A young Harvard law student falls under the spell of a charismatic judge in this timely and thrilling novel about class, ambition, family and murder.

Madison Rivera lands the internship of a lifetime working for Judge Kathryn Conroy. But Madison has a secret that could destroy her career. Her troubled younger brother Danny has been arrested, and Conroy is the judge on his case. When Danny goes missing after accusing the judge of corruption, Madison’s quest for answers brings her deep into the judge’s glamorous world. Is Kathryn Conroy a mentor, a victim, or a criminal? Is she trying to help Madison or use her as a pawn? And why is somebody trying to kill her? As the two women circle each other in a dangerous cat-and-mouse game, will they save each other, or will betrayal leave one of them dead?

I really enjoyed this story. The suspense was killing me so I stayed up all night reading. Will recommend to others

I really liked this book! It’s a really good book and kept me interested through the whole book..I liked the whole Judge/intern relationship. I haven’t read a book from that POV before so that was different

Fun fact about me, I used to want to be a lawyer…not just any lawyer but a criminal defense lawyer. I dreamed of attending Harvard Law (“what like it’s hard”)- that is until the show Damages came out in 2007 and scared me straight. Kidding- kind of, but it did make me realize I realistically did not have enough of a backbone to make it in that world. So imagine my interest when I first heard about a new legal thriller with a similar concept- The Intern by Michele Campbell set to be released on October 3, 2023.

Madison Rivera is an ambitious Harvard law student, when she secures a prestigious internship opportunity with one of her professors- Kathryn Conroy, who also happens to serve as a federal judge. But Madison is keeping a secret that could destroy her future…her younger brother, Danny was recently arrested for federal judge charges, and brought before Judge Conroy for his hearing. He swears he’s innocent and is being framed. Then, while in custody, Danny goes missing. Madison searches for answers, bringing her dangerously close to the people who put him away. Can she trust the judge to help her, or is she involved? And why does it seem like someone is out to kill her?

This title is available in the September Book of the Month monthly selections, which means if you didn’t pick it this month, you should consider adding it on in October!

I thoroughly enjoyed this book. From about 25% of the way through I was hooked and did not want to put it down. The two main characters are beautiful, powerful and successful women with a lot at stake and some tough choices to make. This book is divided into five parts, two with each woman’s perspective and a final part titled End Game, and the ending was unexpected.

Rating ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫 (4.5/5 stars- rounded up)

I will most definitely be checking out Michele Campbell’s other works- especially “It’s Always the Husband,” which sounds so good.

Thank you to the publisher- St. Martin’s Press and Net Galley for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

THIS WAS MESSY, but I'm always here for a messy narrative, especially with DUAL POV. I am so thankful to St. Marin's Press, Macmillan Audio, Netgalley, and Michele Campbell for granting me advanced digital and audio access before this one hits shelves on October 3, 2023.

Madison lands the internship of her dreams, serving as Judge Kathryn Conroy's intern for the year. After learning that her brother was wrongfully convicted of drug charges and Kathryn is the judge on the case, she's skeptical but eager to feel out this legendary judge and see what's up. Kathryn welcomes Madison in with warm and trusting arms, jetting off to DC for errands, leaving Madison to be bullied by mob-like goons who are all connected dangerously.

Readers hear from Madison and Kathryn at various points in their lives, providing plot hole context for a connected web that's smaller than you'd imagine.

[arc review]
Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press for providing an arc in exchange for an honest review.
The Intern releases October 3, 2023

- dual pov
- nonlinear timeline
- complex family dynamics
- federal judge x law student/intern

Madison has just been offered an internship position by Judge Kathryn Conroy for her judicial chambers, whom also doubles as Madison’s professor at Harvard Law.
The thing is, Madison doesn’t want Kathryn finding out about her younger brothers legal troubles because it would be a conflict of interest.

Danny was set up to get busted in possession of drugs. The cops, lawyer, and judge involved in his federal case are all dirty and corrupt.

Now this is where things get good, because the dirty judge? None other than Kathryn Conroy — the same person that Madison admires and is in close contact with.

But some things may not be so black and white…


On the outside this had everything to be right up my alley, but it didn’t quite land right.

I found that Madison and Kathryn shared one too many similarities. Kathryn’s storyline was much stronger than Madison’s, and I would have enjoyed a tighter narrative from just her perspective.

Given Kathryn’s past history growing up and the recent murder of her husband (whose case is still unsolved), I would have thought that she would have more boundaries and be more guarded. Her relationship with Madison went from professional to personal way too quickly. Not even day one on the job and they were already going to dinner together and was being offered up her entire house and clothes just to cat sit? It seems out of character.
Not to mention the fact that she had no problem leaving her student/intern at her house alone for an entire weekend, while intoxicated, with a known history and threat of a man that would come to the premises armed with a gun, trying to break in? That’s weird.

A personal ick: Madison’s mothers name was Yolanda and it took me out of the story more often than I would have liked.

I have really enjoyed Campbell's books in the past, so as soon as this one became available on NetGalley requesting it was a no-brainer. Unfortunately, I didn't like it as much as I had hoped. It starts off pretty strong and although it's a slow-burn, it does a pretty good job of building the suspense along the way. However, I also found it to be rather convoluted and implausible, and characters are not at all likable. I was lucky to receive both an ARC and an ALC and would totally recommend reading it over listening to it. I didn't love the narrator for this one. A huge thanks to NetGalley, the author and the publishers for the advance copies in exchange for my honest opinion.

hanks to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for access to this title. All opinions expressed are my own.

Peeps, I think I am unable to move from Outlier Island. It's comfortable here. If I am being honest, I had a feeling a few chapters in that I might throw it in the "did not finish" pile. However, since it was an ARC, I felt obligated to follow through and see if it got better.

It didn't

From the beginning, there was just too much emphasis on second-year law student, Madison knowing all there was to know about the law. Umm...she only knows what is in her textbook and has never been in court. How in the world is she supposed to make all these miracles happen?


Madison's wide-eyed innocence at so many events in this book was like teeth-grinding. Like people are corrupt.. surely you're learning this at Harvard?

Also, Madison's mother was so annoying, and she manipulated Madison time and time again to fix the situation with Madison's brother Danny.

On the other hand, I loved that Kathryn's ( the judge) back story is kept concise and to the point. I am sorry for my harshness here but it felt like Michele Campbell had just binge-watched Damages and decided to write this novel.

It must be the continuous rain or the fact that two nights in a row I haven't slept a whole eight hours BUT this is my grumpy review.


Expected Publication Date 03/10/23
Goodreads Review 09/09/23

#TheIntern #NetGalley.

The Intern is a fast paced, cant put down and don't talk to me right now read.

The story keeps you holding your breath as the tension mounts.

The story is told from 2 perspectives, that of Madison a law intern and her idol Judge Kathryn Conroy

Their are rumors that the Judge is on the take but Madison refuses to entertain the idea as she becomes the judge's intern.

They both have their secrets and they are big ones and they are dangerous.

Madison's brother Danny is in trouble with the law and it seems that the only one who can help her is Kathryn.

Can Madison trust the Judge..

I couldn't help but cheer for both of them even though they were more than pushing the envelope.

Michele Campbell keeps your attention from page one and never lets up by throwing in twists and turns that keep you crossing your fingers.

Highly recommend The Intern and once you get your copy move it to the top of your TBR pile.

Thanks to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for a pulse pounding read.

Madison is determined to become a lawyer and eventually a judge, just like her idol Kathryn Conroy. When the opportunity to intern in Judge Conroy’s office comes up, Madison can’t pass it up. Even if that means lying about her brother, a recently convicted drug dealer. But maybe everything isn’t as it seems. The Intern is a fast paced, courtroom thriller filled with dirty cops, lawyers on the take, and an intern just trying to help her family.

I just finished this page turner of a book called The Intern. I typically do not read mystery thriller type of books, but this one is very enjoyable. The main character, Madison, is a bright Harvard law school student with a promising future ahead. She is taking a class by her idol - a judge who grew up in similar circumstances. The only difference being that Madison has a brother wrongfully accused of dealing heroin. Madison happens to get an internship with the judge, but gets nervous and lies about having a brother. From that point on, she gets caught in her lie and is trapped and forced to help the judge who is being investigated by the FBI. Madison has everything to lose.- her bright future career as a lawyer, her family and her freedom. Ms. Campbell does an excellent job with her character development. I could not put this book down, I did not have a lot of time to read this week, but I would stay up late until my eyes could no longer stay open, to see what happened next. I highly recommend this book. I plan to read more by this author in the future.

I received a free copy of this book from the publisher In exchange for my honest review.

THE INTERN by Michele Campbele

A young Intern by the name of Madeline works for a famous judge whom Madeline admires. However both Judge Katherine Conroy and Madeline are harboring a secret from each other hoping to use the other for their own gain.
This book surprised me as it didn't go anywhere near where I thought it was heading. This is a very convoluted plot. I enjoyed reading it to the end.
Thanks to Netgalley and St. Martins Press for this advanced copy in exchange for my honest review.

From the very first page, this book had me hooked, and I couldn't tear myself away. It's a masterpiece of storytelling, brilliantly crafted to keep readers on the edge of their seats.

One of the standout elements of this novel is the intricate web of secrets and connections between the two main characters. These hidden depths added a layer of depth and complexity to the narrative that I found utterly engrossing. The way the author skillfully unveiled these secrets kept me guessing and second-guessing throughout.

What truly sets this thriller apart is its ability to evoke such powerful emotions. It's a rare feat to find yourself nearly in tears while reading a thriller, but the author managed to stir a whirlwind of feelings within me. The characters felt so real, and their struggles and triumphs resonated on a profound level.

The prose is beautifully written, drawing readers into a world where suspense and raw emotion collide. The pacing is perfect, with every chapter leaving me eager for the next revelation. As I turned each page, I couldn't help but admire the author's talent for creating a story that was not only thrilling but emotionally resonant.

In conclusion, this book is a must-read for anyone who appreciates a gripping thriller that tugs at the heartstrings. It's a rollercoaster of emotions, filled with secrets, connections, and a narrative that will stay with you long after you've turned the final page. The author for delivering a truly exceptional reading experience.

I wanted to like this one more than I did. However, it still earned a 3 stars from me.

The premise of this one was interesting enough, it just wasn't executed well enough for my personal taste. There were too many characters, too much going on, and too much implausibility for me. I liked the idea of using each other for personal gain, but there was too much happening out of convenience to be believable.

I'll check out some of Campbell's other works as I've heard they're great.

Thank you to Netgalley and St. Martin's Press for the eARC. All opinions expressed are my own.

I tried to like this more but I just couldn’t get into it. I kept picking it up and reading a few paragraphs, then putting it down. I think one of the issues for me was a plethora of characters that I really didn’t care for and I felt like there were multiple plot points. The first 3/4 of the book really dragged and then the back half amped up quite a bit. I did like the ending.

Read this if you like:
👩🏼‍⚖️ Legal dramas
👩🏼‍⚖️ Dual timeline
👩🏼‍⚖️ Dual POV
👩🏼‍⚖️ Boston landmarks
👩🏼‍⚖️ Powerful women 💪🏼

Modern day mobsters are still at play in one of my favorite cities, Boston. This plot centers on those trying to rise above their pasts, poor circumstances and escape to a better future. They’re all flawed with secrets and finding a likable person in this story was nearly impossible. There’s the Judge (Conroy) who could be on the take, maybe even throwing cases! Her new intern, Madison, is so ambitious she lies about critical facts from day one on the job. Madison’s mother is whiney, doesn’t seem capable of responsibility. She even guilt trips her own daughter instead of being the grown up parent to her worthless deadbeat son. None of that kept me from hoping they could overcome the dangerous situations they all find themselves in. The author does a fantastic job portraying bad guys and lobbing unexpected revelations into the plot. There were some pivotal “aha” moments.
Madison has studied hard, she’s bright and talented with big aspirations of following her longtime idol, Judge Kathryn Conroy. Madison’s brother is prone to bad decisions and has placed her in a bad spot, so she tells a lie and then she’s stuck with it. The Judge has a ‘Uncle’ Eddie, and her ‘Uncle’ Ray, a made man, with unsavory mob ties. This mob has an elaborate network of criminals watching, infiltrating the police force and maybe the legal system itself. Madison and the Judge have choices to make and it could alter each of their lives forever. I was left pondering is your past a crutch, an excuse for who you are, what’s the cost of debts you’ll be required to repay?
I had not read any books from this author before. It was an interesting plot. Thanks to NetGalley for the digital advance reader copy of “The Intern” by Michele Campbell, St. Martin’s Press. These are all my own honest personal thoughts and opinions given voluntarily without compensation.

I'm a huge fan of Michele Campbell's novels having read all of her books and was excited to get an early review copy of The Intern (I was also thrilled to see The Intern as a September BOTM pick, which I grabbed for my bookshelf!). Campbell didn't disappoint with her latest novel, which I devoured in a day. I was pulled in by this tension-filled story that kept me on my toes! I definitely recommend grabbing a copy.

Thank you NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.

This thriller was such a good read! I was sucked into the story and didn't want to stop reading. I liked that we got the backstory of Kathy, the judge. The ending was perfect! I will totally recommend this book to my followers!

Wow, this was definitely a twists and turns kind of novel. I was honestly surprised by how this story ended up playing out. Excellent writing and the characters really come alive on the page. If you are a fan of drama and suspense, this one is for you!

I was unable to finish this book and thus will not be posting a full review. As an attorney, it was completely inaccurate as to the legal process as well as law school. I couldn't get past the lack of accuracy. Thank you for the opportunity.

The Intern by Michele Campbell was quite the bingeable legal thriller. Michele Campbell is not a "new to me" author, I have read her previous novels and have enjoyed them as well.

What makes The Intern such an addictive read is that the novel starts off with drama. By chapter 6 you'll be hooked and also confused on how you have already devoured 5 chapters. Madison is a Harvard Law Student who gets the opportunity to intern for a federal judge, who also happens to be one of her law professors. While she is super excited about the opportunity, she soon finds herself in a predicament. Her brother has recently fallen into some legal serious legal trouble and she has two choices - tell the Judge and risk losing the internship or not divulge that information just yet... What Madison doesn't know, is just how involved this Judge is in her brother's case.

This book is action packed, with suspenseful drama, and the story really connects well. It is told in two POV's, Madison's & the Judge's and my only complaint is that Madison's POV felt a little awkward. She just didnt come off as the intelligent Harvard law student that she was described to be and quite honestly she sounded as immature as a high schooler at times. The Judge's POV, however was written beautifully.