A review by littledorrit2
Mr. Loverman by Bernardine Evaristo

emotional funny lighthearted reflective sad fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? No
• Loveable characters? It's complicated
• Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.5

Quite how Evaristo manages to make the central character, Barry, so readable is remarkable, but a  key element is humour. We get frustrated and amused by Barry in equal measure. Self centred and needy, Barry married Carmel to disguise a life long secret. But as he finally decides to come clean he discovers that life isn't so simple.  Carmel has her own secrets and after a life of drudgery and a lack of appreciation from Barry, who can blame her. Even Morris, Barry's life long friend and

secret life long partner

  holds Barry at arm's length when his selfishness and bad behaviour becomes overwhelming. But all the characters were multi-faceted, and even Barry has his good points. A really, really good read.