Step into the thrilling cosmos of Judge, Jury, & Executioner, where justice isn’t just served—it’s delivered with a galactic punch! This science fiction series by Craig Martelle, set in the sprawling Age of Expansion within the Kurtherian Gambit Universe, follows Rivka Anoa, a lawyer turned interstellar magistrate who wields the power to judge, sentence, and execute. With its blend of space opera flair, legal intrigue, and moral dilemmas, the series hooks readers with fast-paced adventures and a heroine who’s as sharp as a laser.
Whether you’re a sci-fi fanatic or a newcomer craving action-packed storytelling, Judge, Jury, & Executioner offers a universe where no criminal can hide from Rivka’s relentless pursuit of justice. Buckle up for a wild ride across the stars!
How Judge, Jury, & Executioner Began
Craig Martelle, a former Marine and lawyer turned bestselling author, crafted Judge, Jury, & Executioner with co-author Michael Anderle, drawing on his legal and military background to create a universe where justice is both personal and cosmic. Launched in 2018, the series emerged from Martelle’s love for space opera and his desire to explore themes of honor and accountability. Set in the Kurtherian Gambit Universe, it stands alone, welcoming readers without requiring prior knowledge of the expansive lore.
Martelle’s inspiration came from blending legal thrillers with sci-fi adventure, envisioning a magistrate who could cut through bureaucracy to deliver swift justice. Rivka Anoa, with her complex past and unyielding moral compass, became the heart of this vision, captivating fans with her grit and humor.
The Heart of Judge, Jury, & Executioner
The series kicks off with You Have Been Judged (2018), where Rivka, accused of murder, is offered a second chance to become a galactic magistrate. Tasked with hunting criminals across planets, she grapples with her new role’s ethical weight. Destroy the Corrupt (2018) sees her tackling a shady business racket, unraveling political intrigue with her team. In Serial Killer (2018), Rivka hunts assassins targeting alien ambassadors, blending mystery with high-stakes action. Rise of the AI (2020) explores AI rights, showcasing the series’ knack for tackling futuristic dilemmas.
Spanning 21 books, the series weaves themes of justice, loyalty, and moral ambiguity through Rivka’s cases. Her team—bodyguard Red, tech-savvy Jay, and snarky AI Chaz—adds humor and camaraderie, grounding the interstellar chaos. The setting, a vibrant galaxy of space stations and alien worlds, pulses with ecological crises and political schemes, making every case a thrilling puzzle. Martelle’s prose, packed with snappy dialogue and relentless pacing, keeps readers hooked, while Rivka’s evolution from lawyer to enforcer mirrors classic sci-fi heroes like Judge Dredd, but with a distinctly human touch.
Why Judge, Jury, & Executioner Resonates
Judge, Jury, & Executioner has carved a niche in the sci-fi community for its bold take on justice and its relatable characters. Fans praise Rivka’s blend of strength and vulnerability, with reviews calling the series “action-packed” and “a delightful sci-fi romp.” Its exploration of AI rights, corruption, and interstellar trade resonates with modern ethical debates, giving it a timeless edge. While not a cultural juggernaut, the series’ loyal fanbase and consistent releases—culminating in Messiah (2024)—prove its staying power in the Kurtherian Gambit Universe.
The series’ impact lies in its ability to balance escapist fun with thought-provoking questions about power and morality, making it a hidden gem for readers seeking both thrills and depth. Its standalone accessibility invites newcomers to dive into a universe where justice always finds its mark.
- First published: 2018
- Total books: 21
- Authors: Craig Martelle, Michael Anderle
- Setting: Kurtherian Gambit Universe, Age of Expansion
Grab You Have Been Judged and dive into Judge, Jury, & Executioner’s galaxy of justice, adventure, and wit. Rivka Anoa is waiting to blow your socks off!