This novel may have more courtroom scenes than any I’ve read in ages. The judge at the bench has a lively character, and isn’t even the same judge that the title refers to, and is only #2 of a total of 3 judges that figure in the plot. Naturally there are loads of lawyers playing their parts, with district attorneys and cops also well represented. My favorite parts were those that bordered on skullduggery: people creeping around where they shouldn’t be. I’ll also say that about John Grisham novels, whose books are a bit less convoluted than this. But overall a good story to keep you guessing.

Steve Martini’s Paul Madriani Series are fast paced legal thrillers with well crafted plots which will have you guessing until the end. Attorney Paul Madriani just seems to attract clients who draw him into mysterious situations that in turn draw Madriani into unraveling the threads to help his clients.

good read

I didn’t figure this one out at all.

This is a well-told legal procedural novel. Although there was a lot of license taken in the courtroom part of the book, it was fairly accurate and very entertaining. I didn’t figure out the “who done it” until it was revealed and it was quite a surprise. I enjoyed this book like no other in a long time.

Really good book. My first time reading this author. Looking forward to reading more in this series.

I remember reading the first book by this author called Double Tap and enjoying it. Particularly, the humour in the dialogues and the great courtroom exchanges. This is the second book that I am reading of this author and the feeling remains the same. Nice plot twists at the end, a fun read all throughout and definitely a recommendation for anyone.

First time reading this author and have already picked up two more of his books. Would have given 5 stars except for the ending. It came out of no where and felt it was rushed. However, I did love the book.

This book was very well written. I did not know who did it until the last few pages. Love a good legal mystery.

Another great legal battle with interesting court scenes. Plus as always an ending with a Bang! Although this was written in 1996 the legal process and system hasn't changed much except for advancement in technology but that doesn't hidden the interesting and moving story lines. I will read the entire series.

Strong plot + annoying writing habits = 4 stars

n  The Judgen is my second Martini book (the first as an audiobook) and I am almost embarrassed to say that I really liked it. I didn't realize that I was such a literary elitist (especially if you looked at the stuff I've reviewed) but deep-down inside I guess that there are just some books that I want to hate simply because everyone else likes them.

Well, there's a reason why Martini's books have been perennial best-sellers - they're entertaining legal thrillers.

Plot synopsis:

Shenanigans in the police union have attracted the attention of an abrasive judge. He is leading a grand jury investigation into the union's finances when he is arrested for prostitution and later murder.

Paul Madriani is dragged into the case as the judge's defense attorney as a favor to a friend and soon everyone is stuck in a web of intrigue that involves the police, the prosecutor and Madriani's family.

The plot works well but Madriani overuses the 'simile' as a literary device. As I listened to this book on tape I started to become distracted by the sheer number of them. If I'd have had a notepad I would have started a tally sheet!

See all of my reviews of Steve Martini books here: http://dwdsreviews.blogspot.com/searc...

Another page turner with lots of twists and turns. Somewhat a surprise ending. Filled with many characters to keep track of what they were doing. Definitely recommend this to other readers.

Its the first novel i read from Martini. I like the plot, specially the courtroom parts. Im not a great fan of his writing. He uses a lot of comparations to describe. Spends too much time on this. Anyway a very good book.