The Marmalade Files (Secret City Book 1)

I never thought I'd enjoy a political novel as much! Lewis and Uhlmann have conjured something rare - a combination of their insight into how Australia's capital ticks, with a delightfully easy style - and that makes this one for the plane readers and intellectuals alike. It's got everything, from scandal, through backstabbing, espionage, murder and even forbidden love. This is no 'Fifty Shades' though, and the theme is set fairly and squarely on Capital Hill, and the associated bureaucratic ivory towers. In an attempt to emulate Dan Brown's style, the plots are interwoven, which makes for a page-turner, but at times this made the reading disjointed. Those who dislike the, at times, very colorful language (yes, the C word is used) should respect that it has probably been used very sparingly compared to the rough and tumble of real life politics. I don't mind the reality it injects into this work. Overall, a thoroughly enjoyable read. Would love a sequel.

Very entertaining story of behind the scenes Canberra shenanigans. Amusing portrayal of politicians similar to Rudd,Turnbull and Abbott as women. Sadly the dynamics of Australia's place in the world between our trading partner China and our military ally USA gives the plot some probability. The venality of the politicians, with their absorption with power and the game of politics, reinforces the despair felt by the general populace of this country for the future of our democracy - as it is not serving the current or future generations of our nation.

Based on the political, goings-on of the current government and opposition in Canberra, this was a pleasant, if not exactly gripping read.I wanted to like it, but it was a bit like watching reruns of consecutive episodes of the 7:30 Report - the names were changed but it was quite obvious who everyone was!

I enjoyed reading this book with its references to Canberra, Australian politicians and bureaucrats. I am left pondering, despite the disclaimer, who some of the characters may represent and whether some may be composites.

Enjoyed this - another one read on a plane. Amusing and passes the time although likely to be forgotten when Gillard and Rudd pass into political oblivion. .

I really object to reading swear words, especially the C word, when relaxing, reading. The storyline was only okay and the swear words made it quite poor. I wonder if authors have an adequate vocabulary when they resort to them. A pity to have spent money on it really. I found it confusing to go backwards and forwards with the time line. The story frequently jumped between characters and I found I didn't really identify with any of them. I would have preferred to see the characters more established and then move to a different one. Quite a shallow read and I don't envisage we'll get much discussion at our book club. this is the first book I've read electronically and I'm disappointed that I spent money on such a poor read.

I can only imagine the fun that the authors had writing this book. In a work that mirrors the madness of Australia's current parliament, Lewis and Ulhurman provoke howls of laughter with lines you can imagine spluttering from factional warlords and heavies orchestrating political maneuvers. a mist read for anyone with a passing interest in Australian politics.

A complex story that is enhanced by a second reading.

Good story - nice blend of background facts and a believable fiction.It also gives some insight to the 'behind the scenes' thoughts anf imagination of those who comment without political favour on day to day affairs

A solid read that leaves you hanging on each chapter. Very clever and thought provoking. Could something like that happen hear?

The Marmalade Files should be read by all but is an absolute must for anyone with an interest in politics. On one level a ripping yarn but on another a challenge to decode pen names and guess on whom each character is modelled. The authors are Canberra insiders and have produced a tour de force.

Enjoyable romp, need to read the next one as I thought the las third read lie it was written to a deadline the authors had forgotten about, I wanted more.

The author has a great knowledge of his subject and presents a plausible and entertaining plot. Politicians preoccupation of staying in power seems to be at the expense of furthering the national interest.