NINE PERFECT STRANGERS

Liane Moriarty, Macmillan, $32.99

There can’t be many readers who have not dreamed of an all-expenses paid sojourn at a luxury resort. Frances has been told that her seventh novel won’t be published and, what’s more, that she has a bad back and is too fat. Worst of all, she’s been the victim of an internet scam and her self-esteem is at rock bottom. Her friend shouts her 10 days at a mind-body-spirit retreat. There, the mysterious Masha and her assistant try out a very risky new program. The other guests contribute tragedy and comedy in equal measure. Fay Weldon’s The Spa Decameron explored this theme deliciously back in 2007 and I’ve been hoping for something similar in an Australian setting ever since. This may be Moriarty’s best ever.