ICE Breakers
THE HUSBANDS
BOOK OF THE MOMENT
Did your book club enjoy the fantastical premise of the novel in which Lauren’s attic was able to generate new husbands?
Did you find Lauren open to new partners or do you think it revealed her lack of commitment and personal prejudices?
Based on the husbands presented, who do you think makes the perfect match for Lauren and why? And did you have a favourite?
Do you think it was clear what Lauren was looking for in a husband? How does her journey compare to that of other male characters in literature, such as Professor Don in 'The Rosie Project'? Or other Mr Darcys?
Is it okay to keep looking for the perfect partner? And do you think Lauren eventually found happiness?
Do you think this will make a good storyline for TV as planned and do you think Juno Temple is well cast as Lauren?
FREE LOVE
MISSED OPPORTUNITY
Is there any evidence to suggest Phyllis was sorry for the heartache and instability she caused to her children?
Why do you think Phyllis left her secure life for someone obviously so unsuitable, rather than just maintain an affair which could have petered out when she knew leaving would destroy her family?
Do you think Phyllis was happier in Otterly or Notting Hill?
Can Colette’s behaviour be solely down to her mother leaving?
What do you think is the message of the story - Is the grass greener on the other side? or be careful what you wish for?
What did you think of the sudden ending to the story?
UNCLE PAUL
All three sisters are given a voice to tell their story within the novel. Whose narrative did you want to follow the most and could you empathise with any of them?
Did you think the sisters had good reason to be concerned about the release of Uncle Paul and did you suspect any of the men - Phillip, Freddie or indeed Paul might put them in any serious danger?
Bigamy didn't seem to concern any of the sisters in the storyline. Why do you think this was overshadowed and how disruptive was the impact of post war Britain on family life and relationships?
Do you think women at this time felt trapped by their circumstances and vulnerability?
Did you enjoy the suspense that Fremlin created in her writing style? Was this a good novel for Faber to re-publish?
Described as 'the grandmother of psycho-domestic noir' (Sunday Times). Which other authors and writing style did Fremlin’s novel remind you of in literature and on screen?
THE WILD CARD