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Sasha McCandless #15
Independent Sources
Friendship collides with duty in the fifteenth Sasha McCandless novel.
When Sasha discovered a pattern of police and prosecutorial misconduct in a nearby town, she stirred a hornet's nest. Three years later, tempers are rising and she's once again in the spotlight as a high-profile case goes to trial.
Investigative reporter Maisy Farley is one of Sasha's long-time friends and closest confidantes. When Maisy's contacted by a source who claims to have evidence of criminal behavior on Sasha's part, she refuses to believe it.
But as Sasha prepares for trial and Maisy digs deeper into her source's allegations, it becomes clear that someone's lying. The friends are on a collision course as they each work to uncover the truth, and the secrets they expose will have deadly consequences.
When Sasha discovered a pattern of police and prosecutorial misconduct in a nearby town, she stirred a hornet's nest. Three years later, tempers are rising and she's once again in the spotlight as a high-profile case goes to trial.
Investigative reporter Maisy Farley is one of Sasha's long-time friends and closest confidantes. When Maisy's contacted by a source who claims to have evidence of criminal behavior on Sasha's part, she refuses to believe it.
But as Sasha prepares for trial and Maisy digs deeper into her source's allegations, it becomes clear that someone's lying. The friends are on a collision course as they each work to uncover the truth, and the secrets they expose will have deadly consequences.
264 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 26, 2022
236 people are currently reading
239 people want to read
About the author
Melissa F. Miller
89 books594 followersMelissa F. Miller is a multi-time USA Today bestselling author of mystery, thriller, suspense, and romance novels. Formerly a complex commercial litigator, Melissa graduated from the University of Pennsylvania with a BA in medieval literature and creative writing poetry and earned her JD, cum laude, from the Duquesne University School of Law, where she served as editor-in-chief of the Law Review.
After fifteen years, Melissa traded the practice of law for the art of storytelling, drawing on her legal background and love of research to craft fast-paced, twisty books for readers who believe light drives out darkness, love is brave, and kind is strong. She writes strong, resilient characters who tackle serious (and sometimes dark) issues and themes with heart.
She is a member of Sisters in Crime, International Thriller Writers, and Novelists, Inc. When she’s not writing, you can find her tending her garden, doing yoga, or drinking coffee. Melissa currently lives outside Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, with her family and their rescues—a cat and a beagle. The cat’s in charge.
After fifteen years, Melissa traded the practice of law for the art of storytelling, drawing on her legal background and love of research to craft fast-paced, twisty books for readers who believe light drives out darkness, love is brave, and kind is strong. She writes strong, resilient characters who tackle serious (and sometimes dark) issues and themes with heart.
She is a member of Sisters in Crime, International Thriller Writers, and Novelists, Inc. When she’s not writing, you can find her tending her garden, doing yoga, or drinking coffee. Melissa currently lives outside Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, with her family and their rescues—a cat and a beagle. The cat’s in charge.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
July 26, 2022
Our favorite Sasha McCandless returns and delivers another winner for us. We get to see her her husband Leo and her children as well as Naya and the rest of the of the office staff of the law office.
The main story deals with the proposed settlement of a law suit against the District Attorney’s office that Sasha has brought on a pro bono basis. Strangely enough a private donor has given the DA access to millions of dollars to help settle the case and make it go away.
In the end Leo ends up with an item that will surely end up germinating into another book or part of another plot. And, news anchor and good friend Maisy Farley leaves well set up as a potential new character with a book of her own or main plot line in an upcoming book.
Melissa F. Miller has yet to disappoint.
The main story deals with the proposed settlement of a law suit against the District Attorney’s office that Sasha has brought on a pro bono basis. Strangely enough a private donor has given the DA access to millions of dollars to help settle the case and make it go away.
In the end Leo ends up with an item that will surely end up germinating into another book or part of another plot. And, news anchor and good friend Maisy Farley leaves well set up as a potential new character with a book of her own or main plot line in an upcoming book.
Melissa F. Miller has yet to disappoint.
July 23, 2022
As always, read it in one day. Fast-paced. Enjoyed the focus on Maisy, the tv anchor. I got a little confused because I felt like I was missing info on Sasha’s case. The home life of Sasha and Leo was funny and relatable, as usual. Especially the slime. I’ve been finding “farting putty” all around the house since my grandkids got some from a friend. Looking forward to more about Maisy, and perhaps some on Ellie Prescott?
*thanks to the author for an Advanced Reader Copy
*thanks to the author for an Advanced Reader Copy
July 24, 2022
Maisy was the tv station’s fans favorite for seven years. She was upset she was a journalist her piece on investigation journalism the station wouldn’t even submit. Sasha and Naya saying to her to update contract and put in a clause that they will.
Sasha takes on a pro bono case that ends up as a high profile case in trial.
The home life of Sasha and Leo was a nice added touch.
Maisy her decision with the station be the same or will she bring about a change.
A delightful story of Sasha her team and friend Maisy readers will enjoy
Given ARC for my voluntary review and my honest opinion
Sasha takes on a pro bono case that ends up as a high profile case in trial.
The home life of Sasha and Leo was a nice added touch.
Maisy her decision with the station be the same or will she bring about a change.
A delightful story of Sasha her team and friend Maisy readers will enjoy
Given ARC for my voluntary review and my honest opinion
April 16, 2025
Intrigue at its finest
Love the Sasha McCandles series. The twists keep the reader captivated. I often read late into the night, unable to put the book down. Anyone who lives a mystery with a kick-a$$ main character, will enjoy these books
Love the Sasha McCandles series. The twists keep the reader captivated. I often read late into the night, unable to put the book down. Anyone who lives a mystery with a kick-a$$ main character, will enjoy these books
May 25, 2024
Great book
This is a well written book, with several twists in the plot and an unexpected ending. I highly recommend this book.
This is a well written book, with several twists in the plot and an unexpected ending. I highly recommend this book.
July 30, 2022
I liked everything in this new book by Melissa F Miller. It does have a very appropriate title. The women driving the plot are very independent. We already know that about Sasha McCandelless-Connelly . In this book she is joined by her law partner Naya ,TV reporter friend Maisy Farley, and a first year lawyer at Sasha’s old firm , Ellie or Eleanor Prescott. All four provide sources of information crucial to moving the plot to its climax. The first three characters are like old friends we met previously in other books and now they are joined by Ellie. Maybe we will see more of her in later books.
This book is well crafted from the opening to the conclusion. It all fits so well together that the reader does not want to stop reading. I especially liked the meeting of Sasha and Ellie at the courthouse when they both are called there by Judge Cliff Cook . Sasha does not know it but she has been Ellie’s hero since Ellie was 15. I also liked how Sasha revealed both Cinco Prescott’s and Ron Botta’s roles in conspiring with a sociopathic billionaire hands settling the case of Barefoot, Blank and Robinson for civil rights violations. Maisy assists with a great interview of Ron Botta. The dialogue through out does not miss a step.
A possible future key part is a letter Leo receives from deceased inventor Landon Lewis. Also I am sure Leith Delone , the sociopathic billionaire that interfered in Sasha’s case will be heard from again. I am really looking forward to how these end pieces play out in the next books. I received a free copy of this book in advance from Melissa and I am leaving an independent review.
This book is well crafted from the opening to the conclusion. It all fits so well together that the reader does not want to stop reading. I especially liked the meeting of Sasha and Ellie at the courthouse when they both are called there by Judge Cliff Cook . Sasha does not know it but she has been Ellie’s hero since Ellie was 15. I also liked how Sasha revealed both Cinco Prescott’s and Ron Botta’s roles in conspiring with a sociopathic billionaire hands settling the case of Barefoot, Blank and Robinson for civil rights violations. Maisy assists with a great interview of Ron Botta. The dialogue through out does not miss a step.
A possible future key part is a letter Leo receives from deceased inventor Landon Lewis. Also I am sure Leith Delone , the sociopathic billionaire that interfered in Sasha’s case will be heard from again. I am really looking forward to how these end pieces play out in the next books. I received a free copy of this book in advance from Melissa and I am leaving an independent review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 10, 2023
O e day soon I will start reading this series in order. But not today. This takes place BEFORE Maisy Farley's first book, which I already read and reviewed. And reading this, it became painfully obvious there is still another book, hopefully only one, before this one that involves the Milltown Police and the case at the center of this book.
This was a very well thought out and incredibly researched plot. It seems that the best training to become a best selling author of novels with legal overtones is becoming a lawyer first. I hope that Eleanor aka Seis gets her own book. What a great character. Sasha is really another great character. I wish I had discovered her earlier. My bad. 😁
I love the close relationships between Sasha, Naya and Maisy. It's great to read about strong women that are happy in their careers, or were happy in their careers, with happy relationships outside of those careers. Ms. Miller is rapidly becoming one of my top five favorite authors.
I highly recommend this book. And I am getting started with book one soon. I will catch up to this book, hopefully sooner than later. But I still intend to read book 16 when it comes out.
This was a very well thought out and incredibly researched plot. It seems that the best training to become a best selling author of novels with legal overtones is becoming a lawyer first. I hope that Eleanor aka Seis gets her own book. What a great character. Sasha is really another great character. I wish I had discovered her earlier. My bad. 😁
I love the close relationships between Sasha, Naya and Maisy. It's great to read about strong women that are happy in their careers, or were happy in their careers, with happy relationships outside of those careers. Ms. Miller is rapidly becoming one of my top five favorite authors.
I highly recommend this book. And I am getting started with book one soon. I will catch up to this book, hopefully sooner than later. But I still intend to read book 16 when it comes out.
July 27, 2022
Can Sasha and her friend Maisey Find Out What's Going On in Sasha's Case?
Melissa F. Miller has written another Page-Turning 💎 in, "Independent Sources (Sasha McCandless Legal Thriller Book 15)". It could've been Ripped From Today's Headlines!
There's an Influential, behind the scenes Elon Musk/George Soros-type Billionaire Buying/Pressuring a Businessman, as well as Elected Officials, and Sasha and her Clients to quickly settle their Lawsuit. How does TV Newscaster/Investigative Reporter Maisey, help Sasha figure things out? I Highly Recommend You 📖 this Relevant, Awesome, Engrossing, Entertaining, Legal Thriller, to find out!
You'll Best understand this 📗 and it's characters, if you 📖 this Series in chronological order. I can't wait for the next Story in the Series, where Maisey investigates more! ❤️ed 📖ing ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Melissa F. Miller has written another Page-Turning 💎 in, "Independent Sources (Sasha McCandless Legal Thriller Book 15)". It could've been Ripped From Today's Headlines!
There's an Influential, behind the scenes Elon Musk/George Soros-type Billionaire Buying/Pressuring a Businessman, as well as Elected Officials, and Sasha and her Clients to quickly settle their Lawsuit. How does TV Newscaster/Investigative Reporter Maisey, help Sasha figure things out? I Highly Recommend You 📖 this Relevant, Awesome, Engrossing, Entertaining, Legal Thriller, to find out!
You'll Best understand this 📗 and it's characters, if you 📖 this Series in chronological order. I can't wait for the next Story in the Series, where Maisey investigates more! ❤️ed 📖ing ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
July 29, 2022
I loved this book from start to finish. I thought it was the most "lawyery" Sasha book. As usual there are new things to learn, and Ms. Miller's research is top notch. I really want to reach out and ask her if she or her husband had used the common law cases referenced in the book!
Sasha, surprisingly, didn't get into her usual trouble! Her clients in this case are contemplating a settlement and it was really interesting to read about their thoughts and reactions to proposals presented.
The technical future possibilities surrounding Sasha's case are frightening to think about.
Ms. Miller's descriptions leave you no doubt about who/what she is describing - without naming names!
Can't wait for the next book - possible Jake romance? Leo in trouble? Aroostine or Bohdi collaboration?!
Sasha, surprisingly, didn't get into her usual trouble! Her clients in this case are contemplating a settlement and it was really interesting to read about their thoughts and reactions to proposals presented.
The technical future possibilities surrounding Sasha's case are frightening to think about.
Ms. Miller's descriptions leave you no doubt about who/what she is describing - without naming names!
Can't wait for the next book - possible Jake romance? Leo in trouble? Aroostine or Bohdi collaboration?!
July 27, 2022
This was a brilliant addition to the Sasha McCandless series. There are an evil billionaire, a reformed-ish villain, corrupt politicians, a brave and dedicated reporter, an ethical lawyer working for an unethical firm, a trio of former victims who aren't as stupid as someone wishes they were, and, of course, Sasha and Leo. This book has them all.
I wasn't able to read the book on its release day, but I read it the following day and couldn't stop until I finished it. I know there were times when I held breath, when I laughed, when I was saying, "oh no, oh no, oh no!". The story was another skillfully written, engrossing mystery and I loved every minute of it. And, as always, now I have to wait impatiently for the next book in the series--and a very exciting spinoff!
I wasn't able to read the book on its release day, but I read it the following day and couldn't stop until I finished it. I know there were times when I held breath, when I laughed, when I was saying, "oh no, oh no, oh no!". The story was another skillfully written, engrossing mystery and I loved every minute of it. And, as always, now I have to wait impatiently for the next book in the series--and a very exciting spinoff!
July 26, 2022
What I enjoy about this series is that each story has many moving parts, and it's just fun to follow along as it all comes together.
Sasha's clients are offered a ridiculous settlement that seems suspicious, and we see from the viewpoints in other chapters that there's a much bigger reason for it.
I liked this story, and Maisy's parts too, but I did wonder if I'd missed or just forgotten the case Sasha's clients were part of.
This was another great addition to the series and I'm looking forward to the next, as well as more Maisy.
Sasha's clients are offered a ridiculous settlement that seems suspicious, and we see from the viewpoints in other chapters that there's a much bigger reason for it.
I liked this story, and Maisy's parts too, but I did wonder if I'd missed or just forgotten the case Sasha's clients were part of.
This was another great addition to the series and I'm looking forward to the next, as well as more Maisy.
Read
October 6, 2022I have read almost twenty legal thrillers in the last year. Innocent Sources is by far my favorite. In fact, it is my favorite legal thriller I have ever read. This book has so many angles in it. I do not want to say too much so I will not give anything away but I really could not put the book down. I was amazed how often I was thinking about this book as I carried out my daily activities. Melissa F. Miller did us all a favor with this book because it truly was entertainment for me while I read it. Do yourself a favor and buy and read Innocent Sources.
August 22, 2025
Another Very Timely and Important Topic
Every once in a while Miller gives us more than a great story with interesting characters and a satisfying conclusion. This is one of those stories. While you’re reading — and do read it, even if all you’re interested in is a great story — keep in mind all of the speculation about artificial intelligence and invasion of privacy and the propensity for powerful people in all walks of life to attempt to run roughshod over our First Amendment rights to freedom of speech. And kudos to Sasha for finally giving up the stilettos!
Every once in a while Miller gives us more than a great story with interesting characters and a satisfying conclusion. This is one of those stories. While you’re reading — and do read it, even if all you’re interested in is a great story — keep in mind all of the speculation about artificial intelligence and invasion of privacy and the propensity for powerful people in all walks of life to attempt to run roughshod over our First Amendment rights to freedom of speech. And kudos to Sasha for finally giving up the stilettos!
July 22, 2022
Oh Sasha, how I've missed your sassy, get things done way!
Ms Miller's latest installment in the Sasha McCandless series is non stop, start to finish. And leaves one wanting more given the info Leo received at the end of the book.
Most authors I've read get old and predictable this far into a series and I just can't go on. But Ms Miller keeps the mystery/adventure/suspended going strong, leaving you wanting more.
Ms Miller's latest installment in the Sasha McCandless series is non stop, start to finish. And leaves one wanting more given the info Leo received at the end of the book.
Most authors I've read get old and predictable this far into a series and I just can't go on. But Ms Miller keeps the mystery/adventure/suspended going strong, leaving you wanting more.
May 17, 2024
You can't make the evidence fit the crime and get away with it, not while Sasha is on the case. She is defending three cases pro bono and luckily the defendants are men of principle. An evil billionaire wants to shut the case down and make loads of money secretly from an AI program but they are onto him. Ellie proves she is too good for her father's firm, I hope she teams up with Sasha and Maisy should be an investigative journalist/PI in her future. Good story with plenty of human touches.
August 20, 2022
I love this series and all of Ms Millers characters but have the softest spot for Sasha and Leo and their fam!!! This book sets another series for Sasha’s friend Maisie so excited to see where that one goes!!! The first book of all
Of the authors series are free and also the files are transferable so you can pass them on to friends!
Of the authors series are free and also the files are transferable so you can pass them on to friends!
July 28, 2022
I just finished reading Independent Sources - in one sitting. I could not put it down.
I've read all the Sasha McCandless books and I always think each one is the best. Once again it was.
If you haven't read the series, start.
I've read all the Sasha McCandless books and I always think each one is the best. Once again it was.
If you haven't read the series, start.
July 31, 2022
As usual, an entertaining read
I’ve read this series in order because the character development is such that the characters have become my friends. As usual the pint-sized Sasha keeps things stirred up and gets results.
I’ve read this series in order because the character development is such that the characters have become my friends. As usual the pint-sized Sasha keeps things stirred up and gets results.
August 7, 2022
Once again Sasha is on the job. We learn about her family. Enjoyable characters and plot. Sasha is an amazing lawyer and has you wanting more. It’s a book you’ll have to finish in one day. Outstanding.
August 30, 2022
Independent Sources accompanied me on my return journey of 14,000 miles from Cape Town to Amsterdam to Denver…The latest Sasha McCandless thriller made the hours and miles fly by! Thank you Melissa Miller for creating Sasha (and gang) and can’t wait for the next installment…
September 27, 2022
Great Read
Anything Melissa F. Miller writes is excellent. I look forward to each new book. I highly recommend her. And will be reading her newest book “Clean Break” available today.
Anything Melissa F. Miller writes is excellent. I look forward to each new book. I highly recommend her. And will be reading her newest book “Clean Break” available today.
December 6, 2022
Good as always!
Can't get enough of Sasha McCandless!! More please! I definitely recommend everyone who enjoys light mysteries to read this series! They are fun and great gotcha mysteries!
Can't get enough of Sasha McCandless!! More please! I definitely recommend everyone who enjoys light mysteries to read this series! They are fun and great gotcha mysteries!
January 29, 2024
Back to the legal aspects of Sasha's career, some ancient (for the US) precedents. She is much more savvy now, and sets traps for her antagonists. Although a reader kind of knew how the ending would play out, there were surprises along the way and even at the end. And a new series gets launched!
April 30, 2024
This story doesn’t flow smoothly. I really don’t like it. You can’t put it down and pick it up again and know the story line. Also can you imagine not jumping on a three million dollar settlement— insanity? I did like how Maisy got fired and collected her million. 3.5
May 15, 2024
the best 1yet!
I absolutely loved this book. It was the best in the series yet. Sasha takes on billionaire. But the stakes are high for her and her clients. A reader must read to the end to find the surprise ending!
I absolutely loved this book. It was the best in the series yet. Sasha takes on billionaire. But the stakes are high for her and her clients. A reader must read to the end to find the surprise ending!
July 4, 2024
Exciting legal thriller centered around technology's invasion of our privacy.
Good characters. Intriguing plot: the disturbing real life trend of rich tech individuals manipulating our media. I enjoyed Sasha's family life as well as her professional life. I couldn't put it down!I
Good characters. Intriguing plot: the disturbing real life trend of rich tech individuals manipulating our media. I enjoyed Sasha's family life as well as her professional life. I couldn't put it down!I
July 15, 2024
A good story
This is a good story but rather formulaic. I especially like that it supports a free press, which God knows, we need now more than ever. The characters are good, although I was bothered by the name Maisy. It just seems to old fashioned.
This is a good story but rather formulaic. I especially like that it supports a free press, which God knows, we need now more than ever. The characters are good, although I was bothered by the name Maisy. It just seems to old fashioned.
August 5, 2022
Yet another great read in the Sasha McCandless series! Love that the villain(s) get their comeuppance, but the twists and turns are classic! Enjoyed it tremendously and was sad to get to the end.
August 7, 2022
Sasha
Wow, I love this series and I do believe that this story may be my favorite so far! I eagerly anticipate the next adventure! I highly recommend!
Wow, I love this series and I do believe that this story may be my favorite so far! I eagerly anticipate the next adventure! I highly recommend!
August 7, 2022
Another interesting and action filled episode in Sasha’s life. This one took a little more concentration to follow the idea behind the plot but was still very entertaining.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews