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A Death In Custody
Brixton in the late 1990s. Delroy Brown, a young black man being held in police custody, dies in a confrontation in his cell with a police officer.
The officer claims to have acted in self-defence but fails to give a satisfactory explanation for being in the dead man’s cell.
Chief Inspector Elliott conducts an investigation into Delroy’s death, but his enquiries are obstructed by a lack of co-operation from police officers, the activities of a corrupt private investigator – and the legal system itself.
Alison French, a young journalist, Neeta Patel, Delroy’s family’s solicitor, and Ben Weekes, a black youth worker, join forces to try and find out the truth about Delroy’s death, but find themselves in growing danger, as they are drawn into a murky world of violent criminals and police informants.
The officer claims to have acted in self-defence but fails to give a satisfactory explanation for being in the dead man’s cell.
Chief Inspector Elliott conducts an investigation into Delroy’s death, but his enquiries are obstructed by a lack of co-operation from police officers, the activities of a corrupt private investigator – and the legal system itself.
Alison French, a young journalist, Neeta Patel, Delroy’s family’s solicitor, and Ben Weekes, a black youth worker, join forces to try and find out the truth about Delroy’s death, but find themselves in growing danger, as they are drawn into a murky world of violent criminals and police informants.
432 pages, Paperback
First published November 2, 2021
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16 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
January 27, 2022
A young black man, Delroy Brown, is found dead while in custody, with a police officer, McKinnon, claiming the smaller man had attacked him when McKinnon had gone to speak to him in his cell. This sets off an investigation, with the police and the Crown Prosecutor’s office unwilling to delve too much into the matter and move on quickly.
Brown’s family’s public defender Neeta Patel works hard to prove McKinnon went to the cell with the intent of questioning, and likely intimidating, Brown, while a green reporter, Alison French, chases potential leads after getting pulled into the case on the words of a homeless man, and potential witness to the attack. Soon, a youth worker, Ben Weekes, also becomes involved, and a much more complicated picture of the relationship between Brown, McKinnon, and the Brixton criminal world emerges.
The text reads a little on the dry side, and though there are exposition dumps, they were useful in understanding some the legal constraints at play, as well as the relationships between police, and the Crown Prosecuting Service (CPS).
The characters were also a little flat, but I found the description of British legal wrangling interesting.
I found Alison’s cluelessness about how race affects how one moves through life and interacts with institutions a little frustrating to read, but this story was set in the 1990s, so likely her naïveté was realistic.
Other than these small issues, I sped through this book, the whole time wondering if there would be any justice for Delroy Brown’s family, or whether the whole situation would play out with depressing realism.
Thank you to Netgalley and to Matador for this ARC in exchange for my review.
Brown’s family’s public defender Neeta Patel works hard to prove McKinnon went to the cell with the intent of questioning, and likely intimidating, Brown, while a green reporter, Alison French, chases potential leads after getting pulled into the case on the words of a homeless man, and potential witness to the attack. Soon, a youth worker, Ben Weekes, also becomes involved, and a much more complicated picture of the relationship between Brown, McKinnon, and the Brixton criminal world emerges.
The text reads a little on the dry side, and though there are exposition dumps, they were useful in understanding some the legal constraints at play, as well as the relationships between police, and the Crown Prosecuting Service (CPS).
The characters were also a little flat, but I found the description of British legal wrangling interesting.
I found Alison’s cluelessness about how race affects how one moves through life and interacts with institutions a little frustrating to read, but this story was set in the 1990s, so likely her naïveté was realistic.
Other than these small issues, I sped through this book, the whole time wondering if there would be any justice for Delroy Brown’s family, or whether the whole situation would play out with depressing realism.
Thank you to Netgalley and to Matador for this ARC in exchange for my review.
February 14, 2022
Being a psychology and criminology student this was right up my street and the plot instantly drew my attention. Everything is about inequality and power with one hell of an investigation. Everything ok studying made me think of everything from racial discrimination to how corrupt certain people in power can really be. It was so deep, meaningful and emotional.
How the legal system continues to fail those in custody still happens and this gives people a huge insight into that. As a team closest to Delroy come together to put the wrongs actioned right there’s so much more that’s unexpected that chaotically unfolds creating a suspenseful fast paced read. The plot isn’t unique by any means it’s eye opening to the cases we’ve seen over the recent years.
The criminal justice system in some way controls and orders our daily lives. But how can we trust those that cause damage and pain to others. Although this is a long read and the chapters are long too. Each chapter takes you further into the events in a brilliant effective manner. Although I didn’t form much of a connection to the individual characters I did form a connection with the true meaning behind this book. Kudos to the author for bringing out so much realism and knowledge and truth behind what really happens in the CJS.
How the legal system continues to fail those in custody still happens and this gives people a huge insight into that. As a team closest to Delroy come together to put the wrongs actioned right there’s so much more that’s unexpected that chaotically unfolds creating a suspenseful fast paced read. The plot isn’t unique by any means it’s eye opening to the cases we’ve seen over the recent years.
The criminal justice system in some way controls and orders our daily lives. But how can we trust those that cause damage and pain to others. Although this is a long read and the chapters are long too. Each chapter takes you further into the events in a brilliant effective manner. Although I didn’t form much of a connection to the individual characters I did form a connection with the true meaning behind this book. Kudos to the author for bringing out so much realism and knowledge and truth behind what really happens in the CJS.
February 7, 2022
The story was very detailed and each chapter was subsequently very long. It was neatly and clearly set out with each chapter having a heading to inform you what you would be reading about next. The book had a lovely flow to it and although there was a lot of detail it didn't confuse me or hinder me from enjoying the story. It was quite emotional at times, with some heavy political issues. You weren't quite sure how the story was going to end. What I particularly appreciated, however, was that everything was tied up at the end.
The characters were excellent. They were well written and believable. I really felt for them and could see the story from both sides. I could feel the difficulties that the characters had with their place in the story. It was an emotional read at times!
Lastly the settings. They were limited as the story was really about the people. What description there was of the setting was just enough to give you an idea of where the characters were. Some places in the book were given more attention as that was required for the story, but it was mainly character based.
Overall I enjoyed this book. Whilst it was slow paced and fairly heavy on the details my interest didn't waiver. I would recommend it to people who are interested in reading a story about Law and Justice.
✨For a longer review see my book blog✨ https://budgettalesblog.wordpress.com/
The characters were excellent. They were well written and believable. I really felt for them and could see the story from both sides. I could feel the difficulties that the characters had with their place in the story. It was an emotional read at times!
Lastly the settings. They were limited as the story was really about the people. What description there was of the setting was just enough to give you an idea of where the characters were. Some places in the book were given more attention as that was required for the story, but it was mainly character based.
Overall I enjoyed this book. Whilst it was slow paced and fairly heavy on the details my interest didn't waiver. I would recommend it to people who are interested in reading a story about Law and Justice.
✨For a longer review see my book blog✨ https://budgettalesblog.wordpress.com/
January 28, 2022
A death in custody by T.S. Clayton.
Brixton in the late 1990s. Delroy Brown, a young black man being held in police custody, dies in a confrontation in his cell with a police officer.The officer claims to have acted in self-defence but fails to give a satisfactory explanation for being in the dead man’s cell. Chief Inspector Elliott conducts an investigation into Delroy’s death, but his enquiries are obstructed by a lack of co-operation from police officers, the activities of a corrupt private investigator – and the legal system itself. Alison French, a young journalist, Neeta Patel, Delroy’s family’s solicitor, and Ben Weekes, a black youth worker, join forces to try and find out the truth about Delroy’s death, but find themselves in growing danger, as they are drawn into a murky world of violent criminals and police informants.
An ok read. Found it slow but readable. 3*.
Brixton in the late 1990s. Delroy Brown, a young black man being held in police custody, dies in a confrontation in his cell with a police officer.The officer claims to have acted in self-defence but fails to give a satisfactory explanation for being in the dead man’s cell. Chief Inspector Elliott conducts an investigation into Delroy’s death, but his enquiries are obstructed by a lack of co-operation from police officers, the activities of a corrupt private investigator – and the legal system itself. Alison French, a young journalist, Neeta Patel, Delroy’s family’s solicitor, and Ben Weekes, a black youth worker, join forces to try and find out the truth about Delroy’s death, but find themselves in growing danger, as they are drawn into a murky world of violent criminals and police informants.
An ok read. Found it slow but readable. 3*.
January 9, 2024
📖BOOK REVIEW📖
A Death in Custody by T.S.Clayton
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
@randomthingstours
@matadorbooks
Review
I was really pleased to get a spot on the @randomthingstours book blog tour for this book as I feel this is a book that is quite close to home.
The "story" (and I put it in inverted commas because unfortunately this is very common reality today for many brown/black skin people) is written in Brixton in the 1990s and is about a young black man, Delroy, who has been detained by the police, and consequently dies at their hands in custody after a violent confrontation with a corrupt police officer. The rest of the book goes on to delve deeper into what happened and explores the judicial system in the UK today and it's biased unfairness towards BAME people. Although written as a story, sadly this is reality today, with only minimal snippets shown on the media of the true horrors and injustice that BAME group people face at the hands of some corrupt police forces - people whom we are meant to be able to go to for protection.
The exploration of racism within society and within the system is explored in depth and the knowledge within in the pages is only highlighted further by the fact Clayton practiced criminal law in Brixton in the 1990s (working for the Crown Prosecution Service as a Crown Prosecutor, and later Senior Crown Prosecutor, before becoming a freelance defence advocate).
I like the way the story is written, full of description and information but written in a way that wasn't overwhelming and just pulled you in further to the story.
After further research myself, the facts are indesputable.
“The disproportionality in the use of force against Black people adds to the irrefutable evidence of structural racism embedded in policing practices. ”
Deborah Coles, Director of INQUEST
Although I myself am a white British woman, my husband is Nigerian and I have witnessed first hand some of the injustice and racism that he has experienced in the UK and it makes me sick. We have two young daughters and the thought that they too will be at risk of receiving the same treatment (no matter how high you hold you head or act "correctly") frightens me frankly, and there will be "talks" that will have to be had at some point to prepare them.
This book is so powerful and so heartbreaking, but more heartbreaking that sadly this is not really a story. It is the cold hard truth facts of every day life for BAME groups. A beautifully well, written book.
A Death in Custody by T.S.Clayton
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
@randomthingstours
@matadorbooks
Review
I was really pleased to get a spot on the @randomthingstours book blog tour for this book as I feel this is a book that is quite close to home.
The "story" (and I put it in inverted commas because unfortunately this is very common reality today for many brown/black skin people) is written in Brixton in the 1990s and is about a young black man, Delroy, who has been detained by the police, and consequently dies at their hands in custody after a violent confrontation with a corrupt police officer. The rest of the book goes on to delve deeper into what happened and explores the judicial system in the UK today and it's biased unfairness towards BAME people. Although written as a story, sadly this is reality today, with only minimal snippets shown on the media of the true horrors and injustice that BAME group people face at the hands of some corrupt police forces - people whom we are meant to be able to go to for protection.
The exploration of racism within society and within the system is explored in depth and the knowledge within in the pages is only highlighted further by the fact Clayton practiced criminal law in Brixton in the 1990s (working for the Crown Prosecution Service as a Crown Prosecutor, and later Senior Crown Prosecutor, before becoming a freelance defence advocate).
I like the way the story is written, full of description and information but written in a way that wasn't overwhelming and just pulled you in further to the story.
After further research myself, the facts are indesputable.
“The disproportionality in the use of force against Black people adds to the irrefutable evidence of structural racism embedded in policing practices. ”
Deborah Coles, Director of INQUEST
Although I myself am a white British woman, my husband is Nigerian and I have witnessed first hand some of the injustice and racism that he has experienced in the UK and it makes me sick. We have two young daughters and the thought that they too will be at risk of receiving the same treatment (no matter how high you hold you head or act "correctly") frightens me frankly, and there will be "talks" that will have to be had at some point to prepare them.
This book is so powerful and so heartbreaking, but more heartbreaking that sadly this is not really a story. It is the cold hard truth facts of every day life for BAME groups. A beautifully well, written book.
February 14, 2022
A story that is as relevant in todays world as it was in the years the book is set in. The death of a young black man in 1990s Brixton while in police custody. The policeman claiming self-defence but has no reasonable explanation to back his story. We follow the events that follow his death and the resulting investigations.
T.S Claytons' experience within the U.K legal system is very clear as you read this story. He has written about an emotive subject that absolutely everyone has had an opinion of in one way or another over the last few years. I myself was doubting the explanation for the 'self defence' of the officer right from the start. As the story developed, I didn't change my mind at all.
The heavy and sensitive issues that this book delves into have been handled in a way that avoids just reams of information. T.S Clayton writes in a way that it feels more relaxed. This does help the book flow easily, from chapter to chapter.
We are given every possible angle on the story. From the dead man's family, police, and the courts, no one's points of view are missed. We are even given the homeless reaction, too. Everyone is important; no matter their walk of life, I have to say, I loved the inclusivity. One thing I felt this book definitely highlighted one thing: the poor are always the losers. The rich manage to get out of anything and everything. It angers me always has.
Not a quick read; this book is more slow paced, but I liked that. I was able to digest everything that was happening and also get to know the characters and the issues without feeling rushed.
This is a fantastic read for anyone who has any interest in law and justice at all. It puts the legal system under a microscope for the readers to make their own conclusions on this case. If you don't mind a slower pace, I recommend this book.
T.S Claytons' experience within the U.K legal system is very clear as you read this story. He has written about an emotive subject that absolutely everyone has had an opinion of in one way or another over the last few years. I myself was doubting the explanation for the 'self defence' of the officer right from the start. As the story developed, I didn't change my mind at all.
The heavy and sensitive issues that this book delves into have been handled in a way that avoids just reams of information. T.S Clayton writes in a way that it feels more relaxed. This does help the book flow easily, from chapter to chapter.
We are given every possible angle on the story. From the dead man's family, police, and the courts, no one's points of view are missed. We are even given the homeless reaction, too. Everyone is important; no matter their walk of life, I have to say, I loved the inclusivity. One thing I felt this book definitely highlighted one thing: the poor are always the losers. The rich manage to get out of anything and everything. It angers me always has.
Not a quick read; this book is more slow paced, but I liked that. I was able to digest everything that was happening and also get to know the characters and the issues without feeling rushed.
This is a fantastic read for anyone who has any interest in law and justice at all. It puts the legal system under a microscope for the readers to make their own conclusions on this case. If you don't mind a slower pace, I recommend this book.
December 18, 2023
Delroy, a young Black man, is arrested on a minor drugs charge in 90s Brixton. When he dies in a police cell as the result of a head injury, the detective who was the only person present at his death claims to have acted in self-defence. The case appears to be cut and dried. Then an expert adviser alters her evidence in court and a quick-thinking solicitor asks the right question. An unexpected verdict casts doubt on the policeman’s version of events, and Delroy’s family demand justice.
Chief Inspector Elliott conducts an investigation into Delroy’s death, but his enquiries are obstructed by a lack of co-operation from police officers, the activities of a corrupt private investigator – and the legal system itself. Alison French, a young White journalist, Neeta Patel, Delroy’s family’s solicitor, and Ben Weekes, a Black youth worker, join forces to try and find out the truth about Delroy’s death, but find themselves in growing danger, as they are drawn into a murky world of violent criminals and police informants.
In my opinion, A Death in Custody has the feel of a docudrama. It contains more passages of law than most crime novels. These details are essential to show how the law drives the plot, but can be a little long at times. There is a strong sense that Clayton is writing about situations and environments he has observed in real life. Although the main theme is deadly serious, there are amusing descriptions of minor characters, and the romantic interest is enlightening about common attitudes towards race at the time.
I was given a copy of A Death in Custody in return for an honest review. I recommend this novel to fans of police procedurals and to anyone interested in the law, policing and Black history.
Chief Inspector Elliott conducts an investigation into Delroy’s death, but his enquiries are obstructed by a lack of co-operation from police officers, the activities of a corrupt private investigator – and the legal system itself. Alison French, a young White journalist, Neeta Patel, Delroy’s family’s solicitor, and Ben Weekes, a Black youth worker, join forces to try and find out the truth about Delroy’s death, but find themselves in growing danger, as they are drawn into a murky world of violent criminals and police informants.
In my opinion, A Death in Custody has the feel of a docudrama. It contains more passages of law than most crime novels. These details are essential to show how the law drives the plot, but can be a little long at times. There is a strong sense that Clayton is writing about situations and environments he has observed in real life. Although the main theme is deadly serious, there are amusing descriptions of minor characters, and the romantic interest is enlightening about common attitudes towards race at the time.
I was given a copy of A Death in Custody in return for an honest review. I recommend this novel to fans of police procedurals and to anyone interested in the law, policing and Black history.
February 9, 2022
Delroy Brown, a young black man is arrested following a drugs bust. Whilst in custody Delroy dies after a confrontation in his cell with a police officer. The police officer in question claims he acted in self-defence when Delroy launched an assault on him but is this the truth? What did happen to Delroy Brown and will the truth ever come to light.
I was really looking forward to reading this book as soon as I read the synopsis especially after learning more about the author and their experience within the legal sector. This book strikes the perfect balance between police procedure, the criminal justice system, police corruption and racism but at the heart of the book is someone who has lost their life in suspicious circumstances. The book explores how a death in custody in investigated and the obstacles faced by those trying to seek justice for the deceased. Although this book is about a death in custody, deaths in custody aren’t just a work of fiction as they have happened and continue to happen in real life. Some deaths in custody may be explained but some may not. This book perfectly highlighted how Delroy’s case became stuck in a bureaucratic process being passed from one department to another. Sadly Delroy’s story was treated just like another file rather than the fact that he was a living breathing person. Very few characters saw Delroy as a person and many tried to hide their own role in his death. It was interesting to see how the police were presented in this case i.e. Chief Inspector Elliott who knew as soon as he was asked to investigate Delroy’s death that something wasn’t right to police officers who closed ranks refusing to co-operate with the investigation. Unfortunately Delroy’s case becomes a box ticking exercise process where his file is passed backwards and forwards between departments as no one wants to make a decision because of the nature of how Delroy died.
The author has done a great job with this storyline. Although it may be a work of fiction it dealt with Delroy’s story in a real and fair way. By the end of the book Delroy was a real person who I wanted justice for. The writing style was descriptive which took me a little while to get into but once the pace of the story picked up I couldn’t put the book down. If you’re not familiar with legal processes or legal terms the author has done a fantastic job in explaining what these mean in an understandable and simple way. It was clear by some of the questions asked at the inquest that the book was written by a lawyer and the questions were on point and very realistic.
A fascinating and thought provoking read.
I was really looking forward to reading this book as soon as I read the synopsis especially after learning more about the author and their experience within the legal sector. This book strikes the perfect balance between police procedure, the criminal justice system, police corruption and racism but at the heart of the book is someone who has lost their life in suspicious circumstances. The book explores how a death in custody in investigated and the obstacles faced by those trying to seek justice for the deceased. Although this book is about a death in custody, deaths in custody aren’t just a work of fiction as they have happened and continue to happen in real life. Some deaths in custody may be explained but some may not. This book perfectly highlighted how Delroy’s case became stuck in a bureaucratic process being passed from one department to another. Sadly Delroy’s story was treated just like another file rather than the fact that he was a living breathing person. Very few characters saw Delroy as a person and many tried to hide their own role in his death. It was interesting to see how the police were presented in this case i.e. Chief Inspector Elliott who knew as soon as he was asked to investigate Delroy’s death that something wasn’t right to police officers who closed ranks refusing to co-operate with the investigation. Unfortunately Delroy’s case becomes a box ticking exercise process where his file is passed backwards and forwards between departments as no one wants to make a decision because of the nature of how Delroy died.
The author has done a great job with this storyline. Although it may be a work of fiction it dealt with Delroy’s story in a real and fair way. By the end of the book Delroy was a real person who I wanted justice for. The writing style was descriptive which took me a little while to get into but once the pace of the story picked up I couldn’t put the book down. If you’re not familiar with legal processes or legal terms the author has done a fantastic job in explaining what these mean in an understandable and simple way. It was clear by some of the questions asked at the inquest that the book was written by a lawyer and the questions were on point and very realistic.
A fascinating and thought provoking read.
August 26, 2025
This was quite a read, and after the events of recent years, it felt alarmingly real. Delroy Brown is arrested for what initially seems like a minor offense. He admits his guilt, and the police recognize him as just a small player in a larger gang. Yet, within hours of being placed in his cell, Delroy is dead. The pressing question becomes was the officer responsible, or was it truly self defense?
That question lingers throughout the book, and my opinion formed early on didn’t really change as the story unfolded. Despite tackling such a heavy subject, the book is written in a relaxed, conversational style that makes it easy to stay engaged.
The narrative shifts from the courtroom to the police, the victim’s family, and even the homeless, giving a broad view of society’s different perspectives on the incident. There were moments that made me genuinely angry once again, it seemed the wealthy could buy their way out of trouble, while accountability slipped through the cracks. Yet, the story also offers a counterpoint when a wealthy, respected man suffers a devastating fall from grace despite doing nothing wrong.
I was completely gripped by this story. Crime and the justice system are subjects I find particularly fascinating, and that may be why I’d almost push this to a five-star rating. Regardless, I highly recommend it, it’s powerful, thought-provoking, and hard to put down.
That question lingers throughout the book, and my opinion formed early on didn’t really change as the story unfolded. Despite tackling such a heavy subject, the book is written in a relaxed, conversational style that makes it easy to stay engaged.
The narrative shifts from the courtroom to the police, the victim’s family, and even the homeless, giving a broad view of society’s different perspectives on the incident. There were moments that made me genuinely angry once again, it seemed the wealthy could buy their way out of trouble, while accountability slipped through the cracks. Yet, the story also offers a counterpoint when a wealthy, respected man suffers a devastating fall from grace despite doing nothing wrong.
I was completely gripped by this story. Crime and the justice system are subjects I find particularly fascinating, and that may be why I’d almost push this to a five-star rating. Regardless, I highly recommend it, it’s powerful, thought-provoking, and hard to put down.
January 31, 2022
This is quite a read. After many events of recent years this felt alarmingly real.
Delroy Brown is killed after being arrested, for something that initially isn't a huge deal. He accepts he's caught out and the police know they are dealing with a minor member of a larger gang.
Within hours of being left in his cell, Delroy is dead, the question is, was the officer responsible or was it self defence?
This is the question that is asked constantly and I know what I thought. That opinion didn't really change as I continued to read.
It's written in quite a relaxed conversational style, despite its tough subject matter.
It goes from the courtroom to the police, the murdered man's family, and the homeless. You get a view of all walks of life, their opinion of, and reaction to such an incident.
There were actually points I got angry, ss it seemed yet again the rich manage to buy their way out of a hole. It seems the privileged will never be held responsible for their actions.
However there is a slight other view side of the coin when a very rich, respected man suffers a spectacular fall from grace despite doing nothing wrong.
I was gripped by this. I must admit that crime, and the "justice" system are of particular interest to me, and would possibly have stretched to 4.5 stars for that reason.
I would highly recommend this regardless.
Delroy Brown is killed after being arrested, for something that initially isn't a huge deal. He accepts he's caught out and the police know they are dealing with a minor member of a larger gang.
Within hours of being left in his cell, Delroy is dead, the question is, was the officer responsible or was it self defence?
This is the question that is asked constantly and I know what I thought. That opinion didn't really change as I continued to read.
It's written in quite a relaxed conversational style, despite its tough subject matter.
It goes from the courtroom to the police, the murdered man's family, and the homeless. You get a view of all walks of life, their opinion of, and reaction to such an incident.
There were actually points I got angry, ss it seemed yet again the rich manage to buy their way out of a hole. It seems the privileged will never be held responsible for their actions.
However there is a slight other view side of the coin when a very rich, respected man suffers a spectacular fall from grace despite doing nothing wrong.
I was gripped by this. I must admit that crime, and the "justice" system are of particular interest to me, and would possibly have stretched to 4.5 stars for that reason.
I would highly recommend this regardless.
February 4, 2022
I really enjoyed reading this book. It was such a unique story and a very exciting read. I was definitely hooked from the very start.
This book was set out in chapters labelled different parts as a different part of the story. I enjoyed this layout because it it allowed the author to introduce new characters and new parts of the investigation. Just by reading this book I could tell how much knowledge the author has surrounding criminal law. It is definitely something I am interested in learning about. It gave me a good insight on how complicated the whole process can be, I definitely learnt things while reading this book.
I can imagine the author brought in his own experiences into this book especially with him being based around Brixton. I love how this book includes topics which are relevant today despite being set in 1990s. It was interesting reading about racism within the criminal justice system, which is still very much present today. It was an eye opener to learn about how certain situations can be brushed under the carpet by professionals we are supposed to trust.
I was gripped on this story from the beginning, I was eager to learn more about both the fictional story and real life criminal justice process. I thought there was a good range of characters in this book. In particular, I liked Alison, Neeta and Ben, they were so determined to find out what happened and to discover the truth.
I highly recommend this book to everyone, it was educational and entertaining. It was such a page turner for me.
This book was set out in chapters labelled different parts as a different part of the story. I enjoyed this layout because it it allowed the author to introduce new characters and new parts of the investigation. Just by reading this book I could tell how much knowledge the author has surrounding criminal law. It is definitely something I am interested in learning about. It gave me a good insight on how complicated the whole process can be, I definitely learnt things while reading this book.
I can imagine the author brought in his own experiences into this book especially with him being based around Brixton. I love how this book includes topics which are relevant today despite being set in 1990s. It was interesting reading about racism within the criminal justice system, which is still very much present today. It was an eye opener to learn about how certain situations can be brushed under the carpet by professionals we are supposed to trust.
I was gripped on this story from the beginning, I was eager to learn more about both the fictional story and real life criminal justice process. I thought there was a good range of characters in this book. In particular, I liked Alison, Neeta and Ben, they were so determined to find out what happened and to discover the truth.
I highly recommend this book to everyone, it was educational and entertaining. It was such a page turner for me.
December 11, 2023
This book gives us the most insightful view of our criminal justice system and the many pitfalls and discriminations within it.
I really liked that this book had a nice flow to it. It was well written and had a steady pace to it, which was really needed and appreciated as it allowed me to really get to grips with the different pov's and with all the rules and regulations discussed.
A young black man is arrested and held in police custody, but during an altercation with an officer, the young man dies in his cell.
The officer explains it away as self defense and the book follows the investigation which then ensues.
I really wasn't sure what to think on first hearing the officer's explanation of events.
I wasn't happy that it was an effective account but it's so hard to judge, especially when conditioned to trust the police.
As more people join forces to try and find out the truth, we get to hear a diverse range of viewpoints which was great.
The writing shkwed the immense amount of research or prior knowledge that our author had with regards to the justice system and it really did make me wonder how things might have changed since the 90's to improve this and eradicate such occurrences happening again!
A great read - not as fast paced as I'm used to but a great one to spread out over a few sittings to fully digest what's going on and process our thoughts.
I really liked that this book had a nice flow to it. It was well written and had a steady pace to it, which was really needed and appreciated as it allowed me to really get to grips with the different pov's and with all the rules and regulations discussed.
A young black man is arrested and held in police custody, but during an altercation with an officer, the young man dies in his cell.
The officer explains it away as self defense and the book follows the investigation which then ensues.
I really wasn't sure what to think on first hearing the officer's explanation of events.
I wasn't happy that it was an effective account but it's so hard to judge, especially when conditioned to trust the police.
As more people join forces to try and find out the truth, we get to hear a diverse range of viewpoints which was great.
The writing shkwed the immense amount of research or prior knowledge that our author had with regards to the justice system and it really did make me wonder how things might have changed since the 90's to improve this and eradicate such occurrences happening again!
A great read - not as fast paced as I'm used to but a great one to spread out over a few sittings to fully digest what's going on and process our thoughts.
February 6, 2022
Do you believe in the justice system?
This is a question that you’ll not be able to stop asking yourself while you are reading this book. When someone dies, does the killer always go to prison or can she/he go free? I think that this question will never have a clear answer; it depends on who is the victim, the killer, the colour of the skin, the money the killer has… so many variables that could change the verdict and make it not fair. So, is justice fair? I don’t have an answer for it, do you? This is the story of Delroy Brown, he is killed while in prison by an officer who is not related to his case. So, the main answer will be, what had really happened within the 4 minutes that the police officer was with him in the cell? Was it an accident or not? So, this is Brixton in the late 1990s, and a young journalist, Delroy’s family’s solicitor, and a black youth worker. They will all join forces to discover what really happened. The story is told between their different voices and how their background will affect their actions and thoughts, but also to make the story more realistic and plausible. This is a slow paced story; to keep you intrigued till the end to know if the truth will come. Are you ready for “A Death In Custody”?
This is a question that you’ll not be able to stop asking yourself while you are reading this book. When someone dies, does the killer always go to prison or can she/he go free? I think that this question will never have a clear answer; it depends on who is the victim, the killer, the colour of the skin, the money the killer has… so many variables that could change the verdict and make it not fair. So, is justice fair? I don’t have an answer for it, do you? This is the story of Delroy Brown, he is killed while in prison by an officer who is not related to his case. So, the main answer will be, what had really happened within the 4 minutes that the police officer was with him in the cell? Was it an accident or not? So, this is Brixton in the late 1990s, and a young journalist, Delroy’s family’s solicitor, and a black youth worker. They will all join forces to discover what really happened. The story is told between their different voices and how their background will affect their actions and thoughts, but also to make the story more realistic and plausible. This is a slow paced story; to keep you intrigued till the end to know if the truth will come. Are you ready for “A Death In Custody”?
December 19, 2023
This book had me from the beginning. Delroy Brown is a young black man who is arrested and took to Brixton Police Station. Once at the station, DC Matthews and DC Jones question Delroy and after answering a few question, Delroy mentions a name 'Ice' but DC Matthews hears it wrong and asks who 'Eyes', at that point Delroy shuts up, he's said to much already. Once the interview is finished, Delroy is taken to a cell. Not long after being in his cell the door opens and it's DC McKinnonn, but what does he want with Delroy? The alarm goes off in Delroy's cell and everyone rushes to his cell, but Delroy is lying on the floor dead. Alison French is works for Brixton Chronicle when she gets a message the a gentleman wants to speak to her about the man that has died in the police cell. Mr Bertie O'Connor had information that no one knew about, he was in the cell opposite Delroy's cell and knew something about Delroy's death. What really happened in Delroy's cell? There is so much happening, along with plenty of twists and turns. The author has done a great job with the storyline, even the inquest felt real not just a book.
February 17, 2022
A Death in Custody by T S Clayton
Delroy Brown, a young black man dies whilst in police custody. McKinnon, the officer, found at the scene, claims to have acted in self defence when he had entered his cell to speak to Brown. This sets of a series of police investigations. What did happen to Delroy and will it ever be bought to justice?
T.S Clayton's novel, A Death in Custody explores the corruption and injustice in the legal system. This may be a work of fiction but sadly is all too real in parts of the world today. I really enjoyed this book and felt the ardous and bureaucratic treatment on Delroy's case effectively highlighted how one man's fight for justice needed the attention of someone who really understood and cared.
A highly fascinating read which you can't help but wonder if there ever is such a thing as justice or sadly is it all a bleak realism of a world full of corruption? A must read for those who are interested in the work of police force and legal systems.
Delroy Brown, a young black man dies whilst in police custody. McKinnon, the officer, found at the scene, claims to have acted in self defence when he had entered his cell to speak to Brown. This sets of a series of police investigations. What did happen to Delroy and will it ever be bought to justice?
T.S Clayton's novel, A Death in Custody explores the corruption and injustice in the legal system. This may be a work of fiction but sadly is all too real in parts of the world today. I really enjoyed this book and felt the ardous and bureaucratic treatment on Delroy's case effectively highlighted how one man's fight for justice needed the attention of someone who really understood and cared.
A highly fascinating read which you can't help but wonder if there ever is such a thing as justice or sadly is it all a bleak realism of a world full of corruption? A must read for those who are interested in the work of police force and legal systems.
December 8, 2023
When you start this book make sure you have plenty of time as it’s definitely a one sitting book!
I was instantly hooked, I really enjoyed that as well as the lead up to the events, the author included the smaller details, such as O’connors report to the press and how other peoples take on a situation impacted upon the fallout (the crowd watching the brothers arrest). It also interested me how the different sources worked together to piece together what happened.
The author has created intriguing characters, which help to make the book feel even more realistic. There were also some tense moments, I felt I was there on the hills watching the carjacking. I really hope we get to see more of the different teams again.
I’m excited to read more by the author and recommend this to all who enjoy police procedurals.
I was instantly hooked, I really enjoyed that as well as the lead up to the events, the author included the smaller details, such as O’connors report to the press and how other peoples take on a situation impacted upon the fallout (the crowd watching the brothers arrest). It also interested me how the different sources worked together to piece together what happened.
The author has created intriguing characters, which help to make the book feel even more realistic. There were also some tense moments, I felt I was there on the hills watching the carjacking. I really hope we get to see more of the different teams again.
I’m excited to read more by the author and recommend this to all who enjoy police procedurals.
February 2, 2022
This was such a fantastic debut novel, you can certainly tell the author has had previous experience with the judicial system, as it was so very well written that at times I thought I was reading a true account of an incident.
It wasn't fast paced by any means, but nothing is ever like you see on television, these cases can take months, not an hour like we see on Line of Duty et al.
The characters are developed enough to make the story both realistic & current.
If you love a good police procedural to submerge yourself in, this is the book for you.
Many thanks to Random Things Tours for my tour spot.
It wasn't fast paced by any means, but nothing is ever like you see on television, these cases can take months, not an hour like we see on Line of Duty et al.
The characters are developed enough to make the story both realistic & current.
If you love a good police procedural to submerge yourself in, this is the book for you.
Many thanks to Random Things Tours for my tour spot.
June 9, 2022
There's a real emotional core to this novel which I particularly like. There's enough legalese in the text to make it all very authentic and give it some gravitas. The plotting and pacing is masterfully done.
The author clearly grasps the racial tension and prejudice which made Brixton such a dangerous place in the late 1990s and makes his characters challenge both a corrupt police officer and a naive Surrey housewife. The authorial voice is particularly striking.
The author clearly grasps the racial tension and prejudice which made Brixton such a dangerous place in the late 1990s and makes his characters challenge both a corrupt police officer and a naive Surrey housewife. The authorial voice is particularly striking.
June 3, 2025
I highly recommend this book for its flowing narrative, its believable sometimes funny, sometimes scary characters, its suspense and human drama.
Altogher an enjoyable journey into the judicial system, never boring, never dry, full of interesting details about Brixton in the 90s and suitable for all, for a summer read or a birthday present.
Read it, enjoy it and buy it for your friends and family. There'll be no complaint, I promise.
Altogher an enjoyable journey into the judicial system, never boring, never dry, full of interesting details about Brixton in the 90s and suitable for all, for a summer read or a birthday present.
Read it, enjoy it and buy it for your friends and family. There'll be no complaint, I promise.
September 2, 2022
DNF @50%
This I agree is on me and my personal preference. This book is slow paced as hell and quite realistic. Does that make a book interesting not for me atleast. If you are interested in the dealings of the legal system and what goes on with death in custody cases in excruciating detail , this one might be for you. Even though slow-paced I think it's quite readable.
It's just not for me atm.
This I agree is on me and my personal preference. This book is slow paced as hell and quite realistic. Does that make a book interesting not for me atleast. If you are interested in the dealings of the legal system and what goes on with death in custody cases in excruciating detail , this one might be for you. Even though slow-paced I think it's quite readable.
It's just not for me atm.
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