This was an exceptional addition to the burgeoning Lee Mitchell series of legal thrillers which contains so many elements that make a really good book: an unsolved murder, an innocent defendant, an unpalatable victim , high jinks in Chambers, drug addiction, loyalty to old friends and racism make for a heady brew.

Well worth a read.

I was very taken by Nicola Williams first legal thriller, " Until Proven Innocent" and was not disappointed by her second book,  a twisted story called" Killer Instinct"  set in the British court system featuring barrister Lee Miller which is just as terrific.

When Dean Carter, a very respected Junior Clerk working in the same chambers as Lee,  is accused of murdering their controlling, manipulating boss Tom Mannon, he requests Lee to defend him. I had very little knowledge of how the British legal system works but this thriller is a fab introduction and a very gripping story full of intrigue, politics and the psychology of defense. A great read and a new voice to watch,  publishing July 2025, I was able to enjoy an early proof.

I had high hopes for this book but for me it didn''t quite live up to expectations. A legal thriller it started well but I did find it dragged somewhat. Rather a lot of padding at times and some very odd comments that you wondered why they were included. I didn't particularly click with any of the characters although they were believable. I suppose ultimately I didn't care about what happened to the characters; you don't have to love them but you do have to care what happens to them.
If you found this book in a hotel library you could spend a pleasant afternoon by the pool.