3 Review(s)

A brilliantly witty satire of modern manners, dissecting and connecting modern London, from its literary circuit to its hospitals and slums, as well as giving a funny and poignant portrait of childbirth and motherhood. This gripping, moving and hiliarious novel introduces seven characters, each of whom has a profound effect on each other s lives. Each must choose between probity and self-interest in love and work. Some compromise themselves completely; others oscillate between vice and virtue. Others are redeemed by twists of fate. For in a vicious circle, nothing is certain except change. For five years timid Mary Quinn has supported her lover, Mark Crawley, in his rise to one of London s most savage political journalists. Now Mark has started a calculated affair with Amelia, daughter of a newspaper magnate. Mary s translation from jilted lover to a figure of power and vengeance is mirrored by Amelia s change from vain, snobbish socialite to exhausted mother. A dazzling plot and lucid, absorbing style characterise this deliciously satirical portrait of the way we live now. About the Author Amanda Craig is a well-known journalist and broadcaster. She is the author of A VICIOUS CIRCLE and IN A DARK WOOD. You can visit her website a http://www.amandacraig.com