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Judge Camille Avery, newly appointed to the federal court, is finally back on her dream career path. She’s determined not to let any mistakes, past or future, get in her way, but a complex murder case and undeniable attraction to her rebellious law clerk threaten Camille’s carefully planned future at every turn.
Attorney West Fallon is a social justice crusader, reluctant to put her career plans on hold to clerk for a federal judge, even if the judge is the man who saved her life. When he’s suddenly forced to retire, West is stuck clerking for Judge Camille Avery, an infuriatingly stubborn—okay, brilliant, intense, and sexy—law-and-order jurist who seems just as unhappy to be saddled with her.
As Camille and West explore their growing desire and challenge the boundaries of their work and personal relationships, a big case threatens to destroy both their careers. Can their love survive?
Attorney West Fallon is a social justice crusader, reluctant to put her career plans on hold to clerk for a federal judge, even if the judge is the man who saved her life. When he’s suddenly forced to retire, West is stuck clerking for Judge Camille Avery, an infuriatingly stubborn—okay, brilliant, intense, and sexy—law-and-order jurist who seems just as unhappy to be saddled with her.
As Camille and West explore their growing desire and challenge the boundaries of their work and personal relationships, a big case threatens to destroy both their careers. Can their love survive?
240 pages, Paperback
First published August 15, 2017
34 people are currently reading
205 people want to read
About the author
Carsen Taite
51 books294 followersCarsen Taite's goal as an author is to spin plot lines as interesting as the cases she encountered in her career as a criminal defense lawyer. She is the award-winning author of a dozen novels and numerous short stories.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews
October 19, 2017
'Netgalley ARC provided by the Publisher in exchange for a fair and honest review'
4.5stars! Good books are the hardest to review,then there are certain kinds i find extremely hard to read and it has this tone of disaffected,aimless melancholy..'Sidebar' definitely has that underlying sadness and combined with it being a 228 page book,this wasn't the quickest read but it's definitely worth it...reading this story was an experience like no other for me. The book made my head spin page after page,making me just as unsure as West at times in this storyline,it was fast-paced and impossible to put down..the passion and powers that each characters had were intriguing and the parallels between both leads were well written..the specifics of West's tragic upbringing and past life with her mother was really painful and threw me for a loop when revealed but was written in just...Taite is such a master storyteller who writes as though she's describing and also detailing everything that she wants the readers to know about in the legal and justice system in this amazingly book...recommend to everyone
4.5stars! Good books are the hardest to review,then there are certain kinds i find extremely hard to read and it has this tone of disaffected,aimless melancholy..'Sidebar' definitely has that underlying sadness and combined with it being a 228 page book,this wasn't the quickest read but it's definitely worth it...reading this story was an experience like no other for me. The book made my head spin page after page,making me just as unsure as West at times in this storyline,it was fast-paced and impossible to put down..the passion and powers that each characters had were intriguing and the parallels between both leads were well written..the specifics of West's tragic upbringing and past life with her mother was really painful and threw me for a loop when revealed but was written in just...Taite is such a master storyteller who writes as though she's describing and also detailing everything that she wants the readers to know about in the legal and justice system in this amazingly book...recommend to everyone
July 3, 2017
Carsen Taite is one of those authors if she writes I’m going to read it. At this point, I’m sold on her stories so much, I don’t even need to read the synopsis, not necessary, I know without a doubt it’s going to be a quality book. Sidebar is no exception, I knew within the first couple of chapters Taite has written something special with this one.
If I think back over all the books I have read by this author, one always stands out to me. It Should Be a Crime, to me has always been my favorite of Taite’s. It was special. That book had bucket loads of chemistry, angst and two very intelligent, strong female leads all wrapped with a well thought out and interesting plot. What more can you ask for, right? I guess at this point you can ask for Sidebar. It has that same magic. This is book swings for the fences and delivers a bases-loaded home run.
Camille Avery is a newly appointed federal judge. After a controversial case cost her re-election at the county level, Camille is ready to start over and get her career back on track. A kink is thrown into her plan of all business, no fun when her new clerk arrives. West Fallon is everything Camille usually stays always from. She’s a fierce, social crusader who is ready to change the world. Chemistry is one thing you can’t fake and these two have it in spades. No matter how much they try to dance around it, the magnet of attraction is just too much. Neither was looking for this, but there is no denying it either.
This book has it all, two fantastic lead characters, an interesting plot and that sizzling chemistry that great authors can make jump off the page. While all of Taite’s books are fantastic, this one is on the next level. No critiques, no criticism, you only need to know one thing…this is a damn good book.
If I think back over all the books I have read by this author, one always stands out to me. It Should Be a Crime, to me has always been my favorite of Taite’s. It was special. That book had bucket loads of chemistry, angst and two very intelligent, strong female leads all wrapped with a well thought out and interesting plot. What more can you ask for, right? I guess at this point you can ask for Sidebar. It has that same magic. This is book swings for the fences and delivers a bases-loaded home run.
Camille Avery is a newly appointed federal judge. After a controversial case cost her re-election at the county level, Camille is ready to start over and get her career back on track. A kink is thrown into her plan of all business, no fun when her new clerk arrives. West Fallon is everything Camille usually stays always from. She’s a fierce, social crusader who is ready to change the world. Chemistry is one thing you can’t fake and these two have it in spades. No matter how much they try to dance around it, the magnet of attraction is just too much. Neither was looking for this, but there is no denying it either.
This book has it all, two fantastic lead characters, an interesting plot and that sizzling chemistry that great authors can make jump off the page. While all of Taite’s books are fantastic, this one is on the next level. No critiques, no criticism, you only need to know one thing…this is a damn good book.
September 9, 2017
I really like this author but this book gave me a few Deja vu moments. But saying that this was a really good read. It is the kind of book you just can not put down.
The two main characters are Camille and West. Camille is a Federal judge and West is fresh from graduation as a lawyer. They met by chance at the court house and had an immediate attraction. But Camille was there for an interview and West was visiting her ward Judge Blair. Judge Blair has a stroke and resigns from the bench but West promised she would clerk for him for twelve months. Camille gets his seat and promises to take on West as a clerk.
Problem is, the attraction is now stronger than ever. Also, Camille is about to preside over a very important case. West is accused of supplying the press with court documents. She resigns in what seems disgrace. But as you can guess it all works out. Nope I am not gonna tell you what happens only that you would be mad not to read the book for yourself.
It has a bit of everything. Love, commitment, betrayal and a little mystery. Great book and great read. Enjiy!
*ARC provided by publisher via NetGalley*
The two main characters are Camille and West. Camille is a Federal judge and West is fresh from graduation as a lawyer. They met by chance at the court house and had an immediate attraction. But Camille was there for an interview and West was visiting her ward Judge Blair. Judge Blair has a stroke and resigns from the bench but West promised she would clerk for him for twelve months. Camille gets his seat and promises to take on West as a clerk.
Problem is, the attraction is now stronger than ever. Also, Camille is about to preside over a very important case. West is accused of supplying the press with court documents. She resigns in what seems disgrace. But as you can guess it all works out. Nope I am not gonna tell you what happens only that you would be mad not to read the book for yourself.
It has a bit of everything. Love, commitment, betrayal and a little mystery. Great book and great read. Enjiy!
*ARC provided by publisher via NetGalley*
August 5, 2017
This was a really enjoyable read. I'm a Taite fan, though I normally prefer her slightly gritter books like her Luca Bennett series...but honestly anything she writes, I will read. When it comes to writing about the law, Taite is clearly one of the best around.
I had planned to only read a few chapters last night, before bed. While that plan quickly changed. I was so hooked on this book, I could not stop reading until 4am, and only did I stop from sheer exhaustion. I love when a good book gets its hooks in you like that. Now, I must admit this book might not be for everyone. If you have no interested at all in the law or judges, you might not enjoy this as much. But I really though Taite did a wonderful job on the subject, while mixing in chemistry for all you romance fans out there. When Taite is on her game, I think she does that better than most.
The story is about Camille and West. A chance meeting at the courthouse, stirs an instant attraction. Shortly after West can even ask Camille on a date, they get news they will be working together. A new employer/employee work relationship, is not the place to add dating. Though the more time they spend together, the spark remains. Is there a chance at a real relationship, or will their jobs come between them?
Diane mentioned in her review, "good books are the hardest to review". I could not agree more. Really the only small complaint I had was a few times the POV switched very quickly, and I had to make sure I knew if I was in West or Camille's head. Luckily that only happened twice. The rest of the books was smooth and flowed really well. Both character are very likeable, and the chemistry and connection they have is obvious. I also really enjoy the judge aspects. It was really interesting getting a behind the scenes look at something we never see or hear about. I never realized how much work a judge and their clerks do behind the scenes. This part was well written and not boring at all.
If you are a Taite fan, or even have the smallest interest in the law, this book is easy to recommend. I'm looking forward to whatever adventure Taite takes us on next.
An ARC was given to me by BSB, for a honest review.
I had planned to only read a few chapters last night, before bed. While that plan quickly changed. I was so hooked on this book, I could not stop reading until 4am, and only did I stop from sheer exhaustion. I love when a good book gets its hooks in you like that. Now, I must admit this book might not be for everyone. If you have no interested at all in the law or judges, you might not enjoy this as much. But I really though Taite did a wonderful job on the subject, while mixing in chemistry for all you romance fans out there. When Taite is on her game, I think she does that better than most.
The story is about Camille and West. A chance meeting at the courthouse, stirs an instant attraction. Shortly after West can even ask Camille on a date, they get news they will be working together. A new employer/employee work relationship, is not the place to add dating. Though the more time they spend together, the spark remains. Is there a chance at a real relationship, or will their jobs come between them?
Diane mentioned in her review, "good books are the hardest to review". I could not agree more. Really the only small complaint I had was a few times the POV switched very quickly, and I had to make sure I knew if I was in West or Camille's head. Luckily that only happened twice. The rest of the books was smooth and flowed really well. Both character are very likeable, and the chemistry and connection they have is obvious. I also really enjoy the judge aspects. It was really interesting getting a behind the scenes look at something we never see or hear about. I never realized how much work a judge and their clerks do behind the scenes. This part was well written and not boring at all.
If you are a Taite fan, or even have the smallest interest in the law, this book is easy to recommend. I'm looking forward to whatever adventure Taite takes us on next.
An ARC was given to me by BSB, for a honest review.
September 26, 2018
This book is in my recommended books of the month
https://lezreviewbooks.com/recommende...
Carsen Taite is on my top ten list of lesfic authors. She writes legal thrillers like nobody else. This book combines a realistic description of the intricacies of the legal system with a deep immersion in the main characters' world.
My only criticism is that there wasn't much mystery in the conflictive situation that the main characters had to go through. I also found the whole workplace situation a bit hard to believe. However, this fact didn't stop me from enjoying this book very much.
Overall an enjoyable read. 4 stars.
ARC provided by the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
See all my reviews at
www.lezreviewbooks.wordpress.com
https://lezreviewbooks.com/recommende...
Carsen Taite is on my top ten list of lesfic authors. She writes legal thrillers like nobody else. This book combines a realistic description of the intricacies of the legal system with a deep immersion in the main characters' world.
My only criticism is that there wasn't much mystery in the conflictive situation that the main characters had to go through. I also found the whole workplace situation a bit hard to believe. However, this fact didn't stop me from enjoying this book very much.
Overall an enjoyable read. 4 stars.
ARC provided by the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
See all my reviews at
www.lezreviewbooks.wordpress.com
July 25, 2017
This is the first book I've read by this author and she clearly has a handle on the legal system.
While the writing is solid, the characters fully developed, for some reason I never became fully invested in the story. Meaning I found it easy to put down and forget about.
As per the blurb, this is a legal drama and the romance is a slow burn. Fans of this author are bound to enjoy the story.
Based on the writing alone, I'd give this story 5 stars. Based on my reading enjoyment, 3 stars.
Overall rating 4 stars.
Copy provided by the publisher, Bold Strokes Books, via NetGalley
While the writing is solid, the characters fully developed, for some reason I never became fully invested in the story. Meaning I found it easy to put down and forget about.
As per the blurb, this is a legal drama and the romance is a slow burn. Fans of this author are bound to enjoy the story.
Based on the writing alone, I'd give this story 5 stars. Based on my reading enjoyment, 3 stars.
Overall rating 4 stars.
Copy provided by the publisher, Bold Strokes Books, via NetGalley
June 30, 2017
*The copy provided by NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books Inc. in exchange for an honest review*
To say I'm a big fan of Carsen Taite's books is an understatement! I love her crime stories, the way she describes the cases her characters solve, the problems they face while, almost accidentally they fall for each other! I love how she writes detailed dialogues when it comes to law scenes without any of them sounding boring or redundant.This book is no exception either. It's filled with great chemistry between West and Camille, they are well rounded characters with very different background stories but nevertheless both very likable and perfect for each other.
To say I'm a big fan of Carsen Taite's books is an understatement! I love her crime stories, the way she describes the cases her characters solve, the problems they face while, almost accidentally they fall for each other! I love how she writes detailed dialogues when it comes to law scenes without any of them sounding boring or redundant.This book is no exception either. It's filled with great chemistry between West and Camille, they are well rounded characters with very different background stories but nevertheless both very likable and perfect for each other.
October 22, 2017
It’s a Carsen Taite book, so of course it’s well written! The story is engaging, the pacing is perfect, the character work is excellent, and the romance is oh so fun to follow. Although most of her books fall firmly in the romantic suspense category, Sidebar is very much a romance with only a little bit of intrigue, and it’s great.
Full review: http://www.thelesbianreview.com/sideb...
Full review: http://www.thelesbianreview.com/sideb...
August 9, 2017
I thought the read had an interesting as well as unique premise with a highly motivated federal judge and a reluctant law clerk. West Fallon was interesting in her pursuit to make a difference and find romance. Camille Avery was determined in her work and should I or shouldn't I in her quest for romance. If you are a fan of court room drama, in and out of the court room, this is a fun and entertaining read with a reminder that you should stay true to self.
Read provided by Bold Strokes Books via NetGalley
Read provided by Bold Strokes Books via NetGalley
August 9, 2017
I think I have found my new favourite Carsen Taite book. When it comes to a seasoned author like Taite, I never have to worry about picking up one of her books because I know I will get good writing, an excellent plot, fantastic character development and seriously palpable chemistry between the characters. With this book I was completely bowled over because she took it to another level.
One thing you are guaranteed when it comes to a law novel and Taite is the level of knowledge she has about the legal system in America and you can bank on it that it is a accurately detailed subplot. I was drawn into the drama behind the romance and the underlying clues that gave you the feeling something wasn’t quite right. I can’t go into detail without giving spoilers but you will understand once you read this little gem of a book.
The chemistry between both characters was beautifully written and gave the reader an air of the forbidden which I rather enjoyed. The banter between the two protagonists was one of ease and endeared both protagonists to the reader more. I really hope that Taite finds a way to carry Camille and West’s story into another book or makes ‘Sidebar’ the first in a series because I truely believe there is more to their story.
Can I give it 6 stars… no? oh well!
5 stars!
One thing you are guaranteed when it comes to a law novel and Taite is the level of knowledge she has about the legal system in America and you can bank on it that it is a accurately detailed subplot. I was drawn into the drama behind the romance and the underlying clues that gave you the feeling something wasn’t quite right. I can’t go into detail without giving spoilers but you will understand once you read this little gem of a book.
The chemistry between both characters was beautifully written and gave the reader an air of the forbidden which I rather enjoyed. The banter between the two protagonists was one of ease and endeared both protagonists to the reader more. I really hope that Taite finds a way to carry Camille and West’s story into another book or makes ‘Sidebar’ the first in a series because I truely believe there is more to their story.
Can I give it 6 stars… no? oh well!
5 stars!
August 31, 2017
Great
I really loved this book. It was meatier than most romances and it kept me engaged until the very end.
I really loved this book. It was meatier than most romances and it kept me engaged until the very end.
July 15, 2017
Newly appointed, Judge Camille Avery is dealing with the differences between state and federal jurisdictions. Smart, capable and sexy, she works hard to overcome her bumpy past as a state judge.
Her inherited law clerk, attorney West Fallon, is a social justice crusader who would rather work for the ACLU than clerk for a judge. Rebellious and not always respectful of authority, West is brilliant and sexy and has the hots for her boss.
Their mutual attraction is palpable from their first serendipitous meeting a month before the Judge is appointed. Within a few weeks, they’re dealing with their first big case. When details about the case start leaking to the media, and their attraction is harder to deny, everyone is under pressure.
Taite is an old hand at the legal drama/romance. While she writes crime thrillers as well, it is her first-hand experience as a lawyer that really shows in her legal books.
The two main characters are smart, sexy and bold, and that makes for entertaining stories and likeable characters. Camille and West fit into this mold well. One is older and is technically the boss, but there is enough rebellion in West to enable this to work, without the obvious power dynamics really pushing the story in that direction.
The back story is kept to a minimum, and neither character is severely damaged psychologically, so it is a lighter story than Taite often delivers. The romance is clever and there is enough of a build up to work, but it does feel a bit sudden with the revelations at the end.
I do enjoy Taite’s books, and I’ve probably read most of them. This is lighter fare than most, but no less enjoyable for it. This was a delicious morsel of a legal drama/romance.
Advanced reading copy provided by NetGalley for an honest review.
Her inherited law clerk, attorney West Fallon, is a social justice crusader who would rather work for the ACLU than clerk for a judge. Rebellious and not always respectful of authority, West is brilliant and sexy and has the hots for her boss.
Their mutual attraction is palpable from their first serendipitous meeting a month before the Judge is appointed. Within a few weeks, they’re dealing with their first big case. When details about the case start leaking to the media, and their attraction is harder to deny, everyone is under pressure.
Taite is an old hand at the legal drama/romance. While she writes crime thrillers as well, it is her first-hand experience as a lawyer that really shows in her legal books.
The two main characters are smart, sexy and bold, and that makes for entertaining stories and likeable characters. Camille and West fit into this mold well. One is older and is technically the boss, but there is enough rebellion in West to enable this to work, without the obvious power dynamics really pushing the story in that direction.
The back story is kept to a minimum, and neither character is severely damaged psychologically, so it is a lighter story than Taite often delivers. The romance is clever and there is enough of a build up to work, but it does feel a bit sudden with the revelations at the end.
I do enjoy Taite’s books, and I’ve probably read most of them. This is lighter fare than most, but no less enjoyable for it. This was a delicious morsel of a legal drama/romance.
Advanced reading copy provided by NetGalley for an honest review.
August 8, 2017
I am rating this book 3.5 stars.
I enjoyed the read and the main characters in the book. I really enjoy storylines with a focus on the court room and lawyers which you are always guaranteed with Carsen Taite and not many do it better. The attraction between the two was there and something that built up well as you continued to read. I did find that there were too many back and forth, of yes we should and no we shouldn't in the end.
One area I did find slightly lacking was the connection between the two characters. I could feel the attraction through the story but the two connecting on a deeper level for me wasn't explored as well as I would have liked. I think that is more common when you have the additional story line of an investigation which takes up part of the story. I just felt the characters would think in their heads things they wanted to ask and know but never asked it. So I just found it hard to see how they actually grew together when they spent a lot of the time avoiding each other or focusing mainly on the attraction. I hope that makes sense.
Overall a great read that had a mix of romance and mystery/investigation.
I was given this book by NetGalley for an honest review.
I enjoyed the read and the main characters in the book. I really enjoy storylines with a focus on the court room and lawyers which you are always guaranteed with Carsen Taite and not many do it better. The attraction between the two was there and something that built up well as you continued to read. I did find that there were too many back and forth, of yes we should and no we shouldn't in the end.
One area I did find slightly lacking was the connection between the two characters. I could feel the attraction through the story but the two connecting on a deeper level for me wasn't explored as well as I would have liked. I think that is more common when you have the additional story line of an investigation which takes up part of the story. I just felt the characters would think in their heads things they wanted to ask and know but never asked it. So I just found it hard to see how they actually grew together when they spent a lot of the time avoiding each other or focusing mainly on the attraction. I hope that makes sense.
Overall a great read that had a mix of romance and mystery/investigation.
I was given this book by NetGalley for an honest review.
September 4, 2017
Very well done!
I like the way Carsen Taite writes her courtroom related stories. With such details. Makes me think she was one hell of an attorney! The characters were well developed and the plot well thought out. Overall, a well written story! Well done!
I like the way Carsen Taite writes her courtroom related stories. With such details. Makes me think she was one hell of an attorney! The characters were well developed and the plot well thought out. Overall, a well written story! Well done!
July 24, 2017
So this would get a 3.5 star rating if that was an option; it was a solid 4 right up until the last few chapters where it slightly lost its way.
I'm a big fan of Carsen Taite's work, her characters and plot scenarios tend to be decidedly more realistic than your average lesbian courtroom drama. (OK the basic plot of Courtship is ridiculous but it's still one of my favourites; I own the book and the audiobook) Funnily enough, Taite is/was a criminal defense lawyer so probably knows her shit in the legal department!
Sidebar features the traditional lesbian with a traumatic past but shockingly, she has largely dealt with it and moved on with her life and is being quite successful. She does not appear to have terrible nightmares, or to be unable to commit to a relationship because of her past - WT actual F is going on here?! Our other lead is a lady of means who is attempting to make a name for herself other than as her wealthy parents' daughter. Unfortunately, her carefully thought out legal and judicial career took a nasty nose dive when she 'did the right thing' and the fickle voting public turned against her. We also have a supportive roommate, an ever-supportive secretary, an idiot third man and some nasty office politics. Real people and everyday events are a large part of what makes 85% of this novel so good.
I say 85% specifically as I read this on my kindle and as I read I was highly surprised to realise that I had reached this point when it felt like I was only in the middle of the book. From then on it felt very rushed and included some very out of character behaviour, couched as a grand gesture.
In short, mostly awesome but spoiled by a weak ending. If you like Carsen Taite you will still like this novel (and probably don't even need to read this review). If you haven't read any books by Carsen Taite before, start off with It Should Be a Crime
I'm a big fan of Carsen Taite's work, her characters and plot scenarios tend to be decidedly more realistic than your average lesbian courtroom drama. (OK the basic plot of Courtship is ridiculous but it's still one of my favourites; I own the book and the audiobook) Funnily enough, Taite is/was a criminal defense lawyer so probably knows her shit in the legal department!
Sidebar features the traditional lesbian with a traumatic past but shockingly, she has largely dealt with it and moved on with her life and is being quite successful. She does not appear to have terrible nightmares, or to be unable to commit to a relationship because of her past - WT actual F is going on here?! Our other lead is a lady of means who is attempting to make a name for herself other than as her wealthy parents' daughter. Unfortunately, her carefully thought out legal and judicial career took a nasty nose dive when she 'did the right thing' and the fickle voting public turned against her. We also have a supportive roommate, an ever-supportive secretary, an idiot third man and some nasty office politics. Real people and everyday events are a large part of what makes 85% of this novel so good.
I say 85% specifically as I read this on my kindle and as I read I was highly surprised to realise that I had reached this point when it felt like I was only in the middle of the book. From then on it felt very rushed and included some very out of character behaviour, couched as a grand gesture.
In short, mostly awesome but spoiled by a weak ending. If you like Carsen Taite you will still like this novel (and probably don't even need to read this review). If you haven't read any books by Carsen Taite before, start off with It Should Be a Crime
September 2, 2017
Intriguing legal mystery with many twists involving a newly appointed judge and her building romantic relationship with her younger law clerk.
More than just a love story. Each character is complex, has their own agenda and brings soleful baggage.
Interesting read.
More than just a love story. Each character is complex, has their own agenda and brings soleful baggage.
Interesting read.
July 27, 2020
Carsen Taite writes the best law characters and novels. Her female lawyers and judges always make me swoon - Camille & West were no exception. Although I didn't really feel the chemistry between our two MCs, I still really enjoyed the novel and thought that the conflict was handled well. Looking forward to reading more of Taite's books in future.
August 16, 2021
I'm on a Carsen Taite binge and nothing is stopping me. RTC
August 10, 2017
I like this one as well in and to have West and Camille together I was rooting for them. Would have loved fi we knew Stround got what was coming to him.
NetGalley for a honest review.
NetGalley for a honest review.
August 21, 2017
I enjoyed this. It was a lighthearted read. There wasn't too much mystery, who was behind certain events was easy to figure out. The chemistry between the two main characters was good. Not sure I'd read this again, but it was a nice Sunday afternoon read for me.
August 18, 2017
As with all of Ms. Tate’s previous books, this book deals with the legal system. The two main characters are Camille Avery, a US federal judge, and West Fallen, an attorney. West is fulfilling a promise that she made to do a 1-year clerkship to Judge Avery.
There is an instant attraction between Camille and West. Throughout the book, there is a push and pull of attraction between the two of them.
West and Camille are two very strong, intelligent women. Ms. Taite has done a great job of developing these two characters. Camille has worked very hard to obtain a U. S. Federal judgeship. Because of her drive to obtain this lofty position, she has denied herself any chance for relationships. West, too, has worked hard in her studies at Berkeley and is now an attorney who wants to defend people who might not be able to stand up for themselves. West would much rather pass on the clerkship and get a position in a legal defense office where she feels she can make a difference in the world.
Sidebar is a fast-pace romance with a little bit of a mystery thrown into the story. The suspense is woven throughout the book and culminates at the very end.
Learning more about the judicial system from the viewpoint of the judge was very interesting. The work that must be done by the judge and her clerks is enormous. This is just one of the many reasons why I feel that a person would enjoy this book.
I recommend this book and rate it 4-1/2 stars out of five stars. Readers will not be disappointed.
I was given this ARC in return for a fair and honest review.
There is an instant attraction between Camille and West. Throughout the book, there is a push and pull of attraction between the two of them.
West and Camille are two very strong, intelligent women. Ms. Taite has done a great job of developing these two characters. Camille has worked very hard to obtain a U. S. Federal judgeship. Because of her drive to obtain this lofty position, she has denied herself any chance for relationships. West, too, has worked hard in her studies at Berkeley and is now an attorney who wants to defend people who might not be able to stand up for themselves. West would much rather pass on the clerkship and get a position in a legal defense office where she feels she can make a difference in the world.
Sidebar is a fast-pace romance with a little bit of a mystery thrown into the story. The suspense is woven throughout the book and culminates at the very end.
Learning more about the judicial system from the viewpoint of the judge was very interesting. The work that must be done by the judge and her clerks is enormous. This is just one of the many reasons why I feel that a person would enjoy this book.
I recommend this book and rate it 4-1/2 stars out of five stars. Readers will not be disappointed.
I was given this ARC in return for a fair and honest review.
July 4, 2017
netgalley
Excellent well written, a re read
Excellent well written, a re read
September 16, 2017
Okay, so I'm ashamed to admit that this was the first Carsen Taite book I've read. I know, I know. Thats awesome. But I'm not usually into legal dramas. Well was I really completely wrong. I love this book and will not certainly read more of Carsen's books. I guess it's good thing she has a decent sized body of work. Gives me plenty to read. So West (which is an awesome name) Fallon is a recent law school graduate and she has grand plans to help others and resist the system. However she has promised that she'll spend a year clerking for a Federal judge, her mentor. Things change when her mentor has a life event that causes him to step down from his bench. That is where we see Camille come in. She goes in to become a magistrate judge but because of the events with the other judge stepping down she is given a dream tenure position as a Federal judge. However West's mentor still holds her to her promise and now she is clerking for Judge Camille Avery. The sparks fly between them before they even know who each other is. But once they find out they will be Judge and clerk the tension starts. Not only the physical and emotional attraction, but Judge Avery is also presiding over her first case and it's a very high profile one. So she's under stress there. The romance is actually sweet and I really am in love with West. I like how she dresses and her matter of fact attitude. I would suggest this to anyone and as I said, I found out I do really like legal drama/romances, thanks to Carsen. Now I'm heading out to get more of her books.
August 7, 2017
Fabulous plot.
I was very immersed into Camille and West life reality and challenges. Their universe is amazingly described and set the bar very high for the next unfortunate book I will be reading.
Every plot arc are well use and pertinent. IF each book by Taite are up to that standard I might have found a new to-go author.
Totally recommend.
I received this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I was very immersed into Camille and West life reality and challenges. Their universe is amazingly described and set the bar very high for the next unfortunate book I will be reading.
Every plot arc are well use and pertinent. IF each book by Taite are up to that standard I might have found a new to-go author.
Totally recommend.
I received this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
August 18, 2017
I was given a copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.
I really enjoyed the legal detail in this courtroom drama. The impact of judicial decisions on cases is fascinating. The two women in this story are also interesting. Federal judge Camille and newly qualified lawyer West are at different places in their careers and I enjoyed learning about both jobs.
While I really liked both Camille and West, I struggled to invest in their relationship. Both women are crafted as clever, driven, and inherently good characters. Pursuing a sordid office affair hurts both of their moral authority and makes Camille just as bad as the corrupt individuals and institutions she rails against. How does she fairly evaluate or choose between her two clerks when she is snogging one of them? And while West isn’t a typical victim, her career is beholden to Camille and she is bound by the older woman’s professional decisions without recourse. The relationship left a bad taste in my mouth. I did like the emotional and mental connection between Camille and West but I didn’t feel any real physical chemistry between West and Camille. However, I will admit that my reaction to the judge/clerk relationship tainted my response to their personal relationship.
There is a suspense element to this story that didn’t completely work for me. Camille starts receiving threats quite early in this book but the storyline isn’t followed up very consistently. Some clues are a bit too obvious but I’m not sure readers are ever given enough information to figure everything out for ourselves.
I’m conflicted about this story. I love the strong women and I enjoyed the legal drama but if Camille were a male judge, this would be a story about workplace sexual harassment and abuse of power. It wouldn’t be a romance.
I really enjoyed the legal detail in this courtroom drama. The impact of judicial decisions on cases is fascinating. The two women in this story are also interesting. Federal judge Camille and newly qualified lawyer West are at different places in their careers and I enjoyed learning about both jobs.
While I really liked both Camille and West, I struggled to invest in their relationship. Both women are crafted as clever, driven, and inherently good characters. Pursuing a sordid office affair hurts both of their moral authority and makes Camille just as bad as the corrupt individuals and institutions she rails against. How does she fairly evaluate or choose between her two clerks when she is snogging one of them? And while West isn’t a typical victim, her career is beholden to Camille and she is bound by the older woman’s professional decisions without recourse. The relationship left a bad taste in my mouth. I did like the emotional and mental connection between Camille and West but I didn’t feel any real physical chemistry between West and Camille. However, I will admit that my reaction to the judge/clerk relationship tainted my response to their personal relationship.
There is a suspense element to this story that didn’t completely work for me. Camille starts receiving threats quite early in this book but the storyline isn’t followed up very consistently. Some clues are a bit too obvious but I’m not sure readers are ever given enough information to figure everything out for ourselves.
I’m conflicted about this story. I love the strong women and I enjoyed the legal drama but if Camille were a male judge, this would be a story about workplace sexual harassment and abuse of power. It wouldn’t be a romance.
August 22, 2017
Camille Avery is a judge that was newly appointed to the federal court after taking a slight detour to her dream career path. As she takes on this new job, she makes a promise to the judge she's replacing to keep on Attorney West Fallon as a law clerk.
You can definitely read the chemistry coming off the pages between Camille and West. I would've loved more scenes between the two, but there was definitely some angst which I enjoyed.
I have to say it wasn't much of a mystery who the culprit was and the person behind it. There were certain characters I didn't like, as I was not supposed to anyways.
I generally like Carsen Taite's books and definitely recommend her books for others to read, you can't go wrong with any of them.
Review also posted here: http://wp.me/p4Pp9O-G9
I was given a copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
You can definitely read the chemistry coming off the pages between Camille and West. I would've loved more scenes between the two, but there was definitely some angst which I enjoyed.
I have to say it wasn't much of a mystery who the culprit was and the person behind it. There were certain characters I didn't like, as I was not supposed to anyways.
I generally like Carsen Taite's books and definitely recommend her books for others to read, you can't go wrong with any of them.
Review also posted here: http://wp.me/p4Pp9O-G9
I was given a copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
September 22, 2017
ARC provided by the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
I actually enjoyed this book a lot mire than the last one I read by this author. It had great characters and a good pace the only two things that I would critique are that the mystery was not a real mystery and could have been more and the whole workplace situation seemed a little unrealistic to me but other than that a great book.
I actually enjoyed this book a lot mire than the last one I read by this author. It had great characters and a good pace the only two things that I would critique are that the mystery was not a real mystery and could have been more and the whole workplace situation seemed a little unrealistic to me but other than that a great book.
September 24, 2017
I almost always enjoy Taite’s books. Sidebar may be my favorite of hers though. I loved the character West. Once I started reading I really struggled to put the book down. I wanted to read it straight through but sleep got in my way. I hope I see more of these characters in the future. A love story about a judge and a lawyer without too much legal language. If you haven’t read Taite’s books before this would be a perfect one to start. I highly recommend this book.
November 11, 2017
Great story! Court room drama with a side of lust and love! Things wrap up pretty quickly once it all come to the pinnacle of the story, but it all flows together and is resolved well. Didn't feel rushed, maybe I just read faster to get to the conclusion.
September 10, 2019
Loved it! The story, the characters and the interactions. I think sometimes you have to take a shot and this book took me exactly where I wanted to. Only wish there was epilogue....because I always want more!
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