Best Mystery, Colorado Gold Writing Contest

Finalist, Calavera Award (Left Coast Crime)

“Phelan . . . vividly evokes the Arizona desert and thrills with convincing legal detail . . . . Hannah [Dain] makes a sympathetic and appealing heroine likely to have an interesting future.”
     —Publishers Weekly

“Phelan creates appealing characters and paints a vivid portrait of the Arizona desert. A nice alternative for legal-thriller fans tired of the Grisham high-concept steamroller.”
     —Booklist

“Phelan’s writing has a spare toughness and lack of sentimentality that barrels you through the rough spots like a good road bike. Best of all are the legal details, those tiny moments of advice and decision that fill a lawyer’s day.”
     —Chicago Tribune

“Satisfying, well-plotted mystery.”
     —Florida Sun-Sentinel 

“This book sizzles and it’s not just the Arizona heat!”
     —Sue Grafton, Edgar® Award-winning author

“Twist Phelan knows of what she writes. FAMILY CLAIMS is as full as a lawyer’s briefcase with character and good storytelling. Phelan is on her way!”
     —Michael Connelly, Edgar® Award-winning author

“Well-written and entertaining . . . solid background and peopled with likeable characters.”
     —Firsts Magazine

“Engrossing tale that remains tense through its conclusion . . . fully fleshed out and complex cast of characters.”
     —Deadly Pleasures Magazine

“Strong plot, realistic characters and colorful scenery as well as a complex twisting mystery. . . . Sue Grafton’s fans will revel in this character that reminds one of Kinsey Milhone.”
     —Mystery Morgue

“Keenly drawn characters and a plot that ticks along like a time bomb make Phelan’s novel a standout. . . . Phelan’s original angles and attention to detail make this story one to savor.”
     —RT Bookclub