Sophie, Standing There by Meg Mason

This was a memorable book, slow-moving and full of wise words, but most of it is extremely depressing. It’s definitely a ‘sad girl’ book. This might get on your nerves, if you’re looking for a happy book!

Sophie, our heroine, divorced from nasty Paul, lives in his dingy investment flat in a run-down area. He has a new partner, and child, and Sophie can’t help feeling envious, for good reason. She’s lost touch with her best friend, but she is close to her brother. Sophie enjoys her job, working as a tech at writer’s festivals but even there, she’s bossed about and put-upon. The ‘Talent’ mostly looks down on the techs in a snobbish and condescending way, which surprised me. Anxious to please, and lonely, Sophie seems to do what everyone else wants, and pines for Paul, even though he was a real bastard. As the novel progresses, we see why Sophie has this paralysing lack of self-esteem, and discover more about her unhappy past.

When Sophie develops an obsession for a writer, she begins to be more hopeful, and has a new lease of life, as she feels more trusted and respected. However, what does the writer want out of this parasocial relationship? We also see the writer’s version of events.

I’m looking forward to reading Meg Mason’s other novels now.

I received this free ebook from NetGalley in return for an honest review.