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Eddie Flynn #4
Thirteen
THE SERIAL KILLER ISN'T ON TRIAL.
HE'S ON THE JURY ...
****************
'To your knowledge, is there anything that would preclude you from serving on this jury?'
Murder wasn't the hard part. It was just the start of the game.
Joshua Kane has been preparing for this moment his whole life. He's done it before. But this is the big one.
This is the murder trial of the century. And Kane has killed to get the best seat in the house.
But there's someone on his tail. Someone who suspects that the killer isn't the man on trial.
Kane knows time is running out - he just needs to get to the conviction without being discovered.
****************
THIRTEEN REASONS WHY ... YOU MUST READ THIS BOOK:
'An oh so clever hook for an oh so clever, gripping book. THIRTEEN is courtroom drama at its finest, blended with page-turning twists and characters you can't get enough of. Steve Cavanagh is the John Grisham for a new generation. Slick, thrilling and unique, THIRTEEN is my favourite read of the year.'
Sarah Pinborough
'Outstanding - an intriguing premise, a tense, gripping build-up, and a spectacular climax. This guy is the real deal. Trust me.'
Lee Child
'Smart and original. This is a belter of a book.'
Clare Mackintosh
'Great hook. Great plot. Great book. Thirteen is a real page turner and one you won't want to put down.'
Simon Kernick
'A brilliant, twisty, ingeniously constructed puzzle of a book. Steve Cavanagh pulls off an enviable premise with panache.'
Ruth Ware
'I've been tracking Steve Cavanagh for a few years now and Thirteen is his best, a dead bang beast of a book that expertly combining his authority on the law with an absolutely great thrill ride. Books this ingenious don't come along very often.'
Michael Connelly
'Quite simply deserves to be HUGE. If you read a thriller as good this year, it's only because you've read this one twice.'
Mark Billingham
'Tore through this between dusk and dawn. Absolute 5-star cracker from Steve Cavanagh, who's gotta be among top legal thriller writers out there nowadays. A powerhouse of a book that's much more than its high-concept hook.'
Craig Sisterson
'Wow! This book is friggin' awesome! Utterly immersive.'
Emma Kavanagh
'Fantastically gripping? Guilty as charged!'
Angela Clarke
'An absolute cracker.'
Susi Holliday
'Guilty of thrills, twists, and expertly manipulating the reader.'
Mason Cross
'An absolute rollercoaster of a read. Thrilling.'
Cass Green
HE'S ON THE JURY ...
****************
'To your knowledge, is there anything that would preclude you from serving on this jury?'
Murder wasn't the hard part. It was just the start of the game.
Joshua Kane has been preparing for this moment his whole life. He's done it before. But this is the big one.
This is the murder trial of the century. And Kane has killed to get the best seat in the house.
But there's someone on his tail. Someone who suspects that the killer isn't the man on trial.
Kane knows time is running out - he just needs to get to the conviction without being discovered.
****************
THIRTEEN REASONS WHY ... YOU MUST READ THIS BOOK:
'An oh so clever hook for an oh so clever, gripping book. THIRTEEN is courtroom drama at its finest, blended with page-turning twists and characters you can't get enough of. Steve Cavanagh is the John Grisham for a new generation. Slick, thrilling and unique, THIRTEEN is my favourite read of the year.'
Sarah Pinborough
'Outstanding - an intriguing premise, a tense, gripping build-up, and a spectacular climax. This guy is the real deal. Trust me.'
Lee Child
'Smart and original. This is a belter of a book.'
Clare Mackintosh
'Great hook. Great plot. Great book. Thirteen is a real page turner and one you won't want to put down.'
Simon Kernick
'A brilliant, twisty, ingeniously constructed puzzle of a book. Steve Cavanagh pulls off an enviable premise with panache.'
Ruth Ware
'I've been tracking Steve Cavanagh for a few years now and Thirteen is his best, a dead bang beast of a book that expertly combining his authority on the law with an absolutely great thrill ride. Books this ingenious don't come along very often.'
Michael Connelly
'Quite simply deserves to be HUGE. If you read a thriller as good this year, it's only because you've read this one twice.'
Mark Billingham
'Tore through this between dusk and dawn. Absolute 5-star cracker from Steve Cavanagh, who's gotta be among top legal thriller writers out there nowadays. A powerhouse of a book that's much more than its high-concept hook.'
Craig Sisterson
'Wow! This book is friggin' awesome! Utterly immersive.'
Emma Kavanagh
'Fantastically gripping? Guilty as charged!'
Angela Clarke
'An absolute cracker.'
Susi Holliday
'Guilty of thrills, twists, and expertly manipulating the reader.'
Mason Cross
'An absolute rollercoaster of a read. Thrilling.'
Cass Green
336 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 25, 2018
About the author
Steve Cavanagh
25 books6,994 followersSteve Cavanagh is a critically acclaimed, Sunday Times best-selling author of the Eddie Flynn series which has sold a million copies in the UK. His third novel, The Liar, won the CWA Gold Dagger for Crime Novel of the year 2018. Thirteen won the Theakstons Old Peculier Crime novel of the year 2019. FIFTY FIFTY was a Richard and Judy Book club choice, and the BBC Between The Covers book club choice. All of his novels have been nominated for major awards. He is a consistent International bestseller.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 8,970 reviews
May 18, 2018
As legal thrillers go, it doesn't get much better than Steve Cavanagh's Thirteen!
It also doesn't get much weirder! An ex conman as a defence lawyer? and a serial killer on the jury! But this was such a gripping read - the tension was unbearable at times. The characters were cleverly brought to life with a storyline that was not only intense, but oh so clever. The twists came thick and fast towards the end, reaching dizzying heights, and made it impossible to put the book down. I've read some truly terrific books this year, and 'Thirteen' has made it onto that list. Read it if you get the chance!
*Thank you to Netgalley, and Orion for my ARC in exchange for an honest review*
It also doesn't get much weirder! An ex conman as a defence lawyer? and a serial killer on the jury! But this was such a gripping read - the tension was unbearable at times. The characters were cleverly brought to life with a storyline that was not only intense, but oh so clever. The twists came thick and fast towards the end, reaching dizzying heights, and made it impossible to put the book down. I've read some truly terrific books this year, and 'Thirteen' has made it onto that list. Read it if you get the chance!
*Thank you to Netgalley, and Orion for my ARC in exchange for an honest review*
January 17, 2022
Guess what? I read a book that is number four in a series without reading the previous installments first. On purpose. And I survived.
I’ve been hearing how amazeballs Thirteen is since it was first published in 2018. Someone posts in a book forum seeking recs for mind-blowing legal thrillers… then someone inevitably replies that this is the Must Read solution. The only problem is that there are three books that lead up to it. Are they also Must Reads?
In the interest of making 2022 “The Year that Regina Reads What She Wants to Read When She Feels Like Reading It,” I decided I wasn’t going to force myself to get through the beginning of the series first. You can look at me as your dive-right-in guinea pig, if you will.
Thirteen follows conman-turned-attorney Eddie Flynn as he argues a case in defense of Hollywood “It Boy” Robert Soloman, who has been accused of murdering his wife and her alleged lover. The unique, twisty aspect of this thriller though is that - as the blurb and cover art scream - the real killer isn’t on trial… he’s on the jury! Neat-O!
It’s pretty obvious that Eddie Flynn has a deep backstory that’s detailed in the first three books, but author Steve Cavanagh does a great job of bringing us noobs up to speed. I never felt like there was a gaping hole in the puzzle I was trying to assemble, even as all of Thirteen’s pieces came together.
The problem with hype of course is that reality rarely lives up to it. I wanted my socks to be blown off, but (checks feet) they’re still on. It’s great, just not G.O.A.T-level GREAT. Thirteen will be easy for me to recommend to lovers of courtroom procedurals, and I’m glad I’ve finally read it for myself. I just won’t be going back to get any added texture to Eddie’s story that came before it.
So does Thirteen work as a standalone? For me it did, and it will.
Blog: https://www.confettibookshelf.com/
I’ve been hearing how amazeballs Thirteen is since it was first published in 2018. Someone posts in a book forum seeking recs for mind-blowing legal thrillers… then someone inevitably replies that this is the Must Read solution. The only problem is that there are three books that lead up to it. Are they also Must Reads?
In the interest of making 2022 “The Year that Regina Reads What She Wants to Read When She Feels Like Reading It,” I decided I wasn’t going to force myself to get through the beginning of the series first. You can look at me as your dive-right-in guinea pig, if you will.
Thirteen follows conman-turned-attorney Eddie Flynn as he argues a case in defense of Hollywood “It Boy” Robert Soloman, who has been accused of murdering his wife and her alleged lover. The unique, twisty aspect of this thriller though is that - as the blurb and cover art scream - the real killer isn’t on trial… he’s on the jury! Neat-O!
It’s pretty obvious that Eddie Flynn has a deep backstory that’s detailed in the first three books, but author Steve Cavanagh does a great job of bringing us noobs up to speed. I never felt like there was a gaping hole in the puzzle I was trying to assemble, even as all of Thirteen’s pieces came together.
The problem with hype of course is that reality rarely lives up to it. I wanted my socks to be blown off, but (checks feet) they’re still on. It’s great, just not G.O.A.T-level GREAT. Thirteen will be easy for me to recommend to lovers of courtroom procedurals, and I’m glad I’ve finally read it for myself. I just won’t be going back to get any added texture to Eddie’s story that came before it.
So does Thirteen work as a standalone? For me it did, and it will.
Blog: https://www.confettibookshelf.com/
August 28, 2019
Five Clever Stars
The Serial Killer Isn't On Trial.
He 's on the jury.
Bobby Solomon is a movie star who is up on a murder charge. His wife and security guard were found dead and Bobby is charged with the crime. Eddie Flynn is a lawyer and the defense team wants Eddie on their team because he is a con artist and a very good lawyer. Eddie Flynn decides to help Bobby since he feels that he is innocent and he takes the case. Kane, the serial killer, makes his way into the jury.
He is crazy and he is one step ahead of the law.
This is the murder trial of the century. As the trial begins a series of sinister incidents in the courtroom starts to raise doubts in Flynn's mind. The story is told in two points of view, Eddie's and Kane's.
This is one clever book. The author reminds me a lot of John Grisham, his earlier books. I love courtroom drama legal thrillers and I was tithe on the edge of my seat reading this one. I was hooked right from the beginning to the very end.
This book was very unique. There were a lot of twists and turns that I did not see coming and lots of jaw dropping moments.
This is the fourth book of a series but it can be read as a standalone but I loved it so much that I am going to read the other books in this series. This is a fast paced read. This book kept me guessing to the very last page. I could not put this book down. It was so AMAZING, and it will blow your mind.
The characters were so well developed. I loved Eddie Flynn and felt that Kane finally met his match. Flynn did so well in the courtroom. Kane just made me shiver. I thought it was very well written.
There are a lot of stellar five star reviews of this book that are a lot better than mine. Check those out! This is a must read. I just can't seem to give this book the justice that it needs. I can't stop thinking of this book. This definitely is in my favorite's shelf.
I want to thank Flatiron Books/Macmillan for the free Arc of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Available Now
The Serial Killer Isn't On Trial.
He 's on the jury.
Bobby Solomon is a movie star who is up on a murder charge. His wife and security guard were found dead and Bobby is charged with the crime. Eddie Flynn is a lawyer and the defense team wants Eddie on their team because he is a con artist and a very good lawyer. Eddie Flynn decides to help Bobby since he feels that he is innocent and he takes the case. Kane, the serial killer, makes his way into the jury.
He is crazy and he is one step ahead of the law.
This is the murder trial of the century. As the trial begins a series of sinister incidents in the courtroom starts to raise doubts in Flynn's mind. The story is told in two points of view, Eddie's and Kane's.
This is one clever book. The author reminds me a lot of John Grisham, his earlier books. I love courtroom drama legal thrillers and I was tithe on the edge of my seat reading this one. I was hooked right from the beginning to the very end.
This book was very unique. There were a lot of twists and turns that I did not see coming and lots of jaw dropping moments.
This is the fourth book of a series but it can be read as a standalone but I loved it so much that I am going to read the other books in this series. This is a fast paced read. This book kept me guessing to the very last page. I could not put this book down. It was so AMAZING, and it will blow your mind.
The characters were so well developed. I loved Eddie Flynn and felt that Kane finally met his match. Flynn did so well in the courtroom. Kane just made me shiver. I thought it was very well written.
There are a lot of stellar five star reviews of this book that are a lot better than mine. Check those out! This is a must read. I just can't seem to give this book the justice that it needs. I can't stop thinking of this book. This definitely is in my favorite's shelf.
I want to thank Flatiron Books/Macmillan for the free Arc of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Available Now
January 29, 2020
DNF. Made it up to the last fifty pages and threw in the towel. The writing craft is strong and at a high level. The characters are well drawn. I think it's just me. I have a law enforcement background which ruins a lot of crime/legal thrillers. I understand fiction and how the rubber band of credulity stretches the real world experiences. I prefer stories that run closer to to the edge of reality. I can see how this book is so popular, it's pure entertainment. The rubber band just snapped for me on this one.
April 3, 2024
Thirteen (Eddie Flynn #4)
by Steve Cavanagh, Adam Sims (narrator)
I'm enjoying these Eddie Flynn stories more each time I read the next book. There seems to be less explaining of the past, which I greatly appreciate. Eddie's antics aren't realistic, there is some kind of lawyer super hero stuff going on, but I know that and I'm prepared for whatever Eddie pulls out of his hat. And I just roll my eyes every time Eddie tries to convince his soon to be ex wife that "from now on, after this one last dangerous job, I'll be being all safe and sound, with all my future jobs". Yeah, Eddie, we don't believe you even if you are so delusional that you convince yourself such a thing is possible.
This time Eddie is defending a movie star who is accused of killing his wife and her bodyguard. There is so much evidence against him that the guy looks to be a shoo in for conviction. But Eddie believes the movie star's denial of murder and is going to do everything he can to prove the guy is innocent.
We are also seeing the story from the point of view of a very, very evil person. A person who seems to be so smart and who can disguise his identity so well that no one really sees him. It's hard to see why, at first, but this guy has his eyes on this actor's trial and he's going to jam up the works in a way that no one will ever suspect. He's a pro at this and no one can hurt him for a lot of reasons. Things get wild, crazy, and violent as usual and, as with all of Eddie's stories, there is no way I could figure out what is going on.
Pub August 13th 2019 by Macmillan Audio (first published January 25th 2018)
by Steve Cavanagh, Adam Sims (narrator)
I'm enjoying these Eddie Flynn stories more each time I read the next book. There seems to be less explaining of the past, which I greatly appreciate. Eddie's antics aren't realistic, there is some kind of lawyer super hero stuff going on, but I know that and I'm prepared for whatever Eddie pulls out of his hat. And I just roll my eyes every time Eddie tries to convince his soon to be ex wife that "from now on, after this one last dangerous job, I'll be being all safe and sound, with all my future jobs". Yeah, Eddie, we don't believe you even if you are so delusional that you convince yourself such a thing is possible.
This time Eddie is defending a movie star who is accused of killing his wife and her bodyguard. There is so much evidence against him that the guy looks to be a shoo in for conviction. But Eddie believes the movie star's denial of murder and is going to do everything he can to prove the guy is innocent.
We are also seeing the story from the point of view of a very, very evil person. A person who seems to be so smart and who can disguise his identity so well that no one really sees him. It's hard to see why, at first, but this guy has his eyes on this actor's trial and he's going to jam up the works in a way that no one will ever suspect. He's a pro at this and no one can hurt him for a lot of reasons. Things get wild, crazy, and violent as usual and, as with all of Eddie's stories, there is no way I could figure out what is going on.
Pub August 13th 2019 by Macmillan Audio (first published January 25th 2018)
March 29, 2019
A brilliant con artist goes head to head with a brilliant serial killer. Who will win in the end?
Eddie Flynn, a former con artist turned lawyer, is put in the spotlight when he takes on the case of a Hollywood actor accused of murdering his wife and bodyguard. The evidence is damning, but Eddie believes in his client's innocence and will do what it takes to win the case.
Joshua Kane, a serial killer with a unique ability, plots his way onto the Hollywood murder jury. He has a vested interest in the outcome of the case.
This is the fourth book in the Eddie Flynn series, but the first for me. It can definitely be read as standalone. With that being said, I want to know more about Eddie and plan on reading the earlier books in the series to fill in some gaps.
The narrative is split between Eddie and Kane’s POV’s, each compelling in its own way. Eddie is a fascinating and flawed protagonist who is easy to root for. And Kane, without giving too much away,….well, he is one of the most fascinating characters I have come across in a long time!
Thirteen is a fast-paced legal thriller with tons of twists and turns. This is an exciting and intense read that kept me guessing. It goes a little off the rails towards the end, but this aspect didn't take away from my enjoyment. The premise is a little whacky, but it works! It was nice to read something that was a little different and not the typical formulaic thriller. I highly recommend!
I received an ARC of this book from NetGalley and Flatiron Books in exchange for an honest review.
Eddie Flynn, a former con artist turned lawyer, is put in the spotlight when he takes on the case of a Hollywood actor accused of murdering his wife and bodyguard. The evidence is damning, but Eddie believes in his client's innocence and will do what it takes to win the case.
Joshua Kane, a serial killer with a unique ability, plots his way onto the Hollywood murder jury. He has a vested interest in the outcome of the case.
This is the fourth book in the Eddie Flynn series, but the first for me. It can definitely be read as standalone. With that being said, I want to know more about Eddie and plan on reading the earlier books in the series to fill in some gaps.
The narrative is split between Eddie and Kane’s POV’s, each compelling in its own way. Eddie is a fascinating and flawed protagonist who is easy to root for. And Kane, without giving too much away,….well, he is one of the most fascinating characters I have come across in a long time!
Thirteen is a fast-paced legal thriller with tons of twists and turns. This is an exciting and intense read that kept me guessing. It goes a little off the rails towards the end, but this aspect didn't take away from my enjoyment. The premise is a little whacky, but it works! It was nice to read something that was a little different and not the typical formulaic thriller. I highly recommend!
I received an ARC of this book from NetGalley and Flatiron Books in exchange for an honest review.
September 12, 2024
This reread was too good!
————————————
It’s rude for a book to be this good.
I feel a headache brewing because of how much this messed with my mind.
I’m in love.
I’m not going to lie, I pre-judged this. I made an ass out of myself to myself, because I assumed... certain things. Out of honesty, I’ll admit I was expecting this to be somewhat juvenile.
Turns out my assumption was juvenile.When will I learn?!
These kind of thrillers are right up my alley. I love courtroom drama. I love that we got a viewpoint from an absolute and errr, quite mesmerising psychopath, if I might add. Plus a viewpoint from a lawyer who’s stupidly skilled and exceptionally talented at his job and knows how to play the game like a fuckin’ pro!
Let’s repeat what most people say about thrillers - or other stories, in general - and that it’s best to go in not knowing much at all. The buzzwords (courtroom drama, psychopath, serial killer etc) drew me in and that was good enough for me.
I was enthralled, start to finish. My anxiety was through the roof. The character development was great, the pacing was spot on, the writing was sharp and clever and the plot twists?! 👏🏾
I’m super happy this is a series, because I’ve now fallen in love with Eddie Flynn, so please excuse me whilst I go binge the other books.
————————————
It’s rude for a book to be this good.
I feel a headache brewing because of how much this messed with my mind.
I’m in love.
I’m not going to lie, I pre-judged this. I made an ass out of myself to myself, because I assumed... certain things. Out of honesty, I’ll admit I was expecting this to be somewhat juvenile.
Turns out my assumption was juvenile.
These kind of thrillers are right up my alley. I love courtroom drama. I love that we got a viewpoint from an absolute and errr, quite mesmerising psychopath, if I might add. Plus a viewpoint from a lawyer who’s stupidly skilled and exceptionally talented at his job and knows how to play the game like a fuckin’ pro!
Let’s repeat what most people say about thrillers - or other stories, in general - and that it’s best to go in not knowing much at all. The buzzwords (courtroom drama, psychopath, serial killer etc) drew me in and that was good enough for me.
I was enthralled, start to finish. My anxiety was through the roof. The character development was great, the pacing was spot on, the writing was sharp and clever and the plot twists?! 👏🏾
I’m super happy this is a series, because I’ve now fallen in love with Eddie Flynn, so please excuse me whilst I go binge the other books.
June 4, 2020
courtroom drama is the best kind of drama and thats a fact.
and what do you get when a serial killer is sitting on the jury to judge a crime that he actually committed? you get drama. lots and lots of entertainingly suspenseful drama.
i cant even begin to describe how clever and unique this story is. and you know, im not a lawyer but my mother always said i could be a great one because of much i like to talk back, so eddie flynn is a man i can relate to. the amount of times i was impressed with how he constantly one-upped the prosecution or got the last word in. such great characterisation!
and i know many people shy away from courtroom dramas because the plot is a court case and interest can be lost in all of the mumbo jumbo technical descriptions of the law. but that doesnt happen in this. everything is detailed and explained in such an accessible and encouraging way.
there is just so much going for this story that i was almost obsessively looking forward to picking the book back up again each time i had to stop reading. its truly one of the best page turners ive read in a while and i cant wait to read more by this author!
↠ 4.5 stars
and what do you get when a serial killer is sitting on the jury to judge a crime that he actually committed? you get drama. lots and lots of entertainingly suspenseful drama.
i cant even begin to describe how clever and unique this story is. and you know, im not a lawyer but my mother always said i could be a great one because of much i like to talk back, so eddie flynn is a man i can relate to. the amount of times i was impressed with how he constantly one-upped the prosecution or got the last word in. such great characterisation!
and i know many people shy away from courtroom dramas because the plot is a court case and interest can be lost in all of the mumbo jumbo technical descriptions of the law. but that doesnt happen in this. everything is detailed and explained in such an accessible and encouraging way.
there is just so much going for this story that i was almost obsessively looking forward to picking the book back up again each time i had to stop reading. its truly one of the best page turners ive read in a while and i cant wait to read more by this author!
↠ 4.5 stars
September 24, 2022
“The greatest trick the devil ever pulled was convincing the world he didn’t exist.”
Wow and 5 gripping stars for my favourite of the series so far – and the others were great. This was superb as Eddie Flynn, con artist turned lawyer takes on Joshua Kane, the serial killer. The only thing is, Kane is not the one on trial – he is on the jury while an innocent man stands accused of the murder he committed. Fascinating? Absolutely -this is cracking thriller that had me on the edge of my seat, and one of the best I’ve read this year.
The Plot
Can Flynn save Bobby Solomon? A man convicted of killing his wife and her supposed lover, at the stars home. With evidence in abundance and a corrupt policeman at hand to ensure the conviction lands, a not guilty verdict seems highly unlikely with DNA found at the scene, the murder weapon with the accused fingerprints and eye witnesses claiming they saw Solomon enter the building at the time of the murder.
However, pulling the strings is a serial killer who is highly intelligent. Extremely organised. Socially adept. Manipulative and intent on killing the American dream for the victims he chooses. Not just the ones he kills but the ones he sends down for his crimes. A man who relishes in emotional sadism and extreme violence, a character I love in thrillers – the deliciously evil kind!!!
Review and Comments
I love Steve Cavanagh’s writing style with its fast pace and twists and turns to keep you engrossed. An author who puts the thrill into thrillers.
I loved the unique and clever plot, the central characters who brought so much colour and interest to the story, and the way the story unfolded towards a satisfying end. Nothing to criticise here.
A must-read and thirteen reasons to love this book. Absorbing. Captivating. Immersive. Unique. Clever. Twisty. Fast paced. Suspenseful. Thrilling. Unpredictable. Mind blowing. Entertaining and with a great central character in Eddie Flynn whose brain and mind games just keep me hooked throughout.
(It’s a good job I wasn’t reading the book ‘fifty fifty’ from the series!!!!)
Wow and 5 gripping stars for my favourite of the series so far – and the others were great. This was superb as Eddie Flynn, con artist turned lawyer takes on Joshua Kane, the serial killer. The only thing is, Kane is not the one on trial – he is on the jury while an innocent man stands accused of the murder he committed. Fascinating? Absolutely -this is cracking thriller that had me on the edge of my seat, and one of the best I’ve read this year.
The Plot
Can Flynn save Bobby Solomon? A man convicted of killing his wife and her supposed lover, at the stars home. With evidence in abundance and a corrupt policeman at hand to ensure the conviction lands, a not guilty verdict seems highly unlikely with DNA found at the scene, the murder weapon with the accused fingerprints and eye witnesses claiming they saw Solomon enter the building at the time of the murder.
However, pulling the strings is a serial killer who is highly intelligent. Extremely organised. Socially adept. Manipulative and intent on killing the American dream for the victims he chooses. Not just the ones he kills but the ones he sends down for his crimes. A man who relishes in emotional sadism and extreme violence, a character I love in thrillers – the deliciously evil kind!!!
Review and Comments
I love Steve Cavanagh’s writing style with its fast pace and twists and turns to keep you engrossed. An author who puts the thrill into thrillers.
I loved the unique and clever plot, the central characters who brought so much colour and interest to the story, and the way the story unfolded towards a satisfying end. Nothing to criticise here.
A must-read and thirteen reasons to love this book. Absorbing. Captivating. Immersive. Unique. Clever. Twisty. Fast paced. Suspenseful. Thrilling. Unpredictable. Mind blowing. Entertaining and with a great central character in Eddie Flynn whose brain and mind games just keep me hooked throughout.
(It’s a good job I wasn’t reading the book ‘fifty fifty’ from the series!!!!)
August 27, 2019
The premise for this book was absolutely ingenious! A typical murder trial is getting underway. Did I say typical? Only if you think that having a certified serial killer on the jury is normal!
Are you kidding me! Gimme, Gimme! I had to read this one!
Bobby Solomon is Hollywood’s latest and greatest heartthrob who finds himself on trial for the murder of his wife and security man. And of course he swears he’s innocent!
Eddie Flynn is an independent lawyer with a reputation for thinking outside the box. His courtroom theatrics are legendary! (Well...let’s just say he’s good at what he does!). He’s been asked to sit second-chair at Bobby’s trial. Like any defense attorney, he believes in Bobby’s innocence and agrees to help. But before long he finds himself sitting in the lead chair at the trial.
So what happens when you find you have a rogue juror!? One whose own agenda takes precedence over the actual evidence being presented? Perhaps even more disturbing…that juror is a serial killer!
If you like clever courtroom antics... Perry Mason moments if you will, then you’ll love this book! The courtrooms scenes were my absolute favorite!
You’ll need to suspend your believability! If you can....then I think you’ll walk away loving the new favorite summer thriller!
A fabulous buddy read with Susanne!
Thank you to NetGalley, Flatiron Books and Steve Cavanagh for an ARC to read and review.
Are you kidding me! Gimme, Gimme! I had to read this one!
Bobby Solomon is Hollywood’s latest and greatest heartthrob who finds himself on trial for the murder of his wife and security man. And of course he swears he’s innocent!
Eddie Flynn is an independent lawyer with a reputation for thinking outside the box. His courtroom theatrics are legendary! (Well...let’s just say he’s good at what he does!). He’s been asked to sit second-chair at Bobby’s trial. Like any defense attorney, he believes in Bobby’s innocence and agrees to help. But before long he finds himself sitting in the lead chair at the trial.
So what happens when you find you have a rogue juror!? One whose own agenda takes precedence over the actual evidence being presented? Perhaps even more disturbing…that juror is a serial killer!
If you like clever courtroom antics... Perry Mason moments if you will, then you’ll love this book! The courtrooms scenes were my absolute favorite!
You’ll need to suspend your believability! If you can....then I think you’ll walk away loving the new favorite summer thriller!
A fabulous buddy read with Susanne!
Thank you to NetGalley, Flatiron Books and Steve Cavanagh for an ARC to read and review.
February 16, 2023
EXCERPT: At ten after five on a raw December afternoon, Joshua Kane lay on a cardboard bed outside the Criminal Courts Building in Manhattan and thought about killing a man. Not just any man. he was thinking about someone in particular. it was true that Kane had, at times, while on the subway or watching passers-by, occasionally thought about killing a nameless, random New Yorker who happened to fall into his line of vision. It could be the blonde secretary reading a romance novel on the K train, a Wall Street banker swinging an umbrella as he ignored Kane's please for change, or even a child holding its mother's hand on a crosswalk.
How would it feel to kill them? What would they say with their final breaths? Would their eyes change in that moment of passing from this world? Kane felt a ripple of pleasure feed heat into his body as he explored these thoughts.
He checked his watch.
Eleven after five.
ABOUT THIS BOOK: THE SERIAL KILLER ISN'T ON TRIAL.
HE'S ON THE JURY...
They were Hollywood's hottest power couple. They had the world at their feet. Now one of them is dead and Hollywood star Robert Solomon is charged with the brutal murder of his beautiful wife.
This is the celebrity murder trial of the century and the defence want one man on their team: con artist turned lawyer Eddie Flynn.
All the evidence points to Robert's guilt, but as the trial begins a series of sinister incidents in the court room start to raise doubts in Eddie's mind.
What if there's more than one actor in the courtroom?
What if the killer isn't on trial? What if the killer is on the jury?
MY THOUGHTS: Oh boy! I have never been a fan of the legal thriller, but Th1rt3en?.....this may have just converted me.
I was intrigued by the plot...a killer on the jury. and not just any killer, but the one they are seeking. And no, that's not a spoiler. It is clear from almost the very beginning.
The story is told from two points of view; that of the killer Joshua Kane, and lawyer Eddie Flynn.
There is plenty of action, and lots of twists and turns. I had a zillion questions bouncing around in my brain as I read...who? how? why? what? how? how? how? And they were all answered.
I like the character of Eddie. I like the way his mind works. Having been a conman prior to becoming a lawyer, his mind works a little differently to most lawyers. He thinks outside the box. And he does not use orthodox methods in the courtroom. And yet, he is fully believable.
Even though I haven't read any of the previous three books in this series, I had no problem with continuity or the backstories of any of the characters. Superbly written Mr Cavanagh.
And there was a twist at the end that I didn't see coming, hadn't even entertained the idea of....nice work Mr Cavanagh.
There is much to appeal to the readers of many genres in this one. Vibrant and exciting!
💙💚💛💜❤
THE AUTHOR: Steve Cavanagh was born and raised in Belfast before leaving for Dublin at the age of eighteen to study Law. He currently practices civil rights law and has been involved in several high profile cases. Selected for the Amazon Rising Stars programme 2015. ACES award winner 2015 from the Arts Council of Northern Ireland. He is the award-winning, international-bestselling author of the Eddie Flynn series. His third novel, The Liar, won the CWA Gold Dagger for crime novel of the year 2018. He is also one half of the popular Two Crime Writers And A Microphone Podcast. Steve lives in Northern Ireland.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Flatiron Books via NetGalley for providing a digital ARC of Th1rt3en by Steve Cavanagh for review. All opinions expressed in this review are my personal opinions.
For an explanation of my rating system, please refer to my Goodreads.com profile page, or the about page on my webpage sandysbookaday.wordpress.com
This and other reviews are also published on Twitter, Amazon, and my webpage https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
How would it feel to kill them? What would they say with their final breaths? Would their eyes change in that moment of passing from this world? Kane felt a ripple of pleasure feed heat into his body as he explored these thoughts.
He checked his watch.
Eleven after five.
ABOUT THIS BOOK: THE SERIAL KILLER ISN'T ON TRIAL.
HE'S ON THE JURY...
They were Hollywood's hottest power couple. They had the world at their feet. Now one of them is dead and Hollywood star Robert Solomon is charged with the brutal murder of his beautiful wife.
This is the celebrity murder trial of the century and the defence want one man on their team: con artist turned lawyer Eddie Flynn.
All the evidence points to Robert's guilt, but as the trial begins a series of sinister incidents in the court room start to raise doubts in Eddie's mind.
What if there's more than one actor in the courtroom?
What if the killer isn't on trial? What if the killer is on the jury?
MY THOUGHTS: Oh boy! I have never been a fan of the legal thriller, but Th1rt3en?.....this may have just converted me.
I was intrigued by the plot...a killer on the jury. and not just any killer, but the one they are seeking. And no, that's not a spoiler. It is clear from almost the very beginning.
The story is told from two points of view; that of the killer Joshua Kane, and lawyer Eddie Flynn.
There is plenty of action, and lots of twists and turns. I had a zillion questions bouncing around in my brain as I read...who? how? why? what? how? how? how? And they were all answered.
I like the character of Eddie. I like the way his mind works. Having been a conman prior to becoming a lawyer, his mind works a little differently to most lawyers. He thinks outside the box. And he does not use orthodox methods in the courtroom. And yet, he is fully believable.
Even though I haven't read any of the previous three books in this series, I had no problem with continuity or the backstories of any of the characters. Superbly written Mr Cavanagh.
And there was a twist at the end that I didn't see coming, hadn't even entertained the idea of....nice work Mr Cavanagh.
There is much to appeal to the readers of many genres in this one. Vibrant and exciting!
💙💚💛💜❤
THE AUTHOR: Steve Cavanagh was born and raised in Belfast before leaving for Dublin at the age of eighteen to study Law. He currently practices civil rights law and has been involved in several high profile cases. Selected for the Amazon Rising Stars programme 2015. ACES award winner 2015 from the Arts Council of Northern Ireland. He is the award-winning, international-bestselling author of the Eddie Flynn series. His third novel, The Liar, won the CWA Gold Dagger for crime novel of the year 2018. He is also one half of the popular Two Crime Writers And A Microphone Podcast. Steve lives in Northern Ireland.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Flatiron Books via NetGalley for providing a digital ARC of Th1rt3en by Steve Cavanagh for review. All opinions expressed in this review are my personal opinions.
For an explanation of my rating system, please refer to my Goodreads.com profile page, or the about page on my webpage sandysbookaday.wordpress.com
This and other reviews are also published on Twitter, Amazon, and my webpage https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
January 16, 2022
4.5 STARS
Buddy Read With Nicki from The Secret Library Blog!
THE SERIAL KILLER ISN'T ON TRIAL.
HE'S ON THE JURY...
When I read this teaser on the cover, I immediately wanted to read it and find out how a serial killer got a seat on the jury and how this show would play out!
This is #4 in this popular series and now I know why. This worked just fine as a stand-alone. I was easily pulled into the story with the super suspenseful beginning and questions quickly started swirling around in my thoughts.
I'm a huge fan of courtroom dramas and legal thrillers and this one did not disappoint. A celebrity named Robert Soloman is charged with murder and goes on trial, but his lawyer, Eddie Flynn sees that somethings just don't add up. Okay, Eddie is Brilliant!!
It was a perfect book for a buddy read and we had a great time trying to find all the pieces to solve the big puzzle. We were able to find some hints to what was coming, but we were also surprised! The creative plot and fascinating characters kept me engaged and there was just the right amount of action to add some tension.
Recommend to fans of legal crime fiction/ courtroom dramas with a touch of dark and disturbing!
Buddy Read With Nicki from The Secret Library Blog!
THE SERIAL KILLER ISN'T ON TRIAL.
HE'S ON THE JURY...
When I read this teaser on the cover, I immediately wanted to read it and find out how a serial killer got a seat on the jury and how this show would play out!
This is #4 in this popular series and now I know why. This worked just fine as a stand-alone. I was easily pulled into the story with the super suspenseful beginning and questions quickly started swirling around in my thoughts.
I'm a huge fan of courtroom dramas and legal thrillers and this one did not disappoint. A celebrity named Robert Soloman is charged with murder and goes on trial, but his lawyer, Eddie Flynn sees that somethings just don't add up. Okay, Eddie is Brilliant!!
It was a perfect book for a buddy read and we had a great time trying to find all the pieces to solve the big puzzle. We were able to find some hints to what was coming, but we were also surprised! The creative plot and fascinating characters kept me engaged and there was just the right amount of action to add some tension.
Recommend to fans of legal crime fiction/ courtroom dramas with a touch of dark and disturbing!
May 14, 2024
In a world where I have been disappointed by thrillers as of late- Steve Cavanagh is HOLDING IT DOWN!! What?!? This was so twisty and turny and fast paced- shocking, gripping and all of the best things!! Full RTC!
The serial killer isn't on trial- he's on the jury... 👀
And with high praise from my babes Benedicta I can't go wrong with this one! 🖤
The serial killer isn't on trial- he's on the jury... 👀
And with high praise from my babes Benedicta I can't go wrong with this one! 🖤
August 14, 2019
Wow, what a ride this was. I couldn't put it down and ended up reading it into the small hours! I picked this book up as I'd seen several good reviews of it from friends and I'm so glad I did.
This is the fourth book in the Eddie Flynn series, though it's the first one I've read, and it works perfectly well as a standalone. Eddie, former conman turned lawyer, is asked to work on the case of Hollywood star Bobby Solomon, who is standing trial for murdering his wife and his head of security. Yet unbeknownst to Eddie there is a rogue juror. A serial killer, a chameleon, has infiltrated the jury process, and he's hell bent on making sure Bobby Solomon is found guilty.
I really don't want to say too much more about the plot, just that it's twisty and turny, and certainly has the wow-factor that a good legal thriller needs. Yet it's so much more than that. I really enjoyed the characters, as well as the action in and out of the courtroom and I'll certainly be on the lookout for more of Steve Cavanagh's work in the future. I can't recommend this book highly enough.
My thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This is the fourth book in the Eddie Flynn series, though it's the first one I've read, and it works perfectly well as a standalone. Eddie, former conman turned lawyer, is asked to work on the case of Hollywood star Bobby Solomon, who is standing trial for murdering his wife and his head of security. Yet unbeknownst to Eddie there is a rogue juror. A serial killer, a chameleon, has infiltrated the jury process, and he's hell bent on making sure Bobby Solomon is found guilty.
I really don't want to say too much more about the plot, just that it's twisty and turny, and certainly has the wow-factor that a good legal thriller needs. Yet it's so much more than that. I really enjoyed the characters, as well as the action in and out of the courtroom and I'll certainly be on the lookout for more of Steve Cavanagh's work in the future. I can't recommend this book highly enough.
My thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
September 3, 2023
4.5⭐️ baby, baby, baby I'm in love 🔪😍
The serial killer isn't on trial. He's on the jury...
No, this is not a spoiler. 🤭 It's on the cover and in the description. It was the promo phrase for the book.
I know what you are thinking.. why would the author give away such a huge twist even before we've read the book? That is because it's the least of the twists I read in this clever, brilliant, showstopping book. 😱
***
I've read 300 books this year, I just realized only 20 of them were written by male authors 🙈 so here's to reading more by male authors 🥂💋
The serial killer isn't on trial. He's on the jury...
No, this is not a spoiler. 🤭 It's on the cover and in the description. It was the promo phrase for the book.
I know what you are thinking.. why would the author give away such a huge twist even before we've read the book? That is because it's the least of the twists I read in this clever, brilliant, showstopping book. 😱
***
I've read 300 books this year, I just realized only 20 of them were written by male authors 🙈 so here's to reading more by male authors 🥂💋
May 6, 2018
Steve Cavanagh writes top notch adrenaline fuelled legal thrillers with his charismatic defence lawyer, ex-con artist Eddie Flynn, set in New York and this is his best one yet. Eddie has been hoping to get back together with his wife, Christine, and his beloved daughter, Amy, which his defence work in the past has placed in grave danger, leading to their separation. He thinks he has it finally worked out as he plans for a safe and secure legal career with Rudy Carp, where he has been co-opted onto the legal defence team for famous celebrity Hollywood actor, Robert Solomon, on trial for the murder of his actress wife, Ariella Bloom, and his security man. Is it already too late to save his marriage? Flynn has attracted the rage of NYPD cops he has publicly revealed as corrupt. Solomon appears a lost cause, the evidence stacked against him is overwhelming, but Eddie can feel he is an innocent man, and will do all that he can to prove it. However, Eddie is to find himself in the most testing case of his career with no idea of what he is up against.
Eddie's close friend, Judge Harry Ford, takes over the trial after the health issues of the previous judge. The colourful Southern PR savvy prosecuter for hire, Art Pryor, has never lost a case, and with the support of his formidable expertise, confidently believes that Solomon will be convicted. Eddie knows that he has been recruited as the fall guy should he fail to prove that the NYPD has tampered with critical evidence, a dollar bill with the DNA of a convicted killer from the past, Richard Pena, and the DNA of Solomon. Eddie hires ex-FBI Harper to be his investigator, and this leads to an FBI agent, Delaney, who believes there is a serial killer whose MO includes leaving behind a specially marked dollar bill on the victim, but has escaped detection because he ensures someone else is always convicted for the murders. Could this provide a viable route to save Solomon by introducing another suspect? However, Delaney is refusing to testify and Eddie has a problem he could not have imagined, the killer is on the jury, ideally placed to ensure that a guilty verdict prevails.
Cavanagh engineers masterly misdirections and twists in this taut and fast paced thriller that had me reading until I finished. The suspense and tension is palpable in this brilliantly plotted story of a highly intelligent manipulative serial killer with the chameleon like ability to become another person, feel no pain, a true sociopath who knows that he really is special and untouchable with the help he receives from someone close to the case. Eddie is a phenomenal lawyer, displaying his courtroom skills with panache as he illustrates that the art of the cross examination and the art of the con are one and the same thing. This is a terrifically entertaining read and Cavanagh can be counted to have you gripped from the moment you start reading. A fantastic legal thriller that I recommend highly! Many thanks to Orion for an ARC.
Eddie's close friend, Judge Harry Ford, takes over the trial after the health issues of the previous judge. The colourful Southern PR savvy prosecuter for hire, Art Pryor, has never lost a case, and with the support of his formidable expertise, confidently believes that Solomon will be convicted. Eddie knows that he has been recruited as the fall guy should he fail to prove that the NYPD has tampered with critical evidence, a dollar bill with the DNA of a convicted killer from the past, Richard Pena, and the DNA of Solomon. Eddie hires ex-FBI Harper to be his investigator, and this leads to an FBI agent, Delaney, who believes there is a serial killer whose MO includes leaving behind a specially marked dollar bill on the victim, but has escaped detection because he ensures someone else is always convicted for the murders. Could this provide a viable route to save Solomon by introducing another suspect? However, Delaney is refusing to testify and Eddie has a problem he could not have imagined, the killer is on the jury, ideally placed to ensure that a guilty verdict prevails.
Cavanagh engineers masterly misdirections and twists in this taut and fast paced thriller that had me reading until I finished. The suspense and tension is palpable in this brilliantly plotted story of a highly intelligent manipulative serial killer with the chameleon like ability to become another person, feel no pain, a true sociopath who knows that he really is special and untouchable with the help he receives from someone close to the case. Eddie is a phenomenal lawyer, displaying his courtroom skills with panache as he illustrates that the art of the cross examination and the art of the con are one and the same thing. This is a terrifically entertaining read and Cavanagh can be counted to have you gripped from the moment you start reading. A fantastic legal thriller that I recommend highly! Many thanks to Orion for an ARC.
May 29, 2022
As legal thrillers go, it doesn't get much better than Steve Cavanagh's Thirteen!
It also doesn't get much weirder! An ex conman as a defence lawyer? and a serial killer on the jury! But this was such a gripping read - the tension was unbearable at times. The characters were cleverly brought to life with a storyline that was not only intense, but oh so clever. The twists came thick and fast towards the end, reaching dizzying heights, and made it impossible to put the book down. I've read some truly terrific books this year, and 'Thirteen' has made it onto that list. Read it if you get the chance!
It also doesn't get much weirder! An ex conman as a defence lawyer? and a serial killer on the jury! But this was such a gripping read - the tension was unbearable at times. The characters were cleverly brought to life with a storyline that was not only intense, but oh so clever. The twists came thick and fast towards the end, reaching dizzying heights, and made it impossible to put the book down. I've read some truly terrific books this year, and 'Thirteen' has made it onto that list. Read it if you get the chance!
May 8, 2020
The serial killer is not on trial, he’s on the jury!
WOW! This book reeled me in! Hook! Line! Sinker! Move over Mickey Haller there is a new man in town and his name is Eddie Flynn! I loved everything about this legal thriller. It had a bit of a Michael Connelly/ John Grisham vibe to it, and that is a huge compliment coming from me they’re two of my favorites. This is the third book in this series, but it can absolutely be read as a standalone. I have not read the prior books and I had no problem keeping up with the story and I never felt lost. Although as good as this one was I have every intention on going back and reading those two previous books as well. A fast-paced complex plot full of well drawn characters, yes please!
Eddie Flynn is defending a famous actor accused of killing his wife and his bodyguard. Convinced that his client is innocent he soon finds a link between the murder and a possible serial killer. What makes this even more intriguing is the killer is paying very close attention to the court proceedings. Not merely as a spectator, but as a member of the jury **and the plot thickens**. The narrative bounces back-and-forth between Eddie and serial killer Josh Kane, loved this! Eddie and Josh were both incredibly compelling and I loved reading about how their minds worked. Two brilliant men battling it out until the bitter end. Josh was not only intelligent, manipulative, calculating, and diabolical, but he was also impervious to pain. Kind of a super villain if you will, there was a little suspension of belief involved, but I was all in! The plot was fairly complex, but so well conveyed to the reader. I was never confused and I thoroughly enjoyed watching all the pieces come together. There were several well-placed twists, but for me this was more about the journey than the twists. An exceptional legal thriller that I won’t soon forget! Looking forward to the next book!
🎧🎧🎧 Adam Sims did a remarkable job of bringing a unique voice to both of these incredible male characters. He completely drew me in with his stellar narration of this compelling story!
*** many thanks to Flatiron Books and Macmillan Audio for my copy of this book ***
WOW! This book reeled me in! Hook! Line! Sinker! Move over Mickey Haller there is a new man in town and his name is Eddie Flynn! I loved everything about this legal thriller. It had a bit of a Michael Connelly/ John Grisham vibe to it, and that is a huge compliment coming from me they’re two of my favorites. This is the third book in this series, but it can absolutely be read as a standalone. I have not read the prior books and I had no problem keeping up with the story and I never felt lost. Although as good as this one was I have every intention on going back and reading those two previous books as well. A fast-paced complex plot full of well drawn characters, yes please!
Eddie Flynn is defending a famous actor accused of killing his wife and his bodyguard. Convinced that his client is innocent he soon finds a link between the murder and a possible serial killer. What makes this even more intriguing is the killer is paying very close attention to the court proceedings. Not merely as a spectator, but as a member of the jury **and the plot thickens**. The narrative bounces back-and-forth between Eddie and serial killer Josh Kane, loved this! Eddie and Josh were both incredibly compelling and I loved reading about how their minds worked. Two brilliant men battling it out until the bitter end. Josh was not only intelligent, manipulative, calculating, and diabolical, but he was also impervious to pain. Kind of a super villain if you will, there was a little suspension of belief involved, but I was all in! The plot was fairly complex, but so well conveyed to the reader. I was never confused and I thoroughly enjoyed watching all the pieces come together. There were several well-placed twists, but for me this was more about the journey than the twists. An exceptional legal thriller that I won’t soon forget! Looking forward to the next book!
🎧🎧🎧 Adam Sims did a remarkable job of bringing a unique voice to both of these incredible male characters. He completely drew me in with his stellar narration of this compelling story!
*** many thanks to Flatiron Books and Macmillan Audio for my copy of this book ***
September 26, 2022
Oops I posted my review on an identically titled book. I read this book
3.0 stars— I have recently noticed that several of my Goodreads friends have reviewed books by Stephen Mearns so I decided to give “Thirteen” a try. The premise of the book is that a serial killer murders a victim and sets up someone who has won the lottery or had something else good happen to them to take the fall. To ensure the case is closed, he murders a guy he looks most like that has been summoned to jury duty for the trial of the set-up person to take his place as a juror to secure a conviction. 😳😳😳……😂😂😂. I mean come on. It is a testament to Cavanagh that with this ridiculous premise he is still able to write an entertaining book with some good courtroom confrontations between the main character, Eddie Flynn and the prosecutor in the case. However, the serial killer himself is a cross between The Terminator and Ted Bundy. I just couldn’t wrap my head around the concept that nobody would notice their friend,co-worker, or loved one was missing during the time he was impersonating that person as a juror on a multiple week trial. Also what did the Terminator do for income? There were other head scratching moments throughout the book that defied common sense, but it was interesting to the end. I feel like if I read a different book by this author I might enjoy it more. Eddie Flynn, the defense lawyer and the recurring character in the author’s other books, was entertaining and intelligent but his ability to escape the jaws of death at the last second over and over was ridiculous. As you can tell I haven’t really made up my mind about this book and author … you’re on your own.
3.0 stars— I have recently noticed that several of my Goodreads friends have reviewed books by Stephen Mearns so I decided to give “Thirteen” a try. The premise of the book is that a serial killer murders a victim and sets up someone who has won the lottery or had something else good happen to them to take the fall. To ensure the case is closed, he murders a guy he looks most like that has been summoned to jury duty for the trial of the set-up person to take his place as a juror to secure a conviction. 😳😳😳……😂😂😂. I mean come on. It is a testament to Cavanagh that with this ridiculous premise he is still able to write an entertaining book with some good courtroom confrontations between the main character, Eddie Flynn and the prosecutor in the case. However, the serial killer himself is a cross between The Terminator and Ted Bundy. I just couldn’t wrap my head around the concept that nobody would notice their friend,co-worker, or loved one was missing during the time he was impersonating that person as a juror on a multiple week trial. Also what did the Terminator do for income? There were other head scratching moments throughout the book that defied common sense, but it was interesting to the end. I feel like if I read a different book by this author I might enjoy it more. Eddie Flynn, the defense lawyer and the recurring character in the author’s other books, was entertaining and intelligent but his ability to escape the jaws of death at the last second over and over was ridiculous. As you can tell I haven’t really made up my mind about this book and author … you’re on your own.
December 29, 2019
4.5 Brilliantly Executed Stars!
You guys this was like an episode of Criminal Minds and Law & Order all rolled into one but on steroids!!! What a wild ride and I loved everything about it!
Lawyer Eddie Flynn is working the celebrity murder trial of the century. Evidence points to Bobby's guilt, but as the trial begins so do a series of sinister incidents that can't be ignored.
Maybe the serial killer isn't on trial,
maybe he's on the jury...
Cavanagh spins such a clever tale here. He traps you in his web and there is no let up, until you turn the last page. This is a fast-paced legal thriller with some exciting twists and turns that kept me guessing.
I LOVE a good serial killer and Kane was exceptional - highly intelligent, cold, calculating, lacking remorse and completely unfeeling. Every bit of dark needs some light and Kane's counterpart was none other than our hero, Eddie Flynn. Eddie is a former con artist turned lawyer with a penchant for helping the underdog.
This is part of a series but I read it as a standalone and had no issues following along. If you enjoy a fast paced, twisty thriller - pick this one up! I'm just sorry I waited so long to read it.
Thank you to Steven Cavanagh, Flatiron Books and Macmillan Publishing for a copy of this book to read and review.
You guys this was like an episode of Criminal Minds and Law & Order all rolled into one but on steroids!!! What a wild ride and I loved everything about it!
Lawyer Eddie Flynn is working the celebrity murder trial of the century. Evidence points to Bobby's guilt, but as the trial begins so do a series of sinister incidents that can't be ignored.
Maybe the serial killer isn't on trial,
maybe he's on the jury...
Cavanagh spins such a clever tale here. He traps you in his web and there is no let up, until you turn the last page. This is a fast-paced legal thriller with some exciting twists and turns that kept me guessing.
I LOVE a good serial killer and Kane was exceptional - highly intelligent, cold, calculating, lacking remorse and completely unfeeling. Every bit of dark needs some light and Kane's counterpart was none other than our hero, Eddie Flynn. Eddie is a former con artist turned lawyer with a penchant for helping the underdog.
This is part of a series but I read it as a standalone and had no issues following along. If you enjoy a fast paced, twisty thriller - pick this one up! I'm just sorry I waited so long to read it.
Thank you to Steven Cavanagh, Flatiron Books and Macmillan Publishing for a copy of this book to read and review.
October 23, 2022
4.5⭐️
Our conman-turned-lawyer is back and this time he is roped in to represent a Hollywood actor Robert “Bobby” Soloman, accused of murdering his wife and her bodyguard (and presumed lover) in their home. While all evidence points to Bobby being guilty , a set of fingerprints, in addition to Bobby’s, on a piece of evidence found at the crime scene belongs to a criminal who has been deceased for a while now. How is that even possible?
Unbeknownst to Eddie Flynn, his famous client or former FBI Agent turned PI Harper (whom we met in the previous installment), who Eddie has enlisted to help on the case, the killer is closer than they could have imagined. Joshua Kane is a seasoned serial killer - cunning, resourceful and able to fly under the radar. He is almost always a step ahead. You wonder how? He’s successfully impersonating someone on the jury, following the case as it progresses, and dealing with whatever and/ or whoever could be in the way of Bobby being convicted. Will Eddie be able to prove Bobby’s innocence? Has he finally met his match in Eddie Flynn?
The narrative is shared between Eddie and Kane’s PoVs and Cavanagh has done a brilliant job in creating the character of Joshua Kane who is one of the most interesting villains I’ve come across lately. With its sharp writing and well-developed plot, gripping narrative, twists and red herrings and a cast of interesting characters, Thirteen by Steve Cavanagh is truly an absorbing legal thriller that is hard to put down. Though this is the fourth book in Steve Cavanagh's Eddie Flynn series it can be read as a standalone, but I would definitely recommend this series to those who enjoy legal thrillers.
I eagerly look forward to reading the next book(s) in the series!
Our conman-turned-lawyer is back and this time he is roped in to represent a Hollywood actor Robert “Bobby” Soloman, accused of murdering his wife and her bodyguard (and presumed lover) in their home. While all evidence points to Bobby being guilty , a set of fingerprints, in addition to Bobby’s, on a piece of evidence found at the crime scene belongs to a criminal who has been deceased for a while now. How is that even possible?
Unbeknownst to Eddie Flynn, his famous client or former FBI Agent turned PI Harper (whom we met in the previous installment), who Eddie has enlisted to help on the case, the killer is closer than they could have imagined. Joshua Kane is a seasoned serial killer - cunning, resourceful and able to fly under the radar. He is almost always a step ahead. You wonder how? He’s successfully impersonating someone on the jury, following the case as it progresses, and dealing with whatever and/ or whoever could be in the way of Bobby being convicted. Will Eddie be able to prove Bobby’s innocence? Has he finally met his match in Eddie Flynn?
The narrative is shared between Eddie and Kane’s PoVs and Cavanagh has done a brilliant job in creating the character of Joshua Kane who is one of the most interesting villains I’ve come across lately. With its sharp writing and well-developed plot, gripping narrative, twists and red herrings and a cast of interesting characters, Thirteen by Steve Cavanagh is truly an absorbing legal thriller that is hard to put down. Though this is the fourth book in Steve Cavanagh's Eddie Flynn series it can be read as a standalone, but I would definitely recommend this series to those who enjoy legal thrillers.
I eagerly look forward to reading the next book(s) in the series!
August 29, 2019
4 Stars.
What happens when a Serial Killer finagles his way onto a Jury? Let’s call it what it is: One Wild Ride!
Celebrity Movie Star Robert Soloman has been convicted of murdering his wife Ariella Bloom and her lover, though he swears he’s innocent.
Former con artist, Eddie Flynn is now a lawyer. Hired to represent Bobby Soloman he quickly realizes that the guy is in fact, innocent even though the evidence makes it appear as though the guy is guilty as sin. How to prove it? Now that’s the question!
Joshua Kane is a Serial Killer. He is not who or what he seems. Little does anyone know that Kane has gotten himself a seat on Bobby Soloman’s jury. For what purpose exactly? Ha. I’m afraid I can’t say. What I can say is that I hope I never meet anyone like Kane.
This is one crazy read! It's a legal thriller, a police procedural and a mystery/suspense rolled into one Well done Steve Cavanaugh! This is the 4th book in the Eddie Flynn series however I read it as a standalone. I loved the character of Eddie Flynn and would definitely go back and read the rest of the series.
This was another buddy read with Kaceey!
Thank you to NetGalley, Flatiron Books and Steve Cavanaugh for an arc of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
Published on Goodreads and NetGalley on 8.28.19.
What happens when a Serial Killer finagles his way onto a Jury? Let’s call it what it is: One Wild Ride!
Celebrity Movie Star Robert Soloman has been convicted of murdering his wife Ariella Bloom and her lover, though he swears he’s innocent.
Former con artist, Eddie Flynn is now a lawyer. Hired to represent Bobby Soloman he quickly realizes that the guy is in fact, innocent even though the evidence makes it appear as though the guy is guilty as sin. How to prove it? Now that’s the question!
Joshua Kane is a Serial Killer. He is not who or what he seems. Little does anyone know that Kane has gotten himself a seat on Bobby Soloman’s jury. For what purpose exactly? Ha. I’m afraid I can’t say. What I can say is that I hope I never meet anyone like Kane.
This is one crazy read! It's a legal thriller, a police procedural and a mystery/suspense rolled into one Well done Steve Cavanaugh! This is the 4th book in the Eddie Flynn series however I read it as a standalone. I loved the character of Eddie Flynn and would definitely go back and read the rest of the series.
This was another buddy read with Kaceey!
Thank you to NetGalley, Flatiron Books and Steve Cavanaugh for an arc of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
Published on Goodreads and NetGalley on 8.28.19.
June 12, 2022
A ruthless prosecutor
A brilliant defense lawyer
A defendant with a secret
And a serial killer on the jury….
It's the murder trial of the century and Joshua Kane has killed to get the best seat in the house and to be sure the wrong man goes down for the crime. Because this time, the serial killer isn't on trial. He's on the jury! < (This is the line that got my immediate attention and is the only reason I purchased this book!)
Th1rt3en is a highly entertaining legal thriller and cat-and-mouse game. Despite a majority of this book taking place in the courtroom, it will have you on the edge of your seat. The story is told through alternating narrators, the serial killer, Joshua Kane, and the conman turned criminal defense attorney, Eddie Flynn. Both characters are well fleshed out, especially for a thriller. The author managed to do this in a way that did not slow down the story at all.
While reading this book, I learned that it is actually the fourth in a series centered on Eddie Flynn. This actually impressed me because the main reoccurring characters are so well developed in Th1rt3en, despite their previous introduction. I really appreciated this, it allowed this book to standalone. So if you don't want to commit to a series, do not let that deter you from reading Th1rt3en.
This book was full of surprises and twists. If you have this whole book figured quickly, you need to be some sort of super detective. I commend the Author. Keeping a reader on their toes when they know the killer from page one is a real feat.
Overall, I really enjoyed Th1rt3en and would definitely recommend it. I will definitely be picking up some of the other books in the Eddie Flynn series soon.
Highly Recommend.
A brilliant defense lawyer
A defendant with a secret
And a serial killer on the jury….
It's the murder trial of the century and Joshua Kane has killed to get the best seat in the house and to be sure the wrong man goes down for the crime. Because this time, the serial killer isn't on trial. He's on the jury! < (This is the line that got my immediate attention and is the only reason I purchased this book!)
Th1rt3en is a highly entertaining legal thriller and cat-and-mouse game. Despite a majority of this book taking place in the courtroom, it will have you on the edge of your seat. The story is told through alternating narrators, the serial killer, Joshua Kane, and the conman turned criminal defense attorney, Eddie Flynn. Both characters are well fleshed out, especially for a thriller. The author managed to do this in a way that did not slow down the story at all.
While reading this book, I learned that it is actually the fourth in a series centered on Eddie Flynn. This actually impressed me because the main reoccurring characters are so well developed in Th1rt3en, despite their previous introduction. I really appreciated this, it allowed this book to standalone. So if you don't want to commit to a series, do not let that deter you from reading Th1rt3en.
This book was full of surprises and twists. If you have this whole book figured quickly, you need to be some sort of super detective. I commend the Author. Keeping a reader on their toes when they know the killer from page one is a real feat.
Overall, I really enjoyed Th1rt3en and would definitely recommend it. I will definitely be picking up some of the other books in the Eddie Flynn series soon.
Highly Recommend.
August 10, 2019
What a great premise! What if the murderer is on the jury? You’ve got dual story lines here, both equally engaging. In the first, a serial murderer is determined to get on the jury of a murder trial so he can get the defendant convicted. Flip side, a lawyer is picked to be second chair on the defense side of the same murder trial.
I hadn’t realized this was the fourth in a series. Cavanagh gives you enough background that it’s easy to read this as a stand alone.
This isn't believable but it’s fun as hell. Eddie Flynn was a con artist before he was a lawyer. He’s a great main character, full of observant remarks about everyone else, sharp as hell, able to see connections that others miss. And Kane is one creepy villain. He can’t feel, in either the real or figurative sense.
This moves at a quick pace. I had sussed out one of the big reveals but several others caught me off guard, especially the ending. As I said, this is a fun read and I recommend it to everyone who likes legal and police procedural.
My thanks to netgalley and Flatiron Books for an advance copy of this book.
I hadn’t realized this was the fourth in a series. Cavanagh gives you enough background that it’s easy to read this as a stand alone.
This isn't believable but it’s fun as hell. Eddie Flynn was a con artist before he was a lawyer. He’s a great main character, full of observant remarks about everyone else, sharp as hell, able to see connections that others miss. And Kane is one creepy villain. He can’t feel, in either the real or figurative sense.
This moves at a quick pace. I had sussed out one of the big reveals but several others caught me off guard, especially the ending. As I said, this is a fun read and I recommend it to everyone who likes legal and police procedural.
My thanks to netgalley and Flatiron Books for an advance copy of this book.
March 5, 2024
4 🌞🌞🌞🌞
Como thriller judicial, funciona de maravilla. Su lectura es ágil y el entretenimiento está asegurado. A Eddie Flynn lo “conocí” en una novela corta: “The cross”, y ya me pareció interesante. Esta es la cuarta de la serie, así que tendré que seguir con las anteriores, ya que te deja con ganas. Tenemos a un asesino que a mí me ha recordado por momentos a Hannibal Lecter, aunque con menos dosis de sadismo, y a un abogado que antes de serlo fue delincuente, lo que utiliza en su provecho para sus tejemanejes judiciales, y por supuesto, con una vida familiar que se ha ido al garete, ¡faltaría más! Y como queda dicho, una trama que, sin ser demasiado exigentes, se puede leer de un tirón.
Eso sí, si quieres ponerle pegas, yo diría que ha querido rizar el rizo con el final, y se le ha ido un poquito la mano. Tras un juicio muy bien descrito, la resolución contiene bastantes tópicos. Todos muy americanos y cinematográficos. En definitiva, que no es comparable con los mejores Connelly o Grisham, por citar solo dos. Pero que si lo que buscas es mera evasión, es difícil que te defraude.
July 30, 2021
Mind-blown!
January 4, 2020
With another Steve Cavanagh legal thriller completed, I remain in awe at the writing and strong story presented. The reader is swept up into the tale, with a plot that thickens constantly and a narrative that rushes ahead with no sign of losing momentum. Still trying to create a safe place for his wife and daughter’s return back into his life, Eddie Flynn is working on the right side of the law. He’s approached to sit as second chair in the celebrity murder trial of Robert Solomon, who is accused of the brutal murder of his wife. As Flynn parses through some of the NYPD evidence, he discovers an anomaly that could lead somewhere, though no one is really giving Solomon much of a chance. On a hunch, Flynn uses some of his resources to probe into an oddly folded and marked dollar bill found at the scene, only to discover that it has been found a few times before. While each previous murder scene has a convicted killer tied to it, Flynn begins to wonder if a serial killer is on the loose, using these dollar bills as a marker. Meanwhile, the elusive Joshua Kane has been working his magic and killing discreetly. He has a targeted group and does his work with an underlying motive in mind, ensuring others pay for the crimes he has so intricately orchestrated. Finding himself in the courtroom for the Solomon trial, Kane decides to make a few ‘adjustments’ to suit his fancy. While Flynn is laying out the case, Kane sits stoically and takes it all in. The case gains some needed momentum and Flynn sees what might be light at the end of the tunnel, but only if he can fit all the pieces together. Kane revels in how things are going and hopes to be able to influence the outcome, for he is not a mere spectator, but a member of the jury. A stunning piece that keeps the reader on edge until the final page, as Eddie Flynn tries to see justice met, even when the odds are stacked against him. Recommended to those who have come to enjoy Eddie Flynn’s legal adventures, as well as the reader who needs a stellar legal thriller to up their game this year.
Finding and devouring this series may have been one of my great accomplishments of 2019 and early 2020. Steve Cavanagh knows how to pen a wonderful legal thriller and uses the ingredients effectively to tell a sensational story. Eddie Flynn continues to grow in this series, trying to stay on the right side of the law in order to win back his family. However, as the reader discovers, it might be too little too late, with threats by criminals and safety issues piling up. Still, Flynn will not turn to his mistress, the bottle, to heal his wounds, as he tries to stay one step ahead in a case that has no room for error. There are a few wonderful repeat supporting characters, who enrich the larger story, alongside some newbies that keep the reader guessing as to how things will go. The story is brilliantly woven together, with a killer in plain sight whose work is not only missed, but who is able to tip the scales of justice effectively. Cavanagh has done well with this and kept me guessing with his intricate details throughout. A mix of chapter lengths and some ‘jury backgrounder memos’ left me wanting to know more as the case progresses. Might a murderer be able to hand out a verdict and send an innocent man way? As with any binge, when one reaches the most recent publication, there is a sense of angst. I will be eager to get my hands on the next novel, due sometime this year!
Kudos, Mr. Cavanagh, as you push the limits and do so well at challenging all I thought I knew about legal thrillers.
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
A Book for All Seasons, a different sort of Book Challenge: https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/...
Finding and devouring this series may have been one of my great accomplishments of 2019 and early 2020. Steve Cavanagh knows how to pen a wonderful legal thriller and uses the ingredients effectively to tell a sensational story. Eddie Flynn continues to grow in this series, trying to stay on the right side of the law in order to win back his family. However, as the reader discovers, it might be too little too late, with threats by criminals and safety issues piling up. Still, Flynn will not turn to his mistress, the bottle, to heal his wounds, as he tries to stay one step ahead in a case that has no room for error. There are a few wonderful repeat supporting characters, who enrich the larger story, alongside some newbies that keep the reader guessing as to how things will go. The story is brilliantly woven together, with a killer in plain sight whose work is not only missed, but who is able to tip the scales of justice effectively. Cavanagh has done well with this and kept me guessing with his intricate details throughout. A mix of chapter lengths and some ‘jury backgrounder memos’ left me wanting to know more as the case progresses. Might a murderer be able to hand out a verdict and send an innocent man way? As with any binge, when one reaches the most recent publication, there is a sense of angst. I will be eager to get my hands on the next novel, due sometime this year!
Kudos, Mr. Cavanagh, as you push the limits and do so well at challenging all I thought I knew about legal thrillers.
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
A Book for All Seasons, a different sort of Book Challenge: https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/...
September 15, 2019
Thirteen by Steve Cavanagh is the fourth entry in the Eddie Flynn series. However, it reads well as a standalone. This novel defies definition: it is a murder mystery, a legal thriller, a psychological drama. Eddie Flynn is a criminal defense attorney whose client is Robert Solomon, a famous actor accused of murdering his wife and her lover. It soon becomes apparent that Solomon is innocent but the evidence is against him. However, who committed the brutal murders and why was Solomon so expertly framed? Are all the members of the jury who they say they are? And who is Joshua Kane? Thirteen is an exceptional mystery: the plot is original and the characters interesting. Highly recommended for readers who enjoy fast-paced, mysterious legal thrillers. Thank you to Flatiron Books and NetGalley for the e-ARC in exchange for an honest review.
August 7, 2019
An entertaining and fast paced crime novel but you need to seriously suspend disbelief when reading this one.
The celebrity murder trial of the century, Hollywood’s biggest star Robert Solomon is charged with murdering his wife and all the evidence points to Robert’s guilt, but as the trial begins a series of sinister incidents in the court room start to raise doubts in the mind of lawyer Eddie Flynn.
. The Serial Killer isn’t on trial. He’s on the Jury.
I was intrigued by the above line and really wanted to read this Novel. The story is fast paced and the characters well drawn and I liked the main Protagonist Eddie Flynn, I enjoyed the court room drama but the plot line is very quite far fetched and unbelievable and this did affect my rating of the book.
I listened to this one on Audible and the narration was good.
An entertaining read but not one for my favourites shelf and I doubt I will remember it a year from now.
The celebrity murder trial of the century, Hollywood’s biggest star Robert Solomon is charged with murdering his wife and all the evidence points to Robert’s guilt, but as the trial begins a series of sinister incidents in the court room start to raise doubts in the mind of lawyer Eddie Flynn.
. The Serial Killer isn’t on trial. He’s on the Jury.
I was intrigued by the above line and really wanted to read this Novel. The story is fast paced and the characters well drawn and I liked the main Protagonist Eddie Flynn, I enjoyed the court room drama but the plot line is very quite far fetched and unbelievable and this did affect my rating of the book.
I listened to this one on Audible and the narration was good.
An entertaining read but not one for my favourites shelf and I doubt I will remember it a year from now.
September 30, 2019
My first encounter with Eddie Flynn was as enjoyable as I had expected after reading some reviews by my GR Friends. Yes, the Author had a fiendish idea to have a serial killer act as one of the jurors. And an ex-conman as a lawyer! This is a good legal thriller that will be appreciated by the fans of this genre. I gave four stars for the incricate intrigue that had me reading whenever time allowed.
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