A Higher Duty by Peter Murphy

Ben Schroeder #1

by Peter Murphy

It's the early 1960's and the Bar is dominated by white, privileged, Oxbridge men. Underneath a profession which proudly flaunts its integrity and traditions lies a world of hypocrisy and ruthless self-interest. When scandal threatens, self-preservation is the only goal and no one is indispensable. Ben Schroeder, a talented young man from an East End Jewish family, has been accepted as a pupil into the Chambers of Bernard Wesley QC. But Schroeder is an outsider, not part of this privileged society, where wealth and an Oxbridge education are essentials. He encounters prejudice, intrigue and scandal. Kenneth Gaskell, a rising star of Wesley's Chambers has become involved in an affair with a high-profile client and the relationship, if known, could ruin his career, and the careers of all those around him. But Bernard Wesley has some information - he knows about a student prank that went terribly wrong - but can he use this knowledge in a desperate gamble to save his Chambers and turn the tables on his old rival, Miles Overton QC?

Genres: Law, Fiction, Mystery

Paperback

First published December 21, 2012

About the author

Librarian Note: There is more than one author by this name in the Goodreads data base.

Peter Murphy was born in 1946. After graduating from Cambridge University he spent a career in the law, as an advocate and teacher, both in England and the United States. His legal work included a number of years in The Hague as defence counsel at the Yugoslavian War Crimes Tribunal. He returned to England in 2007 on his appointment as a judge of the Crown Court. He lives with his wife, Chris, in Cambridgeshire.

Reviews

[Kirsten · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was an unexpected pleasure, very engaging, but with some very antiquated views on the female barristers, whose looks were described in details whereas you never got to hear about their male counterparts' appearances. Still, it was very entertaining and enlightening when it described what was going on at the Bar and in the Chambers.
I listened to this because it is included in my Audible membership and I could see that other listeners were very pleased with the narrator, me not so much, I didn't think he could muster the right upperclass accent for these very privileged people.

[Cora Tea Party Princess · Rating 3 out of 5]

5 Words: Formal, jumpy, confusing, interesting, different.

I really wanted to be able to finish this. It was good, really good actually, and totally different from anything I've read before. But it was too slow and a little too formal in style for me.

I was quite confused at times, it felt as though the story jumped around a lot. You'd be introduced to a character and then nothing... Until a little later on when "hello!" they're back. I found myself flipping back to check who I was reading about and what they were like when they were first introduced.

I liked the story-line and how it felt as though I was a fly-on-the-wall in all of these places I could never in my wildest dreams go to. I was there, in the 60s, seeing this law-centred world. The writing is fantastic.

I will give this another go in future, and I know that my mum is really enjoying it.

Thank you to Real Readers, but this wasn't my cup of tea :( Maybe next time?

[Gaby · Rating 2 out of 5]

DNF

I really wanted to like this because I've studied law for 7 years and I'm currently working in a solicitors, but I just couldn't get into it. I will admit there were times I was interested in the plot, but overall it wasn't for me. I got about 30% in and we'd only just had a chapter in the main characters PoV. And we'd only heard about him once before then....

[Ellora · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Higher Duty by Peter Murphy is a tale of a bitter divorce that involves clashes between the best in class and the social outcast.

The story begins on a cold December night made warm by the Cambridge Rugby Club dinner gathering, accompanied with streams of alcohol, lively chatter and a thoughtless prank which leads to unforgettable consequences for the parties involved.

The legal battle between the married couple, even though at the centre of things, is less about them but more about the powers that be and the forces that manage the justice system - barristers, competitive chambers, advocates and judges in the charming era of early 1960s London.

Peter Murphy carefully plots and sub-plots with some fine characters and very entertaining courtroom and out of court scenes. He also manages to throw in some difficult subjects that chambers, ruled and managed primarily by Oxford and Cambridge men, were known to be dealing with at the time.
It is an insightful journey into the inner quarters of the legal organisation and how there’s more than just a law degree that is needed to secure and preserve the sanctity of justice, which I don’t think would have been possible without the author’s real life education and experience as an advocate.
The title of the book succinctly captures the theme that there is a larger purpose at stake sometimes which may take precedence over other matters, in some cases even an imminent client case, as long as justice prevails.

I thoroughly enjoyed the pace, the fluid style of writing and the games of bluff between the parties involved, even though it came at a price of some of it being too co-incidental and simplistic at times.
An entertaining read nonetheless.

[Harry B · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have read a few legal fiction stories in the past few years; some entirely comedic and others very much serious. This one falls just in between, which I would call the goldilocks zone; which in my opinion is more realistic and believable.

Although the story had multiple layers to it, and double the amount of characters - I still found myself thoroughly engaged with the subtleness of the story. I appreciated how each layer was also subtly connected with each other, to produce results in the story that is near impossible, but plausible enough to be believable. Indeed, truth is much more stranger than fiction (or something along those lines).

This book is a thorough page turner, and besides telling a solid story; it also provides a really vivid picture at how things work at the Bar and the Courts. Which inspired me too, for I am currently reading law - and with hard work and luck, I hope to earn a place at the Bar as well. Very much like Ben Schroeder and the other pupils from the story.

Anyways, a must read for people like me - and for others who find themselves interested in reading something related to being a Barrister.

[Alison Mclean · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good book

At first thought I had chosen the book. The first chapter had left me undecided. I decided to read on for another two chapters n if it still didn't work for me then I would put the book aside. Well, I am so glad that I gave it a chance as I couldn't put the book down after that. You turn page after page to find out about each barrister or pupil.

[Jeffrey Kershaw · Rating 5 out of 5]

Masterful and quite unputdownable.

Peter Murphy draws the characters of the barristers and the issues they have to deal with superbly drawing the reader back to the early sixties. His k knowledge and understanding of the dilemmas his barristers face is quite extraordinary. I cannot wait to read the next in the sequence.

[Tessa · Rating 5 out of 5]

I rarely give 5stars but this book had everything excitement pathos and really interesting situations all centred around two sets of chambers. A really good read.

[Simon Doy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am a sucker for courtroom drama and all the procedures and traditions that go with that, both in and out of chambers. I have read this book twice now, the first time excellently read for the RNIB talking books service. Finding out that this in fact was the first in a series, I desperately wanted the second book. After initial Enquiries, and even an offer to donate to have that second book read, having found out it wasn’t available, I reached a dead end. I then put it to the back of my mind, but then was Advised by a friend that the whole series was now being submitted commercially to audiobook, read by, I think, Nick Holbeck. I was therefore able to read it a second time, and thoroughly enjoyed it all over again. The attention to detail, with the scenario The English court system in the early 1960s, was extremely satisfying. The writing was excellent, and all the characters were fully flushed out and interesting, with many likable. it is a compelling read, and the life experiences of the author are well represented. You are left with a feeling of confidence, that all the matters covered in this novel are accurate and authentic to that period. Ask people will no doubt find out, there are eight or nine books in this series, and as of right now, July 2025, I have just completed the fourth book. All I can say is, but so far, the series just gets better and better, which is not something I can usually say about most series. If you, like me, have a keenness for a well written and detailed legal drama, then I cannot recommend this more highly. on the final and sad note, unfortunately we will not be having any further novels by this author as he sadly passed away in 2022. I thank him wherever he is for the pleasure of reading his whack.

[CR Spencer · Rating 4 out of 5]

I very much enjoyed this book being a child of the 1960s. The author captures the prejudice, racism and general unpleasantness of the era especially the divided UK society that still exists to some extent today. In the 60s, many professions were barred to you if you were non-white, a Jew or even a female. Entry to the legal profession, like the medical profession of the time, was strictly limited to those of a certain standing in society. The book highlights these prejudices perfectly.

The story does take a little time to get going and I was unsure as to the purpose of the university rugby club dinner. It does all become clear as does how the upper classes control the UK.

The book is well written and flows along nicely.

[Melanie Lewis · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Higher Duty was a suggestion given to me by a friend, and as it's in the Audible Plus Catalogue I decided to give it a go. I don't know what I was expecting but what I got was a story with seemingly disparate threads, with great characterisation that all tied together very neatly in the end. A great introduction to author Peter Murphy and Ben Elliot's received pronunciation narration was divine.

[Margaret B · Rating 4 out of 5]

First in the series following a barrister whose career begins in the 1960s. I found the early part of the book (before Ben appears) a bit confusing, as I wasn't sure how the rugby club death was going to fit in with what followed (or indeed at what point Ben would actually feature). But it all falls into place after a while, and the chambers and court scenes (and the descriptions of the prejudices of the era) are all very realistic and convincing.

[Shell · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fantastic complex tale of life in chambers with all it's old school tie connections and prejudices. Several of the characters had moving stories andBen is such a quietly strong pupil, never letting himself be bullied.
I was distressed to see that this is the only book that has been recorded for audio book and can't understand why that is. I'm sure it will be a wonderful series that would get great sales. I keep my fingers crossed.

[Dosha (Bluestocking7) Beard · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a tall and refreshing glass of water this was! A fabulous beginning to a series that I look forward to reading over the summer. I have to admit it is in large part due to the wonderful narrative skills of Ben Elliot that kept me coming back for more for three consecutive days from beginning to end. Bravo!

[RICHARD A · Rating 5 out of 5]

Privilige

This book perfectly describes how ‘us and them��� works. It also highlights how the only ones in any legal case are the winners it is the legal profession. If you can go through life avoiding litigation you will retain much more of your wealth and lower your blood pressure. I found it out to my cost!

[Amanda Hall · Rating 2 out of 5]

Just about passable, i won't be reading the 2nd in the series

A rather dull story with characters which are developed only to a superficial level. The biggest disappointment was the lack of reference to the 1960s, a glorious period in which the book was set.

[Eirlys · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very enjoyable read

I was surprised at how much I enjoyed reading this book. Ben was an interesting character with a sense of justice and honesty. The rest of the characters were well crafted and felt real.

[Doreen Vaz · Rating 3 out of 5]

A Higher Duty

I found this book rather long and drawn out. The characters were fairly strong in their weaknesses. Nobody seemed have any real say . They just all seemed nearly controlled.

[Brett Oaten · Rating 4 out of 5]

I liked this. A small story, but compelling nonetheless. The world is stuffy and some of the characters views are hard to stomach, but I think that's probably the point. Does nothing to correct the idea that lawyers (some anyway) live in a muggle. I'll come back for more

[Pushpa Menon (silvervixenreads) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent, excellent and excellent. Masterful plotting, subplotting and tying together of threads.

[Becky · Rating 2 out of 5]

Confusing to start and not a great deal of interesting storyline. It was an ok read but I wouldn’t be jumping to read another.

[Nicky Rossiter · Rating 4 out of 5]

This story will fascinate. Set in the 1960s it's portrayal of law, society, class etc of the era is revelation. We all too often forget what life and attitudes were like in that era.

[Dennis Weinberg · Rating 4 out of 5]

A great read

I really enjoyed this book despite a few too many coincidences and a surprisingly naive barrister. Ben Shroedet will make Rumoikeof the Bailey look like an amateur

[Angela · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantastic

This is a great book especially if you enjoy legal thrillers but worth a read for fans of other genres. Highly recommended.

[Pete Symenuk · Rating 4 out of 5]

An interesting look at the British courts and the legal system and the world of law students and Barristers .

[Louise Fincham · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book very much, decent writing style and command of language, clever elegant plot. And already the era seems like a lost world, which it is.

[Garry · Rating 4 out of 5]

What an enjoyable book. The 1960s well depicted and a cast of believable characters in a true-to-life tale. More please.

[Carole · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Higher Duty is an absorbing insight into the world of Barristers, Lawyers, the Law and the games they play.

The story starts in December 1960 with a Rugby Club dinner at Cambridge University when, fuelled by alcohol, some of the students think it's a good idea to throw a young man into the icy cold river......unfortunately for them, and him, he drowns. Afterwards no-one is charged with his murder.

Fast forward to October 1962 and we're introduced to the principal characters, including Philip Dougherty husband to Anne who is being sued for divorce on the grounds of cruelty; the opposing Solicitors and Barristers who are going to represent them in court, along with other members of the Law Society who make up this intriguing novel.

I do enjoy a good courtroom drama and, while, most of the story takes place outside of the courtroom, it makes for fascinating reading.

In those days the law courts were dominated by white male University graduates but Peter Murphy introduces us to the Jewish Ben Schroeder and a woman (gasp) who are trying to break the conventional stereotypes, where they encounter prejudice and become entangled in an intrigue which could make or break their futures.

I enjoyed all the conspiring, manoeuvring and colluding between scheming Barristers.

This is the inside story of what goes on underneath those wigs, tight collars and cloaks and it's not always pretty.

Overall a compelling and entertaining read with an original storyline.

I received a copy of this book from Nudge Real Readers in exchange from an honest review.

From Carole's Book Corner

[Kristy West · Rating 3 out of 5]

A higher duty is the newest page turner by Peter Murphy. It is clear from the book front, and quickly into the opening chapters, that Peter is deeply knowledgeable on the area of 1960s law and the inherent discrimination that was accepted, and indeed part of the day to day dealings of the English Law Courts of this time.
The book opens with a murder of a young gentleman of Cambridge University who drowns following an alcohol fuelled Rugby event, however no one is charged with his murder. It then moves to a few years later where you are introduced to the main characters, all part of a law society with especially sceptical ideas of introducing two new members to the “club”. The reason for this? One is Jewish and one is… wait for it… a woman!
There follows a gripping and intense drama which delves into the premise of barristers, courtrooms and extreme prejudice within a fast-moving story which really provides an insight into what you don’t necessarily see in the courtroom itself.
Although I enjoyed the story, this isn’t something I would normally read. That said, I don’t find that courtroom dramas necessarily hold my attention throughout the entire book, but there is enough drama outside the court room that I couldn’t wait to read the end of this book.
I found some of the plot to be a little convenient and simplistic, but overall I really enjoyed the shock value of this book and how the prejudices and difficulties of the characters were played out. The writing was fast paced and interesting and not too heavy, so I understood what was going on throughout.
I do feel that this is maybe more of a gentleman’s book than a ladies, but maybe that’s just me and my style.

[Cheryl · Rating 4 out of 5]

Overall, I thought this was a pretty good read, despite some flaws.

The plot relied on too many instances where it was amazingly convenient that one character was related to another, had a past relationship with another, just happened to contact another at exactly the right time, or just happened to randomly meet another.

However, if you can see past the rather forced plot and character relationships, the writing is good and the story held my interest.

I was slightly disappointed by the ending. Not because of how the plot was wrapped up, but mainly because the story seemed to end a bit abruptly, and with indications that the resolution may not be final. It feels as though it was intended to have a sequel.

I should also mention that as an American reader with minimal knowledge of the British legal system, I was sometimes a bit lost by the legal terms and references. I just sort of muddled along through them, and got the general idea of what was going on. I don't think it really made much difference in following the plot, I just would have liked to have understood the court system a little better beforehand. Of course, that's not the book's fault - it's just a drawback of being an American reader of a British novel. If that's something that might be a problem for you, you might consider looking up some general information on how their legal system is structured before reading the book.