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Charles Holborne #9
Death, Adjourned
Has Charles picked the wrong side
…?
London, 1969
The Kray twins, the nemeses of Charles Holborne, barrister, are finally convicted of multiple murders and sent away for the longest prison terms ever imposed by a British court.
But with London in the grip of a housing crisis and unscrupulous landlords hiking rents, there are new ruthless enforcers terrorising destitute East Enders.
When a tenant dies during a violent altercation with bailiffs, Charles is instructed to represent the businessmen charged with conspiracy to murder. There is motive, an eyewitness and a confession – seemingly an open and shut case.
But Charles suspects his clients are pawns in a much more dangerous game being played by shadowy Establishment figures.
But are his instincts wrong this time? Is he being manipulated into defending a guilty man?
And as dark secrets are revealed, will he have to choose between moral integrity and professional success?
DEATH, ADJOURNED is the ninth crime novel in an exciting historical series, the Charles Holborne Legal Thrillers — gritty, hard-boiled mysteries set in 1960s London.
London, 1969
The Kray twins, the nemeses of Charles Holborne, barrister, are finally convicted of multiple murders and sent away for the longest prison terms ever imposed by a British court.
But with London in the grip of a housing crisis and unscrupulous landlords hiking rents, there are new ruthless enforcers terrorising destitute East Enders.
When a tenant dies during a violent altercation with bailiffs, Charles is instructed to represent the businessmen charged with conspiracy to murder. There is motive, an eyewitness and a confession – seemingly an open and shut case.
But Charles suspects his clients are pawns in a much more dangerous game being played by shadowy Establishment figures.
But are his instincts wrong this time? Is he being manipulated into defending a guilty man?
And as dark secrets are revealed, will he have to choose between moral integrity and professional success?
DEATH, ADJOURNED is the ninth crime novel in an exciting historical series, the Charles Holborne Legal Thrillers — gritty, hard-boiled mysteries set in 1960s London.
403 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 21, 2024
40 people are currently reading
33 people want to read
About the author
Simon Michael
17 books68 followersSimon Michael, often referred to as “the British John Grisham”, is a barrister and the author of the best-selling Charles Holborne Legal Thrillers.
The books are set primarily in London in the 1960s and 1970s, a period of huge social change, and they explore loyalty and prejudice, and what happens when justice collides with a corrupt Establishment. They’re historical and legal crime novels, but they’re also about memory, moral compromise, and the long shadow history casts over the present.
At their centre is barrister Charles Holborne, born Charlie Horowitz, a former East End heavyweight boxer and occasional criminal, who is drawn into cases shaped by gangs, organised crime, political interference and institutional corruption.
Moving between London’s courtrooms and the criminal underworld, the novels explore the tension between professional ambition and personal integrity, and the fragile line between justice and expediency. The series does not shy away from the class tensions and prejudices embedded within the legal profession of the time, including the racist, antisemitic and classist attitudes faced by those entering the Bar in the middle of the last century, echoes of which still resonate today. Combining legal authenticity with gritty urban realism, the series uses crime as a lens to examine how power operates within institutions, who the law ultimately serves, and what it costs to pursue truth when the system itself is under pressure.
The books are set primarily in London in the 1960s and 1970s, a period of huge social change, and they explore loyalty and prejudice, and what happens when justice collides with a corrupt Establishment. They’re historical and legal crime novels, but they’re also about memory, moral compromise, and the long shadow history casts over the present.
At their centre is barrister Charles Holborne, born Charlie Horowitz, a former East End heavyweight boxer and occasional criminal, who is drawn into cases shaped by gangs, organised crime, political interference and institutional corruption.
Moving between London’s courtrooms and the criminal underworld, the novels explore the tension between professional ambition and personal integrity, and the fragile line between justice and expediency. The series does not shy away from the class tensions and prejudices embedded within the legal profession of the time, including the racist, antisemitic and classist attitudes faced by those entering the Bar in the middle of the last century, echoes of which still resonate today. Combining legal authenticity with gritty urban realism, the series uses crime as a lens to examine how power operates within institutions, who the law ultimately serves, and what it costs to pursue truth when the system itself is under pressure.
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
January 7, 2025
⭐️ 4.5 stars ⭐️
January 11, 2025
My rating system
1 Did not like it
2 It was okay
3 I liked/enjoyed it
⭐️4 I Loved it ⭐️
5 It was amazing!
1 Did not like it
2 It was okay
3 I liked/enjoyed it
⭐️4 I Loved it ⭐️
5 It was amazing!
June 24, 2024
Simon Michael's first Charles Holborne legal thriller, The Brief, was released in 2015...two years later Amazon gave copies away as part of a Prime Reader promotion - by which point there were three books in the series...taking advantage of the offer I clicked and downloaded, leaving the book in the "to be read pile" for a couple of months. By the Autumn I'd not only read The Brief BUT I was caught on the series. I have subsequently bought each new release, often on pre-order, and devoured it within days.
Eighteen months ago the eighth novel brought to a close the cycle that had explored Holborn's evolution in a predominantly East London locale which was, quite literally in some cases, the stomping ground of The Krays...the stories wove Mr Michaels fictions around and amongst real life villains, celebs, politicians and law enforcers - the good and the bad.
I think there was some serious consideration given by the author to stop it there - the seven year arc could be closed, all the main plotlines sufficiently matured...BUT apparently the readership wanted to know more about Charles' family, his background, his challenges, his ambitions...and eighteen months on we've been delivered with a ninth title and a very clear indication that if we, the constant readers as Mr King might say, demand it.
On the strength of this five star yarn then yes we damn well do - there's a wedding to attend for one thing!
With the Krays out of the picture attention turns to other matters which impacted on an East End decades away from its Olympic Park gentrification and upgrade...a part of London that was heavily impacted by the Second World War Luftwaffe bombing runs...the story centres around actions related to the development of new housing options, reflecting again real life experiences including the collapse of one tower block and its subsequent loss of life.
Simon Michael introduces us to an interesting new cast of characters that drive the story along through, as always, intricate and interesting court proceedings. The main trial takes up a significant portion of the story-telling, but its at no point boring or technically bamboozling.
It climaxes with most heart rending finish - one of the series most harrowing incidents yet which reminds us of the trauma's that many German Jews were forced to endure before liberation.
I found one minor anachronism that I've already shared with the author - he thinks he can resolve that for future releases...suffice to say it wasn't enough for me to consider for one moment removing a star from my review - Top Marks all the way this time...and keeps me on the list of devoted readers for whom the next 12 months will be spent waiting to see where we go next.
Eighteen months ago the eighth novel brought to a close the cycle that had explored Holborn's evolution in a predominantly East London locale which was, quite literally in some cases, the stomping ground of The Krays...the stories wove Mr Michaels fictions around and amongst real life villains, celebs, politicians and law enforcers - the good and the bad.
I think there was some serious consideration given by the author to stop it there - the seven year arc could be closed, all the main plotlines sufficiently matured...BUT apparently the readership wanted to know more about Charles' family, his background, his challenges, his ambitions...and eighteen months on we've been delivered with a ninth title and a very clear indication that if we, the constant readers as Mr King might say, demand it.
On the strength of this five star yarn then yes we damn well do - there's a wedding to attend for one thing!
With the Krays out of the picture attention turns to other matters which impacted on an East End decades away from its Olympic Park gentrification and upgrade...a part of London that was heavily impacted by the Second World War Luftwaffe bombing runs...the story centres around actions related to the development of new housing options, reflecting again real life experiences including the collapse of one tower block and its subsequent loss of life.
Simon Michael introduces us to an interesting new cast of characters that drive the story along through, as always, intricate and interesting court proceedings. The main trial takes up a significant portion of the story-telling, but its at no point boring or technically bamboozling.
It climaxes with most heart rending finish - one of the series most harrowing incidents yet which reminds us of the trauma's that many German Jews were forced to endure before liberation.
I found one minor anachronism that I've already shared with the author - he thinks he can resolve that for future releases...suffice to say it wasn't enough for me to consider for one moment removing a star from my review - Top Marks all the way this time...and keeps me on the list of devoted readers for whom the next 12 months will be spent waiting to see where we go next.
August 4, 2024
The final (so far) book in the series, and thoroughly enjoyable as always. I had wondered if, with the Kray twins safely behind bars, the author would still be able to create the same gripping tension as in the earlier books in the series. But I needn't have worried. Although the threat from the Krays is no more, there is still the same chilling 1960s London gangsterism and insidious police corruption we have come to expect. And I thought there was actually more depth to the characterisation of Charles's clients than in many other books in the series.
As always, the courtroom scenes are brilliantly written and feel completely authentic. The only anachronism I (think I) spotted was when one character suggests that a collapsing London tower block may be the work of the IRA. But this is spring 1969, before the Troubles in Northern Ireland have spread to mainland Britain, so this seemed unlikely to me.
Overall, this is one of the most enjoyable crime series I've read in recent years. It is superb in its portrayal of the sometimes overlapping worlds of gangsters and barristers in 1960s London. If you've previously read more staid crime novels with lawyer protagonists, it might take you a while to get used to barrister Charles Holborne: a former petty criminal who even now is as handy with his fists as he is with his legal arguments. But he's a believable and fascinating hero whose character can be explained by the prejudice he has faced (and continues to face) in his career at the Bar.
I confess I'm not a fan of all the time given to Charles's personal relationships (romantic and family), and I did tend to speed-read the many scenes involving his girlfriend, his brother, his mother and his father, but I can't deny that these relationships help make Charles the man he is. I would most definitely recommend the series to anyone interested in crime fiction set in 1960s London. Each book can be read as a standalone but, as is often the case, they are better read in order.
As always, the courtroom scenes are brilliantly written and feel completely authentic. The only anachronism I (think I) spotted was when one character suggests that a collapsing London tower block may be the work of the IRA. But this is spring 1969, before the Troubles in Northern Ireland have spread to mainland Britain, so this seemed unlikely to me.
Overall, this is one of the most enjoyable crime series I've read in recent years. It is superb in its portrayal of the sometimes overlapping worlds of gangsters and barristers in 1960s London. If you've previously read more staid crime novels with lawyer protagonists, it might take you a while to get used to barrister Charles Holborne: a former petty criminal who even now is as handy with his fists as he is with his legal arguments. But he's a believable and fascinating hero whose character can be explained by the prejudice he has faced (and continues to face) in his career at the Bar.
I confess I'm not a fan of all the time given to Charles's personal relationships (romantic and family), and I did tend to speed-read the many scenes involving his girlfriend, his brother, his mother and his father, but I can't deny that these relationships help make Charles the man he is. I would most definitely recommend the series to anyone interested in crime fiction set in 1960s London. Each book can be read as a standalone but, as is often the case, they are better read in order.
July 20, 2024
Simon Michael has captured with both accuracy and plots various decades of the 20th century with his South London jewish barrister Charles Holborne and the various class barriers of the time he had to climb , coupled with anti semitism from both the legal establishment and general society.
This latest book set in the early 1960´s once again is both entertaining and for those who enjoy the cut and thrust of courtroom dramas , superbly written.
Charle´s back story continues with his relationships with his parents , his fiancee , who he scandalously had a child with in an earlier novel, and his decision to take ´silk '.
A wealthy jewish property developer and holocaust survivor is charged with conspiracy to murder , their dysfunctional family and various corrupt officials ,bent policeman capture perfectly the times along with the ever present anti semitism of the upper classes.
If you like legal thrillers of a more intellectual bent, then the Charles Holborn series is definitely for you.
This latest book set in the early 1960´s once again is both entertaining and for those who enjoy the cut and thrust of courtroom dramas , superbly written.
Charle´s back story continues with his relationships with his parents , his fiancee , who he scandalously had a child with in an earlier novel, and his decision to take ´silk '.
A wealthy jewish property developer and holocaust survivor is charged with conspiracy to murder , their dysfunctional family and various corrupt officials ,bent policeman capture perfectly the times along with the ever present anti semitism of the upper classes.
If you like legal thrillers of a more intellectual bent, then the Charles Holborn series is definitely for you.
January 2, 2025
I started these books because Simon Michael is supposed to be the British John Grisham. I don't think the writing style is that close, the character development is occasionally lacking for the minor characters when compared to Grisham. On the other hand, I find the brief documents and court room drama to be much more realistic and wonderfully summarized than is usual in Grisham or Connelly-- I'm not a British barrister, but it sure feels real. I gave the first book a four star review, but kept reading. And reading. And reading. I finished the 9th book, Death Adjourned, last night and am heartbroken that I can read about Charlie Horowitz no further. Ironically, I found the last book without the Kray twins to be the most engaging because the crime is a little more white collar and a little less gang-feeling. I have been raving about these books to everyone I know; thank heavens they are accessible on Kindle because my library does not have any of them. Wonderful series, hope that the author keeps on going!!!!!
July 16, 2025
I am writing abou the entire series here, of which I have read # 1 - #10, as I am not sure I rated the others. These books are very well written and I love the setting, London in the 1960's. I like the blend of the prime theme (the courst case) with the family life of the main character, Charles Holborne. These are stories that I find hard to put down when I have to, and I always look forward later to picking up where I left off. And there are no horrific crime scenes, no sordid love scenes, nor dark endings. Simon Michael is my kind of author.
The best books I read stick with me, but so many books I read I barely remember them after a few months. The early books of this series I read some years ago, and I still recall much about them now. I aim to go back and read the entire series again from #1.
I look forward to reading new books in the series. I would rate all the books a 4.5 -5.0 star, or 9-10/10. Superb reading, highly recommended.
The best books I read stick with me, but so many books I read I barely remember them after a few months. The early books of this series I read some years ago, and I still recall much about them now. I aim to go back and read the entire series again from #1.
I look forward to reading new books in the series. I would rate all the books a 4.5 -5.0 star, or 9-10/10. Superb reading, highly recommended.
June 28, 2024
When an author has given the reader a great series which seems to naturally have concluded with the last book and then up pops book 9, you may wonder about it. But fear not, this is a great continuance of the series and Charlie comes back with a bang! I love reading about London in the 60's and all the "goings on" and this story evokes memories for me as a child of then especially with the tower blocks.
They may get a bad press now, but coming from slums and bombed out properties to a house with an indoor bathroom, double glazing (in a very basic form) and underfloor heating in ours was a complete luxury for most people. Why would you not move? But some didn't and this makes for a great story. I eagerly await the next Charlie book.
They may get a bad press now, but coming from slums and bombed out properties to a house with an indoor bathroom, double glazing (in a very basic form) and underfloor heating in ours was a complete luxury for most people. Why would you not move? But some didn't and this makes for a great story. I eagerly await the next Charlie book.
July 14, 2024
What a great set of novels - read them!!
Having been a,fan of procedural crime stories I thought this looked interesting as it's from the legal position. Not disappointed a fantastic range of stories weaving real stories with a wonderful central character Barrister Charles Holborne. If you enjoy stories set in London reflecting our heritage and culture you'll love these books. There's also great learning, I had no idea how the English law system was created and its,origins in the four Inns of court, I hope my next read is as absorbing!
Having been a,fan of procedural crime stories I thought this looked interesting as it's from the legal position. Not disappointed a fantastic range of stories weaving real stories with a wonderful central character Barrister Charles Holborne. If you enjoy stories set in London reflecting our heritage and culture you'll love these books. There's also great learning, I had no idea how the English law system was created and its,origins in the four Inns of court, I hope my next read is as absorbing!
August 23, 2024
In all honesty, I think this is the best of the Charles Holborne novels. There's more to Charles than the Kray brothers, and it was wonderful experiencing Charles in an arena where he doesn't fear for his freedom. The 60s and early 70s were times of upheaval, and make a gripping backdrop for Charles' experiences, and this plot is no different. I really hope we get to experience more of Charles' personal development as husband, father, and son as well as a barrister who attains his career goals.
August 5, 2024
Love the Charles Holborn series, covering all aspects of his life and work as a criminal barrister. Covering his past with his own family and present life with Sally and their daughter Lea. I also love the courtroom drama as well as its history of the Temple and of the Old Bailey.
In all of the Charles Holborn series all of the books deserved 5 stars as I read and could not put them down.
The narrator was excellent
In all of the Charles Holborn series all of the books deserved 5 stars as I read and could not put them down.
The narrator was excellent
November 12, 2024
I thoroughly enjoyed this latest instalment of the Charles Holborne legal thriller series and I thoroughly recommend it and the earlier books of course.
Even though the suspense of the Krays is no longer present the author has managed to create an exciting and entertaining story which examines some dark themes too including the Holocaust and suicide.
I’m now avidly awaiting the next book in the series and hope Mr Michael decides to write it very soon.
Even though the suspense of the Krays is no longer present the author has managed to create an exciting and entertaining story which examines some dark themes too including the Holocaust and suicide.
I’m now avidly awaiting the next book in the series and hope Mr Michael decides to write it very soon.
June 23, 2024
Excellent
I’ve been waiting for another book about our favourite Barrister and wasn’t denied this , the writing was excellent as usual everything explained but not so you get bored by all the legal stuff
Excellent story and I’m hoping I don’t have to wait to long for another chapter
I’ve been waiting for another book about our favourite Barrister and wasn’t denied this , the writing was excellent as usual everything explained but not so you get bored by all the legal stuff
Excellent story and I’m hoping I don’t have to wait to long for another chapter
July 2, 2024
Tremendous reading
I love these books and have read them all. Nearly all the facts they are based on are true which makes the story much more interesting. Even the court trails are gripping and that can be hard to portray. This latest book is a clear winner and I loved every moment of it. Look forward to the next one.
I love these books and have read them all. Nearly all the facts they are based on are true which makes the story much more interesting. Even the court trails are gripping and that can be hard to portray. This latest book is a clear winner and I loved every moment of it. Look forward to the next one.
June 23, 2024
Once again a masterpiece !
Ok , so I'm a fan of Simon's books, but this was as diverting as any of the previous ones.. Beautifully crafted and such a brilliant depiction of human nature. Waiting for the next book......!
Ok , so I'm a fan of Simon's books, but this was as diverting as any of the previous ones.. Beautifully crafted and such a brilliant depiction of human nature. Waiting for the next book......!
July 2, 2024
Another great read from Simon Michael. This 9th in the series moves forward in time, slightly away from the Krays, but still in the midst of police corruption and historical events of London in the 70’s. It touches on construction scandals, still present today sadly with the more recent Grenfell tragedy, a family in crisis and potential redemption for former convicts - another credible melting pot of humanity for Charles Holborne, our protagonist, to navigate. Hugely enjoyable!
July 22, 2024
This is the best one yet, have really enjoyed them all, now a wait for the next
August 10, 2024
The author does it again. Holds your attention all through. The Holborn series has been very interesting from the first book. Looking toward to more from the author
August 16, 2024
Another great story in the Charles Holborne series.
Moving on from the Kray twins, the courtroom drama is still gripping.
Look forward to number 10.
Can't help but feel it would make great TV.
Moving on from the Kray twins, the courtroom drama is still gripping.
Look forward to number 10.
Can't help but feel it would make great TV.
August 25, 2024
The best of the series yet! Loved it.
November 18, 2024
Another great novel based around real events and super real characters keep the series going please
January 7, 2025
Loved this series- very sad to have come to the end of it
January 28, 2025
Brilliant series, loved them all, and this finale is as good as any of them. Charles Holborne is a bit more handy with his fists though than most barristers!
July 16, 2024
Another wonderful book from Simon Michael
Although the book started slowly, it developed into an absolutely gripping read. I love Charles Holborne and his relationships with his family. This book explores some really topical issues in the UK although set in the late ‘60s. I highly recommend this book which will keep reeling you in!
Although the book started slowly, it developed into an absolutely gripping read. I love Charles Holborne and his relationships with his family. This book explores some really topical issues in the UK although set in the late ‘60s. I highly recommend this book which will keep reeling you in!
Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews