An absorbing and truly fascinating account of Clare Cowen’s life in the Workers Revolutionary Party and her rebellion against its charismatic but monstrous leader Gerry Healy, who was eventually expelled on charges of sexual abuse and violence. What an abominable man he was! Beats me how he managed to control so many of his acolytes for so long – and these included not only the author of this honest memoir, but also such luminaries as Vanessa Redgrave and Ken Livingstone. So many were in thrall to him, unbelievably fearful of his power, and none of the young women he took advantage of had the courage to stand up against him, until Cowen took matters into her own hands with a few other courageous members of the party. The book is not only a gripping tale of political shenanigans but an insightful picture of how revolutionary parties start out with the purest of aims and ambitions and how quickly they degenerate into factions and opposition groups. A great read – and an important one.

The author wrote a great account of the personal journey they embarked on. The honest and detailed writing made it easy for the reader to feel invested in their journey.