Really enjoyed the book. Great storyline and characters. A very tangled and twisty tale which leads you through life in Chambers and the legal system. Very descriptive whether surroundings, people or court systems the book keeps your attention and you definitely want to find out who did it or indeed if anyone did!

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.