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The Destruction Of Their Market
Bottled Lightning follows an elite technology lawyer who finds himself entangled in a web of corporate espionage deep in the heart of bustling Tokyo. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
When I practiced law, we advised renewable and nuclear energy clients on their cross-border transactions. I started wondering what would happen if someone invented an energy technology that would replace every other type of energy, including oil, existing renewables and nuclear. How would powerful entrenched industry players react to the destruction of their market share? I decided on lightning-on-demand technology after experiencing the power of lightning firsthand in the Florida Everglades while lying on the bottom of a skiff with thunderbolts exploding all around us.
The male international lawyer character arose out of my own experience as an attorney practicing in New York and Japan and the experiences of my son, whose mother is Japanese and who has lived in both the US and Japan. I created the female inventor character based on a composite of very smart technology company founders I’ve worked with over the years, including a woman client with a PhD in chemical engineering.
What is it about Tokyo that made it the perfect setting for your novel?
Tokyo has Blade Runner and Neuromancer vibes, particularly at night. It is also an exotically beautiful modern city with a wonderful skyline. And it’s the perfect city for the urban motorcycle scenes in the book.
Did you plan the tone and direction of the novel before writing, or did it come out organically as you were writing?
Completely organically. I pantsed it, i.e., wrote it by the seat of my pants. It started with the desire to write a thriller with an international lawyer character. Then I needed to decide who the client would be and what her invention was. Then I needed to determine the conflict and inciting incident. Etc. Etc. I struggled with each step in the process. For example, I changed the beginning chapter three times. The first chapter I ever wrote didn’t even make it into the published novel. As many successful authors have said, writing is rewriting and the first draft is for the author whereas editing is for the benefit of the readers.
And since I’m a lawyer by trade and Bottled Lightning is my debut novel, in many ways I had to unlearn my legal writing skills to learn how to write fiction. For example, there is a lot of passive writing in corporate legal writing and that is death in fiction. The general rule is that you must write with an active voice, although there are exceptions. Also, in legal writing, I don’t want to be triggering an emotional response in my clients: Kind of like the old TV show, Dragnet – “Just the facts, ma’am,” if you will. In fiction, by contrast, you want to trigger an emotional response in the reader on every page! And in legal writing, you want to give the client the answer or conclusion up front. You don’t want to make a paying customer wade through pages of discussion to find your advice. In fiction, however, you want to hide the ball all the way to the end, while at the same time leaving breadcrumbs along the way.
​What is the next novel that you are working on, and when will that be available?
A novel about tarpon tournament fly fishing in a fantasyland based on the Florida Keys. The working title is Poontown, based on the nickname (poon) guides and anglers use for tarpon, the best fly rod gamefish in the world, bar none. I’m shooting for the first half of 2026.
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Top global technology lawyer Tornait “Torn” Sagara knows he shouldn’t get involved with his beautiful client, Saya Brooks, whose revolutionary lightning-on-demand invention will solve climate change and render all other energy sources obsolete. But their shared connection as hafu (half Japanese, half American) draws them irresistibly together.
Saya’s technology could save the world, but what’s good for the planet is bad news for those who profit from the status quo. Now, someone wants to stop Saya from commercializing her invention and will go to any lengths—even murder—to do so. When Torn takes Saya for a spin on his motorcycle, they are viciously attacked. That death-defying battle on a crowded Tokyo expressway is only the start of Torn’s wild ride.
As the violence escalates, Torn discovers that everything he values—his reputation, his family, and even his life—is on the line. Racing from the boardrooms of Tokyo to the wilds of Russia in a desperate search for the truth, Torn is forced to face his own flaws and discover what really matters most.
Unlawful Games
Unlawful Games, by Adam Klein, is a gripping legal thriller that plunges readers into a world of high-stakes tension and moral ambiguity. From the outset, Klein crafts an action-packed murder mystery, leaving readers glued to the pages as they try to unravel the dark secrets and deadly traps that surround Salvatore Amici, a promising defense attorney in New York City. Salvatore, fresh from a courtroom victory, is basking in the praise of his family and friends when his life takes a chilling turn: a former client, newly acquitted, becomes the prime suspect in a brutal double homicide. But why was he targeted? And what danger lies ahead?
The suspense in Unlawful Games doesn’t ease up. Klein masterfully weaves in plot twists, from anonymous threats at Salvatore’s doorstep to harrowing encounters with law enforcement, that keep readers on edge. Just as you think you’ve pieced together the mystery, a shocking new revelation emerges, pulling you deeper into the story’s intricate web. Klein’s skillful pacing and efficient prose make this complexity manageable within the novel’s concise length, under 300 pages, yet the impact lingers long after. While the plot is fast-paced and intense, Klein’s characterizations, particularly Salvatore’s, provide a thought-provoking look at the attorney’s internal struggles. Salvatore’s professional facade cracks under the weight of guilt and self-doubt as he questions his own ethics and the consequences of his work.
I do believe that the supporting characters could benefit from deeper detail. While Salvatore’s wife and children appear throughout as anchors in his tumultuous life, they serve more as background elements than as fully realized characters. Klein’s writing style, formal and precise, seems to draw from his familiarity with legal settings, adding authenticity to Salvatore’s voice. By the end of the novel, some mysteries remain unanswered, leaving an open door for a sequel. Klein sets the stage for further character development and exploration into Salvatore’s troubled conscience and professional battles, a prospect that would appeal to readers captivated by this suspenseful first book.
Unlawful Games is a suspenseful and tightly crafted thriller, filled with shocking twists and high emotional stakes, solidifying Klein as a writer of intense, character-driven mysteries. It’s a compelling read that leaves readers questioning what justice truly means.
Pages: 314 | ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0BL3DLMXW
Miranda Fights
Miranda Fights follows the gripping journey of Miranda Quinn, a determined attorney and former talk show host, who delves into a tangled web of human trafficking and corruption. Set in the quiet town of New London, Miranda’s mission begins with her legal aid work and quickly escalates as she uncovers a series of disturbing disappearances. As Miranda juggles her demanding career, personal life, and a deeply troubling case, she must navigate dangerous waters to seek justice for the vulnerable girls caught in the crossfire.
From the start, I was hooked by the novel’s engaging premise and well-paced narrative. Gail Ward Olmsted perfectly balances the thriller elements with heartfelt moments, creating a story that’s both suspenseful and emotionally resonant. The character development is particularly strong, especially Miranda, who is portrayed as a complex and relatable protagonist. Her interactions with colleagues, clients, and family members add depth to her character and make her struggles and triumphs feel personal and impactful.
One thing I really liked about this book was Olmsted’s ability to weave in social issues without coming across as preachy. The book tackles the grim realities of human trafficking with sensitivity and realism, highlighting the importance of advocacy and legal intervention. Specific scenes, such as Miranda’s support group sessions and her conversations with Detective Dennis Reynaldo, bring the issue to the forefront in a way that’s informative and gripping.
Miranda Fights is a compelling thriller that combines legal drama with a strong social message. Olmsted’s writing is engaging, and her characters are well-crafted, making it easy to become invested in their journey. This book is perfect for fans of legal thrillers, crime dramas, and anyone interested in stories that shine a light on important social issues.
Pages: 260 | ASIN : B0DBJ3DN4N
LOVE HATE LAW
Love Hate Law by Mark M. Bello presents an engaging narrative set in the legal world, where the lives of two contrasting lawyers, Andrea and Michael, intertwine. Andrea, a dedicated lawyer from an average American background, is committed to representing the underdog. On the other hand, Michael, born into privilege and accustomed to the finest education, tends to gravitate towards financially lucrative corporate clients. Their differing approaches to law are challenged when they find themselves entangled in a high-profile case, leading to unexpected shifts in their career trajectories and personal lives.
Bello crafts a legal romance that captivates readers through various casework and career development, set against the backdrop of a burgeoning relationship between Andrea and Michael. The novel is swift in pace and length. It skillfully balances legal intricacies with accessible language, making it informative without overwhelming the reader. Central to the novel is the compelling conflict that draws Andrea and Michael together, effectively setting the stage for their evolving relationship. The story navigates through their professional and romantic tension, culminating in a satisfying conclusion for both characters. The novel effectively employs dual points of view, enriching the narrative with varied perspectives, even though some transitions might appear sudden. The legal intricacies of the plot are skillfully handled, suggesting room for a more nuanced exploration of the characters, especially in the romantic subplot. For example, Andrea, consistently depicted as a dedicated justice-seeker, encounters a surprising turn in her character arc with an impulsive gambling episode, offering an unexpected twist that adds complexity to her role and the storyline.
Love Hate Law is a captivating legal drama that follows the lives of two lawyers and their personal and professional struggles. Set in the midst of a fast-paced and high-pressure case, this legal thriller offers an intriguing blend of suspense, romance, and intrigue. Mark M. Bello’s book is a great choice for those who enjoy legal romance.
Pages: 280 | ASIN : B0CTRRPKTZ
Louis Mie and the Trial of Hautefaye
L.M. Twist’s Louis Mie and the Trial of Hautefaye sets a compelling narrative against the tumultuous backdrop of early 1870s France. This novel, artfully intertwining historical fact with fiction, delves into the brutal mob murder in Hautefaye, an incident emblematic of the era’s societal strife, the aftershocks of war, and the shadow of Napoleon III. At the heart of this storm is Louis Mie, a distinguished lawyer tasked with defending the accused in a case that mirrors the nation’s turmoil. As he navigates the complexities of a high-profile trial, Louis also contends with personal challenges, from a strained marriage to a friendship tested by ideological divides.
One of the novel’s standout features is its exploration of intricate relationships, particularly the dynamic between Louis and his close friend, Vincent. Their intense exchanges, especially a pivotal moment where ideals and familial expectations clash, are a testament to Twist’s ability to craft deep, multifaceted characters. Twist excels in storytelling, striking a delicate balance between character development and a wider narrative scope. Before pivotal courtroom scenes, readers are immersed in the setting through rich, evocative descriptions, setting the stage for the drama to unfold. The book is a masterful blend of genres, weaving together historical intrigue, legal intricacies, and romantic entanglements. It paints a vivid picture of 1870s Hautefaye, capturing the political turbulence, legal complexities, and social unrest that culminated in peasant uprisings. These historical elements are seamlessly interwoven with a poignant romantic subplot marked by passion, heartbreak, and the trials of love.
Louis Mie and the Trial of Hautefaye offers a multifaceted narrative, shifting through time and perspectives to weave a captivating tale. L.M. Twist’s debut is a testament to the power of a well-told story, marrying historical depth with human emotion. I eagerly anticipate more from this promising author, whose initial foray into novel writing is both impressive and engaging.
Pages: 339 | ASIN : B0CPWZJKBR
Descent into Doubt
Cayden Chase’s life as a celebrated TV news reporter is the epitome of glamour and allure, making him a sought-after figure in the public eye, particularly among his female acquaintances. His entanglement with Jade, initiated through provocative messages, escalates into a real-life encounter. However, Cayden’s decision to sever ties leads to an unforeseen predicament when Jade accuses him of rape. This accusation spirals into a nightmare as Cayden fails a police polygraph, placing him on the precipice of a lengthy incarceration. But the truth is shrouded in ambiguity: is Cayden the perpetrator of a heinous crime, or is Jade weaving a web of revenge?
Descent into Doubt by Casey Harper plunges readers into a riveting narrative brimming with passion and deception, reminiscent of the suspense found in films like ‘Basic Instinct’ and ‘Wild Things,’ with a narrative complexity akin to John Grisham’s legal dramas. Cayden emerges as a generally sympathetic character, yet Harper skillfully unravels the narrative, leaving readers oscillating between doubt and sympathy, a testament to her narrative skill. The novel deftly transitions into a courtroom drama, maintaining engagement and suspense in a setting that can often veer into tedium. Much like Grisham, Harper enlivens these scenes with the same fervor she applies to the more intimate moments of the story. Casey Harper crafts a complex web of lust, betrayal, and legal intrigue that keeps readers on the edge of their seats, challenging them to unravel the truth from a tapestry of deceit. The novel’s strength lies in its thrilling plot or compelling characters and its ability to engage and entertain without compromising on narrative depth. As you turn the final pages, the story leaves a lingering impact, prompting reflection on the elusive nature of truth and the multifaceted human experience.
Descent into Doubt is a testament to the gripping allure of courtroom dramas and psychological thrillers, making it a compelling read for those who cherish a well-crafted story that resonates beyond its final words.
Pages: 336 | ASIN : B0CL7NFRBN
Scavenger Hunt: A Novel
In Scavenger Hunt: A Novel, author Chad Boudreaux crafts an intricate narrative set within the perilous confines of the United States legal system. The protagonist, Blake Hudson, a lawyer deeply embedded in the justice system, finds himself at the heart of a dangerous and clandestine operation known as “Operation Scavenger Hunt.” Tasked with combating terror beyond the traditional reaches of government, Hudson soon discovers the murky moral waters he must navigate.
As the plot unravels, Boudreaux deftly blurs the lines between right and wrong, inviting both Hudson and the reader to question allegiances, motives, and the actual cost of justice. The book plunges readers into a high-stakes world filled with action and political intrigue, addressing fundamental issues surrounding elections and governmental ethics. While the first half of Scavenger Hunt: A Novel lays a detailed groundwork, setting the stage for the drama to unfold, it is in the latter half that the story accelerates into a series of unexpected developments, keeping readers firmly on their toes. Boudreaux’s extensive research is evident, providing a realistic backdrop that enhances the novel’s gripping nature. The inclusion of complex legal terminology enriches the authenticity of the setting, offering a detailed and immersive experience for readers. The vivid descriptions transport readers directly into iconic locations like the Justice Department Building. At the same time, the dry humor embedded in Hudson’s character adds a layer of entertainment to the suspenseful narrative.
As a debut thriller, Scavenger Hunt: A Novel offers a satisfying conclusion and simultaneously piques interest in the continuing saga of Blake Hudson. It’s a commendable choice for those drawn to thrillers brimming with tension and real-world intrigue.
Pages: 297 | ASIN : B0BRP6JW61
