Secrets and Lies: The Trials of Christine Keeler

The Profumo Affair remains the biggest political sex scandal in British history, and a revised and updated book has been released to coincide with the BBC's new TV drama series.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 336 pages
Publication date: 05 September 2019
Publisher: John Blake Publishing Ltd

In her own words, the life of the beautiful young model and dancer who helped to bring down the Tory government of Harold Macmillan - the Profumo Affair - remains the greatest political sex scandal in recent British history. Following Christine Keeler's death in December 2017, it is now possible to update her book to include revelations that she did not wish to be published in her lifetime. The result is a revised and updated book containing material that has never been officially released, which really does lift the lid on just how far the Establishment will go to protect its own. Published to coincide with the BBC's major new six-part TV drama series, The Trial of Christine Keeler, starring Sophie Cookson as Keeler and James Norton as Stephen Ward, this is the definitive account of one of the most shocking scandals of the 20th century.

Keeler, a stunning young woman with a talent for dance and modeling, caught the attention of powerful men in the 1960s. She began a relationship with Stephen Ward, a wealthy socialite and osteopath, who introduced her to a world of high society and glamour. However, their relationship was not without its problems. Keeler was often jealous of Ward's other women, and they had a tumultuous and often abusive relationship.

One night in 1961, Keeler met John Profumo, a senior Conservative politician who was married to Valerie Hobson. Profumo was also involved with Mandy Rice-Davies, a young model and actress. The three of them began a series of sexual encounters that would eventually lead to the downfall of the Tory government.

The Profumo Affair became public knowledge in 1963, when it was revealed that Profumo had lied to the House of Commons about his relationship with Rice-Davies. This scandal rocked the British political establishment and led to the resignation of several senior ministers, including the Prime Minister himself, Harold Macmillan.

Keeler's role in the affair was controversial. Some saw her as a victim of powerful men who had taken advantage of her, while others blamed her for her own actions. However, it is clear that she was deeply involved in the scandal and played a significant role in bringing down the Tory government.

After the affair came to light, Keeler's life was never the same. She struggled with drug addiction and mental health problems, and her reputation was damaged. She attempted suicide several times and spent time in prison for drug possession.

Despite the difficulties she faced, Keeler remained defiant and outspoken about her role in the Profumo Affair. In her book, she claimed that she had been used by powerful men and that the scandal had been a cover-up for more serious political corruption.

In recent years, there have been new revelations about the Profumo Affair. Following Christine Keeler's death, it has been revealed that she had a secret recording of a conversation with Profumo in which he admitted to lying to the House of Commons. This recording has been published in a new book, which provides further insight into the scandal and its aftermath.

The Profumo Affair remains a controversial and fascinating topic in British history. It is a reminder of the power of the Establishment to protect its own and the lengths that they will go to cover up their wrongdoing. Christine Keeler's life and story continue to captivate people, and her book remains a valuable contribution to our understanding of this scandal.

Weight: 264g
Dimension: 129 x 197 x 20 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781789461374