This story follows the lives of three people; Adrian an academic who specialises in the study of death, Kezi a young artist who is estranged from her parents and Laura, a town planner who hides problems about her seemingly perfect marriage.

Adrian, just out of a long-term relationship meets Laura at a cheese shop. He also happens to be Kezi’s neighbour. These three navigate the changes which happen to turn their lives upside down.

I had read only one other book by Goldsmith and I confess to not liking it at all (Reunion). I was reticent about this one particularly the pace of the first fifty pages. Soon I was thoroughly engaged with the characters and the clever way Goldsmith changed their arcs particularly Adrian who at first seems dull and spineless but towards the end reveals what a wonderful man he really is.

Laura on the other hand was more complex stuck in a marriage which was controlled by a spineless selfish man. The unravelling of the marriage drew sympathy as well as appreciation when she finally makes some decisions.

There is sadness with Kezi as well as joy and deep friendship and of course the setting in Melbourne made it all the more relatable. There was also reference to music which I didn’t fully engage with but nevertheless the writing is excellent.

There’s a lot to this book so give it a go.