A season in purgatory - Dominick Dunne

In this sensational exploration of a sinister murder and its twenty-year cover-up, Dominick Dunne peels back the protective layers behind which a legendary family conspires, by means of power and fabulous wealth, to buy its way out of trouble.

The Bradleys are in a sprawling, Irish Catholic clan, wealthy, talented and hugely ambitious. Gerald Bradley wants one of his sons to be in the Senate, and from there who knows what heights he might reach? Constant is the chosen one - the golden scion of this unique family. Scandal dogs his school career but his bright friend Harrison Burns, and his father's money, save him from expulsion. 

Attracted like a moth to the flame by the glamour and exclusivity of the awe-inspiring Bradleys, Harrison hovers on the edge of the charmed circle, the quintessential outsider. Less wealthy, less handsome, clever but vulnerable, Harrison is the perfect friend for Constant. But when a young girl is found murdered, and the ensuing scandal threatens the very foundation of Gerald's dynastic ambitions, Harrison faces the ultimate test. Can the Bradleys persuade him to value loyalty above what he knows to be right? Can they buy his silence?