Member Reviews

I can honestly say of every book this author has written is excellent. His books are full of twists and turns that keep you reading into the wee hours of the night

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I'm grateful to NetGalley for providing me with an ARC of "Conflict of Duty: Sam Johnstone #6" by James Chandler in exchange for an honest review.

The sixth installment in the Sam Johnstone series opens with Sam taking a break from fishing, only to become entangled in a series of gripping events upon his return to town. As a lawyer, Sam finds himself unexpectedly representing a client linked to a tragic overdose and navigating complex moral dilemmas.

Initially reluctant, Sam faces pressure from a persistent drug dealer who promises crucial information in exchange for legal representation. This decision not only strains Sam's professional ethics but also ignites personal threats and community outrage.

The novel intensifies as Sam goes head-to-head with Cathy, his former girlfriend turned County Attorney, in a high-stakes courtroom battle. The tension mounts as the trial concludes with unexpected twists and turns, culminating in a dramatic and unforeseen event outside the courthouse.

"Conflict of Duty" delivers a compelling blend of legal drama and suspense, keeping readers engaged from start to finish. James Chandler skillfully explores themes of justice, loyalty, and sacrifice through well-crafted characters and a gripping narrative.

#BookReview #SamJohnstone #ConflictOfDuty #JamesChandler #NetGalley #SevernRiver #LegalThriller #Bookstagram #ARC #ThrillerReads #MysteryNovel #CourtroomDrama #BookRecommendation

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Author James Chandler has the courtroom parts of his novel Conflict of Duty well written. But it seems a waste given the resolution of the story. I can't get into that without a major spoiler, but reading the novel has its benefits besides the courtroom drama. the ethics of Sam Johnstone are also a major area of interest.
Ultimately I was disappointed as the resolution of the case seemed the easy way out. Thanks NetGalley for the ARC.

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I have now read all six of this fascinating and compelling series featuring the troubled alcoholic Sam Johnstone racked with guilt about his army past.

Despite his issues he is a wonderful lawyer quick to seize opportunities and capitalise upon the holes in the prosecution cases.

I so enjoy reading about his exploits and hope that he will find peace and true happiness one day - but I have my doubts.

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In the wake of a trial loss and personal upheaval, defense attorney Sam Johnstone is drawn back into the legal fray by an accused drug dealer involved in a fatal fentanyl case in Conflict of Duty by James Chandler. The dealer’s tantalizing offer? Pivotal information that could exonerate the son of Sam’s former partner in exchange for representation. 

As Sam ventures deeper into this moral minefield, he uncovers suppressed testimony that could incriminate a former client and threaten his own career.

Conflict of Duty is a solid legal thriller. I learned some about the courts and trials, as well as a lot about drug addiction and fentanyl. It was a very good story with good characters—some likable, others not so much!

I was a bit disappointed in the ending; it felt a bit unresolved with Sam, but I’m hoping that means there will be more.

I enjoyed reading this book. The author's writing style held my interest and told a good story. I would recommend this book.

#NetGalley @SvrnRvrPublish

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