Carole Matthews' contemporary romances explore relationships in families as well as couples. In this novel, magazine journalist Lyssa is struggling to cope with her failed attempts at IVF and the end of her relationship with Jake. He has begun an affair with a younger work colleague. Lyssa turns to her supportive sister, mother of six and wife of the ever-stoical Lee. But Lyssa's family and former boyfriend are astonished when she decides to trekking in Nepal, the last place anyone would have expected her, a city girl through and through, to go. In this dramatic and peaceful landscape, Lyssa learns much about herself and makes decisions about her life, while back in Enlgand, Jake is also taking a long good look at himself and the choices he has made. Written in Carole Matthews' usual witty style, the novel engages the reader from start to finish.
Cathy Kelly - Between Sisters
This author is known for her insightful and satisfying books that centre around family relationships, and this one is no different. The story follows sisters Cassie and Coco who grew up without their mother, an addict who left them when they were small and disappeared out of their lives. After their father died they were given a loving home by paternal grandmother, Pearl. However, there was always something missing from their lives, and this has coloured their relationships since then. Now in their thirties, Cassie is married with two daughters, and Coco has a broken engagement behind her. Their lives are turned upside down when Coco's friend Jo falls seriously ill, leaving her nine year old daughter in Coco's care. Fears of loss and abandonment haunt the two sisters again, as their lives fall apart and they try to find a way to mend them. Full of heartwarming moments and emotion, another great book by Cathy Kelly.
Lesley Pearse - Dead to Me
I have always enjoyed Lesley Pearse's novels, and this one is no different. It follows the story of two girls from differing stations in life - Verity, who comes from a middle class home and attends a private school, and Ruby, who has to fend for herself most of the time as her mother is too poor and seems to care less. In 1935 the girls meet and form a bond. This unlikely friendship continues to thrive through their changing situations, Verity's for the worse and Ruby's for the better. But a crisis causes a bitter rift in their relationship as war approaches. They both have many more trials to experience, and must forge their own paths in life. With vivid characters, expert historical background, and twists and turns, this gripping story of friendship, love, betrayal and suspense is hard to put down.