When you read this book, you will think you know every twist in the tale.
Maria is on trial for attempted murder.
She has confessed to the crime and wanted her husband dead.
Lottie is on the jury, trying to decide her fate.
She embarks on an illicit affair with a stranger, and her husband can never find out.
You will think you know who is guilty and who is innocent.
You will be wrong.
I really really loved this book, a right old proper page turner that not only deals with some currently relevant and emotional topics but was also genuinely unpredictable- a novel in which almost any outcome would be surprising.
There are two sides to this story- on one side Maria, on trial for murder, already an admitted killer but can she persuade the jury she had no choice? On the other side of the courtroom sits Lottie, judging Maria and herself at the same time, whilst possibly about to make a huge mistake..
The coin flips as you go, revealing different levels with every passing chapter. Beautifully plotted and immersively written it is completely gripping and utterly compelling.
I found myself nodding along, having been on jury service myself, the author captures the boredom and the momentary fluster of activity perfectly, as well as the nuances of a group of strangers thrown together who somehow have to come to an agreement. The characters are authentic and intriguing and it is a twisty tale indeed.
One to watch this year, you’ll devour it in record time, once you start it’s almost impossible to stop. Clever, layered storytelling with a thought provoking premise and a razor sharp execution.
Recommended.
You can purchase Degrees of Guilt (Trapeze) here.
Happy Reading!
