Reviews

Another lovely, layered, and easily likeable book from Bernardine Evaristo. This one is a story about a lifelong closteted elderly gent who faces the need to finally divorce his wife (who never knew) or lose the love of his life. This sounds like a potentially tearjerking topic, but the book is light on its feet, full of humor and reads fast (I couldn't finish it sooner due to work, not because I was constantly putting it away).
Barry, our protagonist, is sassy, full of himself, kind, sometimes uncaring, sometimes cares too much, egotistical, helpful — all at once! Love me a book with a complicated lead. We meet his wife (and there are chapters written from her POV, which offers us a different perspective), his adult daughters, who he doesn't seem to love equally, his grandson, and some other people from his past and present for the full picture. Barry isn't always right, but he's always funny, and you like him even when you find him a bit annoying.
The book is largely about how homophobia is our society can ruin whole lives of not only gay people themselves, but also their families, but it has an optimistic and hopeful light to it.
Really enjoyed it and looking forward to reading other books by Ms. Evaristo.

teveritt's review

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funny inspiring lighthearted reflective sad medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Character
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.75

sandiet's review against another edition

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5.0

4.5 rounded up.
This book covered so many topics and it was done very well. Nothing felt rushed or skimmed over.
Sibling rivalry, marital discourse, parenting, post-natal depression, mental health, and religion are all covered in this novel.
The main topic? A long time (60+ years) homosexual relationship between two West Indian men who are now in their 70's. Knowing they'd be scorned or worse, they've kept their love for each other a well guarded secret and everyone thinks they're just best friends. The fallout is inevitable once Barrington Walker decides he's had enough of this double life and comes to a decision to leave his long-suffering wife Carmel and be with the man he loves.
I listened to the audio and the narrators were excellent. I imagine reading it would be just as enjoyable. Anyone who knows and understands the West Indian lingo/lilt will enjoy this book. It only requires an open mind...love is love and that's all that matters. This book was poignant, sad and funny and I wholeheartedly recommend.