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Nate Shepherd #5
Just Plea
A bloody van. A motive. No alibi.
Nate’s next case is not looking great.
Attorney Nate Shepherd’s newest client stands accused of a fatal hit and run. While Nate doesn’t believe that the CEO of Carrefour’s largest charity would ever smash into a person and flee the scene, a blood-streaked van says otherwise.
A free-wheeling prosecutor is certain that Nate’s client did it and more, that the killing wasn’t an accident at all. With help from old friends and an intriguing new one, Nate uncovers incriminating acts, secret relationships, and a massive motive that has him scrambling for answers.
As the case gets worse, Nate fights to craft a defense. But as trial approaches, one risk grows until it looms over everything else:
Will Nate destroy his client’s life by saving his freedom?
Nate’s next case is not looking great.
Attorney Nate Shepherd’s newest client stands accused of a fatal hit and run. While Nate doesn’t believe that the CEO of Carrefour’s largest charity would ever smash into a person and flee the scene, a blood-streaked van says otherwise.
A free-wheeling prosecutor is certain that Nate’s client did it and more, that the killing wasn’t an accident at all. With help from old friends and an intriguing new one, Nate uncovers incriminating acts, secret relationships, and a massive motive that has him scrambling for answers.
As the case gets worse, Nate fights to craft a defense. But as trial approaches, one risk grows until it looms over everything else:
Will Nate destroy his client’s life by saving his freedom?
515 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 23, 2022
1403 people are currently reading
328 people want to read
About the author
Michael Stagg
10 books321 followersMichael Stagg has been a trial lawyer for more than twenty-five years. He has tried cases to juries and he's won and he's lost and he's argued about it in the court of appeals after. He still practices law so he's writing the Nate Shepherd series under a pen name.
Michael and his wife live in the Midwest. Their sons are grown so time that used to be spent at football games and band concerts now goes to writing. He enjoys sports of all sorts, reading, and grilling, with the order depending on the day.
For more information about Michael and his books, sign up for his newsletter at michaelstagg.com/newsletter/ or go to michaelstagg.com.
Nate Shepherd Legal Thrillers - Reading Order
Lethal Defense
True Intent
Blind Conviction
False Oath
Michael and his wife live in the Midwest. Their sons are grown so time that used to be spent at football games and band concerts now goes to writing. He enjoys sports of all sorts, reading, and grilling, with the order depending on the day.
For more information about Michael and his books, sign up for his newsletter at michaelstagg.com/newsletter/ or go to michaelstagg.com.
Nate Shepherd Legal Thrillers - Reading Order
Lethal Defense
True Intent
Blind Conviction
False Oath
Ratings & Reviews
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Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 105 reviews
November 13, 2022
I'm very happy I didn't give up on this series after False Oath. Just Plea was wonderful! As in the previous books, Nate and Danny were defending someone accused of murder. Also, as usual, they were both brilliant and honorable. I love Nate's sense of humor. Hands down, though, My favorite person was Sharon Pepperstone!!! I. Loved. Her. I want to be her! "Can we do the stupid part faster??" I kept laughing out loud as I read!
I hope this series never ends!!!
I hope this series never ends!!!
October 28, 2022
I’ve enjoyed reading all of Michael Stagg’s books and find they are hard to put down. This book like the others has a murder and Nat and Daniel go about finding the culprit with their various side kicks. I did appreciate the introduction of the antique dealer and look forward to what she can bring to future novels. I just wish there was an explanation for the judges computers dinging during court or maybe there was and I missed it. Looking forward to the next novel and the characters involved even if I stay up until 3:00 in the morning to find out guilt or innocence.
March 29, 2023
5+ stars
I almost don't know where to start - I enjoy Michael's books so much. First and key is the plot. Each book has a storyline that's interesting and real. The pacing is perfect -no overload, information dump that is contrived. Information flows with the story. Second is the dry humor and wit.Not laugh out loud funny but comments you might make in real life. Number three - friends and family seem like real people. So many in this category have family and friends that are borderline cartoonish. It's seems no one in their life is halfway normal. Not so far in Michael's books. Not that they don't have problems but just regular life problems. I could continue to rave about how much I love these books but I think you get the point. I'm thrilled that they are offered on Kindle Unlimited but if not they are worth paying for. Each one can stand alone by I would recommend starting with the first one because you will want to read them all!!!
I almost don't know where to start - I enjoy Michael's books so much. First and key is the plot. Each book has a storyline that's interesting and real. The pacing is perfect -no overload, information dump that is contrived. Information flows with the story. Second is the dry humor and wit.Not laugh out loud funny but comments you might make in real life. Number three - friends and family seem like real people. So many in this category have family and friends that are borderline cartoonish. It's seems no one in their life is halfway normal. Not so far in Michael's books. Not that they don't have problems but just regular life problems. I could continue to rave about how much I love these books but I think you get the point. I'm thrilled that they are offered on Kindle Unlimited but if not they are worth paying for. Each one can stand alone by I would recommend starting with the first one because you will want to read them all!!!
October 8, 2023
Always a reliable read. Some repetition in the early courtroom scenes. There's probably a lot of repetition in real life trial work, but spare the reader. This is another great use of the story structure "nothing is as it appears" all the way to the end.
February 10, 2024
I love this series and this one was a really good read.
July 22, 2025
Another fantastic read! This is my 5th book read in this authors series of 8 total! This read by far has been his best! So many twists! Can’t wait to start book #6! Thank you author, Michael Stagg for making my summer reading so enjoyable!
May 26, 2022
Legal & writing malpractice
The author arranged it so it wouldn’t matter in the end, but he left gaping holes in the plot. Spoiler alert. I kept waiting for him to cover the holes but he never did.
.
.
.
He missed two simple ways that his client could’ve been absolved of the crime. He has a mechanic mention that it is impossible to get all the blood out of a car after hitting a deer. Yet neither he nor the prosecutor had the body shop pull off the fender and check. They could’ve easily verified it. Second, the whole plot rests on whether he was at the location of the crime. All they had to do was get his cell tower location records. It’s really tiring to see stories that are still written like there in the last century. Come on authors it’s time to catch up. He did include cryptocurrency so we know it was written this century, but neglected the simple remedy for a dog chewed wallet of recovering the chip.
The author arranged it so it wouldn’t matter in the end, but he left gaping holes in the plot. Spoiler alert. I kept waiting for him to cover the holes but he never did.
.
.
.
He missed two simple ways that his client could’ve been absolved of the crime. He has a mechanic mention that it is impossible to get all the blood out of a car after hitting a deer. Yet neither he nor the prosecutor had the body shop pull off the fender and check. They could’ve easily verified it. Second, the whole plot rests on whether he was at the location of the crime. All they had to do was get his cell tower location records. It’s really tiring to see stories that are still written like there in the last century. Come on authors it’s time to catch up. He did include cryptocurrency so we know it was written this century, but neglected the simple remedy for a dog chewed wallet of recovering the chip.
November 17, 2023
This is the fifth installment Attorney Nate Shepherd's serie! His newest client stands accused of a fatal hit and run. While Nate doesn't believe that the CEO of Carrefour's largest charity would ever smash into a person and flee the scene, a blood-streaked van says otherwise. A free-wheeling prosecutor is certain that Nate's client did it and more, that the killing wasn't an accident at all. With help from old friends and an intriguing new one, Nate uncovers incriminating acts, secret relationships, and a massive motive that has him scrambling for answers. As the case gets worse, Nate fights to craft a defense.
June 10, 2022
I enjoyed the book. However, it did not get "exciting" until the end. I wasn't crazy about the ending. Maybe justice was served but not fairness.
I like the characters and the connection with family. I like that Shepherd is a lawyer with integrity. We need more of those kinds of characters these days. I also like the idea of Shepherd having friends.
I like the characters and the connection with family. I like that Shepherd is a lawyer with integrity. We need more of those kinds of characters these days. I also like the idea of Shepherd having friends.
July 15, 2023
My new favorite author.
I have read one through five of Michael Staff's books in five days!! (I am retired lots of time) I can't wait to start Number 6. These books read in the same way as reading a Grissom novel, hard to put down. I highly recommend but only if you don't mind losing sleep.
I have read one through five of Michael Staff's books in five days!! (I am retired lots of time) I can't wait to start Number 6. These books read in the same way as reading a Grissom novel, hard to put down. I highly recommend but only if you don't mind losing sleep.
November 17, 2022
Enjoyed, but simply not as riveting as the previous stories. The murder wasn't as interesting, the characters were largely unlikable, and some of the tropes were getting old. But overall, I always enjoy spending time with Nate Sheppard.
November 13, 2022
Love this series
There are few books that I just cannot put down, this series is one. Can’t wait for the next one.
There are few books that I just cannot put down, this series is one. Can’t wait for the next one.
July 14, 2024
Alright, love these Nate Shepherd books, but I have to get one aggravating thing out of the way right now. Can we please, for the love of all that is Holy, stop with fat-shaming and gym-shaming poor old Nate? The "Har har, your gym pass is dustier than those files...har har" stuff is getting old. Olivia is a cool character when she drops that crap, but Nate needs to put her in her place and tell her nerds don't like gyms.
Okay, now that that's out of the way, this being the 5th book in the series I find they're getting a little formulaic. I know, I know, that's how court stuff goes. But I'm not talking about just the court stuff. There's the mandatory vague crime. Everything very lopsided toward the prosecution. The mandatory chapter or two with Nate's entire extended family at camp that we don't care one bit about. Etc etc..
And, here I was praising this series for not trying to inject some awkward love story into it, but I guess it had to happen eventually. Not sure who leaned on you to add that in, Mr. Stagg, but you should have told them "Nate Shepherd ain't got time for love!!".
This book seemed longer than the others and definitely took a lot longer and seemingly chased its tale a lot before getting to the actual court stuff. Even the court portion was a bit "meh" and the last 50 or so pages AFTER the court proceedings were actually the better part of the whole read.
Still much love for this series, even though this one might be one of my more negative reviews about Stagg's books. Still the best courtroom thrillers I've read.
Okay, now that that's out of the way, this being the 5th book in the series I find they're getting a little formulaic. I know, I know, that's how court stuff goes. But I'm not talking about just the court stuff. There's the mandatory vague crime. Everything very lopsided toward the prosecution. The mandatory chapter or two with Nate's entire extended family at camp that we don't care one bit about. Etc etc..
And, here I was praising this series for not trying to inject some awkward love story into it, but I guess it had to happen eventually. Not sure who leaned on you to add that in, Mr. Stagg, but you should have told them "Nate Shepherd ain't got time for love!!".
This book seemed longer than the others and definitely took a lot longer and seemingly chased its tale a lot before getting to the actual court stuff. Even the court portion was a bit "meh" and the last 50 or so pages AFTER the court proceedings were actually the better part of the whole read.
Still much love for this series, even though this one might be one of my more negative reviews about Stagg's books. Still the best courtroom thrillers I've read.
June 10, 2025
This book was lit 🔥, highly recommend
Wow, what a great book. I was totally wrong on everything. I really couldn’t figure it out. It was like a jigsaw puzzle. The pieces never fixed. It seems like there were so many moving parts. I truly enjoyed trying to find the culprit. Even knowing now, I’m still puzzled. I see no real reason why. But the twists and turns are captivating. It seems like there’s a conspiracy among thieves. It’s a lot to untangle. But anyway, that trial was not a good look for Nate. His client was difficult from the start. I really like the prosecutor, Ryan Pompeo. He was hilarious but smart. He brought a lot of fun playfulness into the story. Court scenes more lively with Pompeo bc the judge was incompetent. Mrs. Pepperstone was a true character, I laughed so hard. Author, I would love more elaboration about Nate ear, describing what it actually looks like. And stop trying to fix him up with blind dates. I did skip all chapters with Nate and Kira and the family holiday. I’m glad Nate not alone anymore, he got Roxie.
Wow, what a great book. I was totally wrong on everything. I really couldn’t figure it out. It was like a jigsaw puzzle. The pieces never fixed. It seems like there were so many moving parts. I truly enjoyed trying to find the culprit. Even knowing now, I’m still puzzled. I see no real reason why. But the twists and turns are captivating. It seems like there’s a conspiracy among thieves. It’s a lot to untangle. But anyway, that trial was not a good look for Nate. His client was difficult from the start. I really like the prosecutor, Ryan Pompeo. He was hilarious but smart. He brought a lot of fun playfulness into the story. Court scenes more lively with Pompeo bc the judge was incompetent. Mrs. Pepperstone was a true character, I laughed so hard. Author, I would love more elaboration about Nate ear, describing what it actually looks like. And stop trying to fix him up with blind dates. I did skip all chapters with Nate and Kira and the family holiday. I’m glad Nate not alone anymore, he got Roxie.
January 17, 2023
This book was amazing. I gotta say, I was starting to lose interest in the Nate Shepherd series after the last book because I felt like there was not enough drama. Then I began this book and I could not put it down! I NEEDED to know what would happen next.
I was so happy to know that Nate had met someone and although their relationship did not bloom like I wanted, it was to be expected. He's not a divorcee he's a widow.
The case involving Fleece was a bad one to begin with. All evidence pointed to him. In the end I was unhappy with who it actually was because this person committed murder and got away with it. I was also unhappy to find out about Dr. Fleece and her affair that also was never resolved. I like dramatic endings and righteous revenge. That didn't happen here. Oh well.
Still, this book had me on the edge of my seat wondering who could have committed such a murder and continue life as if nothing happened.
I was so happy to know that Nate had met someone and although their relationship did not bloom like I wanted, it was to be expected. He's not a divorcee he's a widow.
The case involving Fleece was a bad one to begin with. All evidence pointed to him. In the end I was unhappy with who it actually was because this person committed murder and got away with it. I was also unhappy to find out about Dr. Fleece and her affair that also was never resolved. I like dramatic endings and righteous revenge. That didn't happen here. Oh well.
Still, this book had me on the edge of my seat wondering who could have committed such a murder and continue life as if nothing happened.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 27, 2023
The Nate Shepherd series just keeps getting better and better. Oh and Yes, I am secretly in love with Nate Shepherd 😍, the character and love the slices of humour and light hearted digs between Nate and his associate Daniel.
Michael Stagg, the author goes a step further to put some humour even inside the courtroom. Each book has given so far a totally different character/ opponent for the prosecution. Making each case more interesting alone. The judge on each occasion definitely shows their own quirks and rules to their courtroom.
Each book is definitely split into two where they go looking for evidence and dig for informafion for the trail, and then the trail itself.
This book just left me hanging on for more and I look forward to starting on books 6 and 7.
A series for all crime thrillers and court case lovers. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5 stars.
Michael Stagg, the author goes a step further to put some humour even inside the courtroom. Each book has given so far a totally different character/ opponent for the prosecution. Making each case more interesting alone. The judge on each occasion definitely shows their own quirks and rules to their courtroom.
Each book is definitely split into two where they go looking for evidence and dig for informafion for the trail, and then the trail itself.
This book just left me hanging on for more and I look forward to starting on books 6 and 7.
A series for all crime thrillers and court case lovers. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5 stars.
December 19, 2022
I just discovered Michael Stagg's Nate Shepherd series recently and I blew through all of them. I also ordered #6 in the series, Lost Proof, which will be released in the spring. They are well-written, entertaining, and I have enjoyed introducing others to this author. Just Plea was perhaps my favorite of the first five in this series.
I am notoriously bad at NOT guessing or figuring out the mystery when I read, and this time was no exception...but that doesn't diminish my five-star review. Trust me, if you enjoy a good mystery and particularly if you are a fan of legal mysteries/thrillers, READ THESE! They can be read as standalones (I think I read #3 first) but I'd recommend starting at the beginning with Lethal Defense. Five stars.
I am notoriously bad at NOT guessing or figuring out the mystery when I read, and this time was no exception...but that doesn't diminish my five-star review. Trust me, if you enjoy a good mystery and particularly if you are a fan of legal mysteries/thrillers, READ THESE! They can be read as standalones (I think I read #3 first) but I'd recommend starting at the beginning with Lethal Defense. Five stars.
July 7, 2022
Masterful
This book, as far legal thrillers go, was interesting from beginning to end.the development of each character - so many of them! - especially by way of dialogue, instead of direct description, made the story move along as well as created so many possible outcomes. With all the possible culprits of the crime, I actually surprised myself by correctly identifying the real killer -- but still being surprised by the identification at the end. Even the emotional tryst was a satisfying and integral part to the plot.
I hope the rest of the Nate Shepherd novels are as good as this one!
This book, as far legal thrillers go, was interesting from beginning to end.the development of each character - so many of them! - especially by way of dialogue, instead of direct description, made the story move along as well as created so many possible outcomes. With all the possible culprits of the crime, I actually surprised myself by correctly identifying the real killer -- but still being surprised by the identification at the end. Even the emotional tryst was a satisfying and integral part to the plot.
I hope the rest of the Nate Shepherd novels are as good as this one!
December 23, 2024
contrived
A lot in this story does not make any sense. First of all Edge could never get rid of every spot of blood even if it was an attempt to get rid of human blood . No one ever inspected that vehicle. Someone willing to go to prison for one day!? Never. Also the prosecutor allowed the illegal progression and ultimate illegal and wrong outcome to take place. He should have lost his job at least. The outcome of the book was put together just to end it. I was so dismayed with its finish that I do want to read any more that this author may poorly crafted.
A lot in this story does not make any sense. First of all Edge could never get rid of every spot of blood even if it was an attempt to get rid of human blood . No one ever inspected that vehicle. Someone willing to go to prison for one day!? Never. Also the prosecutor allowed the illegal progression and ultimate illegal and wrong outcome to take place. He should have lost his job at least. The outcome of the book was put together just to end it. I was so dismayed with its finish that I do want to read any more that this author may poorly crafted.
May 30, 2022
Gotta love the lawyer
Nate Shepherd is such a lovable character, which usually cannot be said about a lawyer. He is a good and honest man who is loved by his family and a few close friends. He is always able to find the truth even when it is deeply hidden. He is witty and charming, with a gift for language. Well, maybe that's a description of the author, too. Reading Nate Shepherd books puts a smile on my face, and I always look forward to the next one.
Nate Shepherd is such a lovable character, which usually cannot be said about a lawyer. He is a good and honest man who is loved by his family and a few close friends. He is always able to find the truth even when it is deeply hidden. He is witty and charming, with a gift for language. Well, maybe that's a description of the author, too. Reading Nate Shepherd books puts a smile on my face, and I always look forward to the next one.
January 16, 2025
This could possibly be one of my favorites so far! I really like the story plus the growth of Daniel is simply wonderful. The light ”family-like” bickering between Nate and Daniel made me smile numerous times. I REALLY thought I had this one figured out but guess what…Nope! I like the modern wallets in here. That is new to me and I liked learning a little about Bitcoin. As per usual George Newbern does an amazing job on the narration.
March 22, 2025
I love Stagg’s Nate Shepherd series
I love the way Stagg writes the Nate Shepherd series in the first person so we develop a close relationship with Nate and his family and clients. Everything is just right – – both complexity and simplicity, down home character development, engaging plot, relatable characters, and unraveling the legal drama in the courtroom are intriguing and compelling without being boring!
I love the way Stagg writes the Nate Shepherd series in the first person so we develop a close relationship with Nate and his family and clients. Everything is just right – – both complexity and simplicity, down home character development, engaging plot, relatable characters, and unraveling the legal drama in the courtroom are intriguing and compelling without being boring!
May 27, 2022
Oh how I waited for my pre-order Just plea
I hope you don't. Stop writing this series. I'm a.trial buff and your Mate is one of the best I have ever read. The words you. Use the interaction of family friends and foes Michael Skaggs you are one fine author. I will pre-order book 6 and it can't come soon enough😂
I hope you don't. Stop writing this series. I'm a.trial buff and your Mate is one of the best I have ever read. The words you. Use the interaction of family friends and foes Michael Skaggs you are one fine author. I will pre-order book 6 and it can't come soon enough😂
July 29, 2022
Awesome
This one was great and well written. Was a little confusing due to I don't know too much about crypto currency or how charity organizations much work but I figured it out pretty good as it was written and explained for the slow mind of me. Haha I do have to admit, I kept wondering how this one was gonna play out. Plus I lobe the doggie
This one was great and well written. Was a little confusing due to I don't know too much about crypto currency or how charity organizations much work but I figured it out pretty good as it was written and explained for the slow mind of me. Haha I do have to admit, I kept wondering how this one was gonna play out. Plus I lobe the doggie
September 22, 2022
One of my favorite series
The writing is outstanding. I really enjoy the characters, both regulars and book specific. There is always added complexities to the plot which take the stories from really good to outstanding. The tangents always seem to enrich the main theme and add to the story. Can’t wait for the next one.
The writing is outstanding. I really enjoy the characters, both regulars and book specific. There is always added complexities to the plot which take the stories from really good to outstanding. The tangents always seem to enrich the main theme and add to the story. Can’t wait for the next one.
December 14, 2022
Another Page Turner
Michael Staff is genius at constructing his stories so that you don't figure out the ending before you get there. This one was written with a lot of compassion and as always shows the joy of family along with the tragedy surrounding his clients. Superb writing.
Michael Staff is genius at constructing his stories so that you don't figure out the ending before you get there. This one was written with a lot of compassion and as always shows the joy of family along with the tragedy surrounding his clients. Superb writing.
January 14, 2023
Charity survives as does lazy police work
I like the family life and affable relationships which Nate enjoys and encourages. In this story, much missing information piles up in the final chapters. Self centered characters failed to explore the big picture of community service and best interests of the general public. I preordered the next episode.
I like the family life and affable relationships which Nate enjoys and encourages. In this story, much missing information piles up in the final chapters. Self centered characters failed to explore the big picture of community service and best interests of the general public. I preordered the next episode.
January 16, 2024
Love this series! Nate is an interesting, smart character with a wicked sense of humor and the rest of the crew is just as likable. The storyline in this book is much the same as the others, someone accused of murder and Nate and Danny don't think they did it. It was good, highly recommend this series.
March 28, 2024
Always entertaining
I'm very glad I found this author. His characters are always believable. The dialogue is smart, snappy and humorous. And the court trout key is always entertaining with twists til the last page. On top of that, he's clean. Go figure. Profanity isn't needed to tell a compelling story. Sadly, a rarity. And one I'm happy to have discovered
I'm very glad I found this author. His characters are always believable. The dialogue is smart, snappy and humorous. And the court trout key is always entertaining with twists til the last page. On top of that, he's clean. Go figure. Profanity isn't needed to tell a compelling story. Sadly, a rarity. And one I'm happy to have discovered
June 2, 2024
I love this series - Nate Shepherd is an interesting attorney with an even more interesting family and friends - good courtroom drama with a good twist at the end - the reader of these audio books George Newbern makes the books come alive - a reader can make or break a book - this guy is great - on to book 6
Displaying 1 - 30 of 105 reviews