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The Final Steps: Harbor Springs Cozy Legal Mystery
Who murdered a popular law professor on a northern Michigan college campus?
Judge Rosaline Maxwell is living the good life. Retired from the circuit court bench, she now lives in the home of her dreams, lakefront in scenic Harbor Springs, Michigan. She's written a fascinating new book and is invited to speak at a local college. But her idyllic existence is rudely interrupted by a call from her best friend, Tyler Guthrie, the college president.
A popular law professor has taken his final steps-he is found dead at the bottom of a popular outdoor staircase. The police suspect foul play. There are no witnesses, but key pieces of evidence make Tyler the number one suspect. After his arrest, Rosaline doubts her friend's innocence but still jumps into the fray, abandoning the law, antagonizing local police, becoming an amateur sleuth with one goal and one goal To prove, conclusively, that Tyler Guthrie is innocent of this brutal crime.
Along the way, Rosaline receives anonymous death threats, warning her to stay away from the investigation, but the former judge will not be deterred from her quest for the truth. There is no shortage of interesting and quirky suspects as attorney/award-winning author Mark M. Bello keeps you guessing 'whodunnit' until the very end. If not Tyler Guthrie, who killed Professor Kevin Johnstone?
Judge Rosaline Maxwell is living the good life. Retired from the circuit court bench, she now lives in the home of her dreams, lakefront in scenic Harbor Springs, Michigan. She's written a fascinating new book and is invited to speak at a local college. But her idyllic existence is rudely interrupted by a call from her best friend, Tyler Guthrie, the college president.
A popular law professor has taken his final steps-he is found dead at the bottom of a popular outdoor staircase. The police suspect foul play. There are no witnesses, but key pieces of evidence make Tyler the number one suspect. After his arrest, Rosaline doubts her friend's innocence but still jumps into the fray, abandoning the law, antagonizing local police, becoming an amateur sleuth with one goal and one goal To prove, conclusively, that Tyler Guthrie is innocent of this brutal crime.
Along the way, Rosaline receives anonymous death threats, warning her to stay away from the investigation, but the former judge will not be deterred from her quest for the truth. There is no shortage of interesting and quirky suspects as attorney/award-winning author Mark M. Bello keeps you guessing 'whodunnit' until the very end. If not Tyler Guthrie, who killed Professor Kevin Johnstone?
264 pages, Paperback
Published May 20, 2023
About the author
Mark M. Bello
18 books1,518 followersMark M. Bello is an attorney and award-winning author. A Michigan native, Mark received his B.A. in English Literature from Oakland University and his law degree from Thomas M. Cooley Law School.
After his career handling high-profile legal cases, Mark now provides readers with a close-up view of the social justice battlefront. Each book in the Zachary Blake Betrayal Series is a ripped-from-the-headlines novel inspired by Bello’s legal experiences and his concern for our current sociopolitical landscape.
Mark is married and has four adult children and ten grandchildren. In addition to his novels, Mark writes articles and blogs about safety, justice, and fairness in the legal system. His work can be found in numerous print and online publications.
Mark has written 9 Zachary Blake Legal Thrillers, a cozy legal mystery, a legal romance novel, and two children’s safety/social justice picture books.
**Visit and follow Mark’s blog: http://www.markmbello.com
**Follow Mark on Facebook: www.facebook.com/MarkMBelloBooks
**Follow Mark on Twitter: www.twitter.com/MarkMBelloBooks
** Follow Mark on Goodreads: www.goodreads.com/author/show/1628379...
After his career handling high-profile legal cases, Mark now provides readers with a close-up view of the social justice battlefront. Each book in the Zachary Blake Betrayal Series is a ripped-from-the-headlines novel inspired by Bello’s legal experiences and his concern for our current sociopolitical landscape.
Mark is married and has four adult children and ten grandchildren. In addition to his novels, Mark writes articles and blogs about safety, justice, and fairness in the legal system. His work can be found in numerous print and online publications.
Mark has written 9 Zachary Blake Legal Thrillers, a cozy legal mystery, a legal romance novel, and two children’s safety/social justice picture books.
**Visit and follow Mark’s blog: http://www.markmbello.com
**Follow Mark on Facebook: www.facebook.com/MarkMBelloBooks
**Follow Mark on Twitter: www.twitter.com/MarkMBelloBooks
** Follow Mark on Goodreads: www.goodreads.com/author/show/1628379...
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Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
March 27, 2023
Mark Bello, the brilliant mind behind A Harbor Springs Cozy Legal Mystery, presents readers with a captivating piece of work. This enthralling novel, divided into 24 well-paced chapters, maintains the reader's attention with an excellent and captivating narrative that leaves one wanting more.
The author skillfully crafts the multidimensional protagonists, Rosaline Maxwell and Tyler Guthrie, and the dialogue between them is so well achieved that the characters feel like real people. Bello provides detailed descriptions of legal work themes, which allows readers to learn more about the intricate world of law. The story's solid development and intriguing plot ensure that the curtain opens, and the drama begins. Bello's expertise in law and justice shines in his book, adding depth and complexity to an already fascinating story. The author's writing is incredibly rich in literary devices, resulting in a seamless flow of the narrative. The descriptive writing and thought-provoking, informative, and occasionally snarky dialogues draw the reader into each scene, keeping them fully engaged. The twists and turns of the plot are expertly crafted and keep the reader guessing until the very end. The author takes the reader on a journey that is both thrilling and informative, leaving a lasting impression.
I highly recommend this book to teenagers and young adults who enjoy a well-developed thriller. It is the perfect read to kill time and learn a bit more about the legal system.
The author skillfully crafts the multidimensional protagonists, Rosaline Maxwell and Tyler Guthrie, and the dialogue between them is so well achieved that the characters feel like real people. Bello provides detailed descriptions of legal work themes, which allows readers to learn more about the intricate world of law. The story's solid development and intriguing plot ensure that the curtain opens, and the drama begins. Bello's expertise in law and justice shines in his book, adding depth and complexity to an already fascinating story. The author's writing is incredibly rich in literary devices, resulting in a seamless flow of the narrative. The descriptive writing and thought-provoking, informative, and occasionally snarky dialogues draw the reader into each scene, keeping them fully engaged. The twists and turns of the plot are expertly crafted and keep the reader guessing until the very end. The author takes the reader on a journey that is both thrilling and informative, leaving a lasting impression.
I highly recommend this book to teenagers and young adults who enjoy a well-developed thriller. It is the perfect read to kill time and learn a bit more about the legal system.
August 17, 2023
The Final Steps: A Harbour Springs Cozy Legal Mystery, by Mark M. Bello is a well-written book and demonstrates his thorough understanding of the legal system. The beginning of the book is gripping as it introduces the characters and their deep bond. After a murder takes place during a lecture at a university where her friend, Tyler Guthrie, serves as president, Rosaline Maxwell, a retired defense lawyer turned judge, is drawn into a complex case. The victim's death is thought to have been caused by a dispute between coworkers, making Tyler the prime suspect. Rosaline is forced to take action and protect her pal from the legal system despite her initial hesitancy. Rosaline's enthusiasm for justice and the flaws in the court system are both reflected upon in this case. This is a solid read and is recommended.
April 2, 2023
The Final Steps: A Harbor Springs Cozy Legal Mystery is a new book by mystery author Mark M. Bello. In this new outing, Mr. Bello has left Zachary Blake behind and is taking a leap into the world of cozy mysteries. I love a good cozy mystery and this author has hit a home run in what is going to be a fabulous new series. I loved it!
In The Final Steps, we are introduced to a wonderful new character, Judge Rosaline Maxwell. Rosaline is now retired, but she used to be a lawyer and then became a circuit court judge before leaving her old life behind and focusing on her writing. She now has a beautiful home in Michigan, many great friends, an incredible new book to her credit… basically the perfect life. Rosaline is asked to speak about her new book at the local college where her best friend, Tyler Guthrie, is president. Sounds perfect, right?
At the college, Rosaline is introduced to Professor Kevin Johnstone and is immediately struck by the animosity between him and Tyler. Of course, next thing you know, Kevin is dead at the bottom of a staircase and Tyler has been arrested for his murder. Knowing her friend as well as she does, Rosaline is positive he is innocent and is determined to prove it. Along the way Rosaline deals with a lead detective who believes strongly in Tyler’s guilt, a young woman who announces herself as Rosaline’s biggest fan, a very angry widow, an informant who does not want to be identified, and a bunch of anonymous death threats. So much for a simple and enjoyable retirement. Is Tyler guilty or is there still a killer on the campus looking for another victim? I guess you will have to read the book to get the answer to these questions, but it will be well worth the time; I assure you.
As the investigation into the murder continues, we are introduced to another of Rosaline’s closest friends, Charlie Granger. Charlie was once a police officer and is now retired from the force and spends his time as a private investigator. Due to the fact that he is very concerned Rosaline is in over her head, Charlie steps in to the investigation to carry out her plans and keep her safe. On a side note, I find Charlie to be a fabulous character. He is brave, smart, and has a sense of humor that is really needed in the story. I feel that he is a perfectly written character and a wonderful partner for Rosaline during her trip into detective work.
Mark Bello has written a really attention-grabbing and fun book in The Final Steps. It is loaded with interesting characters and the perfect mystery climax… the kind that keeps you guessing until the very end. There is no lack of suspects in the story, which makes it even better. In addition, the dialogue is so well-done, and that lets the reader enjoy this story even more. The characters seem very real to the reader and I adore that. Rosaline is a strong, determined, and independent woman. She is written perfectly and the reader will really enjoy this new female protagonist.
When this mystery is finished, we find out that Charlie is coming out of retirement and he and Rosaline will be opening an agency together to investigate old cases where they believe the wrong person has been found guilty of the crime (a topic dear to Rosaline’s heart as that is the cause that she writes about in her books). I am fairly certain that this is going to turn into a wonderful series with the reader desperately waiting for the next book. I, for one, cannot wait to see what Granger and Maxwell get up to in their future endeavors.
Mr. Bello is a captivating writer and I am now a big fan that cannot wait to go along for the ride. I’m sure you will feel the same way. 5 Stars!!
In The Final Steps, we are introduced to a wonderful new character, Judge Rosaline Maxwell. Rosaline is now retired, but she used to be a lawyer and then became a circuit court judge before leaving her old life behind and focusing on her writing. She now has a beautiful home in Michigan, many great friends, an incredible new book to her credit… basically the perfect life. Rosaline is asked to speak about her new book at the local college where her best friend, Tyler Guthrie, is president. Sounds perfect, right?
At the college, Rosaline is introduced to Professor Kevin Johnstone and is immediately struck by the animosity between him and Tyler. Of course, next thing you know, Kevin is dead at the bottom of a staircase and Tyler has been arrested for his murder. Knowing her friend as well as she does, Rosaline is positive he is innocent and is determined to prove it. Along the way Rosaline deals with a lead detective who believes strongly in Tyler’s guilt, a young woman who announces herself as Rosaline’s biggest fan, a very angry widow, an informant who does not want to be identified, and a bunch of anonymous death threats. So much for a simple and enjoyable retirement. Is Tyler guilty or is there still a killer on the campus looking for another victim? I guess you will have to read the book to get the answer to these questions, but it will be well worth the time; I assure you.
As the investigation into the murder continues, we are introduced to another of Rosaline’s closest friends, Charlie Granger. Charlie was once a police officer and is now retired from the force and spends his time as a private investigator. Due to the fact that he is very concerned Rosaline is in over her head, Charlie steps in to the investigation to carry out her plans and keep her safe. On a side note, I find Charlie to be a fabulous character. He is brave, smart, and has a sense of humor that is really needed in the story. I feel that he is a perfectly written character and a wonderful partner for Rosaline during her trip into detective work.
Mark Bello has written a really attention-grabbing and fun book in The Final Steps. It is loaded with interesting characters and the perfect mystery climax… the kind that keeps you guessing until the very end. There is no lack of suspects in the story, which makes it even better. In addition, the dialogue is so well-done, and that lets the reader enjoy this story even more. The characters seem very real to the reader and I adore that. Rosaline is a strong, determined, and independent woman. She is written perfectly and the reader will really enjoy this new female protagonist.
When this mystery is finished, we find out that Charlie is coming out of retirement and he and Rosaline will be opening an agency together to investigate old cases where they believe the wrong person has been found guilty of the crime (a topic dear to Rosaline’s heart as that is the cause that she writes about in her books). I am fairly certain that this is going to turn into a wonderful series with the reader desperately waiting for the next book. I, for one, cannot wait to see what Granger and Maxwell get up to in their future endeavors.
Mr. Bello is a captivating writer and I am now a big fan that cannot wait to go along for the ride. I’m sure you will feel the same way. 5 Stars!!
March 27, 2023
Rosaline Maxwell, a retired defense attorney turned judge, finds herself embroiled in a perplexing case after a murder occurs during a speech she presents at a university where her dear friend, Tyler Guthrie, serves as the president. The victim's death is suspected to have stemmed from a petty disagreement between colleagues, leaving Tyler as the main suspect. Despite her initial reluctance, Rosaline is compelled to take action and defend her friend against wrongful incarceration. This case touches on a subject she's been passionate about for years - the inadequacies in the legal system - and her fight for justice becomes even more personal.
Mark M. Bello, an experienced attorney, showcases his extensive knowledge of the legal system in The Final Steps: A Harbour Springs Cozy Legal Mystery. The novel commences with a riveting start, introducing readers to the intricate personalities of the main characters and their profound friendship, forged during trying times. Bello's strategic storytelling successfully tugs at the reader's heartstrings, leaving them invested in the outcome. The novel's insights are compelling and provide a thought-provoking critique of the American justice system. The author's storytelling expertise is evident, resulting in a page-turner that keeps the reader engaged from beginning to end. The book's moderate length and easy-to-follow storyline make it an ideal read for an afternoon or weekend.
Overall, I highly recommend this book to readers who relish investigation thrillers and are willing to delve into the complexities of the legal system. Bello's work is an exemplary portrayal of a battle for justice that resonates with readers long after the final page. I eagerly anticipate future publications from this talented author.
Mark M. Bello, an experienced attorney, showcases his extensive knowledge of the legal system in The Final Steps: A Harbour Springs Cozy Legal Mystery. The novel commences with a riveting start, introducing readers to the intricate personalities of the main characters and their profound friendship, forged during trying times. Bello's strategic storytelling successfully tugs at the reader's heartstrings, leaving them invested in the outcome. The novel's insights are compelling and provide a thought-provoking critique of the American justice system. The author's storytelling expertise is evident, resulting in a page-turner that keeps the reader engaged from beginning to end. The book's moderate length and easy-to-follow storyline make it an ideal read for an afternoon or weekend.
Overall, I highly recommend this book to readers who relish investigation thrillers and are willing to delve into the complexities of the legal system. Bello's work is an exemplary portrayal of a battle for justice that resonates with readers long after the final page. I eagerly anticipate future publications from this talented author.
September 28, 2023
The Final Steps by Mark M Bello had every element a good story should have. An intriguing plot, attention to detail, but best of all fleshed out, well-written and well-rounded character development.
I enjoyed the story, character development, and dialogue. The author is an experienced thriller writer, and it shows here with the elevated levels of tension and suspense, and the incorporation of numerous unexpected twists in his compulsive storytelling. This is a hugely entertaining read, dark, intense, with a protagonist you cannot help but root for.
It’s one of those stories that come along once in a while that makes you want to read it non-stop until you get to the end. I’m giving nothing further away here. And this, I hope, will only add to the mystery and enjoyment for the reader.
I enjoyed the story, character development, and dialogue. The author is an experienced thriller writer, and it shows here with the elevated levels of tension and suspense, and the incorporation of numerous unexpected twists in his compulsive storytelling. This is a hugely entertaining read, dark, intense, with a protagonist you cannot help but root for.
It’s one of those stories that come along once in a while that makes you want to read it non-stop until you get to the end. I’m giving nothing further away here. And this, I hope, will only add to the mystery and enjoyment for the reader.
August 16, 2023
In The Final Steps, Mark M. Bello crafts a riveting legal thriller that stands out in the vast expanse of the mystery genre. The plot pivots around Judge Rosaline Maxwell, who finds herself embroiled in a tantalizing murder mystery when her friend and college president, Tyler Guthrie, becomes a prime suspect in Professor Kevin Johnstone's murder.
The story unfurls when Rosaline receives an urgent call from Tyler, imploring her to use her legal insight to establish his innocence. Her previous role as a defense attorney and her growing fascination with the American justice system position her as an ideal character to dissect the intricate narrative that ensues. The plot thickens as she grapples with enigmatic clues, constant death threats, and the ever-evolving identities of potential culprits.
Mark M. Bello's The Final Steps is far more than a standard 'whodunnit' mystery. It's an engaging exploration of friendship, justice, and the legal system. The deep-rooted bond between Rosaline and Tyler lends an emotional depth to the narrative that transcends the traditional confines of the mystery genre.
Bello's commendable portrayal of Rosaline as a seasoned legal professional provides an invaluable inside look into the complexities of the legal world. His narrative is a tapestry of compelling storylines intertwined with an adept use of literary devices that serves to hold the reader's attention throughout.
In this book, Bello adopts a precise and strategic writing style, which manifests in the focused development of characters and surroundings. This deliberate constraint of elements lends a streamlined, fast-paced nature to the narrative, rendering it comprehensive and captivating.
The constant shuffling of potential suspects propels the plot's momentum, creating an intense aura of suspense. Complementing this is the exhaustive exploration of the legal system, which makes this work intriguing, highly informative, and unique in its approach.
However, despite the book's brevity, one can't help but feel that the plot harbors untapped potential. A more expansive narrative could have added an additional layer of depth, and Bello could have further embellished the intriguing facets of the story. Despite this minor criticism, this mystery remains a memorable addition to any mystery enthusiast's collection.
The Final Steps blends legal thriller and cozy mystery genres together to give readers an action-filled story full of twists and turns. Readers will be drawn into the mystery and feel they know the characters as they sort out the clues. This is a captivating mystery novel to pick up for an afternoon read.
The story unfurls when Rosaline receives an urgent call from Tyler, imploring her to use her legal insight to establish his innocence. Her previous role as a defense attorney and her growing fascination with the American justice system position her as an ideal character to dissect the intricate narrative that ensues. The plot thickens as she grapples with enigmatic clues, constant death threats, and the ever-evolving identities of potential culprits.
Mark M. Bello's The Final Steps is far more than a standard 'whodunnit' mystery. It's an engaging exploration of friendship, justice, and the legal system. The deep-rooted bond between Rosaline and Tyler lends an emotional depth to the narrative that transcends the traditional confines of the mystery genre.
Bello's commendable portrayal of Rosaline as a seasoned legal professional provides an invaluable inside look into the complexities of the legal world. His narrative is a tapestry of compelling storylines intertwined with an adept use of literary devices that serves to hold the reader's attention throughout.
In this book, Bello adopts a precise and strategic writing style, which manifests in the focused development of characters and surroundings. This deliberate constraint of elements lends a streamlined, fast-paced nature to the narrative, rendering it comprehensive and captivating.
The constant shuffling of potential suspects propels the plot's momentum, creating an intense aura of suspense. Complementing this is the exhaustive exploration of the legal system, which makes this work intriguing, highly informative, and unique in its approach.
However, despite the book's brevity, one can't help but feel that the plot harbors untapped potential. A more expansive narrative could have added an additional layer of depth, and Bello could have further embellished the intriguing facets of the story. Despite this minor criticism, this mystery remains a memorable addition to any mystery enthusiast's collection.
The Final Steps blends legal thriller and cozy mystery genres together to give readers an action-filled story full of twists and turns. Readers will be drawn into the mystery and feel they know the characters as they sort out the clues. This is a captivating mystery novel to pick up for an afternoon read.
March 25, 2023
Mark M. Bello's The Final Steps is a masterfully crafted legal thriller that will have readers hooked until the very end. With a talent for pacing, Bello delivers a captivating narrative that balances character development, suspense, and vivid descriptions of the legal system. Despite its heavy themes, the book is easily digestible, making it a great choice for anyone looking for a thrilling, yet approachable read. The story centers around Rosaline, a young author and lawyer who is deeply concerned about the way the legal system treats those who are accused but not yet proven guilty. When a fan of her work is murdered, Rosaline's friend Tyler begs her to get involved in the investigation. Despite her reservations, Rosaline's keen eye for detail and her loyalty to Tyler lead her on a gripping journey to uncover the truth behind the crime.
From the outset, Rosaline's character shines as a compelling and relatable protagonist. Her intelligence and kindness are balanced by a realistic sense of self-doubt and imposter syndrome, making her all the more endearing. Moreover, the other characters are equally well-developed, with Bello expertly bringing them to life without bogging down the story with excessive exposition.
The Final Steps is a must-read for fans of legal thrillers, murder mysteries, and crime novels. With the added bonus of being part of a series, this book is a great choice for anyone looking for a thrilling new series to sink their teeth into.
From the outset, Rosaline's character shines as a compelling and relatable protagonist. Her intelligence and kindness are balanced by a realistic sense of self-doubt and imposter syndrome, making her all the more endearing. Moreover, the other characters are equally well-developed, with Bello expertly bringing them to life without bogging down the story with excessive exposition.
The Final Steps is a must-read for fans of legal thrillers, murder mysteries, and crime novels. With the added bonus of being part of a series, this book is a great choice for anyone looking for a thrilling new series to sink their teeth into.
August 21, 2023
The Final Steps by Mark M Bello
In this story we find Tyler the president of the school and he's being accused of killing a professor of law. His friend Rosaline is no longer a judge and hasn't practiced law in years and she agrees to look over the violence and help him out. She was in midst of her book signings and she was so excited to be doing it. Living in her RV she is capable of getting to locations for further clues to help Tyler's case. Love how she works her way into others houses to gain information she needs. Rosaline gets others to help her gather the clues.
The story also takes a twist and we hear from the killer them self.
Survival of the fitness who will the trio target now to be the killer? Love hearing the author has written many more books, I need to read them, they kept me focused on smaller details.
Great read didn't see it coming down as it did. Twists and turns and different methods of killing...
Received this review copy from the publisher and this is my honest opinion.
In this story we find Tyler the president of the school and he's being accused of killing a professor of law. His friend Rosaline is no longer a judge and hasn't practiced law in years and she agrees to look over the violence and help him out. She was in midst of her book signings and she was so excited to be doing it. Living in her RV she is capable of getting to locations for further clues to help Tyler's case. Love how she works her way into others houses to gain information she needs. Rosaline gets others to help her gather the clues.
The story also takes a twist and we hear from the killer them self.
Survival of the fitness who will the trio target now to be the killer? Love hearing the author has written many more books, I need to read them, they kept me focused on smaller details.
Great read didn't see it coming down as it did. Twists and turns and different methods of killing...
Received this review copy from the publisher and this is my honest opinion.
June 2, 2023
The friendship between the two leads, Tyler and Rosaline (Roz), comes through quite well. Mix in the chemistry of Charlie and Roz and you have a good set of characters that unfortunately lacked a story to truly use them well.
The author knows the legal system. He espoused enough of it in the book, that it actually border on the edge of boredom. I didn’t find the mystery to be exciting, though the book did keep you guessing as the author jumped from suspect to suspect. That’s the reason it’s a three star read instead of a two star read.
The author’s style of writing reminded me of an independent movie or a play with limited settings and limited characters. Advertised as a cozy mystery, that in my opinion, was lacking the cozy and had an anemic mystery.
My review is voluntary and all comments and opinions are my own.
The author knows the legal system. He espoused enough of it in the book, that it actually border on the edge of boredom. I didn’t find the mystery to be exciting, though the book did keep you guessing as the author jumped from suspect to suspect. That’s the reason it’s a three star read instead of a two star read.
The author’s style of writing reminded me of an independent movie or a play with limited settings and limited characters. Advertised as a cozy mystery, that in my opinion, was lacking the cozy and had an anemic mystery.
My review is voluntary and all comments and opinions are my own.
August 14, 2023
A promising start to a new cozy mystery series, Bello brings all the vibes of Murder She Wrote to modern-day Michigan, only this time our author sleuth is also a former lawyer. The characters are well-fleshed out, and feel real, like you could bump into them in your local coffee shop (or college). The mystery itself has just the right amount of tension and twists to keep you hooked, without rising to thriller levels. I really enjoyed trying to solve the mystery along with Rosaline, and admired her determination and tenacity, both of which must have served her well as a lawyer and judge before she retired. If you’re looking for a new cozy mystery to fall in love with, then you’ll want to grab this one!
June 1, 2023
Really well written mystery that shows off the author’s deep knowledge of the legal system. The characters are realistically written and their dialogue is not stilted in any way. The story flows smoothly and I found the workings of the legal system described of great interest. This is part of a series and I look forward to reading more by this author. I found both the characters and the story line engaging. Recommended. Thanks to the author, I received a copy of this book. I’m leaving my review voluntarily.
September 3, 2023
The Final Steps by Mark M Bello is a new author for me. This thriller/mystery keeps you on your toes. I love how he introduced the new characters in the books without confusing the reader. The mystery leads in different directions and keeps you wondering until the end. My favorite characters are retire Judge Rosalina and retire police officer Charlie. I love how, Mark, end the book knowing there will be another one with main characters. I would recommend this book if you are into thriller/mystery books. It’s a page turner. Enjoy the book so much looking into other books by Mark M Bello.
November 1, 2023
The university president is charged with the murder of a scumbag tenured professor with a history of extortion and harassment. And so retired Judge Rosaline Maxwell begins to unofficially investigate the claims against one friend with the assistance of another (former police officer Charlie Granger now retired and working as a private investigator). Between them, they define "due diligence" and find more snakes in the grass than they expected. Excellent beginning to a series I want to follow!
I requested and received an EARC from BooksGoSocial via NetGalley. Thank you!
I requested and received an EARC from BooksGoSocial via NetGalley. Thank you!
October 24, 2023
The Final Steps: A Harbor Springs Cozy Legal Mystery by Mark M. Bello is a piece of work full of mystery, secrets, and murder. When the body of a law professor is found at the bottom of some steps on campus, the main character, Judge Rosaline Maxwell, is drawn from her cozy life in this game of secrets, lies, and mystery by her friend Tyler, when he becomes the prime suspect in that murder.
If you want answers, you need to read and read as you reach the end and each question and mystery unveils itself. This is how I felt while reading this book. With each page, I was piling up questions, waiting for answers. The author catches your imagination and interest, tangles it with the story, and happily “forces” you to finish the book.
If you want answers, you need to read and read as you reach the end and each question and mystery unveils itself. This is how I felt while reading this book. With each page, I was piling up questions, waiting for answers. The author catches your imagination and interest, tangles it with the story, and happily “forces” you to finish the book.
June 1, 2023
Rosaline's friend, Tyler, is accused of murder. As a judge, Rosaline is keen to prove his innocence by asking him the right questions. The investigative story is descriptive and follows Rosaline's thoughts as she discovers secrets about Tyler and those around her.
I received a free copy and am leaving a review voluntarily.
Thank you to Hidden Gems Books and author.
I received a free copy and am leaving a review voluntarily.
Thank you to Hidden Gems Books and author.
July 19, 2024
Retiring is hard. Judge Maxwell retired and wrote a book. But at her first book signing someone dies. Her best friend is the main suspect. So she starts looking into the murder. She and Tyler begin looking at every detail. So many people hated the victim. The story is full of detail, I liked the book, the hunt for clues and the surprise at the end. I enjoyed the story.
June 14, 2023
The story was a good one, but it was a little boring in some parts.
October 6, 2023
I liked this book but I just couldn't get into the story. I didn't like the writing style but overall the story was good.
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews