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The Intern
A young Harvard law student falls under the spell of a charismatic judge in this timely and thrilling novel about class, ambition, family and murder.
Madison Rivera lands the internship of a lifetime working for Judge Kathryn Conroy. But Madison has a secret that could destroy her career. Her troubled younger brother Danny has been arrested, and Conroy is the judge on his case.
When Danny goes missing after accusing the judge of corruption, Madison’s quest for answers brings her deep into the judge’s glamorous world. Is Kathryn Conroy a mentor, a victim, or a criminal? Is she trying to help Madison or use her as a pawn? And why is somebody trying to kill her?
As the two women circle each other in a dangerous cat-and-mouse game, will they save each other, or will betrayal leave one of them dead?
Madison Rivera lands the internship of a lifetime working for Judge Kathryn Conroy. But Madison has a secret that could destroy her career. Her troubled younger brother Danny has been arrested, and Conroy is the judge on his case.
When Danny goes missing after accusing the judge of corruption, Madison’s quest for answers brings her deep into the judge’s glamorous world. Is Kathryn Conroy a mentor, a victim, or a criminal? Is she trying to help Madison or use her as a pawn? And why is somebody trying to kill her?
As the two women circle each other in a dangerous cat-and-mouse game, will they save each other, or will betrayal leave one of them dead?
378 pages, Hardcover
First published October 3, 2023
About the author
Michele Campbell
11 books2,460 followersMichele Campbell is a graduate of Harvard College and Stanford Law School and a former federal prosecutor in New York City who specialized in international narcotics and gang cases.
A while back, she said goodbye to her big-city legal career and moved with her husband and two children to an idyllic New England college town a lot like Belle River in IT’S ALWAYS THE HUSBAND. Since then, she has spent her time teaching criminal and constitutional law and writing novels.
She's had many close female friends, a few frenemies, and only one husband, who – to the best of her knowledge – has never tried to kill her.
A while back, she said goodbye to her big-city legal career and moved with her husband and two children to an idyllic New England college town a lot like Belle River in IT’S ALWAYS THE HUSBAND. Since then, she has spent her time teaching criminal and constitutional law and writing novels.
She's had many close female friends, a few frenemies, and only one husband, who – to the best of her knowledge – has never tried to kill her.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 2,665 reviews
August 31, 2023
Started slow and then I got super invested!
January 13, 2024
This heart-throbbing and absolutely unputdownable legal thriller captivates readers with its well-executed character development and perfectly paced plot. It keeps you on your toes with its intriguing mystery, balanced with surprising twists. Once you start reading, you won't want to leave your seat, flipping the pages faster to uncover the challenging cliffhangers the author throws our way. It's an exciting and engaging read that draws you into a character-driven, thought-provoking mystery that you'll want to solve immediately."
Both of the two points of view (POVs) in the story keep your interest alive and intact. One of the POVs belongs to Madison Rivera, a Harvard Law student whose dreams come true when she secures a spot as a summer intern at her favorite judge, Kathryn Conroy's office. However, when she discovers that her brother, Danny, has been arrested on federal drug charges and Kathryn is assigned to his case, Madison realizes that her idol may hold her brother's fate in her hands. She is determined to help her brother and unravel the mystery behind the crime he insists he didn't commit. The pressure on Madison's shoulders escalates as her mother pushes her harder to assist her brother, and Kathryn welcomes her into a dangerous, secret world while Madison hides her involvement with Danny.
Through Kathryn's POV, readers delve into her dark past, the poverty and struggles she faced, and the difficult choices she made to climb the career ladder. Personally, I found her character development and perspective to be particularly compelling.
The revelations in the book are surprising yet believable. There are no senseless or far-fetched explanations, which was a relief. The conclusion is also well-wrapped up, satisfying readers with a well-executed ending.
One aspect of the book that bothered me was the large number of characters and their connections to the main characters, creating a complex web. It was a bit confusing to keep track of which character served what purpose. I found myself going back and forth to piece everything together. However, in the end, the bigger picture perfectly made sense.
As a devoted fan of the author, I never say no to well-written, fast-paced, and exciting crime/legal/political thrillers. This book definitely met my expectations, and I highly recommend it to fellow genre lovers.
Many thanks to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for providing me with a digital reviewer copy of this book in exchange for my honest thoughts.
If you’re interested in reading my extended book reviews, movie critiques, and hilarious astrology articles, be sure to check out my Medium account using the link below:
medium.com
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Both of the two points of view (POVs) in the story keep your interest alive and intact. One of the POVs belongs to Madison Rivera, a Harvard Law student whose dreams come true when she secures a spot as a summer intern at her favorite judge, Kathryn Conroy's office. However, when she discovers that her brother, Danny, has been arrested on federal drug charges and Kathryn is assigned to his case, Madison realizes that her idol may hold her brother's fate in her hands. She is determined to help her brother and unravel the mystery behind the crime he insists he didn't commit. The pressure on Madison's shoulders escalates as her mother pushes her harder to assist her brother, and Kathryn welcomes her into a dangerous, secret world while Madison hides her involvement with Danny.
Through Kathryn's POV, readers delve into her dark past, the poverty and struggles she faced, and the difficult choices she made to climb the career ladder. Personally, I found her character development and perspective to be particularly compelling.
The revelations in the book are surprising yet believable. There are no senseless or far-fetched explanations, which was a relief. The conclusion is also well-wrapped up, satisfying readers with a well-executed ending.
One aspect of the book that bothered me was the large number of characters and their connections to the main characters, creating a complex web. It was a bit confusing to keep track of which character served what purpose. I found myself going back and forth to piece everything together. However, in the end, the bigger picture perfectly made sense.
As a devoted fan of the author, I never say no to well-written, fast-paced, and exciting crime/legal/political thrillers. This book definitely met my expectations, and I highly recommend it to fellow genre lovers.
Many thanks to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for providing me with a digital reviewer copy of this book in exchange for my honest thoughts.
If you’re interested in reading my extended book reviews, movie critiques, and hilarious astrology articles, be sure to check out my Medium account using the link below:
medium.com
March 22, 2024
The Intern is the most recent release from Michele Campbell. I have greatly enjoyed some of Campbell's past works, so was highly anticipating this release.
Thanks to Macmillan Audio, I was granted access to the audiobook and recommend that format. Sarah Mollo-Christensen's narration fit perfectly. Especially as the drama picked up, she had me at the edge of my seat.
In this story we are getting two perspectives, Madison Rivera, a Harvard Law student, and Judge Kathryn Conroy, a full-time Judge and professor at the Law School.
Madison is in one of Judge Conroy's classes, but she has looked up to her for much longer than that. In fact, Judge Conroy's speech at a career day Madison attended inspired her to enter Law School in the first place.
Because of this, when Judge Conroy pulls Madison aside after class and urges her to apply for an open intern position at Conroy's office, Madison cannot believe her luck.
Unfortunately, Madison has some family issues that present a huge conflict of interest. Her younger brother is currently working his way through the court process, after being arrested in a drug bust, and Conroy is his assigned Judge.
Madison, scared to reveal these details and risk her internship, hides the truth in her application. This omission has Madison on edge. She fears that like a house of cards, the entire thing, all her hard work and dreams, are just going to come crashing down around her.
Unbeknownst to Madison though, Judge Conroy has some major secrets of her own and she's about to draw Madison in way over her head.
I ended up having an absolute blast with this one. Initially, the first few chapters, I will admit, I was on the fence. I would say that this requires a little patience in the very beginning. When you aren't quite sure where it is going to go and whether or not you should be liking these characters.
Rest assured, Campbell is doing her thing. She's building it up, until there will be no doubt, you should be liking these characters and you will care. I became so invested in this story. I hardly looked up after the action really kicks off.
I felt once the pace picked up, it skyrocketed. I really enjoyed learning about these characters. Both Madison and Judge Conroy were very well developed, although I will say the focus was definitely more on the Judge than the intern.
In fact, we even get a past perspective for Conroy, which shines light on how she ended up in the precarious situation she finds herself in, and ultimately pulls Madison into. It was the back-and-forth between the two women though that I found truly engaging.
I ended up loving both of them, but when you think about it, they were both quite similar and I think Judge Conroy felt that too. I think that's why she felt like Madison could handle what she was throwing at her.
Once you find out what is happening behind the scenes, the intensity continues to grow as well. As I approached the end, I started to feel a little desperate. I didn't see a solid resolution for either of the women.
I love how Campbell pulled me in and had me stressing over these characters. It was so well played. I went on a journey with these two and had a great time doing it.
I would recommend this one to anyone who has enjoyed Campbell's work in the past, or to those Readers who enjoy Thrillers featuring a cat-and-mouse format.
Also recommend if you enjoy Thrillers in a legal setting, or anything involving the shadier side of Boston politics.
After the slow start, I was tickled with where this went, how intense it got and how much I enjoyed it.
Thank you to the publisher, St. Martin's Press and Macmillan Audio, for providing me with a copy to read and review.
I cannot wait to see what Campbell is going to deliver next!
Thanks to Macmillan Audio, I was granted access to the audiobook and recommend that format. Sarah Mollo-Christensen's narration fit perfectly. Especially as the drama picked up, she had me at the edge of my seat.
In this story we are getting two perspectives, Madison Rivera, a Harvard Law student, and Judge Kathryn Conroy, a full-time Judge and professor at the Law School.
Madison is in one of Judge Conroy's classes, but she has looked up to her for much longer than that. In fact, Judge Conroy's speech at a career day Madison attended inspired her to enter Law School in the first place.
Because of this, when Judge Conroy pulls Madison aside after class and urges her to apply for an open intern position at Conroy's office, Madison cannot believe her luck.
Unfortunately, Madison has some family issues that present a huge conflict of interest. Her younger brother is currently working his way through the court process, after being arrested in a drug bust, and Conroy is his assigned Judge.
Madison, scared to reveal these details and risk her internship, hides the truth in her application. This omission has Madison on edge. She fears that like a house of cards, the entire thing, all her hard work and dreams, are just going to come crashing down around her.
Unbeknownst to Madison though, Judge Conroy has some major secrets of her own and she's about to draw Madison in way over her head.
I ended up having an absolute blast with this one. Initially, the first few chapters, I will admit, I was on the fence. I would say that this requires a little patience in the very beginning. When you aren't quite sure where it is going to go and whether or not you should be liking these characters.
Rest assured, Campbell is doing her thing. She's building it up, until there will be no doubt, you should be liking these characters and you will care. I became so invested in this story. I hardly looked up after the action really kicks off.
I felt once the pace picked up, it skyrocketed. I really enjoyed learning about these characters. Both Madison and Judge Conroy were very well developed, although I will say the focus was definitely more on the Judge than the intern.
In fact, we even get a past perspective for Conroy, which shines light on how she ended up in the precarious situation she finds herself in, and ultimately pulls Madison into. It was the back-and-forth between the two women though that I found truly engaging.
I ended up loving both of them, but when you think about it, they were both quite similar and I think Judge Conroy felt that too. I think that's why she felt like Madison could handle what she was throwing at her.
Once you find out what is happening behind the scenes, the intensity continues to grow as well. As I approached the end, I started to feel a little desperate. I didn't see a solid resolution for either of the women.
I love how Campbell pulled me in and had me stressing over these characters. It was so well played. I went on a journey with these two and had a great time doing it.
I would recommend this one to anyone who has enjoyed Campbell's work in the past, or to those Readers who enjoy Thrillers featuring a cat-and-mouse format.
Also recommend if you enjoy Thrillers in a legal setting, or anything involving the shadier side of Boston politics.
After the slow start, I was tickled with where this went, how intense it got and how much I enjoyed it.
Thank you to the publisher, St. Martin's Press and Macmillan Audio, for providing me with a copy to read and review.
I cannot wait to see what Campbell is going to deliver next!
October 21, 2023
**Many thanks to NetGalley, St. Martin's Press, and Michele Campbell for an ARC of this book! Now available as of 10.3!!**
Madison can't believe her luck: years ago, she had the good fortune to see Justice Kathryn Conroy speak, and was enraptured and inspired by the judge. But now she's currently pursuing a career in law (at Harvard, no less!) and who should happen to have an internship available but Judge Conroy herself! Madison is determined to land the coveted spot, and would do almost anything to get it....but she has a secret that could ruin everything. Madison's younger brother Danny has run into some legal troubles, and his case is still pending. Madison's mother begs her to find out more about the judge who has Danny's fate in their hands...and Madison is stunned to see a familiar name: Judge Conroy.
Determined to keep her professional and personal life separate, Madison 'forgets to mention' her brother's situation on her paperwork, and begins to work for the judge. She is warned to not get too friendly with the judge and to keep her distance by the law clerks and Judge Conroy's other employees, but when the judge invites her out to dinner, Madison can't resist the chance to bond with her hero. After dinner, however, Judge Conroy invites her back to her luxe apartment...and then asks her to stay the night to watch her cat, but to keep AWAY from the security cameras, Madison starts to suspect there is more to the judge than meets the eye. What follows is an increasingly dangerous game between teacher and student...and no one quite knows where and when it will end. Can Madison keep her secret and secure her brother's freedom? Or will the judge's dark and mysterious past prove to be more than a point of curiosity... but a path to fatality?
I've been a HUGE Michele Campbell fan ever since I finished The Stranger on the Beach, and although her last effort (The Wife Who Knew Too Much) was a bit more flash than substance, I still had a good time with that book in the 'poolside read' way. I've been EAGERLY awaiting a new release, and was thrilled to snag an early copy of this book for review, even though I had mixed feelings about the overall premise. I didn't know what to expect from this one: would Kathryn and Madison both be unreliable narrators? Was this book more of a vehicle to explore the 'dark side' of the legal profession? Or was this simply more of an intricately plotted back and forth legal action thriller?
The short answer is that this book had traces of all 3 elements. As a lawyer herself, Campbell ALWAYS manages to weave in her knowledge of the profession and all of its facets, and since this book focused primarily on the relationship between judge and intern, it made sense that so much of the story revolved around the ins and outs of the profession itself. As someone who briefly considered a career in the field, I ALWAYS find this sort of insight interesting. Kathryn and Madison were both complex enough characters to stay interesting even during slight lulls in the action. Although I didn't necessarily read this book quickly, I WOULD say it's a quick read (if that makes sense!)
I did feel that one downside was the AMOUNT of focus on Judge Conroy's background versus Madison's background. The whole plot is driven by her (basically) and revolves around her, so Madison essentially gets the short end of the stick throughout. We even get treated to an in-depth look at how Judge Conroy got herself in such a predicament in the first place through some lengthy passages detailing her past..but we get very little of this same meticulous attention to Madison. Although we don't necessarily need it for emotional investment, I do think some more insight into Madison's early years might have helped to flesh out her character a bit. She often seemed more like a patsy for Judge Conroy rather than her own fully-formed adult...UNTIL the ending of the book, that is. 😏
While I won't spoil anything, this is one of those reads you can pick up and probably finish in on a cozy fall afternoon (if you aren't too distracted by football 🏈, apple picking adventures 🍎, or picking out the PERFECT scented candle, 🕯 of course!). And while the book itself might not have eclipsed Campbell's own capability, it DID remind me that since an internship is a bit of a trial run?
Madison might have been better off if she skipped her brother's trial...and RUN. 🏃♀️
4 stars
Madison can't believe her luck: years ago, she had the good fortune to see Justice Kathryn Conroy speak, and was enraptured and inspired by the judge. But now she's currently pursuing a career in law (at Harvard, no less!) and who should happen to have an internship available but Judge Conroy herself! Madison is determined to land the coveted spot, and would do almost anything to get it....but she has a secret that could ruin everything. Madison's younger brother Danny has run into some legal troubles, and his case is still pending. Madison's mother begs her to find out more about the judge who has Danny's fate in their hands...and Madison is stunned to see a familiar name: Judge Conroy.
Determined to keep her professional and personal life separate, Madison 'forgets to mention' her brother's situation on her paperwork, and begins to work for the judge. She is warned to not get too friendly with the judge and to keep her distance by the law clerks and Judge Conroy's other employees, but when the judge invites her out to dinner, Madison can't resist the chance to bond with her hero. After dinner, however, Judge Conroy invites her back to her luxe apartment...and then asks her to stay the night to watch her cat, but to keep AWAY from the security cameras, Madison starts to suspect there is more to the judge than meets the eye. What follows is an increasingly dangerous game between teacher and student...and no one quite knows where and when it will end. Can Madison keep her secret and secure her brother's freedom? Or will the judge's dark and mysterious past prove to be more than a point of curiosity... but a path to fatality?
I've been a HUGE Michele Campbell fan ever since I finished The Stranger on the Beach, and although her last effort (The Wife Who Knew Too Much) was a bit more flash than substance, I still had a good time with that book in the 'poolside read' way. I've been EAGERLY awaiting a new release, and was thrilled to snag an early copy of this book for review, even though I had mixed feelings about the overall premise. I didn't know what to expect from this one: would Kathryn and Madison both be unreliable narrators? Was this book more of a vehicle to explore the 'dark side' of the legal profession? Or was this simply more of an intricately plotted back and forth legal action thriller?
The short answer is that this book had traces of all 3 elements. As a lawyer herself, Campbell ALWAYS manages to weave in her knowledge of the profession and all of its facets, and since this book focused primarily on the relationship between judge and intern, it made sense that so much of the story revolved around the ins and outs of the profession itself. As someone who briefly considered a career in the field, I ALWAYS find this sort of insight interesting. Kathryn and Madison were both complex enough characters to stay interesting even during slight lulls in the action. Although I didn't necessarily read this book quickly, I WOULD say it's a quick read (if that makes sense!)
I did feel that one downside was the AMOUNT of focus on Judge Conroy's background versus Madison's background. The whole plot is driven by her (basically) and revolves around her, so Madison essentially gets the short end of the stick throughout. We even get treated to an in-depth look at how Judge Conroy got herself in such a predicament in the first place through some lengthy passages detailing her past..but we get very little of this same meticulous attention to Madison. Although we don't necessarily need it for emotional investment, I do think some more insight into Madison's early years might have helped to flesh out her character a bit. She often seemed more like a patsy for Judge Conroy rather than her own fully-formed adult...UNTIL the ending of the book, that is. 😏
While I won't spoil anything, this is one of those reads you can pick up and probably finish in on a cozy fall afternoon (if you aren't too distracted by football 🏈, apple picking adventures 🍎, or picking out the PERFECT scented candle, 🕯 of course!). And while the book itself might not have eclipsed Campbell's own capability, it DID remind me that since an internship is a bit of a trial run?
Madison might have been better off if she skipped her brother's trial...and RUN. 🏃♀️
4 stars
February 18, 2024
Madison Rivera has worked hard to pull herself out of her humble upbringing and stay on track to achieve the life she dreams of. Since her aunt helped her enroll at Catholic Prep and saw a former student and current judge, Kathryn Croft, speak, Madison has known she wants to follow in her footsteps, from undergrad and law school at Harvard to a successful career as a lawyer. Not only is Madison taking a course at Harvard Law taught by Justice Kathryn Conroy, but she’s also been invited to apply for her open internship. Madison couldn’t be happier about the internship if only she weren’t harbouring some secrets. Secrets from her past could cost her the internship and the degree she has worked hard for. It turns out that Madison’s brother Danny took the fall for a drug bust—one he insists he is innocent of despite pleading guilty—and Kathryn is the judge assigned to the case. With allegations of corruption to the highest level, Madison agrees to try to get more information, but how can she do it without jeopardizing her opportunity? It may not matter, as Madison soon discovers the judge may also be hiding things. Did Kathryn know who Madison was when she offered her the internship? And what is going on beyond her chamber door? Will Madison’s lies come back and destroy everything before Madison seeks out the truth— nothing is as it seems
Review | The Intern Told in alternating POVs, the book starts narrated by a law student named Madison Rivera. Madison is enamoured by her law professor, Kathryn Conroy, having seen her speak many years earlier at her Catholic Prep school. I was glad we quickly got context on Madison because I didn’t love the idea that this could have been a book about an obsessed student. That’s not what this book is at all, and Madison is very bright, hard-working, and often trapped between her ambitions and her desire to help her family. Her choice becomes particularly relevant when she accepts the internship for Kathryn Conroy, even though she realizes Kathryn is the judge of her brother Danny’s case. Madison and Danny lost their father when they were young, and their mother’s grief consumed her throughout most of their childhood. That led to different living situations for the siblings — where Madison thrived, but Danny spiralled further from the boy he was. Madison takes the internship, even while she weighs the pros and cons. But it becomes clear quickly that something is strange about this internship. She hears rumours that the former Intern, Olivia, has been fired, but the law clerks act suspicious when she asks about it. The background screening and non-disclosure agreements seem extreme, even for such a prestigious office. Even the clerks seem troubled by the additional screening for a lowly intern. Late one evening, Madison and Kathryn were the last two in the office, and Kathryn invited Madison to house her and watch her cat over the weekend. Madison agrees, but a strange man arrives on the doorstep, aggressively trying to reach the judge.
Further, the judge asks Madison not to let him in and has her hold the phone up to the intercom so she can pretend to be home. I wondered what was going on in Kathryn Conroy’s life. Who was this man? And why is the judge so secretive and protective of her security? From there, we switch to Kathryn’s POV. I won’t spoil what we learn about Judge Kathryn, but her past and present were fascinating. Her chapters riveted me. Kathryn was mesmerizing even through the pages of the book. Her past is dark, and there is a lot to learn about Judge Conroy. I liked how her story was revealed to the readers throughout the book, with more secrets and twists each time we revisited it. It was interesting to get Madison’s take on the current events, then switch to Kathryn’s POV, eventually dovetailing to the exact moment but from her perspective. The further I got into this book, the harder it was to put it down. I had to know what would happen next! I was on the edge of my seat. Every chapter turned the story, and I was unsure who to trust. Whenever I thought I had it figured out, something else would get thrown in and change everything—gripping. I thoroughly enjoyed reading my first book by Michele Campbell.
I want to thank St Martin’s Press for my ARC copy and NetGalley in exchange for an honest opinion. My opinions are my own.
Review | The Intern Told in alternating POVs, the book starts narrated by a law student named Madison Rivera. Madison is enamoured by her law professor, Kathryn Conroy, having seen her speak many years earlier at her Catholic Prep school. I was glad we quickly got context on Madison because I didn’t love the idea that this could have been a book about an obsessed student. That’s not what this book is at all, and Madison is very bright, hard-working, and often trapped between her ambitions and her desire to help her family. Her choice becomes particularly relevant when she accepts the internship for Kathryn Conroy, even though she realizes Kathryn is the judge of her brother Danny’s case. Madison and Danny lost their father when they were young, and their mother’s grief consumed her throughout most of their childhood. That led to different living situations for the siblings — where Madison thrived, but Danny spiralled further from the boy he was. Madison takes the internship, even while she weighs the pros and cons. But it becomes clear quickly that something is strange about this internship. She hears rumours that the former Intern, Olivia, has been fired, but the law clerks act suspicious when she asks about it. The background screening and non-disclosure agreements seem extreme, even for such a prestigious office. Even the clerks seem troubled by the additional screening for a lowly intern. Late one evening, Madison and Kathryn were the last two in the office, and Kathryn invited Madison to house her and watch her cat over the weekend. Madison agrees, but a strange man arrives on the doorstep, aggressively trying to reach the judge.
Further, the judge asks Madison not to let him in and has her hold the phone up to the intercom so she can pretend to be home. I wondered what was going on in Kathryn Conroy’s life. Who was this man? And why is the judge so secretive and protective of her security? From there, we switch to Kathryn’s POV. I won’t spoil what we learn about Judge Kathryn, but her past and present were fascinating. Her chapters riveted me. Kathryn was mesmerizing even through the pages of the book. Her past is dark, and there is a lot to learn about Judge Conroy. I liked how her story was revealed to the readers throughout the book, with more secrets and twists each time we revisited it. It was interesting to get Madison’s take on the current events, then switch to Kathryn’s POV, eventually dovetailing to the exact moment but from her perspective. The further I got into this book, the harder it was to put it down. I had to know what would happen next! I was on the edge of my seat. Every chapter turned the story, and I was unsure who to trust. Whenever I thought I had it figured out, something else would get thrown in and change everything—gripping. I thoroughly enjoyed reading my first book by Michele Campbell.
I want to thank St Martin’s Press for my ARC copy and NetGalley in exchange for an honest opinion. My opinions are my own.
September 28, 2023
Madison Rivera was attending law school at Harvard, when an internship with her favorite judge, Kathryn Conroy literally fell in her lap. Problem is, both the internship and the judge are worlds away from what she expected. Madison knows she’s in over her head!
With dual timelines, we journey deep into the judge’s past. In particular her upbringing, and what she had to endure to hold the position she has today.
Though this is titled The Intern, and she did play a role, I think a better title would have been The Judge because she was the true focus of this story.
While this wasn’t my favorite from this author, there was enough intrigue to keep me wanting to see how it all played out.
I started this read in digital, and switching to the audio about a third of the way. Both formats work well. The narration provided by Sarah Mollo-Christensen fit the characters and was pleasant to listen to. Though I do think there was an opportunity to have an additional narrator.
Thank you to NetGalley, St Martin’s Press and Macmillan Audio.
With dual timelines, we journey deep into the judge’s past. In particular her upbringing, and what she had to endure to hold the position she has today.
Though this is titled The Intern, and she did play a role, I think a better title would have been The Judge because she was the true focus of this story.
While this wasn’t my favorite from this author, there was enough intrigue to keep me wanting to see how it all played out.
I started this read in digital, and switching to the audio about a third of the way. Both formats work well. The narration provided by Sarah Mollo-Christensen fit the characters and was pleasant to listen to. Though I do think there was an opportunity to have an additional narrator.
Thank you to NetGalley, St Martin’s Press and Macmillan Audio.
August 15, 2023
This is suspense at its finest! Sharply written and masterfully plotted, The Intern is an addictive and cinematic page-turning thriller, further cementing Michele Campbell as a top voice in the genre.
November 22, 2023
This was part legal thriller, part cat-and-mouse page turner. At times I didn’t know which way was up. I was just turning pages quickly.
We have Madison Rivera who is a student at Harvard Law. She is brilliant, focused, intent on impressing her Law Professor and Judge Kathryn Conroy. She also has a chance to become her Intern. (Hence: the title of the book.)
But…
She also has a brother who is in jail.
And…
His case is assigned to this same Judge.
But…
There are a lot of secrets here. Especially when Madison’s brother goes missing after accusing the Judge of corruption.
So…
Will it help for the Intern and the Judge to work together or work against each other?
Secrets…
Keep those pages turning.
February 18, 2024
Fasten your seatbelts, folks! We’re diving into the thrilling world of “The Intern” by Michele Campbell, a psychological thriller that’s more twisty than a roller-coaster ride through a house of mirrors.
The narrative revolves around Madison Rivera, a Harvard law student who lands an internship with her professor, the formidable Judge Kathryn Conroy. However, Madison’s secrets threaten to undermine her career. When her brother Danny is arrested and Conroy presides over his case, the plot thickens. Danny’s disappearance, following accusations of corruption against the judge, propels Madison into a quest for truth within Conroy’s glamorous world.
Campbell’s storytelling prowess shines through in this fast-paced storyline, making it an addictive and cinematic page-turner. The story unfolds through alternating perspectives and timelines, enriching the characters and the plot. The protagonists are strong, independent, intelligent women who support each other in their collective survival.
Despite being action-packed, the quality of the action is questionable. Our leading ladies, Madison and Kathryn, are top-tier legal professionals who aren’t afraid to roll up their sleeves and get their hands dirty. They are depicted as successful despite their challenging backgrounds and leading their families. Yet, their actions and strategies do not reflect these traits, especially when their adversaries are portrayed as malevolent but not particularly astute. Their characters might have been more believable if they had come from affluent backgrounds with fewer concerns. Some plot developments seem contrived and conveniently structured to facilitate a happy ending.
So, buckle up for a wild ride with “The Intern”. It’s a legal thriller that packs a punch of suspense and action, even with its occasional speed bumps.
The narrative revolves around Madison Rivera, a Harvard law student who lands an internship with her professor, the formidable Judge Kathryn Conroy. However, Madison’s secrets threaten to undermine her career. When her brother Danny is arrested and Conroy presides over his case, the plot thickens. Danny’s disappearance, following accusations of corruption against the judge, propels Madison into a quest for truth within Conroy’s glamorous world.
Campbell’s storytelling prowess shines through in this fast-paced storyline, making it an addictive and cinematic page-turner. The story unfolds through alternating perspectives and timelines, enriching the characters and the plot. The protagonists are strong, independent, intelligent women who support each other in their collective survival.
Despite being action-packed, the quality of the action is questionable. Our leading ladies, Madison and Kathryn, are top-tier legal professionals who aren’t afraid to roll up their sleeves and get their hands dirty. They are depicted as successful despite their challenging backgrounds and leading their families. Yet, their actions and strategies do not reflect these traits, especially when their adversaries are portrayed as malevolent but not particularly astute. Their characters might have been more believable if they had come from affluent backgrounds with fewer concerns. Some plot developments seem contrived and conveniently structured to facilitate a happy ending.
So, buckle up for a wild ride with “The Intern”. It’s a legal thriller that packs a punch of suspense and action, even with its occasional speed bumps.
October 13, 2023
3.75 Stars
A fast-paced thriller!
Madison Rivera has just secured an internship with the renowned Judge Kathryn Conroy. However, she soon realizes that Judge Conroy is the same judge presiding over her brother Danny's case. Madison is now faced with a dilemma - should she reveal the truth to the judge and risk losing the internship opportunity of a lifetime, or keep it a secret in the hope that Judge Conroy might be able to help her brother's case? But things take a sudden turn when Danny disappears from prison, and Judge Conroy is accused of corruption. What will Madison do?
A fast-paced thriller that delves into the complex and murky world of the justice system. It explored the themes of deception, corruption, and abuse of power. While Intern is an engaging book overall, I believe that Madison's character could benefit from further development compared to the well-crafted character of Judge Conroy. Madison, as a protagonist, has the potential to be a compelling and complex character, but her portrayal in the novel feels somewhat superficial. There are glimpses of her inner struggles and motivations, but they are not fully explored or fleshed out when compared to Jude Conroy.
All in all, an entertaining read. Perfect for fans of legal thrillers.
***Thank you to NetGalley, Michele Campbell, and Macmillan Audio for graciously sending me the audiobook to review. As always, all thoughts are my own.***
A fast-paced thriller!
Madison Rivera has just secured an internship with the renowned Judge Kathryn Conroy. However, she soon realizes that Judge Conroy is the same judge presiding over her brother Danny's case. Madison is now faced with a dilemma - should she reveal the truth to the judge and risk losing the internship opportunity of a lifetime, or keep it a secret in the hope that Judge Conroy might be able to help her brother's case? But things take a sudden turn when Danny disappears from prison, and Judge Conroy is accused of corruption. What will Madison do?
A fast-paced thriller that delves into the complex and murky world of the justice system. It explored the themes of deception, corruption, and abuse of power. While Intern is an engaging book overall, I believe that Madison's character could benefit from further development compared to the well-crafted character of Judge Conroy. Madison, as a protagonist, has the potential to be a compelling and complex character, but her portrayal in the novel feels somewhat superficial. There are glimpses of her inner struggles and motivations, but they are not fully explored or fleshed out when compared to Jude Conroy.
All in all, an entertaining read. Perfect for fans of legal thrillers.
***Thank you to NetGalley, Michele Campbell, and Macmillan Audio for graciously sending me the audiobook to review. As always, all thoughts are my own.***
June 19, 2023
I read this literally in just a few hours....it was super fast paced.
Told from two different POV"s: Judge Kathryn Conroy and her new intern Madison. Conroy is lecturing a class at Harvard to which Madison attends and wants that coveted internship to booster her resume. One small issue is that Madison's brother has been arrested and the Judge on the case is Conroy. Each woman has secrets. Madison doesn't disclose her brother is on the Judge's docket and the Judge herself has a past that is coming back to haunt her and in turn affects Madison.
There was nothing new here, but just one of those reads that draws you in and you need to see how it ends. Think a very nice beach read.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for my advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
Told from two different POV"s: Judge Kathryn Conroy and her new intern Madison. Conroy is lecturing a class at Harvard to which Madison attends and wants that coveted internship to booster her resume. One small issue is that Madison's brother has been arrested and the Judge on the case is Conroy. Each woman has secrets. Madison doesn't disclose her brother is on the Judge's docket and the Judge herself has a past that is coming back to haunt her and in turn affects Madison.
There was nothing new here, but just one of those reads that draws you in and you need to see how it ends. Think a very nice beach read.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for my advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
September 15, 2023
Incredibly fast paced and incredibly predictable. There’s nothing new here, but it is a fun popcorn thriller for those wanting an easy, breezy vacation story.
*Many thanks to the publisher for providing my review copy.
*Many thanks to the publisher for providing my review copy.
September 11, 2023
Thanks to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for access to this title. All opinions expressed are my own.
Peeps, I think I am unable to move from Outlier Island. It's comfortable here. If I am being honest, I had a feeling a few chapters in that I might throw it in the "did not finish" pile. However, since it was an ARC, I felt obligated to follow through and see if it got better.
It didn't
From the beginning, there was just too much emphasis on second-year law student, Madison knowing all there was to know about the law. Umm...she only knows what is in her textbook and has never been in court. How in the world is she supposed to make all these miracles happen?
Madison's wide-eyed innocence at so many events in this book was like teeth-grinding. Like people are corrupt.. surely you're learning this at Harvard?
Also, Madison's mother was so annoying, and she manipulated Madison time and time again to fix the situation with Madison's brother Danny.
On the other hand, I loved that Kathryn's ( the judge) back story is kept concise and to the point. I am sorry for my harshness here but it felt like Michele Campbell had just binge-watched Damages and decided to write this novel.
It must be the continuous rain or the fact that two nights in a row I haven't slept a whole eight hours BUT this is my grumpy review.
Expected Publication Date 03/10/23
Goodreads Review 09/09/23
#TheIntern #NetGalley.
Peeps, I think I am unable to move from Outlier Island. It's comfortable here. If I am being honest, I had a feeling a few chapters in that I might throw it in the "did not finish" pile. However, since it was an ARC, I felt obligated to follow through and see if it got better.
It didn't
From the beginning, there was just too much emphasis on second-year law student, Madison knowing all there was to know about the law. Umm...she only knows what is in her textbook and has never been in court. How in the world is she supposed to make all these miracles happen?
Madison's wide-eyed innocence at so many events in this book was like teeth-grinding. Like people are corrupt.. surely you're learning this at Harvard?
Also, Madison's mother was so annoying, and she manipulated Madison time and time again to fix the situation with Madison's brother Danny.
On the other hand, I loved that Kathryn's ( the judge) back story is kept concise and to the point. I am sorry for my harshness here but it felt like Michele Campbell had just binge-watched Damages and decided to write this novel.
It must be the continuous rain or the fact that two nights in a row I haven't slept a whole eight hours BUT this is my grumpy review.
Expected Publication Date 03/10/23
Goodreads Review 09/09/23
#TheIntern #NetGalley.
March 22, 2023
Authors can be the best secret keepers...
To say I'm Michele Campbell's number one fan would be the biggest understatement of the year.
I AM OBSESSED
and that is putting it lightly.
Funny story, another author friend of mine (Jaime Lynn Hendricks) had suggested I read Michele Campbell when I was In one of my book slumps. I would pick up a book, read a few chapters, put it down, then repeat. After swimming around this fish bowl for over a week I decided to pick up It's Always The Husband.
Game Over
Not only was I out of my book slump but I had a new author to feverishly obsess over. I did not sleep the week I found Michele Campbell, instead I read each one of her books back to back during every waking moment.
This woman is an absolute rockstar who delivers each and every time she puts out a new release.
But you see Michele has been hiding a secret from me....
I had no idea about The Intern until I opened up Netgalley one morning and it was staring right back at me .
OMG
I needed this book. I started to sweat...
This was the book of my dreams and I could not accept failure...
Well, as you can see, the cute little book fairies over at St. Martin's Press, granted my wish.
I might sound a bit delirious, as I was up all night reading but it was so worth it.
As always, this is without a doubt another 5 star read but did you expect anything less from Campbell? I know I didn't. Her writing style will suck you right in and plunge you right into the deep end of deceit. I was submerged in this book from start to finish and quickly became addicted to each flip of the page. I was racing to the finish line !!!
The suspense had me gripping my chest and shrieking out loud "oh no oh no oh no" .
If I could suggest one book for you this year, it would be this one. Definitely this one.
Here is a little teaser :
A young Harvard law student falls under the spell of a charismatic judge in this timely and thrilling novel about class, ambition, family and murder.
Madison Rivera lands the internship of a lifetime working for Judge Kathryn Conroy. But Madison has a secret that could destroy her career. Her troubled younger brother Danny has been arrested, and Conroy is the judge on his case. When Danny goes missing after accusing the judge of corruption, Madison’s quest for answers brings her deep into the judge’s glamorous world. Is Kathryn Conroy a mentor, a victim, or a criminal? Is she trying to help Madison or use her as a pawn? And why is somebody trying to kill her? As the two women circle each other in a dangerous cat-and-mouse game, will they save each other, or will betrayal leave one of them dead?
Thank you Michele Campbell, St. Martin Press and Netgalley for granting this little Campbell obsessed reader the highest honor of reading and reviewing The Intern before its October 3, 2023 release date in exchange for an honest review.
Now, to my followers, you know what to do....Pre-Order the book!!
To say I'm Michele Campbell's number one fan would be the biggest understatement of the year.
I AM OBSESSED
and that is putting it lightly.
Funny story, another author friend of mine (Jaime Lynn Hendricks) had suggested I read Michele Campbell when I was In one of my book slumps. I would pick up a book, read a few chapters, put it down, then repeat. After swimming around this fish bowl for over a week I decided to pick up It's Always The Husband.
Game Over
Not only was I out of my book slump but I had a new author to feverishly obsess over. I did not sleep the week I found Michele Campbell, instead I read each one of her books back to back during every waking moment.
This woman is an absolute rockstar who delivers each and every time she puts out a new release.
But you see Michele has been hiding a secret from me....
I had no idea about The Intern until I opened up Netgalley one morning and it was staring right back at me .
OMG
I needed this book. I started to sweat...
This was the book of my dreams and I could not accept failure...
Well, as you can see, the cute little book fairies over at St. Martin's Press, granted my wish.
I might sound a bit delirious, as I was up all night reading but it was so worth it.
As always, this is without a doubt another 5 star read but did you expect anything less from Campbell? I know I didn't. Her writing style will suck you right in and plunge you right into the deep end of deceit. I was submerged in this book from start to finish and quickly became addicted to each flip of the page. I was racing to the finish line !!!
The suspense had me gripping my chest and shrieking out loud "oh no oh no oh no" .
If I could suggest one book for you this year, it would be this one. Definitely this one.
Here is a little teaser :
A young Harvard law student falls under the spell of a charismatic judge in this timely and thrilling novel about class, ambition, family and murder.
Madison Rivera lands the internship of a lifetime working for Judge Kathryn Conroy. But Madison has a secret that could destroy her career. Her troubled younger brother Danny has been arrested, and Conroy is the judge on his case. When Danny goes missing after accusing the judge of corruption, Madison’s quest for answers brings her deep into the judge’s glamorous world. Is Kathryn Conroy a mentor, a victim, or a criminal? Is she trying to help Madison or use her as a pawn? And why is somebody trying to kill her? As the two women circle each other in a dangerous cat-and-mouse game, will they save each other, or will betrayal leave one of them dead?
Thank you Michele Campbell, St. Martin Press and Netgalley for granting this little Campbell obsessed reader the highest honor of reading and reviewing The Intern before its October 3, 2023 release date in exchange for an honest review.
Now, to my followers, you know what to do....Pre-Order the book!!
November 18, 2023
quick pacing and engaging! reminded me of why i fell into a multi year period of spam reading thrillers like crazy (to the point where i havent touched one since like pre pandemic lol). maybe the drought is finally over though…
March 2, 2024
This was a surprisingly entertaining read. Madison, who is just starting college to become a lawyer, gets to intern for one of her idols, Judge Conroy. The thing is, Judge Conroy, is not an entirely ethical judge. She happens to be the presiding judge on Madison's brother Danny's trumped up drug arrest; so Madison must do what she can to see if she can help her brother out with the judge.
Through reading about the judge's backstory, you come to realize how someone could get easily entrapped in a bad situation and do whatever it takes to get out. What follows is a cat and mouse game, where Madison and Judge Conroy must decide if they can trust each other, to get out of their bad situations.
Recommended.
Through reading about the judge's backstory, you come to realize how someone could get easily entrapped in a bad situation and do whatever it takes to get out. What follows is a cat and mouse game, where Madison and Judge Conroy must decide if they can trust each other, to get out of their bad situations.
Recommended.
October 3, 2023
Well, this is quite the wild ride. Law student Madison Rivera is thrilled to get a coveted internship with Judge Kathryn Conroy, her idol. But, of course, Madison declines to tell the judge one "minor" fact--her brother Danny was recently arrested, and his case is before Judge Conroy. Because why would you just come clean with someone who could probably help you? Instead, please open yourself up to utter stress, the dangers of lying on security clearance forms, and possible expulsion. I was so not here for the beginning of this book and the fact that it was filled with so much miscommunication and lying. I dislike those tropes immensely!
Luckily, this thriller picks up and turns into a far-fetched but quite readable tale. Danny goes missing, and Madison does not know if Kathryn is a friend or foe. It's a story of corruption, abuse of power, family ties, and good versus evil. Emotions run high and danger is around every corner. If you can suspend disbelief for a bit, it's an enjoyable read. 3.5 stars.
I received a copy of this book from Netgalley and St. Martin's Press in return for an unbiased review.
Luckily, this thriller picks up and turns into a far-fetched but quite readable tale. Danny goes missing, and Madison does not know if Kathryn is a friend or foe. It's a story of corruption, abuse of power, family ties, and good versus evil. Emotions run high and danger is around every corner. If you can suspend disbelief for a bit, it's an enjoyable read. 3.5 stars.
I received a copy of this book from Netgalley and St. Martin's Press in return for an unbiased review.
April 16, 2024
This is a tough review. This is a very well written, high-quality thriller, that I chose, thinking it was something completely different than what it wound up being.
Now I have to be careful not to give away any spoilers.
So the story is about a law school student who takes a temporary position working for a judge, but this is no ordinary judge.
This judge was the inspiration for law school student Madison to become an attorney in the first place. Madison absolutely idolizes this judge who also happens to teach a course at the law school Madison attends.
Now the description of the book makes it sound a little different than it actually is. See, I imagined a slow, dark, perhaps a little sinister, beguiling story.
On the contrary. This is a very fast paced story and it’s not beguiling. It’s not really a domestic thriller either. It’s more like something I would expect to see from Quentin Tarantino, which is actually a great complement to the writer.
This is more a book about hard-core criminals and assassins and killers and sleazy people and the justice department, and Maffioso types.
As far as that goes, it’s actually five stars . it’s just that that wasn’t really what I was in the mood for. I got tired of it around 45 to 50% and started to skim.
I also had to roll my eyes at some of the happenings in this book because there was a lot that was really unrealistic. There are also very few likable characters so I struggled with a lot in this book.
And that was disappointing, because I was so in the mood for the kind of book I described above. That’s not to say that I never read the other kind of book that this wound up being. I do. But it’s very far from what I was in the mood for today.
Now, I should say something. I’m not gonna give away anything else that happens but there is an animal in the book. No harm comes to the animal but towards the end you might think that the Animal meets a bad end but she doesn’t.
I want to tell all the empaths that. I’m not sure if authors know this but some people won’t read books with animal cruelty and I want to stress there is no animal cruelty in this.
I also say that my favorite character, the only character, a character that will go down in history is Lucy – the beautiful and mysterious cat, the black cat with the vivid, seafoam eyes. I mean man I feel like rating this book a five just for the cat. In case you haven’t figured it out yet, I’m a cat lover.
But seriously, I’d been looking forward to reading the intern for a couple of days now. I first heard about it about a month ago, and it caught my interest just because of how it was described and I also liked the thought of reading a domestic thriller that happens in court. That sure is different.
But man, oh man, there’s so many sleazy men in this and so many dangerous situations, and it just didn’t have that slow build, that slow build of creepiness with the beguiling factors that I love so much.
Without giving any spoilers, it was a creative and interesting ending. 3.5 stars for the book, 1 million stars for the cat with the seafoam eyes.
Now I have to be careful not to give away any spoilers.
So the story is about a law school student who takes a temporary position working for a judge, but this is no ordinary judge.
This judge was the inspiration for law school student Madison to become an attorney in the first place. Madison absolutely idolizes this judge who also happens to teach a course at the law school Madison attends.
Now the description of the book makes it sound a little different than it actually is. See, I imagined a slow, dark, perhaps a little sinister, beguiling story.
On the contrary. This is a very fast paced story and it’s not beguiling. It’s not really a domestic thriller either. It’s more like something I would expect to see from Quentin Tarantino, which is actually a great complement to the writer.
This is more a book about hard-core criminals and assassins and killers and sleazy people and the justice department, and Maffioso types.
As far as that goes, it’s actually five stars . it’s just that that wasn’t really what I was in the mood for. I got tired of it around 45 to 50% and started to skim.
I also had to roll my eyes at some of the happenings in this book because there was a lot that was really unrealistic. There are also very few likable characters so I struggled with a lot in this book.
And that was disappointing, because I was so in the mood for the kind of book I described above. That’s not to say that I never read the other kind of book that this wound up being. I do. But it’s very far from what I was in the mood for today.
Now, I should say something. I’m not gonna give away anything else that happens but there is an animal in the book. No harm comes to the animal but towards the end you might think that the Animal meets a bad end but she doesn’t.
I want to tell all the empaths that. I’m not sure if authors know this but some people won’t read books with animal cruelty and I want to stress there is no animal cruelty in this.
I also say that my favorite character, the only character, a character that will go down in history is Lucy – the beautiful and mysterious cat, the black cat with the vivid, seafoam eyes. I mean man I feel like rating this book a five just for the cat. In case you haven’t figured it out yet, I’m a cat lover.
But seriously, I’d been looking forward to reading the intern for a couple of days now. I first heard about it about a month ago, and it caught my interest just because of how it was described and I also liked the thought of reading a domestic thriller that happens in court. That sure is different.
But man, oh man, there’s so many sleazy men in this and so many dangerous situations, and it just didn’t have that slow build, that slow build of creepiness with the beguiling factors that I love so much.
Without giving any spoilers, it was a creative and interesting ending. 3.5 stars for the book, 1 million stars for the cat with the seafoam eyes.
December 12, 2023
A little different than what I was expecting, not necessarily in a bad way. It’s a pretty quick read but with no real twists or surprises.
November 14, 2023
If you are looking for an intense legal thriller, look no more. The Intern is an entertaining, gripping, edge of your edge-of-your-seat thriller that kept me riveted from start to finish. Michele Campbell expertly brings the drama through well-developed, realistic characters and an original, suspenseful plot. Twists and turns are sprinkled throughout leading to a jaw-dropping and satisfying conclusion. Thank you, NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press for my copy.
July 24, 2023
Special thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for a free, electronic ARC of this novel received in exchange for an honest review.
Expected publication date: October 3, 2023
“The Intern” by Michele Campbell is a taut legal thriller, where everything is not what it seems, and everyone is keeping secrets.
Madison is overjoyed when she’s invited to intern with her idol, high profile judge Kathryn Conroy- even though everyone, from the current interns to her ex-boyfriend, has warned her against the judge, cautioning Madison about Judge Conroy’s harsh manner and possibly corrupt ways. But Madison can’t believe that her professor and mentor is the person she’s been warned against, and she won’t let it stop her from taking the internship of her dreams. But before the internship even starts, Madison’s brother is arrested and jailed for drug possession, by Judge Conroy herself. Madison’s brother, Danny, swears he’s innocent and that he was set up, and the Judge played a part in his false conviction. Madison agrees to investigate but more than her law career is at risk when she discovers far more than she expected.
Michele Campbell manages to develop a unique, engaging plot in a genre where this is hard to find. I was eager to get my hands on this one, as Campbell’s previous novels, “She Was the Quiet One” were deliciously suspenseful, and “The Intern” did not disappoint.
The story is narrated both by Kathryn and Madison, each responsible for one entire section of the novel. Madison’s story is told first, but it’s really the nitty gritty details of Kathryn’s life that are truly captivating. Both have secrets and both have something to gain from working together, and working against, each other. Neither Madison nor Kathryn can be trusted, and I was suspicious of both right from the beginning, unsure where the ending would take me. When it finally played out, I was beyond satisfied with the outcome, and although it could’ve taken many paths, Campbell definitely chose the right one.
“The Intern” illustrates the behind-the-scenes drama that takes place between a judge and her clerks and all the vulnerable holes where manipulation and scheming can slip in. Each chapter flows well into the next, with a teasing cliffhanger at the end of each. Campbell brings another intensely suspenseful novel forward, delivering the perfect combination of drama and mystery, which is what readers have come to expect from Campbell’s suspenseful fiction.
Expected publication date: October 3, 2023
“The Intern” by Michele Campbell is a taut legal thriller, where everything is not what it seems, and everyone is keeping secrets.
Madison is overjoyed when she’s invited to intern with her idol, high profile judge Kathryn Conroy- even though everyone, from the current interns to her ex-boyfriend, has warned her against the judge, cautioning Madison about Judge Conroy’s harsh manner and possibly corrupt ways. But Madison can’t believe that her professor and mentor is the person she’s been warned against, and she won’t let it stop her from taking the internship of her dreams. But before the internship even starts, Madison’s brother is arrested and jailed for drug possession, by Judge Conroy herself. Madison’s brother, Danny, swears he’s innocent and that he was set up, and the Judge played a part in his false conviction. Madison agrees to investigate but more than her law career is at risk when she discovers far more than she expected.
Michele Campbell manages to develop a unique, engaging plot in a genre where this is hard to find. I was eager to get my hands on this one, as Campbell’s previous novels, “She Was the Quiet One” were deliciously suspenseful, and “The Intern” did not disappoint.
The story is narrated both by Kathryn and Madison, each responsible for one entire section of the novel. Madison’s story is told first, but it’s really the nitty gritty details of Kathryn’s life that are truly captivating. Both have secrets and both have something to gain from working together, and working against, each other. Neither Madison nor Kathryn can be trusted, and I was suspicious of both right from the beginning, unsure where the ending would take me. When it finally played out, I was beyond satisfied with the outcome, and although it could’ve taken many paths, Campbell definitely chose the right one.
“The Intern” illustrates the behind-the-scenes drama that takes place between a judge and her clerks and all the vulnerable holes where manipulation and scheming can slip in. Each chapter flows well into the next, with a teasing cliffhanger at the end of each. Campbell brings another intensely suspenseful novel forward, delivering the perfect combination of drama and mystery, which is what readers have come to expect from Campbell’s suspenseful fiction.
September 24, 2023
Fantastic Legal Thriller that I Highly Recommend!
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
I was over the moon when I received ARCs of Michele Campbell’s newest novel…audiobook and ebook! It’s wonderful to be able to alternate between the book and audio. The narrator did an excellent job of portraying all of the characters and I highly recommend it. The author is one of my favorites and I will happily read any of her books!
The two main characters are Judge Kathryn Conroy and Madison Rivera. Both women are badass and fierce, with dark secrets. We get to hear from each and get a look into the past, which brings the story together perfectly!
This is an excellent legal thriller with the omission of the customary courtroom setting. The characters are skillfully interlaced through organized crime and family. Once I started it, I couldn’t stop. The little mysteries within the main story are mesmerizing! And the ending is one of the best I’ve read.
Sincere thanks to St. Martins Press and Macmillan Audio for this complimentary ARC provided by NetGalley and Edelweiss. As always, all opinions are my own and are left voluntarily.
#TheIntern #MicheleCampbell #stmartinspress #macmillanaudio #netgalley #edelweiss #justfinished #newrelease #giftedARC #audiobookreview #igbookreels #thriller #honestreview #thrillerfriendsunite #mysteryandthrills #thrillerbooklovers #thrillerobsessedbookishclub #suspense #lovetoread #bookworms #lovebooks #lovetoreadbooks #fortheloveofbooks #booknerd #bookreviewer #booksbooksandmorebooks #instabook #readaholic
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
I was over the moon when I received ARCs of Michele Campbell’s newest novel…audiobook and ebook! It’s wonderful to be able to alternate between the book and audio. The narrator did an excellent job of portraying all of the characters and I highly recommend it. The author is one of my favorites and I will happily read any of her books!
The two main characters are Judge Kathryn Conroy and Madison Rivera. Both women are badass and fierce, with dark secrets. We get to hear from each and get a look into the past, which brings the story together perfectly!
This is an excellent legal thriller with the omission of the customary courtroom setting. The characters are skillfully interlaced through organized crime and family. Once I started it, I couldn’t stop. The little mysteries within the main story are mesmerizing! And the ending is one of the best I’ve read.
Sincere thanks to St. Martins Press and Macmillan Audio for this complimentary ARC provided by NetGalley and Edelweiss. As always, all opinions are my own and are left voluntarily.
#TheIntern #MicheleCampbell #stmartinspress #macmillanaudio #netgalley #edelweiss #justfinished #newrelease #giftedARC #audiobookreview #igbookreels #thriller #honestreview #thrillerfriendsunite #mysteryandthrills #thrillerbooklovers #thrillerobsessedbookishclub #suspense #lovetoread #bookworms #lovebooks #lovetoreadbooks #fortheloveofbooks #booknerd #bookreviewer #booksbooksandmorebooks #instabook #readaholic
April 2, 2023
I really hoped I’d enjoy this one more than I did, I’ve never read from Campbell before but the synopsis sounded really good! I usually enjoy plots involving internships and law so this should’ve worked for me.
it started off strong as we get to know Madison and her background, and I was hooked as she begins the internship with Kathryn, the judge, under an important false pretense. the book unfortunately started losing me when we started getting more of Kathryn’s side, and it turned into a mob type of plot, which is something I don’t really enjoy in thrillers. Kathryn was also a very confusing character to follow at times; for such a prestigious judge, she seems to act impulsively and behaves quite unprofessionally (understandable given her background and what she is trying to protect, but still feels implausible for a person in such a respected position). it got very repetitive for me - also, did DoorDash sponsor this book because the amount of times it’s mentioned here….
overall not a win for my personal taste but it was still a pretty fast paced book, so I’m sure others will enjoy it more than I did! I recommend this for readers who enjoy following mob plots, if i would’ve known going into this book that it would take up most of the story i probably would have steered away.
it started off strong as we get to know Madison and her background, and I was hooked as she begins the internship with Kathryn, the judge, under an important false pretense. the book unfortunately started losing me when we started getting more of Kathryn’s side, and it turned into a mob type of plot, which is something I don’t really enjoy in thrillers. Kathryn was also a very confusing character to follow at times; for such a prestigious judge, she seems to act impulsively and behaves quite unprofessionally (understandable given her background and what she is trying to protect, but still feels implausible for a person in such a respected position). it got very repetitive for me - also, did DoorDash sponsor this book because the amount of times it’s mentioned here….
overall not a win for my personal taste but it was still a pretty fast paced book, so I’m sure others will enjoy it more than I did! I recommend this for readers who enjoy following mob plots, if i would’ve known going into this book that it would take up most of the story i probably would have steered away.
September 20, 2023
The Intern by Michele Campbell
The Intern was a fun and entertaining read and kept my attention all the way through. A troubling look at the legal system and the people who either uphold it or distort it. Where one decision can lead you down a hole that you might never climb out of.
Madison is taking a Harvard class from her personal idol Judge Kathryn Convoy, when she is encouraged to apply for a position as her intern. But her excitement is quickly diminished when she finds out that her brother Danny has been arrested on a drug charge and the overseeing judge is the very same Kathryn Convoy. This opportunity exceeds her wildest dreams, but with the mounting pressure from her family to help, she is left with a difficult decision to accept her dream job or help Danny. Maybe she can do both?
Judge Convoy likes Madison and quickly befriends her, drawing her into a world of prestige, designer clothes, and fancy restaurants. Will their friendship be the help her family needs? Or is the judge setting her up? How far will Madison go to help her troubled brother?
This fast paced thriller will suck you in and leave your head spinning.
Thank you Netgalley and St. Martin's Press for this ARC in exchange for an honest review
The Intern was a fun and entertaining read and kept my attention all the way through. A troubling look at the legal system and the people who either uphold it or distort it. Where one decision can lead you down a hole that you might never climb out of.
Madison is taking a Harvard class from her personal idol Judge Kathryn Convoy, when she is encouraged to apply for a position as her intern. But her excitement is quickly diminished when she finds out that her brother Danny has been arrested on a drug charge and the overseeing judge is the very same Kathryn Convoy. This opportunity exceeds her wildest dreams, but with the mounting pressure from her family to help, she is left with a difficult decision to accept her dream job or help Danny. Maybe she can do both?
Judge Convoy likes Madison and quickly befriends her, drawing her into a world of prestige, designer clothes, and fancy restaurants. Will their friendship be the help her family needs? Or is the judge setting her up? How far will Madison go to help her troubled brother?
This fast paced thriller will suck you in and leave your head spinning.
Thank you Netgalley and St. Martin's Press for this ARC in exchange for an honest review
September 4, 2023
First of all, I am an attorney and work in the criminal Justice work in NYC. I also went to law school in Boston. This book is littered with inaccuracies. Where to begin? First, this book is written by a NYC prosecutor who “fought crime” for eight years. Prosecutors in NYC do not fight crime but perpetuate systems of inequality, systemic racism and the political agenda of whomever happens to be mayor at the time. Second, this book is written by what appears to be a white woman who makes it a point to needlessly racialize her characters- “Ty” with the prominent “African American” surgeon father who never suffered in his life and “Madison” whose mom lovingly makes her arroz gandules. These characters are otherwise flat and lack any depth and cling to antiquated heteronormative understandings of what the modern legal world on the East coast looks like. Third, the storyline is nonsensical and unrealistic and inaccurately portrays what attending a prominent Ivy League law school is really like. I had hoped for something better from someone as well educated as this author. This book was a major disappointment.
September 21, 2023
I wasn’t expecting much from this novel. So I was very surprised at how really good it turned out to be.
The story unfolds through multiple timelines with each chapter revealing layer upon layer of the past that shaped who the characters are in the present day. All of the players are well developed and fleshed out. I could picture each and everyone of them in my “mind’s eye.” At first I didn’t care for the two main characters. But as the story progressed, they evolved into relatable people that eventually captured my admiration.
The novel’s narrative is based on the premise of a corrupt legal system, with crooked lawyers, judges, and police officers. It is full of surprising and suspenseful plot twists that kept me on the edge of my seat. From one chapter to the next, there were unforeseen events at every turn that made for an unputdownable read. And with a heartfelt finale, The Intern is a novel definitely worth reading. Five solid stars. I’ll be sure to keep author, Michele Campbell on my radar.
I received a DRC from St. Martin’s Press through NetGalley. The review herein is completely my own and contains my honest thoughts and opinions.
The story unfolds through multiple timelines with each chapter revealing layer upon layer of the past that shaped who the characters are in the present day. All of the players are well developed and fleshed out. I could picture each and everyone of them in my “mind’s eye.” At first I didn’t care for the two main characters. But as the story progressed, they evolved into relatable people that eventually captured my admiration.
The novel’s narrative is based on the premise of a corrupt legal system, with crooked lawyers, judges, and police officers. It is full of surprising and suspenseful plot twists that kept me on the edge of my seat. From one chapter to the next, there were unforeseen events at every turn that made for an unputdownable read. And with a heartfelt finale, The Intern is a novel definitely worth reading. Five solid stars. I’ll be sure to keep author, Michele Campbell on my radar.
I received a DRC from St. Martin’s Press through NetGalley. The review herein is completely my own and contains my honest thoughts and opinions.
August 27, 2024
I think I had somewhat low expectations for this novel solely because I have read soooooooooooo many thrillers through Book of the Month. I wondered, how will this book stand out from the others? It was quickly apparent to this reader that the author was a lawyer herself. I loved her descriptions of Harvard Law and the Judge's chambers. I saw someone compare this to the TV series How to Get Away With Murder, and I definitely agree.
Madison Rivera is enthralled by all things Judge Conroy. When Judge Conroy suggests she interview for an open intern position in her chambers, Madison knows she can land the job. The only problem? Judge Conroy is the presiding judge on Madison's brother's criminal court case. Should Madison risk her future law career and try to sway the Judge's opinion of her brother, or should she do the right thing and reveal her conflict of interest? There were many other twists throughout the novel. I teetered between 4 and 5 stars—I am just not sure how believable the story really is. Overall, I enjoyed it and I will read another by Campbell.
Madison Rivera is enthralled by all things Judge Conroy. When Judge Conroy suggests she interview for an open intern position in her chambers, Madison knows she can land the job. The only problem? Judge Conroy is the presiding judge on Madison's brother's criminal court case. Should Madison risk her future law career and try to sway the Judge's opinion of her brother, or should she do the right thing and reveal her conflict of interest? There were many other twists throughout the novel. I teetered between 4 and 5 stars—I am just not sure how believable the story really is. Overall, I enjoyed it and I will read another by Campbell.
December 19, 2023
I’ve read all of Michele Campbell’s novels and once again her writing held my attention to the very last page! The novel follows Harvard law collegiate Madison who studies under her favorite professor and mentor, Judge Kathryn Conroy. Kathryn offers her an internship which she accepts.. then.. receives a call that her little brother has been arrested and is forced to plead guilty to a crime he didn’t commit. In jail, her brother reveals something shocking about the Judge presiding over his case.. who just happens to be Kathryn! Of course Madison is shocked and wants to find out if there’s any validity to it. She keeps his incarceration secret from everyone including Katherine.
I liked the direction this story played out, especially how it shows Kathryn’s past pre-arranged by others for their own benefit, not hers. Loved the great character development + suspense - what a fantastic read! 4.5 stars Pub. 10/3/23
Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the complimentary arc. All opinions are my own.
I liked the direction this story played out, especially how it shows Kathryn’s past pre-arranged by others for their own benefit, not hers. Loved the great character development + suspense - what a fantastic read! 4.5 stars Pub. 10/3/23
Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the complimentary arc. All opinions are my own.
July 22, 2023
This book was impossible to put down!
You root for Kathy and Madison the whole time.
The ending is so good. I liked that we got both perspectives between Kathy and Madison.
The twists were great too.
Highly recommend!
You root for Kathy and Madison the whole time.
The ending is so good. I liked that we got both perspectives between Kathy and Madison.
The twists were great too.
Highly recommend!
November 28, 2023
This was a different read from an author I'm very much a fan of. I've really enjoyed all of Campbell's previous novels, but this was definitely a departure. True to her background, The Intern is much more about law/politics/organized crime, which are not really my favorite topics. Despite that, I decided to give this one a shot, and while it was a solid read, it didn't really blow me away, so that's why I'm going middle ground here with a 3-Star rating.
When Harvard law student Madison Rivera is offered a coveted position as intern for Judge Kathryn Conroy she can't belief her fortune - she first saw Conroy as a young girl when she came to her school as a guest speaker on career day and since then Madison has always wanted to practice law, and hopefully some day, like her idol, even become a Judge herself. The only problem is that there's a secret Madison has kept that she should have disclosed when applying for the position - her brother, Danny, has been arrested and charged with drug trafficking and Judge Conroy is the judge on his case! To add to the dramatics, Danny is claiming he's innocent, has been set up, and Judge Conroy is a crooked judge and somehow involved! Should Madison trust her family, or believe in the woman she's always held on a pedestal??
Madison accepts the position, deciding to be cautious and investigate Danny's case from the inside, however the closer she gets to Conroy personally and professionally, the more she discovers, and the closer she, and perhaps even her family, is to danger! What has Conroy involved her in?? Is pursuing her lifelong dream worth putting everyone and everything she loves at risk??
As mentioned, the plotline wasn't necessarily my favorite, but the characters were interesting and appealing, so I was intrigued enough throughout to continue on, and the overall execution was done nicely. I can definitely see why some people have rated this one higher than I have, which is fair. Despite this one not exactly knocking it out of the park for me, I'm always going to be a fan of Ms. Campbell's, and can't wait to read her next novel!!
When Harvard law student Madison Rivera is offered a coveted position as intern for Judge Kathryn Conroy she can't belief her fortune - she first saw Conroy as a young girl when she came to her school as a guest speaker on career day and since then Madison has always wanted to practice law, and hopefully some day, like her idol, even become a Judge herself. The only problem is that there's a secret Madison has kept that she should have disclosed when applying for the position - her brother, Danny, has been arrested and charged with drug trafficking and Judge Conroy is the judge on his case! To add to the dramatics, Danny is claiming he's innocent, has been set up, and Judge Conroy is a crooked judge and somehow involved! Should Madison trust her family, or believe in the woman she's always held on a pedestal??
Madison accepts the position, deciding to be cautious and investigate Danny's case from the inside, however the closer she gets to Conroy personally and professionally, the more she discovers, and the closer she, and perhaps even her family, is to danger! What has Conroy involved her in?? Is pursuing her lifelong dream worth putting everyone and everything she loves at risk??
As mentioned, the plotline wasn't necessarily my favorite, but the characters were interesting and appealing, so I was intrigued enough throughout to continue on, and the overall execution was done nicely. I can definitely see why some people have rated this one higher than I have, which is fair. Despite this one not exactly knocking it out of the park for me, I'm always going to be a fan of Ms. Campbell's, and can't wait to read her next novel!!
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