Step into the thrilling world of Goodlove and Shek, where courtroom drama meets heartfelt storytelling! Al Macy’s Goodlove and Shek series follows defense attorney Garrett Goodlove, a man wrestling with personal demons while tackling high-stakes legal battles. From defending his deaf twin sister to uncovering medical malpractice, this legal thriller series blends suspense, quirky characters, and emotional depth, making it a hidden gem for fans of John Grisham or Scott Turow.
With its Northern California setting and focus on complex family ties, the series hooks readers with its relatable protagonist and twist-filled plots. Whether you’re a legal thriller junkie or just love a good story, Goodlove and Shek delivers a fresh take on justice and redemption.
How Goodlove and Shek Began
Al Macy, a former class clown turned author, launched the Goodlove and Shek series in 2019 with Conclusive Evidence. After retiring, Macy rediscovered his love for storytelling, moving from nonfiction to fiction to unleash his quirky imagination. Inspired by his knack for compelling plots and a fascination with legal intricacies, he created Garrett Goodlove, a flawed yet endearing attorney. Macy’s goal? To craft legal thrillers that balance suspense with humor and heart, drawing readers into a world where justice isn’t always straightforward.
The Heart of Goodlove and Shek
The series kicks off with Conclusive Evidence (2019), where Garrett defends his deaf twin sister, Carly, accused of murdering her husband. The case unravels personal vendettas and a detective’s grudge, blending courtroom tension with insights into the deaf community. In Sufficient Evidence (2019), Garrett faces a mysterious client, Aksana Ivanova, whose weapons charge escalates to a murder accusation, forcing him to navigate ethical dilemmas. Damaging Evidence (2020) sees Garrett prosecuting a corrupt surgeon, teaming with his daughter to save his firm from bankruptcy. Forgotten Evidence (2020) tackles a client with amnesia, testing Garrett’s resolve amid his depression.
Themes of family, redemption, and moral complexity shine throughout. Macy’s Redwood Point setting adds a cozy yet gritty backdrop, while his focus on character development—Garrett’s struggles with depression, his bond with Carly, and his evolving marriage to law partner Jen Shek—grounds the suspense. The series’ style is fast-paced yet thoughtful, with humor and quirky dialogue lightening the tension, making each book a standalone delight or a series binge.
Why Goodlove and Shek Resonates
Goodlove and Shek has carved a niche among legal thriller fans for its authentic legal details and relatable characters. Readers praise Macy’s ability to weave multiple storylines—court cases, family drama, and personal growth—into cohesive, unputdownable narratives. The series’ exploration of disability, mental health, and ethical gray areas adds depth, resonating with those who crave more than just courtroom battles. While not a household name, its loyal fanbase cherishes its fresh voice in a genre dominated by giants, proving there’s room for underdog stories in literature.
- Publication Years: 2019–2021
- Number of Books: Five novels, one short story
- Setting: Redwood Point, Northern California
Grab Conclusive Evidence and dive into Goodlove and Shek’s gripping world of legal thrills and heartfelt moments!