The Final Steps

"***** Five Stars!—The Final Steps: A Harbor Springs Cozy Legal Mystery is a new book by mystery author Mark M. Bello. In this new outing, Mr. Bello has left Zachary Blake behind and is taking a leap into the world of cozy mysteries. I love a good cozy mystery and this author has hit a home run in what is going to be a fabulous new series. I loved it! . . . Mark Bello has written a really attention-grabbing and fun book in The Final Steps. It is loaded with interesting characters and the perfect mystery climax... the kind that keeps you guessing until the very end. There is no lack of suspects in the story, which makes it even better. In addition, the dialogue is so well-done, and that lets the reader enjoy this story even more. The characters seem very real to the reader and I adore that. Rosaline [Maxwell) is a strong, determined, and independent woman. She is written perfectly and the reader will really enjoy this new female protagonist . . . Mr. Bello is a captivating writer and I am now a big fan that cannot wait to go along for the ride. I'm sure you will feel the same way. 5 Stars!! Kathy Stickles-ReaderViews   

***** Five Stars!—The Final Steps: A Harbor Springs Cozy Legal Mystery by Mark M. Bello is the perfect whodunnit for a night under the stars or in front of a fire. Rosaline Maxwell is a retired attorney and judge, looking forward to her book tour around the country. Years of experience have shown Rosaline the flaws in the justice system, and so she set out to write about the miscarriage of justice that results in wrongful incarceration. It's this valuable experience that Rosaline's best friend Tyler Guthrie needs most when he is accused of murdering a coworker. Can Rosaline prevent her friend from landing behind bars as she's seen so many innocent victims do? Even if she could, the real killer is still out there, happily slipping under the radar. But the killer's luck might just have run out with Rosaline and Tyler on the case.   

The Final Steps was such an entertaining novel. Rosaline came across as a wise and compassionate character, and if I ever got wrongfully convicted or was even suspected of something as heinous as murder, I'd want Rosaline on my side. Her love for her friend shows strongly as she puts in the time and effort to exonerate him. Mark M. Bello does throw in a few twists and turns in this legal mystery, so much so that you are never really sure who is innocent or guilty. He showcases his extensive knowledge of police procedures and legalese in an entertaining and thought-provoking way. The book is pure enjoyment and a bona fide puzzle until the final pages when all the pieces fall into place—Melanie Kennedy-Readers' Favorite  

*****Five Stars! The Final Steps is more than just a legal thriller. Mark M. Bello planned an intriguing plot that was excellently written. It was easy to lose myself in the story. The storyline had my interest from the start and kept me on the edge of my seat. With all the twists and turns, I never knew what to expect and I could not put it down once I started reading. I just kept turning the pages, afraid I would miss something. It was fast-paced and action-packed. The characters were well-developed. They were unique and real people who were relatable. The humor between the characters made reading more fun. The identity of the killer was a major revelation and I didn't expect it at all—Alma Boucher-Readers' Favorite  

***** Five Stars! The Final Steps is the first book I have read by this attorney, social justice advocate, and award-winning author Mark M. Bello. I am impressed with the book's provocative yet serious message. Mark M. Bello has certainly earned my respect and has a new fan. I appreciate the author's diligence in delivering such a fascinating book on the flaws in our criminal justice system that have resulted, at times, in the incarceration of many innocent victims. This novel brings hope and inspiration to those fighting for justice for the innocent when the victims are incapable of advocating for themselves. I loved following Rosaline Maxwell in her quest for the truth and the brief introduction given of the murderer's voice in the book. I highly recommend this author—Emma Megan-Readers' Favorite   

***** Five Stars! Sleuth mystery lovers are in for a treat with Mark M. Bello's The Final Steps: A Harbor Springs Cozy Legal Mystery. After publishing her first book to rave reviews, retired judge Rosaline Maxwell finds herself forced to investigate a murder case when her old friend, Tyler Guthrie, is arrested on a murder charge. The victim, college professor Kevin Johnstone, was pushed from a building, resulting in his death. While all the evidence points to Tyler, Rosaline takes it upon herself to find the real culprit and free her friend from the clutches of the law. As she follows the trail of clues, she discovers secrets relating to the victim that may have dire consequences. Rosaline's determination to find the truth might soon put her own life in danger. Will she be able to clear her friend's name?

If you like murder mysteries with lots of twists and turns, The Final Steps is just the book for you. Mark M. Bello weaves a gripping yarn that captivates you from the first page and refuses to let go until the end. The narrative is fast-paced, and Bello's prose makes it a breeze to read. What impressed me most about the book was the way that the characters reacted to the situations in which they landed. Everything felt believable, and that enhanced my enjoyment of the story. Rosaline is an intriguing protagonist and someone to look up to. A fantastic murder mystery that sleuth story lovers can enjoy. I sure did—Pikasho Deka-Readers' Favorite"