A significant title from the author of Anatomy of a Scandal, Sarah Vaughan’s Reputation is a powerful and tense novel that explores the allusions of a public figure. Emma Webster is a successful MP who splits her time between her Portsmouth constituency, where she shares custody of her daughter, and her working base in London.

As her public prominence escalates, so do the risks associated with the role. Following an altercation in her home and subsequent trial for murder, the extreme lengths she must go to protect both her daughter and her reputation are revealed. 

It’s difficult to remain impartial about the characters, who despite displaying many negative characteristics are powerfully portrayed in this well-researched book. Many themes throughout the novel are contentious and particularly topical – including bullying, sexism, power and exploitation. The various conflicting scenarios provide much doubt: snippets of what we are led to believe is the truth from the protagonist are teased throughout certain chapters, striking a suspenseful chord and providing the perfect reason to keep on reading just one more chapter.

Featuring extremely relevant subject matter, a gripping plot and a narrative full of intrigue, Reputation is a highly recommended and addictive read.