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Leading the Witness
Catherine Landauer spends her days grilling prosecution witnesses in zealous defense of the accused criminals she represents, but no one knows she was once the victim of a headline-grabbing crime. When the man who kidnapped her resurfaces, Catherine goes from attorney to witness, reluctant to trust anyone, especially the alluring prosecutor assigned to the case.
Veteran prosecutor Starr Rio has a reputation of doing whatever it takes to win, even if she has to skirt the edge of the law in the pursuit of justice. Now she’s working the case of a lifetime, saddled with an uncooperative witness who is sexy as hell and who thinks she knows more about criminal law than the entire task force assigned to the case. But when Starr and Catherine give in to desire, their hearts, careers, and even their lives are on the line.
Veteran prosecutor Starr Rio has a reputation of doing whatever it takes to win, even if she has to skirt the edge of the law in the pursuit of justice. Now she’s working the case of a lifetime, saddled with an uncooperative witness who is sexy as hell and who thinks she knows more about criminal law than the entire task force assigned to the case. But when Starr and Catherine give in to desire, their hearts, careers, and even their lives are on the line.
230 pages, Paperback
First published October 15, 2019
30 people are currently reading
209 people want to read
About the author
Carsen Taite
51 books293 followersCarsen Taite's goal as an author is to spin plot lines as interesting as the cases she encountered in her career as a criminal defense lawyer. She is the award-winning author of a dozen novels and numerous short stories.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews
September 19, 2019
3.75 Stars. As many other readers out there I’m a big Taite fan. While I enjoy all of her books, I was happy to find out this was one of her standalone crime/law books instead of part of her series. These one-off crime books really are my favorites to read. I think Taite fans will have fun with this book.
Catherine is a defense attorney with a secretive past. Due to her past she works hard to make sure that the police and prosecutors follow the letter of the law. Starr is a prosecutor who wants to run for the District Attorney position. The more cases she wins, even if it means bending the rules, the better. Starr seems to be the exact person that Catherine tries to fight against, but the more they are around each other the more feelings start to develop. Can two people on such different sides of the law have a chance together or will Catherine’s secret past stand in the way?
I grabbed this book because it was by Taite. Whatever she writes is automatic for me so I had not read the blurb yet. I would suggest if you have not read the book blurb yet, see if my summary is enough information for you. I think the blurb just gives a little too much away like what Catherine’s secret past is. I found out while reading and I’m glad I didn’t read the blurb ahead of time.
While both main characters are lawyers, there is less time in the court than usually. I would say this book leans more towards the crime category. While no one can write the law like Taite, I enjoyed the more crime angle this time. I found myself on edge most of the book wondering what would happen next. This is the kind of book where characters have to find the bad guy/girl before it is too late so the whole book had undertones of excitement that kept me turning the pages.
My one main complaint was that the book felt a bit short. The main storyline feels plenty complete but the romance was a little rushed in my opinion. The characters both have some walls up so it did take a while for any romance to start, but once things progressed it went a little fast. On the good side the characters are both very likeable and felt well-constructed. I believed them which was nice and I had my fingers crossed for a HEA.
This is not my favorite book by Taite but I was entertained and I thought it was a solid read for sure. I think Taite fans will have fun with this one. I do have to admit her last few books felt a little rushed to me so I do hope that is something that changes soon. I love reading Taite’s books. I’d rather have more pages than less.
An ARC was given to me for a honest review.
Catherine is a defense attorney with a secretive past. Due to her past she works hard to make sure that the police and prosecutors follow the letter of the law. Starr is a prosecutor who wants to run for the District Attorney position. The more cases she wins, even if it means bending the rules, the better. Starr seems to be the exact person that Catherine tries to fight against, but the more they are around each other the more feelings start to develop. Can two people on such different sides of the law have a chance together or will Catherine’s secret past stand in the way?
I grabbed this book because it was by Taite. Whatever she writes is automatic for me so I had not read the blurb yet. I would suggest if you have not read the book blurb yet, see if my summary is enough information for you. I think the blurb just gives a little too much away like what Catherine’s secret past is. I found out while reading and I’m glad I didn’t read the blurb ahead of time.
While both main characters are lawyers, there is less time in the court than usually. I would say this book leans more towards the crime category. While no one can write the law like Taite, I enjoyed the more crime angle this time. I found myself on edge most of the book wondering what would happen next. This is the kind of book where characters have to find the bad guy/girl before it is too late so the whole book had undertones of excitement that kept me turning the pages.
My one main complaint was that the book felt a bit short. The main storyline feels plenty complete but the romance was a little rushed in my opinion. The characters both have some walls up so it did take a while for any romance to start, but once things progressed it went a little fast. On the good side the characters are both very likeable and felt well-constructed. I believed them which was nice and I had my fingers crossed for a HEA.
This is not my favorite book by Taite but I was entertained and I thought it was a solid read for sure. I think Taite fans will have fun with this one. I do have to admit her last few books felt a little rushed to me so I do hope that is something that changes soon. I love reading Taite’s books. I’d rather have more pages than less.
An ARC was given to me for a honest review.
October 4, 2019
When a predator returns.
Catherine Landauer is a local attorney who keeps to herself. Starr Rio is a star prosecutor who has plans to become the next District Attorney. The two women face off right from the start while negotiating a deal that would give Catherine's client a reduced sentence much to Starr's dismay. Soon after, Starr is assigned to lead an investigation into the abduction of the Mayor's daughter, Hannah. Catherine catches wind of the incident and is not at all convinced that Starr is the right person to bring Hannah home safely. She's been through this before and she doesn't want Starr to let the girl down the same way she was let down 20+ years ago.
This was an enjoyable read. We gradually learn about Catherine's past and how it relates to the disappearance of the Mayor's daughter. She has spent her life trying to overcome the trauma endured and has mostly been successful at it. If successful means great at your job but a recluse that feels safest behind her security system.
The romance between Catherine and Starr is non-existent for a majority of the book. It takes a long time for them to go from adversaries to allies. But it is believable because of what Catherine has been through. On the flip side, once they cross that forbidden barrier, things happen pretty quick. Love comes at lightning speed. But stressful situations can really move things along, right?
Side characters are used to move the plot rather than given any depth. Most characters we just never hear from again and that made me feel like I didn't get closure. Starr's mom? Assistant Doris? The much-too-close lawyer to the Mayor? The husband and his brother? Even the jerk who is also vying for DA. It would have been nice to see him get his in some fashion.
This ended up being somewhat anticlimactic for me. I was reading along and excited. Things are being uncovered and I think I know where this is going. I just know there is going to be some big dramatic reveal or event. But not really. Taite tries to deliver some action toward the end, but I was pretty let down already so it didn't have the impact I would have liked.
I'm not a huge fan of epilogues. And this ended fine enough. But I wanted to see more Catherine and Starr. This is mystery/suspense first and romance last.
Overall, I liked this book a lot. Sure, it did't have the great exciting reveal I was hoping for, but it was super well written and engaging.
I recommend this to those who like mystery, suspense, prosecution, investigations, romance, and Balcones bourbon.
I received an ARC from Bold Strokes Books for an honest review.
Catherine Landauer is a local attorney who keeps to herself. Starr Rio is a star prosecutor who has plans to become the next District Attorney. The two women face off right from the start while negotiating a deal that would give Catherine's client a reduced sentence much to Starr's dismay. Soon after, Starr is assigned to lead an investigation into the abduction of the Mayor's daughter, Hannah. Catherine catches wind of the incident and is not at all convinced that Starr is the right person to bring Hannah home safely. She's been through this before and she doesn't want Starr to let the girl down the same way she was let down 20+ years ago.
This was an enjoyable read. We gradually learn about Catherine's past and how it relates to the disappearance of the Mayor's daughter. She has spent her life trying to overcome the trauma endured and has mostly been successful at it. If successful means great at your job but a recluse that feels safest behind her security system.
The romance between Catherine and Starr is non-existent for a majority of the book. It takes a long time for them to go from adversaries to allies. But it is believable because of what Catherine has been through. On the flip side, once they cross that forbidden barrier, things happen pretty quick. Love comes at lightning speed. But stressful situations can really move things along, right?
Side characters are used to move the plot rather than given any depth. Most characters we just never hear from again and that made me feel like I didn't get closure. Starr's mom? Assistant Doris? The much-too-close lawyer to the Mayor? The husband and his brother? Even the jerk who is also vying for DA. It would have been nice to see him get his in some fashion.
This ended up being somewhat anticlimactic for me. I was reading along and excited. Things are being uncovered and I think I know where this is going. I just know there is going to be some big dramatic reveal or event. But not really. Taite tries to deliver some action toward the end, but I was pretty let down already so it didn't have the impact I would have liked.
I'm not a huge fan of epilogues. And this ended fine enough. But I wanted to see more Catherine and Starr. This is mystery/suspense first and romance last.
Overall, I liked this book a lot. Sure, it did't have the great exciting reveal I was hoping for, but it was super well written and engaging.
I recommend this to those who like mystery, suspense, prosecution, investigations, romance, and Balcones bourbon.
I received an ARC from Bold Strokes Books for an honest review.
September 30, 2019
I’ve said it before, for me Carsen Taite is a sure bet, I’ll grab almost anything she writes, knowing I’ll probably like it. She knows what she’s talking about, and she’s very good at creating the right atmosphere. So I knew there would be legal stuff (I love legal stuff) and romance in Leading the Witness. What I didn’t expect was to be sucked into the case so quickly.
Starr Rio is a prosecutor who is not above getting creative with rules if it helps her bring justice, or so says her reputation. Catherine Landauer is an attorney who, for personal reasons, won’t touch any case dealing with child abuse. She’s also not a fan of Starr’s methods and very much a by-the-rules kind of gal. When a little girl is abducted, Starr is put in charge of the investigation and Catherine tries hard to keep her distance. Until she can’t anymore.
It’s not easy to write about this novel without giving too much away, which would be a shame as Taite did a great job of hinting at what Catherine’s secret is, revealing her story gradually. She kept me on the edge of my seat for the longest time. I could feel Catherine struggling not to lose control (and her sanity), and how Starr was making an effort to stay professional while trying to protect Catherine – a woman she barely knows and who, until very recently, was an adversary rather than a friend – from her own fears as well as actual threats.
While both main characters are lawyers, there’s not as much legal talk and court scenes as in other Carsen Taite books, this one falls in the thriller or crime category. Despite the race against time aspect of the story, the romance is of the slow burn kind, and I was almost ready for it not happen at all (yet still hoping it would, since Taite’s quite good at romance too), as Catherine had so much to deal with already. But when it finally did, it flowed.
Like most of my favorite Taite books, Leading the Witness is a standalone.
I received a copy from the publisher and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
Starr Rio is a prosecutor who is not above getting creative with rules if it helps her bring justice, or so says her reputation. Catherine Landauer is an attorney who, for personal reasons, won’t touch any case dealing with child abuse. She’s also not a fan of Starr’s methods and very much a by-the-rules kind of gal. When a little girl is abducted, Starr is put in charge of the investigation and Catherine tries hard to keep her distance. Until she can’t anymore.
It’s not easy to write about this novel without giving too much away, which would be a shame as Taite did a great job of hinting at what Catherine’s secret is, revealing her story gradually. She kept me on the edge of my seat for the longest time. I could feel Catherine struggling not to lose control (and her sanity), and how Starr was making an effort to stay professional while trying to protect Catherine – a woman she barely knows and who, until very recently, was an adversary rather than a friend – from her own fears as well as actual threats.
While both main characters are lawyers, there’s not as much legal talk and court scenes as in other Carsen Taite books, this one falls in the thriller or crime category. Despite the race against time aspect of the story, the romance is of the slow burn kind, and I was almost ready for it not happen at all (yet still hoping it would, since Taite’s quite good at romance too), as Catherine had so much to deal with already. But when it finally did, it flowed.
Like most of my favorite Taite books, Leading the Witness is a standalone.
I received a copy from the publisher and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 24, 2019
Another easy-reading, legal romance by Taite, with good suspense. Starr Rio, public prosecutor, is called in to work with the detectives when the mayor’s daughter goes missing. She’s passionate about her job and seems to play close to fast and loose with the law to get perpetrators put away. Catherine Landauer doesn’t like her much and is as passionate about defending her clients but always within the bounds of the law. The kidnapping of the mayor’s daughter crashes into her carefully built up persona forcing her to work with Starr.
I enjoyed the abduction part of the story and the tension that it brought to the reading of it. The plot, having a character relive their own abduction while trying to find an abducted child is a strong one and it worked really well for most of the book. I would have like more though, from Catherine’s point of view, because it would have given her so much more depth. She was written in a way that I could empathise with her but just not quite enough to make this superb. Her present is so bound up with her abductor and her past and he could have been a more powerful, more sinister character.
It’s a good read with a good romance with a nice sense of anticipation for most of the novel.
Book received from Netgalley and Bold Strokes Books for an honest review.
I enjoyed the abduction part of the story and the tension that it brought to the reading of it. The plot, having a character relive their own abduction while trying to find an abducted child is a strong one and it worked really well for most of the book. I would have like more though, from Catherine’s point of view, because it would have given her so much more depth. She was written in a way that I could empathise with her but just not quite enough to make this superb. Her present is so bound up with her abductor and her past and he could have been a more powerful, more sinister character.
It’s a good read with a good romance with a nice sense of anticipation for most of the novel.
Book received from Netgalley and Bold Strokes Books for an honest review.
October 5, 2019
When Carsen Taite releases a book especially when it's something to do with US criminal law/legal matters, I get very excited because as you may know, Taite's my official go-to author for all things US criminal law-related. I love all her law-related books because I can always feel this sense of authenticity, the level of detail and knowledge that Taite innately injects into her stories. I love authors who use their other professional expertise to validate and substantiate the realism of the cases/plots weaved. For me, it makes for a better, more convincing, more informed read when I believe in what's being written and told. But that's just me, so...!
Anyway, back to Taite's latest legal romance outing, "Leading the Witness," which I read it in one short sitting. First off, I was already intrigued by what the blurb revealed about the story, the plot and the MCs. A seasoned prosecutor, a zealous defence attorney hellbent on grilling law enforcement witnesses in all her cases (aka a chip on her shoulder but as a result of very legitimate reasons which readers will get to discover as the story progressed), two attorneys with opposing methodologies in trying criminal cases, a high profile child kidnap case, an old equally high-profile child kidnap case resurfacing that was related to one of the MCs, not to mention, both MCs butting heads in every step of the way whilst also being attracted to each other! Intriguing, innit? But then, as I started reading it, I must say, how this story unfolded from the start was an unexpected one for me because going into the story, mindful of what the blurb alluded to in regard to the plot, I was prepared for what I thought would be Taite's usual writing structure and storytelling style. Alas, it wasn't and my intrigue level increased exponentially! For me, this was not the usual style that Taite uses in her writing and story-weaving of a crime-and-law-related plot and romance.
Full commentary here.... In Bugs' Own Words
**I was given, with much thanks and appreciation, an ARC of this book, by BSB, in return for an honest review.
Anyway, back to Taite's latest legal romance outing, "Leading the Witness," which I read it in one short sitting. First off, I was already intrigued by what the blurb revealed about the story, the plot and the MCs. A seasoned prosecutor, a zealous defence attorney hellbent on grilling law enforcement witnesses in all her cases (aka a chip on her shoulder but as a result of very legitimate reasons which readers will get to discover as the story progressed), two attorneys with opposing methodologies in trying criminal cases, a high profile child kidnap case, an old equally high-profile child kidnap case resurfacing that was related to one of the MCs, not to mention, both MCs butting heads in every step of the way whilst also being attracted to each other! Intriguing, innit? But then, as I started reading it, I must say, how this story unfolded from the start was an unexpected one for me because going into the story, mindful of what the blurb alluded to in regard to the plot, I was prepared for what I thought would be Taite's usual writing structure and storytelling style. Alas, it wasn't and my intrigue level increased exponentially! For me, this was not the usual style that Taite uses in her writing and story-weaving of a crime-and-law-related plot and romance.
Full commentary here.... In Bugs' Own Words
**I was given, with much thanks and appreciation, an ARC of this book, by BSB, in return for an honest review.
October 16, 2019
Catherine Landauer is a criminal defense attorney who was once a victim of a serious headline-grabbing crime. Now she’s focused on holding law enforcement officers accountant for their actions and keeping everyone at bay. Prosecutor Starr Rio has a reputation for doing whatever it takes to get a conviction. When she’s assigned a high profile case, she has to deal with Catherine as a potential witness. Catherine is guarded, uncooperative and sexy. Will they be able to work together and avoid risking their hearts and their lives in the process?
I was expecting this book to be a courtroom drama which is the type of novel I love about this author. Instead, it’s an introspective exploration of the struggles of a serious crime victim. Even though the novel has its dark moments, I wouldn’t say that it comes with trigger warnings because it’s more focused on the present trauma of a survivor rather than on the past crime itself. In that context, I really enjoyed the scenes between Catherine and her therapist in which Ms. Taite throws pears of her own wisdom for us to enjoy.
Parallel to this, there is a present time crime investigation that brings both main characters together. The romance part of the book is at the background of the crime investigation and I personally would have liked a better development of their chemistry but I understand that the focus of the book is elsewhere.
Even though I enjoyed this read a lot, my rating dropped a bit because I found the resolution a bit rushed in both the criminal and romance parts. However, I think that if you normally enjoy legal/crime thrillers in general and Carsen Taite’s books in particular, you are gonna like this one too. Just be aware that it’s a bit darker than her usual style but nevertheless entertaining.
Overall, a very enjoyable lesbian crime investigation drama book with a romance on the side. 4.5 stars.
ARC provided by the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
See all my reviews at www.lezreviewbooks.com
I was expecting this book to be a courtroom drama which is the type of novel I love about this author. Instead, it’s an introspective exploration of the struggles of a serious crime victim. Even though the novel has its dark moments, I wouldn’t say that it comes with trigger warnings because it’s more focused on the present trauma of a survivor rather than on the past crime itself. In that context, I really enjoyed the scenes between Catherine and her therapist in which Ms. Taite throws pears of her own wisdom for us to enjoy.
Parallel to this, there is a present time crime investigation that brings both main characters together. The romance part of the book is at the background of the crime investigation and I personally would have liked a better development of their chemistry but I understand that the focus of the book is elsewhere.
Even though I enjoyed this read a lot, my rating dropped a bit because I found the resolution a bit rushed in both the criminal and romance parts. However, I think that if you normally enjoy legal/crime thrillers in general and Carsen Taite’s books in particular, you are gonna like this one too. Just be aware that it’s a bit darker than her usual style but nevertheless entertaining.
Overall, a very enjoyable lesbian crime investigation drama book with a romance on the side. 4.5 stars.
ARC provided by the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
See all my reviews at www.lezreviewbooks.com
October 31, 2019
Every once and a while you need a good lawyer book, and when I say every once in a while I mean every time Carsen Taite writes a book. She is my go-to for a good crime/lawyer focused book. Every single time you get a fabulous read that will be hard to put down way past your bedtime.
Catherine Landauer is a defense attorney that goes hard for every single one of her clients. She is well known for being a pit bull when it comes to cross-examining police officers. If they missed a step in procedure you can bet she is going to make them pay for their mistake. Catherine’s work is her life. She has no family, only a handful of friends, and spends most of her time away from work alone. Her past haunts her every move so she spends her time buried in work.
Starr Rio is Catherine’s opposite. This dynamic lawyer works for the DA’s office and is well known for taking shortcuts if it will get her where she needs to be in a case. She’s fun, outgoing and has her sights set on being the next DA of Travis County.
Needless to say, when these two meet to battle it out in court, Catherine and Starr don’t hit it off right away. Catherine has little tolerance for the Assistant DA and Starr is curious about the ice queen defense attorney. These two are brought together fighting on the same side when the mayor’s pre-teen daughter is kidnapped outside her home.
This is a great read. A real page-turner that will keep you reeled into the story. Starr and Catherine are both amazing characters who you just can’t get enough of.
Catherine Landauer is a defense attorney that goes hard for every single one of her clients. She is well known for being a pit bull when it comes to cross-examining police officers. If they missed a step in procedure you can bet she is going to make them pay for their mistake. Catherine’s work is her life. She has no family, only a handful of friends, and spends most of her time away from work alone. Her past haunts her every move so she spends her time buried in work.
Starr Rio is Catherine’s opposite. This dynamic lawyer works for the DA’s office and is well known for taking shortcuts if it will get her where she needs to be in a case. She’s fun, outgoing and has her sights set on being the next DA of Travis County.
Needless to say, when these two meet to battle it out in court, Catherine and Starr don’t hit it off right away. Catherine has little tolerance for the Assistant DA and Starr is curious about the ice queen defense attorney. These two are brought together fighting on the same side when the mayor’s pre-teen daughter is kidnapped outside her home.
This is a great read. A real page-turner that will keep you reeled into the story. Starr and Catherine are both amazing characters who you just can’t get enough of.
September 10, 2019
Now, if you're a fan of a good thriller, packed with lively criminal defense, court scenes, this is your book. I've always found Carsen Taite to be my to-go writer when I'm in need for a good crime novel. Her portrayal of lawyers, judges, DAs, prosecutors, litigation, is what makes her books attractive not only to lesbian fiction readers, but to crime - thriller genre fans as well.
I'm also a great fan of one particular thing in her books - the women are strong, well developed, eloquent characters, with a very pronounced sense of self-awareness and self-worth. I think it's very empowering for women to identify with these great characters from Carsen Taite's books. Catherine and Starr are no exception to this. Each of these characters brings strength, intensity and their complex story in their own way. I won't talk much about romance part of the book, because, in the midst of the criminal part of the plot, it kind of fell into background, but the plot was so good that I wasn't bothered by it at all.
I'm also a great fan of one particular thing in her books - the women are strong, well developed, eloquent characters, with a very pronounced sense of self-awareness and self-worth. I think it's very empowering for women to identify with these great characters from Carsen Taite's books. Catherine and Starr are no exception to this. Each of these characters brings strength, intensity and their complex story in their own way. I won't talk much about romance part of the book, because, in the midst of the criminal part of the plot, it kind of fell into background, but the plot was so good that I wasn't bothered by it at all.
July 29, 2020
I started listening to Leading the Witness without having any idea what it was about. I don’t typically read books that involve child endangerment, so I probably would have passed if I’d known and, frankly, I nearly bailed a couple of times. I have daughters, so the subject matter hit a little close to home, even though I knew that the chances of something like this happening to one of them is blessedly slim at best. I’m glad I stuck it out, though, because I think this might be one of Taite’s best books. The plotting is solid, the pacing is tight, and even though the subject matter might be a bit tough if you’re a parent, it’s not overwhelming.
Full review: https://www.thelesbianreview.com/lead...
Full review: https://www.thelesbianreview.com/lead...
October 15, 2019
Leading the Witness by Carsen Taite is the type of book that just grabs hold of you, makes you sit on the edge of your seat as you read, and refuses to let go until you reach the end of the intrigue. Ms. Taite is a master of stories that revolve around the courtroom filled with lawyers, judges, and of course the criminals they are bound to prosecute or defend. This is one of those tales with the added element of fear.
Catherine Landauer is a defense attorney well known in Austin, Texas for going after officials and prosecution witnesses who sometimes skirt the edge of the law in their zeal to obtain convictions. What no one knows, is that Catherine was once a victim of a violent crime, and due to police focusing on the wrong suspect, the perpetrator escaped capture. When the man who kidnapped her as a child suddenly reappears as a suspect in a similar crime, Catherine becomes an unwilling witness who must rely on one of her biggest adversaries in the courtroom for help.
Starr Rio is one of the most successful prosecutors in the area, and she is not above riding the very edge of the law to get a conviction in the courtroom. When she is tasked with helping the police in the kidnapping of a prominent politician’s child, she sees this as a stepping stone for her career. But she has to deal with an unwilling witness in Catherine who Starr has had a major problem with in the courtroom. Now she must help find a kidnapped child, keeping Catherine safe from the same kidnapper, and dealing with that annoying attraction she has for Catherine.
It is obvious from the first sentence that this is a well-written mystery. Ms. Taite hooks you on the first page and keeps you on the edge of your seat until the end. There is a slow-burn and rather sweet romance that runs almost as an undercurrent to the story, but the main focus is really the mystery. I connected with the characters right away, and the two slowly go from adversaries to a romantic couple in spite of what is happening to and around them.
I was thoroughly entertained with this book, and I am looking forward to reading more of Ms. Taite’s novels.
I received an ARC from NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books for an honest review.
Catherine Landauer is a defense attorney well known in Austin, Texas for going after officials and prosecution witnesses who sometimes skirt the edge of the law in their zeal to obtain convictions. What no one knows, is that Catherine was once a victim of a violent crime, and due to police focusing on the wrong suspect, the perpetrator escaped capture. When the man who kidnapped her as a child suddenly reappears as a suspect in a similar crime, Catherine becomes an unwilling witness who must rely on one of her biggest adversaries in the courtroom for help.
Starr Rio is one of the most successful prosecutors in the area, and she is not above riding the very edge of the law to get a conviction in the courtroom. When she is tasked with helping the police in the kidnapping of a prominent politician’s child, she sees this as a stepping stone for her career. But she has to deal with an unwilling witness in Catherine who Starr has had a major problem with in the courtroom. Now she must help find a kidnapped child, keeping Catherine safe from the same kidnapper, and dealing with that annoying attraction she has for Catherine.
It is obvious from the first sentence that this is a well-written mystery. Ms. Taite hooks you on the first page and keeps you on the edge of your seat until the end. There is a slow-burn and rather sweet romance that runs almost as an undercurrent to the story, but the main focus is really the mystery. I connected with the characters right away, and the two slowly go from adversaries to a romantic couple in spite of what is happening to and around them.
I was thoroughly entertained with this book, and I am looking forward to reading more of Ms. Taite’s novels.
I received an ARC from NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books for an honest review.
October 10, 2019
I liked Leading the Witness. I am beginning to really like romances that have more of a suspense theme. In the past, I found them to be heavy and I would have anxiety over them. I am sure there are some that are out there that I will stay away from, but this one was on the lighter.
Catherine Landauer works as defensive attorney that is a bulldog in the courtroom. She capitalizes on any errors the prosecution makes. Outside of the courtroom is a loner. She is not interested in making friends and it is mainly because of her background. Starr Rio is a main prosecutor. She want to win every case and make the bad guys pay for it. She is also looking to run for the DA the following year when her boss retires.
So i enjoyed the suspense on this one. Starr and Catherine start working together to solve a case. There seems to be some chemistry there, but the author doesn't play it up. The main focus is on the suspense part of the novel. I know this is considered a romance but if I had to just rate that portion, I would say it left me wanting more. I did not feel the the MC's connected on a personal level and the romance portion seemed rush or even forced. Again, I really like the other aspects of this one so I am going to give this 4 stars.
This arc was provided by netgalley and the publisher for an honest review.
Catherine Landauer works as defensive attorney that is a bulldog in the courtroom. She capitalizes on any errors the prosecution makes. Outside of the courtroom is a loner. She is not interested in making friends and it is mainly because of her background. Starr Rio is a main prosecutor. She want to win every case and make the bad guys pay for it. She is also looking to run for the DA the following year when her boss retires.
So i enjoyed the suspense on this one. Starr and Catherine start working together to solve a case. There seems to be some chemistry there, but the author doesn't play it up. The main focus is on the suspense part of the novel. I know this is considered a romance but if I had to just rate that portion, I would say it left me wanting more. I did not feel the the MC's connected on a personal level and the romance portion seemed rush or even forced. Again, I really like the other aspects of this one so I am going to give this 4 stars.
This arc was provided by netgalley and the publisher for an honest review.
September 28, 2019
I was completely pulled into the storyline of this book that I struggled to put the book down on more than one occasion. The pace of the story was perfect where I found myself so pulled into the case and what would happen next that I was shocked when I realised there was only a few chapters left.
The relationship between Starr and Catherine was a slow build up which was good but could have been better. The slow build up to the romance just wasn't as well done as it could have been. It just felt like there was nothing between the two until they were almost kissing.
The story wrapped up fairly quickly providing a fairly good insight into how the case wrapped up.
I did really enjoy this book, a quick read that was action packed with strong female characters.
I was given this book by NetGalley for an honest review.
The relationship between Starr and Catherine was a slow build up which was good but could have been better. The slow build up to the romance just wasn't as well done as it could have been. It just felt like there was nothing between the two until they were almost kissing.
The story wrapped up fairly quickly providing a fairly good insight into how the case wrapped up.
I did really enjoy this book, a quick read that was action packed with strong female characters.
I was given this book by NetGalley for an honest review.
February 2, 2021
Catherine Landauer, a defence attorney is particularly adept in finding flaws in the investigation leading to prosecuting her clients. She finds a loose thread in the investigation and pulls at it unravelling the case against her clients and earning either a reprieve or a negotiation for them. Her obsession with complete and thorough investigation is entirely personal because of her own nightmare experience in the past. A past that she keeps well-hidden since by not socialising at all and thereby not allowing anyone close. Prosecutor Starr Rio is known to take shortcuts to being perps to the court. Her methods are borderline but her passion is justice for the victim. Catherine is not particularly impressed with Starr and makes no bones about it. The two are at opposite sides of the ring till the twelve-year-old daughter of the Mayor is kidnapped. Catherine’s worst nightmare has come true and she has to reach out to Starr who is in charge of the case.
Read the full review @https://bestlesficreviews.blogspot.co...
Read the full review @https://bestlesficreviews.blogspot.co...
February 3, 2020
Permission to rant: I have a real thing about the expense of Bold Strokes Books but they keep coming up with the goods. Carsen Taite is a class act - 7 books read, all 5*s. Buy it, love it and don't moan about the price!
October 5, 2019
Riveting. I picked this one up thinking it was either a second in her newest series or a regular old legal drama with lots of smoldering glances across the courtroom - not that there isn't wrong with those kinds of books (I particularly enjoy them), especially as Taite is adept when it comes to compelling and entertaining legal and courtroom romance plots. Leading the Witness is neither of those - there's the legal angle, but rather than legal battles and briefs leading to a couple of super hot lawyers between the sheets, this is a pretty intense story revolving around the investigation of a missing child.
Starr Rio is an ambitious Assistant District Attorney with her eye of running for DA when her boss retires. A skilled prosecutor, she's driven by the need to succeed but also by her conviction to see justice served, even if a few corners are cut. On the opposite side of the courtroom is Catherine Landauer, a smart and relentless defense attorney whose focus is to hold law enforcement and the prosecution accountable to the law. The two women cross paths during a trial where Catherine picks apart a detective's sloppy work and the politics within the DA's office have Starr's rival for the future DA position trying to undermine her. That in itself would have been a great story - but that's just the first chapter.
When the Mayor's young daughter goes missing, Starr is pulled from her current case load to focus on the high profile investigation based on her past experience in prosecuting child endangerment cases and her relationships with the detective assigned to the case. When Catherine hears of the potential abduction, her own past rears it's horribly ugly head and she becomes consumed with finding out more about the investigation.
The character of Catherine Landauer is absolutely fascinating and Taite does a phenomenal job of drawing her out. At first she's aloof and cold, consciously keeping herself apart from everyone and singularly focused on exposing the incompetence and shoddy work done by the police and prosecution. Whether her clients are guilty is not the key driver - instead she zeroes in on whether the law was followed. When she hears about the mayor's missing daughter, we begin to see cracks in her icy resolve and an underlying vulnerability that she has spent years shielding begins to emerge. As a young girl, Catherine was abducted and held for a month while the police and prosecutors focused on the wrong leads, missing things right in front of them and allowing the abductor to evade capture. There's just so much opportunity for overblown angst but Taite handles the backstory a remarkable level of restraint and Catherine's character resonates as with inner strength and resolve and doesn't allow her past to overshadow her life. As the story progresses and the parallels with the current case emerge, we see her unraveling but she is self-aware enough to recognize it and makes conscious choices and reaching out to her therapist and Starr- she is not a victim, and she's more than a survivor - she saves herself. She's reinvented herself, changing her name and pursuing a law career where she can challenge and push law enforcement not to make the same mistakes as in her case. After the loss and betrayal of her childhood and she refuses to allow her past to overwhelm her present.
With all that going on with Catherine, I wasn't sure if I was ready for a romance to build between her and Starr. Taite manages to set the initial spark during and after the initial trial and there is a believable build between the women, enhanced by the emotionally charged investigation. Perhaps not the smartest thing in the world to be attracted to a potential witness but there's an undeniable connection and underlying chemistry between the two women. Starr's empathy and respect for Catherine and Catherine's own vulnerability and struggle to reach out works and doesn't feel contrived.
The investigation itself is not the focus of the story and at times I thought it was taking them a long time to chase down leads or get warrants - especially with this being the Mayor's daughter. At the same time, I was so focused on the unfolding of Catherine's story and character that it didn't irk me too much.
Definitely Recommended
Starr Rio is an ambitious Assistant District Attorney with her eye of running for DA when her boss retires. A skilled prosecutor, she's driven by the need to succeed but also by her conviction to see justice served, even if a few corners are cut. On the opposite side of the courtroom is Catherine Landauer, a smart and relentless defense attorney whose focus is to hold law enforcement and the prosecution accountable to the law. The two women cross paths during a trial where Catherine picks apart a detective's sloppy work and the politics within the DA's office have Starr's rival for the future DA position trying to undermine her. That in itself would have been a great story - but that's just the first chapter.
When the Mayor's young daughter goes missing, Starr is pulled from her current case load to focus on the high profile investigation based on her past experience in prosecuting child endangerment cases and her relationships with the detective assigned to the case. When Catherine hears of the potential abduction, her own past rears it's horribly ugly head and she becomes consumed with finding out more about the investigation.
The character of Catherine Landauer is absolutely fascinating and Taite does a phenomenal job of drawing her out. At first she's aloof and cold, consciously keeping herself apart from everyone and singularly focused on exposing the incompetence and shoddy work done by the police and prosecution. Whether her clients are guilty is not the key driver - instead she zeroes in on whether the law was followed. When she hears about the mayor's missing daughter, we begin to see cracks in her icy resolve and an underlying vulnerability that she has spent years shielding begins to emerge. As a young girl, Catherine was abducted and held for a month while the police and prosecutors focused on the wrong leads, missing things right in front of them and allowing the abductor to evade capture. There's just so much opportunity for overblown angst but Taite handles the backstory a remarkable level of restraint and Catherine's character resonates as with inner strength and resolve and doesn't allow her past to overshadow her life. As the story progresses and the parallels with the current case emerge, we see her unraveling but she is self-aware enough to recognize it and makes conscious choices and reaching out to her therapist and Starr- she is not a victim, and she's more than a survivor - she saves herself. She's reinvented herself, changing her name and pursuing a law career where she can challenge and push law enforcement not to make the same mistakes as in her case. After the loss and betrayal of her childhood and she refuses to allow her past to overwhelm her present.
With all that going on with Catherine, I wasn't sure if I was ready for a romance to build between her and Starr. Taite manages to set the initial spark during and after the initial trial and there is a believable build between the women, enhanced by the emotionally charged investigation. Perhaps not the smartest thing in the world to be attracted to a potential witness but there's an undeniable connection and underlying chemistry between the two women. Starr's empathy and respect for Catherine and Catherine's own vulnerability and struggle to reach out works and doesn't feel contrived.
The investigation itself is not the focus of the story and at times I thought it was taking them a long time to chase down leads or get warrants - especially with this being the Mayor's daughter. At the same time, I was so focused on the unfolding of Catherine's story and character that it didn't irk me too much.
Definitely Recommended
December 16, 2019
Engrossing book.
One of Carsen Taite's books which I enjoyed reading - read it in one sitting (plus some break time for dinner).
Story moved along pretty quickly and I enjoyed the pace. I felt a bit short-changed about the romance though. The build-up of chemistry was good but the ending could have been a bit more drawn out. I was totally into the book all the way up to 80% but felt slightly let down by how it ended - in the terms of how quickly things got resolved.
That said, I enjoyed the book.
One of Carsen Taite's books which I enjoyed reading - read it in one sitting (plus some break time for dinner).
Story moved along pretty quickly and I enjoyed the pace. I felt a bit short-changed about the romance though. The build-up of chemistry was good but the ending could have been a bit more drawn out. I was totally into the book all the way up to 80% but felt slightly let down by how it ended - in the terms of how quickly things got resolved.
That said, I enjoyed the book.
October 9, 2019
There are writers whose names alone are enough to convince you to buy and read their works. Taite is one of those.
This is a very engrossing read. I prefer pure romance in my stories, or at least 50/50, and while the romance in this book took up only about 20% of the story I just couldn’t put it down. Taite just knows how to keep you interested. The characters were realistic, the plot was well woven. If I could pick a book and make a movie, i’d pick this one.
Another home fun for Taite. 5 stars
This is a very engrossing read. I prefer pure romance in my stories, or at least 50/50, and while the romance in this book took up only about 20% of the story I just couldn’t put it down. Taite just knows how to keep you interested. The characters were realistic, the plot was well woven. If I could pick a book and make a movie, i’d pick this one.
Another home fun for Taite. 5 stars
December 29, 2019
4.5
Really good story and plot. The relationship/romance could have been developed a bit more though
Really good story and plot. The relationship/romance could have been developed a bit more though
October 18, 2019
I really switched back and forth between giving this one a three or four stars before landing on the four stars, mostly because of Catherine and her story. She carried the book for me, and her urgency was palpable, even if unreasonable at times. I say unreasonable, mostly because she acknowledges it herself and her triggers were constantly being set off to the point were I wouldn't have been surprised the if she just melted down right there. At times it felt like she was just at that line, and was pulled back by Starr and her therapist.
What was set to the side to help develop Catherine was the romantic set up with Starr, Catherine's highly ambitious counter part. Catherine sees Starr as everything wrong with the system - especially when it comes to bending the rules to close a case. They have a frosty relationship that morphs into this weird allyship, then moves into the romance. When the romance happens it just explodes, and does feel like it was shoehorned in. Especially since there seemed to be a need to hit all the beats of a new relationship before the end of the book. There's even a miscommunication fight thrown in for good measure. However, this doesn't take away how good the actual case is and how the characters react to it. Like I said, Catherine is a fascinating person, and Starr has a surprising amount of depth to her. I just wish they had a little more time to really explore their romance relationship.
I love this book, and even though this does talk about adults dealing with childhood trauma in a very visceral way, it is one of the few books where the mystery feels personal and urgent right from the beginning - for both characters. Which makes it's conclusion that much more rewarding. The romance, though predictable, could have had more time to breathe, especially with these two excellent leads.
I received this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
What was set to the side to help develop Catherine was the romantic set up with Starr, Catherine's highly ambitious counter part. Catherine sees Starr as everything wrong with the system - especially when it comes to bending the rules to close a case. They have a frosty relationship that morphs into this weird allyship, then moves into the romance. When the romance happens it just explodes, and does feel like it was shoehorned in. Especially since there seemed to be a need to hit all the beats of a new relationship before the end of the book. There's even a miscommunication fight thrown in for good measure. However, this doesn't take away how good the actual case is and how the characters react to it. Like I said, Catherine is a fascinating person, and Starr has a surprising amount of depth to her. I just wish they had a little more time to really explore their romance relationship.
I love this book, and even though this does talk about adults dealing with childhood trauma in a very visceral way, it is one of the few books where the mystery feels personal and urgent right from the beginning - for both characters. Which makes it's conclusion that much more rewarding. The romance, though predictable, could have had more time to breathe, especially with these two excellent leads.
I received this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
October 9, 2019
Prosecutor Starr Rio has worked hard in her quest of becoming the next District Attorney. Winning has led her to sometimes blur the line of what is used for evidence but she really believes that sometimes you have no choice when it comes making sure a murder goes to prison and doesn’t walk free. Not on her watch. And if she keeps her conviction numbers high, that too will help her in the next election.
Catherine Landauer works hard defending her clients and keeping them from a life in prison. From personal experience she knows all about the line being blurred when it comes to messing with the evidence. She fights against that happening and nothing gives her more satisfaction than showing the courts just how the evidence isn’t always untainted.
While Catherine and Starr have never work the same case, of course of different sides they finally get a chance to go against each other. Catherine get the better of Starr in this case. But when Starr is appointed to handle a particular child abduction she finds herself also working with the unfriendly defense lawyer. Neither like the situation but it’s the only way to possibly bring a young girl back to her family.
Ms Taite has a reputation of giving us a good solid story, with a few twists and turns, and of course a little romance doesn’t hurt either. Simply another great read that I’m sure will have you looking at other works by this author. Very, very enjoyable read.
ARC via NetGalley/ Bold Stroke Books
Catherine Landauer works hard defending her clients and keeping them from a life in prison. From personal experience she knows all about the line being blurred when it comes to messing with the evidence. She fights against that happening and nothing gives her more satisfaction than showing the courts just how the evidence isn’t always untainted.
While Catherine and Starr have never work the same case, of course of different sides they finally get a chance to go against each other. Catherine get the better of Starr in this case. But when Starr is appointed to handle a particular child abduction she finds herself also working with the unfriendly defense lawyer. Neither like the situation but it’s the only way to possibly bring a young girl back to her family.
Ms Taite has a reputation of giving us a good solid story, with a few twists and turns, and of course a little romance doesn’t hurt either. Simply another great read that I’m sure will have you looking at other works by this author. Very, very enjoyable read.
ARC via NetGalley/ Bold Stroke Books
October 27, 2019
When I pick-up a Taite book, I learn about the law which in my opinion is a good thing because one of the reasons I enjoy reading is to learn. And learn I do. Having a character relive their own abduction while trying to find an abducted child was interesting and well done. Catherine Landauer is a focused and talented attorney. She has had a very difficult life. To deal with her past life, Catherine has turned to a very structured and quiet life in order to function from day-to-day. I really felt for her as she lived her life and did her job. Starr Rio, public prosecutor with a reputation for doing what is necessary to obtain the desired outcome. Starr's family was a positive and entertaining aspect of the read, especially her mother. The story had me thinking about children, family, law enforcement, and the challenges all of the parties encounter.
ARC provided by Bold Strokes Books, Inc. via NetGalley
ARC provided by Bold Strokes Books, Inc. via NetGalley
October 14, 2019
I enjoy all of Carsen Taite's series, but it was a nice change to read a standalone. This one is a bit different as it is 80% case and 20% romance, and easy to read in about 4 hours.
I was thoroughly invested in the case, and if this story wasn't "borrowed" from Taite's previous law career, then kudos for some really interesting writing. Catherine is probably the iciest ice queen Taite has written but we learn why fairly early on. And the fact that she and Starr fell into bed quickly didn't bother me as they are both women who have had zero time (or inclination) for dating and relationship-building.
If this isn't my new favorite Carsen Taite, it's certainly in the top 3, just for the break from traditional lesfic formula.
I was thoroughly invested in the case, and if this story wasn't "borrowed" from Taite's previous law career, then kudos for some really interesting writing. Catherine is probably the iciest ice queen Taite has written but we learn why fairly early on. And the fact that she and Starr fell into bed quickly didn't bother me as they are both women who have had zero time (or inclination) for dating and relationship-building.
If this isn't my new favorite Carsen Taite, it's certainly in the top 3, just for the break from traditional lesfic formula.
February 24, 2020
I've been having trouble reading. Anything. My attention span is all over the place and nothing interest me but I was in a government office, no cell reception, so I started this book. I was really into it, I'm a lawyer and I'm a sucker for Carsen Taite books, is alwas fascinating to read about the legal world elsewhere and having nothing to do with my life. I love that "I can't stand her" dynamic between characters, is so hot, so I was pretty happy about it.
At first, I thought the topic was going to cause me some issues because in the last couple of weeks there's been a wave of child aductions, murders and in general a lot of violent crimes towards women in my country, so it's a really ugly situation and I wasn't sure if I could read this if the topic went really there.
Spoiler Alert, it didn't. It stayed pretty light, AND THAT was one of my issues with this. The plot seems to revolve around an specific crime, the abduction of a child, BUT it's conected to another child abduction, so that seemed jucy. The thing was that both crimes ended abruptly. It felt to me like "they are together now, wrapt it up".
On that note. The other thing that bothered me was: I thought it was a slow burn romance. The way the characters interacted and knew each other made me think this was going to take something other than just panic to bring them together. But no, they went from "I find you interesting but at a distance" to "make passionate love to me, I can't be in this world without you anymore" in like 3 seconds.
So basically the thing that made this not a great read to me were my expectations, so for me it's a 3.5.
At first, I thought the topic was going to cause me some issues because in the last couple of weeks there's been a wave of child aductions, murders and in general a lot of violent crimes towards women in my country, so it's a really ugly situation and I wasn't sure if I could read this if the topic went really there.
Spoiler Alert, it didn't. It stayed pretty light, AND THAT was one of my issues with this. The plot seems to revolve around an specific crime, the abduction of a child, BUT it's conected to another child abduction, so that seemed jucy. The thing was that both crimes ended abruptly. It felt to me like "they are together now, wrapt it up".
On that note. The other thing that bothered me was: I thought it was a slow burn romance. The way the characters interacted and knew each other made me think this was going to take something other than just panic to bring them together. But no, they went from "I find you interesting but at a distance" to "make passionate love to me, I can't be in this world without you anymore" in like 3 seconds.
So basically the thing that made this not a great read to me were my expectations, so for me it's a 3.5.
February 23, 2020
Stunning
Catherine is a defense attorney who likes to make sure the police and prosecutors are on the up and up. However, she has a secret past, one that she takes great pains to keep hidden until the past catches up to her. Starr is a prosecutor for the DAs office and has a reputation of doing whatever it takes to win. When the Mayor’s daughter is kidnapped Starr and Catherine will have to work together. Catherine will have to come clean about her past if they are to forge a future together!
I had forgotten just what an amazing writer Ms Taite is. This book was wonderful. It was full of all types of passion, intrigue, mystery, danger, attraction and courage, not to mention a few steamy, sexy bits. I adored the story. Catherine and Starr are an amazing pair of strong women who truly want to make their world a better place and use their skills to make that happen. I loved watching them get to know each other and see them bond into a loving couple. Catherine has a lot to overcome and it was wonderful to see her come out of her shell and reclaim herself and her power. The suspense in this drama is also really good, it kept me engaged throughout the book and I couldn’t put the book down! I think I am going to have to read more of Ms Taite’s books and soon!
Catherine is a defense attorney who likes to make sure the police and prosecutors are on the up and up. However, she has a secret past, one that she takes great pains to keep hidden until the past catches up to her. Starr is a prosecutor for the DAs office and has a reputation of doing whatever it takes to win. When the Mayor’s daughter is kidnapped Starr and Catherine will have to work together. Catherine will have to come clean about her past if they are to forge a future together!
I had forgotten just what an amazing writer Ms Taite is. This book was wonderful. It was full of all types of passion, intrigue, mystery, danger, attraction and courage, not to mention a few steamy, sexy bits. I adored the story. Catherine and Starr are an amazing pair of strong women who truly want to make their world a better place and use their skills to make that happen. I loved watching them get to know each other and see them bond into a loving couple. Catherine has a lot to overcome and it was wonderful to see her come out of her shell and reclaim herself and her power. The suspense in this drama is also really good, it kept me engaged throughout the book and I couldn’t put the book down! I think I am going to have to read more of Ms Taite’s books and soon!
November 20, 2020
2.5 stars. When the mayors daughter is missing a successful defense attorney, Catherine Landauer realizes the clues link back to her own abduction at the same age. Courtroom adversary Starr Rio is the prosecutor helping oversee the police in their search. Catherine has a lot of mis trust of the police but must help when the abductor makes contact with her. A decent police/lawyer type drama. I liked the two main characters and thought the post traumatic stress was handled well. I didn't feel that a thrown in rushed romantic encounter and an abrupt declaration of feelings fit the storyline well.
December 29, 2019
I just love all of Carsen Taite's stories!
This intriguing story deserves way more than five stars because I couldn't put my kindle down without thinking about Catherine and Starr and the things they were going through. I must say that this author definitely knows how to weave an enthralling legal thriller that will have me hanging on to every word while I'm wondering if I could squeeze in one more chapter of read for another before the wee hours of the morning arrives.
This intriguing story deserves way more than five stars because I couldn't put my kindle down without thinking about Catherine and Starr and the things they were going through. I must say that this author definitely knows how to weave an enthralling legal thriller that will have me hanging on to every word while I'm wondering if I could squeeze in one more chapter of read for another before the wee hours of the morning arrives.
June 28, 2020
I really enjoyed this book. The plot, the story, the feistyness, the mystery and of course the f/f romance. I really want Carsen Taite to write a longer book, more in depth, more mystery, more court room drama, more sexual chemistry . Maybe I'm disappointed that this was over too soon. I got to 76% and remember thinking nooo it's coming to an end soon and really wanting more from it. My 4 stars is a little selfish as I wanted more.
December 15, 2019
Carsen Taite has used her vast background in the legal profession to amplify storytelling when she writes. Her plots are always interesting, and this book’s plot is no exception. However, Leading the Witness has a little twist. It deals with a kidnapping which occurred several decades earlier and now is affecting the lives of a public defender and a defense attorney.
Catherine Landauer is a defense attorney who is very good at her job. In doing so, she has developed a reputation of being able to grill witnesses who might not be telling the whole truth.
Starr Rio is a public defender who has a very solid and successful background in prosecuting criminals. To win a case, sometimes she cuts corners legally in order to win. Starr aspires to running for the office of District Attorney and wants to keep her case win ratio high.
When Catherine was a child, she was kidnapped by a man. Fortunately, she was able to escape. Her kidnapper was never prosecuted due to some errors made by the police. In order to protect herself, she changed her identity and created a new life. No one knows about Catherine’s past until Starr begins to ask her questions in the search for the latest young girl who was kidnapped. Although it has been many years since her own kidnapping, “red” flags begin to pop up for Catherine.
I truly enjoyed this plot. Ms. Taite created a well-planned story with a good pace and lots of suspense. Catherine’s and Starr’s characters were interesting and well developed. Catherine’s fear seems real and readers will be touched by her emotions.
I rate this suspense/romance as 4.5 out of 5 stars. I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a complex mystery.
I received this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Catherine Landauer is a defense attorney who is very good at her job. In doing so, she has developed a reputation of being able to grill witnesses who might not be telling the whole truth.
Starr Rio is a public defender who has a very solid and successful background in prosecuting criminals. To win a case, sometimes she cuts corners legally in order to win. Starr aspires to running for the office of District Attorney and wants to keep her case win ratio high.
When Catherine was a child, she was kidnapped by a man. Fortunately, she was able to escape. Her kidnapper was never prosecuted due to some errors made by the police. In order to protect herself, she changed her identity and created a new life. No one knows about Catherine’s past until Starr begins to ask her questions in the search for the latest young girl who was kidnapped. Although it has been many years since her own kidnapping, “red” flags begin to pop up for Catherine.
I truly enjoyed this plot. Ms. Taite created a well-planned story with a good pace and lots of suspense. Catherine’s and Starr’s characters were interesting and well developed. Catherine’s fear seems real and readers will be touched by her emotions.
I rate this suspense/romance as 4.5 out of 5 stars. I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a complex mystery.
I received this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
December 25, 2019
A gripping mystery and suspense novel that had me on the edge of my seat and pushing to get through it.
Plenty to like in this book, particularly in the first two-thirds of the novel. The final third didn't entirely deliver.
The main characters of Catherine and Starr were individually interesting. I certainly felt a connection between them but their coming together seemed incredibly rushed and out of character.
I received an ARC for an honest review.
Plenty to like in this book, particularly in the first two-thirds of the novel. The final third didn't entirely deliver.
The main characters of Catherine and Starr were individually interesting. I certainly felt a connection between them but their coming together seemed incredibly rushed and out of character.
I received an ARC for an honest review.
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