It all begins with a family dinner celebrating Maisie’s 80th birthday. We hear the story from Maisie, who feels she is just misunderstood, as she just happened to fall in love with her 65-year old driver, who now lives with her. Liz, her daughter, feels it is absurd, but would just be happy to hear a single word of approval from this mother of hers. Her own daughter, Ashley, feels quite the same way toward Liz, feeling that both parents have been critical of her life choices, never appreciating her for who she is, her talents, her aspirations. And we learn this directly from each character, as the family goes through one crisis after another – first breaking apart, but ultimately coming back together.
I loved how this book began. The writing was clever, the characters colorful and the dialogue sharp. There were some cringy moments, but it was it was all working. And I loved hearing from each of the characters, as if they were speaking to me. Great start. Very optimistic.
Unfortunately, about halfway in, it became much too clear where the plot was headed and from there on, I might have written it myself (not a good sign!). There were no surprises, no twists, no unpredictable scenes whatsoever. It continued to be cringy but not in a good way, and everything fell into just the perfect ending. Everyone kissed and made up and loved each other in the end.
Isn’t that just how life always works out?
So, unfortunately, I would not recommend this book. I think there is good intention, as the author is trying to underscore an important social issue – spousal abuse. But because we are beaten over the head with it (pardon the pun!), it diminishes the impact.
kindread spirits 