Book Review: The Barrister and the Letter of Marque by Todd M Johnson
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What is this book about?
As a barrister in 1818 London, William Snopes has witnessed firsthand the danger of only the wealthy having their voices heard, and he’s a strong advocate who defends the poorer classes against the powerful. That changes the day a struggling heiress, Lady Madeleine Jameson, arrives at his door.
In a last-ditch effort to save her faltering estate, Lady Jameson invested in a merchant brig, the Padget. The ship was granted a rare privilege by the king’s regent: a Letter of Marque authorizing the captain to seize the cargo of French traders operating illegally in the Indian Sea. Yet when the Padget returns to London, her crew is met by soldiers ready to take possession of their goods and arrest the captain for piracy. And the Letter–the sole proof his actions were legal–has mysteriously vanished.
Moved by the lady’s distress, intrigued by the Letter, and goaded by an opposing solicitor, Snopes takes the case. But as he delves deeper into the mystery, he learns that the forces arrayed against Lady Jameson, and now himself, are even more perilous than he’d imagined.
My review:
Intrigue is steeped deep in this story. From the unique ways that Snopes argues on behalf of his clients to the twists and turns of the mystery surrounding the Padget and Lady Jameson, I was turning pages quickly rooting for Snopes to succeed in freeing an innocent man.
It took me a little time to get used to bouncing around different locations in London, but once I settled into the story, it wasn’t an issue. I really enjoyed following along as Snopes and his people got to the bottom of the mystery.
What I enjoyed most about this book:
The way William Snopes defended his clients
What I didn’t like about this book:
Location bouncing
Would I recommend this book to others? Yes. Interesting historical and legal aspects, page turning intrigue and fascinating characters. This is a standalone novel.
Where can I learn more about this author and their books?
-Loraine Nunley
The Barrister and the Letter of Marque by Todd M Johnson (4 out of 5 stars) #amreading #BookReview Share on XWant a copy for yourself? Buy one here today.
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