Title: Degrees of Guilt
Author: H.S. Chandler
Publisher: Trapeze

[Synopsis]

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.

[My Review]

This book centres around a court case, and it in its essence a courtroom drama, but it manages to be so much more exciting, intriguing and addictive than I expected it to be – I loved it!

Throughout the novel we are presented with two main narratives – Maria’s story, as she reflects on killing her husband and the years that led up to it, and Lottie’s story, as she sits on the jury in Maria’s trial. There are some shocking moments as we hear about Maria’s marriage, and various important themes and issues are touched upon as the trial continues, making this a thought-provoking and, at times, quite disturbing book. HS Chandler does a brilliant job of illustrating just how someone can feel trapped within a marriage – and not just with Maria’s character as the obvious example.

I loved the surprises that we’re presented with along the way – and the fact that, even with these surprises, the story wasn’t too outrageous but felt very believable. Not every single element is tied up neatly at the end, but the important parts are, leaving me feeling satisfied, thoughtful and thoroughly entertained. The characters are convincing (if not always likable) and the story is addictive.

I can’t recommend this book highly enough – I really didn’t want to put it down!

[Rating: 5/5]

Many thanks to Trapeze for providing a copy of this novel, on which I chose to write an honest and unbiased review.

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