Titia Sutherland

My first Titia Sutherland book, and it won't be my last. It kept me well entertained. The story focuses on Laura leaving her overprotective husband for a few weeks leave in a Cornwall cottage. I thought Laura self-absorbed to take off and leave her husband and family so she could find herself. The story goes back and forth and has something to tell about all of the family. These people are quite privileged people, and I felt safe with them, definitely middle-class and real struggle is not show more known to them. Some of this drama is quite thrilling and you're left wondering at times, gee what's going to happen next. I recommend this book. show less

The story opens with a rather awkward visit. Leo, the narrator of the book, is going to spend a weekend with Josh. Leo owns an art gallery, and Josh is one of his clients. Josh is grieving the loss of his wife Claudia... and, as we learn right at the beginning, Leo is also grieving, as Claudia was his mistress.

After a couple of chapters a detailed flashback begins, starting with the first time Leo went to Josh's studio and saw his work. The flashback sections are regularly interrupted by show more forays into the present, until - eventually - the expected blowup happens.

This book is very well-written with three-dimensional people and realistic conversations. There are a lot of subplots, too, and some very likeable younger people.

Recommended.

Longer review: https://suesbookreviews.blogspot.com/2025/07/accomplice-of-love-by-titia-sutherl... show less

A thoughtfully written book, a bit restrained perhaps. Felt like a first novel. I liked the bit about the teenager's bedroom with the footprints across the ceiling - tempted to try this when redecorating my own kids' bedrooms!

Kate is having a trial separation from her husband Matt. They have agreed that they can have other relationships during their year apart, and there are by two other men who are attracted to Kate.

I thought the characterisation was excellent, and particularly liked Kate and Matt's ten-year-old son Jake. His comments and worries add a very interesting extra side to this novel, which has a surprising amount of depth.

There are some dramatic moments, possibly a tad melodramatic in places as one show more character descends into mental illness. I found one or two passages quite disturbing and tense.

I thought this a very good read, though possibly a little too tidy at the end.

Latest longer review: https://suesbookreviews.blogspot.com/2025/10/a-friend-of-family-by-titia-sutherl... show less