Murder in Blue by Mike Avery stands as an exhilarating testament to the complexities of law, crime, and loyalty, weaving a gripping tale set in the heart of Boston’s bustling underworld. Avery's craftsmanship shines in the intricate world-building and the conflict that propels the narrative forward. Susan Sorella, the sharp-witted defense lawyer, emerges as a compelling protagonist, unafraid to skirt the boundaries of legality. The superbly depicted characters, including Boston mob boss Frank Romano, add layers of intrigue to the story. The snappy dialogues and vivid descriptions immerse readers in a world where rules are often bent if not outright broken.

The is the tale about a murder case involving a major league baseball umpire that thrusts Susan into a vortex of danger and ethical dilemmas. The defendant's alleged cries of “Kill the Ump!” paired with the discovery of the murder weapon in his possession paint a damning picture and an open-and-close case against him. Complicating matters, Susan finds herself romantically entangled with the homicide detective leading the case, adding a moral dimension to her pursuit of justice. As time passes by, Susan finds herself on the eve of the trial with no other suspect but her client.

A trail of bodies leads Susan through the labyrinthine streets of Boston and the serene beaches of Tampa Bay, uncovering a steroid conspiracy potentially linked to major league baseball. The tension mounts as the trial approaches, with Susan struggling to find an alternative suspect while balancing the defense of her client. Avery's storytelling prowess shines through the escalating conflict and the enthralling pursuit of truth in a world where every lead comes with its own set of dangers. Murder in Blue is a thrilling, fast-paced legal thriller with compelling hints of mystery, a story that captivates with its intricate world-building, morally complex characters, and the pulsating drive of the plot.