I must admit this book “threw“ me when I realised it was by the DJ Sara Cox! I didn’t twig that to begin with. The title is one of those clever plays on words because you can interpret it on several levels but you only get that while you’re reading the book.
I enjoyed the construction of the plot; several residents of an estate join together in the local community centre for a pottery class. Radiating out from that premise we are treated to the lives of four of the women there and their respective partners or ex partners - Becky, Sheila, Jameela and Louise. All very different women and all with their own tales to tell. Well drawn characters that encourage the reader to invest in them and root for all of them to find resolution for their various issues.
The pottery metaphor endured throughout the novel under the guiding hand of Sasha the teacher. Sasha is the thread that also joins the lives of the women.
In many ways it is a typical debut novel, full of linguistic and descriptive exuberance. Some of the situations were predictable but enjoyable as it was interesting to see how the characters would react to the truths and outcomes that the reader could probably see coming.
It was satisfying to have all ends tied up at the conclusion and you had the sense of a well rounded read. It’s a story of friendship and dealing with upset. Alongside some poignant moments are some amusing ones.
My thanks to Team Bookends for a proof.
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