This had good moments but had far more moments where I felt the story was being dragged out for length when they could just SAY what they're getting at. The beginning was intriguing, the end saved it for me. The middle was a long, drawn out process of figuring out if this woman murdered one, possibly two people. I enjoyed the first Keera Duggan book much better. Would read a third but Tracy Crosswhite is this author's bread and butter. Everything else is just stuff I read waiting for the next book in that series.

Fast-moving legal drama

This is the second book in this series, and I am enjoying Keera's character. She has had to step in when her famous father Patsy struggles with his alcoholism. She's not the brawler that he is known to be, she has created her own courtroom persona and uses it to her advantage in this book.

I did not like Jenna, the defendant in this case, but I don't feel like the reader is supposed to. She and Keera have had difficulties since childhood, mostly stemming from Jenna's personality. When Keera has to step in and defend Jenna, she learns life lessons about herself as well. Looking forward to the next book to continue her development.

Thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this book, but my opinions are my own.

Stogy. Stultifying. Boring. I barely started this book before I knew I couldn't possibly finish it. Plastic characters and oh so slow.

Last year, I read the author's "Her Deadly Game," which featured attorney and grown-up chess prodigy Keera Duggan. At the time, I hoped she was destined for a series but wasn't sure - and by golly, here she is again. This second installment is better than the first.

Living in the shadow of her hot-shot attorney father, Patsy, Keera has a place in his Seattle law firm along with a couple of sisters. Three year ago, her father successfully defended health-care entrepreneur Jenna Bernstein when she was charged with the murder of a potential whistle-blower. Now, Jenna's former company partner and lover has been murdered as well, and the evidence points to Jenna as the killer (if you haven't already guessed, the resemblance to a similar real-life incident that topped the national news in the United States is inescapable). Because of the earlier success, Jenna and her parents again turn to Patsy's firm to defend her.

Patsy, though, is fighting his own battles with the bottle and not actively participating in the firm's business. That leaves the defense job to Keera, but there's a hitch: Keera is well acquainted with Jenna from childhood, and let's just say Jenna is far, far from an upstanding, honest and trustworthy individual (the term sociopath is a more appropriate description). If Keera takes the case, she knows she cannot trust anything that Jenna says or does.

The story follows the investigation and trial as well as plenty of backstories about Keera, Jenna and Patsy - those who love courtroom action (like me) should be happy. It's a treat to read from start to finish, and I heartily thank the publisher, via NetGalley, for allowing me to read and review a pre-release copy.

Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this eARC.

Robert Dugoni’s Beyond Reasonable Doubt is a riveting legal thriller that masterfully intertwines courtroom drama with psychological intrigue. This latest installment in the Keera Duggan series showcases Dugoni’s ability to craft a narrative that is both intellectually stimulating and emotionally gripping.

The novel follows defense attorney Keera Duggan as she takes on a high-profile murder case that challenges her legal acumen and personal resolve. The plot is meticulously constructed, with each twist and turn adding layers of complexity to the case. Dugoni’s pacing is impeccable, maintaining a steady build-up of tension that keeps readers hooked until the very end.

Keera Duggan is a formidable protagonist, portrayed with depth and nuance. Her determination to uncover the truth, despite the personal and professional risks, makes her a compelling character. The supporting cast, including her enigmatic client and the relentless prosecutor, are equally well-developed, adding richness to the narrative. Dugoni excels at creating characters that are relatable and memorable.

The courtroom scenes are vividly depicted, immersing readers in the high-stakes world of legal battles. Dugoni’s background as a lawyer shines through in his detailed and realistic portrayal of legal procedures and strategies. The atmosphere is tense and charged, reflecting the gravity of the case and the stakes involved.

Beyond Reasonable Doubt delves into themes of justice, truth, and the moral complexities of the legal system. Dugoni explores the fine line between guilt and innocence, and the lengths to which individuals will go to protect their secrets. The novel also touches on the personal sacrifices made by those in the legal profession, adding an emotional depth to the story.

Dugoni’s writing is sharp and engaging, with a keen eye for detail. His experience in the legal field enriches the narrative, making the courtroom scenes both informative and thrilling. The dialogue is crisp and realistic, further enhancing the authenticity of the characters and their interactions.

Beyond Reasonable Doubt is a standout addition to the legal thriller genre. Dugoni’s ability to blend intricate legal drama with psychological depth makes for a compelling read. It’s a novel that will appeal to fans of courtroom thrillers and those who enjoy a well-crafted mystery. Whether you’re a long-time follower of the Keera Duggan series or new to Dugoni’s work, this book is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Another riveting legal thriller from Robert Dugoni!
Five years ago, Keera's father, Patsy, represented the CEO of a biotech startup, Jenna Bernstein, on murder charges. Jenna was found not guilty "beyond reasonable doubt" but Keera has always had her own doubts, based on her knowledge of Jenna's character from growing up together. Now Jenna is on the U.S. Attorney's radar for misrepresenting company finances to potential investors, and her former investor/partner/lover is found murdered the morning he is supposed to meet with the U.S. Attorney to cut a deal -one that involves throwing Jenna to the wolves. Jenna quickly becomes the prime suspect, and with Patsy out of commission, it is up to Keera to represent her childhood nemesis. Keera is the star of this book, and while her intellect and chess-master cunning make her a formidable lead character, Dugoni does an excellent job of portraying her humanity and emotional side as well. The case is complex and the supporting characters are three dimensional. I really liked that Dugoni's description of the science was realistic, albeit still futuristic. You don't have to have read book #1 to enjoy this one, although I highly recommend starting at the beginning since book 1 is equally great, and you'll get all the backstory!

Beyond Reasonable Doubt is the second book in the Keera Duggan series about a young chess prodigy turned criminal prosecutor turned defence attorney. I really enjoyed the first one, Her Deadly Game, and his awesome Tracy Crosswhite series, so was looking forward to this, but the glacially slow pace and absence of likeable characters, twists or original ideas meant it’s taken me nearly two weeks to finish - very disappointing.

Keera is looking forward to a staycation to recover from a difficult case, when she is summoned to the office to meet a new client by her bossy sister Maggie. She is alarmed to discover that the woman accused of a high profile murder is her childhood frenemy Jenna Bernstein, once a successful businesswoman, who already got away with murder once thanks to Keera’s father Patsy’s wily defence tactics. Now it seems Jenna has killed another colleague and wants the family firm to get her off again.
Can Keera put aside her old bitterness and rivalry to do the best for her client, even when she knows Jenna is a sociopath?

I usually like legal thrillers, but unfortunately this one really isn’t a thriller - it’s more of a legal & police procedural where Keera and her friend and potential love interest Frank Rossi each investigate the murder, sometimes together and sometimes separately, each wanting the truth despite being on opposite sides. There are an awful lot of not very interesting interviews as they learn about Jenna’s toxic and controlling business practices and her relationship with the latest victim. I didn’t even like Keera much - she’s bitchy and passive-aggressive towards her family, manipulative in her legal practice, and her reasons for taking the case make no sense. I would probably give her another chance on the strength of the first book, but was relieved to finally finish this one.

Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC. Beyond Reasonable Doubt was published on October 22nd.

I haven’t read an exciting legal thriller since I picked up Th1rte3n by Steve Cavanagh. This changed when I read Beyond Reasonable Doubt by Robert Dugoni! It was such a propulsive and gripping courtroom thriller that instantly transported me to another world! I loved the POVs of the legal counsel of the defendant and that of the investigating detectives. I didn’t have any issues reading this as standalone but because I got invested quickly into the lives of Keera and even her dad Patsy, I now want to read the first book! I’ve actually downloaded book 1 already lol! This was cleverly written with twists and reveals that are worth burning the midnight oil for!

Beyond Reasonable Doubt is the second book in the Keera Duggan series by award-winning, best-selling American author, Robert Dugoni. When his alcoholism finally forces him to step back from the front line at Duggan and Associates lawyers, Patsy Duggan’s youngest daughter Keera becomes the face of the company’s trial appearances. Called back in from a well-earned break, Keera is chagrined to learn that the reason is Jenna Bernstein, whose former lover, biotech entrepreneur, Sirus Kohl, has been murdered.

Five years earlier, Jenna was tired for the murder of Erik Wei, a scientist who had threatened to expose her biotech start-up as marketing a product that could not perform as advertised. Erik had been shot dead, and Patsy Duggan had managed to get her acquitted. Fearing she will again be charged, she wants a repeat performance.

But Keera knows Jenna well, has watched her perform, and knows her to be a manipulative liar. A witness later describes Jenna as “a spoiled, narcissistic bitch who, when she doesn’t get her way, attacks” and Keera doesn’t disagree. Will she take the case?

Prosecutor Walker Thompson is still feeling the sting of the loss when Jenna was acquitted, certain that a murderer had been set free, so he sees this as a chance to redeem his reputation. Seattle Police detective, Frank Rossi is quickly on the scene after Kohl’s daughter, Adria discovers his body, and he and his partner try to investigate all angles, knowing Keera Duggan, truly her father’s daughter, will have something clever up her sleeve if she takes the case.

Keera and her investigator, former SPD cop, JP Harrison, do some thorough research of their own: Keera knows that they can’t rely on Jenna to be truthful unless it suits her. After all, Keera has a strong motive and her movements on the night of the murder aren’t helpful: she’s the prime suspect.

Dugoni once again gives the reader an excellent crime drama, cleverly plotted with superb courtroom scenes and a brilliant twist. This is a gripping read and more of this cast will be eagerly anticipated.
This unbiased review is from an uncorrected proof copy provided by NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer.

Like every other book I read by author Robert Dugoni, I really enjoyed this book. It was a judicial legal thriller much like Michael Connelly's books. I thought the Keera character were riveting and were well written. The investigation was well written as Dugoni is a master storyteller. I was get on the edge of my seat the entire ride. Thank you Thomas and Mercer Publishing for my advanced reader copy of this excellent book.

This book was absolutely phenomenal! It had a law and order vibe to it with the legal aspect and unravel led very well. The case of the main character defending someone for a murder that she knows is a liar upped the ante.This was a game of cat and mouse and a well written legal thriller.

BEYOND REASONABLE DOUBT is the second Keera Duggan legal thriller series book. In the first book, Her deadly game, we were introduced to the master chess player and Seattle attorney Keera Duggan, who is now tasked with representing her childhood nemesis Jenna Bernstein after Jenna is accused of killing her former business partner and lover. This will not be an easy task since Jenna is a manipulative and frighteningly controlling sociopath. Still, Keera is used to thinking several moves ahead and using all her skills in court.

It was fun to learn about the legal aspect of the story through Keera’s point-of-view, as well as investigational aspects through Seattle detective Frank Rossi. I highly recommend this excellent legal thriller with a compelling plot, full of suspense, well-developed characters, family and courtroom drama. It is written in a style that draws you in and keeps you rapidly turning the pages, ensuring there's never a dull moment!

I extend my heartfelt thanks to NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer for providing me with an advanced reader's copy in exchange for an honest review. I also want to express my gratitude to Robert Dugoni for yet another gripping story. His storytelling prowess never fails to captivate, and he remains one of my favorite authors.

This was another book I read in a matter of hours last night and I thoroughly enjoyed it. Robert Dugoni is such a quality author, I cannot remember reding a book of his I did not enjoy.

Reading the blurb, I was not sure that the ‘controversial biotech world’ was going to be something I would enjoy reading about, but I was very wrong. I should not have doubted the ability of the author to draw me in regardless of this.

Jenna Berstein, the disgraced CEO of the biotech company has been convicted of murdering her former partner and enlists attorney Keera Duggan to help defend her. A few years earlier Jenna was represented by Keera’s father when she was tried for murdering her company’s chief scientist who was threatening to tell the public about corporate fraud that was occurring.

This time around is Jenna telling the truth or is she still manipulating those around her for her own gain, her freedom.

An excellent read that will grip you from the beginning and there is nothing like a great legal drama to have you turning the pages at an incredibly fast pace. Thoroughly enjoyable and highly recommended.

Thank you to Netgalley, the author and publisher for an advanced copy of the book, all opinions expressed are my own.

I feel that I'm one of Robert Dugoni's biggest fans. I started with the Tracey Crosswhite series and binged on all the books in that series. I wait anxiously every year for a new edition to come out to the series. Just love all the characters. Then I read The Extraordinary Life of Sam Hell and wept like a baby. It is in my top 20 books of all time. As each new book comes out, I gobble them up. His writing never disappoints. When I received permission to read an advance copy of the latest in the Keera Duggan series, I couldn't have been more thrilled with the opportunity.

I wish that I had gone back to book 1 to refresh some of my memories of the cast of characters (or more specifically the plot of the case) as it has been 18 months since that book came out and I couldn't remember the meat and potatoes of the story. I felt that there was a good deal of mention about the previous case and what had transpired but being a voracious reader like me, I just couldn't grab on to the details again. So I do recommend reading the first book first and shortly before reading the second book. With that said, this cast of characters has earned a special place in my heart. Keera's father, JP the investigator, even some of the extended family all have a role in this story. The mystery of who did what wasn't too hard to figure out and the person on trial isn't very likable so you are left not sure who to root for. With that said, it is great to see how Keera was pressed to take on a case she didn't wan to defend and rising to the challenge.

The first book was a 5 star rating, second book is 3.75 (I'll round up to be generous) and so I'll anxiously await the next installment of this series. Hopefully it won't take as long between these books!

Robert Dugoni's Tracy Crosswhite series is one of my favorites! When he came out with the Keera Dugan series, I did not hesitate to start it.

'Beyond Reasonable Doubt' is book 2 of the Keera Dugan series and was a very enjoyable read. There were twists and turns that kept me on my toes. I was impressed and fascinated reading this story from both the prosecution and defense point-of-views. Dugoni explained all of the intricacies of a case, while keeping my attention.

Keera Dugan is a former Seattle prosecutor who now works for her father's law firm. 'Beyond Reasonable Doubt' takes us through her 2nd big case at the firm. Unfortunately the defendant, Jenna, is a former family friend that Keera does not have fond memories of. Jenna was being charged with first degree murder for the 2nd time in 3 years. The first time, Keera's father successfully defended Jenna and Jenna hoped he would do so again. To her dismay, Keera would be the one representing her this time.

Throughout the book we see Keera develop her own defense style and her morals guide her to do the right thing. She represented her client in the best possible way without cheating the justice system. I was very happy with her methods and the end result.

Robert Dugoni did a great job navigating a reader through the mind of a defense attorney. I can't wait for the next one!

Keera Duggan is a former prosecutor who works as a criminal defense attorney for her family’s law firm. In “Beyond Reasonable Doubt,” a legal thriller by Robert Dugoni, Keera agrees to defend Jenna Bernstein, who is accused of murdering her business associate and lover, Sirus Kohl. Jenna used to be the CEO of Ponce de León Restorative Technology (PDRT), a now discredited biotech company in Seattle, Washington. Its alleged mission was to market its product, the Link, that was supposed to improve the condition of gravely ill people, revitalize defective organs, and even cure deadly diseases. Sirus, the COO and CFO of PDRT, provided a large portion of the financing that kept the business afloat.

Keera detests Jenna, with whom she grew up. Jenna has long been a pathological liar and bully who made Keera’s life miserable in their younger days. In addition, there is sound, albeit circumstantial evidence that Jenna had the motive, means, and opportunity to kill Sirus. So why is Keera willing to defend someone she loathes? Keera’s dad, Patsy, is an alcoholic who had been a top-flight attorney, but he can no longer handle the stress of a high-profile trial. He encourages his daughter to assist Jenna for the sake of the woman’s parents, and also to help Keera rid herself of the bitterness that she has long felt towards Jenna.

This novel’s most unappealing characters are Jenna, Sirus, and his daughter and general counsel, Adria, all of whom are venal, selfish, and vindictive. To successfully follow the plot, readers will need to keep track of technical details involving cell phone records, security footage, convoluted and contradictory testimony, and details about the toxic workplace that Jenna, Sirus, and Adria created. Ultimately, Keera, with substantial support from her capable private investigator, JP Harrison, pursues an unorthodox courtroom strategy that raises eyebrows, but is necessary to ensure that justice is served. “Beyond Reasonable Doubt” holds our attention, but it is difficult to care about Jenna’s fate, since she has so few redeeming features.

Robert Dugoni plus murder and a legal thriller ? Always 100% yes for this girl. Dugoni remains one of the best legal thriller writers bringing Keera Duggan back in this twist filled follow up.

Keera is confronted with a bully from her past and the reader is on this journey of growth with her. She is asked to represent Jenna Bernstein (the childhood bully) when she has been accused of murder.

Personal battles and a legal fight in the courtroom for the ages keeps the pages turning in a boom you should not miss. Even after book ends I know I will keep rooting for Keera!

The long-awaited 2nd book in this series did not disappoint. I really enjoyed the character development and how the author addressed the difficult decision Keera had to make. I really liked the analysis into how childhood bullying affected this decision as an adult. I found the family dynamics to be compelling as well. The treatment of the topic of alcoholism was genuine and created an interesting and realistic take on the topic. I enjoyed this read very much and hope there will be another in the series!

Thank you @mbc_books @amazonpublishing for a gifted copy!

🔹 𝙈𝙮 𝙏𝙝𝙤𝙪𝙜𝙝𝙩𝙨 🔹
Dugoni hits it out of the ballpark with the second story in the Keera Duggan series! He builds up suspense and intrigue in his plot so well, which had me hanging on every word and up reading late!

I’ve been a fan of Dugoni’s books for a few years and this one is a favorite! Keera Duggan is a smart defense attorney at her family’s law firm, a prodigy to her attorney father who could battle with the best. Duggan gets the chance to defend a childhood family friend in a murder charge, where the case seems open and shut for the prosecution. However, this lady is a skilled liar and can’t be trusted, so Duggan has to weight if she even wants to take the case.

Along with the legal aspects, we have family problems and dynamics that are complicated. There’s a subtle romance subplot as well, that isn’t really developed but hints throughout that something is brewing.

We get to see another POV in Keera’s former colleague Frank, who is a detective investigating the case. It was fun to see both sides in this story.

I can’t wait to see the future books in this series! Dugoni writes a strong smart FMC like no other, who seems very accurately portrayed in her role. It gave me everything I needed in this style of story!

⚖️ 𝙔𝙤𝙪 𝙬𝙞𝙡𝙡 𝙡𝙞𝙠𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙗𝙤𝙤𝙠 𝙞𝙛 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙡𝙞𝙠𝙚:
🔹 Police Procedurals
⚖️ Legal Suspense Thrillers
🔹 Courtroom Dramas
⚖️ Strong FMC Attorney

Robert Dugoni is at the top of his game as he returns from Her Deadly Game (5 Stars) with his popular Keera Duggan #2 in BEYOND REASONABLE DOUBT—Old friends and old suspicions rise to the surface as Keera dazzles in this latest masterpiece legal thriller!

About...

Keera is back better than ever to deal with a master manipulator accused of murder.

Jenna Bernstein, a disgraced CEO of a controversial biotech company, is accused of murdering her former partner and lover. She turns to Seattle attorney Keera Duggan to defend her.

As we discovered from the previous book, Keera is a master chess player who brings her intuitive moves into court. She knows her childhood friend and knows trouble is not far behind —a controlling sociopath.

Five years earlier, her father defended her when she was charged with the killing of her company's chief scientist (whistleblower), who threatened to go public with allegations of corporate fraud. Keera knows Jenna too well.

Keera is reluctantly pulled into the case, having to cancel her vacation to take over for her father, Patsy (whose firm is struggling financially), while she takes over the trial.

Keera digs deeper, with assistance from private investigator JP Harrison, and she uncovers startling information that could change the entire trajectory of the case. Is Jenna once again playing a dangerous game?

Is she innocent this time? Is this another devious game from a master manipulator? Is her client a murderer?

My thoughts...

BEYOND REASONABLE DOUBT is enthralling! The author captivates you from the first page to the last with a game of cat-and-mouse, and as in the past book, Keera is sharp, intelligent, and intuitive! She is quick-witted, street-smart, and savvy.

Keera's connection between chess and her courtroom moves is not just a personal quirk. It's a strategic advantage when she's up against a schemer and the possible murderer she is defending. Her ability to think several steps ahead, just like in a game of chess, often gives her the upper hand in the courtroom.

From the riveting and intense courtroom scenes and cop procedurals to Keera's personal life, her dad's struggles with alcoholism, and the complex family bonds, Detective Frank Rossi adds another layer of depth. We could possibly be getting a love connection here in the next installment, adding to the rich character-driven narrative.

Dugoni, a pro with his background as an attorney & author, expertly builds suspense, keeping you on the edge of your seat in this character and plot-driven brilliant legal thriller!

BEYOND REASONABLE DOUBT can be read as a standalone; however, I highly recommend reading Her Deadly Game first. In the first book, we learn about Keera's past, her struggles, and her journey to becoming the sharp, intelligent, and intuitive attorney she is in this book. It's a great way to understand and appreciate her character fully.

I eagerly anticipate the next installment to see what comes next in Keera's journey!

Recs...

It is a must-read legal thriller series for fans of the author and those of David Baldacci, John Hart, and Michael Connelly.

Audiobook...

I read the book and listened to the audiobook performed by one of my favorite narrators, Saskia Maarleveld, for a captivating, knock-out performance!

Thanks to Thomas & Mercer and Brilliance Audio for an ARC and ALC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

Blog review posted @
JudithDCollins.com
@JudithDCollins | #JDCMustReadBooks
My Rating: 5 Stars
Pub Date: Oct 22, 2024
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