One of my favorite shows to binge-watch is "Presumed Innocent" on AppleTV. The limited series is based on Scott Turow's 1987 debut book of the same name.

"Presumed Innocent" is a legal thriller filled with flawed characters. One of the most flawed is the murder victim, Carolyn Polhemus. Her spurned lover and co-worker, married prosecutor Rusty Sabich, is charged with her murder.

I remember when I read the book that even though she was brutally murdered, I hated Carolyn. I had no sympathy for her whatsoever. Because AppleTV did not release all the episodes, I am watching "Presumed Innocent" in what I term as old-school, slow-burn binge-watching. My opinion of Carolyn has not wavered from the book and here's why.

• Manipulative Behavior:Carolyn is often portrayed as manipulative, using her charm and beauty to control and influence those around her. Not only does she have Rusty strung out, she has other men in the office strung out by her manipulative nature as well. I definitely see her as insincere and self-serving.

• Lack of Moral Integrity:Carolyn has no moral integrity. With that said, let's not put all of this on the woman as Rusty doesn't either. Both engage in their workplace affair knowing full well that Rusty is married with children. Neither is concerned about the consequences for his family.

• Ambition at Any Cost:Carolyn is highly ambitious and appears willing to do anything to advance her career, including using her sexuality as a tool. Hint, hint....... She is cold and calculating.

• Disloyalty:Her affair with Rusty is, not only, a betrayal of his wife, but also, of Rusty himself, as she seems to use him more than genuinely care for him. This disloyalty further adds to her negative image.

• Lack of Depth and Relatability:Carolyn is often portrayed in a one-dimensional manner, focusing primarily on her negative traits. This lack of depth makes it difficult for readers or viewers to empathize with her, as she does not show redeeming qualities or vulnerability. (Okay, so maybe she was created to be hated? Vehemently?)

• Negative Influence on Protagonist:Carolyn's relationship with Rusty has a detrimental effect on his life and career, leading to his involvement in a murder investigation. I mean you fall in love with someone risking your marriage and children and then you get blamed for her murder. To say the least, ugh! Her presence brings turmoil and chaos, making her a source of conflict and trouble.

• Self-Centeredness:Throughout the narrative, Carolyn's actions are driven by self-interest. She seems more focused on her own desires and ambitions than on the well-being of others, making her appear selfish and egotistical.

• Absence of Genuine Affection:Carolyn has a son who lives with his father. She's not the ideal mother. Her son even comes to spy on her just to get a glimpse of her life that she does not want him involved in. Her relationship with Rusty lacks genuine affection and warmth. Her interactions are often transactional, which makes her seem emotionally distant.

• Cynical Worldview:Carolyn's cynical and jaded outlook on life and relationships can be off-putting. Her lack of optimism and her tendency to view people as tools for her own advancement contribute to a negative perception.

• Lack of Accountability:Carolyn rarely takes responsibility for her actions, instead manipulating situations to her advantage. This lack of accountability and tendency to deflect blame are traits that can inspire dislike. So, shall we say, she's responsible for her death but someone else has to pay for it? The ultimate in lack of accountability.

What do you think? Have you read "Presumed Innocent?" Are you watching the AppleTV series? I will say whether you have read, reading or watching, "Presumed Innocent" is a great story thanks in part to Carolyn Polhemus.