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Grace Locke #1
States of Grace
Disgraced prosecutor and disabled Army veteran Grace Locke is one misstep away from losing her law license for good. Fresh out of jail, living in a no-tell-motel, and eating ramen, Grace has no option but to turn to the dark side, defending the types of criminals she used to relish locking up. To make things worse, she’s fighting the opioid addiction that got her in this mess in the first place.With few options to salvage her career, Grace schemes to defend a trust-fund teen accused of capital murder to pay the bills. But her plan has two flaws. One—Grace believes accused equals guilty. Two—the accused is the daughter of the beauty queen who stole Grace’s husband.Much to her surprise, Grace soon discovers her client may not be guilty after all. With the cops looking the other way and misdirecting her every step, the only explanation that makes sense to Grace is the dead guy was neck deep in the criminal underworld.When Grace discovers irrefutable evidence of her client’s innocence, the race is on to find the real killer and leads her deep inside Florida’s illegal pill mill trade. But is it too late for Grace to save her young client from the death chamber and herself from ruin?
- GenresMystery
Paperback
Published April 1, 2021
32 people are currently reading
57 people want to read
About the author
Mandy Miller
1 book10 followersMandy is novelist and attorney. She is the author of the Grace Locke Legal Mystery series, including States of Grace. She holds a J.D. from Northwestern University, as well as a PhD degree in Psychology. In her spare time, she indulges her reading vice and participates in ultramarathons, a sport much like writing a novel in that the journey is long and requires dedication, not to mention a dash of madness.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 77 reviews
December 29, 2021
I can't believe this is the author's first novel. It definitely doesn't read like a debut novel. The story is beautifully executed, building well while still being fast paced. I loved how the main character wasn't the typical perfect character. She was down on her luck, flawed, and relatable. I look forward to reading anything else this author writes!
December 27, 2021
States of Grace (Grace Locke Mystery Series) by Mandy Miller. I Loved this book. It was so good and I can't wait to read the next one. Its the story of Grace Locke who is trying to get back in the good graces of the Florida State Bar having been put on probation due to Grace getting a DUI. Losing her leg in Fallujah to an IED she has become addicted to pain pills and alcohol. Part of her probation is attending NA meetings and the only law she she's practicing is court appointed criminal cases. Grace is wondering how she's going to survive on this low paying work. She's trying to talk her ex husband and his new wife into letting her represent their daughter who is being accused of murder but Grace just knows she's innocent. Finally getting the case she soon realizes that this case is not all its cracked up to be. Will she be able to convince everyone that her client is not guilty without getting into even more trouble? This book will have you flying thru the pages as quick as you can.
September 16, 2021
Crime and murder filled with suspenseful twists and turns
I truly enjoyed reading States of Grace by Mandy Miller. The authors highly believable plot of gut wrenching twisted turns through lawyering, crime and murder hits every suspenseful chord. Now that I have finished reading this book, I look forward to reading another from this author.
I truly enjoyed reading States of Grace by Mandy Miller. The authors highly believable plot of gut wrenching twisted turns through lawyering, crime and murder hits every suspenseful chord. Now that I have finished reading this book, I look forward to reading another from this author.
May 20, 2021
Inclusive Characterizations Grace This Legal Thriller Debut
Book review by Erin Michaela Sweeney
As a first-time published author, Mandy Miller exceeds expectations. Her States of Grace stands out for its setting and inclusive cast of characters. The tight plotting of this legal thriller will keep readers turning the page.
Write what you know is oft-cited advice that this author follows on two fronts. Miller paints a textured portrait of a familiar-to-her place, where she lived and worked as an attorney, as the title character does.
Miller’s South Florida features gritty neighborhoods with by-the-month motels whose patrons ride the bus, gazing out the smudgy window at the palm trees and public beaches. A few highway miles, and several tax brackets, away stand gated communities of McMansions with waterfront views and Beemers. Though the quick weather changes affect both rich and poor, the characters who inhabit these two worlds only collide at the downtown courthouse.
One-legged lawyer Grace Locke continues to rebel against her WASPy background as she tries to regain her life anew. During a coffee meeting about their divorce paperwork, Manny Martinez — a successful Cuban-American realtor — asks Grace for a clean break. Grace first wants Manny to persuade his mistress, Gretchen, and Gretchen’s husband, plastic surgeon Anton Slim, to hire Grace to defend their adopted daughter, prep-schooler Zoe, against murder charges.
A year after she was fired as a prosecutor, Grace still has her supporters. She lives rent-free at The Hurricane Motel because Vinnie, the landlord and a (former) mafia guy, extends a thank-you for her previous efforts. Vinnie even finds a perfect match for Grace. As part of her deal with the state bar, Grace attends meetings, where a Seminole woman named Hachi becomes her sponsor. And a state prosecutor named Marcus, who is Black and gay, keeps Grace in the legal loop.
Some of the best encounters are with the cops, investigators, defendants, judges, attorneys, and especially other court personnel. The bailiffs and screeners had been background noise, but now Grace learns their names and the stories beyond fleeting impressions.
The well-crafted plot propels readers forward. When needed, Miller supplies backstory and exposition, but the pacing never suffers. Through twists and turns, readers discover new clues at the same time as Grace.
But there’s a problem. And it’s not Oscar, the nicknamed prosthetic Grace wears since she lost her leg in Afghanistan to an IED.
Kind of like the IEDs that crisscross Afghani roads, the big issue in this debut challenges readers’ smooth sailing again and again. It’s fixable for the ebook, too late for the first printing. Errors litter the text, starting on page 2, of the ebook. Not the kind a once-through spellcheck catches. No. What this book desperately needs is for a professional editor to review every line.
Here’s an example from the second page. “For some ungodly reason, and in spite of my client’s stomach-turning lack of remorse, I’m still a believer — not in innocence, maybe not in even in fairness anymore, but in the system.” The sentence has five “in”s, which is one (perhaps two according to some persnickety grammarians) too many. These errors can happen once or twice in the rush to publish. To have such mistakes two or more times in every chapter of a 37-chapter book just isn’t fair to a writer new to the professional publishing world. Miller, and her readers, deserve better.
What might happen between Grace and her love interest? How could the climate crisis affect the South Florida setting? And who will she defend next? I look forward to reading more in Mandy Miller’s Grace Locke Mystery series.
*I received a free ebook of States of Grace as a LibraryThing Early Reviewer member in exchange for an unbiased review. (This review also appears on LibraryThing and Amazon).
Book review by Erin Michaela Sweeney
As a first-time published author, Mandy Miller exceeds expectations. Her States of Grace stands out for its setting and inclusive cast of characters. The tight plotting of this legal thriller will keep readers turning the page.
Write what you know is oft-cited advice that this author follows on two fronts. Miller paints a textured portrait of a familiar-to-her place, where she lived and worked as an attorney, as the title character does.
Miller’s South Florida features gritty neighborhoods with by-the-month motels whose patrons ride the bus, gazing out the smudgy window at the palm trees and public beaches. A few highway miles, and several tax brackets, away stand gated communities of McMansions with waterfront views and Beemers. Though the quick weather changes affect both rich and poor, the characters who inhabit these two worlds only collide at the downtown courthouse.
One-legged lawyer Grace Locke continues to rebel against her WASPy background as she tries to regain her life anew. During a coffee meeting about their divorce paperwork, Manny Martinez — a successful Cuban-American realtor — asks Grace for a clean break. Grace first wants Manny to persuade his mistress, Gretchen, and Gretchen’s husband, plastic surgeon Anton Slim, to hire Grace to defend their adopted daughter, prep-schooler Zoe, against murder charges.
A year after she was fired as a prosecutor, Grace still has her supporters. She lives rent-free at The Hurricane Motel because Vinnie, the landlord and a (former) mafia guy, extends a thank-you for her previous efforts. Vinnie even finds a perfect match for Grace. As part of her deal with the state bar, Grace attends meetings, where a Seminole woman named Hachi becomes her sponsor. And a state prosecutor named Marcus, who is Black and gay, keeps Grace in the legal loop.
Some of the best encounters are with the cops, investigators, defendants, judges, attorneys, and especially other court personnel. The bailiffs and screeners had been background noise, but now Grace learns their names and the stories beyond fleeting impressions.
The well-crafted plot propels readers forward. When needed, Miller supplies backstory and exposition, but the pacing never suffers. Through twists and turns, readers discover new clues at the same time as Grace.
But there’s a problem. And it’s not Oscar, the nicknamed prosthetic Grace wears since she lost her leg in Afghanistan to an IED.
Kind of like the IEDs that crisscross Afghani roads, the big issue in this debut challenges readers’ smooth sailing again and again. It’s fixable for the ebook, too late for the first printing. Errors litter the text, starting on page 2, of the ebook. Not the kind a once-through spellcheck catches. No. What this book desperately needs is for a professional editor to review every line.
Here’s an example from the second page. “For some ungodly reason, and in spite of my client’s stomach-turning lack of remorse, I’m still a believer — not in innocence, maybe not in even in fairness anymore, but in the system.” The sentence has five “in”s, which is one (perhaps two according to some persnickety grammarians) too many. These errors can happen once or twice in the rush to publish. To have such mistakes two or more times in every chapter of a 37-chapter book just isn’t fair to a writer new to the professional publishing world. Miller, and her readers, deserve better.
What might happen between Grace and her love interest? How could the climate crisis affect the South Florida setting? And who will she defend next? I look forward to reading more in Mandy Miller’s Grace Locke Mystery series.
*I received a free ebook of States of Grace as a LibraryThing Early Reviewer member in exchange for an unbiased review. (This review also appears on LibraryThing and Amazon).
March 30, 2021
NOTE: I received an advance copy to review this author's first novel:
Attorney Grace Locke lost her leg to an IED near Fallujah. She lost her marriage and, nearly, her law license after a DUI conviction fueled by the abuse of painkillers from her leg injury and alcohol. Grace is on probation with the Florida State Bar and must rebuild her reputation while she regularly attends NA meetings. A former Assistant State’s Attorney in Fort Lauderdale, she now scrapes by with low-paying court-appointed criminal defense cases and lives in a “no-tell motel” owned by an ex-con she helped exonerate from a false conviction. Grace needs a big break because she cannot survive on the dregs of cases assigned to her and her rent-free room at the aptly named Hurricane Hotel. She has to score paying clients whose cases will help build back her reputation and career.
As luck would have it, the teenage daughter of Grace’s soon-to-be-ex’s wealthy (and married) mistress is arrested for an apparently gruesome murder of her prep school guidance counselor. Through a somewhat dubious maneuver, Grace lands the matter. To all appearances, it is an open and close case with all signs pointing to her new client, Zoe’s, guilt. But is she guilty?
Grace observes at the novel’s outset: “Innocence isn’t all it’s cracked up to be. A truly innocent client, one who didn’t do it, that’s the rare, unfortunate soul that will keep you up nights and hijack your brain like a catchy song. And if lady luck forsakes him, that’s the client who will haunt you forever. Innocence is funny that way. Seems like a good thing on the surface, but at its core, it’s a burden.” (1) Defending the Constitutional rights of a guilty party is relatively easy. The guilty likely will get a plea deal or, if they go to trial, will be found guilty of some or all of what they did. But with an innocent client, you run the risk that they will be convicted of something they did not do. The first chapter highlights the inverse dilemma when, to her astonishment, a jury acquits one of Grace’s decidedly guilty clients.
Interesting characters abound in “States of Grace” beyond its smart-assed protagonist. These include her landlord and former made man Vinnie Vicanti, soon-to-be-ex, Armando “Manny” Martinez, former bartender and now sometime investigator, Jake, and the three-legged former war dog, Miranda. Her client, Zoe Slim, is the emotionally disturbed daughter of wealthy parents who adopted her from a Russian orphanage. Of course, one of the most important characters is Grace’s new prosthetic leg, Oscar, named after the former Olympian amputee and now-convicted murderer Oscar Pistorious.
Last, but not least, the quirky city of Fort Lauderdale is a character unto itself. For anyone who has not spent time there, Fort Lauderdale is “Florida Man” in city form. “States of Grace” takes place in 2009 while the area suffered greatly from the real estate bust. Glaring wealth disparities, devastating pill mills, a dubious court system, and even stormy weather add character to the story. But it is the twists and turns that lead to Grace’s desperation to ensure that Zoe is not falsely convicted that drive the novel.
Anyone who favors colorful characters in a sophisticated hard-boiled in the genre of James W. Hall will enjoy “States of Grace.” Grace is a strong but flawed character aware that her personal characteristics place her at some advantages but also disadvantages. Despite her sometimes-rough edges Grace shows empathy and care for those in her life, and she receives it in return. The novel is a great start to an anticipated series featuring this colorful cast of characters.
Attorney Grace Locke lost her leg to an IED near Fallujah. She lost her marriage and, nearly, her law license after a DUI conviction fueled by the abuse of painkillers from her leg injury and alcohol. Grace is on probation with the Florida State Bar and must rebuild her reputation while she regularly attends NA meetings. A former Assistant State’s Attorney in Fort Lauderdale, she now scrapes by with low-paying court-appointed criminal defense cases and lives in a “no-tell motel” owned by an ex-con she helped exonerate from a false conviction. Grace needs a big break because she cannot survive on the dregs of cases assigned to her and her rent-free room at the aptly named Hurricane Hotel. She has to score paying clients whose cases will help build back her reputation and career.
As luck would have it, the teenage daughter of Grace’s soon-to-be-ex’s wealthy (and married) mistress is arrested for an apparently gruesome murder of her prep school guidance counselor. Through a somewhat dubious maneuver, Grace lands the matter. To all appearances, it is an open and close case with all signs pointing to her new client, Zoe’s, guilt. But is she guilty?
Grace observes at the novel’s outset: “Innocence isn’t all it’s cracked up to be. A truly innocent client, one who didn’t do it, that’s the rare, unfortunate soul that will keep you up nights and hijack your brain like a catchy song. And if lady luck forsakes him, that’s the client who will haunt you forever. Innocence is funny that way. Seems like a good thing on the surface, but at its core, it’s a burden.” (1) Defending the Constitutional rights of a guilty party is relatively easy. The guilty likely will get a plea deal or, if they go to trial, will be found guilty of some or all of what they did. But with an innocent client, you run the risk that they will be convicted of something they did not do. The first chapter highlights the inverse dilemma when, to her astonishment, a jury acquits one of Grace’s decidedly guilty clients.
Interesting characters abound in “States of Grace” beyond its smart-assed protagonist. These include her landlord and former made man Vinnie Vicanti, soon-to-be-ex, Armando “Manny” Martinez, former bartender and now sometime investigator, Jake, and the three-legged former war dog, Miranda. Her client, Zoe Slim, is the emotionally disturbed daughter of wealthy parents who adopted her from a Russian orphanage. Of course, one of the most important characters is Grace’s new prosthetic leg, Oscar, named after the former Olympian amputee and now-convicted murderer Oscar Pistorious.
Last, but not least, the quirky city of Fort Lauderdale is a character unto itself. For anyone who has not spent time there, Fort Lauderdale is “Florida Man” in city form. “States of Grace” takes place in 2009 while the area suffered greatly from the real estate bust. Glaring wealth disparities, devastating pill mills, a dubious court system, and even stormy weather add character to the story. But it is the twists and turns that lead to Grace’s desperation to ensure that Zoe is not falsely convicted that drive the novel.
Anyone who favors colorful characters in a sophisticated hard-boiled in the genre of James W. Hall will enjoy “States of Grace.” Grace is a strong but flawed character aware that her personal characteristics place her at some advantages but also disadvantages. Despite her sometimes-rough edges Grace shows empathy and care for those in her life, and she receives it in return. The novel is a great start to an anticipated series featuring this colorful cast of characters.
July 2, 2021
When a novel is this well done, it’s hard to believe it’s a “debut” – perhaps Ms. Miller has a secret stash of novels ready to unleash to the world… and I’ll be ready for them. What first caught my attention was the strength of the writing—clean, tight, prose that creates a very readable, smooth narrative. The deeper I got into the novel, and the pages do fly by, I was drawn into the character of Grace herself. She doesn’t just come with a backstory, but rather fully arrives as a complex, flawed, intriguing protagonist that I was rooting for from the start. Add to that some very authentic courtroom drama and legal system inside-info (which I am always a sucker for), and as many other readers have already discovered, you have a stunning debut.
Overall, there is an intelligence to the novel that I admire – legal details never get in the way of the propulsive narrative, or the strong descriptions that paint a gritty and real South Florida in a way I think John D. MacDonald would have appreciated. Some great secondary characters, notably Vinnie, and even a likeable pooch, fill out the cast.
When it was all over, I was ready for the next one.
Overall, there is an intelligence to the novel that I admire – legal details never get in the way of the propulsive narrative, or the strong descriptions that paint a gritty and real South Florida in a way I think John D. MacDonald would have appreciated. Some great secondary characters, notably Vinnie, and even a likeable pooch, fill out the cast.
When it was all over, I was ready for the next one.
December 29, 2021
Grace Locke is a woman with an interesting past and an uncertain future, she is an Army veteran who served in some of the most harsh environments out there until an IED went off beneath the vehicle she was travelling in and meant she lost her leg. That was a pivotal moment in her life, like others before then, but it was a pivot that started a downward turns of events including addiction, an arrest and nearly losing her license to practice Law, but despite all of these challenges while also living in a motel and going through a divorce, Grace is tough and does what she needs to, to get herself out of the hole she has made for herself through her indiscretions.
After she has successfully finished defending another guilty party, Grace despises what she has to do to get by, but has no other choice at this very moment in time, until she sees some breaking news in the bar she frequents while she is drinking her espresso and coke mix. It is a high profile murder case where the accused is a young girl from a rich family and she realises that the mother of said girl is the very same woman who is the reason she is going through a divorce. Grace decides to pull a couple off strings she may regret so that she can be the one to defend this girl and hopefully get enough money to move up in the world again, or at least not have to live of ramen all the time.
As Grace succeeds in getting onto the case, she starts to think that maybe she has gotten in a little bit over her head as the evidence against her client continues to pile up, but the accused are always guilty aren’t they? In this case, it is the opposite and as Grace starts to dig deeper to prove her client’s innocence, she discovers that the victim was not all that they were shown to be and that they were involved in the dark side of a underground pill mill system, one that Grace is all too familiar with, but will Grace be able to gather the evidence she needs to prove her client’s innocence in time, or will the police remain one step ahead and garner the conviction they so desperately seek? This is a thrilling mystery which will keep you guessing as you follow the case along amid misdirection, secrets, revelations, grudges and guilt where nothing is as it seems and everything is on the line.
After she has successfully finished defending another guilty party, Grace despises what she has to do to get by, but has no other choice at this very moment in time, until she sees some breaking news in the bar she frequents while she is drinking her espresso and coke mix. It is a high profile murder case where the accused is a young girl from a rich family and she realises that the mother of said girl is the very same woman who is the reason she is going through a divorce. Grace decides to pull a couple off strings she may regret so that she can be the one to defend this girl and hopefully get enough money to move up in the world again, or at least not have to live of ramen all the time.
As Grace succeeds in getting onto the case, she starts to think that maybe she has gotten in a little bit over her head as the evidence against her client continues to pile up, but the accused are always guilty aren’t they? In this case, it is the opposite and as Grace starts to dig deeper to prove her client’s innocence, she discovers that the victim was not all that they were shown to be and that they were involved in the dark side of a underground pill mill system, one that Grace is all too familiar with, but will Grace be able to gather the evidence she needs to prove her client’s innocence in time, or will the police remain one step ahead and garner the conviction they so desperately seek? This is a thrilling mystery which will keep you guessing as you follow the case along amid misdirection, secrets, revelations, grudges and guilt where nothing is as it seems and everything is on the line.
December 27, 2023
I really enjoyed this recommendation from author Craig Terlson, a recent guest on the podcast The Speakeasy: Conversations with the Writing Community.
Mandy Miller's debut, and book #1 of the Grace Locke novels, slipped me easily into stride right alongside the titular main character.
From the opening lines until the very end, the author wove together a compelling narrative that had me happily turning the pages to find out what happens next. In the world she created, Miller introduced in turn a series of wonderful characters, some quite prominent while others more in the background, supportive yet enriching the ambience of the story. All, however, were well-rounded as per their contribution to the direction her tale would take us.
I loved the pacing as well, how at times when things were fraught with tension, the story took our hand and slowed us down, made us take in important detail and emotion we might not have seen otherwise. At other times, taken by the hand in the same way, it urged us to run breathless along with it, lest we miss making the right turn in time down the right street, to catch a glimpse of the truths that Grace Locke pursued.
Miller also delivered beautifully with the range of sharp, realistic dialogue her characters spoke. From easy humour and witty banter, to crisp and tight professional interactions, as well as honestly painful self-exploration, these characters spoke and I paid attention. The author has an eye and an ear for people as they truly are.
With this as her debut work, I'm looking forward to seeing (and reading) what else Mandy Miller has in store down the road, whether in the Grace Locke series or something else entirely. She's one to watch! Cheers!
Mandy Miller's debut, and book #1 of the Grace Locke novels, slipped me easily into stride right alongside the titular main character.
From the opening lines until the very end, the author wove together a compelling narrative that had me happily turning the pages to find out what happens next. In the world she created, Miller introduced in turn a series of wonderful characters, some quite prominent while others more in the background, supportive yet enriching the ambience of the story. All, however, were well-rounded as per their contribution to the direction her tale would take us.
I loved the pacing as well, how at times when things were fraught with tension, the story took our hand and slowed us down, made us take in important detail and emotion we might not have seen otherwise. At other times, taken by the hand in the same way, it urged us to run breathless along with it, lest we miss making the right turn in time down the right street, to catch a glimpse of the truths that Grace Locke pursued.
Miller also delivered beautifully with the range of sharp, realistic dialogue her characters spoke. From easy humour and witty banter, to crisp and tight professional interactions, as well as honestly painful self-exploration, these characters spoke and I paid attention. The author has an eye and an ear for people as they truly are.
With this as her debut work, I'm looking forward to seeing (and reading) what else Mandy Miller has in store down the road, whether in the Grace Locke series or something else entirely. She's one to watch! Cheers!
December 27, 2021
This is a very good book when it comes to the big three of mysteries, crimes, and even thrillers.
Grace Locke, a disgraced prosecutor, and handicapped Army veteran is on the verge of losing her legal license forever. Grace has no choice but to turn to the evil side, defending the sorts of criminals she used to enjoy locking up while living in a no-tell hotel and eating ramen. To make matters worse, she's battling the drug addiction that has landed her in this situation in the first place. Grace arranges to represent a trust-fund youngster accused of capital murder to pay the bills since she has few other choices to save her profession. Her strategy, however, has two drawbacks. One—Grace feels that being accused is the same as being guilty. Two, the accused is Grace's spouse's daughter, who is the daughter of the beauty queen who took Grace's husband. Grace is surprised to learn that her client may not be guilty after all.
Grace believes the only reason that makes sense is that the dead man was involved in the criminal underworld. With the cops looking the other way and misdirecting her every step, the only explanation that makes sense to her is that the dead man was involved in the criminal underworld. When Grace uncovers convincing proof of her client's innocence, the search for the true killer begins, leading her deep into Florida's illegal pill mill trade. Is it too late for Grace to save her little client and herself from the execution chamber?
I loved this story. I loved every page of it. Every chapter was exciting. This is my first book in the series from this author and I can’t wait to read the rest of her books.
Grace Locke, a disgraced prosecutor, and handicapped Army veteran is on the verge of losing her legal license forever. Grace has no choice but to turn to the evil side, defending the sorts of criminals she used to enjoy locking up while living in a no-tell hotel and eating ramen. To make matters worse, she's battling the drug addiction that has landed her in this situation in the first place. Grace arranges to represent a trust-fund youngster accused of capital murder to pay the bills since she has few other choices to save her profession. Her strategy, however, has two drawbacks. One—Grace feels that being accused is the same as being guilty. Two, the accused is Grace's spouse's daughter, who is the daughter of the beauty queen who took Grace's husband. Grace is surprised to learn that her client may not be guilty after all.
Grace believes the only reason that makes sense is that the dead man was involved in the criminal underworld. With the cops looking the other way and misdirecting her every step, the only explanation that makes sense to her is that the dead man was involved in the criminal underworld. When Grace uncovers convincing proof of her client's innocence, the search for the true killer begins, leading her deep into Florida's illegal pill mill trade. Is it too late for Grace to save her little client and herself from the execution chamber?
I loved this story. I loved every page of it. Every chapter was exciting. This is my first book in the series from this author and I can’t wait to read the rest of her books.
December 31, 2021
There is something to be said about legal mysteries that can pull you in and take you back to a memory or a moment that you dealt with something the main character is going through. Grace is a down on her luck attorney just trying to survive after experiencing major pitfalls in her life. From enlisting in the military after September 11 to the throes of addiction and battling a crushing disability that can knock out even the strongest fighters. Grace has switched sides in the courtroom from being a prosecutor to now being defense counsel and defending those she once had the pleasure of putting away, all for the sake of keeping her law license. However, one day she sees the news about a young rich girl arrested for murder but there is one silver lining Grace knows that last name. Finally seeing a light out of her dark days Grace just needs to find a way to represent the accused and she knows just how to do it. The only problem is the accused is the daughter of the woman who stole her husband.
The evidence against her client is stacking up and for Grace often accused is synonymous with guilty especially with the insurmountable evidence the police have. However, as Grace continues to investigate she comes into irrefutable evidence of her client’s innocence and the victim isn’t as innocent as he seems. This leads Grace down a dark road from her past as she looks into the pill mill enterprise in Florida. Can she escape her past life while getting her client acquitted for murder? This book pulls you in hard from the first page and doesn’t let go!
The evidence against her client is stacking up and for Grace often accused is synonymous with guilty especially with the insurmountable evidence the police have. However, as Grace continues to investigate she comes into irrefutable evidence of her client’s innocence and the victim isn’t as innocent as he seems. This leads Grace down a dark road from her past as she looks into the pill mill enterprise in Florida. Can she escape her past life while getting her client acquitted for murder? This book pulls you in hard from the first page and doesn’t let go!
May 27, 2021
“Coincidences are explanations used by liars. They mean the real story, the truth, is a lot more complicated.”
Grace Locke, a disabled war veteran with a regretful history with drug abuse, was unable to continue her law career until she saw the daughter of her ex husband’s mistress accused of murder on a news broadcast. Grace was determined to solve the case in hopes of reviving her reputation as a lawyer but the case in question, wasn’t as simple as it appeared.
I absolutely LOVED this book! As I was reading, I was always kept on my toes due to all the unexpected twists and turns the murder case provided. There were several moments where I thought I was 100% sure on who was guilty, but those thoughts got thrown out the window the more that evidence got discovered.
Aside from the murder mystery, this book has a great cast of characters with a variety of backgrounds as well as great humour. It was always refreshing whenever Vinnie, Grace’s right hand man, would remind Grace, as well as the reader, of the Swear Jar that was agreed on by the two.
I enjoyed how the story didn’t make Grace’s disability a central point of who she was. Despite the initial shock that some characters had upon the realization that she was disabled, it wasn’t a big deal.
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys mystery stories as this one blew me away. I was given this book as an arc in exchange for an honest review.
Grace Locke, a disabled war veteran with a regretful history with drug abuse, was unable to continue her law career until she saw the daughter of her ex husband’s mistress accused of murder on a news broadcast. Grace was determined to solve the case in hopes of reviving her reputation as a lawyer but the case in question, wasn’t as simple as it appeared.
I absolutely LOVED this book! As I was reading, I was always kept on my toes due to all the unexpected twists and turns the murder case provided. There were several moments where I thought I was 100% sure on who was guilty, but those thoughts got thrown out the window the more that evidence got discovered.
Aside from the murder mystery, this book has a great cast of characters with a variety of backgrounds as well as great humour. It was always refreshing whenever Vinnie, Grace’s right hand man, would remind Grace, as well as the reader, of the Swear Jar that was agreed on by the two.
I enjoyed how the story didn’t make Grace’s disability a central point of who she was. Despite the initial shock that some characters had upon the realization that she was disabled, it wasn’t a big deal.
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys mystery stories as this one blew me away. I was given this book as an arc in exchange for an honest review.
December 21, 2021
This book was a great read for sure! I enjoyed how it took it's time to build up and reach the turning points. You had to read and learn as the story progressed. And when you got to the top of the hill, everything takes off very nicely. I really enjoyed this author's writing and how they engaged me in this story!
For me I loved how realistic this book was and could be! Grace was facing hard times and had to turn to the dark side of things of life, to make do. Would this be a worth while decision or one she would later end up regretting? Grace was as real as a character can get. I really connected with her. She made the impact on this story as well as the side characters, the characters sprung to action and life for me, and this became a book I could bot put down, even if I wanted to!
The story had a lot of elements, and the suspense was amazing in every which way I could not get enough of this author's wonderful writing truly. I really enjoyed the thrill and amazement of this book, especially as secrets came to light, I could not let go of the story and the characters! Loved it!
Loved this amazing book and this amazing author. They really know how to keep you hooked and wanting more, giving you treats to keep you interested in the story right up to the very end! Wonderful read, I do highly recommend this book and author! Both certainly are ones not to be missed out on!
For me I loved how realistic this book was and could be! Grace was facing hard times and had to turn to the dark side of things of life, to make do. Would this be a worth while decision or one she would later end up regretting? Grace was as real as a character can get. I really connected with her. She made the impact on this story as well as the side characters, the characters sprung to action and life for me, and this became a book I could bot put down, even if I wanted to!
The story had a lot of elements, and the suspense was amazing in every which way I could not get enough of this author's wonderful writing truly. I really enjoyed the thrill and amazement of this book, especially as secrets came to light, I could not let go of the story and the characters! Loved it!
Loved this amazing book and this amazing author. They really know how to keep you hooked and wanting more, giving you treats to keep you interested in the story right up to the very end! Wonderful read, I do highly recommend this book and author! Both certainly are ones not to be missed out on!
December 28, 2021
If you love a good legal drama...this is for you!
Grace is trying to pick up the pieces of her life after a recent DUI. She is going through a divorce, she is battling an addiction to painkillers after losing her leg in Fallujah, and she is trying not get disbarred in the state of Florida. To remain in their good graces, she finds herself on the other side of the aisle in the courtroom where she is now a public defender.
Through some not so up-and-up means, Grace finds herself defending Zoe. Zoe is accused of murdering her guidance counselor. Zoe also happens to be the daughter of her soon-to-be ex-husband's mistress. At the onset, it looks like Zoe is guilty. But, Grace is not so easily convinced. She believes there is more at play here...and she is going to prove it. However, with cops thwarting her progress at every move, she finds herself in deeper than she could have imagined...and it could ruin both their lives. Will she be able to find the truth before it's too late?
There are so many great characters in this story that keep it interesting. Grace is wonderful while being real. I swear, her fake leg is a character all on its own! I enjoyed the realistic situation of the story and the inclusion of all the courtroom moments. I felt like I was reading a crime-drama movie!
Grace is trying to pick up the pieces of her life after a recent DUI. She is going through a divorce, she is battling an addiction to painkillers after losing her leg in Fallujah, and she is trying not get disbarred in the state of Florida. To remain in their good graces, she finds herself on the other side of the aisle in the courtroom where she is now a public defender.
Through some not so up-and-up means, Grace finds herself defending Zoe. Zoe is accused of murdering her guidance counselor. Zoe also happens to be the daughter of her soon-to-be ex-husband's mistress. At the onset, it looks like Zoe is guilty. But, Grace is not so easily convinced. She believes there is more at play here...and she is going to prove it. However, with cops thwarting her progress at every move, she finds herself in deeper than she could have imagined...and it could ruin both their lives. Will she be able to find the truth before it's too late?
There are so many great characters in this story that keep it interesting. Grace is wonderful while being real. I swear, her fake leg is a character all on its own! I enjoyed the realistic situation of the story and the inclusion of all the courtroom moments. I felt like I was reading a crime-drama movie!
December 28, 2021
Grace Locke is a down on her luck prosecutor and disabled army veteran who is very close to losing her law licence. Fresh out of jail, she is now living in a run-down motel room and eating ramen noodles. As much as she appreciates the second chance she is given, Grace is not at all happy that she is now forced to defend the types of criminals that she used to love sending to jail. As if that was not bad enough, Grace finds herself caught up in the dark world of drugs and addiction, the very thing that landed her in jail. One of the criminals Grace is forced to defend should be a slam dunk because, in Grace’s eyes, the teen is clearly guilty.
Grace soon makes the startling discovery that her client may be innocent, leading her to start digging for the truth. The more she digs the more Grace realizes that the dead guy was involved heavily in the criminal underworld. She is now racing against the clock to find the real killer and prove her client’s innocence.
States of Grace was fast paced and hard to put down from the first page. Grace’s character is real, raw, gritty, and believable as she struggles to remain sober while also coping with her disability. This legal thriller was full of twists and turns which lead up to a surprise ending. I won’t spoil the ending; you will have to read this book yourself to find out.
Grace soon makes the startling discovery that her client may be innocent, leading her to start digging for the truth. The more she digs the more Grace realizes that the dead guy was involved heavily in the criminal underworld. She is now racing against the clock to find the real killer and prove her client’s innocence.
States of Grace was fast paced and hard to put down from the first page. Grace’s character is real, raw, gritty, and believable as she struggles to remain sober while also coping with her disability. This legal thriller was full of twists and turns which lead up to a surprise ending. I won’t spoil the ending; you will have to read this book yourself to find out.
December 28, 2021
4.5 Stars
States of Grace is the first book in the Grace Locke Mystery Series and debut novel by Mandy Miller. This story pulled me in right from the beginning and kept me engrossed the whole way through. I was not expecting that from a debut novel- but, as I just discovered, this author really knows how to write a compelling story- full of depth, attention to detail, vivid descriptions, palpable tension, and intrigue. Colour me hooked!
Grace Locke is trying to get her life back on track after a fall from grace- but things aren’t going quite to plan. She is an attorney, living day to day, trying to make ends meet. With quite a lot of baggage, this war veteran will need to dig deep in order to overcome her demons. When a new murder case comes to her attention- things quickly become complicated- there is definitely more to the case than meets the eye. What happens makes or a thrilling read!
If you love crime and investigation stories, thrillers, or mysteries with plenty of drama, intrigue, and suspense wrapped up in a tightly woven and engrossing story- then this is definitely the book for you!
Can’t wait to see where we go from here. Bring on Book #2!!
Happy reading!
Thank you, Mandy Miller!
States of Grace is the first book in the Grace Locke Mystery Series and debut novel by Mandy Miller. This story pulled me in right from the beginning and kept me engrossed the whole way through. I was not expecting that from a debut novel- but, as I just discovered, this author really knows how to write a compelling story- full of depth, attention to detail, vivid descriptions, palpable tension, and intrigue. Colour me hooked!
Grace Locke is trying to get her life back on track after a fall from grace- but things aren’t going quite to plan. She is an attorney, living day to day, trying to make ends meet. With quite a lot of baggage, this war veteran will need to dig deep in order to overcome her demons. When a new murder case comes to her attention- things quickly become complicated- there is definitely more to the case than meets the eye. What happens makes or a thrilling read!
If you love crime and investigation stories, thrillers, or mysteries with plenty of drama, intrigue, and suspense wrapped up in a tightly woven and engrossing story- then this is definitely the book for you!
Can’t wait to see where we go from here. Bring on Book #2!!
Happy reading!
Thank you, Mandy Miller!
December 31, 2021
I will admit, when I started this book, I wasn't sure what to think. I didn't really love it in the beginning. I couldn't connect with Grace. But happily, that didn't last long. Once more of the secondary characters were introduced, starting with her landlord, things seemed to really come together. Her interaction with people and coming to terms with her past and who she is now really shine through and make her a great character. She cares and wants to do right. The secondary characters also shine and make this book even better.
While I really like the characters, that's not all this book is about. The story starts around her taking a case where it looks pretty evident that her client is guilty. But as any great thriller/suspense book shows us, there is so much more going on. Grace heads down the never-ending rabbit hole, digging up more and more. You think you know what's going on, but then the author throws another curve at us.
This was a book I was engrossed in pretty quickly, and could not put down until I finished. The author weaves such a fantastic tale of whodunit and why that we are kept guessing the whole way. That's what really makes this book superb. A must read in my mind.
While I really like the characters, that's not all this book is about. The story starts around her taking a case where it looks pretty evident that her client is guilty. But as any great thriller/suspense book shows us, there is so much more going on. Grace heads down the never-ending rabbit hole, digging up more and more. You think you know what's going on, but then the author throws another curve at us.
This was a book I was engrossed in pretty quickly, and could not put down until I finished. The author weaves such a fantastic tale of whodunit and why that we are kept guessing the whole way. That's what really makes this book superb. A must read in my mind.
January 1, 2022
States of Grace (Grace Locke Mystery Series) by Mandy Miller
4 out of 5 Stars
Grace Locke is a mystery. Grace was a highly successful prosecutor with an Ivy League education. Now she is defending court-appointed clients in order to regain her bar certificate. Grace joined the military out of a sense of duty. She is now a vet with PTSD and missing a leg. Grace used to live in the richest neighborhood in Miami. She now lives in a rundown motel owned by an ex-ganster that she wrongfully convicted but got out. Grace’s life is a study in contradictions.
When Zoe Slim is accused of murdering her guidance counselor, Grace believes that this high profile case that could put her back on top or closer to the top. Grace convinces her soon-to-be-ex-husband to convince Zoe’s mom, Gretchen, to hire Grace. Grace artfully uses the unique characters that now share her life to solve this crime. Could Zoe actually be innocent? Who would want to frame her?
The suspense is wonderfully tense. The characters are delightfully flawed. The legal procedures are masterful. I want to be in the gallery the next time Grace defends her clients. This series has a permanent space in my book case!
4 out of 5 Stars
Grace Locke is a mystery. Grace was a highly successful prosecutor with an Ivy League education. Now she is defending court-appointed clients in order to regain her bar certificate. Grace joined the military out of a sense of duty. She is now a vet with PTSD and missing a leg. Grace used to live in the richest neighborhood in Miami. She now lives in a rundown motel owned by an ex-ganster that she wrongfully convicted but got out. Grace’s life is a study in contradictions.
When Zoe Slim is accused of murdering her guidance counselor, Grace believes that this high profile case that could put her back on top or closer to the top. Grace convinces her soon-to-be-ex-husband to convince Zoe’s mom, Gretchen, to hire Grace. Grace artfully uses the unique characters that now share her life to solve this crime. Could Zoe actually be innocent? Who would want to frame her?
The suspense is wonderfully tense. The characters are delightfully flawed. The legal procedures are masterful. I want to be in the gallery the next time Grace defends her clients. This series has a permanent space in my book case!
December 31, 2021
When I read this book I had no idea that it was the author’s debut novel. It was only by looking at a few other reviews before writing my own that I discovered this and it makes me admire the author even more. This is a really great piece of writing that I would have assumed was from a seasoned author.
Grace is a fascinating character. She an attorney who is really down on her luck. After losing her leg in active service she then became addicted to painkillers and alcohol, resulting in a DUI, which in turn led to her losing her job as an assistant state prosecutor and the end of her marriage. Could anything else go wrong in her life?
The book is a bit of a slow burn to start with but does pick up pace and soon has you on a dangerous journey full of twists and turns as Grace tries to prove the innocence of teenager Zoe who has been charged with murder and all the evidence points to her being guilty. Can grace prove that she is innocent? Or is she innocent?
This really was a compelling read and I was totally engrossed in it and did not want to put it down. Definitely recommend.
Grace is a fascinating character. She an attorney who is really down on her luck. After losing her leg in active service she then became addicted to painkillers and alcohol, resulting in a DUI, which in turn led to her losing her job as an assistant state prosecutor and the end of her marriage. Could anything else go wrong in her life?
The book is a bit of a slow burn to start with but does pick up pace and soon has you on a dangerous journey full of twists and turns as Grace tries to prove the innocence of teenager Zoe who has been charged with murder and all the evidence points to her being guilty. Can grace prove that she is innocent? Or is she innocent?
This really was a compelling read and I was totally engrossed in it and did not want to put it down. Definitely recommend.
December 29, 2021
Grace is at the last straw with life and her career, with a pretty big addiction can she help herself and also help the young girl she has just taken on as a client.
Grace is at a low point in her life, just been released from jail and needing to raise some money to survive she is more comfortable prosecuting the innocent not the perceived guilty, but as she works through the case. Grace starts to investigate and finds stuff that is wrong and she is starting thinking maybe there is more to this case than first thought.
I really enjoyed this story, this is the first book I have read by this author and it was thrilling and it grips you. I loved the way the book weaves through the clues and you piece together with Grace to find if her client is really guilty.
The characters are well developed and I loved the fact that Grace is a little flawed, being an army vet with a disability was brilliant to read, the interactions with the secondary characters are great and enhances the story.
I can't wait to read more books by this author in the future.
Grace is at a low point in her life, just been released from jail and needing to raise some money to survive she is more comfortable prosecuting the innocent not the perceived guilty, but as she works through the case. Grace starts to investigate and finds stuff that is wrong and she is starting thinking maybe there is more to this case than first thought.
I really enjoyed this story, this is the first book I have read by this author and it was thrilling and it grips you. I loved the way the book weaves through the clues and you piece together with Grace to find if her client is really guilty.
The characters are well developed and I loved the fact that Grace is a little flawed, being an army vet with a disability was brilliant to read, the interactions with the secondary characters are great and enhances the story.
I can't wait to read more books by this author in the future.
December 30, 2021
States of Grace (Grace Locke Mystery Series Book 1) by Mandy Miller
5 out of 5 Stars
Let me preface this by stating that I RARELY issue a big 5 stars. Miller has done an incredible job with States of Grace. Grace Locke has some serious conflict both internally with herself and externally with her clients. Being a very run down prosecuting attorney who can’t seem to run from her own demons will do that do a girl. Grace takes on a client who she believes to her bones is guilty of murder and yet she finds evidence that not even she can disprove that her client is innocent. So the clock is ticking to find the real killer, save her client from the death penalty and then maybe she will have time to save herself in the end.
Miller has crafted a story of mystery, thrills, and heart pounding intrigue. You can’t flip the pages fast enough, or in my case, tap the kindle fast enough. Lovers of mystery, triller and good old fashioned who dunnits would love this book. A solid 5 out of 5 stars.
5 out of 5 Stars
Let me preface this by stating that I RARELY issue a big 5 stars. Miller has done an incredible job with States of Grace. Grace Locke has some serious conflict both internally with herself and externally with her clients. Being a very run down prosecuting attorney who can’t seem to run from her own demons will do that do a girl. Grace takes on a client who she believes to her bones is guilty of murder and yet she finds evidence that not even she can disprove that her client is innocent. So the clock is ticking to find the real killer, save her client from the death penalty and then maybe she will have time to save herself in the end.
Miller has crafted a story of mystery, thrills, and heart pounding intrigue. You can’t flip the pages fast enough, or in my case, tap the kindle fast enough. Lovers of mystery, triller and good old fashioned who dunnits would love this book. A solid 5 out of 5 stars.
December 31, 2021
This is the first book in the Grace Locke series and this author’s first book. It was a great 5 star read. The author pulled me in with her writing and being a lawyer herself it makes it even more interesting.
Grace is currently on probation and is working on trying to get things back on track in her life. She is recovering from drug and alcohol addiction due to the loss of her leg. The cases she is currently taking are not helping her situation. There is a twist and a case that could help her career has come up and she is determined to defend the accused.
As evidence starts to pile up on her client will she be able to prove innocence or is she really guilty?
Overall this was a great mystery with several twists and turns that added a great element to the story. All of the characters were great, my favorite was Vinnie, I was LOL several times. I was on the edge of my seat waiting to see what was coming next. The author's detail was great, you felt like you were right there in the story. I can’t wait to read more from this series and author. 1-click and get started today.
Grace is currently on probation and is working on trying to get things back on track in her life. She is recovering from drug and alcohol addiction due to the loss of her leg. The cases she is currently taking are not helping her situation. There is a twist and a case that could help her career has come up and she is determined to defend the accused.
As evidence starts to pile up on her client will she be able to prove innocence or is she really guilty?
Overall this was a great mystery with several twists and turns that added a great element to the story. All of the characters were great, my favorite was Vinnie, I was LOL several times. I was on the edge of my seat waiting to see what was coming next. The author's detail was great, you felt like you were right there in the story. I can’t wait to read more from this series and author. 1-click and get started today.
December 31, 2021
5 Stars
States of Grace (Grace Locke Mystery Series) by Mandy Miller
States of Grace is the first book in the Grace Locke Mystery Series and holy cow what a ride! This is a Mystery/Suspense that will hook you from the beginning and keeps reeling you in as you read. This is a fairly new author to me and this is her debut mystery. The twists and turns had me turning the pages all while trying to figure out what happens next. Grace finds herself in a situation where she has to turn to the dark side in order to be able to her bills. She finds herself taking on a client who needs her to prove their innocent and to keep herself out of more trouble. It’s a ra e against time can she prove their innocence before its to late? Grace is a character I can totally see myself being friends with. Although she has secrets she’s still a strong women even if she finds herself weak at times. You guys I highly recommend reading this book to find out what happens next. I can’t wait for the next book in this series. What a wonderful start to this series.
States of Grace (Grace Locke Mystery Series) by Mandy Miller
States of Grace is the first book in the Grace Locke Mystery Series and holy cow what a ride! This is a Mystery/Suspense that will hook you from the beginning and keeps reeling you in as you read. This is a fairly new author to me and this is her debut mystery. The twists and turns had me turning the pages all while trying to figure out what happens next. Grace finds herself in a situation where she has to turn to the dark side in order to be able to her bills. She finds herself taking on a client who needs her to prove their innocent and to keep herself out of more trouble. It’s a ra e against time can she prove their innocence before its to late? Grace is a character I can totally see myself being friends with. Although she has secrets she’s still a strong women even if she finds herself weak at times. You guys I highly recommend reading this book to find out what happens next. I can’t wait for the next book in this series. What a wonderful start to this series.
January 1, 2022
This is a phenomenal story. Crime is a genre that I don't pick up very often, but this one had such an awesome story and wholly believable characters that I couldn't put it down. Grace is an intelligent, flawed, sometimes self-doubting, relatable character that keeps fighting even when the chips are down. I loved her vulnerability, and willingness to keep pushing forward even the face of strong adversity, and especially even in the face of her own self-doubt. She has to re-learn how to lawyer, how to walk, how to adult, and how to be an authentic version of this person she has become. The mystery of the whodunnit had me wrapped in circles trying to untangle it, and I still wasn't able to do it in time at the end of the novel. So many great side characters, including the retired mob man with a heart of gold Vinny, and the big black badass ASA Marcus who is Grace's loving friend and confidante. The motley crew of people that helped hold Grace together become a family of sorts, and the way she is able to find love and confidence in those that truly have her back made me so happy.
December 27, 2021
States of Grace was a really good book, I was shocked to see it was the first by this author. It had a lot of hints toward previous events, I thought for sure I missed a book. I hope there is a prequel in the future, as I want to know more about Grace's past. I want to know about her military time, her marriage/ex husband and her hitting rock bottom. It seems there is quite the backstory and I want to read more about it... However, that being said, the book was really good. I was hooked from start to finish and didn't want to put it down. The book was action packed from start to finish. The characters are well developed and have good solid relationships. The author really did her research and it shows. The ending was not at all what I expected, which is good. I like when I don't have it all figured out, and to be caught off guard. I highly recommend this book, and am super impressed for a first time author. I genuinely can't wait to read more about Grace Locke!
January 4, 2026
Lots of intriguing layers
This book delivers an inside view of a defense attorney’s challenges, throws in complex character issues, some great secondary characters, and a murder mystery. After finishing the book, the protagonist’s personal demons seem to be more of a focus than the murder mystery.
For readers who enjoy writing with moments of literary originality, bantering between friends with history, who don’t mind some long backstory paragraphs, and who have compassion for veterans, this is the right book to read.
There is some mild peril, multiple references to addiction, divorce, mental illness, betrayal, and the murder victim has some gross wounds. There are numerous typos sprinkled throughout, and while momentarily distracting, they are not derailing. There are a couple of issues I wish the author had handled better—more protection for witnesses and more fight from the protagonist at the end—but it’s still a good book to read.
Go Steamboat Writers!
This book delivers an inside view of a defense attorney’s challenges, throws in complex character issues, some great secondary characters, and a murder mystery. After finishing the book, the protagonist’s personal demons seem to be more of a focus than the murder mystery.
For readers who enjoy writing with moments of literary originality, bantering between friends with history, who don’t mind some long backstory paragraphs, and who have compassion for veterans, this is the right book to read.
There is some mild peril, multiple references to addiction, divorce, mental illness, betrayal, and the murder victim has some gross wounds. There are numerous typos sprinkled throughout, and while momentarily distracting, they are not derailing. There are a couple of issues I wish the author had handled better—more protection for witnesses and more fight from the protagonist at the end—but it’s still a good book to read.
Go Steamboat Writers!
December 27, 2021
States of Grace is full of twists and believable characters! The main character is not the typical “perfect” heroine where everything always works out, which was relieving. Grace Locke is a lawyer on the verge of losing her license, and must figure out a way to pay the bills. She takes on a teenage client who she does not believe is guilty, and determined to prove it. It does have a little bit of a slow start, but it builds up quickly once things start to progress, and then shoots off to 90 mph. I enjoyed the mix of the mystery and legal standpoints, and how stubborn the character is (which is relatable, haha). The author’s use of details was very well done and made the story entertaining, but still believable. Definitely give this author and book a chance. I read this entire book in about 2 days, and am looking forward to reading more from this author, and this series.
December 29, 2021
This book was so perfect, and beautifully done it is incredibly hard for me to believe that it's the authors first novel. I was originally drawn to this novel by its cover and the blurb on the back. But once I started the novel I couldn't put it down. The authors writing flows just as beautifully as the plot. This book has everything you could want in a lawyering thriller filled with mystery, murder, lawyers, the Florida state bar and so much more. The plot flowed so beautifully that the pages just flew by and I couldn't put it down. Grace's character really spoke to me, even though she's been knocked down several times she just gets back up and fights even harder. She's really a character that you can get behind. But in the long run this story was so perfect that I can't wait for the next book from this author.
December 31, 2021
Grace Locke is hanging onto life by her fingernails. Recently recovering from nearly losing her job as a prosecutor, and living in a less than desirable place, she never thought she’d have to put up working for the types of people she’s resorting to defending now. Things may be looking up, however, when she gets wind of a possible career-maker case…the only downside is the accused kid is the daughter of the woman who ended her marriage. But once Grace takes the case, she soon discovers things aren’t as cut and dry as the police would have you believe and there are much darker forces at work against her client. This book really hit on topics that make up a great mystery-crime-thriller including complex characters, deep plot twists, and a loveable heroine who doesn’t allow the world to beat her down! Highly recommended!
December 14, 2021
I enjoyed this suspenseful story. This is a well written story that has twists and turns that will keep you turning pages. The author’s use of details gave the story a realistic feel as if you were right there in the story. Her characters are relatable and kept the story engaging. Grace is one step away from losing her law license and finds herself turning to the dark side to pay the bills. What will happen when she takes on a client that she needs to prove their innocence? This is where the story takes on a race against time to find the truth and keep herself from going under. I really enjoyed Grace’s character and what she brought to the story. She made the story entertaining to read and had me wanting to know more. This is a great read and I highly recommend this book.
December 14, 2021
4.5 stars
As a debut book this author’s work is compelling. Interesting (to say the least) and colourful characters take centre stage, including our protagonist/heroine Grace, who is funny, sassy and a mess in general with a smart mouth that leads her into a multitude of trouble. But the most curious and humorous of all is her new leg, Oscar.
Grace finds herself taking on the worst of the worst clients of the underground to ensure her survival. However, it is Grace’s empathy and compassion that has her in a race against time to ensure that her latest client is not falsely convicted of that in which she has been accused - murder.
With lots of twists and turns along the way you keep turning those pages to find out how things will turn out. A great start to the series and debut book.
As a debut book this author’s work is compelling. Interesting (to say the least) and colourful characters take centre stage, including our protagonist/heroine Grace, who is funny, sassy and a mess in general with a smart mouth that leads her into a multitude of trouble. But the most curious and humorous of all is her new leg, Oscar.
Grace finds herself taking on the worst of the worst clients of the underground to ensure her survival. However, it is Grace’s empathy and compassion that has her in a race against time to ensure that her latest client is not falsely convicted of that in which she has been accused - murder.
With lots of twists and turns along the way you keep turning those pages to find out how things will turn out. A great start to the series and debut book.
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