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Robin Lockwood #1
The Third Victim
A woman stumbles onto a dark road in rural Oregon--battered, and bound. She tells a horrific story about being kidnapped and tortured until she finally managed to escape. She was the lucky one--two other women with similar burns and bruises were found dead.
The surviving victim identifies the cabin where she was held captive and the owner, Alex Mason--a prominent local attorney--is arrested. Although he loudly insists upon his innocence, his wife's statements about his sexual sadism and the physical evidence found at the summer home is damning.
Regina Barrister is a legendary criminal defense attorney, known as "The Sorceress" for her courtroom victories. But she's got a secret, one that threatens her skill, her reputation, and, most of all, her clients. She agrees to take on the seemingly impossible task of defending Alex Mason.
Robin Lockwood, a young lawyer and former MMA fighter, has just left a clerkship at the Oregon Supreme Court to work for Barrister. The Mason trial is her first big one, a likely death penalty case, and she's second chair to Regina. Increasingly, she's worried about two things, her boss's behavior and the details in the case against their client don't quite add up.
The surviving victim identifies the cabin where she was held captive and the owner, Alex Mason--a prominent local attorney--is arrested. Although he loudly insists upon his innocence, his wife's statements about his sexual sadism and the physical evidence found at the summer home is damning.
Regina Barrister is a legendary criminal defense attorney, known as "The Sorceress" for her courtroom victories. But she's got a secret, one that threatens her skill, her reputation, and, most of all, her clients. She agrees to take on the seemingly impossible task of defending Alex Mason.
Robin Lockwood, a young lawyer and former MMA fighter, has just left a clerkship at the Oregon Supreme Court to work for Barrister. The Mason trial is her first big one, a likely death penalty case, and she's second chair to Regina. Increasingly, she's worried about two things, her boss's behavior and the details in the case against their client don't quite add up.
320 pages, Hardcover
First published March 6, 2018
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December 27, 2017
I hate giving poor reviews. No really; it's painful and makes me feel like a grade A butthead on steroids. I understand how much blood, sweat, and tears go into creating a novel and highly respect anyone with enough diligence and creativity to pull off such a feat, but to give this anything higher than 2 stars would cause me to lie about my feelings toward this book. Just know that this was my personal experience and there are already a few other reviews that give this book the glowing go-ahead, so please don't let me stop you from reading it.
I haven't read a book by this author prior to The Third Victim, but my understanding is that he is highly esteemed in the thriller genre and I still intend to check out some of his original work. That said, what I've heard about his books and the way this one read don't seem to mesh as they should. Perhaps a ghostwriter was used here? Maybe a private collaboration that didn't bring forth the quality of his usual work? Whatever the reason, here's why it didn't work for me:
First off, I couldn't get past the fact that an inexperienced writer didn't draft this story. Here's an example of how each character is introduced in the first 40 pages- "Harry White was thirty-one years old. He had curly black hair, a straight nose, blue eyes, and a dark complexion." Next is "Regina Barrister, who has an ivory complexion, crystal clear blue eyes, and a dazzling smile. She is now 58 years old and still beautiful with a crown of golden hair." I get that sometimes these type of basic descriptions are necessary, but after the fourth introduction in this format my attention began to wane.
Next, I was really bothered by some of the less prominent actions that felt so unrealistic. Example- A female cop is interrogating a female victim of horrible trauma (kidnapped, cut, burned with cigarettes, etc.) and when the victim starts getting upset she tells her to just "relax and calm down" after giving her an intense interrogation. I'm not saying it doesn't happen, but it felt very uncomfortable reading about a female cop being so callous and inconsiderate to a female victim. Again, just personal preference in my reading tastes.
Finally, it just ended up being predictable. This could be due to the fact that I've read so many thrillers (roughly 500+ in the past couple of years), but this felt like I had picked up a generic James Patterson novel; entertaining, but nothing that's going to be unique or unheard of. There's a small detail given in the first 50 pages or so that had me guess the big twist and anticipate the ending. Those who are relatively unread in the thriller genre may find this more entertaining than I did, but if you area regular reader of these sorts of books I don't think you'll find anything new here. I truly hate that I didn't love this like I thought I would, but we all happen across books that don't meet our expectations at times and this was just my turn I suppose.
I haven't read a book by this author prior to The Third Victim, but my understanding is that he is highly esteemed in the thriller genre and I still intend to check out some of his original work. That said, what I've heard about his books and the way this one read don't seem to mesh as they should. Perhaps a ghostwriter was used here? Maybe a private collaboration that didn't bring forth the quality of his usual work? Whatever the reason, here's why it didn't work for me:
First off, I couldn't get past the fact that an inexperienced writer didn't draft this story. Here's an example of how each character is introduced in the first 40 pages- "Harry White was thirty-one years old. He had curly black hair, a straight nose, blue eyes, and a dark complexion." Next is "Regina Barrister, who has an ivory complexion, crystal clear blue eyes, and a dazzling smile. She is now 58 years old and still beautiful with a crown of golden hair." I get that sometimes these type of basic descriptions are necessary, but after the fourth introduction in this format my attention began to wane.
Next, I was really bothered by some of the less prominent actions that felt so unrealistic. Example- A female cop is interrogating a female victim of horrible trauma (kidnapped, cut, burned with cigarettes, etc.) and when the victim starts getting upset she tells her to just "relax and calm down" after giving her an intense interrogation. I'm not saying it doesn't happen, but it felt very uncomfortable reading about a female cop being so callous and inconsiderate to a female victim. Again, just personal preference in my reading tastes.
Finally, it just ended up being predictable. This could be due to the fact that I've read so many thrillers (roughly 500+ in the past couple of years), but this felt like I had picked up a generic James Patterson novel; entertaining, but nothing that's going to be unique or unheard of. There's a small detail given in the first 50 pages or so that had me guess the big twist and anticipate the ending. Those who are relatively unread in the thriller genre may find this more entertaining than I did, but if you area regular reader of these sorts of books I don't think you'll find anything new here. I truly hate that I didn't love this like I thought I would, but we all happen across books that don't meet our expectations at times and this was just my turn I suppose.
October 29, 2017
A fantastic new legal thriller!!
Two women savagely beaten and killed. A third is lucky enough to escape and is found by a passing motorist. The police quickly have a suspect in custody. But it’s not exactly someone you’d ever have expected. Do the cops really have the right perp? Is this a set up?
The author tosses in plenty of red herrings throughout and cleverly winds the story through a maze of potential suspects.
Robin, a new lawyer with little trial experience is requested to sit second chair for the defense in this sensational trial. But she’s worried about her mentor, Regina. She’s certainly not acting like herself. And this could potentially impact their client. Maybe even the trial.
The storyline takes so many hair-pin curves you won’t be able to put this one down for a minute! The short chapters fly by, leaving you wanting more and reading late into the night!
I am a huge Phillip Margolin fan! As with his other books, this one takes place in Oregon, with a similar feel to his Amanda Jaffe series. I’m hoping this one will also be made into a series (fingers crossed). It has all the ingredients you look for in a great legal thriller!
I received a copy of this book through Goodreads Giveaway and Minotaur books.
Two women savagely beaten and killed. A third is lucky enough to escape and is found by a passing motorist. The police quickly have a suspect in custody. But it’s not exactly someone you’d ever have expected. Do the cops really have the right perp? Is this a set up?
The author tosses in plenty of red herrings throughout and cleverly winds the story through a maze of potential suspects.
Robin, a new lawyer with little trial experience is requested to sit second chair for the defense in this sensational trial. But she’s worried about her mentor, Regina. She’s certainly not acting like herself. And this could potentially impact their client. Maybe even the trial.
The storyline takes so many hair-pin curves you won’t be able to put this one down for a minute! The short chapters fly by, leaving you wanting more and reading late into the night!
I am a huge Phillip Margolin fan! As with his other books, this one takes place in Oregon, with a similar feel to his Amanda Jaffe series. I’m hoping this one will also be made into a series (fingers crossed). It has all the ingredients you look for in a great legal thriller!
I received a copy of this book through Goodreads Giveaway and Minotaur books.
February 28, 2018
The Third Victim by Philip Margolin is a 2018 St. Martin’s Press publication.
Two prostitutes are murdered, but a third victim, Meredith Fenner, doesn’t fit that profile, and also manages to escape her captor. Once she leads investigators back to the cabin where she was being held, they discover the cabin was owned by prominent defense attorney Alex Mason.
Alex promptly hires Regina Barrister, who then names a relative newcomer, Robin Lockwood, as second chair. Although Alex thinks Regina will get him off, his wife basically throws him under the bus by giving vivid details of their sex life which matches the descriptions given by Meredith, of her captor.
But, Alex is not the only suspect. A rogue cop is also on the list, but Regina is adamant they avoid exploring that avenue too closely. Not only that, Robin notices her boss is struggling from glaring gaps in her memory which could have an impact on their case.
I have probably mentioned this every single time I write a review for a Margolin novel- but I have been a steady fan of this author since reading ‘Gone, but not Forgotten’, way back in the day.
I think anyone who has followed his illustrious career with more than a casual interest or seasoned mystery/thriller readers who hold their authors to a higher standard than most will have noticed Margolin’s thrillers have not always been up to par.
Even ‘Booklist’ seemed to remark on this in their praise of this book by stating:
"Margolin continues his return to the exceptional form of his early novels”- etc…
While I always want to like a book when I start reading it, sometimes it still falls short. This novel is enjoyable enough if you don’t need a challenge and are fine with an average run of the mill thriller to pass the time.
But, if you are looking to be blown away, riveted to the pages and tempted to stay up past your bedtime, you might feel a little let down.
I’m a jaded mystery/thriller reader and I can be a little hard on this genre at times as a result. I want and expect from a seasoned author something that gives my mind a workout, with plot twists I never saw coming and will keep me guessing until the very end, which, sadly, did not happen with this novel.
This story does have some merits. I hate what usually passes as a legal thriller these days, so when a novel actually has courtroom scenes and allows the lawyers to build a legal case, while investigators work the crime scene, I’m ecstatic! I love courtroom drama and legal wrangling, and all that legalese. So, this book was incredibly refreshing from that standpoint and more of a pure legal thriller than anything I’ve read under that category in a long while.
The public seems to have an insatiable appetite for sensational sex scandals, especially with prominent figures involved, and of course to modernize it, just throw in a bit of kink and you can rehash the same tired old plot scenario over and over, but it’s not all that original, now is it? Not only that, the ending was not all that surprising and not at all shocking, and felt dated, even. I’m sorry, but I just wasn’t buying it. However, there were a few nice details and red herrings tossed in there, interesting enough to keep me reading.
The spotlight on the devastating effects of dementia was well intentioned and did provide an interesting dilemma for Robin, who found herself in between a rock and a hard place. But, the storyline was a little wobbly, especially with this area feeling rushed and the characters were a bit stiff and which stymied my ability to connect and feel sympathy for them.
Overall, this is an average thriller, not terribly bad, but not great either. I may be in the minority here, but I wouldn’t say this book is an indication Margolin is ‘back on track’, but it is a passable job.
3 stars
Two prostitutes are murdered, but a third victim, Meredith Fenner, doesn’t fit that profile, and also manages to escape her captor. Once she leads investigators back to the cabin where she was being held, they discover the cabin was owned by prominent defense attorney Alex Mason.
Alex promptly hires Regina Barrister, who then names a relative newcomer, Robin Lockwood, as second chair. Although Alex thinks Regina will get him off, his wife basically throws him under the bus by giving vivid details of their sex life which matches the descriptions given by Meredith, of her captor.
But, Alex is not the only suspect. A rogue cop is also on the list, but Regina is adamant they avoid exploring that avenue too closely. Not only that, Robin notices her boss is struggling from glaring gaps in her memory which could have an impact on their case.
I have probably mentioned this every single time I write a review for a Margolin novel- but I have been a steady fan of this author since reading ‘Gone, but not Forgotten’, way back in the day.
I think anyone who has followed his illustrious career with more than a casual interest or seasoned mystery/thriller readers who hold their authors to a higher standard than most will have noticed Margolin’s thrillers have not always been up to par.
Even ‘Booklist’ seemed to remark on this in their praise of this book by stating:
"Margolin continues his return to the exceptional form of his early novels”- etc…
While I always want to like a book when I start reading it, sometimes it still falls short. This novel is enjoyable enough if you don’t need a challenge and are fine with an average run of the mill thriller to pass the time.
But, if you are looking to be blown away, riveted to the pages and tempted to stay up past your bedtime, you might feel a little let down.
I’m a jaded mystery/thriller reader and I can be a little hard on this genre at times as a result. I want and expect from a seasoned author something that gives my mind a workout, with plot twists I never saw coming and will keep me guessing until the very end, which, sadly, did not happen with this novel.
This story does have some merits. I hate what usually passes as a legal thriller these days, so when a novel actually has courtroom scenes and allows the lawyers to build a legal case, while investigators work the crime scene, I’m ecstatic! I love courtroom drama and legal wrangling, and all that legalese. So, this book was incredibly refreshing from that standpoint and more of a pure legal thriller than anything I’ve read under that category in a long while.
The public seems to have an insatiable appetite for sensational sex scandals, especially with prominent figures involved, and of course to modernize it, just throw in a bit of kink and you can rehash the same tired old plot scenario over and over, but it’s not all that original, now is it? Not only that, the ending was not all that surprising and not at all shocking, and felt dated, even. I’m sorry, but I just wasn’t buying it. However, there were a few nice details and red herrings tossed in there, interesting enough to keep me reading.
The spotlight on the devastating effects of dementia was well intentioned and did provide an interesting dilemma for Robin, who found herself in between a rock and a hard place. But, the storyline was a little wobbly, especially with this area feeling rushed and the characters were a bit stiff and which stymied my ability to connect and feel sympathy for them.
Overall, this is an average thriller, not terribly bad, but not great either. I may be in the minority here, but I wouldn’t say this book is an indication Margolin is ‘back on track’, but it is a passable job.
3 stars
March 20, 2018
3.5 When Robin lands the assistant lawyer job with Regina, she is thrilled. Regina has the distinction as the lawyer who has never lost a case, and she has undertaken some Biggie's. When Attorney Alex Mason is arrested, after w woman escapes from his cabin, claiming torture, kidnapping, and sexual assault, he turns to Regina. It will be Robin's first case as second chair. She then begins to notice little things in Regina's behavior that alarms her.
Although I don't consider this to be Margolins best, it is still quite good. He puts together an interesting storyline with a somewhat unique premise concerning a topic that some of us are dealing with in our elderly parents. The storyline was a bit predictable, but there was enough going on to keep me reading, see how it ends. The pace was consistent, though in places I did think the writing could be better. The way he introduced his characters could have been better,more descriptive maybe, less abrupt speech.
I have read this author for many years, off and on and look forward to doing so again.
ARC from Netgalley.
Although I don't consider this to be Margolins best, it is still quite good. He puts together an interesting storyline with a somewhat unique premise concerning a topic that some of us are dealing with in our elderly parents. The storyline was a bit predictable, but there was enough going on to keep me reading, see how it ends. The pace was consistent, though in places I did think the writing could be better. The way he introduced his characters could have been better,more descriptive maybe, less abrupt speech.
I have read this author for many years, off and on and look forward to doing so again.
ARC from Netgalley.
February 5, 2018
First and foremost, a large thank you to Phillip Margolin and Minotaur Books for providing me with a copy of this publication, which allows me to provide you with an unbiased review.
Phillip Margolin is back with another explosive legal thriller that will keep the reader pushing through until the very end to see that justice is served. Regina Barrister has made a name for herself in the Oregon legal community, defending those who have the money and need her legal prowess. Not only are clients aware of Barrister’s capabilities, but one law student has made the ultimate sacrifice to work alongside her. Robin Lockwood has done everyone in her power and when the opportunity arises, she’s keen to take an associate position with Barrister. Meanwhile, Meredith Fenner appears on a rural road, burns across her torso with obvious signs of having been held captive, claiming that she’s just escaped her kidnapper. After the Portland Police become involved, they notice her injuries are similar to those of two prostitutes who have recently been murdered. As the evidence rolls in and Fenner makes an identification of the house where she was held, attorney Alex Mason is arrested for the crime. His wife admits that Mason is quite the control freak and likes his sex kinky and a little violent, including tying her up and burning her with a cigarette. Regina Barrister accepts the case and begins defending Mason, bringing young associate Robin Lockwood along, as this is set to be a capital murder case. The evidence all points to Mason, but there is something that just does not seem right with the evidence as it has been presented pre-trial. Additionally, Regina seems to be keeping a secret that could turn this case on its head, though Robin is not entirely sure what to do. With a man’s life on the line, there is no room for error, but the evidence does not seem to lie, even if Regina refuses to see the larger picture. Margolin delivers a sensational novel that keeps pace throughout. Perfect for fans of legal dramas and who enjoy a twisted tale throughout.
I have admired Phillip Margolin’s work for a long time and find that he is usually quite on the ball with what he has to say. While one person I know strongly panned the book, I felt nothing but a strong connection to the characters and story, perhaps one of the best pieces of Margolin’s work that I have read. There were a number of characters to juggle throughout, but the central few (namely, Regina Barrister and Robin Lockwood) were strong and kept things moving effectively. Sprinkling some backstory in with character development helped to connect the reader with these two legal protagonists. Many of the others, including the third victim, Meredith Fenner, helped to up the dramatic effect of the case as things progressed and the trial opened with a bang. Of course, the secret Regina keeps throughout the novel cannot be discounted, though it would be too much of a spoiler to mention it here.The story was fairly well presented, with a strong lead-up and segments of the trial, in which Barrister and Lockwood do what they can to keep Alex Mason from facing death row, but cannot discount the evidence. While things did go well, as I mentioned above, the vast array of characters served sometimes to dilute the effectiveness of the story, as the reader is forced to recollect who belongs where and what they have said up to this point. That being said, things did all fall into place at just the right moment and Margolin shows how effective he can be in his writing.
Kudos, Mr Margolin, for another wonderful legal thriller. I love the move away from the bright lights of big city stories and hope Oregon will remain where you set future stories.
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
A Book for All Seasons, a different sort of Book Challenge: https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/...
Phillip Margolin is back with another explosive legal thriller that will keep the reader pushing through until the very end to see that justice is served. Regina Barrister has made a name for herself in the Oregon legal community, defending those who have the money and need her legal prowess. Not only are clients aware of Barrister’s capabilities, but one law student has made the ultimate sacrifice to work alongside her. Robin Lockwood has done everyone in her power and when the opportunity arises, she’s keen to take an associate position with Barrister. Meanwhile, Meredith Fenner appears on a rural road, burns across her torso with obvious signs of having been held captive, claiming that she’s just escaped her kidnapper. After the Portland Police become involved, they notice her injuries are similar to those of two prostitutes who have recently been murdered. As the evidence rolls in and Fenner makes an identification of the house where she was held, attorney Alex Mason is arrested for the crime. His wife admits that Mason is quite the control freak and likes his sex kinky and a little violent, including tying her up and burning her with a cigarette. Regina Barrister accepts the case and begins defending Mason, bringing young associate Robin Lockwood along, as this is set to be a capital murder case. The evidence all points to Mason, but there is something that just does not seem right with the evidence as it has been presented pre-trial. Additionally, Regina seems to be keeping a secret that could turn this case on its head, though Robin is not entirely sure what to do. With a man’s life on the line, there is no room for error, but the evidence does not seem to lie, even if Regina refuses to see the larger picture. Margolin delivers a sensational novel that keeps pace throughout. Perfect for fans of legal dramas and who enjoy a twisted tale throughout.
I have admired Phillip Margolin’s work for a long time and find that he is usually quite on the ball with what he has to say. While one person I know strongly panned the book, I felt nothing but a strong connection to the characters and story, perhaps one of the best pieces of Margolin’s work that I have read. There were a number of characters to juggle throughout, but the central few (namely, Regina Barrister and Robin Lockwood) were strong and kept things moving effectively. Sprinkling some backstory in with character development helped to connect the reader with these two legal protagonists. Many of the others, including the third victim, Meredith Fenner, helped to up the dramatic effect of the case as things progressed and the trial opened with a bang. Of course, the secret Regina keeps throughout the novel cannot be discounted, though it would be too much of a spoiler to mention it here.The story was fairly well presented, with a strong lead-up and segments of the trial, in which Barrister and Lockwood do what they can to keep Alex Mason from facing death row, but cannot discount the evidence. While things did go well, as I mentioned above, the vast array of characters served sometimes to dilute the effectiveness of the story, as the reader is forced to recollect who belongs where and what they have said up to this point. That being said, things did all fall into place at just the right moment and Margolin shows how effective he can be in his writing.
Kudos, Mr Margolin, for another wonderful legal thriller. I love the move away from the bright lights of big city stories and hope Oregon will remain where you set future stories.
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
A Book for All Seasons, a different sort of Book Challenge: https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/...
March 3, 2018
The Third Victim by Phillip Margolin is a new legal thriller that takes off from the opening pages and keeps the action coming. The story is told from multiple points of view as it unfolds from the victim being found all the way through the investigation and trial of the case.
As a driver heads down a country road Meredith Fenner appears out of the forest in front of him. Checking if she is alright it’s apparent that she needs a hospital and quickly. Beaten, bruised and bloody Meredith has obviously been attacked so the police are called in to try to find what had happened to her.
The Portland Police are called in to the investigation when it appears that Meredith injuries seem to be similar to the bodies of two young women they have been investigating. Meredith leads them to the cabin where she escaped from and it belongs to none other than attorney Alex Mason who is arrested for the crimes and hires the legendary Regina Barrister and her new assistant Robin Lockwood to defend him.
There is a lot going on in The Third Victim all through the book but it was always easy to follow and kept the pages turning. I found it interesting no matter if out hunting for clues and evidence or in the courtroom battling the case. I did however guess the big twist early on myself so not a full five stars for this one but would definitely pick up more from this author in the future.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
As a driver heads down a country road Meredith Fenner appears out of the forest in front of him. Checking if she is alright it’s apparent that she needs a hospital and quickly. Beaten, bruised and bloody Meredith has obviously been attacked so the police are called in to try to find what had happened to her.
The Portland Police are called in to the investigation when it appears that Meredith injuries seem to be similar to the bodies of two young women they have been investigating. Meredith leads them to the cabin where she escaped from and it belongs to none other than attorney Alex Mason who is arrested for the crimes and hires the legendary Regina Barrister and her new assistant Robin Lockwood to defend him.
There is a lot going on in The Third Victim all through the book but it was always easy to follow and kept the pages turning. I found it interesting no matter if out hunting for clues and evidence or in the courtroom battling the case. I did however guess the big twist early on myself so not a full five stars for this one but would definitely pick up more from this author in the future.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
August 12, 2021
A sadistic serial killer is at work in Portland, Oregon. The murderer's first two victims were prostitutes - unfortunate women who were burned, beaten, and starved before being snuffed out. The third victim - a pretty young barista named Meredith Fenner - was lucky enough to escape, but she's physically and psychologically damaged.
Meredith's winsome neediness touches the heart of (unmarried ) Sheriff's Deputy Harry White, who shepherds Meredith through her first hours of freedom and helps her search for the cabin where she was tortured. Harry's taken with Meredith 💖, but knows he can't pursue a relationship until the case is completely resolved.
The cabin Meredith identifies belongs to Portland lawyer Alex Mason - a wealthy, rude, unpopular loudmouth whom no one likes - not even his trophy wife Allison. Allison tells detectives that her husband likes 'kinky sex' that involves burning and restraints, which is a milder form of the torture inflicted on the dead hookers and poor Meredith.
The cops figure they have their man and arrest Mason, who promptly hires legendary criminal defense attorney Regina Barrister - a brilliant, litigator who rarely loses. Regina's been feeling a bit unwell lately, but tries to brush it off as stress.
Regina's new junior associate, Robin Lockwood - a former MMA fighter fresh off a clerkship at the Oregon Supreme Court - is THRILLED to be working on a murder case with her idol, Regina Barrister. Thus Lockwood is dismayed when Barrister shows signs of being less sharp than usual, with occasional bouts of confusion and memory loss.
In any case, Lockwood teams up with the law firm's investigator, Jeff Hodges, to look for an alternative suspect to Alex Mason. The duo hit on a likely candidate, Police Detective Arnold Prater, a vicious dirty cop who's known to beat up prostitutes for sexual pleasure. Barrister refuses to point the finger at Prater though, because he's a former client.....and she'd have to give up the Mason case for conflict of interest. Barrister thinks she can get Mason off without mentioning the corrupt cop.
As the story unfolds, a series of revelations show that things are more complicated than they seem; a character does something TOO STUPID TO BELIEVE; and Lockwood gets to use her MMA skills.😊
The tale is related from the rotating perspectives of a number of characters, including attorney Regina Barrister; associate attorney Robin Lockwood; Sheriff's Deputy Harry White; a detective named Carrie Anders; a pimp; and more.
Astute readers may think they're a step ahead of the defense team in figuring things out, but they shouldn't get too cocky.😏
This isn't Margolin's best work (IMO) but it's a good story with interesting characters and compelling courtroom scenes. Recommended to mystery fans.
You can follow my reviews at https://reviewsbybarbsaffer.blogspot....
March 17, 2018
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ / 5 very solid stars!
First of all, thank you so much to Minotaur Books for sending me a review copy of this book! All opinions are my own.
This was my first time reading a novel by Phillip Margolin and I have to say I was very impressed. The Third Victim sucked me in immediately, and I thought it kept up a very good pace throughout the novel. Some people didn't like how direct the character descriptions were, but I didn't really mind that. I mean I know you would expect an experienced writer not to do that, but I would much rather have "Tom has black hair, blue eyes, and a strong jaw" than no description at all. So that didn't take away from the book for me.
The Third Victim jumps from a bunch of different perspectives, sometimes quite a bit throughout chapters, but Margolin somehow kept it from getting confusing. The majority of the book also felt very police/procedural to me as most of the viewports are told from cops or lawyers. I actually found this very interesting, but I don't think a lot of people would think of it as a fast-paced thriller.
I don't want to say a whole lot about the plot, or the different plotlines; but the book mainly focuses on what happens after a woman is found in the middle of a road wearing nothing but a shirt and underwear, and sporting a bunch of cigarette burns and facial contusions. I didn't actually think the big reveal was all that surprising, but I still really enjoyed this book.
Final Thought: This is going to be another book that isn't for everyone; note very straightforward character descriptions and some descriptions of abuse. However, I was so interested in the story, and it ended up being quite informational in the way the author explains things. It also has short chapters which is something that's always big on my list, plus it read SO quickly. I definitely think it is a book worth checking out, and I cannot wait to read more from Margolin.
The Third Victim in 3 words: Absorbing, Literal, & Informative
*This title was published on 06 Mar 2018*
First of all, thank you so much to Minotaur Books for sending me a review copy of this book! All opinions are my own.
This was my first time reading a novel by Phillip Margolin and I have to say I was very impressed. The Third Victim sucked me in immediately, and I thought it kept up a very good pace throughout the novel. Some people didn't like how direct the character descriptions were, but I didn't really mind that. I mean I know you would expect an experienced writer not to do that, but I would much rather have "Tom has black hair, blue eyes, and a strong jaw" than no description at all. So that didn't take away from the book for me.
The Third Victim jumps from a bunch of different perspectives, sometimes quite a bit throughout chapters, but Margolin somehow kept it from getting confusing. The majority of the book also felt very police/procedural to me as most of the viewports are told from cops or lawyers. I actually found this very interesting, but I don't think a lot of people would think of it as a fast-paced thriller.
I don't want to say a whole lot about the plot, or the different plotlines; but the book mainly focuses on what happens after a woman is found in the middle of a road wearing nothing but a shirt and underwear, and sporting a bunch of cigarette burns and facial contusions. I didn't actually think the big reveal was all that surprising, but I still really enjoyed this book.
Final Thought: This is going to be another book that isn't for everyone; note very straightforward character descriptions and some descriptions of abuse. However, I was so interested in the story, and it ended up being quite informational in the way the author explains things. It also has short chapters which is something that's always big on my list, plus it read SO quickly. I definitely think it is a book worth checking out, and I cannot wait to read more from Margolin.
The Third Victim in 3 words: Absorbing, Literal, & Informative
*This title was published on 06 Mar 2018*
April 10, 2018
2 stars. It has been a while since I have read a book by Phillip Margolin but I thought “The Third Victim” had a good premise so I decided to give it a chance. This time — as well as every other time I have read one of his novels—- Margolin writes in short, non-descriptive sentences that provide limited details or descriptions of the characters in the novel. Margolin writes a lot like Lee Child in that he pushes the story along at a breakneck pace but does not do a good job of building characters or the suspense level. The more you read of this book the more you notice the glaring plot holes and limited information about the characters that is revealed. The result is a dumbed down novel that will leave you reminiscing for some well drawn out characters as well as major plot twists. Margolin now has over 20 novels to his credit, so he does know how to write. But “The Third Victim” is like a condensed version of a good suspense novel. Margolin does try to bring a little life into the book by having one of the lead attorneys develop early onset dementia but he does such a poor job of making the memory loss realistic — that the randomness and sporadic nature of the episodes make even that subplot fall flat. On a positive note I did finish the book and I was interested in how Margolin was going to wrap this story up, but the solution to the whodunnit was damaged when one of the murderers has to commit a bonehead crime in order for the super Attorney , MMA fighter, Investigator, genius main character to be able to solve the case. Despite the mostly high reviews, unless you want a dumbed down book that will have you rolling your eyes from start to finish, you need to skip this one.
March 28, 2018
This was a good, twisty legal thriller with an abundance of suspects, red herrings and surprising courtroom reveals. Set in rural Hammond County, Oregon, Meredith Fenner manages to escape after being kidnapped and tortured by a masked assailant, but 2 other women did not escape. The prostitutes Patricia Rawls and Tonya Benson had previously been found murdered and all three crimes were very similar. Based on evidence supplied by Meredith, attorney Alex Mason is soon arrested for the 3 attacks and appears to be guilty based on both forensic evidence and the testimony of his wife. However, also in the picture are a sadistic cop, a pimp and a defense attorney who may not be up to the job of defending Mason.
I like courtroom dramas and I've read and enjoyed other books by this author. My favorite parts of this book were the trial scenes. I would have preferred less detail about the problems of the chief defense attorney but overall I liked this book.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher.
I like courtroom dramas and I've read and enjoyed other books by this author. My favorite parts of this book were the trial scenes. I would have preferred less detail about the problems of the chief defense attorney but overall I liked this book.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher.
July 1, 2018
Although the story was entertaining it still was somewhat predictable. I didn’t care for the “obvious” who done it.
December 2, 2023
The Third Victim (Robin Lockwood, #1) by Phillip Margolin
Synopsis /
A woman stumbles onto a dark road in rural Oregon--tortured, battered, and bound. She tells a horrific story about being kidnapped, then tortured, until she finally managed to escape. She was the lucky one--two other women, with similar burns and bruises, were found dead.
The surviving victim identifies the house where she was held captive and the owner, Alex Mason--a prominent local attorney--is arrested. Although he loudly insists upon his innocence, his wife's statements about his sexual sadism and the physical evidence found at the scene, his summer home, is damning.
Regina Barrister is a legendary criminal defence attorney, known as "The Sorceress ", for her courtroom victories. But she's got a secret, one that threatens her skill, her reputation, and, most of all, her clients. And she's agreed to take on the seemingly impossible task of defending Alex Mason.
Robin Lockwood, a young lawyer, and former MMA fighter has just left a clerkship at the Oregon Supreme Court to work for Regina Barrister. The Alex Mason trial is her first big one, a likely death penalty case, and she's second chair to Regina. Increasingly, she's worried her boss's behaviour and the details in the case against their client don't quite add up.
My Thoughts /
The Third Victim is the first book in the legal thriller series highlighting novice lawyer, Robin Lockwood. Before embarking on his career as published author, Margolin worked as a criminal defence attorney - so it will come as no surprise that his literary works are heavily sprinkled with a strong legal theme.
The story begins in Hammond County - Caleb White is driving his pickup along a quiet country road, when a young woman stumbles out of the forest clearing onto the road directly into his path. Jamming on his brakes, the car fishtails out of control and comes to a stop on the shoulder of the road. With his heart beating in overdrive and slumped over the steering wheel in relief, Caleb realises he's only narrowly missed colliding with the woman whose prone body is now sprawled across the road.
Exiting his vehicle, Caleb quickly retreats to where the woman is lying on the road, only to discover once he gets to her that she has duct tape on her writs and ankles, her face and limbs are bloodied, and her clothing is all torn. Concerned for her safety, Caleb transports the woman to the local emergency department. At the hospital, the woman offers a harrowing account of what happened to her up until the point she was found by White. The woman, Meredith Fenner, recounted she'd been kidnapped, beaten, tortured, and starved, but was lucky enough to escape and made her way through scrubland to the highway. Police investigations into this incident reveal that Meredith Fenner was the 'third victim' of a sadistic killer - Portland prostitutes Tonya Benson and Patricia Rawls were both tortured to death - Fenner was lucky to escape with her life.
Meanwhile, Robin Lockwood (a young inexperienced lawyer) has just finished up her clerkship at the Oregon State Bar, where she was clerking for Stanley Cloud, Chief Justice of Oregon's Supreme Court. Lockwood has just been hired by Regina Barrister - a well-known lawyer with a well-known reputation. Robin's first case working with the legendary criminal defence attorney is representing Alex Mason - the man who has been charged with Meredith Kenner's abduction.
The evidence all points to Mason, however, all is not as it appears, and Lockwood must work with Barrister's investigator to sort out the truth from the fiction. Multiple POVs are alternated throughout this narrative and while there are several characters to juggle, those central to the investigation - (Regina Barrister and Robin Lockwood) are well defined and kept the narrative moving strongly.
Along with the courtroom trial scenes, Margolin has intertwined themes of professional ethics and personal responsibilities, as well as (possible) conflicts between the legal team, and, a progressive neurodegenerative condition - the narrative (almost) splits into two parts - a murder mystery and an examination of the impact a degenerative neurological disorder can have.
Both plot threads made this a very engaging and emotional page-turner.
Synopsis /
A woman stumbles onto a dark road in rural Oregon--tortured, battered, and bound. She tells a horrific story about being kidnapped, then tortured, until she finally managed to escape. She was the lucky one--two other women, with similar burns and bruises, were found dead.
The surviving victim identifies the house where she was held captive and the owner, Alex Mason--a prominent local attorney--is arrested. Although he loudly insists upon his innocence, his wife's statements about his sexual sadism and the physical evidence found at the scene, his summer home, is damning.
Regina Barrister is a legendary criminal defence attorney, known as "The Sorceress ", for her courtroom victories. But she's got a secret, one that threatens her skill, her reputation, and, most of all, her clients. And she's agreed to take on the seemingly impossible task of defending Alex Mason.
Robin Lockwood, a young lawyer, and former MMA fighter has just left a clerkship at the Oregon Supreme Court to work for Regina Barrister. The Alex Mason trial is her first big one, a likely death penalty case, and she's second chair to Regina. Increasingly, she's worried her boss's behaviour and the details in the case against their client don't quite add up.
My Thoughts /
The Third Victim is the first book in the legal thriller series highlighting novice lawyer, Robin Lockwood. Before embarking on his career as published author, Margolin worked as a criminal defence attorney - so it will come as no surprise that his literary works are heavily sprinkled with a strong legal theme.
The story begins in Hammond County - Caleb White is driving his pickup along a quiet country road, when a young woman stumbles out of the forest clearing onto the road directly into his path. Jamming on his brakes, the car fishtails out of control and comes to a stop on the shoulder of the road. With his heart beating in overdrive and slumped over the steering wheel in relief, Caleb realises he's only narrowly missed colliding with the woman whose prone body is now sprawled across the road.
Exiting his vehicle, Caleb quickly retreats to where the woman is lying on the road, only to discover once he gets to her that she has duct tape on her writs and ankles, her face and limbs are bloodied, and her clothing is all torn. Concerned for her safety, Caleb transports the woman to the local emergency department. At the hospital, the woman offers a harrowing account of what happened to her up until the point she was found by White. The woman, Meredith Fenner, recounted she'd been kidnapped, beaten, tortured, and starved, but was lucky enough to escape and made her way through scrubland to the highway. Police investigations into this incident reveal that Meredith Fenner was the 'third victim' of a sadistic killer - Portland prostitutes Tonya Benson and Patricia Rawls were both tortured to death - Fenner was lucky to escape with her life.
Meanwhile, Robin Lockwood (a young inexperienced lawyer) has just finished up her clerkship at the Oregon State Bar, where she was clerking for Stanley Cloud, Chief Justice of Oregon's Supreme Court. Lockwood has just been hired by Regina Barrister - a well-known lawyer with a well-known reputation. Robin's first case working with the legendary criminal defence attorney is representing Alex Mason - the man who has been charged with Meredith Kenner's abduction.
The evidence all points to Mason, however, all is not as it appears, and Lockwood must work with Barrister's investigator to sort out the truth from the fiction. Multiple POVs are alternated throughout this narrative and while there are several characters to juggle, those central to the investigation - (Regina Barrister and Robin Lockwood) are well defined and kept the narrative moving strongly.
Along with the courtroom trial scenes, Margolin has intertwined themes of professional ethics and personal responsibilities, as well as (possible) conflicts between the legal team, and, a progressive neurodegenerative condition - the narrative (almost) splits into two parts - a murder mystery and an examination of the impact a degenerative neurological disorder can have.
Both plot threads made this a very engaging and emotional page-turner.
March 25, 2018
There are some brutal scenes, along with some stereotyping in this less than best effort from Margolin. 4 of 10 stars
March 25, 2018
4 Stars
Although I wouldn’t consider this a timeless work of literately genius, this police procedural / thriller did what it promised to do, it thrilled me. It kept me guessing and kept me reading.
SUMMARY
Robin, a recent law school grad, has landed her dream job as an associate with a very prestigious law firm led by Regina, a legendary, tough defense attorney. With Regina as her mentor, her future seems to be set.
The first case she assists with looks like a slamdunk for the prosecution. All the evidence In this horrific double murder/attempted murder case is stacked against her client, who by the way is not exactly likable. To make matters worse, Regina seems to be having memory loss issues. Lots of small things keep slipping through the cracks, and now it looks like big things maybe beginning to slip as well. What is really going on with Regina? Is their client really as guilty as he looks?
WHAT I LOVED
This book has many things I love in a thriller; loads of suspense, a couple well plotted twists and a red herring or two.
I thought I had it figured out several times but was only partially right.
It was so incredibly readable! It flowed well and there never a place where I wanted to stop.
WHAT I DIDN’T LOVE
I thought Robins character didn’t ring true. A MMA fighter/ Yale law school student? Weird.
It was almost trite in some places.
OVERALL
Great for readers if thrillers who love action. Seems like there could be potential for a series. If so, I’m reading next books for sure.
Although I wouldn’t consider this a timeless work of literately genius, this police procedural / thriller did what it promised to do, it thrilled me. It kept me guessing and kept me reading.
SUMMARY
Robin, a recent law school grad, has landed her dream job as an associate with a very prestigious law firm led by Regina, a legendary, tough defense attorney. With Regina as her mentor, her future seems to be set.
The first case she assists with looks like a slamdunk for the prosecution. All the evidence In this horrific double murder/attempted murder case is stacked against her client, who by the way is not exactly likable. To make matters worse, Regina seems to be having memory loss issues. Lots of small things keep slipping through the cracks, and now it looks like big things maybe beginning to slip as well. What is really going on with Regina? Is their client really as guilty as he looks?
WHAT I LOVED
This book has many things I love in a thriller; loads of suspense, a couple well plotted twists and a red herring or two.
I thought I had it figured out several times but was only partially right.
It was so incredibly readable! It flowed well and there never a place where I wanted to stop.
WHAT I DIDN’T LOVE
I thought Robins character didn’t ring true. A MMA fighter/ Yale law school student? Weird.
It was almost trite in some places.
OVERALL
Great for readers if thrillers who love action. Seems like there could be potential for a series. If so, I’m reading next books for sure.
February 2, 2021
4.5 A mighty, crafty, yarn. Combining murder, mystery, red herrings, excellent legal thinking while picking up on obscure clues. Aside, one character had to learn about her oncoming dementia. A cruel illness where the victim knows how it will end for her but know she will unable to delay it's final impact.
Only thing, even with character names and roles written down by me the reader: there were more than a few times I had to stop and really think.
Superbly crafted. Unputdownable.
Only thing, even with character names and roles written down by me the reader: there were more than a few times I had to stop and really think.
Superbly crafted. Unputdownable.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 25, 2017
Fast paced thriller with heart in dealing with dementia and wickedness dealing with greed.
It is difficult for me to read a regular book anymore. I love reading on my kindle so I can underline key phrases and come back to them when I review but this one was fast and kept you on track. Detailed but not over detailed that you get lost. I have not read Margolin but if I was to compare his writing style to another it would have to be Linwood Barclaythat being said, Margolin is easier to follow.
Two prostitutes found dead in the Seattle area and a third victim found at the side of a country road who escaped with a horrific tale to tell. The victim has identified a well known lawyer Alex Mason in the Seattle area and the cards against him. Mason has hired Regina Barrister is a legendary criminal defense attorney with the help of her newly hired assistant Robin Lockwood. The defense team must now cast doubt on Mason's case and do that they must find the real killer.
Robin has always looked up to Regina and the way she handles her cases. Regina now into her 60's can outwit and out do any lawyer in the area. Her quick mind is always on the go. But what happens when the mind starts to go. Regina begins to notice how things do not come to her as they once did however she continues on because that is all she knows. Robin being the newby struggles with confronting Regina and begins to look into Alzheimer's and the affects and what she can do. As long as Regina is the head of this case, will a innocent man be sentenced to death for a crime he did not commit.
With a connecting the dots, this thriller keeps you at the edge of your seat as the real killer is revealed. I loved it!
I would like thank the author for the signed ARC and the publisher Minotaur Books for requesting a honest review.
It is difficult for me to read a regular book anymore. I love reading on my kindle so I can underline key phrases and come back to them when I review but this one was fast and kept you on track. Detailed but not over detailed that you get lost. I have not read Margolin but if I was to compare his writing style to another it would have to be Linwood Barclaythat being said, Margolin is easier to follow.
Two prostitutes found dead in the Seattle area and a third victim found at the side of a country road who escaped with a horrific tale to tell. The victim has identified a well known lawyer Alex Mason in the Seattle area and the cards against him. Mason has hired Regina Barrister is a legendary criminal defense attorney with the help of her newly hired assistant Robin Lockwood. The defense team must now cast doubt on Mason's case and do that they must find the real killer.
Robin has always looked up to Regina and the way she handles her cases. Regina now into her 60's can outwit and out do any lawyer in the area. Her quick mind is always on the go. But what happens when the mind starts to go. Regina begins to notice how things do not come to her as they once did however she continues on because that is all she knows. Robin being the newby struggles with confronting Regina and begins to look into Alzheimer's and the affects and what she can do. As long as Regina is the head of this case, will a innocent man be sentenced to death for a crime he did not commit.
With a connecting the dots, this thriller keeps you at the edge of your seat as the real killer is revealed. I loved it!
I would like thank the author for the signed ARC and the publisher Minotaur Books for requesting a honest review.
February 6, 2019
An elementary read my dear goodreaders.
A straightforward and uncomplicated book.
A prominent attorney is accused of murdering two women and raping another.
His defense attorney is Regina Barrister a top criminal defense attorney with a deep dark secret.
She is suffering from early onset of Alzheimer's.
A very interesting story line but turned out to be an overly simple read.
Watching Regina's mind slowly deteriorate and start to affect her defense of her client, a death penalty case, was compelling but underplayed.
A missed opportunity.
A straightforward and uncomplicated book.
A prominent attorney is accused of murdering two women and raping another.
His defense attorney is Regina Barrister a top criminal defense attorney with a deep dark secret.
She is suffering from early onset of Alzheimer's.
A very interesting story line but turned out to be an overly simple read.
Watching Regina's mind slowly deteriorate and start to affect her defense of her client, a death penalty case, was compelling but underplayed.
A missed opportunity.
April 17, 2018
Before diving into my review of Phillip Margolin's The Third Victim, I'd like to talk about my "process" (as if you care-insert eye roll here). How presumptuous to assume you give a crap about my "process". But... since you're here I might as well let you know.
As some may know, I write book reviews. I love writing book reviews because I love reading books. Admittedly, my reviews are far from any literary masterful analysis that is in abundance here on this site. I love reading those types of reviews and aspire to someday change someones life with my intellectual, insightful review. That ain't happening no time soon.
See? I'm already off subject. I'm supposed to talk about my process.
So...
I often find myself between books and it's usually because I have so many to choose from. After writing a review for a novel I thoroughly enjoyed, I began reading three books. This happened to be one of them. But since I feel my Goodreads currently-reading shelf is full at 4 or 5 books. I decided to do a couple soft starts. Soft starts are the ones I begin but don't commit to just yet on my currently reading shelf. Reviewers and book polygamist know what I mean. This is how I began The Third Victim. Ironically it was the third book I chose to soft start before committing to one.
That's my process in a nutshell. Although I didn't intend to commit to this novel next, I ultimately finished this book over the weekend which is unprecedented in my current life. Balancing full-time work, part-time student life, and just trying to live in between those moments, it takes me forever to read a book.
Margolin's The Third Victim is an easy read. It's seriously uncomplicated and my 3-star rating might be generous. It's more of a 2.5.
Why you ask?
Well... we're introduced to the third victim as she escapes the cabin of a deranged, sadistic nut job. She's taken to the hospital and tells her story. Meanwhile, Robin Lockwood has been hired after finished her clerkship to work for one of the toughest, most successful lawyers in Oregon. Regina Barrister is at the top of her craft and is named "The Sorceress" by those she slaughters in court.
Robin couldn't be happier to be second chair in a huge murder trial. Before long, that happiness turns to trepidation due to Regina's strange behavior. With a man's life on the line, Robin struggles with how to approach her boss' issues. To me, it's no-brainer but there's gotta be some sort of tension there.
Sure I read this book in a few hours and I admit it was entertaining enough but I felt like I was reading a book by someone like me. Someone who's unable to craft a masterful tale or just has too little time to devote to the project. This is not the first Margolin novel so I'm quite surprised at how dumbed down The Third Victim seemed.
As I write this review, I'm rethinking the generosity of my 3-stars. There is nothing complicated here.
To be more precise, there's nothing new here.
Every moment leads to another predictable moment, topped off with another helping of that same predictable flow. To make matters worse, the characters were as thin as... well... paper. See?
I'm no lyricist. I don't require that the books I read be complicated either. I swear I'm no book snob but I expect my legal thrillers to be just a tab bit more thrilling.
Either way it goes... I'll leave The Third Victim with 3-stars because it is an easy read. It's great as an in-between book. Something that can be read quickly and is entertaining enough to see through to the end. Although I wasn't thrilled with this novel, reading it didn't make me a long suffering victim nor deter me from reading more by this author.
Copy provided by St. Martin's Press via Netgalley
Oh shit! I almost forgot to mention there's a huge other story line going on that sort of just ends. I don't know what happened to it. My review was going to follow along the same lines. It could be that I kinda just skimmed the last 20 pages but seriously? What happened to the Prater story?
As some may know, I write book reviews. I love writing book reviews because I love reading books. Admittedly, my reviews are far from any literary masterful analysis that is in abundance here on this site. I love reading those types of reviews and aspire to someday change someones life with my intellectual, insightful review. That ain't happening no time soon.
See? I'm already off subject. I'm supposed to talk about my process.
So...
I often find myself between books and it's usually because I have so many to choose from. After writing a review for a novel I thoroughly enjoyed, I began reading three books. This happened to be one of them. But since I feel my Goodreads currently-reading shelf is full at 4 or 5 books. I decided to do a couple soft starts. Soft starts are the ones I begin but don't commit to just yet on my currently reading shelf. Reviewers and book polygamist know what I mean. This is how I began The Third Victim. Ironically it was the third book I chose to soft start before committing to one.
That's my process in a nutshell. Although I didn't intend to commit to this novel next, I ultimately finished this book over the weekend which is unprecedented in my current life. Balancing full-time work, part-time student life, and just trying to live in between those moments, it takes me forever to read a book.
Margolin's The Third Victim is an easy read. It's seriously uncomplicated and my 3-star rating might be generous. It's more of a 2.5.
Why you ask?
Well... we're introduced to the third victim as she escapes the cabin of a deranged, sadistic nut job. She's taken to the hospital and tells her story. Meanwhile, Robin Lockwood has been hired after finished her clerkship to work for one of the toughest, most successful lawyers in Oregon. Regina Barrister is at the top of her craft and is named "The Sorceress" by those she slaughters in court.
Robin couldn't be happier to be second chair in a huge murder trial. Before long, that happiness turns to trepidation due to Regina's strange behavior. With a man's life on the line, Robin struggles with how to approach her boss' issues. To me, it's no-brainer but there's gotta be some sort of tension there.
Sure I read this book in a few hours and I admit it was entertaining enough but I felt like I was reading a book by someone like me. Someone who's unable to craft a masterful tale or just has too little time to devote to the project. This is not the first Margolin novel so I'm quite surprised at how dumbed down The Third Victim seemed.
As I write this review, I'm rethinking the generosity of my 3-stars. There is nothing complicated here.
To be more precise, there's nothing new here.
Every moment leads to another predictable moment, topped off with another helping of that same predictable flow. To make matters worse, the characters were as thin as... well... paper. See?
I'm no lyricist. I don't require that the books I read be complicated either. I swear I'm no book snob but I expect my legal thrillers to be just a tab bit more thrilling.
Either way it goes... I'll leave The Third Victim with 3-stars because it is an easy read. It's great as an in-between book. Something that can be read quickly and is entertaining enough to see through to the end. Although I wasn't thrilled with this novel, reading it didn't make me a long suffering victim nor deter me from reading more by this author.
Copy provided by St. Martin's Press via Netgalley
Oh shit! I almost forgot to mention there's a huge other story line going on that sort of just ends. I don't know what happened to it. My review was going to follow along the same lines. It could be that I kinda just skimmed the last 20 pages but seriously? What happened to the Prater story?
February 13, 2019
3 stars.
Not one of his best.
🐾🇺🇸
Not one of his best.
🐾🇺🇸
March 22, 2018
I have read a number of Margolin’s books over the years. Most of them take place in Oregon as does this book. Margolin frequently has the hero as a female defense attorney as is the case in this book. Our protagonist is Robin Lockwood. She has obtained her dream job working for Regina Barrister, Oregon’s most famous defense attorney. Regina is defending a fellow local attorney, Alex Mason, who is charged with kidnapping, torture and battery. Robin Lockwood is second chair to Barrister in this case.
The book is mostly well written with a multiple twisting plot. This book is not for everyone because of the descriptions of torture and abuse. Margolin provides not only detective work but courtroom drama. I do not believe this book is up to the usual standards of Margolin, as in my opinion, it is jerky in the flow of the multiple plot lines. But over all I did enjoy the book. I enjoyed the interview with the author at the end of the book.
I read this as an audiobook downloaded from Audible. The book is eight and a half hours. Therese Plummer does a good job narrating the story. Plummer is an actress, voice-over artist and an award-winning audiobook narrator.
The book is mostly well written with a multiple twisting plot. This book is not for everyone because of the descriptions of torture and abuse. Margolin provides not only detective work but courtroom drama. I do not believe this book is up to the usual standards of Margolin, as in my opinion, it is jerky in the flow of the multiple plot lines. But over all I did enjoy the book. I enjoyed the interview with the author at the end of the book.
I read this as an audiobook downloaded from Audible. The book is eight and a half hours. Therese Plummer does a good job narrating the story. Plummer is an actress, voice-over artist and an award-winning audiobook narrator.
Read
March 18, 2018Well there went a good night of sleep! I started this one late in the evening and did not put it down until after 3 am -- definitely a "read in one sitting" type of legal thriller that I hope is the first in a new series by this talented author.
The plot is described in the blurb but essentially it is full of twists, turns and surprises that begs the question -- who is the real victim? No spoilers, but when a tortured and starved woman is found at the edge of a road in Whisper Lake -- one whose horrible treatment bears similarities to two other cases of dead women -- many different groups of law enforcement and justice kick into action. The prime suspect is a prominent attorney and the prosecutor goes for the death penalty.
A large cast of characters and interesting detail about their lives provide a sidebar to the legal maneuvering. I found all of it quite absorbing and, though I guessed where it all might be going, I love to see the process of how the truth is revealed despite the red herrings.
I really would like to see more of Robin Lockwood and the legal team. I'm worried about Regina Barrister. I liked the Oregon setting. I do enjoy a good legal thriller and this fit the bill. Bring it on!
It was a refreshing change for me.
Thank you to NetGalley and Minotaur Books for this e-book ARC to read and review.
The plot is described in the blurb but essentially it is full of twists, turns and surprises that begs the question -- who is the real victim? No spoilers, but when a tortured and starved woman is found at the edge of a road in Whisper Lake -- one whose horrible treatment bears similarities to two other cases of dead women -- many different groups of law enforcement and justice kick into action. The prime suspect is a prominent attorney and the prosecutor goes for the death penalty.
A large cast of characters and interesting detail about their lives provide a sidebar to the legal maneuvering. I found all of it quite absorbing and, though I guessed where it all might be going, I love to see the process of how the truth is revealed despite the red herrings.
I really would like to see more of Robin Lockwood and the legal team. I'm worried about Regina Barrister. I liked the Oregon setting. I do enjoy a good legal thriller and this fit the bill. Bring it on!
It was a refreshing change for me.
Thank you to NetGalley and Minotaur Books for this e-book ARC to read and review.
September 25, 2018
One of those very few moments where wishes come true. All through reading the thriller, I wished for a particular character to be the culprit so that the thriller would truly be mind blowing... and it came true. I had put up a request suggestions for such books on Facebook and got this one as a recommendation. Still, I had forgotten about it when I started to read and therefore, was completely caught off-guard when it came to the closing.
I have read a lot of reviews from other readers about this book that it was predictable for them, but not so for me. I was thrilled, surprised and taken on a wild goose chase through some red herrings throughout the story. Phillip Margolin has brought out a wonderful book filled with believable characters. Right from Regina Barrister to Alex Mason, all the characters feel like taken right out of a random subway ride. The thrill is believable to the extend that once the book is finished, you need a breather to come to regular world.
I have read a lot of reviews from other readers about this book that it was predictable for them, but not so for me. I was thrilled, surprised and taken on a wild goose chase through some red herrings throughout the story. Phillip Margolin has brought out a wonderful book filled with believable characters. Right from Regina Barrister to Alex Mason, all the characters feel like taken right out of a random subway ride. The thrill is believable to the extend that once the book is finished, you need a breather to come to regular world.
May 7, 2018
Hey, if you like Law and Order: SVU, you'll likely enjoy this!
September 26, 2023
My first book from this author, and I look forward to reading more. There was a lot going on, but it never got too complicated, and in the end, a lot of things turned out different than one might expect.
Mr Margolin was a lawyer who enjoyed reading several books a week, and somehow got into writing mysteries. He lives in Oregon where the book takes place, so he knows the area and the practice of law.
The audiobook I read had an interview with the author at the end. He sounds like an interesting guy.
Mr Margolin was a lawyer who enjoyed reading several books a week, and somehow got into writing mysteries. He lives in Oregon where the book takes place, so he knows the area and the practice of law.
The audiobook I read had an interview with the author at the end. He sounds like an interesting guy.
July 27, 2020
I just couldn't finish this book without skimming thru it. There were many people who really enjoyed it and like it a lot - I'm not one of them. Maybe there was too much on my mind? Not sure, but what I can say is , there is a very good possibility that I would pick up the second book in this series. I know, doesn't make sense , right? *sigh* There is something about this book that I should have liked, but darn if I could figure it out!
April 30, 2019
After all those twisty psychological thrillers, it was a nice change to read this solid legal thriller. There were still some things to work out, but the entire story wasn't wrapped up in a single twist! Im probably a little biased because i absolutely love Robin! What a relief to read about this kick ass, intelligent woman, who can absolutely take care of herself. Yet she also felt realistic and relateable. Im so glad this is the start of a series because i just really enjoyed her. There were also a few other personalities & "lives" i got wrapped up in, so we'll see if they're in the next ones too. If you enjoy legal thrillers i definitely recommend this 1- great story, interesting "crimes" & characters, good and bad, and just enough of the courtroom drama... I can't wait for the next 1!
March 30, 2018
Wow!!!! I really cannot say much about the story for fear of revealing too much. But...Wow!!!!!!!
November 24, 2025
***4.5***
I really enjoyed this courtroom drama/thriller tremendously. This is my first book from this author and for sure won’t be the last! I will continue with the series.
I have read/listened hundreds of thriller/mystery books since I was 13 years old. Over the years, I have developed a spidery sense for the plot twist or who could be the culprit. In The Third Victim, I kind of guessed where the story was going somewhere in the middle. I was right! 🤣
However the novel was so well written, the character development was so perfect, I kept on listening with enthusiasm. I loved each character.
The ending was perfect! I would highly recommend this series.
Happy Reading 🍷
Happy Thanksgiving 🍁
I really enjoyed this courtroom drama/thriller tremendously. This is my first book from this author and for sure won’t be the last! I will continue with the series.
I have read/listened hundreds of thriller/mystery books since I was 13 years old. Over the years, I have developed a spidery sense for the plot twist or who could be the culprit. In The Third Victim, I kind of guessed where the story was going somewhere in the middle. I was right! 🤣
However the novel was so well written, the character development was so perfect, I kept on listening with enthusiasm. I loved each character.
The ending was perfect! I would highly recommend this series.
Happy Reading 🍷
Happy Thanksgiving 🍁
July 16, 2025
4 Stars. Enjoyable. Just what I needed. An exciting premise, an intriguing puzzle, and some excellent court-room drama. The series lead is a young lawyer and former Mixed Martial Arts fighter, Robin Lockwood. But the most interesting character is her employer, Regina Barrister, a leading member of the Oregon criminal bar and smart. Lockwood has just become an associate in her firm. Their first case together is defending another lawyer, the obnoxious Alex Mason. A young woman named Meredith Fenner was found stumbling out of the woods not far from a summer cabin owned by Mason. She had been kidnapped and abused, but managed to escape, unlike two others who had been treated the same way then killed. The evidence appears damning against Mason but Barrister, supported by Lockwood and the firm's investigator Jeff Hodges, agrees to defend him. I've said before that mysteries can often be learning experiences too. Barrister, star attorney in Portland, is only 58 but she is beginning to forget things, some important and some not, like where her car was parked at the mall. Early signs of dementia. I've started to read #2. (Jun2025)
March 20, 2018
The Third Victim by Phillip Margolin is a standalone book and the 13th book I’ve read by the author.
The action starts in the early pages, and I thought the reader was being exposed to the crime info early on and the remainder of the book would be the “trial” portion of the story – BOY was I wrong! Just when I was convinced I thought I knew who the bad guy was, the author tosses in numerous twist and turns, and offers up several potential options for who actually committed the crime and why.
The story held my attention, has several likable as well as dislikeable characters. The book is filled with crime, deceit, courtroom drama, tension, and friendship. The story is complete, with no cliffhangers or dangling storylines.
I wish to extend my thanks to the author, St. Martin's Press/Minotaur Books, and Netgalley for an advanced readers copy in exchange for an honest review. The publication date for the book was March 6th, 2018 – the book is available in multiple formats.
For me, this was a 3.75-star read which I will raise to 4 stars.
The action starts in the early pages, and I thought the reader was being exposed to the crime info early on and the remainder of the book would be the “trial” portion of the story – BOY was I wrong! Just when I was convinced I thought I knew who the bad guy was, the author tosses in numerous twist and turns, and offers up several potential options for who actually committed the crime and why.
The story held my attention, has several likable as well as dislikeable characters. The book is filled with crime, deceit, courtroom drama, tension, and friendship. The story is complete, with no cliffhangers or dangling storylines.
I wish to extend my thanks to the author, St. Martin's Press/Minotaur Books, and Netgalley for an advanced readers copy in exchange for an honest review. The publication date for the book was March 6th, 2018 – the book is available in multiple formats.
For me, this was a 3.75-star read which I will raise to 4 stars.
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