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Dissection of a Murder
Not yet published
Expected 12 May 26So gripping, so clever, so good. This brilliant book had me hooked from the beginning' – Alice Feeney, author of Beautiful Ugly
Breathlessly compulsive courtroom drama with expertly-crafted twists that you won't see coming, Dissection of a Murder is the razor-sharp debut novel from Jo Murray.
A dead judge. A silent defendant. And a courtroom full of liars.
When Leila Reynolds is handed her first murder case, she’s shocked at how high-profile it the murder of a well-respected, well-known judge. This shouldn’t be the kind of case she’s leading; it’s way beyond her expertise. But the defendant, Jack Millman, is clear. He wants her, and only her.
To make things worse, he’s refusing to talk. How is she supposed to prove herself on what appears to be an unwinnable case?
Losing is not an option. She must find the most persuasive argument. Trials aren’t won by convincing judges or fellow barristers – they’re all about convincing a jury.
Suddenly, Leila finds herself fighting not only to keep Jack out of prison, but also to keep her own secrets buried.
It’s true what they say – there are two sides to every story.
Guilty or not guilty?
You decide . . .
PRAISE FOR DISSECTION OF A MURDER:
'Absolutely outstanding' – TM Logan, author of The Mother
'What a terrific read!' – Sarah Vaughan, author of Anatomy of a Scandal
'Utterly compelling' – John Marrs, author of The Family Experiment
Breathlessly compulsive courtroom drama with expertly-crafted twists that you won't see coming, Dissection of a Murder is the razor-sharp debut novel from Jo Murray.
A dead judge. A silent defendant. And a courtroom full of liars.
When Leila Reynolds is handed her first murder case, she’s shocked at how high-profile it the murder of a well-respected, well-known judge. This shouldn’t be the kind of case she’s leading; it’s way beyond her expertise. But the defendant, Jack Millman, is clear. He wants her, and only her.
To make things worse, he’s refusing to talk. How is she supposed to prove herself on what appears to be an unwinnable case?
Losing is not an option. She must find the most persuasive argument. Trials aren’t won by convincing judges or fellow barristers – they’re all about convincing a jury.
Suddenly, Leila finds herself fighting not only to keep Jack out of prison, but also to keep her own secrets buried.
It’s true what they say – there are two sides to every story.
Guilty or not guilty?
You decide . . .
PRAISE FOR DISSECTION OF A MURDER:
'Absolutely outstanding' – TM Logan, author of The Mother
'What a terrific read!' – Sarah Vaughan, author of Anatomy of a Scandal
'Utterly compelling' – John Marrs, author of The Family Experiment
Kindle Edition
Expected publication May 7, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 183 reviews
February 27, 2026
My fellow bookworms… may I?
Can I officially introduce the best legal thriller of 2026?
🥁 Drum roll, please… 🥁
The crown goes to Dissection of a Murder by Jo Murray.
From the very first page, I fell hard for Jo Murray’s razor-sharp writing style. The second I finished, I immediately started searching for her backlist—scrolling, refreshing, scrolling again—only to realize this was her first novel. And yes… I actually screamed. Because I need more Jo Murray thrillers in my life, immediately. She is now on my auto-approved author list, and I will read anything she writes next without even checking the blurb.
A dream for legal-thriller lovers
And here’s the fun twist:
The upcoming Presumed Innocent Season 2 adaptation is already rumored to be spectacular—but I genuinely believe this story may top it.
Yes, I’ll miss Jake Gyllenhaal terribly… but with Rachel Brosnahan, Matthew Rhys, and Courtney B. Vance joining the cast, this adaptation is already screaming Emmy bait.
Rachel as Leila Reynolds? Absolute perfection. Tell me she won’t eat that role alive.
But first—let’s give this novel the standing ovation it deserves.
What makes Dissection of a Murder so addictive?
This book has everything I want in a legal thriller:
⚖️ Sharp courtroom tension
🧩 A layered mystery
🔥 High emotional stakes
👀 Dual timelines and perspectives
🕵️ A chilling, anonymous watcher
The story unfolds through Leila Reynolds and the mysterious Witness X, whose intersecting narratives blend past and present in a way that never lets you relax.
Leila learned the law from her husband and mentor, Julian—a legendary attorney who shaped her career and pushed her to the top, even helping secure her place in the Legal 500. Their relationship is built on ambition, loyalty, and shared victories… until everything cracks.
Five years earlier, Leila defended Jack Miller, a man wrongfully convicted and imprisoned for two years. Now, Jack is accused of murdering Judge Anton Smythe—the very man who once sentenced him, while Jack’s foster mother was dying of cancer.
And Jack requests only one lawyer: Leila.
The problem?
Leila has never handled a criminal murder case.
And the prosecutor?
Her own husband.
Julian plays to win. And this time, he has no intention of letting Leila save her client.
A shadow watching from the dark…
As the case grows darker, a terrifying presence emerges.
Someone is watching Leila and Julian’s home.
Someone sends Julian a cryptic birthday gift.
Someone stalks Leila, trolls her online, and knows far too much.
Who is Witness X?
What are they hiding?
And how are they connected to Jack, the judge, and Leila’s past?
Every clue is a thread—and when they finally connect, the truth is more disturbing than anything Leila is ready to face.
“Nothing is ever black and white—especially when it comes to the law.”
Final Verdict
This novel is fast, relentless, and impossible to put down.
You will:
bite off your perfectly manicured nails,
forget to blink,
and gasp at every twist.
By the end, you’ll need a spa day to recover from the stress—and it will be completely worth it.
This isn’t just a five-star book.
This is sky-full-of-stars, whole-planet-level brilliant.
The best thriller I’ve read in years.
I laughed like Villanelle at the end—shocked, thrilled, and already desperate for more.
📚 Go get your copy.
I already ordered mine for a future reread.
Endless thanks to NetGalley and Dutton for sharing this absolute MASTERPIECE in exchange for my honest thoughts.
I truly appreciate it.
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Can I officially introduce the best legal thriller of 2026?
🥁 Drum roll, please… 🥁
The crown goes to Dissection of a Murder by Jo Murray.
From the very first page, I fell hard for Jo Murray’s razor-sharp writing style. The second I finished, I immediately started searching for her backlist—scrolling, refreshing, scrolling again—only to realize this was her first novel. And yes… I actually screamed. Because I need more Jo Murray thrillers in my life, immediately. She is now on my auto-approved author list, and I will read anything she writes next without even checking the blurb.
A dream for legal-thriller lovers
And here’s the fun twist:
The upcoming Presumed Innocent Season 2 adaptation is already rumored to be spectacular—but I genuinely believe this story may top it.
Yes, I’ll miss Jake Gyllenhaal terribly… but with Rachel Brosnahan, Matthew Rhys, and Courtney B. Vance joining the cast, this adaptation is already screaming Emmy bait.
Rachel as Leila Reynolds? Absolute perfection. Tell me she won’t eat that role alive.
But first—let’s give this novel the standing ovation it deserves.
What makes Dissection of a Murder so addictive?
This book has everything I want in a legal thriller:
⚖️ Sharp courtroom tension
🧩 A layered mystery
🔥 High emotional stakes
👀 Dual timelines and perspectives
🕵️ A chilling, anonymous watcher
The story unfolds through Leila Reynolds and the mysterious Witness X, whose intersecting narratives blend past and present in a way that never lets you relax.
Leila learned the law from her husband and mentor, Julian—a legendary attorney who shaped her career and pushed her to the top, even helping secure her place in the Legal 500. Their relationship is built on ambition, loyalty, and shared victories… until everything cracks.
Five years earlier, Leila defended Jack Miller, a man wrongfully convicted and imprisoned for two years. Now, Jack is accused of murdering Judge Anton Smythe—the very man who once sentenced him, while Jack’s foster mother was dying of cancer.
And Jack requests only one lawyer: Leila.
The problem?
Leila has never handled a criminal murder case.
And the prosecutor?
Her own husband.
Julian plays to win. And this time, he has no intention of letting Leila save her client.
A shadow watching from the dark…
As the case grows darker, a terrifying presence emerges.
Someone is watching Leila and Julian’s home.
Someone sends Julian a cryptic birthday gift.
Someone stalks Leila, trolls her online, and knows far too much.
Who is Witness X?
What are they hiding?
And how are they connected to Jack, the judge, and Leila’s past?
Every clue is a thread—and when they finally connect, the truth is more disturbing than anything Leila is ready to face.
“Nothing is ever black and white—especially when it comes to the law.”
Final Verdict
This novel is fast, relentless, and impossible to put down.
You will:
bite off your perfectly manicured nails,
forget to blink,
and gasp at every twist.
By the end, you’ll need a spa day to recover from the stress—and it will be completely worth it.
This isn’t just a five-star book.
This is sky-full-of-stars, whole-planet-level brilliant.
The best thriller I’ve read in years.
I laughed like Villanelle at the end—shocked, thrilled, and already desperate for more.
📚 Go get your copy.
I already ordered mine for a future reread.
Endless thanks to NetGalley and Dutton for sharing this absolute MASTERPIECE in exchange for my honest thoughts.
I truly appreciate it.
medium.com
December 27, 2025
What is justice? It probably means different things to different people. Will Judge Anton Smythe, 56, get justice for his murder? Is the tale of the prosecutor, Julian Kesler, tells at trial the true version of events or does the defence lawyer Leila Reynolds put across a robustly different interpretation that may lead to a not guilty verdict for Jack Millman? What is Jack’s definition of justice? This indeed is a dissection of a murder, but remember, don’t trust anyone, especially the lawyers.
Oh my goodness, where to start with this one, perhaps with I reluctantly put it down when real life intrudes. There are so many layers involved in this very definition of a legal thriller that makes it such a clever novel. The dynamics are off the charts, between Julian and Leila, Leila and the characters in Chambers, Leila and Jack and so on with excellent characterisation into the bargain. Leila is especially fascinating as to whether she’s likeable, you decide. There’s so much misogyny directed at Leila my blood boils. The least said about Julian the better but I’d love to wipe that arrogant smirk of his smooth veneer. There are some side characters and I become desperate to know what the story is there and the identity of one of the points of view is a tantalising puzzle.
The author creates an escalating air of threat and menace, a watchfulness that gives prickles at the back of the neck. There’s twist upon twist, whiplash like, making it a terrific thriller as I genuinely have no idea what’s going to implode/explode next. Add in the legal element and that makes it big winner for me.
What of the trial? It’s electric, riveting and totally enthralling. It’s suspenseful, tense and very dramatic and I’ll say no more as this is one courtroom thriller that begs to be read.
Overall, it’s very clever and creative, it’s well written and perfectly paced with several points of view which works so well, building the suspense and a pile of questions. It’s a cracker of a book which praise be, has a really good conclusion.
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to Pan Macmillan for the much appreciated early copy in return for an honest review.
Oh my goodness, where to start with this one, perhaps with I reluctantly put it down when real life intrudes. There are so many layers involved in this very definition of a legal thriller that makes it such a clever novel. The dynamics are off the charts, between Julian and Leila, Leila and the characters in Chambers, Leila and Jack and so on with excellent characterisation into the bargain. Leila is especially fascinating as to whether she’s likeable, you decide. There’s so much misogyny directed at Leila my blood boils. The least said about Julian the better but I’d love to wipe that arrogant smirk of his smooth veneer. There are some side characters and I become desperate to know what the story is there and the identity of one of the points of view is a tantalising puzzle.
The author creates an escalating air of threat and menace, a watchfulness that gives prickles at the back of the neck. There’s twist upon twist, whiplash like, making it a terrific thriller as I genuinely have no idea what’s going to implode/explode next. Add in the legal element and that makes it big winner for me.
What of the trial? It’s electric, riveting and totally enthralling. It’s suspenseful, tense and very dramatic and I’ll say no more as this is one courtroom thriller that begs to be read.
Overall, it’s very clever and creative, it’s well written and perfectly paced with several points of view which works so well, building the suspense and a pile of questions. It’s a cracker of a book which praise be, has a really good conclusion.
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to Pan Macmillan for the much appreciated early copy in return for an honest review.
September 13, 2025
My Rating: 5⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Oooh I loved this… twists and reveals done right!!!
A dead Judge.
A silent defendant.
And a courtroom full of liars!!
When Leila Reynolds is handed her first murder case, she’s shocked at how high-profile it is, its the murder of a well respected judge.
This shouldn’t be the kind of case shes leading, its way beyond her expertise. But the defendant, Jack Millman, is clear. He wants her, and only her. To make things worse he’s refusing to speak. How is she supposed to prove herself on what appears to be an unwinnable case?
Losing is not an option.
She must find the most persuasive argument. Trials aren’t won by convincing judges or fellow barristers - they’re all about convincing a jury. Suddenly, Leila finds herself fighting not only to keep Jack out of prison but to also keep her own secrets buried deep.
Its true what they say, there are two sides to every story.
Guilty or Not Guilty? You decide…
Ok, here we go…. I am not going to tell you must about this book you need to go in blind… the synopsis above gives you a taste but it does not tell you must compared to what this book is packing. It is not packing a punch it is packing a bag of punches!!!
I don’t know anything about this author but I am going to find out!! This is a legal thriller and thrilling is the right word. I found it really interesting the legal information that we get from this book. Our author is a former criminal barrister and it shows!!! We get all the inside information (well likely not all) and it is broken down into easy to understand parts and i found that really good. It wasn’t condescending either but for someone like me with very little knowledge of criminal law and the way trials are run (in the UK or anywhere) I loved all the information that wasn’t just spewed At us like an info dump it was interspersed into the story. Loved that!!!
I really liked Leila, even when there were things I was guessing (not all true) that might paint her in a different light.. i was still rooting for her. I liked Jack as well… and I hated Julian from the get go… but you be the judge… why? I can’t tell you at all because it will spoil not one but all the surprises in this book.
It is told from multiple pov from Leila, Witness X and a couple of others and it is interesting to pay close attention when reading the POV you will get clues… but I really don’t think you will guess everything. I had an inkling But then when I was right about one thing I was punched in the face with a different piece of information or a reveal i was not expecting at all… I loved that so much. Its been ages since I have read a book where it has actually taken me by surprise multiple times.
I actually loved the writing so much, it kept me engaged and I wanted to keep reading into the night.. the fact that I couldn't was done to the fact that I am a light weight when going to bed… and nothing to do with how interesting this novel was. I got up in the morning and just started it again!!
I have nothing but praise for this book, I really enjoyed it, and would recommend it!!
Overall, I don’t have any complaints, are there some unrealistic parts… yes!! Its fiction guys!! But the legal information alone is second to none in my opinion, the characters are expertly written and the twists were outstanding I couldn’t ask for anything else. This is my first thriller back after a bit of a break and what a winner I got!!! Loved it!!
I will absolutely be keeping my eye out for this authors next book!!!
Thank you to Netgalley, Macmillan and Jo Murray for an exceptional advanced copy in exchange for my honest review!!
A dead Judge.
A silent defendant.
And a courtroom full of liars!!
When Leila Reynolds is handed her first murder case, she’s shocked at how high-profile it is, its the murder of a well respected judge.
This shouldn’t be the kind of case shes leading, its way beyond her expertise. But the defendant, Jack Millman, is clear. He wants her, and only her. To make things worse he’s refusing to speak. How is she supposed to prove herself on what appears to be an unwinnable case?
Losing is not an option.
She must find the most persuasive argument. Trials aren’t won by convincing judges or fellow barristers - they’re all about convincing a jury. Suddenly, Leila finds herself fighting not only to keep Jack out of prison but to also keep her own secrets buried deep.
Its true what they say, there are two sides to every story.
Guilty or Not Guilty? You decide…
Ok, here we go…. I am not going to tell you must about this book you need to go in blind… the synopsis above gives you a taste but it does not tell you must compared to what this book is packing. It is not packing a punch it is packing a bag of punches!!!
I don’t know anything about this author but I am going to find out!! This is a legal thriller and thrilling is the right word. I found it really interesting the legal information that we get from this book. Our author is a former criminal barrister and it shows!!! We get all the inside information (well likely not all) and it is broken down into easy to understand parts and i found that really good. It wasn’t condescending either but for someone like me with very little knowledge of criminal law and the way trials are run (in the UK or anywhere) I loved all the information that wasn’t just spewed At us like an info dump it was interspersed into the story. Loved that!!!
I really liked Leila, even when there were things I was guessing (not all true) that might paint her in a different light.. i was still rooting for her. I liked Jack as well… and I hated Julian from the get go… but you be the judge… why? I can’t tell you at all because it will spoil not one but all the surprises in this book.
It is told from multiple pov from Leila, Witness X and a couple of others and it is interesting to pay close attention when reading the POV you will get clues… but I really don’t think you will guess everything. I had an inkling But then when I was right about one thing I was punched in the face with a different piece of information or a reveal i was not expecting at all… I loved that so much. Its been ages since I have read a book where it has actually taken me by surprise multiple times.
I actually loved the writing so much, it kept me engaged and I wanted to keep reading into the night.. the fact that I couldn't was done to the fact that I am a light weight when going to bed… and nothing to do with how interesting this novel was. I got up in the morning and just started it again!!
I have nothing but praise for this book, I really enjoyed it, and would recommend it!!
Overall, I don’t have any complaints, are there some unrealistic parts… yes!! Its fiction guys!! But the legal information alone is second to none in my opinion, the characters are expertly written and the twists were outstanding I couldn’t ask for anything else. This is my first thriller back after a bit of a break and what a winner I got!!! Loved it!!
I will absolutely be keeping my eye out for this authors next book!!!
Thank you to Netgalley, Macmillan and Jo Murray for an exceptional advanced copy in exchange for my honest review!!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
An absolutely addictive legal thriller that I couldn’t put down.
I read this on the plane to Japan, I was completely blown away, what a story. It is full of shocking twists and dubious truths. Trust no one! Such a clever concept for a story… a husband and wife on either side of the law, in a case that looks to be a slam dunk guilty. Only things are not as they seem and there were so many times that I gasped out loud, and I clapped when I finished it. One of the best books that I have read in 2026, and I cannot wait for the TV adaptation.
You just need to read this and not know too much about the plot. A must read for lovers of legal thrillers. I loved that the author explained the legal system in the UK throughout the novel, especially as it is so different from other legal systems
Thank you so much to Dutton for my advanced copy of this fantastic book to read. Published on May 5th.
I read this on the plane to Japan, I was completely blown away, what a story. It is full of shocking twists and dubious truths. Trust no one! Such a clever concept for a story… a husband and wife on either side of the law, in a case that looks to be a slam dunk guilty. Only things are not as they seem and there were so many times that I gasped out loud, and I clapped when I finished it. One of the best books that I have read in 2026, and I cannot wait for the TV adaptation.
You just need to read this and not know too much about the plot. A must read for lovers of legal thrillers. I loved that the author explained the legal system in the UK throughout the novel, especially as it is so different from other legal systems
Thank you so much to Dutton for my advanced copy of this fantastic book to read. Published on May 5th.
November 11, 2025
One of the easiest five star reviews I have ever given, this book is a masterclass on how to deliver a courtroom thriller and has now set such a high bar that I am not sure many books in this genre will be able to reach. Yes, it is THAT good.
I don't want to delve too much into the synopsis, it is a book that you are better to go into relatively blind, but this novel tells the story of Leila, a lawyer from a working class background who has come good. However, when she is instructed on her first murder trial, she is shocked at the high profile nature of it - the victim being a well-respected judge - however the defendant has asked for her personally and she is keen to step up.
The first half of the novel builds up to the trial as Leila seeks evidence which will exonerate her client, who claims he is not guilty but will not put forward a defence. The second half then moves onto the trial itself which is explosive. That's it, I'm saying no more and I know this sounds like a 'typical' legal thriller but trust me it is not.
The multiple POVs tell the story expertly and, in addition to the legal aspects of the book, the personal lives of those within the chamber add an extra dimension without being crass.
The ending is delivered in a way which I have not experienced for a long time, it was a literal gasp out loud moment, and I can't wait for my Goodreads friends to read this so we can talk about it. This would be a good buddy read for people who have it on their TBR list. It's sure to be one of the hits of 2026.
Thanks to Netgalley and Pan Macmillan | Macmillan for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I don't want to delve too much into the synopsis, it is a book that you are better to go into relatively blind, but this novel tells the story of Leila, a lawyer from a working class background who has come good. However, when she is instructed on her first murder trial, she is shocked at the high profile nature of it - the victim being a well-respected judge - however the defendant has asked for her personally and she is keen to step up.
The first half of the novel builds up to the trial as Leila seeks evidence which will exonerate her client, who claims he is not guilty but will not put forward a defence. The second half then moves onto the trial itself which is explosive. That's it, I'm saying no more and I know this sounds like a 'typical' legal thriller but trust me it is not.
The multiple POVs tell the story expertly and, in addition to the legal aspects of the book, the personal lives of those within the chamber add an extra dimension without being crass.
The ending is delivered in a way which I have not experienced for a long time, it was a literal gasp out loud moment, and I can't wait for my Goodreads friends to read this so we can talk about it. This would be a good buddy read for people who have it on their TBR list. It's sure to be one of the hits of 2026.
Thanks to Netgalley and Pan Macmillan | Macmillan for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
November 28, 2025
5🌟
Like omg what do you mean? You where not ready for the gasp I gusped when the plot hitted me...
I'm going to keep this clean and simple because you just have to experience this one for yourself and I will not spoil this for anyone!
This was a thriller masterpiece 👌 Brava Jo Murray! This was deliciously thrilling, the suspension was top-notch! I finished this in under 24 hours, that is how addictive this book was!
If you are a thriller fan you should definitely pick this one up like immediately!
Thank you Netgalley and Pan Macmillan publishing for this amazing ARC! What a gift to experience this before someone could spoil this for me ❤️
Like omg what do you mean? You where not ready for the gasp I gusped when the plot hitted me...
I'm going to keep this clean and simple because you just have to experience this one for yourself and I will not spoil this for anyone!
This was a thriller masterpiece 👌 Brava Jo Murray! This was deliciously thrilling, the suspension was top-notch! I finished this in under 24 hours, that is how addictive this book was!
If you are a thriller fan you should definitely pick this one up like immediately!
Thank you Netgalley and Pan Macmillan publishing for this amazing ARC! What a gift to experience this before someone could spoil this for me ❤️
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Dissection Of A Murder is THE thriller of the year. I knew I needed it immediately once I read the synopsis. When I found out season 2 of Presumed Innocent is based on this, I forgot about my TBR and moved this to the top.
It was a captivating, twisty legal thriller that was so well written. I was blown away.
I will say I wish I ended about 2 chapters sooner, but that is this reader's preference.
It was a captivating, twisty legal thriller that was so well written. I was blown away.
I will say I wish I ended about 2 chapters sooner, but that is this reader's preference.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Superb masterpiece. A masterclass in plotting.
January 3, 2026
Dissection of a Murder is a gripping debut legal thriller that’s generating a huge buzz ahead of it’s publication day on 7th May 2026 and suffering from acute FOMO I knew I had to get my hands on an early copy to see what all the fuss is about and if it lives up to all the hype.
The answer is simply YES. This brilliant courtroom thriller is an absolute page-turner and literally “unputdownable”. I devoured it in two sittings (if I didn’t have to work, eat and sleep, I’m pretty sure this could have been read in one sitting).
Although there are hundreds of great legal/courtroom thrillers out there, this one stands out for me for a couple of reasons. Firstly, the author was a Criminal Barrister and provides the reader with a very helpful and detailed explanation of all the legal procedures and terminology in basic layman’s terms throughout the book. Thus helping us to understand and appreciate the situations and scenarios without being blindsided by legal jargon. Secondly, the plotline is very, very clever.
A newly qualified barrister, Leila Reynolds, is given her first murder case. Her client is Jack Millman – accused of the brutal murder of a well respected Judge. This is a very high profile case and the defendant is refusing to speak about the crime before the trial. Another concern is that the prosecuting barrister is Leila’s husband, Julian. He’s determined to win this case by any means possible and his reputation is more important than his wife or marriage.
Told from the point of view of several characters, Dissection of A Murder, takes the reader on a tense and twisty tale. With a mystery narrator called Witness X, the reader hasn’t got a clue what really happened to the judge, why Jack Millman refuses to co-operate and how low Julian will stoop to discredit his wife and win this case.
With comparisons to The Silent Patient and Blood Orange, fans of courtroom dramas and psychological thrillers will absolutely LOVE this book
I don’t want to say much more, except pop the date in your calendar (7th May 2026) and pre-order your copy now.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
The answer is simply YES. This brilliant courtroom thriller is an absolute page-turner and literally “unputdownable”. I devoured it in two sittings (if I didn’t have to work, eat and sleep, I’m pretty sure this could have been read in one sitting).
Although there are hundreds of great legal/courtroom thrillers out there, this one stands out for me for a couple of reasons. Firstly, the author was a Criminal Barrister and provides the reader with a very helpful and detailed explanation of all the legal procedures and terminology in basic layman’s terms throughout the book. Thus helping us to understand and appreciate the situations and scenarios without being blindsided by legal jargon. Secondly, the plotline is very, very clever.
A newly qualified barrister, Leila Reynolds, is given her first murder case. Her client is Jack Millman – accused of the brutal murder of a well respected Judge. This is a very high profile case and the defendant is refusing to speak about the crime before the trial. Another concern is that the prosecuting barrister is Leila’s husband, Julian. He’s determined to win this case by any means possible and his reputation is more important than his wife or marriage.
Told from the point of view of several characters, Dissection of A Murder, takes the reader on a tense and twisty tale. With a mystery narrator called Witness X, the reader hasn’t got a clue what really happened to the judge, why Jack Millman refuses to co-operate and how low Julian will stoop to discredit his wife and win this case.
With comparisons to The Silent Patient and Blood Orange, fans of courtroom dramas and psychological thrillers will absolutely LOVE this book
I don’t want to say much more, except pop the date in your calendar (7th May 2026) and pre-order your copy now.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
October 20, 2025
This is one of the easiest 5 stars I gave this year. I feel so grateful to have been lucky enough to get an early copy of this book because it was amazing. It was so clever and perfectly executed and came together so perfectly. It’s made me want to pick up more legal thrillers. Jo Murray is fabulous and I’ve already pre-ordered my hardback copy! Absolutely one not to miss in 2026!
August 19, 2025
The type of twist that makes you want to go back & read it all again
March 7, 2026
What a great debut courtroom thriller! If you love a good courtroom drama, this one is for you. When Leila is asked to defend a suspected murderer, she never would have imagined that her husband would be the prosecutor, the very man who mentored her. So from the very start, there is already tension. And then there is Witness X consuming every so many chapters. Who in the world is Witness X? That’s enough to really build some more tension. Oh, boy, and then the ending was a big reveal. This was masterfully done, and I am looking forward to more books by Jo Murray.
Many thanks to NetGalley & Dutton for the invitation to read an advanced eARC of this book in exchange for my honest opinions.
Many thanks to NetGalley & Dutton for the invitation to read an advanced eARC of this book in exchange for my honest opinions.
November 16, 2025
What a thriller, shocking right to the end. I loved the trial, the personal stories, the characters, the setting and the tension throughout. Outstanding read! Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Want to read
February 13, 2026oooh this one sounds so good!!
***** OOOH ARC REC'D THANK YOU!! *****
A huge thank you to the author and publisher for providing an e-ARC via Netgalley. This does not affect my opinion regarding the book.
***** OOOH ARC REC'D THANK YOU!! *****
A huge thank you to the author and publisher for providing an e-ARC via Netgalley. This does not affect my opinion regarding the book.
October 20, 2025
4.5/5
Leila Reynolds is handed her first murder case, defending Jack Millman, who has been accused of murdering a well-respected judge. The last time Leila represented Jack, she lost. On top of that past failure, she faces the added pressure of going up against her husband, who is more senior and experienced than she is.
I love a good legal thriller, but I often find they’re not done well. This one, however, was phenomenal—and I think it helped that the author is a former criminal barrister.
The plot felt fresh, and I really enjoyed the multiple points of view. It was so clever, addictive, and well-written that I’m shocked this is a debut novel! I can’t even imagine how amazing her future books will be.
I also feel like I learned a lot about the legal system, and the definitions of legal terms at the start of the book were incredibly helpful!
This came very close to being a 5-star read for me, but I did guess a couple of the twists, and I didn’t love the way the book ended. You’ll have to read it for yourself, though—I won’t spoil anything!
Leila Reynolds is handed her first murder case, defending Jack Millman, who has been accused of murdering a well-respected judge. The last time Leila represented Jack, she lost. On top of that past failure, she faces the added pressure of going up against her husband, who is more senior and experienced than she is.
I love a good legal thriller, but I often find they’re not done well. This one, however, was phenomenal—and I think it helped that the author is a former criminal barrister.
The plot felt fresh, and I really enjoyed the multiple points of view. It was so clever, addictive, and well-written that I’m shocked this is a debut novel! I can’t even imagine how amazing her future books will be.
I also feel like I learned a lot about the legal system, and the definitions of legal terms at the start of the book were incredibly helpful!
This came very close to being a 5-star read for me, but I did guess a couple of the twists, and I didn’t love the way the book ended. You’ll have to read it for yourself, though—I won’t spoil anything!
February 27, 2026
Super rough draft - dragged this book out for daysss loved it!
#ad much love for my advance copy @duttonbooks #partner
🅳🅸🆂🆂🅴🅲🆃🅸🅾🅽 🅾🅵 🅰 🅼🆄🆁🅳🅴🆁 (review song Delilah Tom Jones)
< @
ʀᴇʟᴇᴀꜱᴇꜱ: ᴍᴀʏ 𝟣𝟤, 𝟤𝟢𝟤𝟨
From a former criminal barrister comes a blazing hot legal thriller that you won’t want to put down.
𝚃𝚑𝚎𝚛𝚎 𝚒𝚜 𝚊 𝚜𝚝𝚘𝚛𝚢 𝚋𝚎𝚑𝚒𝚗𝚍 𝚎𝚟𝚎𝚛𝚢𝚝𝚑𝚒𝚗𝚐…
𝙴𝚟𝚎𝚛𝚢𝚝𝚑𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝚑𝚊𝚜 𝚕𝚎𝚍 𝚝𝚘 𝚝𝚑𝚒𝚜…
𝚂𝚘 𝚠𝚑𝚊𝚝? 𝙻𝚎𝚝 𝚑𝚒𝚖 𝚞𝚗𝚍𝚎𝚛𝚎𝚜𝚝𝚒𝚖𝚊𝚝𝚎 𝚢𝚘𝚞…
𝙽𝚘𝚝𝚑𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝚒𝚜 𝚎𝚟𝚎𝚛 𝚋𝚕𝚊𝚌𝚔 𝚊𝚗𝚍 𝚠𝚑𝚒𝚝𝚎, 𝚎𝚜𝚙𝚎𝚌𝚒𝚊𝚕𝚕𝚢 𝚠𝚑𝚎𝚗 𝚒𝚝 𝚌𝚘𝚖𝚎𝚜 𝚝𝚘 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚕𝚊𝚠...
Devilishly good. If you love legal thrillers with courtroom action, this is the book for you! Told in two parts - the first focusing on the days leading up to the trial and the second the trial itself - this book will keep you entertained throughout.
It’s husband vs wife (Leila and Julian) in this showdown of a high-profile court case for murder. It’s also her first murder trial. She’s defending the man accused of murder, while he’s prosecuting the man. Oh, this should be great fun, but can their marriage survive it?
People say she only got the case because of who her husband is. But this right here, she’s about to show them why she deserves this case.
There’s also one small issue: Julian the one who taught Leila everything she knows. He knows her like the back of his hand - but so does she of him.
Let the games begin…
It was fascinating watching this husband and wife go against each other. Because, at the end of the day, Leila’s loyalty will always lie with her clients. But, there’s no better way to truly get to know the person you’re married to like going up against them on opposing sides of a court case.
Okay, appreciate that little intro into how the courts work in the UK and Whales. While I’ve come to understand some of that thru other books or TV shows, I’ve never had it broken down like that. Much appreciation. 🫶🏻
Grab your popcorn because this is about to be the most entertaining book you’ve read in a while.
Yassssss soon to be TV! I cannot wait to watch this on AppleTV! Loved this book. Classic legal thriller with all the twists, action, and bingeable AF. I couldn’t even wait for the audio, I had to read it as soon as I got a copy in my hands.
Loved watching Leila come into her own power. We watch Leila go from being unsure of herself to having the confidence she needs. It was a beautiful growth to watch happen. The men doubted her, but they should have known better.
The mystery of Witness X. We get small snippets of her life but we don’t know who she is. I was changing who I thought she was with every chapter we got from her. Keeps you on your toes.
Mem
At age 10 you are now criminally responsible in England and Wales.
Chicanery
It’s very male behavior 😂👏🏼
I will say: even if you don’t fully understand the ins-and-outs of trials - the lingo, etc, the author does a phenomenal job of explaining everything. So even those who don’t watch trials can follow the story without the confusion.
Just loved everything about this book - especially how it shines a light on how much trials aren’t really about the evidence or much else (yes it’s a part but not as much as some other things) - it’s ALL about who can tell the better story. Who is more likeable. Who puts on the best act. It’s a stage.
Rules
#1 Don’t Get Caught
#2 Become Someone’s Addiction
#3 Knowledge is Power
#4 Let People Underestimate You
#5 Be a Good Liar
#6 Never Lose Your Control
#7 Beware the Talented Student
#8 Be Patient
#9 Don’t Stand Out
#10 Life Isn’t Fair
#11 Never Push Your Luck
#12 Always Have a Backup Plan
The Victim: Anton Smythe - judge 56,
The Accused: Jack 32 year old door man with an extensive criminal background -
Final Thoughts:
It’s crazy the difference in court proceedings between the US and Wales/England. How it’s set up to appear beneficial - to the defendant - to give their defense statement, but then the prosecution will know how to manipulate everything to make them appear guilty - while systematically dismantling their case. 🤯 Also, it seems totally unbalanced that the defendant has to put on their own defense?? They’re up against lawyers who have spent their life doing this work.. the justice system is rigged against every defendant. No matter the country.
Final Final Thought: I need to read this author’s backlog now. Is this a debut?! 😵😭 Noooooooooo, it is! haha - I’m so hoping there will lots more from this author in the future.
Post points : Husband Vs Wife / courtroom drama / witness x / ex-wife drama / legal thriller / debut / secrets / two can play this game /
#ad much love for my advance copy @duttonbooks #partner
🅳🅸🆂🆂🅴🅲🆃🅸🅾🅽 🅾🅵 🅰 🅼🆄🆁🅳🅴🆁 (review song Delilah Tom Jones)
< @
ʀᴇʟᴇᴀꜱᴇꜱ: ᴍᴀʏ 𝟣𝟤, 𝟤𝟢𝟤𝟨
From a former criminal barrister comes a blazing hot legal thriller that you won’t want to put down.
𝚃𝚑𝚎𝚛𝚎 𝚒𝚜 𝚊 𝚜𝚝𝚘𝚛𝚢 𝚋𝚎𝚑𝚒𝚗𝚍 𝚎𝚟𝚎𝚛𝚢𝚝𝚑𝚒𝚗𝚐…
𝙴𝚟𝚎𝚛𝚢𝚝𝚑𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝚑𝚊𝚜 𝚕𝚎𝚍 𝚝𝚘 𝚝𝚑𝚒𝚜…
𝚂𝚘 𝚠𝚑𝚊𝚝? 𝙻𝚎𝚝 𝚑𝚒𝚖 𝚞𝚗𝚍𝚎𝚛𝚎𝚜𝚝𝚒𝚖𝚊𝚝𝚎 𝚢𝚘𝚞…
𝙽𝚘𝚝𝚑𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝚒𝚜 𝚎𝚟𝚎𝚛 𝚋𝚕𝚊𝚌𝚔 𝚊𝚗𝚍 𝚠𝚑𝚒𝚝𝚎, 𝚎𝚜𝚙𝚎𝚌𝚒𝚊𝚕𝚕𝚢 𝚠𝚑𝚎𝚗 𝚒𝚝 𝚌𝚘𝚖𝚎𝚜 𝚝𝚘 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚕𝚊𝚠...
Devilishly good. If you love legal thrillers with courtroom action, this is the book for you! Told in two parts - the first focusing on the days leading up to the trial and the second the trial itself - this book will keep you entertained throughout.
It’s husband vs wife (Leila and Julian) in this showdown of a high-profile court case for murder. It’s also her first murder trial. She’s defending the man accused of murder, while he’s prosecuting the man. Oh, this should be great fun, but can their marriage survive it?
People say she only got the case because of who her husband is. But this right here, she’s about to show them why she deserves this case.
There’s also one small issue: Julian the one who taught Leila everything she knows. He knows her like the back of his hand - but so does she of him.
Let the games begin…
It was fascinating watching this husband and wife go against each other. Because, at the end of the day, Leila’s loyalty will always lie with her clients. But, there’s no better way to truly get to know the person you’re married to like going up against them on opposing sides of a court case.
Okay, appreciate that little intro into how the courts work in the UK and Whales. While I’ve come to understand some of that thru other books or TV shows, I’ve never had it broken down like that. Much appreciation. 🫶🏻
Grab your popcorn because this is about to be the most entertaining book you’ve read in a while.
Yassssss soon to be TV! I cannot wait to watch this on AppleTV! Loved this book. Classic legal thriller with all the twists, action, and bingeable AF. I couldn’t even wait for the audio, I had to read it as soon as I got a copy in my hands.
Loved watching Leila come into her own power. We watch Leila go from being unsure of herself to having the confidence she needs. It was a beautiful growth to watch happen. The men doubted her, but they should have known better.
The mystery of Witness X. We get small snippets of her life but we don’t know who she is. I was changing who I thought she was with every chapter we got from her. Keeps you on your toes.
Mem
At age 10 you are now criminally responsible in England and Wales.
Chicanery
It’s very male behavior 😂👏🏼
I will say: even if you don’t fully understand the ins-and-outs of trials - the lingo, etc, the author does a phenomenal job of explaining everything. So even those who don’t watch trials can follow the story without the confusion.
Just loved everything about this book - especially how it shines a light on how much trials aren’t really about the evidence or much else (yes it’s a part but not as much as some other things) - it’s ALL about who can tell the better story. Who is more likeable. Who puts on the best act. It’s a stage.
Rules
#1 Don’t Get Caught
#2 Become Someone’s Addiction
#3 Knowledge is Power
#4 Let People Underestimate You
#5 Be a Good Liar
#6 Never Lose Your Control
#7 Beware the Talented Student
#8 Be Patient
#9 Don’t Stand Out
#10 Life Isn’t Fair
#11 Never Push Your Luck
#12 Always Have a Backup Plan
The Victim: Anton Smythe - judge 56,
The Accused: Jack 32 year old door man with an extensive criminal background -
Final Thoughts:
It’s crazy the difference in court proceedings between the US and Wales/England. How it’s set up to appear beneficial - to the defendant - to give their defense statement, but then the prosecution will know how to manipulate everything to make them appear guilty - while systematically dismantling their case. 🤯 Also, it seems totally unbalanced that the defendant has to put on their own defense?? They’re up against lawyers who have spent their life doing this work.. the justice system is rigged against every defendant. No matter the country.
Final Final Thought: I need to read this author’s backlog now. Is this a debut?! 😵😭 Noooooooooo, it is! haha - I’m so hoping there will lots more from this author in the future.
Post points : Husband Vs Wife / courtroom drama / witness x / ex-wife drama / legal thriller / debut / secrets / two can play this game /
November 12, 2025
With many thanks to Netgalley for this free arc and I am leaving this unbiased review voluntarily
OOh Jo Murray this is good, seriously good. Razor sharp detail and flawless knowledge give this legal thriller a wonderful edge. The build up to the trial is sublime, the characters compelling and the court room scenes ooze with tension. Although I had an inkling who Witness X was - and without giving anything away it was just the smallest of clues that lead me there - it didn't in anyway detract from the enjoyment. Even though I didn't get that 'jaw dropping' moment when the twist was revealed, it is still an amazing reveal. It's gripping, wonderfully written and very hard to put down. This is going to be a book to read in 2026. 4.5⭐️
March 6, 2026
Attorney Leila Reynolds has her first murder case, defending a man accused of killing an esteemed judge. Adding to her problems, the well-respected and highly experienced prosecutor is also her husband. With all these obstacles and a tight-lipped client, Leila also has a secret that she needs to keep buried. Dissection Of A Murder has an interesting, if unlikely plot and some twisty moments, but the slow pace and lack of significant developments made most of this a tough one to get through. But the book moves suddenly into high gear once the trial scenes get underway, and a terrific last third really saves the book and made the earlier tedium more palatable. If you can stick with it, there’s a worthwhile payoff. I received an ARC of this book from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Thank you, #Partner @duttonbooks @penguinbooks and @netgalley for my gifted copy. Pub date 5/5/26.
Wow, this is probably the best legal thriller I have ever read! This is Jo Murray's debut novel, but she was previously a criminal barrister, and it showed in her writing. I felt like I was in the courtroom, and I was sweating and on the edge of my seat! The twists and turns I didn't see coming at all, I was literally floored! Season 2 of *Presumed Innocent* on @appletv will be based on this book. Seriously, it's so freaking good, I definitely recommend reading this! I will eagerly be waiting for Jo Murray's next novel.
Lelia Reynolds is handed her first murder case. Jack Millman is accused of killing a well-respected judge, and he only wants Lelia to defend him. When Lelia finds out who the prosecutor will be, she knows she will have her work cut out for her...because it's her husband! Nothing is as it seems and nobody is telling the truth!
Wow, this is probably the best legal thriller I have ever read! This is Jo Murray's debut novel, but she was previously a criminal barrister, and it showed in her writing. I felt like I was in the courtroom, and I was sweating and on the edge of my seat! The twists and turns I didn't see coming at all, I was literally floored! Season 2 of *Presumed Innocent* on @appletv will be based on this book. Seriously, it's so freaking good, I definitely recommend reading this! I will eagerly be waiting for Jo Murray's next novel.
Lelia Reynolds is handed her first murder case. Jack Millman is accused of killing a well-respected judge, and he only wants Lelia to defend him. When Lelia finds out who the prosecutor will be, she knows she will have her work cut out for her...because it's her husband! Nothing is as it seems and nobody is telling the truth!
February 28, 2026
Thank you to NG for the ARC.
One of the best (legal) thrillers I’ve ever read. It was full of suspense, drama, twists and turns. I had an inkling on the main twist earlier on but the author presented enough doubt and red herrings that I wasn’t certain. The build up to the trial was good and the trial itself was full of surprises.
Brilliantly done and I can see this will be a huge hit when it’s released in May. Loved it.
One of the best (legal) thrillers I’ve ever read. It was full of suspense, drama, twists and turns. I had an inkling on the main twist earlier on but the author presented enough doubt and red herrings that I wasn’t certain. The build up to the trial was good and the trial itself was full of surprises.
Brilliantly done and I can see this will be a huge hit when it’s released in May. Loved it.
Review of advance copy
An edge of your seat courtroom drama so cleverly written and suspenseful with twists right up until the end..... What is justice? It had me so hooked I didn't want to put it down so I read it in one sitting (well in less than 24hrs) With this debut book, Jo Murray has basically just handed us a smoking gun..... but has certainly done it justice!
February 13, 2026
This is a fantastic legal mystery and dramatic court based thriller.
Leila Reynolds is assigned her first murder case, this is way beyond her expertise but the defendant Jack Millman insisted that Leila is the only one he will allow to defend him. Jack is making things difficult and is refusing to divulge any information to Leila in order for her to prepare the case. To make matters worse the barrister working for the prosecution is her own husband Julian.
Told from multiple pov we are breadcrumbed with clues and the twists were definitely beyond my ability to work out.
Many thanks to NetGalley publisher and author for my gifted eARC in exchange for my honest review.
Leila Reynolds is assigned her first murder case, this is way beyond her expertise but the defendant Jack Millman insisted that Leila is the only one he will allow to defend him. Jack is making things difficult and is refusing to divulge any information to Leila in order for her to prepare the case. To make matters worse the barrister working for the prosecution is her own husband Julian.
Told from multiple pov we are breadcrumbed with clues and the twists were definitely beyond my ability to work out.
Many thanks to NetGalley publisher and author for my gifted eARC in exchange for my honest review.
November 11, 2025
Dissection of a Murder by Jo Murray wastes no time pulling you in. Leila Reynolds, a promising barrister, gets tossed straight into the deep end: her very first murder case, and she’s defending Jack Millman, accused of killing a well-loved judge. The stakes couldn’t be higher. Jack won’t say a word, which only makes Leila’s job tougher. Suddenly, she’s in a courtroom thick with secrets, agendas, and half-truths, and the truth always seems just out of reach.
Leila’s journey grabs you. She starts out overwhelmed, but you watch her steady herself, stumbling and then finding her strengths. She’s driven, but she’s got secrets of her own, and that tension between ambition and vulnerability keeps the story alive far beyond the legal chess match. Jack’s silence, the unpredictable jurors, and supporting characters who never quite do what you expect; they all add more shadows and double meanings. The result is a story that’s both tightly wound and unexpectedly intimate.
Murray doesn’t just stick to the surface details of a murder trial. The novel explores justice, truth, and the uneasy space between guilt and innocence. It echoes real debates about how much we can trust the legal system, how easily facts twist under pressure, and how much we filter everything through our own biases. The book doesn’t just tell a story; it asks you to check your own assumptions about fairness, to sit with your own uncertainty.
Murray writes with a style that’s easy to follow, but never boring. There’s a seriousness to the tone, but it never gets too heavy; there’s suspense, even a little humor, and the pacing is spot-on. The courtroom feels alive, tense, but the focus stays on what drives the characters, what scares them, what they want to hide. The language isn’t fancy, but it hits home, and you end up feeling what Leila feels, her doubts, her hopes, her frustration.
What really sets this book apart is how it balances the sharp edge of a legal thriller with the real, personal struggles of its main character. This isn’t just a clever puzzle. It feels honest, messy, human. If there’s one thing missing, it’s that a few of the side characters could have used a bit more attention. They’re interesting, but you want to know them better. Still, Dissection of a Murder leaves a mark. It forces you to look at truth and justice through Leila’s eyes, and makes you wonder what you’d do in that jury box. It’s a fresh take on the legal thriller, familiar in some ways, but with a voice and perspective that feel entirely its own.
Leila’s journey grabs you. She starts out overwhelmed, but you watch her steady herself, stumbling and then finding her strengths. She’s driven, but she’s got secrets of her own, and that tension between ambition and vulnerability keeps the story alive far beyond the legal chess match. Jack’s silence, the unpredictable jurors, and supporting characters who never quite do what you expect; they all add more shadows and double meanings. The result is a story that’s both tightly wound and unexpectedly intimate.
Murray doesn’t just stick to the surface details of a murder trial. The novel explores justice, truth, and the uneasy space between guilt and innocence. It echoes real debates about how much we can trust the legal system, how easily facts twist under pressure, and how much we filter everything through our own biases. The book doesn’t just tell a story; it asks you to check your own assumptions about fairness, to sit with your own uncertainty.
Murray writes with a style that’s easy to follow, but never boring. There’s a seriousness to the tone, but it never gets too heavy; there’s suspense, even a little humor, and the pacing is spot-on. The courtroom feels alive, tense, but the focus stays on what drives the characters, what scares them, what they want to hide. The language isn’t fancy, but it hits home, and you end up feeling what Leila feels, her doubts, her hopes, her frustration.
What really sets this book apart is how it balances the sharp edge of a legal thriller with the real, personal struggles of its main character. This isn’t just a clever puzzle. It feels honest, messy, human. If there’s one thing missing, it’s that a few of the side characters could have used a bit more attention. They’re interesting, but you want to know them better. Still, Dissection of a Murder leaves a mark. It forces you to look at truth and justice through Leila’s eyes, and makes you wonder what you’d do in that jury box. It’s a fresh take on the legal thriller, familiar in some ways, but with a voice and perspective that feel entirely its own.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
thank you netgalley for the arc in exchange for review!
oh wow, what absolute WHIPLASH.
id be remiss if i didnt start off with an appreciation for how detailed of an insight this book offers into the british justice system. after years of reading british thrillers, i finally have a solid grasp on what a barrister vs a solicitor is, so thank you jo murray lmao
because of how thoroughly the reader is taken through the barrister process, it was a little difficult for me to connect with the story at the beginning. however, the quick pace and short chapters helped to grease the wheels, and before long, i found myself fully engrossed, nodding off while reading past 2 am just to find out what was coming next.
theres also quite a number of twists and turns in this one, not just at the end but throughout the story as a whole, keeping you on your toes the entire time. at one point, there were so many twists that i started wondering how much was too much, but by the end, i feel that every detail was cleverly executed and served its purpose.
by the end, the main thing that felt missing for me was that the characters, as intricate as each of their individual stories were, still seemed...not totally half-baked, but maybe ¾-baked? you'd probably end up with a book for each one if you tried to flesh them out fully, but for leila at least, i wish i'd gotten to know her at a steadier pace. building a gradual understanding of her would make that final line all the more profound.
overall, as someone who doesn't typically enjoy courtroom novels, this was a delightful and impressive surprise. i look forward to seeing this received with the hype it deserves once its published!
oh wow, what absolute WHIPLASH.
id be remiss if i didnt start off with an appreciation for how detailed of an insight this book offers into the british justice system. after years of reading british thrillers, i finally have a solid grasp on what a barrister vs a solicitor is, so thank you jo murray lmao
because of how thoroughly the reader is taken through the barrister process, it was a little difficult for me to connect with the story at the beginning. however, the quick pace and short chapters helped to grease the wheels, and before long, i found myself fully engrossed, nodding off while reading past 2 am just to find out what was coming next.
theres also quite a number of twists and turns in this one, not just at the end but throughout the story as a whole, keeping you on your toes the entire time. at one point, there were so many twists that i started wondering how much was too much, but by the end, i feel that every detail was cleverly executed and served its purpose.
by the end, the main thing that felt missing for me was that the characters, as intricate as each of their individual stories were, still seemed...not totally half-baked, but maybe ¾-baked? you'd probably end up with a book for each one if you tried to flesh them out fully, but for leila at least, i wish i'd gotten to know her at a steadier pace. building a gradual understanding of her would make that final line all the more profound.
overall, as someone who doesn't typically enjoy courtroom novels, this was a delightful and impressive surprise. i look forward to seeing this received with the hype it deserves once its published!
November 9, 2025
An easy five stars. When I wasn’t reading this book, I was either thinking about it or waiting until I could start reading more!
A courtroom thriller which is brilliantly written throughout with drama, secrets and lies. The way in which the book is written is that we don’t have a clue as to what happened really, the defendant doesn’t give anything away by refusing to cooperate and then the legal teams are husband and wife who are the prosecution and defence teams. There are explanations of some legal jargon in the book which are laid out simply to help us understand meanings, I found this very helpful.
It is a very good storyline and has some interesting characters which all make a brilliant read. Due out in May 2026, pick it up and see what you think.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC of this ebook in exchange for my honest review.
A courtroom thriller which is brilliantly written throughout with drama, secrets and lies. The way in which the book is written is that we don’t have a clue as to what happened really, the defendant doesn’t give anything away by refusing to cooperate and then the legal teams are husband and wife who are the prosecution and defence teams. There are explanations of some legal jargon in the book which are laid out simply to help us understand meanings, I found this very helpful.
It is a very good storyline and has some interesting characters which all make a brilliant read. Due out in May 2026, pick it up and see what you think.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC of this ebook in exchange for my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
3.5 stars. very good debut, but not quite another 'Anatomy of a murder'. Pace is abit slow in places, but the middle had me seriously hooked. I was most disappointed to have figured out the 'too clever' twist a way before the end. But then admittedly I'm Gen X and have probably read a few too many crime novels to be forgiving.
Still, a solid court room drama, featuring arrogant lawyers, toxic parents, toxic partners, many intriguing secrets and a grand passion. Apparently being made into a series for Apple TV's Presumed Innocent series 2.
Thank you so much to Pan MacMillan South Africa for the proof copy.
Still, a solid court room drama, featuring arrogant lawyers, toxic parents, toxic partners, many intriguing secrets and a grand passion. Apparently being made into a series for Apple TV's Presumed Innocent series 2.
Thank you so much to Pan MacMillan South Africa for the proof copy.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Whatever you do in your reading travels, don't miss this one! I am blown away. We all have those books we wish we could read again for the first time, this would be one of them. I almost want to start over from the beginning now I that know all the things because there are so many things!
Intricately layered, twists you'll never see coming, drama, suspense and a MFC that you feel drawn to. So well done. We need more of Jo Murray!
Intricately layered, twists you'll never see coming, drama, suspense and a MFC that you feel drawn to. So well done. We need more of Jo Murray!
March 1, 2026
I love a good courtroom drama and this one exceeded all expectations. The story was so captivating and I found myself so invested in the trial. And then the script completely flips in a way I was not expecting. This book may have been about a murder, but it was also partly a love story, which I actually enjoyed. I can’t wait to see this show on AppleTV.
Thank you to NetGalley for this arc!
Pub date: 5/5/26
Thank you to NetGalley for this arc!
Pub date: 5/5/26
January 23, 2026
"Dissection of a Murder" introduced me to the courtroom thriller, and I kind of loved it. I guessed one of the twists, but the rest threw me for a loop—my jaw dropped at the end. The author used to be a criminal barrister and you can tell that in how she writes/all the details she includes. Considering this was my first courtroom thriller, some specifics went over my head, but she did a good job “dumbing” it down just enough to keep me oriented without oversimplifying.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
November 25, 2025
I found this book a bit boring at the beginning but it’s well written. The last 3rd is really exciting and I couldn’t read it quick enough - very clever
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