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Implied Consent
Secrets bind the shamed to the guilty. Truth will set them free.
When a tearful young woman appears at attorney Maureen Gould’s office with a tale of workplace assault, Maureen agrees to fight for her. Surprise evidence? No problem. Witnesses hiding? Maureen will find them. Ironclad agreements? No such thing. But when the defendant, a Hollywood mogul, hires Maureen’s estranged father, long buried secrets pull her back into his dark orbit. Maureen must steel herself to protect her client even as the past threatens to destroy her marriage and her practice.
As Maureen fights for justice, doors are slammed in her face, a witness is murdered, and her office is burglarized. She doesn’t know who she can trust. Clearly, someone is trying to silence her. But Maureen knows that secrecy binds the shamed to the guilty. There is only one way to save her client, and herself, and that is to tell the truth.
When a tearful young woman appears at attorney Maureen Gould’s office with a tale of workplace assault, Maureen agrees to fight for her. Surprise evidence? No problem. Witnesses hiding? Maureen will find them. Ironclad agreements? No such thing. But when the defendant, a Hollywood mogul, hires Maureen’s estranged father, long buried secrets pull her back into his dark orbit. Maureen must steel herself to protect her client even as the past threatens to destroy her marriage and her practice.
As Maureen fights for justice, doors are slammed in her face, a witness is murdered, and her office is burglarized. She doesn’t know who she can trust. Clearly, someone is trying to silence her. But Maureen knows that secrecy binds the shamed to the guilty. There is only one way to save her client, and herself, and that is to tell the truth.
297 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2023
661 people are currently reading
441 people want to read
About the author
Keenan Powell
24 books163 followersLefty, Agatha, and Silver Falchion nominated author of DEADLY SOLUTION.
Keenan Powell's first publication included illustrations in Dungeons and Dragons, 1st edition, while in high school. Art seemed to be an impractical pursuit – she wasn’t an heiress, didn’t have the disposition to marry well, and hated teaching – so she went to law school instead. The day after graduation, she moved to Alaska. As a young pup, she provided criminal defense representation in a variety of cases spanning from the infamous federal walrus round-up case to murder.
Her first book, Deadly Solution, was nominated for an Agatha, a Lefty and short-listed for a Silver Falchion award. It also won first place in the Alaska Professional Communicators Contest and third place in the National Federation of Press Women Communication Contest. Her second book, Hemlock Needle, won first place in the Alaska Professional Communicators Contest and second place in the National Federation of Press Women Communication Contest
In addition to writing the Maeve Malloy series, she has published a number of short stories including The Banshee of Adams, Mass. which short-listed for the Al Blanchard award. She currently writes a legal column, Ipso Facto, for the Sisters in Crime Guppy section newsletter, First Draft. She is a member of Sisters in Crime, Mystery Writers of America, International Thriller Writers, and the Historical Novel Society. Currently, she is blogging with Miss Demeanors.
Keenan Powell's first publication included illustrations in Dungeons and Dragons, 1st edition, while in high school. Art seemed to be an impractical pursuit – she wasn’t an heiress, didn’t have the disposition to marry well, and hated teaching – so she went to law school instead. The day after graduation, she moved to Alaska. As a young pup, she provided criminal defense representation in a variety of cases spanning from the infamous federal walrus round-up case to murder.
Her first book, Deadly Solution, was nominated for an Agatha, a Lefty and short-listed for a Silver Falchion award. It also won first place in the Alaska Professional Communicators Contest and third place in the National Federation of Press Women Communication Contest. Her second book, Hemlock Needle, won first place in the Alaska Professional Communicators Contest and second place in the National Federation of Press Women Communication Contest
In addition to writing the Maeve Malloy series, she has published a number of short stories including The Banshee of Adams, Mass. which short-listed for the Al Blanchard award. She currently writes a legal column, Ipso Facto, for the Sisters in Crime Guppy section newsletter, First Draft. She is a member of Sisters in Crime, Mystery Writers of America, International Thriller Writers, and the Historical Novel Society. Currently, she is blogging with Miss Demeanors.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 113 reviews
April 16, 2023
Many thanks to both Three Hooligans Press and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review an early copy of Implied Consent.
Someone is trying to silence her. But Maureen knows that secrecy binds the shamed to the guilty. There is only one way to save her client, and herself: Tell the truth.
Implied Consent was such a great book, and I'm very happy to have found this author! I absolutely loved the protagonist. Maureen was sympathetic. She was believable. She was complicated. It was a pleasure to read a book written by a former defense attorney that was so realistic. Honestly, I kept guessing throughout the book! Parts of it were downright shocking. I'd love for this to be book one of a series!!
Bottom line? UNPUTDOWNABLE! I definitely recommend it.
Someone is trying to silence her. But Maureen knows that secrecy binds the shamed to the guilty. There is only one way to save her client, and herself: Tell the truth.
Implied Consent was such a great book, and I'm very happy to have found this author! I absolutely loved the protagonist. Maureen was sympathetic. She was believable. She was complicated. It was a pleasure to read a book written by a former defense attorney that was so realistic. Honestly, I kept guessing throughout the book! Parts of it were downright shocking. I'd love for this to be book one of a series!!
Bottom line? UNPUTDOWNABLE! I definitely recommend it.
January 27, 2023
After winning a media-covered case for a sexually assaulted young man, Maureen Gould is elated to have the jury award her client a huge monetary award, their way of saying they believe him. She arrives back to her office to find a distraught, sobbing young woman waiting for her, Josephine Navarre. After landing what she thought was a dream job as an assistant to a movie studio’s CEO, Josephine had been sexually assaulted by her boss and thrown to the floor where he was about to rape her. She struggled to get away, and was escorted from the premises in the morning, the security guards informing her she was no longer employed by the studio. Maureen agrees to take her case, and starts the process of finding witnesses, dealing with surprise evidence, and breaking an “iron-clad” agreement. The executive, Reginald Cleville, has hired Maureen’s estranged father, Francis Gould, and his law firm to represent him, which dredges up horrendous secrets and from the past for Maureen, the exceptional pain of which threaten her career and marriage. After losing a star witness to murder and having doors slammed in her face, she becomes the target. Her office completely is completely trashed in a burglary, and a car bomb exploded, incinerating her car. Although someone is desperate to scare her away, Maureen knows that “secrecy binds the shamed to the guilty,” and strengthens her resolve to fight for her client.
A tense, taut courtroom thriller, “Implied Consent” made me feel I was seated in the jury box as this riveting story was revealed. It was twisty and exciting, making the reader feel encouraged and disappointed; in essence, like actually being a part of the very complex case. Even though it is clear that Josephine is telling the truth, the executive’s lawyer team and murderers for hire try as hard as they possibly can to discredit her, smear her name, ruin her reputation, and kill to scare her away. But Josephine is telling the truth, and ultimately it is down to the jury to vindicate her for doing so. It’s also a very dark family drama, where the long-buried secrets of Maureen’s past are finally brought to light as she gives her closing argument. Her statement of “secrecy binds the shamed to the guilty” resonates in her personal life, and she is finally able to break down the walls that didn’t allow a complete commitment to her marriage. The ending is a beautiful wrap-up for most of the events, and while money does not equal justice, the victim is vindicated and their suffering acknowledged. I enthusiastically recommend this novel to fans of court room and legal thrillers, and look forward to reading more of author Keenan Powell’s work.
I’d like to thank NetGalley, Keenan Powell, and Three Hooligans Press for the ability to read and review this novel.
A tense, taut courtroom thriller, “Implied Consent” made me feel I was seated in the jury box as this riveting story was revealed. It was twisty and exciting, making the reader feel encouraged and disappointed; in essence, like actually being a part of the very complex case. Even though it is clear that Josephine is telling the truth, the executive’s lawyer team and murderers for hire try as hard as they possibly can to discredit her, smear her name, ruin her reputation, and kill to scare her away. But Josephine is telling the truth, and ultimately it is down to the jury to vindicate her for doing so. It’s also a very dark family drama, where the long-buried secrets of Maureen’s past are finally brought to light as she gives her closing argument. Her statement of “secrecy binds the shamed to the guilty” resonates in her personal life, and she is finally able to break down the walls that didn’t allow a complete commitment to her marriage. The ending is a beautiful wrap-up for most of the events, and while money does not equal justice, the victim is vindicated and their suffering acknowledged. I enthusiastically recommend this novel to fans of court room and legal thrillers, and look forward to reading more of author Keenan Powell’s work.
I’d like to thank NetGalley, Keenan Powell, and Three Hooligans Press for the ability to read and review this novel.
January 28, 2023
Keenan Powell has penned her most memorable heroin to date. Powerful and authentic. Implied Consent is a must read!
March 24, 2025
This was a pretty good legal thriller about sexual assault in the workplace.
The side story though about the lawyer and her father is just strange.
Also, I’m pretty sure the daughter’s DNA test that helped her figure out who her mother was would have also indicated who her father was.
The side story though about the lawyer and her father is just strange.
Also, I’m pretty sure the daughter’s DNA test that helped her figure out who her mother was would have also indicated who her father was.
March 5, 2024
I have been looking for another John Grisham for some time with no joy. I love the courtroom drama and Keenan Powell has delivered. Implied Consent, while it could be triggering for some given the subject matter of rape and child abuse, had good underlying messages for society to consider while giving great character development and plot. 4 stars.
December 24, 2022
Maureen Gould is a very likeable lawyer in San Francisco. She has a very chaotic life, but it’s understandable considering her upbringing. The chaos explains her need for control and order which she finds in the courtroom. In the novel she is hired by a former production assistant, Josephine, to file suit against a movie producer for sexual harassment. This legal thriller dives into more than just the court case. It also maneuvers through family drama with Maureen’s estranged father taking over the defense. Throughout the case there are several hurdles that ultimately impact their case which only adds to the suspense. Keenan did such a great job balancing the legal terminology, drama and suspense.
This truly is such a powerful novel that highlights strong female characters and sheds light on how grooming tactics and asymmetrical power are utilized by predators. Thank you so much to NetGalley and Three Hooligans Press for the free copy of this book. This review is my own independent feedback.
This truly is such a powerful novel that highlights strong female characters and sheds light on how grooming tactics and asymmetrical power are utilized by predators. Thank you so much to NetGalley and Three Hooligans Press for the free copy of this book. This review is my own independent feedback.
November 2, 2022
I'm a big fan of Keenan Powell and this book confirmed my appreciation of her work. IMPLIED CONSENT is a taut, beautifully written mystery with compelling characters and a twisty, extremely satisfying plot. And nobody does courtroom scenes like Powell. Her own background as a lawyer fills each moment with details and suspense. Can't wait for the next Keenan Powell mystery!
I received a copy of IMPLIED CONSENT from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I received a copy of IMPLIED CONSENT from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
January 16, 2023
Wow I could not put this book down, it had so many twists and turns. I thought this was a very good book, not many books can pull me in so quickly. This was a new author for me, but I certainly will be reading more of their books. I most definitely would recommend this book to everyone.
I received an ARC from NetGalley and Three Hooligans Press, and I am leaving this review voluntarily the opinion expressed here are my own.
I received an ARC from NetGalley and Three Hooligans Press, and I am leaving this review voluntarily the opinion expressed here are my own.
February 20, 2023
I haven't been this capture by a book for a long time
I couldn't stop reading book. It was hard to do every day things fast enough so I could get back to this book. I was caught off guard when a new character was added near the end.
I couldn't stop reading book. It was hard to do every day things fast enough so I could get back to this book. I was caught off guard when a new character was added near the end.
December 12, 2022
When a victim of SA appears in her office, attorney Maureen Gould must confront both Hollywood and her dark past to bring her client justice. It does not help that her father is the opposing side’s attorney or that her marriage is struggling in the background. Maureen must advocate for her client, Josephine, while unraveling the tangled threads from childhood that threaten her safety and the future of equity in the courtroom.
The message of this book is powerful, and I believe nearly every woman will relate to either Maureen or Josephine or both. The author, Keenan Powell, is a former defense attorney, and they know the inner workings of the justice system, especially where it concerns victim advocacy. Women are often not believed, or they are silenced with retaliation when they report crimes committed against them, and the author did a fantastic job of lending insight into those experiences with all the raw honesty and brutality owed to them.
The only tip I would suggest is to make the sentences at the beginning of the book flow just a little bit better. I think the author is trying to convey a no-nonsense, matter-of-fact energy right from the start, but it comes off a little choppy. However, I want to clearly state that it in no way detracts from the power of the story. I think everyone should read this book. The reasons WHY victims often do not report what happens to them are laid out neatly in the narrative, and sadly, reflect our current reality.
The twist at the end is flooring, and even though this book is not exceedingly long, it packs a big punch in a concise, and compelling plot that validates the real-life experiences of women in and out of the justice system. Thank you to the publishers at Three Hooligans Press and Netgalley for sending me an arc of this lovely book in exchange for an honest review.
The message of this book is powerful, and I believe nearly every woman will relate to either Maureen or Josephine or both. The author, Keenan Powell, is a former defense attorney, and they know the inner workings of the justice system, especially where it concerns victim advocacy. Women are often not believed, or they are silenced with retaliation when they report crimes committed against them, and the author did a fantastic job of lending insight into those experiences with all the raw honesty and brutality owed to them.
The only tip I would suggest is to make the sentences at the beginning of the book flow just a little bit better. I think the author is trying to convey a no-nonsense, matter-of-fact energy right from the start, but it comes off a little choppy. However, I want to clearly state that it in no way detracts from the power of the story. I think everyone should read this book. The reasons WHY victims often do not report what happens to them are laid out neatly in the narrative, and sadly, reflect our current reality.
The twist at the end is flooring, and even though this book is not exceedingly long, it packs a big punch in a concise, and compelling plot that validates the real-life experiences of women in and out of the justice system. Thank you to the publishers at Three Hooligans Press and Netgalley for sending me an arc of this lovely book in exchange for an honest review.
December 3, 2022
Maurine Ghoul is an attorney who likes to hit sexual deviance where it hurts and that’s the pocketbook. Coming off of a $50 million win against a chess coach. She returns to her office to find Josephine Naver, suitcase in hand pressed from being fired and sexually assaulted by “the duke“ he was her boss at Crown productions they were in the area scouting for a movie they were shooting the next year and add a business meeting with investors the night before he came on to her and later on that night Forster to do a sexual act she never consented to. She takes the case, after all this is her bread and butter it’s what she lives for but when she finds out her dad‘s law firm is representing “the duke“ she is not prepared for the bad memories and the danger this case will bring but why is her dad involved? This book was so good to had twist that I didn’t see coming and what I like best about the book is the author would stop and explain certain things in the courtroom that the layman wouldn’t know meaning me. I thoroughly enjoyed this book thought it browed nicely I found it to be well thought out well written and a all-around good read! If you love books about family secrets Badman getting there do you love Implied Consent I certainly did it was such a great book! I received it from NetGalley and the publisher but I am leaving this review voluntarily please forgive any mistakes as I am blind and dictate my review.
January 22, 2023
Read his full review on Rosepoint Publishing.
Maureen Gould felt like the luckiest girl in the world. Her mother and step-father doted on her constantly. In her fourteenth year that all changed when her step-father put her on his office couch and violated her.
Josephine was recently fired from her job. Everything had been going well and she was being groomed as a production assistant with a major motion picture studio. Then late one night her boss was reviewing the studio’s next project with her when he grabbed her head and forced it down on him. Early the next morning she was fired from the job she loved.
Josephine engages Maureen to sue the offending boss. Frank Gould represents the defendant and Maureen is seeking damages from her father’s employer!
The trial centers around the age-old axiom, “she asked for it.” The prosecution maintained that the real victim in this situation was the man who was enticed by the woman.
This is a very interesting story showing the dynamics of courtroom posturing and the assumption of guilt. The narrative is enlightening and made me angry to think the victim in question was assumed to be the perpetrator. 4.5 stars – CE Williams
Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with the opportunity to read and review this book.
Maureen Gould felt like the luckiest girl in the world. Her mother and step-father doted on her constantly. In her fourteenth year that all changed when her step-father put her on his office couch and violated her.
Josephine was recently fired from her job. Everything had been going well and she was being groomed as a production assistant with a major motion picture studio. Then late one night her boss was reviewing the studio’s next project with her when he grabbed her head and forced it down on him. Early the next morning she was fired from the job she loved.
Josephine engages Maureen to sue the offending boss. Frank Gould represents the defendant and Maureen is seeking damages from her father’s employer!
The trial centers around the age-old axiom, “she asked for it.” The prosecution maintained that the real victim in this situation was the man who was enticed by the woman.
This is a very interesting story showing the dynamics of courtroom posturing and the assumption of guilt. The narrative is enlightening and made me angry to think the victim in question was assumed to be the perpetrator. 4.5 stars – CE Williams
Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with the opportunity to read and review this book.
January 21, 2023
In this twisty courtroom thriller, Maureen, an attorney that specializes in sein fighting for victims of sexual assault meets a young woman with an awful story of workplace assault. Maureen wants to fight for the woman, Josephine, because she believes her. However, Stange things begin to happen when Maureen takes the case. Strange warning messages are being sent, two thugs following her while obtaining evidence and witnesses, and an office break in makes Maureen see that there is a lot more to this story. With her own past creeping in, will Maureen be able to successfully fight for the rights of her client? Or will her past, including her estranged father who is defending the accused, prevent the truth from coming out?
I have to give this book 5 stars!! I could not put it down. There were so many twists that kept me on my toes the whole time. Some twists I figured out, but others threw me for a loop. The details made me feel like I was in the courtroom watching this unfold. I cannot wait to read more from this author!
I have to give this book 5 stars!! I could not put it down. There were so many twists that kept me on my toes the whole time. Some twists I figured out, but others threw me for a loop. The details made me feel like I was in the courtroom watching this unfold. I cannot wait to read more from this author!
January 19, 2023
I was absolutely enthralled in this book. I read it in two days, because I could just not put it down. There were so many twists and turns that I couldn't figure out what direction Powell was taking us. Maureen Gould is a lawyer that specializes in finding justice for sexual assault victims. You follow an extremely high profile case and get an in depth look at all of the challenges she faces through this trial. You find she is going through just as much as her client is and they find a way, together, to come out stronger in the end. Not only is there the life of a trial lawyer, but she is also facing death, divorce, and toxic family dynamics. Be aware, that there could be triggering points to the plot, however, the story is written to show determination and the ability to overcome. If you love a plot that is unpredictible, this is the book for you. Powell draws you in and takes you for a wild and crazy ride up to the last page. If it wasn't clear, I highly recommend this book.
January 21, 2023
Implied Consent by Keenan Powell
Trigger warning - rape, sexual assault, pedophilia
Wow, just wow! If you like legal thrillers and can handle the triggers, you will love this book. The twists and turns with the legal case, family drama, and a couple murders thrown in had me on my toes the whole book!
When Josephine is sexually assaulted by her hotshot boss, she immediately gets fired. She turns to Maureen, a lawyer, for help, and together they sue not only Josephine’s boss, but his company as well.
This isn’t an ordinary case though and enemies are coming out of the woodwork. No matter where they turn Maureen and her team have another roadblock.
Will they accept a settlement? Will they win the case? You definitely want to read this one. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️!!
Trigger warning - rape, sexual assault, pedophilia
Wow, just wow! If you like legal thrillers and can handle the triggers, you will love this book. The twists and turns with the legal case, family drama, and a couple murders thrown in had me on my toes the whole book!
When Josephine is sexually assaulted by her hotshot boss, she immediately gets fired. She turns to Maureen, a lawyer, for help, and together they sue not only Josephine’s boss, but his company as well.
This isn’t an ordinary case though and enemies are coming out of the woodwork. No matter where they turn Maureen and her team have another roadblock.
Will they accept a settlement? Will they win the case? You definitely want to read this one. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️!!
December 25, 2022
I read this book on my kindle app. I hadn’t read what the book was about, but the title and cover caught my eye. I decided to give it a read and see how I felt.
I will say that the book did take a little while to really capture me. However, I ultimately really enjoyed it. There were a lot of twists and turns. I didn’t know how it would end, but I was hooked and couldn’t stop reading.
The story was one that a lot of people know too well unfortunately. I believe the author did a good job at explaining the story.
I would recommend this book to anyone.
I will say that the book did take a little while to really capture me. However, I ultimately really enjoyed it. There were a lot of twists and turns. I didn’t know how it would end, but I was hooked and couldn’t stop reading.
The story was one that a lot of people know too well unfortunately. I believe the author did a good job at explaining the story.
I would recommend this book to anyone.
Read
June 19, 2025I gave up on this book at 20% into it. I usually don’t make a judgment that quickly but after reading some of the other reviews I just didn’t want to waste my time. I was using an Audible book and some of my dislike was the reader. She was very one-note, very slow, no inflection, hardly any difference between characters. So I had that problem but even just 20% in I knew I wouldn’t have enjoyed it more if I’d read it myself. I found no interest in any of the characters, especially the main character Maureen Gold.
December 5, 2022
First let me just say WOWZA! This was my first and certainly not my last book to read by Keenan Powell. Full of twists and turns and a strong female character. Maureen takes on the morally corrupt and fights for the victims. Loved, loved, loved this story.
November 10, 2022
It was overall OK. The biggest drawback for me was the actual trial. Whenever we were outside of the courtroom the book moved nicely. There was a nice story arc and I enjoyed the plot.
February 16, 2023
What a lovely surprise - interesting character, great plot, nice balance of personality and fact - I live for the author that gives me something different, and this book satisfied nicely. Great ongoing back story, the conflict between father and daughter added more depth to the narrative, all in all a terrific read. Highly recommended.
Read
February 16, 2023Great book, could not put it down, can not wait for the next in the series.
November 12, 2022
This story grabbed me from page one. Nobody does legal thrillers like Keenan Powell. The book opens with attorney Maureen Gould leaving court after a massive win in a sexual harassment case. The big win quickly attracts a new client. In a storyline that could have been ripped from the headlines Maureen takes on the new case and the world turns upside down. As potential witnesses disappear or die, it becomes clear that someone very close to the case is sharing information with the other side and discovering that person may be key to saving her own life. Powell’s courtroom scenes will bring you to the edge of your seat and the outcome of the trial will keep you guessing until the ruling.
This book is far more than a courtroom drama. Intertwined with the court case is Maureen’s personal story. Her life, choices she’s made, and the pain inflicted on her by those who should be closest, weave seamlessly through the narrative. Powell brings the reader to their emotional knees and makes them care about not just a high-profile court case, but the very real and flawed individual litigating that case.
I am looking forward to more in the Maureen Gould story. I hope this is the first of a new series.
Full disclosure: I received a copy of this book from NetGalley in return for an honest review.
This book is far more than a courtroom drama. Intertwined with the court case is Maureen’s personal story. Her life, choices she’s made, and the pain inflicted on her by those who should be closest, weave seamlessly through the narrative. Powell brings the reader to their emotional knees and makes them care about not just a high-profile court case, but the very real and flawed individual litigating that case.
I am looking forward to more in the Maureen Gould story. I hope this is the first of a new series.
Full disclosure: I received a copy of this book from NetGalley in return for an honest review.
December 30, 2022
🌟 IMPLIED CONSENT 🌟
by Keenan Powell
Three Hooligans Press. Out Jan. 26, 2023.
IMPLIED CONSENT is a brilliant legal thriller about a MeToo case with a Harvey Weinstein-like serial rapist. Powell's background as a defense attorney makes readers feel as if they are right there in the courtroom in this gripping and highly believable tale.
Attorney Maureen Gould takes on the case of a young woman sexually abused, then fired, by her movie-industry boss. Gould is committed to justice, and also has a profound secret that gives her great understanding of her client's trauma. Her troubled family history becomes entwined with the case.
The San Fran setting is atmospheric. Maureen, her kind husband, and sharp legal team are also drawn with compassionate strokes that made me care deeply about them. I even loved Maureen's cleverly named cat, Germaine Greer, that reveals her feminist roots.
I won't share more so as not to spoil the story. Just know that it races with shocking twists and turns right to the end. A must-read Book One in Powell's new series!
Thanks to author Keenan Powell, Three Hooligans Press, and NetGalley for the ARC. Opinions are mine.
#impliedconsent #keenanpowell #threehooliganspress #NetGalley #metoolegalthriller #sanfranlegaldrama #bookoneinnewseries #sexualabusecase
#authenticcourtroomthriller #bookstagramcommunity
by Keenan Powell
Three Hooligans Press. Out Jan. 26, 2023.
IMPLIED CONSENT is a brilliant legal thriller about a MeToo case with a Harvey Weinstein-like serial rapist. Powell's background as a defense attorney makes readers feel as if they are right there in the courtroom in this gripping and highly believable tale.
Attorney Maureen Gould takes on the case of a young woman sexually abused, then fired, by her movie-industry boss. Gould is committed to justice, and also has a profound secret that gives her great understanding of her client's trauma. Her troubled family history becomes entwined with the case.
The San Fran setting is atmospheric. Maureen, her kind husband, and sharp legal team are also drawn with compassionate strokes that made me care deeply about them. I even loved Maureen's cleverly named cat, Germaine Greer, that reveals her feminist roots.
I won't share more so as not to spoil the story. Just know that it races with shocking twists and turns right to the end. A must-read Book One in Powell's new series!
Thanks to author Keenan Powell, Three Hooligans Press, and NetGalley for the ARC. Opinions are mine.
#impliedconsent #keenanpowell #threehooliganspress #NetGalley #metoolegalthriller #sanfranlegaldrama #bookoneinnewseries #sexualabusecase
#authenticcourtroomthriller #bookstagramcommunity
December 24, 2022
Implied Consent by Keenan Powell
Publisher: Three Hooligans Press
Genre: Mystery & Thrillers, Women's Fiction
Expected Publication Date: January 26, 2023
Implied Consent by Keenan Powell is a book I could not put down! This book grabbed me from page one and did not let go until the very end (& I still wanted more!)!!! This book was told from the perspective of a lawyer, Maureen Gould, and I found fascinating to see how a case was built from the lawyer's perspective and all of the drama that unfolded.
Wow!!! This book was intense! It touched on such a delicate subject, rape vs. consent, and at times was hard to read because I could feel the emotions the characters were experiencing. It was so worth it though!
The writing was incredible and the characters were fascinating and relatable. The storyline was captivating and I didn't want it to end. There were so many twists and turns and unexpected things that happened. I was on the edge of my seat reading this!
I really hope we will revisit Maureen Gould and her law practice. I know there are more people she can help! I highly recommend reading this book. I know I'll be re-reading it!!!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Publisher: Three Hooligans Press
Genre: Mystery & Thrillers, Women's Fiction
Expected Publication Date: January 26, 2023
Implied Consent by Keenan Powell is a book I could not put down! This book grabbed me from page one and did not let go until the very end (& I still wanted more!)!!! This book was told from the perspective of a lawyer, Maureen Gould, and I found fascinating to see how a case was built from the lawyer's perspective and all of the drama that unfolded.
Wow!!! This book was intense! It touched on such a delicate subject, rape vs. consent, and at times was hard to read because I could feel the emotions the characters were experiencing. It was so worth it though!
The writing was incredible and the characters were fascinating and relatable. The storyline was captivating and I didn't want it to end. There were so many twists and turns and unexpected things that happened. I was on the edge of my seat reading this!
I really hope we will revisit Maureen Gould and her law practice. I know there are more people she can help! I highly recommend reading this book. I know I'll be re-reading it!!!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 16, 2023
I received an ARC through "NetGalley" and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
The story begins with Maureen in a courthouse awaiting the verdict on a trial she is leading. The verdict is finally announced and she has a major win. When she gets back to her office, she is advised of a new client that wants her to handle her case. Maureen is a highly successful attorney who handles abuse cases. The potential client has come to her based on a recommendation received from a journalist. After Maureen hears the facts of the case, she agrees and has Josephine her new client sign an agreement.
As time goes by it is time for a preliminary hearing and Maureen is presenting her case to allow a trial against a Hollywood mogul who abused Josephine and then fired her. She receives a verdict which sets forth a date for the trial.
As you read on, learn what steps Maureen took in gathering information and how a change that the defense made her job much harder. Read what steps the defense were taking to obstruct her from getting the information needed to support Josephine's claim. At the end any questions that you still had would be answered.
This is definitely a book worth reading and I plan to discover more from this author.
The story begins with Maureen in a courthouse awaiting the verdict on a trial she is leading. The verdict is finally announced and she has a major win. When she gets back to her office, she is advised of a new client that wants her to handle her case. Maureen is a highly successful attorney who handles abuse cases. The potential client has come to her based on a recommendation received from a journalist. After Maureen hears the facts of the case, she agrees and has Josephine her new client sign an agreement.
As time goes by it is time for a preliminary hearing and Maureen is presenting her case to allow a trial against a Hollywood mogul who abused Josephine and then fired her. She receives a verdict which sets forth a date for the trial.
As you read on, learn what steps Maureen took in gathering information and how a change that the defense made her job much harder. Read what steps the defense were taking to obstruct her from getting the information needed to support Josephine's claim. At the end any questions that you still had would be answered.
This is definitely a book worth reading and I plan to discover more from this author.
November 1, 2022
This is my first book by this author and I was impressed. It was such a good book and I loved the ending.
Maureen Gould has just won a huge sexual harassment case. She soon meets a new client named Josephine who was referred to her by a reporter. Josephine says that she was just fired after a sexual assault by her boss, who happens to be a Hollywood director. She wants to sue him and the company to stop this from happening to anymore women.
Maureen agree to take the case & is looking for witnesses but it seems everyone she meets is afraid or unwilling to testify. Will she be able to build a case against this Hollywood mogul?
Things get more complicated when Maureen’s estranged fathers firm represents the defendant. Maureen soon discovers that her past secrets are about to explode. How will she handle this during the mayhem of this case?
Added to that, someone is trying to silence witnesses and may be after Maureen. Will she be able to prove that her client is telling the truth and stop this defendant from attacking other women?
Thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for the advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
Maureen Gould has just won a huge sexual harassment case. She soon meets a new client named Josephine who was referred to her by a reporter. Josephine says that she was just fired after a sexual assault by her boss, who happens to be a Hollywood director. She wants to sue him and the company to stop this from happening to anymore women.
Maureen agree to take the case & is looking for witnesses but it seems everyone she meets is afraid or unwilling to testify. Will she be able to build a case against this Hollywood mogul?
Things get more complicated when Maureen’s estranged fathers firm represents the defendant. Maureen soon discovers that her past secrets are about to explode. How will she handle this during the mayhem of this case?
Added to that, someone is trying to silence witnesses and may be after Maureen. Will she be able to prove that her client is telling the truth and stop this defendant from attacking other women?
Thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for the advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
January 31, 2023
Maureen and her father Frank Gould are both lawyers and adversaries. Could be due to the lack of love she received from her parents along with the abuse she received at the hands of her father. When her mother recently died, Maureen inherited the family home where her father is currently living and money from her Granny Shaughnessy’s inheritance, Currently trying to figure out the estate which is almost impossible since Frank always seems to have an answer for the missing funds.
Maureen is currently defending Josephine Navarre, an actress who alleges sexual harassment from Reginald Cleville, a big star movie producer. Having employees sign NDA’s, her team is having trouble finding other victims Reginald may have abused to talk. Once one of the ladies agrees to be interviewed, she is killed before being interviewed. Adding to Maureen’s issues of not getting information, her father has taken over as lead of Reginald’s defense team.
This story has many twist and turns and had my attention from beginning to end. Highly recommended to those who love a good mystery.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Maureen is currently defending Josephine Navarre, an actress who alleges sexual harassment from Reginald Cleville, a big star movie producer. Having employees sign NDA’s, her team is having trouble finding other victims Reginald may have abused to talk. Once one of the ladies agrees to be interviewed, she is killed before being interviewed. Adding to Maureen’s issues of not getting information, her father has taken over as lead of Reginald’s defense team.
This story has many twist and turns and had my attention from beginning to end. Highly recommended to those who love a good mystery.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
November 12, 2022
I loved this story, and its protagonist. I found that she was sympathetic, realistic, and a wonderfully-complicated character. I had so much empathy for Maureen that I cried at several points. I also had empathy for Maureen's client and the case she brings with her. There are plenty of twists and surprises, betrayals, insights, surprise allies, and a well-drawn villain.
The legal language in this novel is explained such that it enhances the reader's understanding of what's happening at each stage. I felt like I was right there in the courtroom watching the case.
I loved the courtroom scenes because they show that judges are also flawed, subject to biases, and that their rulings keep so much out of the view of a jury. The jury was also lifelike - I've served on juries like this. There was drama and intrigue inside the court and out, making this novel a fast-paced and exciting read.
I received an advanced copy of this novel from the author in exchange for an honest review.
The legal language in this novel is explained such that it enhances the reader's understanding of what's happening at each stage. I felt like I was right there in the courtroom watching the case.
I loved the courtroom scenes because they show that judges are also flawed, subject to biases, and that their rulings keep so much out of the view of a jury. The jury was also lifelike - I've served on juries like this. There was drama and intrigue inside the court and out, making this novel a fast-paced and exciting read.
I received an advanced copy of this novel from the author in exchange for an honest review.
January 24, 2023
I know, I know it’s only January, but so far this is my favorite book of the year.
This book tells the story of an attorney – her backstory is woven in, along with her family story (past and present). The main story line follows a sexual harassment case from the entertainment industry, which is what ultimately drew me in, having a history in the entertainment industry myself. There is fascinating detail of the trial that ensues – I felt like I was there.
Wow! I found myself taking a long time to read Implied Consent because I did not want it to end (I would love for it to be a series!) because I was enthralled in way the various storylines converge to become one intense story of the trial. I rarely give 5 stars, but this book is worth it.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher, courtesy of NetGalley. This has no bearing on my thoughts and/or opinions.
This book tells the story of an attorney – her backstory is woven in, along with her family story (past and present). The main story line follows a sexual harassment case from the entertainment industry, which is what ultimately drew me in, having a history in the entertainment industry myself. There is fascinating detail of the trial that ensues – I felt like I was there.
Wow! I found myself taking a long time to read Implied Consent because I did not want it to end (I would love for it to be a series!) because I was enthralled in way the various storylines converge to become one intense story of the trial. I rarely give 5 stars, but this book is worth it.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher, courtesy of NetGalley. This has no bearing on my thoughts and/or opinions.
January 25, 2023
San Francisco attorney Maureen Gould's recent win in a sexual harassment case brings her another client that will change her career & life. Josephine Navarre worked for Hollywood producer Reginald Cleville until he sexually attacked & then fired her. As Maureen prepares for trial, potential witnesses disappear or are killed & it becomes clear that someone is sharing information with the defense. But this is much more than a legal courtroom drama. Maureen's complex character is formed by a troubled relationship with her mother, estranged father & ex-husband laywer. Her struggles are seamlessly woven through the story.
Author Powell's background as a lawyer are well used to deliver great courtroom scenes full of twists, suspense and surprises. This was a fast-paced and exciting read.
I received a digital ARC from Netgalley and Three Hooligans Press. These opinions are my own.
#ImpliedConsent
Author Powell's background as a lawyer are well used to deliver great courtroom scenes full of twists, suspense and surprises. This was a fast-paced and exciting read.
I received a digital ARC from Netgalley and Three Hooligans Press. These opinions are my own.
#ImpliedConsent
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