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CAPITOL MURDER
FIRST BOOK IN NEW SERIES FROM AWARD WINNING AUTHOR JUDITH ERWIN FEATURING PRIVATE INVESTIGATOR JAKE SHEPHERDHis social skills won’t win friends. He doesn’t care. But when in trouble, the ruggedly handsome cowboy, Jake Shepherd, is the man to have on your side. A topnotch PI and former FBI agent with a Yale law degree, he can shoot the wings off a mosquito at 100 yards, read a suspect like a restaurant menu, and catch the eye of the ladies. On the job, Jake offends clients, maneuvers suspects, and takes full advantage of a unique relationship with his former FBI supervisor—always in the pursuit of justice. Just when you think you know him—look out. Love him or hate him. Never underestimate him.In CAPITOL MURDER, Jake meets Atlanta attorney Scarlett Kavanaugh when the husband of her estranged twin (a U.S. senator) is found dead. A savvy Harvard Law graduate, Scarlett is a formidable match for Jake with her quick wit, intelligence, and self-confidence. Sexy sparks hover as Scarlett assists in Jake’s investigation of the murder
318 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 26, 2021
About the author
Judith Erwin
12 books51 followersWinner of a 2020 FAPA President's Book Award Gold Medal, and a 2020 Reader's Favorite Book Awards Finalist Seal, Judith Erwin is a retired attorney and freelance writer.
She is the author of ten published novels in the crime-solving mystery, romance, romantic suspense, and women's fiction genres.
She is the author of ten published novels in the crime-solving mystery, romance, romantic suspense, and women's fiction genres.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
May 18, 2022
Fun fast read. I plan to read more in this series
September 27, 2021
Capitol Murder is the first book in a new series by Judith Erwin, featuring former FBI Agent and current hunk P.I. Jake Shepherd. Ms. Erwin is a new author for me and I picked up this book on a free Kindle offer. The writing here is good and the characters are interesting. Jake and his love interest, Scarlett, seem poised to have a long romantic story arc into future books.
The best part of this read is the hard-boiled banter between Jake and Scarlett (and to a lesser degree between Jake and every other character). Jake is a classic hero – a crack shot with military training, who spent time as an FBI agent and has almost superhuman instincts and intuition allowing him to instantly tell when a witness is lying and anticipate the moves of the bad guys. Jake is also a Yale law graduate and is ruggedly handsome (from Oklahoma) with “washboard abs” and charisma that makes all the ladies swoon. His foil, Scarlett, is a Harvard law graduate (he calls her “Harvard”) and a partner in an Atlanta law firm specializing in family law. She’s also accomplished with a gun in her hand (her father taught her) and can match wits and barbs with Jake. They are the stars of the show and the story is really about them and their relationship. It’s a romantic thriller with the emphasis on romantic, but without any explicit sex scenes.
The main plot involves the death (murder?) of a U.S. senator, who is the husband of Scarlett’s twin sister, Savannah. Jake is engaged by a rich benefactor to head up both the security team and the investigation team charged with protecting Savannah and proving that she did not murder her husband. This is a tall order, particularly since Savannah is not willing to be honest with Jake. The setup is quick and the book settles into the details of Jake’s investigation, the parallel FBI probe, and the things we learn about Savannah’s dead husband.
The winding road of the investigation is filled with wrong turns, blind alleys, and wild goose chases. This gives us plenty of time to get to know Jake and Scarlett (and for them to get to know each other). The problem with the story is that it’s mostly false leads and wasted time. Jake uncovers plenty of interesting facts about the dead senator, none of which really helps determine who killed him. There are many long scenes that are well-written, interesting, and filled with Nick-and-Nora-style banter, but at times it seems like all the information gathered is leading nowhere. The Main plot could have been tighter and some thriller readers will wish there was a bit more action. Mystery readers trying to solve the crime will want a few more clues. And some readers will wish the end had included more explanation about the obviously unanswered questions. Even with these issues, the story is a fun ride and the terrific writing and engaging characters keep you turning pages and wondering where the author is leading you.
I’ll be looking forward to the next installment in the Jake-and-Scarlett story. I’m hoping the next book will have a tighter and more exciting plot. I’m sure it will have an engaging and sizzling subplot with these two.
The best part of this read is the hard-boiled banter between Jake and Scarlett (and to a lesser degree between Jake and every other character). Jake is a classic hero – a crack shot with military training, who spent time as an FBI agent and has almost superhuman instincts and intuition allowing him to instantly tell when a witness is lying and anticipate the moves of the bad guys. Jake is also a Yale law graduate and is ruggedly handsome (from Oklahoma) with “washboard abs” and charisma that makes all the ladies swoon. His foil, Scarlett, is a Harvard law graduate (he calls her “Harvard”) and a partner in an Atlanta law firm specializing in family law. She’s also accomplished with a gun in her hand (her father taught her) and can match wits and barbs with Jake. They are the stars of the show and the story is really about them and their relationship. It’s a romantic thriller with the emphasis on romantic, but without any explicit sex scenes.
The main plot involves the death (murder?) of a U.S. senator, who is the husband of Scarlett’s twin sister, Savannah. Jake is engaged by a rich benefactor to head up both the security team and the investigation team charged with protecting Savannah and proving that she did not murder her husband. This is a tall order, particularly since Savannah is not willing to be honest with Jake. The setup is quick and the book settles into the details of Jake’s investigation, the parallel FBI probe, and the things we learn about Savannah’s dead husband.
The winding road of the investigation is filled with wrong turns, blind alleys, and wild goose chases. This gives us plenty of time to get to know Jake and Scarlett (and for them to get to know each other). The problem with the story is that it’s mostly false leads and wasted time. Jake uncovers plenty of interesting facts about the dead senator, none of which really helps determine who killed him. There are many long scenes that are well-written, interesting, and filled with Nick-and-Nora-style banter, but at times it seems like all the information gathered is leading nowhere. The Main plot could have been tighter and some thriller readers will wish there was a bit more action. Mystery readers trying to solve the crime will want a few more clues. And some readers will wish the end had included more explanation about the obviously unanswered questions. Even with these issues, the story is a fun ride and the terrific writing and engaging characters keep you turning pages and wondering where the author is leading you.
I’ll be looking forward to the next installment in the Jake-and-Scarlett story. I’m hoping the next book will have a tighter and more exciting plot. I’m sure it will have an engaging and sizzling subplot with these two.
August 28, 2024
It's always fun to find a new mystery series with interesting characters and the promise of future adventures. After reading the first book in the Shepherd & Associates series, I look forward to reading future installments. This series stars Jake Shepherd, a private investigator, former FBI agent, divorced father of a thirteen year old daughter. He is hired to investigate the murder of Senator Scott Kingsley and prove his wife--Savannah is innocent. He is helped by his associates, Liz Glover and K-9 certified German Shepherd Kai. In addition, for this case he is assisted by Savannah's twin sister--Scarlett. This book grabbed me in right away. I enjoyed reading about Jake and Scarlett's efforts to clear Savannah. I liked the hint of a developing romance behind closed doors. I look forward to seeing what happens next with these characters.
September 6, 2026
Nice love story
The pacing of this drama makes it an enjoyable read. Character development and details of private investigations keep one’s interest in a tired plot of corrupt politician getting his due.
A senator is found murdered. A former
FBI agent turned private investigator takes the case and soon becomes involved with
a family law attorney who is related by marriage to the senator. Jake, Scarlett, Savannah are the lead characters whose personalities and histories dictate the progress of this who done it!
It is fairly predictable. The dialogue is entertaining as well as informative and intelligent! A first for making the FBI look good in most novels that I have read! This is definitely a boost for law enforcement novel!
Recommend it highly.
The pacing of this drama makes it an enjoyable read. Character development and details of private investigations keep one’s interest in a tired plot of corrupt politician getting his due.
A senator is found murdered. A former
FBI agent turned private investigator takes the case and soon becomes involved with
a family law attorney who is related by marriage to the senator. Jake, Scarlett, Savannah are the lead characters whose personalities and histories dictate the progress of this who done it!
It is fairly predictable. The dialogue is entertaining as well as informative and intelligent! A first for making the FBI look good in most novels that I have read! This is definitely a boost for law enforcement novel!
Recommend it highly.
September 6, 2021
WOW, this was really good. Fast paced and very interesting. A US Senator is murdered and there are quite a few suspects. Jake, a lawyer,former FBI, now PI, is hired to help the Senator's wife. Breaking down clues, using his own skills learned while an agent, with the help from the wife's twin sister,they solve the case. There are unexpected twists that add to this mystery. I loved all the characters.
Well written and well worth the time. So much so, I've already pre-ordered book #2.
Well written and well worth the time. So much so, I've already pre-ordered book #2.
April 3, 2021
Love it!
This is the first time I read a book from this author and I absolutely loved it! It’s book 1 in the series and can’t wait for next one to come out, hopefully soon! Gray Shepherd and Scarlett Kavanagh make extraordinary investigative partners. Not only are they smart but their banter is entertaining and sometimes even sexy. Highly recommend.
This is the first time I read a book from this author and I absolutely loved it! It’s book 1 in the series and can’t wait for next one to come out, hopefully soon! Gray Shepherd and Scarlett Kavanagh make extraordinary investigative partners. Not only are they smart but their banter is entertaining and sometimes even sexy. Highly recommend.
September 7, 2021
Great chemistry
I was captivated by the premise of this book from th first chapter.. A fast moving mystery with relevant newsworthy characters. Judy Erwin has made me can waiting for the next book with this team .Jake is the smart sarcastic hero ,Scarlett challenges Jake . I throughly enjoyed a new team to follow
I was captivated by the premise of this book from th first chapter.. A fast moving mystery with relevant newsworthy characters. Judy Erwin has made me can waiting for the next book with this team .Jake is the smart sarcastic hero ,Scarlett challenges Jake . I throughly enjoyed a new team to follow
July 28, 2024
A serious plot with hilarious dialogue between Jake Sheperd a Yale graduate and Scarlett a Harvard grad who team up to solve the murder of a U.S. Senator. A total surprise when the culprit is revealed. As the series continues I expect a future romance between the two as it has already reached a definite start.
October 10, 2025
Overall, not bad
First time reader for this author. Cursing was at a minimum, which I appreciate. My only complaint was Jake's process to eliminate suspects. It started to read as Groundhog Day. I think the book could have been trimmed down by at least 1/3. I will read book 2 and see if it improves. My rating is 3 1/2 stars.
First time reader for this author. Cursing was at a minimum, which I appreciate. My only complaint was Jake's process to eliminate suspects. It started to read as Groundhog Day. I think the book could have been trimmed down by at least 1/3. I will read book 2 and see if it improves. My rating is 3 1/2 stars.
September 9, 2021
Exciting! Entertaining!
This is an excellent murder mystery, action-packed. There are factors of political corruption, adultery, sex trafficking and numerous law enforcement agencies involved.
This is an excellent murder mystery, action-packed. There are factors of political corruption, adultery, sex trafficking and numerous law enforcement agencies involved.
September 10, 2021
Good story. Really interesting characters: strong-willed and intelligent; self-styled "Southern Belle"; and teenage hormonal angst. I gave it 5 stars for all that, but really, why are all these new books coming out with so many typos? Autocorrect is not the solution. Please, check your work.
August 14, 2023
Great mystery
This is a wonderfully written mystery. It has characters that are well written, lots of suspects to keep you guessing, and a plot twist or two. It's the first book that I've read by Judith Erwin, and I am looking forward to reading more in this series.
This is a wonderfully written mystery. It has characters that are well written, lots of suspects to keep you guessing, and a plot twist or two. It's the first book that I've read by Judith Erwin, and I am looking forward to reading more in this series.
September 13, 2023
Jake Shepherd is a master PI, former FBI, and lawyer who knows how to work people. When a senator is murdered the sister in law hires him to help prove her sisters innocence. Fast moving action packed adventure great reading thanks
February 17, 2026
Badass Ex FBI meets Sharp Sassy Lawyer
Excellent read! I was guessing and puzzling through out the book. I loved the smart banter and sassy dialogue! Makes me want to read the next book.
Excellent read! I was guessing and puzzling through out the book. I loved the smart banter and sassy dialogue! Makes me want to read the next book.
March 14, 2026
This is the first book I have read by this author and I could not put it down. I have ordered the next one in line and cannot wait to get started. She hold your attention and it is hard to keep up with where she is going. It makes for a great story and you wish it would never end.
September 7, 2021
Capitol Murder
I loved it. However, I suspected Kyle long before you did. Keep up the good writing. I’d like to read more of your books
I loved it. However, I suspected Kyle long before you did. Keep up the good writing. I’d like to read more of your books
September 17, 2021
Good story --Great Mystery
The perfect book for a quiet Sunday. Believable characters and a fast moving plot.
Will look forward to reading the sequel.
The perfect book for a quiet Sunday. Believable characters and a fast moving plot.
Will look forward to reading the sequel.
September 18, 2021
Excellent thriller/whodunit. However, the author has a thing for characters who sound alike: Scott, Sabrina, Scarlett, Savannah. Got a little confusing at times.
September 23, 2021
Top draw
A very good read, keeps the pages turning, and the banter is enjoyable,it's set up for future books that I will look forward to reading, Recommended.
A very good read, keeps the pages turning, and the banter is enjoyable,it's set up for future books that I will look forward to reading, Recommended.
December 15, 2021
Senator
Great character development, unexpected plot twist and a little romance thrown in to keep pages turning and interest high
Good read
Great character development, unexpected plot twist and a little romance thrown in to keep pages turning and interest high
Good read
February 9, 2022
The crime is serious, but the interactions between Jake and Scarlett move the story along in fun and interesting ways! This is my favorite so far of Judith Erwin's books.
July 19, 2023
very good
Gotta love an arrogant detective! While I’m not usually a fan of know it all characters, the author does a good job providing evidence for the characters intuition.
Gotta love an arrogant detective! While I’m not usually a fan of know it all characters, the author does a good job providing evidence for the characters intuition.
August 20, 2023
Definitely
I so loved reading about Jake & Scarlett and loved the way this ended. I will be reading more Judith Erwin books!
I so loved reading about Jake & Scarlett and loved the way this ended. I will be reading more Judith Erwin books!
July 12, 2024
Great
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I love her writing style - never a dull moment & always making me think!
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I love her writing style - never a dull moment & always making me think!
October 11, 2024
I really enjoyed this one!! It was a page turner for me!! I loved Jake Shephard and all the drama.
May 26, 2025
Very much enjoyed this book; great characters and didn't want to put it down. Wanted more when I was finished! I know there are 2 other books that followed, hope the author continues this series!
September 15, 2025
Outstanding
Well written, with characters and dialogue with just the right amount of snark and enough false leads to please any reader
Well written, with characters and dialogue with just the right amount of snark and enough false leads to please any reader
March 7, 2026
Spectacular
An intense read filled with danger, suspense and intriguing characters. A totally addictive, pulse-pounding thriller. One of the best out there.
An intense read filled with danger, suspense and intriguing characters. A totally addictive, pulse-pounding thriller. One of the best out there.
June 13, 2026
good
No surprises, you knew from the start where it was going.
But it was a good easy read.
Book 2 will keep them busy
No surprises, you knew from the start where it was going.
But it was a good easy read.
Book 2 will keep them busy
September 8, 2026
4-1/2 stars. Great whodunnit. Abrasive but likable hero. Realistic dialogue. Very thorough PI procedural. Gotta boast that I figured it out very early.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews