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Charles Holborne #1
The Brief
In the 60s London of gangsters, prejudice and terrifying gang wars, Barrister Charles Holborne spends his life dealing with the worst examples of violent criminality. After successfully winning a number of high profile cases, he is building a reputation among Soho’s criminal classes as a man who gets the job done, a reputation that doesn’t endear him to his establishment colleagues.
Yet Charles is not all he seems, and is battling both personal demons and his own past. When his philandering wife Henrietta is found with her throat slashed, Charles finds himself on the wrong side of the law and in serious trouble of the murderous kind. Arrested for her murder, can Charles discover the truth of her brutal slaying and escape the hangman’s noose?
Based upon a real case and genuine court documents, The Brief is a compelling criminal drama, and an evocative slice of sleazy glamour from the Swinging Sixties. Simon Michael delivers an addictive read for any crime fan.
Yet Charles is not all he seems, and is battling both personal demons and his own past. When his philandering wife Henrietta is found with her throat slashed, Charles finds himself on the wrong side of the law and in serious trouble of the murderous kind. Arrested for her murder, can Charles discover the truth of her brutal slaying and escape the hangman’s noose?
Based upon a real case and genuine court documents, The Brief is a compelling criminal drama, and an evocative slice of sleazy glamour from the Swinging Sixties. Simon Michael delivers an addictive read for any crime fan.
369 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 28, 2015
794 people are currently reading
745 people want to read
About the author
Simon Michael
16 books67 followersI am the author of the semi-autobiographical Charles Holborne crime and courtroom drama series. I'm sometimes referred to as the “British John Grisham”. The series, currently nine books, is based on my East End Cockney roots and my 37 years as a barrister (trial attorney) during which I prosecuted and defended every sort of villainy, from murder to rape, to armed robbery. Set in 1960s gangland London, the thrillers feature the big political events and cases of the day, as we moved from crumbling Empire and grey post-war rationing, to the Kray twins, Profumo, Carnaby Street, flower power, sex drugs and rock ‘n’ roll. The books are populated by the mad judges, corrupt coppers, lying clients and charming rogues I encountered during what was the Wild West of British Justice. As Sir Robert Mark, a later Commissioner of Metropolitan Police was to say:."The CID was the most routinely corrupt organisation in London”, and so it was. But it sure was exciting for those in the trenches. I hope you'll enjoy the ride.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 143 reviews
July 29, 2017
Simon Michael's "The Brief" has been described as 'BritCrime at its best' and I would wholeheartedly agree, it's so impressive! It had me hooked from the very first page till the tense gripping end.
This is so much more than a legal thriller - intense, riveting, compelling and with plenty of action to keep you turning the pages . "The Brief" gives you a brilliant insight into the criminal justice system in the 1960's and the legal goings-on behind the scenes, with the frightening realisation that criminals could still hang for certain crimes committed back then. This wasn't some boring courtroom drama that dragged out but a very exciting and intriguing thriller incorporating the courtroom through court transcripts and police documents which I found a very original and novel way of portraying the facts of the trial. I loved the ambience of the book - London during the swinging 60's, the clubs and pubs, the criminals and the gang wars.
The final part of the book was a race against time and had me holding my breath - I hate injustices in stories and I desperately wanted a favourable outcome, you'll need to read the book to find out if Charles finally escapes his false charge of murder!
The authors attention to detail using his own personal experience as a barrister for many years is second to none and stunningly authentic. There's no over the top legal jargon or complex terminology. The brilliant writing style was easy to follow and understand, a captivating plot that has you screaming for justice and a list of characters that are very believable even the corrupt police officers - there's just nothing not to like in this book. I loved Charles (who is quite the anti-hero) with his honourable morals and hardworking intentions whilst struggling to come to terms with his background and family rejection.
I've been told that the sequel "An Honest Man" is even better still and I really can't wait to read more about Charles Holborn and the 1960's!!
A huge 5 stars for "The Brief" and to the author Simon Michael and Urbane Publications.
Merged review:
Simon Michael's "The Brief" has been described as 'BritCrime at its best' and I would wholeheartedly agree, it's so impressive! It had me hooked from the very first page till the tense gripping end.
This is so much more than a legal thriller - intense, riveting, compelling and with plenty of action to keep you turning the pages . "The Brief" gives you a brilliant insight into the criminal justice system in the 1960's and the legal goings-on behind the scenes, with the frightening realisation that criminals could still hang for certain crimes committed back then. This wasn't some boring courtroom drama that dragged out but a very exciting and intriguing thriller incorporating the courtroom through court transcripts and police documents which I found a very original and novel way of portraying the facts of the trial. I loved the ambience of the book - London during the swinging 60's, the clubs and pubs, the criminals and the gang wars.
The final part of the book was a race against time and had me holding my breath - I hate injustices in stories and I desperately wanted a favourable outcome, you'll need to read the book to find out if Charles finally escapes his false charge of murder!
The authors attention to detail using his own personal experience as a barrister for many years is second to none and stunningly authentic. There's no over the top legal jargon or complex terminology. The brilliant writing style was easy to follow and understand, a captivating plot that has you screaming for justice and a list of characters that are very believable even the corrupt police officers - there's just nothing not to like in this book. I loved Charles (who is quite the anti-hero) with his honourable morals and hardworking intentions whilst struggling to come to terms with his background and family rejection.
I've been told that the sequel "An Honest Man" is even better still and I really can't wait to read more about Charles Holborne and the 1960's!!
A huge 5 stars for "The Brief" and to the author Simon Michael and Urbane Publications.
This is so much more than a legal thriller - intense, riveting, compelling and with plenty of action to keep you turning the pages . "The Brief" gives you a brilliant insight into the criminal justice system in the 1960's and the legal goings-on behind the scenes, with the frightening realisation that criminals could still hang for certain crimes committed back then. This wasn't some boring courtroom drama that dragged out but a very exciting and intriguing thriller incorporating the courtroom through court transcripts and police documents which I found a very original and novel way of portraying the facts of the trial. I loved the ambience of the book - London during the swinging 60's, the clubs and pubs, the criminals and the gang wars.
The final part of the book was a race against time and had me holding my breath - I hate injustices in stories and I desperately wanted a favourable outcome, you'll need to read the book to find out if Charles finally escapes his false charge of murder!
The authors attention to detail using his own personal experience as a barrister for many years is second to none and stunningly authentic. There's no over the top legal jargon or complex terminology. The brilliant writing style was easy to follow and understand, a captivating plot that has you screaming for justice and a list of characters that are very believable even the corrupt police officers - there's just nothing not to like in this book. I loved Charles (who is quite the anti-hero) with his honourable morals and hardworking intentions whilst struggling to come to terms with his background and family rejection.
I've been told that the sequel "An Honest Man" is even better still and I really can't wait to read more about Charles Holborn and the 1960's!!
A huge 5 stars for "The Brief" and to the author Simon Michael and Urbane Publications.
Merged review:
Simon Michael's "The Brief" has been described as 'BritCrime at its best' and I would wholeheartedly agree, it's so impressive! It had me hooked from the very first page till the tense gripping end.
This is so much more than a legal thriller - intense, riveting, compelling and with plenty of action to keep you turning the pages . "The Brief" gives you a brilliant insight into the criminal justice system in the 1960's and the legal goings-on behind the scenes, with the frightening realisation that criminals could still hang for certain crimes committed back then. This wasn't some boring courtroom drama that dragged out but a very exciting and intriguing thriller incorporating the courtroom through court transcripts and police documents which I found a very original and novel way of portraying the facts of the trial. I loved the ambience of the book - London during the swinging 60's, the clubs and pubs, the criminals and the gang wars.
The final part of the book was a race against time and had me holding my breath - I hate injustices in stories and I desperately wanted a favourable outcome, you'll need to read the book to find out if Charles finally escapes his false charge of murder!
The authors attention to detail using his own personal experience as a barrister for many years is second to none and stunningly authentic. There's no over the top legal jargon or complex terminology. The brilliant writing style was easy to follow and understand, a captivating plot that has you screaming for justice and a list of characters that are very believable even the corrupt police officers - there's just nothing not to like in this book. I loved Charles (who is quite the anti-hero) with his honourable morals and hardworking intentions whilst struggling to come to terms with his background and family rejection.
I've been told that the sequel "An Honest Man" is even better still and I really can't wait to read more about Charles Holborne and the 1960's!!
A huge 5 stars for "The Brief" and to the author Simon Michael and Urbane Publications.
May 29, 2019
First and foremost, a large thank you to Simon Michael and Sapere for providing me with a copy of this publication, which allows me to provide you with an unbiased review.
Always a fan of a decent legal thriller, I jumped at the opportunity when offered this opening novel in Simon Michael’s 1960s London series. Charles Holborne is a barrister who has acquired his share of enemies. Shunned by the Jewish community when he chooses to forget his roots, Holborne must also handle a heavy criminal case load and deal with the fallout of lost cases and angered clients. One can also not forget the numerous other legal minds whose reputations he has tarnished while working in London. However, someone has been watching him and waiting to strike at just the right moment. Playing on the marital strains and are building within the Holborne household, someone seeks to frame him for a significant crime. Forced to take things into his own hands, Charles Holborne must risk his life and reputation to save them both. A decent story, though it did not pull me in enough to call it riveting. Those who enjoy legal stories may like this one, though I remain on the fence at this point in time.
I cannot say that Simon Michael hooked me with this novel, launching a series that appears to keep growing. That being said, the story wad sound and the characters appeared to have some depth. Set in London’s early 1960s, the story surrounds legal practices of the time and some of the criminal element that stalked the streets. Charles Holborne proves to be an interesting character whose legal mind and gritty determination help him forge compromises while also creating an ever-growing list of enemies. His personal life is full of issues as well, including a wife who has come to realise that she will need to look elsewhere for love and a romantic connection. Other characters make an impact on the story, though I was not as connected as I would have liked. The premise of the story was decent, though I felt the first half dragged and the second sped by too quickly for me to feel a decent connection to much of anything. I am not entirely sure if I will return for more, though I suspect Michael has a great deal to offer, even if I did not develop the needed connection to enjoy this reading experience. There was less legal intrigue than I might have hoped and it left me wanting much more. I may be in the minority here, but sometimes that’s a decent spot to inhabit, as I swim against the tide.
Kudos, Mr. Michael, for your efforts. Not entirely to my liking, though surely others may differ from my opinion.
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
A Book for All Seasons, a different sort of Book Challenge: https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/...
Always a fan of a decent legal thriller, I jumped at the opportunity when offered this opening novel in Simon Michael’s 1960s London series. Charles Holborne is a barrister who has acquired his share of enemies. Shunned by the Jewish community when he chooses to forget his roots, Holborne must also handle a heavy criminal case load and deal with the fallout of lost cases and angered clients. One can also not forget the numerous other legal minds whose reputations he has tarnished while working in London. However, someone has been watching him and waiting to strike at just the right moment. Playing on the marital strains and are building within the Holborne household, someone seeks to frame him for a significant crime. Forced to take things into his own hands, Charles Holborne must risk his life and reputation to save them both. A decent story, though it did not pull me in enough to call it riveting. Those who enjoy legal stories may like this one, though I remain on the fence at this point in time.
I cannot say that Simon Michael hooked me with this novel, launching a series that appears to keep growing. That being said, the story wad sound and the characters appeared to have some depth. Set in London’s early 1960s, the story surrounds legal practices of the time and some of the criminal element that stalked the streets. Charles Holborne proves to be an interesting character whose legal mind and gritty determination help him forge compromises while also creating an ever-growing list of enemies. His personal life is full of issues as well, including a wife who has come to realise that she will need to look elsewhere for love and a romantic connection. Other characters make an impact on the story, though I was not as connected as I would have liked. The premise of the story was decent, though I felt the first half dragged and the second sped by too quickly for me to feel a decent connection to much of anything. I am not entirely sure if I will return for more, though I suspect Michael has a great deal to offer, even if I did not develop the needed connection to enjoy this reading experience. There was less legal intrigue than I might have hoped and it left me wanting much more. I may be in the minority here, but sometimes that’s a decent spot to inhabit, as I swim against the tide.
Kudos, Mr. Michael, for your efforts. Not entirely to my liking, though surely others may differ from my opinion.
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
A Book for All Seasons, a different sort of Book Challenge: https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/...
July 10, 2019
Book Reviewed on www.whisperingstories.com
Barrister Charles Holborne believes that hiding/renouncing his Jewish heritage will help his legal career so he reinvents himself to try to play down his Jewish heritage in his job as a criminal Barrister. He believes that if his true identity is common knowledge it will hold him back in the legal world, especially as he is the only barrister at his law firm to be state-educated.
However, even after his reinvention he still struggles with his self-esteem, which in turn has a negative impact on his personal life and leaves him with trust issues where his colleagues are concerned.
Despite everything, he is good at his job. He wins cases and puts his heart and soul into his job, which unfortunately causes some marital issues with his wife Henrietta. Then something unimaginable happens and Charles has to fight to survive and questions everything he knows as he finds himself on the wrong side of the law trying to clear his name for a crime he did not commit.
I really enjoyed this book from start to finish. It is an easy thriller to read and I really liked Charles Holborne. Set amongst the violent troubles that plagued London in the 1960s, Charles Holborne can’t see his career going anywhere if people find out he is Jewish. Much to his family and the Jewish communities disbelief and annoyance he turns his back on his heritage in the hope that he can keep it quiet and make his career in a world filled with upper-class people who were privately educated and went to the top universities.
The book is split into five sections and you get to stay with Charles as he is charged with a murder he didn’t commit. He knows he’s been set up but by who. Unfortunately, he has a reputation of taking down some of the most violent criminals in London, plus he isn’t liked by many of his colleagues due to his high case wins rate, so he has his work cut out trying to find out who the real murderer is and clear his name at the same time. But the clock is ticking!
I was hooked to the entire plot and found myself eagerly reading every time I picked the book up. The story is very realistic and I could perfectly visualise all that was happening. This is the first book in a series featuring Charles Holborne, if this first book is anything to go by, this is going to be one amazing series to read.
Barrister Charles Holborne believes that hiding/renouncing his Jewish heritage will help his legal career so he reinvents himself to try to play down his Jewish heritage in his job as a criminal Barrister. He believes that if his true identity is common knowledge it will hold him back in the legal world, especially as he is the only barrister at his law firm to be state-educated.
However, even after his reinvention he still struggles with his self-esteem, which in turn has a negative impact on his personal life and leaves him with trust issues where his colleagues are concerned.
Despite everything, he is good at his job. He wins cases and puts his heart and soul into his job, which unfortunately causes some marital issues with his wife Henrietta. Then something unimaginable happens and Charles has to fight to survive and questions everything he knows as he finds himself on the wrong side of the law trying to clear his name for a crime he did not commit.
I really enjoyed this book from start to finish. It is an easy thriller to read and I really liked Charles Holborne. Set amongst the violent troubles that plagued London in the 1960s, Charles Holborne can’t see his career going anywhere if people find out he is Jewish. Much to his family and the Jewish communities disbelief and annoyance he turns his back on his heritage in the hope that he can keep it quiet and make his career in a world filled with upper-class people who were privately educated and went to the top universities.
The book is split into five sections and you get to stay with Charles as he is charged with a murder he didn’t commit. He knows he’s been set up but by who. Unfortunately, he has a reputation of taking down some of the most violent criminals in London, plus he isn’t liked by many of his colleagues due to his high case wins rate, so he has his work cut out trying to find out who the real murderer is and clear his name at the same time. But the clock is ticking!
I was hooked to the entire plot and found myself eagerly reading every time I picked the book up. The story is very realistic and I could perfectly visualise all that was happening. This is the first book in a series featuring Charles Holborne, if this first book is anything to go by, this is going to be one amazing series to read.
August 16, 2016
1960s London - gang wars, corrupt police, vice, and pornography - ex-boxer, Charles Holborne, has plenty of opportunities to build his reputation with the criminal classes as a barrister who delivers. But Charles, an East End boy made good, is not all he seems, and his past is snapping at his heels. When his philandering wife has her throat slashed, Holborne finds himself on the wrong side of the law and on the run. Can he discover the truth of the brutal slaying and escape the hangman's noose?
Brilliant. This is a very well executed crime/thriller novel. Before reading this book I expected it to be concentrating on courtroom dramas. Yes, there is some involvement with this, but this book is much more than that.
The research is extensive and the author has delivered a stunning piece of writing with tremendous authenticity.
This is a pure gem and kept me turning the pages constantly. Brilliant characters, excellent plotting and overall an indulgent, absorbing and enjoyable read.
I couldn't give less than 5* - This book deserves to be in the spotlight and I highly commend Simon Michael & Urbane Publications for this outstanding piece of work.
I'm very much looking forward to the continuation of this series with, An Honest Man, next on the agenda!
Brilliant. This is a very well executed crime/thriller novel. Before reading this book I expected it to be concentrating on courtroom dramas. Yes, there is some involvement with this, but this book is much more than that.
The research is extensive and the author has delivered a stunning piece of writing with tremendous authenticity.
This is a pure gem and kept me turning the pages constantly. Brilliant characters, excellent plotting and overall an indulgent, absorbing and enjoyable read.
I couldn't give less than 5* - This book deserves to be in the spotlight and I highly commend Simon Michael & Urbane Publications for this outstanding piece of work.
I'm very much looking forward to the continuation of this series with, An Honest Man, next on the agenda!
June 12, 2019
Charles Holborne has done well in life despite his background of being a Jew from the East End. He became a barrister, the only barrister in Chambers to have been state-educated, he got into Cambridge by virtue of a scholarship. Turning his back on his past and his family Charles marries well and tries to hide his Jewish heritage. However he always feels like an outsider with the British elite and feels he will never be one of them.
Charles’ desire to bring in criminal cases to a Chambers that prefers to handle civil cases only causes him to obtain a few enemies in the office.
While he is making a name for himself in the courts Charles’ private life is slowly falling apart, as he works long hours his wife moves her attentions elsewhere.
The Brief is an engrossing legal thriller. The character development was well executed with plenty of back story on Charles so the reader received a good overall feel of how Charles thinks.
The first half of the story focused on the legal system and a court case Charles was involved in. It wasn’t until the second half that the pace picked up and we follow Charles, whilst on the run from police, as he pieces together his own evidence to prove his innocence when he is framed for a murder.
There was a sexual harassment scene that I thought didn’t really play out well and I couldn’t see why it was included in the story.
The setting of 1960’s London was atmospheric with the dimly lit, deserted streets and the dingy pubs. Set in a time when there were no mobile phones or credit cards it made for some clever plotting when Charles was on the run.
I am eagerly looking forward to seeing what is next for Charles Holborne.
*My thanks to the publisher for my copy to read.
Charles’ desire to bring in criminal cases to a Chambers that prefers to handle civil cases only causes him to obtain a few enemies in the office.
While he is making a name for himself in the courts Charles’ private life is slowly falling apart, as he works long hours his wife moves her attentions elsewhere.
The Brief is an engrossing legal thriller. The character development was well executed with plenty of back story on Charles so the reader received a good overall feel of how Charles thinks.
The first half of the story focused on the legal system and a court case Charles was involved in. It wasn’t until the second half that the pace picked up and we follow Charles, whilst on the run from police, as he pieces together his own evidence to prove his innocence when he is framed for a murder.
There was a sexual harassment scene that I thought didn’t really play out well and I couldn’t see why it was included in the story.
The setting of 1960’s London was atmospheric with the dimly lit, deserted streets and the dingy pubs. Set in a time when there were no mobile phones or credit cards it made for some clever plotting when Charles was on the run.
I am eagerly looking forward to seeing what is next for Charles Holborne.
*My thanks to the publisher for my copy to read.
November 20, 2022
This legal thriller is set in 1960s London, and the areas noted are near where I grew up, and around Fleet Street, where I worked a few years ago. I should state that I was not actually born when the story takes place though! This book appears to be the first in a series, therefore we are basically introduced to the main character, Charles Holborne, given some background, then the second half gets going with Charles accused of his wife's murder! I liked that this book is set in the time of the Kray twins, and before the technology that we take for granted now, which was refreshing. I look forward to future Charles Holborne adventures.
June 24, 2019
A gritty legal drama set in 1960s London, this fast-moving thriller brought this setting alive. Featuring appearances from the Krays, I felt immersed within this corrupted city and enjoyed seeing the plot develop.
Admittedly, I don’t think things really got going until half way through the story. The writer takes great pains to establish the narrative and characters and, whilst this is no bad thing, meant that for a long time, I could not see how the story was going to develop as per its blurb. However, having finished this book, I understand Michael needed these foundations to properly appreciate Charles’ character. Indeed, witnessing his strained marriage to Henrietta, it then became clear how Charles’ reputation is compromised.
Once it is obvious how Charles is being framed, I really appreciated how Michael moved the plot forwards. Charles is having to almost retrace his steps to understand how he has been framed and the portrayal of the corrupt police and gangsters really made me feel a part of the plot! Michael successfully brings this alive but without it coming across as too gritty and alienating. Whilst I found the opening quite legally heavy, I relished in watching Charles’ actions, particularly as he seems to have picked up on some tricks of his criminal clientele!
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I thought the plot would be quite obvious to predict but, Michael leaves an easy red-herring to distract the reader. Well, it certainly fooled me. I was therefore rather pleased not to have guessed how the story would conclude and I cannot see which direction the writer will take the next book in the series. He leaves it quite open and it is ambiguous as to whether Charles will take a corrupt path or a more honourable route.
Something a bit different, this crime drama was interesting with a likeable protagonist. It was easy to warm to Charles and his ways, and the ending was satisfyingly conclusive. That being said, I would be interested to see what comes next to this London hero with criminal connections.
I received a free copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
Admittedly, I don’t think things really got going until half way through the story. The writer takes great pains to establish the narrative and characters and, whilst this is no bad thing, meant that for a long time, I could not see how the story was going to develop as per its blurb. However, having finished this book, I understand Michael needed these foundations to properly appreciate Charles’ character. Indeed, witnessing his strained marriage to Henrietta, it then became clear how Charles’ reputation is compromised.
Once it is obvious how Charles is being framed, I really appreciated how Michael moved the plot forwards. Charles is having to almost retrace his steps to understand how he has been framed and the portrayal of the corrupt police and gangsters really made me feel a part of the plot! Michael successfully brings this alive but without it coming across as too gritty and alienating. Whilst I found the opening quite legally heavy, I relished in watching Charles’ actions, particularly as he seems to have picked up on some tricks of his criminal clientele!
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I thought the plot would be quite obvious to predict but, Michael leaves an easy red-herring to distract the reader. Well, it certainly fooled me. I was therefore rather pleased not to have guessed how the story would conclude and I cannot see which direction the writer will take the next book in the series. He leaves it quite open and it is ambiguous as to whether Charles will take a corrupt path or a more honourable route.
Something a bit different, this crime drama was interesting with a likeable protagonist. It was easy to warm to Charles and his ways, and the ending was satisfyingly conclusive. That being said, I would be interested to see what comes next to this London hero with criminal connections.
I received a free copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
May 27, 2019
Thoroughly Entertaining. This is a very well written story, and it has an edge to it that I certainly enjoyed. It was quite easy to lose myself among the pages for quite a few hours. Charles Holborne is a great character, and like the background the Author has put into him and the other characters in the story. There are also a couple of surprises along the way which I wasn’t expecting. It’s one of the many things that made this book such a great read.
Charles Holborne could have been earning more money as a barrister defending a different type of client, however he enjoyed defending the less fortunate criminals that found themselves in trouble with the law. So, he jumps at the chance to defend Derek Plummer for robbery and murder. Derek may have been guilty for the robbery part of the charge, but Charles believed his client wasn’t guilty of murder. Charles Holborne used to be known as Charlie Horowitz growing up, but he was sure his Jewish background would jeopardise his career potential and earnings. Luckily it didn’t bother his wife Henrietta too much, not that they were getting on that well these days. Charles will also need to be careful as he an enemy from his past, and they could be out to get him. All in all, a very satisfying read, which I would certainly recommend. 5/5 Star Rating.
Thank you to Sapere Books for providing me with a copy of this book for an unbiased review.
Charles Holborne could have been earning more money as a barrister defending a different type of client, however he enjoyed defending the less fortunate criminals that found themselves in trouble with the law. So, he jumps at the chance to defend Derek Plummer for robbery and murder. Derek may have been guilty for the robbery part of the charge, but Charles believed his client wasn’t guilty of murder. Charles Holborne used to be known as Charlie Horowitz growing up, but he was sure his Jewish background would jeopardise his career potential and earnings. Luckily it didn’t bother his wife Henrietta too much, not that they were getting on that well these days. Charles will also need to be careful as he an enemy from his past, and they could be out to get him. All in all, a very satisfying read, which I would certainly recommend. 5/5 Star Rating.
Thank you to Sapere Books for providing me with a copy of this book for an unbiased review.
May 15, 2019
Simon Michael's "The Brief" has been described as 'BritCrime at its best' and I would wholeheartedly agree, it's so impressive! It had me hooked from the very first page till the tense gripping end.
This is so much more than a legal thriller - intense, riveting, compelling and with plenty of action to keep you turning the pages . "The Brief" gives you a brilliant insight into the criminal justice system in the 1960's and the legal goings-on behind the scenes, with the frightening realisation that criminals could still hang for certain crimes committed back then. This wasn't some boring courtroom drama that dragged out but a very exciting and intriguing thriller incorporating the courtroom through court transcripts and police documents which I found a very original and novel way of portraying the facts of the trial. I loved the ambience of the book - London during the swinging 60's, the clubs and pubs, the criminals and the gang wars.
The final part of the book was a race against time and had me holding my breath - I hate injustices in stories and I desperately wanted a favourable outcome, you'll need to read the book to find out if Charles finally escapes his false charge of murder!
The authors attention to detail using his own personal experience as a barrister for many years is second to none and stunningly authentic. There's no over the top legal jargon or complex terminology. The brilliant writing style was easy to follow and understand, a captivating plot that has you screaming for justice and a list of characters that are very believable even the corrupt police officers - there's just nothing not to like in this book. I loved Charles (who is quite the anti-hero) with his honourable morals and hardworking intentions whilst struggling to come to terms with his background and family rejection.
I've been told that the sequel "An Honest Man" is even better still and I really can't wait to read more about Charles Holborne and the 1960's!!
This is so much more than a legal thriller - intense, riveting, compelling and with plenty of action to keep you turning the pages . "The Brief" gives you a brilliant insight into the criminal justice system in the 1960's and the legal goings-on behind the scenes, with the frightening realisation that criminals could still hang for certain crimes committed back then. This wasn't some boring courtroom drama that dragged out but a very exciting and intriguing thriller incorporating the courtroom through court transcripts and police documents which I found a very original and novel way of portraying the facts of the trial. I loved the ambience of the book - London during the swinging 60's, the clubs and pubs, the criminals and the gang wars.
The final part of the book was a race against time and had me holding my breath - I hate injustices in stories and I desperately wanted a favourable outcome, you'll need to read the book to find out if Charles finally escapes his false charge of murder!
The authors attention to detail using his own personal experience as a barrister for many years is second to none and stunningly authentic. There's no over the top legal jargon or complex terminology. The brilliant writing style was easy to follow and understand, a captivating plot that has you screaming for justice and a list of characters that are very believable even the corrupt police officers - there's just nothing not to like in this book. I loved Charles (who is quite the anti-hero) with his honourable morals and hardworking intentions whilst struggling to come to terms with his background and family rejection.
I've been told that the sequel "An Honest Man" is even better still and I really can't wait to read more about Charles Holborne and the 1960's!!
September 26, 2016
I picked up The Brief one Saturday afternoon, after the football results disappointed me yet again, and by Sunday morning I was into the final pages. This is a seriously good British crime novel and really stands out from the rest by including real court documents.
We are introduced to Plumber and Sands at the start; Sands has just got out of prison and Plumber was his getaway driver who was not caught. Sands has come up with a plan to rob Express Dairies in London and he needs Plumber to play a more active role this time. Armed with fake guns, the robbery takes a sinister turn when one of the guns turns out to be real. When the pair get caught, they come up with a story that there was a third man who fired the gun. Then one of them changes their story...
Charles Holborne is the barrister defending Plumber. His success is envied by his peers as he doesn't come from a privileged background and he has more enemies than he realises. Charles is unhappily married to Henrietta; Charles works long hours and even has a little flat in London for nights he works late and Henrietta becomes well known for having affairs. As the scene is set in advance of Henrietta's murder, the suspects have all been lined up nicely but the evidence has been planted to point at Charles. As Charles fights to clear his name he really finds out who his friends are.
Phew! I had to stop and take a breath after finishing The Brief. I felt like I was in the speed-reading olympics with my nose getting closer and closer to the page and my bottom perched precariously on the edge of my seat. I completely bought into the 1960's era with the mention of The Great Train Robbery and the run in with The Krays. The authentic police statements and court transcripts were just the icing on the cake - I felt like I was watching the drama unfold before my very eyes. Absolutely unputdownable; if you loved watching Damages and The Good Wife you will definitely enjoy reading The Brief. This is Britcrime at its very best.
So stop reading my review and go and buy this book right now! It is FANTASTIC!
I can't thank Matthew at Urbane Publications enough for sending me this brilliant book in exchange for an honest review. Thank you, Matthew!
We are introduced to Plumber and Sands at the start; Sands has just got out of prison and Plumber was his getaway driver who was not caught. Sands has come up with a plan to rob Express Dairies in London and he needs Plumber to play a more active role this time. Armed with fake guns, the robbery takes a sinister turn when one of the guns turns out to be real. When the pair get caught, they come up with a story that there was a third man who fired the gun. Then one of them changes their story...
Charles Holborne is the barrister defending Plumber. His success is envied by his peers as he doesn't come from a privileged background and he has more enemies than he realises. Charles is unhappily married to Henrietta; Charles works long hours and even has a little flat in London for nights he works late and Henrietta becomes well known for having affairs. As the scene is set in advance of Henrietta's murder, the suspects have all been lined up nicely but the evidence has been planted to point at Charles. As Charles fights to clear his name he really finds out who his friends are.
Phew! I had to stop and take a breath after finishing The Brief. I felt like I was in the speed-reading olympics with my nose getting closer and closer to the page and my bottom perched precariously on the edge of my seat. I completely bought into the 1960's era with the mention of The Great Train Robbery and the run in with The Krays. The authentic police statements and court transcripts were just the icing on the cake - I felt like I was watching the drama unfold before my very eyes. Absolutely unputdownable; if you loved watching Damages and The Good Wife you will definitely enjoy reading The Brief. This is Britcrime at its very best.
So stop reading my review and go and buy this book right now! It is FANTASTIC!
I can't thank Matthew at Urbane Publications enough for sending me this brilliant book in exchange for an honest review. Thank you, Matthew!
October 23, 2016
Visit the locations in the novel my The Brief Booktrail
This was a gem of a find for many reasons – the real court documents and police statements added to the already immersive detail and added to the unique premise of the criminal set up, I was hooked from page one. The novel was very immersive – not just in the bacon smells of the cafe or the old smell of the stone walls but the language, the attitudes and the fact that this was still a time where the death penalty cloud hung over everyone’s head.
Although billed as a legal thriller, it’s so much more – like a snapshot of 1960s London and a journey back into the past. London and the Legal community seen through the eyes of Charles – a jewish boy done good – was really well done and created a great deal of underlying intrigue and a danger of what could go wrong – Charles Holborne is a fascinating character that’s for sure.
The book starts out slow but this is for a very good reason – by the time the bomb explodes, you’ll be having palpations from the building up of tension and will appreciate the feeling of a darn good read.
This was a gem of a find for many reasons – the real court documents and police statements added to the already immersive detail and added to the unique premise of the criminal set up, I was hooked from page one. The novel was very immersive – not just in the bacon smells of the cafe or the old smell of the stone walls but the language, the attitudes and the fact that this was still a time where the death penalty cloud hung over everyone’s head.
Although billed as a legal thriller, it’s so much more – like a snapshot of 1960s London and a journey back into the past. London and the Legal community seen through the eyes of Charles – a jewish boy done good – was really well done and created a great deal of underlying intrigue and a danger of what could go wrong – Charles Holborne is a fascinating character that’s for sure.
The book starts out slow but this is for a very good reason – by the time the bomb explodes, you’ll be having palpations from the building up of tension and will appreciate the feeling of a darn good read.
August 12, 2019
So glad I backed up to book number one. I signed up fairly recently on Net Galley and they were pushing book number 2 as a download. I had a hard time appreciating it without the introduction. I really couldn't appreciate the character of Charles Holborne, formerly Horowitz until I read this important first book. Now I am onboard to read further as Holborne proves himself to be admirable, adaptive, inventive, intelligent, and both physically and emotionally strong. It was the 1960s so there were not quite so many ways to track movements, thus enabling him to be on the run from being falsely accused of murdering his wife as he did his own investigation. He pulls off some pretty gnarly moves. Lively action!
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February 23, 2016
I had anticipated when starting this book that it was going to include lengthy spells in the courtroom. I am glad that this wasn't the case. It was a gripping legal thriller that I whizzed through in a matter of hours, such was the pacing of the plot.
The setting of 60s London was excellently envisaged and provided an apt backdrop for the murkiness of this seedy tale. The author has a deft approach to plotting and even when I thought I had it all worked out and had the case closed there were still twists and turns to come and a red herring or two.
I am not sure there were that many characters to like, that wasn't a problem though as the whole set of them were strongly written and drew my mind back to what life could have been like in Chambers in 60s London. I did however eventually end up liking Charles.
Charles the central character first of all struck me as a bit of a naive buffoon but in actual fact he went on to prove that he was astute and resourceful and at the heart of everything unrepentent in his search for justice. He is a bit of a hero really. Even when up against prejudice and criminality he never gave up on his quest.
This book was gritty, gripping and utterly compelling. Highly recommended to those who enjoy legal thrillers and even those who don't usually. The author has put his years of legal experience and research to excellent use and is one hell of a story teller.
I was also excited to learn that there is to be a follow up released later year called An Honest Man, which I will be looking forward to reading.
The setting of 60s London was excellently envisaged and provided an apt backdrop for the murkiness of this seedy tale. The author has a deft approach to plotting and even when I thought I had it all worked out and had the case closed there were still twists and turns to come and a red herring or two.
I am not sure there were that many characters to like, that wasn't a problem though as the whole set of them were strongly written and drew my mind back to what life could have been like in Chambers in 60s London. I did however eventually end up liking Charles.
Charles the central character first of all struck me as a bit of a naive buffoon but in actual fact he went on to prove that he was astute and resourceful and at the heart of everything unrepentent in his search for justice. He is a bit of a hero really. Even when up against prejudice and criminality he never gave up on his quest.
This book was gritty, gripping and utterly compelling. Highly recommended to those who enjoy legal thrillers and even those who don't usually. The author has put his years of legal experience and research to excellent use and is one hell of a story teller.
I was also excited to learn that there is to be a follow up released later year called An Honest Man, which I will be looking forward to reading.
September 24, 2016
'm not usually a big fan of court room dramas but believe me the actual court side of it is only a smallish section and even then I was well and truly gripped by the questioning of Charles' client.
The story starts off with events leading up to Charles' first court case as well as the court case itself. After that things start to spiral out of control for poor Charles when he is set up for murdering his wife.
Things actually get quite tense as it's a race against time for Charles to prove his innocence before he is found and arrested, worst of all if he is found guilty, it is at a time when the death penalty is still around. Even though Charles knows he is in the wrong for going on the run, with a police sergeant in charge of the case who doesn't do things by the book, he really doesn't have any other choice.
The Brief was such an entertaining read. It starts off at a steady pace then picks up speed as it progresses. My heart was literally in my mouth many a time as Charles uncovers information leading him towards the person who has tried framing him and it certainly made for some edge of your seat reading. A highly enjoyable read that will appeal to all fans of crime thrillers.
My thanks to the author and Urbane Publications for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
The story starts off with events leading up to Charles' first court case as well as the court case itself. After that things start to spiral out of control for poor Charles when he is set up for murdering his wife.
Things actually get quite tense as it's a race against time for Charles to prove his innocence before he is found and arrested, worst of all if he is found guilty, it is at a time when the death penalty is still around. Even though Charles knows he is in the wrong for going on the run, with a police sergeant in charge of the case who doesn't do things by the book, he really doesn't have any other choice.
The Brief was such an entertaining read. It starts off at a steady pace then picks up speed as it progresses. My heart was literally in my mouth many a time as Charles uncovers information leading him towards the person who has tried framing him and it certainly made for some edge of your seat reading. A highly enjoyable read that will appeal to all fans of crime thrillers.
My thanks to the author and Urbane Publications for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
September 25, 2017
This novel takes a wee bit to get revved up to speed, but about 40 % in, it finds its metal. Make sure you read beyond the initial chapters involving a rather ordinary armed robbery and unfamiliar terms. This is a very good story with some surprises and moments of suspense. It is early 1960's London and the reader gets an inside view of the justice system including the rivalries amongst Barristers and police bias. There is also a look into anti-Semitism and the lengths with which Charles must go to hide his religion to secure clients.
May 4, 2023
This book has everything. A chippy Jewish barrister who marries the flighty daughter of a Baronet who happens to be his head of chambers. His rival for work and love who becomes obsessively and brilliantly murderous. A corrupt cop who is grudgingly forced to properly investigate the surprising number of murders that happen near our hero. Will he save himself and get the (sensible, beautiful, understanding, Jewish) girl - you bet!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 29, 2017
This is my first blush with Simon Michael, and this book could have easily earned four stars if the author hadn't shifted the storyline from lawyer/courtroom strategy to action figure. What began as a very good legal tale devolved somewhat as the protagonist, Charles, a dedicated lawyer struggling against antisemitism (he's Jewish but has changed his name and minimized his origins in a futile attempt to fit in with the upper crust family into which he married) is framed for his wife's murder. Since they were on the verge of divorce anyway, a rather lazy and prejudiced detective inspector superintendent is happy to look no further than Charles for a plausible suspect. From here, the book becomes all too predictable, with Charles escaping the coppers and acting on his own behalf, with just a smidge of help from a potential love interest. He goes on the run and solves the case singlehandedly, of course, securing a confession in earshot of the police through his cleverness. It's all a fun read, and moves along very nicely. It's just a bit disappointing inasmuch as I believe the book had so much more potential.
February 8, 2018
Great reading, especially for those who prefer British mysteries!
Our hero is a Barrister who works on criminal cases. He is in a group that is predominantly civil and he is definitely the odd man out. His marriage is falling apart mainly because he works non-stop and his wife is retaliating through alcohol and infidelity. She is brutally murdered and he is the person of interest in the killing. He escapes custody and begins investigating the murder and circumstances surrounding it himself. There are lots of twists and turns in the plot and the characters are well developed. All in all, it was great reading and I am not a particular fan of the genre.
Our hero is a Barrister who works on criminal cases. He is in a group that is predominantly civil and he is definitely the odd man out. His marriage is falling apart mainly because he works non-stop and his wife is retaliating through alcohol and infidelity. She is brutally murdered and he is the person of interest in the killing. He escapes custody and begins investigating the murder and circumstances surrounding it himself. There are lots of twists and turns in the plot and the characters are well developed. All in all, it was great reading and I am not a particular fan of the genre.
June 9, 2019
I was very pleasantly surprised by The Brief. Set during the 1960s in London, up and coming barrister Charles Holborne finds himself on the run after being set up and then arrested for his wife’s murder.
I thought this was was quite the page turner. It’s fast paced and action packed. It touches on the seedy side of criminal life and the Kray twins even have a cameo role. It gives a realistic and great insight into the British judicial system of the time which I found fascinating. I loved Charles as a character and was rooting for him throughout the story. It’s well plotted, so much so that I was on the edge of my seat most of the time.
A gripping, well written and exciting thriller which I found hard to put down. I look forward to reading more by this author.
Many thanks to Sapere Books for the opportunity to read and review this book.
I thought this was was quite the page turner. It’s fast paced and action packed. It touches on the seedy side of criminal life and the Kray twins even have a cameo role. It gives a realistic and great insight into the British judicial system of the time which I found fascinating. I loved Charles as a character and was rooting for him throughout the story. It’s well plotted, so much so that I was on the edge of my seat most of the time.
A gripping, well written and exciting thriller which I found hard to put down. I look forward to reading more by this author.
Many thanks to Sapere Books for the opportunity to read and review this book.
September 10, 2019
The Brief by Simon Michael is a legal thriller that takes place in the '60s, a British whodunnit. The British are known to tell a great story, especially the mysteries. This one is no exception. A story of crime and corruption right in the legal system.
Barrister Charles Holborne is not a popular person, as he is a Jewish East Ender, not wanted in the "prestigious Establishment profession". He gets a high profile case that he hopes will help turn around his life. But when his wife is murdered, he becomes a suspect and he must run for his life, trying to find out who the killer is. He gets the help of a clerk in the office that he works in to help him as he has nowhere else to go but to her.
A good British mystery is one that keeps you guessing until the end. The characters were well written and the British legal system explained so it was more understandable. I liked this book and do want to read the next one in the series as I think that The Brief is a good start to the series. Loved it as I love a great British mystery!
Barrister Charles Holborne is not a popular person, as he is a Jewish East Ender, not wanted in the "prestigious Establishment profession". He gets a high profile case that he hopes will help turn around his life. But when his wife is murdered, he becomes a suspect and he must run for his life, trying to find out who the killer is. He gets the help of a clerk in the office that he works in to help him as he has nowhere else to go but to her.
A good British mystery is one that keeps you guessing until the end. The characters were well written and the British legal system explained so it was more understandable. I liked this book and do want to read the next one in the series as I think that The Brief is a good start to the series. Loved it as I love a great British mystery!
October 2, 2017
This is a marvellously taut thriller about a British barrister whose somewhat mundane life is suddenly thrown into chaos when he is accused of murdering his wife. The descriptions of the characters and locations of London and it's suburbs in 1961 sets the tone for this unusual crime procedural turned murder mystery. I found it fascinating, and a thorough page-turner from start to finish.
April 26, 2017
Even though I'd read the second book first, so I knew the outcome of this book, this was still a real page turner. I enjoyed being transported to 1960s London with public phone boxes were on street corners, pubs were real drinking and meeting places and cafes were greasy spoons. Simon Michael weaves a great story with Charles Holborne, around real cases from the past, making me feel like I was there amongst the mess and sleaze.I can't wait for the next book in the series and definitely recommend this if you enjoy crime, historical fiction and legal thrillers.
February 4, 2024
Very clever, entertaining and satisfying
December 13, 2022
Not a bad listen at all. First half is really good. Second half a little slower paced.
December 12, 2016
The Brief, by Simon Michael, brings to mind various vintage crime series that I have enjoyed watching on TV over the years. It is set in 1960s London, a period when the roads in central London could be driven through with relative ease and public payphones were a necessary aid to communication. The workings of the courts of law, with barristers’ chambers and their rarefied procedures, provide a fascinating backdrop at variance to the more common use of clever detective.
Charles Holborne, is an up and coming barrister willing to take on cases representing base criminals and lowlifes, much to the chagrin of his well connected colleagues. He was raised a Jew in the East End of the city, another factor that sets him apart. His beautiful wife, Henrietta, is from a wealthy and titled family but has grown bored with her hard working husband who she married as an act of defiance to her philandering father. Now she too indulges in affairs.
The story opens with the release from prison of a career criminal with few scruples. He plans a heist which he believes will enable him to retire. When it all goes wrong, Charles is tasked with defending him and his accomplice. It is just another case for Charles, but creates a dangerous enemy.
Back at chambers there are rumblings of discontent. An older member is called to account for his treatment of a pretty, young clerk. Other members voice resentment that a Jew is enjoying increasing success with the financial benefits this brings, which they believe should be theirs. Henrietta has been openly flirting with more than one of her husband’s colleagues. The choices she makes result in heated exchanges.
I have never understood anti-Semitism, how Jews appear to be so widely disliked by segments of society when their supposed crimes appear to be little more than nepotism and financial success. As these are also prevalent amongst society’s most privileged I find their rancour hard to comprehend. Nevertheless, it exists and affects this story’s protagonist. When Charles finds himself framed for murder it is hard to know which of his enemies, from which sphere of society, has taken action.
The police desire speedy convictions and some are willing to do whatever it takes to achieve their aims. When Charles realises that the crime he is accused of will not be properly investigated he determines to find out what has happened for himself. His methods may be risky but with the death penalty still a potential punishment he feels he has nothing to lose.
The tale is fast moving. The writing is polished and flows with ease. The author has taken real case notes and court documents as inspiration. The narrative from inside the courts are a fine addition to the tale.
The evocation of time and place are a reminder of how far we have progressed in just a few decades, and also of how certain attitudes have not changed. I am looking forward to reading more of Charles Holborne’s exploits as the proposed series progresses.
I enjoyed this book and am happy to recommend it. An absorbing and entertaining read.
My copy of this book was provided gratis by the publisher, Urbane.
Charles Holborne, is an up and coming barrister willing to take on cases representing base criminals and lowlifes, much to the chagrin of his well connected colleagues. He was raised a Jew in the East End of the city, another factor that sets him apart. His beautiful wife, Henrietta, is from a wealthy and titled family but has grown bored with her hard working husband who she married as an act of defiance to her philandering father. Now she too indulges in affairs.
The story opens with the release from prison of a career criminal with few scruples. He plans a heist which he believes will enable him to retire. When it all goes wrong, Charles is tasked with defending him and his accomplice. It is just another case for Charles, but creates a dangerous enemy.
Back at chambers there are rumblings of discontent. An older member is called to account for his treatment of a pretty, young clerk. Other members voice resentment that a Jew is enjoying increasing success with the financial benefits this brings, which they believe should be theirs. Henrietta has been openly flirting with more than one of her husband’s colleagues. The choices she makes result in heated exchanges.
I have never understood anti-Semitism, how Jews appear to be so widely disliked by segments of society when their supposed crimes appear to be little more than nepotism and financial success. As these are also prevalent amongst society’s most privileged I find their rancour hard to comprehend. Nevertheless, it exists and affects this story’s protagonist. When Charles finds himself framed for murder it is hard to know which of his enemies, from which sphere of society, has taken action.
The police desire speedy convictions and some are willing to do whatever it takes to achieve their aims. When Charles realises that the crime he is accused of will not be properly investigated he determines to find out what has happened for himself. His methods may be risky but with the death penalty still a potential punishment he feels he has nothing to lose.
The tale is fast moving. The writing is polished and flows with ease. The author has taken real case notes and court documents as inspiration. The narrative from inside the courts are a fine addition to the tale.
The evocation of time and place are a reminder of how far we have progressed in just a few decades, and also of how certain attitudes have not changed. I am looking forward to reading more of Charles Holborne’s exploits as the proposed series progresses.
I enjoyed this book and am happy to recommend it. An absorbing and entertaining read.
My copy of this book was provided gratis by the publisher, Urbane.
April 18, 2017
4.5 stars
When I bought this book it was originally intended for my OH. I had heard good things about it, but the setting of gangland London in the 1960’s epitomised by the Krays and the Richardsons was something that didn’t appeal to me. Having read it, the OH suggested I read it as I would enjoy it – so I did. All I can say is, if like me, you had misgivings, cast them aside this is a cracking read. The gangland element is as much a background motif to add some context to the nature of the criminality and corruption that was prevalent at the time. It is as much an insight into the workings of Chambers and the criminal justice system as it is the criminals who inhabit it.
Our ‘hero’, the charismatic Charles Holborne is a barrister who has made his way in life, despite his background, rather than because of it. As an East End Jewish boy made good, his background with naturally acquired survival skills and boxing clubs meant he probably had more in common with some of his clients than his colleagues. It certainly meant he was more tolerated than accepted by many of his co-workers.
When Charles’s wife is murdered, for reasons I suggest you discover yourself, he becomes the prime suspect. Given the at worst – corrupt, or at best – highly biased police investigation into his case, it’s up to Charles via fair means or foul to uncover the truth.
I was hooked from the beginning and especially drawn to the internal politics that typified Chambers. As someone who had been addicted to the tv programmes ‘This Life’ and ‘Silk’ this was my thing (why did I not discover this earlier?). I loved the back-biting the infighting and the changing allegiances all overseen by the barristers’ clerks who appear to wield the power. Added to this was the prevailing period prejudices of who you know and where you came from, mattering more than what you know and where you are now. The author’s background as a barrister meant there was an authenticity to the dialogue and the court practices that were portrayed. The use of original court transcripts from real Old Bailey cases only served to add to the realism and authoritative portrayal of its 1960’s setting
As we follow Charles in his professional and private life, we get to appreciate his abilities and his honesty and his innate sense of fairness, qualities that will result in his past coming back to haunt him. The problem is, there are several people who rightly or wrongly hold grievances against him. When his wife is murdered, the pace really ratchets up and I was praying for Charles to prove his innocence. Whether the final outcome proves to be the right one, I’m not saying, but I really recommend you read this for yourself to find out.
When I bought this book it was originally intended for my OH. I had heard good things about it, but the setting of gangland London in the 1960’s epitomised by the Krays and the Richardsons was something that didn’t appeal to me. Having read it, the OH suggested I read it as I would enjoy it – so I did. All I can say is, if like me, you had misgivings, cast them aside this is a cracking read. The gangland element is as much a background motif to add some context to the nature of the criminality and corruption that was prevalent at the time. It is as much an insight into the workings of Chambers and the criminal justice system as it is the criminals who inhabit it.
Our ‘hero’, the charismatic Charles Holborne is a barrister who has made his way in life, despite his background, rather than because of it. As an East End Jewish boy made good, his background with naturally acquired survival skills and boxing clubs meant he probably had more in common with some of his clients than his colleagues. It certainly meant he was more tolerated than accepted by many of his co-workers.
When Charles’s wife is murdered, for reasons I suggest you discover yourself, he becomes the prime suspect. Given the at worst – corrupt, or at best – highly biased police investigation into his case, it’s up to Charles via fair means or foul to uncover the truth.
I was hooked from the beginning and especially drawn to the internal politics that typified Chambers. As someone who had been addicted to the tv programmes ‘This Life’ and ‘Silk’ this was my thing (why did I not discover this earlier?). I loved the back-biting the infighting and the changing allegiances all overseen by the barristers’ clerks who appear to wield the power. Added to this was the prevailing period prejudices of who you know and where you came from, mattering more than what you know and where you are now. The author’s background as a barrister meant there was an authenticity to the dialogue and the court practices that were portrayed. The use of original court transcripts from real Old Bailey cases only served to add to the realism and authoritative portrayal of its 1960’s setting
As we follow Charles in his professional and private life, we get to appreciate his abilities and his honesty and his innate sense of fairness, qualities that will result in his past coming back to haunt him. The problem is, there are several people who rightly or wrongly hold grievances against him. When his wife is murdered, the pace really ratchets up and I was praying for Charles to prove his innocence. Whether the final outcome proves to be the right one, I’m not saying, but I really recommend you read this for yourself to find out.
January 24, 2016
Charles Holborne has made his way from the despised Jewish boy to a recognized barrister in 1960s London. Not afraid of digging, he can solve tricky cases and made himself a name in the criminal classes. Yet, his private life is far from being this successful. His wife is unfaithful and he has to admit that a divorce is the only solution left. Not realizing that dark forces are against him, he suddenly finds himself the main suspect of his wife’s murder and has to retreat to the underground from where he now has to fight for his right and name.
The novel starts at a slow pace, the characters are introduced thoroughly and their way of moving around described in detail. However, it is worth keeping on reading because with the murder of Holborne’s wife, the story accelerates and it getting better from page to page. The way the protagonist has to act now to defend himself and to deliver the real culprits is very thrilling and full of suspense. There are some dead ends to who might be behind the whole complot and untangling the conspiracy is great to read.
What I appreciated most is the atmosphere of the time. Simon Michael manages to evoke the spirit of the 60s and thus provides a suitable set for the plot. His characters are designed authentically and the crime is solved completely without leaving any questions open or by providing surprises out of the blue. All in all, a convincing crime novel.
The novel starts at a slow pace, the characters are introduced thoroughly and their way of moving around described in detail. However, it is worth keeping on reading because with the murder of Holborne’s wife, the story accelerates and it getting better from page to page. The way the protagonist has to act now to defend himself and to deliver the real culprits is very thrilling and full of suspense. There are some dead ends to who might be behind the whole complot and untangling the conspiracy is great to read.
What I appreciated most is the atmosphere of the time. Simon Michael manages to evoke the spirit of the 60s and thus provides a suitable set for the plot. His characters are designed authentically and the crime is solved completely without leaving any questions open or by providing surprises out of the blue. All in all, a convincing crime novel.
March 20, 2017
A lawyer in the Kray era London, Charles Holborne grew up on a normal East End estate and had to fight to get to where he is in the legal system but once there, he never belies his roots making him a very likeable character. A lawyer for some of London's murkiest characters, he is now the go-to-guy for the cities criminal underbelly.
Until he is arrested.
For murdering his wife.
I really enjoyed this book. Simon Michael uses real life court documents throughout this story, a method which I found absolutely fantastic! It is so clear in the writing that Michael has insider knowledge about how the legal system works, being a barrister himself he knows this system inside out and thankfully, he has been able to capture this knowledge and put it into the pages of a book in a way that comes across really well.
I don't imagine for one second that just because someone knows a subject they are automatically able to write a novel about it but Michael has, and he has done it very well!
The first part of the book really builds up the atmosphere of the era and develops the characters, some you will love and some you will hate (I'm not telling you who's who though!!) then towards the last third, the pace really picks up and the action starts to intensify.
The Brief is an intelligent, atmospheric and cleverly organised tale of crime, murder and corruption which will have you hooked from the start.
Until he is arrested.
For murdering his wife.
I really enjoyed this book. Simon Michael uses real life court documents throughout this story, a method which I found absolutely fantastic! It is so clear in the writing that Michael has insider knowledge about how the legal system works, being a barrister himself he knows this system inside out and thankfully, he has been able to capture this knowledge and put it into the pages of a book in a way that comes across really well.
I don't imagine for one second that just because someone knows a subject they are automatically able to write a novel about it but Michael has, and he has done it very well!
The first part of the book really builds up the atmosphere of the era and develops the characters, some you will love and some you will hate (I'm not telling you who's who though!!) then towards the last third, the pace really picks up and the action starts to intensify.
The Brief is an intelligent, atmospheric and cleverly organised tale of crime, murder and corruption which will have you hooked from the start.
August 7, 2016
As an American, I find the British legal system is an elaborate mystery all on its own. Here the author has offered a primer--with insider's lingo, a thorough understanding of procedure, and all bewigged and eccentric players in their places--in the form of a tense tale of 1960's crime and punishment and good old whodunit elaboration. But we certainly don't spend the whole book in the courtroom, as we get a taste of London's underbelly, middle class suburbia and an ethnic mix not often addressed in English fiction. I'd like to see more development of the female characters, but I suppose one could see the depictions here as keeping with the mid-Century setting. Overall, a good read, and I look forward to the author's next publication.
August 22, 2023
In the first chapters of the book, set in 1960s London, barrister Charles Holborne (né Horowitz) defends a small-time crook charged with murder during a robbery. Charles feels sure that his client’s partner in crime, a Scotsman named Sands, actually committed the murder but claims it was Charles’s client. Inexplicably (to me, anyway), the Crown Prosecution Service decides to believe Sands. We see Charles’s cleverness, as he utterly demolishes Sands on cross examination.
Charles is an odd man out at his law chambers for several reasons. He was born into a Jewish working-class family in the East End and didn’t attend private schools. He did gain admission to Cambridge, though, where he married a posh girl named Henrietta—much to the chagrin of both sets of parents. Charles even changed his name to the English Holborne, thinking it would help his career, and anyway Charles wasn’t observant like his parents and their neighbors. But his choices alienated his family and did little to avoid the subtle and not-so-subtle antisemitism in his profession, even his own chambers. Some in his chambers also object to Charles’s choice to focus on criminal law. Though Charles has an ever more successful practice, these other lawyers find Charles’s clients unseemly.
Even Charles’s wife disdains his work, as their marriage has become troubled over the last few years. She leads a largely separate social life, drinks too much, and Charles has learned that she has had affairs. Not a good situation for Charles when Henrietta is brutally murdered soon after Charles leaves their home, but especially when it becomes clear to Charles that he has been set up for the murder. Even worse, the chief investigating officer is one Charles knows is bent and has it in for him as a result of Charles fingering him for dishonesty some years earlier.
Charles escapes custody, convinced he will have to solve the crime himself if he’s to have a hope of avoiding the hangman. He embarks on a clever and daring investigation, using his street savvy and knowledge of London’s crime scene to help him gather crucial information. I enjoyed Simon Michael’s vivid depiction of the inner workings of the 1960s London crime scene and the city’s working-class eating places, pubs, clubs, and apartments. He even revisits his old neighborhood, bringing back memories of a very different life and contact with an old acquaintance. Chasing down the bad guy becomes a fast-paced and life-threatening venture for Charles, and some real excitement for this reader.
I could criticize the plot against Charles for being so over-the-top and convoluted that it was bound to be cracked by even a modestly competent lawyer, just as the case at the beginning of the book was easily broken by Charles. But I enjoyed Charles as a man who can defend himself with both his wits and his fists. And it sure didn’t hurt that the audiobook is read by one of my very favorites, Colin Mace.
Charles is an odd man out at his law chambers for several reasons. He was born into a Jewish working-class family in the East End and didn’t attend private schools. He did gain admission to Cambridge, though, where he married a posh girl named Henrietta—much to the chagrin of both sets of parents. Charles even changed his name to the English Holborne, thinking it would help his career, and anyway Charles wasn’t observant like his parents and their neighbors. But his choices alienated his family and did little to avoid the subtle and not-so-subtle antisemitism in his profession, even his own chambers. Some in his chambers also object to Charles’s choice to focus on criminal law. Though Charles has an ever more successful practice, these other lawyers find Charles’s clients unseemly.
Even Charles’s wife disdains his work, as their marriage has become troubled over the last few years. She leads a largely separate social life, drinks too much, and Charles has learned that she has had affairs. Not a good situation for Charles when Henrietta is brutally murdered soon after Charles leaves their home, but especially when it becomes clear to Charles that he has been set up for the murder. Even worse, the chief investigating officer is one Charles knows is bent and has it in for him as a result of Charles fingering him for dishonesty some years earlier.
Charles escapes custody, convinced he will have to solve the crime himself if he’s to have a hope of avoiding the hangman. He embarks on a clever and daring investigation, using his street savvy and knowledge of London’s crime scene to help him gather crucial information. I enjoyed Simon Michael’s vivid depiction of the inner workings of the 1960s London crime scene and the city’s working-class eating places, pubs, clubs, and apartments. He even revisits his old neighborhood, bringing back memories of a very different life and contact with an old acquaintance. Chasing down the bad guy becomes a fast-paced and life-threatening venture for Charles, and some real excitement for this reader.
I could criticize the plot against Charles for being so over-the-top and convoluted that it was bound to be cracked by even a modestly competent lawyer, just as the case at the beginning of the book was easily broken by Charles. But I enjoyed Charles as a man who can defend himself with both his wits and his fists. And it sure didn’t hurt that the audiobook is read by one of my very favorites, Colin Mace.
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