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Charles Holborne #4
Corrupted
Charles Holborne returns with his most shattering case yet! Perfect for fans of John Grisham, Robert Bailey, Michael Connelly and Robert Dugoni.
A sordid secret lies at the heart of political London…
London, 1964
Charles Holborne has cemented his reputation as a respected murder trial lawyer, who is near unbeatable in the courtroom.
Having overcome the traumas of his past, he seems to be settled in his career and his relationship with his partner, Sally.
But Charles is his own worst enemy and old habits threaten to drag him down…
He is also still on the radar of the notorious Kray Twins and before long he finds himself drawn into one of their darker scandals.
Charles’s career – and his life – is in jeopardy as he fights for justice in a world of corruption and double-dealings.
CORRUPTED is the fourth crime novel in an exciting historical series, the Charles Holborne Legal Thrillers — gritty, hard-boiled mysteries set in 1960s London.
‘the dark and gritty latest instalment in the Charles Holborne series deserves every single one of the five stars I didn't hesitate in awarding it. The writing is so vivid and visceral that I can't believe it hasn't been picked up for the small screen. This whole series is the pinnacle of crime thriller writing and I am confident that nothing will ever knock it off its pedestal.’ – The Book Magnet
‘A novel that is almost instantly a classic… it runs away with the reader and leaves them wanting more… a truly awesome thriller that will leave you coming back for more.’ - Dorset Book Detective
‘a brilliant piece of historical crime fiction’ - Fully Booked
‘A gem of a book… a fantastic read throughout, gripping, entangling and certainly a page-turner!’ - Lacy Ace
‘BritCrime’s answer to John Grisham…‘ - Miriam Smith
‘These are sharply observed, packed full of rich, authentic dialogue. Pacey, yet measured, they weave complex legal scenes with light, credible domestic and professional moments where characters are fleshed out and the central hero is exposed, both for good and bad.’ - Bookends and Binends
THE CHARLES HOLBORNE LEGAL THRILLERS SERIES
BOOK ONE: The Brief
BOOK TWO: An Honest Man
BOOK THREE: The Lighterman
BOOK FOUR: Corrupted
BOOK FIVE: The Waxwork Corpse
A sordid secret lies at the heart of political London…
London, 1964
Charles Holborne has cemented his reputation as a respected murder trial lawyer, who is near unbeatable in the courtroom.
Having overcome the traumas of his past, he seems to be settled in his career and his relationship with his partner, Sally.
But Charles is his own worst enemy and old habits threaten to drag him down…
He is also still on the radar of the notorious Kray Twins and before long he finds himself drawn into one of their darker scandals.
Charles’s career – and his life – is in jeopardy as he fights for justice in a world of corruption and double-dealings.
CORRUPTED is the fourth crime novel in an exciting historical series, the Charles Holborne Legal Thrillers — gritty, hard-boiled mysteries set in 1960s London.
‘the dark and gritty latest instalment in the Charles Holborne series deserves every single one of the five stars I didn't hesitate in awarding it. The writing is so vivid and visceral that I can't believe it hasn't been picked up for the small screen. This whole series is the pinnacle of crime thriller writing and I am confident that nothing will ever knock it off its pedestal.’ – The Book Magnet
‘A novel that is almost instantly a classic… it runs away with the reader and leaves them wanting more… a truly awesome thriller that will leave you coming back for more.’ - Dorset Book Detective
‘a brilliant piece of historical crime fiction’ - Fully Booked
‘A gem of a book… a fantastic read throughout, gripping, entangling and certainly a page-turner!’ - Lacy Ace
‘BritCrime’s answer to John Grisham…‘ - Miriam Smith
‘These are sharply observed, packed full of rich, authentic dialogue. Pacey, yet measured, they weave complex legal scenes with light, credible domestic and professional moments where characters are fleshed out and the central hero is exposed, both for good and bad.’ - Bookends and Binends
THE CHARLES HOLBORNE LEGAL THRILLERS SERIES
BOOK ONE: The Brief
BOOK TWO: An Honest Man
BOOK THREE: The Lighterman
BOOK FOUR: Corrupted
BOOK FIVE: The Waxwork Corpse
- GenresHistoricalFiction
382 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 21, 2018
109 people are currently reading
72 people want to read
About the author
Simon Michael
17 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 33 reviews
June 29, 2018
"Corrupted" is the fourth in the Charles Holborne legal thriller series written by ex-barrister Simon Michael and is the much anticipated follow up to "The Lighterman". These books portray 'BritCrime' at its best and I have to admit, even though I probably say this every time, this one was my favourite to date. If you love British courtroom dramas that don't bore you or use complicated legal jargon, you'll love these books and this respected and talented author is definitely BritCrime's answer to John Grisham.
I always feel relaxed reading a Holborne thriller, Charles is a fantastic character and the fact that he is a boxer too just adds to the intriguing storyline that I particularly enjoy.
Set in 1964, Charles is investigating a sex ring that involves not just the Krays and the Mafia, but also goes to the very echelons of the country's power. Although some of the plot line is of a distressing/sensitive matter it is handled delicately and certainly doesn't make you feel uncomfortable.
I loved how this particular book involved more of the Kray twins - they've always been my favourite part of London's salubrious history - even bringing Ronnie's real life homosexuality into it. The true historical facts the story is based on did actually occur and includes real life characters like Lord Boothby and the heavyweight boxer Sonny Liston.
You can't help but get pulled into the story as soon as you start reading, I had lots of sympathy for Teddy and his circumstances - the ending was quite a surprise to me but very apt and rounded off a fabulous and entertaining storyline. The use of police and court documents adds to the authenticity of the story and its clear the author knows what to include to keep the reader engaged.
The author also has a wonderful way of incorporating old parts of London into his narrative, always conveying the history of buildings and streets etc so you really build up a picture of the capital city from bygone times to the swinging 60's when the book is set.
Considering Simon Michael has prosecuted and defended murderers, armed robbers, con artists and other assorted villainy during his 37 years as a barrister, he has more than enough stories and ideas to keep him writing for many years to come and I for one hope for many more thrillers involving the much loveable Charles Holborne.
Urbane Publications have yet again published another cracking thriller and I can't praise these books enough, either read as standalones or as a series they really are terrific and I wish the author continued success with his very popular and compelling series.
5 stars
I always feel relaxed reading a Holborne thriller, Charles is a fantastic character and the fact that he is a boxer too just adds to the intriguing storyline that I particularly enjoy.
Set in 1964, Charles is investigating a sex ring that involves not just the Krays and the Mafia, but also goes to the very echelons of the country's power. Although some of the plot line is of a distressing/sensitive matter it is handled delicately and certainly doesn't make you feel uncomfortable.
I loved how this particular book involved more of the Kray twins - they've always been my favourite part of London's salubrious history - even bringing Ronnie's real life homosexuality into it. The true historical facts the story is based on did actually occur and includes real life characters like Lord Boothby and the heavyweight boxer Sonny Liston.
You can't help but get pulled into the story as soon as you start reading, I had lots of sympathy for Teddy and his circumstances - the ending was quite a surprise to me but very apt and rounded off a fabulous and entertaining storyline. The use of police and court documents adds to the authenticity of the story and its clear the author knows what to include to keep the reader engaged.
The author also has a wonderful way of incorporating old parts of London into his narrative, always conveying the history of buildings and streets etc so you really build up a picture of the capital city from bygone times to the swinging 60's when the book is set.
Considering Simon Michael has prosecuted and defended murderers, armed robbers, con artists and other assorted villainy during his 37 years as a barrister, he has more than enough stories and ideas to keep him writing for many years to come and I for one hope for many more thrillers involving the much loveable Charles Holborne.
Urbane Publications have yet again published another cracking thriller and I can't praise these books enough, either read as standalones or as a series they really are terrific and I wish the author continued success with his very popular and compelling series.
5 stars
June 7, 2018
Paperback version read.
"Corrupted" is the fourth in the Charles Holborne legal thriller series written by ex-barrister Simon Michael and is the much anticipated follow up to "The Lighterman". These books portray 'BritCrime' at its best and I have to admit, even though I probably say this every time, this one was my favourite to date. If you love British courtroom dramas that don't bore you or use complicated legal jargon, you'll love these books and this respected and talented author is definitely BritCrime's answer to John Grisham.
I always feel relaxed reading a Holborne thriller, Charles is a fantastic character and the fact that he is a boxer too just adds to the intriguing storyline that I particularly enjoy.
Set in 1964, Charles is investigating a sex ring that involves not just the Krays and the Mafia, but also goes to the very echelons of the country's power. Although some of the plot line is of a distressing/sensitive matter it is handled delicately and certainly doesn't make you feel uncomfortable.
I loved how this particular book involved more of the Kray twins - they've always been my favourite part of London's salubrious history - even bringing Ronnie's real life homosexuality into it. The true historical facts the story is based on did actually occur and includes real life characters like Lord Boothby and the heavyweight boxer Sonny Liston.
You can't help but get pulled into the story as soon as you start reading, I had lots of sympathy for Teddy and his circumstances - the ending was quite a surprise to me but very apt and rounded off a fabulous and entertaining storyline. The use of police and court documents adds to the authenticity of the story and its clear the author knows what to include to keep the reader engaged.
The author also has a wonderful way of incorporating old parts of London into his narrative, always conveying the history of buildings/streets etc so you really build up a picture of the capital city from bygone times to the swinging 60's when the book is set.
Considering Simon Michael has prosecuted and defended murderers, armed robbers, con artists and other assorted villainy during his 37 years as a barrister, he has more than enough stories and ideas to keep him writing for many years to come and I for one hope for many more thrillers involving the much loveable Charles Holborne.
Urbane Publications have yet again published another cracking thriller and I can't praise these books enough, either read as standalones or as a series they really are terrific and I wish the author continued success with his very popular and compelling series.
5 stars
"Corrupted" is the fourth in the Charles Holborne legal thriller series written by ex-barrister Simon Michael and is the much anticipated follow up to "The Lighterman". These books portray 'BritCrime' at its best and I have to admit, even though I probably say this every time, this one was my favourite to date. If you love British courtroom dramas that don't bore you or use complicated legal jargon, you'll love these books and this respected and talented author is definitely BritCrime's answer to John Grisham.
I always feel relaxed reading a Holborne thriller, Charles is a fantastic character and the fact that he is a boxer too just adds to the intriguing storyline that I particularly enjoy.
Set in 1964, Charles is investigating a sex ring that involves not just the Krays and the Mafia, but also goes to the very echelons of the country's power. Although some of the plot line is of a distressing/sensitive matter it is handled delicately and certainly doesn't make you feel uncomfortable.
I loved how this particular book involved more of the Kray twins - they've always been my favourite part of London's salubrious history - even bringing Ronnie's real life homosexuality into it. The true historical facts the story is based on did actually occur and includes real life characters like Lord Boothby and the heavyweight boxer Sonny Liston.
You can't help but get pulled into the story as soon as you start reading, I had lots of sympathy for Teddy and his circumstances - the ending was quite a surprise to me but very apt and rounded off a fabulous and entertaining storyline. The use of police and court documents adds to the authenticity of the story and its clear the author knows what to include to keep the reader engaged.
The author also has a wonderful way of incorporating old parts of London into his narrative, always conveying the history of buildings/streets etc so you really build up a picture of the capital city from bygone times to the swinging 60's when the book is set.
Considering Simon Michael has prosecuted and defended murderers, armed robbers, con artists and other assorted villainy during his 37 years as a barrister, he has more than enough stories and ideas to keep him writing for many years to come and I for one hope for many more thrillers involving the much loveable Charles Holborne.
Urbane Publications have yet again published another cracking thriller and I can't praise these books enough, either read as standalones or as a series they really are terrific and I wish the author continued success with his very popular and compelling series.
5 stars
June 28, 2018
"Corrupted" is the fourth in the Charles Holborne legal thriller series written by ex-barrister Simon Michael and is the much anticipated follow up to "The Lighterman". These books portray 'BritCrime' at its best and I have to admit, even though I probably say this every time, this one was my favourite to date. If you love British courtroom dramas that don't bore you or use complicated legal jargon, you'll love these books and this respected and talented author is definitely BritCrime's answer to John Grisham.
I always feel relaxed reading a Holborne thriller, Charles is a fantastic character and the fact that he is a boxer too just adds to the intriguing storyline that I particularly enjoy.
Set in 1964, Charles is investigating a sex ring that involves not just the Krays and the Mafia, but also goes to the very echelons of the country's power. Although some of the plot line is of a distressing/sensitive matter it is handled delicately and certainly doesn't make you feel uncomfortable.
I loved how this particular book involved more of the Kray twins - they've always been my favourite part of London's salubrious history - even bringing Ronnie's real life homosexuality into it. The true historical facts the story is based on did actually occur and includes real life characters like Lord Boothby and the heavyweight boxer Sonny Liston.
You can't help but get pulled into the story as soon as you start reading, I had lots of sympathy for Teddy and his circumstances - the ending was quite a surprise to me but very apt and rounded off a fabulous and entertaining storyline. The use of police and court documents adds to the authenticity of the story and its clear the author knows what to include to keep the reader engaged.
The author also has a wonderful way of incorporating old parts of London into his narrative, always conveying the history of buildings/streets etc so you really build up a picture of the capital city from bygone times to the swinging 60's when the book is set.
Considering Simon Michael has prosecuted and defended murderers, armed robbers, con artists and other assorted villainy during his 37 years as a barrister, he has more than enough stories and ideas to keep him writing for many years to come and I for one hope for many more thrillers involving the much loveable Charles Holborne.
Urbane Publications have yet again published another cracking thriller and I can't praise these books enough, either read as standalones or as a series they really are terrific and I wish the author continued success with his very popular and compelling series.
5 stars
I always feel relaxed reading a Holborne thriller, Charles is a fantastic character and the fact that he is a boxer too just adds to the intriguing storyline that I particularly enjoy.
Set in 1964, Charles is investigating a sex ring that involves not just the Krays and the Mafia, but also goes to the very echelons of the country's power. Although some of the plot line is of a distressing/sensitive matter it is handled delicately and certainly doesn't make you feel uncomfortable.
I loved how this particular book involved more of the Kray twins - they've always been my favourite part of London's salubrious history - even bringing Ronnie's real life homosexuality into it. The true historical facts the story is based on did actually occur and includes real life characters like Lord Boothby and the heavyweight boxer Sonny Liston.
You can't help but get pulled into the story as soon as you start reading, I had lots of sympathy for Teddy and his circumstances - the ending was quite a surprise to me but very apt and rounded off a fabulous and entertaining storyline. The use of police and court documents adds to the authenticity of the story and its clear the author knows what to include to keep the reader engaged.
The author also has a wonderful way of incorporating old parts of London into his narrative, always conveying the history of buildings/streets etc so you really build up a picture of the capital city from bygone times to the swinging 60's when the book is set.
Considering Simon Michael has prosecuted and defended murderers, armed robbers, con artists and other assorted villainy during his 37 years as a barrister, he has more than enough stories and ideas to keep him writing for many years to come and I for one hope for many more thrillers involving the much loveable Charles Holborne.
Urbane Publications have yet again published another cracking thriller and I can't praise these books enough, either read as standalones or as a series they really are terrific and I wish the author continued success with his very popular and compelling series.
5 stars
July 6, 2018
Corrupted is the fourth book in the Charles Holborne series. Personally I would recommend reading in order to get to know the main character better but the author does give enough information from previous books so that you can read them out of order if you so wish.
This was such a sombre read due to the nature of the story. Even though the author doesn't go into any great detail with the sex ring, it is still very much an uncomfortable read. Teddy, the young lad that Charles finds himself helping, broke my heart. Even thinking about him now whilst writing my review I can't help but get all emotional.
What I love about this authors books is how he brings the real world into fiction. Everyone knows of the Krays. No doubt they were men at one time that were looked up to and envied. I think this will remind us though of the darker side to the brothers and the atrocities that they were party to.
Corrupted is a dark and enthralling read that kept me turning the pages. Charles as always oozes charm and will certainly appeal to readers. This is a series that I wouldn't hesitate to recommend and if you haven't had the chance to read any yet then I urge you to do so.
This was such a sombre read due to the nature of the story. Even though the author doesn't go into any great detail with the sex ring, it is still very much an uncomfortable read. Teddy, the young lad that Charles finds himself helping, broke my heart. Even thinking about him now whilst writing my review I can't help but get all emotional.
What I love about this authors books is how he brings the real world into fiction. Everyone knows of the Krays. No doubt they were men at one time that were looked up to and envied. I think this will remind us though of the darker side to the brothers and the atrocities that they were party to.
Corrupted is a dark and enthralling read that kept me turning the pages. Charles as always oozes charm and will certainly appeal to readers. This is a series that I wouldn't hesitate to recommend and if you haven't had the chance to read any yet then I urge you to do so.
June 29, 2018
Simon Michael is one of my favourite authors and I absolutely love his Charles Holborne series of legal thrillers set in 1960's London. I stand by and reiterate my earlier statement from the first book in the series, The Brief, as this really is 'Britcrime at its very best'. Having read the earlier books in the series, I felt as if I was catching up with an old friend in this latest instalment, Corrupted. Having said that, for those who haven't read the earlier books (why haven't you?) this reads perfectly well as a standalone.
Corrupted definitely has a dark and gritty feel to it as we glimpse the dark and seedy underbelly of 1960's London, in particular Ronnie Kray's notorious sex parties. I use the word 'glimpse' purposefully in this instance, as Simon Michael gives just enough details to leave much to the reader's imagination. After being picked up from the rail station by one of Ronnie Kray's henchmen, young Teddy Behr suddenly finds himself exposed to depths of depravity that will give him nightmares and before he knows it, he is accused of murder. Only one man in London can defend him: Charles Holborne.
We find out so much more about Charles Holborne's character in Corrupted. He is clearly still suffering from the loss of his cousin, Izzy, and grief makes you do the strangest things. I felt that Charles wanted to go back to his youth when he was happy and Izzy was alive, so he joins his old boxing gym and signs up to a fight. Having fought Reggie Kray in his youth, the twins turn up for a photo opportunity with a Hollywood actress who bats her eyelashes at Charles. As his relationship to Sally has all but broken down, he is powerless to resist the allure of Patrizia Conti.
So many facts are intricately woven into the story that my eyes widened in wonder as I headed off to Google, as I often do when reading a riveting book. I had never heard of the Robert Boothby scandal but it is this little nugget of truth that brings the whole book to life; for if Robert Boothby is real and the Kray twins are real, then why not Charles Holborne? It is this multi-dimensioned character of Charles Holborne that brings the book to life; the man who constantly disappoints his mother, who is both looked down upon and envied by his peers, and the man who, like Harry Potter, doesn't go looking for trouble but trouble usually finds him.
You may have noticed that I haven't said a great deal about the plot...on purpose! I am sure that you will be as shocked, surprised and amazed as I was by the perfectly crafted plot that Simon Michael has created for us. As a real life barrister, of the legal kind as opposed to the caffeine based beverage (yes, I know it's a barista), nobody brings a court case to life with his words better than Simon Michael. It took a while for Corrupted to get into court, which is always my favourite part, but once it does I could have stood up and applauded, if I wasn't too busy reading. I don't know how he does it, but Simon Michael makes you feel as if you are actually in the courtroom.
Corrupted, the dark and gritty latest instalment in the Charles Holborne series, deserves every single one of the five stars I didn't hesitate in awarding it. The writing is so vivid and visceral that I can't believe it hasn't been picked up for small screen; as brilliant as it is on paper, I think it would be positively breathtaking on screen. This whole series is the pinnacle of crime thriller writing and I am confident that nothing will ever knock it off its pedestal.
I chose to read an ARC and this is my honest and unbiased opinion.
Corrupted definitely has a dark and gritty feel to it as we glimpse the dark and seedy underbelly of 1960's London, in particular Ronnie Kray's notorious sex parties. I use the word 'glimpse' purposefully in this instance, as Simon Michael gives just enough details to leave much to the reader's imagination. After being picked up from the rail station by one of Ronnie Kray's henchmen, young Teddy Behr suddenly finds himself exposed to depths of depravity that will give him nightmares and before he knows it, he is accused of murder. Only one man in London can defend him: Charles Holborne.
We find out so much more about Charles Holborne's character in Corrupted. He is clearly still suffering from the loss of his cousin, Izzy, and grief makes you do the strangest things. I felt that Charles wanted to go back to his youth when he was happy and Izzy was alive, so he joins his old boxing gym and signs up to a fight. Having fought Reggie Kray in his youth, the twins turn up for a photo opportunity with a Hollywood actress who bats her eyelashes at Charles. As his relationship to Sally has all but broken down, he is powerless to resist the allure of Patrizia Conti.
So many facts are intricately woven into the story that my eyes widened in wonder as I headed off to Google, as I often do when reading a riveting book. I had never heard of the Robert Boothby scandal but it is this little nugget of truth that brings the whole book to life; for if Robert Boothby is real and the Kray twins are real, then why not Charles Holborne? It is this multi-dimensioned character of Charles Holborne that brings the book to life; the man who constantly disappoints his mother, who is both looked down upon and envied by his peers, and the man who, like Harry Potter, doesn't go looking for trouble but trouble usually finds him.
You may have noticed that I haven't said a great deal about the plot...on purpose! I am sure that you will be as shocked, surprised and amazed as I was by the perfectly crafted plot that Simon Michael has created for us. As a real life barrister, of the legal kind as opposed to the caffeine based beverage (yes, I know it's a barista), nobody brings a court case to life with his words better than Simon Michael. It took a while for Corrupted to get into court, which is always my favourite part, but once it does I could have stood up and applauded, if I wasn't too busy reading. I don't know how he does it, but Simon Michael makes you feel as if you are actually in the courtroom.
Corrupted, the dark and gritty latest instalment in the Charles Holborne series, deserves every single one of the five stars I didn't hesitate in awarding it. The writing is so vivid and visceral that I can't believe it hasn't been picked up for small screen; as brilliant as it is on paper, I think it would be positively breathtaking on screen. This whole series is the pinnacle of crime thriller writing and I am confident that nothing will ever knock it off its pedestal.
I chose to read an ARC and this is my honest and unbiased opinion.
November 19, 2020
Enjoyable crime yarn. Charles a barrister and all round good egg canters around a louche London fighting for good. I didn’t need more than that. Look forward to reading the rest of the series
May 5, 2018
I don't tend to read fiction that does not takes place in current times, unless it's really historical fiction (eg Robert Harris) but this 1960s London tale was a welcome treat. The author merges true facts and characters (from his own past life as a barrister) with fiction and creates a compelling read of crime and corruption in the era of the Krays.
Crime, love, law all feature in an intriguing, if not fully gripping, story. I've not read a Charles Holborne novel before but if they are all this good it's worth a shot. The book does well as a stand-alone however as sufficient backstory if provided.
Not for the faint-hearted in terms of violence and adult themes, but these things are handled delicately.
Crime, love, law all feature in an intriguing, if not fully gripping, story. I've not read a Charles Holborne novel before but if they are all this good it's worth a shot. The book does well as a stand-alone however as sufficient backstory if provided.
Not for the faint-hearted in terms of violence and adult themes, but these things are handled delicately.
April 25, 2023
⭐️4.5⭐️
June 28, 2018
A good read
I found this book to be as enjoyable as the previous books. The storyline follows on from the other books. Although this book could be
easily read without prior knowledge of the other books. You won't be dissappointed.
I found this book to be as enjoyable as the previous books. The storyline follows on from the other books. Although this book could be
easily read without prior knowledge of the other books. You won't be dissappointed.
June 13, 2018
Cannot say enough about this book. It gripped me and wowed me, some effortless writing from Michael which painted a thrilling world using historical context of the 1960s and the Kray brothers. Its out on June 21st in Paperback, I will be a part of the blog tour on June 28th with a full review.
Seek it out NextToTheAisle.blogspot.co.uk
Seek it out NextToTheAisle.blogspot.co.uk
May 31, 2020
My usual crime reading is of the Ruth Rendell and P D James sort. 1960s gangland crime is usually something I prefer to watch on film. One of the reasons I decided to read Corrupted was that I had attended a talk by the author, Simon Michael, at a literary festival a couple of years ago and found him to be a compelling speaker, both about his writing and his background and former career as a barrister.
One of the many things I took away from his session was that he had retained over a hundred contemporaneous notebooks from his cases, in which he both prosecuted and defended some of the most notorious alleged villains of the time: people like the Krays and the Richardsons. With such a wealth of first-hand material at his disposal, together with the clear and incisive brain, essential to practising in this field (at a time when a poor performance by the defence could cost their client his or her life), here was a writer who had a head’s start over his rivals.
I was not to be disappointed. Corrupted is as much a tale of morality as of the criminal fraternity. The Krays do indeed play a major role, together with politicians of the time, including Lord Boothby and Tom Driberg, whose homosexual habits, illegal at the time, are protected by corrupt liaisons with the police, the press the legal professional and even a Government, still reeling from the Profumo crisis and unwilling to risk further unsavoury revelations. Several other real-life personalities have walk-on parts, including the boxer Sonny Liston.
The story concerns barrister Charles Holborne’s defence of a vulnerable teenager, Teddy, whose misfortune is to cross the paths of these characters, eventually being accused of the murder of a gang member. Charles is an interesting character who, like the author, has overcome a poor, East End Jewish childhood to excel at his profession, despite continually encountering prejudice on all of these counts. Although successful in his career, he lives according to a moral code which sometimes compels him to make altruistic personal decisions which sail close to, and even beyond, the borderlines of legality. It is, perhaps, the stress of many high-profile cases that cause Charles to make poor decisions in his personal life.
The tension in the book comes from not only the matter of whether Charles can get Teddy off the charge but also his complex relationship with the Krays. It is made all the more real by Simon’s detailed knowledge of both law and procedure.
One of my overriding thoughts about the book was how brave the author is in writing about real characters. You can’t libel the dead, but their surviving acquaintances can do far worse things to you than take you to court.
A book to be enjoyed for its story and characters.
One of the many things I took away from his session was that he had retained over a hundred contemporaneous notebooks from his cases, in which he both prosecuted and defended some of the most notorious alleged villains of the time: people like the Krays and the Richardsons. With such a wealth of first-hand material at his disposal, together with the clear and incisive brain, essential to practising in this field (at a time when a poor performance by the defence could cost their client his or her life), here was a writer who had a head’s start over his rivals.
I was not to be disappointed. Corrupted is as much a tale of morality as of the criminal fraternity. The Krays do indeed play a major role, together with politicians of the time, including Lord Boothby and Tom Driberg, whose homosexual habits, illegal at the time, are protected by corrupt liaisons with the police, the press the legal professional and even a Government, still reeling from the Profumo crisis and unwilling to risk further unsavoury revelations. Several other real-life personalities have walk-on parts, including the boxer Sonny Liston.
The story concerns barrister Charles Holborne’s defence of a vulnerable teenager, Teddy, whose misfortune is to cross the paths of these characters, eventually being accused of the murder of a gang member. Charles is an interesting character who, like the author, has overcome a poor, East End Jewish childhood to excel at his profession, despite continually encountering prejudice on all of these counts. Although successful in his career, he lives according to a moral code which sometimes compels him to make altruistic personal decisions which sail close to, and even beyond, the borderlines of legality. It is, perhaps, the stress of many high-profile cases that cause Charles to make poor decisions in his personal life.
The tension in the book comes from not only the matter of whether Charles can get Teddy off the charge but also his complex relationship with the Krays. It is made all the more real by Simon’s detailed knowledge of both law and procedure.
One of my overriding thoughts about the book was how brave the author is in writing about real characters. You can’t libel the dead, but their surviving acquaintances can do far worse things to you than take you to court.
A book to be enjoyed for its story and characters.
October 9, 2019
This is the 4th Charles Holborne book I’ve read so the author must be doing something right.! I was really excited to be offered it as a review copy and once again immerse myself in Charles’s life as a barrister in 1960s London.
One of the things I really enjoy about this series is the historical detail and in this book we also get a famous boxer and a glamorous actress to add to the mix.
Charles gets involved defending a young boy, Teddy, who is accused of murdering one of the Kray’s henchmen and he has to ensure that Teddy is kept hidden as the gangsters are looking for him too.
His personal life seems to be looking up. He has moved in with his former clerk, Sally, and he is mending bridges with his family although his mother still treats him badly which makes it hard for him to commit fully to his own relationships. Charles is a flawed but likeable character who always tries to do the right thing even if he doesn’t necessarily succeed.
We also get a taste of the boxing world when Charles decides he wants one last fight before he gets too old. Again the research is excellent and Charles’s gym and the people who inhabit it are really well described.
The author is obviously drawing on his own experiences in his writing and this shows, particularly when he is describing legal processes and it would not surprise me if he had done a bit of amateur boxing too!
As ever the book is fast paced and compelling and with a plot involving the Kray twins there is no shortage of excitement as Charles has to use all his wits to stay out of their clutches and protect his young client.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publishers for my arc in exchange for an honest review
One of the things I really enjoy about this series is the historical detail and in this book we also get a famous boxer and a glamorous actress to add to the mix.
Charles gets involved defending a young boy, Teddy, who is accused of murdering one of the Kray’s henchmen and he has to ensure that Teddy is kept hidden as the gangsters are looking for him too.
His personal life seems to be looking up. He has moved in with his former clerk, Sally, and he is mending bridges with his family although his mother still treats him badly which makes it hard for him to commit fully to his own relationships. Charles is a flawed but likeable character who always tries to do the right thing even if he doesn’t necessarily succeed.
We also get a taste of the boxing world when Charles decides he wants one last fight before he gets too old. Again the research is excellent and Charles’s gym and the people who inhabit it are really well described.
The author is obviously drawing on his own experiences in his writing and this shows, particularly when he is describing legal processes and it would not surprise me if he had done a bit of amateur boxing too!
As ever the book is fast paced and compelling and with a plot involving the Kray twins there is no shortage of excitement as Charles has to use all his wits to stay out of their clutches and protect his young client.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publishers for my arc in exchange for an honest review
January 3, 2020
I was totally won over by the fifth book in the series 'The Waxwork Corpse' and am now reading the rest in reverse order. Charles Holborne is certainly a superb lead character. And some intriguing sub-plots ....Charles as the barrister who goes back to boxing , Charles as the Working class Jew trying to hold down a relationship with a girl from a much more respectable background. The latter reminds me of some of John Braine's 'Room at the Top' novels.
And the main storyline, about hypocrisy , scandal, abuse, reaching right to the top , politicians making dirty deals with gangsters, a helpless provincial boy thrown to the wolves , journalists muzzled by libel laws, is a great read. Charles has to make compromises, playing on the anti- homosexual prejudice of the courts to expose what he thinks is a greater injustice. Tries to negotiate with The Kray Twins . Above all the novel is a reminder of the darker side to the 1960's, the insidious corruption that was so prevalent that it tainted so many levels of society. Was fascinated by the storyline featuring Tory peer Lord Boothby and his connection to the Krays and how a potential scandal was covered up. So much of it can be confirmed as factual.
And the main storyline, about hypocrisy , scandal, abuse, reaching right to the top , politicians making dirty deals with gangsters, a helpless provincial boy thrown to the wolves , journalists muzzled by libel laws, is a great read. Charles has to make compromises, playing on the anti- homosexual prejudice of the courts to expose what he thinks is a greater injustice. Tries to negotiate with The Kray Twins . Above all the novel is a reminder of the darker side to the 1960's, the insidious corruption that was so prevalent that it tainted so many levels of society. Was fascinated by the storyline featuring Tory peer Lord Boothby and his connection to the Krays and how a potential scandal was covered up. So much of it can be confirmed as factual.
June 4, 2024
The fourth in the series and in my opinion the best one yet. Brilliant blend of gripping courtroom drama and realistic 1960s London gangsterism. I'm not normally a fan of a detour into a character's love life in books like this, but here it works perfectly as it is highly relevant to the plot. Real life politicians such as Bob Boothby and Tom Driberg make an appearance (as well as, again, the Krays), so I kept breaking off my reading to research how much of the background plot was true. I found the descriptions of child abuse difficult to read, and made me want bad things to happen to the abusers. Just a couple of quibbles. At one point, the main murder is referred to as a potential capital case, but although the death penalty was still being carried out in England in 1964, I don't see how this murder would have fallen into any of the categories of the Homicide Act 1957 which prescribed death as the ultimate punishment. And at one point a character talks about "taking one for the team", but a quick search suggests that this term was unlikely to be in use in London at that time. But overall a thoroughly enjoyable read and I have already bought the fifth in the series to see what Charles Holborne gets up to next.
February 10, 2020
As good as the previous in the series
This book in the series is more gruesome and hard-hitting than the previous ones, but just as good. With each book Charles becomes more interesting, with both flaws and good characteristics. I like the fact that the books are partly autobiographical, and the fact that the author, Simon Michael, is prepared to expose himself in sometimes unflattering light; it makes the character more real. The legal aspects of the story are well presented, and never too dry, which adds to my enjoyment, and the historical aspect always eye-opening. I was born around the time in which these books are set, and I'm always flabbergasted at how things have changed in so many ways, such as the decriminalization of homosexuality, yet are the same in so many others from a societal point of view. For me, the mark of good historical fiction is that the nature of life in the time setting is conveyed realistically, and these novels do that brilliantly while telling good stories at the same time. I have the 5th book waiting for me, and I'm looking forward to it immensely.
This book in the series is more gruesome and hard-hitting than the previous ones, but just as good. With each book Charles becomes more interesting, with both flaws and good characteristics. I like the fact that the books are partly autobiographical, and the fact that the author, Simon Michael, is prepared to expose himself in sometimes unflattering light; it makes the character more real. The legal aspects of the story are well presented, and never too dry, which adds to my enjoyment, and the historical aspect always eye-opening. I was born around the time in which these books are set, and I'm always flabbergasted at how things have changed in so many ways, such as the decriminalization of homosexuality, yet are the same in so many others from a societal point of view. For me, the mark of good historical fiction is that the nature of life in the time setting is conveyed realistically, and these novels do that brilliantly while telling good stories at the same time. I have the 5th book waiting for me, and I'm looking forward to it immensely.
February 17, 2021
“Corrupted” draws you into an intimate exposure to London’s underworld in the early 1960’s, when the Kray twins were at the height of their power. Simon Michael writes in the present tense which gifts the reader with a sense of urgent immediacy, captivating us with his detailed, vivid and succinct character descriptions and the frantic pace of their actions. His thorough knowledge of court procedure and legal precedents inspires us with confidence in his narrative as do his vivid accounts of some of the more gruesome events that lead up to them.
He has constructed the novel in an exciting and fast moving style, rapidly switching from one scenario to another, building tension right from the beginning and maintaining that force which drives you on to read the next chapter without putting the book down.
While not for those with a weak stomach, I can thoroughly recommend Simon Michael’s journeys into the extraordinary life of a barrister from the London docks with a colourful and sometimes violent background
Dick Powys
He has constructed the novel in an exciting and fast moving style, rapidly switching from one scenario to another, building tension right from the beginning and maintaining that force which drives you on to read the next chapter without putting the book down.
While not for those with a weak stomach, I can thoroughly recommend Simon Michael’s journeys into the extraordinary life of a barrister from the London docks with a colourful and sometimes violent background
Dick Powys
August 16, 2021
Yet another brilliant storyline…
My goodness! I read The Brief , the first book in this series, and was immediately hooked! One of those books that you simply have to rush home to read, that makes you go to bed extra early to finish in the early hours of the morning… with a genuine satisfaction with the ending.
The rest of the series is equally brilliant, well written, well researched and with just enough truth to make it unique.
The protagonist is a believable character, a flawed but likeable hero who I have grown to love. Charles is a Barrister who is gives breathtaking risks, in and out of Court, and the author takes us into the Old Bailey as well as Chambers in such a way that you truly feel you know the place inside out!
He is compared to Grisham, but quite frankly I actually prefer Simon Michaels as an author because I like the familiarity of British Law …
If you want a great story, brilliantly written, keeps you wanting more and new, believable characters then please sit back and enjoy the ride…this series is for you!
My goodness! I read The Brief , the first book in this series, and was immediately hooked! One of those books that you simply have to rush home to read, that makes you go to bed extra early to finish in the early hours of the morning… with a genuine satisfaction with the ending.
The rest of the series is equally brilliant, well written, well researched and with just enough truth to make it unique.
The protagonist is a believable character, a flawed but likeable hero who I have grown to love. Charles is a Barrister who is gives breathtaking risks, in and out of Court, and the author takes us into the Old Bailey as well as Chambers in such a way that you truly feel you know the place inside out!
He is compared to Grisham, but quite frankly I actually prefer Simon Michaels as an author because I like the familiarity of British Law …
If you want a great story, brilliantly written, keeps you wanting more and new, believable characters then please sit back and enjoy the ride…this series is for you!
January 10, 2020
Book 4 in the series, and although it may be read as a stand alone, I would advise to read the series in order as you get a better feel for the main character. Charles Holborne is once again caught up in a case which he shouldn't be however due to his nature of helping the more vulnerable in society, he takes it on. As the case has connections with the Krays, he has to tread carefully, always having to be one step ahead. The story at times may be a bit graphic for some readers especially in the description of the events which led to the murder as it highlights the still illegal activities of the older gay community and their abuse of young boys at the time plus the amount of corruption going on around London at all levels of society. Another fast paced drama as this series just gets better and better.
March 18, 2021
One of the best series I have read in recent years.
I have just finished "Corrupted" after doing something I have never done before; I have just "binge read" the first four books in the Charles Holborne series and cannot recommend them enough.
They follow the career of Charles Holborne, a barrister in London in the 1960s and certainly by the end of book he is on my list of ideas dinner guests.
The writing is excellent and Mr Michael captures the 60's perfectly. Add to that, the list of characters and you have a wonderfully entertaining series .
If you have yet to discover them, then I'm jealous. Start at the beginning with The Brief and enjoy the journey.
I have just finished "Corrupted" after doing something I have never done before; I have just "binge read" the first four books in the Charles Holborne series and cannot recommend them enough.
They follow the career of Charles Holborne, a barrister in London in the 1960s and certainly by the end of book he is on my list of ideas dinner guests.
The writing is excellent and Mr Michael captures the 60's perfectly. Add to that, the list of characters and you have a wonderfully entertaining series .
If you have yet to discover them, then I'm jealous. Start at the beginning with The Brief and enjoy the journey.
July 23, 2018
Dramatic legal thriller
Simon Michael delivers a fourth Charles Holborne thriller, which proves to be another enthralling and intriguing crime fiction read. I would recommend reading the previous books in this series to really appreciate the manner and behaviour of the main character, Mr Holborne. A difficult storyline for the era but brought to the fore with sensitivity and honesty. A thoroughly enjoyable book, look forward to more
Simon Michael delivers a fourth Charles Holborne thriller, which proves to be another enthralling and intriguing crime fiction read. I would recommend reading the previous books in this series to really appreciate the manner and behaviour of the main character, Mr Holborne. A difficult storyline for the era but brought to the fore with sensitivity and honesty. A thoroughly enjoyable book, look forward to more
October 14, 2023
Another cracking listen the narrator is awesome I can't praise him enough the book if you were reading it would be fantastic I am listening to the trilogy both going to and coming back from work it absolutely had me hooked normally something will distract you even if only for a short time but this never brilliant fascinating how the krays carried so much clout I can't wait for next one carry on reading or listening to this series im sure there's plenty of twists and turns to follow
September 24, 2021
I got this book from a charity shop and only picked it up because it mentioned the Krays. I really enjoyed it. I wasn't born in the sixties but this bookl takes you there! It can be read as a stand alone novel but the rest of the series are on my to read list.
August 11, 2024
Struggled between 2 and 3. Not sure starting at book 4 was a good idea (but hey, I bought in a real life bookshop, so you go with what they got). Plot was ok, a little convenient at times, and that fed into hard to grok/believe character motivation.
nit:Some gratuitous (in more than one sense of the word) details were anachronistic (I could have gone with them, but they drew attention to themselves...)
nit:Some gratuitous (in more than one sense of the word) details were anachronistic (I could have gone with them, but they drew attention to themselves...)
May 29, 2025
This is a fantastic series. Read it.
Worth noting that while this story is fiction, it is fiction based on fact, in fact, it is more fact that fiction, just that some names have been changed to protect the innocent. Look it up and see for yourself.
Worth noting that while this story is fiction, it is fiction based on fact, in fact, it is more fact that fiction, just that some names have been changed to protect the innocent. Look it up and see for yourself.
August 20, 2025
Simon Michael's experience shows throughout this series. His knowledge of court procedures, the criminal underworld is extensive, and his use of barristers language is exquisite! The stories are realistic and engaging.
November 29, 2018
A thought provoking book
I enjoyed this as much as the previous books. Good twist at the end. Look forward to the next one.
I enjoyed this as much as the previous books. Good twist at the end. Look forward to the next one.
November 20, 2021
The further exploration of the complex character of Charles Holbourne and the conflicting worlds of his existence makes this an enjoyable read.
January 23, 2023
The best so far. The subject matter was a little icky at times, but overall the story was really good, a bit more detailed and in depth then the last 3. Thoroughly enjoyed.
June 7, 2023
the series are getting better and better. This is the best book I have read so far in 2023. It was so interesting that I have missed sleep and appointment. Nice job
December 6, 2020
Threading a fine line between fact and fiction and joining them with an engaging tale of cover up at the highest level. Corrupt politicians and police interacting with sordid sex parties run by the Krays and, in turn, leading to murder. That is not a spoiler, it's chapter one.
Sleazy, horrifying and steeped in historic details of the cover up. The most horrific thing though is to ask yourself what's really changed? What scandals are being carefully hidden from scrutiny today.
Sleazy, horrifying and steeped in historic details of the cover up. The most horrific thing though is to ask yourself what's really changed? What scandals are being carefully hidden from scrutiny today.
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