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Confessions of an Accidental Lawyer
Battling against a Texas prison, a young lawyer fights for a fair trial in a prison-friendly town as witnesses and evidence evaporate.
Scarred physically and emotionally by a botched delivery, his wife struggles to realize their dream of a healthy baby and a happy family.
Trapped in solitary confinement, an inmate fights for medicine to keep his failing heart pumping.
Torn between career and family, with the lives of a prisoner, his wife, and his unborn child on the line, the young lawyer struggles to ensure that his client, his family, and his integrity all survive.
MICHAEL STOCKHAM takes us on a page-turning journey in this novel inspired by actual events. He is a litigation attorney, award-winning author, and speaker.
Scarred physically and emotionally by a botched delivery, his wife struggles to realize their dream of a healthy baby and a happy family.
Trapped in solitary confinement, an inmate fights for medicine to keep his failing heart pumping.
Torn between career and family, with the lives of a prisoner, his wife, and his unborn child on the line, the young lawyer struggles to ensure that his client, his family, and his integrity all survive.
MICHAEL STOCKHAM takes us on a page-turning journey in this novel inspired by actual events. He is a litigation attorney, award-winning author, and speaker.
348 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 11, 2022
1145 people are currently reading
8386 people want to read
About the author
Michael Stockham
2 books92 followersMichael Stockham has worked as a big-firm lawyer for over twenty years after receiving his law degree from Cornell Law School. He’s a sought-after litigator and speaker.
Confessions of an Accidental Lawyer is Michael Stockham’s first novel. It was an Award-Winning Finalist in both the Mystery/Suspense: Police Procedural and Thriller: Legal categories of the American Fiction Awards in 2022. It has also won a 2022 Literary Titan Silver Book Award a 2022 Firebird Book Award in the Legal Thriller category, a 2022 American Writing Awards Finalist Award in the Fiction-Mystery/Suspense category, and a 2022 International Impact Book Award in the Memoir category.
A life-long lover of books, Michael received two degrees in creative writing: a Bachelor of Arts from the University of New Mexico and a Master of Arts from Texas A&M University.
His writing has appeared in The Writer’s Forum, The Berkeley Fiction Review, and Cornell Law Review, among others. His short story, Wire Horses, received the Frank Waters’ Southwest Writing Award, judged by Rudolfo Anaya, John Nichols, and Vine Deloria, Jr., and he was a semifinalist for the Pirate’s Alley Faulkner Society Award.
Blessed by two grown daughters who are Clemson University Tigers, Michael lives in Dallas with his wife of twenty-four years, Kiersten, along with three dogs and two potbelly pigs.
Confessions of an Accidental Lawyer is Michael Stockham’s first novel. It was an Award-Winning Finalist in both the Mystery/Suspense: Police Procedural and Thriller: Legal categories of the American Fiction Awards in 2022. It has also won a 2022 Literary Titan Silver Book Award a 2022 Firebird Book Award in the Legal Thriller category, a 2022 American Writing Awards Finalist Award in the Fiction-Mystery/Suspense category, and a 2022 International Impact Book Award in the Memoir category.
A life-long lover of books, Michael received two degrees in creative writing: a Bachelor of Arts from the University of New Mexico and a Master of Arts from Texas A&M University.
His writing has appeared in The Writer’s Forum, The Berkeley Fiction Review, and Cornell Law Review, among others. His short story, Wire Horses, received the Frank Waters’ Southwest Writing Award, judged by Rudolfo Anaya, John Nichols, and Vine Deloria, Jr., and he was a semifinalist for the Pirate’s Alley Faulkner Society Award.
Blessed by two grown daughters who are Clemson University Tigers, Michael lives in Dallas with his wife of twenty-four years, Kiersten, along with three dogs and two potbelly pigs.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 294 reviews
March 6, 2025
IT. BLEW. MY. MIND. I want to read EVERYTHING from this author now.
The book is gripping to say the least. I cried, I laughed, I felt anger, I felt despair and I was on the edge of my seat…I couldn’t read this book fast enough! If a book makes me FEEL emotions while reading, I’m hooked for life. It eloquently ties two worlds together through the eyes of a new lawyer and draws you in to each side of the story.
What really does it for me is that it’s based on events that really happened. I’m hooked. Everyone should read this and the author needs to make this a series. I want MORE!!
So good I had to read it again this year, I am EAGERLY awaiting a second book!!!!!
The book is gripping to say the least. I cried, I laughed, I felt anger, I felt despair and I was on the edge of my seat…I couldn’t read this book fast enough! If a book makes me FEEL emotions while reading, I’m hooked for life. It eloquently ties two worlds together through the eyes of a new lawyer and draws you in to each side of the story.
What really does it for me is that it’s based on events that really happened. I’m hooked. Everyone should read this and the author needs to make this a series. I want MORE!!
So good I had to read it again this year, I am EAGERLY awaiting a second book!!!!!
February 1, 2024
Daniel Simmons is a young lawyer representing an elderly prisoner who is suing the prison for the right to know that his heart medication is going to be available to him in prison. Meanwhile, after the difficult birth of their daughter, Daniel's wife is obsessed with completing her ideal family of four children.
I enjoyed the parts of this book to do with the trial but IVF is not one of my favourite tropes and every mention of the debt Daniel and his wife incurred in their attempts to have a second child made me grit my teeth. As it turned out, the pregnancy thread overtook the legal thread so I didn't enjoy the book as a whole. Not exactly a legal thriller in my opinion. The writing was fine but it just wasn't the story I was expecting. 3.5 Stars rounded down.
TW: Pregnancy and Birth Complications, IVF.
I borrowed this book from amazon.ca using my Kindle Unlimited membership.
I enjoyed the parts of this book to do with the trial but IVF is not one of my favourite tropes and every mention of the debt Daniel and his wife incurred in their attempts to have a second child made me grit my teeth. As it turned out, the pregnancy thread overtook the legal thread so I didn't enjoy the book as a whole. Not exactly a legal thriller in my opinion. The writing was fine but it just wasn't the story I was expecting. 3.5 Stars rounded down.
TW: Pregnancy and Birth Complications, IVF.
I borrowed this book from amazon.ca using my Kindle Unlimited membership.
November 15, 2022
Confessions of an Accidental Lawyer by Michael Stockham is a story based on true events. Since learning of this, I was immediately drawn to the book, finding it more compelling. At times, the story is moving and raw, without restraint. Daniel is the main character and a promising young lawyer who is dealing with difficulties at home and at work. More specifically, he’s faced with two scenarios that completely consume him; his wife’s postpartum depression and mental health and his client, an elderly man in prison who is without his heart medication.
It’s a story about what happens when an ordinary person is faced with two major situations in life. While the plot centers on Daniel, and his difficulties, he must also face his past and future as he tries to make it through each day, working to fight for his family, and his client. I really enjoyed the book and found it hard to put down!
The book is easy to follow and very emotional. I found myself empathizing with Hannah, Daniel’s wife, while also considering the plight of his client and what could happen next. I feel that the author crafts a well-structured story, that is gripping and engaging throughout. If you enjoy stories based on real, challenging events, I highly recommend this book. I give Confessions of an Accidental Lawyer by Michael Stockham 5 out of 5 stars for its fast-paced, intriguing action and plot twists throughout. It’s a great read!
It’s a story about what happens when an ordinary person is faced with two major situations in life. While the plot centers on Daniel, and his difficulties, he must also face his past and future as he tries to make it through each day, working to fight for his family, and his client. I really enjoyed the book and found it hard to put down!
The book is easy to follow and very emotional. I found myself empathizing with Hannah, Daniel’s wife, while also considering the plight of his client and what could happen next. I feel that the author crafts a well-structured story, that is gripping and engaging throughout. If you enjoy stories based on real, challenging events, I highly recommend this book. I give Confessions of an Accidental Lawyer by Michael Stockham 5 out of 5 stars for its fast-paced, intriguing action and plot twists throughout. It’s a great read!
February 24, 2023
Yet another hyped and totally overrated novel… Daniel “Bear” Simmons is a freshly graduated lawyer with no courtroom experience and 150.000 US-$ in college debt. His wife, Hannah “Buzz” Simmons used to be a teacher who has now moved on to almost fanatically follow her path to mother of four.
The novel starts with Hannah in hospital after giving birth to their first child, Lilly. Something has gone wrong postpartum, though, and Hannah is suffering from bleeding and infections.
Shortly after, Daniel is handed the pro bono case of a prisoner who sues his prison for not properly supplying him with his required medicines.
These double premises are the fundamental problem of “Confessions”: It can’t really decide what it wants to be - courtroom drama or pregnancy drama. Consequently, it miserably fails on both levels.
The courtroom drama is short-lived, undramatic and its resolution, both in court and beyond, obvious from the very beginning. I was wondering if the author would be bold enough to take a different path entirely from the one well-trodden and known to everyone by now. Or if at least he would introduce a twist but, sadly, Stockham took the exact same way as countless others before him. So, if you’ve read one proper courtroom drama, you don’t need to read this one.
As for the pregnancy drama, we need to take a closer look at both Hannah and Daniel: Hannah has pretty much given up on anything in her life but her husband and is almost fanatically obsessed with having four children. Nothing wrong with that, of course, but it all started feeling somewhat weird when it became clear it would have to be her biological children… After life-threatening medical issues at the end of the first pregnancy, both Hannah and Daniel are rightly told “there are many ways to become a parent these days” and their only reaction ever is “The perfunctory nature of his tone pisses me off.”.
Now, let’s remember neither have a dollar to their respective name but he has a 150k in debts. Hannah’s immediate reaction is to just look at her husband and expect him to come up with a solution like maybe finding a cash cow or a goose that lays golden eggs…
Daniel’s reaction is doubly curious: He starts working even harder, in the process neglecting the family he has in favour of the child that might (or might not) be. Also, he “prepares” by ordering as many credit cards as he can.
Then both proceed to hurl themselves into fertility treatment, IVF and further deep debt… And, of course, both ante- and postpartum much more drama ensues. Call me heartless if you must but with the courtroom drama gone sour (and the prisoner portrayed as a saint) and all that fertility and marriage drama, this entire novel failed to make me care for anyone, estranged me from its protagonists and becomes another entry into my “Hall of Meh!”.
Generous three stars out of five because I did want to finish it.
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Ceterum censeo Putin esse delendam
The novel starts with Hannah in hospital after giving birth to their first child, Lilly. Something has gone wrong postpartum, though, and Hannah is suffering from bleeding and infections.
Shortly after, Daniel is handed the pro bono case of a prisoner who sues his prison for not properly supplying him with his required medicines.
These double premises are the fundamental problem of “Confessions”: It can’t really decide what it wants to be - courtroom drama or pregnancy drama. Consequently, it miserably fails on both levels.
The courtroom drama is short-lived, undramatic and its resolution, both in court and beyond, obvious from the very beginning. I was wondering if the author would be bold enough to take a different path entirely from the one well-trodden and known to everyone by now. Or if at least he would introduce a twist but, sadly, Stockham took the exact same way as countless others before him. So, if you’ve read one proper courtroom drama, you don’t need to read this one.
As for the pregnancy drama, we need to take a closer look at both Hannah and Daniel: Hannah has pretty much given up on anything in her life but her husband and is almost fanatically obsessed with having four children. Nothing wrong with that, of course, but it all started feeling somewhat weird when it became clear it would have to be her biological children… After life-threatening medical issues at the end of the first pregnancy, both Hannah and Daniel are rightly told “there are many ways to become a parent these days” and their only reaction ever is “The perfunctory nature of his tone pisses me off.”.
Now, let’s remember neither have a dollar to their respective name but he has a 150k in debts. Hannah’s immediate reaction is to just look at her husband and expect him to come up with a solution like maybe finding a cash cow or a goose that lays golden eggs…
Daniel’s reaction is doubly curious: He starts working even harder, in the process neglecting the family he has in favour of the child that might (or might not) be. Also, he “prepares” by ordering as many credit cards as he can.
Then both proceed to hurl themselves into fertility treatment, IVF and further deep debt… And, of course, both ante- and postpartum much more drama ensues. Call me heartless if you must but with the courtroom drama gone sour (and the prisoner portrayed as a saint) and all that fertility and marriage drama, this entire novel failed to make me care for anyone, estranged me from its protagonists and becomes another entry into my “Hall of Meh!”.
Generous three stars out of five because I did want to finish it.
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Ceterum censeo Putin esse delendam
November 14, 2022
Confessions of an Accidental Lawyer by Michael Stockham is fiction that’s based on real events. The story follows the story of Daniel, a lawyer who is questioning the purpose of his career and trying to become a partner in his firm while struggling to deal with his wife’s health problems. In the most difficult time of his personal life, Daniel must suddenly take on a client, Mr. Emmett Kendrick, an elderly man in solitary confinement who is not receiving heart medication for a health condition. At the same time, Daniel must face his wife’s disease, which is similar to his client's, and the similarities of both scenarios blur the line between his professional and personal life.
The novel highlights many aspects of prison life and how people cope with serving extended time in solitary confinement, where seventy-four-year-old Emmett is kept, only allowed to leave his cell for one hour a day and three showers each week. Beneath the storyline, the author breaks down the penitentiary system in the United States, the internal conditions, and their impact on the prison population, especially the most vulnerable inmates.
I really enjoyed this book and rate Confessions of an Accidental Lawyer by Michael Stockham 5 out of 5 stars for a powerful, exciting story. Great job! I hope to read more from Mr. Stockham!
The novel highlights many aspects of prison life and how people cope with serving extended time in solitary confinement, where seventy-four-year-old Emmett is kept, only allowed to leave his cell for one hour a day and three showers each week. Beneath the storyline, the author breaks down the penitentiary system in the United States, the internal conditions, and their impact on the prison population, especially the most vulnerable inmates.
I really enjoyed this book and rate Confessions of an Accidental Lawyer by Michael Stockham 5 out of 5 stars for a powerful, exciting story. Great job! I hope to read more from Mr. Stockham!
December 28, 2022
Not a legal thriller, more about a woman's obsession with fertility issues.
The words confessions and legal thriller in the title prime this to be exciting and fast paced, which never quite happened for me.
It's a parallel tale of the narrator & his wife, Hannah, and a prisoner, Emmett, both placing their medical hopes in someone else's hands, as shown here:
"I’m not a fan of Dr. Phillips’s bedside manner. I fume in silence, but I can’t blame him; he has done nothing wrong. He has been honest in his opinion and is trying to help. But as he walks away, fury wells up inside me. Healing is not merely science—it’s also art, intention, and faith.
One of the worst parts of surgery is the helpless waiting. I’m stranded. I must sit while Hannah is unconscious and at the mercy of professionals I hardly know. It’s a forced, uncomfortable trust."
The language feels dry, recounting the story with borrowed emotion that doesn't quite come through to my reading. Not bad, but a unique style that took some getting used to.
The way females are described is oddly more specific than males, and often in uncomfortable ways, including a lawyer awkwardly flirting with a corrections officer. Even for new lawyers, it's a disappointing lack of professionalism shown.
Update a day later...
I don't normally do this, but I need to revise this one. My review above is reflecting on this book being based on a true story, and not wanting to hurt the author's feelings, but...
It's not a thriller. It's way too conception/pregnancy based, with a woman obsessed with conceiving at all costs. Maybe it will kill her and leave her husband and child without her. Maybe it will put the family in a dire financial situation. Doesn't matter, she is obsessed with her ideal 4 child family.
This secondary plot is actual the primary plot, and not one I would have read had I know how much of the book it took up. Between the odd, dissociated writing style and the misleading plot summary, I wouldn't read more from this author.
The words confessions and legal thriller in the title prime this to be exciting and fast paced, which never quite happened for me.
It's a parallel tale of the narrator & his wife, Hannah, and a prisoner, Emmett, both placing their medical hopes in someone else's hands, as shown here:
"I’m not a fan of Dr. Phillips’s bedside manner. I fume in silence, but I can’t blame him; he has done nothing wrong. He has been honest in his opinion and is trying to help. But as he walks away, fury wells up inside me. Healing is not merely science—it’s also art, intention, and faith.
One of the worst parts of surgery is the helpless waiting. I’m stranded. I must sit while Hannah is unconscious and at the mercy of professionals I hardly know. It’s a forced, uncomfortable trust."
The language feels dry, recounting the story with borrowed emotion that doesn't quite come through to my reading. Not bad, but a unique style that took some getting used to.
The way females are described is oddly more specific than males, and often in uncomfortable ways, including a lawyer awkwardly flirting with a corrections officer. Even for new lawyers, it's a disappointing lack of professionalism shown.
Update a day later...
I don't normally do this, but I need to revise this one. My review above is reflecting on this book being based on a true story, and not wanting to hurt the author's feelings, but...
It's not a thriller. It's way too conception/pregnancy based, with a woman obsessed with conceiving at all costs. Maybe it will kill her and leave her husband and child without her. Maybe it will put the family in a dire financial situation. Doesn't matter, she is obsessed with her ideal 4 child family.
This secondary plot is actual the primary plot, and not one I would have read had I know how much of the book it took up. Between the odd, dissociated writing style and the misleading plot summary, I wouldn't read more from this author.
April 15, 2023
I absolutely loved this book.
A story that's quite realistic. It had me both tearful and laughing out loud throughout.
You feel emotions from both sides of the criminal system, through employees, lawyers and witnesses.
Daniel struggles through court while his wife struggles through difficult pregnancies. It's so beautifully written and fast paced it will leave you wanting more.
A story that's quite realistic. It had me both tearful and laughing out loud throughout.
You feel emotions from both sides of the criminal system, through employees, lawyers and witnesses.
Daniel struggles through court while his wife struggles through difficult pregnancies. It's so beautifully written and fast paced it will leave you wanting more.
February 13, 2023
I loved this book but was debating between 4 or 5 stars. I decided it is 5- because it always annoys me when a book is poorly edited and that was my one complaint with this one.
Otherwise I enjoyed it very much. Sort of a John Grisham-ish tale of the early days of a young lawyer's career with his family life thrown in with all the struggles both emotionally and financially.
The story unfolds as the wife gets pregnant (sooner than they had planned) and nearly dies through medically botched complications...setting the new family back by adding to the law school debt. A couple years later when they would love to have another baby problems related to the earlier issues lead the couple to more expensive and disappointing IVF attempts. Eventually they get pregnant after giving up on the IVF but that pregnancy leads to more life threatening complications for both mother and new preemie.
All of the above make adjusting to the new lawyer's worklife more stressful at a large law firm where the young attorneys try to make inroads into trial law. A pro-bono case representing a prison inmate provides an exciting opportunity and the story unfolds as a real page turner between the legal case and the family issues. I found the story very true to life in that there are successes mixed with failures throughout.
Otherwise I enjoyed it very much. Sort of a John Grisham-ish tale of the early days of a young lawyer's career with his family life thrown in with all the struggles both emotionally and financially.
The story unfolds as the wife gets pregnant (sooner than they had planned) and nearly dies through medically botched complications...setting the new family back by adding to the law school debt. A couple years later when they would love to have another baby problems related to the earlier issues lead the couple to more expensive and disappointing IVF attempts. Eventually they get pregnant after giving up on the IVF but that pregnancy leads to more life threatening complications for both mother and new preemie.
All of the above make adjusting to the new lawyer's worklife more stressful at a large law firm where the young attorneys try to make inroads into trial law. A pro-bono case representing a prison inmate provides an exciting opportunity and the story unfolds as a real page turner between the legal case and the family issues. I found the story very true to life in that there are successes mixed with failures throughout.
January 5, 2023
Follow a new lawyer on his journey to make a name for himself while dealing with family matters. He makes some friends and enemies along the way. His hope and determination keeps him going in both his career and family life.
January 14, 2023
This was such a good book. Michael Stockham is a big-firm lawyer and this, his first novel was inspired by actual events. I found the law side of it very interesting ( I love anything to do with law). I was captivated by this book and could not finish it fast enough. Basically a new lawyer balancing his job, fighting for a client in prison that has been mistreated all while his wife is in the hospital. I LOVED this book and highly recommend
July 26, 2022
I read an Advance Review Copy of this book. It is a fantastic summer beach read! The book is a page-turner, combining two suspenseful stories. One story is a legal thriller with courtroom drama. The other storyline is a domestic thriller with medical drama. The young hero is a lawyer defending a prisoner in solitary confinement, and they become improbable friends. The lawyer is also fighting for the life of his wife and unborn child. I won't give any spoilers. Highly recommended!
September 15, 2022
Such a good story
I received a copy of this book free in exchange for my honest review. I absolutely loved how the author told two stories here. He combined what was going on in the lawyers personal life and also professionally. Both stories were amazing to read about and the bravery in both is undeniable. Loved this book solid 4.8 rating. Would love to read other books by this author.
I received a copy of this book free in exchange for my honest review. I absolutely loved how the author told two stories here. He combined what was going on in the lawyers personal life and also professionally. Both stories were amazing to read about and the bravery in both is undeniable. Loved this book solid 4.8 rating. Would love to read other books by this author.
November 1, 2022
I did receive an E-ARC of this book. I thoroughly enjoyed this read! I don’t know that I’ve ever rooted for characters in a book as much as I rooted for Emmett and Bailey! I was engrossed in the story and read this book within a day. I will definitely recommend this book to others and look forward to reading more from Michael Stockham.
January 15, 2025
Not really a courtroom drama
I thought that this will be a great book that showed great courtroom drama. While there was some courtroom action in it. It took a back seat to the lawyer and his wife's struggles with pregnancy. The desire to have four children. The High expense of a IVF etc. Definitely not a book for me.
I thought that this will be a great book that showed great courtroom drama. While there was some courtroom action in it. It took a back seat to the lawyer and his wife's struggles with pregnancy. The desire to have four children. The High expense of a IVF etc. Definitely not a book for me.
November 15, 2022
5 out of 5 stars for a stellar, captivating read.
Confessions of An Accidental Lawyer by Michael Stockham is a great story about the impact of the legal system on vulnerable people and one lawyer’s difficult situation with dueling interests. It’s a compelling read that includes family drama and addressing the medical industry and the legal system. The main character is Daniel Simmons, an up-and-coming lawyer who has a really interesting client, Emmet Kendrick, an elderly prisoner in solitary confinement.
Daniel is not only fighting for his client’s medical rights in prison and his mistreatment in general, he is also preoccupied with issues at home. Between these two worlds, the author narrates wonderfully the complexities of both situations that Daniel must face. The book delves into the courtroom, and medical industry concerns, which play a focal point in this story. It’s very realistic and intriguing, keeping my attention from start to finish.
I feel sympathy for Daniel, who must straddle two very difficult situations, which include his wife, who becomes ill. It’s a human story that tells an all-too-familiar tale of work and life balance, where each part of life becomes increasingly more intense. Imagine being trapped in between two challenging scenarios while trying to succeed at your profession for the best opportunities on the horizon.
Stockham is a straightforward writer, and I enjoy reading his style. He uses a lot of medical and legal terminology but in a way that supports his knowledge and expertise, which makes this story more realistic. I rate Confessions of an Accidental Lawyer by Michael Stockham 5 out of 5 stars for a stellar, captivating read.
Confessions of An Accidental Lawyer by Michael Stockham is a great story about the impact of the legal system on vulnerable people and one lawyer’s difficult situation with dueling interests. It’s a compelling read that includes family drama and addressing the medical industry and the legal system. The main character is Daniel Simmons, an up-and-coming lawyer who has a really interesting client, Emmet Kendrick, an elderly prisoner in solitary confinement.
Daniel is not only fighting for his client’s medical rights in prison and his mistreatment in general, he is also preoccupied with issues at home. Between these two worlds, the author narrates wonderfully the complexities of both situations that Daniel must face. The book delves into the courtroom, and medical industry concerns, which play a focal point in this story. It’s very realistic and intriguing, keeping my attention from start to finish.
I feel sympathy for Daniel, who must straddle two very difficult situations, which include his wife, who becomes ill. It’s a human story that tells an all-too-familiar tale of work and life balance, where each part of life becomes increasingly more intense. Imagine being trapped in between two challenging scenarios while trying to succeed at your profession for the best opportunities on the horizon.
Stockham is a straightforward writer, and I enjoy reading his style. He uses a lot of medical and legal terminology but in a way that supports his knowledge and expertise, which makes this story more realistic. I rate Confessions of an Accidental Lawyer by Michael Stockham 5 out of 5 stars for a stellar, captivating read.
December 11, 2024
Easily a five star novel! A novel that stays with you long after turning the last page.
Poor, poor Daniel Simmons, and I say that sincerely, a newly minted lawyer and new father. The stressors of both positions seem to be more than one man should have to bear.
Dan is given the opportunity to be lead council in a pro bono case involving an inmate at the prison. Dan jumps at the opportunity to prove himself and help the inmate, Kendrick, take on the prisons medical system that fails to provide him with his needed heart medication.
At the same time Dan is helplessly watching his wife through her second life threatening pregnancy. Dan valiantly tries to care for their two year old daughter, his wife and meet the demands of the legal case.
The slow build up of the tension Dan feels is transferred to the reader. This is a true page turner that draws the reader in. Will Dan's family be able to survive, literally, and will he win the court case?
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. I want to thank Michael Stockham, Whistling Pig Press, LLC and Goodreads for this opportunity.
Poor, poor Daniel Simmons, and I say that sincerely, a newly minted lawyer and new father. The stressors of both positions seem to be more than one man should have to bear.
Dan is given the opportunity to be lead council in a pro bono case involving an inmate at the prison. Dan jumps at the opportunity to prove himself and help the inmate, Kendrick, take on the prisons medical system that fails to provide him with his needed heart medication.
At the same time Dan is helplessly watching his wife through her second life threatening pregnancy. Dan valiantly tries to care for their two year old daughter, his wife and meet the demands of the legal case.
The slow build up of the tension Dan feels is transferred to the reader. This is a true page turner that draws the reader in. Will Dan's family be able to survive, literally, and will he win the court case?
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. I want to thank Michael Stockham, Whistling Pig Press, LLC and Goodreads for this opportunity.
October 5, 2022
not sure why it shows i did preorder it on Amazon. that is not the case. i think i won it through a Goodreads giveaway is more like it??!out on November 11, 2022. nonfiction. (i am sure that Amazon will add to those once it is out in the world for a while) guess we will see??! when i was looking through the Goodreads giveaways i do recall the book cover, having me curious. i was curious and i did enjoy the read. hope to read more from MS soon. check him out.
November 11, 2022
This was such an interesting book. Definitely a page turner and kept me interested the entire time.
I liked the mystery and suspense but also the struggles. The wit in this book is really clever. I would definitely read more from this author and recommend this book.
I liked the mystery and suspense but also the struggles. The wit in this book is really clever. I would definitely read more from this author and recommend this book.
October 21, 2025
The prisoner, Emmett Kendrick, whom our protagonist lawyer, Daniel Simmons, represents, was my favourite in this beautifully crafted book. There was the legal thriller, and the book also widely covered Simmons's wife Hannah's struggles with childbirth. I would have liked more courtroom action, but this is the author's first book. At times, he was Grisham-esque. I really enjoyed it. 4 stars.
July 29, 2023
"Confessions of an Accidental Lawyer" by Michael Stockham is a gripping and emotionally charged novel that takes readers on a roller-coaster journey through the challenging world of the legal system. Inspired by real events, the story follows a young lawyer as he battles against the odds in a Texas prison to secure a fair trial for his client. Set in a prison-friendly town, the lawyer faces an uphill battle as witnesses and evidence seem to evaporate before his eyes.
But the challenges don't end there. As the lawyer fights for justice in the courtroom, his personal life is also in turmoil. Scarred physically and emotionally from a traumatic event, his wife struggles to realize their dream of a healthy baby and a happy family. The delicate balance between career and family is tested, with the lives of a prisoner, his wife, and their unborn child hanging in the balance.
Stockham's skillful storytelling keeps readers engaged and invested in the well-developed characters throughout the book. The emotional journey of the characters tugs at the heartstrings, particularly the plight of the inmate trapped in solitary confinement, fighting for essential medication to keep his failing heart going.
The author's firsthand experience as a litigation attorney shines through in the authenticity of the legal proceedings and the intricacies of the courtroom drama. The novel successfully weaves together multiple plotlines, keeping readers on their toes as they root for justice to prevail.
One of the standout aspects of the book is its ability to tackle important and challenging themes, such as the flaws within the legal system and the impact of medical neglect on vulnerable inmates. The narrative also explores the delicate balance between pursuing a successful career and maintaining a fulfilling family life, adding depth and nuance to the characters' struggles.
Overall, "Confessions of an Accidental Lawyer" is a compelling and thought-provoking read that explores the complexities of justice, family, and integrity. Michael Stockham's powerful storytelling and unique perspective as a lawyer make this novel a standout in the legal thriller genre. Readers will find themselves emotionally invested in the characters' lives, hoping for a just and satisfying resolution.
But the challenges don't end there. As the lawyer fights for justice in the courtroom, his personal life is also in turmoil. Scarred physically and emotionally from a traumatic event, his wife struggles to realize their dream of a healthy baby and a happy family. The delicate balance between career and family is tested, with the lives of a prisoner, his wife, and their unborn child hanging in the balance.
Stockham's skillful storytelling keeps readers engaged and invested in the well-developed characters throughout the book. The emotional journey of the characters tugs at the heartstrings, particularly the plight of the inmate trapped in solitary confinement, fighting for essential medication to keep his failing heart going.
The author's firsthand experience as a litigation attorney shines through in the authenticity of the legal proceedings and the intricacies of the courtroom drama. The novel successfully weaves together multiple plotlines, keeping readers on their toes as they root for justice to prevail.
One of the standout aspects of the book is its ability to tackle important and challenging themes, such as the flaws within the legal system and the impact of medical neglect on vulnerable inmates. The narrative also explores the delicate balance between pursuing a successful career and maintaining a fulfilling family life, adding depth and nuance to the characters' struggles.
Overall, "Confessions of an Accidental Lawyer" is a compelling and thought-provoking read that explores the complexities of justice, family, and integrity. Michael Stockham's powerful storytelling and unique perspective as a lawyer make this novel a standout in the legal thriller genre. Readers will find themselves emotionally invested in the characters' lives, hoping for a just and satisfying resolution.
November 16, 2022
Confessions of an Accidental Lawyer by Michael Stockham is a suspenseful law drama about a lawyer, Daniel, who struggles with both his personal and professional life. When two critical developments hit simultaneously, Daniel must face difficult decisions, which can impact his life regardless of which direction he chooses. Following the birth of his first child, his wife, Hannah, experiences a decline in her health, which is constantly on Daniel’s mind as he must work with a client in solitary confinement and is facing a unique problem involving healthcare as well.
Daniel is determined to succeed, but the pain and difficulties of coping with two developing situations is often overwhelming and unpredictable. While Daniel knows his chances are slim that he can change the prison system to benefit his elderly client, who is without life-saving medication.
When I first began reading, I wasn’t too certain of the story, and it took a while to engage fully, but it was worthwhile. Once the story dives into the heart of tension and legal suspense, I was fully invested and ready to continue reading all in one sitting. Stockham conveys a lot of emotion in this book, which is unique and dimensional for a legal drama. Daniel is also painted as a very believable character who is highly relatable to readers of all backgrounds and professions.
Confessions of an Accidental Lawyer by Michael Stockham is an excellent read, and I rate the book 5 out of 5 stars for its realistic approach and interesting characters, which kept me turning each page until I finished. It’s a highly engaging story that’s both thought-provoking and touching.
Daniel is determined to succeed, but the pain and difficulties of coping with two developing situations is often overwhelming and unpredictable. While Daniel knows his chances are slim that he can change the prison system to benefit his elderly client, who is without life-saving medication.
When I first began reading, I wasn’t too certain of the story, and it took a while to engage fully, but it was worthwhile. Once the story dives into the heart of tension and legal suspense, I was fully invested and ready to continue reading all in one sitting. Stockham conveys a lot of emotion in this book, which is unique and dimensional for a legal drama. Daniel is also painted as a very believable character who is highly relatable to readers of all backgrounds and professions.
Confessions of an Accidental Lawyer by Michael Stockham is an excellent read, and I rate the book 5 out of 5 stars for its realistic approach and interesting characters, which kept me turning each page until I finished. It’s a highly engaging story that’s both thought-provoking and touching.
October 12, 2023
Watch out John Grisham
"Fyodor Dostoevsky: “The degree of civilization in a society can be judged by entering its prisons.”
A quote from Confessions of an Accidental Lawyer that speaks to the very heart of this FABULOUS legal and family thriller. What a pleasure to open a book by a new-to-me author such as Michael Stockham and find a polished, engaging, unnerving and compassionate thriller. I haven't been this pleased with a legal thriller since John Grisham began writing.
Confessions of an Accidental Lawyer is so much more than just a thriller. The author deftly weaves together two stories, which are based on real events. An elderly incarcerated man who reaches out to be treated fairly ends up being represented by Daniel Simmons and his firm at the same time that Simmons and his beloved wife are struggling to get pregnant.
What is so huggable and lovable about this book is the depth of each character, warts and all. You'll go quickly from reading to living the lives, feeling the desperation and complete fulfillment. The joyful highs and silent surrender in the same day. Even loathing at humanity's inability to treat each other with basic respect.
"Religion at the dinner table was mostly the target of derision. But being angry at something does not mean it does not exist. It mostly means you have cut yourself off."
The above quote shows the level of insight Daniel Simmons has and how, as a baby lawyer and young father, he leads with his heart. There is so much more to this book that I want to tell you about but you have to read it for yourself. I'm giving it a 5 out of 5 stars wishing I could give it more.
"Fyodor Dostoevsky: “The degree of civilization in a society can be judged by entering its prisons.”
A quote from Confessions of an Accidental Lawyer that speaks to the very heart of this FABULOUS legal and family thriller. What a pleasure to open a book by a new-to-me author such as Michael Stockham and find a polished, engaging, unnerving and compassionate thriller. I haven't been this pleased with a legal thriller since John Grisham began writing.
Confessions of an Accidental Lawyer is so much more than just a thriller. The author deftly weaves together two stories, which are based on real events. An elderly incarcerated man who reaches out to be treated fairly ends up being represented by Daniel Simmons and his firm at the same time that Simmons and his beloved wife are struggling to get pregnant.
What is so huggable and lovable about this book is the depth of each character, warts and all. You'll go quickly from reading to living the lives, feeling the desperation and complete fulfillment. The joyful highs and silent surrender in the same day. Even loathing at humanity's inability to treat each other with basic respect.
"Religion at the dinner table was mostly the target of derision. But being angry at something does not mean it does not exist. It mostly means you have cut yourself off."
The above quote shows the level of insight Daniel Simmons has and how, as a baby lawyer and young father, he leads with his heart. There is so much more to this book that I want to tell you about but you have to read it for yourself. I'm giving it a 5 out of 5 stars wishing I could give it more.
September 17, 2023
I was so disappointed by this book, if I had known it was going to mainly be about the lawyer's wife being fanatical about having four children and not thinking about anything else I would never have started it.
The courtroom and the story leading up to that part were good but the wife and her overwhelming desire for children sickened me. As a couple they had no money, he had huge debts from becoming a lawyer and the treatment from doctors they required to have all these children made that debt seem small.
If she ever did have four children he certainly wasn't going to be enjoying them with the debts that needed to be paid back. All he could look forward to for years and years to come was returning home at night worn out from his days work to an equally exhausted wife who had just put the last child to bed.
I did skip read the last 15% but it did not improve.
Do yourself a favour and steer clear.
The courtroom and the story leading up to that part were good but the wife and her overwhelming desire for children sickened me. As a couple they had no money, he had huge debts from becoming a lawyer and the treatment from doctors they required to have all these children made that debt seem small.
If she ever did have four children he certainly wasn't going to be enjoying them with the debts that needed to be paid back. All he could look forward to for years and years to come was returning home at night worn out from his days work to an equally exhausted wife who had just put the last child to bed.
I did skip read the last 15% but it did not improve.
Do yourself a favour and steer clear.
November 12, 2023
I struggle with rating this book. There are two compelling stories that seem to never quite tie together like I would like, but I thoroughly enjoyed it and has some really heartfelt moments. Probably more like a 4.5
November 19, 2025
A clever storyline that had me excited to read and embarrassed that the book has been on my Kindle for months. We're off to a good start, I'm settled in, and the path veers off the course, down an embankment where we stayed. Why? Stockham writes a book smart character who marries a nitwit and gives her too much of the storyline. A young attorney, heavily in debt gets a life-changing case, and the nitwit places pressure on him that he allows. It didn't feel realistic. It was frustrating. Her whining took away from the purpose of the book.
She wants four kids, he promised. They can't afford the IVF for one. She cries, you promised, I want four kids, you got what you wanted... a law degree. It has been several days and I'm still frustrated.
This could have been so much. I will look into other works by the author.
Goodreads Giveaway Kindle Win February 2025
Read What I Own Challenge x100
She wants four kids, he promised. They can't afford the IVF for one. She cries, you promised, I want four kids, you got what you wanted... a law degree. It has been several days and I'm still frustrated.
This could have been so much. I will look into other works by the author.
Goodreads Giveaway Kindle Win February 2025
Read What I Own Challenge x100
March 4, 2023
Great read
I would love a follow-up telling what actually happened when he returned to prison. Also what about the one negative vote?
I would love a follow-up telling what actually happened when he returned to prison. Also what about the one negative vote?
April 14, 2025
The picture of prison bars and a baby crib on the cover of Confessions of an Accidental Lawyer sums up the book perfectly. It tells two suspenseful stories, one a courtroom procedural about a prison inmate’s lawsuit to get adequate medical care and another, about the prisoner’s lawyer and his wife struggling to grow their family. The prison lawsuit story was compelling and the characters were convincingly portrayed. I’m not a lawyer so I can’t say how realistic the courtroom scenes actually were but they rang true to me. It's the lawyer and his wife’s story I had problems with. For most of the book she is solely focused on having kids, four to be exact, even though her pregnancies have been perilously difficult. Here's an example: “This has always been Hannah’s mission, her core reason for being. To be a mother overrides every other warning sign.” To me it smacked of the ‘having babies is a woman’s highest calling’ trope that I’m so danged tired of. 4 stars for the prisoner’s story, 2 for the other so I’m rating this a 3. My thanks to Goodreads Giveaways for a copy to review.
Want to read
November 1, 2022Really enjoyed this book, would recommend it to others.
October 30, 2022
I thoroughly enjoyed this e-book from Goodreads. It is a love story, both of the legal profession and of family. Am certainly looking forward to further books by this author.
May 12, 2023
I confess that I loved this book
This book had so many elements that pulled me in. It was the loving husband & father’s view of a difficult pregnancy that made my eyes leak. It was the young attorney taking on an impossible case with wavering confidence and trepidation that made my heart cheer. It was understanding the complexity of all those demands on a good man that gave me hope for the future of our nation. I loved this book. Thank you for the happy ending or I may have hated it!
This book had so many elements that pulled me in. It was the loving husband & father’s view of a difficult pregnancy that made my eyes leak. It was the young attorney taking on an impossible case with wavering confidence and trepidation that made my heart cheer. It was understanding the complexity of all those demands on a good man that gave me hope for the future of our nation. I loved this book. Thank you for the happy ending or I may have hated it!
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