The Protest is the third book of Rob Rinder’s Adam Green series, about a young barrister as he goes about his work.

In this novel Adam is involved in two major cases connected with a fictitious war.

The first is about a protest against the war which ended in the death of a famous artist set at the old bailey. While the second is a military court martial involving a young man accused of killing a young child in that same war.

With The Protest being the third book in the Adam Green series, readers who have read the previous books will be wanting to know if this series is worth continuing with this book.

The simple answer to that question is an unqualified yes, as while the novel has all the things you have enjoyed in the previous novels, there is also an improvement in the writing.

This does not mean that the previous books were badly written, as this was definitely not the case.

The improvement is seen in the quality of the court scenes and particularly the cross examinations, which are starting to have that edge of your seat feeling, particularly in the court martial scenes.

While, The Protest is written as a courtroom drama, the scenes outside the court really add depth to the characters particularly with this being an ongoing series. You are starting to get into the individual side characters, giving them a reason for their actions.

As to can this novel be read as stand alone, while the novel does give information on events that happened in the previous novel this seems more aimed at readers of previous books in the series, then those who have not read the previous books.

Having said that, The Protest contains cases that are not in any other of the previous books but new readers will miss on knowing the full story on how previous books' interactions affect Adam’s current dealings with recurring characters.

In addition there are some spoilers from previous books, which may affect you reading of earlier books if you read them out of order.

However the greatest side character is not one of Adam’s work colleges or those involved in the cases but his mum.

Who turns up regularly in the novel as a phone call and usually tells Adam off for working too hard or even saying how proud she is.This not only gives the novel a bit of light relief but allows Rob Rinder to bring in the general public's opinion on the case in an enjoyable format.


So if you have read the previous books in the series and are wondering if you should read The Protest by Rob Rinder or do not care about reading a book series in order then the answer is a definitive yes.

For a little while, it looked as though Sir Max Bruce, the country's most famous living artist, was not going to show up for the opening of his retrospective at the Royal Academy. Still, he arrived in the nick of time, complete with his two wives and six children, one of whom filmed what happened. Being an influencer, you tend to do things like that, but it was fortunate that there was a record of the protest. Lexi Williams, an intern at the RA, grabbed a spray can of blue paint from under a chair and proceeded to spray Bruce in the face, whilst shouting Stop the War. It seemed to be part of an ongoing series of 'blue-face' attacks, but this was different. The can had been laced with cyanide, and Sir Max Bruce was dead.

It seemed like an open-and-shut case, and one set of barristers at Stag Court were jubilant that they had the simple job of prosecuting Williams. There might even be a terrorism charge to add into the mix as the Home Secretary had been attacked the previous week. Had he been intended to die too? The defence barristers, with Adam Green as the junior, were less convinced of the girl's guilt. She wasn't particularly likeable, and had found lockdown difficult, but what evidence was there that she had been radicalised? Why would she want to kill the artist?

As if Adam didn't have enough to do, preparing this case, he was roped into a pro bono case where a lance corporal in the army was accused of murder. Once again, it appears that a guilty verdict is likely, but not everything is as it seems.

Rob Rinder writes the Adam Green series of novels from intimate, inside knowledge, and it shows. It's easy to see when a book has been written from research, with every little bit of information shovelled in in the hope of achieving verisimilitude. The Adam Green books are the reverse: you sense that there's a lot more that hasn't been said. It's the law as it works, and this is what gave me a slight disappointment about the book. I like an answer, a resolution and The Protest doesn't end with a satisfied sigh from the reader. It was, though, a good read, and I finished it within twenty-four hours.

As well as reading the book, I listened to an audiobook that I bought for myself. It was narrated by Josh Dylan, who has narrated earlier books in the series. He has an excellent range of voices - I was never in any doubt as to who was speaking, which is no mean feat when listening to a story about barristers and their juniors. It would be easy for them all to sound alike. Dylan also has a knack of not intruding between the author and their reader, which makes for a more engaging read. I hope he'll narrate further books in the series.

The third book featuring Adam Green

A glorious party to show case Max Bruce’s paintings opens with considerable expectations. Max Bruce's two wives and his many children join the celebration. However, the evening quickly comes to a staggering halt when an activist covers Max with blue paint. Within minutes, Max Bruce is dead, and the protester arrested.

Adam Green, a newly qualified barrister, must defend the protester. He must try to prove whether there was anyone else involved in this heinous crime.

This is the third book by Rob Rinder to feature Adam Green. The books are all brilliantly written. I love all the characters, but Adam Green is special. Not only is he ridiculously hard working but has a mother who – well mother’s him or should I say smothers him. She tries to check up at least once a day whether he is eating enough, sleeping well or has finally managed to find a girlfriend. Their conversations amuse me.

I love how much research Rob Rinder puts into the plots, and I find the novels particularly interesting because of this. A series very worth following and I look forward to the next book in the series.

Rony

Elite Reviewing Group received a copy of the book from NetGalley to review.

Another excellent book. I feel like I recognise some of the characters from the previous books and they are starting to grow on me, even Jonathan, his former boss in a peculiar kind of way. Adam needs to perhaps accept his strengths and lighten up a bit and is showing perhaps signs of appreciating this towards the end of the book.. The story should perhaps continue some strands in the next one.

My thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC of this book.

I just finished The Protest by Rob Rinder– the third book in the Adam Green series. At this point, I’m really starting to grow attached to this world full of legal drama, sharp dialogue, and Adam’s ever-present personal chaos.

What stood out to me straight away was the pace. The story kicks off fast: a death at an art exhibition, a protester under suspicion, and of course Adam—thrown right into the middle of it all, usually a little clumsy but always with good intentions. The plot is well-constructed, with a nice balance between tension and humour.

And yes, she’s back: Adam’s mum. Still just as sharp, nosy, and somehow incredibly lovable. The scenes between them are once again a highlight. They bring a lightness to the story that’s really welcome, especially as the case grows darker.

What I appreciated in this third book is that Rinder seems to take things a step further. The plot feels more original than in The Suspect, with themes that are more current and layered. Adam’s character development is noticeable too—he’s still bumbling at times, but it’s part of what makes him feel real and relatable.

If I had to mention one minor flaw, it’s that there’s quite a lot happening at once, which makes the storyline feel slightly less tight than in the earlier books. But honestly? It didn’t really bother me—I kept reading because I had to know how it would all play out.

The Protest is another strong legal thriller that proves Rinder has really found his stride as an author. If you enjoy courtroom drama with sharp wit and a main character who never quite has it all together, this series is definitely still worth picking up.

really enjoyed the first two books in Rob Rinder’s Adam Green series, The Trial and The Suspect , so I was keen to read the third in the series, The Protest. I do love a good legal thriller and this had a terrific hook. From a shocking cyanide-laced paint stunt to the tangled web of courtroom drama, Rinder has delivered a pacy, polished story that had me hooked from the first star-studded scene at the Royal Academy

The heart of the novel, as always in the Adam Green series, is Adam himself. A newly qualified barrister juggling multiple cases, he’s earnest, morally resolute, and awkwardly endearing—never afraid to question the obvious. I adore how Rinder fleshes out Adam’s character through his trademark phone calls with his archetypically Jewish mother; they provide insightful backstory while lending genuine warmth and humour.

Life in Stag Court Chambers feels alive and chaotic. We meet senior counsel Morris, boisterous and a little self-important, and Bobby, the mentor who quietly steers Adam through a pro-bono military-court-martial, intertwined with the main plot. Trainee Stacey appears, as a new character—sparky, eager, and quietly clever. Stag Court Chambers is more than a backdrop; it’s practically another character, full of rivalries, encouragement, and competitive wit. The camaraderie between Georgina, Adam and Stacey grounds the book and adds levity when legal seriousness threatens to dominate.

Adam’s relationship with Georgina has real chemistry. She isn’t just a love-interest; she’s smart, driven, and crosses professional boundaries with Adam in a way that feels authentic. Their dynamic is a slow burn, woven through cases, lunches, and long working evenings. It brings emotional texture to the thriller, reminding you that behind every courtroom genius is a human with flaws and feelings.

Plot-wise, the premise is a killer: blue paint at an art gala, cyanide, instant death. Curator Natasha Fitzjohn spent years trying to acquire Max Bruce‘s masterpiece ‘Primal Scream’ which is now the centrepiece of her exhibition; a testament to her prowess as a negotiator. She is impatiently waiting for Bruce to arrive to unveil his painting. So when he arrives late with his wife and son, she is not best pleased, but hides it in front of the many press cameras awaiting the artist’s presence. But just as Natasha’s moment arrives, a protest dramatically interrupts the celebration. In front of all her distinguished guests, Max has blue paint sprayed all over him by a protester with a spray can. Blue Face are well known for their tactics in protesting against the war in Khanistan. Security guards quickly secure the protester, Lexi Williams, who works in the Gallery, but as they do so, Max abruptly collapses and dies.

It all seems like an open and shut case, but is it? Rinder expertly throws in red herrings—significant figures in the art world who loathed Max Bruce, a simmering protest movement, and murky financial dealings. All evidence points to Lexi, who used the cerulean blue paint, but as Adam peels back layers, you realise it’s that this courtroom battle won’t be won in the court alone; Adam will have to turn detective to get to the real motive in this case and that’s what lies at the heart of this fast paced thriller.

The narrative surges between intense courtroom scenes, tense interrogations, and late-night wanderings through London’s cultural landmarks. Chapters fly by; one moment your pulse is racing with courtroom suspense, the next you’re caught in a difficult scene between Georgina and Adam, sometimes awkward, often a little tender. Rinder balances thriller and emotional arcs with the ease of a seasoned barrister delivering a killer closing argument.

Rinder writes with both a sharp wit and authentic legal detail. If you ever wondered what it really feels like to prep a barrister’s brief, this book gives it to you—with no sugar-coating. Dialogue snaps, particularly in Chambers, and I really enjoyed the fleeting satirical observations about London’s gallery set mingling with activist protesters.

A secondary thread, in which, despite his financially embarrassed state, Adam is defending a soldier in a military court on a pro-bono basis, lends a serious tone. A soldier is tried for the death of a young boy and the court case is difficult and moving, with a clever and ironic conclusion. We see how complex and nuanced a military court-martial can be. I enjoyed that secondary arc for what it added to Adam’s growth, especially as it wasn’t as clear cut as the main murder case.

Verdict: The Protest is thoroughly entertaining. The pacing is relentless, the characters are richly drawn, and that Adam and Georgina connection kept me rooting for more than just legal triumph. If you’re new to the series, this stands alone beautifully—though you’ll catch even more depth if you trace Adam’s journey from the start. I enjoy this series for the its portrayal of the trials and tribulations of a young lawyer navigating the moral and ethical boundaries of trial proceedings and for the warmth and humour that Rob Rinder brings to his characters.

3rd book by the author and I think on balance would say you need to read the previous 2 so you know the main characters back story and how they have evolved to where they are now, career and personal wise

Adam Green is back and trying cases with his colleagues at Stag Court and in this book defends Lexi, who has sprayed blue paint in a major UK’s artist’s face with devastating consequences and also the case of a soldier who is accused of killing a 10 year old in a war zone, both emotive, both explained well and both portrayed brilliantly at court, The Old Bailey and Military

There is humorous relief as we once again ‘listen in’ to the wonderful calls from his over protective and zealous Mum

It is an in depth read with a lot of work from the author and then a lot of reading of facts etc for the reader to work through ( although this is more than enjoyable ) and so for me it then seemed quite a rushed, quick ending

Nonetheless another great insight into the world of barristers and solicitors and court cases and ‘the system’ with superb descriptions re people and their personalities and ‘ways’ be they being judged or judging

Roll on Book 4

An enjoyable and easy to read novel on the uncertainty of the legal system. In the aftermath of the very public murder of a high profile artist, the appointed barristers have to convince the jury of the convicted murderer’s intent. A classic whodunnit. For me, the most interesting feature of the novel was insight into the workings of the legal system.

I really enjoyed Rob Rinder’s last book so was delighted to read his follow on, The Protest. This book continues with the characters we met in the previous book, Adam Green and his various fellow barristers in Stag Court chambers. The Protest could be read as a stand-alone but I think a reader would miss out on the great writing of the previous books. The Protest is another great story where we get insight into the machinations of the British legal system, primarily through two cases; a young girl spray painting the face of a renowned artist which leads to his death while being filmed for social media and an army case involving a battle weary soldier accused of deliberately suffocating a ten year old boy who was caught looting in what was a recent war zone. I’m hoping the next book is under way as I’m already looking forward to reading it.

This is Rob Rinder's 3rd book and I suggest that they are read in order. Adam is called to help returning hotshot Barrister Morris to defend a young woman who seemingly killed a famous artist by throwing paint laced with cyanide in his face. The girl Lexi is adamant that she only meant to protest against wars for protest group Stop the War to get publicity and had no idea that the cyanide was there.
All the previous characters from Stag Court are here and Adam is now settling g into a lawyer's life.
Rob's wit shines through the words and it gives a fascinating insight into the justice system.

The Protest by Rob Rinder

Rob Rinder’s background as a former barrister shines through on every page of this brilliant book. This is the third instalment in the Adam Green series I’ve read, and each one surpasses the last. Rinder doesn’t just write Adam—he becomes him—bringing an extraordinary understanding of the hearts and minds of those accused.
Two cases. Both dangerous, in very different ways. The first explodes into the public eye when a celebrated artist is assassinated in broad daylight—his face sprayed with blue paint; the pigment laced with cyanide. The spectacle is brutal. Unforgettable. The second case simmers beneath the surface: a soldier stands accused of murdering a young boy in the war-torn terrain of Kandistan. It’s a quiet scandal cloaked in military protocol, but the fallout could reverberate through the highest ranks of power. Adam Green must walk a legal tightrope, where every truth revealed could trigger a new kind of war.

Rob Rinder's novels only grow bolder and sharper with each release. The tension crackles from the very first page, and just when you think you've caught your breath, the final twist lands—clever, unexpected, and all too real. Amidst the courtroom drama and high-stakes intrigue, Adam’s mother brings a burst of comic brilliance. She’s the kind of character you recognise instantly: warm, meddling, and absolutely hilarious. I found myself giggling more than once. Now I’m counting down the days to book four—because if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that Adam Green’s next move is never predictable.

https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/7648761663
https://maddybooksblog.blogspot.com/2025/06/the-protest-by-rob-rinder-rob-rinders.html

Rob Rinder does it again a very captivating plot. Adam is defending a protester who sprayed paint on artist who then died the paint was laced with cyanide. Full of twist and turns. Loved Adam and a few old friends. I think Rob Rinder is up there with Steve Cavanagh. Thanks Random House UK Cornerstone and Netgalley for this review ARC.

Another easy read. I feel like I ‘know' some of the characters from a previous book and they are starting to grow on me, dare I say even Jonathan in a funny kind of way. Adam needs to lighten up a bit and is showing signs of realising this towards the end of the book so here’s hoping he has some fun in the next one. The story felt a bit unfinished so I’m hoping for some follow up to this in the next one too.

My thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC of this book.

Another terrific outing for Adam Green!

At a Royal Academy evening to celebrate the renowned artist, Max Bruce, it has reached the climax of the evening when Max is giving his speech when a protester rushes from the crowd and sprays him in blue paint. A shocking act on it's own, but deadly when the paint has been laced with cyanide. With no lack of witnesses, this would seem to be an open and shut case - but, when it lands on Adam Green's desk, can he prove otherwise?

There is no doubt that it's not an easy road to become a barrister and the author has demonstrated this beautifully through the character of Adam Green who, truth be told, I've become quite fond of in the previous two novels. In this third book, we see Adam juggling cases and determined not to drop the ball in any of them. A superb read from beginning to end, and I can't wait for the next one. A splendidly entertaining novel, and one I'm most happy to recommend. 5*.

My thanks to the publisher for my copy via NetGalley.

A painter’s child.

A peace protester, Lexi Williams, sprays paint in the face of famous British artist, Max Bruce, at an important exhibition of his work at London’s Royal Academy. Max Bruce colapses and dies in front of the substantial crowd.

Lexi is charged with murder and her defence falls to Adam Green (a barrister featured in previous books) led by the brilliant Morris Brown. The prosecution has also gone to barristers at Adam’s Stag Court Chambers, Jonathan Taylor-Cameron and Georgina Devereaux.

Whilst the trial of Lexi draws closer, Adam is also deeply involved in various other cases including the Court Marshall of a young army lance corporal accused of murder. Adam is inundated with the amount of research and preparation which is demanded by the various cases.

Eventually the principal cases are resolved, as may be expected. With legal thrillers it is, however, the journey that interests and excites the reader, and once again Rob Rinder provides a most enjoyable journey.

It's great to be back with Adam, I love reading his exploits. The characters are believable and authentic and the plot keeps you reading.

Rob Rinder has definitely made it in writing, I can't wait for the next installment.

Many thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for gifting me this arc in exchange for an honest, unbiased review.

The third in the series and the characters are really growing on me, even Jonathan shows his vulnerability, he's definitely a character you love to hate.
I love how Adam is always underestimated by his peers but seems to come up with the answers. His regular phone calls with his mum never fail to make me smile.
Despite being involved in a very high profile case of a very famous artist murdered in plain sight, Adam still has many cases to undertake, there's no let up for him. It's a great series.
I have left my review on Goodreads, Bookmory, Storygraph, Fable and Waterstones and Amazon on publication day

‘The Protest’ by Rob Rinder is the third book in the TV judge’s intelligent series about junior barrister Adam Green. Following on from ‘The Trial’ and ‘The Suspect’ - both of which felt like fresh and topical courtroom dramas - this book revolves around the murder of a British artist, allegedly at the hands of a young ‘Stop The War’ protester, and a military court case based on a young soldier’s actions in the same war. Again, Adam’s morality and legal instincts are tested as he works on a pair of challenging briefs which demonstrate that justice isn’t always black and white.

I really like how effectively this series captures the incredible demands put on barristers and highlights glaring flaws in the system, and the topical nature of anti-war protests made this a riveting read. The insight into the nuances of military courts was unexpected and interesting, and as always Adam’s talkative mother provided comic relief.

Where this book really shone was in the character development! Adam, solicitor Nisha and colleague Georgina returned as familiar and likeable individuals, and senior barristers Bobby and Johnathan revealed new traits. The new characters, including Adam’s mentee Stacey and protester Lexi were slightly stereotyped as members of Gen Z, but were well-rounded with elements of relatability.

Overall, this gets four stars from me - as long as you go in expecting intrigue but not thrills, this courtroom drama will keep you hooked and leave you reeling.

I received an advance Digital Review Copy of this book from the publisher Random House UK via NetGalley. The opinions expressed in this review are my own.

Adam Green, a newly qualified barrister at Stag Court Chambers is back. He is participating in a trial where the accused, Lexi Williams. is charged with the murder of a famous artist, Sir Max Bruce OBE at the Royal Academy of Art, London, at a retrospective of his work over the last 4 decades - the weapon used was a blue spray can. However, it was found it had been poisoned - was it Lexi or person (s) unknown? Adam is determined to get to the truth. It was well written, full of twists and turns, and it came to a dramatic conclusion. I love the relationship Adam has with his Mum!

The 'Stop the war' campaign is protesting. They are spraying blue paint into the faces of high profile people to gain notoriety for their campaign. A young intern at an art gallery is caught on film spraying a celebrity artist in the face, who subsequently dies, she is arrested and charged with Murder. A cut and dry case...or is it? ... Read it!