This Charming Man

Just yesterday I finished the book This Charming Man by Marian Keyes. 

Paddy de Courcy is Ireland's debonair politician, the "John F. Kennedy Jr. of Dublin." His charm and charisma have taken hold of the country and the tabloids, not to mention our four heroines: Lola, Grace, Marnie, and Alicia. But though Paddy's winning smile is fooling Irish minds, the broken hearts he's left in his past offer a far more truthful look into his character. 

Narrated in turn by each woman, This Charming Man explores how their love for this one man has shaped their lives. But in true Marian Keyes fashion, this is more than a story of four love affairs. It's a testament to the strength women find in themselves through work, friendship, and family, no matter what demons may be haunting their lives. Depression, self-doubt, domestic abuse—each of these women has seen tough times in life, and it's through Keyes's wonderful storytelling ability that these subjects are approached with the appropriate tone and candor. Her deft touch provides a gripping story and, ultimately, a redemptive ending.

It was a wonderful book to read, and touched on heavy issues - domestic violence, alcoholism, to name a few - but was sensitive about it.  My only complaint would be the way in which Lola's perspective was written. It was written in diary form (which I don't mind) but the sentences were incomplete and words were dropped. I know it was the style Keyes was aiming for, it just took a bit of getting used to.

Though known for her chick-lit, this book delves just that little bit deeper, and gives you something to think about.