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Seven members of one family are found murdered in their homes in the heart of Ohio farm country. No one saw. No one heard. Everyone has a theory and a motive.

With the ink still wet on her divorce decree, prosecutor Mara Brent catches the case that shocks the nation. Suspicion grows as the investigation gets underway pitting neighbor against neighbor. The press dubs the victims the Sutter Seven and almost everyone in town has a finger to point. Were the Sutters victims or villains?

Mara hopes tensions will cool when an arrest is made and the trial unfolds. But it only opens up fragile fault lines and old family feuds that erupt in more violence. To make matters worse, Mara must face down her toughest courtroom adversary yet. The defendant has hired one of the country’s top defense lawyers and the woman who taught Mara everything she knows. Revelations at trial will test old alliances and uncover new enemies as Mara fights to restore order to her hometown.

Can Mara bring the killer to justice before the whole town implodes?

Hand of Justice is the electrifying third book in the Mara Brent legal thriller series. If you like powerful women, rich mysteries, and shocking revelations, then you’ll love Robin James’s heart-pounding novel.

282 pages, Kindle Edition

First published February 10, 2021

2109 people are currently reading
231 people want to read

About the author

Robin James

24 books431 followers
Robin James is an attorney and former law professor. She's worked on a wide range of civil, criminal and family law cases in her twenty-year legal career. She also spent over a decade as supervising attorney for a Michigan legal clinic assisting thousands of people who could not otherwise afford access to justice.

Robin now lives on a lake in southern Michigan with her husband, two children, and one lazy dog. Her favorite, pure Michigan writing spot is stretched out on the back of a pontoon watching the faster boats go by.

Join Robin James's Legal Thriller Newsletter to get updates on her latest releases and author news. http://robinjamesbooks.com/newsletter

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5 stars
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4 stars
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3 stars
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 79 reviews
Profile Image for ➦Paulette & Her Sexy Alphas .
1,175 reviews344 followers
February 15, 2021
Title: ➳ Hand of Justice
Series➳ Mara Brent Legal Thriller Series 3#
Author: ➳ Robin James
Kindle: February 15, 2021.
Paperback: February 10, 2021

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

In this installment, you’ll find, there are so many twists and turns to this story you'll be gripping your Kindle all the way to the end of this book... so many lies, there are family feuds over lands & money... there is deception & greed incest & drugs & so much more between these pages…. A nail-biter, for sure. I was hooked from the first page and would have read it in one sitting but responsibilities begrudgingly forced me to put the book down a few times.

Just when you think, this is one of those open & shut cases, the author will make you turn the other way, when you finally figure out who committed these heinous crimes, it will be to late , you’ll be pulled down into the rabbit hole

Mara is at the blue Pony celebrating the fact that she just finalized her divorce with a bunch of her colleagues, when the head detective (Sam Cruz) received a chilling call that there was a mass murders up at the Sutter Farm (The Sutter Seven) later they’ll call it

In Mara’s investigation, she finds out, that the Sutter's & Harveys have been Feuding over land & anything else you can imagine for practically 100 years.. to say they had some longstanding conflict is putting it mildly! Then throw into the mix that one of the Sutter's is sleeping with the enemy


Note: I love how the author continues with the backstory between Mara and her ex-husband & their amazing son Will...his outbursts sometimes leave you gasping with big fat O... but what I loved most was what Will said to Kat & Mara at the end of the book, lord I can’t wait until Ms James next installment, until then Happy Reading!


➦📚 *Hope you enjoy this read & also always keep in mind this is just my opinion+ Also I wouldn’t never discourage anyone from reading this book.

➦*I received an ecopy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest review of it. 💕
💕 . .**This has not influenced my review.* **

Happy Reading & Enjoy --------Paulette Alphas Review
Profile Image for Ann.
2,115 reviews50 followers
April 27, 2024
4.0- 4.5 stars. Whoa! Still blown away by the surprise ending I doubt anyone saw coming. Seven murders, 6 part of a large dysfunctional family and a friend of one of those family members. Then there's the history of the town's two large feuding family's that have spanned decades. Have to admit, it was hard to keep track of all the who's who for all these family members, their spouses, children, significant others and which side of the fence they were on. But despite that it was still a good read that was hard to put down.

On the personal side, I really like Mara's son, Will. His straight forward honest thoughts and opinions are charming. And how about that Sam Cruz? Is there a spark there? Is it too soon for Mara? I'll just have to keep reading to see what the author has planned. Her books are definitely addictive, what choice do I have but to read on.🤷‍♀️
Profile Image for Patches Deese.
251 reviews
March 24, 2024
Another book, another case, another murder to be unraveled, another time for the truth to be ousted; and especially another gripping story to be read. Robin James has done it again. Strong characters who hold the story line together, making it a must read. If you enjoy the action in the court room flavored with personal details and life then this is definitely for you. Just be aware putting it down is challenging!!
7 reviews
November 1, 2021
Way too complex

Multiple family members murdered. Try keep track of who everyone is and how they are related- especially when it’s down to cousins and nephews. Go ahead try. A confusing read, not a relaxing one.
952 reviews2 followers
March 16, 2021
Good legal thriller

Though I’m not real keen on the courtroom dialog and cross examinations, they were absolutely necessary in this book. A good legal thriller with a twist.
Profile Image for Linda.
762 reviews18 followers
July 13, 2021
Just because I've adored all the Cass Leary books and most of these newer Mara Brent ones (small number by comparison, but still), doesn't mean they're all destined to win me over. This entry was just such an example. While the writing style, pace, and character growths were still super well-done and met what I've come to expect and love in these stories, the plot itself is what did me in. Frankly, it was just a bit much for me to follow and fully grasp, and I found myself missing the simplicity of plots past.

Why was this one lost on me?

Well it's simple. There's just too many names to keep up with. Seems petty and dumb, and I'd even agree, but that's how I ended up feeling. There were too many characters in too complex a familial web and it was just waaaay excessive for me to keep straight. This go-around, an entire family, seven in total, have been found murdered in their own homes with no one knowing or seeing a single thing. Mara is of course swooped in to question the only suspect, who was captured because an article of clothing was found in his home that contained a large amount of the victim's blood.

Anyway, of course the story carries on from there: Mara questions, investigates, and unravels the mysteries involving the slaughtered family and their gripes with another town family when they were alive. It felt like I was in a mafia book with all the drama and dark secrets and such. While that's not necessarily a bad thing, (I've read PLENTY of mafia-themed book and am quite fine with them), it's a thing I wasn't ready to handle in a legal thriller. It's messy complication that I didn't really want, or perhaps wasn't ready for. And it's just not something that resonated with me this time.

Furthermore, the final act, as is often the case in previous Robin James books, is wrapped up quickly. While that's not something that is guaranteed to disappoint me, in this case, I found it kinda unsatisfying. Not really the ending itself per se, but the delivery of said ending was what unsatisfied me. Which kinda doesn't even make much sense because it was still a nice little twist that I didn't quite see coming, but...meh. I just can't explain it. All the messy things culminating together for that overly simple "grand finale" just didn't work for me this time.

At any rate, it wasn't a horrible read by any means. And my take on it did not ruin the book in the least. It was just simply an entry that didn't suit my fancy, and that's okay. I'm still just as ready for the next entry as I would have been even if I LOVED this one. If that doesn't still prove my love for these Robin James legal thrillers I don't know what does.
627 reviews5 followers
January 14, 2024
On one hand I was glued to the story - how could 7 members of one family in 3 houses dies so violently. They have a suspect, his phone was there and there is blood. Mara's favorite legal professor is opposing counsel but how Mara's remembers her does not seem like the grandstanding lawyer in the courtroom. I like the development of Will, the divorce decree went quickly but things are good.

As many have said too many characters, too many family relationships, people have moved away and they are brought back. Mickey does not seem particularly interested in his own defense - he forgot about Skylar's bloody nose and tells no one he was just there to sell drugs to Kevin and everyone was fine when he left. Knowing Kevin had issues with drugs there were no restrictions on the money he got from the sale of the bait shop?

But then you got to the end and wow I can just see how she just got fed up but wow that she could be fine after it happened all the months that led up to the trial and the truth finally coming out
189 reviews2 followers
March 18, 2021
OMG!!!

This is the best of the series so far. I don't want to give away any spoilers but you won't believe the ending. It's AMAZING!!! Lots of twists and turns. It pulls you in immediately and doesn't let go until the end, literally! I can't put these books down. I have read ten books in ten days and nights. Now I'm mad because I have to wait for the next book to be released. I read the seven books from the Cass Leary series and three book from the Mara Brent series and they are both excellent!!!
The characters are very well developed and believable. The dialogue flows freely. The editing is clean and has very few spelling or grammatical errors. I recommend these books to anyone that loves murder mysteries with a lot of courtroom drama.
Profile Image for Judi Haley.
1,347 reviews6 followers
February 22, 2021
This is the 3rd in the series about Prosecutor Mara Brent. This case may be the one that breaks her.
Seven members of the Sutter family have been found murdered.

When Mickey Harvey is arrested for the murders, Mara is assigned the case. She knew that the Harveys and and Sutters never got along and when Mickey started dating the daughter of the Sutter family, well she figured this might have been a reason for the murders.

This has a lot of characters in it and at sometimes, you might get confused, but it all fits together.
I really enjoy these books!
17 reviews
November 2, 2021
Great story with equally great ending. Seven people murdered haphazardly on a large family compound with a laundry list of suspects. Mara is up against her old, arrogant law school professor who seems to be in cahoots with the judge, making things very difficult for the prosecution. Mara doggedly hunts for the truth, no matter what the consequences, and eventually finds it. My only complaint was trying to keep track of the many, many characters but Robin James did a pretty good job reminding the reader who was who throughout the story. I highly recommend this one, it's hard to put down.
40 reviews
November 30, 2022
cluttered plot

This is the first Robin James novel I haven’t really liked. I was seriously thinking of ending it early but stuck it out. ( not my style to be a quitter). There were just too many characters that were not well developed and ultimately confuse the plot. All introduced at once and all pretty boring. Definitely not a page turner unless it’s when you skip trivia in order to get through it faster!
Would not recommend it except for a put you to sleep bedtime story!
182 reviews1 follower
February 18, 2021
Disappointing

This novel was good until the shocking ending which was surprising. Spoiler alert, don't read this if you plan on reading this novel. There's no way that the suspect in this story would have sat in jail without protesting his innocence of the savage crime that was committed. I wish James had added why he remained silent when she crafted the ending. If she had, this novel would have been 5 stars.
1,116 reviews23 followers
February 22, 2021
If you like legal thrillers then you don't want to miss this one. Mara Brent is divorced with one son, Will. When seven members of the same family are murdered in a bloodbath Mara Brent has her hands full. They have a suspect and are ready for trial. Its up to her to get a guilty verdict. But she's up against a tough defense attorney who enjoys being in the spotlight. Finished this one in a day. Definitely a five star for me.
196 reviews
April 29, 2021
Hand of Justice by Robin James

This is the third of Mara Brent series (apart from some 5-6 of Cass Leary series) that I have read of Robin James. Excellent as with all her other books. Thrilling and riveting from start to finish accompanied by quite a bit of courtroom theatrics. The ending was completely unexpected, thanks to keen observation and some screwed thinking on Mara’s part. I cannot wait to read her next book.
42 reviews2 followers
May 18, 2022
7people killed -an obviou lsuspect ,a brilliant atty. A clever and learned defence atty,and you have

A great writer------all this leads to a crime - one that seems they got right and the accused, seems to be headed to the death penalty,when the whole ,perfect case becomes a perfect mess and then you dare in the middle of a wonderful and well thought novel to like and read as quickly as you canto the twist at the end......get it -----read it ---love it!!
Profile Image for Josie.
25 reviews
April 26, 2024
I stumbled on this series a few days ago and I’m obsessed! I cannot stop reading. They’ve all been incredible so far. Excellent story lines, so much information on the cases but super easy to follow and incredibly interesting. This one is my favourite by far. I was in no way expecting the grandma to be the main perpetrator, definitely threw me for a loop. She was so sweet and communicative with Mara, I just wow, excellent twist! Hoping to continue the series tomorrow haha
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
300 reviews1 follower
June 26, 2024
Assistant DA Mara Brent is assigned a multiple homicide case that will surely stir raw emotions throughout the county. Two long-feuding families are at the heart of the crime. The evidence is powerful, and the case appears open and shut. Except Mara's old law professor arrives in town to take up the defense. So, now she has to dig deep to ensure the person responsible is brought to justice. A fantastic story with a major surprise ending. The best in this series thus far.
Profile Image for Clifton Rankin.
146 reviews2 followers
October 5, 2024
Mara Brent, Maumee County Prosecutor, faces a challenging court case as she prosecutes the killer of seven family members which has divided Waynetown, Ohio, into two opposing factions in “Hand of Justice.” Her old law school professor is hired as the defense attorney for the accused, which causes her to question her own abilities as an attorney. As always, the author keeps the reader guessing as the story unfolds which makes for entertaining reading.
303 reviews2 followers
August 20, 2025
3.4 stars. Really enjoy the whole Mara Brent series so far. This one had so many characters in a complex family tree that it was a bit hard to keep track of everyone. And the ending was just not that believable. The writing is really good and propulsive. The characters are fun. Will is still the best of them all. Sure rooting for a romance between Mara and Sam. Love the series, liked this installment.
Profile Image for Jennifer Mahoney.
17 reviews
February 18, 2021
Much better

I liked the book and felt the pace was good. And there were clues that did allude to the ending which I appreciated. I like when things make sense.

I do find it funny that my last name was in the book after my last review was left. I'm sure it was a coincidence. But, I did enjoy the story and felt it had a realistic flow. I would recommend her novels again.
Profile Image for Jim E..
332 reviews6 followers
April 22, 2021
I thought that the book had some good excitement towards the end, which was surprising. However, there were too many characters to follow properly and the author repeated their backgrounds often to try to allow one to keep them straight. The trial was long and not very interesting. Overall, this was not the best book in the series by far.
Profile Image for Lynn Lynn Sanchez.
97 reviews
May 25, 2022
So....many....people

Loved it. Keeping every body's names straight and who was related to who was kinda a toughy though, gotta admit. If you have a chance I'd recommend trying to read this one straight through or you'll forget who's who and be lost for a couple chapters. But! A surprise ending that I didn't really think would have happened. Great read. On to the next!
20 reviews
October 6, 2022
Keep Doing What You're Doing

I am drawn to the lead characters of her book. Mara, fierce but compassionate. She also demonstrated that two equally competitive women could work well with one another and capitalize on each others strengths. Even the real killer was strong and in control. Great book!
Profile Image for Dawn.
1,000 reviews19 followers
January 10, 2023
great series

Good story and great characters. The killing of 7 members of an extended family gets everyone’s attention. The town is crazy worried and gossiping about it. 5he police quickly have a suspect and then a defendant. Mara Brant goes up against her law professor who was hired as the defense attorney. Unite a match up. Looking forward to the next in the series.
413 reviews6 followers
October 18, 2023
Review of Hand of Justice.

The 3rd book in the Mara Brent series was very interesting, with a few plot twists that kept me guessing. The author understands small town life and politics. Another interesting plot was Mara going up against her idol and mentor ( her law professor. ) Great storyline
209 reviews5 followers
January 30, 2024
Good read!

I read the first 2 books in this series years ago because "life happened", and I couldn't focus on reading. I have to become familiar with the characters again. I enjoyed this book. The families involved get confusing to the reader so try to keep up. The author does well stating who belongs to whom when a name is mentioned. You won't see the ending coming!
17 reviews
March 9, 2024
A great challenge

Dang, love this author's way to incorporate her story into such twists and turns. Granted, this one was a challenge learning all these darn characters and relationships! Really enjoying Mara's growth and strengths. I read mostly men authors, but Robin James is spectacular at her craft
Profile Image for Donna ~ The Romance Cover.
2,907 reviews323 followers
January 6, 2025
I started this series after reading the Cass Leary series by the same author. Whereas Cass was a defender, Mara is a prosecutor and the flip side of the coin was a great way to differentiate between the two series. I loved Mara as a character and she was so strong, both professionally and personally, and boy did she need it. Another great series. I'm hoping this one is as long as Cass's.
224 reviews
January 7, 2026
great shocking ending

Mara Brent is at it again. Seven members of the Sutter family are shot to death. The family have a long standing feud with the Harvey family. Mickey Harvey is arrested for the murders. He was dating Skylar Sutter, one of the victims. Great courtroom drama. Shocking ending! Unputdownable!
Profile Image for Heather.
1,551 reviews9 followers
February 16, 2021
Hand of Justice

Well, well, well Ms. James. I did not see that coming lol. I was sure the person arrested wasn’t guilty but I definitely did not foresee the conclusion. I love this series, as well as, the other series by this author.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 79 reviews

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