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Dre Thomas and Angela Evans #4
Failure to Protect
The author of the award-winning thriller Anybody’s Daughter is back
with an addictive legal thriller that tackles bullying and its devastating aftermath.
What Really Goes on Behind School Doors?
When the classroom is no longer a safe space for her child, a grieving mother is determined to seek justice for her bullied daughter. Enter hard-charging attorneys Angela Evans and Jenny Ungerman. From the very start, the two lawyers face more than an uphill battle. An ambitious school principal is far more concerned about protecting her career than getting to the truth. She flat out denies any knowledge of the bullying and prefers to sweep everything under the rug. But just how low will she go? As the battle enters the courtroom, the attorneys fight hard to expose the truth. But will a massive coverup hinder their quest for justice?
with an addictive legal thriller that tackles bullying and its devastating aftermath.
What Really Goes on Behind School Doors?
When the classroom is no longer a safe space for her child, a grieving mother is determined to seek justice for her bullied daughter. Enter hard-charging attorneys Angela Evans and Jenny Ungerman. From the very start, the two lawyers face more than an uphill battle. An ambitious school principal is far more concerned about protecting her career than getting to the truth. She flat out denies any knowledge of the bullying and prefers to sweep everything under the rug. But just how low will she go? As the battle enters the courtroom, the attorneys fight hard to expose the truth. But will a massive coverup hinder their quest for justice?
412 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 22, 2019
168 people are currently reading
471 people want to read
About the author
Pamela Samuels Young
28 books457 followersAward-winning author and attorney Pamela Samuels Young writes mysteries that matter. Dubbed “John Grisham with a sister’s twist” by one reviewer, Pamela’s fast-paced novels tackle important social issues.
Her most recent legal thriller, Failure to Protect, takes on the bullying epidemic and its devastating aftermath. Pamela won the prestigious NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Fiction for her thriller Anybody’s Daughter, which provides a realistic look inside the world of child sex trafficking. Her courtroom drama Abuse of Discretion centers around a troubling teen sexting case. #Anybody’s Daughter and #Abuse of Discretion are young adult editions of the two books. A young adult version of Failure to Protect is forthcoming.
Pamela also writes erotically sassy romantic suspense under the pen name Sassy Sinclair. A natural hair enthusiast, Pamela writes about her own empowering natural hair journey in Kinky Coily: A Natural Hair Resource Guide.
Prior to retiring from the practice of law to write full time, Pamela worked as Managing Counsel for Toyota specializing in labor and employment law. A former journalist, she spent several years as a television news writer and associate producer in Detroit and Los Angeles. Pamela received her bachelor’s degree from USC and also earned graduate degrees from Northwestern University and UC Berkeley School of Law. The Compton native is a frequent speaker on the topics of sex trafficking, bullying, online safety, fiction writing, self-empowerment, and pursuing your passion.
Pamela loves connecting with her fans! To invite her to a speaking engage or a book club meeting via Skype, Facebook Live, FaceTime, Zoom, speakerphone or in person, email her at authorpamelasamuelsyoung@gmail.com. To read excerpts of Pamela’s books, visit her websites at www.pamelasamuelsyoung.com and www.sassysinclair.com .
Her most recent legal thriller, Failure to Protect, takes on the bullying epidemic and its devastating aftermath. Pamela won the prestigious NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Fiction for her thriller Anybody’s Daughter, which provides a realistic look inside the world of child sex trafficking. Her courtroom drama Abuse of Discretion centers around a troubling teen sexting case. #Anybody’s Daughter and #Abuse of Discretion are young adult editions of the two books. A young adult version of Failure to Protect is forthcoming.
Pamela also writes erotically sassy romantic suspense under the pen name Sassy Sinclair. A natural hair enthusiast, Pamela writes about her own empowering natural hair journey in Kinky Coily: A Natural Hair Resource Guide.
Prior to retiring from the practice of law to write full time, Pamela worked as Managing Counsel for Toyota specializing in labor and employment law. A former journalist, she spent several years as a television news writer and associate producer in Detroit and Los Angeles. Pamela received her bachelor’s degree from USC and also earned graduate degrees from Northwestern University and UC Berkeley School of Law. The Compton native is a frequent speaker on the topics of sex trafficking, bullying, online safety, fiction writing, self-empowerment, and pursuing your passion.
Pamela loves connecting with her fans! To invite her to a speaking engage or a book club meeting via Skype, Facebook Live, FaceTime, Zoom, speakerphone or in person, email her at authorpamelasamuelsyoung@gmail.com. To read excerpts of Pamela’s books, visit her websites at www.pamelasamuelsyoung.com and www.sassysinclair.com .
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews
November 22, 2019
3.75*
This is book 4 of the Dre Thomas and Angela Evans series. And though I own books 1-3, (presently unread), I dove right into this after gladly receiving my copy from Goodreads - Giveaways.
This book deals with many heavy issues that we now witness in the forefront of today’s society.
The dominating topic was that of bullying and suicide in our schools.
It‘s horrific to see the despicable levels that the bullying often escalates to. And with social media lighting a fire behind it! It’s just off the charts. Words just cannot say....
In this legal thriller the author takes on the schools and their responsibility to protect our children.
Bailey Lewis is continually being bullied at school and on her social media. There is no escape. And she feels she cannot turn to anyone to help. Even her most beloved teacher may not be able to save her from the wrath of her schoolmates.
A fairly long read but at no time did the pace slow. It kept my attention throughout. It can easily be read as a stand-alone (as I did). But now I look forward to seeing how these characters all came to be, so I’ll likely go back and “dust” the first 3 books off my kindle shelf!
Thank you to Goodreads Giveaways!
This is book 4 of the Dre Thomas and Angela Evans series. And though I own books 1-3, (presently unread), I dove right into this after gladly receiving my copy from Goodreads - Giveaways.
This book deals with many heavy issues that we now witness in the forefront of today’s society.
The dominating topic was that of bullying and suicide in our schools.
It‘s horrific to see the despicable levels that the bullying often escalates to. And with social media lighting a fire behind it! It’s just off the charts. Words just cannot say....
In this legal thriller the author takes on the schools and their responsibility to protect our children.
Bailey Lewis is continually being bullied at school and on her social media. There is no escape. And she feels she cannot turn to anyone to help. Even her most beloved teacher may not be able to save her from the wrath of her schoolmates.
A fairly long read but at no time did the pace slow. It kept my attention throughout. It can easily be read as a stand-alone (as I did). But now I look forward to seeing how these characters all came to be, so I’ll likely go back and “dust” the first 3 books off my kindle shelf!
Thank you to Goodreads Giveaways!
February 25, 2020
If ever there was a book which would grab you by the throat, it is this book. If ever there was a book which would cause your soul to shiver, it is this book. If ever there was a book which would cause tears to flow, it is this book. If ever there was a book which would fill your blood with vengeance, it is this book.
Author Pamela Samuels Young has written an explosive story based on true events happening all around the world. Bullying at school and the repercussions.
I was bullied on Facebook based on the color of my skin and supposedly lack of education. I had a breakdown when the so called 'friends' called me a names. It took me months to recover; in the interim, I started this blog. There were a few authors too involved in passing on the rumor. A few comments brought me to my knees, imagine what it would do to a child of 9 years when her classmates bullied her to the point of asking her to die.
Bailey was bullied in school, she had just lost her father a few months ago. Unable to take more stress when on Instagram, in school, scripted on walls, on desks, she was told to die repeatedly, she committed suicide. And her mother and friends decided to sue the school. Certain facts came to life later.
This was one of the best books I had read this year. The slow simmer of my anger spread through my veins reading the chapters of the book. My heart broke for Bailey. I, as an adult, couldn't take a few words of bullying, how was a child supposed to cope? The author has highlighted how people covered up fact to protect their own reputation. There were a lot of social nuances she brought up that caused me to think.
The book hit me with its emotions, empathy, sadness, pain, anger, righteousness. My heart was a seive at the end of the read where everything I felt flowed down by cheeks as tears. Though justice did prevail, but a beautiful life was still lost forever.
How could color of skin matter, it is just melanin. I have assisted a lot of surgeries, held every organ in my hand. Believe me, once the skin is cut, it is all the same. So how does melanin matter? I fail to understand the thoughts which prevail in the minds of people. Are we going forward or backward as a society?
The book had everything, the thrill of a legal court case where the lawyers struggled for justice, the pain of a mother and relatives when they found the child dead, the helplessness when the school refused to take responsibility, the silence of the teachers in the face of injustice, and the suffering of the child Bailey.
I was speechless at the end of the read!!
Author Pamela Samuels Young has written an explosive story based on true events happening all around the world. Bullying at school and the repercussions.
I was bullied on Facebook based on the color of my skin and supposedly lack of education. I had a breakdown when the so called 'friends' called me a names. It took me months to recover; in the interim, I started this blog. There were a few authors too involved in passing on the rumor. A few comments brought me to my knees, imagine what it would do to a child of 9 years when her classmates bullied her to the point of asking her to die.
Bailey was bullied in school, she had just lost her father a few months ago. Unable to take more stress when on Instagram, in school, scripted on walls, on desks, she was told to die repeatedly, she committed suicide. And her mother and friends decided to sue the school. Certain facts came to life later.
This was one of the best books I had read this year. The slow simmer of my anger spread through my veins reading the chapters of the book. My heart broke for Bailey. I, as an adult, couldn't take a few words of bullying, how was a child supposed to cope? The author has highlighted how people covered up fact to protect their own reputation. There were a lot of social nuances she brought up that caused me to think.
The book hit me with its emotions, empathy, sadness, pain, anger, righteousness. My heart was a seive at the end of the read where everything I felt flowed down by cheeks as tears. Though justice did prevail, but a beautiful life was still lost forever.
How could color of skin matter, it is just melanin. I have assisted a lot of surgeries, held every organ in my hand. Believe me, once the skin is cut, it is all the same. So how does melanin matter? I fail to understand the thoughts which prevail in the minds of people. Are we going forward or backward as a society?
The book had everything, the thrill of a legal court case where the lawyers struggled for justice, the pain of a mother and relatives when they found the child dead, the helplessness when the school refused to take responsibility, the silence of the teachers in the face of injustice, and the suffering of the child Bailey.
I was speechless at the end of the read!!
March 1, 2020
Erika is a grieving mother that is trying to get justice for her bullied daughter Bailey. She doesn’t think that the school did enough to protect her child. When attorneys Angela Evans and Jenny Ungerman decide to take Erika’s case, they may have bit off more than they can chew. Darcella Freeman is the principal of Parker Elementary school. She will do anything to make sure her school has a spotless reputation no matter what the cost. Tensions are running high as the court case gets underway. Will Angela and Jenny be able to win this case?
Failure to Protect is an excellent book by Pamela Samuels Young. She does a good job of tackling the hard subject of child bullying and the devastating consequences. Readers should not shy away from this book. This story is the signature legal thriller that you expect from Young. But as soon as you think that you have the story all figured out, there’s that unexpected twist that Young is known for. Failure to Protect is perfect for book clubs, educators, and anyone who loves legal thrillers with a twist.
Reviewed by Radiah Hubbert
Failure to Protect is an excellent book by Pamela Samuels Young. She does a good job of tackling the hard subject of child bullying and the devastating consequences. Readers should not shy away from this book. This story is the signature legal thriller that you expect from Young. But as soon as you think that you have the story all figured out, there’s that unexpected twist that Young is known for. Failure to Protect is perfect for book clubs, educators, and anyone who loves legal thrillers with a twist.
Reviewed by Radiah Hubbert
August 16, 2020
This book was SO good. It kept me interested throughout, which is hard to do. I'll put a book down in a nanosecond if it's not up to par, but the pacing in this is great, like all her other books. I will read anything from her because I always learn something new, and I can never predict the twists and turns, and this book is full of them. Enjoy!
October 27, 2019
When you thought you had dealt with something, but a book is so vivid in its telling that it brings it all back...
When I was in Jr. High, I was bullied. She was a white girl with frosted hair a mile high and thick pink tinted lips. She and her friends tortured me all of 9th grade... at my locker, between classes, at the bus stop, I got threats of "beat downs" and other bodily harm on a daily basis. That girl was all talk, really... until she and her friends splashed paint on my coat. My parents had enough.
Considering we lived on base and this girl was close enough ride the same bus, my dad rolled on over to her house and let them know that their daughter need to watch her mouth and her hands. Because my dad outranked her and there was a code of conduct, so if something else happened, he was going to take it up the ranks. Didn't hear from that girl again.
Imagine if I didn't feel like I could tell my parents what was happening? Imagine an impressionable child believing everyone would be happy if they were gone.
When I say I wanted to swing on a child, her teacher, AND the principal in this book? BAHLEEVE IT.
This story, and the ensuing case against the school and the principal? Page turning drama. This is a good, long anticipated read from Pamela Samuels Young.
When I was in Jr. High, I was bullied. She was a white girl with frosted hair a mile high and thick pink tinted lips. She and her friends tortured me all of 9th grade... at my locker, between classes, at the bus stop, I got threats of "beat downs" and other bodily harm on a daily basis. That girl was all talk, really... until she and her friends splashed paint on my coat. My parents had enough.
Considering we lived on base and this girl was close enough ride the same bus, my dad rolled on over to her house and let them know that their daughter need to watch her mouth and her hands. Because my dad outranked her and there was a code of conduct, so if something else happened, he was going to take it up the ranks. Didn't hear from that girl again.
Imagine if I didn't feel like I could tell my parents what was happening? Imagine an impressionable child believing everyone would be happy if they were gone.
When I say I wanted to swing on a child, her teacher, AND the principal in this book? BAHLEEVE IT.
This story, and the ensuing case against the school and the principal? Page turning drama. This is a good, long anticipated read from Pamela Samuels Young.
February 10, 2020
The one thing I fear the most for my kids is bullying at school, thankfully we haven't had to deal with that (for the moment and long may that continue) but I hope that if my kids are being bullied they would feel they could tell me.
My heart broke for Bailey- I was not expecting her to pass so early in the book - in fact at all! That was a real shock and yeah I cried right along with everyone of her family, but oh my god that principle! Words can not describe how I feel about her and how she was happy to sweep the whole bulling thing under the carpet least it effect her career! And threatening Bailey's teacher to keep quiet - no ... no that is all kinds of wrong.
This book will delve you into the a world of cover-up's, legalities and the death of a nine year old child who died needlessly due to some principle on a power trip doing everything she can to cover up bullying at her school.
Never had a book effected me so much in a long time, and I glad to have the chance to read this book (I wasn't aware it was part of a series, but that did not stop this being easily read as a stand alone)
5 stars
My heart broke for Bailey- I was not expecting her to pass so early in the book - in fact at all! That was a real shock and yeah I cried right along with everyone of her family, but oh my god that principle! Words can not describe how I feel about her and how she was happy to sweep the whole bulling thing under the carpet least it effect her career! And threatening Bailey's teacher to keep quiet - no ... no that is all kinds of wrong.
This book will delve you into the a world of cover-up's, legalities and the death of a nine year old child who died needlessly due to some principle on a power trip doing everything she can to cover up bullying at her school.
Never had a book effected me so much in a long time, and I glad to have the chance to read this book (I wasn't aware it was part of a series, but that did not stop this being easily read as a stand alone)
5 stars
November 10, 2019
This was a very good story. After reading the first few pages, it was impossible for me to put this one down until the end. There were times that Dre had me nervous as his feelings caused him to be unpredictable. Angela and Jenny made a powerful team. My heart went out to Bailey and the treatment she endured at school. Well written as the characters and situations were realistic and had me feeling as if I knew them. Though emotional at times, this is a story I highly recommend all to read
November 1, 2019
So much more
This author is selling me on the idea of being a fighter for the underdog. Dre and Angela rode in on a big black Proud horse to save the day. The tale had some things to think about moments, and a lesson for all. Good story.
This author is selling me on the idea of being a fighter for the underdog. Dre and Angela rode in on a big black Proud horse to save the day. The tale had some things to think about moments, and a lesson for all. Good story.
November 1, 2019
This book made me both mad and sad. It’s hard to say I enjoyed it because the people were infuriating and the topic was brutal but it was a good read.
January 16, 2020
Loved it
Great book as usual and very important subject matter. I love how the lawyers go to bat for their clients. Almost makes me wish I was a lawyer..... almost lol.
Great book as usual and very important subject matter. I love how the lawyers go to bat for their clients. Almost makes me wish I was a lawyer..... almost lol.
April 20, 2021
Failure To Protect covers the horrific and ongoing epidemic of bullying. It became even more widespread since the emergence of social media, which can and is being used as a weapon to persecute the person being bullied even more.
After Bailey Lewis recently lost her father, she and her mother moved house and Bailey started at a new school in the hopes of leaving the bullies behind. But Bailey again became a target and the victim of the school bully. She felt unable to let her mother know how bad things were, she would only get the usual platitudes, which didn’t help in the least. She couldn’t even make her godfather Dre understand how much she didn’t want to go to school.
{Just because I’m only nine years old, grown ups think I don’t have problems.
They tell me stupid stuff like, Bailey, you have to learn to stand up for yourself. Or Try to make friends with the bully. And the lamest one of all, Just ignore them and they’ll leave you alone.
I tried that last one about a thousand times. It definitely doesn’t work.}
Bailey had reported the bullying several times but no avail, since it’s not only children who were bullies. It was continuous and vicious and had reached the point where Bailey was terrified of going to school.
There’s an extremely serious and important message at the heart of this excellent legal drama. As well as vividly highlighting the terrible toll caused by constant bullying and how it affects susceptible children, Failure To Protect also touches on not taking a child’s concerns seriously enough. When the unthinkable happens, Bailey’s distraught mother begins proceedings against the school. Criminal defence attorneys, Angela Evans and Jenny Ungerman are determined to uncover the truth despite the odds being stacked against them.Some people however are only concerned with reputation and career above anything else, including the welfare of children in their charge.
Pamela Samuels Young again focusses on the dangers that can affect young children, the use of social media making an awful situation much worse. The shocking subject matter is handled well and realistically, with twists that added to the drama. Well written, emotional and thought provoking.
After Bailey Lewis recently lost her father, she and her mother moved house and Bailey started at a new school in the hopes of leaving the bullies behind. But Bailey again became a target and the victim of the school bully. She felt unable to let her mother know how bad things were, she would only get the usual platitudes, which didn’t help in the least. She couldn’t even make her godfather Dre understand how much she didn’t want to go to school.
{Just because I’m only nine years old, grown ups think I don’t have problems.
They tell me stupid stuff like, Bailey, you have to learn to stand up for yourself. Or Try to make friends with the bully. And the lamest one of all, Just ignore them and they’ll leave you alone.
I tried that last one about a thousand times. It definitely doesn’t work.}
Bailey had reported the bullying several times but no avail, since it’s not only children who were bullies. It was continuous and vicious and had reached the point where Bailey was terrified of going to school.
There’s an extremely serious and important message at the heart of this excellent legal drama. As well as vividly highlighting the terrible toll caused by constant bullying and how it affects susceptible children, Failure To Protect also touches on not taking a child’s concerns seriously enough. When the unthinkable happens, Bailey’s distraught mother begins proceedings against the school. Criminal defence attorneys, Angela Evans and Jenny Ungerman are determined to uncover the truth despite the odds being stacked against them.Some people however are only concerned with reputation and career above anything else, including the welfare of children in their charge.
Pamela Samuels Young again focusses on the dangers that can affect young children, the use of social media making an awful situation much worse. The shocking subject matter is handled well and realistically, with twists that added to the drama. Well written, emotional and thought provoking.
December 2, 2019
(This review will be on my blog All the Ups and Downs soon.)
--
I don't normally read legal thrillers, but there was something about Failure to Protect by Pamela Samuels Young that drew me in. I think it's because I was bullied as a child, but mostly because I'm a mom now. My oldest son has high functioning Autism and ADHD. He was bullied one year in school, and his school seemed to not do anything about it. Failure to Protect was a very emotional read, and I'm really glad I decided to give it a try.
The plot for Failure to Protect was solid. Nine-year-old Bailey Lewis is constantly being bullied at her school. When something major happens, Bailey's mother, Erika, decides to sue the elementary school. However, the principal, Darcella, is more concerned with keeping the school's good record intact instead of worrying about bullied students. The principal will do whatever it takes to make sure her school's stellar reputation doesn't get soiled even if it means doing some bullying herself.
Pamela Samuels Young did such a stellar job with the world building. Her knowledge of the court process and justice system is fantastic. Young is an attorney, and it's obvious she knows her stuff. Unfortunately, the subject of bullying in schools is all too real, and sadly, many schools are more worried about their reputation and all the paperwork and time a bullying case would take than actually caring about a bullied student. This fiction novel reads like a true story. There are a few plot twists which make this book even more interesting! Failure to Protect also answered every question I had. There's no speculation in Failure to Protect, and there's also no cliffhangers. This book is part of a series, but it's the first book I've read in the series, and I feel like it works as a standalone.
The pacing in Failure to Protect is done perfectly. Every single paragraph, and every single chapter flowed smoothly into the next. Not once did I want to put this book down. It had my attention throughout! I was also a fan of the short chapters which I felt helped with the pacing.
The best thing about Failure to Protect, besides everything, were the characters. Each character had such a unique personality which really helped them to feel like a real person rather than just a character in a novel. I loved little Bailey, and I just wanted to hug her and let her know that I'd protect her against her bully. It was heartbreaking reading about all she went through in her young life from losing her father not too long ago to being relentlessly bullied in school and online. I also felt horrible for her mother Erika. She also went through two horrible tragedies including one a parent should never have to go through. I was constantly in her corner, and I kept rooting for her throughout the whole bullying ordeal with the school. Erika felt like what happened to Bailey was mostly her fault, and I wanted to tell Erika that sometimes it's not easy to know everything about our children. Dre was my favorite character. I enjoyed his thought process and how passionate he was about everything. It was obvious how much he loved his goddaughter Bailey. I loved how Angela grew as a character when it came to her relationship with Erika. At first, she wasn't big on Erika, but it was obvious how much she did end up caring for her. Angela and Jenny were both fantastic attorneys, and I loved how they were willing to dedicate all their time and knowledge for Bailey's case. Darcella, the principal, was such a horrible person. Young did a fantastic job at creating Darcella to be the antagonist. So many times I was so angry with Darcella. I wanted to just shake her and ask her why she didn't do anything for Bailey. Darcella does explain why she decided to overlook the bullying, but I just wanted to know why she bothered to work in a profession dealing with children if she didn't have any empathy. I was so annoyed with Darcella. I was also annoyed with Ethan Landers, Darcella's attorney. I know he was just doing his job at the end of the day, but it wasn't easy to read about how he could just side with the enemy. Zola, Bailey's teacher, was also an interesting character. She was so conflicted about doing the right thing, and I liked reading about why she chose to do what she did. Apache, Dre's best friend, was a minor character in Failure to Protect, but he gets a mention because I loved his scenes. He was such a character, and I loved how comical he was especially when it came to helping out Dre.
Trigger warnings in Failure to Protect include bullying, racism, sexual situations (although not too graphic), suicide, death, lying, alcohol, mentions of past drug use and selling, profanity, and mentions of violence.
All in all, Failure to Protect is an emotionally well written novel. It would make a fantastic Lifetime movie - at least that's what I kept thinking whilst reading it. The story line is something that unfortunately is so commonplace in a lot of schools. I would definitely recommend Failure to Protect by Pamela Samuels Young to those aged 18+. I think this is a book that everyone should read and can relate to on at least some level. If you do decide to read Failure to Protect (which you should), please know that you'll feel a vast range of emotions!
--
(A special thank you to Pamela Samuels Young for providing me with an eBook of Failure to Protect in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.)
--
I don't normally read legal thrillers, but there was something about Failure to Protect by Pamela Samuels Young that drew me in. I think it's because I was bullied as a child, but mostly because I'm a mom now. My oldest son has high functioning Autism and ADHD. He was bullied one year in school, and his school seemed to not do anything about it. Failure to Protect was a very emotional read, and I'm really glad I decided to give it a try.
The plot for Failure to Protect was solid. Nine-year-old Bailey Lewis is constantly being bullied at her school. When something major happens, Bailey's mother, Erika, decides to sue the elementary school. However, the principal, Darcella, is more concerned with keeping the school's good record intact instead of worrying about bullied students. The principal will do whatever it takes to make sure her school's stellar reputation doesn't get soiled even if it means doing some bullying herself.
Pamela Samuels Young did such a stellar job with the world building. Her knowledge of the court process and justice system is fantastic. Young is an attorney, and it's obvious she knows her stuff. Unfortunately, the subject of bullying in schools is all too real, and sadly, many schools are more worried about their reputation and all the paperwork and time a bullying case would take than actually caring about a bullied student. This fiction novel reads like a true story. There are a few plot twists which make this book even more interesting! Failure to Protect also answered every question I had. There's no speculation in Failure to Protect, and there's also no cliffhangers. This book is part of a series, but it's the first book I've read in the series, and I feel like it works as a standalone.
The pacing in Failure to Protect is done perfectly. Every single paragraph, and every single chapter flowed smoothly into the next. Not once did I want to put this book down. It had my attention throughout! I was also a fan of the short chapters which I felt helped with the pacing.
The best thing about Failure to Protect, besides everything, were the characters. Each character had such a unique personality which really helped them to feel like a real person rather than just a character in a novel. I loved little Bailey, and I just wanted to hug her and let her know that I'd protect her against her bully. It was heartbreaking reading about all she went through in her young life from losing her father not too long ago to being relentlessly bullied in school and online. I also felt horrible for her mother Erika. She also went through two horrible tragedies including one a parent should never have to go through. I was constantly in her corner, and I kept rooting for her throughout the whole bullying ordeal with the school. Erika felt like what happened to Bailey was mostly her fault, and I wanted to tell Erika that sometimes it's not easy to know everything about our children. Dre was my favorite character. I enjoyed his thought process and how passionate he was about everything. It was obvious how much he loved his goddaughter Bailey. I loved how Angela grew as a character when it came to her relationship with Erika. At first, she wasn't big on Erika, but it was obvious how much she did end up caring for her. Angela and Jenny were both fantastic attorneys, and I loved how they were willing to dedicate all their time and knowledge for Bailey's case. Darcella, the principal, was such a horrible person. Young did a fantastic job at creating Darcella to be the antagonist. So many times I was so angry with Darcella. I wanted to just shake her and ask her why she didn't do anything for Bailey. Darcella does explain why she decided to overlook the bullying, but I just wanted to know why she bothered to work in a profession dealing with children if she didn't have any empathy. I was so annoyed with Darcella. I was also annoyed with Ethan Landers, Darcella's attorney. I know he was just doing his job at the end of the day, but it wasn't easy to read about how he could just side with the enemy. Zola, Bailey's teacher, was also an interesting character. She was so conflicted about doing the right thing, and I liked reading about why she chose to do what she did. Apache, Dre's best friend, was a minor character in Failure to Protect, but he gets a mention because I loved his scenes. He was such a character, and I loved how comical he was especially when it came to helping out Dre.
Trigger warnings in Failure to Protect include bullying, racism, sexual situations (although not too graphic), suicide, death, lying, alcohol, mentions of past drug use and selling, profanity, and mentions of violence.
All in all, Failure to Protect is an emotionally well written novel. It would make a fantastic Lifetime movie - at least that's what I kept thinking whilst reading it. The story line is something that unfortunately is so commonplace in a lot of schools. I would definitely recommend Failure to Protect by Pamela Samuels Young to those aged 18+. I think this is a book that everyone should read and can relate to on at least some level. If you do decide to read Failure to Protect (which you should), please know that you'll feel a vast range of emotions!
--
(A special thank you to Pamela Samuels Young for providing me with an eBook of Failure to Protect in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.)
December 9, 2021
A Poignant and Satisfying Read
After meeting sweet little Bailey and seeing her demise, I didn't think I had it in me to continue reading the story, but read it I did.
Failure To Protect is a fast-paced, realistic look at what some children face in school with bullies and the measures taken by unscrupulous individuals to hide the truth.
Happy the baddies get their just desserts in this book.
After meeting sweet little Bailey and seeing her demise, I didn't think I had it in me to continue reading the story, but read it I did.
Failure To Protect is a fast-paced, realistic look at what some children face in school with bullies and the measures taken by unscrupulous individuals to hide the truth.
Happy the baddies get their just desserts in this book.
August 11, 2020
A Riveting Read
A well researched novel that lifts the taboo against acknowledging child suicide. A child is bullied at school, but in this internet age, the bullying continues in cyberspace and there is no escape from it. The story is so well crafted, that the suspense is persistent and felt within the reader's heart. I liked the relationship between Dre and Angela and look forward to reading more about them.
A well researched novel that lifts the taboo against acknowledging child suicide. A child is bullied at school, but in this internet age, the bullying continues in cyberspace and there is no escape from it. The story is so well crafted, that the suspense is persistent and felt within the reader's heart. I liked the relationship between Dre and Angela and look forward to reading more about them.
July 15, 2020
I finished this book 5 minutes ago so this is one of these immediate reader reaction reviews! I’m not gonna allow myself to sit and process this one before writing the review. So here’s me processing it NOW 😁
Failure to Protect was an engaging read from start to finish. TW: This book was about a legal case of bullying of nine-year-old Bailey Lewis at Parker Elementary School, and how the principal, Darcella Freeman did everything in her power to cover it up to protect her future career.
Let me just say... this mystery had me on the edge of my seat!!! It was so well-written, informative from a legal standpoint, and entertaining! Alright let’s get right to it... the MFN principal!!! 😡 I wanted to kick Darcella’s ass through and through! 👊🏾 She knew that nine-year-old was getting bullied, and she didn’t give an ounce of a damn. She was so mean! She was power hungry and a bully to her staff. As an educator myself, there is nothing worse than heavy-handed leadership. I felt so sorry for the second-year teacher who came forth to her to express her concern about the bullying, but was bullied into compliance. And all the other teachers/staff she bullied as well. 😔
And the book just shows how ridiculous some attorneys can be! The district’s attorney thought he was untouchable as he represented Darcella, and his arrogance warranted a few eye rolls from me throughout my read. Ugh. Wit yo UGLASS! 🙄 I felt really bad for Erika (Bailey’s mom), Dre (Godfather), and the students who witnessed Bailey be tormented. The lawyers who represented them were awesome.
There were a few instances where some of the plot events were a little predictable, and I would have liked to know more about the bully and her mom, especially since the book was written in 3rd person omniscient (which was very well done), but other than that, all characters served a purpose, little to no errors, and this was a SOLID, solid read. It highlights how corrupt and unfair our justice system can be when it comes to schools and how we handle bullying. This ranks high on my 2020 favorite Black indie reads this year.
Failure to Protect was an engaging read from start to finish. TW: This book was about a legal case of bullying of nine-year-old Bailey Lewis at Parker Elementary School, and how the principal, Darcella Freeman did everything in her power to cover it up to protect her future career.
Let me just say... this mystery had me on the edge of my seat!!! It was so well-written, informative from a legal standpoint, and entertaining! Alright let’s get right to it... the MFN principal!!! 😡 I wanted to kick Darcella’s ass through and through! 👊🏾 She knew that nine-year-old was getting bullied, and she didn’t give an ounce of a damn. She was so mean! She was power hungry and a bully to her staff. As an educator myself, there is nothing worse than heavy-handed leadership. I felt so sorry for the second-year teacher who came forth to her to express her concern about the bullying, but was bullied into compliance. And all the other teachers/staff she bullied as well. 😔
And the book just shows how ridiculous some attorneys can be! The district’s attorney thought he was untouchable as he represented Darcella, and his arrogance warranted a few eye rolls from me throughout my read. Ugh. Wit yo UGLASS! 🙄 I felt really bad for Erika (Bailey’s mom), Dre (Godfather), and the students who witnessed Bailey be tormented. The lawyers who represented them were awesome.
There were a few instances where some of the plot events were a little predictable, and I would have liked to know more about the bully and her mom, especially since the book was written in 3rd person omniscient (which was very well done), but other than that, all characters served a purpose, little to no errors, and this was a SOLID, solid read. It highlights how corrupt and unfair our justice system can be when it comes to schools and how we handle bullying. This ranks high on my 2020 favorite Black indie reads this year.
May 22, 2020
Failure to Protect is the fourth book in a series of standalone books, and this one deals with the tough topics of bullying and suicide. It's an emotional read, for sure, but it's well worth the read.
I started this book one night when I couldn't sleep, and four hours later, I was still wide awake, seething with serious rage. There was a moment where I thought I might crush my Kindle with my bare hands, that's how angry this book made me.
As a parent, you hope your child never has to deal with something like this. As a parent, you want to protect your child and keep them from harm. But sometimes it's not enough. And this book slaps you right in the face with that. As a parent, it's hard to read at times.
There are some seriously appalling, disgusting characters in this book. Kiya, the nine year old girl who is bullying Bailey, is awful. Her abuse and name calling is just the tip of the iceberg. And the principal, Darcella, is the biggest piece of garbage ever. She cares more about her career and the school's reputation than she does about tackling bullying. Her antics. Her behavior. It all made me want to toss her off a cliff.
Failure to Protect is a book that immediately draws you in, breaks your heart right along with Erika's, Angela's, and Dre's, and then fills you up with indignation, outrage, and a serious need for justice. It's intense, but oh so satisfying.
A well-written legal thriller that feels very real right now. A fictional take on a sad epidemic plaguing the world today. I'd highly recommend it.
5 well-deserved stars!
I started this book one night when I couldn't sleep, and four hours later, I was still wide awake, seething with serious rage. There was a moment where I thought I might crush my Kindle with my bare hands, that's how angry this book made me.
As a parent, you hope your child never has to deal with something like this. As a parent, you want to protect your child and keep them from harm. But sometimes it's not enough. And this book slaps you right in the face with that. As a parent, it's hard to read at times.
There are some seriously appalling, disgusting characters in this book. Kiya, the nine year old girl who is bullying Bailey, is awful. Her abuse and name calling is just the tip of the iceberg. And the principal, Darcella, is the biggest piece of garbage ever. She cares more about her career and the school's reputation than she does about tackling bullying. Her antics. Her behavior. It all made me want to toss her off a cliff.
Failure to Protect is a book that immediately draws you in, breaks your heart right along with Erika's, Angela's, and Dre's, and then fills you up with indignation, outrage, and a serious need for justice. It's intense, but oh so satisfying.
A well-written legal thriller that feels very real right now. A fictional take on a sad epidemic plaguing the world today. I'd highly recommend it.
5 well-deserved stars!
October 22, 2019
Failure To Protect
As a parent when we send our kids to school we expect them to be safe and protected to a certain degree , I know kids can be mean due to things going on in their life but I expect more from teachers and principals if they suspect bullying is going on. The administration in this book had me feeling some type of way through out the whole book. My heart hurt for Bailey’s mom to have to endure that loss and go through all of that. The cases that Angela and Dre go through, I honestly believe they need to seek professional help to keep them sane. This was a great read and I was very emotional throughout the whole book. I love how the author educates us on several topics with the laws that are in place for each of them.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.”
As a parent when we send our kids to school we expect them to be safe and protected to a certain degree , I know kids can be mean due to things going on in their life but I expect more from teachers and principals if they suspect bullying is going on. The administration in this book had me feeling some type of way through out the whole book. My heart hurt for Bailey’s mom to have to endure that loss and go through all of that. The cases that Angela and Dre go through, I honestly believe they need to seek professional help to keep them sane. This was a great read and I was very emotional throughout the whole book. I love how the author educates us on several topics with the laws that are in place for each of them.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.”
December 1, 2019
As a parent when we send our kids to school we expect them to be safe and protected to a certain degree , I know kids can be mean due to things going on in their life but I expect more from teachers and principals if they suspect bullying is going on. The administration in this book had me feeling some type of way through out the whole book. My heart hurt for Bailey’s mom to have to endure that loss and go through all of that. The cases that Angela and Dre go through I honestly believe they need to seek professional help this to keep them sane. This was a great read and I was very emotional throughout the whole book. I love how the author educates us on several topics with the laws that are in place for each of them.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 15, 2019
This story struck such a chord in me I almost sat and read it in one sitting. Had my husband not wanted supper I just may have! The lines just flowed so perfectly and the characters were so very easy to relate to especially Bailey. I wanted to hold her and comfort her so badly.
I have got nothing but praise for Failure To Protect and I applaud the author for writing it and bringing attention to some very serious matters and handling them with such finesse. The story opened up so many emotions in me. Sadness and anger mostly because although this is a work of fiction it hits so close to the truth for alot of not only children but even adults.
BULLYING is REAL. It is a problem and it should NOT be tolerated. EVER!
*I was given a free copy of this for an honest review.
I have got nothing but praise for Failure To Protect and I applaud the author for writing it and bringing attention to some very serious matters and handling them with such finesse. The story opened up so many emotions in me. Sadness and anger mostly because although this is a work of fiction it hits so close to the truth for alot of not only children but even adults.
BULLYING is REAL. It is a problem and it should NOT be tolerated. EVER!
*I was given a free copy of this for an honest review.
November 16, 2019
I won my copy of Failure to Protect as part of a Goodreads Giveaway. However, I have read other work by Pamela Samuels Young and this book reminded my why I enjoy her novels so much. It was really hard to put down! This story really tugged at the heartstrings, dealing with bullying, not just of children, but also intimidation of adults from their boss at work. Dealing with the very difficult issue of child suicide was done very tastefully and made this a gripping court case novel that will likely entice me to go back and read the rest of the Dre and Angela books.
October 23, 2019
Pamela Samuels Young
Failure to Protect
This was a great read. As parents we think we know all the signs of distress in our children, this book will give you a different perspective. Bailey’s story has become an large problem in today’s society. This book will not disappoint. Darcella, Zola and Kiya names will stay etched in my head for a while. This book is great conversation starter on how we can do better.
~Venita Alderman Brandon
Failure to Protect
This was a great read. As parents we think we know all the signs of distress in our children, this book will give you a different perspective. Bailey’s story has become an large problem in today’s society. This book will not disappoint. Darcella, Zola and Kiya names will stay etched in my head for a while. This book is great conversation starter on how we can do better.
~Venita Alderman Brandon
November 8, 2019
I was give this book by goodreads for an honest review -
This is a must read -
A thought provoking, heartbreaking, plus more - read -
A nine year old girl is being bullied at school.
A teacher reported it to the principal who denys this is happening in her school. She doesn't want to deal with it and bullies the teachers as it isn't happening.
Layers Angela and Jenny take the case to sue the school - will they be able to win?
This is a must read -
A thought provoking, heartbreaking, plus more - read -
A nine year old girl is being bullied at school.
A teacher reported it to the principal who denys this is happening in her school. She doesn't want to deal with it and bullies the teachers as it isn't happening.
Layers Angela and Jenny take the case to sue the school - will they be able to win?
May 14, 2020
I've been a fan of this author for years now and she has yet to disappoint. Her novels keep you drawn in until the very end. The Dre Thomas series is my favorite. Not only do we get to see his girlfriend Angela handle her business as an attorney, but also his crazy cousin Apache. He brings the funny to these stories but he always has his cousin's back.
This novel was sad and heartbreaking to say the least, but it also brought awareness to bullying. A great read.
This novel was sad and heartbreaking to say the least, but it also brought awareness to bullying. A great read.
November 26, 2019
Wow...
Wow! This book was so emotional for me. My heart ached for little Bailey and for all of the real life children Bailey's character was based on. It's time to stand up and be advocates for these children. As always, I loved the legal suspense aspect of the book along with the growing relationship between Angela and Dre. Awesome read.
Wow! This book was so emotional for me. My heart ached for little Bailey and for all of the real life children Bailey's character was based on. It's time to stand up and be advocates for these children. As always, I loved the legal suspense aspect of the book along with the growing relationship between Angela and Dre. Awesome read.
January 28, 2020
Such a powerful, relevant story! It was exciting seeing Angela and Jenny tackle another difficult case. They make a great legal duo. This book should be required reading in today’s schools and for parents with school-age children with the rampant rise of bullying, which the existence of social media has made worse. Kudos to the author on penning another phenomenal story and discussion starter.
April 15, 2020
Outstanding as always!! Ms. Young is my favorite author when it comes to addressing social issues. I gave it 4 stars because the story got a little wordy at times, but other than that it was a great read. This was a very fast paced read. Bullying is an issue I wish a lot more people would take serious. Highly recommended to parents with school aged children.
June 12, 2020
I always enjoy a Pamela Samuels Young novel. Working as a school social worker, this topic hit very close to home - bullying. Pamela Samuels Young does an excellent job with the legalese, as well as nailing the emotion that Erika and Dre experience. Whether Angela or Vernetta, I love reading her books. I can’t wait for the next one.
October 23, 2019
I love reading Pamela Samuels Young books. Failure To Protect is a sad, eye opening story about bullying among our children in schools and adults roles and responsibility in the matter. A page turner from start to finish! (No spoilers)
January 20, 2020
This was well written and I think the author's profession as an attorney provided a much different perspective on the topic of bullying and the consequences it has on the schools, society, and in a courtroom. I won this ARC in exchange for my review.
December 31, 2019
Outstanding!
Pamela outdid herself with this one! Her passion for children really shows in this series. She tackles today's controversial issues very well, bringing much-needed attention to them. Definitely a page-turner! Bravo!
Pamela outdid herself with this one! Her passion for children really shows in this series. She tackles today's controversial issues very well, bringing much-needed attention to them. Definitely a page-turner! Bravo!
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