The Ex-Wives

Russell "Buffy" Buffery, a 61-year-old London actor, finds himself adrift after his third marriage collapses, with only his dog George for companionship in his small Edgware Road flat. His life takes a turn when he meets Celeste, a newcomer to London who quickly becomes entangled in his complicated personal history. Celeste embarks on a mission to connect with Buffy's extended family - his ex-wives, children, and step-children - creating unexpected dynamics between all the parties involved. Her arrival stirs up the intricate web of relationships that Buffy has accumulated through his previous marriages and family connections. The novel examines modern relationships, divorce, and the complex nature of blended families in contemporary London society. Through its exploration of fractured marriages and reconstituted families, the story captures both the challenges and possibilities that arise when past and present collide.

Readers describe this as an absorbing look at relationships and jealousy, though many found the characters unlikable. The book maintains steady tension throughout but some felt the ending fell flat. What readers liked: - Sharp observations about marriage and divorce - Complex portrayal of female friendships - Engaging writing style that keeps pages turning - Realistic depiction of blended families What readers disliked: - Unsympathetic main character - Predictable plot developments - Slow middle section - Unfulfilling resolution Ratings: Goodreads: 3.4/5 (422 ratings) Amazon UK: 3.8/5 (48 ratings) Review quotes: "Captures the paranoia and insecurity of second marriages perfectly" - Goodreads reviewer "Started strong but lost momentum halfway through" - Amazon reviewer "The protagonist's choices became increasingly frustrating" - BookLikes reviewer

The Family Man by Elinor Lipman A middle-aged man's life intersects with his ex-stepdaughter in Manhattan, creating ripples through his past relationships and reigniting family connections.

The Past by Tessa Hadley Four adult siblings gather at their family house with various children and partners, forcing confrontation with shared histories and complicated family bonds.

Second Honeymoon by Joanna Trollope Parents face an empty nest and relationship upheaval when their last child moves out, leading to unexpected family reconfigurations.

The Other Family by Joanna Trollope A death brings two families into contact, revealing the complex web of relationships between a man's first and second families.

Instructions for a Second-Hand Heart by Tamsyn Murray Multiple perspectives unfold as a collection of exes, children, and new partners negotiate their places in each other's lives after significant life changes.

🔸 Deborah Moggach also wrote "These Foolish Things," which was adapted into the hit film "The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel" starring Judi Dench and Bill Nighy. 🔸 The Edgware Road setting in London has historically been known as "Little Arabia" due to its large Middle Eastern population and culture, adding authentic diversity to the novel's urban backdrop. 🔸 The average age for divorce in the UK has been steadily increasing since the 1980s, making Buffy's story at 61 increasingly relevant to modern readers. 🔸 Melton Mowbray, where Celeste comes from, is famous for its pork pies and is one of only a few places in the UK with protected geographical status for its food products. 🔸 Moggach served as Chairman of the Society of Authors and has been awarded an OBE for her services to literature and drama.