Arthur Beauchamp, a heralded criminal lawyer, has moved to a quiet island off the British Columbia coast. While trying to recover from a marriage gone sour, his retirement is interrupted by his former law partners - they want Arthur to take charge of the defense trial of Jonathan O'Donnell, the acting dean of a law school. O'Donnell has been accused of rape by one of the students, Kimberley Martin, a smart but arrogant woman who is engaged to a rich businessman.
After much pleading, Beauchamp agrees to handle the case. He is drawn into complex legal situations dealing with gender and sex, while his personal life takes a provocative turn as well. A courtroom drama ensues, with unpredictable twists and bizarre events.
©2002 William Deverell (P)2012 Audible, Inc.
"A poet writes a legal drama. Who knew!"
I love this book. I've never reviewed a book, but this one is special. While the drama is engaging and gripping, the language used to tell the story is melodic and thoughtful. And it's more than just a drama. The protagonist recognizes the beauty in life, the complexity in people, and the value of the journey. And John Michael Morgan is an ideal narrator. He makes me want to hear this story over and over again. His talent truly conveys the poetic nature of the authors words. This is my first William Deverell novel, but it certainly won't be my last!
"My best legal read in years"
This is the best legal "listen" to date. I have been doing audio books as well as my regular reading for a number of years. The performance was as good or better than the story which I liked as well. I adore the main character whose droll hunor and love of poetry conflict with tough advocate he is.
The cresendo builds up to the finale in the court room I felt that a little hokey. I enjoyed his inner struggles with his past and future as well as his thoiughts during the legal proceedings. I have been a criminal defense lawyer for well over 50 years and really comisserated with the feelings so beautifully expressed.I have had many trials that had great emotion and some with much press but I could never tell the story as well as the author. I am a big fan of Grisham, Turow as well as Rumpole. I don't know how I missed Mr Deverell til now.
Noi, but he's wonderful
I actually laughed out loud while listening to the book. The wit of the Barrister turned farmer and his island adventures was most entertaining.The drama of the trial cannt be ignored.Handling trancript and courtroom colloquoys is an art. He has it.He weaves in his own feelins ,introspection and fears very well.
I intend to listen to Mr Morgan as often as I can and Mr Deverell has an 82 year old trial lawyer as a new fan
"Great narration of William Deverell's writing!"
When you are a fan of William Deverell's writing style like I am and enjoy the recurring characters in his books, (Arthur Beauchamp), you will be delighted to sit back in a comfortable chair and/or take a long walk as I do to listen to the Trial of Passion! Very engaging and entertaining!
I love Arthur Beauchamp who is an accomplished lawyer with a strong intellect, humanity ,integrity, warmth and compassion for his fellow beings. He also has his own weaknesses which helps me love his character.
The narration of this book is so enjoyable! Mr. John Morgan nailed Arthur Beauchamp's character voice! I look forward to listening to more books narrated by John Morgan.
Arthur Beauchamp!
I'm looking forward for all of William Deverall's books to be added to Audible.Com with the quality of narration that has been demonstrated by John Morgan.
"My first, but not last, Deverell"
This was one of the most literary mysteries I have encountered, reminding me a lot of Iain Pears writing. Characters were well developed, emotions nicely dealt with and allusions effective. The narration was spot on as well.
The first hypnosis scene, which is when things began to fall into place. From then on, it was a treat to see how all the pieces were brought together to reach the conclusion.
The narration was outstanding!
No, but the treatment of Beauchamp falling in love struck close to home!
"Great story"
yes....Love John Morgan's narration
enjoyed the whole story
Brings life to each person in the story
not really
I would read anything narrated by John Morgan...Ordered this book because he narrated it.. this was my 3rd book read by him... not disappointed with the story