BOOK CORNER
By Marissa Wells
Contributing Writer
Joe Turner, a criminal defense attorney in Oakland, has a new case that seems impossible to unravel.
At its heart is a decade-old murder case and a tangled web of family loyalty and devotion. Joe believes in his client’s innocence but the defense is impacted by the snitch culture of the streets.
How far will family go to protect the ones they love?
Find out in, “Good Lookin’” by T.L. Bequette.
“Good Lookin’” was inspired by the author’s work as a criminal defense attorney.
“My career has exposed me to a culture that was foreign to me and most people,” Bequette said. “Growing up in certain areas carries with it a set of problems that most of us, thankfully, never encounter; the story of ‘Good Lookin’’ exposes some aspects of that life.”
The book addresses some of the realities faced by those living in gang-ravaged communities and the prevalence of snitch culture.
“‘Good Lookin’,’ the street term short for ‘good lookin’ out,’ examines the challenges and depths of protecting a loved one in the snitch culture of the streets through the prism of the unique bond of twins,” said the author.
The book also highlights the complex issues that may arise in foster home placements, abuse, familial bonds and more.
“It provides awareness of how difficult life could be for underserved people and for the underprivileged people,” Bequette said. “It also offers exposure to life in foster care and exposure to the inner city and what it’s like to live in crime ridden areas where there’s not a lot of hope.”
“Good Lookin’” will be enjoyed by readers of legal thrillers, but also readers of other genres.
“It’s a thought-provoking, twisty mystery with a dash of humor and romance,” Bequette said.
“Good Lookin’”is Bequette’s debut book and the first of a series of books that will chronicle different cases that Joe Turner experiences as he defends various people in Oakland.
In addition to being an author, Bequette is a criminal defense attorney practicing in Oakland. For more information about the author and his work, visit tlbequette.com.
“Good Lookin’: A Joe Turner Mystery” is available for $17.99 (paperback) and $4.99 (Kindle) on Amazon and Barnes and Noble. The book may also be ordered through any bookstore.
