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The Trials of Sarah Newby #1
A Game of Proof
A mother's worst nightmare - can her son be guilty of murder?
Sarah Newby, who left school at 15, and was living as a teenage single parent on an inner-city estate, has worked her way up to begin a career as a criminal barrister. But what should she do when her own son, Simon, is arrested and charged with a series of brutal rapes and murders?
Has Sarah, in her single-minded determination to create a career for herself, neglected her son so much that she no longer knows him? He has often lied to her in the past, so how can she trust him when he says he is innocent this time? And what should she do when she herself uncovers evidence that seems to suggest his guilt?
Sarah Newby, who left school at 15, and was living as a teenage single parent on an inner-city estate, has worked her way up to begin a career as a criminal barrister. But what should she do when her own son, Simon, is arrested and charged with a series of brutal rapes and murders?
Has Sarah, in her single-minded determination to create a career for herself, neglected her son so much that she no longer knows him? He has often lied to her in the past, so how can she trust him when he says he is innocent this time? And what should she do when she herself uncovers evidence that seems to suggest his guilt?
456 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 1992
913 people are currently reading
2312 people want to read
About the author
Tim Vicary
88 books413 followersTim Vicary is an author and a recently retired university teacher from the university of York, England. His legal thrillers about a tough British barrister, Sarah Newby, have been compared to the works of John Grisham and Scott Turow. The second book in the series, A Fatal Verdict, was awarded a B.R.A.G Medallion for an outstanding independent novel, and the third book, Bold Counsel, was awarded the Awesome Indies Seal of Excellence. He is currently writing a fourth book in the series, entitled Broken Alibi.
His four historical novels have also won praise. Nobody's Slave, a novel about the Elizabethan slave trade, won first prize in the young adult category of the Kindle Book awards 2014. His three other historical novels, Cat & Mouse, The Blood Upon the Rose, and The Monmouth Summer, are all available individually or as a boxed set of three, entitled Women of Courage.
Tim has also written about twenty much shorter books, graded readers for foreign learners of English, published by Oxford University Press. In 2010 and 2011 two of these - Titanic and The Everest Story - were each the winners in their category for the Language Learner Literature Award for the Extensive Reading Foundation.
Tim lives in the English countryside, near York. When he's not writing he likes horse-riding, cycling, and swimming.
His four historical novels have also won praise. Nobody's Slave, a novel about the Elizabethan slave trade, won first prize in the young adult category of the Kindle Book awards 2014. His three other historical novels, Cat & Mouse, The Blood Upon the Rose, and The Monmouth Summer, are all available individually or as a boxed set of three, entitled Women of Courage.
Tim has also written about twenty much shorter books, graded readers for foreign learners of English, published by Oxford University Press. In 2010 and 2011 two of these - Titanic and The Everest Story - were each the winners in their category for the Language Learner Literature Award for the Extensive Reading Foundation.
Tim lives in the English countryside, near York. When he's not writing he likes horse-riding, cycling, and swimming.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 279 reviews
March 30, 2020
First introduction to this author and what a read. If you like John Grisham you will enjoy this author. Sarah Newby, Barrister, is an interesting character as well as DI Bateson, so much so want to read the next in the series.
July 17, 2012
mother's worst nightmare - can her son be guilty of murder?
Sarah Newby, who left school at 15, and was living as a teenage single parent on an inner-city estate, has worked her way up to begin a career as a criminal barrister. Then in a terrible irony her own son, Simon, is arrested and charged with a series of brutal rapes and murders. The evidence against him appears so strong that his QC advises a guilty plea, but Simon swears he is innocent and begs his mother take on his defence. There is no law against a mother representing her son, so Sarah agrees. The only other obvious suspect for the murders, however, is a man who has already been acquitted once - with Sarah acting as his defence lawyer ...
Has Sarah, in her single-minded determination to create a career for herself, neglected her son so much that she no longer knows him? Since he has often lied to her in the past, how can she trust him when he says he is innocent this time? And what should she do when she herself uncovers evidence that seems to suggest his guilt?
It seems that telling the whole truth must be weighed in the balance against keeping certain information well hidden ... (Author description)
A Game of Proof is not only an outstanding legal thriller, but an outstanding British legal thriller, which makes a nice change from John Grisham and Scott Turow. Mr Vicary writes with a sure clear hand and there is nothing in this novel I would change. There are no wasted words, overblown or soppy sentimental descriptions, and the author has triumphed in his descriptions of the emotions his characters go through. All the characters are superbly portrayed, Sarah Newby herself, her family, the police, the villans and the victims. He deftly portrays two of the central themes in the book: how do defence lawyers feel about defending the accused, even if they feel he could be guilty and; how do outsiders feel about the role of the defence barrister. He realistically shows both sides of the argument. The climax of the book was superb and I found it impossible to put down the book at this stage, preferring instead to burn the midnight oil to finish it. 5 very big *s.
Sarah Newby, who left school at 15, and was living as a teenage single parent on an inner-city estate, has worked her way up to begin a career as a criminal barrister. Then in a terrible irony her own son, Simon, is arrested and charged with a series of brutal rapes and murders. The evidence against him appears so strong that his QC advises a guilty plea, but Simon swears he is innocent and begs his mother take on his defence. There is no law against a mother representing her son, so Sarah agrees. The only other obvious suspect for the murders, however, is a man who has already been acquitted once - with Sarah acting as his defence lawyer ...
Has Sarah, in her single-minded determination to create a career for herself, neglected her son so much that she no longer knows him? Since he has often lied to her in the past, how can she trust him when he says he is innocent this time? And what should she do when she herself uncovers evidence that seems to suggest his guilt?
It seems that telling the whole truth must be weighed in the balance against keeping certain information well hidden ... (Author description)
A Game of Proof is not only an outstanding legal thriller, but an outstanding British legal thriller, which makes a nice change from John Grisham and Scott Turow. Mr Vicary writes with a sure clear hand and there is nothing in this novel I would change. There are no wasted words, overblown or soppy sentimental descriptions, and the author has triumphed in his descriptions of the emotions his characters go through. All the characters are superbly portrayed, Sarah Newby herself, her family, the police, the villans and the victims. He deftly portrays two of the central themes in the book: how do defence lawyers feel about defending the accused, even if they feel he could be guilty and; how do outsiders feel about the role of the defence barrister. He realistically shows both sides of the argument. The climax of the book was superb and I found it impossible to put down the book at this stage, preferring instead to burn the midnight oil to finish it. 5 very big *s.
April 17, 2017
Leeds, England. Sarah Newby (criminal barrister, U of Leeds, Middle Temple U) was defending Gary Harker for the crime of rape of Sharon Gilbert (mother).
Julian Lloyd-Davies QC (Crown Prosecution barrister), & James Morris (Jr. barrister) were for the Crowns side.
Judge Stuart Gray (65, lordship) was presiding over the case.
8-woman, & 4-man jury.
Maria Clayton (high-class hooker) was raped/murdered.
Karen Whitaker (college student) had got lucky & escaped.
The Evening Press headline read The Hooded Knifeman…
1 day Simon Newby (Sarah’s son) came to visit his mom at work.
Jasmine Hurst (Simon’s ex-GF) was later found with her throat slashed.
Mrs. Miranda Hurst (mom) was notified of her daughter’s death by DC Harry Easby, & DS Tracy Litherland.
DCI Will Churchill (York PD), & DS Mike Candor with a search warrant in hand were headed for Simon house.
Simon (delivery driver) was arrested & transported by DS Conroy (Scarborough PD), & DC Lane (Scarborough PD).
Lucy Parsons (solicitor) arrived at the York PD station.
Sarah & Bob Newby (2nd. husband, stepfather, teacher) went to Hull prison to see her son Simon.
Gary was acquitted/released.
Scarborough PD still had their doubts he was innocent,
These woman: Maria Clayton (prostitute), Karen Whitaker, Sharon Gilbert, Helen Steersby (attacked), Jasmine Hurst, & their families still needed someone held accountable & punished,
Crown Court. Judge P.J. Mookerjee (Lordship) is presiding.
Sarah (defense) will represent Simon.
Philip Turner (Yorkshireman, prosecuting Jr. barrister, Merton College, Oxford) took his place in the courtroom.
7 men & 5 women jurors.
Count 1 the murder of Jasmine Antonia Hurst (23); not guilty.
Dr. Jones (forensic pathologist) testimony was very graphic.
Laila Ferguson (forensic scientist) was next.
Many more & finally Miranda Hurst (Jasmine’s mother).
The prosecution rests your Lordship.
Sarah’s final remarks.
Will Simon be acquitted?
My egg donor mum I never met was from Leeds, England.
Mrs Dr St (.) paedophile (pedophile), neighbor,
Warning: This book contains extremely graphic adult content, violence, or expletive language &/or uncensored sexually explicit material which is only suitable for mature readers. It may be offensive to some readers.
I did not receive any type of compensation for reading & reviewing this book. While I receive free books from publishers & authors, I am under no obligation to write a positive review, only an honest one. All thoughts & opinions are entirely my own.
A very awesome book cover, great font & writing style. A very well written crime thriller book. It was very easy for me to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. There were no grammar/typo errors, nor any repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a great set of unique characters to keep track of. This could also make another great crime thriller movie, or better yet a mini TV series. There is no doubt in my mind this is a very easy rating of 5 stars.
Thank you for the free instafreebie; White Owl Publications Ltd; Author; PDF book
Tony Parsons MSW (Washburn)
Julian Lloyd-Davies QC (Crown Prosecution barrister), & James Morris (Jr. barrister) were for the Crowns side.
Judge Stuart Gray (65, lordship) was presiding over the case.
8-woman, & 4-man jury.
Maria Clayton (high-class hooker) was raped/murdered.
Karen Whitaker (college student) had got lucky & escaped.
The Evening Press headline read The Hooded Knifeman…
1 day Simon Newby (Sarah’s son) came to visit his mom at work.
Jasmine Hurst (Simon’s ex-GF) was later found with her throat slashed.
Mrs. Miranda Hurst (mom) was notified of her daughter’s death by DC Harry Easby, & DS Tracy Litherland.
DCI Will Churchill (York PD), & DS Mike Candor with a search warrant in hand were headed for Simon house.
Simon (delivery driver) was arrested & transported by DS Conroy (Scarborough PD), & DC Lane (Scarborough PD).
Lucy Parsons (solicitor) arrived at the York PD station.
Sarah & Bob Newby (2nd. husband, stepfather, teacher) went to Hull prison to see her son Simon.
Gary was acquitted/released.
Scarborough PD still had their doubts he was innocent,
These woman: Maria Clayton (prostitute), Karen Whitaker, Sharon Gilbert, Helen Steersby (attacked), Jasmine Hurst, & their families still needed someone held accountable & punished,
Crown Court. Judge P.J. Mookerjee (Lordship) is presiding.
Sarah (defense) will represent Simon.
Philip Turner (Yorkshireman, prosecuting Jr. barrister, Merton College, Oxford) took his place in the courtroom.
7 men & 5 women jurors.
Count 1 the murder of Jasmine Antonia Hurst (23); not guilty.
Dr. Jones (forensic pathologist) testimony was very graphic.
Laila Ferguson (forensic scientist) was next.
Many more & finally Miranda Hurst (Jasmine’s mother).
The prosecution rests your Lordship.
Sarah’s final remarks.
Will Simon be acquitted?
My egg donor mum I never met was from Leeds, England.
Mrs Dr St (.) paedophile (pedophile), neighbor,
Warning: This book contains extremely graphic adult content, violence, or expletive language &/or uncensored sexually explicit material which is only suitable for mature readers. It may be offensive to some readers.
I did not receive any type of compensation for reading & reviewing this book. While I receive free books from publishers & authors, I am under no obligation to write a positive review, only an honest one. All thoughts & opinions are entirely my own.
A very awesome book cover, great font & writing style. A very well written crime thriller book. It was very easy for me to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. There were no grammar/typo errors, nor any repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a great set of unique characters to keep track of. This could also make another great crime thriller movie, or better yet a mini TV series. There is no doubt in my mind this is a very easy rating of 5 stars.
Thank you for the free instafreebie; White Owl Publications Ltd; Author; PDF book
Tony Parsons MSW (Washburn)
January 5, 2019
A good read but given the astuteness of both key characters I cannot believe that they did not make the vital connection sooner! Will read the next one in the series, where hopefully the somewhat disfunctional son will have improved
January 7, 2020
"Legally blinding"
Wow. No wonder this guy wins awards. Once inside the court room you can't fault the detail, the tension and the pure theatre of the proceedings. It grips your attention and doesn't let go. A terrific story line. Highly recommended.
Wow. No wonder this guy wins awards. Once inside the court room you can't fault the detail, the tension and the pure theatre of the proceedings. It grips your attention and doesn't let go. A terrific story line. Highly recommended.
August 13, 2022
Sarah Newby
I found this story so full of holes that i had a hard time concentrating o it. One of the things that really bothered me was how the police decided that Simon was guilty even after all of bos protests of his innocence. I will not go on reading this author.
I found this story so full of holes that i had a hard time concentrating o it. One of the things that really bothered me was how the police decided that Simon was guilty even after all of bos protests of his innocence. I will not go on reading this author.
October 31, 2023
I enjoyed this legal thriller/mystery. At first, I really didn't like our main character, but she eventually grew on me. The legal stuff really kinda bored me. However, the police procedural part of the plot was outstanding. Will definitely check out book #2.
May 3, 2019
Pretty good read particularly near the end when Vicary flipped back and forth between the trial and an investigation happening at the same time. Somewhat predictable.
July 29, 2022
For me it's "ok". I like the basic premise of the story - unlikely person pulls themselves out of some bad choices and becomes a success -unfortunately it's a long, wordy read and doesn't deliver a lot.
By the end of the book I didn't care one way or another about the person on trial.
By the end of the book I didn't care one way or another about the person on trial.
February 28, 2013
Compelling Courtroom Drama
After having read a couple of extremely well written historical fiction books by Tim Vicary before, I decided to give the first in this Sarah Newby trilogy a go and was not disappointed. As a fan of courtroom drama both on the page and the screen I had high expectations and they were met on every level.
The story follows a young ambitious Barrister called Sarah who is trying to make her mark in the courtroom and set her career on the right path. She took to the professional of Law later than her peers after spending time bringing up her son. It’s a competitive world which is very male orientated and it’s not easy to out-maneuver the ‘old boys club’ mentality which exists. She is very cold and calculating at times which is no doubt a reflection on these issues and a survival tactic but doesn’t always make her an endearing person.
It begins with a big trial for Sarah, one which has courted much media speculation putting her in an even bigger spotlight and therefore under more pressure than normal. She is defending an alleged rapist who has a known violent history and a previous relationship with the victim which automatically places doubt in the minds of everyone connected to the trial. She treats the case as a ‘game of proof’ and regardless of her own thoughts or feelings, sets out to dispel any preconceptions and clear her client.
The tables are turned on her when her own son becomes charged with rape/murder and she has to put personal feelings out of her mind in order to fight his corner but doubts shroud her every move and she starts to question the decisions she has made for both family and career; her son is like a stranger to her.
The details of the crimes are quite explicit, the characters are believable and the plot is extremely compelling and a definite page turner. Vicary skillfully reconstructs the tension of the courtroom as well as the dramatics which continue outside of the trial. He uses excellent dialogue exchanges which convey the tense atmosphere as well as the characters of the witnesses. You get a real sense of what is going on and understand the importance and the differences of the roles of both the Solicitor and that of the Barrister.
It certainly shows both sides of the justice system warts and all and highlights the some of the faults in the system.
I could definitely see this as transferring onto the screen and will definitely be reading the remaining two books in this series. I would recommend for all lovers of the crime genre.
After having read a couple of extremely well written historical fiction books by Tim Vicary before, I decided to give the first in this Sarah Newby trilogy a go and was not disappointed. As a fan of courtroom drama both on the page and the screen I had high expectations and they were met on every level.
The story follows a young ambitious Barrister called Sarah who is trying to make her mark in the courtroom and set her career on the right path. She took to the professional of Law later than her peers after spending time bringing up her son. It’s a competitive world which is very male orientated and it’s not easy to out-maneuver the ‘old boys club’ mentality which exists. She is very cold and calculating at times which is no doubt a reflection on these issues and a survival tactic but doesn’t always make her an endearing person.
It begins with a big trial for Sarah, one which has courted much media speculation putting her in an even bigger spotlight and therefore under more pressure than normal. She is defending an alleged rapist who has a known violent history and a previous relationship with the victim which automatically places doubt in the minds of everyone connected to the trial. She treats the case as a ‘game of proof’ and regardless of her own thoughts or feelings, sets out to dispel any preconceptions and clear her client.
The tables are turned on her when her own son becomes charged with rape/murder and she has to put personal feelings out of her mind in order to fight his corner but doubts shroud her every move and she starts to question the decisions she has made for both family and career; her son is like a stranger to her.
The details of the crimes are quite explicit, the characters are believable and the plot is extremely compelling and a definite page turner. Vicary skillfully reconstructs the tension of the courtroom as well as the dramatics which continue outside of the trial. He uses excellent dialogue exchanges which convey the tense atmosphere as well as the characters of the witnesses. You get a real sense of what is going on and understand the importance and the differences of the roles of both the Solicitor and that of the Barrister.
It certainly shows both sides of the justice system warts and all and highlights the some of the faults in the system.
I could definitely see this as transferring onto the screen and will definitely be reading the remaining two books in this series. I would recommend for all lovers of the crime genre.
March 15, 2012
A Game of Proof was originally published under the pen name of Megan Stark, and follows tough Barrister Sarah Newby as she defends the indefensible, and, ultimately, her son.
The book is set in York, and is a very British crime book. The books begins with Sarah Newby defending a thug who is up for the crime of rape. Sarah believes that the courtroom is a game, a game of proof. She ultimately has doubts in her mind about the guilt of her client, but she defends him regardless. She is a tough, driven woman who has battled the odds to reach the upper echelons of the British justice system.
As the story progresses, we see Sarah take on the case of her son, Simon, who is accused of the brutal rape and murder of his girlfriend. The book is gory and gruesome when the nature of the crime is recounted, but you do get a real feel for the almost clinical and detached nature of the British courtroom. As the story, and case against Simon, develops you, as the reader, begin to think yourself about the validity of any conviction. You work in your mind alongside the police as they try to piece together other possible suspects for the rape and murder.
A Game of Proof kept me engaged throughout. It’s skilfully written and I’ll be looking to read more of the Sarah Newby trials books. She isn’t an especially likeable character – there are times as which she epitomises the eternal question of can you ever have it all? The successful career, marriage and family life. At times she appears cold and calculating but is she ultimately just doing her job? The book is very thought provoking in this regard.
There are some very minor inconsistencies in this book, and some frustrating typing/spelling errors but not what Vicary does is to uncover the workings of the British legal system, and the importance of presentation. You can’t help but feel that, at times, it is all just a game, albeit with a very high price. Witnesses are treated appallingly, in the name of justice, and at stages this book makes for painful reading when you put yourself in the place of the witness. The book is well written and is a brilliant British crime thriller that you really should read. And even better is that at the time of writing, A Game of Proof, is free on amazon,
The book is set in York, and is a very British crime book. The books begins with Sarah Newby defending a thug who is up for the crime of rape. Sarah believes that the courtroom is a game, a game of proof. She ultimately has doubts in her mind about the guilt of her client, but she defends him regardless. She is a tough, driven woman who has battled the odds to reach the upper echelons of the British justice system.
As the story progresses, we see Sarah take on the case of her son, Simon, who is accused of the brutal rape and murder of his girlfriend. The book is gory and gruesome when the nature of the crime is recounted, but you do get a real feel for the almost clinical and detached nature of the British courtroom. As the story, and case against Simon, develops you, as the reader, begin to think yourself about the validity of any conviction. You work in your mind alongside the police as they try to piece together other possible suspects for the rape and murder.
A Game of Proof kept me engaged throughout. It’s skilfully written and I’ll be looking to read more of the Sarah Newby trials books. She isn’t an especially likeable character – there are times as which she epitomises the eternal question of can you ever have it all? The successful career, marriage and family life. At times she appears cold and calculating but is she ultimately just doing her job? The book is very thought provoking in this regard.
There are some very minor inconsistencies in this book, and some frustrating typing/spelling errors but not what Vicary does is to uncover the workings of the British legal system, and the importance of presentation. You can’t help but feel that, at times, it is all just a game, albeit with a very high price. Witnesses are treated appallingly, in the name of justice, and at stages this book makes for painful reading when you put yourself in the place of the witness. The book is well written and is a brilliant British crime thriller that you really should read. And even better is that at the time of writing, A Game of Proof, is free on amazon,
August 17, 2012
Thrilling and Fascinating
Sarah Newby has fought hard for her success. Finding herself pregnant at the age of fifteen, she managed not only to bring up her child, but to continue her education and achieve her ambition of becoming a criminal barrister. She regularly defends people she suspects are guilty, but in the courtroom that is irrelevant. What matters is how cleverly you present your case. It is, after all, just a game.
But she feels differently when her own son is accused of a particularly brutal rape and murder.
A Game of Proof is the first of the Sarah Newby courtroom drama series. And what a tremendous début it is.
Not being aware, when I first came across Tim Vicary, just what a superb writer he is and that I would want to read everything he's ever written, I read them in the wrong order – starting with the second book, A Fatal Verdict. But, even though that made me aware of the outcome of this first novel, that scarcely impinged upon me once I began to read. This book fairly flows. And it is SO exciting. The characters are so well-drawn that you are drawn into their lives – so completely, in my case, that I forgot place and time and didn't surface until I had finished.
It left me wanting more. Luckily there are more. Read this one first, and then there are another two to go.
And then there are the other Tim Vicary books. But I'll leave you to find out for yourself. There are few greater pleasures than that of discovering a wonderful new author and exploring everything they've written.
Sarah Newby has fought hard for her success. Finding herself pregnant at the age of fifteen, she managed not only to bring up her child, but to continue her education and achieve her ambition of becoming a criminal barrister. She regularly defends people she suspects are guilty, but in the courtroom that is irrelevant. What matters is how cleverly you present your case. It is, after all, just a game.
But she feels differently when her own son is accused of a particularly brutal rape and murder.
A Game of Proof is the first of the Sarah Newby courtroom drama series. And what a tremendous début it is.
Not being aware, when I first came across Tim Vicary, just what a superb writer he is and that I would want to read everything he's ever written, I read them in the wrong order – starting with the second book, A Fatal Verdict. But, even though that made me aware of the outcome of this first novel, that scarcely impinged upon me once I began to read. This book fairly flows. And it is SO exciting. The characters are so well-drawn that you are drawn into their lives – so completely, in my case, that I forgot place and time and didn't surface until I had finished.
It left me wanting more. Luckily there are more. Read this one first, and then there are another two to go.
And then there are the other Tim Vicary books. But I'll leave you to find out for yourself. There are few greater pleasures than that of discovering a wonderful new author and exploring everything they've written.
April 23, 2012
This was pretty good. A new author and series to me-it's subtitled the Trials of Sarah Newby and is about a woman barrister over here in Leeds who's worked her way up from single motherhood at a young age to this great career. She has 2 kids-both teens. Her son is accused of rape and murder and since there's no law to prevent it she chooses to defend him. Interestingly, he's being accused of the same crimes another guy had been accused and tried for, only Sarah got him acquitted !!
There were some howling spelling errors and for some reason perhaps the author uses an American editor as there were a lot of Americanisms peppered throughout.
I'l certainly try the next instalment.
There were some howling spelling errors and for some reason perhaps the author uses an American editor as there were a lot of Americanisms peppered throughout.
I'l certainly try the next instalment.
November 11, 2012
It took me a while to get into this, and to begin with I found it difficult to engage with Sarah Newby's character. She gave up so much to improve her circumstances, but seemed utterly heartless. This is, of course, a key foundation for her character's development!
As the story was revealed, layer by complex layer, it became an utterly compelling read. The courtroom scenes are particularly strong. I'm glad I already have the sequel on my Kindle, and hope it'll be just as good.
A few minor editing gremlins and errors, but still a worthy 4-star read.
[My reviews are written in somewhat general terms as I prefer not to write, or read, spoilers.]
As the story was revealed, layer by complex layer, it became an utterly compelling read. The courtroom scenes are particularly strong. I'm glad I already have the sequel on my Kindle, and hope it'll be just as good.
A few minor editing gremlins and errors, but still a worthy 4-star read.
[My reviews are written in somewhat general terms as I prefer not to write, or read, spoilers.]
August 26, 2016
I am going to give this a high three starts, but could not give it four because of all the errors that were with in. Not sure if it was just my kindle copy, but to many to ignore. The story was really good and it did keep you guessing up until the end. Very interesting to read a novel about the English judicial system and I will put other Vicary Novels on my list of must reads. I just could not get over the fact that this was a Professor that wrote this book and it seems to have missed the editor before being published. All of these errors will not help those wanting to learn English.
June 2, 2012
I enjoyed the insight into the legal system as it is today. The stress of the plot situation combined with the main female character's profession as a barrister kept me wondering if her marriage was going to survive. I really liked this--good characterization and the plot was not predictable.
June 4, 2014
An intriguing story, but too much foul language for my taste.
December 5, 2016
We are proud to announce that A GAME OF PROOF by Tim Vicary is a B.R.A.G.Medallion Honoree. This tells a reader that this book is well worth their time and money!
December 27, 2025
This book stands out because it refuses to take the easy route, either emotionally or legally. From the beginning, it establishes a disturbing and powerful premise, a defence barrister forced to represent her own son in a murder trial, and then commits fully to exploring the consequences of that decision. What makes the story so effective is the way the courtroom case and Sarah Newby’s internal struggle move together. As evidence is introduced, witness by witness, Sarah’s professional confidence begins to fracture, and the reader feels that uncertainty alongside her. The trial is not treated as background scenery, but as the engine of the story, with legal strategy, testimony, and small procedural details all carrying real weight.
The pacing is deliberate, but purposeful. Rather than rushing toward twists, the author allows tension to accumulate through doubt, contradiction, and moral discomfort. Moments that seem minor early on later return with greater significance, which shows careful planning and control of the narrative. Sarah herself is written with impressive honesty, she is intelligent, capable, and deeply flawed, and the book never softens the consequences of her choices. Her role as both mother and advocate creates a constant emotional pressure that never fully eases, even when the plot appears to move forward.
What ultimately makes this book memorable is its refusal to provide simple answers. Justice, truth, and loyalty are all examined in ways that feel realistic and unsettling. By the time the case reaches its conclusion, the outcome feels earned rather than manipulated, and the emotional impact lingers beyond the final page. This is a confident, thoughtful legal thriller that respects its readers and demonstrates a strong understanding of both character and craft. It is a book the author should be genuinely proud of.
The pacing is deliberate, but purposeful. Rather than rushing toward twists, the author allows tension to accumulate through doubt, contradiction, and moral discomfort. Moments that seem minor early on later return with greater significance, which shows careful planning and control of the narrative. Sarah herself is written with impressive honesty, she is intelligent, capable, and deeply flawed, and the book never softens the consequences of her choices. Her role as both mother and advocate creates a constant emotional pressure that never fully eases, even when the plot appears to move forward.
What ultimately makes this book memorable is its refusal to provide simple answers. Justice, truth, and loyalty are all examined in ways that feel realistic and unsettling. By the time the case reaches its conclusion, the outcome feels earned rather than manipulated, and the emotional impact lingers beyond the final page. This is a confident, thoughtful legal thriller that respects its readers and demonstrates a strong understanding of both character and craft. It is a book the author should be genuinely proud of.
June 23, 2019
I own this one & have borrowed from the library at least 5 other books in this series.
This series as a whole is excellently done. Occurring in modern day York, England, a young woman becomes a barrister after a brief marriage as a teen dropout from high school as her mother watches her son. She eventually marries one of her former teachers, who encourages her in her study of law. Infused with her courtroom work are the trials of her personal life. The stories are all engaging, will keep you on the edge of your seat & turning pages, & looking for the next one.
For someone like me, who read a series of books about medieval York, then visited the city on holiday & was able to find my way around because of the books, reliving my travels to this ancient walled city in England was a treat. The lightning strike on Yorkminster Cathedral happened not too long before my visit. The vicar had denied the Bible was anything more than a book of fables meant to teach us to live a good life, denied God's existence from the pulpit, & claimed that if there was a God, He would have struck the vicar with lightning. God waited until around 3 or 4 am & struck the pulpit to make sure no one was hurt. Believe what you want, but I believe the story adds to the charm that is York.
And...if you pay attention to this series, just as I was able to find my way around based on a series of books, you will likely not need much reference to a map to find your way around York should you ever choose to visit.
This series as a whole is excellently done. Occurring in modern day York, England, a young woman becomes a barrister after a brief marriage as a teen dropout from high school as her mother watches her son. She eventually marries one of her former teachers, who encourages her in her study of law. Infused with her courtroom work are the trials of her personal life. The stories are all engaging, will keep you on the edge of your seat & turning pages, & looking for the next one.
For someone like me, who read a series of books about medieval York, then visited the city on holiday & was able to find my way around because of the books, reliving my travels to this ancient walled city in England was a treat. The lightning strike on Yorkminster Cathedral happened not too long before my visit. The vicar had denied the Bible was anything more than a book of fables meant to teach us to live a good life, denied God's existence from the pulpit, & claimed that if there was a God, He would have struck the vicar with lightning. God waited until around 3 or 4 am & struck the pulpit to make sure no one was hurt. Believe what you want, but I believe the story adds to the charm that is York.
And...if you pay attention to this series, just as I was able to find my way around based on a series of books, you will likely not need much reference to a map to find your way around York should you ever choose to visit.
August 12, 2018
Cards on the table, I don't read much crime fiction and when I do, it's generally not UK-based. In fact, this is the first modern UK-based crime book I have read and I only picked it up because it was a free download. The author had been mentioned to me when I posted on a local Facebook group about another book I had read that was set in York. In that book, my home city almost becomes a character in the story. This one, however, apart from few place names, could be set anywhere.
Not that it matters, after a slow(ish) start, the story both rattles on and draws you in. The subject matter - violence towards women - does leave a nasty taste in the mouth, and some of the vernacular reads wrongly to me but, overall, it is a more than satisfactory novel, albeit with some of the coincidences that litter other crime stories I have read. I can't comment whether the English legal system is accurately portrayed, but the case gripped me to the end. An end when Vicary leads you to think one thing is going to happen, the pulls the rug while still leaving the ending you were expecting intact.
Will I read the others in the series? Possibly, but not just yet.
Not that it matters, after a slow(ish) start, the story both rattles on and draws you in. The subject matter - violence towards women - does leave a nasty taste in the mouth, and some of the vernacular reads wrongly to me but, overall, it is a more than satisfactory novel, albeit with some of the coincidences that litter other crime stories I have read. I can't comment whether the English legal system is accurately portrayed, but the case gripped me to the end. An end when Vicary leads you to think one thing is going to happen, the pulls the rug while still leaving the ending you were expecting intact.
Will I read the others in the series? Possibly, but not just yet.
September 4, 2017
While the American justice system is largely based on the British, there are many differences. In the first place, we do not distinguish between a barrister and a solicitor. Nor do our trial attorneys need to wear wigs and robes. Much of the language used is also somewhat specific to British courts as opposed to American phraseology. For instance one hears the solicitor offer that he or she suggests something--if you watch any of the British TV shows you've seen this. But, interestingly, TV and movie dramas do not immerse you to the same level as a good novel. Or at least not to the depth of this novel. We find ourselves entranced by the defense of an alleged rapist, a thoroughly loathsome character, but the bottom line is the need for the court to present evidence proving Beyond Reasonable Doubt that the defendant did the crime of which he is accused. As in Law and Order, we see the interaction of police and attorneys, the gathering of evidence and the presenting thereof. The drama is compelling, the narration [AUDIO] is excellent and the story gripping.
November 29, 2017
My favourite reads are usually books of a supernatural or science fiction nature, but occasionally I branch out to more down to earth stories. This time I chose a novel centred around a courtroom drama, A Game of Proof by Tim Vicary, and couldn’t believe how fascinating a read it was. Right from the start I was gripped by the court case that was going on and struggled to put the book down after that. I loved the main character, Sarah Newby, who had struggled through a difficult start to become a lawyer. Now in a stable family situation, married with a young daughter, she finds herself defending her son from an earlier, failed relationship. He is a bit a shady character, but is he guilty of the charges brought against him? There were lots of twists and turns with many links between the characters which kept the story going at full speed. I can’t compare this novel with similar courtroom dramas as it’s the first one I’ve read, but I thoroughly enjoyed it and have already started the second book in the series.
December 27, 2024
Sarah Newby has had a rough life, getting pregnant very young, then abandoned by the father leaving her with a young baby (he'll 'come back to teach him to play football' was his final level of commitment). However, she turns it round, marries a decent chap, finishes her education and trains for the bar and is now making her name.
She is chosen to defend a real thug who is accused of rape; however the evidence is rather circumstantial, although everyone around him believes he is innocent. However, his involvement in Sarah's life becomes complex as she is drawn into a series of rapes and murders in the area, for which her son now stands accused.
The book portrays the role of the defence lawyer very well, and allows the reader to see the conflicts in defending unpleasant characters, as well as the strain of trying to prove the innocence of a loved one.
I enjoyed the book very much and will be looking out for more.
She is chosen to defend a real thug who is accused of rape; however the evidence is rather circumstantial, although everyone around him believes he is innocent. However, his involvement in Sarah's life becomes complex as she is drawn into a series of rapes and murders in the area, for which her son now stands accused.
The book portrays the role of the defence lawyer very well, and allows the reader to see the conflicts in defending unpleasant characters, as well as the strain of trying to prove the innocence of a loved one.
I enjoyed the book very much and will be looking out for more.
February 10, 2020
I like legal dramas. I have read several, and the premise of this book sounded really good. A mother defending her son against the charge of murder. How could this not be a good story. First of all I couldn't understand why the beginning of the story focused on the daughter. Then when they get to the main plot of the story, I thought finally. By the time I was three quarters of the way through the story I really didn't care whether she got her son off or not. I didn't care whether he did it or not. I am not sure why I didn't like this story. For some reason the it drove me crazy. I don't know if it was the style or the way the story flowed. I had the others in the series and one other book by the same guy. I deleted them. I didn't even want to try the others. It just wasn't my thing I guess.
November 13, 2024
I almost didn't finish this, as I thought it was going to be too similar to other legal novels I've read. But, fortunately, I persevered and I'm glad I did. There were elements in this story that piqued my interest.
Simon Newby has been charged with one count of a vicious rape, and the murder of the rape victim. She was his former girlfriend, Jasmine. His mother's a barrister, and Simon wants her to defend him in court. Sarah is unsure, but there are no rules to disallow this request.
The trial begins, and it doesn't look good for Simon. Most of the evidence points to him as the guilty party, but Sarah does the best she can, with what has been presented. Will she be able to successfully defend her son, or will she be visiting him in jail?
An enjoyable story, despite my initial misgivings.
Simon Newby has been charged with one count of a vicious rape, and the murder of the rape victim. She was his former girlfriend, Jasmine. His mother's a barrister, and Simon wants her to defend him in court. Sarah is unsure, but there are no rules to disallow this request.
The trial begins, and it doesn't look good for Simon. Most of the evidence points to him as the guilty party, but Sarah does the best she can, with what has been presented. Will she be able to successfully defend her son, or will she be visiting him in jail?
An enjoyable story, despite my initial misgivings.
July 25, 2025
The main character has few to no redeeming qualities. The representation of her lawyerly behavior is surely based in an alternate universe where the defense attorney in a British criminal court trial is empowered to ask questions of witnesses which entail their telling of entirely imagined stories about a criminal act and then adding, “isn’t that right, witness?” - no objection from the prosecutor or presiding judge arise to offset these entirely fictional speculations. She is mean spirited even about her children not to mention her clients and the court system, finding flaws everywhere but in her own thinking and behavior.
I detested her, the descriptions of the court system, the storyline, most of the other characters, too. Reading it to the end brought almost no relief to my repugnance. My recommendation is “don’t read this book.
I detested her, the descriptions of the court system, the storyline, most of the other characters, too. Reading it to the end brought almost no relief to my repugnance. My recommendation is “don’t read this book.
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October 27, 2021Publisher's Description: A mother's worst nightmare - can her son be guilty of murder?
Sarah Newby, who left school at 15, and was living as a teenage single parent on an inner-city estate, has worked her way up to begin a career as a criminal barrister. But what should she do when her own son, Simon, is arrested and charged with a series of brutal rapes and murders?
Has Sarah, in her single-minded determination to create a career for herself, neglected her son so much that she no longer knows him? He has often lied to her in the past, so how can she trust him when he says he is innocent this time? And what should she do when she herself uncovers evidence that seems to suggest his guilt?
Sarah Newby, who left school at 15, and was living as a teenage single parent on an inner-city estate, has worked her way up to begin a career as a criminal barrister. But what should she do when her own son, Simon, is arrested and charged with a series of brutal rapes and murders?
Has Sarah, in her single-minded determination to create a career for herself, neglected her son so much that she no longer knows him? He has often lied to her in the past, so how can she trust him when he says he is innocent this time? And what should she do when she herself uncovers evidence that seems to suggest his guilt?
Want to read
October 27, 2021Publisher's Description: A mother's worst nightmare - can her son be guilty of murder?
Sarah Newby, who left school at 15, and was living as a teenage single parent on an inner-city estate, has worked her way up to begin a career as a criminal barrister. But what should she do when her own son, Simon, is arrested and charged with a series of brutal rapes and murders?
Has Sarah, in her single-minded determination to create a career for herself, neglected her son so much that she no longer knows him? He has often lied to her in the past, so how can she trust him when he says he is innocent this time? And what should she do when she herself uncovers evidence that seems to suggest his guilt?
Sarah Newby, who left school at 15, and was living as a teenage single parent on an inner-city estate, has worked her way up to begin a career as a criminal barrister. But what should she do when her own son, Simon, is arrested and charged with a series of brutal rapes and murders?
Has Sarah, in her single-minded determination to create a career for herself, neglected her son so much that she no longer knows him? He has often lied to her in the past, so how can she trust him when he says he is innocent this time? And what should she do when she herself uncovers evidence that seems to suggest his guilt?
June 14, 2023
Another book that I wasn't sure about when I started it but was so glad that I stuck with it because by the time I got into it...I could hardly put it down. Sarah Newby started out in a bad marriage and left with a child to raise on her own. She is now remarried and another child but she's never forgotten the lesson that she has to take care of herself. She studied steadily and has become a barrister who is single minded and determined to do the best for all her clients...even when she knows that she may be defending someone who is not as innocent as she would like to believe. However, when her own son is suddenly caught up in a possible murder accusation, she suddenly sees both her job and her family life from a different angle.
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