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The Brief
On an ordinary Friday afternoon, a gunman gains entry to Whites Chambers. His job is to find a particular barrister. But which one? For a few people, his arrival isn’t as much of a shock as it is to others.
The barristers work hard defending and prosecuting the unfortunate beings who find themselves at the mercy of the English criminal legal system. But when professional lines between them and Manchester’s organised criminal gang are crossed, it can only lead to trouble.
Samantha has no idea that her husband, Alistair, is working for the gang. He wants to stop. But once you’re in, you’re in, they tell him. There’s no way out.
Robert’s drinking and gambling habits are ruining his career and his relationship. One bad decision leads to another. And another.
Jamilla is struggling to keep her relationship with Robert on track. He is ruining them both. How can she help him when he can no longer repay his debt to the gang? She can’t ask her father for help. He has troubles of his own. When he receives two death threats in one day, that’s as much as anyone can take.
Samantha's mysterious disappearance raises more questions than answers and puts Alistair under the spotlight.
This is the first book in the Whites Chambers series.
The barristers work hard defending and prosecuting the unfortunate beings who find themselves at the mercy of the English criminal legal system. But when professional lines between them and Manchester’s organised criminal gang are crossed, it can only lead to trouble.
Samantha has no idea that her husband, Alistair, is working for the gang. He wants to stop. But once you’re in, you’re in, they tell him. There’s no way out.
Robert’s drinking and gambling habits are ruining his career and his relationship. One bad decision leads to another. And another.
Jamilla is struggling to keep her relationship with Robert on track. He is ruining them both. How can she help him when he can no longer repay his debt to the gang? She can’t ask her father for help. He has troubles of his own. When he receives two death threats in one day, that’s as much as anyone can take.
Samantha's mysterious disappearance raises more questions than answers and puts Alistair under the spotlight.
This is the first book in the Whites Chambers series.
324 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 1, 2024
14 people are currently reading
22 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews
April 10, 2025
A cleverly crafted thriller with intertwining stories and relationships, building to a tense climax. Fast-paced and unfolding like a TV drama, well-written and believable and sets up a group of characters that can easily return for future installments. Also a rare realistic look at the legal system in England. Excellent.
January 14, 2025
Really well written, very authentic. I loved the setting. The short chapters made it a pleasurable read and the character profiles at the back of the book are a great touch.
February 5, 2024
-- Spoiler free review --
Having the pleasure of reading Caroline Blake's novel, "The Brief," I find myself compelled to delve into the intricacies that make this book a commendable read. Blake has succeeded in creating a narrative that seamlessly blends a compelling plot with well-developed characters and I couldn't put the book down from the get go.
One notable aspect of the book is Caroline's meticulous attention to detail. The plot unfolds with a purposeful precision, avoiding unnecessary diversions and ensuring that each element contributes meaningfully to the overarching story. This precision, however, doesn't compromise the depth of character development.
The characters are not mere vessels for the plot but individuals with distinct personalities and motivations. Caroline takes the time to explore their backgrounds and intricacies, making them relatable and engaging. This attention to character depth adds a layer of authenticity to the narrative, allowing readers to connect with the story on a personal level.
The language employed by Caroline strikes a balance between clarity and nuance. It's not overly ornate, but it effectively conveys the atmosphere and emotions within the story. The dialogue is particularly noteworthy, capturing the natural cadence of conversation and contributing to the authenticity of the characters' interactions.
In terms of pacing, Caroline demonstrates a keen sense of timing. The narrative unfolds at a measured pace, allowing for moments of tension and reflection to coexist harmoniously. This deliberate pacing kept me engaged, eagerly anticipating the next development while appreciating the quieter, character-driven scenes.
Without giving away spoilers, the conclusion is both satisfying and thought-provoking. She navigates the resolution with finesse, avoiding clichés and delivering an ending that feels earned and resonant.
In summary, The Brief stands out as a well-executed blend of plot and character. The authors attention to detail, nuanced characterisations, and adept storytelling make this novel a compelling and worthwhile read. Highly recommended for those seeking a narrative that combines substance with a deft touch.
Having the pleasure of reading Caroline Blake's novel, "The Brief," I find myself compelled to delve into the intricacies that make this book a commendable read. Blake has succeeded in creating a narrative that seamlessly blends a compelling plot with well-developed characters and I couldn't put the book down from the get go.
One notable aspect of the book is Caroline's meticulous attention to detail. The plot unfolds with a purposeful precision, avoiding unnecessary diversions and ensuring that each element contributes meaningfully to the overarching story. This precision, however, doesn't compromise the depth of character development.
The characters are not mere vessels for the plot but individuals with distinct personalities and motivations. Caroline takes the time to explore their backgrounds and intricacies, making them relatable and engaging. This attention to character depth adds a layer of authenticity to the narrative, allowing readers to connect with the story on a personal level.
The language employed by Caroline strikes a balance between clarity and nuance. It's not overly ornate, but it effectively conveys the atmosphere and emotions within the story. The dialogue is particularly noteworthy, capturing the natural cadence of conversation and contributing to the authenticity of the characters' interactions.
In terms of pacing, Caroline demonstrates a keen sense of timing. The narrative unfolds at a measured pace, allowing for moments of tension and reflection to coexist harmoniously. This deliberate pacing kept me engaged, eagerly anticipating the next development while appreciating the quieter, character-driven scenes.
Without giving away spoilers, the conclusion is both satisfying and thought-provoking. She navigates the resolution with finesse, avoiding clichés and delivering an ending that feels earned and resonant.
In summary, The Brief stands out as a well-executed blend of plot and character. The authors attention to detail, nuanced characterisations, and adept storytelling make this novel a compelling and worthwhile read. Highly recommended for those seeking a narrative that combines substance with a deft touch.
January 18, 2024
This story quickly grabs your attention with a very dramatic beggining. An oridnary friday afternoon in the Whites Chambers a gunman lets loose creating a very tense mystery for the rest of the story.
The story then goes back in time; 10 days prior to this traumatic event. Each day is described by different viewpoints, providing you with insight into those who are involved. There is strong character building in the story and caroline crafted case studies of each chracter at the back of the book which, I may say was incredibly helpful to remind me of who each character was and the links they had within the story.
It safe to say that I immediately hated some characters and felt empathy towards others. It was easy to create picture of which chracters were untrustworthy and my instincts were totaly right. Strong character building is always essential in a story for me and this story was very character driven.
It did not come as a suprise when I discovered the author worked in a law firm herself, as this book created a sound and insightful picture of what life is like for barrister's and solicitor's, working in the UK law. The story not only explores the mundane and repetitive lifestyle of working in a law firm but highlights the corruption of those who hide from the law.
The plot is thick in this story and your faced with alot of compelling issues, such as; relationship difficulties, emotional abuse, gambling addcition, money laundering, drug lords, death threats, lies, deception and suspicious murders.
I enjoyed the setting of this story, being in based in Manchster a city I have visted before, I found it easy to imagine the places described and find english based thrillers favourable for my imagination.
I was quickly invested in this story and felt like I was page-turning, desperately wanting to find out where the story was leading. I enjoyed the writing style, which has a variable pace with great tension building.
This book is a prosperous begging to The whites Chambers series and it will be interesting to know where the story goes next.
The story then goes back in time; 10 days prior to this traumatic event. Each day is described by different viewpoints, providing you with insight into those who are involved. There is strong character building in the story and caroline crafted case studies of each chracter at the back of the book which, I may say was incredibly helpful to remind me of who each character was and the links they had within the story.
It safe to say that I immediately hated some characters and felt empathy towards others. It was easy to create picture of which chracters were untrustworthy and my instincts were totaly right. Strong character building is always essential in a story for me and this story was very character driven.
It did not come as a suprise when I discovered the author worked in a law firm herself, as this book created a sound and insightful picture of what life is like for barrister's and solicitor's, working in the UK law. The story not only explores the mundane and repetitive lifestyle of working in a law firm but highlights the corruption of those who hide from the law.
The plot is thick in this story and your faced with alot of compelling issues, such as; relationship difficulties, emotional abuse, gambling addcition, money laundering, drug lords, death threats, lies, deception and suspicious murders.
I enjoyed the setting of this story, being in based in Manchster a city I have visted before, I found it easy to imagine the places described and find english based thrillers favourable for my imagination.
I was quickly invested in this story and felt like I was page-turning, desperately wanting to find out where the story was leading. I enjoyed the writing style, which has a variable pace with great tension building.
This book is a prosperous begging to The whites Chambers series and it will be interesting to know where the story goes next.
January 11, 2024
On an ordinary Friday afternoon, a man gains entry to Whites Chambers in Manchester. He goes into the lift and makes his way to the 2nd floor. Minutes later, the sound of gunshots echoes through the building.
The first chapter starts with a bang. After this, we go back 10 days and work through to the day of the event.
The story is told from the viewpoint of several barristers and family members. Surprisingly, not all members of the Whites Chambers are squeaky clean. The author developed some great characters. She even included her character studies at the end of the book, which you can refer to if you struggle with names & relations. Some characters were lovely, others despicable.
Caroline Blake had a great knowledge of legal terminology, and I am not surprised to learn that she has worked at a law firm previously.
The story is based in Manchester, my own stomping ground, and I loved how familiar the description of the streets felt to me.
The Brief is a very promising start to this series. Secretive, intriguing characters make it a page-turning read, filled with drama & twists.
This was my first read by the author Caroline Blake, and I certainly enjoyed the writing style of the author. I am hoping we won’t have to wait too long for the next instalment and a follow-up with the barristers & staff at Whites Chambers Manchester.
This book is released 1. February 20204 and if you like legal drama & short chapters, then this book is one for you.
The first chapter starts with a bang. After this, we go back 10 days and work through to the day of the event.
The story is told from the viewpoint of several barristers and family members. Surprisingly, not all members of the Whites Chambers are squeaky clean. The author developed some great characters. She even included her character studies at the end of the book, which you can refer to if you struggle with names & relations. Some characters were lovely, others despicable.
Caroline Blake had a great knowledge of legal terminology, and I am not surprised to learn that she has worked at a law firm previously.
The story is based in Manchester, my own stomping ground, and I loved how familiar the description of the streets felt to me.
The Brief is a very promising start to this series. Secretive, intriguing characters make it a page-turning read, filled with drama & twists.
This was my first read by the author Caroline Blake, and I certainly enjoyed the writing style of the author. I am hoping we won’t have to wait too long for the next instalment and a follow-up with the barristers & staff at Whites Chambers Manchester.
This book is released 1. February 20204 and if you like legal drama & short chapters, then this book is one for you.
January 16, 2024
I this one as a buddy read after being contacted by the author to proofread in return for an honest review.
This story quickly grabs your attention with a very dramatic beginning. An ordinary Friday in the Whites Chambers a gunman lets loose, creating a very tense mystery for the rest of the story.
The story then goes back in time; 10 days prior to this traumatic event. Each day is described by different viewpoints, providing you with insight into those who are involved. There is strong character building and Caroline crafted case studies of each character at the back of the book which, we thought was incredibly helpful to remind us of who each character was and the links they had within the story.
It's safe to say that we immediately hated some characters and felt empathy towards others. It was easy to create pictures of which characters were untrustworthy, and our instincts were totally right. Strong character building is always essential in a story for us, and this story is character driven.
It did not come as a surprise when we discovered the author worked in a law firm herself, as this book created a sound and insightful picture of what life is like for barrister's and solicitor's, working in the UK law. The story not only explores the mundane and repetitive lifestyle of working in a law firm but highlights the corruption of those who hide from the law.
The plot is thick and your faced with a-lot of compelling issues, such as; relationship difficulties, emotional abuse, gambling addiction, money laundering, drug lords, death threats, lies, deception and suspicious murders. We were quickly invested in this story and thoroughly enjoyed the writing style.
We really enjoyed the setting of this story, being based in Manchester, a city we have both visited before, we found it easy to imagine the places described and find english based thrillers favourable for our imagination.
This book is a prosperous begging to The Whites Chambers series, and it will be interesting to know where the story goes next.
This story quickly grabs your attention with a very dramatic beginning. An ordinary Friday in the Whites Chambers a gunman lets loose, creating a very tense mystery for the rest of the story.
The story then goes back in time; 10 days prior to this traumatic event. Each day is described by different viewpoints, providing you with insight into those who are involved. There is strong character building and Caroline crafted case studies of each character at the back of the book which, we thought was incredibly helpful to remind us of who each character was and the links they had within the story.
It's safe to say that we immediately hated some characters and felt empathy towards others. It was easy to create pictures of which characters were untrustworthy, and our instincts were totally right. Strong character building is always essential in a story for us, and this story is character driven.
It did not come as a surprise when we discovered the author worked in a law firm herself, as this book created a sound and insightful picture of what life is like for barrister's and solicitor's, working in the UK law. The story not only explores the mundane and repetitive lifestyle of working in a law firm but highlights the corruption of those who hide from the law.
The plot is thick and your faced with a-lot of compelling issues, such as; relationship difficulties, emotional abuse, gambling addiction, money laundering, drug lords, death threats, lies, deception and suspicious murders. We were quickly invested in this story and thoroughly enjoyed the writing style.
We really enjoyed the setting of this story, being based in Manchester, a city we have both visited before, we found it easy to imagine the places described and find english based thrillers favourable for our imagination.
This book is a prosperous begging to The Whites Chambers series, and it will be interesting to know where the story goes next.
This story quickly grabs your attention with a very dramatic beginning. An ordinary Friday in the Whites Chambers a gunman lets loose, creating a very tense mystery for the rest of the story.
The story then goes back in time; 10 days prior to this traumatic event. Each day is described by different viewpoints, providing you with insight into those who are involved. There is strong character building and Caroline crafted case studies of each character at the back of the book which, we thought was incredibly helpful to remind us of who each character was and the links they had within the story.
It's safe to say that we immediately hated some characters and felt empathy towards others. It was easy to create pictures of which characters were untrustworthy, and our instincts were totally right. Strong character building is always essential in a story for us, and this story is character driven.
It did not come as a surprise when we discovered the author worked in a law firm herself, as this book created a sound and insightful picture of what life is like for barrister's and solicitor's, working in the UK law. The story not only explores the mundane and repetitive lifestyle of working in a law firm but highlights the corruption of those who hide from the law.
The plot is thick and your faced with a-lot of compelling issues, such as; relationship difficulties, emotional abuse, gambling addiction, money laundering, drug lords, death threats, lies, deception and suspicious murders. We were quickly invested in this story and thoroughly enjoyed the writing style.
We really enjoyed the setting of this story, being based in Manchester, a city we have both visited before, we found it easy to imagine the places described and find english based thrillers favourable for our imagination.
This book is a prosperous begging to The Whites Chambers series, and it will be interesting to know where the story goes next.
This story quickly grabs your attention with a very dramatic beginning. An ordinary Friday in the Whites Chambers a gunman lets loose, creating a very tense mystery for the rest of the story.
The story then goes back in time; 10 days prior to this traumatic event. Each day is described by different viewpoints, providing you with insight into those who are involved. There is strong character building and Caroline crafted case studies of each character at the back of the book which, we thought was incredibly helpful to remind us of who each character was and the links they had within the story.
It's safe to say that we immediately hated some characters and felt empathy towards others. It was easy to create pictures of which characters were untrustworthy, and our instincts were totally right. Strong character building is always essential in a story for us, and this story is character driven.
It did not come as a surprise when we discovered the author worked in a law firm herself, as this book created a sound and insightful picture of what life is like for barrister's and solicitor's, working in the UK law. The story not only explores the mundane and repetitive lifestyle of working in a law firm but highlights the corruption of those who hide from the law.
The plot is thick and your faced with a-lot of compelling issues, such as; relationship difficulties, emotional abuse, gambling addiction, money laundering, drug lords, death threats, lies, deception and suspicious murders. We were quickly invested in this story and thoroughly enjoyed the writing style.
We really enjoyed the setting of this story, being based in Manchester, a city we have both visited before, we found it easy to imagine the places described and find english based thrillers favourable for our imagination.
This book is a prosperous begging to The Whites Chambers series, and it will be interesting to know where the story goes next.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 4, 2024
After a few heavy emotional books, I was in the mood for a good crime thriller and wow did this book deliver 😀
I love that we follow the stories of lots of different characters, we get to know them, their choices, their strengths and their weaknesses. I really enjoyed seeing how they interacted and linked together against the backdrop of the mystery.
The books starts with a bang and I loved that we got to follow the story backwards.
The writing is great, the pacing is perfect and the plot is good. I had strong feelings about some of the characters which is always a sign of a well developed character for me. I thoroughly enjoyed it and I will definitely be picking up more books from this author.
I love that we follow the stories of lots of different characters, we get to know them, their choices, their strengths and their weaknesses. I really enjoyed seeing how they interacted and linked together against the backdrop of the mystery.
The books starts with a bang and I loved that we got to follow the story backwards.
The writing is great, the pacing is perfect and the plot is good. I had strong feelings about some of the characters which is always a sign of a well developed character for me. I thoroughly enjoyed it and I will definitely be picking up more books from this author.
March 19, 2024
Good
It was like a breath of fresh air to read this book and especially the setting being around a Court, Barristers etc. It races along and is cleverly written. I was hooked and on the edge of my seat. There were two huge twists at the beginning and middle but There was no twist at the end which is what I like. I thought there would be something as it was ending to make me think "Oh My God I didn't see that coming" . It just sort of finished by simply tying ends up. Great book though to keep you on your toes.
It was like a breath of fresh air to read this book and especially the setting being around a Court, Barristers etc. It races along and is cleverly written. I was hooked and on the edge of my seat. There were two huge twists at the beginning and middle but There was no twist at the end which is what I like. I thought there would be something as it was ending to make me think "Oh My God I didn't see that coming" . It just sort of finished by simply tying ends up. Great book though to keep you on your toes.
February 6, 2024
I loved this book. A cracking new series from a talented author. Set in a Manchester chambers this legal thriller is page-turning from the start. The characters are well written, and the pace of the book kept me burning the midnight oil. I do hope there will be more to come and soon! A big fat five stars from me.
June 10, 2024
I started this book at a time of turmoil in my life and was worried I wouldn’t get into it. How wrong I was. I was gripped from the beginning and read it before the week was through!
It’s a fast paced thriller with some great characters, and I loved that the author had included her character notes at the end of the book.
It’s a fast paced thriller with some great characters, and I loved that the author had included her character notes at the end of the book.
May 31, 2024
Unfortunately Not My Favourite
Lacked a bit of umph! and the ending was lack lustre and unclear.
Not for Me unfortunately !
Read her others first!
Lacked a bit of umph! and the ending was lack lustre and unclear.
Not for Me unfortunately !
Read her others first!
October 8, 2025
Enjoyed the book, but thought that it came to an abrupt ending, so much so that I scrolled back on my kindle as I thought I'd missed some
February 9, 2024
The Brief is an interesting and fast paced read, it really does quickly grab the readers attention and I love that it was set local ish to me - Manchester. An OCG, court setting and a whole lot going on - perfect!
I liked how it started with a very dramatic beginning and then it goes back in time prior to the shooting, tension building throughout each chapter.
You learn about each of the barristers and their day to day in the job and I loved reading about the different cases and who was dealing with what hearing. But all is not what it seems with the barristers and once they have some involvement with the OCG… it’s hard to get out. It’s clear to see their strengths and also their weaknesses.
A great read with intriguing characters. Full of tension and drama, great start to a series 🙌🏻
I liked how it started with a very dramatic beginning and then it goes back in time prior to the shooting, tension building throughout each chapter.
You learn about each of the barristers and their day to day in the job and I loved reading about the different cases and who was dealing with what hearing. But all is not what it seems with the barristers and once they have some involvement with the OCG… it’s hard to get out. It’s clear to see their strengths and also their weaknesses.
A great read with intriguing characters. Full of tension and drama, great start to a series 🙌🏻
Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews