Defense attorneys and former spouses, Mike Daley and Rosie Fernandez have come a long way from their days working in a converted martial arts studio above a Chinese restaurant. Rosie just won her second term as Public Defender, and Mike is the co-head of the Felony Division. The ex-spouses-with-benefits are enjoying their newly empty nest. Their daughter is a USC alum who is making movies at Pixar. Their son is a freshman at UC-Berkeley. Finally, there is a semblance of order in their lives.
It doesn’t last long.
Mike wasn’t expecting the early-morning call from his 86-year-old uncle, John Dunleavy. This morning Big John arrived at his namesake bar to find the body of a San Francisco police officer in the alley, a bloody knife at his side.
The cops arrest Big John’s grandson, Joey, who runs the bar and was friends with the cop, Eddie Corcoran. Witnesses confirm that Joey and Corcoran argued at Dunleavy’s shortly before last call. The alleged murder weapon is Joey’s Boy Scout knife. The only fingerprints are his.
Officer Corcoran was a tough cop whose life went off the rails after his partner was killed two years earlier. Infidelity and alcohol abuse led his wife to file for divorce. Excessive force and harassment while arresting drug dealers and the homeless resulted in his recent suspension from the force. Corcoran was on the verge of permanently losing his job, custody of his children and everything.
Mike agrees to represent Joey. With relentless assistance from Rosie, his cop-turned-private-investigator-brother Pete, and Big John, Mike engages in a desperate search for the truth that takes them around San Francisco -- from the foggy streets of the Sunset to the colorful corners of the Mission to the homeless encampments in Golden Gate Park to the drug-infested hotels in the Tenderloin.
Sheldon Siegel is a New York Times Bestselling novelist and author best known for his works of modern legal courtroom drama.
Siegel was born on the south side of Chicago, Illinois. He attended New Trier High School in Winnetka, Illinois, and later went on to attend the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign as an Accounting major. He graduated with a Juris Doctor from Boalt Hall at the University of California, Berkeley in 1983. He has been in private practice in San Francisco, California for over twenty years and specializes in corporate and securities law with the law firm Sheppard, Mullin, Richter & Hampton LLP.
This is book 13 in the Mike Daley/Rosie Fernandez series and I have read and enjoyed every one. I first started reading this series when a friend lent me one of his books. The author has a cast of likeable and realistic characters, who have become almost old friends by now. In addition to Mike and Rosie, there are: Big John Dunleavy, Mike's uncle and owner of Dunleavy's bar Rosie's mom, Sylvia Terence "the Terminator" so called because of his huge size. He is the secretary/bodyguard at the San Francisco Public Defender's office. Andy Erickson, Assistant D.A. in charge of the Felony unit in the San Francisco DA's office. Pete Daley,Mike's brother and owner of a Private investigation company. Rosie is now the Elected Chief Public Defender and Mike is her 2nd in charge. Mike and Rosie were married and are now divorced. They have reunited, but keep separate apartments. The book opens with Big John calling Mike in a panic. His grandson, Joey, who now runs Dunleavy's, has been arrested on a charge of murder. Mike realizes that Joey won't qualify for a public defender, and agrees to defend him pro bono. He takes a leave of absence from the PD's office to do so. Pete agrees to help with the investigation, also for free. Rosie tells Mike he can use his office at the PD. I don't want to give any spoilers, but I did like the ending. If you are a Perry Mason, fan, you will probably like this series. The courtroom scenes are realistic and there is even a bit of humor at the beginning, where Mike defends 2 seniors who got into a fight over free Costco samples. One Quote: "You think Chester and Fred are the first guys to get arrested for fighting over free samples at Costco?" This was a kindle Unlimited book. I read it in 3 days. It was a fast, pleasant read. It can be read as a stand alone. My wife says that this series has become too formulaic: The police always arrest the wrong person. The arrestee always wants the preliminary hearing right away. The arrestee keeps asking "When can you get me out?"
First Sentence: At ten-thirty a.m. on Tuesday, December first, Judge Elizabeth McDaniel was running an hour behind schedule.
As every lawyer knows, representing a relative is a bad idea. But District Attorney Mike Daley finds this is a rule made to be broken when his nephew, Joey Dunleavy, is accused of killing a cop behind the family-named bar he manages. Joey is covered in Corcoran’s blood and a knife engraved with Joey’s name is found next to the body. When Joey is charged with first-degree murder, Mike and his PI brother Pete must find the real killer to clear Joey of the charges.
Siegel begins with a courtroom scene imbued with humor. This serves to introduce the protagonists as well as the author's use of Mike's internal dialogue. While some may find the inclusion of the latter to be distracting, it provides an honest look at the steps of the legal process. With Siegel's use of realistic dialogue, one always learns aspects of the law from his books. The author's summary of the characters is helpful to new readers and a nice reminder to followers of the series.
The author's love of San Francisco is apparent and presents an accurate picture of it being a town of multi-generational families, made of up neighborhoods and great places to eat. For the foodies, there's a temptation to make a list and eat their way around the City. And for locals, it's fun to see mentions of places one has been and learn of new places to go. The one thing of which one may be assured is the accuracy of Siegel's geographic representations. Although Mike's family plays a significant role, it is nicely balanced and doesn't overwhelm the plot. Even so, there is a wonderfully emotional scene toward the end and a nod to the impending pandemic.
The plot is interesting and informative. There is the usual frustration with the police and the realization that their rush to convict is politically motivated, rather than ensuring they have the real killer. The information as to what it takes for Mike to go from working for the DA's office to handling Joey's case pro bono is fascinating. The investigation is laid out step-by-step and filled with unique, fully-developed characters. The sense of working against the clock effectively heightens the suspense, and the twists are effective.
"Last Call" is a very good legal mystery without all the oft-times histrionics of other writers. Far from making it dull, the accurate depictions of an investigation and trial provide plenty of interest and excitement.
LAST CALL – VG+ LegalMyst-Mike Daley/Rosie Fernandez-San Francisco-Contemp Siegel, Sheldon – 13th in series Sheldon M. Siegel, Inc., Jan 2022, 306 pp.
I've now read the first three and last two in this series. In 2022 I plan to read the remaining books. The author provides the reader with both likeable and interesting characters (Nick the Dick, a 95 year old private detective, is a great example). The author's writing style reminds me of the DeMarco series by Mike Lawson; Alex McKnight series by Steve Hamilton; or the Matthew Scudder series by Lawrence Block.
Last Call is an uncomplicated and extremely enjoyable read
I have read every book in this series and I always look forward to the next one. I had a hard time with this book and maybe slowly the last 3. I enjoy learning about how the family members are getting along and what is happening to them. I felt even more so with this book the case was paper thin. I thought the last two books the case was thin but this one never gets arrested. This is like the fourth book in a row where mike made the same crack detective look like a clown trying to bring this case to trial. The last few books have ended all most the same way not even getting to trial and getting solved at the last second if not by the same family friend then a friend of that friend ughhhh. I knew who the bad guy was going to be that was no surprise and I did not even try hard. This was such a weak case it drove me nuts. This is a good series and you should give it a spin . It needs a tougher bad guy and a tougher crime.
This is such a refreshing series. Mike, Rosie and their extended family are simply good people. It’s been fun to read the whole series in sequence and watch the progression of the character development. I feel like I know these people. The cases are interesting, the language is suitable for all ages and grizzly details are kept to a minimum.
If you want a relatively easy interesting read, I highly recommend this series.
I have read all 13 of the Mike Daley/Rose Fernandez legal mysteries and they never disappoint. I have come to know and love all of the characters. Despite the San Francisco setting I know the author is a Chicago guy, which to me, adds more authenticity to the story. I can’t wait for #14.
I have enjoyed all books in this series. Author Siegel inserts just enough background from previous books without over repetitiveness. I have grown to like the characters who show up in most books. The family aspects and relationships are endearing. As a lawyer, I appreciate the accuracy and detail of the criminal prosecution and defense legal process Siegel employs in this series. I love Mike Daley’s italicized ‘real’ thoughts before he states the appropriate response! Sometimes I wish I possessed Mike’s restraint in withholding what he really is thinking until the appropriate and dramatic conclusion of a trial. ! I also love the “Perry Mason” style of investigating, discovering and dramatically revealing the real culprit to exonerated Mike’s unjustly accused clients. I hate to see the series end; and look forward to reading more of Siegel’s writing.
This is the thirteenth installment of this series featuring San Francisco attorneys Mike Daley and Rosie Fernandez.
Mike wasn’t expecting the early-morning call from his 86-year-old uncle. Big John Dunleavy arrived at his namesake bar to find the body of San Francisco police officer Eddie Corcoran in the alley, a bloody knife at his side.
All signs point to Big John’s grandson Joey as the killer. Witnesses reported that Joey and the cop argued at the bar shortly before last call. The alleged murder weapon is Joey’s Boy Scout knife. The only fingerprints are his.
Big John begs Mike to represent Joey. Mike and his team of ex-wife/boss (Rosie) and brother/P.I. (Pete) embark on a desperate search for the truth that takes them around San Francisco!
Siegel’s 13th offering in his Mike Daley/Rosie Fernandez courtroom drama series has Mike Daley defending Joey Dunleavy, the grandson of Big John Dunleavy, from a murder charge. Police officer Eddie Corcoran, is found in the alley behind Dunleavys Bar with his throat cut and the murder weapon beside the body.
The novel follows Siegel’s typical plot-line: daunting evidence cause the police to arrest the defendant; the defendant demands a speedy trial causing Mike and his investigator, Pete, to scramble for evidence proving their innocence; and then various red herrings are explored before the true culprit is revealed. What makes this series charming is the humorous internal dialogue that Mike shares with the reader, and its San Francisco setting.
Last Call is the thirteenth instalment in the Daley/Fernandez series, and I’ve read every one of them. It’s an outstanding series with winning characters and consistently strong plotting. This book is no exception, as Mike Daley defends a nephew who has been charged with murder in a case that appears to be a slam dunk for the prosecution. Mr. Siegel pulls it all together with his trademark breezy style as he leads readers along a twisty trail filled with surprises, inciteful glimpses into the hearts and souls of his characters, and the occasional touch of humor. Last Call is a worthy addition to this excellent series.
I just finished last call , book 13 in the series, And I promise It's the best yet. I have to admit, however, I also felt the same about the 1st 12 books. Sheldon Siegel Please Do not end this Series. I know these people personally, each and everyone Of them And I love them all. You're Writing is totally Unique And it's so good To know what Mike is thinking Regardless of what he says. I am 84 years old Not good on computers, So someone will have to Fix the mistakes That Siri and I have made in this review. And now, I've got to get Book #14! Many many Thanks Sheldon Siegel. You are the best! Marsh Lady. ghw1@bellsouth.net
Well, another 9 books have passed since my last review of this series, and unfortunately, I have come to the end of the road. I'm sincerely hoping that there will be more, and feel that the ending intimates that there will be.
Each book is a different case, and I just love the dynamic between the characters. Mike is one of those lawyers, where if he feels that his client is innocent, he goes above and beyond to find something or someone to prove their innocence. With his PI brother Pete, they are an unstoppable force. I love the balance between professional and personal and really feel that the reader gets entrenched and becomes one them.
Another legal thriller with Mike and Rosie - although it seems lately there is not much "Rosie " as she seems to stay in the background as the San Francisco public defender. Likable and lovable characters, a fast moving story and a nice tidy ending. It is always nice when the true culprit gets caught. I have noticed pattern in these books, and I have read them all in order so far. The first thing the client says to Mike is "I didn't do it and you need to get me out of here." I did like the fact that this particular client was a relative of Mike's and Rosie's. Also the fact that the crime did not actually go to trial.
Last book in this series just released a few months ago. I wonder if there will be a 14th in the future? Perhaps. This book was about an Officer found stabbed to death by a garbage man. A family member (Joey) of Mike’s was the accused and it was up to Mike and his detective friends skills to gather enough evidence and witnesses to prove Joey’s innocence. Can they do it soon enough before Joey’s uncle decides to lie and say that he’s actually the murderer just to let Joey have his freedom? Maybe…
I have always enjoyed these books. This is number 13 in the series and I have read each of them and certainly enjoyed this one. The main characters-Mike and Rosie -have become like family to those of us who are faithful readers. The story -as usual-centers around a murder and subsequent trial. It’s fast paced and the dialogue is realistic. One of the major pleasures in this book is the chance to “ check in” with these now familiar family members, friends and community favorites. Recommend it.
Being a native San Franciscan, I enjoyed the story taking place in the old neighborhoods. That's the best I can say about this book. The story was a bit unbelievable in choosing to blame the main suspect on such thready basis. That might occur in a rural town somewhere, but not in SF. I found it to be predictable and sprinkled with extremely redundant narrative. Why indeed did Siegel feel the need to repeat so often? I found myself skipping through the pages without any apparent loss.
I love this series and the way it depicts working people in San Francisco, neighborhood bars and shops, neighbors who still know each other. This case is personal. Mike's nephew is charged with murder. Yes, he was arguing in a bar with his childhood friend, but did he kill him? Mike, with help from his investigator brother Pete, works his way through the clues and the myriad relationships to figure this one out.
I was anxiously awaiting this 13th book in the series and loved it as much as the other 12. This one finds Mike defending his nephew who is accused of killing a cop who had a shady past. Mike and team don’t quit and the case got more interesting as the facts were revealed. Definitely keeps you entertained from start to finish!
After all the years of reading Sheldon Siegel's series, it's always a delight to have a new tale to devour. Last Call was especially poignant and felt extra-real. I work in the legal field and enjoy following the process. As an attorney once told me, "it's not the justice system, it's the legal system."
As usual, Mike & Rosie have what seems like an unwinnable case. Actually, it's Mike's relative accused of murdering a life-long friend. The clues all seem to point to him, Rosie figures out the real killer just before the end of the preliminary hearing. Lots of tense moments.
Well done Sheldon Siegel this was an exciting and fun filled law thriller. Mike and Rosie find themselves having to defend Mikes cousin in a murder conviction. Everything is pointing to Mikes cousin Joey as being guilty. Mike has to take time off and defend his cousin on his own time Pro bono.
I love the Mike & Rosie series.....always a rapid page turner and always entertaining. The characters are endearing, and make me hope certain characters show up. Nick is one of my absolute favorites, I can't imagine him NOT popping up in a Mike & Rosie story. I absolutely recommend this series, from start to finish.
This is a ‘comfortable slippers’ series. Easy familiarity with the characters, nice interactions and a lovely family feel.
With this narrative, you get the tensions, emotions and intrigue of a crime that is committed within a close community environment of family, colleagues and friends.
I listened to this very satisfying story as an audiobook, narrated well by Tim Campbell.
I have read and enjoyed all 13 of these books. They are fast reads and the characters are fun to spend time with. Of course, I am Irish American and love the city of San Francisco—which might influence my ratings a bit.
The author has written a very good story of a how a lawyer goes about trying to get his client off after he is charged with murder and arrested. A great deal of suspense and action.
If you've read any of Sheldon Siegel's books, you know what to expect here, and you won't be disappointed. If you have not read any of his books, they can be read in any order, but I would start with the first one.
I still love this series after all this time. Got this one read in two hours, and the ending took me by surprise, although the lead up to that person was a bit cliche. The execution was stellar, however.
I have read and fully enjoyed call 13 books. Thanks Mr. Siegel for another terrific Mike and Rosie chapter. I will enjoy more books I hope and will "pray" for Big John.