Automatic Stay

"The second of the Josephina Jillian Jones (3J) series, Automatic Stay by Mark Shaiken continues his most enjoyable legal mystery thrillers. Set in 2023 in Kanas City, the court battle is over six jazz clubs that survived Covid but cannot pay their creditor. Complicating matters, there is an anonymous social media campaign also trying to send the clubs broke. So, Josephina and her team have a real battle to keep the jazz music industry alive. With its psychologically involved narrative, wonderful characters and tantalising vibe comes a joy of a tale. Ironically, this is another intriguing bankruptcy story and a must read for those who enjoy quality legal thrillers with its four and a half star rating. With much thanks to 1609 Publishing LLC and the author for an uncorrected proof copy for review purposes. As always, the opinions herein are totally my own and freely given." Michael Bradford

“Shaiken delivers adrenaline-fueled legal drama brimming with meticulous detail. He skillfully balances legal particularities and heart-thumping action with affecting discussions about friendship, relationships, integrity, revenge, redemption, and finding oneself. The realistically rendered, relatable cast is authentic and full of intrigue. . . . “ Prairies Review

"Author Mark Shaiken delivers a character-driven battle between history and finance in Automatic Stay, the second installment of his 3J Mystery series. . . . the writing is strong, with a whip-smart narrative voice, splashes of humor and lightness, as well as the flexibility to be dark, descriptive, and visceral . . . . Overall, this stylish and cutting-edge mystery blurs genre lines and patiently unfurls its gripping plot, establishing this series as a stand-out in the genre." Self Publishing Review.

"Automatic Stay” . . . ping-pongs from beguiling to riveting very quickly. . . [A] solid and intricately plotted tale that reflects the rich jazz music culture of Kansas City. 3J is a strong female lead and her professional confidence is perceptible throughout the tale. . . Shaiken adeptly blends legal details such as creditors, default payments, lawyers, clients, legal dilemmas, and a propulsive plot with affecting discussions surrounding societal themes such as friendships, relationships, and rectitude. . . . The unyielding and vivid prose enlivens even readers who are new to this genre. “Automatic Stay” is a 5 star novel that swiftly moves along with readers navigating its rapines to the end." Reader Views.

"Action-packed and fast-paced . . . . [A]n adrenaline-inducing legal thriller. . . .The mystery stays alive until the very last moment, and I enjoyed how 3J and Pascale had to work their butts off to win their new case. There is depth to the story. Highly recommended! 5 star."Rabia Tanveer for Readers’ Favorite