What an amazing story based on the letters written between PM Asquith and his socialite mistress Venetia Stanley. With World War one breaking out, the PM writes about everything, including top secret information, and sends it in the normal post to his young girlfriend. The politics and personalities, including Winston Churchill, are brought to life, and the intrigue behind what was happening with at the top show the absolute disregard for the thousands of lives that were being lost, especially in the Gallipoli campaign. So shocking that it is based on truth, with actual correspondence used throughout the book, and a little literary licence to tie it all together. This is another absolute page turner from this author.

History brought to life in a compelling and understandable way. Britain is on the very edge of the First World War and Asquith must fight to keep order but he also yearns to see his mistress and confidante, Venetia Stanley. The events that unfold are masterfully told and the characters are believable and rounded. A really interesting and very readable fictionalised account of dark days.

This is an excellent novel, set in 1914, just before and during the early months of the First World War. I studied this in detail for my history degree and the diplomacy and political squabbles are so well written and understandable. They give the reader a great understanding of what was going on at the time. And the letters beween Asquith and Venetia running through the book make for a great read. They are amazing, I had never heard of them before. A very well written book (as expected from Robert Harris) with an interesting and engagng plot. The notes at the end were insightful and interesting too. With thanks for the e-ARC to read and review.

My first novel by the author, and I must say, I am impressed! This novel based on the original letters written by H.H. Asquith and Venetia offers an incredibly honest, intimate and moving insight into their love affair. However, their letters were not only about love and utmost trust, but also definitely bordered on treason.... As their correspondence took place before and during WWI, the reader gets firsthand information about political decisions involving the war. Fascinating! The police investigation about the letters came to a rather thought provoking conclusion.....
Highly recommended!
I received a digital copy of this novel from NetGalley and I willingly leave an honest review.