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Judge, Jury, & Executioner #4

Your Life Is Forfeit

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Red has a price on his head. Rivka is determined to find those who put it there.Criminals commit crimes. Career criminals do it in secret. They are good at hiding.

Rivka’s latest case has her hunting fugitives. Red is on a mission to find them and make them pay for what they’ve done.

Her search leads her through dark warrens of political intrigue and ecological disasters. All the while, Rivka is swinging the scales of justice, judging the guilty, and delivering punishment.

Villainy and scum have toe-holds throughout the galaxy, but Rivka doesn’t mind stepping on their toes even when she’s not judging them. She considers it her job because no one is above the law.

Is Rivka’s search sanctioned or has she gone rogue? Will the Federation back her play?

Magistrate Rivka Anoa is the legal eagle you want on your side. No better friend. No worse enemy.

Get it today.

Judge, Jury, & Executioner is a stand-alone series in the Kurtherian Gambit Universe. No previous books need to be read. Just lock in your seat-belt, grab your favorite drink and be ready for your socks to be blown off.

--- PLEASE NOTE ---

*** This book contains cursing. Perhaps humorous cursing, but cursing nevertheless. If this offends you, perhaps this book isn't for you.

252 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 21, 2018

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About the author

Craig Martelle

339 books7,909 followers
Visit Craig's web page, craigmartelle.com for the latest posts and updates or find him on Facebook, Author Craig Martelle. Send an email to craig@craigmartelle.com to join his mailing list for the latest on new releases, information on old releases, and anything related to his books.

I see my other lives, a career in the Marines, those damn hand-written tests in law school, a business consultant, as if they're stories from a book. I see my books as if I lived there, as if I were friends with the characters. All things we remember are behind us, only those we imagine lie before.

I'm not sure which place I prefer, but I don't have to choose. They live together in my mind. My books have some award nominations, they have bestseller tags across multiple countries. I write about justice, honor, and loyalty because that's what I care about. My stories are mostly set within worlds that haven't been, but could be. We have to be ready for when those times come.

No matter where I went, I always had a book with me. Thanks to 21st Century technology, I now have hundreds of books loaded on my phone and always with me. This breakthrough allows me to binge read my favorites. How many books would I have read on deployments had I not had to have a physical book with me? I paced myself so I wouldn't finish too quickly.

We aren't encumbered like that now. I love the works of Robert Heinlein, Anne McCaffrey, JRR Tolkien, Robert E. Howard, and so many more. I have been compared to Andre Norton and that is humbling - she was an incredible author with a huge list of novels to her credit. With every new book, I aspire to live up to those that you, the readers, have compared me to.

Through a bizarre series of events, I ended up in Fairbanks, Alaska. I never expected to retire to a place where golf courses are only open for four months out of the year. But that's the way it is. It is off the beaten path. My wife and I get to watch the northern lights from our driveway. Our dog has lots of room to run. And temperatures reach fifty below zero. We have from three and a half hours of daylight in the winter to twenty-four hours in the summer.

It's all part of the give and take of life. If we didn't have those extremes, then everyone would live in the sub-arctic.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews
31 reviews3 followers
April 9, 2020
This book is part of the series within a series set in the Kurtherian Gambit Universe. Craig Martelle and Michael Anderle did a great job creating a world and characters you can believe in and get excited about. If you enjoy this series, try the main series, it will take you on a trip...!!!
Profile Image for Per Gunnar.
1,344 reviews74 followers
April 2, 2022
This is a simple to read little adventure in the Kurtherian universe created by Michael Anderle. It is not written by Anderle, as is the case for many of the books in this universe lately, but by Craig Martelle. Often this is a bit hit or miss with some authors spewing out pretty bad books but the books I’ve read soo far by this author and in this series have been pretty fun reads.

This book is following that same pattern. Magistrate Rivka and her team are a really a likable bunch. They are each very different, each competent in their own ways and quite kick-ass. They are also fiercely loyal to Rivka as well as the team.

As usual they are tasked with solving various criminal cases and apprehend, usually dead or alive, quite often dead, the bad guys. In this book the main case is a bit pro bono. Rivka & Co has decided to take on the low life that is behind the price on Red’s head.

Also as usual, this involves a fair amount of tree shaking to see what foul fruits fall down. I quite like when Rivka and the team goes into action. She usually do not take any shit neither from the criminal elements nor from bureaucrats with a overinflated opinion of their own importance. Her phrase “You have been judged, paperwork to follow” is quite entertaining since at the time Rivka makes that statement the criminal in question is usually already requiring some medical attention, if he is lucky.

Of course all this investigation and ass-kicking is accompanied by a good dose of humorous dialogue which contributes to make these books a rather fun read.

The book is also fairly free from annoying wokeism. Actually, in on chapter the author seems to make a point when a female asshat claims that her “faction”, that is the females, should have two votes because of how they were threated in the past, Rivka quickly cuts that crap of by saying “I said equal. I will tolerate no bullshit, quotas, denigration, or demands.”. Too bad a lot of asshat politicians today doesn’t understand what “equal” means any more.

The author was threading on thin ice of course when he let someone bring in a pineapple pizza but luckily the guy was quickly told that it was a breach of contract to put pineapples on a All Guns Blazing pizza. If there’s one sin that justifies the death penalty that would be it.

Anyway, as I wrote this is an easy to read and fun sci-fi adventure. Something that you can easily read while watching TV or as a change of change of pace in between two more “heavy” books.
Profile Image for Katy.
1,600 reviews12 followers
May 17, 2022
This story was more gripping than the previous ones - and yet, each story was amazing in its own right!

I guess its a fact that each story improves the next one, and so this one was simply the best - so far!

I love Craig's stories. Every single one of them has something in it that touches me in one way or another, and this story did that to me, with bells on.

It's quite funny, really, how much I enjoy Rivka's cases - or missions, as Red keeps arguing that they are - especially as what has kept my interest in other series, are the hard hitting women, who do their own thing, and get the job done their own way.

But, as fast as she can run, Rivka isn't exactly like all the other women, like BA, Tabitha, Giselle, etc., and I think it's because, although the other ladies rely on a sense of Justice, when they take on the baddies, with Rivka, it's because she has a perfect faith in her knowledge of the Law, and she knows exactly how far she can go, without stepping over that mark, that would lead to chaos!

Which she showed, in spades, in this particular story!

If the situation Rivka and her crew found themselves in at the start was anything to go by, I knew she was really going to be tested on this one, especially where it touched on her loyalty to Red but, like the great team they are, they all coped with staying within the bounds of the Law, even if some of them would have preferred a shorter, rather more brutal, ending to the case!

I have loved every series written by Craig, so far, but I have a sneaking suspicion that, like him, J, J, and E is my favourite series from his writings, and Rivka has her own special place in my heart, alongside all the wonderful female leads written by Michael Anderle.

But, as this book is finished, I looked at my reading list, to see what I'm going to read next, and I see it's another of Craig's series, and is book three of the Superdreadnought series!

I'm totally spoilt for choice here, aren't I? Lol
Profile Image for Sandy Chapman.
240 reviews5 followers
December 9, 2018
ABe prepared! Hard to put down after picking up!

Once you start this book, you aren't going to want to put it down until you finished. It's that good!
Red was hired by Grainger to be a body guard for the new magistrate, Rivka. But his bosses from his two former jobs had put prices on his head. Both are major intergalactic criminals. But Red didn't like what he was going to have to do, killing and bullying people out of their homes or to work for his boss. After having bounty Hunter come after Red white on their last job was the final straw for Rivka. And Grainger along with the head magistrate backed her up so she was going to be acting within an official case when they go after them.
Craig Marielle showed his awesome talent in developing characters, even those who were just the ones that were there to support the flow of the story. Loved how the chief Constable, who was close to retirement, thought about starting a business to introduce pets to his world after he met Floyd (the wombat formally owned by TH).
And it always great when TH and Char from the Nomad series, make a cameo appearance!
The story is so awesome, with something happening constantly. Jay and Ankh became stronger in some unexpected ways after Ankh handled the programming of the Pod Docs. They both show their strength and intelligence by using their talents to the provided much needed help to the team.
I highly recommend this book and this series. If you like action and characters that are believable, you won't be disappointed. In my opinion there are many more stories to be told about these incredible characters so I hope that this series will go on. Looking forward to reading the next adventure!
6,371 reviews40 followers
August 11, 2021
It didn't seem possible but things are getting even wilder for the team. This time there are two evil=doers, one who is just plain greedy and the other greedy but willing to see people die to get what he wants.

Some the team has to find both of them and render judgment. One planet is in a civil war and some of the group get shot at pretty strongly. On the other planet the villain is behind the scenes. Neither planet exactly welcomes the Rivka.

There's a truckload of guns blazing, tricking an AI on the ship of one of the villains, politicians with their usual self-importance and, of course, a wombat.

The series to me is still like a wild western in space done in a great style. You've got the bad guys, the good guys, lots of gunplay people being saved even if some of them aren't thrilled about what is being done.

This has to be one of my favorite series of all times and I intend to read all of them.
45 reviews
October 25, 2018
Another tale from the mind of Martelle in Anderlie's universe

I found this an easy and wonderfully pleasant book to read. Craig Martelle swirls my mind around environmental and political conflicts involving aliens and humans, doing good and bad in amusing ways. The Queen Bitch's Rangers move through and around her domain in the best tradition of defenders of justice on the frontier as of old.
Profile Image for Danika Fedeli.
24 reviews2 followers
October 28, 2018
Another great book in the series!

I love the combination of characters in these books. Jay, Red, and Lindy provide a great balance between the physical and emotional sides of the job for Rivka, and they all bring Ankh out of his anti-social cocoon brilliantly. It's a fun adventure packed full of action and justice. If you're looking for a great sci-fi series and on the fence with this one, pick it up! You won't be disappointed!
1,250 reviews18 followers
May 19, 2019
Another good book in the series.

Excellent series, plenty of action plenty of humor. A good mix of characters except one. I don’t understand the purpose of Jay I guess I will have to read more because she just doesn’t do it for me. But the series is very good I suggest that people who decide to give the series a try read it from the beginning. I am going on to slave trade the following book
399 reviews3 followers
October 23, 2018
Like all good books this one leaves you wanting more

The author asks in his notes at the end if he should devote efforts to keep this series going - all I can say is absobloodylutely.

This is one of the best spin-offs of the KGU - if you haven't read the previous ones in the series then do yourself a favour and go read them.
Profile Image for Frank Bertino.
1,771 reviews21 followers
October 23, 2018
Fun Book In A Fun Series

Riivka wants to protect Red who has a price the his head. Two criminals cross the team's path, so they go for both. One of which is responsible for the danger to Red. I like the action, snarky humor, and mild romance. I like the characters and how they relate. I for one would like to see the series continue.
11 reviews
October 29, 2018
More please!

I stumbled upon a KGU book about 2 months ago. It was somewhere in the middle of the story so I had to start from the beginning. I have quit reading anything else. The stories are well written and engaging. Addictive if you ask me. When will the next one come out? Running out of the older ones

160 reviews5 followers
November 4, 2018
This is my favorite series by Craig Martelle

I really have enjoyed all four books in this series. Keep writing them, please, Craig!
The different social, biological, and political systems have been fascinating. And the characters are still developing and changing. Lots of fun; I definitely recommend these books.
Profile Image for Terry Easom.
94 reviews2 followers
November 27, 2018
OMG this series is one of the best in the latest TKG world! Craig Martelle has really done an amazing job with the characters in the Rivika books! She's a wonderful character and everyone she's collected along the way fits in perfectly! Wonderful reads, all of these books in this series, are absolutely awesome!
28 reviews
May 3, 2020
Really different ending than expected.

And that, is a good thing. Usually she has to fight and almost be killed or another member of her party be near death in the boss scenes. This ending was a good change. It highlighted the entire groups skill set to make the end work. Craig is really growing as a writer. I look forward to analyzing more of his work!
873 reviews3 followers
April 8, 2023
Book 4

Book 4 had errors throughout and was a fun read. This time around they must find Red's previous employer's. The bounty is high and the team must find them before Red is killed. There is a lot of running round trying to find the employer's and finally catching up to them during a civil war on a planet. I enjoyed this book and look forward to the next one.
Profile Image for Ed A.
164 reviews2 followers
October 23, 2018
Another worthwhile read

Justice served up by a small team led by one heck of a judge. This series is pretty faced paced, and easy to to enjoy. I hope to see more of Magistrate Rivka. Keep it up CM.
Profile Image for Lois Alston.
1,864 reviews3 followers
October 23, 2018
Outstanding story

Love all of the adventures Rica and crew get to experience. Angel has seamlessly integrated into the crew and is just great. Glad everyone is working like a well oiled machine. Love the interaction with Grainger.
Profile Image for Veronica.
1,018 reviews5 followers
October 24, 2018
So let it be written, so let it be done!

Rivka is back with a vengeance. Her crew expands, bad guys are dealt with, idiots are silenced, and justice prevails. Lots of adventure and laughter, of course. Now to wait for the next book.... and harass Craig until he finishes it 😁 😜
Profile Image for Wanda binz.
839 reviews6 followers
November 3, 2018
Exceptional series

This is an exceptional series in that it is about justice, not revenge ! The way the magistrate is able to read minds and be able to judge. It is not about who has the most money and who can buy the better legal team.
10 reviews
October 25, 2018
Doesn't disapoint!

This series is one of my new favorites! Once I start reading I have hard time stopping and can't wait to pick it up again! Also love the character development and cohesion with the crew.
Profile Image for George  Lawson.
515 reviews1 follower
October 28, 2018
Enjoying these stories

Another good story. Interesting premise in this one and it comes out quite well. Jay gets her own unique power from the banks and becomes an even more important part of the team. Good read.
138 reviews1 follower
October 28, 2018
Forfeit

This series is one of my favorites in the Overran universe. The magistrate has two particularly difficult cases this time. Two criminals who leave no trace. The story is excellent, great characters, an intriguing plot, and skilful writing.
227 reviews
October 30, 2018
Another hit!

The series continues on and continues to get better. More character development and intriguing storylines. I love this series. And anytime we get a visit from our Nomad brethren, so much the better!
Profile Image for Shana Pare.
938 reviews6 followers
November 4, 2018
Delightful read as always.

The Magistrate and her crew continue their trek through the universe as they bring justice wherever it needs to be carried. The book is an easy, fun read, and I recommend it to brighten your long day and hassle-filled day.
68 reviews
November 9, 2018
A great series

definitely five stars. This entire series including this book have just been fun they're amusing fast-paced and a great way to relax and laugh. I hope you will enjoy them as much as I have. Cheers
581 reviews
November 17, 2018
Fun and a strong pay back.

As with the previous stories about meeting out justice there is a fine line between justice and murder. This story shows that line in a insightful and interesting way.😊
37 reviews
September 14, 2019
Alienated Aliens

I just like how it sounds. That aboriginal guy have me the creeps. I gotta see a picture of the booklet dude. It has got to be hard to create aliens. Keep up the good work!
Profile Image for Scott.
1,507 reviews12 followers
February 29, 2020
Good reading

Great mix of the legal and judgement as usual, also liked the personal touch clearing Reds bounty.
The crew does seem to be expanding really fast however and needs a working dog i think more than pets but thats me.
873 reviews7 followers
July 1, 2020
Even more fun than the last book

I really am enjoying this series. Each book is more fun than the last and all of the characters are filling out nicely. Definitely recommend this series.
110 reviews1 follower
November 26, 2020
4 down

Have you ever started a series and then couldn't put them down? Yep this is another one of those. Adventure ,mayhem and space, lots of space.We have cats, werewolves and a combat. If that's not enough to wet your appetite some of our old friends are here too.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews