The Burning Gavel: Crime Mysteries by Norman Shabel pulls you into a legal thriller where one man’s fight for justice pits him against some seriously powerful enemies. Tim Lowry barely survives a chemical plant explosion, and now he’s determined to make those responsible pay. His only hope is Mel Levine, a sharp, street-smart lawyer who isn’t afraid to take on the big guys. But as Mel digs deeper, things get messy when witnesses start disappearing, secrets start piling up, and the danger gets very real. With time running out and the legal system stacked against them, Mel has to risk everything to uncover the truth before it’s too late.

Norman Shabel’s deep knowledge of the legal world makes this story feel real, and the tension never lets up. The courtroom scenes are gripping with sharp dialogue that conveys all the tension. However, the behind-the-scenes twists and high-stakes investigations kept me hooked as different plot elements bubbled under the surface until they suddenly hit me. Mel Levine is a great leading character—tough, smart, and willing to fight for what’s right, even when everything around them is stacked against success. The plot unfolds in a way that constantly raises the stakes, peeling back layers of corruption that feel all too believable and keeping a great pace with naturally delivered twists that don't feel gimmicky. Overall, The Burning Gavel is a thrilling read, perfect for anyone who loves legal dramas packed with suspense, moral dilemmas, and a fight for justice, and I definitely recommend it.

The Burning Gavel is part of the Crime Mysteries series by Norman Shabel. Tim Lowry is back in the courtroom chasing justice after being left for dead following a chemical plant explosion. But the course of justice is never straightforward and Lowry is up against a biased judge, not to mention a corrupt defense team. His lawyer is Mel Levine, a man who fights for the truth at every turn and won’t take any nonsense. But this case proves to be his toughest yet, especially when he is thrown in jail. When a witness goes missing, it’s a race against time to find them but the lies and deceit are piling up. His personal demons are also haunting him, making things even more difficult for him, but will that just make him fight harder for the truth? This is his longest fight for survival yet, and he must win it, not just for Lowry but also for himself.

I’ve read many of the Crime Mysteries books by Norman Shabel, and The Burning Gavel is one of the best yet. A taut legal thriller, this is action all the way, a full-on rollercoaster ride that will leave you wanting more. It has a wonderful cast of characters, so many different people, yet each developed to the stage where you feel you know them personally. The twists and turns take you on a journey you’ll never forget, and the surprises and shocks just keep on coming – nothing less than I expect from these books – ensuring you won’t put this one down until you reach the last page. Norman Shabel writes compelling, exciting stories that draw you in and hold your attention all the way through, and if you love a good legal thriller, you’ll love this book.

In The Burning Gavel, Norman Shabel spins a thrilling courtroom drama around the tenacious and strong-willed lawyer Mel Levin. He has taken on Tim Lowry's case, who remarkably survived a near-fatal workplace accident five years ago. After sustaining serious burns and enduring excruciating pain, Tim faces a daunting lawsuit against the chemical plant he had been working at when the explosion happened. Mel strives to achieve justice for his client while facing formidable odds, contending with the disappearance of a key witness, a biased judge, and corrupt lawyers who will defend their wealthy clients relentlessly. He even finds himself jailed for contempt of court. Will good win over evil, and will his unyielding pursuit of truth dismantle the web of lies, corruption, and deceit?

The Burning Gavel is a compelling legal thriller focusing on the lead character's confrontation with the system's ethics and morals. In a powerful and sinister plot, the story exposes a heartless betrayal in pursuing justice for an innocent man who lost everything he held dear. Through Norman Shabel's writing prowess and flashback narrative, Mel Levine's personality comes to life as the reader relates to his flaws and strengths, making him a likable and authentic character. Similarly, the antagonists slowly reveal their nefarious actions, building suspense and intrigue. Courtroom scene descriptions combine intricate plot structure with dramatic tension to engage the reader. The novel explores themes of trickery, honor, perseverance, and justice. The Burning Gavel is a nail-biting read that will appeal to readers who enjoy high-stakes courtroom dramas.

Norman Shabel's The Burning Gavel is a crime mystery centered around the case of Tim Lowry, who was severely injured in an explosion at the Giant Chemical plant in Cobbstown, New Jersey. Five years later, Tim is back to seek justice, and he is not alone in his quest. Mel Levine, affectionately known as Melvin, is a tough, street-smart lawyer with a deep sense of justice, making him ideally suited for this case. He risks everything to discover the truth and soon finds himself entangled in a complex web of corruption, lies, and betrayal. This is the story of a man rediscovering himself while fighting for survival as danger escalates throughout the case. Justice must prevail, and Mel Levine is determined to see it through at any cost.

Norman Shabel's background as a trial lawyer enriches the narrative. He creates an actual courtroom experience for readers, avoiding fairytale embellishments. The characters are honest and humane and depict the reality of the world. The themes of justice and corruption are very much rooted in the plot, highlighting the often challenging battle for truth and justice. Sometimes, it even makes you question your whole life, which is a defining element of the narrative. The trial Shabel created is not just a trial in the courtroom but also life. Marina and Melvin's relationship and Melvin's backstory play an essential role in shaping his character as a lawyer. Melvin is flawed, which makes him unforgettable and relatable. Despite his imperfections, Melvin's dedication to seeking justice for Tim is commendable. While Melvin is the protagonist, the author ensures that other characters, such as Tim Lowry, are not overlooked. Tim's bravery and struggles are evident in Melvin's dialogues. Similarly, characters like Marina's father, Mordecai, and Melvin's friend, Max, have their influence on the plot. The story is an insightful introduction to the realities of the legal system. While the plot is about getting justice for Tim, it is also about Melvin's emotional journey to find that lost spark of what being a lawyer means to him. Overall, The Burning Gavel is more than just a tale of justice; it is filled with meaningful life lessons and captures the essence of friendship, love, and honor. It is a compelling page-turner.