The Final Appeal: A Legal Thriller

The Final Appeal, from Wall Street Journal bestselling author James Chandler and seasoned attorney Laura Snider, is a razor-sharp legal thriller brimming with justice, betrayal, and biting consequences. Perfect for fans of Michael Connelly and John Grisham.

A jury convicted him. The evidence tells a different story.

"...Chandler and Snider deliver a fast-paced, suspenseful [legal thriller], packed with twists that build to a satisfying conclusion." --Library Journal

Small-town lawyer Marko Bauer and sharp-tongued associate Allee Smith aren't eager to risk another courtroom disaster--especially not for Byron, a convicted kidnapper swearing innocence from his jail cell.

But when a waitress at the Justice Bites restaurant brings them Byron's plea, something doesn't taste right. A sketchy voice ID, a basement crime scene that doesn't exist, and a detective nursing grudges deeper than the county's riverbeds. Marko and Allee soon realize Byron might actually be telling the truth--this time.

Crafting a bold legal strategy, the duo push forward with a post-conviction relief hearing, hoping to secure Byron's release. But freedom might unleash a darker side of Byron. His angry, entitled, and volatile demeanor is leaving those around him to wonder if they're freeing an innocent man--or releasing a ticking time bomb.

Marko and Allee soon confront a troubling realization: some clients should never see daylight again.

Author: James Chandler,Laura Snider
Publisher: Severn River Publishing
Published: 08/18/2026
Pages: 300
Binding Type: Paperback
Weight: 0.95lbs
Size: 9.00h x 5.90w x 1.00d
ISBN: 9781648757174


Review Citation(s):
Library Journal 07/01/2026 pg. 39

About the Author
Wall Street Journal bestselling author James Chandler spent his formative years in the western United States. When he wasn't catching fish or footballs, he was roaming centerfield and trying to hit the breaking pitch. After a mediocre college baseball career, he exchanged jersey No. 7 for camouflage issued by the United States Army, which he wore around the globe and with great pride for twenty years. Since law school, he has favored dark suits and a steerhide briefcase. When he isn't working or writing, he'll likely have a fly rod, shotgun or rifle in hand. He and his wife are blessed with two wonderful adult daughters. Misjudged is his first novel.

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.