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Adam Green #2
The Suspect
When Hannah Holby, darling of UK morning TV, dies live on screen in front of millions of viewers, the nation is devastated.
More devastated still when it becomes clear that her death was not an accident.
The evidence points to one celebrity chef Sebastian Brooks. But junior barrister Adam Green is about to discover that the case is not as open-and-shut as it first seemed.
And although Hannah's angelic persona would suggest otherwise, she was not short of enemies in the glittery TV world . . .
Can Adam uncover the truth?
More devastated still when it becomes clear that her death was not an accident.
The evidence points to one celebrity chef Sebastian Brooks. But junior barrister Adam Green is about to discover that the case is not as open-and-shut as it first seemed.
And although Hannah's angelic persona would suggest otherwise, she was not short of enemies in the glittery TV world . . .
Can Adam uncover the truth?
423 pages, ebook
First published June 20, 2024
757 people are currently reading
4029 people want to read
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August 18, 2024
The second book in British criminal barrister/author Rob Rinder’s Adam Green Mystery series begins with the murder of a popular television presenter captured on live television. Jessica Holby, co-host of “Wake Up Britain!”, dies from anaphylactic shock after tasting a dish prepared by celebrity chef Sebastian Brooks, a regular guest on the show. Brooks is the prime suspect after it is discovered that the dish was laced with an ingredient to which it was public knowledge that Jessica was allergic.
Though he is expected to watch and learn as they prepare for the upcoming trial, it soon becomes clear to Adam Green, now a Junior Barrister, that there might be more to the case than meets the eye and as he pursues his deep dive into Jessica’s life and her associates, it is gradually revealed that Jessica had a fair share of people in her life who possibly held a grudge. Adam is also asked by one of his seniors to help on another trial involving a teenager found in possession of illegal weapons and whose family is suspected of having criminal connections.
As with the The Trial, the plot is not particularly intense or complex, despite the parallel storyline woven into the primary narrative, but it is definitely well-written and entertaining. The narrative is consistently paced and well-structured. The mystery is well-crafted and I enjoyed following Adam’s character arc as he navigates a stressful work environment and the expectations of his seniors, tries to strike a balance between his personal life and professional friendships, struggles to venture out of his comfort zone and begins to realize that mistakes can be made in the pursuit of justice despite the best intentions. I also liked how the author describes Adam’s work environment. The characters and the setting are portrayed realistically and I liked how the author depicts the competitiveness and the work pressure and how the same affects Adam and other newcomers. I enjoyed the courtroom scenes and the investigative segments. I also appreciated the element of humor added to the narrative, in the form of his phone conversations with his mother, in chapters interspersed throughout the narrative.
The ending is indicative of a third book with what (I hope) might be a relatively more intense plotline. Overall, I enjoyed The Suspect by Rob Rinder and I eagerly await the next book in the series.
Though this is the second book in the series, it does work well as a standalone. I would, however, recommend reading the first book as it is an enjoyable read and does give you a bit more insight into Adam as a character.
Connect with me! ✏ Instagram ✏ My Blog ✏ The StoryGraph
Though he is expected to watch and learn as they prepare for the upcoming trial, it soon becomes clear to Adam Green, now a Junior Barrister, that there might be more to the case than meets the eye and as he pursues his deep dive into Jessica’s life and her associates, it is gradually revealed that Jessica had a fair share of people in her life who possibly held a grudge. Adam is also asked by one of his seniors to help on another trial involving a teenager found in possession of illegal weapons and whose family is suspected of having criminal connections.
As with the The Trial, the plot is not particularly intense or complex, despite the parallel storyline woven into the primary narrative, but it is definitely well-written and entertaining. The narrative is consistently paced and well-structured. The mystery is well-crafted and I enjoyed following Adam’s character arc as he navigates a stressful work environment and the expectations of his seniors, tries to strike a balance between his personal life and professional friendships, struggles to venture out of his comfort zone and begins to realize that mistakes can be made in the pursuit of justice despite the best intentions. I also liked how the author describes Adam’s work environment. The characters and the setting are portrayed realistically and I liked how the author depicts the competitiveness and the work pressure and how the same affects Adam and other newcomers. I enjoyed the courtroom scenes and the investigative segments. I also appreciated the element of humor added to the narrative, in the form of his phone conversations with his mother, in chapters interspersed throughout the narrative.
The ending is indicative of a third book with what (I hope) might be a relatively more intense plotline. Overall, I enjoyed The Suspect by Rob Rinder and I eagerly await the next book in the series.
Though this is the second book in the series, it does work well as a standalone. I would, however, recommend reading the first book as it is an enjoyable read and does give you a bit more insight into Adam as a character.
Connect with me! ✏ Instagram ✏ My Blog ✏ The StoryGraph
August 26, 2024
Adam Green is back!
After a year long tutelage, Adam Green has earned a permanent spot at Stag Court as a “junior barrister”.
He is assigned to assist on another high profile case-the “on air murder” of UK morning TV’s beloved co-host-Hannah Holby-which happened “live”!
Evidence points to celebrity chef Sebastian Brooks, who had just demonstrated his latest recipe and served it to her with millions watching. He knew of her severe allergy to Soy and is a Michelin star chef. The media frenzy is rabid as viewers ask-“shouldn’t he recognize his own ingredients?”
But, the chef is providing no answers or explanations.
So, how do you defend a man who’s committed murder in front of an entire country? And, how do you find an impartial jury?
Adam knows that what the camera has captured is only part of the picture and not the whole truth.
Like with book one, this clever, entertaining LEGAL THRILLER will have Adam using his time for the first two thirds of the book sorting through the evidence and interviewing a few unsavory characters in search of the real killer. And, in the last third we are privy to this trial, and the trial of a second case that he has been assigned to at the same time.
Phone calls from his mother are also back adding humor to the story, as she wants to make sure that he is eating and sleeping, that she has stories to impress “Debbie from unit #45”, and that she shares her ideas for who might be a suitable future wife!
This can be read as a stand-alone BUT it will spoil book one so if you plan to read both-be sure to read “The Trial” first. Review here: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
I purchased this from the wonderful Blackwell’s UK-and prices listed include shipping to the U.S.!
AVAILABLE NOW!
After a year long tutelage, Adam Green has earned a permanent spot at Stag Court as a “junior barrister”.
He is assigned to assist on another high profile case-the “on air murder” of UK morning TV’s beloved co-host-Hannah Holby-which happened “live”!
Evidence points to celebrity chef Sebastian Brooks, who had just demonstrated his latest recipe and served it to her with millions watching. He knew of her severe allergy to Soy and is a Michelin star chef. The media frenzy is rabid as viewers ask-“shouldn’t he recognize his own ingredients?”
But, the chef is providing no answers or explanations.
So, how do you defend a man who’s committed murder in front of an entire country? And, how do you find an impartial jury?
Adam knows that what the camera has captured is only part of the picture and not the whole truth.
Like with book one, this clever, entertaining LEGAL THRILLER will have Adam using his time for the first two thirds of the book sorting through the evidence and interviewing a few unsavory characters in search of the real killer. And, in the last third we are privy to this trial, and the trial of a second case that he has been assigned to at the same time.
Phone calls from his mother are also back adding humor to the story, as she wants to make sure that he is eating and sleeping, that she has stories to impress “Debbie from unit #45”, and that she shares her ideas for who might be a suitable future wife!
This can be read as a stand-alone BUT it will spoil book one so if you plan to read both-be sure to read “The Trial” first. Review here: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
I purchased this from the wonderful Blackwell’s UK-and prices listed include shipping to the U.S.!
AVAILABLE NOW!
February 29, 2024
“While seeking revenge, dig two graves- one for yourself”
Jessica Holby, popular host of Wake Up Britain! savours the taste of the Ragu served from the cookery segment with regular chef, Sebastian Brooks. During the next part of the show, she starts to feel unwell, struggling to breathe and takes her final gasp in front of 1.2 million viewers. It becomes clear that her death does not have natural causes and the evidence points towards Brooks. #KillerChef starts to trend, it escalates becoming very toxic. Adam Green, our hero from The Trial is to be the baby Junior, on the Brooks case, another high profile case for him. Is it an open and shut case as the public believes? Brooks subsequent actions don’t look good and provides compelling evidence for the prosecution led by the formidable Patience Foster. However, Adam doesn’t think it adds up, and as more snippets emerge about Jessica, so the waters get muddier. What is the truth about her, wholesome presenter, or something else and entirely?
This is Judge Rob Rinder‘s second novel, and it’s an easy, entertaining, glide through read. I really like Adam, he’s one of the good guys, and as usual, he’s stretched a tad thin, working a side case for a senior colleague that he admires. This one becomes quite gritty and turns nasty at several points, sending Adam into an understandable spin. During this case, his inexperience leads to an error and he learns a valuable lesson. Luckily for him, it doesn’t have dire consequences. I thoroughly enjoy the inserts of phone conversations with his mum, which are very funny and give plenty of light relief. You won’t win any rounds with her, Adam! Although you don’t meet her in person, she’s very easy to visualise. All the chambers characters are well portrayed, and yes , QC Jonathan Taylor – Cameron is just as odious as ever, leopards and spots et cetera but not everything is going his way this time.
The Brooks case goes through multiple twists and turns, and the courtroom scenes are very good, well, you’d expect them to be. You can feel the tension as things bat back and forth between the lawyers and the various witnesses. The ending is good with the final comments giving food for thought and a reality check.
Overall, another fun read as you’re in good company with Adam. There doesn’t seem to be any end to Rob Rinders talents. It feels an authentic representation of chambers, life, and how tough it is for those on the junior end of the ladder and how stressful it can be. A recommended read for fans of courtroom mystery thrillers and I for one I’m already looking forward to number three. Although this is the second novel featuring Adam Green this can very easily be read as a standalone.
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to Penguin Random House, Cornerstone for the much appreciated arc in return for an honest review.
Jessica Holby, popular host of Wake Up Britain! savours the taste of the Ragu served from the cookery segment with regular chef, Sebastian Brooks. During the next part of the show, she starts to feel unwell, struggling to breathe and takes her final gasp in front of 1.2 million viewers. It becomes clear that her death does not have natural causes and the evidence points towards Brooks. #KillerChef starts to trend, it escalates becoming very toxic. Adam Green, our hero from The Trial is to be the baby Junior, on the Brooks case, another high profile case for him. Is it an open and shut case as the public believes? Brooks subsequent actions don’t look good and provides compelling evidence for the prosecution led by the formidable Patience Foster. However, Adam doesn’t think it adds up, and as more snippets emerge about Jessica, so the waters get muddier. What is the truth about her, wholesome presenter, or something else and entirely?
This is Judge Rob Rinder‘s second novel, and it’s an easy, entertaining, glide through read. I really like Adam, he’s one of the good guys, and as usual, he’s stretched a tad thin, working a side case for a senior colleague that he admires. This one becomes quite gritty and turns nasty at several points, sending Adam into an understandable spin. During this case, his inexperience leads to an error and he learns a valuable lesson. Luckily for him, it doesn’t have dire consequences. I thoroughly enjoy the inserts of phone conversations with his mum, which are very funny and give plenty of light relief. You won’t win any rounds with her, Adam! Although you don’t meet her in person, she’s very easy to visualise. All the chambers characters are well portrayed, and yes , QC Jonathan Taylor – Cameron is just as odious as ever, leopards and spots et cetera but not everything is going his way this time.
The Brooks case goes through multiple twists and turns, and the courtroom scenes are very good, well, you’d expect them to be. You can feel the tension as things bat back and forth between the lawyers and the various witnesses. The ending is good with the final comments giving food for thought and a reality check.
Overall, another fun read as you’re in good company with Adam. There doesn’t seem to be any end to Rob Rinders talents. It feels an authentic representation of chambers, life, and how tough it is for those on the junior end of the ladder and how stressful it can be. A recommended read for fans of courtroom mystery thrillers and I for one I’m already looking forward to number three. Although this is the second novel featuring Adam Green this can very easily be read as a standalone.
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to Penguin Random House, Cornerstone for the much appreciated arc in return for an honest review.
June 22, 2024
I didn't realise when I started this book, that it was second in a series, but in all honesty I didn't feel like that took anything away from this book, enough was explained throughout that I was able to enjoy this book and the characters without having read it. Having said that I will be going back and reading the first book now, as I enjoyed this one so much.
The writing style is enjoyable to read and the characters are well rounded and real, I felt like I knew them by the end of the book.
The story itself was good and kept me interested until the end. I'm looking forward to reading more by this author.
Thank you to the publishers and Netgalley for the ARC.
Reviews also published on:
Coffee and Kindle Blog
The StoryGraph
Amazon
The writing style is enjoyable to read and the characters are well rounded and real, I felt like I knew them by the end of the book.
The story itself was good and kept me interested until the end. I'm looking forward to reading more by this author.
Thank you to the publishers and Netgalley for the ARC.
Reviews also published on:
Coffee and Kindle Blog
The StoryGraph
Amazon
July 31, 2024
DONE ✔️
SUPER EASY 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
After loving ‘The Trial’ I was patiently awaiting the release of this sequel by Rob Rinder.
This truly was the GRIPPING sequel I was hoping for! Having said that it would also make for a fantastic standalone book, as the writing enables you to catch up with what Adam Green got up to in the first book.
I have said this before and I’ll say it again, Rob is the ONLY one that makes court case drama’s interesting to me. He is SUCH a cool and intelligent man aside from his incredible writing skills. Plus serving as a judge himself, he knows the ins and outs of the courtroom better than most authors.
How do you begin to defend somebody that is already punishing themselves for a murder…
When morning TV’s beloved Jessica Holby dies, from anaphylaxis, on live TV in front of millions of daily viewers it immediately seems like an open and shut case; the TV chef, Sebastian being the only one that could have possibly have had access to the food that caused her death.
Adam Green is on the case again as a newbie barrister, he is determined to get to the truth and ultimately he (and his hilarious mother) want to free Sebastian despite him having what seems to be the strongest motive and the sheer weight of the evidence against him.
Emotions run high amongst the family, Jessica’s co-workers but also the general population that woke up to the sound of her voice daily.
Adam is on the receiving end of threats whilst trying to find the truth behind what could have been an accident or ingenious attack at one of day-time TV’s favourite people.
And Adam began to find the sad truth of working in this business, on cases that mattered to you, sometimes the promise of justice couldn’t protect the clients from the vulnerable stone-cold reality of life…
This book had me hooked, even more so than the first book. I would highly recommend reading it whether you enjoy court case drama’s or not. It is a fantastic read with brilliant and very likeable characters, and some good old British humour added in for good measure. All that is left to say is ROB PLEASE BRING OUT ANOTHER BOOK 🙏🏼
SUPER EASY 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
After loving ‘The Trial’ I was patiently awaiting the release of this sequel by Rob Rinder.
This truly was the GRIPPING sequel I was hoping for! Having said that it would also make for a fantastic standalone book, as the writing enables you to catch up with what Adam Green got up to in the first book.
I have said this before and I’ll say it again, Rob is the ONLY one that makes court case drama’s interesting to me. He is SUCH a cool and intelligent man aside from his incredible writing skills. Plus serving as a judge himself, he knows the ins and outs of the courtroom better than most authors.
How do you begin to defend somebody that is already punishing themselves for a murder…
When morning TV’s beloved Jessica Holby dies, from anaphylaxis, on live TV in front of millions of daily viewers it immediately seems like an open and shut case; the TV chef, Sebastian being the only one that could have possibly have had access to the food that caused her death.
Adam Green is on the case again as a newbie barrister, he is determined to get to the truth and ultimately he (and his hilarious mother) want to free Sebastian despite him having what seems to be the strongest motive and the sheer weight of the evidence against him.
Emotions run high amongst the family, Jessica’s co-workers but also the general population that woke up to the sound of her voice daily.
Adam is on the receiving end of threats whilst trying to find the truth behind what could have been an accident or ingenious attack at one of day-time TV’s favourite people.
And Adam began to find the sad truth of working in this business, on cases that mattered to you, sometimes the promise of justice couldn’t protect the clients from the vulnerable stone-cold reality of life…
This book had me hooked, even more so than the first book. I would highly recommend reading it whether you enjoy court case drama’s or not. It is a fantastic read with brilliant and very likeable characters, and some good old British humour added in for good measure. All that is left to say is ROB PLEASE BRING OUT ANOTHER BOOK 🙏🏼
March 27, 2025
Spoiler alert: if you don’t want to know what happens in The Trial, don’t read this! It’s not a standalone novel. Just a few chapters in and throughout the book, we learn what happens in the first of these books, giving away what I assume was a shocking discovery by junior barrister, Adam Green.
Run of the mill whodunnit concerning the on screen death of a TV breakfast show host. There is another, less important case but its purpose is as a vehicle to discuss the strengths, weaknesses and morality of the justice system, rather than as a mystery to be solved. The author is an ex judge hence the insights into the English legal system. For me, it was just okay and fortunately, since I know too much about the plot now, I won’t want to read the first book. I don’t know why I keep reading these celebrity authors!
Only just 3 stars from me.
Run of the mill whodunnit concerning the on screen death of a TV breakfast show host. There is another, less important case but its purpose is as a vehicle to discuss the strengths, weaknesses and morality of the justice system, rather than as a mystery to be solved. The author is an ex judge hence the insights into the English legal system. For me, it was just okay and fortunately, since I know too much about the plot now, I won’t want to read the first book. I don’t know why I keep reading these celebrity authors!
Only just 3 stars from me.
February 4, 2024
I'm conflicted.
I found it very easy to read, and at no point did I want to stop. I like Adam. I like his moral, slightly dopey demeanour. His wide-eyed star struck personality interspersed with the standing up for what he believes bits.
I struggled with the plot. It just went nowhere for 75% and only really picked up once the trial started. There were a lot of red herrings and leads, but they just went nowhere. No one cared about them for the trial. But what was the point in writing about them? It just all felt a bit pointless. I just could have read the first chapters and the last chapters and had a full story. It felt like some of those other threads through the centre needed to be focused on more from a readers point of view. It's all well and good Suzy saying it's not our job to shove it on someone else. But honestly, it made for fairly boring reading.
The gang storyline was a good subplot in highlighting the moral elements of the job and also showing Adam that his heroes and tutors aren't always perfect. From a characterisation point, I enjoyed this element.
Definitely conflicted. I enjoyed some elements, and as a whole, it was an easy read. But I just didn't find it entertaining throughout the whole book.
I found it very easy to read, and at no point did I want to stop. I like Adam. I like his moral, slightly dopey demeanour. His wide-eyed star struck personality interspersed with the standing up for what he believes bits.
I struggled with the plot. It just went nowhere for 75% and only really picked up once the trial started. There were a lot of red herrings and leads, but they just went nowhere. No one cared about them for the trial. But what was the point in writing about them? It just all felt a bit pointless. I just could have read the first chapters and the last chapters and had a full story. It felt like some of those other threads through the centre needed to be focused on more from a readers point of view. It's all well and good Suzy saying it's not our job to shove it on someone else. But honestly, it made for fairly boring reading.
The gang storyline was a good subplot in highlighting the moral elements of the job and also showing Adam that his heroes and tutors aren't always perfect. From a characterisation point, I enjoyed this element.
Definitely conflicted. I enjoyed some elements, and as a whole, it was an easy read. But I just didn't find it entertaining throughout the whole book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 14, 2024
The last book was just *chefs kiss* and I’ve been SO looking forward to the follow up. The last one was a solid and mahusive 5 stars and this one lived up to everything I thought and hoped it would be.
The same fab writing at the first, a plot to invest you and have you steaming through the pages. We’re back with Adam who is an easily likeable character and we get to follow him in his work as a Junior Barrister which comes with all sorts of challenges and moral dilemmas.
This book was just so damn easy to read and I couldn’t wait to get back to it whenever I had to put it down. The stories were compelling and I loved following the cases and the court drama - it never got old! Also, love the phone calls Adam has with his mum, they’re always super entertaining and I always look forward to their interactions.
It’s another ‘I couldn’t give less than 5 stars’ and I look forward to more in this series!
Thank you to the author and publisher for this book on NetGalley in return for my honest thoughts and review.
The same fab writing at the first, a plot to invest you and have you steaming through the pages. We’re back with Adam who is an easily likeable character and we get to follow him in his work as a Junior Barrister which comes with all sorts of challenges and moral dilemmas.
This book was just so damn easy to read and I couldn’t wait to get back to it whenever I had to put it down. The stories were compelling and I loved following the cases and the court drama - it never got old! Also, love the phone calls Adam has with his mum, they’re always super entertaining and I always look forward to their interactions.
It’s another ‘I couldn’t give less than 5 stars’ and I look forward to more in this series!
Thank you to the author and publisher for this book on NetGalley in return for my honest thoughts and review.
June 2, 2024
A 2nd book for Judge Rinder and he has spoken about his ‘2nd book difficulties’ in interviews, he didn’t need to worry as was a good follow up
It is a stand alone although does feature the same main characters and does mention the previous books story in parts
The book is character rich and I did have to keep thinking who was who, why, with and how but I was interested enough in the story to not find this not too much of a bind throughout
The Court case story was polished….,descriptively as expected excellent and the book started with an eye wateringly realistically shocking murder that you were willing not to happen as it unfolded
The conversations between Adam and his Mum are legend 😊
Very well written and on the whole proves this author was not a ‘one off’ book success
Interesting to read about the world of TV production throughout
Look forward to Book 3 as much as I did Book 2
It is a stand alone although does feature the same main characters and does mention the previous books story in parts
The book is character rich and I did have to keep thinking who was who, why, with and how but I was interested enough in the story to not find this not too much of a bind throughout
The Court case story was polished….,descriptively as expected excellent and the book started with an eye wateringly realistically shocking murder that you were willing not to happen as it unfolded
The conversations between Adam and his Mum are legend 😊
Very well written and on the whole proves this author was not a ‘one off’ book success
Interesting to read about the world of TV production throughout
Look forward to Book 3 as much as I did Book 2
May 7, 2024
Rating: 3.2/5
"The Suspect" is Rob Rinder's follow-up to his impressive debut, "The Trial". The good news is that if you could easily read this one without needing to have read the previous book in the series. However, the slightly disappointing downside is that this sequel does contain a number of spoilers relating to its predecessor, so if you had plans to read "The Trial" after reading this, then you may well have your enjoyment of it marred to some degree.
My review of "The Suspect" won't be dramatically different to the one I wrote for "The Trial". That is essentially because it follows the same formula that worked so well for Rob Rinder the first time around. Junior Barrister, Adam Green, returns as the central protagonist as the author follows the old adage of "writing what you know". Once again, Rob Rinder makes a good job of utilising his in-depth knowledge of the legal world without becoming so highbrow that he alienates his audience.
As with book one, there are echoes of John Mortimer's "Rumpole of the Bailey" series and the stylistic positioning is very much towards the cosier end of the genre. In fact, this is even marked this time around than it was in "The Trial". The central mystery at the heart of the story is engaging and there are supporting cases going on simultaneously that work well enough too. However, everything about this sequel feels a touch more lightweight than it did in Rinder's debut novel and there is a constant sense of having been there before - which is always the danger of following a tried and tested formula. Another returning feature is the inclusion of intermittent chapters featuring telephone conversations between Adam and his archetypal Jewish mother. As previously, these chapters perform the dual function of building Adam's backstory outside the central thread of the narrative, while also providing some comic relief. That said, with the overall tone of "The Suspect" being somewhat lighter than it was in "The Trial", the comic relief aspect doesn't make for such a clear contrast this time around.
Overall, Rob Rinder's "if is isn't broke, don't try to fix it" sequel makes for another entertaining read in this developing series. I am sure there will be a third book in the offing and I have little doubt that I will be back to read that too. However, I do hope that Rob Rinder and his editorial team take care not to be too blandly predictable, whilst maintaining the appealing essence of the series.
Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for supplying an ARC in return for an honest review.
"The Suspect" is Rob Rinder's follow-up to his impressive debut, "The Trial". The good news is that if you could easily read this one without needing to have read the previous book in the series. However, the slightly disappointing downside is that this sequel does contain a number of spoilers relating to its predecessor, so if you had plans to read "The Trial" after reading this, then you may well have your enjoyment of it marred to some degree.
My review of "The Suspect" won't be dramatically different to the one I wrote for "The Trial". That is essentially because it follows the same formula that worked so well for Rob Rinder the first time around. Junior Barrister, Adam Green, returns as the central protagonist as the author follows the old adage of "writing what you know". Once again, Rob Rinder makes a good job of utilising his in-depth knowledge of the legal world without becoming so highbrow that he alienates his audience.
As with book one, there are echoes of John Mortimer's "Rumpole of the Bailey" series and the stylistic positioning is very much towards the cosier end of the genre. In fact, this is even marked this time around than it was in "The Trial". The central mystery at the heart of the story is engaging and there are supporting cases going on simultaneously that work well enough too. However, everything about this sequel feels a touch more lightweight than it did in Rinder's debut novel and there is a constant sense of having been there before - which is always the danger of following a tried and tested formula. Another returning feature is the inclusion of intermittent chapters featuring telephone conversations between Adam and his archetypal Jewish mother. As previously, these chapters perform the dual function of building Adam's backstory outside the central thread of the narrative, while also providing some comic relief. That said, with the overall tone of "The Suspect" being somewhat lighter than it was in "The Trial", the comic relief aspect doesn't make for such a clear contrast this time around.
Overall, Rob Rinder's "if is isn't broke, don't try to fix it" sequel makes for another entertaining read in this developing series. I am sure there will be a third book in the offing and I have little doubt that I will be back to read that too. However, I do hope that Rob Rinder and his editorial team take care not to be too blandly predictable, whilst maintaining the appealing essence of the series.
Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for supplying an ARC in return for an honest review.
April 5, 2024
3.5 *
I liked this book, but it wasn’t one that I loved. It’s really well written, the chapters weren’t very long and there were a few twists in the story, so it was easy to keep my attention. I also liked how it focused on mental health, and as a law student, I liked how it highlighted how challenging a career in law can be and gave readers a good knowledge of the criminal justice system without going too deep that it took a lot of time away from the murder storyline. I enjoyed the conversations between Adam and his mum; they lightened up the story, however I do think there was just one too many. They didn’t really add anything extra to the story.
Thanks to Netgalley and Random House for the ARC.
I liked this book, but it wasn’t one that I loved. It’s really well written, the chapters weren’t very long and there were a few twists in the story, so it was easy to keep my attention. I also liked how it focused on mental health, and as a law student, I liked how it highlighted how challenging a career in law can be and gave readers a good knowledge of the criminal justice system without going too deep that it took a lot of time away from the murder storyline. I enjoyed the conversations between Adam and his mum; they lightened up the story, however I do think there was just one too many. They didn’t really add anything extra to the story.
Thanks to Netgalley and Random House for the ARC.
July 17, 2024
I loved The Trial and was a bit disappointed with this one.
I didn't want to stop reading it, but there's no denying that this was a dry book. So many conversations happening that just didn't matter. So much information given that didn't change anything. And while I like Adam as a character, he didn't actually end up doing anything in the end. Someone else gave him the answer.
I get that it was supposed to be realistic but I think it went too far in that direction and just ended up rather boring.
I didn't want to stop reading it, but there's no denying that this was a dry book. So many conversations happening that just didn't matter. So much information given that didn't change anything. And while I like Adam as a character, he didn't actually end up doing anything in the end. Someone else gave him the answer.
I get that it was supposed to be realistic but I think it went too far in that direction and just ended up rather boring.
March 13, 2025
2 stars
A bit of a let down. This felt like a not successful copy paste of the first book.
Again we have a poisoning, again we have a solution coming up in the last moments, again we have someone that hands out miraculously the perfect answer at the perfect time. The conversation with his mom felt more annoying than funny. All the criticism, the judgemental approach, not a fan.
If you haven't read the first book, then you'll like this one, if you did then I'm afraid this is a timid copy of that one.
A bit of a let down. This felt like a not successful copy paste of the first book.
Again we have a poisoning, again we have a solution coming up in the last moments, again we have someone that hands out miraculously the perfect answer at the perfect time. The conversation with his mom felt more annoying than funny. All the criticism, the judgemental approach, not a fan.
If you haven't read the first book, then you'll like this one, if you did then I'm afraid this is a timid copy of that one.
February 21, 2025
My first by Rob Rinder, was a good story. Shows you what goes on behind the scenes within the chambers. I did like the phone calls between Adam & his mum!
August 2, 2024
The second is this fascinating series and it carries on the first one. It's clever and at times funny especially the phone conversations between Adam and his nagging mum. I learnt a lot about court cases and barristers and look forward to the next one from Rob.
November 17, 2024
Loved it, read it in a day (literally... Started it mid morning today and finished it 12 hours later...!!!)
Really like Rob's style of writing.
Really like Rob's style of writing.
June 6, 2025
I prefered the first one I think. It was a quick read and I was intrigued but I feel like the resolution was a long time coming.
February 21, 2025
This was not an open and shut case, with twists and to the end surprises. I thoroughly enjoyed this book, as I did the previous book.
December 2, 2025
There was a typo in my copy and I laughed for five minutes straight at Rob Rinder writing that an IQ of 98 (almost perfectly average) was considered intellectually handicapped
April 9, 2025
Quite a dull book with a shallow plot and characters with no depth. Reluctantly finished it as it was a book club selection but cannot recommend.
February 4, 2024
Thanks PRH & NetGalley for the early copy! This was another excellent addition to the Adam Green series and he’s fast becoming a great character in a fantastic series. I really enjoy how the plot/case is secondary to the detail within what life is really like working in a chambers, and how complex building a case or defence can be. The plot overall is good and fast paced but for me the best part of the books are all the inner workings of this part of the law, and how justice and life don’t always pan out as you’d expect. Really hope there’s more to come, and hope it continues in a way of showing the reader the inner workings of the court system and the conflict of emotions barristers and judges may feel. If anything I wish this was a bit longer just because I really enjoy the characters and set up of the series!
March 1, 2025
Great read, fast paced and so gripping I had to read it in one sitting. Well written with such a good plot that I didn't anticipate the ending at all. Well written with the right level of legal jargon that it wasn't overwhelming or patronising.
May 12, 2024
#TheSuspect #NetGalley This is the follow on book to Rob Rinder's debut novel "The Trial". Although reading The trial first would give you some background to the main characters, this is perfectly capable of being read as a standalone. Two interesting cases fall to Adam, the Baby Junior on the team and although the authors legal background is apparent, the writing is not too technical and easy to follow. I thoroughly enjoyed this book as much as the first and with a little tease relating to Adam's personal life at the end, I am hoping that there will be a third in the series!! A well deserved 5 stars!
July 13, 2025
3.5 Stars. Book #2 in the Adam Green series.
Adam Green is a likeable main character.
As with the first book in the series, things are not as open-and-shut as they first seem. Rob Rinder's background as a barrister provides an authentic setting and an insider’s view of what life as a barrister is like.
Adam Green is a likeable main character.
As with the first book in the series, things are not as open-and-shut as they first seem. Rob Rinder's background as a barrister provides an authentic setting and an insider’s view of what life as a barrister is like.
February 19, 2025
This was good but not as good as the first book.
I feel that the ending of the main case was slightly rushed. However, it was a good read with comical elements.
I also like it when the author's note is at the start of the book rather than the end.
I feel that the ending of the main case was slightly rushed. However, it was a good read with comical elements.
I also like it when the author's note is at the start of the book rather than the end.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 24, 2024
Rather good writing, but weak plotting, and a subplot that’s going nowhere.
September 27, 2025
3.5 stars. While on holiday I was in need of a palate-cleanser of a novel before starting on my next weighty tome. Enter The Suspect, sequel to The Trial (no, not that one). It’s another predictably light yet entertaining novel by Rob Rinder.
What I do like about Rinder’s novels is that they’re clearly written by him. I feel the same about Osman’s and Mortimer’s books too. By that, I mean that their novels are written well-enough, but don’t have the suspiciously polished finesse of a clearly-ghostwritten celebrity offering. It’s rather in plot and character where they excel.
Yes, Rinder loves to tell not show (e.g. often describing evidence as ‘telling’) and his writing has moments of clunkiness (I was particularly struck by his affinity for the word ‘abated’). But there are characters you root for, moments of humour, witty snatches of dialogue, and a reveal that had me barking up the wrong tree.
Ultimately, I wanted a fun whodunnit on holiday, and The Suspect more than did the job.
What I do like about Rinder’s novels is that they’re clearly written by him. I feel the same about Osman’s and Mortimer’s books too. By that, I mean that their novels are written well-enough, but don’t have the suspiciously polished finesse of a clearly-ghostwritten celebrity offering. It’s rather in plot and character where they excel.
Yes, Rinder loves to tell not show (e.g. often describing evidence as ‘telling’) and his writing has moments of clunkiness (I was particularly struck by his affinity for the word ‘abated’). But there are characters you root for, moments of humour, witty snatches of dialogue, and a reveal that had me barking up the wrong tree.
Ultimately, I wanted a fun whodunnit on holiday, and The Suspect more than did the job.
July 22, 2025
Having read and thoroughly enjoyed the authors first book in this series, I was looking forward to this second offering and it did not disappoint.
Set in the glittering world of television, it deals with the dramatic on air death of a morning TV Presenter. The killer appears obvious and it is up to Adam Green and the team to try and prove his innocence. At the same time, Adam is also working on a very different case involving a young man caught up in the seedy world of gangs.
The pace is slightly slower than the original book, but none the less enjoyable. The ending was unexpected and well thought out. I particularly love the chapters dealing with Adam's conversations with his mother, which brings some light relief to the seriousness of the story. I very much look forward to reading the next book in the series.
Set in the glittering world of television, it deals with the dramatic on air death of a morning TV Presenter. The killer appears obvious and it is up to Adam Green and the team to try and prove his innocence. At the same time, Adam is also working on a very different case involving a young man caught up in the seedy world of gangs.
The pace is slightly slower than the original book, but none the less enjoyable. The ending was unexpected and well thought out. I particularly love the chapters dealing with Adam's conversations with his mother, which brings some light relief to the seriousness of the story. I very much look forward to reading the next book in the series.
May 10, 2024
I absolutely flew through this book as I did with his first. Rob Rinders books are brilliant from the very first page, I love a courtroom / crime / legal thriller at the best of times but his experiences in courtrooms etc really add something special and ‘real’ to these books. The characters are great and the story is always compelling.
June 24, 2025
I'm whizzing my way through this series...they're rather moreish aren't they?
I love Adam, he's a refreshing character and the way he delves into the cases he's presented with is brilliant. He's always looking for that extra something...the extra something being what makes the case more exciting and adds to the building tension.
Drawing from his own experiences as a criminal barrister, Rinder writes it as it is...the pressures, the undue stress, the juggling work with home life balance and an overbearing mother...I love their phone call chapters!
It's fast, gripping and an absolute belter of a page turner. I loved it!
I love Adam, he's a refreshing character and the way he delves into the cases he's presented with is brilliant. He's always looking for that extra something...the extra something being what makes the case more exciting and adds to the building tension.
Drawing from his own experiences as a criminal barrister, Rinder writes it as it is...the pressures, the undue stress, the juggling work with home life balance and an overbearing mother...I love their phone call chapters!
It's fast, gripping and an absolute belter of a page turner. I loved it!
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