Published by Quercus in paperback on 9th October price £7.99
Lawrence and Jo have enjoyed a strong marriage, the envy of their friends. Even after thirty years they have lots to say to each other, many interests in common and, until recently, a good sex life.
But Lawrence seems wary and restless. Something’s wrong. Just how wrong, Jo is about to discover when he confesses after his retirement party. The idea of spending a long and happy retirement together is no longer an option and Jo has to face life as a single woman in her 60s.
With the help of her best friend, Donna, and her two children Jo embarks on a life of her own enjoying the freedom to please herself. She still misses Lawrence and questions if she would have him back if he asked.
The book is beautifully written and it is I had strong empathy with Jo and her predicament. Sometimes I even had the feeling that she was writing about me, so close was my involvement.
It covers many of the contemporary family problems and it is the reaction to these that drives the story.
This is the fourth book by Hilary Boyd which I have read and have enjoyed them all. This one is particularly poignant with strong well drawn characters, especially the best friend who is a essential element of Jo’s life.
I wanted to share this with my best friend as I felt the writer realises the importance of this relationship within the setting of the whole family and the sharing of each other’s lives.
This story is engrossing and I really cared about all the characters and although you want a happy ending this is about real life so don’t expect it. The ending has caused some discussion among others who have read this but that is how it should be.
I urge you to read and relish – one of my favourite books of the year so far.
Charlotte Courthold
