Mad about You is the fourth book following the relationship of Emma and James. Although it could be read as a stand alone novel I felt that having previous knowledge of the characters did add to my enjoyment of the book.
Emma and James are now parents to two young children. Following a move to London so James can continue working as a rugby coach, Emma finds she struggles to fit in. The yummy mummy's seem content to spend their husbands big fat paycheques and Emma quickly realises this lifestyle is not for her. Returning to work as a make up artist alongside her outlandish sister Babs, Emma discovers life as a working Mum holds challenges of its own. Emma is pushed to the edge of her limits when it appears James, previously so supportive and loving, is having an affair. Overtly sexual text messages are initially taken to be a prank, but when a vibrator arrives with a sinister message, Emma is close to breaking point. Can their marriage survive under the strain?
Sinead Moriarty is often compared to Marian Keyes, and there are certainly some similarities in the writing style. Very much family orientated, Mad about You has a perfect balance between wicked humour and an engaging plot. Emma is a likeable character that females will relate to- a woman trying to have it all and struggling to keep her sanity as a working Mum. The family dynamics are also something that many readers will be familiar with, the 'can't live with them, can't live without them' dilemma. I thought the relationship between Emma and Babs in particular was believable and touching.
Although I did find parts of the book predictable, Mad About You was a fun, easy read that chicklit fans will enjoy.
Mad About You is out now, published by Penguin.
8/10
With thanks to Penguin for providing me with a review copy of Mad About You in return for an honest review.
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