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Ashley Montgomery #6

Unconditional Revenge

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A deadbeat with a criminal past. A husband with a dark secret.
When two seemingly unconnected cases collide, Ashley Montgomery will risk everything to right her wrongs and chase down the truth in this riveting legal thriller. When Oliver Banks is charged with attempted murder after hitting a pedestrian with a car, defense attorney Ashley Montgomery is hesitant to take his case. Something is off about Oliver, and when troubling new information emerges she begins to suspect he might be entangled in something far worse than this one crime. Struggling to keep her PI agency afloat, Katie agrees to investigate a new client’s husband. Bruce Ross has been spending all his time in the garage but refusing to let anyone inside, and his pregnant wife Vivian is concerned about his behavior. But as Katie learns more about the family, she begins to suspect that Vivian isn’t telling the whole story either…especially when she discovers a connection between the Ross family and Ashley’s client, Oliver. As they work to uncover their clients’ secrets, Ashley and Katie soon realize that the two cases are intertwined. Now they must work together to figure out the big picture…before a secret plan results in a terrible tragedy. Packed with dark suspense and unexpected twists, Unconditional Revenge is the sixth book in the gripping Ashley Montgomery Legal Thriller Series, a must-read for fans of Robin James. ______________________ Praise for Laura Snider and the Ashley Montgomery Legal Thriller "...a wonderful mix of fully-developed characters, sharp, witty dialogue and descriptive prose that had me captivated from beginning to end." ―James Chandler, author of Misjudged "Snider steals the show with her descriptive voice and legal details..." ―Carolyn Ridder Aspenson, USA Today Bestselling author of Damaging Secrets "...twisty crimes and complicated relationships. This is a series you won't want to miss." ―Shannon Baker, author of Stripped Bare "...truly compelling and hard to put down." ―Cynthia Hamilton, author of Spouse Trap ________________________ What readers are ★★★★★ "Excellent!"
★★★★★ "...dark suspense..."
★★★★★ "...high-stakes case..."
★★★★★ "...powerfully written..."
★★★★★ "Best Ashley Montgomery story of the series!!!!"

254 pages, Paperback

First published August 22, 2023

258 people are currently reading
52 people want to read

About the author

Laura Snider

19 books157 followers
Laura Snider is a practicing lawyer in Iowa. She graduated from Drake Law School in 2009 and spent most of her career as a Public Defender. Throughout her legal career, she has been involved in all levels of crimes from petty thefts to murders. These days she is working part-time as a prosecutor and spends the remainder of her time writing stories and creating characters.

Laura lives in Iowa with her husband, three children, two dogs, and two very mischievous cats.

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5 stars
138 (63%)
4 stars
61 (27%)
3 stars
15 (6%)
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4 (1%)
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
Profile Image for Denise .
765 reviews8 followers
August 21, 2023
Even though this is the sixth book in the series, new readers will find it an enjoyable read without feeling lost. There are of course ongoing storyline arcs which will be interesting to those who have been reading the series from the beginning, but the main storyline is complete and entertaining on its own. The main characters of Ashley and Katie are both strong, competent, independent women. I particularly like Ashley’s upfront, accept no BS attitude. She has a heart under that ‘attitude’ too. Those who like legal thrillers will find much to like in this series and those who just really like a good story will also enjoy this series.
Profile Image for Lee.
982 reviews121 followers
August 2, 2023
A deadbeat with a criminal past. A husband with a dark secret.
When two seemingly unconnected cases collide, Ashley Montgomery will risk everything to right her wrongs and chase down the truth in this riveting legal thriller.

This is a very good legal thriller and I have read a lot of these types of stories so hats off to Miss Snider on a well executed book. I have not read any of the other books in this series and it obviously did not affect reading this as a standalone as I had no idea it is book 6 in a series. As is normal, it would have been beneficial to understand more about the characters but I would still recommend this as a standalone. Of course, now I will go back and start at the beginning of the series.

Ashley is not sure about taking this case initially as she has some doubts and a gut feeling that there is something more going on than she has been told and she does not like the unknown when she is defending her clients. Her friend Kate is a PI and it is soon discovered that her most recent case seems to link in with Ashley's. They work together to establish the facts and Kate soon connects that this is true.

I really liked these two women characters, they are both strong and determined while also supporting each other throughout the case. Great plot that keeps you engaged, lies and secrets will be uncovered, the book has it all, great twists and I read late into the night when I should have been sleeping as I was excited by the events occurring and was waiting to see how it would all wrap up which it did really well. Overall thoroughly enjoyable.

Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for an advanced copy of the book in exchange for an honest review, all opinions are my own.
1,632 reviews12 followers
August 16, 2023
I received an ARC through "Severn River Publishing" and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.

This story begins with Ashley defending a client, Oliver Banks, and later a new client comes in for Katie who has brought her daughter Nancy (Penny) with her. This woman wnts Katie to look into her husband, Bruce. It seems that Bruce is spending a lot of time in the garage and his whole character has changed. Later in the story, Ashley becomes involved with Vivian, Katie's new client. It appears that Vivian was pregnant and her water broke with Vivian then being transported to the hospital. Unfortunately, the baby died at birth and as a result, Bruce had Vivian arrest for the death.

Follow Ashley and Katie as they attempt to defend Vivian of Bruce's accusation and the trial that follows, discover how Oliver, Ashley's client, plays a role in the defense of Vivian. Learn why Penny is such an important part of the story.

This a great story and the ending is well worth it.
Profile Image for David Taylor.
1,530 reviews25 followers
August 16, 2023
Best Ashley Montgomery story of the series!!!!
Of all of Laura Snyder’s Ashley Montgomery books, Unconditional Revenge was the hardest to read due to its underlying subject matter. However, when looked at in comparison with its predecessors, this story is one of if not the most complex of the series not to mention it has a few characters who are easy to dislike and a couple who you cannot help but feel deep compassion, especially Penny. Following Ashley and Katie on another case was highly entertaining, especially with Penny involved. I think if I were to say more than read the description on Amazon, I would be likely to provide some unwanted spoilers. If you have read all the previous Ashley Montgomery books, I guarantee you won’t be sorry. If you are on the fence, what are you waiting for, this is the best Ashley Montgomery story. I received an advance reader copy of Unconditional Revenge from the publisher and chose to provide my review.
Profile Image for Paula.
1,306 reviews49 followers
July 20, 2023
Unconditional Revenge by Laura Snider is a gripping legal thriller. When two seemingly unconnected cases collide, Ashley Montgomery will risk everything to right her wrongs and chase down the truth in this riveting legal thriller.

This story is definitely packed with dark suspense and unexpected twists. Unconditional Revenge is the sixth book in the gripping Ashley Montgomery Legal Thriller Series.

I adored Penny, and Katie and Ashley were very strong female protagonists. Bruce was quite the slimeball. And with Vivian, I went back and forth on her, with her haughty attitude, but then compassion for how her husband treated her.

I like good courtroom and legal dramas, and this one hit the marks for me. I would recommend this series, this book, and this author. Enjoyable story with solid writing.

#NetGalley @SvrnRvrPublish
961 reviews11 followers
August 22, 2023
A mother and daughter's trauma

Vivian Ross is determined to protect her daughter, Penny from her ex-husband Bruce. Katie Mickey and Ashley Montgomery get involved in the case. Why is Vivian clinging to her daughter? Why are they so terrified of Bruce? Meanwhile, there are chances of Ashley getting the post of judge if she goes by the book. Will it finally happen? Ashley puts her life and career in jeopardy when she opposes Bruce and protects Vivian and Penny This well crafted thriller had my heart in my mouth. The author has aptly described the anguish and terror of the mother and daughter and the trauma caused by her ex-husband who is controlling, manipulative and vengeful.
Profile Image for Tim Mullen.
181 reviews1 follower
September 6, 2023
A fitting conclusion

The last chapter in the Ashley Montgomery series is a great way to bring this series to an end. From the Prologue, which is guaranteed to have you racing through the rest of the book if only to discover how that turns out, this is a breathless ride where Ashley is faced with genuine evil, significant relationship changes, and professional dilemmas as she reluctantly continues through the process of succeeding the retiring Judge Ahrenson on the Bench.

It may be worth pointing out, particularly to American readers, that the author reveals some of her personal legal beliefs that some may disagree with, but also raises some examples of the law of unintended consequences.

This has been an extremely enjoyable series that gets the ending it deserves.
7,711 reviews47 followers
July 12, 2023
Defense Attorney Ashley is hesitate to take the case of a hit and run accident.
From the client, It seemed like she was not getting the whole story, when she finds he is involved in more than just this.
PI Katie investingating a case of Bruce and Vivian,and not getting the whole story.
As Ashley and Katie get more into their cases they find they maybe somehow involved together. It is a riviting twisted plot of damaged relationships, secrets that was well written. Her stories capture the reader with excellent plots and excellent characterrs. Given arc for SRP for my voluntary review
August 22. Releases
Profile Image for Cozy Reviews.
2,050 reviews5 followers
July 20, 2023
This book is the Sixth in the series and my first in the series. The premisis is a defense attorney and a PIT who are friends and are each working on different cases that they soon find are blended together with clues and suspects. I like that the strong women charcters are standing on their own and smart savvy investigators. The plot had twist and turns to keep you reading into the night. It was pleasing to conclusion with a exciting finish. I recommend this book for all who enjoy legal dramas.

Thank you to the publisher and to Net Galley for the opportinity. My review opinions are my own.
1,451 reviews6 followers
September 7, 2023
This, the 6th in a legal thriller series, takes place in a fictitious Iowa city near Des Moines....in today's time & social/political climate. I read the 1st book in the series, & now this, the 6th....& feel like I can definitely see growth/improvement in the author's writing/story telling. Being familiar with the state, I appreciate the Iowa references, & I found this plot more plausible than the 1st book's. I do think I'll look up & read the series in order, but one can certainly enjoy this book without having read any of the previous ones.
I received an e-ARC from Severn River Publishing via NetGalley for review purposes. This is my own fair/honest review.
Profile Image for Julie M. Granger.
17 reviews
October 8, 2023
After finishing the sixth novel in the Ashley Montgomery series, I am officially in Ashley and Katie's withdrawal. Unconditional Revenge captures the current vibes of Iowa and the outrage many women felt about the Iowa Governor's decisions and actions. Laura Snider is able to weave great characters in her stories. and you find yourself cheering for justice. Ashley Montgomery says what many women wish they could do in the workplace. Once again her spot-on characters of Iowa men never fail to entertain this reader. I strongly recommend this series. Each book will leave thinking long after to close the book.
403 reviews3 followers
August 22, 2023
Excellent book 6 ! This series just keeps getting better.
Ashley’s meeting with a new client, Oliver Banks, as he is walking out a high-profile citizen’s pregnant wife (Vivian) and daughter walk in to meet with Kate.
As Kate starts working for Vivian, she finds that the outside appearance is very different. Bruce the husband has been secretive, locking himself up in his “office” garage – and strange coming and goings, when she spots Oliver Banks, it becomes even stranger.
Don’t want to tell you more – be ready for a bit of a roller coaster.
Profile Image for Claudete Takahashi.
2,494 reviews35 followers
August 23, 2023
I enjoyed reading Unconditional Revenge. The story was creatively constructed and it shows how a human being can become evil and threaten everyone near them, including their child. It's a story of greed, abusing relationships, crime, and people trying to live their lives on a routine basis when possible. It's full of action, shows how the legal system works, and has a main character - Ashley Montgomery - that would be the attorney to choose if you had a legal problem to deal with.
I thank Ms. Sneider and her publisher for this ARC.
133 reviews
August 23, 2023
Hooray! It's so great to be back in Brine with Ashley, Katie, Elena and the other interconnecting characters. A rich, evil, lawyer that we all can hate teams up with a low life to wreak havoc on the lawyer's sad, battered, sympathetic wife & daughter. Even Ashley gets drawn into the child's orbit. This is the kind of case that Ashley can sink her teeth into as she zealously defends her client! There are multiple twists and turns within the legal case and also in the personal lives of Ashley and Katie. This is a Great Read you can't put down and I can't wait for the next book in the series!
Profile Image for Autumn | bookishandblissful.
380 reviews8 followers
March 8, 2024
Ummm... this might be my FAVORITE Ashley Montgomery story! This one had me heated from the beginning - a possible school shooting and the discussion of Roe v Wade - and badass women.

Ashley and Katie are always badass, but Penny from the get go warmed my heart. HATED BRUCE WITH ALL OF MY HEART. Vivian.. won me over by the end.

It seems like this might be the last one in it's series and I'm sad about it because this entire standalone legal thriller series has been truly enjoyable to read.
Profile Image for Sandy.
850 reviews13 followers
August 9, 2023
Two seemingly unrelated cases merge into one powerfully written book! As Ashley prepares to defend an auto accident, Katie investigates a spouse. Complex characters, a great plot and expert craftsmanship kept me reading far past my bedtime. I enjoyed this book and am looking forward to the next in the series. I received a complimentary copy of this book and chose to write a voluntary, unbiased review.
Profile Image for Linda.
1,339 reviews12 followers
August 26, 2023
Another action packed story featuring Ashley Montgomery and Katie Mickey. What starts out as two seemingly unrelated cases become complicated. The characters were well fleshed out and relatable. The plot was intense. The suspense kept me turning the pages until I reached the satisfying ending. I would definitely recommend it. I received an advance copy of this book via Severn River Publishing and I am voluntarily leaving my review.
8 reviews
December 7, 2023
Working to win a jury conviction

I really enjoyed this series! The characters were well developed and their actions were consistent with the development of character.But they were always thinking ahead of, but were always coming up with a great idea. There was intensity in story line ,good fun among characters you came to love, and everyone learned to work together to make a stronger outcome for the good of the community!

Profile Image for Kate.
276 reviews21 followers
July 26, 2023
Thanks to Netgalley and Severn River Publishing for access to this arc in exchange for my honest review.

I think this is the first time I've read from this author, and a legal thriller. I dived in since prologue and it has been an interesting ride. I felt compassion for one character and hatred for another. I loved this book and will surely read others from this author !!
1,240 reviews28 followers
August 3, 2023
This is a very entertaining book with excellent characters and a plot that raises several interesting issues, but the final solutions seem at little too easy. The storytelling is OK, and even if the chapters changes with who is in the action, it's always the author telling the story, and it's easy to follow.
2 reviews1 follower
March 31, 2024
It is a pity ideology spoils a good ook

As usual I was enjoying this Laura Snider book up to the moment she identify pro lifers with the bad guys. And what about the pro choice people killing millions of indefense babies. As you won't change your mind, to my regret I'll stop reading your books
61 reviews4 followers
January 30, 2024
Is it really over?

Favorite series! I can't believe its over. This particular book in the series was my favorite.

It was all brought together in the end.
6 reviews
September 7, 2023
Keep reading!

Laura is a great author & storyteller! I've read them all! You won't want to put them down! Love when the woman gets the bad guy!






Profile Image for Karen Andreas-Moses.
12 reviews
November 8, 2023
Outstanding series.

I really liked all of the main characters and the plot lines. We'll written and the books held my interest.
Profile Image for shirley carter.
17 reviews1 follower
November 23, 2023
Interesting Read

I liked the suspense in this book. Page turner,attention grabber and very good plot. I would recommend this book to other readers. Good Author.
12.5k reviews186 followers
February 3, 2024
Ashley agrees to take on a case of someone accused of hit and run. Things seem strange with many secrets. Will she be able to find out the truth. Another well written story that won’t let you down.
Profile Image for K Huskić.
2,057 reviews39 followers
December 26, 2023
This story was twisty! Ashley was given a new case but the client seemed... off. Then Katie got a new client for her PI firm, whose story was a little odd. It wasn't long before both Ashley and Katie released their two cases were linked.

I like both Ashley and Katie. They're both strong, independent women, and equally likeable, but they're also very different people and approach situations differently.

I enjoyed this story, and look forward to what comes next for Ashley.
Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews

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