The Proof of My Innocence

Having completed her university studies Phyl decides to try her hand at writing a novel. The death of the friend of the family gives her a starting point however she is not sure what style she should use when writing the book. 

When writing The Proof of my Innocence, Jonathan Coe uses different forms of fiction writing to tell the story. Part One is written as a cosy crime mystery, part two is a dark academia story while part three is an essay in auto-fiction.

This novel is part crime novel and part satirical commentary on conservative politics in Britain and America. Much of the story centres around a far right conference that occurs during Liz Truss' short term as prime minister. A parallel story occurs during the 1980s at Cambridge University when some far right conservatives attempt to influence political decisions. 

At times it can be confusing following the many threads in the book especially when the last section twists the plot in another direction. There is definitely humour in sections and it is interesting being reminded of the tumult in British politics not long ago. The Proof of my Innocence explores attempts to work out what is happening in the present by also exploring events in the past.