‘Anatomy of a Scandal; Sarah Vaughan

In the context of a fading voyeuristic and moralistic public debate of the Australian Deputy Prime Minister’s extra marital affair, Sarah Vaughan’s new novel, Anatomy of a Scandal invites the reader to further consider the many issues inherent in sexual indiscretions by public figures, albeit this time of a criminal nature and set in England, and be able to openly admit to being entertained.

Anyone who can remember the heady (and in hindsight, sometimes inappropriate or embarrassing) excesses of college life, or enjoys courtroom dramas, is concerned at ongoing sexual harassment by men in dominant positions, or has ever wondered how the traits of care-free youth may be predictors of later professional and personal life, is likely to find this book both thought provoking and an entertaining page-turner. Consequently, it is no surprise, to read that the book is to be translated into fourteen languages.

I particularly enjoyed the extent to which readers’ understanding of the main characters was developed, in the present day and as undergraduates. The author clearly drew on her experiences or observations as an Oxford students, while her significant experience as a journalist and the implicit research to ensure accuracy add authenticity to the portrayal of the theatrical worlds of Westminster politics and of  The Old Bailey courtroom.

The ever contentious issue of what constitutes consent to sex is handled adeptly and persuasively by the author. She provides a memorable illustration of how and why consent or its absence can alter lives.

Written by a skilled and talented journalist, the book is a pleasure to read either as escapism or social commentary, but most likely as both.