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Adam Green #1
El juicio
Un asesinato. Un caso imposible. ¿Quién es el culpable?
Cuando el policía y héroe nacional Grant Cliveden muere envenenado, el caso amenaza con sacudir al país hasta la médula.
Todas las pruebas apuntan a un hombre: Jimmy Knight. El acusado ha sido condenado anteriormente por múltiples delitos y defenderlo no será tarea fácil. En especial, porque este es el primer caso del abogado Adam Green.
Por si no fuera suficiente encargarse de un caso de esta envergadura, Adam no tardará en darse cuenta de que Jimmy Knight no es la única persona del pasado de Cliveden con la que tiene cuentas pendientes.
¿Quién es en realidad el responsable? Lo único seguro es que este juicio llevará a Adam y al propio sistema judicial al límite.
Cuando el policía y héroe nacional Grant Cliveden muere envenenado, el caso amenaza con sacudir al país hasta la médula.
Todas las pruebas apuntan a un hombre: Jimmy Knight. El acusado ha sido condenado anteriormente por múltiples delitos y defenderlo no será tarea fácil. En especial, porque este es el primer caso del abogado Adam Green.
Por si no fuera suficiente encargarse de un caso de esta envergadura, Adam no tardará en darse cuenta de que Jimmy Knight no es la única persona del pasado de Cliveden con la que tiene cuentas pendientes.
¿Quién es en realidad el responsable? Lo único seguro es que este juicio llevará a Adam y al propio sistema judicial al límite.
352 pages, Paperback
First published June 22, 2023
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,743 reviews
July 1, 2024
Public hero and “pride of the nation” DI Grant Cliveden collapses in Old Bailey just minutes before giving testimony in a drug case. All evidence points to him being poisoned and the prime suspect is career felon Jimmy Knight, who has only recently been released after serving a ten-year sentence for armed robbery. Jimmy had a history with the deceased and had met with him in a local pub before his death. The theory is that Jimmy slipped the poison in Cliveden's drink. Though there is no forensic evidence linking Jimmy to the poisoning, he is arrested and set to be tried for murder, based on the discovery of a burner phone, from which he sent a text message setting up the meeting, in his possession and CCTV footage of the same meeting which shows Jimmy buying Cliveden a drink.
Pupil barrister Adam Green is on Jimmy’s defense team headed by his pupil master Jonathan Taylor-Cameron, who would rather Jimmy plead guilty so that he could devote his attention to more high-paying clients. Though his pupil master is leaning toward establishing reasonable doubt, Adam is convinced of Jimmy’s innocence and tries to gather evidence that would prove the same often attracting the ire of his pupil master who is happy to let Adam shoulder most of his caseload while he pursues other interests.
As the narrative progresses, it becomes evident that the “pride of the nation” might not have been the honest, hardworking member of law enforcement he was made out to be. This is a high-profile case and the first major case that Adam has been assigned. Adam is in the second six stage of his pupillage and his future at the Chambers is at stake. Is Jimmy truly innocent or is Adam being played by a career criminal? Will his pursuit of the truth end up jeopardizing Adam’s career prospects?
With its intricate plot, even pacing, and interesting cast of characters The Trial by criminal barrister and television personality Rob Rinder is a cleverly crafted courtroom drama/ murder mystery with plenty of twists and surprises along the way. The narrative flows well and the author also injects a healthy dose of humor into the narrative. Adam is a very likable protagonist and I loved how the author describes the dynamic he shares with his colleagues, the competitive work environment and his courtroom scenes. I also enjoyed the telephone conversations between Adam and his mother, who frets over her son’s well-being and is intent on finding him a girlfriend. Adam’s personal history and his motivation for helping Jimmy are skillfully woven into the narrative without compromising the pace or suspense. Though a few aspects of the mystery were not entirely hard to predict, this did not detract from the overall reading experience. The ending, though not entirely convincing, did come as a surprise, which is always a good thing!
Overall, I thought this was an entertaining read and an impressive debut. Though not particularly intense, it's definitely enjoyable! I certainly hope this novel is the beginning of a new series and I look forward to reading more from the author in the future.
3.75⭐
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June 23, 2024
Rob Rinder may not be a household name in the U.S., but he is a practicing criminal barrister and a TV personality for both the BBC and ITV, as well as a Sunday Times bestselling author.
So when I saw his DEBUT novel getting rave reviews from several GR friends, I ordered a copy from Blackwell’s as I love a clever LEGAL THRILLER!
IT DID NOT DISAPPOINT
Adam Green is a pupil barrister who is hoping that he will earn a permanent spot at Stag Court as his year long tutelage under his Pupil-Master Jonathan Taylor-Cameron draws to a close. And, when the pair are assigned the most high profile case in years, he knows it will “make or break” his career.
Grant Clivedon, was a hero policeman, who once saved the Queen and right before he was to testify in an important case at the “Old Bailey”when he dropped dead suddenly - apparently poisoned.
The evidence points to Jimmy Knight, a man he convicted years prior who had just gotten out of jail, ten days before and who was was seen having a drink with Clivedon, at a run-down Pub, the night prior.
Why would a decorated Police Officer be meeting with a man who had been convicted of multiple offenses?
The TRUTH IS NOT ALWAYS AS IT SEEMS
Adam Green may be a bit naive, but his heart is in the right place as he tries to make sure his client, Jimmy Knight, gets a fair trial, making him easy to root for in this entertaining novel!
The first 200 pages of the book has Green searching for any evidence that might clear his client-and the last 100 pages or so, had me holding my breath waiting to see if he would succeed.
Although one part of the reveal didn’t seem likely to me, the truth can be stranger than Fiction so…
Adding levity to the book every few chapters are hilarious phone calls between Adam and his mother, who is determined to set him up with his future wife!
“The Trial” and its sequel “The Suspect” are BOTH available now! I am off to find a copy of book #2!
So when I saw his DEBUT novel getting rave reviews from several GR friends, I ordered a copy from Blackwell’s as I love a clever LEGAL THRILLER!
IT DID NOT DISAPPOINT
Adam Green is a pupil barrister who is hoping that he will earn a permanent spot at Stag Court as his year long tutelage under his Pupil-Master Jonathan Taylor-Cameron draws to a close. And, when the pair are assigned the most high profile case in years, he knows it will “make or break” his career.
Grant Clivedon, was a hero policeman, who once saved the Queen and right before he was to testify in an important case at the “Old Bailey”when he dropped dead suddenly - apparently poisoned.
The evidence points to Jimmy Knight, a man he convicted years prior who had just gotten out of jail, ten days before and who was was seen having a drink with Clivedon, at a run-down Pub, the night prior.
Why would a decorated Police Officer be meeting with a man who had been convicted of multiple offenses?
The TRUTH IS NOT ALWAYS AS IT SEEMS
Adam Green may be a bit naive, but his heart is in the right place as he tries to make sure his client, Jimmy Knight, gets a fair trial, making him easy to root for in this entertaining novel!
The first 200 pages of the book has Green searching for any evidence that might clear his client-and the last 100 pages or so, had me holding my breath waiting to see if he would succeed.
Although one part of the reveal didn’t seem likely to me, the truth can be stranger than Fiction so…
Adding levity to the book every few chapters are hilarious phone calls between Adam and his mother, who is determined to set him up with his future wife!
“The Trial” and its sequel “The Suspect” are BOTH available now! I am off to find a copy of book #2!
April 16, 2024
A surprisingly entertaining and endearing story of a trainee legal officer getting stuck as the main support for the defence of the the very much presumed guilty, ex-convict Jimmy Knight, alleged to have poisoned, super-cop and part time celebrity Grant Clivedon! This was a joy to read, a down to earth tale of a possible miscarriage of justice and one young man's fight to give an ex-convict is fair day in court, a gripping crime story without guns, violence or gore of any kind. A fun crime fiction mystery read that I have rated an 8 out of 12, Four Star read.
2024 read
2024 read
March 6, 2023
4.5 rounded up
Rob Rinder, a criminal barrister and star of the courtroom series Judge Rinder and now a novelist! Is there no end to his talent??!!
High profile successful police officer DI Grant Cliveden heads to the Old Bailey to give evidence in a difficult case. En route to the witness box he collapses and dies, poisoned it transpires by botulinum toxin. A month on, pupil barrister Adam Green makes his way to Chambers to learn the Cliveden case has come to him. They are to defend Jimmy Knight who is accused of the murder and it’s a stinker of a case as the evidence seems damning. Adam is to work with Jonathan Taylor-Cameron and will need all the luck he can get, on both counts.
This is a cracking read from start to finish. The cut and thrust of Chambers is entertaining especially the competition and rivalry for tenancy. Adam is immensely likeable and is very dogged in his pursuit of evidence to help and support their client. The less we say about Jonathan the better, so let’s settle for they’re a stark contrast to each other. The tensions of the case and between the barristers is often broken by Adams conversations with his mother. They are so good and very funny. They also serve to make Adam feel very authentic!
The courtroom scenes and interactions are electric at times, it grips you as the evidence bats back and forth like tennis pros at Wimbledon just waiting for that killer volley. It’s deliciously good, fast paced and full of twists and turns. The deeper Adam delves the more mysterious things get and he enters very murky and potentially dangerous waters. The botulinum angle is an intriguing one as it’s clear that things aren’t remotely cut and dried. Adam going the extra mile for Jimmy leads to complex connections, threats and dead ends as it barrels it’s way to a very good ending.
I’d love to read about Adam again, his character is excellent and I’d also enjoy seeing if his lovely mum gets any closer in her quest to get him wed!
Highly recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to Random House UK, Cornerstone for the much appreciated arc in return for an honest review.
Rob Rinder, a criminal barrister and star of the courtroom series Judge Rinder and now a novelist! Is there no end to his talent??!!
High profile successful police officer DI Grant Cliveden heads to the Old Bailey to give evidence in a difficult case. En route to the witness box he collapses and dies, poisoned it transpires by botulinum toxin. A month on, pupil barrister Adam Green makes his way to Chambers to learn the Cliveden case has come to him. They are to defend Jimmy Knight who is accused of the murder and it’s a stinker of a case as the evidence seems damning. Adam is to work with Jonathan Taylor-Cameron and will need all the luck he can get, on both counts.
This is a cracking read from start to finish. The cut and thrust of Chambers is entertaining especially the competition and rivalry for tenancy. Adam is immensely likeable and is very dogged in his pursuit of evidence to help and support their client. The less we say about Jonathan the better, so let’s settle for they’re a stark contrast to each other. The tensions of the case and between the barristers is often broken by Adams conversations with his mother. They are so good and very funny. They also serve to make Adam feel very authentic!
The courtroom scenes and interactions are electric at times, it grips you as the evidence bats back and forth like tennis pros at Wimbledon just waiting for that killer volley. It’s deliciously good, fast paced and full of twists and turns. The deeper Adam delves the more mysterious things get and he enters very murky and potentially dangerous waters. The botulinum angle is an intriguing one as it’s clear that things aren’t remotely cut and dried. Adam going the extra mile for Jimmy leads to complex connections, threats and dead ends as it barrels it’s way to a very good ending.
I’d love to read about Adam again, his character is excellent and I’d also enjoy seeing if his lovely mum gets any closer in her quest to get him wed!
Highly recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to Random House UK, Cornerstone for the much appreciated arc in return for an honest review.
September 30, 2024
Interesting characters and plot in this courtroom/murder mystery!
Celebrated policeman Grant Cliveden dies from a poisoning and student barrister Adam Green is on the case! Adam was a character I became invested in and was cheering for him along the way. I also enjoyed the phone call chapters of his mom checking up on him and always trying to find him a wifey.
The courtroom drama was surprising at times and the twists were unexpected. The conclusion was a bit far fetched, but possible. Thanks Jayme for putting this series on my radar! I do plan on ordering book two and continuing following Adam and his legal journey!
A purchase from Blackwell UK
Celebrated policeman Grant Cliveden dies from a poisoning and student barrister Adam Green is on the case! Adam was a character I became invested in and was cheering for him along the way. I also enjoyed the phone call chapters of his mom checking up on him and always trying to find him a wifey.
The courtroom drama was surprising at times and the twists were unexpected. The conclusion was a bit far fetched, but possible. Thanks Jayme for putting this series on my radar! I do plan on ordering book two and continuing following Adam and his legal journey!
A purchase from Blackwell UK
October 19, 2024
3.5 stars
Well I thought Id try a new genre The Trial by Rob Rinder it was interesting but I could not keep my focus on this one… funny as I could watch legal thriller on TV but can’t read it does not make sense at all I tried but failed.
Well I thought Id try a new genre The Trial by Rob Rinder it was interesting but I could not keep my focus on this one… funny as I could watch legal thriller on TV but can’t read it does not make sense at all I tried but failed.
Read
March 15, 2024I did actually want to like this. Rinder's obviously incredibly bright and a good legal mystery is always welcome. But the characters are all grossly caricatured, the writing is workaday, and even I (not a lawyer) have spotted several egregious inaccuracies in the legal stuff. Pity, because it's potentially an interesting set up but way too heavy handed and exaggerated in the writing. (Thesis: the lawyer author is so used to presenting one side of a case that he can only depict the villains as 100% villainous.)
DNF @ 20%
DNF @ 20%
June 7, 2023
What a revelation this was,am not sure tbh what I expected but this was not it
A precise,exciting court room/trial drama with compelling characters,believable plot and excellent writing
Some real eye opening info on Barristers and what they do and how they do it and the descriptions of the Old Bailey had me there with them all,living the drama
Court/Trial reads are not easy to engage the reader always,they have to be informative yet not too bogged down otherwise you lose interest….this did it perfectly with dare I say it…yep I will…a brilliant twist at the end 😀
Got to also say that the bullying and racial slurs that happened obviously come from the authors experience and as such you can imagine how harrowing it must have been,top marks for him and any Barrister getting through that to make a successful career
All rise for a great and evocative read
A precise,exciting court room/trial drama with compelling characters,believable plot and excellent writing
Some real eye opening info on Barristers and what they do and how they do it and the descriptions of the Old Bailey had me there with them all,living the drama
Court/Trial reads are not easy to engage the reader always,they have to be informative yet not too bogged down otherwise you lose interest….this did it perfectly with dare I say it…yep I will…a brilliant twist at the end 😀
Got to also say that the bullying and racial slurs that happened obviously come from the authors experience and as such you can imagine how harrowing it must have been,top marks for him and any Barrister getting through that to make a successful career
All rise for a great and evocative read
November 14, 2023
A good, easy read. It kept me entertained overall, but the ending was just ridiculous.
June 17, 2023
When hero policeman Grant Cliveden dies from poisoning in the Old Bailey, it threatens to shake the country to its core. The evidence points to one man. Jimmy Knight has been convicted multiple offences before and defending him will be no easy task. Bot lest because this is trainee barrister Adam Greens first case. But it will quickly become clear that Jimmy Knight is not the only person in Cliveden's past with an axe to grind.
I didn't know what to expect when I requested this book. I knew the courtroom drama would give the exact detail as Rob (Robert) Rinder used to be a barrister and judge. I was not disappointed. I loved this murder mystery. I was completely invested from the beginning. There was plenty of twists to keep you guessing. I really liked Rob's writing style and he brings with it his personal experiences as a criminal barrister. It's not often you hear of a murder at the Old Bailey, especially a policeman. This book gives a good insight into the justice system. The characters are well portrayed. I thoroughly enjoyed this book.
I would like to thank #NetGalley #RandomHouseUK #Cornerstone and the author #RobRinder for my ARC of #TheTral in exchange for an honest review.
I didn't know what to expect when I requested this book. I knew the courtroom drama would give the exact detail as Rob (Robert) Rinder used to be a barrister and judge. I was not disappointed. I loved this murder mystery. I was completely invested from the beginning. There was plenty of twists to keep you guessing. I really liked Rob's writing style and he brings with it his personal experiences as a criminal barrister. It's not often you hear of a murder at the Old Bailey, especially a policeman. This book gives a good insight into the justice system. The characters are well portrayed. I thoroughly enjoyed this book.
I would like to thank #NetGalley #RandomHouseUK #Cornerstone and the author #RobRinder for my ARC of #TheTral in exchange for an honest review.
May 25, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Before reading this book I wasn’t really sure what I was getting myself into. My mum kindly bought it for me as a surprise whereas usually I choose what to read myself. However, I really like Rob Rinder and he is an incredibly intelligent and interesting character so I was keen to see how his debut novel would play out…
Even from the prologue it was off to a good start. I liked that he gave a nod to the passing of our Queen. And furthermore, connected with the British audience by mentioning Good Morning Britain. And then suddenly, when the nations favourite policeman DI Grant Cliveden showed up in court, stretching out his hand for the Bible, suddenly everything went black…
A court room drama on a national scale…when national hero policeman, DI Grant Cliveden dies in court at the Old Bailey, it threatens to shake the country to its core. Cliveden represented real heroism, duty and integrity. He had not only protected civilians, but he had thrown himself between the Queen and the mad man with a gun who tried to kill her.
When the evidence points to one man only - Jimmy Knight. The ultimate question, if Jimmy hadn’t done it, then who had? Pupil, trainee barrister, Adam Green was on the case; his first case!
Adam’s character is very likeable and well-developed. He is doing is pupillage, which is essentially a year-long job interview for a coveted tenancy (a permanent spot at chambers) - after all the hard work, long hours, the debt and the sacrifices his mum made, failure wasn’t an option. Although at times it seemed like all his hard work was coming crashing down around him…he thought the worst of himself; ‘He was too impulsive, not dispassionate enough…he’d failed not just himself, but his client too…’
I liked the way Rob included Phone call chapters between Adam and his mother. It brought us right back to earth and gave us a gentle reminder that Adam really was only a young man fighting for his place in the justice system. Having said that his mother initially wasn’t so keen on him being “on the side of the murderer…” or who she assumed to be the murderer.
By the end Adam is left with a world of information, not only for the cases he is working on, but information that has haunted his family for years…he kept being reminded “Don’t get personally involved…” it was a little too late for that!
The question is, will he, a pupil, convince a tough jury in time or will Knight spend a lifetime behind bars? I can tell you one thing…this book is absolutely thrilling and gripping from page one! I would highly recommend to anyone. The pacing and story telling were perfectly balanced and I felt very involved in the case in question.
The end was 💥 mind-blowing 💥
I look forward to the next book in the series, The Suspect!
Before reading this book I wasn’t really sure what I was getting myself into. My mum kindly bought it for me as a surprise whereas usually I choose what to read myself. However, I really like Rob Rinder and he is an incredibly intelligent and interesting character so I was keen to see how his debut novel would play out…
Even from the prologue it was off to a good start. I liked that he gave a nod to the passing of our Queen. And furthermore, connected with the British audience by mentioning Good Morning Britain. And then suddenly, when the nations favourite policeman DI Grant Cliveden showed up in court, stretching out his hand for the Bible, suddenly everything went black…
A court room drama on a national scale…when national hero policeman, DI Grant Cliveden dies in court at the Old Bailey, it threatens to shake the country to its core. Cliveden represented real heroism, duty and integrity. He had not only protected civilians, but he had thrown himself between the Queen and the mad man with a gun who tried to kill her.
When the evidence points to one man only - Jimmy Knight. The ultimate question, if Jimmy hadn’t done it, then who had? Pupil, trainee barrister, Adam Green was on the case; his first case!
Adam’s character is very likeable and well-developed. He is doing is pupillage, which is essentially a year-long job interview for a coveted tenancy (a permanent spot at chambers) - after all the hard work, long hours, the debt and the sacrifices his mum made, failure wasn’t an option. Although at times it seemed like all his hard work was coming crashing down around him…he thought the worst of himself; ‘He was too impulsive, not dispassionate enough…he’d failed not just himself, but his client too…’
I liked the way Rob included Phone call chapters between Adam and his mother. It brought us right back to earth and gave us a gentle reminder that Adam really was only a young man fighting for his place in the justice system. Having said that his mother initially wasn’t so keen on him being “on the side of the murderer…” or who she assumed to be the murderer.
By the end Adam is left with a world of information, not only for the cases he is working on, but information that has haunted his family for years…he kept being reminded “Don’t get personally involved…” it was a little too late for that!
The question is, will he, a pupil, convince a tough jury in time or will Knight spend a lifetime behind bars? I can tell you one thing…this book is absolutely thrilling and gripping from page one! I would highly recommend to anyone. The pacing and story telling were perfectly balanced and I felt very involved in the case in question.
The end was 💥 mind-blowing 💥
I look forward to the next book in the series, The Suspect!
![Profile Image for Terence M [on a brief semi-hiatus].](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fi.gr-assets.com%2Fimages%2FS%2Fcompressed.photo.goodreads.com%2Fusers%2F1712357414i%2F6658001._UY200_CR4%2C0%2C200%2C200_.jpg&w=128&q=75)
September 20, 2025
1-Star DNF for "The Trial" by Rob Rinder
September 2023: I tried... but I gave up
September 2025: Two years later, I thought I would try this again... but I gave up again.
Thoughts from my Reading activity (2023):
September 10, 2023 @ 27%: "As a rule I enjoy legal procedurals, hence the purchase of this book, but at 27%, including a re-listen from chapter 2, I am unconvinced, so far, that this book will be a winner for me."
September 25, 2023 @ 38%: "This has been a struggle - my usual interest in a legal procedural is waning noticeably... not a Dnf just yet, though.
[September 20, 2025 - It is a Dnf now!]
The Trial (Adam Green, #1) by Rob Rinder
Audiobook: 10:12 Hours - Narrator: Josh Dylan
Heard: 00:00 Hours - Balance: 10:12 Hours
September 2023: I tried... but I gave up
September 2025: Two years later, I thought I would try this again... but I gave up again.
Thoughts from my Reading activity (2023):
September 10, 2023 @ 27%: "As a rule I enjoy legal procedurals, hence the purchase of this book, but at 27%, including a re-listen from chapter 2, I am unconvinced, so far, that this book will be a winner for me."
September 25, 2023 @ 38%: "This has been a struggle - my usual interest in a legal procedural is waning noticeably... not a Dnf just yet, though.
[September 20, 2025 - It is a Dnf now!]
The Trial (Adam Green, #1) by Rob Rinder
Audiobook: 10:12 Hours - Narrator: Josh Dylan
Heard: 00:00 Hours - Balance: 10:12 Hours
October 4, 2023
I find Rob Rinder as a personality very eloquent and engaging so decided to check out his novel.
Easy holiday read and the barrister context was interesting, but felt incredibly let down by the ending.
It was completely far fetched that the judge was involved in the murder itself, had a son with Mr Knight (the defendant) and presided over his case. We can all give a bit of leeway for creative license but this was utterly ludicrous.
I could have got onboard with Mr Knight knowing the judge from younger years but to throw in the rubbish about her being a junkie, having his baby, moving away and then returning as a judge in his case makes me mad. Can only hope the legal system has a better vetting process than Rob Rinder’s imagination.
I’m hoping he writes again but actually does justice (no pun intended) to his obvious talent.
Easy holiday read and the barrister context was interesting, but felt incredibly let down by the ending.
It was completely far fetched that the judge was involved in the murder itself, had a son with Mr Knight (the defendant) and presided over his case. We can all give a bit of leeway for creative license but this was utterly ludicrous.
I could have got onboard with Mr Knight knowing the judge from younger years but to throw in the rubbish about her being a junkie, having his baby, moving away and then returning as a judge in his case makes me mad. Can only hope the legal system has a better vetting process than Rob Rinder’s imagination.
I’m hoping he writes again but actually does justice (no pun intended) to his obvious talent.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 5, 2024
Fantastic debut novel. Really enjoyed it
July 29, 2023
4 1/2 * (Rounded up to 5*)
I am a sucker for a legal drama, whether that be in TV or book form.
Most of my experience in this genre has been everything America. So, to read a legal fiction that is based in England is so refreshing.
Rob Rinder has been an academic inspiration to me since I took law as one of my A-Levels since there was nothing else that my sixth-form offered me that I had any interest in. Much to my parents telling me that I wasn't smart enough to even pass the course (I did and I am now (very proudly) in university law school).
This story follows Adam, a pupil barrister in a very prestigious chambers in London. After all the skulking about in dingy magistrates' courts, his pupil master gets two big briefs; a high-scale fraud, and an infamous murder! That means that Adam is the junior in these wild cases. The novel's main plotline is the murder trial, but of course, no one is lucky enough to only have one case to work on at a time!
The book takes you through the life of a baby barrister, and all the hard work, long nights and sometimes personal feelings, that goes into fighting for tenancy during pupillage. As well as balancing home life with networking events, trials after trials and everything in between, the grittiness and honesty are clearly shown through the eyes of an author who has been through it all before himself.
I didn't think there were any untied bows. Any questions I had were answered by the end of the story. Throughout, there are some very deep, thought-provoking and moving quotes, that may make you rethink what you thought of the English legal system in terms of criminal justice and potential miscarriages of justice.
As debut novels go, I loved 'The Trial'! The twists! How every chapter ended with a huge *GASP!*. We all know how insanely talented Mr Rinder is as a civil judge, that most of us forget that his legal career began as a baby barrister, just like all the other newly graduated bar-school students.
I am a sucker for a legal drama, whether that be in TV or book form.
Most of my experience in this genre has been everything America. So, to read a legal fiction that is based in England is so refreshing.
Rob Rinder has been an academic inspiration to me since I took law as one of my A-Levels since there was nothing else that my sixth-form offered me that I had any interest in. Much to my parents telling me that I wasn't smart enough to even pass the course (I did and I am now (very proudly) in university law school).
This story follows Adam, a pupil barrister in a very prestigious chambers in London. After all the skulking about in dingy magistrates' courts, his pupil master gets two big briefs; a high-scale fraud, and an infamous murder! That means that Adam is the junior in these wild cases. The novel's main plotline is the murder trial, but of course, no one is lucky enough to only have one case to work on at a time!
The book takes you through the life of a baby barrister, and all the hard work, long nights and sometimes personal feelings, that goes into fighting for tenancy during pupillage. As well as balancing home life with networking events, trials after trials and everything in between, the grittiness and honesty are clearly shown through the eyes of an author who has been through it all before himself.
I didn't think there were any untied bows. Any questions I had were answered by the end of the story. Throughout, there are some very deep, thought-provoking and moving quotes, that may make you rethink what you thought of the English legal system in terms of criminal justice and potential miscarriages of justice.
As debut novels go, I loved 'The Trial'! The twists! How every chapter ended with a huge *GASP!*. We all know how insanely talented Mr Rinder is as a civil judge, that most of us forget that his legal career began as a baby barrister, just like all the other newly graduated bar-school students.
July 7, 2024
2.5 stars rounded up to 3 because the pace as well as the writing was good. The characters, they can kill a good plot and story and here I am, trying to understand the principal characters in this novel. I have never in the decades I have been reading mysteries or thrillers felt so sorry for a main character. I don’t want to divulge a lot but I was truly disappointed at the legal system in England (the author is a barrister after all), what he presented us is a series of erratic, pompous and lecherous guys in a system that is very differential to titles only. Definitely not reading his next book The Suspect. I truly hope that this series while it deals more with pomp and circumstance of the legal profession do not reflect how the legal system works in England.
I bought this book not knowing who the writer was, if I knew that he was a tv judge, I probably would not have purchase the book but the same thing happened with Thursday Murder Club and I guess I struck gold with Osman…with Rinder not so much.
The phone calls between Adam and his mother reminded me so much of the phone calls Marcus Goldman (Joël Dicker main character) had with his Jewish mother in Harry Quebert….it’s uncanny.
Perry Mason and even Benson from the John Fairfax’s series will be seen as naive and unworthy of the profession but Block’s Ehrengraf will be a shoo in in this “legal” system.
I bought this book not knowing who the writer was, if I knew that he was a tv judge, I probably would not have purchase the book but the same thing happened with Thursday Murder Club and I guess I struck gold with Osman…with Rinder not so much.
The phone calls between Adam and his mother reminded me so much of the phone calls Marcus Goldman (Joël Dicker main character) had with his Jewish mother in Harry Quebert….it’s uncanny.
Perry Mason and even Benson from the John Fairfax’s series will be seen as naive and unworthy of the profession but Block’s Ehrengraf will be a shoo in in this “legal” system.
February 2, 2025
Rob Rinder, el autor, nos trae una novela donde nos señala los fallos del sistema judicial y policial y lo sencillo que es engañar a la Sociedad. De igual manera podemos ver que el apasionamiento y lealtad a unos valores y una profesión.
El argumento de la obra se basa en el juicio a un ex - convicto por el asesinato de un policía “héroe” nacional, Grant Cliveden. Y cómo un abogado becario se juega su puesto por descubrir la verdad.
En primer lugar, la novela nos hace ver las diferencias que hay cuando uno es un idealista y piensa que todos deberían trabajar con la firme idea de ayudar al bien común, y no solo por el propio interés. En el caso de la novela, donde los protagonistas son abogados, se ve claramente cómo el novato se guía por el ideal de la justicia y su jefe por el dinero, no queriendo defender a un acusado pobre.
Además, relacionado con esto, podemos observar el funcionamiento del sistema judicial británico, y, con alguna diferencia significativa, al resto del ordenamiento judicial de los países europeos y de Norteamérica. Dentro de esto, el lector se sorprenderá con lo sencillo que parece ser corromper al empleado público. Centrándonos en la novela, sería el caso del muerto. Y hablando de esto, el autor expone la sencillez con que se engaña a la Sociedad con un buen físico y una vida de postal e idílica, pero que oculta siempre otras cosas que no se quiere que se sepan.
Por otro lado, también enseña que se debe mantener siempre, y en cualquier situación, la lealtad a los valores que dignifican una profesión, aunque se tengan muchos años de experiencia.
Y, finalmente, habla de cómo mantener la ilusión y la idea que se tenga, a pesar de que tengas a todos en contra, incluidos tus jefes.
Con un final inesperado, la novela es una apasionante lectura que se hace corta por su lenguaje sencillo y ágil. Mi opinión personal es que es una obra muy recomendable, tanto por el tema principal como secundarios que aborda, y las enseñanzas que deja.
El argumento de la obra se basa en el juicio a un ex - convicto por el asesinato de un policía “héroe” nacional, Grant Cliveden. Y cómo un abogado becario se juega su puesto por descubrir la verdad.
En primer lugar, la novela nos hace ver las diferencias que hay cuando uno es un idealista y piensa que todos deberían trabajar con la firme idea de ayudar al bien común, y no solo por el propio interés. En el caso de la novela, donde los protagonistas son abogados, se ve claramente cómo el novato se guía por el ideal de la justicia y su jefe por el dinero, no queriendo defender a un acusado pobre.
Además, relacionado con esto, podemos observar el funcionamiento del sistema judicial británico, y, con alguna diferencia significativa, al resto del ordenamiento judicial de los países europeos y de Norteamérica. Dentro de esto, el lector se sorprenderá con lo sencillo que parece ser corromper al empleado público. Centrándonos en la novela, sería el caso del muerto. Y hablando de esto, el autor expone la sencillez con que se engaña a la Sociedad con un buen físico y una vida de postal e idílica, pero que oculta siempre otras cosas que no se quiere que se sepan.
Por otro lado, también enseña que se debe mantener siempre, y en cualquier situación, la lealtad a los valores que dignifican una profesión, aunque se tengan muchos años de experiencia.
Y, finalmente, habla de cómo mantener la ilusión y la idea que se tenga, a pesar de que tengas a todos en contra, incluidos tus jefes.
Con un final inesperado, la novela es una apasionante lectura que se hace corta por su lenguaje sencillo y ágil. Mi opinión personal es que es una obra muy recomendable, tanto por el tema principal como secundarios que aborda, y las enseñanzas que deja.
March 9, 2024
Good debut novel. The story was excellent if the ending a bit farfetched. I enjoyed the character Adam’s perseverance and integrity. The story over the apparent super hero cop being murdered in court through botox was intriguing.
I did wonder if the barristers in the Stag Chamber were based on the authors own experiences. If so, it’s a lottery on getting a decent barrister. I like the descriptions of the law courts and by procedures. Overall an entertaining story. Although justice does appear to favor the rich in fraud cases.
I did wonder if the barristers in the Stag Chamber were based on the authors own experiences. If so, it’s a lottery on getting a decent barrister. I like the descriptions of the law courts and by procedures. Overall an entertaining story. Although justice does appear to favor the rich in fraud cases.
June 15, 2023
I enjoyed this debut novel from Mr Rinder. It was a little slow but very entertaining. The characters were quirky and funny at times. I do hope he writes more like this in the future. My thanks to Netgalley and the publishers for giving me the opportunity to read this book in return for an honest review.
July 22, 2023
I try to avoid books by celebrities, but I am a sucker for a Courtroom drama! I shall not be sucked in again. This book did not deliver for me unfortunately. I would, however, have loved more of Adam's mother, whose character has echoes of Maureen Lipman - "You get an 'ology', you're a scientisr!" 😂
September 7, 2023
3.5* Без да съм фен на съдебните трилъри, този все пак не ме отказа по средата. Напомни ми за ранните романи на Гришам, но в британски условия. Краят наклони везните по-скоро към 4-тата звезда.
February 15, 2023
How disappointed I was…
…to finish this book. I just wanted it to go on and on. Not just to be in Rob Rinder's authorial company, but also in trainee barrister Adam Green's.
Rob Rinder's legal background certainly gives this courtroom drama authenticity and he uses it well. Turns out Judge Rinder is quite the gifted writer. I thoroughly enjoyed this novel following Adam Green's first case: a tricky one in which he is to second his pompous disinterested pupil master in the defence of an ex-con accused of the murder of a seemingly exemplary police officer.
There are twists and turns and surprises all the way, all skilfully interwoven. I will forgive his editor's oversights: was stood/was sat (oh so naughty) and a date that was a year out…because Rinder has a glowing future in the literary world. If Adam Green has future cases to solve, I'll be all over them like bees to a honey pot. Or indeed any other novel by Judge Rinder.
…to finish this book. I just wanted it to go on and on. Not just to be in Rob Rinder's authorial company, but also in trainee barrister Adam Green's.
Rob Rinder's legal background certainly gives this courtroom drama authenticity and he uses it well. Turns out Judge Rinder is quite the gifted writer. I thoroughly enjoyed this novel following Adam Green's first case: a tricky one in which he is to second his pompous disinterested pupil master in the defence of an ex-con accused of the murder of a seemingly exemplary police officer.
There are twists and turns and surprises all the way, all skilfully interwoven. I will forgive his editor's oversights: was stood/was sat (oh so naughty) and a date that was a year out…because Rinder has a glowing future in the literary world. If Adam Green has future cases to solve, I'll be all over them like bees to a honey pot. Or indeed any other novel by Judge Rinder.
November 30, 2024
I seem to have read a entirely different book then my fellow goodreads readers/reviewers. I don't get the high ratings.
Adam Green is in his pupil tenancy at Stag Court to become a barrister and he is on the trial of the year. Did Jimmy Knight really off DI Grant Cliveden, Britain's Hero. Only time will tell.
I'm just really happy that I finished the book. Although IMO it is a hot mess of book. It doesn't fèl like a whodunit. The characters are flat and I have no empathy for the characters, the plot or the series. I shall not continue the series.
Adam Green is in his pupil tenancy at Stag Court to become a barrister and he is on the trial of the year. Did Jimmy Knight really off DI Grant Cliveden, Britain's Hero. Only time will tell.
I'm just really happy that I finished the book. Although IMO it is a hot mess of book. It doesn't fèl like a whodunit. The characters are flat and I have no empathy for the characters, the plot or the series. I shall not continue the series.
February 27, 2024
I think every character was a cliché which isn't an easy achievement.
June 1, 2025
I loved the mystery but wasn’t impressed with Adam Green. Not sure if he was dumb or naive….he was way too ‘emotional’ over extremely trivial issues. Maybe he will mature as the series progresses? One can only hope.
January 28, 2023
The latest offering from a TV personality turned author is Judge Rob Rinder's 'The Trial'. And I am here to assure you that this smart, twisty and captivating courtroom mystery is well worth your time. Rinder's background in law steeps the narrative in a convincing realism which sees Adam Green, trainee barrister, serve on a murder case with his pupil master. The accused, Jimmy Knight, is being prosecuted for allegedly poisoning popular 'celebrity' police officer Grant Cliveden. Adam's pupil master is convinced Knight should plead guilty and is not worth the time and effort. Adam himself wants to see fairness and justice prevail, convinced there is more to the story.
Rinder's writing is fast-paced and genuinely intriguing, the twists and turns providing surprises throughout. The story holds a magnifying glass up to the criminal justice system, exposing levels of corruption and injustices which are an uncomfortable truth for the reader. Whilst Adam makes some questionable choices in his pursuit of the truth of what happened to Cliveden, we never stop rooting for him to find fulfilment, a permanent job in his chambers and the right outcome for his client. No easy feat!
Overall, Rinder has written something which is going to be a huge crowd pleaser in the summer. The end leaves it open to the possibility of more Adam Green stories in the future which I certainly would not be opposed to! An addictive and twisty 5 stars.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher who provided an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Rinder's writing is fast-paced and genuinely intriguing, the twists and turns providing surprises throughout. The story holds a magnifying glass up to the criminal justice system, exposing levels of corruption and injustices which are an uncomfortable truth for the reader. Whilst Adam makes some questionable choices in his pursuit of the truth of what happened to Cliveden, we never stop rooting for him to find fulfilment, a permanent job in his chambers and the right outcome for his client. No easy feat!
Overall, Rinder has written something which is going to be a huge crowd pleaser in the summer. The end leaves it open to the possibility of more Adam Green stories in the future which I certainly would not be opposed to! An addictive and twisty 5 stars.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher who provided an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
April 19, 2023
I'm not a huge fan of "celebrity" books, but I do like Rob Rinder on TV and am partial to a legal thriller, especially written by someone who was a Criminal Barrister in his previous occupation.
The Trial is Rob's debut novel and features Adam Green, a trainee barrister working under his pupil master. When he is assigned his first murder case, it is literally the most high profile case around. Tasked with defending the alledged murderer of Grant Cliveden, policeman/spokesman and all round supercop, who is the nations hero after saving the life of the Queen. Adam is determined to prove his clients innocence despite all the evidence against him and his pupil masters obvious feelings about the case.
This is a new take on the legal thriller, through the eyes of a trainee barrister and Adam is an interesting character. Young, enthusiastic, determined and dedicated to the truth and justice, we follow Adam's journey through the courtcase and what Adam has to endure as someone who doesn't quite fit it.
The chapters are interspersed with transcripts of telephone calls and messages between Adam and his "typical Jewish mother", who is determined to marry Adam off to a nice Jewish girl and ensure he is eating properly. This adds a little humour to the story and also provides a closer look into Adam and why he wants to be a barrister.
The Trial is an easy read and I did enjoy it, however I wasn't gripped and found that despite being 400 pages, it felt much longer.
The Trial is Rob's debut novel and features Adam Green, a trainee barrister working under his pupil master. When he is assigned his first murder case, it is literally the most high profile case around. Tasked with defending the alledged murderer of Grant Cliveden, policeman/spokesman and all round supercop, who is the nations hero after saving the life of the Queen. Adam is determined to prove his clients innocence despite all the evidence against him and his pupil masters obvious feelings about the case.
This is a new take on the legal thriller, through the eyes of a trainee barrister and Adam is an interesting character. Young, enthusiastic, determined and dedicated to the truth and justice, we follow Adam's journey through the courtcase and what Adam has to endure as someone who doesn't quite fit it.
The chapters are interspersed with transcripts of telephone calls and messages between Adam and his "typical Jewish mother", who is determined to marry Adam off to a nice Jewish girl and ensure he is eating properly. This adds a little humour to the story and also provides a closer look into Adam and why he wants to be a barrister.
The Trial is an easy read and I did enjoy it, however I wasn't gripped and found that despite being 400 pages, it felt much longer.
June 22, 2023
I have to admit I was pleasantly surprised by this one, especially as ‘celeb’ books can be very divisive. Apart from the name dropping of one celebrity friend, which I could happily have done without as personally I can’t stand the woman, this did have a solid story with a very likeable lead.
I also enjoyed the very unusual method of murder and the humour. I did chuckle to myself at the term ‘little shits’ and wondered if Rob Rinder secretly thinks this of some of the people who have appeared before him.
With a police force full of corruption and a very lazy barrister it seems it is all down to one trainee to save the day. Being given the case nobody wanted, his own past troubles being used to scare him off and all when he is fighting for tenancy too.
A very easy and readable cosy crime/legal thriller which I hope could be the start of a great series.
I also enjoyed the very unusual method of murder and the humour. I did chuckle to myself at the term ‘little shits’ and wondered if Rob Rinder secretly thinks this of some of the people who have appeared before him.
With a police force full of corruption and a very lazy barrister it seems it is all down to one trainee to save the day. Being given the case nobody wanted, his own past troubles being used to scare him off and all when he is fighting for tenancy too.
A very easy and readable cosy crime/legal thriller which I hope could be the start of a great series.
February 24, 2023
This book was so witty, it had me hooked from the very beginning. A constant page turner that left you guessing right up until the end.
I loved the setting of a courtroom and it following the barristers as opposed to the usual following of a detective.
Really well written keeping you captivated throughout.
I loved the setting of a courtroom and it following the barristers as opposed to the usual following of a detective.
Really well written keeping you captivated throughout.
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