Olive
EMMA GANNON (HARPER COLLINS, £14.99)
Thirty two-year-old Olive’s life falls apart when she splits from her long-term boyfriend. The reason? She doesn’t want kids. It’s not a phase she’ll “grow out of”, but a deep-rooted feeling she can’t deny. With her friends all moving on, having babies or trying to, Olive’s decision causes rifts and makes her feel alone. Can they learn to accept each other, or is it the end of the road? Gannon nails the complex nature of female friendship so well, it’ll make you twitch. More importantly, she gives a voice – and courage – to those who don’t want to conform, and who rarely see their choices reflected in print. Gutsy and refreshing. ★★★★