A Very English Scandal

by John Preston
A Very English Scandal cover
Good Books rating 4.17
True Crime
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Paperback • £10.99
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  • ID: 2798
  • Added: 2025-10-16
  • Updated: 2025-10-16
  • ISBN: 9781590519486
  • Publisher: National Geographic Books
  • Published: 2018-05-08
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 3

Jeremy Thorpe, a charismatic and influential British politician, led a double life marked by homosexual affairs, harassment, and deceit. Despite his rising power in the 1960s and 70s, his actions were shielded by a collusive establishment until a dramatic incident on a moor with an ex-lover, a dog, and a hired gun led to consequences he couldn't escape. The trial that followed, dubbed the 'Trial of the Century,' was a historic moment in British legal history. It marked the first time a leading politician faced murder charges and the first public exposure of a prominent figure as a philandering gay man, just as homosexuality was legalized. The book captures the hypocrisy and betrayal at the heart of the British Establishment with the pacing of a thriller.

Reviews
Mum of Three World · Mum of Three · 2018-07-27
shocking 4.00

The book is a shocking read about the abuse of power, particularly relevant in today's Me Too era.

The reviewer found the book to be a truly shocking read, highlighting the abuse of power in a way that feels particularly relevant today. They appreciated the book's ability to tell a real-life story with the pacing and tension of a thriller. The reviewer also noted that the book's exploration of political double-standards and social maneuvering adds a layer of complexity to the narrative. They found the book to be both disturbing and compelling.

Quick quotes

    In these Me Too times, this is a truly shocking read about the abuse of power.

    A Very English Scandal may be a real-life story, but it is every bit as gripping as a thriller.

    The book's exploration of political double-standards and social maneuvering adds a layer of complexity.

Slate · L. J. Phillips · 2016-10-05
enjoyable 4.50

The book is a well-written account of a historical scandal, with a particular highlight being the fight to decriminalize male homosexuality in Britain.

The reviewer praised the book for its excellent writing and thorough research. They found the account of the fight to decriminalize male homosexuality particularly enjoyable and well-documented. The reviewer also appreciated the book's ability to balance historical facts with engaging storytelling, making it a compelling read. They noted that the book's exploration of political and social issues adds depth to the narrative.

Quick quotes

    Preston's account of the fight to decriminalize male homosexuality in Britain is especially enjoyable.

    The writing is excellent, with a rich cast of characters.

    A well-written factual report that balances historical facts with engaging storytelling.

The Guardian · Sam Leith · 2016-05-09
entertaining 4.00

The book is a tragicomic tale that uses a rich cast of characters to tell a familiar story. The narrative is engaging and well-crafted.

This reviewer found the book to be a compelling read, blending tragedy and comedy effectively. The rich cast of characters brings the story to life, making it both engaging and entertaining. They appreciated how the author wove together historical events and personal dramas, creating a narrative that feels both timeless and relevant. The reviewer also noted the book's ability to highlight the absurdities and complexities of political scandals.

Quick quotes

    A rich cast of characters brings the story to life.

    The narrative is both tragic and comic in equal measure.

    A compelling tale of political intrigue and personal drama.

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