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Degrees of Guilt
When you read this book, you will think you know every twist in the tale.
Maria is on trial for attempted murder.
She has confessed to the crime and wanted her husband dead.
Lottie is on the jury, trying to decide her fate.
She embarks on an illicit affair with a stranger, and her husband can never find out.
You will think you know who is guilty and who is innocent.
You will be wrong.
Maria is on trial for attempted murder.
She has confessed to the crime and wanted her husband dead.
Lottie is on the jury, trying to decide her fate.
She embarks on an illicit affair with a stranger, and her husband can never find out.
You will think you know who is guilty and who is innocent.
You will be wrong.
368 pages, Paperback
First published May 16, 2019
158 people are currently reading
3870 people want to read
About the author
H.S. Chandler
1 book107 followersA former barrister, HS Chandler practised for thirteen years in both family and criminal law. Having extensively prosecuted and defended, she is an avid believer in the right to a fair trial, and in the invaluable role that juries play in the British legal system.
(source: Amazon)
(source: Amazon)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 304 reviews
May 15, 2021
Wow! Wow! Wow! This might be one of the underrated, exhilarating, unputdowable, riveting, gripping, secret hidden gems waiting for to be discovered by a thriller addicts like me, why didn’t I keep waiting so long, bam bam bam(I’m slapping my head) so I’m sentencing myself to give this book all five million stars I carefully saved for the best ones!
H.S. Chandler surprises us, sucker punches us at the most unexpected moment, forces us question our ethical values, beliefs, dignities with a story told by three different POVs. ( Maria, Ruth, Lottie)
His knowledge and experience in law helped him to create most realistic, challenging, heart-felting court parts by capturing your mind, soul and make you take a seat next to the jurors and ask yourself who was really telling the truth. He shakes our shoulders to realize what the verbally, physically abuse destroys women’s lives, how they endured them and slowly lost their fight and willingness to survive each day because the things they’ve been suffering for so long became their new normal life!!!
\
At the opening we find ourselves at a crime scene. Maria calls the police and tells them she killed him. But as soon as the officers reach her house, they inform her that husband the dearest is violently injured but he is still alive!
Then we’re introduced to the jurors who are the decision makers about Maria’s fate. Lottie is one of the POVs of the story, stay at home mom, neglected by her husband who always puts his career at first. His condescending behavior around Lottie and treating her like she’s her personal maid more than a wife made me fantasize to punch his face to wipe the pretentious smile on his face!
Poor little Lottie! We have all the rights to be sorry for her, especially at the time her husband didn’t defend her against his cocky, spineless colleagues’ insulting comments. Another nail to his coffin!
But don’t worry too much for Lottie! HOT JUROR ALERT! Cameron, the flirtatious, charming, friendly juror seems like attracted to her. And she cannot resist his attraction. She was treated like as if she’s been a ghost for a long time. Now she’s back in the saddle again. But the ethical question comes: Is she ready to betray to her husband and risk everything in her life for just taking a break from her lonely, boring life?
Now let’s turn back to Maria. She already pleaded guilty. And the prosecutor brought her husband to the court for the jurors to take a better look what kind of damage she’s done to him. Well done prosecutor, that’s the definition of “Below under the belt!”
Now her brilliant husband is in vegetative state and his body turned into his own cage.
But then Maria started to tell her story at the court and admitted that her husband locked her in her house like a prisoner. Taking her all privileges, starting with taking out her car, deciding what she’s going to wear (He also decided what she had to use on her menstrual cycle by throwing away her tampons!!!), taking out her name from all the bank accounts. She doesn’t have a phone, any kind electronic device to connect with outside world. And this is just the beginning!!!
She admitted that HER HUSBAND DEAREST FORCED HER TO CUT HERSELF. Then HE SAT, WATCHED WHEN SHE WAS PERFORMING!
And her husband dearest FORCED HER ACT LIKE DEAD DURING THEIR INTERCOURSE!
I know the bastard got what he deserved! BUT the question is: “WAS MARIA TELLING THE TRUTH?” Partly! She is hiding something!
Don’t forget the third POV, Ruth, who was the only connection of Maria from her house-arrest times. (Maria told that she collected all the coins her husband left different parts of the house and bought a burner phone and dialed the help line to share her story with someone.) Ruth knew that
Maria was suffering. She needed help. Ruth already let her sister die for not acquiring the help she needed. But she thought she could help Maria.
So who’s telling the whole truth? What happened that night? Is Maria a victim or a sociopathic perpetrator? Did Lottie feel the connection between her and Maria? They were both neglected women. They had wasted potentials and they didn’t like the hand the life dealt to them.
Will those two women’s similarities save Maria from the jail sentence?
When you read this book, try to see between the lines and give your full concentration. Because every character lies on this book! There are so many twists are about to come!
Some parts will shake you to the core. Some parts will shock you! And the ending: I couldn’t imagine any better ending for this book!
WELL DONE H.S. Chandler. I raise my glass for you! Salute!
I couldn’t thank more to Trapeze and NetGalley for sending me this amazing book’s ARC COPY in exchange my honest review.
I’m gladly declare that This is the best legal thriller I’ve read on 2019!
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H.S. Chandler surprises us, sucker punches us at the most unexpected moment, forces us question our ethical values, beliefs, dignities with a story told by three different POVs. ( Maria, Ruth, Lottie)
His knowledge and experience in law helped him to create most realistic, challenging, heart-felting court parts by capturing your mind, soul and make you take a seat next to the jurors and ask yourself who was really telling the truth. He shakes our shoulders to realize what the verbally, physically abuse destroys women’s lives, how they endured them and slowly lost their fight and willingness to survive each day because the things they’ve been suffering for so long became their new normal life!!!
\
At the opening we find ourselves at a crime scene. Maria calls the police and tells them she killed him. But as soon as the officers reach her house, they inform her that husband the dearest is violently injured but he is still alive!
Then we’re introduced to the jurors who are the decision makers about Maria’s fate. Lottie is one of the POVs of the story, stay at home mom, neglected by her husband who always puts his career at first. His condescending behavior around Lottie and treating her like she’s her personal maid more than a wife made me fantasize to punch his face to wipe the pretentious smile on his face!
Poor little Lottie! We have all the rights to be sorry for her, especially at the time her husband didn’t defend her against his cocky, spineless colleagues’ insulting comments. Another nail to his coffin!
But don’t worry too much for Lottie! HOT JUROR ALERT! Cameron, the flirtatious, charming, friendly juror seems like attracted to her. And she cannot resist his attraction. She was treated like as if she’s been a ghost for a long time. Now she’s back in the saddle again. But the ethical question comes: Is she ready to betray to her husband and risk everything in her life for just taking a break from her lonely, boring life?
Now let’s turn back to Maria. She already pleaded guilty. And the prosecutor brought her husband to the court for the jurors to take a better look what kind of damage she’s done to him. Well done prosecutor, that’s the definition of “Below under the belt!”
Now her brilliant husband is in vegetative state and his body turned into his own cage.
But then Maria started to tell her story at the court and admitted that her husband locked her in her house like a prisoner. Taking her all privileges, starting with taking out her car, deciding what she’s going to wear (He also decided what she had to use on her menstrual cycle by throwing away her tampons!!!), taking out her name from all the bank accounts. She doesn’t have a phone, any kind electronic device to connect with outside world. And this is just the beginning!!!
She admitted that HER HUSBAND DEAREST FORCED HER TO CUT HERSELF. Then HE SAT, WATCHED WHEN SHE WAS PERFORMING!
And her husband dearest FORCED HER ACT LIKE DEAD DURING THEIR INTERCOURSE!
I know the bastard got what he deserved! BUT the question is: “WAS MARIA TELLING THE TRUTH?” Partly! She is hiding something!
Don’t forget the third POV, Ruth, who was the only connection of Maria from her house-arrest times. (Maria told that she collected all the coins her husband left different parts of the house and bought a burner phone and dialed the help line to share her story with someone.) Ruth knew that
Maria was suffering. She needed help. Ruth already let her sister die for not acquiring the help she needed. But she thought she could help Maria.
So who’s telling the whole truth? What happened that night? Is Maria a victim or a sociopathic perpetrator? Did Lottie feel the connection between her and Maria? They were both neglected women. They had wasted potentials and they didn’t like the hand the life dealt to them.
Will those two women’s similarities save Maria from the jail sentence?
When you read this book, try to see between the lines and give your full concentration. Because every character lies on this book! There are so many twists are about to come!
Some parts will shake you to the core. Some parts will shock you! And the ending: I couldn’t imagine any better ending for this book!
WELL DONE H.S. Chandler. I raise my glass for you! Salute!
I couldn’t thank more to Trapeze and NetGalley for sending me this amazing book’s ARC COPY in exchange my honest review.
I’m gladly declare that This is the best legal thriller I’ve read on 2019!
blog
September 5, 2019
4.5*
A new voice in the thriller genre!!
Maria is set to stand trial after a vicious attack on her husband. She’s admitted to the attack, even going so far as reporting it to the police and confessing. Surely there’s more to the story.
Bailiff, bring in the jury....
No one wants jury duty! But when it comes knocking, hopefully we all show up to do our duty. Begrudgingly perhaps, but necessary…for some more than others. Pathetic excuses are creatively concocted, as certain potential jurors hope to be released!
Yet strangely, for one jury member, this may her ticket to explore the world she so desperately misses.
Lottie feels her life has lost the shine and passion it once had. Married with a young son, she no longer works outside the house, rarely seeing her friends. Maybe this is just what the doctor ordered…an opportunity to step outside her comfort zone and recapture a bit of her ‘old self’.
Let justice prevail....
After a bit of a slow start, the characters really starting coming to life and I was all in! The courtroom drama had me intrigued as the lawyers laid out their strategies.
When Maria takes the stand it’s as though you’re seated beside her in the courtroom. Subconsciously holding your breath, waiting for her to tell her story.
A rare, up-close look inside the jury room, as sides are formed. Watching those with stronger personalities prevail. What exactly goes on behind those closed doors?
HS Chandler writes a suspenseful and unputdownable psychological thriller. Did I mention this is a debut!?
Thank you to NetGalley, Orion Publishing Group - Trapeze and HS Chandler for an ARC to read and review.
A new voice in the thriller genre!!
Maria is set to stand trial after a vicious attack on her husband. She’s admitted to the attack, even going so far as reporting it to the police and confessing. Surely there’s more to the story.
Bailiff, bring in the jury....
No one wants jury duty! But when it comes knocking, hopefully we all show up to do our duty. Begrudgingly perhaps, but necessary…for some more than others. Pathetic excuses are creatively concocted, as certain potential jurors hope to be released!
Yet strangely, for one jury member, this may her ticket to explore the world she so desperately misses.
Lottie feels her life has lost the shine and passion it once had. Married with a young son, she no longer works outside the house, rarely seeing her friends. Maybe this is just what the doctor ordered…an opportunity to step outside her comfort zone and recapture a bit of her ‘old self’.
Let justice prevail....
After a bit of a slow start, the characters really starting coming to life and I was all in! The courtroom drama had me intrigued as the lawyers laid out their strategies.
When Maria takes the stand it’s as though you’re seated beside her in the courtroom. Subconsciously holding your breath, waiting for her to tell her story.
A rare, up-close look inside the jury room, as sides are formed. Watching those with stronger personalities prevail. What exactly goes on behind those closed doors?
HS Chandler writes a suspenseful and unputdownable psychological thriller. Did I mention this is a debut!?
Thank you to NetGalley, Orion Publishing Group - Trapeze and HS Chandler for an ARC to read and review.
May 13, 2019
Let me just start by saying that I'm not sure if this was a case of a right book at the right time or if it was something I was in the mood for that I didn't even realize I needed. All I know is that I loved this book. I was completely captivated by this court room drama from first page until last.
The problem is that I can't really say much about it because this book relies heavily on secrets, lies and slow revelations and as you read you are constantly trying to figure out who and what to believe. This is one of those books that when I put it down I was constantly thinking about it.
We have Maria who is on trial for nearly killing her husband and leaving him in a vegetative state but the problem is she has willingly admitted to doing it even calling 911 herself. We unravel their history to see what exactly would cause such rot and decay in a marriage that would lead to attempted murder. Then we have Lottie, a stay at home (bored) housewife, who serves on the jury and begins an illicit affair with fellow juror, Cameron, and that is all I'm willing to say. Trust me, this one is worth reading to find out all the other juicy details. ALL THE STARS!
"Is he breathing? the operator asked. "I split his head open," Maria replied. "So no."
Thank you to NetGalley and Orion Publishing Group for providing me with a digital ARC in exchange for my honest review.
The problem is that I can't really say much about it because this book relies heavily on secrets, lies and slow revelations and as you read you are constantly trying to figure out who and what to believe. This is one of those books that when I put it down I was constantly thinking about it.
We have Maria who is on trial for nearly killing her husband and leaving him in a vegetative state but the problem is she has willingly admitted to doing it even calling 911 herself. We unravel their history to see what exactly would cause such rot and decay in a marriage that would lead to attempted murder. Then we have Lottie, a stay at home (bored) housewife, who serves on the jury and begins an illicit affair with fellow juror, Cameron, and that is all I'm willing to say. Trust me, this one is worth reading to find out all the other juicy details. ALL THE STARS!
"Is he breathing? the operator asked. "I split his head open," Maria replied. "So no."
Thank you to NetGalley and Orion Publishing Group for providing me with a digital ARC in exchange for my honest review.
April 27, 2019
This is the riveting debut psychological thriller from HS Chandler, an author with a background in law that informs the courtroom drama that unfolds, although liberties are taken that deviate from standard law practices. It is a highly pertinent read in our contemporary world of #MeToo, crawling beneath the surface of ostensibly normal marriages and relationships, to lay bare the murky darkness that lies underneath. The narrative revolves around the working group dynamics of a serving jury on the Bristol trial of Maria Bloxham, married for 18 years to the celebrated Dr Edward Bloxham, charged with the attempted murder of her husband.
Making life changing judgements, the slippery nature of legal justice, and the problematic process of arriving at a decision on whether to convict or not, the entire process is mired by human nature and frailties, and the relationships that develop within the jury. People are not always what they appear to be at first, and ambitious barristers are intent on winning, which drives how they conduct themselves and the interpretations they cast on the evidence presented. As Lottie Hiraj, a juror, is to discover, it is very easy to make errors of judgement about people that can have catastrophic consequences, providing parallels with the circumstances in which Maria found herself as she married Edward. Lottie is married to Zain, a stay at home mother to their young son, Daniyal. Her marriage has become lacklustre and stale, her life humdrum, and she is feeling underappreciated, so the attentions of an attractive fellow juror has her leaping headlong into an exciting and illicit affair. Maria makes no attempt to hide her hatred of Edward, taking obvious comfort from the fact that he will never be able to live a normal life again. As the story unfolds, it seems clear that the odds are stacked against Maria, the prosecution have all the cards and the evidence appears to be incontrovertible, and Maria's claim of self defence has no evidence to support it, there is only her word. Can the jury trust her? Will justice prevail?
Chandler writes a twisted and compulsive story, full of suspense and tension, which appears to be heading in a clear direction, only to shift and change, time and time again. The character of Maria showcases just how women can find themselves in abusive relationships and marriages, but is she telling the whole truth? Could she be a heartless manipulator? Lottie comes to eventually understand how a woman can find herself unable to leave a abusive relationship, but do these eye opening insights come at too heavy a cost? This is a fantastic and thrilling read, where no-one and nothing is as it seems. Highly recommended! Many thanks to Orion for an ARC.
Making life changing judgements, the slippery nature of legal justice, and the problematic process of arriving at a decision on whether to convict or not, the entire process is mired by human nature and frailties, and the relationships that develop within the jury. People are not always what they appear to be at first, and ambitious barristers are intent on winning, which drives how they conduct themselves and the interpretations they cast on the evidence presented. As Lottie Hiraj, a juror, is to discover, it is very easy to make errors of judgement about people that can have catastrophic consequences, providing parallels with the circumstances in which Maria found herself as she married Edward. Lottie is married to Zain, a stay at home mother to their young son, Daniyal. Her marriage has become lacklustre and stale, her life humdrum, and she is feeling underappreciated, so the attentions of an attractive fellow juror has her leaping headlong into an exciting and illicit affair. Maria makes no attempt to hide her hatred of Edward, taking obvious comfort from the fact that he will never be able to live a normal life again. As the story unfolds, it seems clear that the odds are stacked against Maria, the prosecution have all the cards and the evidence appears to be incontrovertible, and Maria's claim of self defence has no evidence to support it, there is only her word. Can the jury trust her? Will justice prevail?
Chandler writes a twisted and compulsive story, full of suspense and tension, which appears to be heading in a clear direction, only to shift and change, time and time again. The character of Maria showcases just how women can find themselves in abusive relationships and marriages, but is she telling the whole truth? Could she be a heartless manipulator? Lottie comes to eventually understand how a woman can find herself unable to leave a abusive relationship, but do these eye opening insights come at too heavy a cost? This is a fantastic and thrilling read, where no-one and nothing is as it seems. Highly recommended! Many thanks to Orion for an ARC.
June 4, 2019
Degrees of Guilt had me hooked from the very beginning of the book. How could it not when it starts with a husband on the floor of his kitchen, with his head cracked open, brains oozing out. His wife was standing above him, holding a bloody table leg, hair embedded in the blood, glad that her husband was dead. Maria then calls 999 to report that she killed her husband. Maria was terribly abused, in so many ways and she had been at the end of her rope, ready to give up, until this moment.
Much to Maria's dismay, her husband wasn't dead although it wasn't possible to say if he even knew he was alive. Maria is on trial for the attempted murder of her husband and we join the court proceedings as the twelve jurors are sworn in. We meet Lottie, whose point of view we follow, along with Marie's. throughout the rest of the book. Lottie is a twenty seven year old housewife and mother, very bored and jaded about her life and her self worth. She had been used to gliding through life, being noticed for her looks and body and now she was feeling that no one noticed her, that she was doomed to motherhood and housework, never to enjoy life again.
Another juror, Cameron, is a good looking, fit, macho guy, not much older than Lottie and it doesn't take long for him to show interest in her and Lottie is thrilled to be noticed again, knowing she should ignore Cameron but even more, wanting to feel young and special again. Tabitha is the jury foreman and most of the older members of the pool hang around with her and seem to plan to vote as she votes so Lottie and Cameron call them "The Tabithas". Trying not to get kicked off the jury is a challenge with Cameron being none to subtle with his flirting and groping of Lottie, while Lottie also has to deal with the guilt she feels for betraying her husband.
I enjoy court room drama as we get to learn why Maria wanted her publicly respected and lauded husband dead. Behind closed doors her husband was vile, cruel, abusive, a monster but the prosecutor has her claws in Maria and isn't about to let her get away with the murder. There are several twists, turns and surprises to the very end.
Thank you to Orion Publishing Group and NetGalley for this ARC.
Much to Maria's dismay, her husband wasn't dead although it wasn't possible to say if he even knew he was alive. Maria is on trial for the attempted murder of her husband and we join the court proceedings as the twelve jurors are sworn in. We meet Lottie, whose point of view we follow, along with Marie's. throughout the rest of the book. Lottie is a twenty seven year old housewife and mother, very bored and jaded about her life and her self worth. She had been used to gliding through life, being noticed for her looks and body and now she was feeling that no one noticed her, that she was doomed to motherhood and housework, never to enjoy life again.
Another juror, Cameron, is a good looking, fit, macho guy, not much older than Lottie and it doesn't take long for him to show interest in her and Lottie is thrilled to be noticed again, knowing she should ignore Cameron but even more, wanting to feel young and special again. Tabitha is the jury foreman and most of the older members of the pool hang around with her and seem to plan to vote as she votes so Lottie and Cameron call them "The Tabithas". Trying not to get kicked off the jury is a challenge with Cameron being none to subtle with his flirting and groping of Lottie, while Lottie also has to deal with the guilt she feels for betraying her husband.
I enjoy court room drama as we get to learn why Maria wanted her publicly respected and lauded husband dead. Behind closed doors her husband was vile, cruel, abusive, a monster but the prosecutor has her claws in Maria and isn't about to let her get away with the murder. There are several twists, turns and surprises to the very end.
Thank you to Orion Publishing Group and NetGalley for this ARC.
August 22, 2019
This debut legal thriller deserves more than 5 ⭐️’s!
Just as the book blurb stated, I thought I knew what was going to happen. I was wrong! Even if I’d been correct, it would have been an interesting read. But wow, with all the unpredicted twists, it was amazing.
I enjoyed every page of this courtroom drama! A gruesome murder at the start pulled me right in...except it wasn’t a murder. Maria is calm when she calls emergency services after bashing in the head of her husband—Edward—with a chair leg. She tells them that she’s just killed her husband. But she learns he’s still alive. Now...Maria is on trial for attempted murder.
Lottie is on the jury, against her husband’s wishes. She’s a housewife with a 3-year-old son she adores. She spends her days cooking, cleaning and being the perfect wife to her husband—Zain. She’s excited to get a time-out from her predictable and mundane life.
Cameron is another member of the jury. He’s good-looking, charming and exciting. And he’s showering Lottie with attention, something her husband no longer has time for. It doesn’t take long before their innocent flirtations turn into more. Lottie crossed a line she never dreamed she was capable of and now she needs it to end before her husband finds out.
One of the things that made this book so riveting, was that it was horrifyingly believable. It’s terrifying to think a man can be so charming and normal to the outside world, and an actual monster capable of such mental and psychological abuse in private, if Maria’s claims are true.
I highly recommend this suspenseful thriller, but beware
of sensitive content!
My Rating: 5 ⭐️’s
Published: May 16th 2019 by Trapeze
Pages: 368
Recommend: YES!
Thank you to NetGalley / Trapeze and H.S. Chandler for a copy of this digital ARC, in exchange for my honest review!
#DegreesOfGuilt #NetGalley
Just as the book blurb stated, I thought I knew what was going to happen. I was wrong! Even if I’d been correct, it would have been an interesting read. But wow, with all the unpredicted twists, it was amazing.
I enjoyed every page of this courtroom drama! A gruesome murder at the start pulled me right in...except it wasn’t a murder. Maria is calm when she calls emergency services after bashing in the head of her husband—Edward—with a chair leg. She tells them that she’s just killed her husband. But she learns he’s still alive. Now...Maria is on trial for attempted murder.
Lottie is on the jury, against her husband’s wishes. She’s a housewife with a 3-year-old son she adores. She spends her days cooking, cleaning and being the perfect wife to her husband—Zain. She’s excited to get a time-out from her predictable and mundane life.
Cameron is another member of the jury. He’s good-looking, charming and exciting. And he’s showering Lottie with attention, something her husband no longer has time for. It doesn’t take long before their innocent flirtations turn into more. Lottie crossed a line she never dreamed she was capable of and now she needs it to end before her husband finds out.
One of the things that made this book so riveting, was that it was horrifyingly believable. It’s terrifying to think a man can be so charming and normal to the outside world, and an actual monster capable of such mental and psychological abuse in private, if Maria’s claims are true.
I highly recommend this suspenseful thriller, but beware
of sensitive content!
My Rating: 5 ⭐️’s
Published: May 16th 2019 by Trapeze
Pages: 368
Recommend: YES!
Thank you to NetGalley / Trapeze and H.S. Chandler for a copy of this digital ARC, in exchange for my honest review!
#DegreesOfGuilt #NetGalley
February 25, 2020
4.5 stars — I read “Degrees of Guilt” by HS Chandler after reading a good review of it on Goodreads. I have to say it was as good as advertised. The book was very fast paced and once I got into it, I couldn’t put it down. The book tells the story of Lottie, who is picked for jury duty in a high profile murder case. She is trapped in a marriage with a controlling husband and does not work outside of the home so she welcomes this opportunity to serve. The author does a great job of packing the jury with some unusual characters, and Lottie soon finds herself wrapped up in a “personal situation” outside of just reaching a verdict. The book had many twists and turns, and the courtroom scenes and the dialogue was very well done. The book could best be described as a courtroom version of “Verity” by Colleen Hoover. It was very well written, fast paced, and heavy on the well detailed love scenes. I am definitely a fan of Ms. Chandler and highly recommend this book if you are looking for something different that will keep you guessing until the end.
February 24, 2020
Finally!!
I have been on a “thriller slump” with only one out of my last SEVEN thrillers earning a full 4 stars, and the others earning less.
This was the first thriller in awhile that I COULD NOT WAIT to get back to reading, every chance I got.
Mrs. Bloxham is on trial for attempted murder. She has not pled “guilty” even though she calmly called the police and confessed to the crime. She is hoping that a “jury of her peers” will acquit her.
Lottie has lost her self confidence, and now finds herself on the jury. She finds herself tempted to have an affair with a fellow juror, who is making her feel like more than a “wife and mum” for the first time in awhile.
She wonders “ how she could possibly be expected to decide something as critical as whether or not the defendant was guilty, and which mistake was worse- setting a guilty person free, or wrongly condemning an innocent one to prison?”
The story will be told from Maria Bloxham’s viewpoint, and from Lottie’s experience of spending twelve days as a juror, attending court and through deliberations.
If you enjoy Legal Thrillers or Mystery Thrillers, do yourself a favor and ADD this to your TBR list!!
I would like to thank Netgalley, Orion Publishing Group-Trapeze and HS Chandler for providing a digital ARC in exchange for a candid review!
I have been on a “thriller slump” with only one out of my last SEVEN thrillers earning a full 4 stars, and the others earning less.
This was the first thriller in awhile that I COULD NOT WAIT to get back to reading, every chance I got.
Mrs. Bloxham is on trial for attempted murder. She has not pled “guilty” even though she calmly called the police and confessed to the crime. She is hoping that a “jury of her peers” will acquit her.
Lottie has lost her self confidence, and now finds herself on the jury. She finds herself tempted to have an affair with a fellow juror, who is making her feel like more than a “wife and mum” for the first time in awhile.
She wonders “ how she could possibly be expected to decide something as critical as whether or not the defendant was guilty, and which mistake was worse- setting a guilty person free, or wrongly condemning an innocent one to prison?”
The story will be told from Maria Bloxham’s viewpoint, and from Lottie’s experience of spending twelve days as a juror, attending court and through deliberations.
If you enjoy Legal Thrillers or Mystery Thrillers, do yourself a favor and ADD this to your TBR list!!
I would like to thank Netgalley, Orion Publishing Group-Trapeze and HS Chandler for providing a digital ARC in exchange for a candid review!
December 16, 2021
“This is how coercive control works. It’s slow, incremental. It plays to the parts of its victims that lack confidence and it steals their voice.” But what mistake would be worse “setting a guilty person free, or wrongly condemning an innocent one to prison?”
The Plot (you can skip if you have already read the book)
With the chilling opening of a 999 call and an admittance of guilt by Maria Bloxham as she stands over the bleeding body of her husband suffering blunt trauma to the head, you know you are in for a gripping psychological thriller. You also know the story and the outcome will not be black and white and an easy case for the prosecution. But nothing is ever as it seems and with time spent in selecting and impanelling the 12 jurors, you know the jury are about to play a part too. Two in particular, Lottie and hottie tottie Cameron.
As Lottie hears of the years of abuse Maria suffered at the hands of her controlling and abusive husband, the evidence and all the details of Maria’s life, the behaviours start to resonate with her own life
‘It’s tiny things to start with. Stuff you don’t recognise as controlling but it’s there, wrapped up as compliments and polite suggestions. Before you know it, you’ve made changes you never anticipated, and all the time you tell yourself it’s because you love him” until “…you are rendered useless and indecisive”.
It is at this point that Lottie succumbs to the persistent charms of Cameron, a man with his own agenda. However, the brief affair whilst forbidden, precarious and sensual provides Lottie with much needed excitement in her life. But wrong? Yes, on many levels, which Lottie will find out in due course.
Review and Comments
The thrill was thrilling, the excitement exciting, and the tension palatable as the jury reflect on the case whilst on the outside of the court room, lives are at risk and secrets are revealed. Initially I thought the plot was a connection between Maria and one of the jurors, namely Cameron but I am glad to say that was not the case. The twist is much better and less predictable which I loved as the lives of Maria and Lottie become entwined in a way neither woman would have expected.
The 12 jurors made for an interesting set of characters as positions and verdicts were discussed, but the characters of the three main people in the book, for obvious reasons, were the most developed so you could connect more to their story. As far as court room dramas go, the aggressive questioning and case of the prosecution was very revealing and one of the most authentic cases I have read about in a fiction novel.
The book dealt with the themes of domestic abuse, self-harm, ambition, marital affairs, and attempted murder, so sensitively whilst at the same time being immensely thought provoking, disturbing but realistic.
An excellent book, well written with great pace. I would highly recommend this great debut novel.
The Plot (you can skip if you have already read the book)
With the chilling opening of a 999 call and an admittance of guilt by Maria Bloxham as she stands over the bleeding body of her husband suffering blunt trauma to the head, you know you are in for a gripping psychological thriller. You also know the story and the outcome will not be black and white and an easy case for the prosecution. But nothing is ever as it seems and with time spent in selecting and impanelling the 12 jurors, you know the jury are about to play a part too. Two in particular, Lottie and hottie tottie Cameron.
As Lottie hears of the years of abuse Maria suffered at the hands of her controlling and abusive husband, the evidence and all the details of Maria’s life, the behaviours start to resonate with her own life
‘It’s tiny things to start with. Stuff you don’t recognise as controlling but it’s there, wrapped up as compliments and polite suggestions. Before you know it, you’ve made changes you never anticipated, and all the time you tell yourself it’s because you love him” until “…you are rendered useless and indecisive”.
It is at this point that Lottie succumbs to the persistent charms of Cameron, a man with his own agenda. However, the brief affair whilst forbidden, precarious and sensual provides Lottie with much needed excitement in her life. But wrong? Yes, on many levels, which Lottie will find out in due course.
Review and Comments
The thrill was thrilling, the excitement exciting, and the tension palatable as the jury reflect on the case whilst on the outside of the court room, lives are at risk and secrets are revealed. Initially I thought the plot was a connection between Maria and one of the jurors, namely Cameron but I am glad to say that was not the case. The twist is much better and less predictable which I loved as the lives of Maria and Lottie become entwined in a way neither woman would have expected.
The 12 jurors made for an interesting set of characters as positions and verdicts were discussed, but the characters of the three main people in the book, for obvious reasons, were the most developed so you could connect more to their story. As far as court room dramas go, the aggressive questioning and case of the prosecution was very revealing and one of the most authentic cases I have read about in a fiction novel.
The book dealt with the themes of domestic abuse, self-harm, ambition, marital affairs, and attempted murder, so sensitively whilst at the same time being immensely thought provoking, disturbing but realistic.
An excellent book, well written with great pace. I would highly recommend this great debut novel.
May 18, 2019
Wow! What a page turner. Great courtroom drama with twists and turns, very well-developed characters and good writing. Till the end I wasn’t sure what to think and then big shocker. I had goosebumps when I read some of the descriptions. Loved it. I will absolutely read more books by HS Chandler.
Thank you to NetGalley, Orion Publishing Group and Trapeze for a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you to NetGalley, Orion Publishing Group and Trapeze for a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
April 5, 2020
I normally love courtroom dramas, and I'm not entirely certain I can explain why this one didn't do it for me. But, man, it really didn't.
I started this book on March 2nd. It took me nearly 2 weeks to finish. That's never a good sign. It was just so effing slooooooow. A witness would be questioned for 15 minutes, then the jurors would be dismissed for the day so the lawyers could do something lawyer-ly, while Lottie whined about her life.
And then I figured out the ending.
So yea. Blah.
2.5 stars rounded up, I guess.
I started this book on March 2nd. It took me nearly 2 weeks to finish. That's never a good sign. It was just so effing slooooooow. A witness would be questioned for 15 minutes, then the jurors would be dismissed for the day so the lawyers could do something lawyer-ly, while Lottie whined about her life.
And then I figured out the ending.
So yea. Blah.
2.5 stars rounded up, I guess.
May 30, 2020
Seeking another thrilling read, I turned to this piece of courtroom drama, where the case may not be what it seems, though neither are those who are adjudicating it. Maria Bloxham stands over her husband, whose skull has just been bashed in. As blood and brain matter flow onto the floor, she casually calls the police to report the incident. When they arrive, she does not deny what’s happened and makes no attempt to conceal her actions. When she learns that her husband is clinging to life, she loses her calm demeanour and pleads not guilty to the crime of attempted murder. With a trial set to begin, twelve jurors must be chosen to decide her fate, including Lottie, who has been told by her husband to find a way out of serving. Lottie is unable to do so and finds herself impaneled on the jury, ready to hear that case of the Crown vs. Bloxham. While the case progresses and the court hears of the emotional and psychological abuse Maria suffered at the hands of her husband, Lottie finds herself getting closer to one of her fellow jurors, Cameron. What begins as a simple chinwag over coffee one morning soon moves into a full-on affair, as sexual tensions mount. Lottie knows that her husband is distant and she relishes the time away from her son, but has she completely lost her morals? With some on the jury already deciding how they will vote, the mood in the jury room mounts as Lottie and Cameron continue hearing the evidence and hide their indiscretions. When the case moves into jury deliberations, something changes and Cameron makes a demand of Lottie that even she could not have foreseen. The freedom of Maria Bloxham hangs in the balance, but Lottie must also think of her own family, as well as a man she thought she knew and might even love. Chandler tells a riveting tale where guilt is present throughout, though its justification will depend on how the beholder chooses to synthesise it. A legal thriller that will leave the reader in the judgment seat. Recommended to those who love a courtroom drama that extends outside of where testimony is heard, as well as those readers who enjoy being judge and jury (though not executioner) in a modern story.
I learned of this novel by reading some of the author’s other work. HS Chandler is a popular author whose police procedurals keep my mind racing on a regular basis. In this piece, Chandler tells two parallel stories of women who seem out of their element and whose lives are controlled by men. Maria Bloxham’s life has been controlled by a man who used psychological and emotional abuse without laying a hand on her. However, has it been enough to convince the jury that her actions were those of self-defence? Meanwhile, Lottie sits on the jury to decide the fate of this woman, while finding herself in a marriage she finds less than exciting and in an sordid affair with another man who seems to be stealing all her self-control slowly, but surely. As the reader learns about both women, they can judge how justified both Lottie and Maria were in their respective situations. Other characters serve to complement these two in a courtroom thriller that moves through the various settings needed to tell the entire tale. Chandler works the angles well and keeps the reader wanting to know a little more throughout the entire two weeks the case is active. The story is strong and pulls the reader in from the outset, forcing them to pay attention so as not to miss any of the evidence that is presented. Lottie and Maria may differ greatly, but their similarities will emerge as the twists mount in this must-read novel. Proof that HS Chandler, no matter what name under which she writes, is a force to be reckoned with in the genre.
Kudos, Madam Chandler, for another stunning piece. Keep them coming and you will have a fan in me!
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/...
I learned of this novel by reading some of the author’s other work. HS Chandler is a popular author whose police procedurals keep my mind racing on a regular basis. In this piece, Chandler tells two parallel stories of women who seem out of their element and whose lives are controlled by men. Maria Bloxham’s life has been controlled by a man who used psychological and emotional abuse without laying a hand on her. However, has it been enough to convince the jury that her actions were those of self-defence? Meanwhile, Lottie sits on the jury to decide the fate of this woman, while finding herself in a marriage she finds less than exciting and in an sordid affair with another man who seems to be stealing all her self-control slowly, but surely. As the reader learns about both women, they can judge how justified both Lottie and Maria were in their respective situations. Other characters serve to complement these two in a courtroom thriller that moves through the various settings needed to tell the entire tale. Chandler works the angles well and keeps the reader wanting to know a little more throughout the entire two weeks the case is active. The story is strong and pulls the reader in from the outset, forcing them to pay attention so as not to miss any of the evidence that is presented. Lottie and Maria may differ greatly, but their similarities will emerge as the twists mount in this must-read novel. Proof that HS Chandler, no matter what name under which she writes, is a force to be reckoned with in the genre.
Kudos, Madam Chandler, for another stunning piece. Keep them coming and you will have a fan in me!
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/...
September 14, 2019
5☆ An Authentic and Enthralling Legal Thriller.
I haven't quiet read anything like this one before it really gripped me, a thoroughly enthralling page Turner!
Maria has admitted trying to kill her overbearing, manipulative, abusive, bully of a husband and now is about to stand trial for attempting to murder him.
But did she really do it?
I mean if she admitted it she must of done right?
Well who am I to judge, I'm not the jury!
But Lottie is! And Maria's fate lies in her hands alongside the rest of the jury.
But what is the truth?
Are things quiet What they seem?
This book will get under your skin, the court room drama is simply riveting, enthralling and Suspensful as the plot thickens and the truth begins unravelling!
But just when I thought I worked things out something else popped up. Fantastic twists!
The characters are superbly written, very flawed and believable, they will get under your skin!
The slower pace to this book is perfect as it creates so much tension and Suspense.
Be prepared for so many secrets, lies, a sizzling affair, betrayal, abuse, violence and a riveting court room battle, once you start reading Degrees of Guilt you won't be able to put it down!
Thank you to Tracy at Compulsive Readers Tours and Trapeze Books for this copy which I reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
My Review is also on my Blog Website:-
https://dashfan81.blogspot.com/2019/0...
I haven't quiet read anything like this one before it really gripped me, a thoroughly enthralling page Turner!
Maria has admitted trying to kill her overbearing, manipulative, abusive, bully of a husband and now is about to stand trial for attempting to murder him.
But did she really do it?
I mean if she admitted it she must of done right?
Well who am I to judge, I'm not the jury!
But Lottie is! And Maria's fate lies in her hands alongside the rest of the jury.
But what is the truth?
Are things quiet What they seem?
This book will get under your skin, the court room drama is simply riveting, enthralling and Suspensful as the plot thickens and the truth begins unravelling!
But just when I thought I worked things out something else popped up. Fantastic twists!
The characters are superbly written, very flawed and believable, they will get under your skin!
The slower pace to this book is perfect as it creates so much tension and Suspense.
Be prepared for so many secrets, lies, a sizzling affair, betrayal, abuse, violence and a riveting court room battle, once you start reading Degrees of Guilt you won't be able to put it down!
Thank you to Tracy at Compulsive Readers Tours and Trapeze Books for this copy which I reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
My Review is also on my Blog Website:-
https://dashfan81.blogspot.com/2019/0...
February 28, 2019
I really really loved this book, a right old proper page turner that not only deals with some currently relevant and emotional topics but was also genuinely unpredictable- a novel in which almost any outcome would be surprising.
There are two sides to this story- on one side Maria, on trial for murder, already an admitted killer but can she persuade the jury she had no choice? On the other side of the courtroom sits Lottie, judging Maria and herself at the same time, whilst possibly about to make a huge mistake..
The coin flips as you go, revealing different levels with every passing chapter. Beautifully plotted and immersively written it is completely gripping and utterly compelling.
I found myself nodding along, having been on jury service myself, the author captures the boredom and the momentary fluster of activity perfectly, as well as the nuances of a group of strangers thrown together who somehow have to come to an agreement. The characters are authentic and intriguing and it is a twisty tale indeed.
One to watch this year, you’ll devour it in record time, once you start it’s almost impossible to stop. Clever, layered storytelling with a thought provoking premise and a razor sharp execution.
Recommended.
There are two sides to this story- on one side Maria, on trial for murder, already an admitted killer but can she persuade the jury she had no choice? On the other side of the courtroom sits Lottie, judging Maria and herself at the same time, whilst possibly about to make a huge mistake..
The coin flips as you go, revealing different levels with every passing chapter. Beautifully plotted and immersively written it is completely gripping and utterly compelling.
I found myself nodding along, having been on jury service myself, the author captures the boredom and the momentary fluster of activity perfectly, as well as the nuances of a group of strangers thrown together who somehow have to come to an agreement. The characters are authentic and intriguing and it is a twisty tale indeed.
One to watch this year, you’ll devour it in record time, once you start it’s almost impossible to stop. Clever, layered storytelling with a thought provoking premise and a razor sharp execution.
Recommended.
May 15, 2019
Degrees of Guilt by HS Chandler is a fantastic legal thriller that will keep you surprised until the very end. The story opens and you think you have it all worked out but the story twists and turns so many times you get dizzy!! If you think you know how it is going to end - believe me you don't! I love a book that keeps me interested all the way through and this was one of those books.
Maria is on trial for the attempted murder of her husband. She confessed to the crime and wants her husband dead. End of story right? Oh so not! Lottie is a mother and called up to jury duty. She quite enjoys is as it gets her out of the house and talking to adults again. She embarks on an affair with another member of the jury. The story is told from the points of view of both women, and Lottie realises that she can see herself in the accused at times. A great story and wonderful ending. I look forward to reading more from this author.
Thanks to Orion Publishing and Netgalley for my advanced copy of this book to read. All opinions are my own and are in no way biased.
Maria is on trial for the attempted murder of her husband. She confessed to the crime and wants her husband dead. End of story right? Oh so not! Lottie is a mother and called up to jury duty. She quite enjoys is as it gets her out of the house and talking to adults again. She embarks on an affair with another member of the jury. The story is told from the points of view of both women, and Lottie realises that she can see herself in the accused at times. A great story and wonderful ending. I look forward to reading more from this author.
Thanks to Orion Publishing and Netgalley for my advanced copy of this book to read. All opinions are my own and are in no way biased.
May 12, 2019
Wow! I just loved this book. I don’t usually enjoy courtroom dramas because I find them a little boring at times, but this book was so well written, and the mystery and psychological aspects of the story kept me glued to its pages. The characters were well developed with Maria being my all time favorite. I rooted for her even though at times I had my doubts if she really was as innocent as she claimed to be. The lies, secrets, manipulations, and deceit made this story a guessing game for me, and till the end I was not sure where the truth really lied.
This is one of the best debut novels I have read lately. Captivating, brilliant legal thriller that will keep you on the edge of you seat with the drama and twist it holds within its pages. I highly recommend it to everyone.
Thank you NetGalley, Orion Publishing Group, and the author, H. S. Chandler, for giving me an opportunity to read this brilliant book in exchange for my honest opinion.
This is one of the best debut novels I have read lately. Captivating, brilliant legal thriller that will keep you on the edge of you seat with the drama and twist it holds within its pages. I highly recommend it to everyone.
Thank you NetGalley, Orion Publishing Group, and the author, H. S. Chandler, for giving me an opportunity to read this brilliant book in exchange for my honest opinion.
May 14, 2019
Finally!!
I have been on a “thriller slump” with only one out of my last SEVEN thrillers earning a full 4 stars, and the others earning less.
This was the first thriller in awhile that I COULD NOT WAIT to get back to reading, every chance I got.
Mrs. Bloxham is on trial for attempted murder. She has not pled “guilty” even though she calmly called the police and confessed to the crime. She is hoping that a “jury of her peers” will acquit her.
Lottie has lost her self confidence, and now finds herself on the jury. She finds herself tempted to have an affair with a fellow juror, who is making her feel like more than a “wife and mum” for the first time in awhile.
She wonders “ how she could possibly be expected to decide something as critical as whether or not the defendant was guilty, and which mistake was worse- setting a guilty person free, or wrongly condemning an innocent one to prison?”
The story will be told from Maria Bloxham’s viewpoint, and from Lottie’s experience of spending twelve days as a juror, attending court and through deliberations.
If you enjoy Legal Thrillers or Mystery Thrillers, do yourself a favor and ADD this to your TBR list!! Available on May 16, 2019 so you can be reading this one next weekend!!
I would like to thank Netgalley, Orion Publishing Group-Trapeze and HS Chandler for providing a digital ARC in exchange for a candid review!
I have been on a “thriller slump” with only one out of my last SEVEN thrillers earning a full 4 stars, and the others earning less.
This was the first thriller in awhile that I COULD NOT WAIT to get back to reading, every chance I got.
Mrs. Bloxham is on trial for attempted murder. She has not pled “guilty” even though she calmly called the police and confessed to the crime. She is hoping that a “jury of her peers” will acquit her.
Lottie has lost her self confidence, and now finds herself on the jury. She finds herself tempted to have an affair with a fellow juror, who is making her feel like more than a “wife and mum” for the first time in awhile.
She wonders “ how she could possibly be expected to decide something as critical as whether or not the defendant was guilty, and which mistake was worse- setting a guilty person free, or wrongly condemning an innocent one to prison?”
The story will be told from Maria Bloxham’s viewpoint, and from Lottie’s experience of spending twelve days as a juror, attending court and through deliberations.
If you enjoy Legal Thrillers or Mystery Thrillers, do yourself a favor and ADD this to your TBR list!! Available on May 16, 2019 so you can be reading this one next weekend!!
I would like to thank Netgalley, Orion Publishing Group-Trapeze and HS Chandler for providing a digital ARC in exchange for a candid review!
May 19, 2019
Degrees of Guilt is a fascinating and thoroughly enjoyable courtroom drama/legal thriller and given HS Chandler (Helen Fields's nom de plume) is a criminal barrister she allows her extensive knowledge of the law to inform this superb thriller and create an authenticity that is missing from so many of these books. I can personally attest to the accuracy of the law within these pages having gained a law degree myself.
Although this centres very much around the legal system it is accessible to those with no prior knowledge of the law, but Chandler doesn't allow this focus to take away from other aspects of the novel. We are treated to a well constructed and exciting plot, three-dimensional characters and surprise twists aplenty. I must admit, I fell under its spell pretty quickly and found it completely captivating from start to finish.
Not only is the plot credible it's thoroughly absorbing too. Chandler illustrates perfectly that often guilt or innocence is not quite so black and white and there are certainly issues that muddy the water here. This is a first-class, top-notch legal thriller which will give readers lots to ponder with some genuinely shocking moments; this is a real page-turner. Absolutely superb. Many thanks to Trapeze for an ARC.
Although this centres very much around the legal system it is accessible to those with no prior knowledge of the law, but Chandler doesn't allow this focus to take away from other aspects of the novel. We are treated to a well constructed and exciting plot, three-dimensional characters and surprise twists aplenty. I must admit, I fell under its spell pretty quickly and found it completely captivating from start to finish.
Not only is the plot credible it's thoroughly absorbing too. Chandler illustrates perfectly that often guilt or innocence is not quite so black and white and there are certainly issues that muddy the water here. This is a first-class, top-notch legal thriller which will give readers lots to ponder with some genuinely shocking moments; this is a real page-turner. Absolutely superb. Many thanks to Trapeze for an ARC.
September 14, 2019
5☆ An Authentic and Enthralling Legal Thriller.
I haven't quiet read anything like this one before it really gripped me, a thoroughly enthralling page Turner!
Maria has admitted trying to kill her overbearing, manipulative, abusive, bully of a husband and now is about to stand trial for attempting to murder him.
But did she really do it?
I mean if she admitted it she must of done right?
Well who am I to judge, I'm not the jury!
But Lottie is! And Maria's fate lies in her hands alongside the rest of the jury.
But what is the truth?
Are things quiet What they seem?
This book will get under your skin, the court room drama is simply riveting, enthralling and Suspensful as the plot thickens and the truth begins unravelling!
But just when I thought I worked things out something else popped up. Fantastic twists!
The characters are superbly written, very flawed and believable, they will get under your skin!
The slower pace to this book is perfect as it creates so much tension and Suspense.
Be prepared for so many secrets, lies, a sizzling affair, betrayal, abuse, violence and a riveting court room battle, once you start reading Degrees of Guilt you won't be able to put it down!
Thank you to Tracy at Compulsive Readers Tours and Trapeze Books for this copy which I reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
My Review is also on my Blog Website :-
https://dashfan81.blogspot.com/2019/0...
I haven't quiet read anything like this one before it really gripped me, a thoroughly enthralling page Turner!
Maria has admitted trying to kill her overbearing, manipulative, abusive, bully of a husband and now is about to stand trial for attempting to murder him.
But did she really do it?
I mean if she admitted it she must of done right?
Well who am I to judge, I'm not the jury!
But Lottie is! And Maria's fate lies in her hands alongside the rest of the jury.
But what is the truth?
Are things quiet What they seem?
This book will get under your skin, the court room drama is simply riveting, enthralling and Suspensful as the plot thickens and the truth begins unravelling!
But just when I thought I worked things out something else popped up. Fantastic twists!
The characters are superbly written, very flawed and believable, they will get under your skin!
The slower pace to this book is perfect as it creates so much tension and Suspense.
Be prepared for so many secrets, lies, a sizzling affair, betrayal, abuse, violence and a riveting court room battle, once you start reading Degrees of Guilt you won't be able to put it down!
Thank you to Tracy at Compulsive Readers Tours and Trapeze Books for this copy which I reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
My Review is also on my Blog Website :-
https://dashfan81.blogspot.com/2019/0...
May 14, 2019
When I heard that one of my favourite crime authors, Helen Fields, had written a psychological thriller, I was instantly intrigued. I love her DI Callanach series and was thrilled when I was sent a copy of Degrees of Guilt. Helen has a style of writing that I instantly recognised as someone who has spent time in the field. It is gritty, authentic and written with such confidence that you soon become emerged in her characters' world. Having safeguarded high-risk victims of domestic abuse in my former career, I was immediately intrigued by the premise. In the first chapter, Maria has killed her domineering husband. She calmly calls the police while he is lying at her feet in a pool of blood. Her thoughts wander to the mess on the floor, to the smell of freshly cut grass outside. But not all is as it seems. I won't spoil the story, only to say that you will live this character's life alongside her. You will experience each emotion, each twist and turn. Prepare for a book hangover but I say this in a very good way. I loved the courtroom scenes, the authentic characters and series of events that took place. Turn off your phone, mute the TV and unplug the doorbell. Degrees of Guilt is a fast-paced addictive read that you won't be able to put down.
September 2, 2019
This is a great read that had me hooked throughout the book.
It all starts with Maria phoning the police, standing over the body of her dead husband. She calls and says she’s killed her husband and then waits for them on the driveway.
She’s soon on trial and we’re then introduced to the jurors who will decide her fate.
We hear a lot about Charlotte, or Lottie, and get an insight into her life. She’s married with a young child but wants more out of life. Another one of the jurors catches her eye and soon they are meeting up alone.
It’s not until later in the trial that we hear how awful Maria’s life has been but is it enough to persuade the jury to vote not guilty?
This is a gripping crime thriller that will have you on the edge of your seat.
Thanks to Orion Publishing Group/Trapeze and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book.
It all starts with Maria phoning the police, standing over the body of her dead husband. She calls and says she’s killed her husband and then waits for them on the driveway.
She’s soon on trial and we’re then introduced to the jurors who will decide her fate.
We hear a lot about Charlotte, or Lottie, and get an insight into her life. She’s married with a young child but wants more out of life. Another one of the jurors catches her eye and soon they are meeting up alone.
It’s not until later in the trial that we hear how awful Maria’s life has been but is it enough to persuade the jury to vote not guilty?
This is a gripping crime thriller that will have you on the edge of your seat.
Thanks to Orion Publishing Group/Trapeze and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book.
July 28, 2019
As a page-turner this captured my imagination, though there are places where the writing gets a bit bogged down in minutiae that could be edited out without detriment to the tale. I like that there are serious issues at the book's heart about the nature of an abusive marriage: the slow creep of control, the unintended complicity of the victim, the sheer malice of the abuser, the way in which the story can sound unbelievable to outsiders - all of this is handled with sensitivity and insight.
The second plot-line of Lottie and her erotic attraction to a fellow juror is also gripping, though Lottie's naivety can sometimes be hard to swallow...
The end of the book, though, for me was a disappointment: suddenly all kinds of thriller-ish tropes appear with the ubiquitous twists feeling almost gratuitous.
All the same, I raced through this, a testament to its grip: it's definitely commercial fiction rather than anything more literary, but with a strong and serious feminist message that gives it some weight.
The second plot-line of Lottie and her erotic attraction to a fellow juror is also gripping, though Lottie's naivety can sometimes be hard to swallow...
The end of the book, though, for me was a disappointment: suddenly all kinds of thriller-ish tropes appear with the ubiquitous twists feeling almost gratuitous.
All the same, I raced through this, a testament to its grip: it's definitely commercial fiction rather than anything more literary, but with a strong and serious feminist message that gives it some weight.
May 30, 2019
It’s been a very long time since I’ve read a courtroom drama/thriller that had my head swinging in so many different directions. This had a bit of a slow start but if you can make it past the first couple of chapters I promise you will not be disappointed. These characters are complex with multiple layers to each of their stories. I love how well thought-out the plot was and how perfectly it all came together. Well Done!
Thank you to the publisher via Netgalley for an e-arc copy in exchange for an honest review
Thank you to the publisher via Netgalley for an e-arc copy in exchange for an honest review
August 23, 2023
Premise: Degrees Of Guilt' tells the story of Maria Bloxham, who is on trial for the attempted murder of her husband. Lottie is selected for jury duty, and begins to engage in an affair with a fellow member of the jury. They are responsible for deciding Maria's fate – is she guilty, or is she innocent?
Another book that has beckoned from my TBR to give it a read. From the very first sentence, I was hooked. My boyfriend had to work the next day so I did sneak to the bathroom to read a couple more chapters before deciding to read the next in the morning. It was always in my mind that I shouldn't trust all of the characters in the novel. However, I became so wrapped up in the plot that I forgot that reminder and was pleasantly surprised a couple of times by where H.S. Chandler led me.
Goodreads review published 18/08/23
Another book that has beckoned from my TBR to give it a read. From the very first sentence, I was hooked. My boyfriend had to work the next day so I did sneak to the bathroom to read a couple more chapters before deciding to read the next in the morning. It was always in my mind that I shouldn't trust all of the characters in the novel. However, I became so wrapped up in the plot that I forgot that reminder and was pleasantly surprised a couple of times by where H.S. Chandler led me.
Goodreads review published 18/08/23
September 27, 2019
It took me forever to read this because I feared this would be another "highly touted" book with no substance. Man, was I wrong. A friend loved this and I can understand why! Although there were some "hokey roll my eyes moments (i.e., "his lips were soft, his body was hard")", once I finished, I decided this read is really well put together and absolutely deserves any and all hype! The courtroom drama is dynamic and believable, I didn't hate any of the characters, well paced and great twists that you don't see coming (the last one is a doozy, trust me). This is one book I would love to see brought to film. It's that good!!!
December 26, 2019
How far would you go to protect yourself, to stop someone from terrorizing you, to put an end to the pain and suffering? Maria Bloxham recently made that decision, to stop her husband Edward from ending her life by ending his first, but was unsuccessful and is now on trial for attempted murder. Although I am a huge fan of this author's alter-ego Helen S. Fields and her Luc Callanach series, this one was just okay for me. Maybe it had to do with U.S. courtroom dramas versus U.K. ones. This fast-paced domestic thriller with paralleling stories is for fans of Erin Kelly and B.A. Paris.
August 25, 2019
Murder. Sex. Betrayal. This compelling courtroom drama has these things and more. Reading it was like eating a bag of maltesers - once I started I couldn’t stop until it was finished.
The book opens with Edward Bloxhom dead from a head wound. His wife, Maria, is calmly drying a mug and thinking about how she’ll get the blood out of the grouting. After a short time she calls the police and goes outside to wait for their arrival, thankful to be free of the man who controlled her life for almost twenty years. We then jump forward to the first day of Maria’s trial which we follow as the evidence is presented - shocking claims of abuse from the defence, and of a violent, cold-blooded murderess from the prosecution.
I loved that this story was narrated by both the defendant and a member of the jury charged with deciding her fate. We don’t often get an insight into the jury room and their perspective so it was interesting to follow that side of things in detail. Initially it appears that Maria and Lottie, the juror, couldn’t be more different but we come to understand there are many similarities between them. Both women were interesting characters that I enjoyed reading and I felt like they would probably have been able to be great friends in another situation. Lottie wonders on the first day how Maria must be feeling about entrusting her future to twelve strangers and has a willingness to see Maria as a person with feelings, something the other jurors don’t seem to do. I was glad she had at least one person on the jury seeing her as a human being and not being quick to judge.
Domestic abuse and controlling partners is a topic at the heart of this book. Maria is initially reluctant to explain to anyone why she bludgeoned her husband. After all, how can she explain to strangers what she struggles to believe herself? But in court she finally reveals the appalling details of almost two decades of coercive control and abuse. There were many times I would feel sick to my stomach at the details, especially the parts relating to physical harm, but this was a vital part of the story so we could understand what life was like for Maria, what her mental state was. Without it she appears to be a crazy disgruntled wife who savagely bludgeoned her defensive husband. Once we’ve heard her story it seems obvious that she is a desperate woman who didn’t think there was any other way out.
But Maria isn’t the only one who’s lived a life walking that fine tightrope trying to please an abusive man. There are others in this story too, including juror Lottie, who’s husband Zain controls their home. Everything must be done to his specifications and he even orders her to get herself excused from jury duty as doesn’t want the “disruption” to his picture-perfect existence. Lottie longs for more than being a housewife and mother but Zain won’t entertain her doing anything else so the chance to escape to the excitement of jury duty is a welcome one, even if it causes arguments with Zain. The author perfectly portrays the reality of life with an abuser and how by the time you see what’s going on you’re often in so deep that you either don’t think about leaving or are too scared of what will happen if you do.
An important aspect that the author addresses briefly is the disparity between how domestic abuse victims killing their abusers and abusers killing their victims is viewed. Maria ponders that her story would not be sensational or have garnered such interest if it had been Edward who killed her. Obviously murder isn’t how anyone would encourage a victim to leave an abuser, but I think the fact that the death of a woman (and it is most commonly women) at the hands of an abusive partner is so heartbreakingly common now that it often barely warrents a second glance. But when it’s the other way around there’s an outcry and a lack of understanding of the sheer desperation someone feels to commit such an act.
I am a sucker for a good courtroom drama and a huge fan of this author’s DI Callanach series, under her real name of Helen Fields, so I couldn’t wait to read this standalone novel. One of the things I love about her writing style is the little details she gives us that really get us inside the mind and connect us to her characters. As with all her other books this one is expertly written, fast paced and full of twists and turns. I did guess “the twist” early on, but the author has such a talent that I’d talked myself out of it and was taken aback when it proved right later on.
Any books by this author are a must read for me and this one did not disappoint. Degrees of Guilt is a fantastic courtroom drama and domestic thriller that I highly recommend.
The book opens with Edward Bloxhom dead from a head wound. His wife, Maria, is calmly drying a mug and thinking about how she’ll get the blood out of the grouting. After a short time she calls the police and goes outside to wait for their arrival, thankful to be free of the man who controlled her life for almost twenty years. We then jump forward to the first day of Maria’s trial which we follow as the evidence is presented - shocking claims of abuse from the defence, and of a violent, cold-blooded murderess from the prosecution.
I loved that this story was narrated by both the defendant and a member of the jury charged with deciding her fate. We don’t often get an insight into the jury room and their perspective so it was interesting to follow that side of things in detail. Initially it appears that Maria and Lottie, the juror, couldn’t be more different but we come to understand there are many similarities between them. Both women were interesting characters that I enjoyed reading and I felt like they would probably have been able to be great friends in another situation. Lottie wonders on the first day how Maria must be feeling about entrusting her future to twelve strangers and has a willingness to see Maria as a person with feelings, something the other jurors don’t seem to do. I was glad she had at least one person on the jury seeing her as a human being and not being quick to judge.
Domestic abuse and controlling partners is a topic at the heart of this book. Maria is initially reluctant to explain to anyone why she bludgeoned her husband. After all, how can she explain to strangers what she struggles to believe herself? But in court she finally reveals the appalling details of almost two decades of coercive control and abuse. There were many times I would feel sick to my stomach at the details, especially the parts relating to physical harm, but this was a vital part of the story so we could understand what life was like for Maria, what her mental state was. Without it she appears to be a crazy disgruntled wife who savagely bludgeoned her defensive husband. Once we’ve heard her story it seems obvious that she is a desperate woman who didn’t think there was any other way out.
But Maria isn’t the only one who’s lived a life walking that fine tightrope trying to please an abusive man. There are others in this story too, including juror Lottie, who’s husband Zain controls their home. Everything must be done to his specifications and he even orders her to get herself excused from jury duty as doesn’t want the “disruption” to his picture-perfect existence. Lottie longs for more than being a housewife and mother but Zain won’t entertain her doing anything else so the chance to escape to the excitement of jury duty is a welcome one, even if it causes arguments with Zain. The author perfectly portrays the reality of life with an abuser and how by the time you see what’s going on you’re often in so deep that you either don’t think about leaving or are too scared of what will happen if you do.
An important aspect that the author addresses briefly is the disparity between how domestic abuse victims killing their abusers and abusers killing their victims is viewed. Maria ponders that her story would not be sensational or have garnered such interest if it had been Edward who killed her. Obviously murder isn’t how anyone would encourage a victim to leave an abuser, but I think the fact that the death of a woman (and it is most commonly women) at the hands of an abusive partner is so heartbreakingly common now that it often barely warrents a second glance. But when it’s the other way around there’s an outcry and a lack of understanding of the sheer desperation someone feels to commit such an act.
I am a sucker for a good courtroom drama and a huge fan of this author’s DI Callanach series, under her real name of Helen Fields, so I couldn’t wait to read this standalone novel. One of the things I love about her writing style is the little details she gives us that really get us inside the mind and connect us to her characters. As with all her other books this one is expertly written, fast paced and full of twists and turns. I did guess “the twist” early on, but the author has such a talent that I’d talked myself out of it and was taken aback when it proved right later on.
Any books by this author are a must read for me and this one did not disappoint. Degrees of Guilt is a fantastic courtroom drama and domestic thriller that I highly recommend.
May 28, 2019
Nothing in life is ever black and white, there are shades of grey that blur our opinions, our thoughts, it’s one thing hearing the facts, but what about the untold story? What hidden truths could change a guilty verdict around or vice versa? Degrees Of Guilt by H.S. Chandler is a thrilling book where your opinion of the guilty, in this case Marie who freely admits to killing her husband, will sway at almost every chapter. This has to be one of the most exciting, complex, and compelling legal thrillers I’ve read for a long time, it’s the definition of a page turner. Rather like the jury, you find yourself living and breathing Marie’s trial, separating the layers of fact from fiction and hoping you make the right decision, guilty or not guilty? It’s up to you to decide.
With a stellar of an opening chapter Degrees Of Guilt pulls you in to Maries’s story at first she appears cold and rational, But then as the story deftly unfolds we learn more about Marie’s complex life with Edward, nothing is as it first appears, is Marie telling the truth? or is her story one that’s been fabricated to gain sympathy for her wrongdoing’s? I couldn’t help but feel some empathy for her character, even though at times I had my doubts if she really was as innocent as she claimed to be. The novel is an intricate web of lies, secrets, manipulations, and deceit which make this story a constant, head spinning guessing game, right up until the last chapter you are never sure where the truth really lies.
Lottie is on the jury, trying to decide Marie’s fate, at first she’s a reluctant participate, she’s nervous, timid, her life is very different to Marie’s she’s a wife and mother who life centres on her family, but as Marie’s trial reveals shocking details of her marriage she realises she has far more in common with her than she first thought. I found it fascinating to see how the mixed bunch of jurors first assumptions of Marie changed throughout the story, their opinions and feelings constantly shift, so you are never sure which verdict they will choose. Marie’s story is intense, alarming and uncomfortable, which some readers find upsetting. The author depicts the claustrophobic feel of the courtroom and the animosity of the jury towards the accused and their peers perfectly.
The setting of a courtroom for most of the novel adds a palatable sense of claustrophobia and trepidation, a ploy that’s guaranteed to keep you reading and will make you reluctant to put this novel down even for a few minutes. Degrees of guilt is part domestic noir infused with a believable and heart wrenching courtroom drama, oozing with tension and mystery. HS Chandler knows how to keep the reader’s attention with a complex plot, intriguing characters, and a couple of curveballs I never saw coming until they hit me in the face! A superb book that I would highly recommend to those who love domestic noir wrapped up in a courtroom drama.
All my reviews can be found at http://thebookreviewcafe.com
With a stellar of an opening chapter Degrees Of Guilt pulls you in to Maries’s story at first she appears cold and rational, But then as the story deftly unfolds we learn more about Marie’s complex life with Edward, nothing is as it first appears, is Marie telling the truth? or is her story one that’s been fabricated to gain sympathy for her wrongdoing’s? I couldn’t help but feel some empathy for her character, even though at times I had my doubts if she really was as innocent as she claimed to be. The novel is an intricate web of lies, secrets, manipulations, and deceit which make this story a constant, head spinning guessing game, right up until the last chapter you are never sure where the truth really lies.
Lottie is on the jury, trying to decide Marie’s fate, at first she’s a reluctant participate, she’s nervous, timid, her life is very different to Marie’s she’s a wife and mother who life centres on her family, but as Marie’s trial reveals shocking details of her marriage she realises she has far more in common with her than she first thought. I found it fascinating to see how the mixed bunch of jurors first assumptions of Marie changed throughout the story, their opinions and feelings constantly shift, so you are never sure which verdict they will choose. Marie’s story is intense, alarming and uncomfortable, which some readers find upsetting. The author depicts the claustrophobic feel of the courtroom and the animosity of the jury towards the accused and their peers perfectly.
The setting of a courtroom for most of the novel adds a palatable sense of claustrophobia and trepidation, a ploy that’s guaranteed to keep you reading and will make you reluctant to put this novel down even for a few minutes. Degrees of guilt is part domestic noir infused with a believable and heart wrenching courtroom drama, oozing with tension and mystery. HS Chandler knows how to keep the reader’s attention with a complex plot, intriguing characters, and a couple of curveballs I never saw coming until they hit me in the face! A superb book that I would highly recommend to those who love domestic noir wrapped up in a courtroom drama.
All my reviews can be found at http://thebookreviewcafe.com
August 9, 2019
Have you ever read a book which has caused your soul to hush and go silent just by reading the statement given by accused about her life story? Mine did. Everything which was a woman in me rebelled and cried for Maria as she gave her testimony.
"A hush surrounded my soul
A pain gripped my heart
Freedom was taken away
Control was held affirm
What does a man do show power
How low does a woman need to be
But one day she broke
Her control lost its peace
A chair was broken
A skull was flattened
Meet the accused Maria
This was her story, her life"
Maria nearly killed her husband and surrendered to the police. Her case was set for trial to be decided by 12 jurors. The story not only told me what Maria had done, it concentrated on a couple of jurors and their flirting and affair with each other. And I wondered why I was being given the 2 parallel stories and if the two should ever meet. And boy, it sure did! And it was explosive!
My first book by HS Chandler, the story blew me away with the delicious reveals it held in its darkest embers. I bought this book as the cover and the story gripped me a bit too much. The author's writing shook me up, and what I thought I knew was actually what I didn't know. Nothing was as it seemed, yet it was everything horrifying.
Psychological power plays and abuse was written in a swirling vortex which submerged me to its abyss and at the same time, brought me to the surface with the unpredictable twists. A thriller it was in genre, majority of it a court trial. Accused and jurors had their own dilemma, powerfully exposed at the end.
Wow! A compulsive read which made me glued to it from beginning to end.
"A hush surrounded my soul
A pain gripped my heart
Freedom was taken away
Control was held affirm
What does a man do show power
How low does a woman need to be
But one day she broke
Her control lost its peace
A chair was broken
A skull was flattened
Meet the accused Maria
This was her story, her life"
Maria nearly killed her husband and surrendered to the police. Her case was set for trial to be decided by 12 jurors. The story not only told me what Maria had done, it concentrated on a couple of jurors and their flirting and affair with each other. And I wondered why I was being given the 2 parallel stories and if the two should ever meet. And boy, it sure did! And it was explosive!
My first book by HS Chandler, the story blew me away with the delicious reveals it held in its darkest embers. I bought this book as the cover and the story gripped me a bit too much. The author's writing shook me up, and what I thought I knew was actually what I didn't know. Nothing was as it seemed, yet it was everything horrifying.
Psychological power plays and abuse was written in a swirling vortex which submerged me to its abyss and at the same time, brought me to the surface with the unpredictable twists. A thriller it was in genre, majority of it a court trial. Accused and jurors had their own dilemma, powerfully exposed at the end.
Wow! A compulsive read which made me glued to it from beginning to end.
September 7, 2019
Yikes I absolutely loved this story.
It’s been ages since I read a courtroom drama and this brings back to me how much I loved them.
We get two women’s stories here. Maria is on trial for attempting to murder her husband. We also have Lottie who is a member of the jury in Maria’s case.
This is one of the best storylines I’ve read this year...totally addictive. The story played in my head like a movie... honestly it was that good!
If you enjoy legal thrillers then I highly recommend you read this brilliant story.
It’s been ages since I read a courtroom drama and this brings back to me how much I loved them.
We get two women’s stories here. Maria is on trial for attempting to murder her husband. We also have Lottie who is a member of the jury in Maria’s case.
This is one of the best storylines I’ve read this year...totally addictive. The story played in my head like a movie... honestly it was that good!
If you enjoy legal thrillers then I highly recommend you read this brilliant story.
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