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Zachary Blake Legal Thriller #2
Betrayal of Justice
This very topical, controversial, and prophetic novel is set in Washington D.C. and Dearborn, Michigan.
In Washington D.C., a newly-elected president promises, in his inaugural speech, to “make America pure again.”
In Dearborn, Michigan, a young Muslim woman, Arya Khan, watches President John’s acceptance speech in horror while a a few miles away, a white supremacist, Keith Blackwell, watches the same speech with pure joy. Inspired by the new president's rhetoric, Blackwell fire bombs a local mosque. The Dearborn Police promise to investigate, but Arya fears that these cops are indifferent to the Muslim community and will not vigorously investigate. She takes matters into her own hands and conducts her own 'private investigation'. Arya identifies a suspect, follows him, and witnesses his brutal murder. She calls 9-1-1 and rushes to render aid, but when the police arrive, all evidence points to Arya as the murderer; she’s arrested, jailed and formally charged.
When the news story reaches the president, he seeks to deport Arya's immigrant parents. Zachary Blake (the central character of Bello’s debut legal thriller, Betrayal of Faith) returns as the trial lawyer for the family and drama plays out in both criminal and immigration courtrooms. But as the Dearborn Police seek to complete their investigation, an organization of white supremacists tries to thwart any attempt to tie their group to the murder and mayhem. Can Zachary Blake and his crack private investigator, Micah Love, save Aria from a murder charge and her parents from deportation? Can this innocent family expect justice in this new, "pure" America, an America that has lost its way?
Betrayal of Justice is the second installment of the Zachary Blake Betrayal Legal Thriller Series by attorney/author Mark M. Bello. Fans of John Grisham and Scott Turow will enjoy comparisons to current events, as well as Bello's ability to captivate readers in an intriguing courtroom drama. This is a legal and political thriller with intriguing characters, nonstop action and a plot that is anything but predictable.
In Washington D.C., a newly-elected president promises, in his inaugural speech, to “make America pure again.”
In Dearborn, Michigan, a young Muslim woman, Arya Khan, watches President John’s acceptance speech in horror while a a few miles away, a white supremacist, Keith Blackwell, watches the same speech with pure joy. Inspired by the new president's rhetoric, Blackwell fire bombs a local mosque. The Dearborn Police promise to investigate, but Arya fears that these cops are indifferent to the Muslim community and will not vigorously investigate. She takes matters into her own hands and conducts her own 'private investigation'. Arya identifies a suspect, follows him, and witnesses his brutal murder. She calls 9-1-1 and rushes to render aid, but when the police arrive, all evidence points to Arya as the murderer; she’s arrested, jailed and formally charged.
When the news story reaches the president, he seeks to deport Arya's immigrant parents. Zachary Blake (the central character of Bello’s debut legal thriller, Betrayal of Faith) returns as the trial lawyer for the family and drama plays out in both criminal and immigration courtrooms. But as the Dearborn Police seek to complete their investigation, an organization of white supremacists tries to thwart any attempt to tie their group to the murder and mayhem. Can Zachary Blake and his crack private investigator, Micah Love, save Aria from a murder charge and her parents from deportation? Can this innocent family expect justice in this new, "pure" America, an America that has lost its way?
Betrayal of Justice is the second installment of the Zachary Blake Betrayal Legal Thriller Series by attorney/author Mark M. Bello. Fans of John Grisham and Scott Turow will enjoy comparisons to current events, as well as Bello's ability to captivate readers in an intriguing courtroom drama. This is a legal and political thriller with intriguing characters, nonstop action and a plot that is anything but predictable.
348 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 13, 2017
51 people are currently reading
8076 people want to read
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 - 30 of 38 reviews
July 11, 2020
‘He would fight this president with all his resources and skills…’
Michigan author Mark M. Bello is an attorney and a justice advocate, having earned his BA in English Literature from Oakland University and his law degree form Thomas M. Cooley Law School. He spent forty years in the courtroom with high profile legal cases, and now offers his knowledge on his website Legal Examiner and Injury Board writing posts about safety, fairness and justice in the civil justice system. Mark consolidates his experiences in this series of novels – THE ZACHARY BLAKE LEGAL THRILLERS, of which BETRAYAL OF JUSTICE is Book 2.
One reason Mark M Bello’s legal thriller series is so absorbing is the manner in which he allows parallels to contemporary controversies, as this volume opens with a speech from the ‘President’ that sounds very timely…’My fellow Americans: I am very humbled yet emboldened by your vote to elect me as your president. I thank you for your support. I’ve earned your vote, and I will now embark on the task of securing your continued trust. I intend to do that by delivering on the promises I made during my very contentious campaign with Secretary Goodman. To accomplish these promises, we, the people, have to be vigilant and bold. We have to take this country in a new direction. This new direction starts with securing our borders. Under or current immigration system, our borders are porous, wide open for drug dealers, rapists, murderers, and terrorists to enter our county unchecked…’ Sound vaguely familiar?
The synopsis is a fine guide for this fast paced story – ‘Super trial lawyer Zachary Blake takes on new, even more, powerful foes: The New President - hero of bigots and white supremacists everywhere - he promises to rid America of its “Muslim scourge” and “Make America Pure Again,” The White Nationalist - anti-Muslim, white supremacist bigot who plans an explosive event to honor his ‘exalted new leader,’ the Client - Arya Khan, a young Muslim-American woman falsely accused of murdering the evil bigot who firebombed her neighborhood mosque. In a divided America, Arya becomes the centerpiece of the new president’s bigoted promise to his base. Can Blake defeat the power of the presidency and prove his young client’s innocence?’ Reading this thriller is also a glance in today’s news…
After reading the first volume, the central character Zachary Blake is now a substantial legal hero and the manner in which master craftsman Bello manipulates his character’s movement and development is a witness to both the depth of his legal knowledge and his eloquent prose. The language is appropriate for each character, and the manner in which the multiple characters interweave is mesmerizing. This legal thriller series is of the first caliber! Highly recommended.
Michigan author Mark M. Bello is an attorney and a justice advocate, having earned his BA in English Literature from Oakland University and his law degree form Thomas M. Cooley Law School. He spent forty years in the courtroom with high profile legal cases, and now offers his knowledge on his website Legal Examiner and Injury Board writing posts about safety, fairness and justice in the civil justice system. Mark consolidates his experiences in this series of novels – THE ZACHARY BLAKE LEGAL THRILLERS, of which BETRAYAL OF JUSTICE is Book 2.
One reason Mark M Bello’s legal thriller series is so absorbing is the manner in which he allows parallels to contemporary controversies, as this volume opens with a speech from the ‘President’ that sounds very timely…’My fellow Americans: I am very humbled yet emboldened by your vote to elect me as your president. I thank you for your support. I’ve earned your vote, and I will now embark on the task of securing your continued trust. I intend to do that by delivering on the promises I made during my very contentious campaign with Secretary Goodman. To accomplish these promises, we, the people, have to be vigilant and bold. We have to take this country in a new direction. This new direction starts with securing our borders. Under or current immigration system, our borders are porous, wide open for drug dealers, rapists, murderers, and terrorists to enter our county unchecked…’ Sound vaguely familiar?
The synopsis is a fine guide for this fast paced story – ‘Super trial lawyer Zachary Blake takes on new, even more, powerful foes: The New President - hero of bigots and white supremacists everywhere - he promises to rid America of its “Muslim scourge” and “Make America Pure Again,” The White Nationalist - anti-Muslim, white supremacist bigot who plans an explosive event to honor his ‘exalted new leader,’ the Client - Arya Khan, a young Muslim-American woman falsely accused of murdering the evil bigot who firebombed her neighborhood mosque. In a divided America, Arya becomes the centerpiece of the new president’s bigoted promise to his base. Can Blake defeat the power of the presidency and prove his young client’s innocence?’ Reading this thriller is also a glance in today’s news…
After reading the first volume, the central character Zachary Blake is now a substantial legal hero and the manner in which master craftsman Bello manipulates his character’s movement and development is a witness to both the depth of his legal knowledge and his eloquent prose. The language is appropriate for each character, and the manner in which the multiple characters interweave is mesmerizing. This legal thriller series is of the first caliber! Highly recommended.
August 20, 2017
As an avid reader of John Grisham, Scott Turow, and David Baldacci, I rarely read novels from lesser or unknown authors. Seeing “Betrayal of Faith” on my Kindle picks list, I decided to give it a shot. I was pleasantly surprised. Mark Bello takes readers inside a “power group” (The Church) and shows how far its leaders will go to protect their darkest secrets. The scariest part is that while fiction, “Betrayal of Faith” doesn’t stretch far from reality.
I highly recommend this book.
I highly recommend this book.
June 3, 2017
"Betrayal of Faith", by author Mark Bello, is a provocative and intense read about a subject still very much taboo -- what can one say in earnest about the cover-ups of child molestation which have happened in the church? The author does a tremendous job of presenting a fair-handed exposition on the events and proceedings surrounding such a case, making for a fantastic legal thriller.
Particularly remarkable to me is the way in which the author has handled a delicate subject with such dexterity, never leaving me to feel as if I'm reading something that pushes to far against my own personal boundaries. Tactful and concise, the story comes up neither too long nor too short, but with just the right amount of detail, action, and examination of character motives to keep the whole plot moving like a well-oiled machine.
Highly recommended! The subject matter may seem a bit edgy or potentially off-putting, but the author has handled it with tremendous grace.
Particularly remarkable to me is the way in which the author has handled a delicate subject with such dexterity, never leaving me to feel as if I'm reading something that pushes to far against my own personal boundaries. Tactful and concise, the story comes up neither too long nor too short, but with just the right amount of detail, action, and examination of character motives to keep the whole plot moving like a well-oiled machine.
Highly recommended! The subject matter may seem a bit edgy or potentially off-putting, but the author has handled it with tremendous grace.
July 19, 2018
After watching a certain candidate promise to implement a "Muslim Ban" on immigration from certain countries and many other offensive things, I became concerned that this racially/ethnically challenged man might actually become president of the United States. When he won the election, I decided to write a fictional account of what might happen if a bigot was elected POTUS.
Betrayal of Justice is a very topical, controversial, and prophetic novel set in Washington D.C. and Dearborn, Michigan. In D.C., a newly-elected president promises, in his inaugural speech, to “make America pure again.” In Dearborn, Michigan, a white supremacist is inspired by the speech to fire bomb a local mosque, and a young Muslim-American woman, distrustful of the police, conducts her own 'private' investigation. She identifies and follows a suspect and, in a twist of fate, witnesses his murder. She calls 9-1-1 and rushes to render aid, only to be arrested for murder by the arriving police. Zachary Blake (attorney hero of my first novel, Betrayal of Faith) is retained to defend the woman and her family in criminal and immigration court (her parents face deportation when the bigoted POTUS reads about their daughter's 'crime'). Can this innocent family expect justice in this new, "pure" America, an America that has lost its way?
I had no idea that much of what I wrote of "fictional America" would play out in "real America". The novel, like current events playing out in our country, should cause readers and citizens to question whether either "America" is truly a place where "liberty and justice for all" is sacrosanct.
There is no place for bigotry in my America. Discriminating against any ethnic group is deplorable. A "Muslim" ban is a disgusting concept that has no basis in the "land of the free", a country that was founded on a concept of freedom of religion. Arya Khan, the protagonist of Betrayal of Justice, is a brave young woman and a positive role model for all women, not just Muslim women. "White supremacy" is an archaic and broken concept in a place where all men and women are created equal.
This book was written to demonstrate that the oppression of any ethnic group is the oppression of all Americans, the oppression of the very premise that makes our country great. America is already great; it does not need to be made "great again". And, my fictional America does not need to be made "pure again". America is a melting pot of races, creeds and colors and racial "purity" is a terribly offensive concept that, hopefully, will never achieve traction in "real" America.
If you are looking for a book that depicts Muslims (and freedom of religion in general) positively and congenially and depicts those who would discriminate against, disparage or stereotype Muslims in a negative way as "deplorable", then this book is for you. When you are reading it, regardless of your ethnicity, please try to put yourself in Arya Khan's shoes. Hopefully, you enjoy Betrayal of Justice. I look forward to hearing from you.
Betrayal of Justice is a very topical, controversial, and prophetic novel set in Washington D.C. and Dearborn, Michigan. In D.C., a newly-elected president promises, in his inaugural speech, to “make America pure again.” In Dearborn, Michigan, a white supremacist is inspired by the speech to fire bomb a local mosque, and a young Muslim-American woman, distrustful of the police, conducts her own 'private' investigation. She identifies and follows a suspect and, in a twist of fate, witnesses his murder. She calls 9-1-1 and rushes to render aid, only to be arrested for murder by the arriving police. Zachary Blake (attorney hero of my first novel, Betrayal of Faith) is retained to defend the woman and her family in criminal and immigration court (her parents face deportation when the bigoted POTUS reads about their daughter's 'crime'). Can this innocent family expect justice in this new, "pure" America, an America that has lost its way?
I had no idea that much of what I wrote of "fictional America" would play out in "real America". The novel, like current events playing out in our country, should cause readers and citizens to question whether either "America" is truly a place where "liberty and justice for all" is sacrosanct.
There is no place for bigotry in my America. Discriminating against any ethnic group is deplorable. A "Muslim" ban is a disgusting concept that has no basis in the "land of the free", a country that was founded on a concept of freedom of religion. Arya Khan, the protagonist of Betrayal of Justice, is a brave young woman and a positive role model for all women, not just Muslim women. "White supremacy" is an archaic and broken concept in a place where all men and women are created equal.
This book was written to demonstrate that the oppression of any ethnic group is the oppression of all Americans, the oppression of the very premise that makes our country great. America is already great; it does not need to be made "great again". And, my fictional America does not need to be made "pure again". America is a melting pot of races, creeds and colors and racial "purity" is a terribly offensive concept that, hopefully, will never achieve traction in "real" America.
If you are looking for a book that depicts Muslims (and freedom of religion in general) positively and congenially and depicts those who would discriminate against, disparage or stereotype Muslims in a negative way as "deplorable", then this book is for you. When you are reading it, regardless of your ethnicity, please try to put yourself in Arya Khan's shoes. Hopefully, you enjoy Betrayal of Justice. I look forward to hearing from you.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 17, 2020
This is the 2nd story in the Zach Blake seriers. If you enjoyed his 1st one you definitely won't be disappointed. If you haven't read it, then you definitely need to get it.
This story starts with a single individual who wants to make a statement and also endorse President Ronald John's vendetta against Muslims. He 1st 2 actions area against Muslim women and his 3rd is a fire bombing of a Mosque. The fire bombing results in the establishment by the Dearborn Police Department of a task force to find and prosecute the responsible party. The team identifies a suspect and unfortunately Anya Khan who is following up on the efforts of the police in their investigations, happens to see the identity on the Detective's desk and decides to follow up this individual on her own. While following the suspect, she watches another individual kill him. She contacts 911 and then goes to see if she can help. She winds up picking up the knife and is holding it when the police arrive on the scene.
She is brought to the station and after being questioned for a long time, she finally asks for a lawyer and that is where Zach enters the picture. She is indicted by a Grand Jury and Zach appears at the Preliminary hearing.
After Arya is released on bail, Zach questions her to find out what she had told the police. Zach along with his investigator Micah Love look into her story. At the same time because of this instance, Arya's parents also wind up in a legal matter as well.
Ultimately a resolution of the charges is arrived at. The detail of how the evidence was collected by both Zach's team and the police was well portrayed. The ending will blow you mind with all of the action.
If you want to find out who the real killer was, what the reason for the change in the task force's mind and how everything finally plays out, then you must read this book. I am looking forward to reading the next book in the series.
This story starts with a single individual who wants to make a statement and also endorse President Ronald John's vendetta against Muslims. He 1st 2 actions area against Muslim women and his 3rd is a fire bombing of a Mosque. The fire bombing results in the establishment by the Dearborn Police Department of a task force to find and prosecute the responsible party. The team identifies a suspect and unfortunately Anya Khan who is following up on the efforts of the police in their investigations, happens to see the identity on the Detective's desk and decides to follow up this individual on her own. While following the suspect, she watches another individual kill him. She contacts 911 and then goes to see if she can help. She winds up picking up the knife and is holding it when the police arrive on the scene.
She is brought to the station and after being questioned for a long time, she finally asks for a lawyer and that is where Zach enters the picture. She is indicted by a Grand Jury and Zach appears at the Preliminary hearing.
After Arya is released on bail, Zach questions her to find out what she had told the police. Zach along with his investigator Micah Love look into her story. At the same time because of this instance, Arya's parents also wind up in a legal matter as well.
Ultimately a resolution of the charges is arrived at. The detail of how the evidence was collected by both Zach's team and the police was well portrayed. The ending will blow you mind with all of the action.
If you want to find out who the real killer was, what the reason for the change in the task force's mind and how everything finally plays out, then you must read this book. I am looking forward to reading the next book in the series.
March 7, 2019
An intricate plot with a great twist!
I really enjoyed this book for the first-class explanations of why exactly things are done in the particular fashion that we associate with lawyers and the legal profession.
Starting with a President who appears to be racist and has a catchy slogan " Make America Pure Again", political and legal repercussions travel all through society to regular people just trying to get by. The President represented here is very much like one we're all familiar with, and it's interesting to see the legal professionals trying to work out what they should do versus what they are told to do.
The author shows his familiarity with a lawyers' actual work, and puts it into language that's clear and understandable.
It's a great storyline that draws you into the characters, so you not only come to care about them, you're really rooting for them by the end.
The characters are real, complex people, whose actions follow their motivations in a believable fashion.
Arya is an interesting, likable young woman who makes a heckuva mistake, and pays for it in time and stress. Her family sticks with her, through some pretty tough stuff.
The policemen on the ground are not perfect (as perhaps we'd like them to be) but they do act consistently in character, and they represent people just like the ones we know in our own lives.
The main character, Zachary Blake, has an interesting backstory that invites you to really get to know him and his family. He represents the best of what the legal professional can be. His comprehensive approach to evidence gathering is quite interesting, and his investigators are first class.
Will Zach be able to clear Arya from a murder charge, though?
I really enjoyed this book for the first-class explanations of why exactly things are done in the particular fashion that we associate with lawyers and the legal profession.
Starting with a President who appears to be racist and has a catchy slogan " Make America Pure Again", political and legal repercussions travel all through society to regular people just trying to get by. The President represented here is very much like one we're all familiar with, and it's interesting to see the legal professionals trying to work out what they should do versus what they are told to do.
The author shows his familiarity with a lawyers' actual work, and puts it into language that's clear and understandable.
It's a great storyline that draws you into the characters, so you not only come to care about them, you're really rooting for them by the end.
The characters are real, complex people, whose actions follow their motivations in a believable fashion.
Arya is an interesting, likable young woman who makes a heckuva mistake, and pays for it in time and stress. Her family sticks with her, through some pretty tough stuff.
The policemen on the ground are not perfect (as perhaps we'd like them to be) but they do act consistently in character, and they represent people just like the ones we know in our own lives.
The main character, Zachary Blake, has an interesting backstory that invites you to really get to know him and his family. He represents the best of what the legal professional can be. His comprehensive approach to evidence gathering is quite interesting, and his investigators are first class.
Will Zach be able to clear Arya from a murder charge, though?
August 22, 2017
Your faith is supposedly something that helps grounds you and gives you internal peace. In this world, many people rely more on their beliefs to get them through troubled times and they look forward to positive outcomes. Unfortunately, for others, they would be forever haunted by the trauma they believed faith put them in and blame it for all the horrible experiences they’ve had. In “Betrayal of Faith,” we vaguely learn that some type of trauma occurred in two young boys’ lives, which involved someone they trusted as a spokesperson of their faith. Through this discovery, you’ll begin to feel all sorts of unpleasant emotions, especially anger.
The title gives somewhat of a clue to what this book could be based on and author Mark M. Bello was very detailed as if his readers were witnesses in hopes for an outcome in the boys’ favors. The power players in throughout this book gave me an uneasy feeling, I often found myself shaking my head in shame. The writing style of Mark M. Bello invokes real emotions for his characters because scenarios like this go on in the real world. If granted the opportunity to solve such heinous crimes and rebuild the trust of these people’s faith, I don’t see why not.
Following along as the case against a member of the clergy I’ve learned something new about the laws of both church and state. My favorite characters are Zach and Micah, as these two are doing their due diligence in making sure this certain individual faces the necessary consequences. Not exactly reading through an emotional rollercoaster but it can shape the way people view people of their faith. I recommend this to anyone that wish they can see how a case plays out from all sides and take away some valuable knowledge that could help them or someone they know going through it.
The title gives somewhat of a clue to what this book could be based on and author Mark M. Bello was very detailed as if his readers were witnesses in hopes for an outcome in the boys’ favors. The power players in throughout this book gave me an uneasy feeling, I often found myself shaking my head in shame. The writing style of Mark M. Bello invokes real emotions for his characters because scenarios like this go on in the real world. If granted the opportunity to solve such heinous crimes and rebuild the trust of these people’s faith, I don’t see why not.
Following along as the case against a member of the clergy I’ve learned something new about the laws of both church and state. My favorite characters are Zach and Micah, as these two are doing their due diligence in making sure this certain individual faces the necessary consequences. Not exactly reading through an emotional rollercoaster but it can shape the way people view people of their faith. I recommend this to anyone that wish they can see how a case plays out from all sides and take away some valuable knowledge that could help them or someone they know going through it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 26, 2020
Bloomfield Hills. Zachary “Zack” Blake (wealthy, attorney, JD, lawyer/PC, Western Michigan Cooley Law School) & Jennifer Tracey (37, wealthy, widow/mother, newspaper editor, Oakland U BS; English) were now a couple & he was a surrogate father to Jake Tracey (son/brother) & Kenny Tracey (older son/brother).
The 2 adults had become quite the philanthropist.
Secretary Allison Goodman was their pick for the Democratic Presidential candidate.
Dearborn, MI. Mosque of America. Imam Baqir Ghaffari (Islamic theology, law) was delivering his Friday sermon, the Khutbah, to his worshipers. The upcoming Ramadan was also on his mind & mentioned & 1 of President John’s goal.
Detective Jack Dylan (Catholic, Dearborn PD, Wayne County Regional Police Training Academy, U of Michigan; CJ, Wayne St.) was assigned to investigate the criminal acts against the Dearborn Muslim community.
On his team are: Asher Granger (forensic criminologist, former DoJ/ATF investigator, Yale; forensic science, CJ), Detective Noah Thompson (29, cybercrimes expert), Detective Lieutenant “Shaheed” Ali (Muslim affairs, customs, religious, cultural matters expert, liaison between the local/Muslim community, U of Michigan; CJ).
Dearborn, MI. Mosque of America. Eric Burns (fire investigator), Arya & his team began to investigate the firebombing.
Arya went to speak with Detective Lieutenant Ali.
Detective Lieutenant Ali interviewed her.
Hamid Khan (American citizen, husband/father) called Zachary.
It would be a pro bono case.
All rise. The District Court of Wayne County is now in session, The Honorable Judge David Grinder (Wayne County) presiding.
State of Michigan v. Arya Khan.
Prosecution: ADA Lawrence Bialy (Wayne County), Defense: Zachary “Zack” Blake (attorney, JD, lawyer/PC, Western Michigan Cooley Law School).
Arya Khan, you are charged with murder in the 1st degree. The maximum penalty for that offense is life in prison without the possibility of parole.
The plea of not guilty will be entered for the record.
Bail is set at $1,000,000 cash or bond. The defendant will be fitted with & wear an Electronic ankle bracelet & pay the cost of the monitoring.
Buhl Building (Griswold) 14th floor Micah Love Private Detective Agency Zack & Arya met with Micah Love (PD, husband/father).
United States of America v. Hamid and Riah Khan.
Judge George Farhad listened to Marshall Mann (Khan’s lawyer) explain to him about his clients: Hamid Khan & Riah Khan’s unlawful deportation.
AG Geoffrey Parley was next.
How will this case turn out?
Dearborn, MI. A bomb had exploded at the Arab American National Museum (2nd Triennial Conference on Arab American Studies).
Detective Lieutenant Jack Dylan (Dearborn PD, Medal of Valor) had his SWAT team in place.
Wayne County Circuit Court. Honorable David Grinder heard the People v. Benjamin Blaine case.
Scott Lewis (public defender) for Benjamin Blaine (white supremacist) in the murderer of Keith Blackwell.
How will the case of People v. Arya Khan case turn out?
I do not receive any type of compensation for reading & reviewing free books from publishers & authors. Therefore, I am under no obligation to write a positive review, only an honest one.
Warning: This book contains descriptive accounts of extremely graphic adult content (hate crimes), violence, or expletive language &/or uncensored sexually explicit material which is only suitable for mature readers. It may be offensive or have potential adverse psychological effects on the reader. If you are especially sensitive to this type of material, it is strongly advised not to read any further.
An awesome book cover, great font & writing style. A very professionally written political thriller book. It was extremely easy for me to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. There were no grammar/typo errors, nor any repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a huge description list of unique characters, settings, facts etc. to keep track of. This could also make another great political thriller movie, or better yet a mini TV series. To be continued. There is no doubt in my mind this is an extremely easy rating of 5 stars.
Thank you for the free author; 8 Grand Publications; Goodreads; MakingConnections; Making Connections discussion group talk; ARR PDF book.
Tony Parsons MSW (Washburn)
The 2 adults had become quite the philanthropist.
Secretary Allison Goodman was their pick for the Democratic Presidential candidate.
Dearborn, MI. Mosque of America. Imam Baqir Ghaffari (Islamic theology, law) was delivering his Friday sermon, the Khutbah, to his worshipers. The upcoming Ramadan was also on his mind & mentioned & 1 of President John’s goal.
Detective Jack Dylan (Catholic, Dearborn PD, Wayne County Regional Police Training Academy, U of Michigan; CJ, Wayne St.) was assigned to investigate the criminal acts against the Dearborn Muslim community.
On his team are: Asher Granger (forensic criminologist, former DoJ/ATF investigator, Yale; forensic science, CJ), Detective Noah Thompson (29, cybercrimes expert), Detective Lieutenant “Shaheed” Ali (Muslim affairs, customs, religious, cultural matters expert, liaison between the local/Muslim community, U of Michigan; CJ).
Dearborn, MI. Mosque of America. Eric Burns (fire investigator), Arya & his team began to investigate the firebombing.
Arya went to speak with Detective Lieutenant Ali.
Detective Lieutenant Ali interviewed her.
Hamid Khan (American citizen, husband/father) called Zachary.
It would be a pro bono case.
All rise. The District Court of Wayne County is now in session, The Honorable Judge David Grinder (Wayne County) presiding.
State of Michigan v. Arya Khan.
Prosecution: ADA Lawrence Bialy (Wayne County), Defense: Zachary “Zack” Blake (attorney, JD, lawyer/PC, Western Michigan Cooley Law School).
Arya Khan, you are charged with murder in the 1st degree. The maximum penalty for that offense is life in prison without the possibility of parole.
The plea of not guilty will be entered for the record.
Bail is set at $1,000,000 cash or bond. The defendant will be fitted with & wear an Electronic ankle bracelet & pay the cost of the monitoring.
Buhl Building (Griswold) 14th floor Micah Love Private Detective Agency Zack & Arya met with Micah Love (PD, husband/father).
United States of America v. Hamid and Riah Khan.
Judge George Farhad listened to Marshall Mann (Khan’s lawyer) explain to him about his clients: Hamid Khan & Riah Khan’s unlawful deportation.
AG Geoffrey Parley was next.
How will this case turn out?
Dearborn, MI. A bomb had exploded at the Arab American National Museum (2nd Triennial Conference on Arab American Studies).
Detective Lieutenant Jack Dylan (Dearborn PD, Medal of Valor) had his SWAT team in place.
Wayne County Circuit Court. Honorable David Grinder heard the People v. Benjamin Blaine case.
Scott Lewis (public defender) for Benjamin Blaine (white supremacist) in the murderer of Keith Blackwell.
How will the case of People v. Arya Khan case turn out?
I do not receive any type of compensation for reading & reviewing free books from publishers & authors. Therefore, I am under no obligation to write a positive review, only an honest one.
Warning: This book contains descriptive accounts of extremely graphic adult content (hate crimes), violence, or expletive language &/or uncensored sexually explicit material which is only suitable for mature readers. It may be offensive or have potential adverse psychological effects on the reader. If you are especially sensitive to this type of material, it is strongly advised not to read any further.
An awesome book cover, great font & writing style. A very professionally written political thriller book. It was extremely easy for me to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. There were no grammar/typo errors, nor any repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a huge description list of unique characters, settings, facts etc. to keep track of. This could also make another great political thriller movie, or better yet a mini TV series. To be continued. There is no doubt in my mind this is an extremely easy rating of 5 stars.
Thank you for the free author; 8 Grand Publications; Goodreads; MakingConnections; Making Connections discussion group talk; ARR PDF book.
Tony Parsons MSW (Washburn)
October 5, 2019
Before the 2016 U.S. Presidential election I would have thought this novel was ham-handed and so far outside the realm of possibility as to be ridiculous. Fortunately for this book, and unfortunately for the U.S., the racist, homophobic, misogynistic, ignorance of the US president in this novel is actually toned down from reality enough to be believable.
This is the second in the series of Zachary Blake legal thrillers (see my review of the first one). It is a standalone novel so you do not need to have read the first one to enjoy this one. Your views of the the first novel will determine whether this is a positive or negative aspect of this book. For me it worked really well and was a good follow-up to the first book of the series.
This book finds Zach defending a Muslim from murder charges in a politically difficult climate of distrust and concern over immigration and what it means to be American. Additionally, the U.S. president has taken interest in the case and pressured for deportation hearings of his client’s parents.
The story revolves around these pertinent topics at the expense of character development. It is a well-written, engaging novel with a couple of twists. It is more predictable than the first book but still a solid follow-up.
If you enjoyed the first one, this is one you would enjoy. If you are concerned about the current political climate it is nice to escape into a fictional world where characters with a conscience are highlighted.
This is the second in the series of Zachary Blake legal thrillers (see my review of the first one). It is a standalone novel so you do not need to have read the first one to enjoy this one. Your views of the the first novel will determine whether this is a positive or negative aspect of this book. For me it worked really well and was a good follow-up to the first book of the series.
This book finds Zach defending a Muslim from murder charges in a politically difficult climate of distrust and concern over immigration and what it means to be American. Additionally, the U.S. president has taken interest in the case and pressured for deportation hearings of his client’s parents.
The story revolves around these pertinent topics at the expense of character development. It is a well-written, engaging novel with a couple of twists. It is more predictable than the first book but still a solid follow-up.
If you enjoyed the first one, this is one you would enjoy. If you are concerned about the current political climate it is nice to escape into a fictional world where characters with a conscience are highlighted.
May 1, 2020
This second book in the Zachary Blake Legal Thriller Series by Mark M Bello was loaded with intense and explosive action and suspense. One thing about the author, he is definitely not afraid to tackle sensitive and current subjects in his writings. This time it is about bigotry and hatred toward Muslims and all other non-white Christians. The main character, Ayra, is subjected to multiple physical and emotional attacks by both the police and the white-supremacists. Then, simmering on the back burner of the story is the subject of deporting all Muslims from the USA per the president of the United States' executive order, as well as halting the incoming ones from certain countries. I can't wait to see what subject he attacks in book 3 of the series which I have already added to my TBR file. This is a voluntary review of a copy of this book from Fast and Free Reviews.
May 5, 2019
“A horrible year in which faith was tested and justice was betrayed had transitioned to a new year, one filled with the joyful and tangible rebirth of love, justice, faith and as Allah willed it, Salaam.”
Mark Bello twists a tale of crime and intrigue in his second book of the Zachary Blake Betrayal Series; that could have come straight out of the headlines. Ronald John has been elected as President of the United States, with his anti-Muslim redirect and policies has to lead to white supremacist to justifying their attacks in the small town of Dearborn. Keith Blackwell a white supremacist and active member of 1USA Pure is behind the attacks on the Muslim community and Firebomb of their Mosque winds up dead the police's prime suspect is a Muslim woman Arya Khan is upon First Degree Murder Charges. Her story matches the evidence but, so does the fact she could have killed him herself. Her family and community call in Zachary Blake to defend her against these charges. Mark Bello tackles a lot of topics such as racism, hate, immigration and prejudices in this new tale including writing the characters in a way that tackles the stereotypes that people jump to with Muslims, Americans, Jews or Christians and breaks them when showing that even a young Muslim woman can be a hero for a community just by telling the truth. He truly surprised me with his style of writing and his storytelling. I found it quite enjoyable and worth the time and energy to read if for no other reason than the fact he shows that there is another way.
Mark Bello twists a tale of crime and intrigue in his second book of the Zachary Blake Betrayal Series; that could have come straight out of the headlines. Ronald John has been elected as President of the United States, with his anti-Muslim redirect and policies has to lead to white supremacist to justifying their attacks in the small town of Dearborn. Keith Blackwell a white supremacist and active member of 1USA Pure is behind the attacks on the Muslim community and Firebomb of their Mosque winds up dead the police's prime suspect is a Muslim woman Arya Khan is upon First Degree Murder Charges. Her story matches the evidence but, so does the fact she could have killed him herself. Her family and community call in Zachary Blake to defend her against these charges. Mark Bello tackles a lot of topics such as racism, hate, immigration and prejudices in this new tale including writing the characters in a way that tackles the stereotypes that people jump to with Muslims, Americans, Jews or Christians and breaks them when showing that even a young Muslim woman can be a hero for a community just by telling the truth. He truly surprised me with his style of writing and his storytelling. I found it quite enjoyable and worth the time and energy to read if for no other reason than the fact he shows that there is another way.
December 9, 2019
Betrayal of Justice by Mark M. Bello has a storyline that hits very close to home during these times of political and social unrest. In the second book of his Zachary Blake Legal Thriller series the author introduces a new president with bigoted policies. Shortly after he begins his term, the president signs an executive order to deport all Muslims from the United States based on his "Make America Pure Again" election theme. This plan riles up white nationalists across the country to take action. One follower in particular decides to honor of the new president with an explosive plan to burn down the local Muslim place of worship.
Aryh Khan is a young woman concerned about her community and wants to find the evil culprit that burned down the mosque in the Muslim community she resides in. When she witnesses the murder of the man she believes burned down the mosque, she is accused of committing the murder herself. Enter Attorney Zachary Blake who shows the same passion for justice as he did in his previous book. The president takes notice of Aryh's case hoping that it will drive home the reasoning behind his extremist policy. His new administrative action further complicates matters for Aryh and her entire family as well.
With a determined defense team and Aryh's devoted community Zach is ready to take on this politically fueled case against hate and prove his client innocent. This author has the gift of being able to engage readers with every detail. I am looking forward to seeing what Zachary Blake will be up against in the next installment of this series.
Aryh Khan is a young woman concerned about her community and wants to find the evil culprit that burned down the mosque in the Muslim community she resides in. When she witnesses the murder of the man she believes burned down the mosque, she is accused of committing the murder herself. Enter Attorney Zachary Blake who shows the same passion for justice as he did in his previous book. The president takes notice of Aryh's case hoping that it will drive home the reasoning behind his extremist policy. His new administrative action further complicates matters for Aryh and her entire family as well.
With a determined defense team and Aryh's devoted community Zach is ready to take on this politically fueled case against hate and prove his client innocent. This author has the gift of being able to engage readers with every detail. I am looking forward to seeing what Zachary Blake will be up against in the next installment of this series.
May 21, 2017
I recently picked up Betrayal of Faith by Mark Bello and holy cow does it deal with some deep issues. These issues certainly aren’t helped since the author used to work cases very similar to what he writes about in this novel. Betrayal of Faith is certainly an engaging book from the moment that you begin reading the first few words. It deals with a wide ranging conspiracy about people who are supposed to be above reproach. This book especially hits close to home for me since I have three kids and can only imagine how I would react in such a situation.
Similar to how John Grisham writes his books about law it was very interesting to read about this type of issue through the lens of someone who has handled this type of case personally, and it certainly helped strengthen the book. At a little less than four hundred pages it still feels like a very quick read since it is such an intense issue that the author writes about. I do want to tag on a little bit about the author’s choice of topic; at first I was a little leary since he chose to incorporate a conspiracy into a novel that deals with with the Church in such a way. Bello does an extraordinary job of being able to not cheapen his subject material. In the end, I strongly encourage picking up his book.
Similar to how John Grisham writes his books about law it was very interesting to read about this type of issue through the lens of someone who has handled this type of case personally, and it certainly helped strengthen the book. At a little less than four hundred pages it still feels like a very quick read since it is such an intense issue that the author writes about. I do want to tag on a little bit about the author’s choice of topic; at first I was a little leary since he chose to incorporate a conspiracy into a novel that deals with with the Church in such a way. Bello does an extraordinary job of being able to not cheapen his subject material. In the end, I strongly encourage picking up his book.
July 16, 2020
There is something so authentic and relevant about 'Betrayal of Justice' by Mark M. Bello. In his first Zachary Blake novel, he confronted the very current issue of abuse within the church and now he is tackling the blatant xenophobia and racism that exists in politics today, and I don't think I need to say which world leader has proved Bello's inspiration.
President Ronald John, promises to rid America of Middle Eastern immigrants, a policy supported by many white supremacists, including Keith Blackwell. Spurned on by the President's hateful rhetoric, Keith bombs a Mosque. So when he is murdered with a Muslim woman standing over his body holding the murder weapon, will anything believe she is innocent? Zachary Blake takes the case but will prejudice prevent justice from being served?
Yes, it is tough to read in parts, with some of the views, values, and actions of the characters is completely abhorrent, but this is the world we live in and I really applaud Bello for tackling such a difficult topic. 'Betrayal of Justice' is a through-provoking courtroom thriller that perfectly references today's political climate.
President Ronald John, promises to rid America of Middle Eastern immigrants, a policy supported by many white supremacists, including Keith Blackwell. Spurned on by the President's hateful rhetoric, Keith bombs a Mosque. So when he is murdered with a Muslim woman standing over his body holding the murder weapon, will anything believe she is innocent? Zachary Blake takes the case but will prejudice prevent justice from being served?
Yes, it is tough to read in parts, with some of the views, values, and actions of the characters is completely abhorrent, but this is the world we live in and I really applaud Bello for tackling such a difficult topic. 'Betrayal of Justice' is a through-provoking courtroom thriller that perfectly references today's political climate.
July 10, 2020
I'm sure everyone in the world has an opinion on the topic of immigration and religion. America usually sets the stage for multiculturalism, white-supremacy, terrorism etc in the news and this book is easily something you might see on the news one day. Bello gives an amazing view from two opposing sides and it's hard to take which ever side you lean to but that's the point. It's the reason I love these books, very rarely do you get to see both views hashed out. The shock factor and the detail put into the book will have you gripped to the end.
July 27, 2018
This was the second legal thriller I have read and I have to say I am really being drawn into the genre. Mark Bello continues to keep me entertained with his character of Zachary Blake. In fact, almost all the characters from the first book made an appearance in this one.
There was a very obvious villain which was the new president of the United States. He was essentially Trump ( I am fairly certain the author created this character based on Trump) and made all the same promises during his campaign. The white supremacist groups wanted to help this president achieve his goals by carrying out some of them on their own. One being the firebombing of a Muslim mosque.
The main character is Arya Khan. She gets herself in quite a mess when she tries to follow the potential suspect of the firebombing to his home and witnesses him being murdered by another white supremacist. She goes to help him and gets caught by the police hovering over his dead body. Enter Zachary Blake to save the day by representing her in court.
The novel takes some intense turns and has quite a finale. I was loving all the technical law terms again. It feels like I learn the process of the judicial court system as I read this book :).
I was very fond of the theme of the book which was inclusivity. Basically, it was anti-Trump and stating that we should treat each other equally because we are all mankind and life is better without discrimination. I fully support this notion and will get behind a book that fights back against bigotry.
The only con I would have for this book was that Arya was spelled “Ayra” a couple times at the beginning of the book so at first, I had no idea if her name was Arya or Ayra. But after Chapter 2, she was called Arya the rest of the book so it settled itself out.
Overall, it was a great book that was captivating from start to finish. I won’t say anything about the outcome of Arya’s case so that you can read it and find out for yourself!
What are your thoughts on legal thrillers? Have you read this genre before? If not, I think you should try it out 🙂
There was a very obvious villain which was the new president of the United States. He was essentially Trump ( I am fairly certain the author created this character based on Trump) and made all the same promises during his campaign. The white supremacist groups wanted to help this president achieve his goals by carrying out some of them on their own. One being the firebombing of a Muslim mosque.
The main character is Arya Khan. She gets herself in quite a mess when she tries to follow the potential suspect of the firebombing to his home and witnesses him being murdered by another white supremacist. She goes to help him and gets caught by the police hovering over his dead body. Enter Zachary Blake to save the day by representing her in court.
The novel takes some intense turns and has quite a finale. I was loving all the technical law terms again. It feels like I learn the process of the judicial court system as I read this book :).
I was very fond of the theme of the book which was inclusivity. Basically, it was anti-Trump and stating that we should treat each other equally because we are all mankind and life is better without discrimination. I fully support this notion and will get behind a book that fights back against bigotry.
The only con I would have for this book was that Arya was spelled “Ayra” a couple times at the beginning of the book so at first, I had no idea if her name was Arya or Ayra. But after Chapter 2, she was called Arya the rest of the book so it settled itself out.
Overall, it was a great book that was captivating from start to finish. I won’t say anything about the outcome of Arya’s case so that you can read it and find out for yourself!
What are your thoughts on legal thrillers? Have you read this genre before? If not, I think you should try it out 🙂
July 17, 2020
Not very many people can write an enjoyable novel with religion or politics as the main foundation, but Mark M. Bello brilliantly weaves these together in Betrayal of Justice. Arya Khan has motive to kill the white supremacist that attacked her, and though she was holding the knife that killed him, she was innocent. Zachary Blake has his hands full. This is a case that stirs up everyone. Arya is set up as a terrorist example. Can Blake work wonders again, against the highest power of our country?
I did not feel the author, Mark M. Bello, wrote Betrayal of Justice as a slam to our President. I felt the author did an impressive job showing injustice because of prejudice and ignorant beliefs. This novel includes the intensity and drives the first book in this series exhibited. I find Bello’s novels well written and a drive to see justice for the innocent and underprivileged. This author definitely knows which topics will arouse the most attention and dare I say critique.
I did not feel the author, Mark M. Bello, wrote Betrayal of Justice as a slam to our President. I felt the author did an impressive job showing injustice because of prejudice and ignorant beliefs. This novel includes the intensity and drives the first book in this series exhibited. I find Bello’s novels well written and a drive to see justice for the innocent and underprivileged. This author definitely knows which topics will arouse the most attention and dare I say critique.
July 24, 2020
Another brilliant book from Mark Bello. I was so impressed by the first instalment and I have a feeling now that all of these books are going to be equally fantastic. This book while fiction still holds an awful lot of similarities to the world we live in which seems to be the theme of the series. The detail given for the plot are so believable I wouldn't be surprised to see something like this come up on the news one day. I loved the characters and appreciated the chance to see the views and opinions of both sides, even if some of it was hard to take. This is a great book that will have you eager to get to the end and see the verdict.
July 19, 2018
I wasn’t sure what to think about this book when I busted it open and started reading but I have to say that it definitely drew me in. What happens to the Tracey boys is tragic and I would not wish that upon anyone. Child Molestation is no joke and a very serious problem that needs to be dealt with. In this case, the priest was the one doing the molesting. The boys feel so guilty because the priest uses the Bible and religion to make them do the things he wants. He tells them it is what God wants. It was so sick that he did that too them and I felt like I was in the jury on this court case while I was reading this book.
Legal thrillers are a rather new genre to me but I am glad I started with this one. It was entertaining and fun to see the entire legal process from start to finish on how one gets the justice they deserve against a true monster.
Zachary Blake was a very likable character as you see him start off the story in a slump and then progress back into the brave, intelligent and courageous lawyer he once was.
The only thing I didn’t like was the format of the book. It was shaped like a textbook (very wide) so it was awkward to hold at times. I have no complaints about the story itself, just the way the book was formatted. I checked online and the newer versions of the book are formatted to novel size so I approve of this (easier to hold in one hand while you drink a coffee :)).
All in all, a great book to keep you on your toes as you root for the Tracey family (at least I hope you root for them, otherwise well….ewwww) in the intense trial case to take down a predator.
Legal thrillers are a rather new genre to me but I am glad I started with this one. It was entertaining and fun to see the entire legal process from start to finish on how one gets the justice they deserve against a true monster.
Zachary Blake was a very likable character as you see him start off the story in a slump and then progress back into the brave, intelligent and courageous lawyer he once was.
The only thing I didn’t like was the format of the book. It was shaped like a textbook (very wide) so it was awkward to hold at times. I have no complaints about the story itself, just the way the book was formatted. I checked online and the newer versions of the book are formatted to novel size so I approve of this (easier to hold in one hand while you drink a coffee :)).
All in all, a great book to keep you on your toes as you root for the Tracey family (at least I hope you root for them, otherwise well….ewwww) in the intense trial case to take down a predator.
August 5, 2020
A very controversial and addictive story. As a new president with a new resolution, President John promises to make the country pure, no matter what. Entering Keith Blackwell, who thinks the better way to make a country pure is to firebomb a local mosque. Arya Khan, a Muslim woman who thinks the new beliefs of the new president are only on screen, she doesn’t think justice is going to be the main subject so, she takes matters into her own hands, only to be identified as the criminal, but with the help of Zachary Blake, the lawyer of the family, they are seeking true justice.
This time the author creates such passionate characters, in a very intriguing and intense plot, that captures the reader and not only that, but we can totally read the experience the author has in such topic, as a lawyer and an author, he creates the perfect scenario with the perfect conditions, to make the reader enjoy this master piece!!
This time the author creates such passionate characters, in a very intriguing and intense plot, that captures the reader and not only that, but we can totally read the experience the author has in such topic, as a lawyer and an author, he creates the perfect scenario with the perfect conditions, to make the reader enjoy this master piece!!
August 18, 2017
Betrayal of Justice is a very fast paced suspenseful political legal thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat wondering what is going to happen next. It is well written, well plotted, and damn frightening due to how real it relates to what is happening in our society today. I won’t ruin it by giving details, but get your copy, and then you will see how Bello is spot on!
October 10, 2017
Excellent legal thriller- highly recommend!
November 5, 2018
Mark M Bello does an excellent job in exposing child molesters and ensuring that perpetrators are prosecuted. The Tracey brother's single mother persevered and succeeded in seeking justice. This was a thriller and the suspense killed me but it was worth it. I will definitely recommend books from this author who writes so realistic and relatable.
September 17, 2020
This is the second book in the Betrayal series, with Zachary Blake-attorney. Zack is back, having regained his stature as a successful defense attorney. In this case, there is a new president, Ron John, who is advocating purifying America. He is trying to implement a Muslim ban, and white supremacists are on the rise.
When one of the white terrorists bombs a Muslim museum, Arya Khan, a young 25-year old Muslim woman is quite upset. She tracks the bomber and witnesses his murder. In a strange turn of events, Arya is arrested for the murder, while continuing to proclaim her innocence. Her parents hire Zack to defend her. Zack is also asked to defend Arya's parents against deportation as part of the Muslim ban.
This is a thinly veiled rebuke of Trump and his bigoted policies. I love how the author argued against the bigotry present in this administration. Hopefully, the author's prediction that the bigoted president would only serve one term will also hold true for Trump.
#BetrayalOfJustice #MarkMBello
When one of the white terrorists bombs a Muslim museum, Arya Khan, a young 25-year old Muslim woman is quite upset. She tracks the bomber and witnesses his murder. In a strange turn of events, Arya is arrested for the murder, while continuing to proclaim her innocence. Her parents hire Zack to defend her. Zack is also asked to defend Arya's parents against deportation as part of the Muslim ban.
This is a thinly veiled rebuke of Trump and his bigoted policies. I love how the author argued against the bigotry present in this administration. Hopefully, the author's prediction that the bigoted president would only serve one term will also hold true for Trump.
#BetrayalOfJustice #MarkMBello
January 12, 2018
When Ronald John is elected President of the United States, he promises to make America 'pure' again by ridding the country of Middle Eastern immigrants. He and his supporters blame the Muslim community for the recent spate of terrorist attacks against decent, white American citizens.
In Dearborn, Michigan, white supremacist Keith Blackwell, urged on by President John's inaugural hate-speech, firebombs a local mosque. Young Muslim woman Arya Khan believes Dearborn's police are apathetic to the crime and takes matters into her own hands. Whilst staking-out Blackwell's home, she witnesses a 'biker-type' thug stab him in the stomach. She frantically dials 9-1-1 as she watches the perpetrator flee. She rushes to Blackwell's aid and whilst trying to stem the flow of blood, unwittingly picks up the knife. The police arrive to find her holding the murder weapon and charge her with First Degree Homicide.
Betrayal of Justice is a blatant poke at the current, real-life POTUS and his tough stance on immigration. Being British, I don't closely follow American politics but it doesn't take a genius to figure it out. The story is politically on-topic and explores what could happen should an immigration ban from Middle Eastern countries be implemented. Large parts of the book made for very uncomfortable reading; which is exactly what the author intended.
Chapters 1 to 8 (I read the Kindle edition) could benefit from further proofreading - I spotted nine occasions when the female protagonist's name is misspelt. This is a big 'no-no' for me when I'm trying to establish each character's identity. Secondly, I didn't feel any excitement reading this book - the cards were laid on the table far too early. I guess it's just personal taste but I needed more thrills and spills. Lastly, the dialogue was slightly stilted. Perhaps it's a British-American 'lost in translation' kind of thing, but where I'm from, people don't structure their sentences quite so rigidly.
Betrayal of Justice is a story right at the heart of the current political climate. It makes you contemplate where our future's heading and if it's a path we want to travel. Similarities to the persecution of Jews during WW2 cannot fail to surface. Never forget, democracy is a very powerful weapon. Use it wisely.
* My thanks to author Mark M. Bello and T.J. Hagen at Author's Herald for providing me with a copy of this book.
Read my review on my blog: http://bit.ly/2DnqxR8
In Dearborn, Michigan, white supremacist Keith Blackwell, urged on by President John's inaugural hate-speech, firebombs a local mosque. Young Muslim woman Arya Khan believes Dearborn's police are apathetic to the crime and takes matters into her own hands. Whilst staking-out Blackwell's home, she witnesses a 'biker-type' thug stab him in the stomach. She frantically dials 9-1-1 as she watches the perpetrator flee. She rushes to Blackwell's aid and whilst trying to stem the flow of blood, unwittingly picks up the knife. The police arrive to find her holding the murder weapon and charge her with First Degree Homicide.
Betrayal of Justice is a blatant poke at the current, real-life POTUS and his tough stance on immigration. Being British, I don't closely follow American politics but it doesn't take a genius to figure it out. The story is politically on-topic and explores what could happen should an immigration ban from Middle Eastern countries be implemented. Large parts of the book made for very uncomfortable reading; which is exactly what the author intended.
Chapters 1 to 8 (I read the Kindle edition) could benefit from further proofreading - I spotted nine occasions when the female protagonist's name is misspelt. This is a big 'no-no' for me when I'm trying to establish each character's identity. Secondly, I didn't feel any excitement reading this book - the cards were laid on the table far too early. I guess it's just personal taste but I needed more thrills and spills. Lastly, the dialogue was slightly stilted. Perhaps it's a British-American 'lost in translation' kind of thing, but where I'm from, people don't structure their sentences quite so rigidly.
Betrayal of Justice is a story right at the heart of the current political climate. It makes you contemplate where our future's heading and if it's a path we want to travel. Similarities to the persecution of Jews during WW2 cannot fail to surface. Never forget, democracy is a very powerful weapon. Use it wisely.
* My thanks to author Mark M. Bello and T.J. Hagen at Author's Herald for providing me with a copy of this book.
Read my review on my blog: http://bit.ly/2DnqxR8
July 18, 2021
𝑻𝒊𝒕𝒍𝒆: Betrayal of Justice
𝑨𝒖𝒕𝒉𝒐𝒓: Mark M Bello
𝑴𝒚 𝑹𝒆𝒗𝒊𝒆𝒘:
Betrayal of Justice is a captivating story. If you love reading thrillers then this would be the right pick. Story starts with an individual Ronald John giving his acceptance speech and the whole nation is watching it. White nationalist are happy with the speech whereas others weren't happy about Ronald's idea to make a Pure America. After firebombing happened at the local mosque, the Dearborn Police Department of a task force was given the job to find the person responsible behind it. It would have been easy to identify the man as according to witnesses, he is a white man in his late 30s, with arm tattoo and facial scratches.
Arya Khan who believed that a fellow citizen deserves respect irrespective of race, creed, color or religion, etc had an obligation to her community so she thought of conducting her own investigation. Later, she was accused of murdering the bigot who firebombed the mosque. When Arya requested for a lawyer, Zachary made his entry. Zachary would soon be a husband to Jennifer Tracey who was once his client. The detail with which the author has written this book is mind blowing. It's an insightful read as the author has shared valuable information also in the story. I am glad to read Mark's second book in A Zachary Blake Legal Thriller book series. I would like to strongly recommend this book to my fellow readers.
𝑴𝒚 𝑹𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒈: 5/5
𝑨𝒖𝒕𝒉𝒐𝒓: Mark M Bello
𝑴𝒚 𝑹𝒆𝒗𝒊𝒆𝒘:
Betrayal of Justice is a captivating story. If you love reading thrillers then this would be the right pick. Story starts with an individual Ronald John giving his acceptance speech and the whole nation is watching it. White nationalist are happy with the speech whereas others weren't happy about Ronald's idea to make a Pure America. After firebombing happened at the local mosque, the Dearborn Police Department of a task force was given the job to find the person responsible behind it. It would have been easy to identify the man as according to witnesses, he is a white man in his late 30s, with arm tattoo and facial scratches.
Arya Khan who believed that a fellow citizen deserves respect irrespective of race, creed, color or religion, etc had an obligation to her community so she thought of conducting her own investigation. Later, she was accused of murdering the bigot who firebombed the mosque. When Arya requested for a lawyer, Zachary made his entry. Zachary would soon be a husband to Jennifer Tracey who was once his client. The detail with which the author has written this book is mind blowing. It's an insightful read as the author has shared valuable information also in the story. I am glad to read Mark's second book in A Zachary Blake Legal Thriller book series. I would like to strongly recommend this book to my fellow readers.
𝑴𝒚 𝑹𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒈: 5/5
July 19, 2021
Betrayal of Justice
By
Mark M Bello
My Review:
"We must secure the existence your people and a future for white children".
Keith Blackwell had a hatred in his heart for those living in America and is not a white and Christian. He has supported a lot for Ronald John whose goal is to make America Pure again. While watching the election results, Keith knew that Ronald would be winning the election.
Zachary Blake, a detective, became wealthy and famous after solving the case of Jennifer Tracey whose two sons were abused by the church's priest. Now Zachary and Jennifer are in a relationship and soon will be husband and wife. Zachary is the lawyer in the case of Arya Khan. Arya was accused of murdering a bigot who firebombed the church. But Arya was at the wrong place at the wrong time. Will Zachary be able to get justice for his client? In his way, the President of the United States is standing. What's gonna happen next? Unveil the suspense yourself by reading this captivating story.
I enjoyed every bit of this story. Although the book involves some heavy discussion at times, it kept me excited all the time while reading. Plot of the story is fantastic. Mark's way of writing will win thriller lovers' hearts easily. I am glad to read this book.
My Rating: 5/5
By
Mark M Bello
My Review:
"We must secure the existence your people and a future for white children".
Keith Blackwell had a hatred in his heart for those living in America and is not a white and Christian. He has supported a lot for Ronald John whose goal is to make America Pure again. While watching the election results, Keith knew that Ronald would be winning the election.
Zachary Blake, a detective, became wealthy and famous after solving the case of Jennifer Tracey whose two sons were abused by the church's priest. Now Zachary and Jennifer are in a relationship and soon will be husband and wife. Zachary is the lawyer in the case of Arya Khan. Arya was accused of murdering a bigot who firebombed the church. But Arya was at the wrong place at the wrong time. Will Zachary be able to get justice for his client? In his way, the President of the United States is standing. What's gonna happen next? Unveil the suspense yourself by reading this captivating story.
I enjoyed every bit of this story. Although the book involves some heavy discussion at times, it kept me excited all the time while reading. Plot of the story is fantastic. Mark's way of writing will win thriller lovers' hearts easily. I am glad to read this book.
My Rating: 5/5
March 4, 2019
I almost put this book down several times but decided to push through and finish reading it.
-First of all, it took 9 chapters to introduce and talk about the characters, that is way to much and to long!! I thought the story would never start!
-Next there are so many times that things are described over and over! Like how to Incase a footprint for an investigation. Explain it in a basic definition once and not again!
-In this book there is a character named Reed Spencer, Criminal Minds has Spencer Reid. Why? Just why?
-In some of the book there are big words with no explanation but then you put “embellish (lie about”
-Make America Pure Again and the President Ron John is a complete jab at our current President, shame on you. Think of your own characters.
-There is an error on page 2912
-Last half of the book was much better until the police chiefs speech, that was rough and hard to get through, to long. The police review of the situation, same thing! Zzzzz
-The deportation ruling chapter was one I almost had to quit reading the book in, soooo long. Unnecessary long!
- Last chapter of the book, my favorite! This could have been a great book, just so much unnecessary stuff!
-First of all, it took 9 chapters to introduce and talk about the characters, that is way to much and to long!! I thought the story would never start!
-Next there are so many times that things are described over and over! Like how to Incase a footprint for an investigation. Explain it in a basic definition once and not again!
-In this book there is a character named Reed Spencer, Criminal Minds has Spencer Reid. Why? Just why?
-In some of the book there are big words with no explanation but then you put “embellish (lie about”
-Make America Pure Again and the President Ron John is a complete jab at our current President, shame on you. Think of your own characters.
-There is an error on page 2912
-Last half of the book was much better until the police chiefs speech, that was rough and hard to get through, to long. The police review of the situation, same thing! Zzzzz
-The deportation ruling chapter was one I almost had to quit reading the book in, soooo long. Unnecessary long!
- Last chapter of the book, my favorite! This could have been a great book, just so much unnecessary stuff!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 20, 2021
Betrayal of Justice written by the author Mark M Bello is the second installment in A Zachary Blake Legal Thriller series. After reading the first book in the series, I was really curious to read the second one.
Ronald John is the new President of the United States. In his acceptance speech, he announced about making America Pure again. To show support to a new leader, a bigot firebombed the largest mosque in the USA. Arya Khan thinks that behind all the recent three crimes, it was the same man. Unfortunately, she was accused of murdering the white nationalist who firebombed the mosque. Arya was doubtful that the police were not investigating properly so she hired Zachary. Will Zachary be successful in proving Arya's innocence?
If you love to read political-legal action thrillers then go ahead with this book. Cover photo of the book is nice with a suitable title. Writing style of the author is nice. Please be advised that this book contains discussion about sensitive topics such as religion, race, etc. Plot of the story is well written and it's a book worth reading.
Ronald John is the new President of the United States. In his acceptance speech, he announced about making America Pure again. To show support to a new leader, a bigot firebombed the largest mosque in the USA. Arya Khan thinks that behind all the recent three crimes, it was the same man. Unfortunately, she was accused of murdering the white nationalist who firebombed the mosque. Arya was doubtful that the police were not investigating properly so she hired Zachary. Will Zachary be successful in proving Arya's innocence?
If you love to read political-legal action thrillers then go ahead with this book. Cover photo of the book is nice with a suitable title. Writing style of the author is nice. Please be advised that this book contains discussion about sensitive topics such as religion, race, etc. Plot of the story is well written and it's a book worth reading.
December 28, 2020
Jennifer Tracy is a widowed mother of two boys Kenny and Jake Ian she is so happy after losing their dad they show an interest in the new priest of the parish, even going on a camping trip with them. They left happy little boy it’s only to come back and bitter, angry and violent. She even tries to get them help by asking the priest if you do come and speak to them. The head priest of the Same parish is on to the new priest and is incensed that he had done it before they sent them to his church. A man from a secret counsel contact the head priest and tells him to keep an eye on the new priest as they are working on getting him out of there and help ask for the help of an investigation team and a law team. This is a little drama that I loved I eventually had to put it down momentarily as I had to cook dinner but I was reading this on Christmas Day. I highly recommend this it is a great legal drama and can’t wait to read the rest in the series.
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