There’s an old saying that the lawyer who defends himself has a fool for a client. Alan Armitage, a rising QC, is about to find out just how true it is when he’s accused of murder.
It seemed harmless enough — offering Jean Westlake, a struggling law student, a place to stay while his wife was away in America. What could go wrong?
But when Jean is found dead on the night of his wife’s return, what seemed like a kind gesture spirals into a nightmare.
The police quickly rule Jean’s apparent suicide to be murder — and Alan is the prime suspect.
As the case against him intensifies, every innocent action is twisted to make him appear guilty. His friends, his wife, and even his colleagues begin to doubt him, leaving Alan to fight not only for his freedom but for his very reputation.
The only person convinced of his innocence is Alan himself. Now, he must prove it . . . before it buries him.
THE SETTING
London’s Inner Temple is a place of history and power, its quiet chambers and gardens a stark contrast to the bustling streets outside. The city’s legal world, steeped in tradition, is where decisions are made that shape lives, while nearby Kensington offers a more personal glimpse into the lives of the privileged. From the refined elegance of the flat to the vibrant energy of the West End, London pulses with ambition, secrets, and the weight of its past. Here, everything seems within reach — until the cracks begin to show.
A taut, character-driven mystery packed with suspense and shocking twists. Perfect for fans of Michael Gilbert, P.D. James, Cyril Hare and John Mortimer.