In Contempt

By: Christopher A. Darden, Jess Walter - contributor

Narrated by: Christopher Darden

Length: 2 hrs and 45 mins

Publisher's summary

For more than a year, Christopher Darden argued tirelessly for the prosecution, giving voice to the victims in the 0.J. Simpson murder trial. This number-one New York Times best seller is an unflinching look at what the television cameras could not show: behind-the-scenes meetings; the deteriorating relationships between the defense and prosecution teams; the taunting, baiting, and pushing matches between Darden and Simpson; the intimate relationship between Darden and Marcia Clark; and the candid factors behind Darden's controversial decision for Simpson to try on the infamous glove, and much more.

Out of the sensational frenzy of "The Trial of the Century" comes this haunting memoir of duty, justice, and the powerful undertow of American racism.

A stunning masterpiece told with brutal honesty and courage.

©1996 Christopher A. Darden (P)1996 HarperCollins Publishers

Author-narrated/well-written - yet abridged

What did you love best about In Contempt?

It was good to hear this narrated by the author, and good to hear the story from his viewpoint.

Any additional comments?

Beware, though, this is advertised as unabridged, yet it is only less than 3 hrs. and at the end it says abridged.

Abridged despite label

Not bad but I was expecting the full book as it labeled Unabridged when purchasing.

Too Abridged

Great story & well told but far too short. I wish I had read the book but not enough time to read.

Darden a v. good man living in a crazy world

He writes clearly and with obvious passion and integrity.

Excellent to hear the voice and get to know one of the key players in one of the most outrageous true legal stories of the 20th century.

A Great Man Tested!!

I wanted to read this book because seeing the trial on TV, I noticed how Judge Ito was weak, and awestruck by stars; and in the stardom of his infamy. I felt so bad for Christopher Darden, and Marcia Clark. No matter what they did they were railroaded by the Defense and Judge Ito. Christopher Darden is a great man and I felt bad for him, with the pain he suffered, just trying to do his job. He should hold his head up high in the community, for he did the right thing, and he did it well!! GOD’s Blessings for the future and for Christopher Darden!!

GARBAGE! A Biography Of Self Delusion

There was an LAPD informant that told on Fuhrman. The book admitted that. This audio book SKIPS right over that.

Frank, compelling account of racialized trial

Mr. Darden presents a very iimportant perspective, particularly as an African American, prosecuting Simpson. He sheds light on the complicated, thankless, dangerous position in which he found himself for taking on the unpopular job of proving a Black man guilty of the ultimate crime. While his motives were laudable, Darden demonstrates that equality under the law for African Americans is deeply troubled, due to the gross injustices expected by African Americans by law enforcement and the judicial system from the past. Still, and I hope this isn't too much of a spoiler, he argues that the most equitable system of justice is the one in which the guilty party is held accountable, which got lost in this case.

Too short

Too short and very scattered. Would have liked more background. The cover also states that new evidence not allowed in court would be presented.

Abridged version of book

Pretty sure this is an abridged version of book. That’s too bad, but I Still recommend it - I’ve read 6+ books on the case. Darden has a unique voice and perspective on the case. I love that Darden did the reading.

good read

I listened to this while crafting & it was interesting & enjoyable. would definitely recommend if a person is wanting more info on the OJ Simpson trial.

Great narration from the author

Great narration from the author Christopher Darden spoken with soft voice

Little bit short for me, but still it was a good audible

Excellent and honest

I loved this book and it was also really interesting hearing Chris talk about his family, growing up and his brother’s illness. Chris is a really likeable and passionate guy. He understands most of the realities of this case. If you’re interested in Chris’ performance in the case you should read Vincent Bugliosi’s book. However I don’t hold it against him, I admire Chris a lot. It’s a shame he didn’t write other books in general like Marcia did.

Worth the Listen

In the end this was worth the listen. Intuitive and insightful at times, it also a reflection of the naive idealism which undermined the prosecution. The strength of the narrative only undermined by persistent underlying self-indulgence.

Thank you

I watched the trial and got caught up in the hype. I remember this evidence but I didn't see it this way. I more remember the defence case. Wow how easy it is to look past the truth!!! Same it was an abridged version though