Who Better To Write A Legal Thriller Than A Trial Attorney?

Above the Law

by Chris Williams

February 19, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

A Tampa trial attorney with a decades-long legal career has turned his expertise into a gripping legal thriller, *The Jury Is Back*. Authored under the pen name B.M. Reade, the book tells the story of Sammy Carrara Jr., a charter boat captain accused of first-degree murder during Florida’s late-1970s drug-smuggling boom. Drawing on real-life experiences from his time as a prosecutor and later a defense attorney, Lazzara crafts a tension-filled narrative that explores themes of justice, corruption, and the death penalty. Set in Anna Maria Island, the novel immerses readers in the era’s “reefer madness,” where prosecutors push for execution in Florida’s electric chair. The title itself reflects the urgency of courtroom proceedings, inspired by the bailiff’s announcement signaling a jury’s readiness to deliver a verdict. Lazzara’s attention to detail, including local landmarks and legal procedures, makes the story both authentic and engaging. For law students or enthusiasts, the book offers a thrilling way to study criminal law concepts like mens rea and trial dynamics. The novel is more than just a legal drama—it’s a deeply personal project. Lazzara co-authored *The Jury Is Back* with his son before his passing, and he completed it as a tribute to him. This emotional layer adds depth to the story, making it not only a legal thriller but also a heartfelt tribute. For readers interested in law or crime fiction, the book provides an insider’s perspective on the justice system while delivering a page-turning tale of innocence versus corruption.

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Originally published on Above the Law on 2/19/2026