Blood on Their Hands

by Bob Brink

Bestselling author Bob Brink has done it again! If you thought Murder in Palm Beach was a thrilling read, you don't want to miss BLOOD ON THEIR HANDS!

Hiram Garbuncle is a veteran criminal defense attorney—as well as a racist, miserly alcoholic. His life revolves around hoarding money, following sports, pursuing sex, drinking—and the prideful practice of law.

Alec Monceau is a black man working to support his daughter’s family in Trinidad. It is 2008, and his car carries an Obama bumper sticker. This political advertisement leads to a superfluous traffic stop and a brutal beating by police.

It goes against Garbuncle’s grain to defend a black man from a charge of violently resisting arrest, but he is so confident of winning that he is negligent in the jury selection, and a mistrial occurs. He then discovers incriminating evidence on the two cops, and his new challenge becomes how to keep himself and his client alive pending a new trial.

Genres: Fiction

305 pages, Paperback

Published May 4, 2020

About the author

Bob Brink is a journalist who worked with the Palm Beach Post, The Associated Press in Chicago, Milwaukee Journal, Tampa Tribune, Joliet Herald-News, and Palm Beach Media Group (magazines). His byline has been on thousands of news stories, features, and entertainment reviews.
He has been a freelance writer for several years, and now is embarked on writing novels. To promote his books, the current one being BLOOD ON THEIR HANDS, he has a website, with a blog on which he addresses activities involving his books, other books, and three passions: grammar, alternative health care, and socio-political issues. The website address is: www.bobbrinkwriter.com.
Blood on Their Hands is a legal thriller that opens with the brutal police beating of a Black man and has the theme of racial injustice running throughout. It was published in May 2020 by TouchPoint Press.
His preceding novel, Murder in Palm Beach: The Homicide That Never Died, is closely based on a real, 1976 murder that made headlines for 15 years, and has gained notoriety again with a new crinkle in the case.
Brink has won numerous writing accolades and several awards, including three for Palm Beach Illustrated, which won the Best Written Magazine award from the Florida Magazine Association after he became copy chief and writer.
Besides dabbling in short-story writing over the years, Brink immersed himself in learning to play the clarinet and tenor saxophone. He performed many years with an estimable, 65-piece community symphonic band, and played a few professional big band gigs. He relegated music to the back seat after embarking on writing novels.
A product of Michigan and Iowa, Brink has a bachelor’s degree in English from Drake University in Des Moines and completed graduate journalism studies at the University of Iowa, Iowa City.

Reviews

[Carolyn Walsh · Rating 2 out of 5]

Thank you, NetGalley and publisher for this tough, gritty crime/courtroom drama in return for an honest review. I had difficulty fully engaging in this story. I urge prospective readers not to be deterred by my 2-star rating, but to also read the very favourable reviews on Goodreads and Amazon

Set in 2008, the story centres around the savage beating of a Black immigrant, probably because of an Obama sticker on his car. The victim, Alec Monceau, is a kind, helpful computer store worker. He sends most of his wages to Trinidad to help support his family. He is arrested on a trumped- up charge.
Surely such vicious, lawless police officers would not exist in the present-day!

This brutal assault on the innocent Alec was witnessed by a lawyer, Garbuncle, and his reporter buddy, Hitchens. Garbuncle is a racist, slovenly, miserly, and a drunk. Hitchens tolerated Garbuncle's attitudes and behaviour and acts as his moral conscience. Later they meet Alec who generously offers to set up their new computers free of charge. Hitchens prods Garbuncle to defend Alec in court and wins a bet with him to make this happen. The dialogue between the more politically correct and tolerant Hitchens and Garbuncle is presented in a witty manner.

I enjoyed the interactions between these three characters and the court scenes. I found the sections which focused on members of the Ku Klux Klan and other characters less compelling. I didn't care for the broken English written for Alec which I found objectional and demeaning. True, he was just learning English, but it reminded me of speech patterns in old-time racist books and comics. The plot thickens when Garbuncle discovers a connection between the police officers who participated in the brutal assault and others involved in illegal activities. This puts Garbuncle's life in danger as well as that of his client.

How can this prejudiced lawyer who holds so many racial stereotypes, and is frequently in a state of drunkenness, manage Alec's defence and act as a fair witness? Can his long-ingrained attitudes change? Will justice be served? The premise was thought-provoking, and relevant in recent times.

[Jin · Rating 3 out of 5]

I read the short description of the book and I was really thrilled to read this because it felt like a fun and entertaining read. Even though the characters and the general setting were great, it couldn’t really fulfill my expectations.
The story around the attorney Garbuncle was interesting and intriguing at first; a black man bullied and accused of something which he never did. A story involving daily racism which may happen just anywhere and people would just look away and not care. The dialogues were uncomfortable at some parts because of certain people’s views and language. But I guess it just shows the talent of the author to show how bad these rascists’ views are. Nevertheless, I loved both Garbuncle and Hitchens, and their chitchat, and also Donna and Alec.

Everything was so promising in the beginning. But the story was too slow and even though it was a page-turner, the thrilling moments never really came through. It was not badly written in general but I missed the suspense, tension, the sweat in my hands, and so on. Maybe, it would have been better to cut out the chitchat between Garbuncle and Hitchens, and focus on the defense of Alec. Or to focus on the human development of Garbuncle and go more into a slice-of-life type story.

**I received a free copy of this book via BookSirens for leaving an honest review. The thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.**

[Foxy Vixen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thanks Net Galley for giving me the opportunity to read and review this book with my honest review.

Wow! If you are looking for a book that involves what is happening ‘live’ right now in ur country, this certainly one that you will want to read. I started reading this book last night, and stayed up all night to finish it. Certainly can be put in the class of a ‘all nighter’ read, and a great thriller on top of that.

You start out really not liking this defense lawyer at all, if you can give him a bad name of any kind, it would certainly be true to call him that. But, as you get into the book, you get to see that he certainly has a heart under all of that roughness and toughness that he portrays in the beginning.

The language can be a little rough in this book, but it certainly is needed to make the scenes seem real. Be sure to have your reading snacks on hand because you will certainly need them as you keep turning the pages on this one.

[Cath · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was a bit of a slow burn read for me, with a veteran lawyer who is also an operating alcoholic, called Hiram Garbuncle, who was brought up in a home where racism was the norm and hasn’t got much time for those of different races, so quite a racist! Not really very likeable and has a mate or you could call him a friend, who he takes advantage of every time his car breaks down and won’t spend a penny unless he has to. He has money, but refuses to spend it on anything, living as cheaply as possible and in a bit of a dive. His mate Brad Hitchens is giving him a lift home one night after they have been out drinking, when they pull off the main road to allow Hiram to empty his bladder, when they see a young black man being beaten up by two cops who have pulled him over.

Brad later finds out the man is called Alec Monceau and he came over from Trinidad after his wife died, for a new start, and has never been in trouble. He is highly regarded by those he knows and at his place of work in a local store, helping with computer sales. He also sends as much of his earning back to his two grown up children back in Trinidad and to help with their families. Being black and having an Obama sticker on his bumper were enough to get him badly beaten up by two racist cops. He is arrested for violently resisting arrest and supposedly attacking the cops. Brad tries to persuade Hiram to defend Alec at his upcoming court case and to also testify about what really happened. But Hiram is reluctant to defend a black man, due to his prejudices and doesn’t take as much care to ensure the jury is properly vetted, leaving to a mistrial and more problems for Alec.

The two cops are into more than just beating up black men that they pull over for whatever spurious reason and they are soon linked to some other cops in the next county, who are involved in an illegal operation. The more Hiram finds out, the more dangerous it gets for him and Alec and it is difficult to figure out who they can trust, as some targeted violence is taken against someone linked to Hiram and an attempt made on their lives. The problems are more widespread than Hiram presumed and he almost gets Alec killed and himself placed in the crosshairs. It takes a tragic event for Hiram to start to make changes in his life and his attitude towards Alec’s case.

There is lots of language used which is not proper English and while some of it can be explained as speech from Alec, who is still learning the language, there is a lot more used throughout the book and this is off putting. If you might me put off by the flagrant racism portrayed by both sides in this tale, then you may not want to read this book. The pace went far too slowly for me, for the major part of the story, only getting interesting and better paced towards the end of the book. Brad was pretty much just a sidekick and Earl, his tenant was more involved in the story! Neither Hiram who is a lawyer nor Brad who is a reporter, take it upon themselves to report what they witnessed, nor try to stop it. Leaving it until Alec is facing trial and probably ending up in prison with a felony record, does Brad trick Hiram into helping him out. Definitely not a main character that you would look up to and hard to like. A difficult read and not one you may come to love, with its difficult storyline and hard topics. I received an ARC copy of this book and I have freely given my own opinion of the book above.

[Michael Oluwaseyi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Blood on Their Hands by Bob Brink is a compelling legal thriller that combines suspense, social commentary, and emotional depth to create a story that is both entertaining and meaningful. Set during the 2008 U.S. presidential election, the novel reflects a time of change and tension in American society, which plays a major role in shaping the events of the story.

The novel tells the story of Alec Monceau, a Black immigrant from Trinidad who is doing his best to live an honest life and support his family. However, his life is turned upside down after a violent encounter with the police, triggered by something as simple as a political bumper sticker. This moment is shocking and sets the tone for the rest of the novel, exposing the harsh realities of racial injustice and abuse of power. It immediately creates sympathy for Alec and draws the reader into his struggle for justice.

One of the strongest elements of the book is its complex characterization, especially the role of Hiram Garbuncle. Unlike the typical heroic lawyer found in many legal dramas, Garbuncle is deeply flawed. He is racist, arrogant, and struggles with alcohol, yet he is also highly intelligent and skilled in the courtroom. His decision to take Alec’s case is not driven by kindness but by pressure and personal challenge. This makes his character development more realistic and interesting. As the story progresses, readers begin to see subtle changes in him, suggesting that even deeply flawed individuals are capable of growth.

The plot is tightly constructed and full of suspense. Brink carefully builds tension through courtroom battles, unexpected twists, and the gradual uncovering of hidden truths. The mistrial caused by Garbuncle’s overconfidence is a key turning point in the story, highlighting the consequences of pride and carelessness. As new evidence comes to light, the narrative shifts from a legal battle to a dangerous fight for survival, raising the stakes and keeping readers fully engaged.

In addition to its thrilling plot, the novel also explores emotional and personal themes. The love story woven into the narrative adds depth and balance, showing the human side of the characters. It reminds readers that beyond the legal arguments and conflicts, there are real lives and relationships at risk. This emotional layer makes the story more impactful and memorable.

Brink’s writing style is engaging and accessible, making the book easy to read while still addressing serious issues. His use of dark humor, particularly through Garbuncle’s character, adds a unique tone to the novel. At the same time, the book raises important questions about justice, morality, and whether the legal system truly protects everyone equally.

Overall, Blood on Their Hands is a powerful and thought-provoking novel that successfully blends entertainment with social awareness. It challenges readers to reflect on issues such as racism, police brutality, and personal redemption. Fans of legal thrillers like A Time to Kill and the works of John Grisham or Scott Turow will find this book especially appealing.

In conclusion, this novel stands out not only for its gripping storyline but also for its willingness to tackle difficult topics. It is both an engaging read and an important commentary on society.

[Seraphia Bunny · Rating 5 out of 5]

Blood on Their Hands by Bob Brink is the first book that I have read by this author, but I was truly hooked into the novel rather quickly. This book is written a more modern time period (only a few years ago sets the scene and the author works effortlessly to point out that racism has never really left...it's gone "underground" but it is still very much alive and well.
The author paints a picture of an immigrant man being pulled over and cruelly beaten by a couple of police officers. Garbuncle, the "hero" and main character of this story happens to be around with his friend at the time of incident and witnesses most of what transpires. He gets himself into some trouble with another incident down the road, but after a kind gesture by Alec, the immigrant man, Garbuncle's friend convinces him to take on his case. Things don't go as expected with the first trial, and so a second one is set, but things soon go from "every day business as usual" to Garbuncle simply trying to stay alive and out of the path of danger. But it seems that anyone connected to him is at risk as nasty accidents happen and a tragic death.
Blood on Their Hands intrigued me from the blurb, but the book really ended up hooking me in. Garbuncle is both an interesting character and one that I detest. His racism is truly astounding to me, especially when I learn his own heritage/ethnicity. I'm surprised that Hitchens can stand to be friends with him to be honest. Hitchens isn't perfect but I like that he recognized the errors of his childhood and grew from it. It seems that Garbuncle chooses to wallow in his wrongness and steep in it. There were honestly moments that I completely forgot that this book is written in "present day" because of some of the dialogue that is used in the book. I kept thinking that the time period for the story was the early to mid 1900s, but it's not.
You can gradually see pieces coming together with this thriller as the author gives readers a variety of scenes to chew on and experience. You get a couple of flashbacks here and there, and the characters work together to bring this story together. The deeper the story goes, the more the danger seems to grow as nasty incidents begin to happen and they find their lives in jeopardy.
This book is truly engaging and had me page-turning to learn what was going to happen next. The characters are engaging and I love that I get a good amount of the courtroom and how the case gets pieced together with this book. I am rating this book 5 out of 5 stars. The author does an excellent job keeping me engaged from beginning to end. I do enjoy a good thriller novel and this book checks that box perfectly. I look forward to reading more by this author in the future.

[Michael Hartnett · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Wonderful Novel Featuring a Character for the Ages
About two-thirds through Bob Brink’s wonderful and timely novel Blood on Their Hands, Earl, the burly tenant of our “hero” Garbuncle, tells him, “You don’t just sleep tight; you live and breathe tight. And drink till you’re tight.” I put quotes around hero to describe the lawyer Garbuncle in that almost all his qualities – his racism, his slovenliness, his drunkenness, and his monumental cheapness – are negative, yet, ultimately, his shrewd and courageous actions are indeed admirable, and his racist attitude recedes as he gets to know his black client.
Garbuncle’s flaws make him a memorable and tremendously amusing character. His cheapness leads to his knowing every low-rent and used business in South Florida, resulting in many a funny scene. Plus, his witty interactions with his newspaper buddy Hitchens and the aforementioned Earl are absolute hoots.
The generous humor in the novel belies the fact that Brink explores serious issues in Blood on Their Hands. The assault by white cops on the Trinidadian immigrant Alec Monceau, followed by the subsequent violent cover-ups involving Klan members, tell a story that is at once sadly familiar, but enlivened by distinctive details.
After witnessing the attack on Monceau, Garbuncle reluctantly comes around to representing him in court. Yet, Garbuncle is not exactly trustworthy. Indeed, through much of Blood on Their Hands, Garbuncle’s racism, his constant drunkenness, and his toxic self-absorption puts his reliability to both his fellow characters and to the reader in question. Yet, his inner integrity grows from the influence of Hitchens (who serves not only as the novel’s moral lodestone but as a source of delightful banter) and from the inherent goodness of Monceau.
Brink has a gift for characterization, whether it be the oh-so-seedily smooth mob lawyer Feinberg or the stern but astute Judge Crabtree. In fact, the courtroom scenes really crackle with intensity, especially during Garbuncle’s cross-examinations. Yes, serious business transpires in this novel as deaths and shady dealings pile up, yet what gives this novel buoyancy is watching Garbuncle rise to the occasion. Garbuncle’s wobbly instability keeps the reader guessing right up to the tremendously satisfying and exciting climax.
Brink has fleshed out such an unforgettable comic character in Garbuncle that I hope to meet him again in future works. For now, we have Blood on Their Hands, a novel that manages to examine serious issues in wildly entertaining ways.

[Isabella Moore · Rating 5 out of 5]

Blood on Their Hands by Bob Brink is a powerful and thought-provoking legal thriller that explores themes of justice, racism, and personal redemption. Set in 2008 during the historic U.S. presidential election, the novel captures a time of both hope and deep social tension. Brink uses this backdrop effectively to highlight the realities of racial profiling and police brutality.

The story centers on Alec Monceau, a hardworking immigrant from Trinidad who is trying to build a better life for his family. His life takes a devastating turn when he becomes the target of police violence simply because of a political bumper sticker. This moment sets the tone for the entire novel, showing how fragile justice can be for marginalized individuals.

One of the most interesting and complex characters in the book is Hiram Garbuncle, the defense attorney who takes Alec’s case. Garbuncle is far from a typical hero—he is openly racist, deeply cynical, and struggles with alcoholism. However, his intelligence and skill in the courtroom make him the only person capable of handling such a difficult case. His reluctant involvement creates a strong internal conflict, and throughout the story, readers see glimpses of change in his character. This makes him both unlikeable and strangely compelling.

The plot is fast-paced and filled with tension. The courtroom scenes are especially engaging, with sharp dialogue and strategic battles that keep readers hooked. The mistrial caused by Garbuncle’s overconfidence adds realism to the story, reminding us that even experts can fail. As the story progresses, the stakes rise dramatically when new evidence is uncovered, turning the case into something far more dangerous than expected.

Another important aspect of the novel is its emotional depth. The love story woven into the narrative provides a contrast to the harsh realities of the legal battle. It adds warmth and humanity, reminding readers that behind every case are real people with real lives and relationships.

Brink’s writing style is clear, engaging, and at times darkly humorous. He balances serious themes with moments of wit, making the story both heavy and entertaining. The novel also raises important questions about morality, justice, and whether flawed individuals can still do the right thing.

Overall, Blood on Their Hands is an intense and meaningful read. It not only delivers a gripping story but also sheds light on real-world issues that continue to affect society today. Readers who enjoy legal dramas such as A Time to Kill or works by Scott Turow will likely find this novel very engaging.

[GlenS · Rating 3 out of 5]

What happens to your point of justice, when you and everyone you associate with accepts racism as the norm? This is the story of Blood on their Hands.

A black man, Alec Monceau, is pulled over by Sergeant Peter Bullard and Officer Lawrence Pickens, two law enforcement officers from Granville Jail. The excuse they used was that one of his car’s taillights, wasn’t working – quote ‘it was a routine stop’. They then proceed to beat him, whilst throwing out racist slurs.

The ‘official report’ written illiterately, stated he resisted arrest.

When Monceau was only admitted to hospital 14 hours later, the extent of his many injuries were then catalogued. Horrifying.

His (future) attorney Hiram Garbuncle and his friend Brad Hitchens (who also happened to be a reporter) witnessed the attack but didn’t intervene, as they were police officers. They did however intervene minutes later when they saw Garbuncle’s on-again, off-again, lady friend being stopped for on a DUI, for which he gets detained.

Hitchens previously covered a White Supremacist rally in a nearby county. Still, when he tries to phone his story in, it is sabotaged by a fellow reporter, rather than be seen as a first breaking story. They don’t mention it being rewritten, or a follow-up piece, instead it is treated as a lightweight event.

Garbuncle is an alcoholic and has racist views, although I never wholly believed it was just racism, as he treated everyone, including himself with disdain. Hitchens was just used to living in a society surrounded by racists.

This book had me in a constant state of anger; This wasn’t a comfortable read for me. I was, however, curious how people living in an open intolerant community normalize their views with each other, and the lengths the supporting characters were willing to go to protect each other simply because they were bigoted.

This novel was set in 2008 but actually reflected some current day scenarios.

#BookSirens #BloodOnTheirHands

I would like to thank BookSirens and TouchPoint Press for the opportunity of reading this advanced copy in exchange for my own honest review.

This novel is due for release on November 17, 2020.

[Richard Mills · Rating 5 out of 5]

Blood on Their Hands is one of those legal thrillers that grabs you early and refuses to let go. From the very first pages, I was pulled into Alec Monceau’s nightmare—a man simply trying to live honestly, whose life is shattered by a brutal and unjust system. The premise alone feels painfully real, especially set against the charged atmosphere of Barack Obama’s 2008 election, and it gives the story a strong emotional and social weight.

What truly makes this book stand out, though, is Hiram Garbuncle. He’s not your typical hero—in fact, he’s deeply flawed, often unlikeable, and morally conflicted. Yet somehow, that’s what makes him fascinating. Watching a character who is openly prejudiced and self-destructive take on a case like Alec’s creates a powerful tension throughout the story. I found myself both frustrated with him and rooting for him at the same time, which is a rare and compelling experience.

The courtroom drama is sharp and engaging, with twists that kept me guessing. Just when I thought the story would follow a predictable legal path, it veered into something darker and more dangerous. The shift from a legal battle to a fight for survival raises the stakes in a way that feels intense and unpredictable.

I also appreciated the emotional layer added by the love story. It brings a softer, human side to an otherwise gritty and brutal narrative, reminding readers what’s truly at stake beyond the courtroom.

At times, Garbuncle’s arrogance and reckless decisions were frustrating, especially during key moments like the mistrial. But even those flaws serve a purpose—they make his journey toward something resembling redemption feel more earned.

Overall, Blood on Their Hands is a gripping, thought-provoking read that blends legal suspense with social commentary and raw human emotion. It’s not just a story about justice—it’s about flawed people navigating a broken system, and what it takes to stand up when it matters most. Highly recommended for fans of intense, character-driven legal dramas.

[Jane Smith · Rating 4 out of 5]

Blood on Their Hands by Bob Brink is a gripping and emotionally charged legal thriller that doesn’t just tell a story—it confronts you with uncomfortable truths.

From the very beginning, Alec Monceau’s situation is both heartbreaking and infuriating. Watching a hardworking immigrant become the victim of brutality and systemic injustice simply because of something as small as a bumper sticker sets a powerful and unsettling tone. It immediately pulls you into a world where doing everything right still isn’t enough.

But the real surprise of the novel is Hiram Garbuncle. He is, without question, one of the most flawed and morally complex characters I’ve come across in legal fiction. Racist, arrogant, and deeply cynical, he is not someone you expect to root for—and yet, as the story unfolds, you can’t look away. His reluctant involvement in Alec’s case evolves into something far more compelling, especially as his ego and recklessness begin to cost him dearly.

The courtroom drama is sharp and intense, with twists that keep the tension high—particularly when the case spirals from a legal battle into something far more dangerous. The shift from trial strategy to survival adds an unexpected layer of suspense that makes the book hard to put down.

What really elevates the story, though, is its emotional core. The love story woven into the narrative adds warmth and vulnerability, balancing the harsh realities of injustice and violence. It reminds you that behind every case are real lives, real relationships, and real stakes.

Set during the 2008 Obama election, the novel feels both timely and timeless, reflecting ongoing issues of racism and police brutality. It doesn’t offer easy answers, but it does force you to think—and that’s what makes it powerful.

Overall, Blood on Their Hands is a compelling mix of legal drama, social commentary, and character-driven storytelling. It’s intense, thought-provoking, and at times unsettling, but absolutely worth the read—especially if you enjoy stories that challenge both the system and the people within it.

[KatsCauldron R · Rating 3 out of 5]

There are some major issues brought up in this book & the author did a good job but should have done some more physical research & actually been around some of the cultures peoples or read up on & listened to them more in any documentary they could acquire. The attempt was more than valent as well as the need for a book like this.
This is a gritty book with antihero main. An alcoholic mess middle aged racist lawyer this side of totally disgraced is drunkenly in a car with a friend when they watch a couple cops pull over a Black man & beat him half to death. SO this lawyer then pulls a mess & gets thrown in jail too trying to get a former fling out of getting arrested a while later & sees the dude again in passing in jail. Later on a few days he and his friend go in & look at computers to see & talk to the same beaten guy working at the store & buy a couple computers from the store guy that was beat who then offers to help them set up after work. Written in almost 50s noir his side kick friend while having some serious issues to being paired with this guy has an altruistic outlook & tries to get some redemption out of his alcoholic buddy in seeing what is more morally/ethically correct. His desire to help the Trinidadian Alec & get the lawyer to represent him which is like pulling hens teeth for multiple reasons. For starter a very real & valid one would be that they were witnesses to what happened. Going against the cops puts bullseyes on their back both with the pair that beat this guy up but any other cop on the force or around. At this point the only way to get anywhere in this case would have been federal realistically. Also, while it was cute for sidekick to reminisce over calling an imperial wizard a grand poobah the same would have gotten him beaten senseless or killed on the spot. There are some other real jagged edges in this but all in all it was a goodd effort on some bad subjects

[Donna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Blood on Their Hands is a gripping legal thriller that goes beyond courtroom drama and dives into the messy, uncomfortable realities of race, power, and justice in America. From the very beginning, the story pulls you in with Alec Monceau’s brutal encounter with police — a moment that feels both shocking and all too real.

What really makes this book stand out is Hiram Garbuncle. He’s not your typical heroic defense attorney. In fact, he’s deeply flawed — arrogant, abrasive, and openly prejudiced — yet somehow still compelling. Watching him take on Alec’s case, initially for all the wrong reasons, and slowly become entangled in something much bigger than himself is one of the most interesting parts of the novel. His character adds a layer of unpredictability that keeps the story engaging.

The plot moves at a strong pace, especially once the case begins to unravel and the stakes shift from legal victory to personal survival. The mistrial twist and the deeper conspiracy elements raise the tension effectively, making it hard to put the book down in the second half.

Beyond the thriller aspect, the novel doesn’t shy away from heavier themes. It tackles police brutality, systemic racism, and the social climate around the 2008 Obama election in a way that feels intentional and relevant. At times, it can feel a bit heavy-handed, but the emotional core — particularly the love story woven throughout — helps balance the intensity with moments of humanity and vulnerability.

If there’s a weakness, it’s that some elements lean toward the dramatic or exaggerated side, especially in the later twists. Still, for fans of legal dramas like John Grisham or Scott Turow, this book delivers plenty of suspense, strong conflict, and memorable characters.

Overall, Blood on Their Hands is a bold, fast-paced read that combines legal intrigue with timely social commentary. It’s not always subtle, but it’s definitely impactful.

[Charlotte Rose · Rating 5 out of 5]

Blood on Their Hands by Bob Brink is a gripping and emotionally charged legal thriller set against the tense backdrop of the 2008 U.S. presidential election. The novel follows Alec Monceau, a hardworking immigrant who becomes the victim of police brutality simply because of an Obama bumper sticker on his car. His story immediately draws readers into a harsh reality of racial injustice and abuse of power.

One of the most compelling aspects of the book is the character of Hiram Garbuncle, the defense attorney who takes Alec’s case. Garbuncle is deeply flawed—racist, arrogant, and an alcoholic—yet he is also brilliant and impossible to ignore. His reluctant decision to defend Alec creates a powerful internal conflict that adds depth to the story. Watching his character evolve throughout the novel is both frustrating and fascinating.

The plot is intense and full of unexpected twists. From the courtroom drama to the shocking discoveries about the police officers involved, the story keeps readers on edge. The mistrial caused by Garbuncle’s overconfidence adds another layer of tension, showing how even the smartest individuals can make critical mistakes.

In addition to the legal suspense, the novel includes a touching love story that brings warmth and emotional balance to the narrative. This element reminds readers of the human side of the struggle for justice and what is truly at stake.

Overall, Blood on Their Hands is a powerful and thought-provoking novel that tackles important issues such as racism, police brutality, and redemption. Fans of legal thrillers like A Time to Kill will find this book especially engaging. It is a compelling read that not only entertains but also encourages reflection on real-world social issues.

[Carolinne Casella · Rating 5 out of 5]

Blood on Their Hands by Bob Brink hooked me from the first page and didn’t let go. The story introduces Alec Monceau, a hardworking immigrant whose life is shattered by a brutal police beating, setting up a tense and timely legal thriller. The true standout, however, is Hiram Garbuncle, a racist, alcoholic defense attorney who is as repugnant as he is brilliant—an unforgettable character I shouldn’t have liked but couldn’t stop reading about. Watching Garbuncle reluctantly take on Alec’s case pro bono makes for a fascinating, slow-burn redemption arc that feels earned rather than forced. The courtroom drama is razor-sharp, filled with the kind of gritty, realistic detail that fans of John Grisham will love. A critical mistake during jury selection leads to a mistrial, and the plot takes an explosive turn into dangerous territory, raising the stakes from a simple legal battle to a fight for survival. The romantic subplot provides a surprising amount of heart, adding warmth and vulnerability that balances the novel’s darker themes. Set against the charged backdrop of Obama’s 2008 election, the story holds a powerful mirror to issues of racial injustice and police brutality that remain painfully relevant today. The pacing is relentless, weaving together dark humor, shocking twists, and genuine suspense without ever losing sight of its emotional core. This is a gripping, thought-provoking read that I would highly recommend to anyone looking for a legal thriller with both substance and style.

[John · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received this book through NetGalley and the publisher. This story starts slowly at the beginning, but the drama picks up right away.

The story begins with Alec being stopped by police and winds up being beaten. While this is going on, Ham and Hitch pass the car and pull over he side of the road because Ham is feeling ill. They happen to see the attack on Alec. After getting back in their car, they see another police car pulled over and Ham asked Hitch to stop because his girlfriend Donna was being brought up on DUI and Ham tried to see her, but wound up being arrested.

As the story proceeds, Ham ultimately agrees to defend Alec on the resisting arrest and other charges. The 1st trial ends in a mistrial and while preparing for the retrial, Ham discovers information and ultimately winds up with his girlfriend hurt in an accident and dying and Hap's car being blown up. Hap along with Hitch and one of Ham 's tenants start looking into the individuals who arrested Alec. Danger seemed to follow them.

Up till the time of the retrial, another lawyer offered Ham a proposition regarding Alec's case. To find out who the lawyer represented, what parties were behind the danger that were aimed at Ham and his friends, and what the result of Alec's case was, then you must read this book.

[Kim M · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is another wonderful novel by Bob Brink. I love his writing style and "Blood On Their Hands" is another well-written, top-notch book. The premise of the storyline centers around a racist, cheap lawyer that his convinced by his best friend to represent a black man falsely arrested on the charge of violent resisting arrest. Hiram Garbuncle is a long time criminal defense attorney with a drinking problem who agrees to represent Alec Monceau, a computer store employee from Trinidad barely making minimum wage, but sending money home to help support his family. Alec is a very helpful. likable guy that Hiram is working for pro bono for. When the first trial ends in a mistrial, Hiram uncovers incriminating evidence against the two arresting officers putting both him and Alec in mortal danger. "Blood On Their Hands" has an excellent storyline with great dialogue. Bob Brink provides us with wonderful descriptions of people and places. It's a fast-paced, page-turner that pulls the reader in from the first page. Brink is one of my favorite authors and he definitely didn't disappoint with this one. I loved "Blood On Their Hands" and give it a big 10 out of 10. You can't go wrong with this one. I highly recommend it!

[Luanne · Rating 5 out of 5]

This novel brings to light the heart wrenching issues of police violence on innocent black people, the consequences of racism in our society, injustice to those with little resources to defend themselves, and the moral dilemma faced by professionals and ordinary citizens in our current lives.

Bob Brink-an American novelist and journalist weaves a tale that brings to light the private lives of seasoned attorneys, ordinary law abiding immigrants, police corruption, KKK clubs, and violence that goes unchecked in todays society.

With our headlines showcasing the crimes of unbridled power, road side killings of innocent black people and the crumbling foundations of law and order Bobs novel pulls you in and keeps you fully engaged to the very end. Bobs keen eye for colorful character building captures the human flaws of people and how they impact everyday lives.

“If you see something, say something”-is the moral dilemma brought into shocking view in this
well written novel. It leaves you thinking: “what would I do,” and , at times: “there for the grace of God, goes I”. Highly recommend.

[Ciclochick · Rating 3 out of 5]

This made for some difficult reading. Although set in 2008, it is shockingly prescient: the focus of the story is the unwarranted, severe beating of a US immigrant by two policemen. I'm sure that rings a very loud bell.

So we're talking racism; but then there's the lawyer, Hiram Garbuncle, (who also happened to be a witness to the event) defending the victim. He's an alcoholic, or a functioning alcoholic as he calls himself, which to me is an oxymoron. An alcoholic doesn't function, he's always drunk. He's also a bit of a slob, as tight as a cat's patootie and generally rather unlikeable. How or why his best friend, or anyone, in fact, sticks by him is beyond me. Even more incomprehensible is how he's still a lawyer: he's wasted most of the time. And, despite his resolve to get justice for the victim, there's a streak of racism running through him too: it's uncomfortable.

A raw subject, a lot of unpleasant characters, some rather clumsy dialogue: nevertheless, you're compellingly nudged to read on. Garbuncle has to dodge death and bullets and suffer tragedy to get justice. Enough to make him sober up, you'd think.

I have to say, for all that (and despite the victim, Alec, morphing momentarily into an Eric (!!!)), I did enjoy this. It moves along apace and despite Garbuncle's unattractiveness, you do find yourself rooting for him. I think the author has been rather clever here. I might have to admit that I'd be tempted to read a Garbuncle sequel!

[Michael · Rating 5 out of 5]

Blood on Their Hands by Bob Brink is a gripping and emotionally charged legal thriller that pulls you in from the very first page and doesn’t let go.

The story follows Alec Monceau, a hardworking immigrant whose life is turned upside down after a brutal encounter with the police. What makes this novel especially compelling is how real and timely it feels, set against the tense atmosphere of the 2008 Obama election. The themes of racial injustice and police brutality are handled in a way that is both unsettling and thought-provoking.

But the true standout of the book is Hiram Garbuncle — a deeply flawed, controversial, yet strangely captivating defense attorney. He is not your typical hero, and that’s what makes him so interesting. Watching his reluctant involvement in Alec’s case evolve into something deeper adds a strong layer of character development and unpredictability.

The courtroom drama is sharp and intense, with twists that keep you guessing. Just when you think you understand where the story is going, it takes a darker and more dangerous turn. The added element of a love story brings emotional balance, giving the narrative moments of vulnerability amid the tension.

At times, the pacing can feel a bit rushed, especially around major turning points, and Garbuncle’s character may be difficult for some readers to connect with due to his abrasive nature. However, these elements also contribute to the raw and unfiltered feel of the story.

Overall, Blood on Their Hands is a powerful and engaging read — perfect for fans of legal thrillers who appreciate complex characters and socially relevant themes. It’s not just a story about justice in the courtroom, but also about personal transformation and what it means to stand up for what is right, even when it’s uncomfortable.

[BooksCoffee · Rating 5 out of 5]

With a grim picture of racism embodied in the theme, Brink’s latest introduces a racist and miserly alcoholic yet loveable hero, a criminal defense attorney who finds himself in the middle of violent conspiracies involving Klan members.

The assault by white cops on the Trinidadian immigrant Alec Monceau gets Hiram Garbuncle, a hard-core racist and alcoholic and a veteran criminal defense attorney, drawn in the investigation and leads to the latter ending up representing Alec in the court albeit reluctantly. But soon the trial becomes an exercise in keeping himself and his client alive.

Powered by expert plotting and topnotch characterization, the story pulls reader in, keeping them turning pages until the exhilarating, tension-filled ending. Imaginative prose and sharp dialogue are bonus points.

Despite the issues of racism and corruption at its heart, the novel is a tension-filled, fast-paced crime drama that lovers of finely constructed crime thrillers won’t want to miss.

Deliciously readable!

[Shannon Hale · Rating 5 out of 5]

Some books you read and forget. Others stay with you—not just because of the plot, but because of the characters who seem to climb inside your head and refuse to leave. Bob Brink’s Blood on Their Hands is very much the latter. From the opening pages set in 2008 South Florida, this novel grabbed me with its timely subject matter, but it was the deeply flawed, utterly unforgettable cast that kept me turning pages late into the night.

The story begins with Alec Monceau, a hardworking Black immigrant from Trinidad who is doing everything right. He supports his family back home, keeps his head down, and believes in the promise of America. His only crime, it seems, is displaying an Obama bumper sticker on his car. What follows is a savage police beating, a false arrest, and a charge that feels designed to crush him before he ever sees a courtroom. Brink handles these opening scenes with unflinching honesty, capturing the terror and helplessness of a man caught in a system that sees him as guilty before any evidence is heard.

[Shomeret · Rating 4 out of 5]

I told Bob Brink that I didn't want to finish his book because I had a problem. He'd given me a review copy and asked me to give the book another chance.

The lawyer protagonist was saddled with negative traits and a name that initially undermined him in my view. If I were an attorney who was born with that name, I'd change it. Yet over the course of the narrative, Garbuncle turned out to be more competent than I expected. I eventually found him admirable because he overcame his own racism to represent his black client well under challenging circumstances.

It seemed to me that the author was deliberately showing characters that are normally highly respected in a poor light, and portraying characters who are normally looked down on as being worthy of respect. I give the author points for this reversal strategy.

[Janalyn, the blind reviewer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Blood on their hands is about one of my favorite topics police brutality. It goes on yet so many deny it or don’t want to talk about it. Well Robert brink wrote a whole book about it and it is so good. The best thing about this book and all Bob Brinks books that they have conversations that normal people have. He doesn’t put in booktalk or fake conversations that everyone knows I’m not all normal people talk. His characters talk the way we talk and I love that about Robert Brink. No put that great talent with a great plot and you have yes a great book! I was given this book in exchange for an honest opinion and this is my honest opinion it doesn’t get much better than blood on their hands by Bob brink. He is quickly becoming one of my favorite authors and I can’t wait to read more by him.

[Frank · Rating 5 out of 5]

Involving courtroom thriller

Thriller torn from the front pages of the news. Veteran defense Attorney Hiram Garbuncle witnesses the beating of Alec Monceau, a black man, after what should have been a routine traffic stop. Ham’s friend pushes Ham into defending Alec against the racist police. Ham, however, is both a racist and an alcoholic, and so is reluctant to get involved. After a hung jury trial, aspects of police corruption raise their ugly head, leading to confrontations, violence, and murder. Ham’s friends support him but become involved in the danger, helping to drive the story to a thrilling conclusion. The actors in the story discuss aspects of racism and its origins. The story is both provocative and entertaining, and hard to put down.

[Steve · Rating 5 out of 5]

Blood On Their Hands by veteran author and journalist Bob Brink is a well-told tale of racism, heroism, and small-town law and order. The story is centered on a criminal defense lawyer who by his admission, is prejudiced against African Americans. The attorney and his friend witness two cops beat a black driver after stopping the driver for a minor traffic offense. Despite the lawyer's bias, his friend cajoles him into defending the black driver. The plot develops nicely and the reader is treated to a modern-day lesson about the evils of ignorance, bias, and hate. Blood On Their Hands is reminiscent of some of our better courtroom/legal dramas. A thoroughly enjoyable and exciting read awaits those fortunate to buy this outstanding novel.

[Pat · Rating 5 out of 5]

Blood on Their Hands by Bob Brink is a well written engaging mystery. The characters are well written and likeable including Hiram (Ham) Garbuncle. Ham is a racist, messy, lazy, heavy drinking, extremely "thrifty" attorney. He reluctantly takes on a pro bono case for a black/Hispanic man falsely charged with resisting arrest after being beaten by cops. Something Ham learns changes him from being an uncaring, drunken attorney in the courtroom into a determined man who will put himself and his best friend in danger to get the evidence needed to prove his case. This is a fast paced page turned you won't want to put down. Thank you to author Bob Brink for an ARC.

[Maria Genuine · Rating 5 out of 5]

Blood on Their Hands is a powerful, gripping, and timely novel that does not shy away from hard truths. Bob Brink builds a tense legal thriller around racial injustice, moral conflict, and the consequences of silence. What makes the story especially compelling is the imperfect but very human lead character, whose flaws make the journey feel even more real. The plot moves with purpose, the stakes keep rising, and the social issues at the center of the book give it real weight. This is the kind of story that stays with you long after the last page. Highly recommended for readers who enjoy courtroom drama with depth, intensity, and relevance.

[Lois Strachan · Rating 3 out of 5]

A fast-paced crime/legal thriller focusing on important themes of racism and police brutality and corruption.

I found it difficult to connect with most of the main characters, probably because of their overt racism, but decided to stick with the book to see how it would develop. Some interesting twists along the way and the lawyer, who is initially portrayed as alcoholic, racist and morally flawed, is at least partially redeemed by the end of the book.

Probably not an author I’d personally revisit, as I don’t often read crime or legal thrillers, but a compelling and topical read.

[Jay Williams · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story stars a pair of middle-aged men, an alcoholic lawyer and a newspaper reporter. The action is kicked off when they witness a young black being beaten by two policemen. The writing is clear and easy to read. Unnecessary descriptions don't appear. The violence and death are handled without being gory. The plot provides emotional swings and a satisfying ending. I received a copy of this book from Hidden Gems and truly enjoyed it.