Behind Closed Doors

'The case studies give you more idea of how companies really work on the inside than a mile-high pile of management books ever could. They also show for the first time what the realities of audit politics, fee pressures, integrity and independence, and the myth of non-audit services affecting judgement, really are. Many people will have to change their views as a result of the findings.' - Robert Bruce, Accountancy Editor, The Times

'The individual case studies are fascinating reading. The book reminds us that good auditing and good financial reporting is in the hands of human beings in both audit firms and their client companies. The quality of auditing and financial reporting is thus subject to the normal human frailties and understanding this is one of the keys to ensuring high quality. The book makes some practical recommendations for improvement as well as highlighting areas for more research, including the impact of non-audit services on auditor independence - thankfully given a clean bill of health by this study.' - The Baroness Noakes, DBE, Immediate Past President, Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales

'This book is a very convincing description of the heart of the audit process. The case studies bring into play the important influence of third parties, above all, the audit committee whose skill can so clearly make a difference to the company's report. I would recommend the book highly for reading by potential audit partners and by non-executive directors, particularly audit committee members. The case studies show that you don't have to be dealing with Maxwell for your mettle to be tested. This is a research book and, for the lay reader, the real value is obtained by reading the case studies. The detailed analysis that develops a grounded theory analysis of auditor-client interactions will be of more interest to academic researchers. - Ian Hay Davison, FCA and former chairman of the Cadbury-Schweppes Audit Committee

'...the book presents a number of interesting stories about the interplay between auditors and clients as financial statements are about to be finalized. The book is likely to be of interest for both auditing students and academic scholars.' - International Journal of Accounting

Winner of the Deloitte Foundation and American Accounting Association Wildman Medal 2007. For more information, see http: //www.socialfunds.com/news/release.cgi/9306.html