SKELETONS by JANE FALLON

SKELETONS

BY JANE FALLON

THE BLURB:-

Jen has discovered a secret. It's not hers to share, but is it hers to keep?

If she tells her husband Jason, he might get over the shock, but will he forgive her for telling the truth? She might drive a wedge through their marriage.

If she tells someone else in Jason's family- the family she's come to love more than her own- she'd not only tear them apart but could also find herself on the outside: she's never really been one of them, after all.

But is she keeps this dirty little secret to herself, how long can she pretend nothing is wrong? How long can she live a lie?

Jen knows the truth- but is she ready for the consequences?

THE REALITY:-

As someone who didn't come from a large, or close-knit, family, I can really empathise with the character of Jen, latching on to her “perfect” in-laws. As a child, I used to love hanging out with large families and enjoyed the hustle and bustle as three (or more!) generations got together and had some fun. Sometimes, I even used to fantasize that I was one of them, until a sharp or misplaced comment brought me thundering back to reality. Sad, I know, but there were only three of us in my family, and some of us had......issues.

When Jen discovers that all is not as rosy as it would appear, she is faced with a huge dilemma, and a period of self-discovery. I cannot help but like Jen. She is someone who really does seem to do her best, even in a difficult situation.

The Mastersons? I would like to kick them all in the collective cunt; from lascivious Charles, to doormat Amelia, attention-seeking Jessie, turncoat Poppy (who trashes her friendship with Jen, like it's nothing) and pathetic Jason (who trashes his marriage to Jen, like it's nothing). They are a hypocritical bunch, seemingly behaving like blood and blood ties are the only thing that matter, then cold-shouldering Cass, who is understandably put out at having had to settle for second best all of her life.

Good for Jen, for blowing the lid on this pathetic bunch. And good for Cass for likewise doing the same. Such a shame that Jason's too spineless to think for himself, and can only operate as part of a family firm. Jen is better off without a man who doesn't love her enough to at least even try to save a twenty-two year relationship.

This book is worth a read (as you can see, it evoked some strong feelings within me!) Written with a sometimes tongue-in-cheek humour, it is funny in places, with some well described, brilliant characters.

The appearance of Betty at the end was a nice touch (that shows how reality sometimes has a way of sneaking into life!) And I'm glad Jen worked things out with her new man, her mother, her father and with life in general.

Buy it- you will not be disappointed!