Goodnight Nobody

Goodnight Nobody is a bit of a change of direction for Jennifer Weiner, whose previous books include In Her Shoes (recently a Cameron Diaz film) and Good In Bed.  It's still chick lit, but it's also a murder mystery.  (Chick Lit Mystery is the Next Big Thing, doncha know?)

Thanks to a broken heart and a chance rebound meeting on a flight, Kate Klein has found herself living in a wealthy suburban Connecticut community where the women are perfect wives and mothers with no career aspirations or discernable personalities. Or so Kate thinks. But when she finds her neighbour with a knife stuck in her back and Kate's former flame's phone number written on her notepad, Kate sees an opportunity to get some excitement back in her life by investigating the murder herself and along the way learns there's more to her neighbours than she ever could have imagined.

I've loved all of Jennifer Weiner's books. She's a fabulous writer - insightful, funny and clever - and Goodnight Nobody doesn't disappoint. Kate's disillusionment and frustration with a life she never planned to have and isn't sure she wants are beautifully conveyed. Kate's former crush, Evan, is funny and sexy, and her husband Ben is unsympathetic without being wet. But, for me, it's Kate's best friend Janie who really makes this book something special. Fantastically ballsy and hilariously funny I really hope Weiner gives her her own book. Weiner also shows her skill at creating a wide range of characters - whilst in 'In Her Shoes' it was her portrayal of the elderly that was so enthralling, this time it is the children who try at every turn to steal the attention.

Don't be put off by the mystery aspect - if you've read and enjoyed Weiner's previous novels you can't fail to enjoy this. The combination of great characters and a plot that springs surprises at every turn make this a great read. In my opinion she goes from strength to strength. [Keris Stainton]

Like this? Try Welcome To Temptation by Jenny Crusie

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