? Oppressed college football players? Heroic criminal defense attorneys? Sounds more like the script for a story on CNN than a plausible plot for a novel. There’s even a rant against the infamous military industrial complex included. This one just painted so far inside the lines that I found it really lacking.
Bonus sloppy edit catch: on pages 114-115, a character actually changes names. He’s coach Springer on page 114 and before, but Coach Stringer on page 115 (3 times).
https://www.johnsoncitypress.com/law-...
My condolences to his family. On the whole I really enjoyed this 9-book series and am glad I was able to read them all. My thoughts on this one follow.
While very engaging and readable, similar to the first 8 books in this series, I really didn’t enjoy the plot or characters in this one - Really very cliched to the point of being caricatured. SPOILERS AHEAD. Corrupt/racist police officers? Oppressed college football players? Heroic criminal defense attorneys? Sounds more like the script for a story on CNN than a plausible plot for a novel. There’s even a rant against the infamous military industrial complex included. This one just painted so far inside the lines that I found it really lacking.
Bonus sloppy edit catch: on pages 114-115, a character actually changes names. He’s coach Springer on page 114 and before, but Coach Stringer on page 115 (3 times).
April 28, 2020
Great series!
I started this series a week ago. Literally seven days ago. That means I read nine books in seven days. These books are that good. The series is about a lawyer, his family, the cases he took on, and the law enforcement of his community. Joe Dillard and his wife Caroline felt like personal friends of mine by the end of this series. I felt the heartache they felt as Caroline fought for her life. I fell in love with Joe. He is a very loyal, honest, and family oriented. He was in some bad situations throughout the series but fought for family, friends, and chose right over wrong.
Of course these characters are very well developed and believable. The dialogue flows freely and smoothly. The editing was clean with very few grammatical errors or misspelled words. I would recommend this series for any adult. There was very little foul language or inappropriate sexual scenes, but there was some very graphic violent scenes. There are very few series that I have read straight but this one I couldn't put down. A great series to read to help get through the pandemic and self quarantine.
I started this series a week ago. Literally seven days ago. That means I read nine books in seven days. These books are that good. The series is about a lawyer, his family, the cases he took on, and the law enforcement of his community. Joe Dillard and his wife Caroline felt like personal friends of mine by the end of this series. I felt the heartache they felt as Caroline fought for her life. I fell in love with Joe. He is a very loyal, honest, and family oriented. He was in some bad situations throughout the series but fought for family, friends, and chose right over wrong.
Of course these characters are very well developed and believable. The dialogue flows freely and smoothly. The editing was clean with very few grammatical errors or misspelled words. I would recommend this series for any adult. There was very little foul language or inappropriate sexual scenes, but there was some very graphic violent scenes. There are very few series that I have read straight but this one I couldn't put down. A great series to read to help get through the pandemic and self quarantine.
June 14, 2018
Another phenomenal “Joe Dillard” book!
I’m married to an attorney, and I have to be careful about how much credence I give books like “The Joe Dillard” series. She gets pretty impassioned when it comes to telling stories “within the law”.
That being said, Mr. Pratt has once again kept me glued to my Kindle reading this latest installment in the Joe Dillard series. While bringing in current day issues we face as a population, to adding a little razzle dazzle to the story, he has brought forth a story of racial divide that will make you think about where your opinions and beliefs are based.
I have read everything to date that Mr. Pratt has written and with each book he bests himself. Character development and relationships in his books are the things that make him easily one of my top 5 authors. Through his story telling I’m offered an opportunity to shut out the day to day and immerse myself in a realm of good and evil. If you haven’t tried reading this author’s works, you’re denying yourself a phenomenal time!
I’m married to an attorney, and I have to be careful about how much credence I give books like “The Joe Dillard” series. She gets pretty impassioned when it comes to telling stories “within the law”.
That being said, Mr. Pratt has once again kept me glued to my Kindle reading this latest installment in the Joe Dillard series. While bringing in current day issues we face as a population, to adding a little razzle dazzle to the story, he has brought forth a story of racial divide that will make you think about where your opinions and beliefs are based.
I have read everything to date that Mr. Pratt has written and with each book he bests himself. Character development and relationships in his books are the things that make him easily one of my top 5 authors. Through his story telling I’m offered an opportunity to shut out the day to day and immerse myself in a realm of good and evil. If you haven’t tried reading this author’s works, you’re denying yourself a phenomenal time!
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October 1, 2020This has been an exceptional book series and I am so sad it’s over. I came to know these characters like they were family and they seemed so real. These books are an examination of the criminal justice system and this last book in particular reveals the inequities often experienced by people of color. In this story a case was made against a young black man who allegedly raped a white girl. Little evidence supported the arrest but the client was railroaded and could very well have spent the rest of his life in jail had it not been for his lawyer, protagonist Joe Dillard.Through his own detective work Joe uncovers racist motives towards his client and takes matters into his own hands. Some of Joe’s actions are in a gray area of the law but the truth always prevails and we cheer our hero for doing the right thing even when it endangers him. I only wish Scott Pratt was around to continue these stories because they could go on forever.
April 13, 2022
Fantastic Series
I have read all 9 books in this series. Each could be a stand alone on their own, but the storyline is so much richer by reading them in order.
Pratt's character development is expertly crafted from main characters to those short-term needed to move the timeline or enrich the story.
I was pleased to revisit characters from previous books. Dillard and family as well as Leon Bates were the best of the best despite their human flaws. The cases were riveting. I learned bits and pieces about how the law works and doesn't work. In addition, there are so many blurred lines in legalise complicating decisions bordering on criminality.
I didn't write a review for each book, but I truly loved them all. I am saddened by the untimely passing of author Pratt and as a result Joe Dillard leaves with him.
Nice and easy relaxing reads sprinkled with some exciting moments. I will miss this series.
I have read all 9 books in this series. Each could be a stand alone on their own, but the storyline is so much richer by reading them in order.
Pratt's character development is expertly crafted from main characters to those short-term needed to move the timeline or enrich the story.
I was pleased to revisit characters from previous books. Dillard and family as well as Leon Bates were the best of the best despite their human flaws. The cases were riveting. I learned bits and pieces about how the law works and doesn't work. In addition, there are so many blurred lines in legalise complicating decisions bordering on criminality.
I didn't write a review for each book, but I truly loved them all. I am saddened by the untimely passing of author Pratt and as a result Joe Dillard leaves with him.
Nice and easy relaxing reads sprinkled with some exciting moments. I will miss this series.
November 12, 2024
Book number 9 in the Joe Dillard series is another quick and exciting read. In East Tennessee, an exotic dancer accuses three Black college football players of raping her at a party. But there is no real evidence indicating the crime happens. A racist investigator and sheriff ignore the facts and arrest the three players who maintain their innocence.
One of the players hires Joe Dillard as his attorney. At first suspicious of the charges and innocence of his client, Dillard soon learns of the efforts to frame the football players and violating their constitutional rights.
Dillard realizes he can win the case and get the players released, but what was behind this aside from pure racism? As Dillard investigates, a much larger conspiracy involving multiple people emerges, putting Dillard, his client, and his family in peril.
Another good read in this series by the late Scott Pratt.
One of the players hires Joe Dillard as his attorney. At first suspicious of the charges and innocence of his client, Dillard soon learns of the efforts to frame the football players and violating their constitutional rights.
Dillard realizes he can win the case and get the players released, but what was behind this aside from pure racism? As Dillard investigates, a much larger conspiracy involving multiple people emerges, putting Dillard, his client, and his family in peril.
Another good read in this series by the late Scott Pratt.
May 9, 2018
This is an extremely timely novel that dives straight into the racial issues facing America today.
It's a very different kinds of care and situation than you would find in many of the books in the genre. Also, we get to see so many of the characters we've met in the series.
Like the others, this is an easy read, but still work sufficient detail to get a mental image of the scenes.
I feel like there are some gaps from the last book to this one - Charlie's recovery, where Jack and Charlie live, but it doesn't affect the guys of the story.
My heart continues to break for Caroline and her suffering. Dillard's continued suffering is driving him more and more to impulsive and violent actions. It will be interesting to see how that plays out in later books.
I eagerly await the next book in the series.
It's a very different kinds of care and situation than you would find in many of the books in the genre. Also, we get to see so many of the characters we've met in the series.
Like the others, this is an easy read, but still work sufficient detail to get a mental image of the scenes.
I feel like there are some gaps from the last book to this one - Charlie's recovery, where Jack and Charlie live, but it doesn't affect the guys of the story.
My heart continues to break for Caroline and her suffering. Dillard's continued suffering is driving him more and more to impulsive and violent actions. It will be interesting to see how that plays out in later books.
I eagerly await the next book in the series.
May 18, 2018
It's Joe Dillard so of course it's excellent!
Due Process is the latest Joe Dillard book in Pratt's series (Book 9). One of the reasons I enjoy Dillard's story is he is a man steadfastly and unashamedly in love with his wife. In this latest book, his wife Caroline is not doing well at all. Her cancer is back with a vengeance and Joe has to fight that and the racism that has steamrolled into his county because of a rape allegation against East Tennessee State University football players. The case is tragic in a lot of ways, but I like that Pratt shows both sides of the hatred that seems to be tearing our country apart. His story is timely but no less hard to read.
Still, Pratt is a really good writer and an even better storyteller. If he wrote a hundred Joe Dillard books I'd probably buy every one.
Due Process is the latest Joe Dillard book in Pratt's series (Book 9). One of the reasons I enjoy Dillard's story is he is a man steadfastly and unashamedly in love with his wife. In this latest book, his wife Caroline is not doing well at all. Her cancer is back with a vengeance and Joe has to fight that and the racism that has steamrolled into his county because of a rape allegation against East Tennessee State University football players. The case is tragic in a lot of ways, but I like that Pratt shows both sides of the hatred that seems to be tearing our country apart. His story is timely but no less hard to read.
Still, Pratt is a really good writer and an even better storyteller. If he wrote a hundred Joe Dillard books I'd probably buy every one.
July 28, 2019
This was the 9th Book in the Joe Dillard series and the best one. This story captures the spirit of what is happening in America today. There was racism, fear, Politics, and Greed all on display. Dillard never defended a man accused of rape, because of what happened to his sister, but his wife Caroline convinced him to at least take a meeting with the accused Rapist. There were 3 Black Football players accused of rape by a White Stripper at a party held in their dorm room. The author understands Racism, fear , and revenge. The details about life in a Small Southern Town and the racism in the South and Racism among some of the Police Officers and how easy hatred can lead to violence. The author understands that there is Good and bad in everyone and good normally triumphs over evil. Outstanding storyline and a very satisfying ending
October 21, 2019
Scott Pratt is one of my favorite writers
I am partial to the setting and backdrop of Mr. Pratts books being a native Tennessean.
One thing he brings out that most who write in this genre are hesitant to do, is operating outside the law is not just a practice by the bad cops, sometimes even the good ones step outside the legal bounds. I'm not sure how I feel about that. I suspect the bending of rules is very much present in our legal, judicial system where the guilty person with resources is much more likely to be declared innocent, than the innocent person who does not have the means to secure adequate representation.
I would suspect in the real world of law enforcement it is a decision that is faced often to do the right thing, that will likely result in the guilty going free, or bend the rules to get the arrest and conviction.
I am partial to the setting and backdrop of Mr. Pratts books being a native Tennessean.
One thing he brings out that most who write in this genre are hesitant to do, is operating outside the law is not just a practice by the bad cops, sometimes even the good ones step outside the legal bounds. I'm not sure how I feel about that. I suspect the bending of rules is very much present in our legal, judicial system where the guilty person with resources is much more likely to be declared innocent, than the innocent person who does not have the means to secure adequate representation.
I would suspect in the real world of law enforcement it is a decision that is faced often to do the right thing, that will likely result in the guilty going free, or bend the rules to get the arrest and conviction.
February 22, 2021
Due Process, the final book in the Joe Dillard series by Scott Pratt will be sure to please the readers who have delved into these series. Even though I sped through this book, as I did the others, I only gave it four stars. As one of the other reviewers mentioned, I hesitate to condone some of the methods Joe used to "settle matters." And then, one of the reviewers put a link to Scott's death and after reading the article I was saddened. Much of the family dynamics in Scott's books are centered around his personal life.
Having mentioned this, though, Due Process will not disappoint. It does delve into the black against white issues, university sports, and corruption within the law system.
So, once again, I suggest you cozy up with your favourite beverage and enjoy this final book in the series.
Having mentioned this, though, Due Process will not disappoint. It does delve into the black against white issues, university sports, and corruption within the law system.
So, once again, I suggest you cozy up with your favourite beverage and enjoy this final book in the series.
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