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Charles Holborne #2
An Honest Man
'An Honest Man drops you into the murky depths of gangland London when the Krays and Richardsons were in their prime. The criminal trial at the Old Bailey is gripping and utterly compelling, as well as thought provoking. The author keeps us guessing with clever, authentic twists and turns as Charles Holborne seeks justice for his client. Brilliant! ... a must read ... a rare treat of an insight into a trial.' --RC Bridgestock, author of the bestselling DI Dylan series, story consultant to BBC s Happy Valley and ITV s Scott & Bailey.
Criminal barrister Charles Holborne may have just escaped the hangman by proving he was framed for murder, but his life is now in ruins. His wife is dead, his high-flying career has morphed into criminal notoriety, and bankruptcy threatens. When the biggest brief of Charles's career unexpectedly lands on his desk, it looks as if he has been thrown a lifeline.
But far from keeping him afloat, it drags him ever deeper into the shadowy underworld of 1960s London. Now, not only is his practice at stake, but his very life. Can Charles extricate himself from a chess game played from the shadows by corrupt police officers and warring gangs without once again turning to crime himself?
Based on real Old Bailey cases and genuine court documents, An Honest Man is the second in the series of Charles Holborne novels by barrister, Simon Michael, set in the sleazy London of the 1960s.
Criminal barrister Charles Holborne may have just escaped the hangman by proving he was framed for murder, but his life is now in ruins. His wife is dead, his high-flying career has morphed into criminal notoriety, and bankruptcy threatens. When the biggest brief of Charles's career unexpectedly lands on his desk, it looks as if he has been thrown a lifeline.
But far from keeping him afloat, it drags him ever deeper into the shadowy underworld of 1960s London. Now, not only is his practice at stake, but his very life. Can Charles extricate himself from a chess game played from the shadows by corrupt police officers and warring gangs without once again turning to crime himself?
Based on real Old Bailey cases and genuine court documents, An Honest Man is the second in the series of Charles Holborne novels by barrister, Simon Michael, set in the sleazy London of the 1960s.
360 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 7, 2016
351 people are currently reading
164 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 58 reviews
March 15, 2017
"An Honest Man" by Simon Michael is the second in the Charles Holborne legal thriller series. Although this can easily be read as a standalone I personally recommend you to read the first one "The Brief" (which I found absolutely brilliant!) to learn more about Charles' background and how he's arrived at his current status in life a year later. I do like and admire Charles, he's a man's man with integrity and morals and should I ever require a barrister he would be my first choice by far!!
The story is set in the courtroom more here than in the first book and the author's personal experience working many years as a barrister himself shows expertly in the professional writing and authenticity of the excellent courtroom scenes without boring the reader with any complex legal jargon. I particularly liked how court documents and witness statements were used within the trial - this was a very novel way of keeping the reader interested and a very original idea of relaying the facts of the case. I loved the involvement of the Kray Twins in the plot, I've always been fascinated by the London gangsters and hope that the next book in the series due out later this year "The Lighterman" will feature them heavily again. I was so disappointed when the book came to an end as I was really keen to see where the author was going with the storyline - I guess I'm just going to have to wait patiently till the next one in the series is out!!
The story is set in the courtroom more here than in the first book and the author's personal experience working many years as a barrister himself shows expertly in the professional writing and authenticity of the excellent courtroom scenes without boring the reader with any complex legal jargon. I particularly liked how court documents and witness statements were used within the trial - this was a very novel way of keeping the reader interested and a very original idea of relaying the facts of the case. I loved the involvement of the Kray Twins in the plot, I've always been fascinated by the London gangsters and hope that the next book in the series due out later this year "The Lighterman" will feature them heavily again. I was so disappointed when the book came to an end as I was really keen to see where the author was going with the storyline - I guess I'm just going to have to wait patiently till the next one in the series is out!!
July 21, 2019
"An Honest Man" by Simon Michael is the second in the Charles Holborne legal thriller series. Although this can easily be read as a standalone I personally recommend you to read the first one "The Brief" (which I found absolutely brilliant!) to learn more about Charles' background and how he's arrived at his current status in life a year later. I do like and admire Charles, he's a man's man with integrity and morals and should I ever require a barrister he would be my first choice by far!!
The story is set in the courtroom more here than in the first book and the author's personal experience working many years as a barrister himself shows expertly in the professional writing and authenticity of the excellent courtroom scenes without boring the reader with any complex legal jargon. I particularly liked how court documents and witness statements were used within the trial - this was a very novel way of keeping the reader interested and a very original idea of relaying the facts of the case. I loved the involvement of the Kray Twins in the plot, I've always been fascinated by the London gangsters and hope that the next book in the series due out later this year "The Lighterman" will feature them heavily again. I was so disappointed when the book came to an end as I was really keen to see where the author was going with the storyline - I guess I'm just going to have to wait patiently till the next one in the series is out!!
Review of Urbane’s edition.
The story is set in the courtroom more here than in the first book and the author's personal experience working many years as a barrister himself shows expertly in the professional writing and authenticity of the excellent courtroom scenes without boring the reader with any complex legal jargon. I particularly liked how court documents and witness statements were used within the trial - this was a very novel way of keeping the reader interested and a very original idea of relaying the facts of the case. I loved the involvement of the Kray Twins in the plot, I've always been fascinated by the London gangsters and hope that the next book in the series due out later this year "The Lighterman" will feature them heavily again. I was so disappointed when the book came to an end as I was really keen to see where the author was going with the storyline - I guess I'm just going to have to wait patiently till the next one in the series is out!!
Review of Urbane’s edition.
July 15, 2019
Well, not such a good first choice after having signed up for Netgalley. This book, afterall, is not new and is the second of three in the Charles Holborne series.
I got this book through netgalley, not realizing it was available through Kindle Unlimited. I did not read the first in this series, because when I got the book this was not included in the description. Maybe the beginning would not have been so weird to me had I read the fist Charles Holborne book. It was the description of a woman being killed in her own home that seemed more than disjointed as the introduction to what came afterward.
We get to spend lots of time shuffling around with a lawyer who has not been in demand after having been falsely accused of murdering his wife...but there again, you would have to read the first book to know this. He gets assigned to defend another lawyer who is tied to the mob. This is supposedly a portrait of 1960s London where the Kray brothers were known to throw their weight around. Another underlying theme is antisemitism.
Even though the other two books would be available to me through Kindle Unlimited I shall not read further.
I got this book through netgalley, not realizing it was available through Kindle Unlimited. I did not read the first in this series, because when I got the book this was not included in the description. Maybe the beginning would not have been so weird to me had I read the fist Charles Holborne book. It was the description of a woman being killed in her own home that seemed more than disjointed as the introduction to what came afterward.
We get to spend lots of time shuffling around with a lawyer who has not been in demand after having been falsely accused of murdering his wife...but there again, you would have to read the first book to know this. He gets assigned to defend another lawyer who is tied to the mob. This is supposedly a portrait of 1960s London where the Kray brothers were known to throw their weight around. Another underlying theme is antisemitism.
Even though the other two books would be available to me through Kindle Unlimited I shall not read further.
August 11, 2019
‘You know as well as I do: the system doesn’t save you.’
London, 1963. Barrister Charles Holborne has escaped the gallows after proving that he was framed for murder, but can he recover? His wife is dead, his career is shredded (who wants to employ such a notorious barrister?) and bankruptcy edges closer.
But then the brief of a lifetime is handed to him, and it comes with a very healthy paycheck. Charles is asked to represent a solicitor accused of taking part in a diamond robbery. Charles is wary because the solicitor has a connection with the Kray twins having represented them in the past, but he needs the case. Could Charles’s problems be over? Could this be the new beginning he needs?
This is 1960s London: police corruption and warring criminal gangs are part of the territory, and Charles’s involvement in this case puts him (and others) in danger. Will Charles be able to retain his integrity?
‘I sometimes think the best we can hope for nowadays is a Met police force that catches more crooks than it employs.’
This is the second novel in Mr Michael’s Charles Holborne legal thriller series. The case itself is independent of the first book and can be read as a standalone novel. However, I strongly recommend reading them in order because character development and backstory are important.
The courtroom scenes in this novel are excellent, and much of the story is conveyed through court documents and witness statements. And the outcome? There are a few twists and it is complicated. Let’s just say that the Kray twins can be formidable enemies and we’ll just have to wait to see what happens in the third book.
Note: My thanks to NetGalley and Sapere Books for providing me with a free electronic copy of this book for review purposes.
Jennifer Cameron-Smith
London, 1963. Barrister Charles Holborne has escaped the gallows after proving that he was framed for murder, but can he recover? His wife is dead, his career is shredded (who wants to employ such a notorious barrister?) and bankruptcy edges closer.
But then the brief of a lifetime is handed to him, and it comes with a very healthy paycheck. Charles is asked to represent a solicitor accused of taking part in a diamond robbery. Charles is wary because the solicitor has a connection with the Kray twins having represented them in the past, but he needs the case. Could Charles’s problems be over? Could this be the new beginning he needs?
This is 1960s London: police corruption and warring criminal gangs are part of the territory, and Charles’s involvement in this case puts him (and others) in danger. Will Charles be able to retain his integrity?
‘I sometimes think the best we can hope for nowadays is a Met police force that catches more crooks than it employs.’
This is the second novel in Mr Michael’s Charles Holborne legal thriller series. The case itself is independent of the first book and can be read as a standalone novel. However, I strongly recommend reading them in order because character development and backstory are important.
The courtroom scenes in this novel are excellent, and much of the story is conveyed through court documents and witness statements. And the outcome? There are a few twists and it is complicated. Let’s just say that the Kray twins can be formidable enemies and we’ll just have to wait to see what happens in the third book.
Note: My thanks to NetGalley and Sapere Books for providing me with a free electronic copy of this book for review purposes.
Jennifer Cameron-Smith
December 13, 2016
An Honest Man, by Simon Michael, is a courtroom drama set in 1960s London. It is the second book in the author’s Charles Holborne series which started with The Brief. The Kray twins feature so there is plenty of scheming and gangland violence, but at the heart of the story is the English legal system and the corruption that exists on both sides of the law.
A year after events recounted in The Brief, Holborne has fallen from grace. The previously up and coming barrister has been in a new chambers for many months but is still struggling to attract instructions. With his finances in the doldrums he is reluctantly considering a change in career that would enable him to pay his bills.
The book takes some time to get going. There are a large number of shady characters to get to know before Holborne is handed the case that has the potential to pull him from the mire – defending a solicitor, Harry Robeson, who is known to represent powerful criminals and who stands accused of involvement in a diamond heist. Holborne and Robeson share a similar background as Jews raised in the East End of the city. When Robeson decides to help Holborne in a family crisis, their relationship becomes more personal.
As in the previous book, the workings of the law and the courtroom scenes are well developed and make for fascinating reading. Holborne comes into his own when cross examining a witness and managing a jury. His legal colleagues are still wary of his religion and lack of social connections more typical in their profession, especially given his previous brush with the wrong side of the law. However, he is good at his job and this case gives him the chance to prove it. What he had not, perhaps, factored in was the lengths to which the powerful gangs would go to protect their own.
The narrative is fluent and entertaining. Certain scenes with Holborne’s girlfriend were a little too graphic for my tastes but they are asides in a tale of corruption and the steps some will take to achieve what they regard as justice.
The denouement was chilling leaving plenty of scope for a sequel. I will be interested to see where the author takes Holborne next.
My copy of this book was provided gratis by the publisher, Urbane.
A year after events recounted in The Brief, Holborne has fallen from grace. The previously up and coming barrister has been in a new chambers for many months but is still struggling to attract instructions. With his finances in the doldrums he is reluctantly considering a change in career that would enable him to pay his bills.
The book takes some time to get going. There are a large number of shady characters to get to know before Holborne is handed the case that has the potential to pull him from the mire – defending a solicitor, Harry Robeson, who is known to represent powerful criminals and who stands accused of involvement in a diamond heist. Holborne and Robeson share a similar background as Jews raised in the East End of the city. When Robeson decides to help Holborne in a family crisis, their relationship becomes more personal.
As in the previous book, the workings of the law and the courtroom scenes are well developed and make for fascinating reading. Holborne comes into his own when cross examining a witness and managing a jury. His legal colleagues are still wary of his religion and lack of social connections more typical in their profession, especially given his previous brush with the wrong side of the law. However, he is good at his job and this case gives him the chance to prove it. What he had not, perhaps, factored in was the lengths to which the powerful gangs would go to protect their own.
The narrative is fluent and entertaining. Certain scenes with Holborne’s girlfriend were a little too graphic for my tastes but they are asides in a tale of corruption and the steps some will take to achieve what they regard as justice.
The denouement was chilling leaving plenty of scope for a sequel. I will be interested to see where the author takes Holborne next.
My copy of this book was provided gratis by the publisher, Urbane.
May 9, 2023
You would think that 15 years at the criminal bar would quash the naivety out of Charles Holborne (previously the far too Jewish Horowitz). Apparently not, he is taken in by his client and imagines he is fighting for an innocent man. Fortunately the crim gives away his guilt by a slip of the tongue and Charles faces a dilemma - should he keep his mouth shut and help the guilty go free or should he do the right thing whatever the consequences? Whatever will he do ???...
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 22, 2022
The second book in this series, the first of which I read fairly recently and enjoyed (both audiobooks). This did not live up to the first for me unfortunately. I couldn't visualise the characters, and everything felt very simplistic - including the sex scenes! 🤦 If the next is included in my Audible membership, I may give it a go...
January 22, 2017
Originally posted on https://josbookblog.co.uk/
An Honest Man is the second novel in Simon Michael’s Charles Holborne series, and begins approximately one year after the events of The Brief, the first novel in the series. I think that you could read An Honest Man as a standalone, although it would give away key elements of the first novel, so I would recommend reading these in order.
Charles Holborne is struggling to get back on his feet following the events in The Brief. Unable to obtain all but the merest scraps of work, his bank balance and his rent are suffering. Just as he’s considering alternative careers simply to earn a living, he lands a new case. And it’s huge! But is it too good to be true? As Holborne begins to dig into the events surrounding his client and the accusations made against him, he is drawn into the murky world of London gangs and corrupt police officers.
In reviewing The Brief earlier this year, I said that the author brings a huge degree of authenticity to his novels without resorting to overly complex legal jargon, and I’m pleased to say that such is the case with An Honest Man. This is a believable (hardly surprising given Simon’s background) courtroom drama. Throughout the story, the reader is also presented with various legal documents, such as witness statements, and these also add to the authentic vibe that the novel imparts. And I love that these are based upon actual Old Bailey cases!
A fair proportion of this novel is given over to a courtroom battle between the prosecution and Holborne’s defence of his client. Whilst this may not satisfy those who like action-filled novels, I found this to be incredibly gripping, and this is probably one of the most tension-filled courtroom scenes I’ve read since Larsson’s The Girl Who Kicked the Hornet’s Nest. I was riveted as both sides scored points against the other, the tactics they use to discredit each other's witnesses, and it was never obvious which way the jury would go. Of course, there’s a twist, but I’d hate to spoil it for you!
I was absolutely thrilled when Urbane Publications recently announced that the third novel in the Charles Holborne series, The Lighterman, will be published in June 2017. An Honest Man ends with a tantalising hint of what’s to come, and I can’t wait to see what Holborne gets up to next.
Many thanks to Simon Michael for providing a copy of An Honest Man for review.
An Honest Man is the second novel in Simon Michael’s Charles Holborne series, and begins approximately one year after the events of The Brief, the first novel in the series. I think that you could read An Honest Man as a standalone, although it would give away key elements of the first novel, so I would recommend reading these in order.
Charles Holborne is struggling to get back on his feet following the events in The Brief. Unable to obtain all but the merest scraps of work, his bank balance and his rent are suffering. Just as he’s considering alternative careers simply to earn a living, he lands a new case. And it’s huge! But is it too good to be true? As Holborne begins to dig into the events surrounding his client and the accusations made against him, he is drawn into the murky world of London gangs and corrupt police officers.
In reviewing The Brief earlier this year, I said that the author brings a huge degree of authenticity to his novels without resorting to overly complex legal jargon, and I’m pleased to say that such is the case with An Honest Man. This is a believable (hardly surprising given Simon’s background) courtroom drama. Throughout the story, the reader is also presented with various legal documents, such as witness statements, and these also add to the authentic vibe that the novel imparts. And I love that these are based upon actual Old Bailey cases!
A fair proportion of this novel is given over to a courtroom battle between the prosecution and Holborne’s defence of his client. Whilst this may not satisfy those who like action-filled novels, I found this to be incredibly gripping, and this is probably one of the most tension-filled courtroom scenes I’ve read since Larsson’s The Girl Who Kicked the Hornet’s Nest. I was riveted as both sides scored points against the other, the tactics they use to discredit each other's witnesses, and it was never obvious which way the jury would go. Of course, there’s a twist, but I’d hate to spoil it for you!
I was absolutely thrilled when Urbane Publications recently announced that the third novel in the Charles Holborne series, The Lighterman, will be published in June 2017. An Honest Man ends with a tantalising hint of what’s to come, and I can’t wait to see what Holborne gets up to next.
Many thanks to Simon Michael for providing a copy of An Honest Man for review.
October 2, 2016
An Honest Man is the sequel to The Brief where we catch up with criminal barrister Charles Holborne. If you haven’t already read The Brief, I would recommend reading it first as it will give you full knowledge of certain characters, as well as giving you more insight into things that happened to Charles which is mentioned in An Honest Man.
Charles luck seems to be down, he is struggling for money and his father has fallen ill, leaving him needing an operation, which even in the 1960’s, see’s the usual long waiting list. Rachel has gone to America through work and his life in general is pretty dismal and shows no signs of getting better.
His luck seems to be on the up when he bumps into Sally, a junior clerk who he used to work with as well as an affluent client, who by representing, could solve Charles’ money worries.
The whole story is the perfect blend of crime thriller/legal thriller. I enjoyed the parts in court as much as I did outside of it. The author certainly doesn’t go over board with legal jargon and does it in a way that Joe Bloggs would understand, which for me was great as with legal thrillers especially, I can find myself losing interest if they go to ‘technical’. Simon Michaels does it in a way though that keeps it all feeling very authentic whilst not taking anything away from a truly gripping story line.
I love how with the books being set in the 1960’s, that the author incorporates the story around the Kray’s, which makes for an even more intriguing read. You certainly get the whole 1960’s vibe through the makes of cars alone. For anyone around in that era, I think it will certainly take you back in time.
An Honest Man is a novel that thriller fans do not want to miss out on. With plenty of surprises in store, this is one author who makes sure he captivates his audience. A gripping read that has left me desperate for more.
My thanks to the author and Urbane Publications for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Charles luck seems to be down, he is struggling for money and his father has fallen ill, leaving him needing an operation, which even in the 1960’s, see’s the usual long waiting list. Rachel has gone to America through work and his life in general is pretty dismal and shows no signs of getting better.
His luck seems to be on the up when he bumps into Sally, a junior clerk who he used to work with as well as an affluent client, who by representing, could solve Charles’ money worries.
The whole story is the perfect blend of crime thriller/legal thriller. I enjoyed the parts in court as much as I did outside of it. The author certainly doesn’t go over board with legal jargon and does it in a way that Joe Bloggs would understand, which for me was great as with legal thrillers especially, I can find myself losing interest if they go to ‘technical’. Simon Michaels does it in a way though that keeps it all feeling very authentic whilst not taking anything away from a truly gripping story line.
I love how with the books being set in the 1960’s, that the author incorporates the story around the Kray’s, which makes for an even more intriguing read. You certainly get the whole 1960’s vibe through the makes of cars alone. For anyone around in that era, I think it will certainly take you back in time.
An Honest Man is a novel that thriller fans do not want to miss out on. With plenty of surprises in store, this is one author who makes sure he captivates his audience. A gripping read that has left me desperate for more.
My thanks to the author and Urbane Publications for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
August 11, 2016
An Honest Man sees a welcome return to reading about the adventures of Charles Holborne, whom I first read about in The Brief. This book although follows on, can be read excellently as a standalone.
Part thriller, part courtroom drama, Charles Holborne and this series hasn't lost it's spark for me. Charles Holborne is a bit of an enigma, his love life is a disaster and whilst making correct decisions in some areas, he makes completely silly ones in others. What remains true throughout is that he is one hell of a character and a top notch Criminal Barrister.
The setting remains the same, 1960's London, sleaze and scandal abound, seedy pubs and potentially corrupt police officers, gangsters and criminals. Even the notorious Kray twins feature amongst the plot.
I love the grit and the ease with which the author writes, creating scenes from a previous time, but managing to bring them to life like they were yesterday. The author manages to create scenarios for the reader so that it is easy to get swept up amongst all of the action, never sure which way the plot will turn next.
I particularly liked the court documents, transcripts and witness statements. These served to make the plot more realistic and created a way for the drama to unfold before the readers eyes.
I adore Charles Holborne for all of his nuances, although I think I would have a few words to say to him!
This series excites me, it is solid, well written, well plotted and imagined. What excites me the most is that this author brings something new to the crime and courtroom genre and that is why I will continue to read this series and am waiting patiently for another one.
If you enjoy crime books with a bit of originality then I think you would like this one.
Part thriller, part courtroom drama, Charles Holborne and this series hasn't lost it's spark for me. Charles Holborne is a bit of an enigma, his love life is a disaster and whilst making correct decisions in some areas, he makes completely silly ones in others. What remains true throughout is that he is one hell of a character and a top notch Criminal Barrister.
The setting remains the same, 1960's London, sleaze and scandal abound, seedy pubs and potentially corrupt police officers, gangsters and criminals. Even the notorious Kray twins feature amongst the plot.
I love the grit and the ease with which the author writes, creating scenes from a previous time, but managing to bring them to life like they were yesterday. The author manages to create scenarios for the reader so that it is easy to get swept up amongst all of the action, never sure which way the plot will turn next.
I particularly liked the court documents, transcripts and witness statements. These served to make the plot more realistic and created a way for the drama to unfold before the readers eyes.
I adore Charles Holborne for all of his nuances, although I think I would have a few words to say to him!
This series excites me, it is solid, well written, well plotted and imagined. What excites me the most is that this author brings something new to the crime and courtroom genre and that is why I will continue to read this series and am waiting patiently for another one.
If you enjoy crime books with a bit of originality then I think you would like this one.
August 9, 2016
I received this book from nudge-book.com in exchange for an honest review.
I really enjoyed this legal thriller from Simon Michael set in 1960s London. I haven't read any books in this genre before but as a fan of crime novels I thought I'd give it a go and have been very pleasantly surprised.
I've thoroughly enjoyed getting to know Charles Holborne the main character, a Jewish barrister created by the author who had his own brush with the law in the previous novel that I haven't read. At the start of the book his business was in dire straights and just as he is thinking of giving up he lands a very high profile case of a reputable solicitor's involvement in a gangland robbery. I was a bit concerned that I might have missed out because I hadn't read the first book but I needn't have worried as there was just enough back story to keep me informed of what had happened. It was very enjoyable going back in time to the early 1960s with references to the music and fashions peppered throughout which made feel like I was back in that era.
The plot based on a real case with authentic case notes really helped to bring this story to life.
The court scenes were well done and not at all dreary with some excellent descriptions of the proceedings. The tension built as the plot deepened and there were a few twists and turns that I definitely didn't see coming. I definitely recommend this to crime and legal thriller fans and really look to the next book to find out what happens to Charles. I think this could work well in a group setting discussing the historical setting and themes of corruption in both the police and the courts.
I really enjoyed this legal thriller from Simon Michael set in 1960s London. I haven't read any books in this genre before but as a fan of crime novels I thought I'd give it a go and have been very pleasantly surprised.
I've thoroughly enjoyed getting to know Charles Holborne the main character, a Jewish barrister created by the author who had his own brush with the law in the previous novel that I haven't read. At the start of the book his business was in dire straights and just as he is thinking of giving up he lands a very high profile case of a reputable solicitor's involvement in a gangland robbery. I was a bit concerned that I might have missed out because I hadn't read the first book but I needn't have worried as there was just enough back story to keep me informed of what had happened. It was very enjoyable going back in time to the early 1960s with references to the music and fashions peppered throughout which made feel like I was back in that era.
The plot based on a real case with authentic case notes really helped to bring this story to life.
The court scenes were well done and not at all dreary with some excellent descriptions of the proceedings. The tension built as the plot deepened and there were a few twists and turns that I definitely didn't see coming. I definitely recommend this to crime and legal thriller fans and really look to the next book to find out what happens to Charles. I think this could work well in a group setting discussing the historical setting and themes of corruption in both the police and the courts.
December 16, 2016
I was introduced to Simon Michael's books by the fabulous Matthew Smith of Urbane Publications, for which I will be eternally grateful. The Brief and An Honest Man are two books that I will not only recommend to everyone, but I will read again and again. If it's at all possible, I will probably enjoy them as much as, if not more than, the first time as I read them both so fast due to the inability to put them down. Many people have said that An Honest Man is better than The Brief. I couldn't possibly say that it's better, as I thought The Brief was just the most outstanding book I have read in a long time, but it's certainly on par with The Brief thanks to the fast pace, inclusion of genuine court documents and completely riveting storyline.
I love watching legal dramas and I would never have expected to get the same tension and sense of occasion in a novel, but Simon Michael has such a descriptive and dramatic style of writing that the reader gets a completely 3D experience. I visualised the courtroom with ease and I was so immersed in the story that I could have been a spectator in the public gallery or a member of the jury. I even kept convincing myself to read one more chapter by saying that I couldn't possibly put the book down as I was still in court.
The story, about those accused of being party to a diamond heist, is set in the 1960's and the sense of era is outstanding with mentions of The Krays, The Profumo Affair and even the legendary outside toilet. As with The Brief, a lot of the story is set in court but there are so many other strands of the story to follow, including picking up with Charles Holborne where The Brief left off. Charles thought all his drama was over but it's only just beginning!
There has been a recent Twitter promotion for a book with a #WTFthatending hashtag. An Honest Man could take a leaf out of that book with a hashtag of #OMGthatending as my jaw dropped, then my heart sank in despair as I realised that there were no more pages left to read. I was enjoying it so much that I didn't want it to finish and I'm absolutely bursting to read book 3.
I've read enough books to know when something special has come along, so take my word for it and pick up both of these books. You could of course read An Honest Man as a standalone novel but to fully appreciate the story and the history behind Charles Holborne, and simply because it's brilliant, you should read The Brief first. Once you've read Simon Michael's books, you'll never look at legal thrillers in the same light. The bar has indeed been raised and I don't think anyone will ever come close. Move aside John Grisham, there's a new lawyer in town.
I chose to read an ARC and this is my honest and unbiased opinion.
I love watching legal dramas and I would never have expected to get the same tension and sense of occasion in a novel, but Simon Michael has such a descriptive and dramatic style of writing that the reader gets a completely 3D experience. I visualised the courtroom with ease and I was so immersed in the story that I could have been a spectator in the public gallery or a member of the jury. I even kept convincing myself to read one more chapter by saying that I couldn't possibly put the book down as I was still in court.
The story, about those accused of being party to a diamond heist, is set in the 1960's and the sense of era is outstanding with mentions of The Krays, The Profumo Affair and even the legendary outside toilet. As with The Brief, a lot of the story is set in court but there are so many other strands of the story to follow, including picking up with Charles Holborne where The Brief left off. Charles thought all his drama was over but it's only just beginning!
There has been a recent Twitter promotion for a book with a #WTFthatending hashtag. An Honest Man could take a leaf out of that book with a hashtag of #OMGthatending as my jaw dropped, then my heart sank in despair as I realised that there were no more pages left to read. I was enjoying it so much that I didn't want it to finish and I'm absolutely bursting to read book 3.
I've read enough books to know when something special has come along, so take my word for it and pick up both of these books. You could of course read An Honest Man as a standalone novel but to fully appreciate the story and the history behind Charles Holborne, and simply because it's brilliant, you should read The Brief first. Once you've read Simon Michael's books, you'll never look at legal thrillers in the same light. The bar has indeed been raised and I don't think anyone will ever come close. Move aside John Grisham, there's a new lawyer in town.
I chose to read an ARC and this is my honest and unbiased opinion.
July 5, 2025
This was a hard book for me to rate. At first because it was kind of slow up to over 60% as well as not exciting so I was not anxious to pick it up. I have the feeling that if I had read the first book I might have felt quite different. As much as it is reported even though they are stories that centre around the same individual, that they can be read individually. I don't agree in this case. I strongly recommend you read book number one first. In it he is charged with murder and obviously is not convicted. I have to say that although this book did not really deserve a 4 star rating I gave it the same because of the quality of the writing. Also, for what I found a very slow book for 60 plus percent, it still made me continually return to the story and read the last 29% in one day. I am not good at reviewing the story line of books I read and prefer just to give it a thumbs up or down with a few reasons for same.
Maybe, because I was a policeman back in the ice age of the 60s for 5 years, and experienced court rooms, books like this interest me. This book could not have been more realistic for me, even though it occurred in London England where courts are much different than Canada. But a court room is a court room, especially when part of a novel as well written as this one is. Michael kept me thoroughly involved by the way Charles personal life was interwoven into the story. It added additional drama and reasons to read on with the addition of his lack of a partner most of the time. He does get lucky but there are inconveniences that crop up to make the relationship difficult for a man with his strict requirements for honesty. Read book number one first then this one and rest assured based on Michael's writing and the ratings for his novels they will all be worth reading.
Maybe, because I was a policeman back in the ice age of the 60s for 5 years, and experienced court rooms, books like this interest me. This book could not have been more realistic for me, even though it occurred in London England where courts are much different than Canada. But a court room is a court room, especially when part of a novel as well written as this one is. Michael kept me thoroughly involved by the way Charles personal life was interwoven into the story. It added additional drama and reasons to read on with the addition of his lack of a partner most of the time. He does get lucky but there are inconveniences that crop up to make the relationship difficult for a man with his strict requirements for honesty. Read book number one first then this one and rest assured based on Michael's writing and the ratings for his novels they will all be worth reading.
April 14, 2025
This is the second on the Charles Holborne series, set in London in the 1960s, a golden age for organized crime and political scandals. Holborne, né Horowitz, is a criminal law barrister who, despite his talent, has a tough time fitting in at the London bar. Chalk that up to his Jewishness and his upbringing in the East End. Marrying into money didn’t much help, especially after, in the first book, the wife is murdered and he’s accused of killing her. That first book is a sort of The Fugitive story, as he’s on the run and trying to find the real killer at the same time.
This second novel in the series is a well-executed courtroom thriller. While Charles has been cleared, he’s having a harder time than ever getting solicitors to refer cases to him. Many other lawyers whisper when he enters a room and shun him. Just as he’s ready to give up private practice, a friendly clerk at his old office gets cases referred to him, including a red-hot one. A well-known solicitor who has connections with the notorious Kray gangsters has been charged in connection with a diamond heist and has not only referred several cases to Charles, but asks him to represent him in his own case. Anyone would naturally think twice before getting anywhere close to the Krays, but Charles badly needs the money, especially when his father has a medical crisis.
I was riveted by the story, especially since it’s been quite a while since I read a good courtroom thriller. I’ll be keeping on with the series, which is currently up to nine titles.
This second novel in the series is a well-executed courtroom thriller. While Charles has been cleared, he’s having a harder time than ever getting solicitors to refer cases to him. Many other lawyers whisper when he enters a room and shun him. Just as he’s ready to give up private practice, a friendly clerk at his old office gets cases referred to him, including a red-hot one. A well-known solicitor who has connections with the notorious Kray gangsters has been charged in connection with a diamond heist and has not only referred several cases to Charles, but asks him to represent him in his own case. Anyone would naturally think twice before getting anywhere close to the Krays, but Charles badly needs the money, especially when his father has a medical crisis.
I was riveted by the story, especially since it’s been quite a while since I read a good courtroom thriller. I’ll be keeping on with the series, which is currently up to nine titles.
July 15, 2019
This is the second book in the series featuring Criminal Barrister, Charles Holborne.
Set in London of the 1960s, this book follows Charlie’s life after he is cleared of murdering his wife, when he tries to pick up his legal career.
He gets very few cases due to the gossip about him and he is seriously considering finding another job, just to pay the bills, when he mysteriously receives instructions to defend a solicitor accused of taking part in a diamond robbery.
Unfortunately the solicitor is someone who has defended villains in the past, including the Krays and Charles fears that he will be contaminated by helping him.
However, as he is broke he decides to take the case and after meeting his client he really likes him and puts his all into defending him and finding out the truth.
There is a lot going on which is complicated and the reader is not really sure whether Charles’s client is part of it, however much he claims he is innocent. The courtroom scenes are well described and compelling.
We also learn more about Charles’s background in this book, particularly his fraught relationship with his parents which becomes more difficult when his father is taken ill.
This is an enjoyable read which captivated me from the beginning. It was obviously written by someone who knows a lot about criminal law and East End villains.
I am now looking forward to reading the next book in the series.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publishers for my arc in exchange for an honest review.
Set in London of the 1960s, this book follows Charlie’s life after he is cleared of murdering his wife, when he tries to pick up his legal career.
He gets very few cases due to the gossip about him and he is seriously considering finding another job, just to pay the bills, when he mysteriously receives instructions to defend a solicitor accused of taking part in a diamond robbery.
Unfortunately the solicitor is someone who has defended villains in the past, including the Krays and Charles fears that he will be contaminated by helping him.
However, as he is broke he decides to take the case and after meeting his client he really likes him and puts his all into defending him and finding out the truth.
There is a lot going on which is complicated and the reader is not really sure whether Charles’s client is part of it, however much he claims he is innocent. The courtroom scenes are well described and compelling.
We also learn more about Charles’s background in this book, particularly his fraught relationship with his parents which becomes more difficult when his father is taken ill.
This is an enjoyable read which captivated me from the beginning. It was obviously written by someone who knows a lot about criminal law and East End villains.
I am now looking forward to reading the next book in the series.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publishers for my arc in exchange for an honest review.
November 12, 2022
( Format : Audiobook )
There's bound to be gossip."
Charles Holman's rising reputation as a criminal attorney had been destoyed when he was accused of the murder of his wife. Even after being found completely innocent, the work.no longer came in for him. Almost a year later and about to look for other work, he suddenly began to to receive new instructions, including one from a long established solicitor in which he had himself been indicted. At first reluctant to take the case, Charles was desperately in need of money and be liked the accused, Harry Robeson, believing he'd been wrongly accused just as he had been over the death of his wife.
Apparently based around true court cases from 1960's London, this is a fascinating series, well written with interesting characters and insights into the workings of the British law courts. It is also well performed by Colin Mace, his voice very pleasant to hear as well as offering a textured reading which keeps the reader's interest.
An Honest Man is the second in Simon Michael's Charles Holborne Legal series but can be read as a stand-alone. With the potential to continue, I really hope that more stories will be added soon. This book is currently available for free download with the Audible Plus programme.
There's bound to be gossip."
Charles Holman's rising reputation as a criminal attorney had been destoyed when he was accused of the murder of his wife. Even after being found completely innocent, the work.no longer came in for him. Almost a year later and about to look for other work, he suddenly began to to receive new instructions, including one from a long established solicitor in which he had himself been indicted. At first reluctant to take the case, Charles was desperately in need of money and be liked the accused, Harry Robeson, believing he'd been wrongly accused just as he had been over the death of his wife.
Apparently based around true court cases from 1960's London, this is a fascinating series, well written with interesting characters and insights into the workings of the British law courts. It is also well performed by Colin Mace, his voice very pleasant to hear as well as offering a textured reading which keeps the reader's interest.
An Honest Man is the second in Simon Michael's Charles Holborne Legal series but can be read as a stand-alone. With the potential to continue, I really hope that more stories will be added soon. This book is currently available for free download with the Audible Plus programme.
June 26, 2025
The courtroom scenes in this novel are superb as is the depiction of antisemitism. I’d give 5 stars for those aspects of the book. But the ending is unbelievable and ridiculous.
Charles is defending a gangster’s solicitor on the charge of helping the gangster get away with a theft of diamonds that turned violent. He’s convinced his client has been framed by a corrupt cop. At trial, Charles is winning. And at that point the solicitor admits to Charles that he actually did help the gangster despite previously claiming innocence. Why does he admit this at this point?I have no idea. Charles is so outraged he tells the judge he will no longer defend his client who then changes his plea to guilty. The weak reasons the author gives for this ludicrous scenario are unconvincing.
But not everything is bleak for Charles. He does get back together with his girlfriend, who is young enough to be his daughter, even though she’s the lawyer’s daughter and Charles thought, incorrectly, he was being played.
There were other difficulties with the book, but the ending was the main problem. I don’t intend to read this author again.
Charles is defending a gangster’s solicitor on the charge of helping the gangster get away with a theft of diamonds that turned violent. He’s convinced his client has been framed by a corrupt cop. At trial, Charles is winning. And at that point the solicitor admits to Charles that he actually did help the gangster despite previously claiming innocence. Why does he admit this at this point?I have no idea. Charles is so outraged he tells the judge he will no longer defend his client who then changes his plea to guilty. The weak reasons the author gives for this ludicrous scenario are unconvincing.
But not everything is bleak for Charles. He does get back together with his girlfriend, who is young enough to be his daughter, even though she’s the lawyer’s daughter and Charles thought, incorrectly, he was being played.
There were other difficulties with the book, but the ending was the main problem. I don’t intend to read this author again.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 16, 2018
A word of warning if you want to tackle this title or any others in the series, it's a good idea to brush up on the practice of jurisprudence in England before diving in. Luckily, I'm a fan of Law & Order: UK and have a pretty decent foundation of terminology and procedure. That really came in handy for book two of this series. Book one introduces us to Charles Holborne (née Horowitz), a London barrister who is suspected of murdering his wife. That story dealt mostly with the action (mystery) side of investigating a crime and the efforts to clear his name. An Honest Man takes us into the courtroom as we get to see Charles defending a "solicitor to villains" for conspiracy in a jewel heist. The majority of the story takes place during the trial and therefore lacks the suspense I enjoyed from the first one. I didn't find this one to be as exciting, but it was an enjoyable read.
May 14, 2024
It's taken me over a year to get round to reading this, the second book in the series, and I wish I'd read it sooner. I enjoyed it even more than the first book in the series. The focus this time is more on Charles the character rather than on Charles the man of action, and it works very well indeed. The courtroom scenes are authentic and gripping, as you might expect from a former barrister, but the key for me is the relationship between Charles and the bent solicitor he has as a client. In some respects, they are similar men, and they both come from a similar East End background, but Charles's integrity shines like a bright light in comparison with the life choices made by the man he is defending. The inclusion of the Kray twins works very well (in the first book I had wondered if it might be a gimmick), and although this book can very much be read on its own, the cliffhanger at the end has made me buy the third book in the series already.
June 23, 2025
Surprisingly good legal thriller
I got interested in “An honest man” because of the subject matter, location and time frame and as I read more, I got involved with the storyline in ways I didn’t expect.
I was a young boy in the 1960s and there were enough similarities between Charles Holborne, the barrister who is the main character, and people I could identify with. First, Holborne was born with the name Horowitz, which was my mother’s maiden name, and my early years were spent in Hendon, North West London, where Charles’ parents had moved from the East End.
The story itself, though not great literature, has many intriguing twists and turns, and tells a good tale about the police, the gangland criminals and the legal profession.
The centre of the action takes place in the courtroom of the Old Bailey, and the author provides fascinating details of the courtroom drama, much like the John Grisham legal thrillers, based in the American south.
A very enjoyable read.
I got interested in “An honest man” because of the subject matter, location and time frame and as I read more, I got involved with the storyline in ways I didn’t expect.
I was a young boy in the 1960s and there were enough similarities between Charles Holborne, the barrister who is the main character, and people I could identify with. First, Holborne was born with the name Horowitz, which was my mother’s maiden name, and my early years were spent in Hendon, North West London, where Charles’ parents had moved from the East End.
The story itself, though not great literature, has many intriguing twists and turns, and tells a good tale about the police, the gangland criminals and the legal profession.
The centre of the action takes place in the courtroom of the Old Bailey, and the author provides fascinating details of the courtroom drama, much like the John Grisham legal thrillers, based in the American south.
A very enjoyable read.
August 4, 2019
This was a thoroughly enjoyable insight into the British legal system. The only thing I found a little puzzling was that if you defended guilty clients, that made you a “bent” lawyer? So, everyone defends innocent only clients - or clients who profess their innocence only? Anyway, I digress. I so wished I had read the first book so I would know a little more about Charles because I liked his chart so much - but it is not necessary to have read it to follow this story. And such a good story it is - filled with gangsters from the sixties like the Krays, and your run of the mill tough guys. And great court scenes. I love this author’s writing and will pick up the first novel and I’m looking forward to the third. Definitely recommended.
Thanks to NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for an honest review
Thanks to NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for an honest review
August 28, 2018
Thoroughly enjoyable sequel to The Brief. Simon Michael draws on his experience in law to continue the complex life of protagonist Charles Holroyd. After being cleared of a murder charge the once high flying barrister has lost his successful career and faces bankruptcy.
He receives a surprising, challenging, and potentially lucrative brief which could make or break him. In the London of the sixties police corruption was rife and East End gangsters enjoyed power and respect. The Kray family appear as do many other characters who for older readers will evoke memories of the time. Both in and out of court this book has an authenticity which underpins an absorbing story packed with intriguing twists and turns,
He receives a surprising, challenging, and potentially lucrative brief which could make or break him. In the London of the sixties police corruption was rife and East End gangsters enjoyed power and respect. The Kray family appear as do many other characters who for older readers will evoke memories of the time. Both in and out of court this book has an authenticity which underpins an absorbing story packed with intriguing twists and turns,
August 11, 2019
I thoroughly enjoyed this legal thriller. It is the second in a series featuring barrister Charles Holborne, and I haven't read the first, but it didn't matter, as it's a stand-alone story. I was gripped from the beginning, and warmed to Charles immediately. I also enjoyed the setting; London in the early sixties is not an era I'm very familiar with, and it was interesting to get some insight into the time. The writing is clear and very easy to read: at one point I was worried that the legal briefs would be off-putting, but it wasn't the case at all, and I found the style very easy to read. I'll be looking out for the first in the series, as well as the next ones.
My thanks to Netgalley and the publisher, Sapere Books for the opportunity to read this book.
My thanks to Netgalley and the publisher, Sapere Books for the opportunity to read this book.
September 22, 2017
After reading The Brief I was so looking forward to An Honest Man and I must say I was not disappointed, the book follows neatly on from The Brief and I enjoyed this natural progression so I would recommend reading in the right order.
Charles Holborn is a complex character and in this book he finds himself even more ostracised than in his previous chambers with very bleak prospects for the future.
The receipt of the "brief of his life" changes all this in more ways than one and the ensuing trial at the Bailey is full of the atmosphere I felt when I attended the Richardson trials in 1967.
The brilliant ending comes as a pleasant surprise and I am now looking forward to The Lighterman.
Charles Holborn is a complex character and in this book he finds himself even more ostracised than in his previous chambers with very bleak prospects for the future.
The receipt of the "brief of his life" changes all this in more ways than one and the ensuing trial at the Bailey is full of the atmosphere I felt when I attended the Richardson trials in 1967.
The brilliant ending comes as a pleasant surprise and I am now looking forward to The Lighterman.
January 8, 2020
Having been cleared for the murder of his wife at the end of book 1, Charles still finds himself ostracized by his peer group at court and so making him financially vulnerable. He tries to hold onto his values however when he gets the chance to represent another lawyer (who has connections with the Krays), he has to take the case. We get a bit more insight into Charles in the book and what his background is. The story certainly highlights just how corrupt the Metropolitan Police Service was back then plus the age old prejudices within the law courts.
I enjoyed this one a lot more than the first - which was good - and look forward to the next in the series
I enjoyed this one a lot more than the first - which was good - and look forward to the next in the series
February 1, 2020
My thanks to NetGallery, the publisher and author for a copy of An Honest Man to read and review.
This is the second in the Charles Holborne series of legal mysteries taking place in London in the 1960's. This is a far more traditional legal thriller than the first, but is equally well written and entertaining. The inclusion of testimonial documents was a nice addition, and allowed some insights into the case that aren't normally available to a reader.
While I enjoyed this, it wasn't quite as solid as The Brief but I would still recommend it to those interested in British mysteries and the 1960's.
This is the second in the Charles Holborne series of legal mysteries taking place in London in the 1960's. This is a far more traditional legal thriller than the first, but is equally well written and entertaining. The inclusion of testimonial documents was a nice addition, and allowed some insights into the case that aren't normally available to a reader.
While I enjoyed this, it wasn't quite as solid as The Brief but I would still recommend it to those interested in British mysteries and the 1960's.
June 17, 2020
A great book!
I read this book in one sitting, following on from the first in the series. I'm a keen reader and it's rare I read one book at a time, always having at least three on the go, and switching between them depending on my mood. This book, though, gripped my attention throughout.
This genre is wholly new to me. I'm no stranger to crime fiction per se, loving James Lee Burke, Michael Connelly at al, but this courtroom side of the process is at least as fascinating and absorbing. The writing is pacey, credible and intelligent. Just about to download the next in the series so it'll be a late night for me!
I read this book in one sitting, following on from the first in the series. I'm a keen reader and it's rare I read one book at a time, always having at least three on the go, and switching between them depending on my mood. This book, though, gripped my attention throughout.
This genre is wholly new to me. I'm no stranger to crime fiction per se, loving James Lee Burke, Michael Connelly at al, but this courtroom side of the process is at least as fascinating and absorbing. The writing is pacey, credible and intelligent. Just about to download the next in the series so it'll be a late night for me!
November 17, 2019
Legal thriller extraordinaire
A thoroughly enjoyable read about the legal world in the London of the 1960s, with bent coppers, prejudiced people in the higher echelons of society and gangsters. These characters are interspersed believable throughout the tale and believable so. So believable is the tale and the characters you can almost hear the background noise without any soundtrack. No hesitation in recommending this book to anyone who yearns for a page turning good read
A thoroughly enjoyable read about the legal world in the London of the 1960s, with bent coppers, prejudiced people in the higher echelons of society and gangsters. These characters are interspersed believable throughout the tale and believable so. So believable is the tale and the characters you can almost hear the background noise without any soundtrack. No hesitation in recommending this book to anyone who yearns for a page turning good read
May 5, 2023
Enjoyable book. I think the first book was better, and whilst you could read this book as a stand alone, reading the first would give it more context. I felt like the connection with the characters wasn't there with this story compared to the first.
The ending was fairly obvious, and it wasn't rrly a gripping story line so this one more feels like a set up or in-between story line for the next book.
The ending was fairly obvious, and it wasn't rrly a gripping story line so this one more feels like a set up or in-between story line for the next book.
July 22, 2021
A brilliant read
This is a gritty court drama with great characters, fantastic plot and enough twists and turns to make it exciting and intriguing. I have already got the next one lined up to continue the saga. Interesting on the social history as well, makes you realise racism isn't new along with gang culture and violence!
This is a gritty court drama with great characters, fantastic plot and enough twists and turns to make it exciting and intriguing. I have already got the next one lined up to continue the saga. Interesting on the social history as well, makes you realise racism isn't new along with gang culture and violence!
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