Anything But Bland: Moxie, Murdaugh, and Making Life Happen on Your Own Terms

by Eric Bland

“Anything But Bland is not only the behind-the-scenes of how Eric bravely helped expose and bring down one of South Carolina’s most notorious criminals, it’s a story about what happens when you make every moment, every action and every decision count toward building a meaningful life and a career that leaves an impact.” —Liz Farrell, award-winning journalist and co-founder of Murdaugh Murders and Cup of Justice podcasts

“Eric Bland makes magic happen—both in the courtroom and in life! Anything But Bland is a fascinating story about how Eric’s command of the courtroom came from him taking command of his life. Hard work and persistence prepared Eric for the world stage. In his autobiography, the brilliant advocate shows us how the best person to bet on in life is yourself!” —Julie Grant, attorney and host of Opening Statements with Julie Grant on Court TV

Follow the remarkable journey of award-winning trial lawyer Eric “EB” Bland, a man who turned childhood adversity into his secret weapon. Overcoming intense bullying, reckless behavior, and family tragedies, Bland channeled his indomitable spirit and efforts to “make things right” into academic success and a law degree. Ultimately, he founded the renowned Bland Richter law firm and gained international recognition as one of the financial prosecutors in the legal battle of the century—the Alex Murdaugh trial.

In this riveting personal and professional reflection, Bland takes readers on a journey through his remarkable life and career as well as behind the scenes in some of the high-profile cases that have shaped America’s modern legal landscape. Guided by five transformative life principles, Bland offers his unique roadmap for success. His journey and unfiltered wisdom demonstrate the power of resilience, the pursuit of excellence, and an unwavering belief that achievement isn’t about luck, but rather discipline and hard work.

Part memoir, part manifesto, Anything But Bland is the perfect read for those who aspire to overcome adversity, live a purposeful life, and reach their full potential both personally and professionally.

244 pages, Paperback

Published November 29, 2024

Reviews

[Kay Steeves · Rating 4 out of 5]

I gave this book 4.5 stars, but I could give it a 5. This book is written by attorney Eric Bland who was involved in exposing Alec Murdaugh and was a key participant in a podcast called "The Murdaugh Murders". I got acquainted with his work through the podcast and its follow-up " ". But this book goes way beyond the Murdaugh trial. In it Bland tells the story of his life from his youth in taking up body building to bring discipline to his life, to his legal training and the first few years of practicing in different settings, to his experience in South Carolina as he became involved in the Murdaugh cases and, where I heard him on the Murdaugh Murders and Cup of Justice podcasts. The podcasts focused on the specific legal cases, but in the book Bland shares the experiences of his personal life which put him in a position to be a significant figure in these legal cases. This book has been called "part murder, part manifesto", a good description, I think.

[Clyde Nelson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Eric Bland shares his story beginning with being an unruly “loud-mouth” daredevil to becoming a successful lawyer helping to take down Alex Murdaugh. Bonus, EB discovered he has media savvy including shining as a tv analyst for law insights, and put his “loud-mouth” to work by cultivating a devoted audience as a successful podcaster. He freely shared several huge mistakes and life lessons. His tale is a great read for teachers, parents, and students who must deal with disruptive students, bullies, class clowns, and more. The book reminds us all that everyone can overcome mistakes. It is a testament to the power of finding your gifts and using them to pursue your passions. High school readers can see that they are allowed to make mistakes but must learn from them, and that it’s okay to change college and job plans. Just pursue dreams. I really enjoyed reading this ebook.

[Liz · Rating 4 out of 5]

Encouraging, uplifting read

It was nice to read about Eric Bland's background and see how he got to this place in South Carolina legal history. I remember reading about the Murdaugh murders and thinking there was more to the story. I remember Mandy playing those conversations with EB on the podcast. I appreciated his ability to explain legal ideas in plain language. His book is a smooth read and even offers up life lessons to be learned and acted out. I always looked forward to reading each chapter.

[Heidi Moser · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great Read

I listened as Mandy Matney brought Eric Bland in for commentary as the Murdaugh Murders story unfolded. She recognized this diamond: an honest attorney who can actually explain legal concepts to ordinary folk.

Thanks for sharing your story, Eric. Your vulnerability and tenacity are inspiring. I am filled with hope that Sunlight will expose corruption, and Justice will prevail.

[mark a mcalister · Rating 5 out of 5]

phenomenal

I read this in one sitting. After following MMP and then also COJ I was thrilled when this amazing attorney and remarkable human being shared his life and how his destiny was to right these incredible wrongs with grit and dignity. Thank you Renee for sharing him with us and supporting him through this incredible saga. May GOD BLESS you everyone involved in this larger than life LIFE.

[Wendy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was a good read but I missed a regular quote of Eric’s: Don’t let perfect ruin O.K.? (something like that).

If you’re looking for yet another Murdaugh retrospective then this isn’t your book.

EB does a great job telling you who his is behind his voice if you listen to him live.

Nicely done EB

[Wendy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was a huge follower of all things Murdaugh and Eric Bland showed up in the podcast I was listening to. He is funny, self deprecating in a silly way but wise thoughtful and appears to be a man of great character. His book is part his life story and part how the Murdaugh trials went down from his perspective. I have even more admiration for him after this book.

[Hal Barnes · Rating 5 out of 5]

excellent memoir

Bland is extremely open and honest in detailing his life’s journey. It was a well written and engaging book to read.

[Marci Smith · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great read!

Amazing life lived and told with some wise life lessons we all can adhere to in our daily lives. Thanks Eric!

[Taylor King · Rating 5 out of 5]

An amazing book all around! EB did such an amazing job telling his life story and the events of the Murdaugh madness. I can’t say enough how much I enjoyed reading this!!!

[Michele · Rating 5 out of 5]

Like most true crime followers, I first learned about Eric Bland through the Murdaugh murder case and Eric's connection in representing a number of Murdaugh's financial crimes victims. The more I heard from Eric and learned his back story, the more intrigued I was by him. Originally from the Philadelphia area (like me) and a lawyer in a similar area of law that I work as a paralegal, I was always really interested in hearing him explain the details of the financial/fraud crimes Murdaugh committed.

I pre-ordered this book and read it within a week of receiving it. I may be biased being where I live, but I was soaking up the Philadelphia-area name drops. On a more substantive level, I loved reading about Eric's humble roots, and how he became a successful husband, father, lawyer, and human. As a paralegal, I really respect how aggressively he represents his clients. His loyalty to those he choses to bring into his circle, whether it be his family, friends, clients, or colleagues, is admirable, as is his work ethic. I found myself relating to so much in his book that we have in common, and if I ever find myself in SC (unlikely) I'm hitting him up for a job!