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Accusation
USA Today
Best-Selling Author
An icon’s life implodes—at two in the morning
World renowned, revered actor Aaron Julian is awakened at two a.m. by his agent who informs him that he has been accused of sexual harassment. Young actresses will break the story on prime-time TV that morning—with their lawyer, the attorney who led the charge in the priests’ sexual abuse cases.
Aaron and his celebrity pop-singer wife, Veda, vehemently deny the charges, and hire powerful defense lawyer Raquel Rematti. But when the plaintiffs’ lawyer is murdered in Central Park, the stakes skyrocket and the conspiracies spiral out of control.
Despite revelation after revelation, Aaron continues to proclaim his innocence. And in his defense, Rematti uses every tool in the legal system to produce courtroom drama that is unparalleled.
The outcome—impossible to predict—is guaranteed to stun and to linger with you for a long time.
Fans of John Grisham and Scott Turow will devour this cutting-edge thriller
While Accusation can be read as a standalone novel, here is the publication order of Paul Batista’s legal thrillers:
Death’s Witness
Extraordinary Rendition
The Borzoi Killings (Raquel Rematti #1)
Manhattan Lockdown
The Warriors (Raquel Rematti #2)
Accusation (Raquel Rematti #3)
An icon’s life implodes—at two in the morning
World renowned, revered actor Aaron Julian is awakened at two a.m. by his agent who informs him that he has been accused of sexual harassment. Young actresses will break the story on prime-time TV that morning—with their lawyer, the attorney who led the charge in the priests’ sexual abuse cases.
Aaron and his celebrity pop-singer wife, Veda, vehemently deny the charges, and hire powerful defense lawyer Raquel Rematti. But when the plaintiffs’ lawyer is murdered in Central Park, the stakes skyrocket and the conspiracies spiral out of control.
Despite revelation after revelation, Aaron continues to proclaim his innocence. And in his defense, Rematti uses every tool in the legal system to produce courtroom drama that is unparalleled.
The outcome—impossible to predict—is guaranteed to stun and to linger with you for a long time.
Fans of John Grisham and Scott Turow will devour this cutting-edge thriller
While Accusation can be read as a standalone novel, here is the publication order of Paul Batista’s legal thrillers:
Death’s Witness
Extraordinary Rendition
The Borzoi Killings (Raquel Rematti #1)
Manhattan Lockdown
The Warriors (Raquel Rematti #2)
Accusation (Raquel Rematti #3)
- GenresLegal Thriller
240 pages, Paperback
Published February 14, 2023
8 people are currently reading
782 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
February 2, 2022
Thank you Oceanview Publishing and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book before publication.
THE PLOT
Aaron Julian is a super famous actor, living la vida loca with his equally mega rich popstar wife, Veda. His life changes in an instant when six women come forward and accuse Aaron of sexual harassment. His bad luck continues when the plaintiff's lawyer is found murdered, begging the question: is Aaron just a pervert, or a pervert murderer?
MY OPINION
Just....... LOL. I am TIREDT of these books. NetGalley, why do you play me like this??? I pick books with 5 star reviews coming out the wazoo—they're trash. I pick books with mediocre reviews—they're trash. Major first world problems.
Well it's a one star review, so you already know the vibes. Writing so bad it could only come from a free creative writing course at your local, small town library. So many run-on sentences, it would've broke Grammerly.
I understand this was supposed to be a social commentary on the #MeToo movement, and specifically men using their authority to abuse women, but the writing was too poor to make this impactful. It felt like a duck trying to growl.
The characters were annoying. There was gratuitous sex, racism, homophobia, sexism... you really got the whole gauntlet of ain't shit behaviour being passed off as normal. Another fail. The book is trying to be some topical social commentary piece, but falls back on crude and derogatory language that nobody uses (in the open) anymore. Also, the plot was contrived—a total incel circle jerk until the very end. A miss in every sense of the word. Save your time.
PROS AND CONS
Pros: I finished
Cons: I'll never get back the time it took me to read this
THE PLOT
Aaron Julian is a super famous actor, living la vida loca with his equally mega rich popstar wife, Veda. His life changes in an instant when six women come forward and accuse Aaron of sexual harassment. His bad luck continues when the plaintiff's lawyer is found murdered, begging the question: is Aaron just a pervert, or a pervert murderer?
MY OPINION
Just....... LOL. I am TIREDT of these books. NetGalley, why do you play me like this??? I pick books with 5 star reviews coming out the wazoo—they're trash. I pick books with mediocre reviews—they're trash. Major first world problems.
Well it's a one star review, so you already know the vibes. Writing so bad it could only come from a free creative writing course at your local, small town library. So many run-on sentences, it would've broke Grammerly.
I understand this was supposed to be a social commentary on the #MeToo movement, and specifically men using their authority to abuse women, but the writing was too poor to make this impactful. It felt like a duck trying to growl.
The characters were annoying. There was gratuitous sex, racism, homophobia, sexism... you really got the whole gauntlet of ain't shit behaviour being passed off as normal. Another fail. The book is trying to be some topical social commentary piece, but falls back on crude and derogatory language that nobody uses (in the open) anymore. Also, the plot was contrived—a total incel circle jerk until the very end. A miss in every sense of the word. Save your time.
PROS AND CONS
Pros: I finished
Cons: I'll never get back the time it took me to read this
February 1, 2022
It has been said that justice is blind. The truth is irrelevant. All that matters is what you can prove in court.
This was a legal thriller that was almost “ripped from the headlines” in these days of MeToo! It hooked me in from the start.
Aaron Julian is a super celebrity actor who has fought his way to the top from a rough upbringing in the Bronx. He has been married to the enigmatic black singer who goes by the single name of Veda for three years. Aaron gets a call from his manager, Lawrence Jenkins, in the middle of one night to warn him of a coming sh*t storm as six women have accused him of inappropriate behaviour and of sabotaging their careers when they didn’t consent to his advances. The news will hit the media in time time for breakfast.
The women have engaged the services of attorney Victor Tabnik who rose to fame by winning huge compensation payouts for victims of the Catholic Church abuse scandal. Before then he was an unknown small time lawyer. Lawrence has engaged the well known and ruthless Raquel Rematti to represent Aaron who denies the allegations against him.
Things get more serious when Victor Tabnik is murdered that night during an assignation with a pretty young man in Central Park. Now things get complicated as the very weird NYPD Detective Joe Paradiso, who has a personal vendetta against s*x offenders, starts to mess with the evidence and witnesses. Things are not looking good for Aaron.
It was very well plotted with believable characters who were easy to like or dislike. Aaron came across as genuine and his lawyer is someone I would like to have on my side if I ever needed it. Some of the people who should have known better behaved appallingly.
The scales of justice tip first one way then the other and back again as allegations and fabricated evidence are thrown out. Personal vendettas blind some of the players. I was never sure where this one would land. I thought it was really well done until the last couple of pages. I didn’t like the ending even though it was predictable but I thought it was unnecessary and it dropped my rating from 4 to 3 stars. Many thanks to Netgalley and Oceanview Publishing for the much appreciated arc which I reviewed voluntarily and honestly.
This was a legal thriller that was almost “ripped from the headlines” in these days of MeToo! It hooked me in from the start.
Aaron Julian is a super celebrity actor who has fought his way to the top from a rough upbringing in the Bronx. He has been married to the enigmatic black singer who goes by the single name of Veda for three years. Aaron gets a call from his manager, Lawrence Jenkins, in the middle of one night to warn him of a coming sh*t storm as six women have accused him of inappropriate behaviour and of sabotaging their careers when they didn’t consent to his advances. The news will hit the media in time time for breakfast.
The women have engaged the services of attorney Victor Tabnik who rose to fame by winning huge compensation payouts for victims of the Catholic Church abuse scandal. Before then he was an unknown small time lawyer. Lawrence has engaged the well known and ruthless Raquel Rematti to represent Aaron who denies the allegations against him.
Things get more serious when Victor Tabnik is murdered that night during an assignation with a pretty young man in Central Park. Now things get complicated as the very weird NYPD Detective Joe Paradiso, who has a personal vendetta against s*x offenders, starts to mess with the evidence and witnesses. Things are not looking good for Aaron.
It was very well plotted with believable characters who were easy to like or dislike. Aaron came across as genuine and his lawyer is someone I would like to have on my side if I ever needed it. Some of the people who should have known better behaved appallingly.
The scales of justice tip first one way then the other and back again as allegations and fabricated evidence are thrown out. Personal vendettas blind some of the players. I was never sure where this one would land. I thought it was really well done until the last couple of pages. I didn’t like the ending even though it was predictable but I thought it was unnecessary and it dropped my rating from 4 to 3 stars. Many thanks to Netgalley and Oceanview Publishing for the much appreciated arc which I reviewed voluntarily and honestly.
April 9, 2022
Paul Batista’s Accusation is a legal thriller that uses the #MeToo movement to highlight the inherent complications that are tangled up with this movement.
The author brings forth the question of how this fight for justice is played out completely on social media and thus the core issue of a man abusing his power is sometimes watered down. In the Accusation, a world-renowned movie star Aaron Julian is accused of sexual advances and defense lawyer Raquel Rematti has her task cut out for her.
The plotline of 'death by social media' had me terribly excited and I was looking forward to a thrilling courtroom juggle. Unfortunately, though, the struggle for truth is played out before the media instead of in a courtroom. There is also the fact that most of the characters introduced in the story including the technical wizard who manipulates the phone data, the prosecutor, a senator who is Aaron’s friend are all playing for their personal gains, and none of them are the least concerned about their public persona or careers which felt implausible. The attacks and counterattacks kept me involved until a point but the scenes and dialogue delivery were short of conviction.
The build-up of tension could have been better, as a reader, the helplessness of the situation that Aaron finds himself never carries thru. The ending was expected and thereby lacked the surprising element of the story. Raquel Rematti was a strong character and I loved how utterly calm and unruffled she comes across. The Accusation by Paul Batista could have been a 4 star read if only with a tighter plot.
Many thanks to Edelweiss, Oceanview Publishing, and the author for a chance to read and review this book. All opinions are expressed voluntarily.
This review is published in my blog Rain'n'Books, ##Goodreads, ##Amazon India, ##Book Bub, ##Medium.com, ##Facebook, ##Twitter.
The author brings forth the question of how this fight for justice is played out completely on social media and thus the core issue of a man abusing his power is sometimes watered down. In the Accusation, a world-renowned movie star Aaron Julian is accused of sexual advances and defense lawyer Raquel Rematti has her task cut out for her.
The plotline of 'death by social media' had me terribly excited and I was looking forward to a thrilling courtroom juggle. Unfortunately, though, the struggle for truth is played out before the media instead of in a courtroom. There is also the fact that most of the characters introduced in the story including the technical wizard who manipulates the phone data, the prosecutor, a senator who is Aaron’s friend are all playing for their personal gains, and none of them are the least concerned about their public persona or careers which felt implausible. The attacks and counterattacks kept me involved until a point but the scenes and dialogue delivery were short of conviction.
The build-up of tension could have been better, as a reader, the helplessness of the situation that Aaron finds himself never carries thru. The ending was expected and thereby lacked the surprising element of the story. Raquel Rematti was a strong character and I loved how utterly calm and unruffled she comes across. The Accusation by Paul Batista could have been a 4 star read if only with a tighter plot.
Many thanks to Edelweiss, Oceanview Publishing, and the author for a chance to read and review this book. All opinions are expressed voluntarily.
This review is published in my blog Rain'n'Books, ##Goodreads, ##Amazon India, ##Book Bub, ##Medium.com, ##Facebook, ##Twitter.
February 24, 2022
The third of the Raquel Rematti legal thriller series, Accusation author Paul Batista is a practicing American trial lawyer. This time, Aaron Julian, a famous Hollywood film star with a celebrity pop-singer wife, is accused of sexual assault. Raquel Rematti takes on the case to clear his name but things get complicated and a grand jury is established. It seems some law enforcement officers will stop at nothing to convict Aaron despite his innocent protestations and the many twists and turns in the legal proceedings. Warning: there is a witness statement that is graphically sexual in nature and may trigger some strong responses. Overall, the characters lacked appeal, the tension build was tepid and the final twist was always expected. So, in all a disappointing legal thriller with a two-and-a-half-star rating. With thanks to Oceanview Publishing and the author, for an uncorrected advanced review copy for review purposes. As always, the opinions herein are totally my own and freely given, without persuasion.
February 18, 2022
DNF'd at 21%
THIS WAS PAINFUL
My attempt was to try and at least get to 30%, but I just could not. This book is supposed to be a social commentary piece regarding the opposing side to the #MeToo movement, where the person accused of sexual harassment is in fact, not guilty and the reports are false. Yes, these things do happen but based on the writing style and the commentary in this book, it gave very much incel. To mention, as well, sentences were run-on...CONTINUOUSLY, making just reading the book a pain. I found myself irritated and unable to read on. I went into this blind and left tired—tired of this dialogue and type of story.
As for the plot... there is a mystery factor regarding the cloaked woman and her dog. That is the only thing that made me want to continue but at this point, I could care less.
Brief thank you to Oceanview Publishing for this ARC. If you have an interest in reading—it will be published March 1st.
THIS WAS PAINFUL
My attempt was to try and at least get to 30%, but I just could not. This book is supposed to be a social commentary piece regarding the opposing side to the #MeToo movement, where the person accused of sexual harassment is in fact, not guilty and the reports are false. Yes, these things do happen but based on the writing style and the commentary in this book, it gave very much incel. To mention, as well, sentences were run-on...CONTINUOUSLY, making just reading the book a pain. I found myself irritated and unable to read on. I went into this blind and left tired—tired of this dialogue and type of story.
As for the plot... there is a mystery factor regarding the cloaked woman and her dog. That is the only thing that made me want to continue but at this point, I could care less.
Brief thank you to Oceanview Publishing for this ARC. If you have an interest in reading—it will be published March 1st.
March 20, 2023
Trust no one except Raquel Rematti.
“Accusation” by Paul Batista is ripped from the headlines and filled with true-to-life sensationalism and perceived notions of social issues. This account is from a different point of view, and while it might take a while to settle into this alternate account, as the drama evolves, every side becomes compelling. Public shaming and scorn envelop characters like a journalistic “Covid-19” plague.
When Aaron Julian reaches for the cell phone, he knows that nothing good ever comes from a call at two in the morning. He is correct; his life will never be the same. Six women have claimed that he inappropriately used his power and influence to promote their careers, hinder them, or ruin them.
Raquel Rematti is a criminal lawyer; she has a new client, and Aaron Julian will need all her cleverness and expertise. He has been accused of terrible things, but Rematti knows that accusations are easy to make, but not always the truth. If accusations were always true, there would be no need for judges, courtrooms, or juries. Evidence is what is needed, but what Rematti finds is apparent evidence, contradictory evidence, and manipulated evidence.
“Accusation” presents the “flip side” of the #MeToo movement. The story looks at both sides of a complex issue. Half-truths, conflicting narratives, and diverse personalities muddy the waters. I received a review copy of “Accusation” from Paul Batista and Oceanview Publishing. Things take dramatic and unexpected turns, and when it is over, it is really not.
“Accusation” is now available in print, as an e-book, and on audio from independent bookstores, online booksellers, retail stores, public libraries, and anywhere you get your books.
#BookReview # Accusations #PaulBatista #RaquelRemattiLegalThriller #MeTooFlip
“Accusation” by Paul Batista is ripped from the headlines and filled with true-to-life sensationalism and perceived notions of social issues. This account is from a different point of view, and while it might take a while to settle into this alternate account, as the drama evolves, every side becomes compelling. Public shaming and scorn envelop characters like a journalistic “Covid-19” plague.
When Aaron Julian reaches for the cell phone, he knows that nothing good ever comes from a call at two in the morning. He is correct; his life will never be the same. Six women have claimed that he inappropriately used his power and influence to promote their careers, hinder them, or ruin them.
Raquel Rematti is a criminal lawyer; she has a new client, and Aaron Julian will need all her cleverness and expertise. He has been accused of terrible things, but Rematti knows that accusations are easy to make, but not always the truth. If accusations were always true, there would be no need for judges, courtrooms, or juries. Evidence is what is needed, but what Rematti finds is apparent evidence, contradictory evidence, and manipulated evidence.
“Accusation” presents the “flip side” of the #MeToo movement. The story looks at both sides of a complex issue. Half-truths, conflicting narratives, and diverse personalities muddy the waters. I received a review copy of “Accusation” from Paul Batista and Oceanview Publishing. Things take dramatic and unexpected turns, and when it is over, it is really not.
“Accusation” is now available in print, as an e-book, and on audio from independent bookstores, online booksellers, retail stores, public libraries, and anywhere you get your books.
#BookReview # Accusations #PaulBatista #RaquelRemattiLegalThriller #MeTooFlip
April 10, 2022
A legal thriller that focuses on a famous actor accused of sexual harassment.
Aaron Julian receives a call from his agent informing him that he has been accused by several young female actresses of taking liberties with them and then ruining their careers. Represented by a lawyer who brought down the Catholic Church in the Boston Archdiocese over abuse by priests, these women are appearing on television making their claims. Aaron Julian and his wife, a famous singer named Vega, have been married for 3 years and they are urged to retain defense attorney Raquel Rematti.
Although the book is short, the pace is fast and events soon pile up into a vast conspiracy as each side creates a response to the charges and engages in different efforts to reveal the truth — or do they? It was obvious quite quickly that justice in this case would be impossible as nefarious and patently illegal methods are used to seek answers that benefited either the prosecution or the defense. I was actually sort of sickened by the manipulation that went on behind the scenes and am concerned that, in many cases, justice is not served by the legal system.
The characters were hard to like as each seemed engaged in a more personal fight that had nothing to do with the case. Despite being a legal thriller, there was not much action in the courtroom as most of the narrative focused on what was going on behind the scenes. I liked the story well enough and it was hard to put it down. That’s why the ending came as such a surprise and why I knocked off a star. The author really did not provide any explanation for some of the loose ends. In any event, I had thought about going back to read the previous books in the series that feature Raquel Rematti but now not sure since I was very disappointed with the conclusion.
Thank you to NetGalley and Oceanview Publishing for this e-book ARC to read and review.
Aaron Julian receives a call from his agent informing him that he has been accused by several young female actresses of taking liberties with them and then ruining their careers. Represented by a lawyer who brought down the Catholic Church in the Boston Archdiocese over abuse by priests, these women are appearing on television making their claims. Aaron Julian and his wife, a famous singer named Vega, have been married for 3 years and they are urged to retain defense attorney Raquel Rematti.
Although the book is short, the pace is fast and events soon pile up into a vast conspiracy as each side creates a response to the charges and engages in different efforts to reveal the truth — or do they? It was obvious quite quickly that justice in this case would be impossible as nefarious and patently illegal methods are used to seek answers that benefited either the prosecution or the defense. I was actually sort of sickened by the manipulation that went on behind the scenes and am concerned that, in many cases, justice is not served by the legal system.
The characters were hard to like as each seemed engaged in a more personal fight that had nothing to do with the case. Despite being a legal thriller, there was not much action in the courtroom as most of the narrative focused on what was going on behind the scenes. I liked the story well enough and it was hard to put it down. That’s why the ending came as such a surprise and why I knocked off a star. The author really did not provide any explanation for some of the loose ends. In any event, I had thought about going back to read the previous books in the series that feature Raquel Rematti but now not sure since I was very disappointed with the conclusion.
Thank you to NetGalley and Oceanview Publishing for this e-book ARC to read and review.
March 3, 2022
"I never did anything to any of these women that six hundred guys haven't already done to all of them."
What a complete disapoitment. I just can't. Do you really think that while executing a warrant, police will pocket a few thousand dollars they find? Do you think every police officer, detective, FBI agent and DA has a price tag they would be willing to accept to throw their carreer and lives down the drain just for a conviction?
The writing was tough to get through, the sentences were long and wordy. The dialogue was painful, none of it felt like real discussions. Even the court proceedings were laughable.
"If they did it to Trump and his friends, Veda, why would you think they can't do it to Aaron Julian?"
I mean, when that is the plot of your whole book, I'm out.
A huge thank you to the author and publisher for providing an e-ARC via Netgalley. This does not affect my opinion regarding the book.
What a complete disapoitment. I just can't. Do you really think that while executing a warrant, police will pocket a few thousand dollars they find? Do you think every police officer, detective, FBI agent and DA has a price tag they would be willing to accept to throw their carreer and lives down the drain just for a conviction?
The writing was tough to get through, the sentences were long and wordy. The dialogue was painful, none of it felt like real discussions. Even the court proceedings were laughable.
"If they did it to Trump and his friends, Veda, why would you think they can't do it to Aaron Julian?"
I mean, when that is the plot of your whole book, I'm out.
A huge thank you to the author and publisher for providing an e-ARC via Netgalley. This does not affect my opinion regarding the book.
December 2, 2021
The ending of Accusation was good. Unfortunately, that is all I can say about the book. I had such a hard time liking or even connecting with any of the characters. Luckily, this was a short read because I might not have finished it if it were any longer.
#Accusation #NetGalley
#Accusation #NetGalley
March 31, 2022
First of all let me say that the publisher provided me an advance copy of the book for no cost in exchange for a fair review.
If you are one of my regular review readers let me give a disclaimer about the book as I start.
The book has some graphic language and scenes that would make me not recommend the book to young readers, nor to those who are turned off by such language. It is not overwhelming, it is true to today’s culture, so it will be nothing shocking.
The story is set when a world famous actor is accused by two women of sexual misconduct. The accusations are set, a lawsuit is filed and a prosecutor sinks her teeth into the claims to see if there is actionable material to indict Aaron Julian for a major sex crime.
Needless to say the fact that he is world famous is what drives this story to the top of the fold on newspapers throughout the country. The #metoo movement is going to be front and center in the drama to follow.
The actor claims innocence. His wife, a famous singer, also claims his innocence.
A third woman comes forward and gives an explosive interview on network television giving graphic details to what she slams was a sexual attack.
The problems mount for our star. But he maintains his innocence. He hires a high price lawyer and she and her investigators jump into action. They find evidence that the actor is being set up.
Now, let’s add a murder of an attorney to the mix and more accusations will fly.
The story is well written for the drama and intensity of emotions that the characters will work through.
The ego’s of lawyers, judges, detectives and even the FBI come into question.
Let me just remind people that human nature is sinful. We all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God (Romans 3:23). So, is Aaron without sin? Nope, but has he been targeted for accusations that are false? Well, that is the crux of the story.
I hope you can enjoy the read and that you will find things in it that make you ponder your trust is our judicial system as well as in human nature.
If you are one of my regular review readers let me give a disclaimer about the book as I start.
The book has some graphic language and scenes that would make me not recommend the book to young readers, nor to those who are turned off by such language. It is not overwhelming, it is true to today’s culture, so it will be nothing shocking.
The story is set when a world famous actor is accused by two women of sexual misconduct. The accusations are set, a lawsuit is filed and a prosecutor sinks her teeth into the claims to see if there is actionable material to indict Aaron Julian for a major sex crime.
Needless to say the fact that he is world famous is what drives this story to the top of the fold on newspapers throughout the country. The #metoo movement is going to be front and center in the drama to follow.
The actor claims innocence. His wife, a famous singer, also claims his innocence.
A third woman comes forward and gives an explosive interview on network television giving graphic details to what she slams was a sexual attack.
The problems mount for our star. But he maintains his innocence. He hires a high price lawyer and she and her investigators jump into action. They find evidence that the actor is being set up.
Now, let’s add a murder of an attorney to the mix and more accusations will fly.
The story is well written for the drama and intensity of emotions that the characters will work through.
The ego’s of lawyers, judges, detectives and even the FBI come into question.
Let me just remind people that human nature is sinful. We all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God (Romans 3:23). So, is Aaron without sin? Nope, but has he been targeted for accusations that are false? Well, that is the crux of the story.
I hope you can enjoy the read and that you will find things in it that make you ponder your trust is our judicial system as well as in human nature.
February 20, 2022
Accusation by Paul Batista
#fourteenthbookof2022 #arc
CW: sexual assault, graphic murder, Me Too scenarios and discussion, derogatory terms, discussion of wartime service, discussion of statutory rape, thrown excrement
This book sounded like it was up my alley, but in the end, I didn’t love it. It’s book three in a series that follows attorney Raquel Rematti. However, her POV seems to cover less than half of this book. There are so many chapters from the POVs of other minor characters and it didn’t seem to focus enough on the series’ supposed protagonist. I haven’t read the first two books so I can’t say whether this is a consistent writing style.
It’s also really cringy, with clunky and, at times, gross dialogue. Description is often repeated. There is way too much going on.
I sensed an undercurrent of resentment towards the Me Too movement in this novel in a way that I can’t put my finger on. It starts off with six women bringing accusations of workplace sexual predation against an actor, and then quickly abandons this plot in favor of a murder related to that storyline, and then (SPOILER ALERT) a dirty prosecuting attorney. It’s very quickly swept up at the end as though the author got bored and decided he was done. However, I did appreciate the last three paragraphs of the book, which confirmed a suspicion I’d had all along.
As much as I didn’t love this book, I am actually not against reading the first two in the series. This one was interesting enough to finish it. I like stories about woman attorneys, and I want to read more about her, since her POV was given short shrift in this one. I am hoping that the gross dialogue was character specific, but if it comes up again in another of the author’s novels, I’ll wash my hands of him.
Thank you to @netgalley and @oceanviewpub for the advance copy. (Pub date 3/1/22).
#accusation #raquelrematti
#fourteenthbookof2022 #arc
CW: sexual assault, graphic murder, Me Too scenarios and discussion, derogatory terms, discussion of wartime service, discussion of statutory rape, thrown excrement
This book sounded like it was up my alley, but in the end, I didn’t love it. It’s book three in a series that follows attorney Raquel Rematti. However, her POV seems to cover less than half of this book. There are so many chapters from the POVs of other minor characters and it didn’t seem to focus enough on the series’ supposed protagonist. I haven’t read the first two books so I can’t say whether this is a consistent writing style.
It’s also really cringy, with clunky and, at times, gross dialogue. Description is often repeated. There is way too much going on.
I sensed an undercurrent of resentment towards the Me Too movement in this novel in a way that I can’t put my finger on. It starts off with six women bringing accusations of workplace sexual predation against an actor, and then quickly abandons this plot in favor of a murder related to that storyline, and then (SPOILER ALERT) a dirty prosecuting attorney. It’s very quickly swept up at the end as though the author got bored and decided he was done. However, I did appreciate the last three paragraphs of the book, which confirmed a suspicion I’d had all along.
As much as I didn’t love this book, I am actually not against reading the first two in the series. This one was interesting enough to finish it. I like stories about woman attorneys, and I want to read more about her, since her POV was given short shrift in this one. I am hoping that the gross dialogue was character specific, but if it comes up again in another of the author’s novels, I’ll wash my hands of him.
Thank you to @netgalley and @oceanviewpub for the advance copy. (Pub date 3/1/22).
#accusation #raquelrematti
December 1, 2021
Legal cases have always fascinated me and this is both a new author and series. This is the third in the Raquel Rematti series, I had not read the first two. It is a rather short story and easily read as a standalone. The plot is based around the timely #MeTooMovement. This is an adult novel and as such contains graphic subject matter.
Aaron Julian is an established and recognizable actor. His wife, Veda, is equally renowned, beautiful and is a famous pop singer. Lawrence Jenkins is Aaron's longtime manager and publicist. Without any warning Larry calls Aaron in the wee morning hours to inform him that he will be the lead story that day. It will not be for his acting ability, he's being accused of sexual harassment by several women going back many years.
Victor Tabnik is the opposing attorney representing these women. Larry suggests that Aaron retain the prominent Raquel Rematti to represent him. There are many good supporting characters in the case including Detective Joe Paradiso, Clair Southwood the Assistant U.S. Attorney, and Raquel's investigator, Dan Lee.
The evidence in the case seems solid, but is it? There are many women who accuse Aaron of similar behavior over a period going back years. Are they just failed actresses out for revenge?
There is murder, cover-ups, betrayal, lies, tainted evidence, crooked cops, and twists I didn't predict. For such a short book it really packs a punch and weaves together the plot and characters seamlessly. Thought provoking and timely subject, I would recommend.
Many thanks to Netgalley, Paul Batista and Oceanview Publishing for the advance digital copy of Accusation, a Raquel Rematti thriller. These are my thoughts and opinions alone, given voluntarily.
Aaron Julian is an established and recognizable actor. His wife, Veda, is equally renowned, beautiful and is a famous pop singer. Lawrence Jenkins is Aaron's longtime manager and publicist. Without any warning Larry calls Aaron in the wee morning hours to inform him that he will be the lead story that day. It will not be for his acting ability, he's being accused of sexual harassment by several women going back many years.
Victor Tabnik is the opposing attorney representing these women. Larry suggests that Aaron retain the prominent Raquel Rematti to represent him. There are many good supporting characters in the case including Detective Joe Paradiso, Clair Southwood the Assistant U.S. Attorney, and Raquel's investigator, Dan Lee.
The evidence in the case seems solid, but is it? There are many women who accuse Aaron of similar behavior over a period going back years. Are they just failed actresses out for revenge?
There is murder, cover-ups, betrayal, lies, tainted evidence, crooked cops, and twists I didn't predict. For such a short book it really packs a punch and weaves together the plot and characters seamlessly. Thought provoking and timely subject, I would recommend.
Many thanks to Netgalley, Paul Batista and Oceanview Publishing for the advance digital copy of Accusation, a Raquel Rematti thriller. These are my thoughts and opinions alone, given voluntarily.
April 26, 2022
Accusation by Paul Batista deals with the currently relevant #metoo movement, with a famous movie star being accused of having sexual harassed many women. It is also the 3rd book in the Raquel Rematti series. I haven't read the previous books in the series, but it wasn't difficult to catch up with the happenings of Raquel's life until now. Raquel is a well-known criminal defence attorney and she is pulled into the case to help movie star Aaron Julian, with his defence for the harassment cases brought against him.
In the course of the story, we are shown the other side of the judiciary and police departments. Raquel does everything in her power to help Aaron out of the worst of the charges brought against him; she keeps up with her job even when things get from bad to worse for Aaron. There are too many people out to get him and thus emerge new twists every few pages.
The numerous twists and relevant premise events do have the potential for a great story but the book never reaches there. The writing is racy and sharp; but to me, the whole reading experience feels a little too abrupt. In fact, there is not enough character development done for any of the characters. In trying to be intriguing and mysterious, the author has just managed to create a strangely disjointed story which didn't exactly connect with me; I couldn't feel anything for any of the characters. I can honestly say this book is just not my cup of tea.
You can try this book if you want to read something fast and quick. Thanks to the author, the publisher and Netgalley for the ARC provided in exchange for my honest review.
In the course of the story, we are shown the other side of the judiciary and police departments. Raquel does everything in her power to help Aaron out of the worst of the charges brought against him; she keeps up with her job even when things get from bad to worse for Aaron. There are too many people out to get him and thus emerge new twists every few pages.
The numerous twists and relevant premise events do have the potential for a great story but the book never reaches there. The writing is racy and sharp; but to me, the whole reading experience feels a little too abrupt. In fact, there is not enough character development done for any of the characters. In trying to be intriguing and mysterious, the author has just managed to create a strangely disjointed story which didn't exactly connect with me; I couldn't feel anything for any of the characters. I can honestly say this book is just not my cup of tea.
You can try this book if you want to read something fast and quick. Thanks to the author, the publisher and Netgalley for the ARC provided in exchange for my honest review.
February 16, 2022
This is the 1st book that I have read by this author and I have already gotten the 1st 2 that were written in this series.
The story begins with Aaron Julian receiving a call from his manager advising him that two individuals are accusing him of sexual assault. He is advised that a meeting has been setup with a lawyer, Raquel Rematti, to discuss these charges and to create a plan to answer these charges. During the meeting, Aaron, wants to publicly dispute these charges, but Raquel talks him out of doing it.
Later, the lawyer representing the accusers is murdered and all of a sudden, the charges Aaron is now facing is murder. Raquel has her investigator start looking for information, in the meantime, the U.S. Attorney for sex trafficking is sharpening her knife to convict Aaron. It is only through the assistance of an unexpected party that Raquel has hope.
To discover who the killer of the lawyer was, what the U.S. Attorney has planned, who the individual is that provided the new information and what events happened leading up to the end of the case, then you need to read this book. It is definitely worth your time.
I received this book through "NetGalley Read Now" and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
The story begins with Aaron Julian receiving a call from his manager advising him that two individuals are accusing him of sexual assault. He is advised that a meeting has been setup with a lawyer, Raquel Rematti, to discuss these charges and to create a plan to answer these charges. During the meeting, Aaron, wants to publicly dispute these charges, but Raquel talks him out of doing it.
Later, the lawyer representing the accusers is murdered and all of a sudden, the charges Aaron is now facing is murder. Raquel has her investigator start looking for information, in the meantime, the U.S. Attorney for sex trafficking is sharpening her knife to convict Aaron. It is only through the assistance of an unexpected party that Raquel has hope.
To discover who the killer of the lawyer was, what the U.S. Attorney has planned, who the individual is that provided the new information and what events happened leading up to the end of the case, then you need to read this book. It is definitely worth your time.
I received this book through "NetGalley Read Now" and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
March 23, 2022
Between the striking cover and the compelling blurb, this book had me at hello. A famous actor wakes up one morning to discover he has been accused of sexual assault by multiple women and goes from living the dream with a beautiful wife, millions in the bank and his career at its peak to fighting for his marriage, his reputation and his innocence. This is the #metoo movement from a different angle - the author actually brings in the names of Harvey Weinstein, Jeffrey Epstein etc. to boost the story's currency - and it did make me wonder how many innocent men have been accused of crimes they didn't commit. It was this premise that kept me reading.
The pace was good. Short, punchy chapters with plenty of twists and turns. But there were a few elements that didn't feel plausible to me. For example, the motivation of some of the characters, the relationship between the actor and his wife and a couple of significant events that changed the course of the investigation. There is a plot twist at the very end and even though the cover labels this book as a thriller, it felt more like action fiction to me. Without giving anything away, I couldn't help but feel disappointed after turning the last page.
The pace was good. Short, punchy chapters with plenty of twists and turns. But there were a few elements that didn't feel plausible to me. For example, the motivation of some of the characters, the relationship between the actor and his wife and a couple of significant events that changed the course of the investigation. There is a plot twist at the very end and even though the cover labels this book as a thriller, it felt more like action fiction to me. Without giving anything away, I couldn't help but feel disappointed after turning the last page.
May 15, 2022
Paul Batista has written a timely story In Accusation, a thriller. This fast-paced story will take readers on a terrifying ride. We are all familiar with the MeToo Movement and the stories behind it. What if there is another side? What if a well-known actor is accused by multiple young women of inappropriate behavior with them? How does he defend himself? Perhaps to the point also is another question: why have these young women targeted him?
Aaron Julian is a well-known and highly respected actor. He receives a call in the wee hours of the morning from his agent. Most of us know that phone calls after midnight do not contain good news. Certainly, Aaron is blindsided by what the agent tells him. Aaron learns that the young actresses will be on national TV on a morning show to accuse him, Aaron Julian, of inappropriate behavior.
What’s next? Clearly, Aaron must hire a lawyer, so he chooses Raquel Rematti, “a powerful defense lawyer.” Readers can expect that things do not go smoothly, especially when the plaintiffs’ attorney is found murdered. Does Aaron have something to do with that? How will Veda, Aaron’s pop-singer wife, handle this problem?
Readers have much to learn about Aaron Julian and his wife Veda as well as the young women who accuse Aaron.
Aaron Julian is a well-known and highly respected actor. He receives a call in the wee hours of the morning from his agent. Most of us know that phone calls after midnight do not contain good news. Certainly, Aaron is blindsided by what the agent tells him. Aaron learns that the young actresses will be on national TV on a morning show to accuse him, Aaron Julian, of inappropriate behavior.
What’s next? Clearly, Aaron must hire a lawyer, so he chooses Raquel Rematti, “a powerful defense lawyer.” Readers can expect that things do not go smoothly, especially when the plaintiffs’ attorney is found murdered. Does Aaron have something to do with that? How will Veda, Aaron’s pop-singer wife, handle this problem?
Readers have much to learn about Aaron Julian and his wife Veda as well as the young women who accuse Aaron.
February 23, 2022
3 1/2 ⭐️‘s
Aaron Julian is a world renown actor. Married to the woman of his dreams and leading a charmed life. That is until receiving a call at 2A from his agent. A call any actor never wants to receive. He’s been accused of sexual misconduct and harassment by several women. He’s clearly confused, he’s led an exemplary life. Maintaining his innocence, his biggest concern is losing the love of his wife Veda, whom he adores. Hiring Raquel Rematti, a cut throat attorney is the next step in proving his innocence. The plot thickens when the attorney representing the women is found floating in a reservoir in Central Park. Could Aaron possibly have killed him? The evidence points to a guilty verdict, but corruption from within hinders the case. With the #MeTooMovement in full swing Aaron maintains his innocence, evidence points to his being guilty, BUT ... is he being railroaded? A story that could be ripped from today’s headlines, this was a fast paced story and although the ending felt rushed, I was hooked from page one! Thank you to Oceanview Publishing and NetGalley for an ARC of this book.
Aaron Julian is a world renown actor. Married to the woman of his dreams and leading a charmed life. That is until receiving a call at 2A from his agent. A call any actor never wants to receive. He’s been accused of sexual misconduct and harassment by several women. He’s clearly confused, he’s led an exemplary life. Maintaining his innocence, his biggest concern is losing the love of his wife Veda, whom he adores. Hiring Raquel Rematti, a cut throat attorney is the next step in proving his innocence. The plot thickens when the attorney representing the women is found floating in a reservoir in Central Park. Could Aaron possibly have killed him? The evidence points to a guilty verdict, but corruption from within hinders the case. With the #MeTooMovement in full swing Aaron maintains his innocence, evidence points to his being guilty, BUT ... is he being railroaded? A story that could be ripped from today’s headlines, this was a fast paced story and although the ending felt rushed, I was hooked from page one! Thank you to Oceanview Publishing and NetGalley for an ARC of this book.
September 21, 2021
Thank you Netgalley and Oceanview Publishing for the eARC.
This legal thriller is very much of this time, #MeToo, celebrities in trouble, the justice system and social media.
Aaron Julian is accused of sexual misconduct. It's a nightmare for him, being one of the most revered and loved actors in the world, but his popular singer wife stands by him. Raquel Ramatti, the powerful attorney, takes his case, and what follows is a very believable and turbulent time for everyone involved.
Raquel is a great character and I absolutely loved the New York City setting as I lived there for several years.
For a fairly short book, this story packed quite a punch and the ending...wow! Definitely recommended!!
This legal thriller is very much of this time, #MeToo, celebrities in trouble, the justice system and social media.
Aaron Julian is accused of sexual misconduct. It's a nightmare for him, being one of the most revered and loved actors in the world, but his popular singer wife stands by him. Raquel Ramatti, the powerful attorney, takes his case, and what follows is a very believable and turbulent time for everyone involved.
Raquel is a great character and I absolutely loved the New York City setting as I lived there for several years.
For a fairly short book, this story packed quite a punch and the ending...wow! Definitely recommended!!
March 21, 2022
The best word I have to describe this book is frightening! Too much treachery, lying, and deceit by those who are supposed to raise all the evidence and submit them to a fair trial, the whole judiciary process might ring wrong if all the mishappenings mentioned in this story could be carried on when someone is accused of wrongdoing. Great story, although scary. The ending is also somewhat unexpected but good! This is the first book that I read by Paul Batista and I was positively surprised. I'll be looking for other titles by this author.
April 5, 2022
I am having trouble with my eyes so I have had to read this slowly, and hated to have to stop reading
I find it very current and hope they can keep updating the background events and references as the happenings behind the story stay current. I had kept considering many possible conclusions so I was surprised by the one chosen although it fit. I had won this book and had been lucky enough to get the other volumes on sale and am very anxious to read the others. This was book #3 in the series but stands alone. Should you read it I can only hope you enjoy it as much as I did.
I find it very current and hope they can keep updating the background events and references as the happenings behind the story stay current. I had kept considering many possible conclusions so I was surprised by the one chosen although it fit. I had won this book and had been lucky enough to get the other volumes on sale and am very anxious to read the others. This was book #3 in the series but stands alone. Should you read it I can only hope you enjoy it as much as I did.
Read
March 8, 2022Buckle up and get ready for a ride into the New York justice system in which the characters, their institutions and the venue all add up to fast and fun reading.
The book checks off two of the most important boxes for me: a riveting plot that I breezed through in record time, and a jaw-dropping ending that left me shocked but totally satisfied.
Read our full review here:
https://booktrib.com/2022/03/01/one-a...
The book checks off two of the most important boxes for me: a riveting plot that I breezed through in record time, and a jaw-dropping ending that left me shocked but totally satisfied.
Read our full review here:
https://booktrib.com/2022/03/01/one-a...
March 31, 2022
This was an author new to me but I gave it a try and enjoyed it with some reservations.
Topically based around “Me Too” the plot races along and is filled with characters acting dishonestly and duplicitly.
There is a surprising twist at the end which made me think but none of the characters was portrayed well enough for me to really care about their fate.
Enjoyable though anyway.
Topically based around “Me Too” the plot races along and is filled with characters acting dishonestly and duplicitly.
There is a surprising twist at the end which made me think but none of the characters was portrayed well enough for me to really care about their fate.
Enjoyable though anyway.
April 17, 2023
Thank you to Netgalley and the publishers for the opportunity to read and review this book.
An enjoyable read as I love a good dose of police corruption! None of the characters were particularly likeable but I still found myself shaking my head in disappointment when I realised the turn the ending was about to take.
3 stars
An enjoyable read as I love a good dose of police corruption! None of the characters were particularly likeable but I still found myself shaking my head in disappointment when I realised the turn the ending was about to take.
3 stars
March 13, 2022
This is intense courtroom drama written by an internationally acclaimed defense attorney. In Accusation, Batista tackles sexual harassment head-on and delivers a powerful, shocking ending.
This is the third book in a series featuring an amazing female attorney.
This is the third book in a series featuring an amazing female attorney.
April 23, 2022
I loved this book from the start to the finish. A little Murder, sexual harassment and lots of lies. A great read.
Read
September 26, 2023DNF - 81%
September 20, 2024
An excellent plot brought to a thrilling end! This is a can't stop story of actions and consequences.
May 18, 2024
I would rate this book 3 1/2 out 5 stars.
The author pulls the subject matter right of the world news from the last few years based on what many are labeling the me too movement.
Aaron Julian who made off the streets to become the one of the most famous and most recognizable actors and his wife of three years is no slouch either as she is a famous singer, so famous she goes by one name Veda. Between them they seem to have it all fame, money, and each other which they are entirely devoted to. But all this will be put to the test when a successful lawyer and a group of women forward with the claim that Aaron is a sexual predator. Who really is after Aaron and what lengths will they go to bring him down ? The author draws from many real world events as you will see when you read this. This book held me to the end to see what happens but i did have some issuses , one is that in my opinion the author was to descriptive or used to many metaphors at times and the other was that there were just to many twist to the point at the end it felt like it was forced in at spots when it did not need to be. A good story should have twist all the way to the end but this was a little to much therefore 3 1/2 stars. Thank you to Netgalley and Oceanview Publishing for an ARC for a fair and honest review.
The author pulls the subject matter right of the world news from the last few years based on what many are labeling the me too movement.
Aaron Julian who made off the streets to become the one of the most famous and most recognizable actors and his wife of three years is no slouch either as she is a famous singer, so famous she goes by one name Veda. Between them they seem to have it all fame, money, and each other which they are entirely devoted to. But all this will be put to the test when a successful lawyer and a group of women forward with the claim that Aaron is a sexual predator. Who really is after Aaron and what lengths will they go to bring him down ? The author draws from many real world events as you will see when you read this. This book held me to the end to see what happens but i did have some issuses , one is that in my opinion the author was to descriptive or used to many metaphors at times and the other was that there were just to many twist to the point at the end it felt like it was forced in at spots when it did not need to be. A good story should have twist all the way to the end but this was a little to much therefore 3 1/2 stars. Thank you to Netgalley and Oceanview Publishing for an ARC for a fair and honest review.
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