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A review by stitchsaddiction
The Semi Detached Women by Alex Quaid
challenging
emotional
hopeful
inspiring
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
This book is an absolute standout, one of the most compelling reads of the year.
It paints a raw and unsettling picture of single parenthood and sexuality in a time when both were stigmatized. The story follows two women, Laura, a divorcee in her thirties, and Janine, a young single mother. Their journey isn't sugar-coated - it's raw, real, and reflective of the time.
The author, Alex Quaid, perfectly captures the oppressive laws and religious views of the era, which were particularly harsh for those with little protection. Quaid's portrayal of Janine's struggle as an unwed mother is both cautious and heart-wrenchingly realistic.
Laura's life takes an unexpected turn when she discovers her husband's infidelity, leading her from a comfortable middle-class life on London's outskirts to a rustic home in rural Cheshire, adjacent to Janine.
The author paints their stories with a mix of elegance and raw emotion, demonstrating their resilience amidst adversity. Quaid breathes life into the Northern England setting with vivid descriptions of the rustic cottages and serene wilderness.
Their relationship evolves from strangers to tentative friends, and blossoms into a beautiful love story that's the heart of Semi-Detached Women. Their bond is far from perfect, but that's what makes it real. It's a raw, complex love, filled with hurdles and the harsh realities of their time.
Quaid brilliantly showcases the harsh judgement of the Catholic Church that leads to heartbreaking consequences for both women. It's a stark reminder of the Church's past mistakes, stirring a sense of protective rage for Janine and her child.
Semi-Detached Women is a book that lingers long after the last page, stirring thoughts and influencing perspectives. It's a testament to Quaid's storytelling prowess and a story that demands to be read.
It paints a raw and unsettling picture of single parenthood and sexuality in a time when both were stigmatized. The story follows two women, Laura, a divorcee in her thirties, and Janine, a young single mother. Their journey isn't sugar-coated - it's raw, real, and reflective of the time.
The author, Alex Quaid, perfectly captures the oppressive laws and religious views of the era, which were particularly harsh for those with little protection. Quaid's portrayal of Janine's struggle as an unwed mother is both cautious and heart-wrenchingly realistic.
Laura's life takes an unexpected turn when she discovers her husband's infidelity, leading her from a comfortable middle-class life on London's outskirts to a rustic home in rural Cheshire, adjacent to Janine.
The author paints their stories with a mix of elegance and raw emotion, demonstrating their resilience amidst adversity. Quaid breathes life into the Northern England setting with vivid descriptions of the rustic cottages and serene wilderness.
Their relationship evolves from strangers to tentative friends, and blossoms into a beautiful love story that's the heart of Semi-Detached Women. Their bond is far from perfect, but that's what makes it real. It's a raw, complex love, filled with hurdles and the harsh realities of their time.
Quaid brilliantly showcases the harsh judgement of the Catholic Church that leads to heartbreaking consequences for both women. It's a stark reminder of the Church's past mistakes, stirring a sense of protective rage for Janine and her child.
Semi-Detached Women is a book that lingers long after the last page, stirring thoughts and influencing perspectives. It's a testament to Quaid's storytelling prowess and a story that demands to be read.