The crux of the matter: why has tabloid journalist Mike Stokes been found at the bottom of the stairs in the home of MP Emma Webster? Seeing as Mike and Emma had successfully collaborated on promoting legislation to protect the victims of revenge porn, it's hard to understand what could have happened, especially when Emma is subsequently charged with murder. Her family and her career will be under the legal spotlight but so too will be her reputation, that elusive attribute built over a lifetime.
Gripping and confronting, this English story is a page-turner, highlighting the abuse and misogyny peddled on social media, the power of the mainstream media to create, shape and influence reputation and the challenges faced by women who are in the public eye.
Pages
470
Year
2022
Reviews
WELL 189
12-10-2024
The book elicited a great discussion about modern misogyny and the female experience. We found some of the insights instantly relatable, i.e. considering the recent disclosures of abuse against MPs like Ghahraman and Adern, and even the female Commander Yvonne Gray, captain of HMNZS Manawanui. We also discussed how female defendants are treated in court, and the levels of judgement they face due to their gender. However we felt some of the plot twists were a little contrived, with some glaring gaps in the court evidence. However, most of us look forward to watching the Netflix series idc.
THAM 005
02-08-2024
We felt this book started slowly, but really picked up pace in the second half. Maybe a bit much by the end - very twisty!! The depiction of the abuse and harassment of women in power felt true to life. We discussed how the reputation of female politicians is ruined by one act ( eg. Golriz Ghahraman) but men seem to get more second chances (eg. Donald Trump).
PICT 002
17-04-2024
A very polarising read - some loved it, some disliked the content so much they couldn't finish it. We have an ex MP in our club so it was very interesting getting inside knowledge. All agreed it was very well-written and it provoked heated discussion!
WHANGA 004
11-03-2024
Many threads - strong women and feminist themes.
HAMIL 070
28-02-2024
Enjoyed. Not as good as 'Anatomy of a Scandal' though.
CHCH 299
13-02-2024
Only one member of the group enjoyed this and saw it as a good holiday read, some thought there were annoying plot holes and one didn't like her writing style. It was however a good discussion book, on bullying, social media and the treatment of women politicians.
CHCH 517
02-11-2023
We all liked the book. Had twists and turns. Could relate to the bullying issues and the challenges faced by those in the public eye.
DUNED 015
08-08-2023
While this book was about real problems - of bullying and social media trolling, we thought the story was a bit contrived, and some of us did not warm to the main character, Emma. We felt it was not as good as 'Anatomy of a Scandal'.