Thank you for the copy of this book. (Spoiler alert)
I didn't think I'd like the subject matter when I read the synopsis but this well written story soon sucked me in.The two main characters are not really likeable, as they are so caught up in their disagreements with each other, but as you get to know their stories you get to know the characters and the reasons for their behaviour.
They have both been strong career women, ( of different race)Hortensia was a designer and Marion an archtect. They have both now retired and are both widowed. Hortensia has no children, a fact that really affects her. Her husband was unfaithful and had a child (whom she did not discover until after his death.) Marian has children but never sees them.After a series of unfortunate accidents the two women are thrown together and discover an unwilling affinity.
I loved the wry humour of Hortensia's observations. Marion's uncomfortable dealing with the race issue, which makes her face up to her ingrained racial prejudice. She is ashamed and embarrassed by her up bringing and tries to atone.Hortensia is bitter and stubborn. She realises that her whole attitude to Marion and her life is based on her own prejudices and her husband's infidelity.
I would certainly recommend this to any one who likes a character led book.