If there are, as pundits like to say, only seven plots in fiction, the catastrophic consequences that can come from just one small lie is surely among the most popular. In this case, Carmody is asked to take the rap for a traffic offence committed by his old school mate Danny Grogan. The circumstances seem plausible and the request is sweetened by $100,000 from Danny’s father, a billionaire developer who is used to getting his own way. So Carmody lies to the police and lies in court, admitting to the speeding violation and accepting the penalty. But far from being sent away with a few demerit points, a small fine, and a bulging bank account, Carmody’s life suddenly takes a frightening turn.

Gilling knows Sydney well and has a fine insight into that shadowy world where public and private lives collide in the media, the boardroom, and the courtroom. His characters are believable, ordinary people placed in extraordinary situations. And he tells a good story. I loved this novel from the beginning to the very last page; unfortunately, I felt badly betrayed by the ending and desperately wanted more. Apart from that small disappointment, this is an accomplished novel from a very talented Australian author. Read it on a plane and you will be oblivious to the impatient toddler behind incessantly kicking your seat. Text Publishing, RRP $32.95.