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David Brunelle Legal Thriller #16
Necessity
THE GREATER OF TWO EVILS
A woman kills her boyfriend, shooting him six times in the back as he walks out their front door. The woman's attorney calls her a hero. Homicide prosecutor David Brunelle calls her a murderer.
The legal doctrine of necessity excuses a crime, even murder, if the harm inflicted is less than the harm prevented, so long as there was no alternative. The killer tells the cops that her boyfriend had a psychotic break and was on his way to shoot up the neighborhood elementary school, intent on slaughtering countless innocents. Brunelle is certain she's lying, but how can he prove it when the only other witness to what truly happened is dead?
It's a race against time as Brunelle battles challenges both personal and professional to find the evidence he needs to refute the killer's story and prove his case, before the jury finds the killer 'Not Guilty' because of the legal defense of NECESSITY.
Necessity is Book 16 in the top-rated legal thriller series featuring Seattle homicide D.A. David Brunelle and a recurring cast of cops, defense attorneys, and forensic experts. Each book in the series can be read as a stand-alone novel, but also follows the personal and professional growth of Brunelle and his friends and foes.
A woman kills her boyfriend, shooting him six times in the back as he walks out their front door. The woman's attorney calls her a hero. Homicide prosecutor David Brunelle calls her a murderer.
The legal doctrine of necessity excuses a crime, even murder, if the harm inflicted is less than the harm prevented, so long as there was no alternative. The killer tells the cops that her boyfriend had a psychotic break and was on his way to shoot up the neighborhood elementary school, intent on slaughtering countless innocents. Brunelle is certain she's lying, but how can he prove it when the only other witness to what truly happened is dead?
It's a race against time as Brunelle battles challenges both personal and professional to find the evidence he needs to refute the killer's story and prove his case, before the jury finds the killer 'Not Guilty' because of the legal defense of NECESSITY.
Necessity is Book 16 in the top-rated legal thriller series featuring Seattle homicide D.A. David Brunelle and a recurring cast of cops, defense attorneys, and forensic experts. Each book in the series can be read as a stand-alone novel, but also follows the personal and professional growth of Brunelle and his friends and foes.
237 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 9, 2023
340 people are currently reading
47 people want to read
About the author
Stephen Penner
57Ìýbooks132ÌýfollowersStephen Penner is an author, artist, and attorney from Seattle, Washington. He has written more than 30 novels and specializes in courtroom thrillers known for their unexpected twists and candid portrayal of the justice system. He draws on his extensive experience as a criminal trial attorney to infuse his writing with realism and insight.
Stephen is the author of several top-rated legal thriller series. The DAVID BRUNELLE LEGAL THRILLERS feature Seattle homicide D.A. David Brunelle and a recurring cast of cops, defense attorneys, and forensic experts. The TALON WINTER LEGAL THRILLERS showcase tough-as-nails Tacoma criminal defense attorney Talon Winter and her closest allies. And the RAIN CITY LEGAL THRILLERS deliver the adventures of attorney Daniel Raine and his unlikely partner Rebecca Sommers. Stephen is also the author of the MAGGIE DEVEREAUX PARANORMAL MYSTERIES, recounting the exploits of an American graduate student in the magical Highlands of Scotland, and several other stand-alone works.
In his spare time, Stephen enjoys painting, drawing, and spending time with his family. For more information, visit his website .
Stephen is the author of several top-rated legal thriller series. The DAVID BRUNELLE LEGAL THRILLERS feature Seattle homicide D.A. David Brunelle and a recurring cast of cops, defense attorneys, and forensic experts. The TALON WINTER LEGAL THRILLERS showcase tough-as-nails Tacoma criminal defense attorney Talon Winter and her closest allies. And the RAIN CITY LEGAL THRILLERS deliver the adventures of attorney Daniel Raine and his unlikely partner Rebecca Sommers. Stephen is also the author of the MAGGIE DEVEREAUX PARANORMAL MYSTERIES, recounting the exploits of an American graduate student in the magical Highlands of Scotland, and several other stand-alone works.
In his spare time, Stephen enjoys painting, drawing, and spending time with his family. For more information, visit his website .
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
October 31, 2023
Nice recovery from the previous entry.
Short and simple review: If anyone's stumbled upon all my reviews for this entire series, they would quickly realize how very INTO these stories I am. Not just for the legal thrills and the thought-provoking subject matter, but also for the characters themselves (and their lives, no matter how minimally explored they are). It was such a unique adventure, craving after the verdicts that Stephen Penner so often avoided, being pummeled by the shocking elements of every case. Stephen Penner is quite the storyteller.
Where the previous entry failed, this one filled in the gaps quite nicely, both with Brunelle's private life as well as the interesting court case. In fact, this entry feels like the proper one that SHOULD have followed book #14 (Alibi Defense) instead of what we really got. However, as much as I enjoyed how much this book made up for what I missed, I did still find it fairly lackluster compared to the exciting, thrilling, and dramatic cases of many of the previous books. So, while it was definitely good (and so much better than its predecessor), it was still mildly mediocre.
This thing had very enjoyable perks, though, and it kept my interest from beginning to end. Even though I couldn't quite give it more than 3 stars, it still more than made up for what the previous book lacked, and that's all that really matters for me.
Click here for all my colorful commentary.
Short and simple review: If anyone's stumbled upon all my reviews for this entire series, they would quickly realize how very INTO these stories I am. Not just for the legal thrills and the thought-provoking subject matter, but also for the characters themselves (and their lives, no matter how minimally explored they are). It was such a unique adventure, craving after the verdicts that Stephen Penner so often avoided, being pummeled by the shocking elements of every case. Stephen Penner is quite the storyteller.
Where the previous entry failed, this one filled in the gaps quite nicely, both with Brunelle's private life as well as the interesting court case. In fact, this entry feels like the proper one that SHOULD have followed book #14 (Alibi Defense) instead of what we really got. However, as much as I enjoyed how much this book made up for what I missed, I did still find it fairly lackluster compared to the exciting, thrilling, and dramatic cases of many of the previous books. So, while it was definitely good (and so much better than its predecessor), it was still mildly mediocre.
This thing had very enjoyable perks, though, and it kept my interest from beginning to end. Even though I couldn't quite give it more than 3 stars, it still more than made up for what the previous book lacked, and that's all that really matters for me.
Click here for all my colorful commentary.
May 18, 2023
Necessity
Very good book with twists and turns with many thought provoking reroutings. Not sure Addison didn't have more than one !motive for shooting , unloading all six bullets seems excessive and an 'overkill'. Seems very odd that there was absolutely no mention of the gun the boyfriend picked up on his way out the door: where was it when the police arrived?? In his hand? In the bushes? Was it loaded?? were there finger prints on the gun ?
If the gun wasn't loaded, would there have been the same outcome at trial ? And when did the dad get the journal, must have been after the police 'missed it:, but Chen said he noticed the hiding spot under the bed & the diary wasn't there! Chen apparently looked on the day of the shooting, so when did dad get it?????? Or was Chen lying that he found the hiding spot to not be embarrassed that the prosecutor found the spot?
Very good book with twists and turns with many thought provoking reroutings. Not sure Addison didn't have more than one !motive for shooting , unloading all six bullets seems excessive and an 'overkill'. Seems very odd that there was absolutely no mention of the gun the boyfriend picked up on his way out the door: where was it when the police arrived?? In his hand? In the bushes? Was it loaded?? were there finger prints on the gun ?
If the gun wasn't loaded, would there have been the same outcome at trial ? And when did the dad get the journal, must have been after the police 'missed it:, but Chen said he noticed the hiding spot under the bed & the diary wasn't there! Chen apparently looked on the day of the shooting, so when did dad get it?????? Or was Chen lying that he found the hiding spot to not be embarrassed that the prosecutor found the spot?
September 4, 2023
This book started off with real promise. It had an excellent legal premise and good characters, but it got bogged down with repetition. It was repeated several times what the “necessity� rule was for court, and it was explained again and again and then again when we finally get to the trial. Again, I like the plot and the characters, but the constant repetition coupled with, rather than moving forward with the story, the author stopped to provide background to not only the two main characters but background characters. Putting the story on hold just ruined it. By the time the trial actually takes place, I just wanted to book to be over. What started as a good story, ended in disappointment.
May 3, 2024
After Zoey Addison kills her boyfriend Caleb Hirsch, she explains to police that she felt compelled to kill him for the sake of the children at a nearby elementary school. Caleb, who had been showing signs of paranoid schizophrenia, had announced his intention to shoot those children, believing that their parents had him under surveillance.
If Zoey is telling the truth, then she should not be held accountable for the killing. But what if she is lying? Not knowing the answer, prosecutor David Brunelle brings murder charges against Zoey, trusting that a trial will reveal the truth.
Like other books in this series, this novel provides courtroom drama and consideration of interesting points of law.
If Zoey is telling the truth, then she should not be held accountable for the killing. But what if she is lying? Not knowing the answer, prosecutor David Brunelle brings murder charges against Zoey, trusting that a trial will reveal the truth.
Like other books in this series, this novel provides courtroom drama and consideration of interesting points of law.
May 20, 2024
I will miss Dave Brunelle series
I wish Dave and Casey well. I’m still not so sure of them moving in together. I’m not convinced that Dave is ready for that level of commitment. But who knows, he has matured a lot. I think Dave’s have evolved and he’s now understanding love and relationships. He can now connect feelings and emotions. He can also understand that everything is not just black and white but there may be some gray area too. He’s an extraordinary compassionate prosecutor who believes in justice for all. I’m not commenting on the story, it’s basically the same, different scenario, storyline interesting.
I wish Dave and Casey well. I’m still not so sure of them moving in together. I’m not convinced that Dave is ready for that level of commitment. But who knows, he has matured a lot. I think Dave’s have evolved and he’s now understanding love and relationships. He can now connect feelings and emotions. He can also understand that everything is not just black and white but there may be some gray area too. He’s an extraordinary compassionate prosecutor who believes in justice for all. I’m not commenting on the story, it’s basically the same, different scenario, storyline interesting.
May 6, 2024
Realistic treatment, for a novel, of mental illnees
Writer avoided stereotypes about mentally ill persons and demonstrated.compassion for everyone surrounding the homicide which was the centerpiece of the novel. I thought the characterization of the parent of a severely I'll adult son was poignant and accurate. At.the same.time.writer did a.masterful.job of describing the tortured choice of that adult's.romantic.partner
Writer avoided stereotypes about mentally ill persons and demonstrated.compassion for everyone surrounding the homicide which was the centerpiece of the novel. I thought the characterization of the parent of a severely I'll adult son was poignant and accurate. At.the same.time.writer did a.masterful.job of describing the tortured choice of that adult's.romantic.partner
August 1, 2023
Dissapointing
First of all, this book is NOT a thriller. Second neither the prosecution nor the defense provide much of a case to support their claims. I would have voted to acquit since the defense provided reasonable doubt. The hero seemed to be burnt out. Perhaps 16 books were too much for him.
First of all, this book is NOT a thriller. Second neither the prosecution nor the defense provide much of a case to support their claims. I would have voted to acquit since the defense provided reasonable doubt. The hero seemed to be burnt out. Perhaps 16 books were too much for him.
June 10, 2024
Saved at the end???
A woman is charged with murder for shooting her boyfriend in the back. The protagonist is the prosecutor. Woman claims the defense of necessity why she did it....I'm thinking at this point sure isn't following the political correct script......of course won't reveal any spoilers but don't be surprised.
A woman is charged with murder for shooting her boyfriend in the back. The protagonist is the prosecutor. Woman claims the defense of necessity why she did it....I'm thinking at this point sure isn't following the political correct script......of course won't reveal any spoilers but don't be surprised.
July 17, 2024
I always expect a twist at the end
I’ve have read all 16 of the David Brunelle books, and have never been disappointed. His knowledge of the law put to the page is as good as it gets. I had never heard of the necessity defense, but can see how it can be put to use for a defendant. Keep writing those good books, Stephen.
I’ve have read all 16 of the David Brunelle books, and have never been disappointed. His knowledge of the law put to the page is as good as it gets. I had never heard of the necessity defense, but can see how it can be put to use for a defendant. Keep writing those good books, Stephen.
September 7, 2023
Very good!
I really enjoyed this installment in the series. The issues are serious and the ending is a twist. The characters continue to develop well too. I recommend all 16 books in this series.
I really enjoyed this installment in the series. The issues are serious and the ending is a twist. The characters continue to develop well too. I recommend all 16 books in this series.
April 18, 2024
surprise ending
Far to much repetitive legal reviews. After 15 books you would think the author would have figured most readers of the series would have become familiar with courtroom protocol and etiquette.
The ending was a surprise .
Far to much repetitive legal reviews. After 15 books you would think the author would have figured most readers of the series would have become familiar with courtroom protocol and etiquette.
The ending was a surprise .
April 25, 2024
free ebook
a woman shot her boyfriend in the back
he was on his way out the door to kill all the children in the school
he had mental problems
they charged her with murder
when the case went to trial it came out that the dad hid the journal that said he was going to kill the children and his girlfriend would have to kill him to stop him.
they dismissed the case
a woman shot her boyfriend in the back
he was on his way out the door to kill all the children in the school
he had mental problems
they charged her with murder
when the case went to trial it came out that the dad hid the journal that said he was going to kill the children and his girlfriend would have to kill him to stop him.
they dismissed the case
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 10, 2024
Brunelle and Seattle is a great series
I read all sixteen books in the series and enjoyed everyone. The repeating characters gives more backstory to each one. I look forward to reading more when they are finished.
I read all sixteen books in the series and enjoyed everyone. The repeating characters gives more backstory to each one. I look forward to reading more when they are finished.
May 15, 2023
This was an ok read. I thought that the book might end the way it did. It was a change from the normal murder trial , so that was interesting.
May 17, 2023
Excellent book
This is a well written story, with several twists in the plot, and an unexpected end. I highly recommend it.
This is a well written story, with several twists in the plot, and an unexpected end. I highly recommend it.
June 20, 2023
Interesting
In the end, it had to be the dad.
It's a terrific story .I learned a lot about the law.
In the end, it had to be the dad.
It's a terrific story .I learned a lot about the law.
July 3, 2023
Best one yet! Bravo. Fun, easy read to n the rule of necessity. Enjoyable read.
July 24, 2023
wow! great read
Hard to put this one down! Super good and great ending! Can’t wait for next book to see if Brunelle and Casey get their happily ever after.
Hard to put this one down! Super good and great ending! Can’t wait for next book to see if Brunelle and Casey get their happily ever after.
April 6, 2024
Necessity
Wow what a story this book keeps you never wanting to put it down. I have read all sixteen books in this series and this is by far the best.
Wow what a story this book keeps you never wanting to put it down. I have read all sixteen books in this series and this is by far the best.
October 11, 2024
Fast paced legal novel with a twist ending. Penner does a great job of describing the legal process and legal terms without bogging down the forward progress of the novel.
December 25, 2024
Full of surprises
This was the first legal thriller I have read that had me totally unsure of the ending. Great story leading up to surprise ending and it was very good reading
This was the first legal thriller I have read that had me totally unsure of the ending. Great story leading up to surprise ending and it was very good reading
March 9, 2025
Wow, I didn't see that ending coming!!
February 26, 2025
Another excellent legal story by Stephen Penner. I especially enjoy his very realistic court scenes not to mention the generous fact that he regularly gives away his novels on the Amazon free promotion program.
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