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David Brunelle Legal Thriller #11
Devil's Plea Bargain
Sometimes you get lucky. And sometimes luck isn’t enough.
The body of a murdered woman is found hidden behind an abandoned warehouse in one of Seattle’s grittier neighborhoods. A surveillance camera from a nearby business captures the license plate of a vehicle leaving the scene. A suspect is arrested and identified. Only then does Homicide D.A. David Brunelle realize what they’re really dealing with: a serial killer who finally got caught, but only on the thinnest of evidence.
The killer makes an offer. Give him a slap on the wrist and he’ll tell the police about all the other murders he committed and where to find the bodies—solving a clutch of unsolved cases and giving closure to countless family members. Or turn down the offer and risk losing the trial, knowing the killer will be released to murder again. And again. And again.
The body of a murdered woman is found hidden behind an abandoned warehouse in one of Seattle’s grittier neighborhoods. A surveillance camera from a nearby business captures the license plate of a vehicle leaving the scene. A suspect is arrested and identified. Only then does Homicide D.A. David Brunelle realize what they’re really dealing with: a serial killer who finally got caught, but only on the thinnest of evidence.
The killer makes an offer. Give him a slap on the wrist and he’ll tell the police about all the other murders he committed and where to find the bodies—solving a clutch of unsolved cases and giving closure to countless family members. Or turn down the offer and risk losing the trial, knowing the killer will be released to murder again. And again. And again.
265 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 18, 2019
1073 people are currently reading
280 people want to read
About the author
Stephen Penner
62 books157 followersStephen Penner is an author, artist, and attorney from Seattle, Washington. He has written more than 30 novels and specializes in courtroom thrillers known for their unexpected twists and candid portrayal of the justice system. He draws on his extensive experience as a criminal trial attorney to infuse his writing with realism and insight.
Stephen is the author of several top-rated legal thriller series. The DAVID BRUNELLE LEGAL THRILLERS feature Seattle homicide D.A. David Brunelle and a recurring cast of cops, defense attorneys, and forensic experts. The TALON WINTER LEGAL THRILLERS showcase tough-as-nails Tacoma criminal defense attorney Talon Winter and her closest allies. And the RAIN CITY LEGAL THRILLERS deliver the adventures of attorney Daniel Raine and his unlikely partner Rebecca Sommers. Stephen is also the author of the MAGGIE DEVEREAUX PARANORMAL MYSTERIES, recounting the exploits of an American graduate student in the magical Highlands of Scotland, and several other stand-alone works.
In his spare time, Stephen enjoys painting, drawing, and spending time with his family. For more information, visit his website www.stephenpenner.com.
Stephen is the author of several top-rated legal thriller series. The DAVID BRUNELLE LEGAL THRILLERS feature Seattle homicide D.A. David Brunelle and a recurring cast of cops, defense attorneys, and forensic experts. The TALON WINTER LEGAL THRILLERS showcase tough-as-nails Tacoma criminal defense attorney Talon Winter and her closest allies. And the RAIN CITY LEGAL THRILLERS deliver the adventures of attorney Daniel Raine and his unlikely partner Rebecca Sommers. Stephen is also the author of the MAGGIE DEVEREAUX PARANORMAL MYSTERIES, recounting the exploits of an American graduate student in the magical Highlands of Scotland, and several other stand-alone works.
In his spare time, Stephen enjoys painting, drawing, and spending time with his family. For more information, visit his website www.stephenpenner.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
November 26, 2019
Excellent from start to finish.
Well worth the lost sleep. The twists and turns kept me guessing up to the last chapter. I like the courtroom drama and the research that takes place after the crime has been committed. Every thing about the law as seen in the crime is well documented as the trial progresses. I look forward to the next book by Mr. Panner. I have several of his books.
Well worth the lost sleep. The twists and turns kept me guessing up to the last chapter. I like the courtroom drama and the research that takes place after the crime has been committed. Every thing about the law as seen in the crime is well documented as the trial progresses. I look forward to the next book by Mr. Panner. I have several of his books.
March 30, 2020
Outstanding
I rarely write reviews, but this book has everything. Compelling and interesting characters, a trial but with several background plots, intriguing, and as Penner always provides, “A not put-downable book.” I applaud this work.
I rarely write reviews, but this book has everything. Compelling and interesting characters, a trial but with several background plots, intriguing, and as Penner always provides, “A not put-downable book.” I applaud this work.
April 4, 2020
Always.....
Always good. Really like Dave and the characters around and supporting him. The way the case was resolved was really a surprise too. The defense attorneys handling of the warrant was clever also. Good read!
Always good. Really like Dave and the characters around and supporting him. The way the case was resolved was really a surprise too. The defense attorneys handling of the warrant was clever also. Good read!
January 9, 2020
This was a really good legal thriller. First time I read this author. Looking forward to reading more.
November 2, 2025
4 Stars
Devil's Plea Bargain is the eleventh instalment in the David Brunelle Legal Thriller Series. And so the book binge began ... this series turned out to be a gripping and masterfully crafted collection of legal dramas set against the backdrop of Seattle’s criminal justice system. The series follows David Brunelle, a dedicated and sharp prosecutor, as he navigates the complexities of law, morality, and justice.
What makes this series stand out is the balance between intense courtroom drama with deeply human stories. David Brunelle is an intriguing character - intelligent, principled, and yet flawed in ways that make him even more relatable. Mr. Penner’s writing easily brings the legal world to life with authenticity, offering a fascinating glimpse into the challenges prosecutors face, from gathering evidence to battling wily defense attorneys.
Each book in the series presents a unique and thought-provoking case, often delving into some morally ambiguous territory. The plots are tightly woven, with twists that are both surprising and satisfying. Mr. Penner’s ability to build the tension and suspense is noteworthy, as is his knack for creating vivid, multidimensional characters – both the heroes and villains.
So, whether you’re a fan of legal thrillers, crime fiction, or simply enjoy a well-told story, then the David Brunelle series delivers on all fronts.
Happy Reading…
Devil's Plea Bargain is the eleventh instalment in the David Brunelle Legal Thriller Series. And so the book binge began ... this series turned out to be a gripping and masterfully crafted collection of legal dramas set against the backdrop of Seattle’s criminal justice system. The series follows David Brunelle, a dedicated and sharp prosecutor, as he navigates the complexities of law, morality, and justice.
What makes this series stand out is the balance between intense courtroom drama with deeply human stories. David Brunelle is an intriguing character - intelligent, principled, and yet flawed in ways that make him even more relatable. Mr. Penner’s writing easily brings the legal world to life with authenticity, offering a fascinating glimpse into the challenges prosecutors face, from gathering evidence to battling wily defense attorneys.
Each book in the series presents a unique and thought-provoking case, often delving into some morally ambiguous territory. The plots are tightly woven, with twists that are both surprising and satisfying. Mr. Penner’s ability to build the tension and suspense is noteworthy, as is his knack for creating vivid, multidimensional characters – both the heroes and villains.
So, whether you’re a fan of legal thrillers, crime fiction, or simply enjoy a well-told story, then the David Brunelle series delivers on all fronts.
Happy Reading…
June 28, 2022
Quite possibly my new favorite of the series....
...and not just because it's the second book in a row to feature an actual verdict being read (yay!!). No, it more has to do with the plot and how the nature of this case personally affected me (hint: I was disgusted and pissed off). It feels weird to say that a book that had invoked such reactions out of me could be rated so highly, but that's just how I'm wired. If it gets to me in some type of way, gets under my skin and sparks serious disdain towards the justice system, that's a book that does its job. Furthermore, it's books like this that, while super entertaining in all its stressful ways, remind me why I could never have been a lawyer. I'm just content with reading their shenanigans.
The plot is a troubling one in more ways than one. First, we've got an unrepentant serial killer who is caught at last, but only on some flimsy evidence that may not hold up in court despite Brunelle's unkillable hope that it could. Then we've got said serial killer who knows the case is weak, so he and his lawyer offer a bargain: charge him for lesser crime and he'll spill the beans on other victim graves so he can keep killing, or don't accept the bargain and use only the pathetic evidence to try and convict him with. What makes the plot even more troubling is the lawyering behind it all, all the legal mumbo jumbo that permits things like purposeful suppression of evidence to take place because of such and such law or whatever the hell else.
This explains why I was so pissy reading this thing. I totally loved it, but damn, I was so bothered by it. Stressed out by it. The thrills and reveals and shocks and surprises kept me highly engaged. I can't ever fathom how lawyers can willfully defend people they know are guilty, and in this book's case, EVERYONE knows the serial killer is guilty, yet his lawyer goes out of her way to make sure he gets free on technicalities. While I get it on principle, what with the whole "innocent until proven guilty" thing, it doesn't mean I have to like or accept it. It legit sickened me to see how things played out behind the scenes in this story and I'd imagine stuff like this can exist and HAS existed. Criminals going free because of something so asinine.
At any rate, all the aforementioned spews, combined with other factors that have won me over in this series, have really made this book a major winner in the series. The writing style is still great, with realistic dialogue and the addictively quick pacing of the story. I'm loving Brunelle's growth with his love life, (though the dude still flounders here and there). But this thing he has with Casey? I'm very much a fan. She's a great character who is so unlike the other ladies in Brunelle's life and it's dang refreshing to read a female character who is actually a mature woman that Brunelle doesn't have to tip-toe around, and who is not a self-involved brat like Kat, or a manipulative tramp like Robyn. I so hope Casey will stick around and that Brunelle won't screw it up.
I am so pleased to have finished on such a high note in this series, a compelling case, a likable love interest, and a real-live verdict, that I wanna wallow in it for a bit. I shall take a tiny breather from the series to dabble in a few other stories, but I will be back. I still am very much looking forward to what remains.
...and not just because it's the second book in a row to feature an actual verdict being read (yay!!). No, it more has to do with the plot and how the nature of this case personally affected me (hint: I was disgusted and pissed off). It feels weird to say that a book that had invoked such reactions out of me could be rated so highly, but that's just how I'm wired. If it gets to me in some type of way, gets under my skin and sparks serious disdain towards the justice system, that's a book that does its job. Furthermore, it's books like this that, while super entertaining in all its stressful ways, remind me why I could never have been a lawyer. I'm just content with reading their shenanigans.
The plot is a troubling one in more ways than one. First, we've got an unrepentant serial killer who is caught at last, but only on some flimsy evidence that may not hold up in court despite Brunelle's unkillable hope that it could. Then we've got said serial killer who knows the case is weak, so he and his lawyer offer a bargain: charge him for lesser crime and he'll spill the beans on other victim graves so he can keep killing, or don't accept the bargain and use only the pathetic evidence to try and convict him with. What makes the plot even more troubling is the lawyering behind it all, all the legal mumbo jumbo that permits things like purposeful suppression of evidence to take place because of such and such law or whatever the hell else.
This explains why I was so pissy reading this thing. I totally loved it, but damn, I was so bothered by it. Stressed out by it. The thrills and reveals and shocks and surprises kept me highly engaged. I can't ever fathom how lawyers can willfully defend people they know are guilty, and in this book's case, EVERYONE knows the serial killer is guilty, yet his lawyer goes out of her way to make sure he gets free on technicalities. While I get it on principle, what with the whole "innocent until proven guilty" thing, it doesn't mean I have to like or accept it. It legit sickened me to see how things played out behind the scenes in this story and I'd imagine stuff like this can exist and HAS existed. Criminals going free because of something so asinine.
At any rate, all the aforementioned spews, combined with other factors that have won me over in this series, have really made this book a major winner in the series. The writing style is still great, with realistic dialogue and the addictively quick pacing of the story. I'm loving Brunelle's growth with his love life, (though the dude still flounders here and there). But this thing he has with Casey? I'm very much a fan. She's a great character who is so unlike the other ladies in Brunelle's life and it's dang refreshing to read a female character who is actually a mature woman that Brunelle doesn't have to tip-toe around, and who is not a self-involved brat like Kat, or a manipulative tramp like Robyn. I so hope Casey will stick around and that Brunelle won't screw it up.
I am so pleased to have finished on such a high note in this series, a compelling case, a likable love interest, and a real-live verdict, that I wanna wallow in it for a bit. I shall take a tiny breather from the series to dabble in a few other stories, but I will be back. I still am very much looking forward to what remains.
June 4, 2020
I obtained this for free, and overall it was quite a good read. Not sure the author is in the same league as Dennis Carsten for "legal thrillers" but it was fairly good. Didn't exactly connect with the lead male, but his assistant (second chair!) is an interesting character. There is something about the book that didn't quite click with me, can't put a reason to it, gut feeling I guess. Wasn't a book I was dying to pick up again, but I didn't hate it by a long way ...... difficult to describe.
At least, unlike many authors, he didn't rush the ending, but played it at the same pace as the rest of the book. [Rushed endings is a pet annoyance of mine.]
I was going to buy the next in the series but I find the price a bit excessive for a digital format, especially where the book is relatively short in comparison with most. Sure it is probably me being cheap, but I have got quite used to the 99p independent authors and there is a lot of choice out there.
I would definitely read this author again, but I would probably wait for a deal to come along to do so.
At least, unlike many authors, he didn't rush the ending, but played it at the same pace as the rest of the book. [Rushed endings is a pet annoyance of mine.]
I was going to buy the next in the series but I find the price a bit excessive for a digital format, especially where the book is relatively short in comparison with most. Sure it is probably me being cheap, but I have got quite used to the 99p independent authors and there is a lot of choice out there.
I would definitely read this author again, but I would probably wait for a deal to come along to do so.
May 9, 2024
I’m loving this series
Thank goodness for that miracle. I’m so glad that Dave pulled through once again. He very compassionate about his cases and despite what they say, Dave cares about the victims and their families. Dave is a great prosecutor with integrity and wit. Dave is also getting a little better with relationships. Jess Edwards is a great defense attorney but I don’t see how she can represent clients and know they are guilty. But I guess she’s just doing her job. Carlisle is a great prosecutor, she has good arguments but her cross examination isn’t that effective to me. I’m loving Dave and Casey relationship. I love how she stands by him no matter how he messes up. Man, these judges in these series are hilarious 😂. Kincaid outsmart himself. I’m glad Dave stood on his principles.
Thank goodness for that miracle. I’m so glad that Dave pulled through once again. He very compassionate about his cases and despite what they say, Dave cares about the victims and their families. Dave is a great prosecutor with integrity and wit. Dave is also getting a little better with relationships. Jess Edwards is a great defense attorney but I don’t see how she can represent clients and know they are guilty. But I guess she’s just doing her job. Carlisle is a great prosecutor, she has good arguments but her cross examination isn’t that effective to me. I’m loving Dave and Casey relationship. I love how she stands by him no matter how he messes up. Man, these judges in these series are hilarious 😂. Kincaid outsmart himself. I’m glad Dave stood on his principles.
June 14, 2020
It was a good legal procedural. David Brunelle is the D.A. trying a double murder case. They know, because the defendant (Kincaid) confessed to many similar murders, that he is guilty. Kincaid offers to show where the bodies were dumped and solve MANY open cases if they cut a deal to charge with a lesser offense where he'll be out in 10 years - and they know he'll kill more then. The story covers a lot of police work and the legal aspects of the court case. I enjoyed the explanations of the legal issues. Brunelle's partner/assistant, Carlisle, was an absolute pain and I wanted to throttle her!
March 12, 2023
free ebook
this time the prosecutor has a different girl friend, i missed some books between
the case was a man who killed prostitutes. he confessed off the record to dozens but would only lead them to the bodies if he was given 10 yrs
they turned him down
but the boss was upset and wanted to take the deal. so the new deal was, they had to win at trial or the prosecutor loses his job
they werent allowed to introduce the dna evidence, so they lost the second murder, but they did win the first one
he kept his job but was told to go on vacation for a month
this time the prosecutor has a different girl friend, i missed some books between
the case was a man who killed prostitutes. he confessed off the record to dozens but would only lead them to the bodies if he was given 10 yrs
they turned him down
but the boss was upset and wanted to take the deal. so the new deal was, they had to win at trial or the prosecutor loses his job
they werent allowed to introduce the dna evidence, so they lost the second murder, but they did win the first one
he kept his job but was told to go on vacation for a month
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 22, 2024
Good one of many.
Devil's Plea Bargain kept me reading, even though I had other things to do. I loved the legalize, which helped me learn more about what lawyers do and how they do it. After college graduation, I was offered admittance to several law schools, but lack of funds and my responsibility for two sons forced me in another direction. I've read several of David's exciting novels and I'll read more!
Devil's Plea Bargain kept me reading, even though I had other things to do. I loved the legalize, which helped me learn more about what lawyers do and how they do it. After college graduation, I was offered admittance to several law schools, but lack of funds and my responsibility for two sons forced me in another direction. I've read several of David's exciting novels and I'll read more!
July 11, 2020
Good Legal Thriller
Engrossing and entertaining. The plot was very different from most serial killer stories. The serial killers psychology was not the central theme. Instead it focused on the prosecutor’s effort to convict the killer with a lot of knowledge but very little evidence.
Engrossing and entertaining. The plot was very different from most serial killer stories. The serial killers psychology was not the central theme. Instead it focused on the prosecutor’s effort to convict the killer with a lot of knowledge but very little evidence.
August 31, 2020
Oh, I've missed Dave and Co.!
After reading the first ten Dave Brunelle books in rapid succession, I took a break to read something more "fun" . Came back to Devil's Plea Bargain, happily. It was like meeting old friends. This is a solid story: strong characters, great dialog, intriguing plot.
I'm jumping right into book 12. Like, now!
After reading the first ten Dave Brunelle books in rapid succession, I took a break to read something more "fun" . Came back to Devil's Plea Bargain, happily. It was like meeting old friends. This is a solid story: strong characters, great dialog, intriguing plot.
I'm jumping right into book 12. Like, now!
September 24, 2020
Legal novels written by lawyers are usually well-worth your reading time. I find them more honest, insightful, and based in reality. This book is no exception, and its being written about David Brunelle, a prosecuting attorney makes it different than those written about defense attorneys' being the protagonist. I enjoyed this novel and recommend it for anyone who likes a good legal thriller.
October 23, 2020
Careful What You Ask For
Who is in charge? Is it the court, the prosecution or the defense? This story is a dissection of theories, procedures and actions. Sometimes criminals think they can out-think the system. But, law is not the exact science it purports to be. So, put your thinking cap on and enjoy the journey.
Who is in charge? Is it the court, the prosecution or the defense? This story is a dissection of theories, procedures and actions. Sometimes criminals think they can out-think the system. But, law is not the exact science it purports to be. So, put your thinking cap on and enjoy the journey.
October 21, 2024
Penner writes very good and fast moving stories. He fills them with court action that could be cumbersome but even though he goes into great legal detail he explains it in such a way as to instruct the non-legal reader on legalese in English. I learn something every time I read one of his books. Nice twist at the end.
February 2, 2025
Devil's plea bargain
I definitely feel the author approaches his telling of tales too flippantly, however this one was definitely different than any I have read with the consternation presented by the timing of the cases and the legal arguments successfully rendered. Good points and good results. Sometimes a tie is best.
I definitely feel the author approaches his telling of tales too flippantly, however this one was definitely different than any I have read with the consternation presented by the timing of the cases and the legal arguments successfully rendered. Good points and good results. Sometimes a tie is best.
June 3, 2020
Good
A good read, quite unvarnished and came across very procedural, which made for a different angle of storytelling. Not in my opinion as entertaining or as edge of your seat as some other works.
A good read, quite unvarnished and came across very procedural, which made for a different angle of storytelling. Not in my opinion as entertaining or as edge of your seat as some other works.
June 5, 2020
Possibly the Best Legal Based Novel Ever!
Generally, I don't enjoy reading books about lawyers, etc. but somehow stumbled into this one and soon realized I couldn't stop! Great, nail-biting entertainment that I highly recommend!
Generally, I don't enjoy reading books about lawyers, etc. but somehow stumbled into this one and soon realized I couldn't stop! Great, nail-biting entertainment that I highly recommend!
June 20, 2020
Murder and mayhem
Fascinating story line which really drew me in. I was never sure of which way it was going to end. A confessed murderer who threatens to murder again, not a lot of evidence. Will the jury vote to convict or acquit?!
Fascinating story line which really drew me in. I was never sure of which way it was going to end. A confessed murderer who threatens to murder again, not a lot of evidence. Will the jury vote to convict or acquit?!
October 11, 2020
I love legal thrillers. This novel was very well written. The author actually wrote out the court proceedings, instead of summarizing them. You actually feel like you are in the courtroom. Totally enjoyed this book!
November 5, 2022
The Devil you know
Dave Brunelle is dealing with a serial killer. And there are a many things in play. That said, this was a procedural filled with a lot of legalese that in the end was boring for me. It was a decent read.
Dave Brunelle is dealing with a serial killer. And there are a many things in play. That said, this was a procedural filled with a lot of legalese that in the end was boring for me. It was a decent read.
April 14, 2024
a great story around a plea bargain - if it was accepted, there would not have been this book!
Loved the book. Stephen Penner writes amazing stories, which must be from first hand experience. To start a story with a Plea Bargain is a great twist.
Loved the book. Stephen Penner writes amazing stories, which must be from first hand experience. To start a story with a Plea Bargain is a great twist.
May 17, 2024
Really great legalize
The writer really put the reader through legal school... the homeschool version. He finally got into the means and ways lawyers pull things together in concert with law enforcement to get the bad people.
The writer really put the reader through legal school... the homeschool version. He finally got into the means and ways lawyers pull things together in concert with law enforcement to get the bad people.
October 5, 2024
I love the whole series and hope he's riding another one..
I have thoroughly enjoyed the Dave Brunell character and can't wait for the next one to come out. Nothing like a great courtroom drama.
I have thoroughly enjoyed the Dave Brunell character and can't wait for the next one to come out. Nothing like a great courtroom drama.
June 12, 2025
Devil's Plea Bargain
I didn't think Dave was going to keep his job. What a story, a definite page turner. With each story certain areas of law are explained repeatedly, but I just skip over them and continue on with the interesting parts.
I didn't think Dave was going to keep his job. What a story, a definite page turner. With each story certain areas of law are explained repeatedly, but I just skip over them and continue on with the interesting parts.
Read
August 23, 2025Just enough to win
I liked the way you never knew how things would work out. An appropriate title for sure. Another quick k for a good for a good legal thriller. The rating is for keeping me wanting more.
I liked the way you never knew how things would work out. An appropriate title for sure. Another quick k for a good for a good legal thriller. The rating is for keeping me wanting more.
September 2, 2025
Nice Twist at the end
Penned has written another great story. I thought it was going to be more of the same but he pulled a tw ish at the end that made the outcome unsure. Read & find out the final verdict.
Penned has written another great story. I thought it was going to be more of the same but he pulled a tw ish at the end that made the outcome unsure. Read & find out the final verdict.
Read
June 4, 2020Great story
The characters were so well depicted that you felt you knew them. Plus, the legal arguments were very well described.
The characters were so well depicted that you felt you knew them. Plus, the legal arguments were very well described.
August 5, 2020
This was an excellent story from start to finish with realistic courtroom scenes and a great ending.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews