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A Wrongful Conviction #1
They Can't Take Your Name
Inspired by the atmospheric poetry of Langston Hughes and set in the heart of Denver's black community, this gripping crime novel pits three characters in a race against time to thwart a gross miscarriage of justice--and a deadly threat that has returned to stalk them once again.
What happens to a dream deferred--especially when an innocent man's life hangs in the balance? Langston Brown is out of time and options for clearing his name. Wrongfully convicted of the gruesome Mother's Day Massacre, he prepares to face his death. His final hope for salvation lies with his daughter, Liza, who dreamed of a life of music and song but left the prestigious Juilliard School to get a law degree with the intention of clearing her father's name. Just as she comes close to succeeding, it's annouced that Langston will be put to death in thirty days.
In a desperate bid to find freedom for her father, Liza enlists the help of Eli Stone, a jazz club owner she met at the classic Five Points venue The Rossonian. Devastated by the tragic loss of his wife, Eli is trying to find solace by reviving the club--but still, he thinks longingly of joining her in death.
Everyone has a dream that might come true--but as the dark shadows of the past converge, could Langston, Eli, and Liza be facing a danger that could shatter those dreams forever?
What happens to a dream deferred--especially when an innocent man's life hangs in the balance? Langston Brown is out of time and options for clearing his name. Wrongfully convicted of the gruesome Mother's Day Massacre, he prepares to face his death. His final hope for salvation lies with his daughter, Liza, who dreamed of a life of music and song but left the prestigious Juilliard School to get a law degree with the intention of clearing her father's name. Just as she comes close to succeeding, it's annouced that Langston will be put to death in thirty days.
In a desperate bid to find freedom for her father, Liza enlists the help of Eli Stone, a jazz club owner she met at the classic Five Points venue The Rossonian. Devastated by the tragic loss of his wife, Eli is trying to find solace by reviving the club--but still, he thinks longingly of joining her in death.
Everyone has a dream that might come true--but as the dark shadows of the past converge, could Langston, Eli, and Liza be facing a danger that could shatter those dreams forever?
298 pages, Hardcover
First published December 7, 2021
45 people are currently reading
916 people want to read
About the author
Robert Justice
2 books134 followersNovelist by night...Justice does not sleep!
"Intelligent crime novels inspired by Black history, literature & music."
Wrongful Conviction Novels 1 & 2—Set in the heart of Denver's Black community.
THEY CAN'T TAKE YOUR NAME—Available now!
A DREAM IN THE DARK—Available now!
Host of the Crime Writers of Color podcast.
Twitter/IG/Bluesky/TikTok: Robert4Justice
"Intelligent crime novels inspired by Black history, literature & music."
Wrongful Conviction Novels 1 & 2—Set in the heart of Denver's Black community.
THEY CAN'T TAKE YOUR NAME—Available now!
A DREAM IN THE DARK—Available now!
Host of the Crime Writers of Color podcast.
Twitter/IG/Bluesky/TikTok: Robert4Justice
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 135 reviews
July 22, 2024
Hello readers.
I hope you enjoy my debut novel.
THEY CAN'T TAKE YOUR NAME a crime novel--inspired by the poetry of Langston Hughes--about a brokenhearted man who attempts to help a desperate daughter find freedom for her wrongfully convicted father. Along the way, Eli Stone, tries desperately not to fall in love, ever again.
For more, here's my interview from the Crime Writers of Color podcast: https://www.crimewritersofcolor.com/c...
Also, while the audiobook is wonderful it doesn't contain my Author's Note included at the end of the hardcover/ebook versions. I've made that available on my website at RobertJusticeBooks.com under the blog section. Take Care!
Robert Justice
https://robertjusticebooks.com/
Twitter: @Robert4Justice
I hope you enjoy my debut novel.
THEY CAN'T TAKE YOUR NAME a crime novel--inspired by the poetry of Langston Hughes--about a brokenhearted man who attempts to help a desperate daughter find freedom for her wrongfully convicted father. Along the way, Eli Stone, tries desperately not to fall in love, ever again.
For more, here's my interview from the Crime Writers of Color podcast: https://www.crimewritersofcolor.com/c...
Also, while the audiobook is wonderful it doesn't contain my Author's Note included at the end of the hardcover/ebook versions. I've made that available on my website at RobertJusticeBooks.com under the blog section. Take Care!
Robert Justice
https://robertjusticebooks.com/
Twitter: @Robert4Justice
May 7, 2023
I listened to the book and was kind of bored. It tended to meander, and I never got a good sense of what it was trying to be. I was expecting a thriller, but it’s more of a Very Serious Drama.
I felt like I had missed some things with the audio, so I went through it again with the hard book, and the ending was completely different from what I remembered listening to, so either there is more than one version or I am losing my mind (which seems more likely). I liked the book ending much better, but I was still left unsatisfied. It didn’t follow the normal rules of a mystery or thriller—so many questions were left unanswered, it was like reading only half a story.
It was a lot of telling rather than showing. This made the action feel distant, which made the story kind of boring at times. Additionally, important events would be quickly summarized instead of played out on the page. Then other scenes that were less important had a lot of time. Characters were very underdeveloped, making them feel unreal and hard to care about.
I found the author’s note to be the most interesting part. I think Mr. Justice’s true talent may be with nonfiction. I feel so bad I didn’t like this important book better. (My editor brain just keeps thinking of how I’d fix it.)
*Reader’s Choice Nominee Spring 2023*
Language: Clean
Sexual Content: None
Violence/Gore: Police brutality, disturbing state execution
Harm to Animals:
Harm to Children:
Other (Triggers):
I felt like I had missed some things with the audio, so I went through it again with the hard book, and the ending was completely different from what I remembered listening to, so either there is more than one version or I am losing my mind (which seems more likely). I liked the book ending much better, but I was still left unsatisfied. It didn’t follow the normal rules of a mystery or thriller—so many questions were left unanswered, it was like reading only half a story.
It was a lot of telling rather than showing. This made the action feel distant, which made the story kind of boring at times. Additionally, important events would be quickly summarized instead of played out on the page. Then other scenes that were less important had a lot of time. Characters were very underdeveloped, making them feel unreal and hard to care about.
I found the author’s note to be the most interesting part. I think Mr. Justice’s true talent may be with nonfiction. I feel so bad I didn’t like this important book better. (My editor brain just keeps thinking of how I’d fix it.)
*Reader’s Choice Nominee Spring 2023*
Language: Clean
Sexual Content: None
Violence/Gore: Police brutality, disturbing state execution
Harm to Animals:
Harm to Children:
Other (Triggers):
February 21, 2022
I listened to the audiobook for this and it just brought the characters to life. The plot wasn't a new concept and had me thinking of Just Mercy mainly because I watched that movie about a month ago. But Robert Justice writes the characters in a way that kept me engaged. In this story we have an innocent man sitting on death row about to be executed for a crime he didn't commit as the governor is rushing executions because the death cocktail's ingredients have expired.
I liked that we follow Langston, his daughter Liza, and Eli who has some information that could help the case. Poetry and quotes from famous literature are woven throughout the text. We follow Eli's journey of grief over the death of his wife while he also recalls memories of a crooked Black detective that led to many people in their community being detained. Liza has been studying to become a lawyer and has made it her mission to get her father exonerated. You see just how loosing him as a child has affected her.
I know of the Nation of Islam but my information about them in bare minimum so it was interesting to follow a character who is apart of that world. I enjoyed the peek into Denver's Five Points community.
I liked that we follow Langston, his daughter Liza, and Eli who has some information that could help the case. Poetry and quotes from famous literature are woven throughout the text. We follow Eli's journey of grief over the death of his wife while he also recalls memories of a crooked Black detective that led to many people in their community being detained. Liza has been studying to become a lawyer and has made it her mission to get her father exonerated. You see just how loosing him as a child has affected her.
I know of the Nation of Islam but my information about them in bare minimum so it was interesting to follow a character who is apart of that world. I enjoyed the peek into Denver's Five Points community.
December 2, 2021
They Can't Take Your Name explores the topics of racism and the American justice system but misses the mark at storytelling and character development. It is well-written grammatically, but the story is poorly developed.
The plot wavers between trite and implausible. The characters are all over the place. In one chapter their behavior is completely predictable and in the next, it is 100% contradictory. You can tell from the first scene that the two main characters will end up together, but there is no tension or smolder leading up to the inevitable. That was a real opportunity missed. Two of the characters, Liza and the policeman (I forget his name), were just too inconsistent to be believable.
It seemed like the author was trying to evoke sympathy, but he didn't develop any character enough for me root for. I just didn't care.
The plot wavers between trite and implausible. The characters are all over the place. In one chapter their behavior is completely predictable and in the next, it is 100% contradictory. You can tell from the first scene that the two main characters will end up together, but there is no tension or smolder leading up to the inevitable. That was a real opportunity missed. Two of the characters, Liza and the policeman (I forget his name), were just too inconsistent to be believable.
It seemed like the author was trying to evoke sympathy, but he didn't develop any character enough for me root for. I just didn't care.
July 14, 2021
What. A. Book.
Rating: 4.5/5
Content Notice: : Racism, death, needles, & loss of a loved one.
Things I liked
- The author's writing style.
- The characters. All versatile yet relatable in their own ways.
- Eli and Liza's story. I hope there is more to them in the future.
- Depiction of Eli's loss. While the inspiration did stem from the author's personal life, the transition was truly heartbreaking.
- Plot twists and shocking scenes. Some of which made my stomach. Brilliant.
- The research was conducted to turn real-life incidents into a true crime book.
Things that I didn't like much?
- There seemed to have been an oversimplification in terms of such a complex topic. The ending seemed a little over the top with the garden scene.
While it might have been exaggerated, I don't think it would be true in all cases? I am not sure. If anyone could educate me on that matter, I would appreciate it.
Overall, fantastic book. I truly enjoyed reading it. Will definitely read more books by this author.
I received a complimentary advance review copy, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Rating: 4.5/5
Content Notice: : Racism, death, needles, & loss of a loved one.
Things I liked
- The author's writing style.
- The characters. All versatile yet relatable in their own ways.
- Eli and Liza's story. I hope there is more to them in the future.
- Depiction of Eli's loss. While the inspiration did stem from the author's personal life, the transition was truly heartbreaking.
- Plot twists and shocking scenes. Some of which made my stomach. Brilliant.
- The research was conducted to turn real-life incidents into a true crime book.
I am black, not because of a curse, but because my skin has been able to capture all the cosmic effluvia. I am truly a drop of sun under the earth.
Things that I didn't like much?
- There seemed to have been an oversimplification in terms of such a complex topic. The ending seemed a little over the top with the garden scene.
What all of this has led me to believe is that they never really see us. When they do, they don’t. It’s like we can’t go anywhere and yet we can go everywhere. I mean, as I was leaving Slager’s place, that couple saw me up close. We were face-to-face, but it seems to me that all they really saw was a son of Africa. They didn’t see me.
While it might have been exaggerated, I don't think it would be true in all cases? I am not sure. If anyone could educate me on that matter, I would appreciate it.
Overall, fantastic book. I truly enjoyed reading it. Will definitely read more books by this author.
I received a complimentary advance review copy, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
December 8, 2021
Robert Justice's debut novel They Can't Take Your Name is a perceptive, moving—and angering—read and promises much more to come. It's a buy-it-now, read-it-now title.
The novel focuses on Eli and Liza, both going through a process of grieving and fighting back. Eli still mourns the death of his wife, Antoinette, and struggles to fulfill their shared dream of bringing the Roz, a Black night club in the Five Points district of Denver, back to life. Liza dreamed of being a singer, but when her father was convicted and sentenced to death for a crime he did not commit, she put those dreams aside to become a lawyer and to fight to clear her father's name.
Eli is retreating from the world. Liza engages with it, retaining a relationship with her father's friends, who join her in the fight on her father's behalf—and to help Eli with his dream of reopening The Roz. This is novel about two individuals and also a novel about communities and the impact of their presence or absence.
As Eli and Liza slowly build a friendship, Colorado politics are making Liza's crusade all the more pressing. The Governor has decided to speed up executions in the state, and her father is high up on that list.
They Can't Take You Name is a novel of fighting back, of sometimes winning, sometimes losing. Not all ends well, but enough ends well to make me eager to see what Justice will do next with this cast of characters. I strongly recommend this book for readers who want a good story that wrestles with our times and allows us to follow the lives of two very human individuals.
I received a free electronic review copy of this title from the publisher via NetGalley; the opinions are my own.
The novel focuses on Eli and Liza, both going through a process of grieving and fighting back. Eli still mourns the death of his wife, Antoinette, and struggles to fulfill their shared dream of bringing the Roz, a Black night club in the Five Points district of Denver, back to life. Liza dreamed of being a singer, but when her father was convicted and sentenced to death for a crime he did not commit, she put those dreams aside to become a lawyer and to fight to clear her father's name.
Eli is retreating from the world. Liza engages with it, retaining a relationship with her father's friends, who join her in the fight on her father's behalf—and to help Eli with his dream of reopening The Roz. This is novel about two individuals and also a novel about communities and the impact of their presence or absence.
As Eli and Liza slowly build a friendship, Colorado politics are making Liza's crusade all the more pressing. The Governor has decided to speed up executions in the state, and her father is high up on that list.
They Can't Take You Name is a novel of fighting back, of sometimes winning, sometimes losing. Not all ends well, but enough ends well to make me eager to see what Justice will do next with this cast of characters. I strongly recommend this book for readers who want a good story that wrestles with our times and allows us to follow the lives of two very human individuals.
I received a free electronic review copy of this title from the publisher via NetGalley; the opinions are my own.
December 8, 2021
Truly eye opening and heartbreaking. This was an emotional roller coaster ride for me. They Can't Take Your Name explores, among other issues, racial injustice, loss of loved ones, prejudice, and corrupt law enforcement and politicians. I was completely enthralled in this story. Robert Justice has skillfully woven together several characters and plot lines to create one of the most emotionally wrecking books I've read in a long time. The twists in this had me truly shocked at times. I would really love some more of Liza and Eli's story after the ending though. This should be required reading for literally everyone. The audiobook was very easy to fall into and a no brainer for me to recommend!
Thanks so much to Netgalley and Dreamscape media for allowing me to review this book. All opinions are honest and my own.
Thanks so much to Netgalley and Dreamscape media for allowing me to review this book. All opinions are honest and my own.
August 25, 2021
Blending fact and fiction, heartbreak and survival, THEY CAN'T TAKE YOUR NAME is a gripping, powerful, moving story of hope and determination, and the unwavering strength to right a wrongful conviction before it's too late. Robert Justice's remarkably fluid, lyrical writing is unflinching in its exposure of hard-hitting truths, life after loss, and racial injustice, told through the compelling stories of three interconnected characters. Not only will you be transfixed by this book, but reading it will change you.
January 4, 2022
Was good in its intentions to explore injustice- personal, racial, societal, but the writing and story were a little weak.
February 25, 2024
In the Afterword of this novel, author Robert Justice states “The question is not do people deserve to die for the crimes they commit but rather do we have the right to kill.”
The action of the book is centered around the wrongful conviction of Langston Brown. Set in Five Points the historic heart and soul of Black Denver, the author brings Denver to life. As a native Denverite, I appreciate the references to The Rossonian, an historic jazz club where artists like Duke Ellington and Billie Holiday performed.
The action of the book is centered around the wrongful conviction of Langston Brown. Set in Five Points the historic heart and soul of Black Denver, the author brings Denver to life. As a native Denverite, I appreciate the references to The Rossonian, an historic jazz club where artists like Duke Ellington and Billie Holiday performed.
January 11, 2022
This was a very interesting debut novel, I enjoyed the read.
March 29, 2023
I thought this was a very good story and it kept me invested and intrigued. More importantly though it made me think and exposed injustice within the criminal justice system.
October 23, 2023
Heartbreaking, thought provoking, suspenseful page turner! Looking forward to the next book! Excellent read!
October 11, 2021
Let's get the warnings out of the way first. This is the story of a man in prison for murder, so obviously there is death, also some profanity, and considerable religious material.
Now, a new author for me, the subject is an innocent man on death row for murders he didn't commit. Langston Brown is on death row, all appeals exhausted, his execution date looming. His daughter, Liza, gives up her dream of becoming a singer to attend law school. She steadfastly maintains her father's innocence.
The story is set in Denver, the black Five Points neighborhood. Widower Eli Stone lives there
with dreams of restoring and reopening The Roz, a former jazz club. Eli has demons and is a dark, multifaceted character.
Father Myriel is like a real father to Eli during his troubled youth. Detective Slager is supposed to represent and support his community, but his confession indicates secrets and a dark truth.
Fredricka runs the local newspaper. She and Eli have a complicated history.
Liza becomes part of Project Joseph, an innocence project, to free her father. All of these characters cross paths as some try to obtain new evidence and others want to bury facts.
It's an emotional, thought provoking look at the justice system, guilt, innocence and the death penalty. While it isn't a new subject, it is an interesting and certainly timely one. There is drama, grief, love, romance, suspense and is an emotional rollercoaster.
As a member of Netgalley I received an advance digital copy of "They Can't Take Your Name". I would like to thank the author, Robert Justice, and Crooked Lane Books for the opportunity to read and give my personal thoughts and opinions on the book.
Now, a new author for me, the subject is an innocent man on death row for murders he didn't commit. Langston Brown is on death row, all appeals exhausted, his execution date looming. His daughter, Liza, gives up her dream of becoming a singer to attend law school. She steadfastly maintains her father's innocence.
The story is set in Denver, the black Five Points neighborhood. Widower Eli Stone lives there
with dreams of restoring and reopening The Roz, a former jazz club. Eli has demons and is a dark, multifaceted character.
Father Myriel is like a real father to Eli during his troubled youth. Detective Slager is supposed to represent and support his community, but his confession indicates secrets and a dark truth.
Fredricka runs the local newspaper. She and Eli have a complicated history.
Liza becomes part of Project Joseph, an innocence project, to free her father. All of these characters cross paths as some try to obtain new evidence and others want to bury facts.
It's an emotional, thought provoking look at the justice system, guilt, innocence and the death penalty. While it isn't a new subject, it is an interesting and certainly timely one. There is drama, grief, love, romance, suspense and is an emotional rollercoaster.
As a member of Netgalley I received an advance digital copy of "They Can't Take Your Name". I would like to thank the author, Robert Justice, and Crooked Lane Books for the opportunity to read and give my personal thoughts and opinions on the book.
September 28, 2021
They Can’t Take Your Name by Robert Justice is an important, powerful crime thriller. The book explores a miscarriage of justice taking place in Denver where Langston Hughes is imprisoned and sentenced to death for a crime he didn’t commit. In the fight for his freedom we follow his daughter Liza who seeks to clear her fathers name and highlight the racism and failures at the heart of the criminal justice system, Eli Stone a jazz club owner of The Roz who looks to rejuvenate the history of Five Points who is grieving for his late wife and connects with Liza and a corrupt detective whose actions lead to tragedy and injustice. It is an important story that spotlights the racism, prejudice and corruption in society, politics and the law. The alternating chapters created a fast flowing suspense read but sometimes the time jumps were difficult to follow and some characters for example Fredericka felt one dimensional. Overall, it is a gripping and compelling novel and a book with a mission to make change and protect innocent lives. For fans of contemporary fiction and suspense thrillers. 4 stars ⭐️
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for a review copy of this book in exchange for honest feedback.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for a review copy of this book in exchange for honest feedback.
April 17, 2022
A debut novel that I certainly hope begets more! They Can't Take Your Name, dealt with the complexities of love, death, family, justice and mercy in ways I had never thought possible in one book. It is one of those books that will leave me thinking, long after I have finished reading. I will also miss the characters and in some ways wonder how it all worked out in the end!
January 13, 2024
Read this book right after moving to Denver. Compelling story and a great way to learn some of the culture of my new city.
January 11, 2022
I really enjoyed this book–and got one of my favorite narrators on the audiobook, J.D. Jackson (A Little Devil In America; Bluebird, Bluebird).
It’s a crime story about our unjust system mixed with a bit of a legal thriller. At the core are three characters I was immediately rooting for, two whose paths cross, changing each other’s lives. But first the crime that starts everything: a bank robbery labeled the Mother’s Day Massacre which ended with the wrongful conviction of Langston Brown, who now sits on death row.
His daughter Liza has always believed he’s innocent, and is now in law school with the hopes of being able to free him. Eli Stone is a widow who is basically only functioning when he’s working on opening up his jazz club. Eli ends up hiring Liza at the club which happens at the same time the governor suddenly decides to quickly execute those on death row. Liza gets her law school to use their innocence project to try and stop Langston’s execution, while unbeknownst to her, Eli starts to grapple with long held information and what to do about it…
There is this really nice balance between characters you’re rooting for, a literal do-or-die timeline to stop an execution, a past mystery, an attempt to undo corruption, and this lovely relationship that begins between Eli and Liza, two people struggling in wildly different ways that show each other kindness. I’m really glad I ended the year listening to this novel and look forward to what Robert Justice writes next.
(TW brief mention past miscarriage/ mention of rape case, not graphic/ discusses lynching case, brief details/ suicide on page/ execution/ suicidal thoughts, attempt)
--from Book Riot's Unusual Suspects newsletter: https://link.bookriot.com/view/56a820...
It’s a crime story about our unjust system mixed with a bit of a legal thriller. At the core are three characters I was immediately rooting for, two whose paths cross, changing each other’s lives. But first the crime that starts everything: a bank robbery labeled the Mother’s Day Massacre which ended with the wrongful conviction of Langston Brown, who now sits on death row.
His daughter Liza has always believed he’s innocent, and is now in law school with the hopes of being able to free him. Eli Stone is a widow who is basically only functioning when he’s working on opening up his jazz club. Eli ends up hiring Liza at the club which happens at the same time the governor suddenly decides to quickly execute those on death row. Liza gets her law school to use their innocence project to try and stop Langston’s execution, while unbeknownst to her, Eli starts to grapple with long held information and what to do about it…
There is this really nice balance between characters you’re rooting for, a literal do-or-die timeline to stop an execution, a past mystery, an attempt to undo corruption, and this lovely relationship that begins between Eli and Liza, two people struggling in wildly different ways that show each other kindness. I’m really glad I ended the year listening to this novel and look forward to what Robert Justice writes next.
(TW brief mention past miscarriage/ mention of rape case, not graphic/ discusses lynching case, brief details/ suicide on page/ execution/ suicidal thoughts, attempt)
--from Book Riot's Unusual Suspects newsletter: https://link.bookriot.com/view/56a820...
April 20, 2024
I think it’s safe to say that most of us expect to have a great experience when we read books written by well-known authors like James Baldwin, Walter Mosley, Ernest Gaines and others, but when the author is new to us, we run the risk of being disappointed and our expectations are sometimes unmet. I recently stumbled upon a post advertising a new book, A Dream in the Dark by Robert Justice. The synopsis was VERY intriguing and in reading, I found that the author had a prequel to it, so I decided to take a chance and purchase it.
As I read the beginning and got to know Langston, Eli, Liza, Father Myriel and Detective Salger, I knew that I’d table the other books that I was reading to finish this amazing story. 😮 The author used real life situations regarding our broken penal system to weave this crime fiction, which captured my attention from beginning to end. It’s a book I won’t soon forget and I HIGHLY recommend it.
There were many jewels in this story and the topics were so well rounded. I loved the topics on how the penal system prospered economically, references of the Great Migration, Homer’s Odyssey, the mention of political gain taking place at the expense of the innocent, barbershop talk and the lessons they provided, references to Langston Hughes’ poetry, the explanation of the children of Africa vs. the children of Europe, and so much more.
Family relationships (blood and other) were displayed through the entire book as well as the twists and turns that were so unexpected, but sooo good!
I rate They Can't Take Your Name 5⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ and cannot wait for Mr. Justice's second book, A Dream in the Dark, coming in July!❤️
As I read the beginning and got to know Langston, Eli, Liza, Father Myriel and Detective Salger, I knew that I’d table the other books that I was reading to finish this amazing story. 😮 The author used real life situations regarding our broken penal system to weave this crime fiction, which captured my attention from beginning to end. It’s a book I won’t soon forget and I HIGHLY recommend it.
There were many jewels in this story and the topics were so well rounded. I loved the topics on how the penal system prospered economically, references of the Great Migration, Homer’s Odyssey, the mention of political gain taking place at the expense of the innocent, barbershop talk and the lessons they provided, references to Langston Hughes’ poetry, the explanation of the children of Africa vs. the children of Europe, and so much more.
Family relationships (blood and other) were displayed through the entire book as well as the twists and turns that were so unexpected, but sooo good!
I rate They Can't Take Your Name 5⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ and cannot wait for Mr. Justice's second book, A Dream in the Dark, coming in July!❤️
December 4, 2021
I received this book free from the publisher Dreamscape Media through netgalley.com in exchange for an honest review.
This book was fabulous. What an insightful and very relevant book for today. Set in Denver's five point section it reminds you of the fabulous jazz players that began their careers there. This book is deep in black culture. From the music, to the poetry to the injustice.
This is a complicated but all too common story. White man is charged with the massacre and is let go, Black man then gets charged with the same crime even though he has an alibi and he is convicted and sentenced to die. The cop who finally "caught" Langston Brown is the same cop that Eli saw in the confessional right before his mentor was murdered. Eli heard him confess to setting someone up for a crime they didn't commit.
With interesting commentary on race, race relations and the justice system this book kept me riveted. If there was ever a book that really shows how flawed the justice system is and why we should abolish the death penalty this is it. I found myself savoring the words, enjoying the lyrical prose and really becoming engaged in the emotion of what was going on. Black Lives Matter and this book really gets to the matter of why that slogan and movement came to be. The narrator was fantastic, I can't say enough about this book.
This book was fabulous. What an insightful and very relevant book for today. Set in Denver's five point section it reminds you of the fabulous jazz players that began their careers there. This book is deep in black culture. From the music, to the poetry to the injustice.
This is a complicated but all too common story. White man is charged with the massacre and is let go, Black man then gets charged with the same crime even though he has an alibi and he is convicted and sentenced to die. The cop who finally "caught" Langston Brown is the same cop that Eli saw in the confessional right before his mentor was murdered. Eli heard him confess to setting someone up for a crime they didn't commit.
With interesting commentary on race, race relations and the justice system this book kept me riveted. If there was ever a book that really shows how flawed the justice system is and why we should abolish the death penalty this is it. I found myself savoring the words, enjoying the lyrical prose and really becoming engaged in the emotion of what was going on. Black Lives Matter and this book really gets to the matter of why that slogan and movement came to be. The narrator was fantastic, I can't say enough about this book.
December 12, 2021
This debut is literary with suspenseful elements. I mainly listened to the audiobook. I appreciate J.D. Jackson’s stellar narration as his talent ranges from an older man to the man’s young granddaughter for this recording. During scenes in the novel, Langston, the older man on death row, quotes poems from his well-known namesake and chants out loud, making these moments heartbreaking and potent. There is also the beginnings of a romance, which does not overshadow the seriousness of the plot. The injustice of this story is countered with enduring faith and the love of family, whether born into or found. Readers will see the potential for a sequel.
Thanks to Crooked Lane, Dreamscape Media, and NetGalley for advanced access. My ratings and reviews are my own.
TW and CW: graphic scenes of execution; mentions of SA and kidnapping; death of a loved one; scene of suicide on page; self-harm on page; depiction of mental illness
Thanks to Crooked Lane, Dreamscape Media, and NetGalley for advanced access. My ratings and reviews are my own.
TW and CW: graphic scenes of execution; mentions of SA and kidnapping; death of a loved one; scene of suicide on page; self-harm on page; depiction of mental illness
December 6, 2021
They Can't Take Your Name is excellent!! I am grateful to Libro.fm for the ALC.
I love this book. I really respect the balance between subtly and candor that Robert Justice achieves. There are moments of sweet poetic writing that offer a reprieve from the heartbreaking subject of this story. A story that could, and still does, happen today without reparation or relief.
There was much more depth and nuance than I was expecting in a crime novel and I admire the restraint Justice demonstrates. Instead of moving towards drama and flare, he remains in the trenches of pain and suffering and still manages to provide some semblance of hope. This is a remarkable book.
Also, I love the cliffhanger and can't wait for the next story!! I highly recommend this debut and have high hopes for the series!
I love this book. I really respect the balance between subtly and candor that Robert Justice achieves. There are moments of sweet poetic writing that offer a reprieve from the heartbreaking subject of this story. A story that could, and still does, happen today without reparation or relief.
There was much more depth and nuance than I was expecting in a crime novel and I admire the restraint Justice demonstrates. Instead of moving towards drama and flare, he remains in the trenches of pain and suffering and still manages to provide some semblance of hope. This is a remarkable book.
Also, I love the cliffhanger and can't wait for the next story!! I highly recommend this debut and have high hopes for the series!
January 1, 2022
4.5 stars for this nonfiction read about systemic racism and policing. This was hard to listen to at part, especially when you hear the corruption around enforcing the death penalty.
This reads like a fiction book in terms of corruption.
This reads like a fiction book in terms of corruption.
October 5, 2023
I really enjoyed this book. I liked the character development and became invested in each of their stories. I also liked that it takes a clear social justice perspective.
December 23, 2021
“When they get in my chair, I want them to experience hope and history. I want to free their minds, Elizabeth. I understand them ’cuz I still remember what it was like to want to look good so you could get a job and a woman and a house and some kids.”
He lowered the chair and turned it toward the mirror in one motion, putting his giant hands on the young man’s shoulders.
“Son, remember this—all you got is your name.”
Langston now stooped down by his ear.
“No matter how hard they try, they can’t take your name.”
They Can't Take Your Name is a look at grief, loneliness, and loss. Our POV characters are a man (Eli) who can't move on from the loss of his wife, a woman (Liza) who can't stop fighting for to free her innocent father from death row, and her father himself, Langston. The story is optimistic and tragic in turn, and the door is very much open to the continue the story.
I felt very deeply for all of our characters. Eli's loss of his wife is somewhat autobiographical, although the author's wife survived. Still, this aspect of the story is saturated with the fear of potential loss realized. As a happily married woman, I keenly felt these passages.
Liza should really have the whole world on a string -- she has an amazing singing voice, a gift for organization, intelligence, kindness, and effortlessly draws people to her. Her whole life, understandably, is caring for her child and fighting to free her father. The course of her life was altered by this false conviction. How many other real lives and families were similarly derailed? (Thousands upon thousands.)
Langston is a good man -- a good husband and father, stopped from his right to be a good grandfather as well. He's got the heart and soul of a poet. He was meant to be in the world, making it better. How does anyone make their peace with being a good person, locked away, waiting to die, believed to be guilty of horrible crimes, and knowing your family is imprisoned too?
(A non-fiction book I'd love to recommend: The Sun Does Shine: How I Found Life and Freedom on Death Row)
Robert Justice's passion for this topic shines through, and he's donated part of his advance, and has committed to donate a portion of future profits to the Korey Wise Innocence Project. His books could free a man or woman, and by extension free their family.
As much as I enjoyed this story and engaged with the characters, and think the author is talented, I've given this a 4 star because I sense there's better to come. I heard an interview where the author said the first versions were more outlines than anything else, and they needed fleshing out -- this is my paraphrase. I felt the truth of this occasionally in the occasional moments that felt like they still needed a little more exploration and drawing out.
I very much look forward to the next installment. I discovered the author, Robert Justice, through the Crime Writers of Color podcast he hosts. Through that podcast I've found several new-to-me authors, such as Gigi Pandian and Rachel Howzell Hall. Is it really a TBR if it's not daunting and impossible to finish?
April 9, 2022
Although she has the talent and dreams to pursue a music career, Liza instead pursues a law degree. The main goal in her sights is to clear the name of her father: a man on death row, imprisoned for a heinous crime he didn't commit. Perhaps Eli, an enigmatic jazz club owner, can somehow assist Liza in her mission—but time is running out for her father in They Can't Take Your Name by author Robert Justice.
The power that resonates from the book title, along with the fact that criminal justice issues have been on my radar for years, stopped me in my tracks when I came across this book. And...wow. It'd been a minute since I'd lost sleep on account of being glued to a crime novel. I wasn't sure how I felt during the first few chapters, but I became riveted the deeper I got into the story.
Admittedly, I didn't fully buy into one of the story's major turns, as I just couldn't see one character's actions in that pivotal scene making much sense. But at least the plot point there isn't at all wasted.
Now, there are occasional moments of repetition where the story or characters ask the same questions or make a few of the same points over again in different chapters. And at times, the characters keep saying each other's names or pet names more than necessary while they're talking to each other.
Also, the narrator seems to get stirred up or personally involved now and then, jumping around into different characters' heads or slipping into using personal language with the reader. A "noticeable" narrator can feel like an actor breaking the fourth wall to point out which parts of a play or movie should impact or impress the audience. When it comes to fiction, unless it's clear from the beginning that a narrator means to interact with the reading audience or to be a personal part of the story, I think the narrator should remain inconspicuous.
On a more technical note (which makes me more concerned with the publisher than the author), the amount of incorrect or missing punctuation in the book isn't excessive but still enough to be distracting. And due to awkward paragraph breaks in the dialogue and the lack of some needed dialogue tags, I'd sometimes have to go back and reread the lines to figure out which character was saying what.
Even so, none of that made me any less aware of the story's haunting rhythm and imagery, or the understated moments that say just enough to hit home. The aspects of poetry and jazz are beautifully haunting as well, setting the atmosphere, made to leave an imprint on one's memory. On one's soul.
(Moreover, though it isn't something I expect or demand from novels on the secular market, the absence of profanity and sex scenes in this book was a plus for this quasi-conservative reader.)
I'm patient but already ready for this author's next novel.
The power that resonates from the book title, along with the fact that criminal justice issues have been on my radar for years, stopped me in my tracks when I came across this book. And...wow. It'd been a minute since I'd lost sleep on account of being glued to a crime novel. I wasn't sure how I felt during the first few chapters, but I became riveted the deeper I got into the story.
Admittedly, I didn't fully buy into one of the story's major turns, as I just couldn't see one character's actions in that pivotal scene making much sense. But at least the plot point there isn't at all wasted.
Now, there are occasional moments of repetition where the story or characters ask the same questions or make a few of the same points over again in different chapters. And at times, the characters keep saying each other's names or pet names more than necessary while they're talking to each other.
Also, the narrator seems to get stirred up or personally involved now and then, jumping around into different characters' heads or slipping into using personal language with the reader. A "noticeable" narrator can feel like an actor breaking the fourth wall to point out which parts of a play or movie should impact or impress the audience. When it comes to fiction, unless it's clear from the beginning that a narrator means to interact with the reading audience or to be a personal part of the story, I think the narrator should remain inconspicuous.
On a more technical note (which makes me more concerned with the publisher than the author), the amount of incorrect or missing punctuation in the book isn't excessive but still enough to be distracting. And due to awkward paragraph breaks in the dialogue and the lack of some needed dialogue tags, I'd sometimes have to go back and reread the lines to figure out which character was saying what.
Even so, none of that made me any less aware of the story's haunting rhythm and imagery, or the understated moments that say just enough to hit home. The aspects of poetry and jazz are beautifully haunting as well, setting the atmosphere, made to leave an imprint on one's memory. On one's soul.
(Moreover, though it isn't something I expect or demand from novels on the secular market, the absence of profanity and sex scenes in this book was a plus for this quasi-conservative reader.)
I'm patient but already ready for this author's next novel.
December 9, 2021
4.5 stars.
They Can't Take Your Name by Robert Justice is an absolutely riveting novel with a socially relevant storyline.
Langston Brown is wrongfully convicted of murder and he is currently on death row. His daughter Liza is a single mother who is almost finished with law school. Having convinced her professor to begin an innocence project, there is one last hope to overturn his conviction. Liza’s attempts to prove his innocence take on a new urgency as the governor suddenly sets several execution dates that will occur very soon. Liza refuses to give up believing she can save her father, but will their court case receive a favorable ruling from the judge?
Eli Stone is re-opening an iconic bar in Denver’s Five Points community. He is realizing the dream he and his late wife Antoinette shared but Eli grief overshadows his success. Eli hires Liza to work for him and they strike up an unexpectedly close friendship. After she tells him about her father, Eli realizes he knows the detective who arrested Langston. He has first-hand information about Detective Sean Slager’s longtime corruption, but will this knowledge prove beneficial to proving Langston’s innocence?
They Can't Take Your Name is a powerful novel about institutional racism and police corruption that happens under the guise of justice. The storyline is complex and multi-layered. The characters are mostly well-drawn with all too human flaws and weaknesses. Liza is tenacious in her efforts to save her father, but Langston knows the odds are stacked against him. Eli tries to do the right thing to help Liza but will he find what he needs to help Langston before it is too late? Robert Justice brings this incredibly suspenseful to an edge of the seat conclusion.
They Can't Take Your Name by Robert Justice is an absolutely riveting novel with a socially relevant storyline.
Langston Brown is wrongfully convicted of murder and he is currently on death row. His daughter Liza is a single mother who is almost finished with law school. Having convinced her professor to begin an innocence project, there is one last hope to overturn his conviction. Liza’s attempts to prove his innocence take on a new urgency as the governor suddenly sets several execution dates that will occur very soon. Liza refuses to give up believing she can save her father, but will their court case receive a favorable ruling from the judge?
Eli Stone is re-opening an iconic bar in Denver’s Five Points community. He is realizing the dream he and his late wife Antoinette shared but Eli grief overshadows his success. Eli hires Liza to work for him and they strike up an unexpectedly close friendship. After she tells him about her father, Eli realizes he knows the detective who arrested Langston. He has first-hand information about Detective Sean Slager’s longtime corruption, but will this knowledge prove beneficial to proving Langston’s innocence?
They Can't Take Your Name is a powerful novel about institutional racism and police corruption that happens under the guise of justice. The storyline is complex and multi-layered. The characters are mostly well-drawn with all too human flaws and weaknesses. Liza is tenacious in her efforts to save her father, but Langston knows the odds are stacked against him. Eli tries to do the right thing to help Liza but will he find what he needs to help Langston before it is too late? Robert Justice brings this incredibly suspenseful to an edge of the seat conclusion.
November 8, 2021
“No action in the face of injustice is injustice too.”
“Langston was convinced that his-and Liza’s-freedom would arrive only when the needle pierced his arm.”
There might be nothing worse then being on death row for a murder you did not commit. The only thing worse would be being executed for that murder.
They Can’t Take Your Name by Robert Justice is an intense, powerful, difficult read. There were times I couldn’t go on, had to take a breathe, pause and collect myself. There is a race against time to try and free Langston Hughes, a black man on death row for a murder he didn’t commit. His daughter, Liza, is on a mission and has devoted her life to clearing his name.
I loved many of the characters, but had a very hard time understanding Eli and many of the decisions he made. I would love to hear the author speak and get some things cleared up in my mind.
Thank you NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review. I look forward to reading more books by Robert Justice.
“Langston was convinced that his-and Liza’s-freedom would arrive only when the needle pierced his arm.”
There might be nothing worse then being on death row for a murder you did not commit. The only thing worse would be being executed for that murder.
They Can’t Take Your Name by Robert Justice is an intense, powerful, difficult read. There were times I couldn’t go on, had to take a breathe, pause and collect myself. There is a race against time to try and free Langston Hughes, a black man on death row for a murder he didn’t commit. His daughter, Liza, is on a mission and has devoted her life to clearing his name.
I loved many of the characters, but had a very hard time understanding Eli and many of the decisions he made. I would love to hear the author speak and get some things cleared up in my mind.
Thank you NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review. I look forward to reading more books by Robert Justice.
November 28, 2021
This is a gripping story of the injustice of the justice system. Liza left Julliard to go to law school so she could work to free her father who was convicted of a crime he did not commit. A corrupt police officer decided to frame her father for the Mother's Day Massacre and he is now on death row and after many appeals time has run out. The governor has decided that all inmates on death row will be put to death within 30 days. Liza has gone to work for Eli Stone at his jazz club and enlists his help. Eli, after the loss of his wife, has nothing left but the club and works to help Liza. There are a lot of twists and we are taken on many turns. I wasn't sure what to expect on this one but I am really glad I read/listened to this one and recommend it.
**Received this ARC for review in audio from the publisher via NetGalley**
**Received this ARC for review in audio from the publisher via NetGalley**
February 19, 2023
This is semi-autobiographical and an interesting perspective on the black experience in America. Aside from that, it is a quite good crime novel; a promising debut for Robert Justice. I read this to fulfill a reading challenge category for a culture I am unfamiliar with. It definitely fits that category. As a “Child of Europe” the black community as depicted in this book is very much foreign. One wonders how accurate the description is, but it has the ring of truth. It is somewhat painful to read some of the insights on race relations, but it is pretty eye opening and has the feel of accuracy.
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