I decided to try this series. The first book was the right price. After reading the first two books I was surprised that I was still reading them. The main character Butch Kalp is a DA. The court system is probably worst now, but it sounds about the same back then. I finished the second book and thought that Butch would be promoted to a higher office. There was enough evidence against both Bloom and Chip that they should have been fired. I didn't read the third book because of the jump in price. I am on the fourth book and it is only because I am waiting for a new book from a different author. The Kalp and Marlene romance and working areas are confusing. Some people just cannot write about romance. Kalp's ego is very high and Marlene is a whiner. The stories would be interesting if the partners work together to solve difficult cases it would make more sense. I think there should be more legal winnings instead of behind-the-scenes outcomes. If this is how it is I can understand why the courts are a mess. I read approximately five books a week. I know this should be my job. I read a lot. I have read good legal, police procedural, and detective books. I think I have an open mind when it comes to reviewing books. I was disappointed in the characters and storyline. I did like the “King Cole Trio” characters. I am done with this series!