Maggie's dad, respected civil servant, has an affair with his best friend's wife, who later dies in a cottage fire. Maggie sees her dad leaving the cottage, just as the fire has taken hold. She believes her dad was responsible, but tries to protect him. Meanwhile, Adam, a journalist is writing a book about Max, Maggie's dad, and he and Maggie become an item. Adam suspects the "truth" but doesn't betray Max, although someone does, and he ends up being called to a trial. Nando, Max's mum is a fabulous old hippy, full of wisdom and wit - oh, and cancer.
A most beautifully written book, which I couldn't put down, and loved every clever word of it.