At this month’s Books and Bakes session, the group turned their attention to A Very English Scandal by John Preston – a gripping and, at times, astonishing account of one of the most notorious political scandals in British history.
The book explores the rise and fall of Jeremy Thorpe, a prominent Liberal Party leader whose career unravelled amid allegations of conspiracy and attempted murder. Through detailed storytelling and careful research, Preston pieces together a narrative that is as much about power, secrecy, and reputation as it is about the individuals involved.
What made this session particularly special was the depth and richness of the conversation that followed. For some members of the group, this wasn’t just a historical account — it was a lived era. A number of attendees shared that they had been members or supporters of the Liberal Party at the time, yet had been completely unaware of the events described in the book as they were unfolding.
This led to thoughtful reflections on how information was shared in the past, how scandals were reported — or sometimes quietly contained — and how public awareness has changed over time. There was a genuine sense of surprise, curiosity, and in some cases disbelief that such a significant story could have remained hidden from those closely connected to the political landscape.
The discussion moved beyond the facts of the case, opening up wider conversations about trust in leadership, the role of the media, and how societal attitudes — particularly around sexuality and public image — have evolved. The group explored how different the response might be if similar events were to happen today, with modern media and social platforms shaping public opinion so rapidly.
The book served as a starting point rather than an endpoint. It sparked memories, prompted questions, and created space for people to share their own perspectives and experiences — and the varied viewpoints in the room made for a lively, engaging session that highlighted just how powerful storytelling can be in bringing people together.
A Very English Scandal proved to be more than just a compelling read. It became a bridge between past and present, offering insight into both a moment in history and the personal reflections of those who lived through it.
3 Comments
Lynne Amos · April 13, 2026 at 5:39 pm
A narrative of the private and public life of Liberal MP Jeremy Thorpe which starts in the 60’s through to the 70’s.
Not an easy read, at times a rather boring account and I failed to see why the Guardian hailed it as “very funny and endlessly extraordinary”!
Personally I don’t remember a lot about the scandal and court case surrounding Thorpe from those times but I was well aware of the later horrific investigations of child abuse committed by friends and followers of him (eg Cyril Smith and Jimmy Saville).
The whole book reads like a TV drama- sex lies and cover ups. It shows what lengths that people in positions of power will go to to protect themselves and will put pressure on their peers to achieve this.
Joyce Beadnall · April 13, 2026 at 6:58 pm
At first I didn’t mind this book, even though I wasn’t finding it particularly enjoyable .
It became a catalogue of secrecy, deceit and manipulation based round Jeremy Thorpe and colleagues .
I didn’t find interesting or entertaining , very repetitive in fact, so half way through the book I decided to stop reading.
It was quite an eye opener, learning about the relationships, scheming , and corruption that went on behind the scenes in parliament. I felt very critical of the attitude towards some gay acquaintances and colleagues. It seemed as though they were seen as a commodity, rather than people with feelings, rights and needs
I certainly wouldn’t describe the book as funny – even though I remember smiling at something I read!
Not a book I’d recommend- unless you want to be disillusioned ! But I certainly enjoyed our discussion this afternoon!
Kathryn Hoey · April 16, 2026 at 12:25 pm
The title acutely describes this book: an account of events leading up to the murder trial of Liberal Party leader Jeremy Thorpe. His trial at the Old Bailey in London was the first time a leading British politician had stood trial on a murder charge, and the first time a murder plot had been hatched in the House of Commons.
It really was a shocking read about the abuse of power, how the powerful protect their own, a shocking story of hypocrisy, deceit and betrayal at the heart of the British Establishment. So shocking that it is hard to believe it is actually true but I remember it being on TV way back – it really is true.
The author, John Preston must have spent hours, days weeks and months researching information before writing this book. He acknowledges that he could never have written the book without the help of three people – Norman Scott, Paul Bessell and Dominic Carmen. He then lists 47 other people, thanking them for their help!
I found reading part one, very uncomfortable, and very shocking, many times. The story seemed to take an age to get going and I found it very boring in fact I was tempted to stop reading. As for it being funny, it didn’t ever raise a smile. No, not for me.
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