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Good Lookin': A Joe Turner Mystery
From the gang-ravaged streets of inner-city Oakland to the rolling hills of Berkeley, California, attorney Joe Turner defends the most hardened criminals. Confronted with an unlikely murderer in a modern-day whodunnit, Turner's latest case seems impossible to unravel. At its heart is a decade-old murder and a tangled web of family, loyalty, and devotion that has the trial hanging in the balance. Viewed through the prism of the unique bond of twins, Good Lookin' asks how far each of us will go to protect the ones we love.
222 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 24, 2021
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128 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
May 23, 2021
Received a copy from the author. Thank you!
Have you ever imagined what you would do if you were accused of murder? What actions would you take? What I really loved about T.L. Bequette's "Good Lookin'" that it come from the author that has real experience of the murder cases, law field and has put a real effort to translate his experiences into a book. Not all professionals do that successfully no matter how good they are at their thing. And as murder/mystery genre is thriving now, this books is right on time!
Court/prison backgrounds are written very well - not overly described or carelessly handled. I really liked how author managed to make characters (even secondary) seem "human" and realistic, not cardboard - no matter what you did before, first-time writers tend to squash their characters. Double points go to Joe Turner, the main protagonist. He works a as "guide" if you are reading court world related book for the first time, but allows you to really get into to mystery setting and make your own guesses. There are even some tips to learn if you ever find yourself in a tricky situation. I think it's a character that could handle the series (if there will be more books in Joe Turner Mystery series).
So, if you are lookin' for something fast-paced with a dash of mystery, if you want to know how real,authentic cases (with a bit of drama) are solved, this one would be a good one to start!
From the gang-ravaged streets of inner-city Oakland to the rolling hills of Berkeley, California, attorney Joe Turner defends the most hardened criminals. But Turner’s latest case seems impossible to unravel. Viewed through the prism of the unique bond of twins, “Good Lookin’” asks how far each of us will go to protect the ones we love.
Have you ever imagined what you would do if you were accused of murder? What actions would you take? What I really loved about T.L. Bequette's "Good Lookin'" that it come from the author that has real experience of the murder cases, law field and has put a real effort to translate his experiences into a book. Not all professionals do that successfully no matter how good they are at their thing. And as murder/mystery genre is thriving now, this books is right on time!
Court/prison backgrounds are written very well - not overly described or carelessly handled. I really liked how author managed to make characters (even secondary) seem "human" and realistic, not cardboard - no matter what you did before, first-time writers tend to squash their characters. Double points go to Joe Turner, the main protagonist. He works a as "guide" if you are reading court world related book for the first time, but allows you to really get into to mystery setting and make your own guesses. There are even some tips to learn if you ever find yourself in a tricky situation. I think it's a character that could handle the series (if there will be more books in Joe Turner Mystery series).
So, if you are lookin' for something fast-paced with a dash of mystery, if you want to know how real,authentic cases (with a bit of drama) are solved, this one would be a good one to start!
From the gang-ravaged streets of inner-city Oakland to the rolling hills of Berkeley, California, attorney Joe Turner defends the most hardened criminals. But Turner’s latest case seems impossible to unravel. Viewed through the prism of the unique bond of twins, “Good Lookin’” asks how far each of us will go to protect the ones we love.
December 4, 2022
This guy eats a lot of hot dogs
May 27, 2021
I loved this! It is classified as an mystery/thriller and that is not a lie. It really is a read that will have you on the edge of your seat til the end.
Perfect characterization that managed to help me as a reader feel even more invested in the novel.
When dealing with a novel like this, you can have ups and downs, I think T.L. Bequette managed to create a pace that was steady throughout.
A great writing style that had such a great story line. I'm glad I got the chance to read this book!
Perfect characterization that managed to help me as a reader feel even more invested in the novel.
When dealing with a novel like this, you can have ups and downs, I think T.L. Bequette managed to create a pace that was steady throughout.
A great writing style that had such a great story line. I'm glad I got the chance to read this book!
May 24, 2021
From the gang-ravaged streets of inner-city Oakland to the rolling hills of Berkeley, California, attorney Joe Turner defends the most hardened criminals. Confronted with an unlikely murdered in a modern-day whodunnit, Turner’s latest case seems impossible to unravel. At its heart is a decade-old murder and a tangled web of of family, loyalty and devotion that has the trial hanging in the balance. Viewed through the prism of the unique bond of twins, Good Lookin’ asks how far each of us will go to protect the ones we love.
Our Review: Author T.L. Bequette, himself an experienced and valued criminal defense attorney, brings extensive experience and experience to the first of which we hope will be many books in the Joe Turner Mystery series. Using biting humor, the hum-drum of court procedures, Bequette weaves the unspoken communication known only to twins as well as the long term effects of child abuse to this page turner of a story. Lovers of mysteries and suspense will love this one. Well done!
On a scale of 1-5, Good Lookin’ deserves a 6.
Kat Henry Doran, Wild Women Reviews
Our Review: Author T.L. Bequette, himself an experienced and valued criminal defense attorney, brings extensive experience and experience to the first of which we hope will be many books in the Joe Turner Mystery series. Using biting humor, the hum-drum of court procedures, Bequette weaves the unspoken communication known only to twins as well as the long term effects of child abuse to this page turner of a story. Lovers of mysteries and suspense will love this one. Well done!
On a scale of 1-5, Good Lookin’ deserves a 6.
Kat Henry Doran, Wild Women Reviews
June 20, 2021
The narrator is insufferable, the story is slow and boring, the pacing is very odd and switches between scenes that shouldn't flow together, and the ending doesn't make sense
August 6, 2021
“Good Lookin’” is the impressive debut novel by East Bay defense attorney T. L. Bequette. The book focuses on Bequette’s author surrogate, the witty, acerbic, cynical, world weary Oakland lawyer Joe Turner, and the defense of his young client charged with murder.
Bequette’s vividly detailed and fast paced narrative, superbly portrays the gritty, dark world of crime, violence and drugs in which Turner plies his trade. This brutal realism, combined with Bequette’s extensive knowledge of the archaic, dysfunctional Californian criminal justice system - a system which so often has the odds unfairly stacked against defendants - left me quickly rooting for Turner and his client, despite the former’s almost anti-hero qualities.
The engrossing and well developed characters help drive the plot and their authenticity adds to the hard boiled ambience of the book. Bequette is also master of dialogue, specifically the witty one line put down, “Yeah, sorry. I should have noticed you just had [your car] detailed. I love how they infuse that aroma of smelly socks.”
With new authors I tend to look for comparisons and influences. Good Lookin’ isn’t your typical courtroom legal drama. It’s darker, grittier and more sinister than your average John Grisham novel. However Bequette’s writing and plot themes do have similarities to the Scottish Tartan Noir crime fiction genre. For gritty down to earth Glasgow, read the gangland streets of Oakland and for irascible Inspector Laidlaw, read snarky defense attorney Joe Turner.
All in all this is an incredibly accomplished first novel and I’m already looking forward to the next installment from Joe Turner and Bequette’s new genre, “Oakland Noir”.
Bequette’s vividly detailed and fast paced narrative, superbly portrays the gritty, dark world of crime, violence and drugs in which Turner plies his trade. This brutal realism, combined with Bequette’s extensive knowledge of the archaic, dysfunctional Californian criminal justice system - a system which so often has the odds unfairly stacked against defendants - left me quickly rooting for Turner and his client, despite the former’s almost anti-hero qualities.
The engrossing and well developed characters help drive the plot and their authenticity adds to the hard boiled ambience of the book. Bequette is also master of dialogue, specifically the witty one line put down, “Yeah, sorry. I should have noticed you just had [your car] detailed. I love how they infuse that aroma of smelly socks.”
With new authors I tend to look for comparisons and influences. Good Lookin’ isn’t your typical courtroom legal drama. It’s darker, grittier and more sinister than your average John Grisham novel. However Bequette’s writing and plot themes do have similarities to the Scottish Tartan Noir crime fiction genre. For gritty down to earth Glasgow, read the gangland streets of Oakland and for irascible Inspector Laidlaw, read snarky defense attorney Joe Turner.
All in all this is an incredibly accomplished first novel and I’m already looking forward to the next installment from Joe Turner and Bequette’s new genre, “Oakland Noir”.
December 31, 2021
Good Lookin' is a fast-paced mystery that will have your mind spinning. Joe Turner is the defense attorney you want, and you need if you find yourself in trouble with the law. He goes out on the limb for his clients, even if they will not tell him what actually happened. He will dig and dig until he finds truth. I cannot believe this is T.L. Bequette's debut novel. I thought I had missed other Joe Turner mysteries after I finished and went searching for more. Bequette's development of Joe Turner is incredible! He is quick-witted, intelligent, and he has a comeback for everything, which I appreciated so much!
Good Lookin' dives into the rival gangs of Oakland, when one of Joe's clients is accused of murder. There is something about this kid that does not scream guilty to Joe. The truth is out there, he just needs to find it. You are taken on a wild ride, as Joe dives deep into his client's background and neighborhood. The development of the story is fantastic and will leave you reading faster and faster. Bequette knowledge of the law, and the prison systems is extensive since he himself is a defense attorney. If you are looking for a murder mystery that will draw you in and leave you wanting more, this is the book for you. Thank you to T.L. Bequette, The Wild Rose Press, and Bookstagrammers for sending me this terrific debut novel!
Good Lookin' dives into the rival gangs of Oakland, when one of Joe's clients is accused of murder. There is something about this kid that does not scream guilty to Joe. The truth is out there, he just needs to find it. You are taken on a wild ride, as Joe dives deep into his client's background and neighborhood. The development of the story is fantastic and will leave you reading faster and faster. Bequette knowledge of the law, and the prison systems is extensive since he himself is a defense attorney. If you are looking for a murder mystery that will draw you in and leave you wanting more, this is the book for you. Thank you to T.L. Bequette, The Wild Rose Press, and Bookstagrammers for sending me this terrific debut novel!
November 13, 2021
One thing you should know about me is that I just love thrillers.
And this book is definitely going to be one book that I will definitely every person who loves thrillers especially crime thriller to read this book.
✅ What I liked about the book :
This book is written so well that you will be hooked from the prologue itself.
And what an intriguing title. I had no idea why the title was choosen. But as I continued reading the book the title made sense.
And again it's written so well that you will feel like whatever is written in the book is happening in front of you.
The plot twists in the book are very unexpected (which I love) and will blow your mind.
The book is not all serious but is humourous at the same time.
I am so happy that Darnell got the ending that he deserved.
❎ What I didn't like about the book :
The romantic subplot though gave the character more dept felt a bit unnecessary.
It did get a bit boring sometimes, because of the too many details that the author gave.
Final Thoughts 💭 :
Book Rating : 4.5/5 (every reader who loves thriller should definitely give this book a read )
Cover Rating : 3/5 (does need an more intriguing cover )
And this book is definitely going to be one book that I will definitely every person who loves thrillers especially crime thriller to read this book.
✅ What I liked about the book :
This book is written so well that you will be hooked from the prologue itself.
And what an intriguing title. I had no idea why the title was choosen. But as I continued reading the book the title made sense.
And again it's written so well that you will feel like whatever is written in the book is happening in front of you.
The plot twists in the book are very unexpected (which I love) and will blow your mind.
The book is not all serious but is humourous at the same time.
I am so happy that Darnell got the ending that he deserved.
❎ What I didn't like about the book :
The romantic subplot though gave the character more dept felt a bit unnecessary.
It did get a bit boring sometimes, because of the too many details that the author gave.
Final Thoughts 💭 :
Book Rating : 4.5/5 (every reader who loves thriller should definitely give this book a read )
Cover Rating : 3/5 (does need an more intriguing cover )
Read
June 7, 2021Today, I have the honor of reviewing a book by a fellow mystery writer at my publisher. T. L. Bequette, when he isn’t writing mystery novels, is a criminal defense attorney in California who serves on an annual faculty clinic at Stanford Law School.
Joe Turner, Bequette’s protagonist and narrator, is an Oakland defense attorney as well. When we first meet Turner, he is meeting with a current client, Leonard Dunigan, who is accused of killing a man by “squeezing his skull until it caved in.” From this very first scene we are thrust into Turner’s world in all its dangerous ambiguity.
Ricocheting from this hopeless case, Turner meets with Darnell Moore, a nineteen-year-old black youth who has become entangled with an Oakland gang, the IceBoyz. Moore stands accused of killing a rival Cashtown Killer gangster, the high-school aged Cleveland Barlow. The case seems open and shut. Turner could reduce the charges with a guilty plea. The only problem is, when Moore says he didn’t do it, Turner believes him.
Read more at https://stevenjkolbe.com/2021/06/07/t...
Joe Turner, Bequette’s protagonist and narrator, is an Oakland defense attorney as well. When we first meet Turner, he is meeting with a current client, Leonard Dunigan, who is accused of killing a man by “squeezing his skull until it caved in.” From this very first scene we are thrust into Turner’s world in all its dangerous ambiguity.
Ricocheting from this hopeless case, Turner meets with Darnell Moore, a nineteen-year-old black youth who has become entangled with an Oakland gang, the IceBoyz. Moore stands accused of killing a rival Cashtown Killer gangster, the high-school aged Cleveland Barlow. The case seems open and shut. Turner could reduce the charges with a guilty plea. The only problem is, when Moore says he didn’t do it, Turner believes him.
Read more at https://stevenjkolbe.com/2021/06/07/t...
November 19, 2021
Unfortunately I did not finish this book.
It started off as a fairly average crime novel, that wasn’t particularly well-written, but had a mildly interesting opening scene.
However, after the author sexualised cocktail making (why?), I just found it laughable and actually felt nauseated.
I read on for a few more chapters but found the prose clumsy, characters irritating and the plot pretty dull. There was too much description for mundane items like furniture, which added nothing and detracted from the loose plot.
Disappointing and dreary.
It started off as a fairly average crime novel, that wasn’t particularly well-written, but had a mildly interesting opening scene.
However, after the author sexualised cocktail making (why?), I just found it laughable and actually felt nauseated.
I read on for a few more chapters but found the prose clumsy, characters irritating and the plot pretty dull. There was too much description for mundane items like furniture, which added nothing and detracted from the loose plot.
Disappointing and dreary.
May 25, 2021
Only a well-seasoned criminal defense attorney could have crafted this suspenseful whodunit. Every chapter has purpose which is a challenge for a writer and a gift to the reader. Dual plots converge and bring alongside a lovely and very human evolving relationship. Snarky, funny, on point with the events of today. Empathic to both the accused and the innocent.
Write what you know. You can't make this stuff up. The reality of the "Don't Snitch" culture, the street violence in every major U.S. city, the plight of children raised in unfortunate foster care situations all see daylight in this debut novel. Empathy, compassion, and deep understanding shine through.
Good Lookin' is far more than a summer read. It is a triumph! Read it and you will be hungry for the next book in the Joe Turner mystery series.
"A rigorous, thoroughly engrossing mystery from a writer with immense potential." Kirkus
Write what you know. You can't make this stuff up. The reality of the "Don't Snitch" culture, the street violence in every major U.S. city, the plight of children raised in unfortunate foster care situations all see daylight in this debut novel. Empathy, compassion, and deep understanding shine through.
Good Lookin' is far more than a summer read. It is a triumph! Read it and you will be hungry for the next book in the Joe Turner mystery series.
"A rigorous, thoroughly engrossing mystery from a writer with immense potential." Kirkus
November 14, 2021
BOOK REVIEW - 4/5 stars for this one.
A big THANK YOU to @thebooknetwork.co.uk for having me as part of this book tour and for the gifted book.
Good Lookin’ - A Joe Turner Mystery by T.L.Bequette
Publisher: The Wild Roses Press, Inc. - Publishing Date:May 2021. - Genre: Mystery/Crime.
Synopsis: From the gang-ravaged streets of inner-city Oakland to the rolling hills of Berkeley, California, attorney Joe Turner defends the most hardened criminals. Confronted with an unlikely murderer in a modern-day whodunnit, Turner’s latest case seems impossible to unravel. At its heart is a decade-old murder and a tangled web of family, loyalty, and devotion that has the trial hanging in the balance. Viewed through the prism of the unique bond of twins, Good Lookin’ asks how far each of us will go to protect the ones we love.
What a great read from this first time author.
Joe is a great character, full of charm, wit and a little self doubt in the relationship stakes. But he does know how to work a case and he takes you along for the ride.
In what looks like an easy case for the prosecutor, Joe as the defence attorney must untangle who saw what, who is telling the truth and who is not. In unravelling twists & turns along the way, Joe hopes to find the truth and free his client Darnell Moore - who is accused of shooting a rival gang member.
From the moment he meets his client, Joe feels that he is way too chilled, but why? When all the evidence is stacking up against him?
This book tells 2 stories - Darnell’s and that of twins Damon and Jesse and their horrible childhood and love for each other. You really get the benefit of great writing with the way these stories merge. This is a fast, page-turning mystery that keeps you reading and rarely disappoints.
The only part of this gripping tale that had me wondering why is this even here? was the romantic story line - the start of which had me cringing! I get it, we all want love but I really don’t need all the lusty lines in a legal mystery.
“Good Lookin”: A Joe Turner Mystery is his debut novel, and a series of Joe Turner mysteries is in the works & I can guarantee I will want to read them. This writer will only get better and the Joe Turner mysteries is going to be a great series.
T.L.Bequette is a criminal defence attorney turned author from the San Francisco Bay Area. Most of his law practice involves defending those accused of murder in Oakland, California.
A big THANK YOU to @thebooknetwork.co.uk for having me as part of this book tour and for the gifted book.
Good Lookin’ - A Joe Turner Mystery by T.L.Bequette
Publisher: The Wild Roses Press, Inc. - Publishing Date:May 2021. - Genre: Mystery/Crime.
Synopsis: From the gang-ravaged streets of inner-city Oakland to the rolling hills of Berkeley, California, attorney Joe Turner defends the most hardened criminals. Confronted with an unlikely murderer in a modern-day whodunnit, Turner’s latest case seems impossible to unravel. At its heart is a decade-old murder and a tangled web of family, loyalty, and devotion that has the trial hanging in the balance. Viewed through the prism of the unique bond of twins, Good Lookin’ asks how far each of us will go to protect the ones we love.
What a great read from this first time author.
Joe is a great character, full of charm, wit and a little self doubt in the relationship stakes. But he does know how to work a case and he takes you along for the ride.
In what looks like an easy case for the prosecutor, Joe as the defence attorney must untangle who saw what, who is telling the truth and who is not. In unravelling twists & turns along the way, Joe hopes to find the truth and free his client Darnell Moore - who is accused of shooting a rival gang member.
From the moment he meets his client, Joe feels that he is way too chilled, but why? When all the evidence is stacking up against him?
This book tells 2 stories - Darnell’s and that of twins Damon and Jesse and their horrible childhood and love for each other. You really get the benefit of great writing with the way these stories merge. This is a fast, page-turning mystery that keeps you reading and rarely disappoints.
The only part of this gripping tale that had me wondering why is this even here? was the romantic story line - the start of which had me cringing! I get it, we all want love but I really don’t need all the lusty lines in a legal mystery.
“Good Lookin”: A Joe Turner Mystery is his debut novel, and a series of Joe Turner mysteries is in the works & I can guarantee I will want to read them. This writer will only get better and the Joe Turner mysteries is going to be a great series.
T.L.Bequette is a criminal defence attorney turned author from the San Francisco Bay Area. Most of his law practice involves defending those accused of murder in Oakland, California.
July 15, 2021
Review: "People should care, quite frankly. Because if you're silent about injustice, you're giving consent to it." Welcome back dear readers, dropping now is a review of a phenomenal mystery book I read recently. The protagonist in the story is Joe Turner, an officer constantly serving in order to deliver justice. He has been working for long and defending people, and this time he has a case which is noticeably more demanding. The readers will find this really amazing, that the author himself has served as a legal attorney at Oakland. He has presented the experiences from his professional life into a story and the character Joe is playing the role of the author. Further in the story the author takes the readers to his professional journey where he narrates the whole scenario by adding a mesmerizing fragrance of sarcasm, humour and entertainment. The background from Oakland and Berkeley are described with great perfection, each chapter of the story holds firm , every turning page brings new action and new suspense. The readers will love the author's point of view and will take inspiration from his experiences. A jaw-dropping investigation and mystery novel, flip the pages to be a part of his journey.
📚I enjoy a story with a strong protagonist and this story checks all boxes to win my heart. The author presents a vivid plot which is why the story keeps the reader firmly held on to it. The writing is captivating and cover fascinating. The cover of the book is thunderous, I have shared it with my friends and they're loving it too.
📚I recommend this terrific story to all. It's a great addition to anyone's collection of books. Mystery, deduction, thrill, this book has all the factors that makes it a great hit in the mystery read section. It's a great pick for the new readers as well as the seasoned ones. I'd suggest grab your copies now.
📚I enjoy a story with a strong protagonist and this story checks all boxes to win my heart. The author presents a vivid plot which is why the story keeps the reader firmly held on to it. The writing is captivating and cover fascinating. The cover of the book is thunderous, I have shared it with my friends and they're loving it too.
📚I recommend this terrific story to all. It's a great addition to anyone's collection of books. Mystery, deduction, thrill, this book has all the factors that makes it a great hit in the mystery read section. It's a great pick for the new readers as well as the seasoned ones. I'd suggest grab your copies now.
December 19, 2021
🄱🄾🄾🄺 🅃🄾🅄🅁 🅁🄴🅅🄸🄴🅆
𝗚𝗢𝗢𝗗 𝗟𝗢𝗢𝗞𝗜𝗡'
T. L. Bequette
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
𝗦𝘆𝗻𝗼𝗽𝘀𝗶𝘀
From the gang-ravaged streets of inner-city Oakland to the rolling hills of Berkeley, California, attorney Joe Turner defends the most hardened criminals. Confronted with an unlikely murderer in a modern-day whodunnit, Turner's latest case seems impossible to unravel.
At its heart is a decade-old murder and a tangled web of family, loyalty, and devotion that has the trial hanging in the balance.
Viewed through the prism of the unique bond of twins, Good Lookin' asks how far each of us will go to protect the ones we love.
𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄
My thanks to @thebooknetwork.co.uk for my spot on the book tour and advance copy of the book in exchange for my honest review.
Some books are slow burners, taking a fair proportion of the story to really get going. This was not one of those books! Good Lookin' grabbed me from the first page, and maintained a break- neck pace throughout. It certainly doesn't read like a debut novel.
Joe Turner is such a likeable character. He's intelligent, driven, and completely credible. The bond between the twins is evident, even as their stories begin in different directions. The legal sections were written in such a way that I understood without having to resort to my friend Google. That’s good story telling right there.
Overall, if you want a well written, suspenseful story that will keep you hooked until the last page, this is for you. I gave Good Lookin’, by @tlbequette, five stars.
#ad #gifted #goodlookin #tlbequette #thewildrosepress #thebooknetwork #bookgenre #booklover #bookstagrammers #johnsbookshelf #bookstabloggers #bookreader #blogtour #bookstagram #bibliophile #bookshelf #bookaddict #igreads #bookblog #readabook #johnsbookshelfblogs #bookaholic #fortheloveofbooks #goodreadschallenge2021 #bookpost #blogpost #johnsbookshelfreviews
𝗚𝗢𝗢𝗗 𝗟𝗢𝗢𝗞𝗜𝗡'
T. L. Bequette
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
𝗦𝘆𝗻𝗼𝗽𝘀𝗶𝘀
From the gang-ravaged streets of inner-city Oakland to the rolling hills of Berkeley, California, attorney Joe Turner defends the most hardened criminals. Confronted with an unlikely murderer in a modern-day whodunnit, Turner's latest case seems impossible to unravel.
At its heart is a decade-old murder and a tangled web of family, loyalty, and devotion that has the trial hanging in the balance.
Viewed through the prism of the unique bond of twins, Good Lookin' asks how far each of us will go to protect the ones we love.
𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄
My thanks to @thebooknetwork.co.uk for my spot on the book tour and advance copy of the book in exchange for my honest review.
Some books are slow burners, taking a fair proportion of the story to really get going. This was not one of those books! Good Lookin' grabbed me from the first page, and maintained a break- neck pace throughout. It certainly doesn't read like a debut novel.
Joe Turner is such a likeable character. He's intelligent, driven, and completely credible. The bond between the twins is evident, even as their stories begin in different directions. The legal sections were written in such a way that I understood without having to resort to my friend Google. That’s good story telling right there.
Overall, if you want a well written, suspenseful story that will keep you hooked until the last page, this is for you. I gave Good Lookin’, by @tlbequette, five stars.
#ad #gifted #goodlookin #tlbequette #thewildrosepress #thebooknetwork #bookgenre #booklover #bookstagrammers #johnsbookshelf #bookstabloggers #bookreader #blogtour #bookstagram #bibliophile #bookshelf #bookaddict #igreads #bookblog #readabook #johnsbookshelfblogs #bookaholic #fortheloveofbooks #goodreadschallenge2021 #bookpost #blogpost #johnsbookshelfreviews
December 22, 2021
Thank you to the author and the publisher, The Wild Rose Press, for letting me read this book through Bookstagrammers.com !!
TRIGGER WARNING: child abuse, orphans, general violence
"Children are children, but they can spot and evasion faster than adults"
"Good looking. One of my favourite street terms, both in sentiment and economy of words"
If you're a fan of James Patterson and you're looking for thriller vibes with a huge amount of law, this is the book for you!
I love reading about district attorneys and whenever law is involved in a thriller and scenes, directly from court, are painted, I fall more in love with the book and feel engaged in the plot.
By a certain point throughout the reading journey, I couldn't put it down.
This story led you through complicated lives and difficult choices while making you understand that life's not easy for anyone... someone more than others.
The author chose a normal D.A., as main character, and let us follow his life and his career, how he made other people's struggle is everyday job.
And, to be completely honest, the choice to put his love life in the middle, made the story even more enjoyable.
"I wasn't sure about drinking more, but I definitely needed to date more"
You'll wait until the very end to find out the truth about the two brothers, sometimes put there at the beginning of each chapter... people may expect that final plot twist ... but I bet there'll someone who won't!!
It definitely ended with a crescendo and I absolutely loved that!
Go and read it !
"You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view ... Until you climb inside of his skin and walk around in it"
"People generally see what they look for and hear what they listen for"
TRIGGER WARNING: child abuse, orphans, general violence
"Children are children, but they can spot and evasion faster than adults"
"Good looking. One of my favourite street terms, both in sentiment and economy of words"
If you're a fan of James Patterson and you're looking for thriller vibes with a huge amount of law, this is the book for you!
I love reading about district attorneys and whenever law is involved in a thriller and scenes, directly from court, are painted, I fall more in love with the book and feel engaged in the plot.
By a certain point throughout the reading journey, I couldn't put it down.
This story led you through complicated lives and difficult choices while making you understand that life's not easy for anyone... someone more than others.
The author chose a normal D.A., as main character, and let us follow his life and his career, how he made other people's struggle is everyday job.
And, to be completely honest, the choice to put his love life in the middle, made the story even more enjoyable.
"I wasn't sure about drinking more, but I definitely needed to date more"
You'll wait until the very end to find out the truth about the two brothers, sometimes put there at the beginning of each chapter... people may expect that final plot twist ... but I bet there'll someone who won't!!
It definitely ended with a crescendo and I absolutely loved that!
Go and read it !
"You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view ... Until you climb inside of his skin and walk around in it"
"People generally see what they look for and hear what they listen for"
June 24, 2021
Good Lookin is an exciting thriller filled with action and suspense that will appeal to lovers of mystery and crime based novels. The plot was unique and had a depth that drew me in. This is the story of Joe Turner, a criminal defence attorney. Joe Turner defends the case of Darnell Moore as he is accused of the murder of Cleveland Barlow, a known Cashtown member who was shot as he loitered outside his gang hangout at Eighth and Maybeck in West Oakland. Suspect Darnell Moore's vehicle is caught on surveillance entering the crossing point seconds before the shooting, but the shooting not captured on video. But, Darnell Moore is not willing to accept that he is the murderer. At every stage, he has denied the charges and demanded his trial. So, Joe Turner investigates this case closely to defend Darnell Moore.
The story is full of suspense and mysteries which makes this more interesting. I was captivated from the first page and could not put the book down until I reached the last. It is a brilliantly written story with an engaging plot. The characters in this book are perfectly portrayed by the author. This is a tremendous novel, I highly recommend this to everyone and especially to those who love to read the crime and mystery based genre.
The story is full of suspense and mysteries which makes this more interesting. I was captivated from the first page and could not put the book down until I reached the last. It is a brilliantly written story with an engaging plot. The characters in this book are perfectly portrayed by the author. This is a tremendous novel, I highly recommend this to everyone and especially to those who love to read the crime and mystery based genre.
September 16, 2021
I'm late to the party so there is not much for me to say about this book that has not already been said. What I will say is that This is a Very Important Book! If you have not read it you must!!!
This book was a complete surprise to me. I thought that perhaps it would be dry, or more likely over my head because I know so little about the world of crime and law. Fortunately, my fears proved unfounded; the book was very approachable and entertaining.
Rarely has a book gripped me like this. I didn't want to do anything else but read it. It is utterly mesmerizing. I loved it, even though I'm not great at understanding concepts, but Todd does a good job of explaining things in layman's terms.
Now this is an explosive, revealing and shocking read that had my complete attention from page one. This book shocked me in many ways and it was such an eye opener, its well written, fast paced and informative.
A 5 star rating from me as I just couldnt stop thinking about this book on completion and I have since spent quite a bit of time watching documentaries relating to facts and situations mentioned in this book.
This book was a complete surprise to me. I thought that perhaps it would be dry, or more likely over my head because I know so little about the world of crime and law. Fortunately, my fears proved unfounded; the book was very approachable and entertaining.
Rarely has a book gripped me like this. I didn't want to do anything else but read it. It is utterly mesmerizing. I loved it, even though I'm not great at understanding concepts, but Todd does a good job of explaining things in layman's terms.
Now this is an explosive, revealing and shocking read that had my complete attention from page one. This book shocked me in many ways and it was such an eye opener, its well written, fast paced and informative.
A 5 star rating from me as I just couldnt stop thinking about this book on completion and I have since spent quite a bit of time watching documentaries relating to facts and situations mentioned in this book.
December 12, 2021
I was gifted a copy of the book by The Book Network for the purposes of reviewing it.
The start of the book flits back and forth between the present and past events, it's not clear why until much later in the book. This isn't a style of writing I usually enjoy and this book was no exception, to be honest I nearly gave up on the book.
But I did stick with it and I'm glad I did, the author is writing about what he knows and it makes the book believable and enjoyable.
Darnell is on trial for his life but is not making it easy for his lawyer to prepare a good case for his defence. The evidence is mounting and his lawyer wants him to testify but Darnell won't jeopardise his family's safety and is prepared for life imprisonment. Is his only defence a dope smoking, car thief and murderer?
An enjoyable book that makes me want to read more from this author.
The start of the book flits back and forth between the present and past events, it's not clear why until much later in the book. This isn't a style of writing I usually enjoy and this book was no exception, to be honest I nearly gave up on the book.
But I did stick with it and I'm glad I did, the author is writing about what he knows and it makes the book believable and enjoyable.
Darnell is on trial for his life but is not making it easy for his lawyer to prepare a good case for his defence. The evidence is mounting and his lawyer wants him to testify but Darnell won't jeopardise his family's safety and is prepared for life imprisonment. Is his only defence a dope smoking, car thief and murderer?
An enjoyable book that makes me want to read more from this author.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 6, 2021
Good Lookin is T.L. Bequettes debut novel, and I don't doubt we'll be hearing more about him in the future. Full of mystery and intrigue, with plenty of courtroom drama and just a hint of dry humour - you can feel the realistic input from the authors experience in criminal law with that gritty, fictional edge.
Joe Turner is a strange lead - he's clever, honest, cynical and he eats too many hot dogs. I can't even say for sure he's likeable but there's something about him that gets the reader behind him, hoping his intuition about innocence and guilt is leading him down the right path.
Engaging and fast-paced, this novel is full of dramatic twists and explosive reveals that keep the reader firmly on their toes.
November 5, 2021
Thank you to the @thebooknetwork.co.uk and @tlbequette for my gifted copy of Good Lookin’ in exchange for an honest review.
I went through a murder mystery phase a few years ago and this book put me straight back into it. This book was super fast paced and I found it hard to stop reading once I got started. Reading a murder mystery written by a criminal defence attorney adds that extra bit of authenticity to the story. Books as so much more enjoyable when they aren’t predictable and this book was the opposite of predictable. This debut novel is a stand out for me and I look forward to reading his future work
I went through a murder mystery phase a few years ago and this book put me straight back into it. This book was super fast paced and I found it hard to stop reading once I got started. Reading a murder mystery written by a criminal defence attorney adds that extra bit of authenticity to the story. Books as so much more enjoyable when they aren’t predictable and this book was the opposite of predictable. This debut novel is a stand out for me and I look forward to reading his future work
September 14, 2021
Intelligent and entertaining - if this is the author’s debut novel, then it doesn’t read like one. The story telling is clear and confident. The characters are well defined. A balance of humour and tension works really well to keep the reader engaged and the likeable main character is ripe for a series. The authenticity shines through, I love how the author manages to explain a legal term or courtroom process without interrupting the flow of the story. I sped through this book, enjoying the company and the twists of the story. Hope there’s more to come.
December 3, 2021
I liked this book. I felt it was well written; the characters are well developed and feel like real people with depth.
I would recommend this book to anyone who likes crime/mystery who-do-it books or is a fan of Law & Order.
You can tell that the author is writing from experience, with the detail he puts into his writing and storytelling.
The only thing that I am not a fan of is the naming of the two characters so closely together. For me, it confuses me with keeping Darnell and Damon apart. Other than that, it's a great book, and I can't wait to see more from T. L. Bequette.
I would recommend this book to anyone who likes crime/mystery who-do-it books or is a fan of Law & Order.
You can tell that the author is writing from experience, with the detail he puts into his writing and storytelling.
The only thing that I am not a fan of is the naming of the two characters so closely together. For me, it confuses me with keeping Darnell and Damon apart. Other than that, it's a great book, and I can't wait to see more from T. L. Bequette.
June 10, 2021
Deftly and impressively Bequette met the challenge of giving readers insight into the world of indigent criminal defense - which I know because I'm a long-time criminal defense investigator who works for attorneys like Joe Turner - while telling a story as interesting as any I've read in sometime. I finished up a John Grisham novel before starting Good Lookin'.
July 2, 2021
This story didn’t start off slow and it continued to pick up it’s pace throughout. It’s a fast and furious read that will have the reader flipping pages.
The writing was smart and witty at times, which gave it another element.
Around the halfway point, I couldn’t put it down. I loved the unpredictability, the mystery, the history, and everything in between.
The writing was smart and witty at times, which gave it another element.
Around the halfway point, I couldn’t put it down. I loved the unpredictability, the mystery, the history, and everything in between.
October 7, 2021
I can't believe this is a first novel, it's fantastic!
Great characters, great plot, excellent twists and turns.
This novel was perfect in length, pace and engagement.
The characters are all well developed and I feel lend themselves to further books; I do hope this becomes a series.
Fabulous work!
Great characters, great plot, excellent twists and turns.
This novel was perfect in length, pace and engagement.
The characters are all well developed and I feel lend themselves to further books; I do hope this becomes a series.
Fabulous work!
December 17, 2025
It took me 3 weeks to read 100 pages so I guess this book is just not for me. The book is detailed but it drags along, in my opinion. I cannot decide if this is a mystery or a crime novel. But either way I just cannot keep reading. Perhaps Bequette's later Joe Turner novels are fast-paced and more engaging.
October 17, 2021
*Gifted a review copy courtesy of the author & The Book Network*
Good Lookin' is the debut novel from Californian criminal defence attorney T.L. Bequette.
Bequette combines his courtroom experience of nearly three decades with that of being father to twins to brings us this legal thriller.
Joe Turner is a criminal defence attorney who eats far too many hotdogs and has a knack for knowing when his clients are innocent. At least, he thinks he does. The evidence stacking up against his new client Darnell Moore makes Joe wonder whether his client could in fact be guilty of murder.
Good Lookin' has just the right amount of suspense to keep you flipping the pages and includes a love interest for the romantics among us. It also has you covered if you're a fan of plot twits.
I look forward to reading more from this author in future.
Good Lookin' is the debut novel from Californian criminal defence attorney T.L. Bequette.
Bequette combines his courtroom experience of nearly three decades with that of being father to twins to brings us this legal thriller.
Joe Turner is a criminal defence attorney who eats far too many hotdogs and has a knack for knowing when his clients are innocent. At least, he thinks he does. The evidence stacking up against his new client Darnell Moore makes Joe wonder whether his client could in fact be guilty of murder.
Good Lookin' has just the right amount of suspense to keep you flipping the pages and includes a love interest for the romantics among us. It also has you covered if you're a fan of plot twits.
I look forward to reading more from this author in future.
November 3, 2021
Thank you to @thebooknetwork.co.uk for my copy of this book.
This started with a flashback chapter and these continued on throughout the first half of the book. I wasn’t sure until they stopped what their relevance was as this wasn’t revealed for some time.
The book follows Joe the defence attorney as he defends Darnell for murder of a rival gang member. I really enjoyed this book, there was plenty of reference to criminal trials and the way things worked, and a lot of gang & prison culture explained. I read at the end of the book that the author was a criminal defence attorney himself in Oakland, so he has plenty of experience about all he’s written. I believe this made it more believable and real, not just from someone’s imagination.
A good read that kept me gripped and guessing most of the way through.
This started with a flashback chapter and these continued on throughout the first half of the book. I wasn’t sure until they stopped what their relevance was as this wasn’t revealed for some time.
The book follows Joe the defence attorney as he defends Darnell for murder of a rival gang member. I really enjoyed this book, there was plenty of reference to criminal trials and the way things worked, and a lot of gang & prison culture explained. I read at the end of the book that the author was a criminal defence attorney himself in Oakland, so he has plenty of experience about all he’s written. I believe this made it more believable and real, not just from someone’s imagination.
A good read that kept me gripped and guessing most of the way through.
December 5, 2022
This Joe Turner story was actually written before Blood Perfect, but this is the second story in the life of Joe Turner. Turner is a defense attorney, & I found both stories engaging & populated by real-seeming characters.
April 15, 2025
35-2025. A new author for me. This was a fine murder/courtroom mystery. Interesting characters, a solid hero fighting for his client, and good folks at the edges. Justice is done, in more ways than one.
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