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Double Indemnity
When a young entrepreneur dies from a gunshot wound on a hunting trip, his marriage counselor and his wife’s divorce attorney begin to investigate just who stands to gain from his death.
Connor Grantham, a highly intellectual young minister, has settled into a life as the pastor of a church in a small town that allows him to indulge his favorite activities: exploring the woods in the mountains of north Georgia and reading theological books. One of his more difficult tasks is providing marital counseling to Matt and Elena Thompson, a volatile couple.
Liz Acosta is a local attorney who recently moved to the area from south Florida and is hired by Elena to explore divorce possibilities. But before she can get too far in the process, Matt is killed while on a hunting excursion at a local deer preserve. With multiple life insurance policies that will pay out millions of dollars in benefits pursuant to double indemnity clauses that apply if, and only if, his death is deemed an accident, Connor and Liz are drawn into the investigation.
Together Liz and Connor uncover more about the couple and the struggling tech company Matt owned. When one of them comes under suspicion, the stakes become even greater and the truth even harder to find.
Contemporary Christian legal drama
Perfect for fans of John Grisham
Includes discussion questions for book clubs
Connor Grantham, a highly intellectual young minister, has settled into a life as the pastor of a church in a small town that allows him to indulge his favorite activities: exploring the woods in the mountains of north Georgia and reading theological books. One of his more difficult tasks is providing marital counseling to Matt and Elena Thompson, a volatile couple.
Liz Acosta is a local attorney who recently moved to the area from south Florida and is hired by Elena to explore divorce possibilities. But before she can get too far in the process, Matt is killed while on a hunting excursion at a local deer preserve. With multiple life insurance policies that will pay out millions of dollars in benefits pursuant to double indemnity clauses that apply if, and only if, his death is deemed an accident, Connor and Liz are drawn into the investigation.
Together Liz and Connor uncover more about the couple and the struggling tech company Matt owned. When one of them comes under suspicion, the stakes become even greater and the truth even harder to find.
Contemporary Christian legal drama
Perfect for fans of John Grisham
Includes discussion questions for book clubs
448 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 6, 2023
240 people are currently reading
5245 people want to read
About the author
Robert Whitlow
49 books966 followersRobert Whitlow is the best-selling author of legal novels set in the South and winner of the prestigious Christy Award for Contemporary Fiction. A Furman University graduate, Whitlow received his J.D. with honors from the University of Georgia School of Law where he served on the staff of the Georgia Law Review. A practicing attorney, Whitlow and his wife, Kathy, have four children. They make their home in North Carolina.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 295 reviews
April 28, 2023
Double Indemnity is a legal mystery set in the mountains of Georgia. I always enjoy a Robert Whitlow book because I know nothing about the law. He always uses language that helps me understand what certain legalese means. Thank you Mr. Whitlow. Now, as far as this "whodonit" goes... A man is killed in a hunting accident (or was it an accident?) and his wife and ex wife are due a inherit good bit of his insurance money. A rookie lawyer is assigned the case to help the present Mrs. Thompson with her legal rights as she is the current wife. The pastor of the couple who met with them for counseling before the unfortunate accident is drawn in to the investigation as well. This is a very enjoyable book with mystery, legal issues, inspirational faith elements and some romance as well.
*I received this book by Thomas Nelson Publishers and this is my honest opinion.
4.5 stars
*I received this book by Thomas Nelson Publishers and this is my honest opinion.
4.5 stars
May 17, 2024
Rating: 3.5 stars rounded up to 4
In Double Indemnity, Robert Whitlow crafts a tale of mystery and suspense set in north Georgia. Matt and Elena Thompson’s seemingly perfect life starts to unravel with secrets and financial troubles. Their marriage faces a critical blow when Matt dies in a suspicious hunting accident.
New attorney Liz Acosta and pastor Connor Grantham are drawn into the turmoil of the Thompsons’ lives. Liz digs into the legal intricacies of Matt’s death, while Connor, who counseled the couple, finds himself entangled in their explosive arguments.
Whitlow’s legal knowledge adds authenticity, and elements of faith and clean romance provide a wholesome touch. However, uneven pacing and a slow start might test some readers’ patience. Despite these flaws, the alternating perspectives of Liz and Connor keep the story engaging.
For fans of Christian suspense, Double Indemnity offers enough intrigue and faith-based themes to satisfy. With 22 books on his resume, Whitlow’s reputation is notable, with a Christie Award win and four movie adaptations to his credit.
** Thanks to the publisher for a review copy of this novel. The opinions are my own.
In Double Indemnity, Robert Whitlow crafts a tale of mystery and suspense set in north Georgia. Matt and Elena Thompson’s seemingly perfect life starts to unravel with secrets and financial troubles. Their marriage faces a critical blow when Matt dies in a suspicious hunting accident.
New attorney Liz Acosta and pastor Connor Grantham are drawn into the turmoil of the Thompsons’ lives. Liz digs into the legal intricacies of Matt’s death, while Connor, who counseled the couple, finds himself entangled in their explosive arguments.
Whitlow’s legal knowledge adds authenticity, and elements of faith and clean romance provide a wholesome touch. However, uneven pacing and a slow start might test some readers’ patience. Despite these flaws, the alternating perspectives of Liz and Connor keep the story engaging.
For fans of Christian suspense, Double Indemnity offers enough intrigue and faith-based themes to satisfy. With 22 books on his resume, Whitlow’s reputation is notable, with a Christie Award win and four movie adaptations to his credit.
** Thanks to the publisher for a review copy of this novel. The opinions are my own.
February 14, 2023
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. Double Indemnity by Robert Whitlow debuts June 6, 2023, as his 22nd novel. Whitlow won the 2001 Christie Award for Contemporary Fiction. Four of his books have been made into movies. He is a practicing attorney in North Carolina.
Thirty-year-old Connor Grantham pastors a small church in Bryson, Georgia. A deeply thoughtful and philosophical man, he prefers hiking and reading to socializing. Being single in a small-town also leads to inevitable matchmaking efforts from friends, rumors, and speculation.
Attorney Elizabeth ‘Liz’ Acosta is the newest hire at Pollard and Associates. For her first year, she has mostly served as a Spanish interpreter for her boss, Howard Pollard.
The story unfolds in alternating viewpoints of Attorney Liz Acosta and Pastor Connor Grantham.
Liz’s landlord invites her to a church social where she meets Pastor Connor Grantham. Their common friends encourage them to meet in not-so-subtle maneuvers as friends do when they play matchmaker.
The real driving force that brings them together is the unhappy marriage of Matt and Elena Thompson. Elena hires Liz to look into her financial situation in case Matt asks for a divorce. Poor Connor is dragged into the thick of the Thompsons’ unhappiness when they seek marital counseling. Matt spends time in Atlanta to keep his tech business running, but his business partner wants to sell.
The pacing of the story accelerates after Matt goes to a company deer hunt at the Burnt Pine Tree Hunting Lodge. Matt dies of a gunshot wound alone in the woods. Was it an accident? The list of suspects grows as Liz and Connor are drawn deeper into their separate counseling duties for the widow. Both the widow and the business partner benefit from the double-indemnity clause of life insurance policies on Matt. Toss in Matt’s ex-wife Anne and their two daughters, who live in Atlanta, and the investigation flows in many directions.
The dialogue is lean and believable for the characters. Whitlow’s descriptions of Connor’s hikes in the woods resonate as those of an experienced outdoorsman, part awe, part joy. The characters suit a small-town setting where secrets emerge through the grapevine of people familiar with one another. The surprises and plot twists keep the reader guessing until the end.
Readers of John Grisham and Sheldon Siegel will enjoy this legal drama.
#NetGalley #DoubleIndemnity @NetGalley @ThomasNelson #AdvanceReaderCopy @whitlowwriter @robertwhitlowbooks #BookClub #BookReview #LegalDrama #GoodReadswithaview #bookstagram #lovetoread #bookworm #bookhoarder
Thirty-year-old Connor Grantham pastors a small church in Bryson, Georgia. A deeply thoughtful and philosophical man, he prefers hiking and reading to socializing. Being single in a small-town also leads to inevitable matchmaking efforts from friends, rumors, and speculation.
Attorney Elizabeth ‘Liz’ Acosta is the newest hire at Pollard and Associates. For her first year, she has mostly served as a Spanish interpreter for her boss, Howard Pollard.
The story unfolds in alternating viewpoints of Attorney Liz Acosta and Pastor Connor Grantham.
Liz’s landlord invites her to a church social where she meets Pastor Connor Grantham. Their common friends encourage them to meet in not-so-subtle maneuvers as friends do when they play matchmaker.
The real driving force that brings them together is the unhappy marriage of Matt and Elena Thompson. Elena hires Liz to look into her financial situation in case Matt asks for a divorce. Poor Connor is dragged into the thick of the Thompsons’ unhappiness when they seek marital counseling. Matt spends time in Atlanta to keep his tech business running, but his business partner wants to sell.
The pacing of the story accelerates after Matt goes to a company deer hunt at the Burnt Pine Tree Hunting Lodge. Matt dies of a gunshot wound alone in the woods. Was it an accident? The list of suspects grows as Liz and Connor are drawn deeper into their separate counseling duties for the widow. Both the widow and the business partner benefit from the double-indemnity clause of life insurance policies on Matt. Toss in Matt’s ex-wife Anne and their two daughters, who live in Atlanta, and the investigation flows in many directions.
The dialogue is lean and believable for the characters. Whitlow’s descriptions of Connor’s hikes in the woods resonate as those of an experienced outdoorsman, part awe, part joy. The characters suit a small-town setting where secrets emerge through the grapevine of people familiar with one another. The surprises and plot twists keep the reader guessing until the end.
Readers of John Grisham and Sheldon Siegel will enjoy this legal drama.
#NetGalley #DoubleIndemnity @NetGalley @ThomasNelson #AdvanceReaderCopy @whitlowwriter @robertwhitlowbooks #BookClub #BookReview #LegalDrama #GoodReadswithaview #bookstagram #lovetoread #bookworm #bookhoarder
April 27, 2023
Good!
In this legal thriller, young small town pastor Connor Grantham finds himself in the middle of a difficult situation. He's counseling a married couple and one of them dies soon afterwards. Connor learns to navigate the fine line of providing comfort and keeping distance with a female parishioner. I love hiking so appreciated the peace he found walking trails.
The other main character Liz Acosta only took the job in a small north Georgia town because she couldn't find one near her hometown in south Florida. Initially, she is more Spanish translator than attorney, but soon navigates legal waters with a demanding client.
Love the cover and the title. Double Indemnity is now included as one of my Robert Whitlow favorite novels.
My gratitude to publisher Thomas Nelson for a complimentary NetGalley copy of the novel. I was not required to post a review and all opinions shared are my own.
In this legal thriller, young small town pastor Connor Grantham finds himself in the middle of a difficult situation. He's counseling a married couple and one of them dies soon afterwards. Connor learns to navigate the fine line of providing comfort and keeping distance with a female parishioner. I love hiking so appreciated the peace he found walking trails.
The other main character Liz Acosta only took the job in a small north Georgia town because she couldn't find one near her hometown in south Florida. Initially, she is more Spanish translator than attorney, but soon navigates legal waters with a demanding client.
Love the cover and the title. Double Indemnity is now included as one of my Robert Whitlow favorite novels.
My gratitude to publisher Thomas Nelson for a complimentary NetGalley copy of the novel. I was not required to post a review and all opinions shared are my own.
March 19, 2024
I don't normally reach for books like this one, but I feel like I should more often because I really enjoyed it. I knew who it was the entire time, but that didn't change the thriller aspect of it very much for me.
The faith content in this book is superb. The characters are constantly going to God in times of trouble, building their faith and being challenged to walk closer with Him.
I definitely recommend this book if you like legal thrillers filled with lots of faith content (or even if thrillers aren't really your thing, like me). I'll be reading this author again sometime!
The faith content in this book is superb. The characters are constantly going to God in times of trouble, building their faith and being challenged to walk closer with Him.
I definitely recommend this book if you like legal thrillers filled with lots of faith content (or even if thrillers aren't really your thing, like me). I'll be reading this author again sometime!
September 25, 2023
Outstanding! First book I’ve read from Robert Whitlow, but it won’t be my last!
Double Indemnity is a legal thriller with a spiritual undergirding. The faith based novel is beautiful but without spiritual overload! I loved the thematic messages of God’s love and presence, the power of prayer and surrendering to God.
Characters are round and dynamic! Plot is interesting and the mystery is intriguing! Great resolution. My only regret: I don’t know if these characters will continue . I’d love a series to continue with Liz and Connor!
My thanks to the Thomas Nelson publishing , the author and NetGalley for a advanced copy. I am so glad to learn of this new ( to me) author. Kudos, Mr. Whitlow!
Double Indemnity is a legal thriller with a spiritual undergirding. The faith based novel is beautiful but without spiritual overload! I loved the thematic messages of God’s love and presence, the power of prayer and surrendering to God.
Characters are round and dynamic! Plot is interesting and the mystery is intriguing! Great resolution. My only regret: I don’t know if these characters will continue . I’d love a series to continue with Liz and Connor!
My thanks to the Thomas Nelson publishing , the author and NetGalley for a advanced copy. I am so glad to learn of this new ( to me) author. Kudos, Mr. Whitlow!
March 21, 2024
This was an interesting legal thriller with the author explaining the legal terms in such a matter that any reader from the street can follow the legal communications.
This was a slow building mystery for me. I had my suspects, and it seemed to all fall into place in the end.
Conner and Liz were interesting characters and easy to connect with. I especially enjoyed Conner’s story where he had to keep his faith amidst the challenges he faced, while also trying to lead and motivate a church.
*I received a complimentary copy from the publisher. All opinions expressed are my own.*
This was a slow building mystery for me. I had my suspects, and it seemed to all fall into place in the end.
Conner and Liz were interesting characters and easy to connect with. I especially enjoyed Conner’s story where he had to keep his faith amidst the challenges he faced, while also trying to lead and motivate a church.
*I received a complimentary copy from the publisher. All opinions expressed are my own.*
March 29, 2023
This novel was a very light, kind of predictable murder mystery, although it took quite a while to determine it was murder. Once it was, the story moved ahead pretty quickly.
The characters were likeable for the most part and it was nice to read a book that had Christian themes and did promote the practice of prayer for the powerful intercession it can be.
From the standpoint of a Catholic who knows the bible and early Church history and its writings, the theology here was pretty weak (mostly non existent) and not sure what kind of church is featured. It seemed more like a weekly lecture without much worship. A nice community event once a week.
A light romance and a good book to read if you want to escape the sex and severe violence that makes up many murder mystery stories.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
The characters were likeable for the most part and it was nice to read a book that had Christian themes and did promote the practice of prayer for the powerful intercession it can be.
From the standpoint of a Catholic who knows the bible and early Church history and its writings, the theology here was pretty weak (mostly non existent) and not sure what kind of church is featured. It seemed more like a weekly lecture without much worship. A nice community event once a week.
A light romance and a good book to read if you want to escape the sex and severe violence that makes up many murder mystery stories.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
September 15, 2023
4.5 stars .. it was a bit slow there in the middle.
I have read many of this author’s books and am happy that he is continuing to write good ones.
Connor and Liz were sympathetic main characters and there was a terrific cast of secondary characters.
The faith thread was much appreciated.
Liz was two years into her law career and 30 year old Connor is pastoring his first church in small-town
Northern Georgia.
Book discussion questions at book’s end.
Thank you to my local public library for loaning me this new (c2023) book.
I have read many of this author’s books and am happy that he is continuing to write good ones.
Connor and Liz were sympathetic main characters and there was a terrific cast of secondary characters.
The faith thread was much appreciated.
Liz was two years into her law career and 30 year old Connor is pastoring his first church in small-town
Northern Georgia.
Book discussion questions at book’s end.
Thank you to my local public library for loaning me this new (c2023) book.
June 12, 2023
Double Indemnity by Robert Whitlow
10h 50m narrated by Matthew Godfrey, 432 pages
Genre: Legal Thriller, Christian Fiction, Suspense
Featuring: North Georgia, Hiking, Lawyers, Pastor, Marriage Counseling, Food, Church, Investigations, Lukewarm Romance, Discussion Questions
Rating as a movie: PG-13 for adult situations
My rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️😕
My thoughts: 📱12% 1:15:14 Ch. 5 - This book is barely getting started after a prologue and 4 chapters. I think chapter 5 would be where it starts to heat up, but I got out of the car and have better stories on my nightstand.
📱54% 5:32:47 One minute into Ch. 21 - I dozed off somewhere, and now I'm lost. I know the events, but I'm going back to Chapter 16 for surety. This story is okay, nothing special, but I'm not bored either.
📱73% 7:55:25 Ch. 29 - So I only needed to go back to Ch. 19 but I wasn't mad about rereading all those chapters before it. Unfortunately, it seems like this story is lacking in rising action.
Meh. I can't believe they compared this to John Grisham. It's not even a true legal thriller. This story was slow and predictable and anything slightly exciting happened off-camera. There were major plotholes.
Recommend to others: Maybe. As a Christian Fiction story it's not bad, as a Legal Thriller it's disappointing.
10h 50m narrated by Matthew Godfrey, 432 pages
Genre: Legal Thriller, Christian Fiction, Suspense
Featuring: North Georgia, Hiking, Lawyers, Pastor, Marriage Counseling, Food, Church, Investigations, Lukewarm Romance, Discussion Questions
Rating as a movie: PG-13 for adult situations
My rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️😕
My thoughts: 📱12% 1:15:14 Ch. 5 - This book is barely getting started after a prologue and 4 chapters. I think chapter 5 would be where it starts to heat up, but I got out of the car and have better stories on my nightstand.
📱54% 5:32:47 One minute into Ch. 21 - I dozed off somewhere, and now I'm lost. I know the events, but I'm going back to Chapter 16 for surety. This story is okay, nothing special, but I'm not bored either.
📱73% 7:55:25 Ch. 29 - So I only needed to go back to Ch. 19 but I wasn't mad about rereading all those chapters before it. Unfortunately, it seems like this story is lacking in rising action.
Meh. I can't believe they compared this to John Grisham. It's not even a true legal thriller. This story was slow and predictable and anything slightly exciting happened off-camera. There were major plotholes.
Recommend to others: Maybe. As a Christian Fiction story it's not bad, as a Legal Thriller it's disappointing.
March 30, 2024
I enjoyed this one! I really loved Connors character. As someone who loves hiking and walking and being outside, I thought this part of his character was fantastic.
This one was clean and faith based, with so many elements that I really enjoyed. There was drama, a community feel, mystery, light suspense and a bit of romance. I felt like it was well balanced. I enjoy this author and will be reading more from him in the future!
This one was clean and faith based, with so many elements that I really enjoyed. There was drama, a community feel, mystery, light suspense and a bit of romance. I felt like it was well balanced. I enjoy this author and will be reading more from him in the future!
January 27, 2023
Right away, a man dies—either in a hunting accident or murder. A person in the area happens to film another person rushing away. That person is a hiking and trekking pastor, whom you like a lot. Whitlow has written many books and I thought I had read some of them with enjoyment. He does well bringing characters to life and describing the politics of church life and the underbelly of faith. The pastor struggles to give sermons from the heart instead of just from the head and learns more deeply about prayer along the way from some of his congregants.
While enjoyable, the storyline was predictable with the author creating sympathetic characters and ones who create dissonance among the others. After the flurry in the Prologue, nothing much really happens for two-thirds of the book and then it careens rapidly down a hill without brakes to a conclusion where all live happily ever after. However, there are some details that are not adequately explained in the skidding stop at the end: a flurry of phone calls on the morning of the death that would have implicated many others. The dead man’s company is struggling but had been publicized a lot and so it’s strange that only two months before his death, the company takes out key-man life insurance policies. They would have taken it out as soon as there were significant sales and contracts that relied on the efforts of the two founders. And the author never explains a discrepancy in the beneficiary of that policy. If the company was well-regarded and well-known, it would have sales and expenses in the nine-figure range. It wouldn’t have survived with a mere eight-figure insurance payout. The company would have needed a bigger payout to transition into a new phases of its business plan without one or both of its founders.
If you’re a Whitlow fan, you’ll enjoy the book. If you want to read something with a lot more intrigue, try something else.
While enjoyable, the storyline was predictable with the author creating sympathetic characters and ones who create dissonance among the others. After the flurry in the Prologue, nothing much really happens for two-thirds of the book and then it careens rapidly down a hill without brakes to a conclusion where all live happily ever after. However, there are some details that are not adequately explained in the skidding stop at the end: a flurry of phone calls on the morning of the death that would have implicated many others. The dead man’s company is struggling but had been publicized a lot and so it’s strange that only two months before his death, the company takes out key-man life insurance policies. They would have taken it out as soon as there were significant sales and contracts that relied on the efforts of the two founders. And the author never explains a discrepancy in the beneficiary of that policy. If the company was well-regarded and well-known, it would have sales and expenses in the nine-figure range. It wouldn’t have survived with a mere eight-figure insurance payout. The company would have needed a bigger payout to transition into a new phases of its business plan without one or both of its founders.
If you’re a Whitlow fan, you’ll enjoy the book. If you want to read something with a lot more intrigue, try something else.
April 2, 2023
Double indemnity is the double payment of an insurance policy if certain conditions are met. When Matt is killed while hunting, investigations begin since his life insurance includes double indemnity provisions. Was it an accident? Murder? Suicide?
Liz is a lawyer whose firm has been hired by Elena, Matt's wife. Conner is the pastor of the church Elena and Matt attend. Both characters are likeable with interesting plots. Connor particularly was fascinating. He is a good man of faith but who believes on a superficial level. He has to battle moral issues as well as legal ones which can have devastating effects on a pastor. His spiritual growth is the heart of this book.
For fans of mystery, there are red herrings and various twists to keep you guessing. This is Christian fiction so don't be surprised at the discussions of faith and prayer.
Overall, I enjoyed this book and would recommend it to everyone.
Thanks to Netgalley and Thomas Nelson. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Liz is a lawyer whose firm has been hired by Elena, Matt's wife. Conner is the pastor of the church Elena and Matt attend. Both characters are likeable with interesting plots. Connor particularly was fascinating. He is a good man of faith but who believes on a superficial level. He has to battle moral issues as well as legal ones which can have devastating effects on a pastor. His spiritual growth is the heart of this book.
For fans of mystery, there are red herrings and various twists to keep you guessing. This is Christian fiction so don't be surprised at the discussions of faith and prayer.
Overall, I enjoyed this book and would recommend it to everyone.
Thanks to Netgalley and Thomas Nelson. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
June 16, 2023
2.5 Stars🌟 I probably should have DNF’d this book early on, but I’m too stubborn and like to finish the books I start.😅 Clearly, I was not a fan of this book. As a big reader of the romantic suspense genre, I originally found the concept of this book very intriguing. Pastors are not the typical MMCs in these kind of books, and as someone who went to Bible school, I was looking forward to see how the story and the relationship between the main characters would unfold.
I was thoroughly disappointed. I saw absolutely no chemistry between Liz and Connor. Really, I barely saw any emotion in any of the characters. All the dialogue sounded formal and unnatural. Some of the spiritual elements were a little strange, and I’m honestly not sure I would want someone like Connor to be my pastor. Though it seemed like this book was marketed as a “legal thriller,” I found virtually nothing about the book to be thrilling or suspenseful. And *spoiler alert - don’t keep reading if you don’t want to know who the killer is* Elena was sketchy, suspicious, and downright erratic the entire book, which made it kind of obvious that she killed her own husband, but there was no real explanation as to why she did it (I guess just to get the money from the double indemnity clause?).
Anyways, this was my first Robert Whitlow book and also the first romantic suspense book I’ve read written by a man. I think, from now on, I’m going to stick with the women authors.🙃
I was thoroughly disappointed. I saw absolutely no chemistry between Liz and Connor. Really, I barely saw any emotion in any of the characters. All the dialogue sounded formal and unnatural. Some of the spiritual elements were a little strange, and I’m honestly not sure I would want someone like Connor to be my pastor. Though it seemed like this book was marketed as a “legal thriller,” I found virtually nothing about the book to be thrilling or suspenseful. And *spoiler alert - don’t keep reading if you don’t want to know who the killer is* Elena was sketchy, suspicious, and downright erratic the entire book, which made it kind of obvious that she killed her own husband, but there was no real explanation as to why she did it (I guess just to get the money from the double indemnity clause?).
Anyways, this was my first Robert Whitlow book and also the first romantic suspense book I’ve read written by a man. I think, from now on, I’m going to stick with the women authors.🙃
May 22, 2024
Among the finest!
I've read this author on quite a few occasions, and I always feel better having read one of his creations. Here, he's managed to challenge every bit of paper with a story that cuts deep to the bone, back to the garden's great lie. And, there is love, forgiveness, compassion and honor to cheer.
Great work, Robert; you and your team turned out together quite a story - an amazing story. Blessings forward.
I've read this author on quite a few occasions, and I always feel better having read one of his creations. Here, he's managed to challenge every bit of paper with a story that cuts deep to the bone, back to the garden's great lie. And, there is love, forgiveness, compassion and honor to cheer.
Great work, Robert; you and your team turned out together quite a story - an amazing story. Blessings forward.
July 7, 2023
Slow-paced legal mystery story, with light romance. I enjoy how the author weaves in growth in faith and spiritual experiences in a non-cliche way.
March 10, 2023
This is a spiritual filled legal thriller.
Liz Acosta has recently moved to North Georgia, from Florida. There were no good job offers in Florida, therefore she took on a position at the largest law firm in the small town of Bryson. She’s a new lawyer and her ability to speak and understand Spanish makes her a valuable asset to the partners. Unfortunately, she often feels more like a translator than a lawyer, that is until she is assigned a new client, Elena Thompson. Elena is in a rocky marriage compounded by her husband Matt’s two daughter and his ex-wife to whom he is still seems to be committed. The ex-wife, Anne lives in Florida with their two children and the two maintain a friendly long distance relationship. Matt has an apartment where the girls can visit him.
Elena, the current desperate wife is trying to cover her bases before things get ugly, and seeks legal advice in the event, she and Matt do divorce. Her husband, Matthew on the surface is a successful businessman with a large bank account. It may be large but there are a lot of demands on his money. Then we meet Connor Grantham the beloved pastor of a local church in town. He is single and spends his free time in the woods, hiking trails and is out nearly every morning in meditative solitude. He has started counselling with afore mentioned, Matt and Elena Thompson who have some challenging marital issues. That is said lightly. These two are not compatible. Liz has never been a regular churchgoer until one day her landlord invites her to join her at church on a day when there will be a potluck after the service. Coincidentally, Elena and Matt sporadically also attend Rock Community Church. Yeah small town.
Liz continues to attend, and she and Connor become friends and maybe a little more than friends. They enjoy some hikes together, and although they each have a separate relationship with Elena and Matt.
The story heats up when there is a hunting event and one of the parishioners is found shot and is dead. Is it murder, suicide? And then the least likely character is suddenly a person of interest. This is an intriguing, fast-paced story of friendships and faith, jealousy and envy. Mr. Whitlow has well developed characters I could identify with and feel their pain and struggles and their dependency on each other and God
I also enjoyed the tangled aspects of the law and how it is used to solve the case.
Liz Acosta has recently moved to North Georgia, from Florida. There were no good job offers in Florida, therefore she took on a position at the largest law firm in the small town of Bryson. She’s a new lawyer and her ability to speak and understand Spanish makes her a valuable asset to the partners. Unfortunately, she often feels more like a translator than a lawyer, that is until she is assigned a new client, Elena Thompson. Elena is in a rocky marriage compounded by her husband Matt’s two daughter and his ex-wife to whom he is still seems to be committed. The ex-wife, Anne lives in Florida with their two children and the two maintain a friendly long distance relationship. Matt has an apartment where the girls can visit him.
Elena, the current desperate wife is trying to cover her bases before things get ugly, and seeks legal advice in the event, she and Matt do divorce. Her husband, Matthew on the surface is a successful businessman with a large bank account. It may be large but there are a lot of demands on his money. Then we meet Connor Grantham the beloved pastor of a local church in town. He is single and spends his free time in the woods, hiking trails and is out nearly every morning in meditative solitude. He has started counselling with afore mentioned, Matt and Elena Thompson who have some challenging marital issues. That is said lightly. These two are not compatible. Liz has never been a regular churchgoer until one day her landlord invites her to join her at church on a day when there will be a potluck after the service. Coincidentally, Elena and Matt sporadically also attend Rock Community Church. Yeah small town.
Liz continues to attend, and she and Connor become friends and maybe a little more than friends. They enjoy some hikes together, and although they each have a separate relationship with Elena and Matt.
The story heats up when there is a hunting event and one of the parishioners is found shot and is dead. Is it murder, suicide? And then the least likely character is suddenly a person of interest. This is an intriguing, fast-paced story of friendships and faith, jealousy and envy. Mr. Whitlow has well developed characters I could identify with and feel their pain and struggles and their dependency on each other and God
I also enjoyed the tangled aspects of the law and how it is used to solve the case.
February 5, 2023
This is an intriguing story that captured my full attention right from the beginning. I could barely put it down, resulting in reading mostly straight through.
New attorney, Liz Acosta moved to Georgia, from her home state of Florida. She had no job offers in Florida and felt she got the position at the largest firm in the small town of Bryson, because of her ability to speak and understand Spanish. She often feels more like a translator than a lawyer, although she is pleased that she is assigned a new client, Elena Thompson. Elena is seeking legal advice in the event her rocky marriage ends in divorce and has proven to be somewhat difficult. Her husband, Matthew is a successful businessman with a large bank account.
Connor Grantham is the pastor of a local church in town. He is single and loves the nearby hiking trails and is out nearly every morning taking advantage of them. He has started marriage counseling with a new couple, Matt and Elena Thompson who have some challenging marital issues.
Liz has never been a regular churchgoer; however, her landlord invites Liz to come to her church on a day when there will be a potluck after the service. Liz enjoys church and even sees her new client, Elena. Liz continues to attend, and she and Connor become friends. They enjoy some hikes together, and although they each have a separate relationship with Elena, both are exposed to her never-ending antics and often unreasonable demands.
This is an intriguing, fast-paced story of friendships and faith. There are many twists and turns and unexpected surprises. The characters are truly amazing, and I felt as though I was going through their challenges right along with them.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
New attorney, Liz Acosta moved to Georgia, from her home state of Florida. She had no job offers in Florida and felt she got the position at the largest firm in the small town of Bryson, because of her ability to speak and understand Spanish. She often feels more like a translator than a lawyer, although she is pleased that she is assigned a new client, Elena Thompson. Elena is seeking legal advice in the event her rocky marriage ends in divorce and has proven to be somewhat difficult. Her husband, Matthew is a successful businessman with a large bank account.
Connor Grantham is the pastor of a local church in town. He is single and loves the nearby hiking trails and is out nearly every morning taking advantage of them. He has started marriage counseling with a new couple, Matt and Elena Thompson who have some challenging marital issues.
Liz has never been a regular churchgoer; however, her landlord invites Liz to come to her church on a day when there will be a potluck after the service. Liz enjoys church and even sees her new client, Elena. Liz continues to attend, and she and Connor become friends. They enjoy some hikes together, and although they each have a separate relationship with Elena, both are exposed to her never-ending antics and often unreasonable demands.
This is an intriguing, fast-paced story of friendships and faith. There are many twists and turns and unexpected surprises. The characters are truly amazing, and I felt as though I was going through their challenges right along with them.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
March 20, 2023
With several red herrings and lots of people to gain from the death of Matt Thompson, I was interested in seeing who committed the crime. This was the first book that I have read by this author and I learned quite a bit about legal cases without it being too detailed.
I loved the faith journey that Pastor Graham Grantham went through and especially his personal encounter with God. He was transparent with his church, wise in handling counseling sessions, and was a man of integrity. I was glad that he had staunch supporters who helped him when things were the toughest. I loved the ending of the story with his hike in the woods with Liz.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.
I loved the faith journey that Pastor Graham Grantham went through and especially his personal encounter with God. He was transparent with his church, wise in handling counseling sessions, and was a man of integrity. I was glad that he had staunch supporters who helped him when things were the toughest. I loved the ending of the story with his hike in the woods with Liz.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.
March 11, 2023
"Double Indemnity" is another great legal thriller by Robert Whitlow. This book kept my attention the whole way through! I kept wondering how it was going to end, and there was a twist at the end that I didn't see going. The characters were very well developed and it felt like I was part of this story. I highly recommend this book and all of Robert Whitlow's books. He is one of my favorite legal thriller authors.
I received an ARC of this book from the publisher through NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
I received an ARC of this book from the publisher through NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
February 8, 2023
Double Idemnity us an excellent read. You think you've solved the mystery, but then a twist happens that makes you wonder of you're right and then it happens all over again. The book is a little longer than I expected but overall was intriguing. I also enjoyed how it showed the glory of God and the power of prayer in the midst of a mystery/thriller. It's not often that you encounter them together in a book.
June 15, 2023
I've read most of Whitlow's books, and either my tastes have changed or this one just wasn't all that special. As always, I appreciate that I can safely choose his books and know they will be clean, and I won't be disgusted or need to put the book down. This story had the usual suspense, however was very predictable. I had the plot pegged near the beginning of the book. Overall, a decent way to pass the time.
February 26, 2023
What an awesome book!! It captured me from the beginning and didn't let up until the end!! I definitely think this book is in the top 10 books for my year!!
December 13, 2023
Audible sale (#2 of 40) 10 hours 49 min. Narrated by Matt Godfrey (B)
I had listened to only one other book by Robert Whitlow, who writes faith-based legal novels, and I enjoyed it. Unfortunately, this book left me feeling cheated. This is murder mystery, not a legal thriller, although one of the characters is a lawyer working for two clients involved in the life of a man Matt found dead, victim of a massive gunshot wound, at Burnt Pine Hunting lodge. (I finished this book last night, and already, the names of the characters have slipped my mind.) One of the two clients was married to Matt. She and Matt were seeing Pastor Conner for marital help. Because the pastor had taken a shortcut through the hunting ground to reach a favorite spot where he enjoyed watching the sunrise, he became the Georgia Bureau of Investigatons' main suspect. On his return trip down the hill, he sees a massive buck, takes out his phone to capture a video, and also catches a short clip of a man leaving the area.
One would think that the pastor would be the more spiritual characters, but his faith seems superficial. Along the way, the author introduced a couple in church who are faced with geniune battles. He, with a work related accident that has left him paralyzed from the waist down, and she receives the diagnosis of stage 3 breast cancer. This couple has really learned to trust God, to rely on the promises of God's word, and to do battle through sincere prayer lives. Pastor Connor visits them to offer his encouragement, and through their lives and devout prayers, finds himself learning from them.
When the pastor is arrested, he is so shaken in his faith that he never even asks anyone to bring him his Bible. His prayers never leave the cell.
He looks around for someone to hold onto while he sits and ponders what this arrest will do to his ministry and his future. While Connor is in jail, he has mystical experience with God.There is no help to be had from his new girlfriend lawyer because of the conflict of interests between clients. He reaches out to an older man on the church board who promises help.
In the last twenty-two minutes of the story, everything is tied up in a neat bow.
I had listened to only one other book by Robert Whitlow, who writes faith-based legal novels, and I enjoyed it. Unfortunately, this book left me feeling cheated. This is murder mystery, not a legal thriller, although one of the characters is a lawyer working for two clients involved in the life of a man Matt found dead, victim of a massive gunshot wound, at Burnt Pine Hunting lodge. (I finished this book last night, and already, the names of the characters have slipped my mind.) One of the two clients was married to Matt. She and Matt were seeing Pastor Conner for marital help. Because the pastor had taken a shortcut through the hunting ground to reach a favorite spot where he enjoyed watching the sunrise, he became the Georgia Bureau of Investigatons' main suspect. On his return trip down the hill, he sees a massive buck, takes out his phone to capture a video, and also catches a short clip of a man leaving the area.
One would think that the pastor would be the more spiritual characters, but his faith seems superficial. Along the way, the author introduced a couple in church who are faced with geniune battles. He, with a work related accident that has left him paralyzed from the waist down, and she receives the diagnosis of stage 3 breast cancer. This couple has really learned to trust God, to rely on the promises of God's word, and to do battle through sincere prayer lives. Pastor Connor visits them to offer his encouragement, and through their lives and devout prayers, finds himself learning from them.
When the pastor is arrested, he is so shaken in his faith that he never even asks anyone to bring him his Bible. His prayers never leave the cell.
He looks around for someone to hold onto while he sits and ponders what this arrest will do to his ministry and his future. While Connor is in jail, he has mystical experience with God.There is no help to be had from his new girlfriend lawyer because of the conflict of interests between clients. He reaches out to an older man on the church board who promises help.
In the last twenty-two minutes of the story, everything is tied up in a neat bow.
June 7, 2023
I was provided a free advanced copy of this book by @netgalley in exchange for my honest review.
When an office retreat turns deadly, a small town turns upside down. Matt and Elena Thompson have problems like everyone does. But they are working towards making the best of their marriage and seeking the counsel of their pastor Connor Grantham. However, when Matt dies from a gunshot wound during a hunting trip a lot of questions are raised. Was it an accident? Suicide? Intentional? Liz is hired as Elena's attorney to get to the bottom of what has happened, and most importantly get that insurance money pay out!
Although Whitlow tends to write legal dramas, this one seems more like a murder mystery, as we never get to the actual trial. As is also common, and should be expected with a pastoral main character, there is quite a bit of the story that centers on the Christian faith.
Overall I enjoyed the story and trying to figure out what was happening. A few of the resolutions came a bit out of left field and I'm not sure the reader was given the clues needed to figure it all out. I had some ideas, but definitely couldn't figure it all out. One of the main characters was pretty annoying to me, and I questioned some of the choices people were making during an open investigation (these people were telling everybody everything, loose lips people!!)! But those didn't detract from the story too much for me.
This one was published today, so if it sounds like something you'd be interested in go ahead and pick it up!
#NetGalley #DoubleIndemnity
When an office retreat turns deadly, a small town turns upside down. Matt and Elena Thompson have problems like everyone does. But they are working towards making the best of their marriage and seeking the counsel of their pastor Connor Grantham. However, when Matt dies from a gunshot wound during a hunting trip a lot of questions are raised. Was it an accident? Suicide? Intentional? Liz is hired as Elena's attorney to get to the bottom of what has happened, and most importantly get that insurance money pay out!
Although Whitlow tends to write legal dramas, this one seems more like a murder mystery, as we never get to the actual trial. As is also common, and should be expected with a pastoral main character, there is quite a bit of the story that centers on the Christian faith.
Overall I enjoyed the story and trying to figure out what was happening. A few of the resolutions came a bit out of left field and I'm not sure the reader was given the clues needed to figure it all out. I had some ideas, but definitely couldn't figure it all out. One of the main characters was pretty annoying to me, and I questioned some of the choices people were making during an open investigation (these people were telling everybody everything, loose lips people!!)! But those didn't detract from the story too much for me.
This one was published today, so if it sounds like something you'd be interested in go ahead and pick it up!
#NetGalley #DoubleIndemnity
April 19, 2023
I was quickly swept up into a story that takes place in my neck of the woods. It was fun to go on this journey with Pastor Grantham as he explores nature trails. The pastor soon discovers not everything is what it seems.
I appreciated how the author alternated between two points of view to tell the story. One features attorney Liz Acosta, who is new to the community, the legal firm, and the mountains of north Georgia. The other is with Pastor Connor Grantham, who enjoys hiking the mountains but questions whether he is cut out to serve as a shepherd in a small town for the rest of his life. With Connor, I liked how the author took the reader on fun hikes in the mountains. Pastor Grantham and Matt and Elena Thompson initially cross paths at a marriage counseling session, where things got messy.
As the police attempt to determine what transpired at the hunting lodge, Liz assumes the role of Elena Thompson’s attorney, while Matt continues to provide Elena pastoral care. This puts Liz and Matt in an uncomfortable scenario.
The reader remains in suspense until the very end thanks to the surprises and plot twists. This is a thought-provoking read you don’t want to miss.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I requested and received a copy of this book by the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
Nora St. Laurent
TBCN Where Book Fun Begins!
The Book Club Network blog https://psalm516.blogspot.com/
I appreciated how the author alternated between two points of view to tell the story. One features attorney Liz Acosta, who is new to the community, the legal firm, and the mountains of north Georgia. The other is with Pastor Connor Grantham, who enjoys hiking the mountains but questions whether he is cut out to serve as a shepherd in a small town for the rest of his life. With Connor, I liked how the author took the reader on fun hikes in the mountains. Pastor Grantham and Matt and Elena Thompson initially cross paths at a marriage counseling session, where things got messy.
As the police attempt to determine what transpired at the hunting lodge, Liz assumes the role of Elena Thompson’s attorney, while Matt continues to provide Elena pastoral care. This puts Liz and Matt in an uncomfortable scenario.
The reader remains in suspense until the very end thanks to the surprises and plot twists. This is a thought-provoking read you don’t want to miss.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I requested and received a copy of this book by the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
Nora St. Laurent
TBCN Where Book Fun Begins!
The Book Club Network blog https://psalm516.blogspot.com/
January 15, 2024
Robert Whitlow is skilled at threading spiritual insights into suspenseful, page-turning legal fiction. In this novel, young attorney Liz Acosta finds herself enmeshed in a confusing back-and-forth with her recently widowed client, while at the same time slowly falling for Connor Grantham, the pastor who becomes a prime suspect in the murder of Liz's client's husband. Connor's faith is stretched and Liz's is kindled as they work together to unravel the lies and identify the real killer.
A must-read for fans of John Grisham and James Scott Bell.
A must-read for fans of John Grisham and James Scott Bell.
October 8, 2023
Many patrons of the library kept saying this was a good book when they brought it back in. So I gave it a try. Two different law agencies fighting for power arrests the pastor of a church for the murder of one one of its members. The wife of the murdered man was a real selfish person and didn't care who she commanded. Who really killed him for the money?
November 13, 2024
Really enjoyed reading this Christian fiction that had a legal twist. The legalize was easy to follow and the characters personalities grew as the story advanced. Good story about holding on to your faith!
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