A Trial in Three Acts by Guy Morpuss review

About The Book

Book: A Trial in Three Acts
Author: Guy Morpuss
Standalone or Series: Standalone currently but set up for a Konig series
Publisher: Viper Books
Publication Date (UK): 6th March 2025

My Review

A Trial in Three Acts, the third novel from barrister Guy Morpuss KC, blends courtroom drama with a Christie-esque locked room murder mystery.

Six nights a week, the smash-hit play Daughter of the Revolution performs to a sold-out audience – until one fateful evening when the leading lady is beheaded live on stage. Each cast member has a motive, but it’s her ex-husband who stands accused. Enter defence barrister Charles Konig, a staunch traditionalist with a sharp legal mind, determined to uncover the truth.

The novel unfolds primarily in the courtroom, but we also follow the characters to the play’s unusual venue – a chapel – while mixed-media elements, including excerpts from legal gossip blog Cicero’s Law and Charles’ amusing attempts to get his letters published in The Times, add variety to the narrative.

I was particularly drawn in by the murder itself, especially the mystery surrounding the guillotine – how it was adapted and used was fascinating. The dynamic between Charles and Yara was also a personal highlight, bringing some charm to the story.

I think this will really appeal to fans of theatre and historical fiction, particularly those who love Hamilton. The rich backstory surrounding figures like George Washington and Lady Dunmore adds depth for readers who enjoy that kind of detail. If you like your crime fiction with a theatrical flair, this is worth checking out!

Thank you to Viper Books for kindly gifting me an ARC for review.