Book Review: Indictment for Murder

Reviewed By: Harriet Klausner

Indictment for Murder     Amazon US HC Amazon Canada HC
Peter Rawlinson
Class/Genre:   Mystery   Fiction   Legal Setting
St. Martin’s, Feb 2000, $22.95, 256 pp.

Knight of the Realm, Sir Jonathan Playfair is a former Judge of the High Court who was considered to lenient on criminals by his critics. In a stunning development, Jonathan stands trial for the murder of David Trelawney, an elderly person who was dying from cancer. Jonathan admits failing to call the police as he was with David as the senior citizen was dying, but swears he did not kill the victim.

Though a septuagenarian, Jonathan is deemed mentally fit to stand trial. He wants to prove his innocence to the press that has condemned him and to the police that has reviled him. As the trial occurs, Jonathan reflects on his longtime association with David. They were boyhood friends who served in North Africa during World War II. It was events fifty plus years ago that has led to the current situation.

Peter Rawlinson has written a powerful and moving British legal procedural that richly contains strong characterization. The complex story line hones in on the inequities inherent in Britain’s legal system. INDICTMENT FOR MURDER is also a sharp relationship drama starring likable players who at times display disagreeable tendencies. Although classified as a mystery, the tale crosses boundaries so that anyone who gains pleasure from a cerebral, character-driven story will love this novel.

Harriet Klausner

Reprinted with permission. Do Not repost without permission from the author, Harriet Klausner