What do you think?
Rate this book
The Alligator Man
Kevin Wylie's crooked boss wants to run him out of town, and Kevin's long-time girlfriend is ready to take a hike. He decides to leave Miami and visit his father, who he hasn't seen in 28 years. Heading back to his hometown, Kevin doesn't realize that he and his dad will become embroiled in a murder case.
The victim, one of the richest and most-hated corporate criminals in America has been dubbed The Alligator Man after pieces of his clothing were found in a local swamp. Billy Fuller had every reason to want the victim dead and all the evidence leads right to his doorstep. But legendary lawyer Tom Wylie believes in Billy and he and his son reunite to fight for Billy's life.
The Alligator Man is a story of greed, anger, love, redemption and two powerful trial attorneys who fight to the end-- and risk everything--for the truth.
The victim, one of the richest and most-hated corporate criminals in America has been dubbed The Alligator Man after pieces of his clothing were found in a local swamp. Billy Fuller had every reason to want the victim dead and all the evidence leads right to his doorstep. But legendary lawyer Tom Wylie believes in Billy and he and his son reunite to fight for Billy's life.
The Alligator Man is a story of greed, anger, love, redemption and two powerful trial attorneys who fight to the end-- and risk everything--for the truth.
390 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 2013
About the author
James Sheehan
6 books60 followersJames Sheehan was born in New York City and grew up there in a four-room railroad apartment with his five brothers and sisters.
He started working at the age of twelve, shining shoes at a local shoe-repair shop. At fourteen, he had a newspaper round. He worked at a local delicatessen, an antique store where he stripped and delivered furniture, as a construction worker during the summers, a short-order cook throughout his college years, and as a roofer's assistant while he attended graduate school in Florida.
He is currently a trial attorney in St. Petersburg, Florida where he has practiced law for over 30 years. His experience of growing up in New York has shaped his life.
He started working at the age of twelve, shining shoes at a local shoe-repair shop. At fourteen, he had a newspaper round. He worked at a local delicatessen, an antique store where he stripped and delivered furniture, as a construction worker during the summers, a short-order cook throughout his college years, and as a roofer's assistant while he attended graduate school in Florida.
He is currently a trial attorney in St. Petersburg, Florida where he has practiced law for over 30 years. His experience of growing up in New York has shaped his life.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 67 reviews
November 19, 2015
Roy Johnson was not a good man by any means. In the past he was being investigated for drug trafficking but was never caught. In the current day he had been CEO of Dynatron in which he cashed out of the company making off with one hundred million just before it shut down costing twenty thousand employees all of their jobs, pensions and insurance. When Roy's wife reports him missing after going for a walk one night near the swamp pieces of his clothing and wallet are found so the press then dubs him the "Alligator Man" since it seems he fell victim to the alligators in the swamp until a witness comes forward saying they saw a hit and run that night.
Kevin Wylie is a lawyer from Miami who shortly after losing his job receives a phone call from his estranged father's girlfriend to let him know that his father is battling cancer and may not have very long to live. Kevin decides to go meet the man who gave him up twenty eight years before to get some answers but while there an old family friend is accused of the murder of Roy Johnson so Kevin takes on his case.
I was completely caught up in this story from the moment it starts through the investigation and trial. A well written, intense, fast paced legal thriller. The story changes the points of view from several characters to start which seemed a bit confusing at first but once you get going it was very hard to put this one down. Interesting characters, plot and conclusion. Definitely would recommend.
I won this book from Goodreads First Reads.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.wordpress....
Kevin Wylie is a lawyer from Miami who shortly after losing his job receives a phone call from his estranged father's girlfriend to let him know that his father is battling cancer and may not have very long to live. Kevin decides to go meet the man who gave him up twenty eight years before to get some answers but while there an old family friend is accused of the murder of Roy Johnson so Kevin takes on his case.
I was completely caught up in this story from the moment it starts through the investigation and trial. A well written, intense, fast paced legal thriller. The story changes the points of view from several characters to start which seemed a bit confusing at first but once you get going it was very hard to put this one down. Interesting characters, plot and conclusion. Definitely would recommend.
I won this book from Goodreads First Reads.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.wordpress....
December 29, 2013
I won a copy of "The Alligator Man" by James Sheehan through the Goodreads Giveaway Contest. This was an amazing legal thriller...and definitely a book you cannot put down.
Roy Johnson had been the CEO of Dynatron,a major energy company in northwest Florida, but had sold it before it fell into bankruptcy and cashed out with a million dollars. His employees lost everything. He was ruthless and hated and called "The Alligator Man", since he went missing and pieces of his clothing were found in a local swamp in the everglades. He had been walking down Gladestown Road late at night, down the road from his large mansion, after he had been drinking. His wife had reported him missing.
Billy Fuller had been an employee of Dynatron, until it folded. He had lost everything...his pension money, his health insurance, his job, his ill wife and his home. All he had left were his two children to provide for and give him solace.
Carlisle Buchanan was an auxiliary officer in Gladestown, a small town on the edge of the everglades, and was first at the scene of the crime, where he turned in remnants of clothing he found as evidence to be sent to the FBI lab for testing. Carlisle and Vern Fleming, a homicide detective were assigned to the case.
Kevin Wylie living in Miami,had been working for a prominent lawyer, Bernie Stang for seven years, but was ready to go on his own and start up his own practice. But when Bernie found out Kevin's intentions, to be competing against him in the same city, he was furious and fired him on the spot. Kevin was also dealing with a controlling live-in girlfriend, Susan Bishop, that was placing more demands on Kevin than he could handle. When Kevin received a call advising him his father, Tom Wylie a legendary trial lawyer, was in hospital awaiting cancer surgery, his decision was easy...he had to leave Miami and visit his father, whom he hadn't seen in twenty eight years.
But when Billy is arrested and charged with the accused killing of Roy Johnson, Tom Wylie believes in Billy, and he and his son reunite to fight the courtroom battle to save Billy.
This is a fast paced legal thriller, a courtroom thriller with memorable characters that will have you gripped until you discover the truth. I am now a fan of this debut author.
Roy Johnson had been the CEO of Dynatron,a major energy company in northwest Florida, but had sold it before it fell into bankruptcy and cashed out with a million dollars. His employees lost everything. He was ruthless and hated and called "The Alligator Man", since he went missing and pieces of his clothing were found in a local swamp in the everglades. He had been walking down Gladestown Road late at night, down the road from his large mansion, after he had been drinking. His wife had reported him missing.
Billy Fuller had been an employee of Dynatron, until it folded. He had lost everything...his pension money, his health insurance, his job, his ill wife and his home. All he had left were his two children to provide for and give him solace.
Carlisle Buchanan was an auxiliary officer in Gladestown, a small town on the edge of the everglades, and was first at the scene of the crime, where he turned in remnants of clothing he found as evidence to be sent to the FBI lab for testing. Carlisle and Vern Fleming, a homicide detective were assigned to the case.
Kevin Wylie living in Miami,had been working for a prominent lawyer, Bernie Stang for seven years, but was ready to go on his own and start up his own practice. But when Bernie found out Kevin's intentions, to be competing against him in the same city, he was furious and fired him on the spot. Kevin was also dealing with a controlling live-in girlfriend, Susan Bishop, that was placing more demands on Kevin than he could handle. When Kevin received a call advising him his father, Tom Wylie a legendary trial lawyer, was in hospital awaiting cancer surgery, his decision was easy...he had to leave Miami and visit his father, whom he hadn't seen in twenty eight years.
But when Billy is arrested and charged with the accused killing of Roy Johnson, Tom Wylie believes in Billy, and he and his son reunite to fight the courtroom battle to save Billy.
This is a fast paced legal thriller, a courtroom thriller with memorable characters that will have you gripped until you discover the truth. I am now a fan of this debut author.
October 11, 2013
One of the best crime thrillers I've read this year is "The Alligator Man" by James Sheehan which I won from Goodreads Giveaways. In this novel the writer doesn't just focus on a high profile murder and a heart-stopping courtroom trial but adds a dash of drug smuggling and white collar crime. When the story opens the disappearance of a corrupt gazillionaire Roy Johnson has been reported by his young wife. Kevin Wylie, a criminal lawyer in town to renew his relationship with his terminally ill father is called on to take on a case that seems to be fuelled by circumstantial evidence. What he finds is a case riddled with mystery and inconsistencies.
James Sheehan's writing style, and his characterization are worthy of praise. In well-written prose he takes the reader on a roller-coaster ride with a captivating plot and complex characters haunted by their past. Clever, shrewd Kevin Wylie haunted by the desertion of his father as a child struggles with his conviction and compassion while embroiled in a struggle to save the life of a friend. Tom Wylie, a determined and well-loved man in the community seeks forgiveness and redemption for past sins. Even though Jeanette Truluc's an intelligent and perceptive lawyer she still faces racial prejudice while brave, honest, sharp-eyed Carlisle Buchanan is labelled because of his father's past and his need to work out-of-doors. Billy Fuller a caring and loving father must find inner strength and resolve to overcome public censure. Add to these remarkably strong characters the astute eavesdropper Rosie and the considerate and kind-hearted Kate.
Antagonists like the manipulative and cunning Bernie Stang,the greedy,dishonest Roy Johnson, and the unconscionable murderers Randy Winters and Bobby Joe Sellers infuse the plot with excitement and drama.
In this story of greed, anger , manipulation and deceit are redeeming qualities of love, friendship , redemption and hope which makes it stand out from other crime thrillers. I thoroughly enjoyed " The Alligator Man" and intend to read other novels by James Sheehan.
James Sheehan's writing style, and his characterization are worthy of praise. In well-written prose he takes the reader on a roller-coaster ride with a captivating plot and complex characters haunted by their past. Clever, shrewd Kevin Wylie haunted by the desertion of his father as a child struggles with his conviction and compassion while embroiled in a struggle to save the life of a friend. Tom Wylie, a determined and well-loved man in the community seeks forgiveness and redemption for past sins. Even though Jeanette Truluc's an intelligent and perceptive lawyer she still faces racial prejudice while brave, honest, sharp-eyed Carlisle Buchanan is labelled because of his father's past and his need to work out-of-doors. Billy Fuller a caring and loving father must find inner strength and resolve to overcome public censure. Add to these remarkably strong characters the astute eavesdropper Rosie and the considerate and kind-hearted Kate.
Antagonists like the manipulative and cunning Bernie Stang,the greedy,dishonest Roy Johnson, and the unconscionable murderers Randy Winters and Bobby Joe Sellers infuse the plot with excitement and drama.
In this story of greed, anger , manipulation and deceit are redeeming qualities of love, friendship , redemption and hope which makes it stand out from other crime thrillers. I thoroughly enjoyed " The Alligator Man" and intend to read other novels by James Sheehan.
January 6, 2023
If you enjoy lawyer books and court proceedings, then you will enjoy this one!
I took a special liking to Carlisle's character the most and found him to be the most interesting. Of course, I also enjoyed reading about the actual case and all the fun court happenings too. The only difficult part about reading this book (at least for me) were all the characters! It was hard to keep them straight! The author likes to shorten names which threw me at times. It felt like I was being smothered with names during the court sessions. It was a constant he and she, her and him, they and them. and I really had to concentrate on who they were talking about. Other than that, it was a good read.
I took a special liking to Carlisle's character the most and found him to be the most interesting. Of course, I also enjoyed reading about the actual case and all the fun court happenings too. The only difficult part about reading this book (at least for me) were all the characters! It was hard to keep them straight! The author likes to shorten names which threw me at times. It felt like I was being smothered with names during the court sessions. It was a constant he and she, her and him, they and them. and I really had to concentrate on who they were talking about. Other than that, it was a good read.
October 14, 2013
I won this book from a contest on Goodreads and I am now Author, James Sheehan's #1 fan!
Billy Fuller was an employee of a major energy company called 'Dynatron' in Miami until it folded and he literally, lost everything. His income, his savings, pension, health insurance, and his wife and best friend. The CEO of Dynatron, Roy Johnson, is a ruthless, heartless man who got a severance of one hundred million dollars and was under investigation for insider trading, defrauding employees, etc. etc. Some time later, as Johnson took his usual drunken evening stroll, he was struck by a car and landed in an alligator infested swamp.
Kevin Wiley is a criminal lawyer and just recently lost his job when he receives a phone call that his father, who he has not seen or heard from for 28 years, is dying of cancer and may not make it through the night. So Kevin sets aside his emotional baggage and goes to St. Albans on the west coast of Florida to see his father, Tom Wiley, also a former lawyer and very well thought of for his many successful high profile cases.
When Billy Fuller is arrested for Roy Johnson's murder, Kevin and Tom reunite and work together to get justice for their long time family friend who they both love and share their past with to prove Bill's innocence.
Fast paced, emotional, extremely well written as I felt I was in the courtroom right beside Kevin Wiley whose tenacity and drive are matched with prosecutor Jeanette Truluc.
I sat down in the morning yesterday to begin this book and by late afternoon I read the last page. I literally could not/would not put this book down. Author, James Sheehan is truly amazing! 5+++++
Billy Fuller was an employee of a major energy company called 'Dynatron' in Miami until it folded and he literally, lost everything. His income, his savings, pension, health insurance, and his wife and best friend. The CEO of Dynatron, Roy Johnson, is a ruthless, heartless man who got a severance of one hundred million dollars and was under investigation for insider trading, defrauding employees, etc. etc. Some time later, as Johnson took his usual drunken evening stroll, he was struck by a car and landed in an alligator infested swamp.
Kevin Wiley is a criminal lawyer and just recently lost his job when he receives a phone call that his father, who he has not seen or heard from for 28 years, is dying of cancer and may not make it through the night. So Kevin sets aside his emotional baggage and goes to St. Albans on the west coast of Florida to see his father, Tom Wiley, also a former lawyer and very well thought of for his many successful high profile cases.
When Billy Fuller is arrested for Roy Johnson's murder, Kevin and Tom reunite and work together to get justice for their long time family friend who they both love and share their past with to prove Bill's innocence.
Fast paced, emotional, extremely well written as I felt I was in the courtroom right beside Kevin Wiley whose tenacity and drive are matched with prosecutor Jeanette Truluc.
I sat down in the morning yesterday to begin this book and by late afternoon I read the last page. I literally could not/would not put this book down. Author, James Sheehan is truly amazing! 5+++++
October 22, 2013
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review.
I have never read any of Sheehan's books before but after The Alligator Man, I am going to see if my library has any of his books. If you like John Grisham you will like Sheehan. The mystery is there, the characters are really likeable and he really makes you hate the bad guys. There was one character called Bernie (I'm not going to reveal anymore than his name) that is so slimey that you feel like washing your hands anytime he comes on the scene. Maybe about three quarters of the way through, I guessed what might be the end result, I just didn't know how it was going to get there. And let me tell you, getting there was a blast. There are several little backstories that are developed throughout this book that are just that...backstories. Sometimes authors try to include little tid bits of the character history along the way that take over the storyline and leave you confused. Sheehan doesn't do that. He gives you the history of many of the characters without taking away from the story but by adding to it. This was a really good book and I will gladly promote this author to my friends who are law-thriller fans.
I have never read any of Sheehan's books before but after The Alligator Man, I am going to see if my library has any of his books. If you like John Grisham you will like Sheehan. The mystery is there, the characters are really likeable and he really makes you hate the bad guys. There was one character called Bernie (I'm not going to reveal anymore than his name) that is so slimey that you feel like washing your hands anytime he comes on the scene. Maybe about three quarters of the way through, I guessed what might be the end result, I just didn't know how it was going to get there. And let me tell you, getting there was a blast. There are several little backstories that are developed throughout this book that are just that...backstories. Sometimes authors try to include little tid bits of the character history along the way that take over the storyline and leave you confused. Sheehan doesn't do that. He gives you the history of many of the characters without taking away from the story but by adding to it. This was a really good book and I will gladly promote this author to my friends who are law-thriller fans.
May 7, 2016
I decided I loved James Sheehan’s work after reading last year’s release The Lawyer’s Lawyer. I jumped at the chance to read this new book and was not at all disappointed.
The Alligator Man starts off with a chapter from the perspective of a murder victim. From the very first chapter, I was hooked. There were two parallel stories going on at the same time, and at one point I didn’t know how they related. About halfway through the book the connection became clear and suddenly every character was a thousand times more important, and every word more interesting. At one point the case seemed hopeless, at others it seemed there could be no other alternate ending. But of course there were several wild twists at the end that totally through me. Yeah, several. Not just one surprise. Like, surprise after surprise. And maybe a little bit of crying at the very end.
All in all, I loved The Alligator Man and am, once again, impressed with Sheehan’s ability to make a dry boring courtroom seem exciting, and to weave a powerful story about humans and love and greed and destiny.
The narration was very good, though not as good as The Lawyer’s Lawyer. In the same way that the narrator didn’t add anything to the book, he didn’t take anything away either.
The Alligator Man starts off with a chapter from the perspective of a murder victim. From the very first chapter, I was hooked. There were two parallel stories going on at the same time, and at one point I didn’t know how they related. About halfway through the book the connection became clear and suddenly every character was a thousand times more important, and every word more interesting. At one point the case seemed hopeless, at others it seemed there could be no other alternate ending. But of course there were several wild twists at the end that totally through me. Yeah, several. Not just one surprise. Like, surprise after surprise. And maybe a little bit of crying at the very end.
All in all, I loved The Alligator Man and am, once again, impressed with Sheehan’s ability to make a dry boring courtroom seem exciting, and to weave a powerful story about humans and love and greed and destiny.
The narration was very good, though not as good as The Lawyer’s Lawyer. In the same way that the narrator didn’t add anything to the book, he didn’t take anything away either.
April 26, 2015
A very well written Florida court room drama. The story centers around a criminal defense lawyer that gets drawn into a case that ends up having ties to a firm that he just got fired from. This is a good novel that is not overly complex yet has enough twists to keep the reader entertained.
June 3, 2019
William Fuller lost his job, pension, health insurance, home and wife. Now he might lose his freedom.
Roy Johnson, once drug dealer now corporate criminal and the ex-CEO of Dynatron whom Fuller used to be an employee of before Johnson looted 100 million dollars and let it collapse has gone missing. Tattered clothing is found in a canal frequented by alligators and a tip comes in that a teenager saw a hit and run bowl him into the canal. A grey car matching Fuller's was the vehicle responsible, and he's been getting drunk in a nearby town mouthing off that he's going to 'kill him'.
It's an open and shut case, or is it? No body, no hard evidence - it's all circumstantial and Fuller doesn't think he did it, although he was drunk. Enter Kevin Wylie, he's in town visiting his father who he hasn't seen for 28 years after a run in with his crooked boss leaves him with ample free time having lost his job. He reconnects with Fuller who he knew in the past and decides to take on the case with the assistance of his estranged father who he's now just getting to know, who is also dying of cancer.
There's a fair bit going on in this novel, but it ties together in a complete and full manner which gives the story quite a vivid life. I've previously read The Mayor of Lexington Avenue and really enjoyed it deciding to check out some more Sheehan and I'm glad I did as this, Alligator Man, is also an excellent book.
If you enjoy John Grisham's novels, you'll definitely enjoy James Sheehan's novels.
Roy Johnson, once drug dealer now corporate criminal and the ex-CEO of Dynatron whom Fuller used to be an employee of before Johnson looted 100 million dollars and let it collapse has gone missing. Tattered clothing is found in a canal frequented by alligators and a tip comes in that a teenager saw a hit and run bowl him into the canal. A grey car matching Fuller's was the vehicle responsible, and he's been getting drunk in a nearby town mouthing off that he's going to 'kill him'.
It's an open and shut case, or is it? No body, no hard evidence - it's all circumstantial and Fuller doesn't think he did it, although he was drunk. Enter Kevin Wylie, he's in town visiting his father who he hasn't seen for 28 years after a run in with his crooked boss leaves him with ample free time having lost his job. He reconnects with Fuller who he knew in the past and decides to take on the case with the assistance of his estranged father who he's now just getting to know, who is also dying of cancer.
There's a fair bit going on in this novel, but it ties together in a complete and full manner which gives the story quite a vivid life. I've previously read The Mayor of Lexington Avenue and really enjoyed it deciding to check out some more Sheehan and I'm glad I did as this, Alligator Man, is also an excellent book.
If you enjoy John Grisham's novels, you'll definitely enjoy James Sheehan's novels.
September 9, 2017
A good read for courtroom novels with a surprise at the end. The last third of the novel -- when we find ourselves in the courtroom is especially good. Sheehan makes a few statements about the evils of corporations -- and the bad guys who get lots of money while working stiffs get the shaft. The courtroom drama seldom earns five stars but this one comes close.
October 8, 2018
I think I really just needed to read a legal thriller where the lawyers are basically good people who do the right thing in the name of justice. Doubtlessly there are flaws with this story, and maybe Kevin is a bit of a rehash of Jack Tobin, but all in all, another satisfying read from James Sheehan. I can't find any mention of further books, but I will hold out hope for a future read.
March 2, 2017
Sheehan has become one of my favorite authors. His stories take place in Florida and the mysteries and crime tales are quite good. Sheehan is a lawyer so the terminology and technicalities of law are well explained.
April 17, 2023
This book was about a trial in a small town regarding the death of a man whose wallet was found in an alligator swamp and about the lawyers for the defense and the prosecution of the person accused of the murder. The story was interesting, but a bit dry.
May 18, 2017
First James Sheehan I've read. Will be reading more for sure.
June 6, 2018
I wish someone could tell me what has become of this author. I can’t find any recent info on him. He is simply a fabulous writer and I wish there was more to read!
April 30, 2019
Great book. Kept me reading. Lots of twists & turns with interesting characters & intertwined relationships
October 19, 2019
I always like legal thrillers. I don't think quite as believable as "the lawyer's lawyer"....
March 21, 2014
I love a good courtroom drama and Sheehan has written a great one in The Alligator Man. It begins in south Florida where Roy Johnson sits in his back yard gazing out at the water and enjoying his evening wine. In fact, he's getting drunk, just like he does every single night. Then he decides to go for a walk down the road. It is a straight shot through to the town of Gladestown with alligators in the swamp on both sides. As he walks, he sees headlights and, too late, realizes the car is aiming right at him. He is hit and goes flying into the swamp. Nothing is found of him except two pieces of fabric, one from his shirt and the other from his shorts, and later his wallet surfaces too.
It's a case of a criminal getting his due actually. No one is sad to hear he's gone. He had been the CEO of a large company with hundreds of employees. He had cleaned the money out of it, including the 401K savings and benefits of all those employees. Then he simply walked away with all that money while his employees lost everything. Some committed suicide.
Meanwhile in Miami, Kevin Wylie has been working for a highly successful, if crooked, attorney. But he made a mistake. When he got a call to provide money for one of the drug dealer clients, he refused. Now he's being tossed out on his ear and the boss has threatened him if he ever practices law in Miami again. As if that isn't enough, he gets a call from his father's wife that dad is dying. They haven't been in touch since his parents broke up when Wylie was a boy. Reeling from all this bad news at once, and fighting with his live-in girlfriend as a result, Wylie decides to face his past by going to the Florida panhandle town where his dad lives. He's going to get answers about his dad's disappearance or else.
There are some great characters in this book just waiting to make your acquaintance. Carlisle Buchanan is one. He's been a sort of assistant law officer in the Gladestown office where nothing ever happens. That suits him just fine since he'd rather be fishing or exploring the swamps anyway. Whenever he takes his boat or his airboat out, he stops to ask permission of the great blue heron who stands there. He has named the bird "Scotch" in honor of his late father. Carlisle is an encyclopedia of the swamps and invaluable to the investigation. His friend Rosie owns and operates the only restaurant in town.
All things come together when Tom Wylie's friend Billy is accused of murdering Roy Johnson and Kevin decides to take the case since his father's health is too bad to do it himself. In the course of solving the murder and the courtroom scenes, Kevin gets to know his father and step-mother, and he finally learns the truth about what happened between his parents. His father and step-mother are wonderful characters too, as is Billy, the accused, who worked at Roy Johnson's company, lost everything, and then a year later with no health insurance lost his wife too. It seems like a slam dunk, but facts can be deceiving.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book, sailing through it like I've done with Grisham novels and other intriguing courtroom dramas. The ending surprised and delighted me.
Highly recommended
Source: Publisher Hachette Book Group
It's a case of a criminal getting his due actually. No one is sad to hear he's gone. He had been the CEO of a large company with hundreds of employees. He had cleaned the money out of it, including the 401K savings and benefits of all those employees. Then he simply walked away with all that money while his employees lost everything. Some committed suicide.
Meanwhile in Miami, Kevin Wylie has been working for a highly successful, if crooked, attorney. But he made a mistake. When he got a call to provide money for one of the drug dealer clients, he refused. Now he's being tossed out on his ear and the boss has threatened him if he ever practices law in Miami again. As if that isn't enough, he gets a call from his father's wife that dad is dying. They haven't been in touch since his parents broke up when Wylie was a boy. Reeling from all this bad news at once, and fighting with his live-in girlfriend as a result, Wylie decides to face his past by going to the Florida panhandle town where his dad lives. He's going to get answers about his dad's disappearance or else.
There are some great characters in this book just waiting to make your acquaintance. Carlisle Buchanan is one. He's been a sort of assistant law officer in the Gladestown office where nothing ever happens. That suits him just fine since he'd rather be fishing or exploring the swamps anyway. Whenever he takes his boat or his airboat out, he stops to ask permission of the great blue heron who stands there. He has named the bird "Scotch" in honor of his late father. Carlisle is an encyclopedia of the swamps and invaluable to the investigation. His friend Rosie owns and operates the only restaurant in town.
All things come together when Tom Wylie's friend Billy is accused of murdering Roy Johnson and Kevin decides to take the case since his father's health is too bad to do it himself. In the course of solving the murder and the courtroom scenes, Kevin gets to know his father and step-mother, and he finally learns the truth about what happened between his parents. His father and step-mother are wonderful characters too, as is Billy, the accused, who worked at Roy Johnson's company, lost everything, and then a year later with no health insurance lost his wife too. It seems like a slam dunk, but facts can be deceiving.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book, sailing through it like I've done with Grisham novels and other intriguing courtroom dramas. The ending surprised and delighted me.
Highly recommended
Source: Publisher Hachette Book Group
October 9, 2015
Title: The Alligator Man
Author: James Sheehan
Pages: 448
Year: 2015
Publisher: Center Street
Kevin Wylie is an attorney with a live-in girlfriend who seems to be constantly pushing him to further his career. He finds out his boss is crooked and is fired the same day. The next day he receives a phone call from his father’s girlfriend that he is dying from cancer and having surgery the next day. He hasn’t heard a word from his father in 28 years, so he is shocked to hear from someone about him now. He decides to travel back to where he spent the first eight years of his life with his parents before their divorce to see his father and get some answers. While there, Kevin is given a chance to work with his father, who is also a lawyer, taking on a case that could make Kevin’s own law business a success if that is what he decides to do.
The other part of the story is about the investigation into the disappearance of a millionaire businessman who has recently made his home in the small Florida town of Gladestown. He made a large chunk of his money by selling out the employees of one of his companies. The company soon went bankrupt after he sold his large stock holdings, causing the company to close, everyone lost their jobs, their health insurance, their retirement savings and some even lost their lives. So Roy Johnson is not a very well-liked man, has no real friends and lives a secluded life. He goes for a walk one night near alligator-infested water and never returns. His wife reports him missing and a few days later bits of his clothing and his wallet are found in the water.
From the back cover of the book, I thought this sounded like an intriguing mystery. The mystery itself is interesting, but there was so much profanity and unnecessary sexual situations I couldn’t really get into the story or connect with the characters. The sex isn’t rampant throughout the story, but it is there. The foul language is pretty much throughout the book. For me, these two issues were too much to overcome when rating this book.
My rating is 2 stars.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255. “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
Author: James Sheehan
Pages: 448
Year: 2015
Publisher: Center Street
Kevin Wylie is an attorney with a live-in girlfriend who seems to be constantly pushing him to further his career. He finds out his boss is crooked and is fired the same day. The next day he receives a phone call from his father’s girlfriend that he is dying from cancer and having surgery the next day. He hasn’t heard a word from his father in 28 years, so he is shocked to hear from someone about him now. He decides to travel back to where he spent the first eight years of his life with his parents before their divorce to see his father and get some answers. While there, Kevin is given a chance to work with his father, who is also a lawyer, taking on a case that could make Kevin’s own law business a success if that is what he decides to do.
The other part of the story is about the investigation into the disappearance of a millionaire businessman who has recently made his home in the small Florida town of Gladestown. He made a large chunk of his money by selling out the employees of one of his companies. The company soon went bankrupt after he sold his large stock holdings, causing the company to close, everyone lost their jobs, their health insurance, their retirement savings and some even lost their lives. So Roy Johnson is not a very well-liked man, has no real friends and lives a secluded life. He goes for a walk one night near alligator-infested water and never returns. His wife reports him missing and a few days later bits of his clothing and his wallet are found in the water.
From the back cover of the book, I thought this sounded like an intriguing mystery. The mystery itself is interesting, but there was so much profanity and unnecessary sexual situations I couldn’t really get into the story or connect with the characters. The sex isn’t rampant throughout the story, but it is there. The foul language is pretty much throughout the book. For me, these two issues were too much to overcome when rating this book.
My rating is 2 stars.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255. “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
November 3, 2014
When the former CEO of Dynatron is run down and left to become gator food, no one sheds that many tears. He ripped off his employees and walked away scott free with millions, which means lots of possible suspects. Kevin Wylie has recently lost his job working with one of Miami's top defense attorneys but it's allowed him time to reconnect with the father he hasn't seen in over two decades. It's also put him in the right place at the right time to defend the state's top suspect in what's now being referred to as the Alligator Man's murder. Billy, the suspected killer, is a long time friend of Kevin's father and unsurprisingly one of those who lost everything when Dynatron closed down. But did he kill the Alligator Man?
As a reader, I'm almost ashamed to say that I've become wary of legal thrillers. I like to think that I'll read just about anything out there - and it's true but after a long time early binge of John Grisham, I've found myself shying away from the subgenre. But it means missing out on authors like James Sheehan! Not this time, though. Prompted by recommendations (and Masterpiece's Silk, which I highly recommend!) I decided it was time to set aside my previous legal thriller issues and when the opportunity to jump on board this tour arose, I took it.
And boy am I glad!
Sheehan strikes a fine balance between the actual case in question and character development, which means that you've got a good grasp of Kevin and his relationships as well as the other supporting characters while still moving along with the mystery itself. The pacing is excellent and the suspense is finely tuned. Be warned, though, this is another one that will keep you up at night if you start too late in the day!
Yes, it's one of those books. The chapters are short enough that I found myself up late reading just one more chapter over and over and over. I was sucked in by the third chapter and continued to fall further down the rabbit hole as the book progressed. Sheehan did a masterful job of weaving the threads of the story together, making THE ALLIGATOR MAN an incredibly enticing read.
I should also add that THE ALLIGATOR MAN is a great intro to Sheehan's work. His previous books, THE MAYOR OF LEXINGTON AVENUE, THE LAW OF SECOND CHANCES, and THE LAWYER'S LAWYER, all feature the same central character while this latest is a stand alone.
As a reader, I'm almost ashamed to say that I've become wary of legal thrillers. I like to think that I'll read just about anything out there - and it's true but after a long time early binge of John Grisham, I've found myself shying away from the subgenre. But it means missing out on authors like James Sheehan! Not this time, though. Prompted by recommendations (and Masterpiece's Silk, which I highly recommend!) I decided it was time to set aside my previous legal thriller issues and when the opportunity to jump on board this tour arose, I took it.
And boy am I glad!
Sheehan strikes a fine balance between the actual case in question and character development, which means that you've got a good grasp of Kevin and his relationships as well as the other supporting characters while still moving along with the mystery itself. The pacing is excellent and the suspense is finely tuned. Be warned, though, this is another one that will keep you up at night if you start too late in the day!
Yes, it's one of those books. The chapters are short enough that I found myself up late reading just one more chapter over and over and over. I was sucked in by the third chapter and continued to fall further down the rabbit hole as the book progressed. Sheehan did a masterful job of weaving the threads of the story together, making THE ALLIGATOR MAN an incredibly enticing read.
I should also add that THE ALLIGATOR MAN is a great intro to Sheehan's work. His previous books, THE MAYOR OF LEXINGTON AVENUE, THE LAW OF SECOND CHANCES, and THE LAWYER'S LAWYER, all feature the same central character while this latest is a stand alone.
November 11, 2013
3.5/5
This is the first book I've read by James Sheehan. Sheehan writes a legal series with lawyer Jack Tobin as the recurring character, but his latest book, The Alligator Man is a stand alone and introduces us to a new character - lawyer Kevin Wylie.
Kevin's life is about to be turned upside down - his shady boss has decided that now is the time to get ride of Kevin, he gets word that the father he hasn't seen in twenty eight years is dying and his girlfriend isn't happy with Kevin at all.
What's a lawyer to do? Well, Kevin decides to see his father one last time and get answers before it's too late. He reconnects with some barely remembered pieces and people from his past. One of them is family friend Billy, who has just been arrested for the murder of Roy Johnson, a corporate criminal who ruined the lives of thousands of his employees when he bankrupted the company. And yes, Billy was one of them. With nothing waiting for him back in Miami, Kevin teams up with his lawyer father on their first - and what will probably be their last case.
Sheehan has two story lines running parallel in The Alligator Man. The race to prove Billy's innocence is full of pitfalls, false leads and possible outcomes. Sheehan does a capable job of providing a solid legal thriller accentuated with realistic courtroom drama. Sheehan makes his home in Florida and his living from the law. This adds immensely to both setting and locale descriptions as well as the legal aspects of the case.
The other storyline is one of fathers and sons, forgiveness and redemption and a healthy dose of romance as well. Sheehan deftly explores broken relationships - specifically fathers. There is another player in the story who has also lost his father. While I appreciated this plot line, I also felt that the situations were somewhat clichéd and wooden. I never truly became invested in Kevin's emotions - they remained as words on the page. Readers will always be sure of who is on the 'right' side and who is 'wrong' as the lines and characters are clearly drawn and delineated. Some of the supporting characters were overly 'folksy' for my taste - Rosie the diner owner was grating on my nerves by the end.
But, that being said, I encourage legal fiction fans to seek out James Sheehan. He spins a good, solid legal thriller.
This is the first book I've read by James Sheehan. Sheehan writes a legal series with lawyer Jack Tobin as the recurring character, but his latest book, The Alligator Man is a stand alone and introduces us to a new character - lawyer Kevin Wylie.
Kevin's life is about to be turned upside down - his shady boss has decided that now is the time to get ride of Kevin, he gets word that the father he hasn't seen in twenty eight years is dying and his girlfriend isn't happy with Kevin at all.
What's a lawyer to do? Well, Kevin decides to see his father one last time and get answers before it's too late. He reconnects with some barely remembered pieces and people from his past. One of them is family friend Billy, who has just been arrested for the murder of Roy Johnson, a corporate criminal who ruined the lives of thousands of his employees when he bankrupted the company. And yes, Billy was one of them. With nothing waiting for him back in Miami, Kevin teams up with his lawyer father on their first - and what will probably be their last case.
Sheehan has two story lines running parallel in The Alligator Man. The race to prove Billy's innocence is full of pitfalls, false leads and possible outcomes. Sheehan does a capable job of providing a solid legal thriller accentuated with realistic courtroom drama. Sheehan makes his home in Florida and his living from the law. This adds immensely to both setting and locale descriptions as well as the legal aspects of the case.
The other storyline is one of fathers and sons, forgiveness and redemption and a healthy dose of romance as well. Sheehan deftly explores broken relationships - specifically fathers. There is another player in the story who has also lost his father. While I appreciated this plot line, I also felt that the situations were somewhat clichéd and wooden. I never truly became invested in Kevin's emotions - they remained as words on the page. Readers will always be sure of who is on the 'right' side and who is 'wrong' as the lines and characters are clearly drawn and delineated. Some of the supporting characters were overly 'folksy' for my taste - Rosie the diner owner was grating on my nerves by the end.
But, that being said, I encourage legal fiction fans to seek out James Sheehan. He spins a good, solid legal thriller.
October 20, 2015
James Sheehan in his new book, “The Alligator Man” published by Center Street gives us a legal thriller with Kevin Wylie.
From the back cover: Kevin Wylie’s crooked boss wants to run him out of town, and Kevin’s long-time girlfriend is ready to take a hike. He decides to leave Miami and visit his father, who he hasn’t seen in twenty-eight years. Heading back to his hometown, Kevin doesn’t realize that he and his dad will become embroiled in a murder case.
The victim, one of the richest and most-hated corporate criminals in America has been dubbed The Alligator Man after pieces of his clothing were found in a local swamp. Billy Fuller had every reason to want the victim dead and all the evidence leads right to his doorstep. But legendary lawyer Tom Wylie believes in Billy and he and his son reunite to fight for Billy’s life.
The Alligator Man is a story of greed, anger, love, redemption and two powerful trial attorneys who fight to the end– and risk everything–for the truth.
James Sheehan is a trial attorney and when a trial attorney writes a book about a trial well you know that book is just going to be great. Let me assure you Mr. Sheehan is a gifted author who really knows how to set the pace and provide the information in a rapid fire succession without giving anything away until the proper time. Kevin wants to set up his own legal practice. He is called home because his father, also an attorney, is very ill. Now father and son team up to defend the man accused of murder. Mr. Sheehan has given us a very exciting story. This is a book that will capture your attention and keep it as you keep flipping pages as fast as you can read to keep up with the story.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Center Street for this review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
From the back cover: Kevin Wylie’s crooked boss wants to run him out of town, and Kevin’s long-time girlfriend is ready to take a hike. He decides to leave Miami and visit his father, who he hasn’t seen in twenty-eight years. Heading back to his hometown, Kevin doesn’t realize that he and his dad will become embroiled in a murder case.
The victim, one of the richest and most-hated corporate criminals in America has been dubbed The Alligator Man after pieces of his clothing were found in a local swamp. Billy Fuller had every reason to want the victim dead and all the evidence leads right to his doorstep. But legendary lawyer Tom Wylie believes in Billy and he and his son reunite to fight for Billy’s life.
The Alligator Man is a story of greed, anger, love, redemption and two powerful trial attorneys who fight to the end– and risk everything–for the truth.
James Sheehan is a trial attorney and when a trial attorney writes a book about a trial well you know that book is just going to be great. Let me assure you Mr. Sheehan is a gifted author who really knows how to set the pace and provide the information in a rapid fire succession without giving anything away until the proper time. Kevin wants to set up his own legal practice. He is called home because his father, also an attorney, is very ill. Now father and son team up to defend the man accused of murder. Mr. Sheehan has given us a very exciting story. This is a book that will capture your attention and keep it as you keep flipping pages as fast as you can read to keep up with the story.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Center Street for this review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
January 6, 2017
Oh my! This was one of those books that you just can't wait to get to the end to see how it all works out... but then when you get there you don't want it to end! THE ALLIGATOR MAN is a legal thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat, unable to put this book down. I started reading this after it was recommended by my book club. What a great recommendation!
About one-third of the way through the book, life got in the way and I had to switch to the audible version of the book in order to get to my laundry and shop for groceries. The audio version was so fantastic, I started all over again! Great narration!
James Sheehan does an amazing job of developing the characters to the point where the reader feels they know them personally. I smiled and I cried... you know, like with real tears streaming down my cheeks and clutching the box of tissues. The story line is exciting with twists and turns in every chapter. Just when I thought I had things figured out... WHAM! Something new happens!
The story starts out with how one man, Roy Johnson, managed to ruin the lives of thousands of people. He was the CEO of Dynatron, a major energy company that employed over twenty thousand people. When Dynatron stock fell from $75 a share to fifty cents and then to nothing, the company declared bankruptcy. Johnson managed to bail out early and left with a hundred million dollars. The employees were left with nothing... no job.. no pension... no health insurance. One of those former employees, Billy Fuller, is charged with first-degree murder after it appears that Roy Johnson had been run off the road and his body eaten by alligators.
Through a series of events, Kevin Wylie ends up defending Billy. I don't want to give away any spoilers here, but the trial and all events before and after the trial are so well written and so carefully thought out that I am now a BIG fan of James Sheehan and I will be searching for more of his books!
About one-third of the way through the book, life got in the way and I had to switch to the audible version of the book in order to get to my laundry and shop for groceries. The audio version was so fantastic, I started all over again! Great narration!
James Sheehan does an amazing job of developing the characters to the point where the reader feels they know them personally. I smiled and I cried... you know, like with real tears streaming down my cheeks and clutching the box of tissues. The story line is exciting with twists and turns in every chapter. Just when I thought I had things figured out... WHAM! Something new happens!
The story starts out with how one man, Roy Johnson, managed to ruin the lives of thousands of people. He was the CEO of Dynatron, a major energy company that employed over twenty thousand people. When Dynatron stock fell from $75 a share to fifty cents and then to nothing, the company declared bankruptcy. Johnson managed to bail out early and left with a hundred million dollars. The employees were left with nothing... no job.. no pension... no health insurance. One of those former employees, Billy Fuller, is charged with first-degree murder after it appears that Roy Johnson had been run off the road and his body eaten by alligators.
Through a series of events, Kevin Wylie ends up defending Billy. I don't want to give away any spoilers here, but the trial and all events before and after the trial are so well written and so carefully thought out that I am now a BIG fan of James Sheehan and I will be searching for more of his books!
November 24, 2013
I’ve been reading James Sheehan’s work for a couple of years now, after being introduced to it when his publisher sent me one of his novels asking if I’d review it. I said sure, and now they send almost everything new that he writes, although The Alligator Man actually came to me via TLC Book Tours first. Apparently the Universe REALLY wanted me to read this book, because the copy from his publisher showed up a few days later.
The Universe was not wrong. The Alligator Man is a legal thriller that merges Sheehan’s consistently solid writing style with an entirely new set of characters, and I enjoyed it immensely. (Translation: this is NOT one of his Jack Tobin novels. It’s a one-off with new characters.)
Sheehan’s own experience as a Florida resident and as a law professor and director of the Tampa (Florida) Law Center serve him well for the ‘a’ plot of the book – the story of Kevin Wylie and his father Tom and their attempt to prove Billy Fuller’s innocence. The courtroom scenes pop the way few such scenes ever do, and the language feels authentic.
The ‘b’ plot – the reforming of the father/son relationship between Kevin and Tom – is well drawn, but not quite as compelling. I’ve read reviews referring to these scenes as ‘wooden.’ I wouldn’t go that far, but I’ll confess that I felt like there wasn’t quite enough depth in those parts of the novel. Maybe that’s natural masculine reserve, or maybe it’s just my own perception.
This issue in no way impacted my engagement with the novel as a whole.
In any case, if you like legal thrillers, if you like courtroom drama, if you (like me) spent many hours of your lifetime glued to episodes of Law & Order, but wanted to go deeper, you will (like me) thoroughly enjoy The Alligator Man.
The Universe was not wrong. The Alligator Man is a legal thriller that merges Sheehan’s consistently solid writing style with an entirely new set of characters, and I enjoyed it immensely. (Translation: this is NOT one of his Jack Tobin novels. It’s a one-off with new characters.)
Sheehan’s own experience as a Florida resident and as a law professor and director of the Tampa (Florida) Law Center serve him well for the ‘a’ plot of the book – the story of Kevin Wylie and his father Tom and their attempt to prove Billy Fuller’s innocence. The courtroom scenes pop the way few such scenes ever do, and the language feels authentic.
The ‘b’ plot – the reforming of the father/son relationship between Kevin and Tom – is well drawn, but not quite as compelling. I’ve read reviews referring to these scenes as ‘wooden.’ I wouldn’t go that far, but I’ll confess that I felt like there wasn’t quite enough depth in those parts of the novel. Maybe that’s natural masculine reserve, or maybe it’s just my own perception.
This issue in no way impacted my engagement with the novel as a whole.
In any case, if you like legal thrillers, if you like courtroom drama, if you (like me) spent many hours of your lifetime glued to episodes of Law & Order, but wanted to go deeper, you will (like me) thoroughly enjoy The Alligator Man.
November 25, 2013
"The Alligator Man" sees James Sheehan return in fine form with his fourth novel, a book likely to attract a number of new fans. Filled with suspense and intrigue, and court-room scenes that showcase Sheehan's own trial experience, the book moves at a fast pace and I simply couldn't put it down! I greatly enjoyed the unique characters that make up the supporting cast, such as Carlisle, a man who is able to traverse the wild swamps with ease and who has a unique perspective on life. His role as auxiliary officer made for some light-hearted and humorous scenes as his steady work on the murder case showed up that of the more seasoned detective also assigned to the case. And I truly enjoyed the main character, Kevin, a guy who is just utterly likeable, someone who isn't perfect and who makes mistakes, but in the end is a man who stands up for justice. Sheehan is careful to create a well-rounded character in Kevin, as he struggles with his past and his family identity and determining what type of man he wants to be, what kind of long-lasting impression he wants to make through his career. The subplot involving the reconciliation he experiences with his father makes for some moving moments! Thus, in the middle of an action-packed novel, I found myself reflecting on the own choices I'm making in my own life.
I strongly recommend "The Alligator Man", certain that fans of legal thrillers are going to enjoy this carefully plotted and well-written novel, full of twists and turns and nail-biting scenes! 4.5 out of 5 stars.
Book has been provided courtesy of Center Street, a division of Hachette Book Group (Canada), for the purposes of this unbiased review.
I strongly recommend "The Alligator Man", certain that fans of legal thrillers are going to enjoy this carefully plotted and well-written novel, full of twists and turns and nail-biting scenes! 4.5 out of 5 stars.
Book has been provided courtesy of Center Street, a division of Hachette Book Group (Canada), for the purposes of this unbiased review.
May 14, 2014
I enjoyed this book. If you're a fan of legal thrillers, you probably will too. The main characters are likeable and the overall feel is warm and comfortable. The protagonist is a criminal defense lawyer called upon to defend a poor, downtrodden friend accused of murdering the Alligator Man, a nasty, filthy rich drug dealer turned industrialist who looted his company. White hats, black hats, subtlety is not the author's strong point. Our hero is resentful of his father, who is now dying and whom he has not seen in years, but of course they reconcile (that happens very early, so it's not a spoiler). It's all pretty standard fare, and that's where it falls short.
The hype on the book is that it is a legal thriller by an experienced trial lawyer. It is anything but thrilling. Every plot twist that was supposed to be a surprise was telegraphed hundreds of pages in advance. I can honestly say there was not a single surprise for me in the entire book. The trial itself comes at the end, and it's the most plain vanilla description of a trial I've ever seen in a novel, which, in a way, was also its strong point. It was totally realistic. I do enjoy authenticity and this author knows what a real trial is like. As a lawyer and former FBI agent I can tell you that it was as routine and mundane as a murder trial gets, despite the author's constant hyperbolic characterizations of every move as brilliant or deviously clever. On the whole, though, it was a pleasant read devoid of the gore and sadism that so often permeate the genre.
The hype on the book is that it is a legal thriller by an experienced trial lawyer. It is anything but thrilling. Every plot twist that was supposed to be a surprise was telegraphed hundreds of pages in advance. I can honestly say there was not a single surprise for me in the entire book. The trial itself comes at the end, and it's the most plain vanilla description of a trial I've ever seen in a novel, which, in a way, was also its strong point. It was totally realistic. I do enjoy authenticity and this author knows what a real trial is like. As a lawyer and former FBI agent I can tell you that it was as routine and mundane as a murder trial gets, despite the author's constant hyperbolic characterizations of every move as brilliant or deviously clever. On the whole, though, it was a pleasant read devoid of the gore and sadism that so often permeate the genre.
March 4, 2014
I received this book from Goodreads First Reads
I will start off by saying I am not usually a big fan of courtroom type stories. This book, however, is so much more than just that, and I fell into the whole of it, starting with Kevin Wylie's everyday life, working in a job he isn't particularly happy with, and involved in a relationship that feels forced at best, to the call that changes his life around, the story took (me on) twists and turns with connections and surprises. Just when I thought I had things mostly figured out, there was a switchback that sent it in another direction.
Some parts were predictable, but not overly so where everything was figured out easily. The characters were alive and able to be related to. The story between Kevin and Tom is touching and heartfelt, delving into the emotional aspect of the story, and through others memories Kevin learns more about the man he hasn't seen in 28 years, including the reason.
I did enjoy this story very much, and will be reading more of James Sheehan in the future. Very well written with lively, likable (and not so likable)characters that leave an impression.
I will start off by saying I am not usually a big fan of courtroom type stories. This book, however, is so much more than just that, and I fell into the whole of it, starting with Kevin Wylie's everyday life, working in a job he isn't particularly happy with, and involved in a relationship that feels forced at best, to the call that changes his life around, the story took (me on) twists and turns with connections and surprises. Just when I thought I had things mostly figured out, there was a switchback that sent it in another direction.
Some parts were predictable, but not overly so where everything was figured out easily. The characters were alive and able to be related to. The story between Kevin and Tom is touching and heartfelt, delving into the emotional aspect of the story, and through others memories Kevin learns more about the man he hasn't seen in 28 years, including the reason.
I did enjoy this story very much, and will be reading more of James Sheehan in the future. Very well written with lively, likable (and not so likable)characters that leave an impression.
October 16, 2013
I received this book through the Goodreads first reads program. I normally would not have considered reading a legal thriller but I am surprised to say that I thoroughly enjoyed Sheehan’s work. This is a fantastic piece of literature. The characters are absolutely wonderful and dynamic. I must admit that I truly did feel as though I knew them personally after reading the novel. I certainly cared about what happened to them and that’s the point right?
This book is a fast read. It’s not terribly short, it is simply gripping and the flow is flawless. Each segment of the story builds into the next and quite often left me wanting to continue reading. Perfect for a thriller.
Law is discussed throughout the book but courtroom scenes are saved for maybe the last half. The politics and underhandedness of both sides of the law are played upon; a topic that is forever relevant to society and that I think we can all relate to. I have to say in this respect I love the extended metaphor used throughout the text of the alligator man - wonderful and fun.
Overall this is an amazingly fun to read text. I would recommend it to anyone. Awesome read!
This book is a fast read. It’s not terribly short, it is simply gripping and the flow is flawless. Each segment of the story builds into the next and quite often left me wanting to continue reading. Perfect for a thriller.
Law is discussed throughout the book but courtroom scenes are saved for maybe the last half. The politics and underhandedness of both sides of the law are played upon; a topic that is forever relevant to society and that I think we can all relate to. I have to say in this respect I love the extended metaphor used throughout the text of the alligator man - wonderful and fun.
Overall this is an amazingly fun to read text. I would recommend it to anyone. Awesome read!
September 6, 2016
In looking through the reviews, I seem to be the only one who didn't "win" or "receive" a free copy. Does that mean I'm the only one giving an honest opinion?
It was pretty good, interesting and not too many holes in the plot. Moving back and forth from the Everglades to Tallahassee, seemingly quickly in the car, was a bit of a stretch and created (for me, at least) a bit of confusion. The text almost read as though our character was in the Everglades one minute and outside Tallahassee the next.
This was my first book by Sheehan and I will definitely read more by him. I appreciated the clean language and the absence of gore and/or graphic sex and violence. And I very much appreciated and enjoyed the tours and education about the Everglades. That was very interesting. The trial was well handled and the pacing of the book was good.
There were some weak points, but I thought it a very enjoyable read.
It was pretty good, interesting and not too many holes in the plot. Moving back and forth from the Everglades to Tallahassee, seemingly quickly in the car, was a bit of a stretch and created (for me, at least) a bit of confusion. The text almost read as though our character was in the Everglades one minute and outside Tallahassee the next.
This was my first book by Sheehan and I will definitely read more by him. I appreciated the clean language and the absence of gore and/or graphic sex and violence. And I very much appreciated and enjoyed the tours and education about the Everglades. That was very interesting. The trial was well handled and the pacing of the book was good.
There were some weak points, but I thought it a very enjoyable read.
January 13, 2014
Check out the full review at Kritters Ramblings
A well known businessman is murdered, but there is more than one person who would want him dead, so who did it? Told in short chapters from many points of view, this book had me caught up in the story from page one til the very end. There was family drama, business drama and just drama drama!
My first read by James Sheehan and the way this book unfolded was perfect. The way each piece of the puzzle was provided through each of the character's stories made for a great who dun it. This story was building and building and there was no way to put it down!
A well known businessman is murdered, but there is more than one person who would want him dead, so who did it? Told in short chapters from many points of view, this book had me caught up in the story from page one til the very end. There was family drama, business drama and just drama drama!
My first read by James Sheehan and the way this book unfolded was perfect. The way each piece of the puzzle was provided through each of the character's stories made for a great who dun it. This story was building and building and there was no way to put it down!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 67 reviews