We've possibly had our fill with politics, but I discovered this book while researching a different subject and thought it looked interesting. And so it proved!

It's written by a freelance journalist who has contributed to newspapers, magazines and radio about politics and even appears on BBC Radio Four's News Quiz.

Appropriately for the subject of this book, it reads rather like a friend sending a letter about their job in Westminster, full of gossip and insider information. It's a very easy read and certainly sheds a light on the workings of Parliament for journalists, staff and politicians, though the insight isn't necessarily reassuring.

There are no guides to working in Westminster, she says, so the new intake have to find their way, and very often 'fudge it'. Everyone is using everyone else, and relationships are built on trust, and knowing when to break that trust. 

She explains why some MPs' indiscretions make the front page while others don't, reveals how close journalists are to politicians, and speculates on how the country is run when the political system is in such a mess.

There are plenty of gems about the traditions and rituals in Parliament. For example, MPs don't shake hands. The practice originated as a means of showing you didn't have a weapon concealed, but they are all 'honorable members' so it was never deemed necessary. 

And there's an amazing account of how Tessa Jowell avoided a fall from grace when embroiled in a financial scandal through her husband. The press liked her because she was always courteous to them and answered their calls. It's believed that saved her.

A fascinating read which I devoured very quickly.