Courting Justice

Madaris Family Saga #19

by Brenda Jackson

Winning a high-profile case has given a huge boost to New York attorney DeAngelo Di Meglio's career—and his love life. Too bad fame hasn't helped him win the woman he's been infatuated with for years. Tired of waiting and wondering, Angelo books a trip to the singles-only Bahamas resort where Peyton Mahoney is celebrating her thirtieth birthday. And just as he hoped, when they finally connect, the chemistry is mind-blowing….Two weeks in paradise has given Peyton some sizzling memories. That's all she expects—or wants—from a legendary player like Angelo. Having grown up on Chicago's South Side, she is worlds away from his life of privilege. Then a controversial case puts them on opposing sides. And as sexual tension spills over from the courtroom to the bedroom, there's no way they can ignore the undeniable attraction….

Genres: Romance, African American Romance, Contemporary Romance, Contemporary

299 pages, Paperback

First published May 29, 2012

About the author

In 1994, Brenda Jackson’s first novel, Tonight and Forever, was released. Since then she has had more than 100 novels and novellas published (the first African-American author to accomplish such a feat) and has over 3 million books in print.

A native of Jacksonville, Florida, Brenda is the first African-American author to have a book published by Harlequin Desire and the first African-American romance author to make the New York Times and USA TODAY bestseller lists within the series romance genre.

In 2012, Brenda received the Romance Writers of America’s Nora Roberts Lifetime Achievement Award—one of the highest literary awards a romance author can receive. In 2013, she was recognized by the mayor and the city of Jacksonville as being a Trailblazer in the literary field.

In 2010, she collaborated with Five Alive Films to turn her Truly Everlasting title into a feature film. Brenda’s 2011 novel A Silken Thread is scheduled to be filmed with Debbie Allen attached as director in 2015.

Email Brenda at authorbrendajackson@gmail.com or visit her on her website at brendajackson.net.

Reviews

[Kim · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is one of the best Brenda Jackson books I have read in a long while. It almost seems like she went back to her writing roots for this one. Angelo was a hero you couldn't help but to love. He was so caring and attentive toward Peyton from the very beginning, and Peyton needed that type of nurturing to break out of her shell. Their chemistry was great, and they had a lot of passionate love scenes as well, but these two really had a good foundation built with their friendship, and that made the love story so much more believable. This story remind me of why I became a fan of Brenda Jackson in the first place, and I hope she keeps this high level of writing up....well done!

[Whit · Rating 4 out of 5]

You have to love a guy who is not afraid to claim the woman he loves. Angelo has been crushing on Peyton, his sister's best friend, for the longest time. But she keeps running in the opposite direction. The conflict- his wealth and the crazy women who refuse to take no for an answer. Peyton's ex-boyfriend hid her from his upper echelon family like she was a dirty secret. She refuses to ever let another man treat her like that again. Okay... but why does Angelo have to pay for Peyton's sleazy ex-boyfriend's transgressions?

[Amore · Rating 3 out of 5]

Ms. Jackson returns us to her very popular Madaris family series with these friends of the family, the Di Meglio’s of New York. DeAngelo Di Meglio, a successful attorney in the Di Meglio family law firm has been slowly and unknowingly falling for his sister’s best friend for about two years, and has finally decided to explore these strange feelings.

Peyton Mahoney, also and attorney follows the cases DeAngelo tries, keeping close tabs on his work and ever closer tabs on her heart. Having suffered severe heartache in the past, she is determined to lump all men of a certain wealth into the same category and guess who is a man of a certain wealth? Yeap!

DeAngelo is determined not to let Peyton push him away and works a plan with his sister and another best friend to get Peyton alone for two weeks at a resort. The recognition of love starts to grow between the two. It was nice to see the total focus DeAngelo had on winning the heart of Peyton, but it was not an easy task.
It was nice to see a bi-racial man in a cultural love story.

DeAngelo’s Italian father and African-American mother brought to mind a handsome mix that I could clearly imagine. Ms. Jackson always does an amazing job with imagery in her writing and the characters immediately came to life in my mind.

I did find that the story lacked some of the passion of other Madaris stories. It was a little more than predictable and several phrases were used repeatedly throughout the story, which took away from the overall flow. Other than that, I enjoyed the story as I do most of Ms. Jackson’s work.

These two attorneys journey to love explore issues of self-esteem, prejudice, and pride. I love when real world issues make it into my contemporary romance. I love forward to the next Madaris family novel as I am always interested in this family and their friends. So, Courting Justice by Brenda Jackson gets 3 out of 5 pencils for its repeated phrases but incredible love.

[Reshemah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another great Madaris novel by Brenda Jackson! Angelo is hot and Peyton is just the right woman for him. Looking forward to Lee Madaris story next!

[DeeReads · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story truly gave the feeling of the older Madaris' book! Peyton and DeAngelo were a memorable couple. loved it!



5 compelling stars *****

[Des · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really had no intention of starting this book just yet because it's part of a series and I don't knowingly read series out of order. I just found myself reading on and finding it to be an enjoyable story (*whispers* not to mention the level of steaminess was quite difficult to resist...LOL). I will also blame the status updates in my feed for upping my curiosity level. Oh and I also wanted to read a book that had a publication date in 2012. I know, I know, it's superficial of me but I wanted that new, new feeling of "I've read a book that was published this year!" LOL. I have a couple more lined up so I'll have yet more opportunities to use that line. *rubs hands in glee*

This book is about Peyton and DeAngelo Di Meglio's love story. DeAngelo's sister (Samari) is one of Peyton's best friends and her own story (with Blade) is in Sensual Confessions. As it turns out everyone has had more than a clue about DeAngelo's feelings for Peyton even though they've both been slow to realize it and also tried to hide it. Peyton seems to have done a better job of hiding those feelings however.

DeAngelo ends up chasing Peyton down at the singles resort in the Bahamas where she's celebrating her 30th birthday, declares his feelings for her in more ways than one (*ahem*) while she plays the gun-shy damsel. Now why would she be hesitant when a great guy is head over heels in love with her? Turns out she has her own insecurities based on a past relationship which inevitably cloud her judgment and prevent her from seeing that DeAngelo is not that same archetype and we get to see how that stumbling block gets resolved between them.

This is only the second Madaris Family & Friends title I've read and I'm already enjoying the series immensely. Brenda Jackson does a good job of giving enough back story on previous couples' love lives which also makes you curious to see how those stories turned out.

[Kimberly Hicks · Rating 3 out of 5]

I'm not one that has been much of the Romantic type of reader, and although I knew this book dealt with romance, I decided to take a chance on it anyway because I also love a great legal thriller. Well, I didn't get much legal in the book, but it is fair to say the love affair between DeAngelo Di Meglio and Peyton Mahoney was well worth the read.

When Peyton's girlfriends send her on a well deserved vacation, a break from her law firm, she had no idea she was being set up. There was a mysterious man who had planned to be at the exact resort Peyton was visiting. What Peyton also didn't know is that this man she would meet turned out to be her best friend's brother, Angelo, who had a real personal stake in the resort they both were staying at.

Angelo set out on a mission to claim his 'woman' and Peyton had no plans on being claimed by anyone, least of all, not the great looking Italian Hellion, Angelo.

I found Peyton's character a bit immature for an almost thirty-something woman, but she had some major issues to work through. If it was told to the reader once, it was mentioned a hundred times how good looking Angelo is. A bit of an overkill seeing as how I got that in the first few chapters that he was 'good looking as sin'! A term I absolutely loathe, but Ms. Jackson did the story justice. It turned out as I had expected it would, but I would have prefered more legal battle between the two lovers, but it wasn't that type of story. Regardless, it was well written with a bit of overkill on the descriptions of Angelo, but outside of that, I felt the story was pretty good.

[Rhonda · Rating 3 out of 5]

3 STARS
The story is very hot! Thier is lots of love scenes and more sex talk around the story of Angelo and Peyton.
Angelo for the past two years have thought a lot of Peyton is sister's best friend since law school. So he convinced his sister Sam & Mac another friend to send Peyton to a resort he is part owner of a singles resort.
Then he was going to follow her down their and see what happens.
Peyton is going to turn 30 and her two best friends since law school has sent her to a singles resort. Thier has been lots of changes with her friends since they both have gotten married.
Peyton was on her way to getting drunk when Angelo showed up and rescued her. Peyton wanted to be alone on her birthday but Angelo would not let her.
Angelo used an excuse that this other lady was after him and he need Peyton to pretend he was into her and not the other spoiled women.
Thier is not much plot thats not about the seduction or sex that they both want.
I was given this ebook to read in exchange of honest review from Netgalley.
05/29/2012 PUB Harlequin Kimani Arabesque

[Toni · Rating 4 out of 5]

Eighteen books later, the Madaris family and their friends are still going strong. After working on an especially stressful and high-profile case, attorney De Angelo Di Meglio has decided to take some well deserved time off to devote to an equally important project: winning the heart of Peyton Mahoney. Because Peyton is his sister Samari's best friend, their paths have crossed quite often over the years and De Angelo is hoping to have her see him as more than just a brother figure and he hatches a plan.

Samari and Mackenzie, Peyton's friends and law partners, notice that she is a little abrasive and on edge lately. So they gift her with 2 weeks at a singles-only resort in the Bahamas. It is the perfect way for her to unwind as she approaches her milestone 30th birthday. What Peyton doesn't know is that De Angelo is part owner of the resort and she probably won't remain single for long.

Courting Justice is a great twist on the "friends becoming lovers" story.

[Angela · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brenda is back on her game with Courting Justice. This was a great story with steamy live scenes and a great background story. I love the fact that Angelo is bi-racial. It shows that today's Black woman shouldn't limit her self in the dating pool. Men don't.

The book also reflects on how women get caught up with the things they have not accomplished by the time they reach an age that ends with 0. Peyton was turning 30 and was concerned that she didn't have what her friends did. She was happy for them but envious at the same time.

Peyton learned and grew in this book without it being too preachy. The writing was great. The love scenes were hot and Angelo was one of the best leading men in the Madaris series. Angelo was romantic and sensual and thoughtful but he had some flaws which humanized him.

Great story Brenda Jackson. Can't wait for the next one.

[Jackie · Rating 2 out of 5]

This was my first Jackson book, a problem when it's like #18 in a series. Lots of references to many friends and relations who had already coupled off in previous books. It wouldn't have been too annoying, but coupled with the cliche-ridden prose and the flat characters, I found this distinctly unmemorable.

[Tia · Rating 4 out of 5]

Mrs. Jackson is back! She wowed me with this one. The romance was steamier. The man was hotter and the story was original. I recommend this one to all, without hesitation. A truly great read, well done!

[Chelsea · Rating 5 out of 5]

Peyton, Peyton, Peyton . . . . . She had a chip on her shoulder and De'Angelo ate it!!! Very sweet story, one that shows how being vulnerable with the right person can change your life and lead to one filled with happiness and love! I can't wait to read Lee's story!

[Vickie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book deserved every bit of the 5 stars I gave it and then some! This was an excellent story. I totally enjoyed it.

[Ladying · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great read from Brenda Jackson. She never fails me. The couple had great chemistry & I loved the character growth with Peyton.

[Tammy Benton · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book by Brenda Jackson it one of my favorite author. I loved this book about Peyton Mahoney and DeAngelo Di Meglio love story. Peyton had a huge chip on her shoulder regarding love and trusting DeAngelo with her heart. DeAngelo convinced his sister Sam and Mac to send Peyton on a single resort for two weeks at the Dunwoody Cove on a private island resort in the Bahamas to get know her and win her he loved her. He developed feelings for two -years ago she didn't have a clue he was attracted to her. Peyton was single just wanted to have a good time and unwind after her latest case and have fun and meet someone possibly. DeAngelo map out plan to getting to know her and spending time e her since he was part owner of the resort. When first came to resort one of the guys was trying to get Peyton drunk and the dress she wore made her the center of attention DeAngelo wasn't having other men trying to take advantage of her. Resort had plenty of activity such horseback riding and parasailing. Peyton Mahoney was hardworking attorney who also did Pro Bono work in her home town in Chicago. DeAngelo Di Meglio won a huge case in New York and was receiving unwanted attention he preferred just a much needed month off. Peyton Mahoney had a issue with rich people who snob people who weren't privileged like her first love Matthew Elton who broke her heart the reason She felt she wasn't good enough to meet his family she left school. Peyton Mahoney birthday was coming up she was turning 30 years old. Angelo ask Peyton to pretend they were lover to keep pushy spoiled pampered Lela Stillwell. Peyton wanted to spend her 30th birthday alone she booked the lighthouse over looking the ocean she was confused about her feelings for Angelo when she didn't realize he was who she wanted and ask him to make love to her to her after he find out she left. He told Peyton he loved her claimed her as his wanted her forever. Peyton Mahoney was in denial and fought her feelings for Angelo and he wanted to be with her after her heart break from a previous relationship. Angelo was determined to get her heart it wasn't sexual chemistry it was the whole package. Peyton Mahoney wanted to end things after vacation Angelo wanted to deepen their relationship they went their separate ways. She went to Chicago and went to Dubai on business. She took on a case against a huge Gallant Chemicals. She felt some kinda way and was against him she questions his character that hurt Angelo. Peyton Mahoney admits she loves Angelo and she sorry how she reacted. He ask her to be his wife and I would love another book on DeAngelo and Peyton . She was smart independent women.

[Gladys Mills · Rating 4 out of 5]

Courting Justice. This book was enjoyable. I loved the fun. Angelo was filled with love for a woman he has known for years. He decides to seduce her with his sister's help. Peyton is about to turn thirty and she wants to spend it alone. But her friend, Sam, and her brother Angelo have other plans. Sam gives her a trip to an island resort. There she finds Angelo and they decide to hang together. They in turn make it a fling that neither of them will forget. This love affair was very steamy and sexy. A great read!!

[Pierrette · Rating 4 out of 5]

A good read.

The premise was great, DeAngelo’s characterisation was definitely well thought out and really sold a fantasy. But again, I feel Mrs Jackson lost me with Peyton’s character. I get that people have insecurities but I feel like if you’re going to centre the story around it, at least make it valid. Found her character really frustrating, and maybe that was the point but at times it really put a downer on the story for me.

[Cazi3 · Rating 3 out of 5]

Predictable but an enjoyable and pleasant read . This is the 2nd book I’ve read from BJ. They’re both similar in their premise to catch a bride and woo her till she has no choice but to surrender to a human God in every sense of perfection. The graphic sex scenes became a bit Samey after a while. I was rather hoping she would tell him where to go , after saying he would claim her … in the real world ,, Whatever ! I’m just jealous 🫠

[Shameka Erby · Rating 5 out of 5]

Peyton and DeAngelo took me for a ride, okay? DeAngelo is in love with Peyton, and he's tired of waiting. Peyton takes a birthday trip and DeAngelo shows up to prove that they belong together. But will Peyton believe him?

Okay, the subterfuge bothered me a little, as did the clingy woman who wouldn't leave Angelo alone, but the passion here was intense... it was everything. There's an underlying current of seeing women as manipulators at play in the writing--I don't know if it's to make the MMC look more honorable or the FMC more like a "good" woman but it feels unnecessary in places. But the romance Angelo laid out, the seduction, and the affection. He came to show and prove and that's what he did. He knew when to turn up the heat and when to back down--that was good on his part. Peyton had a bit of growing to do as far as learning how not to judge so quickly. Her past led her to some resentment and it was past time she dealt with it and moved on. Knowing all that held her back gave it layers. You still wanted to shake her though. Her thinking the worst of Angelo when they met up in Chicago even hurt my feelings a little, lol. But they overcame it. DeAngelo knew what he wanted. And it was everything Peyton needed. I was more excited for their happy ending than anyone else's.

[Nistha · Rating 3 out of 5]

A book that was another average romance - This is a sweet novel but that is what I would probably remember about this one. I felt they could have played more with the professions of the characters and made their romance a tad bit more engaging. It could be that I haven't read anything from this series so I don't feel the attachment. But as a standalone, it was okay. What does the cover have to do with the plot?

[Diana · Rating 5 out of 5]

It’s Brenda Jackson what more needs to be said

Liked: the hero and heroine had a history which decreased the “getting to know you” and the guessing what on his/her mind
Disliked: the hero’s family should have had a little more faith in him even if he was a playboy. The heroine was at times annoyingly immature.
Definitely recommend

[Jackueline Graves · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good story

Peyton and Angelo are two hi -power attorneys. Wish they would have had more legal action in the story. She has a chip on her shoulder due to an ex that apparently she has not gotten over. Angelo is so smitten with her that he is willing to put up with her insecurities. I loved the writing,not the characters so much. I would have hope that she was a stronger person and not let the past control her. He was fine.

[Mary Calton Gerard · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fiya 🔥🔥

This author always fascinates and entertains me with her talented writing! I have read, "Bachelors in Demand" "Forged of Steele" and a number of other single books. But, this book had me hooked at the first chapter! This is an amazing story idea and the author brought her best.

[Lee Holden, E. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great read

Great read, I enjoyed the characters and storyline. Angelo and Peyton’s love story was romantic and erotic. They had some bumps in the road, but love prevailed. It’s good catching up the Madaris family and friends.

[Annette · Rating 3 out of 5]

They have great chemistry and DeAngelo is very convincing sensually and otherwise. Peyton comes across as a little immature and frustrated me to the point of skimming as this became a bit predictable.

[Vonetta Augustine · Rating 3 out of 5]

Another Brenda Jackson romance. However, Peyton was a hard character to like. She didn't have chip on her shoulder, it was a boulder. Angelo, Sam, and Mac being such likeable characters, made up for Peyton's personality.

Angelo and Peyton got their HEA eventually.

[Turtleberry Turtleberry · Rating 5 out of 5]

Angelo and Peyton had a fiery romance. He was attracted to her and decided to act on his feelings. She had been hurt in the past and had a huge chip on her shoulder.
This was a really good book. I enjoyed it a lot.

[Ariana · Rating 4 out of 5]

I would've gave it 5 stars but Peyton was just so damn annoying to me. I loved Angelo.

[Sara Herring · Rating 1 out of 5]

yuck