Reviews

	'Sonoran Gambit:' A tale of conspiracy
	by Joyce Labbs, Features Editor, The Lakeland Times

Without reading a word of 'Sonoran Gambit' (Action Works) by Jay Michael Jorgensen, I knew it would be a favorite.

Why?

The action takes place in southwest cities and towns that are familiar to me - Phoenix, Scottsdale, Mesa, Prescott, Los Angeles and Cabo San Lucas. Some I have lived in - and some I have visited.

However, it turned out that I didn't have to make it a favorite because of where the action took place. It is a terrific read - a real page turner.

Clay Barton is a criminal defense attorney with a prestigious law firm in Phoenix. He is known and respected by many for his defense of U.S. Senator Tom Lyman, not only preserving Lyman's reputation, but gaining national attention for himself. During the process they became good friends.

Now, the Senator asks him to defend a prominent Phoenix businessman in what could be another sensational case.

Barton agrees, but soon his law partners take over the case, oust him; and finally send him on a sabbatical, claiming "erratic" behavior. This to remove any chance of his interference.

The banishment does not sit well with Barton, and he begins his own investigation, which takes the reader to all the above places.

Of course there is a love interest, Melanie, also a lawyer with the same firm. As the action heats up, they team up to uncover a conspiracy which pits them against their law firm.

Sonoran Gambit is written in the first person, as Barton narrates the action; and it's a thrilling ride for the reader.

Those who have visited or lived in the southwest will recognize many of the landmarks he describes.

I would certainly recommend Sonoran Gambit to anyone who loves a tale filled with action, suspense, intrigue and, yes, even humor.

Author Jorgensen prepared for his literary career by being an entrepreneur and practicing law, where he says he "got used to writing fiction."

An ardent traveler and sportsman, Jorgensen grew up in Austin, Tex., and currently makes his home in Cave Creek, Ariz., which is north of Scottsdale.

The 371-page softcover book sells for $14.95, and will be available in book stores in November.

Joyce Laabs can be reached at features@lakelandtimes.com.

books are my bag

by Dee Ann Ray, Weatherford Daily News Weekender

Jay Michael Jorgensen is an attorney by profession. His deciding to write a mystery is an interesting choice given the other lawyers who have successfully turned to writing. Jorgensen is using his experiences as an entrepreneur and practicing law to guide his writing of a new novel titled “Sonoran Gambit” published by Action Works Publishing, P. O. Box 71636, Phoenix, AZ 85050. Website is located at www.actionworkspublishing.com. Phone number is 602-751-4701.

Clay Barton, attorney is working on a sensational criminal case involving a personal friend, U.S. Senator Tom Lyman. Suddenly his law partners attempt to take the case away from him. The partners have decided Clay is exhibiting “erratic” behavior and needs a long sabbatical.

Going quietly is not something Clay does well. He undertakes a wild and dangerous investigation which rushes through Los Angeles and Cabo San Lucas. His work uncovers a conspiracy involving corporate sabotage.

Making such discoveries is costly for Clay. He finds his career is in shambles and that he is risking death or a life in prison.

Confrontation of his powerful enemies in open court must be risked by Clay if he is to save both his client and himself. It is a risky gamble, but Clay has no choice.

All the action is relayed directly by Clay Barton in this first person mystery. Barton laces his action-packed narrative with plenty of humor. This book has a great mix of caustic and cynical comments, suspense and laughter.

“Sonoran Gambit” is a November, 2009 publication. It is available through your favorite bookstore/on-line book source and direct from the publisher as well as through your closest public library.

A new book by a new mystery writer will make a great holiday gift for someone, maybe you.