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Sam Johnstone #5

The Truthful Witness

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The line between truth and deception is as thin as a razor’s edge…

Determined to enjoy the pace of small-town life, lawyer Sam Johnstone has left his painful past behind and looks forward to taking each new day as it comes. Yet just as he sees peace and tranquility on the horizon, a close friend is charged with murder. Unable to stand quietly by, Sam quickly signs on for the defense.

But how can he defend a client who has already confessed to the crime?

Further complicating matters, an ethically-challenged prosecutor with an ax to grind seems embarked on a personal crusade against Sam.

Now, in a case that seems doomed from the start, Sam must risk his reputation, his livelihood, and more to help a friend in need. But how far is he willing to go to uncover the shocking truth?

416 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 4, 2023

3358 people are currently reading
294 people want to read

About the author

James Chandler

14 books151 followers
Note: There other authors with this name.

James^^Chandler

James Chandler spent his formative years in the western United States. When he wasn't catching fish or footballs, he was roaming centerfield and trying to hit the breaking pitch. After a mediocre college baseball career, he exchanged jersey No. 7 for camouflage issued by the United States Army, which he wore around the globe and with great pride for twenty years before retiring as a Lieutenant Colonel of Air Defense Artillery. He holds a Bachelor's degree from Eastern Oregon University and a Master's degree from Marshall University. He earned his Juris Doctor by attending night school at the George Mason University School of Law while assigned to the Pentagon, and practiced law in Wyoming for twelve years before his appointment to the bench. When he isn't working or writing, he'll likely have a fly rod, shotgun or rifle in hand. He and his wife are blessed with two wonderful adult daughters and one grandson. He is a recipient of the Western Horizon Award. He loves to hear from readers and can be reached at james@james-chandler.com.

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5 stars
2,610 (59%)
4 stars
1,415 (32%)
3 stars
305 (6%)
2 stars
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24 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 89 reviews
Profile Image for Laur.
714 reviews125 followers
June 3, 2025
Plenty of drama in this legal fiction; the legal courtroom arguments were brilliant. Dragged a bit in mid story line parts, but the trial was outstanding to listen to, and oh that ending finale!!
Profile Image for H.M.S..
Author 7 books64 followers
April 8, 2024
The Truthful Witness is the fifth book I've read by James Chandler. I binge-read the first four books before Christmas, then waited patiently for this one to come out. I already can't wait for book 6 because my goodness! The last chapter alone made this whole book worth your while. Man, oh man! What a fantastic ending!

Truthful Witness continued where the last book left off, showcasing the criminal trial of Judge Daniels for the murder of his terminally ill wife. The new prosecutor, Prosecutor Lee, was hell-bent on making sure he was convicted for as tough of a charge as possible. The trial itself took most of the book, which I liked, but on the side were two other cases / legal issues highlighting a couple of very important side characters.

Chandler did a brilliant job of weaving together all the characters, both primary and secondary, in a way that had me turning each page because I just had to know what was going to happen next!

Side notes:

* A couple of spots dragged just a little bit, such as when he added an unnecessary second explanation of the lesser-included charge, a definition provided twice, once each with both the defense and prosecuting attorneys.
* I'm still not sure how one or two extra characters fit in, such as the Army guy Sam Johnstone helped. But most of them were brought together so masterfully, that I can let this one wait until next time!

Chandler has definitely become a must-buy author!

Thanks to NetGalley and Severn River Publishing for the opportunity to read and review this book.

Update April 2024: I may have to eat my words on the side note about lesser included charges. In November 2023, I was called to serve on a jury for a murder trial. There were 3 charges, and we couldn't agree on the Murder A charge, but we did agree (and found the defendant) guilty of a lesser included charge of reckless homicide. I thought of this book that week.
Profile Image for Laura Giacomino.
32 reviews1 follower
October 29, 2025
Fantastic ending

Loved this book on the criminal justice system and the potential for damage in the name of justice. I especially loved the ending which I will not spoil for other readers!
695 reviews14 followers
June 1, 2023
This is a good legal series of which I’ve read several, it can be read as a standalone. The primary character is Sam Johnstone and it’s set in a small Wyoming town. This installment is filled with politics in the DA’s office, prosecutors, lawyers and multiple criminal defendants. Sam is a defense attorney with his friend, a respected retired judge, as a client. Preston Daniels has already admitted to killing his terminally ill wife. Question is, was it murder? Cathy is another attorney in the area, recently opening her own practice after resigning from the County office. Her client presented equally difficult obstacles to overcome. There are many alcoholics and addicts in the plot.
The judge could no longer care for his ailing wife alone. A home health aide is hired to assist in the wife’s care. The aide, Julie, was a former addict with felonies on her record. A mistake in the dosage of a controlled narcotic ends in death. It will be a difficult case for Sam to present to a jury. Putting the defendant on the witness stand is inherently risky, however Sam is limited in providing other testimony or witnesses. I thoroughly enjoyed the legal exploration of the ‘truthful witness’ theory for this case. The ending was completely out of the blue and unexpected. I look forward to more in the series.
I did take issue with one small part of the plot. Spending the majority of my career in the healthcare field I’m familiar with both federal and state regulations. Even though this is a fictional story, it would be highly improbable that anyone with drug convictions could be employed as a home health aide. In most states her felonious record would prevent employment in any healthcare setting, regardless of drug access restrictions in place.
Thanks to NetGalley for the digital advance reader copy of “The Truthful Witness” Sam Johnstone #5, by James Chandler, Severn River Publishing. These are all my own honest personal thoughts and opinions given voluntarily without compensation.
195 reviews1 follower
July 11, 2023
First book are read in the series. Pretty good mystery . Some parts drag a little, but would definitely keep reading the series, maybe should start at the beginning. Thanks NetGalley foe advance copy.
Profile Image for Tino.
427 reviews5 followers
August 14, 2023
A very good courtroom thriller. While the case wasn’t as compelling as usual, the writing and story made up for it. 4 stars.
Profile Image for Linda Surritte.
275 reviews
September 1, 2023
Interesting story. Picked it up every time I had a few minutes to read besides the longer reading times before bed.
124 reviews1 follower
April 10, 2024
Top notch storytelling, except for...

I truly admire those who can craft books like those in this series, which makes it difficult to take issue with their works. In addition, this is a very good story in so many ways, but mainly on the character development front. Furthermore, there are actually multiple plotlines introduced, which makes it an even more interesting tale.

However, even with all of those positive attributes, the book rates just 4 stars for me because the author continued to follow the same pattern as the others in this series. Needless time spent on the jury selection process when it adds nothing to the story, multiple instances of the presiding judge instructing the jury. information about "the bar" in Wyoming courtrooms, etc. Some of those parts seem like they're pretty much cut and paste; all of them (at least after the first series entry) fall into the category of "Who cares, and more do they advance the story?" The answers are "Nobody" and "They don't."

I realize that the author is a former jurist himself, and so is naturally proud of that profession. However, that is not the role he serves in while creating these works. So, it would behoove his writing style to be more considerate of his reader's by resisting the temptation to fall back on his old chestnuts and find other facets of trials to discuss that might further enlighten those of us who are inexperienced in such matters.
Profile Image for Denise .
813 reviews9 followers
July 6, 2023
I really enjoy these books. Fans of courtroom drama/legal thrillers are sure to enjoy this series. Sam Johnstone is back and this time he’s defending his mentor and friend, retired judge Preston Daniels against charges that he murdered his dying wife Marci. The courtroom scenes are well done and interesting. The prosecuting attorney, Grant Lee, is an exceedingly unlikable human being and you can’t help but hope he suffers some consequences for his awful behavior! There was a peripheral investigation into a local drug dealer which left me wondering why it was included in the storyline since it didn’t appear to further the core plot. Other than that minor issue, i felt this was a very good addition to the series. The ending was a surprise and I’m intrigued to see where the author takes that teaser.
1,740 reviews13 followers
July 2, 2023
I received an ARC from Severn Publishing and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.

This story is about Sam's latest case where he is defending a former judge who is charged with 2nd degree murder. This case relates to the death of the judge's wife who was dying of cancer. When the police did their original investigation, they did not find anything that wound up with him being arrested. The arrest was a result of the deputy District Attorney overstepping his duty and doing something that what the District Attorney authorized. Because of his actions, the District Attorney resigned and this individual under her became the new DA. He wanted to bring a new discipline into the office and wished to be hard on those arrested.

The trial began and there was a definite adversarial relation between Sam and the DA. As the trial progressed and questioning began, the presiding judge had to admonish them several times or he would find them in contempt. With the trial winding down and Sam presented his side, the DA really beat up on Sam's witnesses. The trial concludes and the case is given to the jury to deliberate.

To discover what the final verdict in trial was, what Sam had to overcome during the trial and how the DA went on the offensive, then you need to read this book. The ending is well worth the read and results in something unexpected.
129 reviews
July 21, 2023
Retired judge Preston Daniels admits to killing his terminally ill wife. He hasn’t murdered her, he simply forgot to swap her morphine to a new dosage with unfortunately dire consequences. An ambitious, self-absorbed prosecutor named Grant Lee, who is out to make a name for himself, charges Daniels with murder despite nearly everyone around him being strongly against it. His friend and attorney Sam (former military/former alcoholic) butts heads the whole time with the frustratingly pompous Lee. A smaller side plot involves Cathy, a former prosecutor who recently switched to private practice defense attorney and her client Misty who also gets the “benefit” of Lee’s overzealous approach. A good story that has a tendency to get bogged down at times in stodgy legal procedure. I was left with a few questions…why did Rebecca do what she did? It felt like a too convenient way to get Lee in position. The newspaper interviews seemed to go nowhere plot wise and what was up with the presiding judge’s rapid exits? The answer given felt anti-climactic. The ending was a satisfying twist of the knife that I expect will be continued in the next book in the series. I won a copy from the publisher in Publisher’s Weekly Grab a Galley.
448 reviews4 followers
July 28, 2024
a very moving book, highly recommended

Author, please don’t discontinue Sam Johnstone series. I’m really addicted to this series. I can’t lie, I truly hate Grant Lee character. He’s so arrogant, disgusting, just disgraceful. The way he destroys people lives is so unjust and he thrives in other people’s misery. Cathy is not a good people person. She doesn’t seem to take her clients problems seriously. There’s no real empathy. I can’t figure out Aiden character yet. I think he would make a better county attorney than Grant. Wow, I just love me some Sam. He’s so articulate in that courtroom. I’m glad his life is better and he’s enjoying being drunk free. I’m proud of Sam for facing his demons and getting his life back. And I don’t want to think about Judge Daniel, bc he saddened me. But I love his character, his love story with his beloved Marci. He’s can be so witty. I love his personality, sense of humor. I love the friendship between him and Sam and how they banter with each other’s. I love the ending, karma.
Profile Image for David Taylor.
1,538 reviews24 followers
July 5, 2023
Can Sam defend his mentor????
While I have been a fan of the Sam Johnstone series throughout the previous four books, The Truthful Witness took me to a level I have not previously experienced in reading the Sam Johnstone books. To say this is the best book in the series doesn’t do it justice, not only is it a multidimensional story, Mr. Chandler weaves elements into the story that only Sam and a few other folks, me included, may ever experience. Additionally, the characters in this story, while familiar, exhibit previously unseen traits and actions making the story very unpredictable. I feel like this series is just hitting its stride and can’t wait for the sixth book to hit my Kindle. I received an Advance Reader Copy from the Publisher and chose to provide my review.
305 reviews17 followers
July 5, 2023
This novel is designed for any reader who is a fan of trials and courtroom drama. One of the central characters is a prosecuting attorney with an agenda and political aspirations. He is aggressive, arrogant and completely unlikeable. There are several story lines including a retired judge accused of killing his wife, drugs, cancer treatment and medications, alcoholism and family relationships and conflicts. The writing has, at times, unusual phrasing - such as “thump Lee’s melon.”
I thank NetGalley and Severn River Publishing for the opportunity to read and review this book prior to publication.
Profile Image for Clifton Rankin.
146 reviews2 followers
June 9, 2025
When James Chandler’s “Capital Justice” ended in a “cliffhanger,” I immediately started reading, “Truthful Witness.” How much did I want to see what happened next: The newest Longmire book had just been released, and I read this one first. Sam Johnstone, defense attorney extraordinaire, is called upon to defend his friend and mentor, retired judge Preston Daniels, who is accused of killing his cancer-ridden wife. An overly ambitious county prosecutor who is determined to make a name for himself, cuts ethical corners to attempt to get a guilty verdict. Excellent book, but you need to read “Capital Justice” first to really enjoy it! I would give it 4 ½ stars if I could. (416 pages)
Profile Image for Kate.
690 reviews18 followers
August 24, 2023
The Truthful Witness by James Chandler is courtroom drama at its best! The plot and characters are well developed and the author explains legalese as the story goes along. This story reminded me of some of the courtroom dramas on TV. It really held my interest and I loved the ending!! This is a great book and series. This is the 5th book in the series, but the first one that I have read. I received an advance copy of this book and I always review every book that I read. If you enjoy stories about lawyers and prosecutors, then this book is for you. Enjoy!
117 reviews1 follower
February 22, 2024
Karma is a Truthful witness

Well scripted book about the injustice of justice. Its quite shameful that people who take oaths to uphold justice is served are sometimes in it for themselves. Somewhere along the way from graduation to current circumstances become the opposite. Its not necessarily often, but exploited and ruins it for any new and up and comers. Very sad but in this instance, maybe justice gets served on a different level. What goes around comes around. Yay !!!
810 reviews11 followers
May 23, 2023
This is the first Sam Johnstone book that I have read, so I was a little lost in the beginning. I thought the main character was going to be Grant Lee, that unlikeable guy. I enjoy legal thrillers and very much enjoyed this one. It dragged a bit in parts with too much detail but overall it kept moving. The ending kept me looking for another page, but it sounds like that may be the writing style of this series. I will definitely go back and read the previous books.
Profile Image for Sandy.
875 reviews14 followers
July 2, 2023
Another slam-dunk for Mr. Chandler! You’ll feel like you’re right in the courtroom as he defends two cases, which ultimately converge. Great writing, well developed characters and a complex plot make this one exceptional. Highly recommended! I enjoyed this book and am looking forward to the next in the series. I received a complimentary copy of this book and chose to write a voluntary, unbiased review.
Profile Image for Cheryl.
1 review
July 9, 2023
In this book, Sam Johnstone defends former Judge, Preston Daniel’s who has been charged with 2nd degree murder in the death of his wife of 45 years who had cancer. Her death occurred after Pres forgot to change the meds as prescribed by the doctor. Grant Lee, county attorney is out for blood and to make a name for himself. There are many twists and turns in this novel that lead to an ending that is somewhat satisfying.
160 reviews3 followers
August 20, 2023
Got more than I expected. Wasn't expecting all the much, really. Expecting a formula framed novel. To my surprise I ended with with Annie Proulx. In the best sense. The novel moved rather swiftly, through a maze of characters, but the author made use of them all. Justice was served, though not in the manner you suspected. The ending was especially precious. After the tension of the trial at the heart of the book, the ending was a surprise. Made me smile.
703 reviews24 followers
May 31, 2023
This legal thriller by James Chandler is exactly that! The characters snarl and connive, misbehave and subvert, and then turn up in a surprise ending of deserved justice. The Truthful Witness takes on a jaw-dropping meaning by the time this fast-moving book drops you off its cliff.

Thanks to NetGalley and Severn River Publishing for the opportunity to read this compelling ARC.
Profile Image for Dawn Byers.
751 reviews20 followers
June 10, 2023
I was given this book by NetGalley for an honest review-
Sam, a lawyer is enjoying small town life but when a friend is charged with murder he must defend him, How can he win when his friend has already confessed? And what a struggle he will have with a prosecutor who is impossible to work with. Did his friend actually commit the crime? This is a great courtroom story with a great ending!
7,765 reviews50 followers
June 17, 2023
He had been a judge, and knew the power of words. Saying he killed his wife, but no he didn't murdered her. A family who now wants it proven that he did
As a friend
The media would have a hay day if he was charged. For the ex judge he would be tough to indict, and it was election year.
A good legal drama that pulls you in,with a good plot and characters
Given ARC for my voluntary review
984 reviews12 followers
July 4, 2023
Judge Preston is accused of the murder of his wife by her sister and the attorney, Grant Lee is bent on convicting him. Sam is drawn into a lengthy legal battle. Will he be able to save his friend and mentor from jail? A thriller with jaw dropping suspense. I enjoyed reading about Sam's persistence in fighting for his friend against his opponent, the ruthless Grant Lee.
Profile Image for Claudete Takahashi.
2,629 reviews36 followers
July 10, 2023
The Truthful Witness is an excellent story, it has action, drama, and humor, and shows how powerful words can be and how much damage they can make. A prosecutor with a flawed character and doing everything he can to enlarge his power and visibility. A relentless lawyer in search of justice for his clients. And a great end!
I thank the author and his publisher for this ARC.
451 reviews3 followers
August 9, 2023
Fast Paced Book

Absolutely great characters and storylines in each of these books. Sam has come a long way getting his life together and is an excellent defense attorney. The reader really hates the Prosecutor by the end of the book and hopes he gets his ass kicked in the next book in this series. Can't wait for the next book to be released!
3 reviews
October 22, 2023
James Chandler, The Truthful Witness

Chandler's legal storied are well written and suspenseful. His characters are believable. His readers have to feel like they are right there in the courtroom listening to the lawyers squabbling, the witnesses giving testimony, and wondering "What if I were on the jury?"
Profile Image for Erin  Leach.
1 review
October 31, 2023
As a judge’s wife….

As a judge’s wife….
I find these books not only more accurate to real life scenarios, but also entertaining page turners. This one especially so being the situation at hand with Marci and Judge Daniels. I could be Marci! Their love story was tragically beautiful. And the ending…. Chandler leaves me wanting more, per usual.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 89 reviews

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