What do you think?
Rate this book
Jack Marino Legal Thriller #1
Mystic Wind
The last remaining fragment of truth—hidden in the mire of the Mystic Creek
Boston star-prosecutor-turned-corporate-attorney Jack Marino has risen fast and far from his upbringing in the Mystic housing projects. But after he’s savagely beaten in retaliation for his work as head of the District Attorney’s Urban Gang Unit, he’s fired because his powerful boss is running for governor and fears the beating may have shaken Jack’s formidable confidence.
Jack lands a plush suite at his father-in-law’s mega law firm, making big money practicing corporate law. Although he seemingly has everything—money, privilege, and an heiress for a wife, what he doesn’t have is his own self-respect.
When he is given a chance to get back into criminal law—this time as defense counsel in a capital murder case—he finally feels alive again. But to save his client from death row, he’ll face a criminal network far more organized and powerful than he could have imagined.
The case will take Jack back to the projects he thought he’d escaped. He’ll risk personal and professional ruin, and ultimately his very life, to fight the corrupt forces determined to see his client go down—forces that may have already given absolute immunity to the real killer.
Perfect for fans of John Grisham and Scott Turow
Boston star-prosecutor-turned-corporate-attorney Jack Marino has risen fast and far from his upbringing in the Mystic housing projects. But after he’s savagely beaten in retaliation for his work as head of the District Attorney’s Urban Gang Unit, he’s fired because his powerful boss is running for governor and fears the beating may have shaken Jack’s formidable confidence.
Jack lands a plush suite at his father-in-law’s mega law firm, making big money practicing corporate law. Although he seemingly has everything—money, privilege, and an heiress for a wife, what he doesn’t have is his own self-respect.
When he is given a chance to get back into criminal law—this time as defense counsel in a capital murder case—he finally feels alive again. But to save his client from death row, he’ll face a criminal network far more organized and powerful than he could have imagined.
The case will take Jack back to the projects he thought he’d escaped. He’ll risk personal and professional ruin, and ultimately his very life, to fight the corrupt forces determined to see his client go down—forces that may have already given absolute immunity to the real killer.
Perfect for fans of John Grisham and Scott Turow
400 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 6, 2022
91 people are currently reading
1300 people want to read
About the author
James Barretto
1 book16 followersJames Barretto is a former appellate brief writer, assistant district attorney, defense attorney, assistant attorney general and AG division chief. As a founding principal at a litigation firm, he has had experience in third-party litigation, worker’s compensation, insurance defense, and general civil and criminal litigation. He has also served as a legal analyst for the local affiliate of a national cable news network and has appeared on national and international television as a commentator on a variety of legal subjects. He is currently a judge on the Massachusetts District Court. Mystic Wind is his first novel.
source: Amazon
source: Amazon
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 95 reviews
July 11, 2022
2.5 STARS
This is a legal thriller debut.
I love a good courtroom drama, but this one was a struggle at times.
Jack Marino has an interesting background as a star prosecutor, but he has switched and he will be defending a man in a capital murder case. I think this would have been better as a movie. There is quite a bit of action, gang fights, power struggles and corruption. There are a few surprises.
The trial was very tedious, a detailed account that felt like I was reading a transcript at times! I was just waiting for it to end so I could find out if Jack pulled off a win.
This is a new series so check out more reviews if enjoy legal action dramas.
Thanks to Netgalley for my arc. OUT Sept 6, 2022
This is a legal thriller debut.
I love a good courtroom drama, but this one was a struggle at times.
Jack Marino has an interesting background as a star prosecutor, but he has switched and he will be defending a man in a capital murder case. I think this would have been better as a movie. There is quite a bit of action, gang fights, power struggles and corruption. There are a few surprises.
The trial was very tedious, a detailed account that felt like I was reading a transcript at times! I was just waiting for it to end so I could find out if Jack pulled off a win.
This is a new series so check out more reviews if enjoy legal action dramas.
Thanks to Netgalley for my arc. OUT Sept 6, 2022
August 21, 2022
First and foremost, a large thank you to NetGalley, James Barretto, and Oceanview Publishing for providing me with a copy of this publication, which allows me to provide you with an unbiased review.
When I noticed an ARC for this novel, I was intrigued to see if James Barretto could pen as stellar a legal thriller as the dust jacket blurb would have me believe. I was pleased to see how strong his story turned out to be, set in the early 1980s, but not lacking any of the great development found in more modern novels. Gritty and full of great legal drama, Barretto knows his stuff and has me curious to see where things are headed next.
Jack Marino had been enjoying working within the DA’s office as one of the star ADAs. However, after being attacked one night, he becomes a liability to his boss and is summarily fired. But, not before he attends a murder scene of a gruesome killing, where a man was shot, but no witnesses have come forward.
Two years on, Marino has found a place in corporate law, but is convinced by a judge to take a case of a defendant who spouts his innocence, even as the state is keen to put him away for life. This case is a hot potato, particularly because an immunized witness pointed the finger at the newly accused, a single father who has no forensic ties to the crime scene whatsoever. It also happens to be the case he attending on the day of his dismissal two years before. Is the new DA trying to make a name for himself and using a witness who cannot be prosecuted to spew falsehoods just to ensure a conviction?
As the pre-trial motions are coming to a close, Marino is blindsided when the prosecution files for the death penalty, forcing Marino to pull out every legal trick he can manoeuvre. With a judge who is anything but affable and a DA who is trying to secure election as governor, hoping to use this case as a show of law & order, Marino will have to be magical and keep the jury on his side for as long as possible. A brilliant series debut by James Barretto that should be noted by those who love a great legal thriller.
I love legal books, fiction and non-fiction alike. It’s the nuances of the law and how lawyers are able to make it work in their favour that has always interested me. James Barretto does a wonderful job at putting the law front and centre in this piece, using legal tactics and straightforward courtroom arguments throughout. The themes are strong and push the story along, which keeps the reader wondering how things will turn out when the foreman rises to deliver the verdict. I am eager to see how things progress with this series, as there is something about Barretto that has me thinking there is more to come and things won’t lessen in intensity.
Barretto offers a stellar narrative that keeps the flow moving forward with each passing chapter. Short chapters do not allow the reader to get complacent, as there is so I much to see and do throughout this book. Characters are plentiful, though the core ones do their jobs effectively, keeping the reader wanting to know more as the story progresses. Legal thrillers tend to have good plot twists, if done correctly, and Barretto knows his stuff in this regard. I’m ready for more and hope the wait is not too long!
Kudos, Mr. Barretto, for a stellar legal thriller. I am curious to see what else you have in store for your series and will keep an eye out.
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
When I noticed an ARC for this novel, I was intrigued to see if James Barretto could pen as stellar a legal thriller as the dust jacket blurb would have me believe. I was pleased to see how strong his story turned out to be, set in the early 1980s, but not lacking any of the great development found in more modern novels. Gritty and full of great legal drama, Barretto knows his stuff and has me curious to see where things are headed next.
Jack Marino had been enjoying working within the DA’s office as one of the star ADAs. However, after being attacked one night, he becomes a liability to his boss and is summarily fired. But, not before he attends a murder scene of a gruesome killing, where a man was shot, but no witnesses have come forward.
Two years on, Marino has found a place in corporate law, but is convinced by a judge to take a case of a defendant who spouts his innocence, even as the state is keen to put him away for life. This case is a hot potato, particularly because an immunized witness pointed the finger at the newly accused, a single father who has no forensic ties to the crime scene whatsoever. It also happens to be the case he attending on the day of his dismissal two years before. Is the new DA trying to make a name for himself and using a witness who cannot be prosecuted to spew falsehoods just to ensure a conviction?
As the pre-trial motions are coming to a close, Marino is blindsided when the prosecution files for the death penalty, forcing Marino to pull out every legal trick he can manoeuvre. With a judge who is anything but affable and a DA who is trying to secure election as governor, hoping to use this case as a show of law & order, Marino will have to be magical and keep the jury on his side for as long as possible. A brilliant series debut by James Barretto that should be noted by those who love a great legal thriller.
I love legal books, fiction and non-fiction alike. It’s the nuances of the law and how lawyers are able to make it work in their favour that has always interested me. James Barretto does a wonderful job at putting the law front and centre in this piece, using legal tactics and straightforward courtroom arguments throughout. The themes are strong and push the story along, which keeps the reader wondering how things will turn out when the foreman rises to deliver the verdict. I am eager to see how things progress with this series, as there is something about Barretto that has me thinking there is more to come and things won’t lessen in intensity.
Barretto offers a stellar narrative that keeps the flow moving forward with each passing chapter. Short chapters do not allow the reader to get complacent, as there is so I much to see and do throughout this book. Characters are plentiful, though the core ones do their jobs effectively, keeping the reader wanting to know more as the story progresses. Legal thrillers tend to have good plot twists, if done correctly, and Barretto knows his stuff in this regard. I’m ready for more and hope the wait is not too long!
Kudos, Mr. Barretto, for a stellar legal thriller. I am curious to see what else you have in store for your series and will keep an eye out.
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
August 28, 2022
A new legal thriller and the start of an intended series, Mystic Wind by James Barretto is set in Boston. Jack Marino was raised in the Mystic housing projects and is a former prosecutor turned corporate attorney in his father-in-law’s firm. An opportunity to get back into criminal law is most welcomed, albeit a high-profile death penalty case. The case comes at a great personal cost, as he battles a justice system seemingly against him at every turn. Against a backdrop of the approaching Governor’s election, the issue of crime and this trial, is the epicentre of the media and political contest. Making great use of his professional legal knowledge makes for a gripping murder trial and riveting read that will leave you spellbound. So, this unfolding gem of a tale culminates in an unexpected finale that has a five star, do not miss rating. With thanks to Oceanview Publishing and the author, for an uncorrected advanced reader copy for review purposes. As always, the opinions herein are totally my own and freely given.
February 11, 2023
This is the author’s debut.
It’s a legal thriller that will please new readers of this genre, especially younger readers.
The writing is very simple.
The storyline development is well done, and because the chapters are very short, it makes it feel that it is well paced.
But unfortunately this one did not work for me.
Something was missing, especially that “believability factor”.
Everything came up too easily for someone who had a very short time to prepare for a trial. Plus, the “hero” brother was a bit disappointing.
It felt that the book was written in a rush.
But I give it one thing: it was entertaining.
It’s a legal thriller that will please new readers of this genre, especially younger readers.
The writing is very simple.
The storyline development is well done, and because the chapters are very short, it makes it feel that it is well paced.
But unfortunately this one did not work for me.
Something was missing, especially that “believability factor”.
Everything came up too easily for someone who had a very short time to prepare for a trial. Plus, the “hero” brother was a bit disappointing.
It felt that the book was written in a rush.
But I give it one thing: it was entertaining.
August 27, 2022
Given the chance to read a mystery or thriller that involves courtroom drama to me, saying yes is a no-brainer; it's more a matter of how fast I can get it in my hands. When it's the start of a new series, it's even more intriguing. When I'm done, will I be bellying up to the bar to read the next?
Happily, I breezed through this one with enthusiasm that lasted from the first page to the last. While I the trial parts seemed a little heavy-handed at times and the main character, former prosecuting attorney Jack Marino, was a little too pitiful, I cheered him on. And yes, I look forward to reading about him in action again soon.
As a hot-shot prosecutor, Jack has a stellar track record against some pretty nasty defendants - until one fights back, literally. The perpetrators make such a mess of Jack that he refuses to take on any more gangbangers and druggies, which doesn't sit well with his District Attorney bosses who think putting bad guys in jail is a sure-fire path to greener pastures. Since he won't play ball, Jack is fired, but he lands on his feet at his wealthy wife's father's hoity toity firm representing hoity toity clients. He hates it, of course; so when he gets a chance to defend an accused murderer - a man who comes from the streets where Jack himself grew up - he jumps in with both feet. And once again, he angers his bosses (including the aforementioned wealthy wife).
He's also going up against his former employer, a DA who's intent on getting a win he thinks will play well politically and doesn't care what corners he cuts as long as the verdict is in his favor. Throw in a judge who isn't exactly Jack's fan, a reluctant defendant and corruption that comes from unexpected places, and Jack clearly is at a disadvantage. He turns to his on-parole, ex-military brother, Matt, for help, but that may be too little, too late.
Is Jack's client really innocent, and if he is, will justice prevail? Of course, I'll never tell, except to say that the whole thing ended pretty much as I figured it would. All in all, it sets the series off on a solid start. Thanks to the publisher, via NetGalley, for allowing me to read and review a prerelease copy.
Happily, I breezed through this one with enthusiasm that lasted from the first page to the last. While I the trial parts seemed a little heavy-handed at times and the main character, former prosecuting attorney Jack Marino, was a little too pitiful, I cheered him on. And yes, I look forward to reading about him in action again soon.
As a hot-shot prosecutor, Jack has a stellar track record against some pretty nasty defendants - until one fights back, literally. The perpetrators make such a mess of Jack that he refuses to take on any more gangbangers and druggies, which doesn't sit well with his District Attorney bosses who think putting bad guys in jail is a sure-fire path to greener pastures. Since he won't play ball, Jack is fired, but he lands on his feet at his wealthy wife's father's hoity toity firm representing hoity toity clients. He hates it, of course; so when he gets a chance to defend an accused murderer - a man who comes from the streets where Jack himself grew up - he jumps in with both feet. And once again, he angers his bosses (including the aforementioned wealthy wife).
He's also going up against his former employer, a DA who's intent on getting a win he thinks will play well politically and doesn't care what corners he cuts as long as the verdict is in his favor. Throw in a judge who isn't exactly Jack's fan, a reluctant defendant and corruption that comes from unexpected places, and Jack clearly is at a disadvantage. He turns to his on-parole, ex-military brother, Matt, for help, but that may be too little, too late.
Is Jack's client really innocent, and if he is, will justice prevail? Of course, I'll never tell, except to say that the whole thing ended pretty much as I figured it would. All in all, it sets the series off on a solid start. Thanks to the publisher, via NetGalley, for allowing me to read and review a prerelease copy.
August 5, 2022
WOW!
An explosive courtroom thriller reminiscent of Michael Connelly! This is the first book penned by the author. I can’t wait for the next installments! Intriguing plot, fast pacing, engaging characters, edge of your seat suspense, electrifying twists, chilling climax with a satisfying denouement! All that without vulgarity or obscenity. That’s a grand slam!
WOW!
Keeping an eye on this new author! KUDOS to James Barretto, definitely a rising star in the political/ legal thriller genre! I am conservative with my stars, so rating five ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ indicates an outstanding work!
WOW!
My thanks to NetGalley and Oceanview publishing for a complimentary digital copy in exchange for a honest review.
An explosive courtroom thriller reminiscent of Michael Connelly! This is the first book penned by the author. I can’t wait for the next installments! Intriguing plot, fast pacing, engaging characters, edge of your seat suspense, electrifying twists, chilling climax with a satisfying denouement! All that without vulgarity or obscenity. That’s a grand slam!
WOW!
Keeping an eye on this new author! KUDOS to James Barretto, definitely a rising star in the political/ legal thriller genre! I am conservative with my stars, so rating five ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ indicates an outstanding work!
WOW!
My thanks to NetGalley and Oceanview publishing for a complimentary digital copy in exchange for a honest review.
November 8, 2022
Here's my Mystery Scene magazine review of the book - https://www.mysteryscenemag.com/compo...
January 30, 2022
I loved this book. So addictive and so many twists that haven’t seen coming my way.
Full RTC soon
NetGalley arc
Full RTC soon
NetGalley arc
February 4, 2022
A great book to read if you want to kept in suspense and generally entertained. Suspend reality a bit and you’ll enjoy a good book. I received an advanced copy of this book from NetGalley and the publisher and voluntarily provided an honest review.
September 1, 2022
This is a terrific book! Great story and plot, fast-paced, with the main character who has a lot of goodness in him but is also flawed, as he is seduced by a career, having material things and status until everything falls apart so he can find himself again. Brilliant!!! Looking forward to reading new titles by Mr. Barretto!!!
Thank you, NetGalley, Mr. Barretto, and his publisher for a free copy of this book.
Thank you, NetGalley, Mr. Barretto, and his publisher for a free copy of this book.
August 21, 2022
I received an ARC thru "NetGalley"and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
This book starts with Jack winning a case in court and follows later where Jack is at home when he winds up being attacked. As a result of the incident, Jack's work is impacted and as a result Jack winds up getting fired.
Before the incident happened, Jack was called to the scene of a murder while he was still part of the D.A.'s office. Now two years later he is asked by a judge , who was a mentor, to act as defense council for an individual who was on trial for killing the individual where Jack was on the scene. Jack now was working for his father-in-law's law firn doing civil litigation. Because of Jack's meetings with his mentor, he wasn't able to appear at a hearing and wound up being fired there. The fact that Jack took this case eventually led to problems in his home life.
Follow Jack's as he goe to trial and attempts to overcome the hurdles he faces with a judge that doesn't like him as well as the prosecutor working to fulfill an agenda that is very important to the D.A. himself. Using the limited resouces he has read as he prepares his case to save his client,
The story is one where it grabs your attention and the ending is well done and quite unexpected.
This book starts with Jack winning a case in court and follows later where Jack is at home when he winds up being attacked. As a result of the incident, Jack's work is impacted and as a result Jack winds up getting fired.
Before the incident happened, Jack was called to the scene of a murder while he was still part of the D.A.'s office. Now two years later he is asked by a judge , who was a mentor, to act as defense council for an individual who was on trial for killing the individual where Jack was on the scene. Jack now was working for his father-in-law's law firn doing civil litigation. Because of Jack's meetings with his mentor, he wasn't able to appear at a hearing and wound up being fired there. The fact that Jack took this case eventually led to problems in his home life.
Follow Jack's as he goe to trial and attempts to overcome the hurdles he faces with a judge that doesn't like him as well as the prosecutor working to fulfill an agenda that is very important to the D.A. himself. Using the limited resouces he has read as he prepares his case to save his client,
The story is one where it grabs your attention and the ending is well done and quite unexpected.
August 7, 2022
This author's debut is a tangled, deceit filled legal drama, the first in a new series about Attorney Jack Marino. It is an adult murder mystery with some violent crimes.
The setting north of Boston in Mystic has seedy projects down by the railroad tracks. Not where you want to go after dark. There are homeless camped in the area eeking out a pitiful existence.
Former District Attorney Jack Marino married into money. His wife, Abby, got him a job at her father's prestigious firm when he left the DA's office. He's a corporate paper pusher now, he hates it and his marriage that's all about money and appearances.
Jack is still suffering nightmares and the traumatic after effects of a home invasion attack and a near death beating.
He is pressured into taking a court appointed murder case. David Lamb is indigent and charged with killing his friend, Thomas. They both did cleaning up grunt work at a local strip club for the owner, Mickey Nolan.
Jack runs into a previous girlfriend, Summer, soon after taking Lamb's case. He wonders what his life would've been if he'd not chosen Abby and all that came with her family strings.
Lamb professes his innocence and Jack believes him. Proving it could cost both of their lives. The District Attorney, Trevor Cameron, has decided to make an example (election strategy) and is asking for the death penalty. He's announced his candancy for governor.
Jack has been estranged from his only remaining family. Swallowing past animosity, he reaches out to his brother, Matt. He has limited resources, time and needs Matt's help or Lamb faces death.
The prosecution granted immunity to a co-conspirator, Mickey Nolan, to testify against Lamb. The crux of the legal issues in this case addresses the pitfalls and consequences of immunizing a witness. An interesting glimpse into the process showing disparity, prejudice, and the outcome of misplaced immunity.
Jack's previous relationship with Summer is rekindled, but puts her in an impossible situation. The romance could cost not only her life, but her career.
Jack stumbles onto evidence of another possible witness to the murder, “Crazy Nora", one of the homeless. Trying to find her takes the reader on an action packed race against time, facing corrupt characters, lies and deceit, cover-ups, and additional crimes.
A good first effort and a series I would continue to read.
Thanks to NetGalley for the advance digital copy of "Mystic Wind" by James Barretto and to Oceanview Publishing. These are my honest personal thoughts and opinions given voluntarily.
The setting north of Boston in Mystic has seedy projects down by the railroad tracks. Not where you want to go after dark. There are homeless camped in the area eeking out a pitiful existence.
Former District Attorney Jack Marino married into money. His wife, Abby, got him a job at her father's prestigious firm when he left the DA's office. He's a corporate paper pusher now, he hates it and his marriage that's all about money and appearances.
Jack is still suffering nightmares and the traumatic after effects of a home invasion attack and a near death beating.
He is pressured into taking a court appointed murder case. David Lamb is indigent and charged with killing his friend, Thomas. They both did cleaning up grunt work at a local strip club for the owner, Mickey Nolan.
Jack runs into a previous girlfriend, Summer, soon after taking Lamb's case. He wonders what his life would've been if he'd not chosen Abby and all that came with her family strings.
Lamb professes his innocence and Jack believes him. Proving it could cost both of their lives. The District Attorney, Trevor Cameron, has decided to make an example (election strategy) and is asking for the death penalty. He's announced his candancy for governor.
Jack has been estranged from his only remaining family. Swallowing past animosity, he reaches out to his brother, Matt. He has limited resources, time and needs Matt's help or Lamb faces death.
The prosecution granted immunity to a co-conspirator, Mickey Nolan, to testify against Lamb. The crux of the legal issues in this case addresses the pitfalls and consequences of immunizing a witness. An interesting glimpse into the process showing disparity, prejudice, and the outcome of misplaced immunity.
Jack's previous relationship with Summer is rekindled, but puts her in an impossible situation. The romance could cost not only her life, but her career.
Jack stumbles onto evidence of another possible witness to the murder, “Crazy Nora", one of the homeless. Trying to find her takes the reader on an action packed race against time, facing corrupt characters, lies and deceit, cover-ups, and additional crimes.
A good first effort and a series I would continue to read.
Thanks to NetGalley for the advance digital copy of "Mystic Wind" by James Barretto and to Oceanview Publishing. These are my honest personal thoughts and opinions given voluntarily.
September 6, 2022
Mystic Wind by James Barretto
Jack Marino Legal Thriller #1
Excellent debut legal thriller – Enjoyed reading a new author’s work and look forward to reading more in the future.
What I liked
* Jack Malone: When we meet him, he is a hot shot prosecuting attorney, married to a wealthy lawyer and heiress, living the good life, and all is golden. Things change when he is beaten nearly to death, suffers from PTSD, finds the courtroom impossible, and is not living up to his wife’s expectations. A job in a big firm should fix things, but it doesn’t. When offered a capital murder case for the state – he feels compelled to take the job defending the accused. Then, his life changes again and in more ways than one.
* Matt Malone: Jack’s older brother, grew up in the projects suffering the same rough life his brother Jack did, plays a big part in this book, would like to know he made it through okay and will show up in future books of this series
* Summer St. Cloud: works for the DA’s office and directly with the lawyer who will prosecute Jack’s client, she dated Jack before he married Abby, is important in this book and perhaps beyond
* David Lamb: poor, young, single parent of young twin girls, doing his best, has a rough backstory, accused of murder, proclaims he is innocent, to be defended by Jack
* The way the story came together
* The legal aspects of the story although at times I got bogged down in the court scenes and must admit I read these sections quickly
* Learning something new
* Reading a new-to-me author that I highly recommend
* Wondering what will happen next in Jack’s life and how he will proceed
* Hoping that there are good lawyers working for those that are truly innocent…and winning
* That the corrupt, evil, criminals in this story were exposed and dealt with - mostly
What I didn’t like
* Who and what I was meant not to like
* Knowing that those on the side of justice, law, and order don’t always prevail
* Thinking about how many lives are ruined for so little reason
Did I enjoy this book? Yes
Would I read more by this author? Yes
Thank you to NetGalley and Oceanview Publishing for the ARC – This is my honest review.
4.5 Stars
Jack Marino Legal Thriller #1
Excellent debut legal thriller – Enjoyed reading a new author’s work and look forward to reading more in the future.
What I liked
* Jack Malone: When we meet him, he is a hot shot prosecuting attorney, married to a wealthy lawyer and heiress, living the good life, and all is golden. Things change when he is beaten nearly to death, suffers from PTSD, finds the courtroom impossible, and is not living up to his wife’s expectations. A job in a big firm should fix things, but it doesn’t. When offered a capital murder case for the state – he feels compelled to take the job defending the accused. Then, his life changes again and in more ways than one.
* Matt Malone: Jack’s older brother, grew up in the projects suffering the same rough life his brother Jack did, plays a big part in this book, would like to know he made it through okay and will show up in future books of this series
* Summer St. Cloud: works for the DA’s office and directly with the lawyer who will prosecute Jack’s client, she dated Jack before he married Abby, is important in this book and perhaps beyond
* David Lamb: poor, young, single parent of young twin girls, doing his best, has a rough backstory, accused of murder, proclaims he is innocent, to be defended by Jack
* The way the story came together
* The legal aspects of the story although at times I got bogged down in the court scenes and must admit I read these sections quickly
* Learning something new
* Reading a new-to-me author that I highly recommend
* Wondering what will happen next in Jack’s life and how he will proceed
* Hoping that there are good lawyers working for those that are truly innocent…and winning
* That the corrupt, evil, criminals in this story were exposed and dealt with - mostly
What I didn’t like
* Who and what I was meant not to like
* Knowing that those on the side of justice, law, and order don’t always prevail
* Thinking about how many lives are ruined for so little reason
Did I enjoy this book? Yes
Would I read more by this author? Yes
Thank you to NetGalley and Oceanview Publishing for the ARC – This is my honest review.
4.5 Stars
September 5, 2022
Strong Legal Thriller Debut. As a former District Attorney's Office employee (I worked on their tech) and (mostly) former police accountability activist who also happens to be a former trailer park kid... I have quite a bit in common with our hero of this new series. Which may have made this particular book have a bit more impact for me - while not having these *exact* experiences, I've been close enough that they all rang all too true. And what experiences we have, from having (and losing) it all in order to truly find yourself (which to be clear, never really happened in my own life) to crime lords not caring about the "little people" they are destroying to cops, prosecutors, and judges - who are *supposed* to care about those very people - placing their own profits and aspirations ahead of truly serving the people and truly seeking justice. Of course, Barretto also does himself a few favors in setting the book in the early 80s, before American police - and the entire "justice" system - became as militarized as it now stands, and before activists really rose in response to such militarization. For example, data does not exist for the period in question, yet American police are known to have killed over 10,000 people within the last decade as I write this review. In setting this story (and likely series?) in such a "simpler" time, Barretto manages to be able to tell his tale(s) without having to worry about such issues. Overall truly a solid legal thriller that also provides a solid look at some areas many might prefer not to see. Very much recommended.
September 21, 2022
I love legal thrillers so this was a no-brainer request and it certainly did live up to the hype! Jack is an ADA who then becomes a defense attorney because of circumstances over which he has no control. When he is then asked to defend a man accused of murder, he realizes he has his work cut out for him as there is a strip club, and perceived heavy hitters involved. His personal life is in shambles but he's a brilliant man so he goes in with the proverbial "guns blazing." Fast-paced and action-packed, this novel invites you into the underbelly of society and leaves you satisfied at the end!
Thanks to NetGalley for this ARC!
Thanks to NetGalley for this ARC!
March 12, 2022
This is a great story, and is really more than a legal thriller. Thanks to the publishers and to Netgalley for an ARC of this well-done novel about a former Boston prosecutor, Jack Marino. Jack was savagely beaten up by an unknown gang in retribution for his work as the head of the District Attorney's Urban Gang Unit. He is then fired from the prosecutor's office because of what seems to be a power move by his boss. Jack joins his father-in-law's law firm and starts making big money practicing corporate law. But when he is assigned by the court to defend an indigent man and so works as a defense attorney against his former prosecutor colleagues, the real intrigue begins. This author does a good job with both plot and characters. I kept turning the pages even when I had work to do. The ending is very well done...no cliffhanger here, for sure. Unfortunately, everyone will have to wait for about September of this year before it is available. But make a note to self, because this isn't one to miss.
May 25, 2022
Mystic Wind is a legal thriller and an outstanding debut. Interesting plot with intriguing characters enough to keep me turning the pages until the very end. It is a fast-paced well-written book about a courtroom drama. If you like legal thrillers then you will enjoy this one. I would like to thank NetGalley and Oceanview Publishers for a copy for an honest review.
January 8, 2023
I wish I got a bit more character development between Jack and Summer. But the ending was far too good and complex to not give this 5 stars. What a rollercoaster of events, I couldn’t put it down from the very start.
March 16, 2022
My thanks to Oceanview Publishing, as well as to NetGalley, for the opportunity to read and review an early copy of Mystic Wind.
After star-prosecutor Jack Marino is savagely beaten in retaliation for his work as head of the District Attorney's Urban Gang Unit, he is let go. He's lost the fire that has driven him for so many years. Jack is then convinced to take a case as a defense attorney and the result is a nail-biting ride! I found Mystic Wing, by turns, to be fascinating, infuriating, and inspiring. Although there are parts in the book where reality is stretched, they didn't interfere with my reading enjoyment.
I am amazed that this book is a debut novel! Mystic Wind reads like a novel from a well-established author. It's easy to tell that Mr. Barretto is a former attorney and is currently a judge. I'm eager to read the second book in the series!
After star-prosecutor Jack Marino is savagely beaten in retaliation for his work as head of the District Attorney's Urban Gang Unit, he is let go. He's lost the fire that has driven him for so many years. Jack is then convinced to take a case as a defense attorney and the result is a nail-biting ride! I found Mystic Wing, by turns, to be fascinating, infuriating, and inspiring. Although there are parts in the book where reality is stretched, they didn't interfere with my reading enjoyment.
I am amazed that this book is a debut novel! Mystic Wind reads like a novel from a well-established author. It's easy to tell that Mr. Barretto is a former attorney and is currently a judge. I'm eager to read the second book in the series!
October 16, 2022
Mystic Wind
True legal authenticity for fans of Grisham and Turow. There’s relentless, driving action—and with the cover—you can’t miss the iconic Mystic River. This is a legal thriller that hits on all cylinders.
True legal authenticity for fans of Grisham and Turow. There’s relentless, driving action—and with the cover—you can’t miss the iconic Mystic River. This is a legal thriller that hits on all cylinders.
July 25, 2022
Mystic Wind
Traumatic experiences can alter your perceptions and create times when you cannot deal with the reality of what happened. Jack Marino is a forceful prosecutor for the Urban Gang Unit part of the DA’s office. He is a great litigator but a home invasion by three thugs that put him in the hospital and critically injured left him doubting that he could continue handling cases involving gangs. Threatened and told because he won case against this gang leader, they would not stop even with this attack. His wife Abby came home ten minutes later and found him, and this is where things get complicated and tragic. But, the DA and his first Assistant DA had their own agenda when they asked a judge to convince Jack to give up his lucrative but stressful job with this wife’s father’s company in corporate law to take on a murder case of a man they felt murdered his friend and it would be according to the DA’s office a slam dunk.
Would Jack take it and if you hear DA Cameron and his first assistant Brad Sears telling you know it was a set up to make Jack look bad. Turning down the case was one thing but fire him because he felt he did not want to prosecute gang members was worse. Listening to them you know that being honest about the pretrial documents, the notes from the grand jury and more, Jack would have to really sift through the lies, betrayals and one thing left out before he could even think about a trial for this case. Plus, the defendant wants to defend himself. Why?
When Jack decides to take the case and meets with Sears, a red flag should be raised, and he realizes that there might be more to this. Hidden lies and truths and an office that wants him to sink. Added in he meets with Summer who is part of that office and who Jack seems to have feelings for and her he learns some harsh revelations about what to expect. Meeting with Dave Lamb his client he learns early on that he’s not going to give him much help and he’s afraid for his family who the thugs have threatened. But when push came to real shove he had to reveal what happened when Nolan killed Tommy and why he was there and threatened too. Why was Mickey Nolan given immunity for his testimony against Lamb? Was he the real killer? Readers will hear the terrifying account that Lamb relates to Jack, and you decide where the corruption lies. The sides are drawn and the evidence there but the other side blindsides Jack by withholding information about a potential witness and then Sears claims his ballistic expert is not available for 2 weeks but denies the motion. Throughout the trial, you know that the judge is prejudiced against Jack for a conviction in the past. We even witness Sears shredding a report that Jack would never see. Even his opening statement was questioned, and you feel the unfairness from the start but one thing falls to his brother brings him on board and back in his life and the tied might be turned. The Treasure Chest is the bar where the murder took place, yet owner Mickey Dolan claims he never saw David Lamb kill his close friend Tommy Regan. While questioning the commissioner you realize there's a cover-up but what is his true goal? Jack reveals that an abandoned rail line sandwiched between factories close. Nothing there anymore. Both Jack and the commissioner found the body there. Talking about the homeless in the area brings down the gavel. But, the next question sets it on fire. Did a member of the department learn about a homeless woman named Nora who might have witnessed the murder scene? Did this person recommend further investigation and why not done? Even more, denying an incident involving her setting fire to that spot 6 or 7 years ago? The result you won't believe includes lies.
When Mickey Nolan takes the stand you get their sides of the truth. The testimony is rehearsed and orchestrated by the prosecution, and the responses of the witness are contrived and created by Sears and Jack’s expert questions creating loopholes and dents plus uncertainty when hearing his answers. At times you can tell he hemmed and hawed his responses but what will the judge do? Will he be fair to Jack or once again stick a knife into his examination? Author Judge James Barretto creates trial scenes right out of a real courtroom so realistic you think you are witnessing it.
A trial is so biased against the defendant and a judge is definitely on the wrong side. As you hear Jack question Lamb you feel the tension, fear, and frustration not inky in Lamb but in Jack who recites law, doctrine, and more and a judge who twists it in the favor of the other side. Explanations of how the testimony of an immune witness works but after hearing Nolan you know he pulled the trigger, but the judge won't budge.
Closing arguments so powerful the reader might have to decide which one to believe. But, a judge so corrupt and wanting only to end it all, we learn that Tommy wanted money from Regan but also part of the action in the club that dealt with drugs. Just what happened the night of the murder listen to what Lamb says but the jury’s verdict is shocking, and the surprise witness would have changed it all. An ending so horrific, officials on the take and the final reality of what really happened does not change the fate of one man. What happens to Lamb is more than tragic and a system and penal system corrupt and proving that they really do not protect those inside. Who pays for the crime? What about Jack will he get vindication for Lamb? This novel leaves you open to wondering just what is real, fact or fiction and what about the author’s experiences are part of the plot.
Characters that are true to life, hardnosed and one Jack Marino that proves that he can overcome the4 past and wait until you see his future hoping that the author brings him back. Why did Summer come to his defense? Learn more what you read this powerful novel: MYSTIC WIND!
Fran Lewis Just reviews
Sent from my iPhone
February 4, 2022
This ARC was provided to me via Kindle, Oceanview Publishing and by #NetGalley. Opinions expressed are completely my own.
A wonderfully entertaining courtroom drama that pushes the limits of reality, at times. That doesn’t ruin it for me though, I enjoy a good story.
A wonderfully entertaining courtroom drama that pushes the limits of reality, at times. That doesn’t ruin it for me though, I enjoy a good story.
September 5, 2022
Getting Back In The Saddle Wasn’t Easy As Expected
The novel opens with a flashback. A vagrant, Nora, hears some men talking nearby. One man is telling the other to get down in front of him. The other man is very fat and is pleading for his life. She saw two others appear behind the man with a gun. The man shot the fat man dead. Nora starts to retch. The men hear her and start looking for her. She slips into the Mystic River and into a culvert to hide. The action shifts to a current court case where Boston ADA Jack Marino is prosecuting one of Boston’s most notorious gang leaders and drug traffickers for a terrible crime against a woman that works for him. Jack wins his case spectacularly, and the defendant is sentenced to 30 years. The defendant indicates to his gang members in the audience his displeasure with Jack. They pay a visit to Jack soon after he arrives home. They beat him savagely. As a result, he loses his confidence as a prosecutor, loses his job, takes a job at his wife’s father corporate legal firm.
There is only one main storyline that has three distinct phases. The first and second phases are described above. The third phase starts as the district attorney with his sights on becoming the next governor is looking for a slam-dunk case to apply the newly passed death penalty law. He and his deputy plan the course of this prosecution to achieve that result. They even enlist Jack’s former mentor at the district attorney’s office who now is a judge to convince that this would be an easy case to reenter criminal law. The main storyline threads are narrated by all the major characters, protagonists and antagonists, so there are not many secrets, but there are some. Their reveals do add some spice, and some are what I call literary grenades. As the reader, I knew what was coming, but my interest still was captured because I wanted to see how Jack overcame the obstacles. My interest was kept all the way to the end of the novel.
The B-storyline centers mostly on Jack Marino. The reader will see him at this peak at the start, at the bottom of his abyss after his fall, and his shaky recovery. Besides the usual methods to learn of his background and personality, because of the antagonists being some of the narrators, the reader will learn what they think and say about Jack Marino. The B-storyline therefore is quite rich and enhanced my reading enjoyment.
For the aspects that can turn some readers off, there are not any intimate scenes. There is some vulgar, rude and impious language but not to a level that it became an issue for me. There is some violence and is described in the more edgy as it occurs, but it is not anywhere being over the top. As this is the author’s first novel, so there isn’t a problem with references to events in the previous novels.
Usually, thrillers keep much hidden and reveal information incrementally. That definitely is not true here. In this book, the reader knows much of what Jack Marino is facing. What I found interesting and different in all of the previous books of this genre is my anticipation to learn how he will overcome those obstacles. I found this an intriguing approach and was the major reason that I enjoyed reading this novel. The only aspect that bothered me was that Jack Marino returned to the criminal court. He was a little shaky and more than I expected for an experienced and stellar prosecutor would make even having been out of the court room for a few years.
For me this novel was an enjoyable novel to read. I do recommend reading it especially for the different approach to this genre. As this is the first novel I have read by this author, I have tentatively rated him in my Will-Read author category, my second highest rating. I am looking forward to reading further books by the author. I rate this novel with four stars.
I received a free e-book version of this novel through NetGalley from Oceanview Publishing. My review is based only by my own reading experience of this book. I wish to thank Oceanview Publishing for the opportunity to read and review this novel early.
The novel opens with a flashback. A vagrant, Nora, hears some men talking nearby. One man is telling the other to get down in front of him. The other man is very fat and is pleading for his life. She saw two others appear behind the man with a gun. The man shot the fat man dead. Nora starts to retch. The men hear her and start looking for her. She slips into the Mystic River and into a culvert to hide. The action shifts to a current court case where Boston ADA Jack Marino is prosecuting one of Boston’s most notorious gang leaders and drug traffickers for a terrible crime against a woman that works for him. Jack wins his case spectacularly, and the defendant is sentenced to 30 years. The defendant indicates to his gang members in the audience his displeasure with Jack. They pay a visit to Jack soon after he arrives home. They beat him savagely. As a result, he loses his confidence as a prosecutor, loses his job, takes a job at his wife’s father corporate legal firm.
There is only one main storyline that has three distinct phases. The first and second phases are described above. The third phase starts as the district attorney with his sights on becoming the next governor is looking for a slam-dunk case to apply the newly passed death penalty law. He and his deputy plan the course of this prosecution to achieve that result. They even enlist Jack’s former mentor at the district attorney’s office who now is a judge to convince that this would be an easy case to reenter criminal law. The main storyline threads are narrated by all the major characters, protagonists and antagonists, so there are not many secrets, but there are some. Their reveals do add some spice, and some are what I call literary grenades. As the reader, I knew what was coming, but my interest still was captured because I wanted to see how Jack overcame the obstacles. My interest was kept all the way to the end of the novel.
The B-storyline centers mostly on Jack Marino. The reader will see him at this peak at the start, at the bottom of his abyss after his fall, and his shaky recovery. Besides the usual methods to learn of his background and personality, because of the antagonists being some of the narrators, the reader will learn what they think and say about Jack Marino. The B-storyline therefore is quite rich and enhanced my reading enjoyment.
For the aspects that can turn some readers off, there are not any intimate scenes. There is some vulgar, rude and impious language but not to a level that it became an issue for me. There is some violence and is described in the more edgy as it occurs, but it is not anywhere being over the top. As this is the author’s first novel, so there isn’t a problem with references to events in the previous novels.
Usually, thrillers keep much hidden and reveal information incrementally. That definitely is not true here. In this book, the reader knows much of what Jack Marino is facing. What I found interesting and different in all of the previous books of this genre is my anticipation to learn how he will overcome those obstacles. I found this an intriguing approach and was the major reason that I enjoyed reading this novel. The only aspect that bothered me was that Jack Marino returned to the criminal court. He was a little shaky and more than I expected for an experienced and stellar prosecutor would make even having been out of the court room for a few years.
For me this novel was an enjoyable novel to read. I do recommend reading it especially for the different approach to this genre. As this is the first novel I have read by this author, I have tentatively rated him in my Will-Read author category, my second highest rating. I am looking forward to reading further books by the author. I rate this novel with four stars.
I received a free e-book version of this novel through NetGalley from Oceanview Publishing. My review is based only by my own reading experience of this book. I wish to thank Oceanview Publishing for the opportunity to read and review this novel early.
January 17, 2023
When you think legal thriller, John Grisham and Scott Turow, just pop into your mind. They have cornered the market in thrilling legal cases. James Barretto is angling to join this august twosome and for the most part succeeds, except for a couple of minor quibbles.
Barretto's hero is Jack Marino, once and esteemed member of the District Attorney's office until he is beaten severely after a victory. After the beating, Marino loses himself and is ultimately fired by his boss, who, now that Marino has not snapped back to his old self, is put out to pasture. Marino, who is married to Abby Thorn, the scion of a wealthy lawyer family is now just barely holding himself together, practicing corporate and civil law.
But fate has intervened. His old mentor suggests that he take up a murder case as a defense lawyer representing David Lamb, a man charged with murdering a Tommy Regan, a friend of his when they both worked at The Treasure Chest, a strip joint run by Nolan.
Marino takes the case to the consternation of his wife, who eventually leaves him, but finds immediately that the odds are stacked against him. Nolan, was granted immunity for his testimony. Marino's ex-colleague Brad Sears, who is the prosecutor, has disappeared evidence of a possible exculpatory witness and Judge Stone, the presiding judge in the case, hates Marino for past interactions. Moreover the jury foreman turns out to be the son of cop.
Aided by his brother Matt and an old girlfriend, Marino tries to put together a strong defense for Lamb, who is heading straight for the slaughter - as the prosecutor makes the case into a death penalty case.
Barretto ably puts on a thrilling trial. Marino is a master litigator and uses all of his abilities to defend Lamb.
But Barretto really stacks the story against him. As mentioned I had a couple of issues -- the character names --I mean seemed to telegraph things. Lamb, the poor person on trial for murder, Stone, the iron judge who will not bend one inch in the face of Marinos arguments, Sears the fiery prosecutor, Summer, Marino's beautiful ex girlfriend, and Thorn, Marino's thorny wife. I mean one name is coincidence but the rest -- Barretto should do a better job.
In addition, while no criminal defense lawyer, Stone's rulings from the bench seem unbelievably prejudicial to Lamb. Likely that's intentional, but none go the defendant's way.
Finally, without giving away anything, some of the story is not settled in the court room but somewhere else, where there is fighting, cops, and reporters. I guess that is the part that is the thriller part, but I find these kind of denouements a little overripe.
Nonetheless the action packed ending had several surprises and the story was fresh and convincing.
This is an excellent read, which I blew through in a nonce, and if you like Grisham and Turow, the masters of this genre, Barretto has the chops to join their company one day. He clearly knows the field.
Be on the lookout for his next book.
Barretto's hero is Jack Marino, once and esteemed member of the District Attorney's office until he is beaten severely after a victory. After the beating, Marino loses himself and is ultimately fired by his boss, who, now that Marino has not snapped back to his old self, is put out to pasture. Marino, who is married to Abby Thorn, the scion of a wealthy lawyer family is now just barely holding himself together, practicing corporate and civil law.
But fate has intervened. His old mentor suggests that he take up a murder case as a defense lawyer representing David Lamb, a man charged with murdering a Tommy Regan, a friend of his when they both worked at The Treasure Chest, a strip joint run by Nolan.
Marino takes the case to the consternation of his wife, who eventually leaves him, but finds immediately that the odds are stacked against him. Nolan, was granted immunity for his testimony. Marino's ex-colleague Brad Sears, who is the prosecutor, has disappeared evidence of a possible exculpatory witness and Judge Stone, the presiding judge in the case, hates Marino for past interactions. Moreover the jury foreman turns out to be the son of cop.
Aided by his brother Matt and an old girlfriend, Marino tries to put together a strong defense for Lamb, who is heading straight for the slaughter - as the prosecutor makes the case into a death penalty case.
Barretto ably puts on a thrilling trial. Marino is a master litigator and uses all of his abilities to defend Lamb.
But Barretto really stacks the story against him. As mentioned I had a couple of issues -- the character names --I mean seemed to telegraph things. Lamb, the poor person on trial for murder, Stone, the iron judge who will not bend one inch in the face of Marinos arguments, Sears the fiery prosecutor, Summer, Marino's beautiful ex girlfriend, and Thorn, Marino's thorny wife. I mean one name is coincidence but the rest -- Barretto should do a better job.
In addition, while no criminal defense lawyer, Stone's rulings from the bench seem unbelievably prejudicial to Lamb. Likely that's intentional, but none go the defendant's way.
Finally, without giving away anything, some of the story is not settled in the court room but somewhere else, where there is fighting, cops, and reporters. I guess that is the part that is the thriller part, but I find these kind of denouements a little overripe.
Nonetheless the action packed ending had several surprises and the story was fresh and convincing.
This is an excellent read, which I blew through in a nonce, and if you like Grisham and Turow, the masters of this genre, Barretto has the chops to join their company one day. He clearly knows the field.
Be on the lookout for his next book.
April 7, 2022
Mystic Wind is a hooking crime thriller in the legal field by James Barretto. Jack Marino is a lawyer who is passionate about humanity and tuff on crime. James has carried us into the world of Marino where we are surprised by the sudden turns and twists. We follow him in the courtroom where his arguments are hanging by the thread and odds are tipping away from him. We visit the old projects' houses and see the pitiful lives of the occupants. We get to see the richer part of life and how crime is using both edges to thrive. We build a house of cards and try to gather evidence to make it stand.
Jack Marino is fighting for the life of a young family man(David Lamb) caught in the middle of traffic. He has been accused of murdering a very close friend whom he worked with and their lives were a copy of each other. The prosecution has made a case and David must hang. David is silent hoping he can just explain his case to the police and walk out. We follow Jack as he helps David to open up. They end up opening a can of worms. Everything is screaming danger. Will Jack hold on when things are falling apart?
I liked many things about this book. The story is attention-grabbing and gripping. I got tense while following the events yet I didn't want to miss out on what will happen next. The description of events is clear, one can see the environment. The stories are developing in a pattern that complements each other. The characters had good development. The book had a good organization of chapters and events. The cover page is wonderfully done.
There are things I have to point out as I didn't like them at all. There are no page numbers among other introductory parts. Chapter 1 has unnecessarily short sentences. Some beginning with "or" p2. Consider revising p4. It is made of two long sentences. Pg2 This sentence has a typo -at the biggest of the two-. Other chapters I found to be professionally edited.
I would rate this book 4.5 of 5 stars. This is because the book is entertaining uniquely. It builds up anticipation and not easy to guess the outcomes. I would have given it a total score except for there are issues I have noted above.
I would like to see Jack Marino in other books, in the same manner, Jack Reacher was a major character in several books.
This book is a must-read for the lovers of mystery, crime, thrillers, and law-related fans. Those fighting crime will identify with Jack and also see the dark side of the law. Other professionals will enjoy this book, it is mind furnishing.
Jack Marino is fighting for the life of a young family man(David Lamb) caught in the middle of traffic. He has been accused of murdering a very close friend whom he worked with and their lives were a copy of each other. The prosecution has made a case and David must hang. David is silent hoping he can just explain his case to the police and walk out. We follow Jack as he helps David to open up. They end up opening a can of worms. Everything is screaming danger. Will Jack hold on when things are falling apart?
I liked many things about this book. The story is attention-grabbing and gripping. I got tense while following the events yet I didn't want to miss out on what will happen next. The description of events is clear, one can see the environment. The stories are developing in a pattern that complements each other. The characters had good development. The book had a good organization of chapters and events. The cover page is wonderfully done.
There are things I have to point out as I didn't like them at all. There are no page numbers among other introductory parts. Chapter 1 has unnecessarily short sentences. Some beginning with "or" p2. Consider revising p4. It is made of two long sentences. Pg2 This sentence has a typo -at the biggest of the two-. Other chapters I found to be professionally edited.
I would rate this book 4.5 of 5 stars. This is because the book is entertaining uniquely. It builds up anticipation and not easy to guess the outcomes. I would have given it a total score except for there are issues I have noted above.
I would like to see Jack Marino in other books, in the same manner, Jack Reacher was a major character in several books.
This book is a must-read for the lovers of mystery, crime, thrillers, and law-related fans. Those fighting crime will identify with Jack and also see the dark side of the law. Other professionals will enjoy this book, it is mind furnishing.
March 21, 2022
Debut author James Barretto’s “Mystic Wind” is a legal thriller that fans of Scott Turow and John Grisham, and films and TV series like “The Departed,” “The Verdict,” and “Boston Legal” may enjoy.
A savage beating by gang members has left former Boston prosecutor Jack Marino without the courage and passion necessary for courtroom work. For the last few years, he has toiled alongside his wife at his father-in-law’s high-powered law firm, leaving him unfulfilled. But then a judge, a friend from Jack’s ADA days, appoints him to defend an indigent client wrongfully accused of murdering a friend at the polluted fringes of the Mystic River, just outside the strip club where they work blue-collar jobs. With no money to mount a defense, before a different judge who hates him, and opposed by a district attorney and his first deputy for whom this trial is a must-win, the odds are not in Jack’s or his client’s favor. Will Jack be able to surmount the forces arrayed against them, and his own demons, to gain his client’s acquittal?
There’s a lot about “Mystic Wind” that I like. It’s well written. Although a debut, I felt I was in the hands of a seasoned storyteller. I found the settings vividly described, the dialogue realistic, and the courtroom scenes interesting and filled with tension.
But there are some weaknesses. The characters might have been more subtly drawn. Jack, a kid from the projects with a talent for trial law battles a never-ending stream of rich and/or powerful, thoroughly corrupt judges, politicians, police, and lawyers, including his own wife. In other words, the “good guy” is very, very good and the “bad guys” are all unredeemable. It’s a scenario that’s been utilized many, many times before. Unfortunately, Jack is not unique enough to elevate the scenario to a truly compelling level. Also, I found some of what happens in the story so extreme that I had trouble believing it.
But the ending is something of a “nail-biter.” Mr. Barretto manages to get his hero into deep, deep trouble and I found myself quickly turning the pages to discover how he gets out, if at all.
All in all, this is a fair-to-good entertainment; three and a half stars rounded up to four.
My thanks to NetGalley, the author, and the publisher for providing me with an ARC. The views expressed above are my independent opinion.
A savage beating by gang members has left former Boston prosecutor Jack Marino without the courage and passion necessary for courtroom work. For the last few years, he has toiled alongside his wife at his father-in-law’s high-powered law firm, leaving him unfulfilled. But then a judge, a friend from Jack’s ADA days, appoints him to defend an indigent client wrongfully accused of murdering a friend at the polluted fringes of the Mystic River, just outside the strip club where they work blue-collar jobs. With no money to mount a defense, before a different judge who hates him, and opposed by a district attorney and his first deputy for whom this trial is a must-win, the odds are not in Jack’s or his client’s favor. Will Jack be able to surmount the forces arrayed against them, and his own demons, to gain his client’s acquittal?
There’s a lot about “Mystic Wind” that I like. It’s well written. Although a debut, I felt I was in the hands of a seasoned storyteller. I found the settings vividly described, the dialogue realistic, and the courtroom scenes interesting and filled with tension.
But there are some weaknesses. The characters might have been more subtly drawn. Jack, a kid from the projects with a talent for trial law battles a never-ending stream of rich and/or powerful, thoroughly corrupt judges, politicians, police, and lawyers, including his own wife. In other words, the “good guy” is very, very good and the “bad guys” are all unredeemable. It’s a scenario that’s been utilized many, many times before. Unfortunately, Jack is not unique enough to elevate the scenario to a truly compelling level. Also, I found some of what happens in the story so extreme that I had trouble believing it.
But the ending is something of a “nail-biter.” Mr. Barretto manages to get his hero into deep, deep trouble and I found myself quickly turning the pages to discover how he gets out, if at all.
All in all, this is a fair-to-good entertainment; three and a half stars rounded up to four.
My thanks to NetGalley, the author, and the publisher for providing me with an ARC. The views expressed above are my independent opinion.
June 16, 2022
3 & 1/2 stars rounded up to 4
My thanks to Netgalley for the opportunity to read and review an ARC of Mystic Wind. Expected publication date - Sept 6th 2022
Jack Marino is a top ranked prosecuting attorney within his father-in-law’s exclusive law firm. After an attack and being beaten to within an inch of his life, he's struggling to find meaning in what he's doing. A former mentor and judge persuades him to defend a man from the Mystic projects who has been accused of murder and headed to death row. What Jack uncovers is a desperate case with a missing eye witness, a judge holding a grudge from the past and the man who is likely the real murderer being given absolute immunity.
What I loved...
📚 As a debut novel, this legal thriller delivered everything that could be expected. A great paced novel with enough twists and turns to keep the reader fully involved. As a fan of John Grisham and Steve Cavanagh, this was an unexpected surprise and I'm definitely looking forward to future offerings from Mr. Barretto and Jack Marino
What I didn't love...
📚 I found that Jack and Abby's personal lives were irrelevant and didn't add anything to the overall novel. This book could've benefited from some editing and there would've been no loss to the storyline if Abby had been excluded
📚 While the overall pace was very good, I felt that the ending was incredibly rushed. An additional 30-50 pages would've allowed a suspenseful ending that continued with the overall pace of the book
If you liked this review and like Bookstagram accounts, I would love it if you choose to follow me on Instagram @breatheinbookstt
www.instagram.com/breatheinbookstt
My thanks to Netgalley for the opportunity to read and review an ARC of Mystic Wind. Expected publication date - Sept 6th 2022
Jack Marino is a top ranked prosecuting attorney within his father-in-law’s exclusive law firm. After an attack and being beaten to within an inch of his life, he's struggling to find meaning in what he's doing. A former mentor and judge persuades him to defend a man from the Mystic projects who has been accused of murder and headed to death row. What Jack uncovers is a desperate case with a missing eye witness, a judge holding a grudge from the past and the man who is likely the real murderer being given absolute immunity.
What I loved...
📚 As a debut novel, this legal thriller delivered everything that could be expected. A great paced novel with enough twists and turns to keep the reader fully involved. As a fan of John Grisham and Steve Cavanagh, this was an unexpected surprise and I'm definitely looking forward to future offerings from Mr. Barretto and Jack Marino
What I didn't love...
📚 I found that Jack and Abby's personal lives were irrelevant and didn't add anything to the overall novel. This book could've benefited from some editing and there would've been no loss to the storyline if Abby had been excluded
📚 While the overall pace was very good, I felt that the ending was incredibly rushed. An additional 30-50 pages would've allowed a suspenseful ending that continued with the overall pace of the book
If you liked this review and like Bookstagram accounts, I would love it if you choose to follow me on Instagram @breatheinbookstt
www.instagram.com/breatheinbookstt
June 16, 2022
3 & 1/2 stars rounded up to 4
My thanks to Netgalley for the opportunity to read and review an ARC of Mystic Wind. Expected publication date - Sept 6th 2022
Jack Marino is a top ranked prosecuting attorney within his father-in-law’s exclusive law firm. After an attack and being beaten to within an inch of his life, he's struggling to find meaning in what he's doing. A former mentor and judge persuades him to defend a man from the Mystic projects who has been accused of murder and headed to death row. What Jack uncovers is a desperate case with a missing eye witness, a judge holding a grudge from the past and the man who is likely the real murderer being given absolute immunity.
What I loved...
📚 As a debut novel, this legal thriller delivered everything that could be expected. A great paced novel with enough twists and turns to keep the reader fully involved. As a fan of John Grisham and Steve Cavanagh, this was an unexpected surprise and I'm definitely looking forward to future offerings from Mr. Barretto and Jack Marino
What I didn't love...
📚 I found that Jack and Abby's personal lives were irrelevant and didn't add anything to the overall novel. This book could've benefited from some editing and there would've been no loss to the storyline if Abby had been excluded
📚 While the overall pace was very good, I felt that the ending was incredibly rushed. An additional 30-50 pages would've allowed a suspenseful ending that continued with the overall pace of the book
If you liked this review and like Bookstagram accounts, I would love it if you choose to follow me on Instagram @breatheinbookstt
www.instagram.com/breatheinbookstt
My thanks to Netgalley for the opportunity to read and review an ARC of Mystic Wind. Expected publication date - Sept 6th 2022
Jack Marino is a top ranked prosecuting attorney within his father-in-law’s exclusive law firm. After an attack and being beaten to within an inch of his life, he's struggling to find meaning in what he's doing. A former mentor and judge persuades him to defend a man from the Mystic projects who has been accused of murder and headed to death row. What Jack uncovers is a desperate case with a missing eye witness, a judge holding a grudge from the past and the man who is likely the real murderer being given absolute immunity.
What I loved...
📚 As a debut novel, this legal thriller delivered everything that could be expected. A great paced novel with enough twists and turns to keep the reader fully involved. As a fan of John Grisham and Steve Cavanagh, this was an unexpected surprise and I'm definitely looking forward to future offerings from Mr. Barretto and Jack Marino
What I didn't love...
📚 I found that Jack and Abby's personal lives were irrelevant and didn't add anything to the overall novel. This book could've benefited from some editing and there would've been no loss to the storyline if Abby had been excluded
📚 While the overall pace was very good, I felt that the ending was incredibly rushed. An additional 30-50 pages would've allowed a suspenseful ending that continued with the overall pace of the book
If you liked this review and like Bookstagram accounts, I would love it if you choose to follow me on Instagram @breatheinbookstt
www.instagram.com/breatheinbookstt
March 24, 2022
After a long long time, I have read a legal thriller which got me really hooked! (the last was Michael Connelly's Lincoln lawyer)
Jack Marino was once one of the most promising Assistant District Attorney but is now a sidelined corporate lawyer. Jack is going through an existential crisis working with his over-ambitious wife, in her extremely dominating father's law firm. The career graph has not gone quite as he planned but he is given a lifeline when his erstwhile mentor appoints him to defend one David Lamb- who is being tried for murder.
In this fast-paced legal drama thriller, Marino must prove himself by saving Lamb who appears to have lost even before the trial began. Marino must not only get back in the game but trump it. For that, he must defeat his nemesis from the DA's office, battle with a hostile and a biased judge and escape the full might of DA's office each of whom wants Marino to fail. As Jack looks for allies, Lamb's life hangs in balance- Should Marino fail Lamb would be sentenced to the death penalty.
It is a well-written book with the right amount of reality and drama. James Baretto draws from his experience to bring to life the murder trial and adds a bit of mystery and thriller to whet the appetite for all the fiction readers. Although the ending is a tad bit too dramatic it is still a good ending.
I would definitely recommend this book that was given to me by NetGalley as an ARC for my true and honest review. #MysticWind #NetGalley
Jack Marino was once one of the most promising Assistant District Attorney but is now a sidelined corporate lawyer. Jack is going through an existential crisis working with his over-ambitious wife, in her extremely dominating father's law firm. The career graph has not gone quite as he planned but he is given a lifeline when his erstwhile mentor appoints him to defend one David Lamb- who is being tried for murder.
In this fast-paced legal drama thriller, Marino must prove himself by saving Lamb who appears to have lost even before the trial began. Marino must not only get back in the game but trump it. For that, he must defeat his nemesis from the DA's office, battle with a hostile and a biased judge and escape the full might of DA's office each of whom wants Marino to fail. As Jack looks for allies, Lamb's life hangs in balance- Should Marino fail Lamb would be sentenced to the death penalty.
It is a well-written book with the right amount of reality and drama. James Baretto draws from his experience to bring to life the murder trial and adds a bit of mystery and thriller to whet the appetite for all the fiction readers. Although the ending is a tad bit too dramatic it is still a good ending.
I would definitely recommend this book that was given to me by NetGalley as an ARC for my true and honest review. #MysticWind #NetGalley
November 3, 2022
Attorney Jack Marino was an assistant district attorney and a star prosecutor until he was nearly killed by an unknown assailant. When it becomes apparent he can no longer be an effective trial attorney he joins his father-in-law’s firm and moves into corporate law. But, when he is asked to defend a client pro bono, who is accused of murder, he makes the difficult decision to return to the courtroom. What transpires is a cat and mouse game with a former colleague and now the prosecutor in the case, conflict with the presiding judge, and a re-evaluation of his life and goals.
Mystic Wind is the debut novel by author James Barretto. It is a fast-paced legal thriller that many readers will compare to John Grisham. And, indeed, it does have many of the same elements that the Grisham novels possess. However, Mystic Wind explains the law and its applications in much more detail than most other authors of legal thrillers. This could be a good thing or a bad thing. Some may find the information unnecessary or too detailed, but for the most part, I enjoyed learning about how the law works (or is supposed to work).
What I didn’t like were some of the characters and in particular Jack’s wife, who is the stereotypical woman who has everything and thinks she can dictate the lives of everyone around her. How ghastly! And if she isn’t bad enough, there are the attorneys who are more interested in their political ambitions than they are in justice and the rule of law. I just hope there aren’t too many of them in real life, but I fear there could be.
All in all, Mystic Wind is a good debut and I’m predicting great things for this author.
Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for providing a copy of this book for review.
Mystic Wind is the debut novel by author James Barretto. It is a fast-paced legal thriller that many readers will compare to John Grisham. And, indeed, it does have many of the same elements that the Grisham novels possess. However, Mystic Wind explains the law and its applications in much more detail than most other authors of legal thrillers. This could be a good thing or a bad thing. Some may find the information unnecessary or too detailed, but for the most part, I enjoyed learning about how the law works (or is supposed to work).
What I didn’t like were some of the characters and in particular Jack’s wife, who is the stereotypical woman who has everything and thinks she can dictate the lives of everyone around her. How ghastly! And if she isn’t bad enough, there are the attorneys who are more interested in their political ambitions than they are in justice and the rule of law. I just hope there aren’t too many of them in real life, but I fear there could be.
All in all, Mystic Wind is a good debut and I’m predicting great things for this author.
Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for providing a copy of this book for review.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 95 reviews