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Bocephus Haynes #2
The Wrong Side
Teen pop star Brittany Crutcher is found dead in small-town Tennessee. For attorney Bocephus Haynes, it’s just another night in Pulaski. Bo swore off criminal work after his last case, but the beloved singer’s murder demands answers.
The prime suspect is local high school football hero and the victim’s boyfriend, Odell Champagne. However, this fallen athlete is one of Bo’s son’s best friends. Bo knows this young man and does not believe him capable of the crime.
When Odell is charged with murder, Bo reluctantly takes the case, sparking outrage throughout the town. But as Bo follows the evidence, he learns that the victim made decisions in her last hours that would give powerful forces motive to harm her. Feeling mounting pressure from the community and the DA, Bo forges ahead. But as the seconds count down, he wonders whether justice is even possible.
The prime suspect is local high school football hero and the victim’s boyfriend, Odell Champagne. However, this fallen athlete is one of Bo’s son’s best friends. Bo knows this young man and does not believe him capable of the crime.
When Odell is charged with murder, Bo reluctantly takes the case, sparking outrage throughout the town. But as Bo follows the evidence, he learns that the victim made decisions in her last hours that would give powerful forces motive to harm her. Feeling mounting pressure from the community and the DA, Bo forges ahead. But as the seconds count down, he wonders whether justice is even possible.
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First published August 3, 2021
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About the author
Robert Bailey
12 books1,273 followersRobert Bailey is the bestselling and award winning author of the McMurtrie and Drake Legal Thrillers series, which includes The Final Reckoning, The Last Trial, Between Black and White, and The Professor, as well as the Bocephus Haynes’ series, which debuted with Legacy of Lies. He is also the author of the inspirational novel, The Golfer’s Carol.
Robert was born in Huntsville, Alabama, the son of a builder and a schoolteacher. From the time he could walk, he’s loved stories, especially those about Coach Paul “Bear” Bryant and his beloved Alabama Crimson Tide football team.
Robert obtained a Bachelor of Arts in History from Davidson College in North Carolina. Law School at the University of Alabama followed, where Robert made Law Review, competed on the school’s trial team and managed to watch every home football game.
For the past twenty-one years, he’s been a civil defense trial lawyer in his hometown of Huntsville. He and his wife, Dixie, have three kids.
Robert was born in Huntsville, Alabama, the son of a builder and a schoolteacher. From the time he could walk, he’s loved stories, especially those about Coach Paul “Bear” Bryant and his beloved Alabama Crimson Tide football team.
Robert obtained a Bachelor of Arts in History from Davidson College in North Carolina. Law School at the University of Alabama followed, where Robert made Law Review, competed on the school’s trial team and managed to watch every home football game.
For the past twenty-one years, he’s been a civil defense trial lawyer in his hometown of Huntsville. He and his wife, Dixie, have three kids.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 347 reviews
June 20, 2021
Lives can be destroyed by lies while your own can be destroyed by the truth.
Robert Bailey returns with the second edition in the Bocephus Haynes Series. Not to worry. The Wrong Side reads perfectly as a standalone thanks to Bailey's little pockets of background. The first few pages carry a neon sign beckoning you in.
Let's sit with Bocephus Haynes for a minute. Bo is a highly talented African American attorney living in the small town of Pulaski, Tennessee. Bo's former reputation was built on his famous high school and college football career until injuries sidelined him. But then you know the old saying about when one door closes.......Law school opened wide and inviting.
Bo's law office was gaining traction with the usual cases. He never bargained for a tightly wound criminal case leaning heavily in his direction. It seems that the high school friend of his son and daughter, Odell Champagne, has been arrested for the brutal murder of his girlfriend, Brittany. Odell had scored three touchdowns that night and drank heavily at a local party. Brittany, a talented lead singer in a popular band, had signed a recording contract earlier. The only thing she was leaving behind was a break-up note in Odell's locker after the game. And Odell was having none of this......
Brittany's death was dividing the town of Pulaski. She was popular and well-loved. Odell bore the stains of a young man's temper, a run-off father, and an alcoholic mother. All the evidence pressed toward Odell's direction. Bo didn't want his own children feeling the friction if he took on this particular case. Could he prove Odell innocent? Nothing points to any other suspects. Right or wrong Bo has to make a decision that may just end his own career.
The Wrong Side is in the hands of the talented Robert Bailey who brings the character of Bocephus Haynes to life front and center. Bo has made a multitude of mistakes in his life and almost lost custody of his own children. But you couldn't ask for a steadier hand than Bo's. Bailey inserts rich dialogue that commands attention and leaves the reader sitting up straighter. Real, raw, and human. The Wrong Side tips the scales with a very original and very deeply drawn main character as Bocephus Haynes.
I received a copy of this book through NetGalley for an honest review. My thanks to Thomas & Mercer and to Robert Bailey for the opportunity.
Robert Bailey returns with the second edition in the Bocephus Haynes Series. Not to worry. The Wrong Side reads perfectly as a standalone thanks to Bailey's little pockets of background. The first few pages carry a neon sign beckoning you in.
Let's sit with Bocephus Haynes for a minute. Bo is a highly talented African American attorney living in the small town of Pulaski, Tennessee. Bo's former reputation was built on his famous high school and college football career until injuries sidelined him. But then you know the old saying about when one door closes.......Law school opened wide and inviting.
Bo's law office was gaining traction with the usual cases. He never bargained for a tightly wound criminal case leaning heavily in his direction. It seems that the high school friend of his son and daughter, Odell Champagne, has been arrested for the brutal murder of his girlfriend, Brittany. Odell had scored three touchdowns that night and drank heavily at a local party. Brittany, a talented lead singer in a popular band, had signed a recording contract earlier. The only thing she was leaving behind was a break-up note in Odell's locker after the game. And Odell was having none of this......
Brittany's death was dividing the town of Pulaski. She was popular and well-loved. Odell bore the stains of a young man's temper, a run-off father, and an alcoholic mother. All the evidence pressed toward Odell's direction. Bo didn't want his own children feeling the friction if he took on this particular case. Could he prove Odell innocent? Nothing points to any other suspects. Right or wrong Bo has to make a decision that may just end his own career.
The Wrong Side is in the hands of the talented Robert Bailey who brings the character of Bocephus Haynes to life front and center. Bo has made a multitude of mistakes in his life and almost lost custody of his own children. But you couldn't ask for a steadier hand than Bo's. Bailey inserts rich dialogue that commands attention and leaves the reader sitting up straighter. Real, raw, and human. The Wrong Side tips the scales with a very original and very deeply drawn main character as Bocephus Haynes.
I received a copy of this book through NetGalley for an honest review. My thanks to Thomas & Mercer and to Robert Bailey for the opportunity.
October 5, 2021
Legal thrillers are one of my favorite genres and The Wrong Side by Robert Bailey is a perfect example. This is the second instalment in the attorney Bocephus Haynes series but it reads very well on its own. The setting is small town Pulaski in Tennessee. It is Friday night and football is on everyone’s mind. The game will be followed by a concert with a local band fronted by the young lead singer Brittany. Before the night is out, Brittany will be dead and the town football hero and her boyfriend has been arrested and Odell is charged with her murder. Bocephus Haynes is a local lawyer who has sworn off criminal law but is drawn to Odell’s case because he knows the young man well and feels he may be innocent. The townspeople do not approve of this and life becomes difficult for the lawyer. What makes this novel stand out is the trial. It is so well-written that you feel like you are sitting in the courtroom. There are plenty of possible suspects but nothing is revealed until the trial climax. The characters in The Wrong Side are well-drawn and feel like you know them. I look forward to reading the next Bocephus Haynes legal thriller by Robert Bailey. Highly recommended. Thank you to Thomas & Mercer, NetGalley and the author for the e-ARC in exchange for an honest review.
April 7, 2021
In a small town in Tennessee, two teenagers are becoming the town sensations. Odell Champagne is local high school football hero who is dating teen pop star Brittany Crutcher. Brittany is found dead and Odell is the prime suspect. Odell's attorney is one of his friend's father, Bo Haynes, who decides to represent Odell once he's been charged with murder. As all the evidence starts coming to light, is Bo representing a murderer or is Odell innocent.
I found this book to be an enjoyable, quick, engaging read. Of course, I love books that weave several POV's to keep you guessing on what's really going on and Robert Bailey did just that. I loved the character of Odell and feel like there are more kids out there like this character who have had a bad past that seems to haunt them when they've been trying to do right in the world.
This was my first read by Robert Bailey and now I'll have to check out other books he's written. Thank you to Robert Bailey, Thomas and Mercer, and Netgalley for the ARC of this book for the exchange of an honest review.
I found this book to be an enjoyable, quick, engaging read. Of course, I love books that weave several POV's to keep you guessing on what's really going on and Robert Bailey did just that. I loved the character of Odell and feel like there are more kids out there like this character who have had a bad past that seems to haunt them when they've been trying to do right in the world.
This was my first read by Robert Bailey and now I'll have to check out other books he's written. Thank you to Robert Bailey, Thomas and Mercer, and Netgalley for the ARC of this book for the exchange of an honest review.
February 8, 2023
An excellent addition to the series, you don't need to be a legal expert to enjoy this fast paced, legal thriller that builds nicely off Legacy Of Lies which I recommend you read first. Flawed but likeable characters bring this legal/crime thriller to life with lots of surprises and well placed twist and turns made The Wrong Side such a pleasure to read
September 12, 2021
Great characters
I have read all the McMurtie books and have loved every book. I love to follow all the characters and how they're connected and consistent. Can't wait till the next Bocephus book and curious about the General and Zannick's storyline. Thank you, Robert Bailey, for making me become a more avid reader!
I have read all the McMurtie books and have loved every book. I love to follow all the characters and how they're connected and consistent. Can't wait till the next Bocephus book and curious about the General and Zannick's storyline. Thank you, Robert Bailey, for making me become a more avid reader!
March 11, 2021
*Thank you to NetGalley, Robert Bailey and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for an honest review*
Previously posted at https://www.mysteryandsuspense.com/th...
Brittany Crutcher is a local pop star who just signed with a major record label and is on her way. Odell Champagne is a local football star. Theirs is a match made in heaven until she breaks it off the night before she leaves for L.A.
A few hours later, Brittany is found dead on a school bus, killed with a blunt force object. And then there’s Odell, just outside the bus, holding her bloody sweatshirt and the weapon she was killed with: a broken beer bottle.
Bocephalus Haynes is tired. After being acquitted of murder, getting his law license back, defending a controversial case, and renovating a farmhouse to become a live-in center for teens, he no longer has an interest in pursuing crime cases in court. When one of the teens, who he has known all his life, is accused of murder, he decides to go back to the courtroom and prove the teen’s innocence.
The murder seems cut and dry. However, Bo Haynes isn’t convinced Odell murdered Brittany. When the young man asks Bo to represent him, he is hesitant. The entire town of Pulaski is sure Odell is guilty. Bo knows if represents him, his family could be in danger. It’s that much harder to be a black defense attorney defending a black man accused of killing his black girlfriend. Still, Bo decides to defend Odell as the entire small town Alabama community, in outrage, turns against him.
Determined to prove Odell’s innocence, Bo investigates the last hours of Brittany’s life, coming up with many suspects who were angry enough with her to commit murder. As additional information comes forward, he is much closer to finding out who really killed Brittany Crutcher.
The Wrong Side is one of those books that immediately catch your attention. The characters are well-developed and the sense of place is strong enough to make a reader feel like they’re a resident in this small Alabama town. Each person is more interesting than the next. I found myself rooting for Odell, even though it is not clear whether he killed Brittany. This book is not a black vs. white book. This is about justice and false accusations and the bias that results. But most of all, this is about forming opinions before knowing all the facts.
This book is second in the Bocephalus Haynes story. I have not read the first book, though I think it would be helpful. There are characters and cases referred to that you may not have the background on unless you have read his previous book. I will definitely read any further books in the series.
Previously posted at https://www.mysteryandsuspense.com/th...
Brittany Crutcher is a local pop star who just signed with a major record label and is on her way. Odell Champagne is a local football star. Theirs is a match made in heaven until she breaks it off the night before she leaves for L.A.
A few hours later, Brittany is found dead on a school bus, killed with a blunt force object. And then there’s Odell, just outside the bus, holding her bloody sweatshirt and the weapon she was killed with: a broken beer bottle.
Bocephalus Haynes is tired. After being acquitted of murder, getting his law license back, defending a controversial case, and renovating a farmhouse to become a live-in center for teens, he no longer has an interest in pursuing crime cases in court. When one of the teens, who he has known all his life, is accused of murder, he decides to go back to the courtroom and prove the teen’s innocence.
The murder seems cut and dry. However, Bo Haynes isn’t convinced Odell murdered Brittany. When the young man asks Bo to represent him, he is hesitant. The entire town of Pulaski is sure Odell is guilty. Bo knows if represents him, his family could be in danger. It’s that much harder to be a black defense attorney defending a black man accused of killing his black girlfriend. Still, Bo decides to defend Odell as the entire small town Alabama community, in outrage, turns against him.
Determined to prove Odell’s innocence, Bo investigates the last hours of Brittany’s life, coming up with many suspects who were angry enough with her to commit murder. As additional information comes forward, he is much closer to finding out who really killed Brittany Crutcher.
The Wrong Side is one of those books that immediately catch your attention. The characters are well-developed and the sense of place is strong enough to make a reader feel like they’re a resident in this small Alabama town. Each person is more interesting than the next. I found myself rooting for Odell, even though it is not clear whether he killed Brittany. This book is not a black vs. white book. This is about justice and false accusations and the bias that results. But most of all, this is about forming opinions before knowing all the facts.
This book is second in the Bocephalus Haynes story. I have not read the first book, though I think it would be helpful. There are characters and cases referred to that you may not have the background on unless you have read his previous book. I will definitely read any further books in the series.
August 7, 2021
This is a legal thriller, second in a series about Black lawyer Bocephus Haynes, former college football star now practicing in his home town of Pulaski, Tennessee… infamous as the town where a notorious hate organization was formed, and a town where it’s not easy for a Black man to get a fair trial. Bo is asked to represent Odell Champagne, high school football hero, when Odell is accused of murdering his girlfriend Brittany, a young singer on the verge of superstardom.
As a legal thriller, this is really very good. Bo cares about his clients, his family, his town, and the victim and her family. It’s his own call to represent Odell, but he believes the teenager to be innocent. It’s a tiny detail uncovered by Bo himself that finally cracks the case, when he’s able to put a witness on the stand and break their story. The author is a lawyer and the courtroom stuff is extremely well written.
I was a bit bemused by the subplot with the district attorney general and her son; this appears to have been something that carried through from the first book. It doesn’t actually do anything here apart from take the ‘General’ off the legal field of play for a while, and really felt as though it could have been cut completely and not really detracted all that much from the plot. Possibly this plot thread is going to really heat up in later books in the series.
Now I’m going to come to what really made me feel uncomfortable about this book, and it’s this: in a book which references To Kill A Mockingbird and the fraught history of Pulaski, in which the lead character, a Black man, has witnessed lynchings of family members and is now representing a Black teenager accused of killing his Black girlfriend in front of an almost entirely white jury… I’m uncomfortable that the author is white. This feels like a story that isn’t his to tell. It’s delving into Black history and trauma of Black people in the South both past and present, and a white author monetizing that feels very icky to me. I’m not saying that you should never write characters outside of your own racial background. Just that maybe we should be conscious that some stories aren’t ours to tell, and I think this is one of them.
It’s a well written story; I’ll give it four stars for execution, but my discomfort on discovering that the author is white means I will be avoiding his work in the future.
Disclaimer: I received a review copy of this title via NetGalley.
As a legal thriller, this is really very good. Bo cares about his clients, his family, his town, and the victim and her family. It’s his own call to represent Odell, but he believes the teenager to be innocent. It’s a tiny detail uncovered by Bo himself that finally cracks the case, when he’s able to put a witness on the stand and break their story. The author is a lawyer and the courtroom stuff is extremely well written.
I was a bit bemused by the subplot with the district attorney general and her son; this appears to have been something that carried through from the first book. It doesn’t actually do anything here apart from take the ‘General’ off the legal field of play for a while, and really felt as though it could have been cut completely and not really detracted all that much from the plot. Possibly this plot thread is going to really heat up in later books in the series.
Now I’m going to come to what really made me feel uncomfortable about this book, and it’s this: in a book which references To Kill A Mockingbird and the fraught history of Pulaski, in which the lead character, a Black man, has witnessed lynchings of family members and is now representing a Black teenager accused of killing his Black girlfriend in front of an almost entirely white jury… I’m uncomfortable that the author is white. This feels like a story that isn’t his to tell. It’s delving into Black history and trauma of Black people in the South both past and present, and a white author monetizing that feels very icky to me. I’m not saying that you should never write characters outside of your own racial background. Just that maybe we should be conscious that some stories aren’t ours to tell, and I think this is one of them.
It’s a well written story; I’ll give it four stars for execution, but my discomfort on discovering that the author is white means I will be avoiding his work in the future.
Disclaimer: I received a review copy of this title via NetGalley.
February 4, 2023
This is a wonderful series.... only 2 books.... wish there was more.
December 19, 2024
This book and the other ones of Mr. Bailey are some of the best books I've read lately. Great characters, love that they are set in the south where I am quite familiar and the attention he pays to the real world. Thank you for some wonderful reading.
July 24, 2021
Book Review: The Wrong Side (Bocephus Haynes #2) by Robert Bailey
Published by Thomas & Mercer, August 3, 2021
★★★★★ (4.5 Stars)
On that fateful Christmas eve, 1865, according to the legend, in the aftermath of the American Civil War and the onset of Reconstruction, six defeated, disgruntled Confederate rebels assembled in a "social club" in Pulaski, Tennessee.
Their group was the first chapter of what would become known as the Ku Klux Klan.
Bocephus Haynes, Book 2. "The Wrong Side."
October, 2017, Pulaski, Giles County, Tennessee.
It was literally an "Atticus Finch" crossroads for Bocephus Aurulius Haynes, raised by a man lynched by the KKK in 1966, except the former football high school all-star, college all-American and NFL prospect had always played his game "wide ass open" - his philosophy in life, and wasn't about to have any of his "Tom Robinsons" railroaded by the criminal justice system.
The only black lawyer in Pulaski, TN, had sworn off criminal defense cases after an excessively grueling court trial (in Bocephus Haynes Book 1),
But now it was time to take sides.
And decide whether or not to follow conventional wisdom.
On one side, Brittany Crutcher, gum-chewing, fun-loving teenager, gifted musician and vocalist, finalist in Simon Cowell's "America's Got Talent" with a promising, lucrative offer from SoCal record label "Elektrik Hi"; daughter of a churchgoing Baptist elder and respected Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist, who himself had been a high school football teammate of Bo Haynes.
Slain.
On the other, Odell Champagne, a troubled juvenile delinquent with multiple theft convictions and an assault charge, raised by a jobless, alcoholic single mom, perennially on the dole and the sauce.
The same Odell Champagne whose transgressions are overlooked by everyone due to his genius in sports, the star of "The Brickyard", Pulaski's Sam Davis Stadium, a talented running back AND outside defensive linebacker who also happens to be the best friend and football teammate of Bo's son, T.J. Haynes.
Moreover, Odell, in many ways, reminds Bocephus Haynes of his own young self.
But is Bo being fooled by the young man.
Could he be on the wrong side...?
There was that remarkable ethos of retired law professor and defense attorney Tom McMurtrie who'd succumbed to terminal lung cancer, heralding the end to Author Robert Bailey's four-book "McMurtrie and Drake Legal Thrillers".
In his new "Bocephus Haynes" series, the author takes two of his most compelling characters onto the next stage.
Bo Haynes, defense attorney and McMurtrie's best friend and protégé.
And "The General", McMurtrie's greatest courtroom adversary, Helen Evangeline Lewis, prosecutor, strong female protagonist, gun aficionado and Attorney General for the 22nd Judicial Circuit.
Well-written riveting legal thriller deftly touching on racial issues with credible, emphatic characterizations and entirely undivisive themes.
Review based on an eBook galley from Thomas & Mercer and NetGalley.
Published by Thomas & Mercer, August 3, 2021
★★★★★ (4.5 Stars)
On that fateful Christmas eve, 1865, according to the legend, in the aftermath of the American Civil War and the onset of Reconstruction, six defeated, disgruntled Confederate rebels assembled in a "social club" in Pulaski, Tennessee.
Their group was the first chapter of what would become known as the Ku Klux Klan.
Bocephus Haynes, Book 2. "The Wrong Side."
October, 2017, Pulaski, Giles County, Tennessee.
It was literally an "Atticus Finch" crossroads for Bocephus Aurulius Haynes, raised by a man lynched by the KKK in 1966, except the former football high school all-star, college all-American and NFL prospect had always played his game "wide ass open" - his philosophy in life, and wasn't about to have any of his "Tom Robinsons" railroaded by the criminal justice system.
The only black lawyer in Pulaski, TN, had sworn off criminal defense cases after an excessively grueling court trial (in Bocephus Haynes Book 1),
But now it was time to take sides.
And decide whether or not to follow conventional wisdom.
On one side, Brittany Crutcher, gum-chewing, fun-loving teenager, gifted musician and vocalist, finalist in Simon Cowell's "America's Got Talent" with a promising, lucrative offer from SoCal record label "Elektrik Hi"; daughter of a churchgoing Baptist elder and respected Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist, who himself had been a high school football teammate of Bo Haynes.
Slain.
On the other, Odell Champagne, a troubled juvenile delinquent with multiple theft convictions and an assault charge, raised by a jobless, alcoholic single mom, perennially on the dole and the sauce.
The same Odell Champagne whose transgressions are overlooked by everyone due to his genius in sports, the star of "The Brickyard", Pulaski's Sam Davis Stadium, a talented running back AND outside defensive linebacker who also happens to be the best friend and football teammate of Bo's son, T.J. Haynes.
Moreover, Odell, in many ways, reminds Bocephus Haynes of his own young self.
But is Bo being fooled by the young man.
Could he be on the wrong side...?
"Eat. Pray. Walk."
- Mantra of Tom McMurtrie, "McMurtrie and Drake Legal Thrillers" by Robert Bailey
There was that remarkable ethos of retired law professor and defense attorney Tom McMurtrie who'd succumbed to terminal lung cancer, heralding the end to Author Robert Bailey's four-book "McMurtrie and Drake Legal Thrillers".
In his new "Bocephus Haynes" series, the author takes two of his most compelling characters onto the next stage.
Bo Haynes, defense attorney and McMurtrie's best friend and protégé.
And "The General", McMurtrie's greatest courtroom adversary, Helen Evangeline Lewis, prosecutor, strong female protagonist, gun aficionado and Attorney General for the 22nd Judicial Circuit.
Well-written riveting legal thriller deftly touching on racial issues with credible, emphatic characterizations and entirely undivisive themes.
Review based on an eBook galley from Thomas & Mercer and NetGalley.
August 12, 2021
The Wrong Side by Robert Bailey
Bocephelus Haynes #2
High School students are full of dreams for their future and much to look forward to. Not all dreams come true, though, and sometimes nightmares come to visit. I had not read book one in this series and wasn’t sure I would like this book at first thinking it seemed more a book written for younger readers than myself but as I kept reading I found that though the main characters in the murder mystery were in high school the story was definitely written for those older, too.
What I liked:
* That not having read book one in the series did not detract from this story/book as it stood alone
* Wondering what I might have missed in book one of the series and how it would have impacted my take on this story
* Some of the hints of history in the town
* That Bocephelus chose to defend Odell even though by doing so he fell on The Wrong Side of community opinions and feelings
* Bo’s family and his interactions with them
* That though some rushed to judge the “evidence” some were able to find clues that exposed the truth
* The way the court case played out
* The strings that tantalized related to some of the characters and wanting to know more about some of them
* Wondering if some of the dreams of the high school students would come to fruition
* Thinking about Bo’s next case…if he chooses to take one.
* The look into the impact on family and friends when someone is murdered
* The legal and courtroom portions of the story
* That the murder case was solved
What I didn’t like:
* Realizing how fragile life is and how easily anger can lead to murder
* Thinking about how youth and immaturity combined with a desire to succeed – no matter what or who might be harmed – can have such a horrible impact on so many
Did I enjoy this book? Yes
Would I read more in this series/by this author? Yes
Thank you to NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer for the ARC – This is my honest review.
4-5 Stars
Bocephelus Haynes #2
High School students are full of dreams for their future and much to look forward to. Not all dreams come true, though, and sometimes nightmares come to visit. I had not read book one in this series and wasn’t sure I would like this book at first thinking it seemed more a book written for younger readers than myself but as I kept reading I found that though the main characters in the murder mystery were in high school the story was definitely written for those older, too.
What I liked:
* That not having read book one in the series did not detract from this story/book as it stood alone
* Wondering what I might have missed in book one of the series and how it would have impacted my take on this story
* Some of the hints of history in the town
* That Bocephelus chose to defend Odell even though by doing so he fell on The Wrong Side of community opinions and feelings
* Bo’s family and his interactions with them
* That though some rushed to judge the “evidence” some were able to find clues that exposed the truth
* The way the court case played out
* The strings that tantalized related to some of the characters and wanting to know more about some of them
* Wondering if some of the dreams of the high school students would come to fruition
* Thinking about Bo’s next case…if he chooses to take one.
* The look into the impact on family and friends when someone is murdered
* The legal and courtroom portions of the story
* That the murder case was solved
What I didn’t like:
* Realizing how fragile life is and how easily anger can lead to murder
* Thinking about how youth and immaturity combined with a desire to succeed – no matter what or who might be harmed – can have such a horrible impact on so many
Did I enjoy this book? Yes
Would I read more in this series/by this author? Yes
Thank you to NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer for the ARC – This is my honest review.
4-5 Stars
April 2, 2021
The Wrong Side tells the story of a popular teenage singer who is on the cusp of becoming a pop star. When she is shockingly murdered, even more shockingly, her boyfriend is arrested for the murder. Attorney Bocephus Haynes reluctantly takes the case, sparking outrage throughout the small rural town. The people living there are ready to fry whoever killed Brittany! I was fascinated by Bo's journey as he searched for the truth - both within himself and in his community.
I liked the pace of the book, as well as the character development. It was easy to care about Bo, who is a man with a huge heart and who has suffered a great loss. Although the book makes references to things that occurred in book #1, I feel The Wrong Side can be read as a stand-alone, as there is enough background information included to help make everything understandable. I do, however, believe there is more to be gained by reading Legacy of Lies as well.
Probably the only issue I had was feeling like that was possibly the fastest murder court case in history.😂
This is my first book by Mr. Bailey ... but it won't be the last!
Many thanks to the author, the publisher, and NetGalley for the ARC!!
I liked the pace of the book, as well as the character development. It was easy to care about Bo, who is a man with a huge heart and who has suffered a great loss. Although the book makes references to things that occurred in book #1, I feel The Wrong Side can be read as a stand-alone, as there is enough background information included to help make everything understandable. I do, however, believe there is more to be gained by reading Legacy of Lies as well.
Probably the only issue I had was feeling like that was possibly the fastest murder court case in history.😂
This is my first book by Mr. Bailey ... but it won't be the last!
Many thanks to the author, the publisher, and NetGalley for the ARC!!
August 21, 2021
Another great plot line!
I really did enjoy reading both the books in this newer series. There are things that legally happen in real life that are just glossed right over here in these books. That bothers me a bit. But, like the first book, i will say this one had a great plot and the characters are well written with care and differences that make them interesting to us.
I really did enjoy reading both the books in this newer series. There are things that legally happen in real life that are just glossed right over here in these books. That bothers me a bit. But, like the first book, i will say this one had a great plot and the characters are well written with care and differences that make them interesting to us.
August 19, 2021
The Wrong Side
Great reading and couldn't put this book down. Robert Bailey wrote a realistic story about life in a small town and the primary characters were black. Each character was portrayed with personalities that made them real from the attorney, Bocephus (Bo), the sheriff, Francis, Odell and more. Many stories made this book interesting and surprising
Great reading and couldn't put this book down. Robert Bailey wrote a realistic story about life in a small town and the primary characters were black. Each character was portrayed with personalities that made them real from the attorney, Bocephus (Bo), the sheriff, Francis, Odell and more. Many stories made this book interesting and surprising
September 13, 2021
I’ve enjoyed each book in the McMurtrie & Drake series. The first book in this series was really good. This one…not as good.
I liked the story line but the ending left, for me, a lot of questions. It was like “okay, I’ve got to end it, so boom—it’s over.” Zero character development of the responsible party.
Having said the above, I do look forward to the next Bocephus Haynes book. I do like Mr. Bailey's writing style.
John M.
I liked the story line but the ending left, for me, a lot of questions. It was like “okay, I’ve got to end it, so boom—it’s over.” Zero character development of the responsible party.
Having said the above, I do look forward to the next Bocephus Haynes book. I do like Mr. Bailey's writing style.
John M.
August 8, 2021
Is it me or did the “real killer“ just pop up out of nowhere? No hints or foreshadowing just all of a sudden it was that guy?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 2, 2023
Not bad. Not as good as his other books but still an okay read. Satisfying twists. Looking forward to the third one. 3.5 stars.
September 28, 2021
Based on the Bocephus Haynes Series, I would picture Robert Bailey to be an African American author. And I do not mean anything by this, just that the stories in this series are so steeped in Southern Tradition with a mix of African American heritage that I thought for sure the author would also be African American. I am pleasantly surprised to find out that he is not! I think I now appreciate what he's doing with these books that much more!
When I read the first book in this series, Legacy of Lies, I immediately fell in love and couldn't wait for the next book to come out! After reading The Wrong Side I can honestly say that I am just as excited to read book #3!! I really didn't realize that this series is a play off of another series, but now I can't wait to go check them all out because I think that Robert Bailey is a super talented writer (unlike myself using words such as super talented writer...HA!!).
Bocephus "Bo" Haynes is such a strong character that you can't help but love him and root for him. He seems to always be willing to help the underdog, which is one of the things I like most about him. He takes on the cases and the clients that no one else would ever dream of touching...even ones he swore he would have nothing to do with ever again! He is a man of integrity and just a solid, enjoyable character to read about.
The Wrong Side is the perfect title for this story because at times I'm sure Bo feels like he either may or may not be on the wrong side. This one is so hard to tell. I really appreciate legal thrillers and would probably find them to be my favorite genre so I thoroughly enjoy stories like this! If you like legal thrillers, then this book should be right down your alley.
The story was somewhat predictable, but that didn't take away from the story at all! I still found it engaging and enjoyable. Bo's love for his town, his people, and what he does seeps through the pages of the story!
Although this is Book #2 of this series, it could easily be read as a standalone because there's enough backstory to get you through without confusing you too much. Bailey was really good about throwing tidbits of information from the first book to keep you up to speed. Which as an avid reader that reads anywhere from 100 to 150 books a year, I really appreciate that because I don't always remember right away what happened in the previous story! It's not enough to be redundant, but enough to refresh your memory, or not make you feel lost if you're jumping into book 2 first.
This title is narrated by Eric G. Dove and I feel like he is the PERFECT fit for this story! Stell performance for sure!!
Overall this is a well-written story with perfect execution and solid characters! As I said before...I can't wait for the next book in this series!
I would like to offer a huge THANK YOU to Robert Bailey, Thomas & Mercer and Netgalley for providing me with a copy of The Wrong Side, which has allowed me to provide this honest and unbiased review.
When I read the first book in this series, Legacy of Lies, I immediately fell in love and couldn't wait for the next book to come out! After reading The Wrong Side I can honestly say that I am just as excited to read book #3!! I really didn't realize that this series is a play off of another series, but now I can't wait to go check them all out because I think that Robert Bailey is a super talented writer (unlike myself using words such as super talented writer...HA!!).
Bocephus "Bo" Haynes is such a strong character that you can't help but love him and root for him. He seems to always be willing to help the underdog, which is one of the things I like most about him. He takes on the cases and the clients that no one else would ever dream of touching...even ones he swore he would have nothing to do with ever again! He is a man of integrity and just a solid, enjoyable character to read about.
The Wrong Side is the perfect title for this story because at times I'm sure Bo feels like he either may or may not be on the wrong side. This one is so hard to tell. I really appreciate legal thrillers and would probably find them to be my favorite genre so I thoroughly enjoy stories like this! If you like legal thrillers, then this book should be right down your alley.
The story was somewhat predictable, but that didn't take away from the story at all! I still found it engaging and enjoyable. Bo's love for his town, his people, and what he does seeps through the pages of the story!
Although this is Book #2 of this series, it could easily be read as a standalone because there's enough backstory to get you through without confusing you too much. Bailey was really good about throwing tidbits of information from the first book to keep you up to speed. Which as an avid reader that reads anywhere from 100 to 150 books a year, I really appreciate that because I don't always remember right away what happened in the previous story! It's not enough to be redundant, but enough to refresh your memory, or not make you feel lost if you're jumping into book 2 first.
This title is narrated by Eric G. Dove and I feel like he is the PERFECT fit for this story! Stell performance for sure!!
Overall this is a well-written story with perfect execution and solid characters! As I said before...I can't wait for the next book in this series!
I would like to offer a huge THANK YOU to Robert Bailey, Thomas & Mercer and Netgalley for providing me with a copy of The Wrong Side, which has allowed me to provide this honest and unbiased review.
September 29, 2021
This story begins on a big night for two high schoolers. Odell is a football champion and on this night, he gets to play infront of a big crowd and possibly, scouts. Everyone has high expectations and he seems set for a career in football. On the other hand, his girlfriend Britney is set to play with her band after the football game. This is the biggest audience that the band has ever played in front of. Britney is a super star in her own right and a recording deal is already in place. Tragically, their big night ends with Britney dead and Odell accused of the murder.
This book had me at the edge of my seat. I wanted to know how the case would play out. Is Odell guilty or innocent? Will he be found guilty? You can be innocent and still found guilty. My anxiety was quite high especially as this was a complex case and Odell’s lawyer seemed to have little to go on.
I enjoyed the characters in this story. Both Odell and Britney were endearing. No matter the outcome of the case, two young lives were sort of destroyed in one night. Two teens with promising careers in sports and music had lost so much in a night. I sympathised with both. I liked Bo’s character. I enjoyed reading about his life as a lawyer and a dad. Overall, both the likeable and unlikeable characters were quite well crafted.
This is book 2 in the series. It can be read as a standalone. However, it does have spoilers of the first book. I’m still going back to read book 1 even if I know the outcome of the case. There is still alot about the case that intrigues me. The Wrong Side by Robert Bailey is highly recommended for fans of legal thrillers.
This book had me at the edge of my seat. I wanted to know how the case would play out. Is Odell guilty or innocent? Will he be found guilty? You can be innocent and still found guilty. My anxiety was quite high especially as this was a complex case and Odell’s lawyer seemed to have little to go on.
I enjoyed the characters in this story. Both Odell and Britney were endearing. No matter the outcome of the case, two young lives were sort of destroyed in one night. Two teens with promising careers in sports and music had lost so much in a night. I sympathised with both. I liked Bo’s character. I enjoyed reading about his life as a lawyer and a dad. Overall, both the likeable and unlikeable characters were quite well crafted.
This is book 2 in the series. It can be read as a standalone. However, it does have spoilers of the first book. I’m still going back to read book 1 even if I know the outcome of the case. There is still alot about the case that intrigues me. The Wrong Side by Robert Bailey is highly recommended for fans of legal thrillers.
October 4, 2021
Solid Second Book in the Series
The first Bocephus Haynes novel seems a long time ago but it was only back in June 2020. I liked that one too. Not enough court room scenes to really satisfy, though. The plot was well put together and the characters are all those we got to know originally. Although it does build on what we already knew, it could easily be read as a standalone. Whodunit was a twist at the end, but I had already guessed this one . One thing I didn't like; it ends with a teaser for the next book; not an actual cliffhanger, but too close for my comfort. Not necessary, Mr. Bailey!
The first Bocephus Haynes novel seems a long time ago but it was only back in June 2020. I liked that one too. Not enough court room scenes to really satisfy, though. The plot was well put together and the characters are all those we got to know originally. Although it does build on what we already knew, it could easily be read as a standalone. Whodunit was a twist at the end, but I had already guessed this one . One thing I didn't like; it ends with a teaser for the next book; not an actual cliffhanger, but too close for my comfort. Not necessary, Mr. Bailey!
September 28, 2021
A new author to follow!
I read the first in this series and was hooked.
Bo Haynes is a black defense attorney in tiny Pulaski, TN. Before becoming an attorney, he was a star football player destined for the NFL until he blew out his knee. Being a trial lawyer was as close as he could get to the adrenaline rush of football, and he was good at it.
Brittany Cruthers was destined to be a rock star until someone murdered her in a fit of rage.
Odell Campagne, Brittany's boyfriend, was a star football player who was probably better than Bo Haines and destined for greatness,, until he was arrested for Brittany's murder.
Odell's mother is an addict, they are dirt poor, and daddy deserted them when Odell was five years old. All the cards are stacked against him and the only chance he has is if Bo will defend him. Bo knows that if he agrees, he will probably be the most unpopular person in Tennessee.
Join the ride and see what happens. Did Odell truly murder Brittany? Will Bo go against popular opinion and represent Odell? What happens has many plot twists.
I read the first in this series and was hooked.
Bo Haynes is a black defense attorney in tiny Pulaski, TN. Before becoming an attorney, he was a star football player destined for the NFL until he blew out his knee. Being a trial lawyer was as close as he could get to the adrenaline rush of football, and he was good at it.
Brittany Cruthers was destined to be a rock star until someone murdered her in a fit of rage.
Odell Campagne, Brittany's boyfriend, was a star football player who was probably better than Bo Haines and destined for greatness,, until he was arrested for Brittany's murder.
Odell's mother is an addict, they are dirt poor, and daddy deserted them when Odell was five years old. All the cards are stacked against him and the only chance he has is if Bo will defend him. Bo knows that if he agrees, he will probably be the most unpopular person in Tennessee.
Join the ride and see what happens. Did Odell truly murder Brittany? Will Bo go against popular opinion and represent Odell? What happens has many plot twists.
May 18, 2022
Back to Pulaski, where people getting overwhelmingly framed for murder appears to be a common trope. In the most recent installment, rising vocal star Brittany is found murdered and her boyfriend, rising football star Odell, is found near her body with her sweatshirt, blood, and the murder weapon. It looks like a certain conviction but Odell asks Bo to defend him. Everyone talks to everyone in this small town, so there is lots of information gathering before Bo can even make up his mind whether to take the case (which happens 60% of the way through the book, FINALLY).
Love being back in town with characters we know and love, but this one just agonized a little too long before the ending nicely tidied everything up.
Love being back in town with characters we know and love, but this one just agonized a little too long before the ending nicely tidied everything up.
July 26, 2022
I enjoyed this book for the most part, especially the small-town atmospherics and the tight-knit community. However, fairly early on, I suspected who the real killer was and felt gratified when it was confirmed by the end of the book. On the subject of fingerprints on clothes, specifically underwear, can the fabric retain fingerprints, enough for the fingerprints to be lifted off? I didn't think so. That piece of evidence didn't seem plausible to me.
June 14, 2025
Easy read
This one was predictable from the beginning, but if you like a no-brainer without a lot of suspense, this will do. I’ve read several in this series and really enjoyed them, but this wasn’t my favorite.
This one was predictable from the beginning, but if you like a no-brainer without a lot of suspense, this will do. I’ve read several in this series and really enjoyed them, but this wasn’t my favorite.
August 27, 2021
Good mystery! Definitely will read this author again!
August 29, 2021
This is the 1st Robert Bailey book I've read...but it won't be the last! Mr Bailey did a great job with the development of characters, so I was very invested in the story. A great legal thriller with a surprise ending.
September 28, 2021
What a story.
I’ve missed some of the Bo Haynes books but that will soon be rectified. Robert Bailey is an excellent writer of legal novels and his character development is tremendous. I felt all of the pain and anguish of all the characters in this book. I had a fleeting thought fairly early about the person who actually ended up being the killer but then never gave it another thought until the surprise ending. Be prepared. You shouldn’t miss out by not reading this book. Now I go back and find those books I’ve missed.
I’ve missed some of the Bo Haynes books but that will soon be rectified. Robert Bailey is an excellent writer of legal novels and his character development is tremendous. I felt all of the pain and anguish of all the characters in this book. I had a fleeting thought fairly early about the person who actually ended up being the killer but then never gave it another thought until the surprise ending. Be prepared. You shouldn’t miss out by not reading this book. Now I go back and find those books I’ve missed.
February 18, 2021
This is a pretty good mystery, love the setting and definitely liked this book.
Thank you to Robert Hailey, NetGalley, and Thomas & Mercer for the ARC of this book.
Thank you to Robert Hailey, NetGalley, and Thomas & Mercer for the ARC of this book.
February 6, 2022
Wow. Totally recommend this book. It would be best to read the first in the bo Haynes collection. Plan on slowly but surely reading all of Baileys books. Then I want to have a picnic lunch with him and his wife. My gosh they don’t life that far. Anyway ENJOYED THE BOOK! Roll MF Tide 🐘
September 12, 2021
Bo Haynes is a successful attorney in the town of Pulaski, Tennessee. He’s a widower, raising his two teenage children. When Brittany Crutcher, a popular up-and-coming rock star is found murdered, her boyfriend Odell Champagne is arrested and charged. Odell is a talented high school football senior with prospects of playing in college and even the NFL. He’s also a friend of Bo’s son, T. J.
After his successful defense of District Attorney Helen Lewis in a murder charge a year earlier, Bo had all but sworn off of taking criminal cases. But when Odell asks for his representation, he visits the boy in jail. Odell’s life had been less than ideal He was abandoned by his father at a young age and his mother has a serious addiction problem. Odell also has a record of theft and was kicked out of his former school due to an assault.
Brittany’s popularity makes this a high-profile case, and Pulaski’s citizens demand justice for her. If Bo takes the case, it could have consequences—not only for him, but also for his children. The last thing he wants to do is place them in any danger. Yet he can’t dismiss his belief that Odell is innocent. One of my favorite lines from the book is by Bo’s son, T. J. “Well… sometimes doing right can put you on the wrong side of your friends.”
Unlike a lot of legal thrillers, this book isn’t exclusively courtroom drama. Bailey delves into the lives of the characters. As a reader who enjoys character-driven fiction, this is a plus for me. It’s written in four parts with short, easy-to-read chapters.
As far as the killer’s identity, I thought I had it figured out, then I didn’t. The story wrapped up with a satisfying ending and left the door open for a third book of the series. For those who haven’t read Legacy of Lies, I recommend reading it first. The Wrong Side is an easy five stars for me.
After his successful defense of District Attorney Helen Lewis in a murder charge a year earlier, Bo had all but sworn off of taking criminal cases. But when Odell asks for his representation, he visits the boy in jail. Odell’s life had been less than ideal He was abandoned by his father at a young age and his mother has a serious addiction problem. Odell also has a record of theft and was kicked out of his former school due to an assault.
Brittany’s popularity makes this a high-profile case, and Pulaski’s citizens demand justice for her. If Bo takes the case, it could have consequences—not only for him, but also for his children. The last thing he wants to do is place them in any danger. Yet he can’t dismiss his belief that Odell is innocent. One of my favorite lines from the book is by Bo’s son, T. J. “Well… sometimes doing right can put you on the wrong side of your friends.”
Unlike a lot of legal thrillers, this book isn’t exclusively courtroom drama. Bailey delves into the lives of the characters. As a reader who enjoys character-driven fiction, this is a plus for me. It’s written in four parts with short, easy-to-read chapters.
As far as the killer’s identity, I thought I had it figured out, then I didn’t. The story wrapped up with a satisfying ending and left the door open for a third book of the series. For those who haven’t read Legacy of Lies, I recommend reading it first. The Wrong Side is an easy five stars for me.
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