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Charles Holborne #7
The Final Shot
London, 1966
As England eagerly anticipates the World Cup Final, barrister Charles Holborne is briefed in another high-profile case.
Once a sadistic gangster, Reverend Stanley Sharpe found God while incarcerated and has run his own parish for a number of years since being released. But when he is convicted of murdering Frank Marshall, right-hand man to the Kray twins, he is sent back to prison for life.
Convinced that he is innocent, Reverend Sharpe’s wife begs Charles to apply to the Court of Appeal to reopen the case.
With his own question marks over whether Frank Marshall is really dead, Charles agrees to take the brief on.
But with the media now casting doubt over Sharpe’s redemption, Charles knows he is bound for failure unless he can find further evidence.
And to do so he must once again cross the most dangerous men in London…
THE FINAL SHOT is the seventh crime novel in an exciting historical series, the Charles Holborne Legal Thrillers — gritty, hard-boiled mysteries set in 1960s London.
As England eagerly anticipates the World Cup Final, barrister Charles Holborne is briefed in another high-profile case.
Once a sadistic gangster, Reverend Stanley Sharpe found God while incarcerated and has run his own parish for a number of years since being released. But when he is convicted of murdering Frank Marshall, right-hand man to the Kray twins, he is sent back to prison for life.
Convinced that he is innocent, Reverend Sharpe’s wife begs Charles to apply to the Court of Appeal to reopen the case.
With his own question marks over whether Frank Marshall is really dead, Charles agrees to take the brief on.
But with the media now casting doubt over Sharpe’s redemption, Charles knows he is bound for failure unless he can find further evidence.
And to do so he must once again cross the most dangerous men in London…
THE FINAL SHOT is the seventh crime novel in an exciting historical series, the Charles Holborne Legal Thrillers — gritty, hard-boiled mysteries set in 1960s London.
- GenresHistorical
383 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 19, 2022
69 people are currently reading
37 people want to read
About the author
Simon Michael
16 books67 followersI am the author of the semi-autobiographical Charles Holborne crime and courtroom drama series. I'm sometimes referred to as the “British John Grisham”. The series, currently nine books, is based on my East End Cockney roots and my 37 years as a barrister (trial attorney) during which I prosecuted and defended every sort of villainy, from murder to rape, to armed robbery. Set in 1960s gangland London, the thrillers feature the big political events and cases of the day, as we moved from crumbling Empire and grey post-war rationing, to the Kray twins, Profumo, Carnaby Street, flower power, sex drugs and rock ‘n’ roll. The books are populated by the mad judges, corrupt coppers, lying clients and charming rogues I encountered during what was the Wild West of British Justice. As Sir Robert Mark, a later Commissioner of Metropolitan Police was to say:."The CID was the most routinely corrupt organisation in London”, and so it was. But it sure was exciting for those in the trenches. I hope you'll enjoy the ride.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
January 20, 2022
‘It takes six bullets to finish off Frank Marshall.’
London, 1966. While England eagerly anticipates the World Cup Final, barrister Charles Holborne is briefed in a high-profile case. The Reverend Stanley Sharpe, once a gangster, found religion while incarcerated. After his release, he was appointed to his own parish which he ran successfully for some years. But when he is convicted of the murder of Frank Marshall, right hand man to the Kray twins, he is sentenced to life in prison. Reverend Sharpe’s wife is convinced that he is innocent, even though he confessed, and asks Charles to apply to the Court of Appeal.
Frank Marshall’s body has not been found: Reverend Sharpe was convicted on circumstantial evidence. Charles wonders whether Frank Marshall is dead and agrees to take the brief.
In the meantime, Charles and his girlfriend Sally have reunited. Charles takes on a new pupil, Maria Hudson, and the health of his ageing parents causes Charles and his brother concern.
This is the seventh novel in this series, and I think the best (so far). Mr Michael manages the twists in both Charles’s personal life and in his legal practice effectively and kept me turning the pages to find out what would happen next. Imagine: sixties London in the grip of World Cup fever, with the menace of the Kray twins behind the scenes. What really happened to Frank Marshall, and why?
This novel could be read as a standalone, but I’d recommend reading the series in order because the character development is both important and interesting.
Note: My thanks to NetGalley and Sapere Books for providing me with a free electronic copy of this book for review purposes.
Jennifer Cameron-Smith
London, 1966. While England eagerly anticipates the World Cup Final, barrister Charles Holborne is briefed in a high-profile case. The Reverend Stanley Sharpe, once a gangster, found religion while incarcerated. After his release, he was appointed to his own parish which he ran successfully for some years. But when he is convicted of the murder of Frank Marshall, right hand man to the Kray twins, he is sentenced to life in prison. Reverend Sharpe’s wife is convinced that he is innocent, even though he confessed, and asks Charles to apply to the Court of Appeal.
Frank Marshall’s body has not been found: Reverend Sharpe was convicted on circumstantial evidence. Charles wonders whether Frank Marshall is dead and agrees to take the brief.
In the meantime, Charles and his girlfriend Sally have reunited. Charles takes on a new pupil, Maria Hudson, and the health of his ageing parents causes Charles and his brother concern.
This is the seventh novel in this series, and I think the best (so far). Mr Michael manages the twists in both Charles’s personal life and in his legal practice effectively and kept me turning the pages to find out what would happen next. Imagine: sixties London in the grip of World Cup fever, with the menace of the Kray twins behind the scenes. What really happened to Frank Marshall, and why?
This novel could be read as a standalone, but I’d recommend reading the series in order because the character development is both important and interesting.
Note: My thanks to NetGalley and Sapere Books for providing me with a free electronic copy of this book for review purposes.
Jennifer Cameron-Smith
January 26, 2024
⭐️4.5⭐️
February 13, 2022
This book was given to me through NetGally
Frank Marshall is dead and Stanley Sharpe, a well known criminal turned vicar is convicted for the murder. He believes Frank is still alive and so of course that would make him innocent, Charles Holborne, a well known barrister decides to take on the case and maybe prove Sharpe's innocence while dealing with the biggest criminals the Krays.
As far as legal thrillers go this was beautifully written!! Its obvious that the author's previous legal background has helped in the accuracy and details of the profession and proceedings. The characters were very well written, each unique, with their own characteristics and quirks. Charles, Sally, Maria had amazing development throughout the book. Even though this is part of the Charles Holborne book series, I read it as a standalone and was not at all confused!! Everything was written in a way that explained the past(which you may have missed in regards to the fact you have not read the previous 6 books), and other legal proceedings(which maybe unfamiliar to you because you aren't a lawyer or barrister maybe), so you weren't lost or uninterested. I also love how there were multiple subplots interconnecting with each other and the main plot itself. The writing style was gripping and had an easy, fast paced flow. I liked the different chapters of the criminal apartment(calling it this to avoid spoilers) and Charles on the case.
A few other things...
There were parts of the book which remain unexplained and sort of just left hanging, not in an anticipatory way but a bit disappointing. Like what happened to Judy and why did she say what she said on the stand and what will happen to Whealer?
Personally I felt that while Charles was in the dark and researching, we readers should have also remained in the dark until new information came to light. The readers were given quite a few bits of information, which fit well with the story and made for a great book, but I personally like the feeling of discovering more things along the way with the main character.
Frank Marshall is dead and Stanley Sharpe, a well known criminal turned vicar is convicted for the murder. He believes Frank is still alive and so of course that would make him innocent, Charles Holborne, a well known barrister decides to take on the case and maybe prove Sharpe's innocence while dealing with the biggest criminals the Krays.
As far as legal thrillers go this was beautifully written!! Its obvious that the author's previous legal background has helped in the accuracy and details of the profession and proceedings. The characters were very well written, each unique, with their own characteristics and quirks. Charles, Sally, Maria had amazing development throughout the book. Even though this is part of the Charles Holborne book series, I read it as a standalone and was not at all confused!! Everything was written in a way that explained the past(which you may have missed in regards to the fact you have not read the previous 6 books), and other legal proceedings(which maybe unfamiliar to you because you aren't a lawyer or barrister maybe), so you weren't lost or uninterested. I also love how there were multiple subplots interconnecting with each other and the main plot itself. The writing style was gripping and had an easy, fast paced flow. I liked the different chapters of the criminal apartment(calling it this to avoid spoilers) and Charles on the case.
A few other things...
There were parts of the book which remain unexplained and sort of just left hanging, not in an anticipatory way but a bit disappointing. Like what happened to Judy and why did she say what she said on the stand and what will happen to Whealer?
Personally I felt that while Charles was in the dark and researching, we readers should have also remained in the dark until new information came to light. The readers were given quite a few bits of information, which fit well with the story and made for a great book, but I personally like the feeling of discovering more things along the way with the main character.
January 19, 2022
The Final Shot is book 7 in the Charles Holborne legal thrillers series and it's written in such a way that you could definitely read it as a standalone, but I really do urge you to read the books in order as it's one of my favourite series and every single instalment is brilliant.
Set during the summer of 1966, when England is in the grip of World Cup fever and The Krays rule the shady London underworld, Charles Holborne is asked to advise on an appeal. Stanley Sharpe gave up his life of crime to dedicate his life to the church and he is in prison for a crime he claims he did not commit. The police have a confession from him, so why did he confess if he didn't do it?
Charles Holborne never sees things in black and white, not when he knows the many shades of grey that lie within. With The Krays having their fingers in many pies, nothing is ever as clear as it seems and if anyone will find out the truth, Charles will. As well as the legal thriller side to the plot, Charles' personal life also plays a big part in the story. Charles is no stranger to discrimination so he agrees to be shadowed by a young woman doing her pupillage. Maria Hudson has set tongues wagging in chambers; she's female, American and black - what a shock to the system this must be in 1960's London!
Reconnected with his girlfriend Sally, Charles is in a much happier place now so it was lovely to see how his life has changed (for the better). That's why it's worth reading the books in order as the reader becomes acquainted with Charles over the course of the series and you really do care about what happens to him.
Gripping, atmospheric and incredibly nostalgic, The Final Shot is a winner! With the spirit of 1966 woven into the prose, I was gripped by World Cup Fever as well as the razor-sharp plot. It's another unputdownable legal thriller from storyteller extraordinaire, Simon Michael.
Set during the summer of 1966, when England is in the grip of World Cup fever and The Krays rule the shady London underworld, Charles Holborne is asked to advise on an appeal. Stanley Sharpe gave up his life of crime to dedicate his life to the church and he is in prison for a crime he claims he did not commit. The police have a confession from him, so why did he confess if he didn't do it?
Charles Holborne never sees things in black and white, not when he knows the many shades of grey that lie within. With The Krays having their fingers in many pies, nothing is ever as clear as it seems and if anyone will find out the truth, Charles will. As well as the legal thriller side to the plot, Charles' personal life also plays a big part in the story. Charles is no stranger to discrimination so he agrees to be shadowed by a young woman doing her pupillage. Maria Hudson has set tongues wagging in chambers; she's female, American and black - what a shock to the system this must be in 1960's London!
Reconnected with his girlfriend Sally, Charles is in a much happier place now so it was lovely to see how his life has changed (for the better). That's why it's worth reading the books in order as the reader becomes acquainted with Charles over the course of the series and you really do care about what happens to him.
Gripping, atmospheric and incredibly nostalgic, The Final Shot is a winner! With the spirit of 1966 woven into the prose, I was gripped by World Cup Fever as well as the razor-sharp plot. It's another unputdownable legal thriller from storyteller extraordinaire, Simon Michael.
January 20, 2022
I read this book as a standalone, and I was surprised at how easy it was to fall into the story. I was an instant fan of Charles Holborne, and I was immersed in learning about his past. He is back with his girlfriend, Sally, and it is clear in this installment that he is a better person than he has been in other books of the series. Simon Michael takes us on a page-turning roller coaster that is careening toward the World Cup in 1966. The Krays rule the underbelly of London, and the depth of their power is gripping. Charles has been asked to advise on an appeal, and he involves new apprentice, Maria Hudson to help out. Stanley Sharp is in prison and has confessed to a crime he insists he did not commit. Pick up this brilliant thriller and hop on the roller coaster for an exhilarating ride!
July 12, 2024
Seven down, two to go. I’m loving this series and already wondering how it’s going to end. This book is another page-turning mix of 1960s London gangsterism, police corruption, barristers’ chambers practice, and courtroom drama. The Krays are there again, of course, and I’ve got into the habit of browsing the internet mid-read to try to work out which bits of the story are based on historical fact and which are completely fictionalised. The author gives an answer in his usual historical note at the end (a tip for Kindle readers is that you first need to get past the page which pops up automatically asking you for a rating). If I’m honest, this wasn’t my favourite of the series so far, simply because there seemed to be an increased emphasis on Charles Holborne’s personal relationships with his girlfriend Sally and with his parents and brother. But as I’ve noted before, that’s just my personal view – I’m always itching to get back to the action (both physical and legal). As always, some great minor characters – here a barrister in his seventies known as The Great Toad … I wonder who he was based upon!
July 24, 2022
Love this series!
I have read all 7 of the Charles Holborne series and have enjoyed them all. Charles is such a great character, a lawyer in London with a very interesting past that boxes as well and who is a good, honest man who still manages to get into some precarious situations. The 1960’s setting along with the seedy gang activity makes for an intriguing backdrop. These are full of great courtroom drama and twists and turns. The personal life of Charles evolves throughout the series. I am anxious for the next one which per Mr. Michael will be coming in the Fall. If you enjoy legal thrillers I suggest you check out this great series. Start with the first and read in order!
I have read all 7 of the Charles Holborne series and have enjoyed them all. Charles is such a great character, a lawyer in London with a very interesting past that boxes as well and who is a good, honest man who still manages to get into some precarious situations. The 1960’s setting along with the seedy gang activity makes for an intriguing backdrop. These are full of great courtroom drama and twists and turns. The personal life of Charles evolves throughout the series. I am anxious for the next one which per Mr. Michael will be coming in the Fall. If you enjoy legal thrillers I suggest you check out this great series. Start with the first and read in order!
September 16, 2023
another fabulous book
I’m going to really miss this character after the final book. I even listened to this on Alexa assisted reader (, you start it on Kindle, then you ask your Amazon Alexa/echo ‘ Alexa, read my kindle book.’ And she just picks up and carries on reading it. Nowhere near as good as the actual narrator on this one the previous one, but to be honest she can be a lot better and some of the narrators on other books! LOL)
I hope Simon Michael has done other books because I love his detail in courtroom scenes and obvious knowledge and experience as a barrister. Well done Simon!
I’m going to really miss this character after the final book. I even listened to this on Alexa assisted reader (, you start it on Kindle, then you ask your Amazon Alexa/echo ‘ Alexa, read my kindle book.’ And she just picks up and carries on reading it. Nowhere near as good as the actual narrator on this one the previous one, but to be honest she can be a lot better and some of the narrators on other books! LOL)
I hope Simon Michael has done other books because I love his detail in courtroom scenes and obvious knowledge and experience as a barrister. Well done Simon!
November 10, 2023
Once again i was engrossed in this Simon Michael book brilliantly written and as I listened to it on audio i have to once more complement the narrator who read the story magnificently the characters are brilliant the ones whom i was aware of before never changed always the same the new ones were intriguing the krays are involved again and in 1966 the World Cup was in England so lots was happening and the book keeps you up to date with everything I look forward to book 8 being released in audio as the first 7 have been brilliant you have to read these fast-paced magnificent characters wonderful storylines outstanding scenery it has the lot
September 30, 2022
As with all the previous books in the series, I thoroughly enjoyed this one. Both the core case in this book, and the further insight into Charles Holborne's life and the times are interesting and gripping. I'm at the point where I almost don't want to read these as each one leads closer to the end of the series, and then I'll no longer have the anticipation of further enjoyment. That said, I'm eagerly awaiting the next one!
May 28, 2025
Continuing my platonic love affair with the author
I knew when I started to read this book that
I would not be disappointed and my trust was certainly rewarded.
lots of characters and different stories all coming to a satisfactory conclusion. I also enjoyed the family elements of the main characters which blended well with the main story line.
As usual, can't wait to read the next volume, already in library.
I knew when I started to read this book that
I would not be disappointed and my trust was certainly rewarded.
lots of characters and different stories all coming to a satisfactory conclusion. I also enjoyed the family elements of the main characters which blended well with the main story line.
As usual, can't wait to read the next volume, already in library.
November 9, 2022
I’ve read the whole series & can honestly say it’s one of the most compelling series of books I’ve read! The characters are very believable & relatable, the description of the setting in the 60s really makes you feel like you’re there. And the author clearly knows his legal stuff. Disappointed it’s over but enjoyed the ride immensely! Come on NETFLIX let’s see this made into a series.
March 19, 2023
Even though it was not necessarily chronologically correct it was an excellent read. Got caught in the World Cup fever (I was only 5 when it happened) and the court scenes and machinations are well described. Will be sorry to see the end of this series.
July 10, 2022
a must read
A great story with well developed characters . A good read with plenty of twists and turns. A very good read
A great story with well developed characters . A good read with plenty of twists and turns. A very good read
August 16, 2022
Love the series on Holborn the author keeps the readers attention in everyone if his books on Holborn . I look forward to reading more in the series
December 28, 2023
Excellent series of books, audio & kindle.
Sadly only one more to go….or is it?
Sadly only one more to go….or is it?
January 24, 2024
The Final Shot is a really enjoyable read. Set in 1966 the attention to period detail is excellent and the story is pacy and compelling. Recommended.
August 23, 2025
Gotta say, this is the best series I've read, or close to. Fantastic stuff.
May 28, 2024
Well, having read the entire 8 set books, this author has me spellbound.
His knowledge of the legal system stems from his own experience as a Barrister.
Excellent series.
His knowledge of the legal system stems from his own experience as a Barrister.
Excellent series.
January 22, 2022
I’ve been a big fan of barrister, Charles Holborne since I was fortunate enough to receive the first book, The Brief, as a review copy and in my opinion this series has just got better and better. As ever “The Final Shot” is a great read with fantastic period detail.
It is set in 1966 and everyone, sports fan or not, knows what happened that Summer! As well as building up to the excitement of England’s World Cup win ( not a spoiler I hope) Simon Michael’s latest book again explores the murky world of the Kray twins and their attempt to frame an ex gangster turned Reverend. Sharpe has been accused of the murder of Frank Marshall, one of the Krays’ henchmen but he claims to be innocent. His wife engages Charles to appeal his conviction and he endeavours to find out the truth of the matter.
We also learn more about Charles’s personal life as his elderly parents suffer from increasing bad health and we meet Maria his new pupil who is as much an outsider as Charles himself.
This is a fantastic read- I was completely transported to the Summer of 1966 although I could not remember it myself as I was only 4 years old at the time! How lovely to be engrossed in a book set in an earlier time where there were different worries and excitements although there was definitely a comparison to be made with last year’s Euros when the whole country did seem to come together.
Charles is a great character whose good nature and innate sense of justice is portrayed well in all these books and for me it was a real treat to read this one. The author’s historical research is second to none and it is always clear that he has an immense legal knowledge.
I highly recommend this book and indeed the whole series.
Thanks to NetGalley and Sapere Books for my advance copy.
It is set in 1966 and everyone, sports fan or not, knows what happened that Summer! As well as building up to the excitement of England’s World Cup win ( not a spoiler I hope) Simon Michael’s latest book again explores the murky world of the Kray twins and their attempt to frame an ex gangster turned Reverend. Sharpe has been accused of the murder of Frank Marshall, one of the Krays’ henchmen but he claims to be innocent. His wife engages Charles to appeal his conviction and he endeavours to find out the truth of the matter.
We also learn more about Charles’s personal life as his elderly parents suffer from increasing bad health and we meet Maria his new pupil who is as much an outsider as Charles himself.
This is a fantastic read- I was completely transported to the Summer of 1966 although I could not remember it myself as I was only 4 years old at the time! How lovely to be engrossed in a book set in an earlier time where there were different worries and excitements although there was definitely a comparison to be made with last year’s Euros when the whole country did seem to come together.
Charles is a great character whose good nature and innate sense of justice is portrayed well in all these books and for me it was a real treat to read this one. The author’s historical research is second to none and it is always clear that he has an immense legal knowledge.
I highly recommend this book and indeed the whole series.
Thanks to NetGalley and Sapere Books for my advance copy.
October 21, 2023
Another brilliant book in one of the best series
I absolutely love the Charles Holborne Legal Thrillers series. The whole series is completely fascinating, compelling and beautifully written all set in the era of the Krays and with some events and characters based on true events and people. Love it so much I have purchased the audible version where the brilliantly written story is brought to life.
I absolutely love the Charles Holborne Legal Thrillers series. The whole series is completely fascinating, compelling and beautifully written all set in the era of the Krays and with some events and characters based on true events and people. Love it so much I have purchased the audible version where the brilliantly written story is brought to life.
January 13, 2022
This is book 7 in the Charles Holborn Legal Thrillers series. It is 1966 and London is entering a new era with Fashion (Carnaby Street/ Kings Road etc); Music (The Beatles) and the Football World Cup is coming to town. The story mixes factual and fictional events; we meet the infamous Kray twins and see their web of corruption, violence, intimidation and murder.
Briefly, this is the story of Frank Marshall. We know, from the prologue, Frank has been murdered. As the story unfolds it explores why Charles is involved. He has been asked to advise on an Appeal for the Rev. Stanley Sharpe who has been found guilty of Marshall’s murder despite no body being found. However, Sharpe has been set up by a corrupt police detective and Barrister Charles is once again up against the Krays. It all comes to a head in dramatic fashion on the same day that England won the World Cup.
This is a very clever mix showcasing the atmosphere in London at the time, combined with the gang led violence and deep seated semitism and racist views. Well written with a good storyline I found it a cracking read and rated ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Briefly, this is the story of Frank Marshall. We know, from the prologue, Frank has been murdered. As the story unfolds it explores why Charles is involved. He has been asked to advise on an Appeal for the Rev. Stanley Sharpe who has been found guilty of Marshall’s murder despite no body being found. However, Sharpe has been set up by a corrupt police detective and Barrister Charles is once again up against the Krays. It all comes to a head in dramatic fashion on the same day that England won the World Cup.
This is a very clever mix showcasing the atmosphere in London at the time, combined with the gang led violence and deep seated semitism and racist views. Well written with a good storyline I found it a cracking read and rated ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
January 19, 2022
This wonderful series just gets better and better. The seven books contain a marvellous snapshot of London life in the 50s and 60s and cover a broad range of subjects such as the law, gangland disputes, class struggles, family dynamics, anti semitism, integration, racism and snobbery in an intoxicating blend.
I love the way that the hero Charles Holborne is developing as a man and fights to make is way in society that looks down at him. Te depiction of 1966 London is sharp and accurate - I know because I was there (albeit a youngster!) and the plot was engrossing as always.
There is not much more to say except please give this wonderful series a try and ideally start with Book One - "The Brief" - you really won't regret it.
I love the way that the hero Charles Holborne is developing as a man and fights to make is way in society that looks down at him. Te depiction of 1966 London is sharp and accurate - I know because I was there (albeit a youngster!) and the plot was engrossing as always.
There is not much more to say except please give this wonderful series a try and ideally start with Book One - "The Brief" - you really won't regret it.
January 21, 2022
I really enjoy this series set in a corrupt yet buzzing sixties London.
Charles Holborn is a likeable character, flawed but honest, close to many of the seedier sides of the capital...although he has no direct interventions with the Kray twins this time around their presence is everywhere.
The supporting cast is evolving nicely - though not necessarily having nice things to look forward to
There are some challenges for me in respect of timelines around the 1966 World Cup Final weekend that I am sure Simon can resolve for a future print...hence losing a star rating...otherwise I look forward to our next adventure in the not too distant future
Charles Holborn is a likeable character, flawed but honest, close to many of the seedier sides of the capital...although he has no direct interventions with the Kray twins this time around their presence is everywhere.
The supporting cast is evolving nicely - though not necessarily having nice things to look forward to
There are some challenges for me in respect of timelines around the 1966 World Cup Final weekend that I am sure Simon can resolve for a future print...hence losing a star rating...otherwise I look forward to our next adventure in the not too distant future
January 24, 2022
saved the best for last…
Sadly, there are only a handful of British legal thriller writers that can reach the high standards of John Grisham’s early work.
Having read all 7 books in Simon Michaels Charles Holborn series, I can confidently announce that he trumps the lot!
As good as Grisham? Far better !
I feel as though I know the characters personally, that they are as real as you or I and that London in the 60’s has come back to life….
If you love Courtroom dramas, especially British ones, then you won’t want to miss this brilliant series! I take my hat off to you Simon Michael, you have a rare talent, and I am so glad I found you.
Sadly, there are only a handful of British legal thriller writers that can reach the high standards of John Grisham’s early work.
Having read all 7 books in Simon Michaels Charles Holborn series, I can confidently announce that he trumps the lot!
As good as Grisham? Far better !
I feel as though I know the characters personally, that they are as real as you or I and that London in the 60’s has come back to life….
If you love Courtroom dramas, especially British ones, then you won’t want to miss this brilliant series! I take my hat off to you Simon Michael, you have a rare talent, and I am so glad I found you.
January 7, 2022
A snapshot of the power wielded by the Kray twins in this depiction of a case lawyer Charles Holborne is asked to look at. With his mini skirt wearing , 60's fashionista girlfriend by his side, this case delves into a man serving time for murder whose family believe is not guilty because the victim is still alive. Gritty, dark look at relationships between couples, families and gangland loyalties and punishments.
January 28, 2022
Simon Michael's legal thrillers have never failed to be both enjoyable and evocative of bye gone eras.The final shot did not disappoint , It can be read as a standalone , with a interesting plot line involving the Kray Twins, 1960's swinging London, LSD and an execution.The social mores of the period are described beautifully with the conservatism of the Bar and outright prejudice incorporated in the story line.
Another fantastic read .
Another fantastic read .
January 31, 2022
In this series of stories, I feel that the author has achieved the correct level of mixing fiction and fact especially with the Krays and other notable people from 1960's London. He blends the story of Charles Holborn effortlessly together with these folk along with his description of London back then which is so vivid that as the reader, you are there on the streets, in the pubs and especially in the law courts. Very evocative and highly recommended. A great book from a great series.
February 1, 2022
I am loving this series. The author really knows how to tell a story and I love how he develops his characters and the fact that characters make an appearance throughout the series. Once I start with one of his books I don't want to stop - the story is engaging and the author shows the battle of wits that Charles Holborne has to fight with gangsters and the police. Highly recommended
January 18, 2022
A surprisingly enjoyable read, I knew it would be good but I expected to find it gritty and hard (and it was) but it had a human side to the book which really engaged me.
Well written, book 7 in the series and set in the 60s with gangsters abound!
A great read
Well written, book 7 in the series and set in the 60s with gangsters abound!
A great read
Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews