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Courting Danger #1
Trial by Fire
Attorney Wren Bishop knew it would be an adjustment to go from her cushy, lucrative career in big law to the public defender’s office, but she’s completely unprepared for the suspicion from her colleagues and the animus from her adversaries at what was billed as a close-knit courthouse. To top it off, her first case pits her against Lennox Roy, a gorgeous yet fierce prosecutor with a reputation for cajoling juries and breaking hearts.
Lennox comes from a family full of bleeding hearts who believe in second, third, and fourth chances, but she’s seen firsthand the damage leniency can do. She has no patience for a softy like Wren Bishop, no matter how sexy and brilliant she might be. But when they face off over a mysterious arson case, their attraction ignites a passion that leads them to question their assumptions about the law, the truth, and each other.
Lennox comes from a family full of bleeding hearts who believe in second, third, and fourth chances, but she’s seen firsthand the damage leniency can do. She has no patience for a softy like Wren Bishop, no matter how sexy and brilliant she might be. But when they face off over a mysterious arson case, their attraction ignites a passion that leads them to question their assumptions about the law, the truth, and each other.
240 pages, Paperback
Published October 12, 2021
37 people are currently reading
157 people want to read
About the author
Carsen Taite
51 books293 followersCarsen Taite's goal as an author is to spin plot lines as interesting as the cases she encountered in her career as a criminal defense lawyer. She is the award-winning author of a dozen novels and numerous short stories.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews
September 21, 2021
3.50 Stars. This was an entertaining read. It’s very readable and fun, but it won’t go into my favorite Taite pile. This is the first book in her new Courting Danger series. I must admit I was confused about that since this book actually takes place in the world of her Crime and Defense series. I instantly recognized characters including Skye, who was a favorite of mine from The Best Defense. Her Crime and Defense series is one of her classic series, and a favorite to many, so I think fans of that series will be excited with the feel and characters in this book.
I found I was a little bit torn on the main characters. One character is super easy to like to the point that she is almost too good to be true, where the other was a bit of a mess. I was really rooting for one character to find happiness, but I had to wonder if she was perusing the right person. I found it really noticeable that only one character did most of the reaching out, apologizing, or grand gestures, where the other character never did even though most of the issues were hers.
While I don’t know if they made the best pairing, I was pretty happy with the level of chemistry in the book. It’s not in your face, but for a book about court, legalize, and even a baby mystery, I thought it had a decent amount of chemistry. However, I was not happy about the “I love yous”. These two barely even dated and those words still comes out. I honestly found myself laughing since it seemed so over-the-top. I wish characters would not force say it and just decided to be together in a relationship.
The book really shined during all of the legal scenes, especially when the DA’s office and PD’s office would go toe to toe with each other. I almost felt like I was watching an episode of All Rise, since the court and lawyer scenes were so fun to read. I also was interested in some of the secondary characters, that we have yet to really meet, and it makes me excited for what other books could come in this series.
In the end, I enjoyed this book and read it in one sitting. There are some good characters here and it was great seeing old favorites like Skye. While the chemistry was decent, I really wish Taite would have put more time into the romance. It was too rushed for me, which made the ending feel unrealistic. A good start to the series and I’m excited for the next book.
An ARC was given to me for a review.
I found I was a little bit torn on the main characters. One character is super easy to like to the point that she is almost too good to be true, where the other was a bit of a mess. I was really rooting for one character to find happiness, but I had to wonder if she was perusing the right person. I found it really noticeable that only one character did most of the reaching out, apologizing, or grand gestures, where the other character never did even though most of the issues were hers.
While I don’t know if they made the best pairing, I was pretty happy with the level of chemistry in the book. It’s not in your face, but for a book about court, legalize, and even a baby mystery, I thought it had a decent amount of chemistry. However, I was not happy about the “I love yous”. These two barely even dated and those words still comes out. I honestly found myself laughing since it seemed so over-the-top. I wish characters would not force say it and just decided to be together in a relationship.
The book really shined during all of the legal scenes, especially when the DA’s office and PD’s office would go toe to toe with each other. I almost felt like I was watching an episode of All Rise, since the court and lawyer scenes were so fun to read. I also was interested in some of the secondary characters, that we have yet to really meet, and it makes me excited for what other books could come in this series.
In the end, I enjoyed this book and read it in one sitting. There are some good characters here and it was great seeing old favorites like Skye. While the chemistry was decent, I really wish Taite would have put more time into the romance. It was too rushed for me, which made the ending feel unrealistic. A good start to the series and I’m excited for the next book.
An ARC was given to me for a review.
October 3, 2021
3.5⭐️ – My favourite Carsen Taite’s books are the ones in which her background as a criminal defense lawyer shows. This one falls into that category. Everything about the MCs’ jobs was exciting, the inner workings of the courthouse, the atmosphere, the differences between the PD office and Wren’s high profile law firm but also the differences between the PD office and the DA office. The way the philosophies clash yet both offices need the other, two sides of the Justice coin. Taite’s insider knowledge shows in tiny details, and I would happily have read more about cases and untangling facts and lies to reach as much of the truth as possible.
Wren Bishop is a young lawyer on loan to the Public Defender office. Lennox Roy is a very determined and driven prosecutor, set on never falling for the enemy ever again. Wren is kinda irresistible though, and when both women get assigned to the same arson case, albeit on opposite sides, it gives them the perfect excuse to get to know each other better, both at work and outside of the courthouse.
The attraction is instantaneous and very plausible on Wren’s side. I never had reason to doubt that Lennox got her attention or why. It’s more complicated with Lennox. I believed in her attraction to Wren because I wanted to, but until an event occurred that I won’t get into because I don’t want to spoil it for you, I didn’t feel it. After that event, however, it became a lot more credible and I loved it.
I like both MCs. I’m not sure I understand them but I like them. At least I like Wren and Lennox intrigued me at first, then won me over, albeit in a frustrating way. I don’t understand how she goes from acting bitchy to Wren one day to almost kissing her the next. The change of scenery (inside the courthouse vs outside) doesn’t explain it entirely.
Besides a few editing glitches, this novel feels a bit rushed both on the romance side and on the case. As I wrote above, Lennox’s behaviour towards Wren doesn’t entirely make sense and while I’m very willing to believe they belong together, I wish the progression from guarded to in love was more detailed and that the characters had more on-page time together. As to the case, maybe I’m just greedy but the outcome, while satisfying, comes from findings the reader doesn’t get to witness, which made me feel like it happened on the side of the story rather than within.
Trial by Fire is the first book in a new series set in the same universe as the author’s Crime and Defense series, which means there are cameos by beloved characters such as Morgan and Parker, and more than a cameo from Skye. And while this novel isn’t my favourite by Carsen Taite, I had a good time reading it and am looking forward to the next book in the series, in which I hope Nina, Lennox’s best friend and a judge, gets her own book, I want more than the glimpses we got here.
ARC provided to Rainbow Literary Society for an honest review.
Wren Bishop is a young lawyer on loan to the Public Defender office. Lennox Roy is a very determined and driven prosecutor, set on never falling for the enemy ever again. Wren is kinda irresistible though, and when both women get assigned to the same arson case, albeit on opposite sides, it gives them the perfect excuse to get to know each other better, both at work and outside of the courthouse.
The attraction is instantaneous and very plausible on Wren’s side. I never had reason to doubt that Lennox got her attention or why. It’s more complicated with Lennox. I believed in her attraction to Wren because I wanted to, but until an event occurred that I won’t get into because I don’t want to spoil it for you, I didn’t feel it. After that event, however, it became a lot more credible and I loved it.
I like both MCs. I’m not sure I understand them but I like them. At least I like Wren and Lennox intrigued me at first, then won me over, albeit in a frustrating way. I don’t understand how she goes from acting bitchy to Wren one day to almost kissing her the next. The change of scenery (inside the courthouse vs outside) doesn’t explain it entirely.
Besides a few editing glitches, this novel feels a bit rushed both on the romance side and on the case. As I wrote above, Lennox’s behaviour towards Wren doesn’t entirely make sense and while I’m very willing to believe they belong together, I wish the progression from guarded to in love was more detailed and that the characters had more on-page time together. As to the case, maybe I’m just greedy but the outcome, while satisfying, comes from findings the reader doesn’t get to witness, which made me feel like it happened on the side of the story rather than within.
Trial by Fire is the first book in a new series set in the same universe as the author’s Crime and Defense series, which means there are cameos by beloved characters such as Morgan and Parker, and more than a cameo from Skye. And while this novel isn’t my favourite by Carsen Taite, I had a good time reading it and am looking forward to the next book in the series, in which I hope Nina, Lennox’s best friend and a judge, gets her own book, I want more than the glimpses we got here.
ARC provided to Rainbow Literary Society for an honest review.
August 8, 2022
3.5 ⭐️
I'm a fan of Taite's courtroom stories, you can feel that she knows what she is talking about.
Interesting characters with very different working principles, stemming from a completely different way of growing up and the experiences they have had. When they work on the same case on opposite sides, there is more than one confrontation of their views and opinions. At the same time, sparks fly and the mutual attraction is great. But if they want to have any chance for a common future, they both have to rethink their way of thinking and learn to look at the other side as well.
Overall I liked this book very much, but for me, it wasn't as thrilling as other books from this author. Nonetheless, a good start for a new series
I'm a fan of Taite's courtroom stories, you can feel that she knows what she is talking about.
Interesting characters with very different working principles, stemming from a completely different way of growing up and the experiences they have had. When they work on the same case on opposite sides, there is more than one confrontation of their views and opinions. At the same time, sparks fly and the mutual attraction is great. But if they want to have any chance for a common future, they both have to rethink their way of thinking and learn to look at the other side as well.
Overall I liked this book very much, but for me, it wasn't as thrilling as other books from this author. Nonetheless, a good start for a new series
October 18, 2021
This was one of the better ones from Taite I’ve read, though I haven’t read much from her.
“Trial by Fire” is the first book in Carsen Taite’s new ‘Courting Danger’ series. However, there seems to be a few characters from her other books making an appearance here…I haven’t read those books though and I never got the impression I was missing anything. If anything, it made me want to go back and read their stories too.
Wren Bishop is on loan from her cushy law office to the public defender’s office. Lennox Roy is a top prosecutor who has no patience for the goody-two shoes, rich lawyer coming in to play as a public defender for a few months.
I was a little surprised when I read this because with the series called Courting Danger, I thought there’d be some danger…but there isn’t. This is a fun legal romance and while it is tagged as a thriller/mystery I honestly didn’t really feel either of those too much. This was much more about the behind the scenes of a legal case for both sides.
The two go head-to-head when Wren takes a new case involving arson and murder. Wren is much more open and friendly. She’s also direct about wanting to get to know Lennox better. However, Lennox is more on the reserved side as she has a bad history with a workplace romance. She was a bit hot and cold because while she wanted to stay away, their attraction wouldn’t allow her to stay away too long. Plus, working a case against each other, they were constantly having to orbit one another.
The real downside, as with all the Taite books I’ve read, is the ending still feels rushed. Wren and Lennox spend a little time getting to know one another and then they don’t speak for a while and then something happens and they’re declaring undying love. It was hard for me to believe with Lennox’s history and I would’ve loved to see more development between them.
Other than that, I really enjoyed this. It makes me want to go read Taite’s previous series as I really enjoyed the legal aspect. I recommend this to fans of legal dramas.
I received an ARC from Bold Strokes Books via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
“Trial by Fire” is the first book in Carsen Taite’s new ‘Courting Danger’ series. However, there seems to be a few characters from her other books making an appearance here…I haven’t read those books though and I never got the impression I was missing anything. If anything, it made me want to go back and read their stories too.
Wren Bishop is on loan from her cushy law office to the public defender’s office. Lennox Roy is a top prosecutor who has no patience for the goody-two shoes, rich lawyer coming in to play as a public defender for a few months.
I was a little surprised when I read this because with the series called Courting Danger, I thought there’d be some danger…but there isn’t. This is a fun legal romance and while it is tagged as a thriller/mystery I honestly didn’t really feel either of those too much. This was much more about the behind the scenes of a legal case for both sides.
The two go head-to-head when Wren takes a new case involving arson and murder. Wren is much more open and friendly. She’s also direct about wanting to get to know Lennox better. However, Lennox is more on the reserved side as she has a bad history with a workplace romance. She was a bit hot and cold because while she wanted to stay away, their attraction wouldn’t allow her to stay away too long. Plus, working a case against each other, they were constantly having to orbit one another.
The real downside, as with all the Taite books I’ve read, is the ending still feels rushed. Wren and Lennox spend a little time getting to know one another and then they don’t speak for a while and then something happens and they’re declaring undying love. It was hard for me to believe with Lennox’s history and I would’ve loved to see more development between them.
Other than that, I really enjoyed this. It makes me want to go read Taite’s previous series as I really enjoyed the legal aspect. I recommend this to fans of legal dramas.
I received an ARC from Bold Strokes Books via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
September 27, 2021
A few weeks ago I was saying in a review that I love when writers bring their expertise in a subject matter into their novels. Carsen Taite is one of them, as a retired criminal defence attorney, her legal thrillers are unique in our genre. I’m always happy to pick up one of her books that feature heavily on law.
Attorney Wren Bishop is having problems adjusting from her lucrative job in a big firm to the public defender’s office. To make things worse, her first case pits her against Lennox Roy, a gorgeous yet fierce prosecutor with a reputation for winning cases and breaking hearts. They are on opposites sides of the court but in the face of a mysterious arson case, they’ll be forced to cooperate and admit a mutual attraction…
This is book one of Taite’s Courting Danger Romance series of at least two books. The next one is Trial and Error coming out in June 2022. Carsen Taite is a very prolific author, she has published more than 30 novels. Her work can be divided into legal thrillers and more traditional romances. Personally, I prefer the former to the latter, I think Ms. Taite brings something distinctive and special when she writes about law, something that tells her apart from the rest of the lesfic authors. I believe that’s when she is at her best. Luckily for me, this is one of those books.
This novel has the perfect balance between legal thriller and romance. Ms. Taite takes the reader to different legal proceedings and court action, all easy to understand for a layperson like me. It felt a bit like watching a courtroom movie. This is an opposites-attract story, not only for the personalities and backgrounds of the main characters but also because they are on opposite sides of the courtroom. However, to make the romance work, they have to find some common ground in their professional lives as well as personal. That’s when a sort of “collaboration” happens while working as opposing counsels. Ms. Taite clarifies in the plot that those moments are rare in the middle of a case and despite I found it strange, it made sense in the context of the story.
The main characters are both well fleshed with their strengths and shortcomings and they have great chemistry together. Ms. Taite has sometimes the tendency to rush the endings and maybe the I love yous were a bit too soon, but it didn’t matter that much to me, maybe because there were other things happening along with the romance. I’m looking forward to reading the next installment in this series which will feature Lennox’s best friend, Judge Nina Aguilar. I hope that it’s a legal thriller like this one.
Fans of Ms. Taite’s will be delighted to catch up with Morgan and Parker from It Should Be a Crime, and Skye and Aimee from The Best Defense. Hopefully, they will appear again in the next book in the series. In the meantime, this one is very enjoyable. 4.5 stars.
Attorney Wren Bishop is having problems adjusting from her lucrative job in a big firm to the public defender’s office. To make things worse, her first case pits her against Lennox Roy, a gorgeous yet fierce prosecutor with a reputation for winning cases and breaking hearts. They are on opposites sides of the court but in the face of a mysterious arson case, they’ll be forced to cooperate and admit a mutual attraction…
This is book one of Taite’s Courting Danger Romance series of at least two books. The next one is Trial and Error coming out in June 2022. Carsen Taite is a very prolific author, she has published more than 30 novels. Her work can be divided into legal thrillers and more traditional romances. Personally, I prefer the former to the latter, I think Ms. Taite brings something distinctive and special when she writes about law, something that tells her apart from the rest of the lesfic authors. I believe that’s when she is at her best. Luckily for me, this is one of those books.
This novel has the perfect balance between legal thriller and romance. Ms. Taite takes the reader to different legal proceedings and court action, all easy to understand for a layperson like me. It felt a bit like watching a courtroom movie. This is an opposites-attract story, not only for the personalities and backgrounds of the main characters but also because they are on opposite sides of the courtroom. However, to make the romance work, they have to find some common ground in their professional lives as well as personal. That’s when a sort of “collaboration” happens while working as opposing counsels. Ms. Taite clarifies in the plot that those moments are rare in the middle of a case and despite I found it strange, it made sense in the context of the story.
The main characters are both well fleshed with their strengths and shortcomings and they have great chemistry together. Ms. Taite has sometimes the tendency to rush the endings and maybe the I love yous were a bit too soon, but it didn’t matter that much to me, maybe because there were other things happening along with the romance. I’m looking forward to reading the next installment in this series which will feature Lennox’s best friend, Judge Nina Aguilar. I hope that it’s a legal thriller like this one.
Fans of Ms. Taite’s will be delighted to catch up with Morgan and Parker from It Should Be a Crime, and Skye and Aimee from The Best Defense. Hopefully, they will appear again in the next book in the series. In the meantime, this one is very enjoyable. 4.5 stars.
October 31, 2021
3.5 stars. Courtroom proceedings come to life in Taite’s books. Being European my knowledge of the American legal system is mainly based on books and TV series, so I always appreciate how Taite takes time to explain a specific part of the law and proceedings in detail, so you get a good understanding of how everything works and you can really enjoy the courtroom life, the cases, and the standoff between the criminal defense lawyers and the prosecutor to the fullest. The romance part in this book, unfortunately, was less convincing for me, which was mainly caused by the rushed ending.
The two mains are Wren and Lennox. Wren starts as a “lawyer on loan” at the public defense office. I liked how she had to adapt from life at an expensive law firm to the PD office, her attempts to try to fit in and how she slowly finds her way. She’s very likeable and she’s determined everybody deserves a (second) chance and well…she’s a bit naïve at times. Lennox is the complete opposite; her world consists of good and bad and as a prosecutor she’s Wren’s adversary in an arson case that takes up a large part of the book and I enjoyed seeing this case unfold.
The beginning of the book is focused mainly on the court proceedings and Wren’s adjustment to her new job. Because of this there was little time for Lennox during the first half of the book. This is where I struggled with the romance, for a long time I didn’t like Lennox and I was wondering what Wren saw in her apart from the chemistry they had. But somewhere halfway some things happened that piqued my interest and I found myself more interested in Lennox. I started understanding her better, but I still didn’t like many of her actions and I would have liked to see an earlier bigger switch in her personality. I think it could have worked better for me if the ending wasn’t so rushed so I could have gotten more “good times” with Lennox and experience the real person under the veneer. The rushed ending also led to confessions of love that were too early, they hadn’t even seriously dated yet. I wished more time was taken to make me believe they were ready for the I love yous.
This was the first book in a new series and while the romance part had some issues for me I did enjoy reading this book, especially the arson case and the general feeling of court life was very good to read. I look forward to the other books in the series.
I received an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
The two mains are Wren and Lennox. Wren starts as a “lawyer on loan” at the public defense office. I liked how she had to adapt from life at an expensive law firm to the PD office, her attempts to try to fit in and how she slowly finds her way. She’s very likeable and she’s determined everybody deserves a (second) chance and well…she’s a bit naïve at times. Lennox is the complete opposite; her world consists of good and bad and as a prosecutor she’s Wren’s adversary in an arson case that takes up a large part of the book and I enjoyed seeing this case unfold.
The beginning of the book is focused mainly on the court proceedings and Wren’s adjustment to her new job. Because of this there was little time for Lennox during the first half of the book. This is where I struggled with the romance, for a long time I didn’t like Lennox and I was wondering what Wren saw in her apart from the chemistry they had. But somewhere halfway some things happened that piqued my interest and I found myself more interested in Lennox. I started understanding her better, but I still didn’t like many of her actions and I would have liked to see an earlier bigger switch in her personality. I think it could have worked better for me if the ending wasn’t so rushed so I could have gotten more “good times” with Lennox and experience the real person under the veneer. The rushed ending also led to confessions of love that were too early, they hadn’t even seriously dated yet. I wished more time was taken to make me believe they were ready for the I love yous.
This was the first book in a new series and while the romance part had some issues for me I did enjoy reading this book, especially the arson case and the general feeling of court life was very good to read. I look forward to the other books in the series.
I received an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
October 24, 2021
4 star's
Gripping, turn pager book which keeps you engrossed.
Attorney's Wren Bishop and Lennox Roy both are very powerful characters and the passion between the pair is there from the onset, even tho it's a slow burn. The storyline itself is good, even tho a tad bit predictable in area's but still a very good read.
I've given 'Trial by fire' a 4 star. I can't wait to read the next book in the series.
Gripping, turn pager book which keeps you engrossed.
Attorney's Wren Bishop and Lennox Roy both are very powerful characters and the passion between the pair is there from the onset, even tho it's a slow burn. The storyline itself is good, even tho a tad bit predictable in area's but still a very good read.
I've given 'Trial by fire' a 4 star. I can't wait to read the next book in the series.
September 23, 2021
“Trial by fire” by Carsten Taite follows lawyers Lennox and Wren as they dive deeper into the case of a man who supposedly killed his ex wife. Lennox is playing the prosecutor for the victims family and Wren the defender for the alleged murderer. Lennox has a very “I’m always on the right side” mentality and Wren doesn’t think so black and white so pursues matters deeper in the case.
I have to say, this book was not what I expected. It was not hot or exciting. Just a very flat short read.
When it came to character of course Lennox’s superiority complex annoyed me but I really really think if this book was longer and we had more scenes of her she could’ve been one of my favorites.
Wren is a bit of a bland character, again could be due to the length of the book. She’s this privileged lawyer who gets loaned to work at the Public Defender office. I felt as though Taite didn’t explore this character as much as she could.
I want to say the plot had potential but as it stands I don’t see how that’s true. Classic cliche of two lawyers on the opposing sides with small backstory thrown in. Combined with a lack luster love story, this definitely isn’t Carsen Taite’s best. There just isn’t anything special. The chemistry is barely there between her two mains and that’s a first for me on the Taite horizon. It’s supposed to be the first in a series so we’ll see where that goes but even then Lennox and Wren’s love story was so rushed than I almost can’t see the following books fixing my disdain for that.
Overall the story was so unfulfilling for me. Not the romance, the case or the writing.
Just a very okay read. Nothing exciting or grasping interest.
Thank you NetGalley and the publishers for the Arc in return for the honest review.
(Let me know if there’s any errors in this review I’m tired as hell writing it)
I have to say, this book was not what I expected. It was not hot or exciting. Just a very flat short read.
When it came to character of course Lennox’s superiority complex annoyed me but I really really think if this book was longer and we had more scenes of her she could’ve been one of my favorites.
Wren is a bit of a bland character, again could be due to the length of the book. She’s this privileged lawyer who gets loaned to work at the Public Defender office. I felt as though Taite didn’t explore this character as much as she could.
I want to say the plot had potential but as it stands I don’t see how that’s true. Classic cliche of two lawyers on the opposing sides with small backstory thrown in. Combined with a lack luster love story, this definitely isn’t Carsen Taite’s best. There just isn’t anything special. The chemistry is barely there between her two mains and that’s a first for me on the Taite horizon. It’s supposed to be the first in a series so we’ll see where that goes but even then Lennox and Wren’s love story was so rushed than I almost can’t see the following books fixing my disdain for that.
Overall the story was so unfulfilling for me. Not the romance, the case or the writing.
Just a very okay read. Nothing exciting or grasping interest.
Thank you NetGalley and the publishers for the Arc in return for the honest review.
(Let me know if there’s any errors in this review I’m tired as hell writing it)
October 4, 2021
Carsen Taite is a whiz when it comes to procedural fiction, year's of experience as a lawyer will do that to a person. This is the first book in a new series, Taite fans will discover some characters they know from her Crime and Defense series. I must admit, I haven't read those so I was a bit lost when these characters showed up. They aren't a big part of the story at all but I did feel like I was missing out, so there are some books for me to add tot the TBR pile.
Our two mains in this book are very likable, one a bit more so than the other. The more likable character, Wren, might also be a bit too good to be true. Lennox might be a bit too stubborn and set in her ways, also thinking there is no grey area is weird, everything is black or white. For about half of the book I was afraid we would see one of our mains starting an affair. If there is something I don't do well with in romance it's affairs, granted her “relationship” wasn't a very healthy or fulfilling one, but cheating is a big no.
Wren and Lennox are opposites, and I'm not sure if they work as a couple for me, I feel like the balance is off. Only one of them seems to be making the grand gestures and communicating. Because they are adversaries in court as well there is plenty of chemistry and the book reads like an episode of a nice procedural drama or something along those lines.
The book is very readable, the characters are likable, where the book is at its best is in the court. When the DA’s and PD’s offices have a face-off, this is where Taite’s work shines the brightest. I'd be happy to read more books in this series and see a bit more of these characters. Their I love yous were a bit hasty for me and over the top. As is the talk of forever between these two, of course you'll stay together forever when you barely know each other... I hope we see them in the other books and they balance between them is better and they aren't as over the top. Still this was enjoyable ;) 3.5 stars
*ARC received in exchange for a voluntary and honest review*
Our two mains in this book are very likable, one a bit more so than the other. The more likable character, Wren, might also be a bit too good to be true. Lennox might be a bit too stubborn and set in her ways, also thinking there is no grey area is weird, everything is black or white. For about half of the book I was afraid we would see one of our mains starting an affair. If there is something I don't do well with in romance it's affairs, granted her “relationship” wasn't a very healthy or fulfilling one, but cheating is a big no.
Wren and Lennox are opposites, and I'm not sure if they work as a couple for me, I feel like the balance is off. Only one of them seems to be making the grand gestures and communicating. Because they are adversaries in court as well there is plenty of chemistry and the book reads like an episode of a nice procedural drama or something along those lines.
The book is very readable, the characters are likable, where the book is at its best is in the court. When the DA’s and PD’s offices have a face-off, this is where Taite’s work shines the brightest. I'd be happy to read more books in this series and see a bit more of these characters. Their I love yous were a bit hasty for me and over the top. As is the talk of forever between these two, of course you'll stay together forever when you barely know each other... I hope we see them in the other books and they balance between them is better and they aren't as over the top. Still this was enjoyable ;) 3.5 stars
*ARC received in exchange for a voluntary and honest review*
October 24, 2021
4 star's
Gripping, turn pager book which keeps you engrossed.
Attorney's Wren Bishop and Lennox Roy both are very powerful characters and the passion between the pair is there from the onset, even tho it's a slow burn. The storyline itself is good, even tho a tad bit predictable in area's but still a very good read.
I've given 'Trial by fire' a 4 star. I can't wait to read the next book in the series.
Gripping, turn pager book which keeps you engrossed.
Attorney's Wren Bishop and Lennox Roy both are very powerful characters and the passion between the pair is there from the onset, even tho it's a slow burn. The storyline itself is good, even tho a tad bit predictable in area's but still a very good read.
I've given 'Trial by fire' a 4 star. I can't wait to read the next book in the series.
October 1, 2021
With her newest novel, Trial by Fire, Carsen Taite has begun a wonderful new series. The series, which is titled “Courting Danger” is about the lives, loves, and stories of those who work in the different courthouses in Northern Texas, and specifically for this first story, in the Dallas County criminal courthouse.
In this first book we have two women (Wren Bishop and Lennox Roy) who are on opposite sides of a high profile arson and possible murder case. Wren is a defense lawyer on loan to the county and Lennox is a prosecutor who puts her all into every case. You would think this scenario would keep them from forming any kind of friendship. It definitely doesn’t stop the chemistry forming between them.
This tale is exactly what I expect from a Carsen Taite courtroom drama. We have strong, realistic characters, a true to life courthouse setting, and an intriguing mystery that our characters must solve if there’s to be justice. Add a simmering romance between the two main characters, and you have everything you need for a great mystery/intrigue and romance novel. For those of you familiar with Taite’s “Crime & Defense” series, you will find some familiar faces as secondary characters since this book is set in the same universe as that series. I love it when authors add these Easter eggs to their stories.
I totally enjoyed reading this first book in the “Courting Danger” series. I look forward to the next novel.
I received an ARC from NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books for an honest review.
Rainbow Reflections: https://rainbowreflections.home.blog/
In this first book we have two women (Wren Bishop and Lennox Roy) who are on opposite sides of a high profile arson and possible murder case. Wren is a defense lawyer on loan to the county and Lennox is a prosecutor who puts her all into every case. You would think this scenario would keep them from forming any kind of friendship. It definitely doesn’t stop the chemistry forming between them.
This tale is exactly what I expect from a Carsen Taite courtroom drama. We have strong, realistic characters, a true to life courthouse setting, and an intriguing mystery that our characters must solve if there’s to be justice. Add a simmering romance between the two main characters, and you have everything you need for a great mystery/intrigue and romance novel. For those of you familiar with Taite’s “Crime & Defense” series, you will find some familiar faces as secondary characters since this book is set in the same universe as that series. I love it when authors add these Easter eggs to their stories.
I totally enjoyed reading this first book in the “Courting Danger” series. I look forward to the next novel.
I received an ARC from NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books for an honest review.
Rainbow Reflections: https://rainbowreflections.home.blog/
November 10, 2021
Trial by Fire is the first book in Carsen Taite's new series, Courting Danger. Carsen must have been one hell of a lawyer because her knowledge is vast and I always look forward to her books.
Wren Bishop is a lawyer from a prestigious law firm in Dallas. She joins the public defenders office on loan for a few months. She is set to defend a man accused of setting fire to his home and killing his wife. Lennox Roy is the prosecutor Wren is matched up against. Lennox is intense, driven, a little bitchy and really attractive.
Wren has a girlfriend, an incredibly pretentious lawyer from her high priced law firm, who is disgusted she is slumming it in the public defender's office. It's pretty clear Wren's relationship with Diane isn't a match made in heaven and the more time Wren spends with Lennox, the stronger her attraction becomes. Lennox has been burned dating opposing council and is determined not to let anything happen with Wren. However, Lennox doesn't stand a chance resisting Wren. As they discover more about the case they are working on, they also discover more about each other.
I enjoyed catching up with Skye and Aimee from The Best Defense and Morgan and Parker from It Should Be A Crime. Nina is a great supporting character and really helps to humanize Lennox from the outset before we see how very human Lennox actually is. The chemistry between Wren and Lennox is believable and I genuinely like both of these characters. This is a good start to the series and I look forward to the next book.
Wren Bishop is a lawyer from a prestigious law firm in Dallas. She joins the public defenders office on loan for a few months. She is set to defend a man accused of setting fire to his home and killing his wife. Lennox Roy is the prosecutor Wren is matched up against. Lennox is intense, driven, a little bitchy and really attractive.
Wren has a girlfriend, an incredibly pretentious lawyer from her high priced law firm, who is disgusted she is slumming it in the public defender's office. It's pretty clear Wren's relationship with Diane isn't a match made in heaven and the more time Wren spends with Lennox, the stronger her attraction becomes. Lennox has been burned dating opposing council and is determined not to let anything happen with Wren. However, Lennox doesn't stand a chance resisting Wren. As they discover more about the case they are working on, they also discover more about each other.
I enjoyed catching up with Skye and Aimee from The Best Defense and Morgan and Parker from It Should Be A Crime. Nina is a great supporting character and really helps to humanize Lennox from the outset before we see how very human Lennox actually is. The chemistry between Wren and Lennox is believable and I genuinely like both of these characters. This is a good start to the series and I look forward to the next book.
October 25, 2021
I liked the details of the case more than the love story... but only because, and this is my personal opinion, I didn't feel that the main characters spent a great deal of time together for them to reach their, "I love you" moment. I wish the story was longer, where we actually see Lennox and Wren spending a lot more time together dating and working on Daniel's case.
I really wanted to love this but I liked it enough to give it three stars.
I really wanted to love this but I liked it enough to give it three stars.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 24, 2021
Another good romance from Carsen Taite. This book has Wren Bishop, who is a lawyer on loan to the public defender's office. She has a bit of trouble adjusting to the cliquey environment, but is assigned to an arson case. This brings her to know the prosecutor for this case, Lennox Roy. As usual with these kind of books, there is instant attraction. However, being on opposite sides of the aisle presents an inherent conflict.
I enjoy the writing and the story. Wren comes from a privileged background, but wants to do good work and contribute to society. The arson case is interesting, as she tries to prove her client innocent. There are many books and tv shows featuring the prosecutor's office, but not many shows ua how the PD office functions.
A wonderful bonus are characters from the author's previous books making appearances here. This is the first of a new series and I can't wait for the next books to come.
*Thank you to Bold Stroke Books for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review!*
I enjoy the writing and the story. Wren comes from a privileged background, but wants to do good work and contribute to society. The arson case is interesting, as she tries to prove her client innocent. There are many books and tv shows featuring the prosecutor's office, but not many shows ua how the PD office functions.
A wonderful bonus are characters from the author's previous books making appearances here. This is the first of a new series and I can't wait for the next books to come.
*Thank you to Bold Stroke Books for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review!*
September 15, 2021
Wren Bishop works for a high profile law firm and as part of their pro bono initiative Wren is being loaned out to the public defenders office for a few months. As luck would have it she will be defending a major case against the prosecutions top lawyer Lennox Roy. Lennox has a reputation of taking no prisoners in the courtroom. In her bedroom Lennox has a no defence counsellor rule as she was burned badly once before. This will be tested as sparks fly from their first meeting.
Trial by Fire is an expected commodity from Taite. Slow burn romance with consistently good writing and stand out characters in the legal world is her trademark. She works in a mystery though it is a side plot but the outcome has a major impact to the characters.
If you are already a fan or new to Carsen Taite you will most assuredly be entertained by Trail by Fire.
I received a free ARC from NetGalley and the publisher for my honest review.
Trial by Fire is an expected commodity from Taite. Slow burn romance with consistently good writing and stand out characters in the legal world is her trademark. She works in a mystery though it is a side plot but the outcome has a major impact to the characters.
If you are already a fan or new to Carsen Taite you will most assuredly be entertained by Trail by Fire.
I received a free ARC from NetGalley and the publisher for my honest review.
October 31, 2021
This is a slight departure from Taite’s usual stories set in the world of lawyers. This book is still about lawyers, still about legal matters, and still about a romance. What is different are the two main characters, they are not exactly your typical Carsen Taite characters – close but not exactly like the other characters in her previous books.
October 22, 2022
Excellent - as I’d expect from Carsen Taite - verged on a brick wall ending but I’ll give her the benefit of doubt on that one. Love her writing, it flows so well - recommended.
November 10, 2021
Trial by Fire is the first book in Carsen Taite's new series, Courting Danger. Carsen must have been one hell of a lawyer because her knowledge is vast and I always look forward to her books.
Wren Bishop is a lawyer from a prestigious law firm in Dallas. She joins the public defenders office on loan for a few months. She is set to defend a man accused of setting fire to his home and killing his wife. Lennox Roy is the prosecutor Wren is matched up against. Lennox is intense, driven, a little bitchy and really attractive.
Wren has a girlfriend, an incredibly pretentious lawyer from her high priced law firm, who is disgusted she is slumming it in the public defender's office. It's pretty clear Wren's relationship with Diane isn't a match made in heaven and the more time Wren spends with Lennox, the stronger her attraction becomes. Lennox has been burned dating opposing council and is determined not to let anything happen with Wren. However, Lennox doesn't stand a chance resisting Wren. As they discover more about the case they are working on, they also discover more about each other.
I enjoyed catching up with Skye and Aimee from The Best Defense and Morgan and Parker from It Should Be A Crime. Nina is a great supporting character and really helps to humanize Lennox from the outset before we see how very human Lennox actually is. The chemistry between Wren and Lennox is believable and I genuinely like both of these characters. This is a good start to the series and I look forward to the next book.
ARC received from Bold Stroke Books via NetGalley for an honest review
https://sapphicbookreview.com/review/...
Wren Bishop is a lawyer from a prestigious law firm in Dallas. She joins the public defenders office on loan for a few months. She is set to defend a man accused of setting fire to his home and killing his wife. Lennox Roy is the prosecutor Wren is matched up against. Lennox is intense, driven, a little bitchy and really attractive.
Wren has a girlfriend, an incredibly pretentious lawyer from her high priced law firm, who is disgusted she is slumming it in the public defender's office. It's pretty clear Wren's relationship with Diane isn't a match made in heaven and the more time Wren spends with Lennox, the stronger her attraction becomes. Lennox has been burned dating opposing council and is determined not to let anything happen with Wren. However, Lennox doesn't stand a chance resisting Wren. As they discover more about the case they are working on, they also discover more about each other.
I enjoyed catching up with Skye and Aimee from The Best Defense and Morgan and Parker from It Should Be A Crime. Nina is a great supporting character and really helps to humanize Lennox from the outset before we see how very human Lennox actually is. The chemistry between Wren and Lennox is believable and I genuinely like both of these characters. This is a good start to the series and I look forward to the next book.
ARC received from Bold Stroke Books via NetGalley for an honest review
https://sapphicbookreview.com/review/...
September 16, 2021
This was another great legal drama with romance.
I love how this author really dives into how the law works while having a romance how both plots didn’t overlap the story. Wren and Lennox are on opposite sides of a arson case. Wren believes the detective who work the case didn’t look anywhere else where as Lennox believes the detective got the right suspect. As they battle it out for the truth they learn that assumption about the truth and themselves isn’t always what it seem.
I received an ARC copy of this book from the Publisher via Netgalley and voluntarily leaving my review.
I love how this author really dives into how the law works while having a romance how both plots didn’t overlap the story. Wren and Lennox are on opposite sides of a arson case. Wren believes the detective who work the case didn’t look anywhere else where as Lennox believes the detective got the right suspect. As they battle it out for the truth they learn that assumption about the truth and themselves isn’t always what it seem.
I received an ARC copy of this book from the Publisher via Netgalley and voluntarily leaving my review.
March 10, 2022
Carsen Taite is a former criminal defense attorney and it shows in this romance in the very best way: The setting is extremely well done and fleshed out with exactly the right amount of information to keep me as reader interested without oversharing. I loved how the two main characters were embedded into the tight community of a criminal court-house - one as an insider, the other as the newcomer.
Carsen mostly mixes romance and criminal investigations/court procedures. This novel focuses on the romance. The romance between two professionals is believable with a great deal of chemistry. The two mc come from very different social strata and I really liked how they learn to understand each other, esp. Wren‘s learning curve had me hooked. Another really good thing: The romance grows slowly with believable stumbling blocks on the road. The romance is meshed into a low-level court-drama. And meeting characters from former novels of Carsen Taite in cameos was an added bonus.
Overall this book by one of the top lesbian romance writers is very well written and edited. It was like a vintage wine: full-bodied, multi-faceted, a joy to drink. Cheers.
Copy received via netgalley.
Carsen mostly mixes romance and criminal investigations/court procedures. This novel focuses on the romance. The romance between two professionals is believable with a great deal of chemistry. The two mc come from very different social strata and I really liked how they learn to understand each other, esp. Wren‘s learning curve had me hooked. Another really good thing: The romance grows slowly with believable stumbling blocks on the road. The romance is meshed into a low-level court-drama. And meeting characters from former novels of Carsen Taite in cameos was an added bonus.
Overall this book by one of the top lesbian romance writers is very well written and edited. It was like a vintage wine: full-bodied, multi-faceted, a joy to drink. Cheers.
Copy received via netgalley.
November 2, 2021
I think I may very well be in the minority on this one, but the book did not deliver for me, either on the mystery side (as it was categorized) or on the romance side (implied).
Wren Bishop is on loan from a fancy, high powered law firm to the public defender's office. She seems overly optimistic and sunny, and is somehow blind to the fact that waltzing around in designer clothes, with designer bags, and crapping on the coffee served in the department might not win her any friends. Or maybe she doesn't care. Either way, it isn't a good look.
Lennox Roy is on the prosecution side and has what seems not just a chip on her shoulder because of her poor as hell childhood but a superiority complex. She also sees things in black or white, guilty or innocent, and she's sure that any defendant - including the one Wren winds up defending - is guilty. This led to some amusement on my part that any intelligent person (as Lennox supposedly is) would look at the investigative work the police did on that case and not see the gaping holes it had. My question at this point was whether Lennox had any redeeming qualities that would get me to like her. After her declaration she'd never date anyone on the defense side of the world, as Wren is at the moment, just because a previous relationship with the woman who represented her druggie brother went down in flames, I decided that the answer was probably not.
There are some courtroom scenes, and these are the best part of the book. There are a lot of office politics, some outside politics (a judge with whom Lennox is friends is running for office) and a lot of talk about wealth inequality.
Wren winds up hiring an investigator on her own because the PD investigators are swamped with work, and ends up with evidence that points the crime away from the guy she's defending. She goes to Lennox and convinces her to get some evidence, and Lennox finally sees it.
It was too late for me by that time. There wasn't any real romance to speak of other than both of them thinking about the other and a kiss in someone's garage. They didn't spend any real time together, although Wren did break things off with her kind of girlfriend who she didn't like that much, so there's that sacrifice, I suppose.
The ending was rushed and the "I love you"s felt far too early, which is something I also noted in my review of Her Consigliere by the same author. This could easily have been a bit longer, with more of the romance prominent through the middle of the story to better lead to the ending. This book is apparently part of a series of books in this universe, so I wonder if these two will have cameos down the line to show that they're still together and/or managing to work on Lennox's brother's case to resolve it one way or another.
Only two stars out of five for me. Sorry.
Thanks to Bold Stroke Books and NetGalley for the reading copy.
Wren Bishop is on loan from a fancy, high powered law firm to the public defender's office. She seems overly optimistic and sunny, and is somehow blind to the fact that waltzing around in designer clothes, with designer bags, and crapping on the coffee served in the department might not win her any friends. Or maybe she doesn't care. Either way, it isn't a good look.
Lennox Roy is on the prosecution side and has what seems not just a chip on her shoulder because of her poor as hell childhood but a superiority complex. She also sees things in black or white, guilty or innocent, and she's sure that any defendant - including the one Wren winds up defending - is guilty. This led to some amusement on my part that any intelligent person (as Lennox supposedly is) would look at the investigative work the police did on that case and not see the gaping holes it had. My question at this point was whether Lennox had any redeeming qualities that would get me to like her. After her declaration she'd never date anyone on the defense side of the world, as Wren is at the moment, just because a previous relationship with the woman who represented her druggie brother went down in flames, I decided that the answer was probably not.
There are some courtroom scenes, and these are the best part of the book. There are a lot of office politics, some outside politics (a judge with whom Lennox is friends is running for office) and a lot of talk about wealth inequality.
Wren winds up hiring an investigator on her own because the PD investigators are swamped with work, and ends up with evidence that points the crime away from the guy she's defending. She goes to Lennox and convinces her to get some evidence, and Lennox finally sees it.
It was too late for me by that time. There wasn't any real romance to speak of other than both of them thinking about the other and a kiss in someone's garage. They didn't spend any real time together, although Wren did break things off with her kind of girlfriend who she didn't like that much, so there's that sacrifice, I suppose.
The ending was rushed and the "I love you"s felt far too early, which is something I also noted in my review of Her Consigliere by the same author. This could easily have been a bit longer, with more of the romance prominent through the middle of the story to better lead to the ending. This book is apparently part of a series of books in this universe, so I wonder if these two will have cameos down the line to show that they're still together and/or managing to work on Lennox's brother's case to resolve it one way or another.
Only two stars out of five for me. Sorry.
Thanks to Bold Stroke Books and NetGalley for the reading copy.
May 5, 2025
3,5/5
I guess it could had been worse.
it was very slow in a way with the romance part,it had a lot of information about lawyers and cases ,it definitely had a plot ,but when talking about him it seems that actually it's a very short on kinda.
there were times when I was thinking that the characters aren't making the right decisions, and times when I was thinking that I don't see enough fight from both of them
I guess it could had been worse.
it was very slow in a way with the romance part,it had a lot of information about lawyers and cases ,it definitely had a plot ,but when talking about him it seems that actually it's a very short on kinda.
there were times when I was thinking that the characters aren't making the right decisions, and times when I was thinking that I don't see enough fight from both of them
October 15, 2021
Loved this book. The Court drama and romance was very well written. I liked that the author gave such interesting information and background on what happens in a courthouse setting. I didn't know that there's so much that goes into being a defense lawyer and all the legal issues you have to go through in order to appear competent at your chosen job. Lennox is a Prosecutor who does everything by the book, but there's also a part of her that's a Rebel as well. Wren works as a Lawyer in the private sector and is on lone to the county courthouse for a few months when these two meet it's sparks at first site. The romance between the main characters is slow, but cute at the same time. There's some drama and angst at the end, but this just helps push the story along and the supporting characters helped to make this an even better story. I would definitely recommend this book to my friends and family, and I look forward to the next book in this series.
October 4, 2021
This is the start of a promising new series from Carsen Taite! Her courtroom dramas are among the best, and maybe because her books are on the shorter side, I can't seem to put them down once I start. I enjoyed getting to know Lennox and Wren (who doesn't love a rich girl/poor girl story?) and it was nice to catch up with Skye, Morgan, and Parker as well. A perfect way to spend a weekend.
October 8, 2021
I really enjoy Carsen Taite’s novels and particularly those featuring criminal defence lawyers. I like that she always portrays strong, smart women who have a high level of integrity. This, for me, is particularly alluring.
I enjoyed reading about Wren and Lennox, as well as the trial that brings them together. I will admit that I thought the relationship development part of the novel was slightly weak. I didn’t really feel their chemistry or their connection - it felt very constructed and quick to form. I don’t think it helped that there was some serious insta-love here, with “I love you” happening very quickly. I also thought the novel’s conclusion was a bit too fast and I would’ve liked to have more of a cohesive conclusion to the issue of Lennox’s brother. I also thought it was a bit of a stretch in regard to Lennox’s reason for not wanting to date Wren, as well as the conflict near the end of the novel.
Overall, I enjoyed the read and I’m hopeful that we’ll see Nina’s story next, or one of the mean girls from Wren’s office.
Many thanks to Netgalley and Bold Strokes Books for a copy of this novel. ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.
I enjoyed reading about Wren and Lennox, as well as the trial that brings them together. I will admit that I thought the relationship development part of the novel was slightly weak. I didn’t really feel their chemistry or their connection - it felt very constructed and quick to form. I don’t think it helped that there was some serious insta-love here, with “I love you” happening very quickly. I also thought the novel’s conclusion was a bit too fast and I would’ve liked to have more of a cohesive conclusion to the issue of Lennox’s brother. I also thought it was a bit of a stretch in regard to Lennox’s reason for not wanting to date Wren, as well as the conflict near the end of the novel.
Overall, I enjoyed the read and I’m hopeful that we’ll see Nina’s story next, or one of the mean girls from Wren’s office.
Many thanks to Netgalley and Bold Strokes Books for a copy of this novel. ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.
September 13, 2021
Trial by Fire. Wren Bishop is a lawyer on loan to the district attorney's office for several months. Lennox Roy is a high profile lawyer from the prosecutors office. Their paths are about to collide.
They will be working on opposite sides of an arson case. Wren believes the detective working the case did not look at any other suspects then the one she's defending. Lennox tends to depend too much on what the police/detectives bring to her.
It's going to be a rough ride for them. But along the way they find they like spending time together but circumstances are not in their favor. Wren's law firm is about to pull her back to the office early however she wants to follow this case through until the end.
Lennox has her own demons that keep pulling her away from finding happiness.
Will they be able to find some middle ground?
I have read several Carsen Taite books and enjoyed them all, this is no exception. It is well written as usual with a story that draws you right in.
I highly recommend this book
Thank you to NetGalley and Bold Strokes Boosk for the advanced copy.
They will be working on opposite sides of an arson case. Wren believes the detective working the case did not look at any other suspects then the one she's defending. Lennox tends to depend too much on what the police/detectives bring to her.
It's going to be a rough ride for them. But along the way they find they like spending time together but circumstances are not in their favor. Wren's law firm is about to pull her back to the office early however she wants to follow this case through until the end.
Lennox has her own demons that keep pulling her away from finding happiness.
Will they be able to find some middle ground?
I have read several Carsen Taite books and enjoyed them all, this is no exception. It is well written as usual with a story that draws you right in.
I highly recommend this book
Thank you to NetGalley and Bold Strokes Boosk for the advanced copy.
December 19, 2022
This story has been quite funny with the immersion of a high-profile lawyer in a public defense environment that is hostile to her from the beginning, without giving her a single opportunity. This has caused some really hilarious scenes. In addition, the two leads have enormous chemistry, although they interact much less than I would have liked. However, that does not detract from the final result.
Wren is an attorney who comes from a well established real estate family. She also works in a large prestigious law firm and in an agreement for the temporary assignment of lawyers to the public defense of the state, she must spend a few months as a public defender, very opposite to her usual job. Not even her tastes when it comes to morning coffee are understood by her new colleagues, not to mention the designer suits she wears.
Lennox is also in the public department, but she is a prosecutor, so she will also face Wren for being on opposite banks. In addition, Lennox has many prejudices almost all according to Wren's profile: she does not like haughty and snobbish people and less if their intention is only to prosper without caring what they leave behind. And Wren fills in all the checkpoints But appearances are deceiving, or so it is said.
So, conflicts and clashes are assured between the two. And they are passionate, both of them, in everything they do. Professional and personal too. And this is what makes this story so engagging.
Publisher Bold Strokes Books was kind enough to provide me with an advanced reading copy via Netgalley for my honest review
Wren is an attorney who comes from a well established real estate family. She also works in a large prestigious law firm and in an agreement for the temporary assignment of lawyers to the public defense of the state, she must spend a few months as a public defender, very opposite to her usual job. Not even her tastes when it comes to morning coffee are understood by her new colleagues, not to mention the designer suits she wears.
Lennox is also in the public department, but she is a prosecutor, so she will also face Wren for being on opposite banks. In addition, Lennox has many prejudices almost all according to Wren's profile: she does not like haughty and snobbish people and less if their intention is only to prosper without caring what they leave behind. And Wren fills in all the checkpoints But appearances are deceiving, or so it is said.
So, conflicts and clashes are assured between the two. And they are passionate, both of them, in everything they do. Professional and personal too. And this is what makes this story so engagging.
Publisher Bold Strokes Books was kind enough to provide me with an advanced reading copy via Netgalley for my honest review
October 23, 2021
Carsen Taite is a former criminal defense attorney and it shows in this romance in the very best way: The setting is extremely well done and fleshed out with exactly the right amount of information to keep me as reader interested without oversharing. I loved how the two main characters were embedded into the tight community of a criminal court-house - one as an insider, the other as the newcomer.
Carsen mostly mixes romance and criminal investigations/court procedures. This novel focuses on the romance. The romance between two professionals is believable with a great deal of chemistry. The two mc come from very different social strata and I really liked how they learn to understand each other, esp. Wren‘s learning curve had me hooked. Another really good thing: The romance grows slowly with believable stumbling blocks on the road. The romance is meshed into a low-level court-drama. And meeting characters from former novels of Carsen Taite in cameos was an added bonus.
Overall this book by one of the top lesbian romance writers is very well written and edited. It was like a vintage wine: full-bodied, multi-faceted, a joy to drink. Cheers.
Copy received via netgalley.
Carsen mostly mixes romance and criminal investigations/court procedures. This novel focuses on the romance. The romance between two professionals is believable with a great deal of chemistry. The two mc come from very different social strata and I really liked how they learn to understand each other, esp. Wren‘s learning curve had me hooked. Another really good thing: The romance grows slowly with believable stumbling blocks on the road. The romance is meshed into a low-level court-drama. And meeting characters from former novels of Carsen Taite in cameos was an added bonus.
Overall this book by one of the top lesbian romance writers is very well written and edited. It was like a vintage wine: full-bodied, multi-faceted, a joy to drink. Cheers.
Copy received via netgalley.
October 9, 2021
There are few things that you can count on these days, but one of them is that you will enjoy reading a Carsen Taite book. This holds true for her latest Trial by Fire. If you enjoy smart, sexy, and accomplished women at odds (and in love) you will enjoy this first of the “Courting Danger” series.
Wren Bishop is an attorney at a top Dallas firm on loan to the Public Defender’s Office. She finds herself having to hit the ground running and is immediately handling cases and going before Judges without much preparation. Add to that, the courthouse is full of cliques and mean girls who have seen their share of short-timers, doing their good deeds and leaving as soon as they can. Wren doesn’t seem to be any different. She even starts by interrupting the closing arguments of a murder and hate crime trial. The prosecutor stares her down mid-closing and Wren quickly finds a seat already knowing the defendant doesn’t stand a chance. Just her luck, that her first major case is against that fierce, provocative ADA.
Roy Lennox is out there fighting the good fight, putting criminals in jail. She doesn’t have time for bleeding-heart temporary Public Defenders- no matter how smart and attractive. Although they seem to travel in similar circles and enjoy each other’s company, Roy has learned a hard lesson – you don’t date where you work. That mistake has cost her dearly in the past, and she won’t make that mistake again.
When these two women clash over an arson case, they start to see each other more clearly and they both like what they see. Besides, Wren is only working for the PD’s office for a couple of months. They can wait that long to see if there is a chance for them to be more than friends. But as more information is revealed in their arson case, can their tenuous relationship survive their being zealous advocates for opposing sides? Or can they find a way to work together and maybe be together?
This book is classic Carsen Taite. We even get cameos from her other works. Don’t worry -- you don’t have to read those to enjoy this one. And I do believe you will enjoy this one! I look forward to the rest of the series -- I hope a certain judge gets her HEA.
Wren Bishop is an attorney at a top Dallas firm on loan to the Public Defender’s Office. She finds herself having to hit the ground running and is immediately handling cases and going before Judges without much preparation. Add to that, the courthouse is full of cliques and mean girls who have seen their share of short-timers, doing their good deeds and leaving as soon as they can. Wren doesn’t seem to be any different. She even starts by interrupting the closing arguments of a murder and hate crime trial. The prosecutor stares her down mid-closing and Wren quickly finds a seat already knowing the defendant doesn’t stand a chance. Just her luck, that her first major case is against that fierce, provocative ADA.
Roy Lennox is out there fighting the good fight, putting criminals in jail. She doesn’t have time for bleeding-heart temporary Public Defenders- no matter how smart and attractive. Although they seem to travel in similar circles and enjoy each other’s company, Roy has learned a hard lesson – you don’t date where you work. That mistake has cost her dearly in the past, and she won’t make that mistake again.
When these two women clash over an arson case, they start to see each other more clearly and they both like what they see. Besides, Wren is only working for the PD’s office for a couple of months. They can wait that long to see if there is a chance for them to be more than friends. But as more information is revealed in their arson case, can their tenuous relationship survive their being zealous advocates for opposing sides? Or can they find a way to work together and maybe be together?
This book is classic Carsen Taite. We even get cameos from her other works. Don’t worry -- you don’t have to read those to enjoy this one. And I do believe you will enjoy this one! I look forward to the rest of the series -- I hope a certain judge gets her HEA.
October 11, 2021
The perfect person for you may not be the perfect person for someone else. Opposites can and do attract, depending on what aspects are opposite. This read held my interest because of the concept of finding the person for you and working together.
I have enjoyed reading the legal thrillers and romances presented by this author. This particular read provided a wealth of information related to the law and specifically, prosecution/criminal defense. As a novice, I had complete understanding of what was going on and why. Makes me want to think twice about going with a court appointed attorney, unless of course I had Wren Bishop in my corner.
Wren Bishop, corporate attorney comes from money and has money and it is a part of who she is. I appreciated how she owned that. Wren participates in the attorney loan program and goes to the public defender's office. From the first day, think mean girls. Lennox Roy, prosecutor very effective and black and white about her job. The reader has to decide if her approach is justified. How Wren and Lennox interacted was enjoyable and entertaining.
ARC provided by Bold Strokes Books, Inc. via Netgalley
I have enjoyed reading the legal thrillers and romances presented by this author. This particular read provided a wealth of information related to the law and specifically, prosecution/criminal defense. As a novice, I had complete understanding of what was going on and why. Makes me want to think twice about going with a court appointed attorney, unless of course I had Wren Bishop in my corner.
Wren Bishop, corporate attorney comes from money and has money and it is a part of who she is. I appreciated how she owned that. Wren participates in the attorney loan program and goes to the public defender's office. From the first day, think mean girls. Lennox Roy, prosecutor very effective and black and white about her job. The reader has to decide if her approach is justified. How Wren and Lennox interacted was enjoyable and entertaining.
ARC provided by Bold Strokes Books, Inc. via Netgalley
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