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Rachel Knight #2
Guilt by Degrees
Someone has been watching D.A. Rachel Knight--someone who's Rachel's equal in brains, but with more malicious intentions. It began when a near-impossible case fell into Rachel's lap, the suspectless homicide of a homeless man. In the face of courthouse backbiting and a gauzy web of clues, Rachel is determined to deliver justice. She's got back-up: tough-as-nails Detective Bailey Keller. As Rachel and Bailey stir things up, they're shocked to uncover a connection with the vicious murder of an LAPD cop a year earlier. Something tells Rachel someone knows the truth, someone who'd kill to keep it secret.
Harrowing, smart, and riotously entertaining, GUILT BY DEGREES is a thrilling ride through the world of LA courts with the unforgettable Rachel Knight.
Harrowing, smart, and riotously entertaining, GUILT BY DEGREES is a thrilling ride through the world of LA courts with the unforgettable Rachel Knight.
449 pages, ebook
First published May 8, 2012
274 people are currently reading
1507 people want to read
About the author
Marcia Clark
21 books1,318 followersMarcia Clark is a former LA, California deputy district attorney, who was the lead prosecutor in the O.J. Simpson murder case. She wrote a bestselling nonfiction book about the trial, Without a Doubt, and is a frequent media commentator and columnist on legal issues. She lives in Los Angeles.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 367 reviews
September 19, 2020
Ultimately, this installment works quite well; see status updates for the parts that didn't.
Suffice it to say that the tone-deafness is strong with this one.
Suffice it to say that the tone-deafness is strong with this one.
September 20, 2014
Thank you to Netgalley and Mulholland books for providing me with a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
2.5 stars
So I began reading this book, book 2 of the Rachel Knight series, immediately upon completion of the first. In some ways, this was a step down, but I did enjoy how Clark wove this mystery into the story. Unlike the other two I’ve read, this one does not have a simple resolution.
At the outset I should note that although these are part of a series, every single one can be read as a standalone. Clark doles out details from previous books that she thinks are helpful as needed, but she doesn’t spend too much time providing backstory. Since each case is its own case, much like a Law & Order episode, you don’t have to have read one to understand the next.
The problems I had with the first book, concerning filler obsessions with clothing (no, character, it was no so cold you had to break out your thermal underwear; stop trying to convince me otherwise, ugh), food, and alcohol, are more pronounced in this book, but that could be because I began reading it so immediately after the first. What also became more noticeable to me is that her two best friends don’t have much characterization. This is especially true with Bailey, with whom Rachel spends most of her time during the investigations. Bailey, I guess, is supposed to be stoic, but it just comes off as flat and wooden. The side characters and perps have more personality than she does.
Another thing that really bothered me is that although this takes place about a year after the first book, there’s practically no progression in Rachel’s relationship with Graden. Let me put it to you this way - she is in her thirties. He is at least her age, if not older, yet they have done nothing but go on dates - for a year. They have not spent time in the other’s home, and they have not slept together either in the literal or figurative sense. That seems completely and utterly unrealistic to me. We aren’t talking about two young adults here - we are talking about adults living in a fairly progressive city who have been involved with others in the past, and you’re telling me they haven’t gone past first base? I’m not asking, or expecting, sex scenes in the book, and I get that she has commitment issues so she doesn’t want to “pick out china patterns,” but the notion that they’ve never been alone together in their own homes and been intimate is, to me, ridiculous at this stage in the game. It made her feel immature, and less modern than she’s written.
Then there’s the whole subplot involving Rachel’s sister and Rachel’s nuclear overreaction when someone brings up the subject after having learned of it by finding a news article during a Google search. That’s not an invasion of your privacy, Rachel. That person did nothing wrong. I get that you don’t want to talk about it, but don’t pretend like someone stuck a tail on you to find out all your secret and private habits. That story hasn’t been private since it made headline news. That entire subplot again made her seem immature and annoying, which sucks because I ordinarily really like her, even when she’s obsessing about it being cold and stealing other people’s food off their plates. -.-
The investigation itself was, as always, pretty riveting, but sometimes got bogged down by amazing coincidences (not to mention the time taken to stop and eat, drink, and be merry). And once again, Clark doesn’t always voice her train of thought on a particular deductive thread, yet expects you to follow. She makes leaps and assumptions that are not obvious given what the characters know and she doesn’t always connect the dots in a way that flows, because she still has to link the conclusions back to other pieces of evidence, or at least explain away some of the questions that are raised when the characters make their conclusions.
Rachel makes several poor decisions - both in her personal and professional life - that really detract from her character this time around, and it really highlights how much Rachel is allowed to get away with straying from a “by the book” investigation. One of those decisions, in an attempt to capture the perp, can only be deemed too stupid to live. It works, of course, because why not? But it was still such a facepalm moment for me that I couldn’t believe the same author who wrote The Competition wrote this one.
Of the three I have read so far (Books 1, 2, and 4), this is probably my least favorite. So much filler, a lot of deductive leaps that didn’t make sense and raised more questions than they answered, and some poor decisions by Rachel really made this one a step backward.
2.5 stars
So I began reading this book, book 2 of the Rachel Knight series, immediately upon completion of the first. In some ways, this was a step down, but I did enjoy how Clark wove this mystery into the story. Unlike the other two I’ve read, this one does not have a simple resolution.
At the outset I should note that although these are part of a series, every single one can be read as a standalone. Clark doles out details from previous books that she thinks are helpful as needed, but she doesn’t spend too much time providing backstory. Since each case is its own case, much like a Law & Order episode, you don’t have to have read one to understand the next.
The problems I had with the first book, concerning filler obsessions with clothing (no, character, it was no so cold you had to break out your thermal underwear; stop trying to convince me otherwise, ugh), food, and alcohol, are more pronounced in this book, but that could be because I began reading it so immediately after the first. What also became more noticeable to me is that her two best friends don’t have much characterization. This is especially true with Bailey, with whom Rachel spends most of her time during the investigations. Bailey, I guess, is supposed to be stoic, but it just comes off as flat and wooden. The side characters and perps have more personality than she does.
Another thing that really bothered me is that although this takes place about a year after the first book, there’s practically no progression in Rachel’s relationship with Graden. Let me put it to you this way - she is in her thirties. He is at least her age, if not older, yet they have done nothing but go on dates - for a year. They have not spent time in the other’s home, and they have not slept together either in the literal or figurative sense. That seems completely and utterly unrealistic to me. We aren’t talking about two young adults here - we are talking about adults living in a fairly progressive city who have been involved with others in the past, and you’re telling me they haven’t gone past first base? I’m not asking, or expecting, sex scenes in the book, and I get that she has commitment issues so she doesn’t want to “pick out china patterns,” but the notion that they’ve never been alone together in their own homes and been intimate is, to me, ridiculous at this stage in the game. It made her feel immature, and less modern than she’s written.
Then there’s the whole subplot involving Rachel’s sister and Rachel’s nuclear overreaction when someone brings up the subject after having learned of it by finding a news article during a Google search. That’s not an invasion of your privacy, Rachel. That person did nothing wrong. I get that you don’t want to talk about it, but don’t pretend like someone stuck a tail on you to find out all your secret and private habits. That story hasn’t been private since it made headline news. That entire subplot again made her seem immature and annoying, which sucks because I ordinarily really like her, even when she’s obsessing about it being cold and stealing other people’s food off their plates. -.-
The investigation itself was, as always, pretty riveting, but sometimes got bogged down by amazing coincidences (not to mention the time taken to stop and eat, drink, and be merry). And once again, Clark doesn’t always voice her train of thought on a particular deductive thread, yet expects you to follow. She makes leaps and assumptions that are not obvious given what the characters know and she doesn’t always connect the dots in a way that flows, because she still has to link the conclusions back to other pieces of evidence, or at least explain away some of the questions that are raised when the characters make their conclusions.
Rachel makes several poor decisions - both in her personal and professional life - that really detract from her character this time around, and it really highlights how much Rachel is allowed to get away with straying from a “by the book” investigation. One of those decisions, in an attempt to capture the perp, can only be deemed too stupid to live. It works, of course, because why not? But it was still such a facepalm moment for me that I couldn’t believe the same author who wrote The Competition wrote this one.
Of the three I have read so far (Books 1, 2, and 4), this is probably my least favorite. So much filler, a lot of deductive leaps that didn’t make sense and raised more questions than they answered, and some poor decisions by Rachel really made this one a step backward.
October 21, 2012
Very disappointing read for me. I wanted to enjoy this book, but I CANNOT like a mystery that spends so much time on nonessential details, for example: What the protagonist and villain choose to wear in the morning, at what restaurants they eat and what they ate there, the favorite vodka (Russian double platinum - who cares?), the expensive watch that one of the villains wears, etc etc etc. GIVE ME A BREAK! This is also a travelogue of Los Angeles, a very self-involved city with many self-involved residents. If you like this sort of thing you will like the book.
Incidentally, it was obvious about half-way through the book who was the murderer, and that probably she would get away with it. Yup! I see her returning in the next book for a another showdown with the protagonist
Incidentally, it was obvious about half-way through the book who was the murderer, and that probably she would get away with it. Yup! I see her returning in the next book for a another showdown with the protagonist
April 29, 2016
ADA Rachel Knight is back in author Marcia Clark's second novel in series with, "Guilty By Degrees". Also returning is is special DA. investigator, detective Bailey Keller, along with Rachel's sometime boyfriend Lt. Graden Hales. Rachel works in LA's Special Trial Unit, the ones that get the most exposure. However, an impatient Rachel jumps on an inept, and lazy ADA in court one day, and ends up picking up a case that's a real dud. The younger brother of a previously slain LAPD officer was murdered on a sidewalk with plenty of witnesses and cameras. But the case has no evidence of any sort. In order to solve this case Rachel and Bailey must go back in time to investigate the murder of LAPD's Zack Bayer. Bayer's wife Lilah was the one and only suspect in the murder. Lilah who was a lawyer herself, and had experience clerking for the DA's office beat the rap. The stunning Lilah turned on the charm and the jury bought it hook line and sinker. Now two years later Zack's younger brother Charlie is murdered in plain sight. Lilah is quickly targeted as the prime suspect. But Lilah is no typical suspect. She's a master manipulator and extremely brilliant. Rachel and Bailey end up investigating all over the city of LA. . Complete with shootouts, car chases, skinheads, and the creepiest of criminals this yarn does not lack for action. (Do LA's ADA's really run around with a .22 Baretta or .38 hand gun on their person daily ?) The plethora of characters who pop up along with each daily adventure are not the best of developed characters who are able to guide the plot to it's conclusion. At just over 530 pages, this tale just kept going and going. At times it seemed that the book was somewhat over written. An editor should have cut this down at least 100 pages. Although it read quickly it just meandered too slowly to a conclusion. After awhile I kept wondering if Bailey and Rachel had real jobs to report to and "Work" that needed attention. Hard to fathom an ADA running all over the city of LA. and not going to the office for days at a time. I realize Rachel as the protagonist had to be involved in the bulk of the action, but I just didn't buy it. It was an enjoyable story to read and I did give it three stars out of a possible five stars. However, I thought is was a sharp come down from author Marcia Clark's first Rachel book, " Guilt By Association"....... I'm hoping third book in series is a rebound. ( I will be reading shortly). Author Marcia Clark does seem to be a somewhat good story teller. But at times it was like, Marcia just spit it out already. Sometimes less is better. But give it a read and see if you agree with me.
April 26, 2025
I have enjoyed these books. I am going to look for the rest. Good police and prosecutor story trying ro solve a crime solving another crime in the process.
April 28, 2012
If I can make the case, will that close the deal?
Rachel Knight has been successfully running from the ghosts of the past that haunt her every day. She is at the top of her legal game in the Los Angeles DA’s office, but still holds back when it comes to her personal life even with her best friends. When Rachel picks up a case that every other lawyer wanted to kick to the curb, the unexpected drawback is the tragic memories she kept under control would come back. Rachel has to take control of her emotions and her life. Right now, every ounce of her inner strength is being called up to keep her from jumping off the emotional deep end.
When Rachel took on the case to find the murderer of a homeless man, her fellow lawyers in the DA’s office dismiss her. The timeline for results is short so she pulls in her friends on the police force and together they walk through what on the surface appears to be a random murder on the streets of Los Angeles but in reality is anything but that. Rachel digs deep to get answers and when they start popping even Rachel is shocked by the turn of events and the undercurrent that is pulling her toward terrifying results. The heartless crime that drove the start of all this him to this life is even more disturbing than anything Rachel has ever reviewed.
Then the tide turns completely against Rachel and every demon that has ever knocked on her subconscious comes barging through the door Rachel knows she will finish this case but at what cost. It no longer is a game to find out what happened to someone else as much as it is keeping herself out of the morgue and when evil is looking for you is there any place you can hide?
Marcia Clark writes stories that are filled with mesmerizing details, characters you relate to, and an abundance of unbelievable plot diversity. Ms. Clark knows how to give the reader a proper balance of startling information added to take your breath away revelations.
Rachel Knight has been successfully running from the ghosts of the past that haunt her every day. She is at the top of her legal game in the Los Angeles DA’s office, but still holds back when it comes to her personal life even with her best friends. When Rachel picks up a case that every other lawyer wanted to kick to the curb, the unexpected drawback is the tragic memories she kept under control would come back. Rachel has to take control of her emotions and her life. Right now, every ounce of her inner strength is being called up to keep her from jumping off the emotional deep end.
When Rachel took on the case to find the murderer of a homeless man, her fellow lawyers in the DA’s office dismiss her. The timeline for results is short so she pulls in her friends on the police force and together they walk through what on the surface appears to be a random murder on the streets of Los Angeles but in reality is anything but that. Rachel digs deep to get answers and when they start popping even Rachel is shocked by the turn of events and the undercurrent that is pulling her toward terrifying results. The heartless crime that drove the start of all this him to this life is even more disturbing than anything Rachel has ever reviewed.
Then the tide turns completely against Rachel and every demon that has ever knocked on her subconscious comes barging through the door Rachel knows she will finish this case but at what cost. It no longer is a game to find out what happened to someone else as much as it is keeping herself out of the morgue and when evil is looking for you is there any place you can hide?
Marcia Clark writes stories that are filled with mesmerizing details, characters you relate to, and an abundance of unbelievable plot diversity. Ms. Clark knows how to give the reader a proper balance of startling information added to take your breath away revelations.
October 28, 2016
3.5 stars rounded up. This is the 2nd book in Marcia Clark’s Rachel Knight series, a series of thrillers that focus on LA deputy D.A. Rachel Knight, a member of the Special Trials Unit. This time around, a case involving the killing of a homeless man falls into Rachel’s lap. A quick and easy read with some interesting twists that kept me guessing. Marcia’s legal knowledge helps to create a realistic story, although was a bit farfetched at times.
The OJ trial mesmerized me and I was eager to read Marcia’s debut novel. It was published in 2011 and introduces the dedicated, witty and rule-breaker It was compelling enough that I wanted to read more about Rachel. This 2nd in the series is just as good as the first.
The OJ trial mesmerized me and I was eager to read Marcia’s debut novel. It was published in 2011 and introduces the dedicated, witty and rule-breaker It was compelling enough that I wanted to read more about Rachel. This 2nd in the series is just as good as the first.
August 19, 2017
a most excellent 5 star read, who knew she was a better writer than a prosecutor...:)
guilt by degrees 5 stars
I am loving this series By Ms. Clark, Rachel and her friends are a breath of fresh air, no courtroom stuff is also a plus for me. How about a gal who waits to have sex until she is sure, say what? The only steamy sex scenes I am into are my own thank you!
The storylines and great characters are more important to me than the Lawyer, courtroom drama, this could be because there are many, many Lawyers in my family and I am so over them, haha!
Rachel takes on a career defining case no one else wants and it almost destroys her. A homeless man is murdered and Rachel and friends are on the hunt. How much do I love the new wicked character that I hope will be around in future books, OMG! The story is great, the characters rock, this book is a winner!
guilt by degrees 5 stars
I am loving this series By Ms. Clark, Rachel and her friends are a breath of fresh air, no courtroom stuff is also a plus for me. How about a gal who waits to have sex until she is sure, say what? The only steamy sex scenes I am into are my own thank you!
The storylines and great characters are more important to me than the Lawyer, courtroom drama, this could be because there are many, many Lawyers in my family and I am so over them, haha!
Rachel takes on a career defining case no one else wants and it almost destroys her. A homeless man is murdered and Rachel and friends are on the hunt. How much do I love the new wicked character that I hope will be around in future books, OMG! The story is great, the characters rock, this book is a winner!
January 30, 2019
Slow; I almost went with one star. The characters were flat, like copies of characters in other mystery novels. The plot was weak and seemed to jump around. Wonder if Ketel One paid for advertising...because the characters drank it all the time...should have counted the number of times...
Also, as an Arkansan born and bred, I just want to point out that they are "hush puppies," not "hush pups." (Obviously, lots of information about food and clothing in this book.)
Also, as an Arkansan born and bred, I just want to point out that they are "hush puppies," not "hush pups." (Obviously, lots of information about food and clothing in this book.)
December 28, 2018
Goodish start then went off the rails. All the women are badass and beautiful. One so beautiful she can break the law with impunity, men are slack jawed just looking at her picture. Gag.
If they edited out descriptions of restaurants, food eaten, alcohol imbibed and clothes worn the book would have been 50 pages shorter. Just not for me.
If they edited out descriptions of restaurants, food eaten, alcohol imbibed and clothes worn the book would have been 50 pages shorter. Just not for me.
Read
July 1, 2019The preview for Guilt By Degrees by Marcia Clark made me sit up and take notice, wanting to read more.
I remember short pants…floods. Do you? Made me smile. Nice touch, Marcia.
I love that Rachel has to finish every book she begins…regardless…
The romance is slow burning and I think she takes as many cold showers as he does. LOL She hold her secrets close to her vest, sharing with no one, not even her BFFs.
Step by step, danger hovering. The writing for the Rachel Knight series keeps getting better and the suspense more intense.
I voluntarily reviewed a free copy of Guilt by Degrees by Marcia Clark.
See more at fundinmental
I remember short pants…floods. Do you? Made me smile. Nice touch, Marcia.
I love that Rachel has to finish every book she begins…regardless…
The romance is slow burning and I think she takes as many cold showers as he does. LOL She hold her secrets close to her vest, sharing with no one, not even her BFFs.
Step by step, danger hovering. The writing for the Rachel Knight series keeps getting better and the suspense more intense.
I voluntarily reviewed a free copy of Guilt by Degrees by Marcia Clark.
See more at fundinmental
March 29, 2017
.
One of the books that surprises you from the first lines and continues take you by surprise every couple of pages.
It was kind of complicated story but very enjoyable and unpredictable.
The end however was a little but disappointing. After listening to 12 and half hours you think everything will end completely and beautifully but it appeared that the author had a different opinion and another books to publish
June 1, 2020
Ik wist niet dat dit een tweede deel was, maar toen ik de personages ‘kende’, was het een goed verhaal.
September 28, 2014
Guilt by Degrees by Marcia Clark is a Los Angeles restaurant review shelved under "mysteries." The protagonist and her friends, Toni and Bailey, visit more than a score of restaurants from haute to bas and the food is described as lovingly as that in Viennese mysteries by J Sydney Jones and Frank Tallis and the Vish Puri mysteries by Tarquin Hall.
Back in 2011 I read the first of Marcia Clark's Rachel Knight mysteries, Guilt by Association, and was a bit disappointed. But I was willing to give this second in the series a chance. It was not a success. There were so many visits to so many parents and bad guys and former detectives that I got confused who was who.
I don't think I'll be reading any more of Clark's LAPD/DA mysteries. But as I said, if you are looking for a guide to really good LA restaurants of all kinds, this is for you.
Back in 2011 I read the first of Marcia Clark's Rachel Knight mysteries, Guilt by Association, and was a bit disappointed. But I was willing to give this second in the series a chance. It was not a success. There were so many visits to so many parents and bad guys and former detectives that I got confused who was who.
I don't think I'll be reading any more of Clark's LAPD/DA mysteries. But as I said, if you are looking for a guide to really good LA restaurants of all kinds, this is for you.
October 27, 2018
This was my first read from Marcia Clark, did like Guilt By Degrees, even with several editing errors and will read more of her books in this series.
I liked both DA Rachel Knight and Detective Bailey Keller in this suspenseful, full of twist and turns and your left hanging, with Lilah storyline. I also felt like by the end that Rachel and Bailey would discover that Lilah was Rachel's missing sister Romy and it never materialized.
Since why would she go after the two, then have an associate attack them, even he gets caught by a clever scheme, gets shanked and she flies off into the sunset. Seems like Clark would want to conclude that storyline, make for a better read to have written an extra 100 pages to do it or continue it in the 3rd book.
I liked both DA Rachel Knight and Detective Bailey Keller in this suspenseful, full of twist and turns and your left hanging, with Lilah storyline. I also felt like by the end that Rachel and Bailey would discover that Lilah was Rachel's missing sister Romy and it never materialized.
Since why would she go after the two, then have an associate attack them, even he gets caught by a clever scheme, gets shanked and she flies off into the sunset. Seems like Clark would want to conclude that storyline, make for a better read to have written an extra 100 pages to do it or continue it in the 3rd book.
July 17, 2014
Another great mystery with my new favorite heroine, Rachel Knight. I really enjoyed this novel because not only was there a twisty turny mystery to try to follow along with I was given more details to Rachel's backstory and what made her tick. And we get a possible nemesis in Lilah. I predict that woman popping up in future books!
My only critique was the overuse of the info dump. First with Rachel's back story involving her older sister Romy and then with Lilah's back story. I'm sure it could have been woven in as little dribbles so the flow wasn't disrupted. Thankfully they weren't super long sections but it was enough for me to notice.
I've already dove into book three :)
My only critique was the overuse of the info dump. First with Rachel's back story involving her older sister Romy and then with Lilah's back story. I'm sure it could have been woven in as little dribbles so the flow wasn't disrupted. Thankfully they weren't super long sections but it was enough for me to notice.
I've already dove into book three :)
October 3, 2020
I went in with great expectations considering the writer was America’s most infamous DA , however was hugely disappointed
This was more of a LA’s restaurant review rather than a crime story . This book made attorneys and cops seem like little school girls role playing during summer vacations
And for the mystery , it completely lacked one with everything falling comfortably into place
This was more of a LA’s restaurant review rather than a crime story . This book made attorneys and cops seem like little school girls role playing during summer vacations
And for the mystery , it completely lacked one with everything falling comfortably into place
December 24, 2016
Good but, at times, confusing. This one took longer than I expected to finish. Still, I have to say she's a good writer.
January 15, 2015
Second in the Rachel Knight legal thriller mystery series and revolving around an L.A. prosecutor. And if you're reading this series at all, you have to read this one if only because of how it affects future stories!
My thanks to NetGalley and Mulholland Books for providing this ARC for my enjoyment.
My Take
Whoa, Clark got me twisted up right from the start with this mysterious murder in full view of a crowded sidewalk that appears to relate to a brutal murder from the past. I just didn't know it until I got further into the story. After that, well, I was so confused about "poor" Zack. The further in I read, the more and more complex it got before it started to connect. A very satisfying read even if there was such sadness in it.
It's a lot of beating the sidewalk and online research along with interviews now and in the past. One thread leads to another. It also proves how essential it is to gather up as much information as possible about a person, for you never know what thread will lead where. And there were some fairly innocuous clues in this, that, when put together, told a much fuller story.
Crack me up. Rachel gets so irritated with a fellow prosecutor's incompetence that she jumps to take his case on. Which only irritates the idiot. It's a convoluted case where no one can figure out how there was a crime and who might be guilty. The more they dig, the more questions come up, and this is what will drag you in.
I do adore Eric. A boss who goes to bat for those under him. Such a rarity. That pair of jerks — Averill and Hemet — are on the warpath, and Rachel picking up a non-case like this provides too much ammunition against her for those who hate her. And that includes Vanderhorn. But no pressure.
Oh, wow, oh, wow, I want Meyer's house!!
Whoa, Rachel's reaction to Graden's curiosity is so far out of line! I think Graden's assessment is right on the money, that Rachel is suffering from Toni-syndrome. Rache obviously needs to spend a lot more time with Carla. Especially when we find out what she's not telling her besties. It does lead to more in-depth information on what happened when Romy disappeared. And why Rachel is carrying all this guilt. Worse, I want to yell at Rachel for how she behaves at the time, even as I know no 7-year-old can be expected to know how to react.
It's kind of a life of Reilly with the three friends. They spend a lot of time eating out and drinking at night. They make good use of Rachel's very convenient hotel room, and ooh baby, that room service! Yet, they feel real. The dialogue is good with a sense of reality to it as well. You can't help but like these ladies, and not least because they're smart!
I do like Luis. He's ambitious, and Clark does a beautiful job of writing his dialog.
Ya tend to think of being a lawyer as a desk job, but reading about Rachel's adventures will reassure you about that. She and Bailey are out in the field like partners, only she's the only one getting beaten, which will result in her being assigned bodyguards. Which makes you wonder where Rachel's head is at that she sets up this trap without their help.
Jesus, what is it with it never being the bad guy's fault? All these awful things that happen in their lives, and it's never, ever their fault? I wanna smack 'em for that alone…!
The Story
The crappy attitude of an ill-prepared prosecutor goads Rachel into doing the re-file on the death of a homeless man. It also boomerangs on her when that prosecutor, Brandon Averill, does such a lousy job preparing his case.
It's an iffy case, and it'll take a lot of work to prove it was a murder. And with an innocent defendant.
Complicating matters is what Rachel sees as a gross invasion of privacy — and Graden is out on his ass.
The Characters
Rachel Knight is one of the best prosecutors in Special Trials, but she's not without her faults: she's chronically on the verge of being late, she has a potty mouth, and others say she's confrontational. Rachel says she's being direct. Romy is the sister who vanished twenty-seven years. Carla the Crone became Rachel's lifelong shrink. Daniel Rose is the former love of Rachel's life, and he's back in town.
Special Trials Unit
The Special Trials lawyers get a lot of heat for getting hot cases, and they're always the "most complex, high-profile cases". Eric Northrup is Rachel's boss and the head deputy of the unit. Melia is the unit secretary working for Eric. Toni LaCollier is one of the lawyers with Special Trials, one of Rachel's best friends, and currently on with J.D.; theirs is an on-again, off-again relationship depending on who's feeling too committed. Sandi Runyon is head of Media Relations.
District Attorney William Vanderhorn is an idiot, but even he could see how bad Hemet was. Fred Summers is Vanderhorn's second-in-command — and the real boss. Rosario is one of the filers down at the clerk's office. Arturo is a mail room clerk.
The judges
Judge Foster is the first judge to appear; Manny is his clerk. Deputy Stevenson is his bailiff. Judge J.D. Morgan is a respected judge.
The lawyers
Walter Schoenfeld is a seasoned public defender. Sam Zucker is another public defender.
Brandon Averill is a jerk of a prosecutor; Judge Foster sure doesn't like him. Averill is great friends with Phil Hemet, a "world-class brownnoser…who lost the only case he ever tried". Rosa is Hemet's secretary and about to give birth; she's not planning on coming back, and she's got the dirt the girls want.
The LAPD
Detective Bailey Keller is a brilliant cop over at Robbery-Homicide and another of Rachel's best friends. Lieutenant Graden Hales is in charge at Robbery-Homicide; Rachel met him in Guilt by Association , 1. He's also gorgeous, filthy rich, and dating Rachel. Devon is his brother.
The DA investigators are the assigned bodyguards
Gary Schrader is the team leader and senior investigator. Stephen, James, and Mario make up the rest of the team.
SCI
Scott Ferrier, a coroner's investigator, is a friend of Rachel's who's willing to slide information her way. Dr. Sparks is the pathologist. Steve Diamond is a criminalist for the L.A. County Coroner, and Rachel considers him an everything man. He's also compiled a database of blunt and sharp force injuries. Dr. Bruno Spagnotti is Rachel's favorite forensic psychologist.
The Yamaguchi case
Ronald Yamaguchi is the accused; he's a masseur with a black belt in tae kwon do. The arresting officer is Hank Aronofsky. Detective Stoner is investigating until he tangles with Averill. It does make Stoner popular with everyone else. Charlie Fern is an unreliable witness. Andy Kim is the Wells Fargo bank manager. Patrolman Harley Sahagan is the alibi. Wendy is a fellow masseuse.
The murder of Zack Bayer
Zack is a cop in love with his wife, and he has a healthy, productive hobby: woodworking. His lawyer wife, Lilah Rossmoyne, was acquitted, and Simon Bayer is his angry artist brother. Angie was Simon's girlfriend who really tried to help. Claire and Fred are the devastated parents. Larry Gladstein had been the prosecutor on the case, and he's still furious. Mark Steiner is a buddy of Rachel's who'd worked with Larry. Rick Meyer had been the investigating officer. Mike Howell represented Lilah during the trial. Tracy Chernoff was Zack's childhood neighbor with some truths for Rachel and Bailey. Lilah's mother, Pam, was a nightmare, a good reason for requiring parents to pass psychological tests before being allowed to have a child. Her father, Gary, was too lenient and blind to his daughter's behavior. Lyle Monahan is one of the senior partners at the law firm; Audrey Wagner is the paralegal in charge of Human Resources; Phyllis Blankmeyer has the dirt on her; Joel Carstone was a junior associate then; and, Teddy Janeway is Carstone's secretary with dirt on her as well. Sergeant Paul Tegagian was a co-worker of Zack's down at the Glendale PD with some useful insight on Lilah. Chris is a waiter at La Poubelle. Conrad Bagram owns a used car dealership, Conrad's Auto Body and Repair, with his own little scam going on. Alicia Morris had her car stolen back then. Tran Lee, a waiter at Josie's, was identified as the thief. Duncan Friedkin was a co-worker and friend. Venice Community Housing is run by Teresa Solis; she fills them in on Diane Nguyen, who provides the smoking gun. Mrs. Kluffman was Simon's landlord for a while. Dr. Aigler was a baby doctor.
Sabrina McCullough is a freelance operative gathering information for whoever has the money to pay for it. Chase Erling is the only other operative she trusts, and he's a whiz at research and with computers. Maxwell Chevorin is one of her regular clients.
Congressman Rankin is one of her jobs. Brenda Honesdale's destruction was a blast from Sabrina's past, and the reason she was hired on at the law firm. A Nazi Low Rider got some bad info.
Cletus is a homeless guy who used to be a minor-league pitcher to whom Rachel regularly gives Chinese takeout. Johnnie Jasper is a street person with a nice set-up. Luis Revelo is a shot-caller for the Sylmar Seven (see Guilt by Association ). Butch Adler, a.k.a., the Glass Man, and he doesn't like PEN1, a white supremacist group. Dominic Rostoni is the head man for PEN1 and a custom motorcycle dealer; Lonnie Wilson is his second.
The media
Miles Rykoff is a reporter for the Times. He can tell Rachel who leaked Simon's story — Averill.
The Biltmore Hotel
Rachel just got upgraded to a two-bedroom suite in her sweetheart deal. Drew is the night bartender, and he and Bailey have been dating for a year. Angel is the doorman. Rafi is the valet. Jason is a bellman.
The Cover
The cover is consistent with the first one in this re-release of the series. A white background with two simple objects as metaphors: lipstick for the femme fatale and handcuffs for all the cops and crooks involved.
I'm confused about the title. My interpretation would be that there are different levels of guilt, and whoa, I think I just figured it out. Those parents on both sides, Rachel's childhood trauma, a victim, a murderer…there's plenty of Guilt by Degrees.
My thanks to NetGalley and Mulholland Books for providing this ARC for my enjoyment.
My Take
Whoa, Clark got me twisted up right from the start with this mysterious murder in full view of a crowded sidewalk that appears to relate to a brutal murder from the past. I just didn't know it until I got further into the story. After that, well, I was so confused about "poor" Zack. The further in I read, the more and more complex it got before it started to connect. A very satisfying read even if there was such sadness in it.
It's a lot of beating the sidewalk and online research along with interviews now and in the past. One thread leads to another. It also proves how essential it is to gather up as much information as possible about a person, for you never know what thread will lead where. And there were some fairly innocuous clues in this, that, when put together, told a much fuller story.
Crack me up. Rachel gets so irritated with a fellow prosecutor's incompetence that she jumps to take his case on. Which only irritates the idiot. It's a convoluted case where no one can figure out how there was a crime and who might be guilty. The more they dig, the more questions come up, and this is what will drag you in.
I do adore Eric. A boss who goes to bat for those under him. Such a rarity. That pair of jerks — Averill and Hemet — are on the warpath, and Rachel picking up a non-case like this provides too much ammunition against her for those who hate her. And that includes Vanderhorn. But no pressure.
Oh, wow, oh, wow, I want Meyer's house!!
Whoa, Rachel's reaction to Graden's curiosity is so far out of line! I think Graden's assessment is right on the money, that Rachel is suffering from Toni-syndrome. Rache obviously needs to spend a lot more time with Carla. Especially when we find out what she's not telling her besties. It does lead to more in-depth information on what happened when Romy disappeared. And why Rachel is carrying all this guilt. Worse, I want to yell at Rachel for how she behaves at the time, even as I know no 7-year-old can be expected to know how to react.
It's kind of a life of Reilly with the three friends. They spend a lot of time eating out and drinking at night. They make good use of Rachel's very convenient hotel room, and ooh baby, that room service! Yet, they feel real. The dialogue is good with a sense of reality to it as well. You can't help but like these ladies, and not least because they're smart!
I do like Luis. He's ambitious, and Clark does a beautiful job of writing his dialog.
Ya tend to think of being a lawyer as a desk job, but reading about Rachel's adventures will reassure you about that. She and Bailey are out in the field like partners, only she's the only one getting beaten, which will result in her being assigned bodyguards. Which makes you wonder where Rachel's head is at that she sets up this trap without their help.
Jesus, what is it with it never being the bad guy's fault? All these awful things that happen in their lives, and it's never, ever their fault? I wanna smack 'em for that alone…!
The Story
The crappy attitude of an ill-prepared prosecutor goads Rachel into doing the re-file on the death of a homeless man. It also boomerangs on her when that prosecutor, Brandon Averill, does such a lousy job preparing his case.
It's an iffy case, and it'll take a lot of work to prove it was a murder. And with an innocent defendant.
Complicating matters is what Rachel sees as a gross invasion of privacy — and Graden is out on his ass.
The Characters
Rachel Knight is one of the best prosecutors in Special Trials, but she's not without her faults: she's chronically on the verge of being late, she has a potty mouth, and others say she's confrontational. Rachel says she's being direct. Romy is the sister who vanished twenty-seven years. Carla the Crone became Rachel's lifelong shrink. Daniel Rose is the former love of Rachel's life, and he's back in town.
Special Trials Unit
The Special Trials lawyers get a lot of heat for getting hot cases, and they're always the "most complex, high-profile cases". Eric Northrup is Rachel's boss and the head deputy of the unit. Melia is the unit secretary working for Eric. Toni LaCollier is one of the lawyers with Special Trials, one of Rachel's best friends, and currently on with J.D.; theirs is an on-again, off-again relationship depending on who's feeling too committed. Sandi Runyon is head of Media Relations.
District Attorney William Vanderhorn is an idiot, but even he could see how bad Hemet was. Fred Summers is Vanderhorn's second-in-command — and the real boss. Rosario is one of the filers down at the clerk's office. Arturo is a mail room clerk.
The judges
Judge Foster is the first judge to appear; Manny is his clerk. Deputy Stevenson is his bailiff. Judge J.D. Morgan is a respected judge.
The lawyers
Walter Schoenfeld is a seasoned public defender. Sam Zucker is another public defender.
Brandon Averill is a jerk of a prosecutor; Judge Foster sure doesn't like him. Averill is great friends with Phil Hemet, a "world-class brownnoser…who lost the only case he ever tried". Rosa is Hemet's secretary and about to give birth; she's not planning on coming back, and she's got the dirt the girls want.
The LAPD
Detective Bailey Keller is a brilliant cop over at Robbery-Homicide and another of Rachel's best friends. Lieutenant Graden Hales is in charge at Robbery-Homicide; Rachel met him in Guilt by Association , 1. He's also gorgeous, filthy rich, and dating Rachel. Devon is his brother.
The DA investigators are the assigned bodyguards
Gary Schrader is the team leader and senior investigator. Stephen, James, and Mario make up the rest of the team.
SCI
Scott Ferrier, a coroner's investigator, is a friend of Rachel's who's willing to slide information her way. Dr. Sparks is the pathologist. Steve Diamond is a criminalist for the L.A. County Coroner, and Rachel considers him an everything man. He's also compiled a database of blunt and sharp force injuries. Dr. Bruno Spagnotti is Rachel's favorite forensic psychologist.
The Yamaguchi case
Ronald Yamaguchi is the accused; he's a masseur with a black belt in tae kwon do. The arresting officer is Hank Aronofsky. Detective Stoner is investigating until he tangles with Averill. It does make Stoner popular with everyone else. Charlie Fern is an unreliable witness. Andy Kim is the Wells Fargo bank manager. Patrolman Harley Sahagan is the alibi. Wendy is a fellow masseuse.
The murder of Zack Bayer
Zack is a cop in love with his wife, and he has a healthy, productive hobby: woodworking. His lawyer wife, Lilah Rossmoyne, was acquitted, and Simon Bayer is his angry artist brother. Angie was Simon's girlfriend who really tried to help. Claire and Fred are the devastated parents. Larry Gladstein had been the prosecutor on the case, and he's still furious. Mark Steiner is a buddy of Rachel's who'd worked with Larry. Rick Meyer had been the investigating officer. Mike Howell represented Lilah during the trial. Tracy Chernoff was Zack's childhood neighbor with some truths for Rachel and Bailey. Lilah's mother, Pam, was a nightmare, a good reason for requiring parents to pass psychological tests before being allowed to have a child. Her father, Gary, was too lenient and blind to his daughter's behavior. Lyle Monahan is one of the senior partners at the law firm; Audrey Wagner is the paralegal in charge of Human Resources; Phyllis Blankmeyer has the dirt on her; Joel Carstone was a junior associate then; and, Teddy Janeway is Carstone's secretary with dirt on her as well. Sergeant Paul Tegagian was a co-worker of Zack's down at the Glendale PD with some useful insight on Lilah. Chris is a waiter at La Poubelle. Conrad Bagram owns a used car dealership, Conrad's Auto Body and Repair, with his own little scam going on. Alicia Morris had her car stolen back then. Tran Lee, a waiter at Josie's, was identified as the thief. Duncan Friedkin was a co-worker and friend. Venice Community Housing is run by Teresa Solis; she fills them in on Diane Nguyen, who provides the smoking gun. Mrs. Kluffman was Simon's landlord for a while. Dr. Aigler was a baby doctor.
Sabrina McCullough is a freelance operative gathering information for whoever has the money to pay for it. Chase Erling is the only other operative she trusts, and he's a whiz at research and with computers. Maxwell Chevorin is one of her regular clients.
Congressman Rankin is one of her jobs. Brenda Honesdale's destruction was a blast from Sabrina's past, and the reason she was hired on at the law firm. A Nazi Low Rider got some bad info.
Cletus is a homeless guy who used to be a minor-league pitcher to whom Rachel regularly gives Chinese takeout. Johnnie Jasper is a street person with a nice set-up. Luis Revelo is a shot-caller for the Sylmar Seven (see Guilt by Association ). Butch Adler, a.k.a., the Glass Man, and he doesn't like PEN1, a white supremacist group. Dominic Rostoni is the head man for PEN1 and a custom motorcycle dealer; Lonnie Wilson is his second.
The media
Miles Rykoff is a reporter for the Times. He can tell Rachel who leaked Simon's story — Averill.
The Biltmore Hotel
Rachel just got upgraded to a two-bedroom suite in her sweetheart deal. Drew is the night bartender, and he and Bailey have been dating for a year. Angel is the doorman. Rafi is the valet. Jason is a bellman.
The Cover
The cover is consistent with the first one in this re-release of the series. A white background with two simple objects as metaphors: lipstick for the femme fatale and handcuffs for all the cops and crooks involved.
I'm confused about the title. My interpretation would be that there are different levels of guilt, and whoa, I think I just figured it out. Those parents on both sides, Rachel's childhood trauma, a victim, a murderer…there's plenty of Guilt by Degrees.
July 27, 2018
Rachel Knight's next baffling case starts out with the murder of a homeless man. She is in court waiting for her turn with the judge when the case before hers goes belly up due to the sheer incompetence of the prosecutor. When the judge dismisses the case, Rachel decides she wants justice for the homeless victim and refiles.
Now Rachel and her friend Bailey have to build a case to get justice for the homeless guy. But nothing is simple. It takes a while to identify him and then they learn that he was the brother of a police officer who was butchered in his home a year earlier. The main suspect was his beautiful wife Lilah who also happened to be a lawyer. She was acquitted and then disappeared. Rachel and Bailey really want to find her and talk to her.
Meanwhile, Lilah has started a new secret business venture. It seems that she is in the business of digging up dirt on people and selling the information she finds. When Rachel starts to get close to finding her, she decides that Rachel has to go which leads to a couple of attempts on her life.
I liked the fast-paced action in this one. I also liked the realistic investigative techniques that Rachel and Bailey use. Rachel is also dealing with a romantic crisis as her current boyfriend is getting too close to the secrets Rachel wants to keep buried in her past. I liked that Rachel spends a lot of time meeting in various restaurants that all sound good and make me wonder if they actually exist in the LA area.
I recommend this series for fans of police procedurals and thrillers.
Now Rachel and her friend Bailey have to build a case to get justice for the homeless guy. But nothing is simple. It takes a while to identify him and then they learn that he was the brother of a police officer who was butchered in his home a year earlier. The main suspect was his beautiful wife Lilah who also happened to be a lawyer. She was acquitted and then disappeared. Rachel and Bailey really want to find her and talk to her.
Meanwhile, Lilah has started a new secret business venture. It seems that she is in the business of digging up dirt on people and selling the information she finds. When Rachel starts to get close to finding her, she decides that Rachel has to go which leads to a couple of attempts on her life.
I liked the fast-paced action in this one. I also liked the realistic investigative techniques that Rachel and Bailey use. Rachel is also dealing with a romantic crisis as her current boyfriend is getting too close to the secrets Rachel wants to keep buried in her past. I liked that Rachel spends a lot of time meeting in various restaurants that all sound good and make me wonder if they actually exist in the LA area.
I recommend this series for fans of police procedurals and thrillers.
September 20, 2016
A special thank you to Mulholland Books and NetGalley for a complimentary reading copy in exchange for an honest review.
Famous as lead prosecutor in the murder trial of O.J. Simpson, Marcia Clark still works as a lawyer, but she's also an author. First came 1997's "Without a Doubt," a memoir of the case, and more recently, a series of legal thrillers.
Clark's first four novels starred the same main character, Rachel Knight. Like Clark, Knight was a prosecutor in the Los Angeles district attorney's office, an ambitious, hard-charging lawyer who took her job very seriously.
Having read Marcia Clark’s The Competition (Rachel Knight #4) when it came out in 2014, Killer Ambition (Rachel Knight #3), and some of her newer books, the publisher sent me copies of the earlier books in the series to read at that time. They kind of got pushed further down the pile, and failed to write my review at the time, since they were older books, and my blog features only, new and upcoming books.
I do love legal thrillers, so wanted to revisit. When I picked up the audiobooks, read by January LaVoy, (awesome narrator), the first two books in the series, Guilt by Association (Rachel Knight #1) and Guilt by Degrees, (Rachel Knight #2) wanted to write a quick review.
If you missed the first book in the series, Clark catches you up to speed in her second Rachel Knight installment GUILT BY DEGREES.
Wow, she bumps up the intensity with the smart, funny, and fearless Knight in pursuit of justice. A homeless man gets murdered. She has seen him early on and felt for him. She stars digging further and discovers he was the brother of a policeman killed two years earlier.
Clark pulls you into the mystery and suspense, combining crafty legal proceedings. From politics to conspiracy, combined with wit, and suspense- a bold follow up, making this a must read series. Also more intriguing information about Rachel this go around -enjoy the relationship with Bailey.
BTW, Congrats Marcia! Marcia Clark Finally Has a Moment to Savor at the Emmys (2016).
If you have read Blood Defense (#1 May 2016) it centers on defense attorney Samantha Brinkman. Unlike Rachel Knight, she's more than willing to bend the rules to get what she wants. Moral Defense (Nov 2016) will follow up with Samantha Brinkman #2.
In a recent online interview from Clark: “I was a defense attorney before I was a prosecutor, and I'm doing defense work again now. So I wanted to write a character who was a little more wild and woolly than Rachel." LA Times (2016)
Fans of Lis Wiehl will enjoy Clark’s style, and this riveting thriller. With Clark’s background--a former LA, California deputy district attorney, who was the lead prosecutor in the O.J. Simpson murder case and a frequent media commentator and columnist on legal issues—she knows her stuff and is reflective throughout her books.
Clark fans and new readers fond of crime thrillers, cop procedures, and legal thrillers will enjoy the series.
Famous as lead prosecutor in the murder trial of O.J. Simpson, Marcia Clark still works as a lawyer, but she's also an author. First came 1997's "Without a Doubt," a memoir of the case, and more recently, a series of legal thrillers.
Clark's first four novels starred the same main character, Rachel Knight. Like Clark, Knight was a prosecutor in the Los Angeles district attorney's office, an ambitious, hard-charging lawyer who took her job very seriously.
Having read Marcia Clark’s The Competition (Rachel Knight #4) when it came out in 2014, Killer Ambition (Rachel Knight #3), and some of her newer books, the publisher sent me copies of the earlier books in the series to read at that time. They kind of got pushed further down the pile, and failed to write my review at the time, since they were older books, and my blog features only, new and upcoming books.
I do love legal thrillers, so wanted to revisit. When I picked up the audiobooks, read by January LaVoy, (awesome narrator), the first two books in the series, Guilt by Association (Rachel Knight #1) and Guilt by Degrees, (Rachel Knight #2) wanted to write a quick review.
If you missed the first book in the series, Clark catches you up to speed in her second Rachel Knight installment GUILT BY DEGREES.
Wow, she bumps up the intensity with the smart, funny, and fearless Knight in pursuit of justice. A homeless man gets murdered. She has seen him early on and felt for him. She stars digging further and discovers he was the brother of a policeman killed two years earlier.
Clark pulls you into the mystery and suspense, combining crafty legal proceedings. From politics to conspiracy, combined with wit, and suspense- a bold follow up, making this a must read series. Also more intriguing information about Rachel this go around -enjoy the relationship with Bailey.
BTW, Congrats Marcia! Marcia Clark Finally Has a Moment to Savor at the Emmys (2016).
If you have read Blood Defense (#1 May 2016) it centers on defense attorney Samantha Brinkman. Unlike Rachel Knight, she's more than willing to bend the rules to get what she wants. Moral Defense (Nov 2016) will follow up with Samantha Brinkman #2.
In a recent online interview from Clark: “I was a defense attorney before I was a prosecutor, and I'm doing defense work again now. So I wanted to write a character who was a little more wild and woolly than Rachel." LA Times (2016)
Fans of Lis Wiehl will enjoy Clark’s style, and this riveting thriller. With Clark’s background--a former LA, California deputy district attorney, who was the lead prosecutor in the O.J. Simpson murder case and a frequent media commentator and columnist on legal issues—she knows her stuff and is reflective throughout her books.
Clark fans and new readers fond of crime thrillers, cop procedures, and legal thrillers will enjoy the series.
January 16, 2018
I liked this one, in spite of the fact that there seemed to be a description of what characters were wearing in every other chapter - got to be a bit much, and boring! January LaVoy did an excellent job on the narration with a whole range of voices for the characters. The narration added about a star and a half to the book's rating. <><
March 5, 2019
When another assistant District Attorney is about to blow a pre-trail hearing ADA Rachel Knight steps in. She winds up with the investigation into a policeman's grisly murder and that of his brother. As she hunts for the policeman's widow she becomes a target, The overall story, while gripping, comes comes across as a feel good woman's book.
December 27, 2024
Rachel Knight works in the DA's office. Bailey is a police officer and her friend. They investigate together, do things that aren't quite 'by the book' but, together, try and solve crimes and enjoy a friendship. Knight ended up with this case because she wanted John Dow to have a name and, by discovering who he was she opens up a whole can of worms. John Dow had a brother who was a police officer and married to someone who was charged with his murder and found not guilty ......
July 18, 2022
This was a decent story with lots of twists and turns…however was a bit put off by the constant references to specific types of drinks and restaurants. That aspect gave a feeling that the author was sponsored by the distilleries and/or restaurants that got constant mention.
The book also left a few loose ends which of course is likely a ploy to provide an antagonist that can be pulled into a later book based on the lead character…as well as a personal mystery that is still waiting to be solved. Not sure that I am intrigued enough to actually find out how those further stories play out unfortunately.
The book also left a few loose ends which of course is likely a ploy to provide an antagonist that can be pulled into a later book based on the lead character…as well as a personal mystery that is still waiting to be solved. Not sure that I am intrigued enough to actually find out how those further stories play out unfortunately.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 15, 2019
3.5 stars. I have enjoyed several of Clark's books. This is a series about a female Assistant DA in Kid Angeles. Fun series of crime and legal action.
September 2, 2023
Would have been 5 stars but didn't appreciate the dangling story to extend the series
March 1, 2023
Clark is a hell of writer. Her books are full of suspense and intrigue. Waiting patiently to read the next book in the Rachel Knight series.
May 24, 2018
Not as good as the 1st. Hopefully the 3rd will be better.
January 2, 2013
PROTAGONIST: Rachel Clark, prosecuting attorney
SETTING: Los Angeles
SERIES: #2 of 2
RATING: 4.25
Rachel Knight, a prosecuting attorney in the Special Trials Unit in LA, is in court on a routine case when she becomes incensed by the shoddy work being done by prosecutor Brandon Averill in a case involving the homicide of a homeless man. When the case is dismissed, she decides to take it on herself—what if the defendant is guilty and is being let off because Averill completely botched the prosecution?
Rachel partners with police detective and close friend Bailey Keller to figure out what happened. Although there is some video evidence, it isn’t clear who stabbed the victim, Simon Bayer. Immediately before his death, Bayer had grabbed at a woman who subsequently disappeared. Bailey and Rachel discover that the woman was the wife of Simon’s late brother, an LAPD cop who had also been murdered. Simon was convinced that Lilah killed Zack Bayer and had set out to prove her guilty, but his own mental health deteriorated rapidly during his quest.
Rachel Knight was introduced in GUILT BY ASSOCIATION, a book which I thoroughly enjoyed. I am happy to say that Clark is equally successful in GUILT BY DEGREES. The plot is nicely complex, and Clark’s writing style is very accessible. Her real forte is in character development. Rachel is a woman who has a lot of baggage as a result of her witnessing the abduction of her older sister when she was a child, a fact that she has kept hidden from even her closest friends. When her significant other, Lietutenant Graden Hales, mentions the situation, it destroys their relationship. Watching Rachel learn to trust others with this most intimate part of herself was very moving. The interaction between Rachel and her close friends was very effectively depicted.
My only complaint with the book, and the reason that it did not receive an “A” rating from me, was that Clark documented too much of the daily facts of life of Rachel and her friends. It seems that we were provided an account of every meal and every drink that was consumed during the entire narrative. I found that distracting. I began to wonder how people who don’t have high paying jobs were able to afford to eat every meal out and drink expensive cocktails. It may sound silly, but all that detail decreased my enjoyment of what was otherwise a very good book.
Clark has put all the elements together very well—plotting, the legal setting, dialogue and characterization. There’s no sophomore slump here, and it’s great to see such a talent on the crime fiction scene. This is an excellent series, and I look forward to spending lots more time with Rachel Knight in the future.
SETTING: Los Angeles
SERIES: #2 of 2
RATING: 4.25
Rachel Knight, a prosecuting attorney in the Special Trials Unit in LA, is in court on a routine case when she becomes incensed by the shoddy work being done by prosecutor Brandon Averill in a case involving the homicide of a homeless man. When the case is dismissed, she decides to take it on herself—what if the defendant is guilty and is being let off because Averill completely botched the prosecution?
Rachel partners with police detective and close friend Bailey Keller to figure out what happened. Although there is some video evidence, it isn’t clear who stabbed the victim, Simon Bayer. Immediately before his death, Bayer had grabbed at a woman who subsequently disappeared. Bailey and Rachel discover that the woman was the wife of Simon’s late brother, an LAPD cop who had also been murdered. Simon was convinced that Lilah killed Zack Bayer and had set out to prove her guilty, but his own mental health deteriorated rapidly during his quest.
Rachel Knight was introduced in GUILT BY ASSOCIATION, a book which I thoroughly enjoyed. I am happy to say that Clark is equally successful in GUILT BY DEGREES. The plot is nicely complex, and Clark’s writing style is very accessible. Her real forte is in character development. Rachel is a woman who has a lot of baggage as a result of her witnessing the abduction of her older sister when she was a child, a fact that she has kept hidden from even her closest friends. When her significant other, Lietutenant Graden Hales, mentions the situation, it destroys their relationship. Watching Rachel learn to trust others with this most intimate part of herself was very moving. The interaction between Rachel and her close friends was very effectively depicted.
My only complaint with the book, and the reason that it did not receive an “A” rating from me, was that Clark documented too much of the daily facts of life of Rachel and her friends. It seems that we were provided an account of every meal and every drink that was consumed during the entire narrative. I found that distracting. I began to wonder how people who don’t have high paying jobs were able to afford to eat every meal out and drink expensive cocktails. It may sound silly, but all that detail decreased my enjoyment of what was otherwise a very good book.
Clark has put all the elements together very well—plotting, the legal setting, dialogue and characterization. There’s no sophomore slump here, and it’s great to see such a talent on the crime fiction scene. This is an excellent series, and I look forward to spending lots more time with Rachel Knight in the future.
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