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Alice Alone
On the day that her youngest child leaves home, Alice Hatton discovers two disturbing truths in a matter of hours.
The Empty Nest cliche is true.
And she does not love her husband Peter at all.
Now in her fifties, Alice is appalled to realise that she is no longer considered her own person, but is instead defined by her relationships – mother to her adult children, wife to her husband. Horrified by the thought of spending another thirty years with Peter in their North London suburb, Alice decides to take matters into her own hands.
What follows is a triumphant and liberating breaking of all the rules. But when Alice must cope with loss for the second time in as many years, she discovers what even the most apparently ‘respectable ‘woman is capable of.
Join Amanda Brookfield as she revisits her first novel, Alice Alone, and rediscover how she got her well-deserved reputation for writing about women’s lives with humour and honesty. Includes a brand new foreword from the author.
Praise for Amanda
'An engaging, emotionally-charged and intriguing story' Michelle Gorman
'No one gets to the heart of human relationships quite so perceptively as Brookfield.' The Mirror
'Unputdownable. Perceptive. Poignant. I loved it.' bestselling author Patricia Scanlan on Before I Knew You
'If Joanna Trollope is the queen of the Aga Saga, then Amanda Brookfield must be a strong contender for princess.' Oxford Times
What readers are saying about Amanda
‘I felt so involved in this story that I found myself thinking about it a lot during the day. A fantastic read. Gripping, moving, characters you care about, highly recommend.’
‘Packed with suspense, (I actually held my breath during some of the scenes) and full of relatable characters, this book will draw you in from the first page. Highly recommend.’
‘The tension builds on every page, the characters, as always with this author’s books, are drawn beautifully. I couldn’t put it down and am looking forward greatly to Amanda Brookfield’s next offering hopefully before too long!’
‘Brookfield is undoubtedly one of Britain's foremost chroniclers of human relationships. It goes without saying that this novel is another page turner – guaranteed to make you read the last 50 pages before sleep, even though you know you have an early start in the morning – but it is much, much more.’
The Empty Nest cliche is true.
And she does not love her husband Peter at all.
Now in her fifties, Alice is appalled to realise that she is no longer considered her own person, but is instead defined by her relationships – mother to her adult children, wife to her husband. Horrified by the thought of spending another thirty years with Peter in their North London suburb, Alice decides to take matters into her own hands.
What follows is a triumphant and liberating breaking of all the rules. But when Alice must cope with loss for the second time in as many years, she discovers what even the most apparently ‘respectable ‘woman is capable of.
Join Amanda Brookfield as she revisits her first novel, Alice Alone, and rediscover how she got her well-deserved reputation for writing about women’s lives with humour and honesty. Includes a brand new foreword from the author.
Praise for Amanda
'An engaging, emotionally-charged and intriguing story' Michelle Gorman
'No one gets to the heart of human relationships quite so perceptively as Brookfield.' The Mirror
'Unputdownable. Perceptive. Poignant. I loved it.' bestselling author Patricia Scanlan on Before I Knew You
'If Joanna Trollope is the queen of the Aga Saga, then Amanda Brookfield must be a strong contender for princess.' Oxford Times
What readers are saying about Amanda
‘I felt so involved in this story that I found myself thinking about it a lot during the day. A fantastic read. Gripping, moving, characters you care about, highly recommend.’
‘Packed with suspense, (I actually held my breath during some of the scenes) and full of relatable characters, this book will draw you in from the first page. Highly recommend.’
‘The tension builds on every page, the characters, as always with this author’s books, are drawn beautifully. I couldn’t put it down and am looking forward greatly to Amanda Brookfield’s next offering hopefully before too long!’
‘Brookfield is undoubtedly one of Britain's foremost chroniclers of human relationships. It goes without saying that this novel is another page turner – guaranteed to make you read the last 50 pages before sleep, even though you know you have an early start in the morning – but it is much, much more.’
- GenresFiction
234 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 26, 1989
64 people are currently reading
82 people want to read
About the author
Amanda Brookfield
38 books104 followersI have two elder sisters and a twin brother who is much quieter than me and with much longer legs. Our Dad was in the Foreign Office so we spent our childhood living in far-flung places like Shanghai and Stockholm. In fact, until the age of 32 I had never spent more than 3 years under the same roof...it's left me with the opposite of 'itchy feet'.
I fell in love with writing aged 11 when my class was asked to write a ghost story - that thrill of being able to make it all up! Studying English at Oxford was a dream come true, but then real life got in the way and I started a career in advertising, climbing the greasy pole for four years, helping sell washing powder and cold remedies.
Aged 25, I got the chance to go and live in Argentina. I left advertising, set myself up as a freelance journalist and wrote my first novel,'Alice Alone' which was published (to critical acclaim!) in 1989. I haven't stopped,or looked back, since.
I am now published by Penguin. At the last count I had produced fifteen novels and two sons. There will be no more offspring, but lots of books I hope.
I fell in love with writing aged 11 when my class was asked to write a ghost story - that thrill of being able to make it all up! Studying English at Oxford was a dream come true, but then real life got in the way and I started a career in advertising, climbing the greasy pole for four years, helping sell washing powder and cold remedies.
Aged 25, I got the chance to go and live in Argentina. I left advertising, set myself up as a freelance journalist and wrote my first novel,'Alice Alone' which was published (to critical acclaim!) in 1989. I haven't stopped,or looked back, since.
I am now published by Penguin. At the last count I had produced fifteen novels and two sons. There will be no more offspring, but lots of books I hope.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
October 8, 2024
A great read.
I really did enjoy reading this book. I liked the slow pace and the simple story. It was easy to read and keep track of what was going on. The characters didn't endear themselves to me, especially Alice, who didn't seem to have any guilty thoughts about her antics.
I do think that the book is more from the early seventies than the eighties.
It's a book that is certainly worth reading.
I really did enjoy reading this book. I liked the slow pace and the simple story. It was easy to read and keep track of what was going on. The characters didn't endear themselves to me, especially Alice, who didn't seem to have any guilty thoughts about her antics.
I do think that the book is more from the early seventies than the eighties.
It's a book that is certainly worth reading.
February 9, 2023
On the day that her youngest child leaves home, Alice Hatton discovers two disturbing truths in a matter of hours. The Empty nest cliche is absolutely true, and she does not love her husband Peter at all. Horrified by the thought of spending another thirty years with Peter in their North London suburb, Alice embarks ona dubious course of self-fulfillment. When she must cope with loss gor a second time, she discovers what even the most respectable woman can be capable of.
Set in the 1980s. Alice is in her fifties when her last child, Robin, leaves home. Alice doesn't know what to do with herself now that she has no purpose in life. So, Alice has an affair. With Christmas looming, robin returns home, and tells Alice her secret. Now Alice feels she has something to look forward to as she and her husband drift further apart.
This is an enjoyable read, but I did not like Alice at all. I couldn't even feel any sympathy for her and her predicament. This book was first published in 1989.
I would like to thank #Netgalley #BoldwoodBooks and the author #AmandaBrookfiield for my ARC of #AliceAlone in exchange for an honest review.
Set in the 1980s. Alice is in her fifties when her last child, Robin, leaves home. Alice doesn't know what to do with herself now that she has no purpose in life. So, Alice has an affair. With Christmas looming, robin returns home, and tells Alice her secret. Now Alice feels she has something to look forward to as she and her husband drift further apart.
This is an enjoyable read, but I did not like Alice at all. I couldn't even feel any sympathy for her and her predicament. This book was first published in 1989.
I would like to thank #Netgalley #BoldwoodBooks and the author #AmandaBrookfiield for my ARC of #AliceAlone in exchange for an honest review.
June 22, 2023
Alice Alone made me suddenly realise the impending sense of what’s to come. With my eldest child approaching his 16th birthday, it gave me a sense of dread of the empty nest syndrome that awaits me in the none too far away future. How will I react when they start flying the nest? It sounds absolutely horrid. A bit like Alice, I’m a stay-at-home mum that has devoted her entire life to rearing my children, the impending thought that one day soon, I won’t have them to constantly care for is a bit grim. Maybe I’ll start collecting dogs!
The author nailed how women of Alice’s generation generally aspired to getting married and having children. Their careers were put on the back burner and were expected to attend to every whim of their husbands and kids. It’s ghastly. I mean I’m not opposed to women doing that if they wish, some are very family orientated and that’s ok BUT if a woman doesn’t want to have children and husband then all the more power to them for their decisions. One thing that pisses me off thinking back was my own mothers’ attitudes to parenting and marriage. When getting a bit plumper in my teenage years I was told it was good, that it would benefit me when having kids – birthing hips she called it. I’m really glad attitudes have moved on.
Alice Alone was an extremely well written story that I did enjoy but some things about the protagonist, Alice Hatton kind of irked me. I understand her feelings of melancholy when her youngest child Robin left home for Birmingham. She felt at a loss, didn’t have someone to run around after (although at twenty years old, why Alice had to run after her, I’m at a loss.) She dyes her hair from her natural grey to a beautiful brunette. Instantly she feared the reaction of her husband, because of all reasons that a barrister’s wife should look I guess contrite next to her husband. Jesus Christ, its only hair dye!
So, on it goes, Alice trying to find out who she really is after basically losing her identify of a mother. She hasn’t really lost it just its evolving I would say. She accidentally meets Horatio, after her husband stands her up in favour of work, the less I say about the delightful Peter Hatton the better. The two share a meal and a drink and she ends back at his club where they share a night of passion. I was a bit sceptical about Alice’s reaction about the act. Even if she has been a committed wife and mother all of those years, she can’t surely be that unwise about where the evening was leading. It seems Alice can only get validation in being needed by others and I found that very sad indeed.
The author nailed how women of Alice’s generation generally aspired to getting married and having children. Their careers were put on the back burner and were expected to attend to every whim of their husbands and kids. It’s ghastly. I mean I’m not opposed to women doing that if they wish, some are very family orientated and that’s ok BUT if a woman doesn’t want to have children and husband then all the more power to them for their decisions. One thing that pisses me off thinking back was my own mothers’ attitudes to parenting and marriage. When getting a bit plumper in my teenage years I was told it was good, that it would benefit me when having kids – birthing hips she called it. I’m really glad attitudes have moved on.
Alice Alone was an extremely well written story that I did enjoy but some things about the protagonist, Alice Hatton kind of irked me. I understand her feelings of melancholy when her youngest child Robin left home for Birmingham. She felt at a loss, didn’t have someone to run around after (although at twenty years old, why Alice had to run after her, I’m at a loss.) She dyes her hair from her natural grey to a beautiful brunette. Instantly she feared the reaction of her husband, because of all reasons that a barrister’s wife should look I guess contrite next to her husband. Jesus Christ, its only hair dye!
So, on it goes, Alice trying to find out who she really is after basically losing her identify of a mother. She hasn’t really lost it just its evolving I would say. She accidentally meets Horatio, after her husband stands her up in favour of work, the less I say about the delightful Peter Hatton the better. The two share a meal and a drink and she ends back at his club where they share a night of passion. I was a bit sceptical about Alice’s reaction about the act. Even if she has been a committed wife and mother all of those years, she can’t surely be that unwise about where the evening was leading. It seems Alice can only get validation in being needed by others and I found that very sad indeed.
February 20, 2023
A slow paced and character driven book. Although it is a in-depth plot, I couldn't get past the affairs because for me no matter how bad your marriage is there is no excuse for an affair. I did enjoy the empty nest aspect and joining Alice on her journey of self discovery after all the kids have flown the nest. My favourite parts of the book were the laughable and witty bits as I think Alice is quite quick witted. A lighthearted and refreshing novel.
February 21, 2023
Originally reviewed for Chick Lit Central (www.chicklitcentral.com)
Alice Alone is an interesting perspective on pushing through with a loveless marriage. The way both characters describe their lives and their relationship felt nothing short of sad and laced with marital duty. For so long, Alice had her children to tend to, and to turn to. But once she becomes an empty nester, she discovers just how much is lacking within her marriage. Peter feels the same way, but there are tones of familial understanding; the type of relationships and marriages that were seen within his own life weren’t ones based on happiness or fulfillment. Marriages were based on obligation. It feels like one big obligation for this relationship, and Alice has had enough.
The way in which Alice takes matters into her own hands had been shocking, but yet it had come as no surprise. The more shocking elements consisted of the ways she’d gone about it, and how quickly her choices revved up until it felt completely out of her control. The author did a great job of portraying that image as well as the emotions that Alice feels. There seems to be a real disconnect with the sorts of consequences that can come from her actions. Maybe because she feels she really doesn’t have anything to lose. That kind of freedom can certainly feel liberating.
The loss she experiences later on wasn’t unexpected. A large part of me had hoped for the best for her, because I wanted to see good things happen in Alice’s life. For so long, she’s been an extension of everyone else and for everyone else, but has never really had something for herself. Funnily, Peter has his own epiphanies due to personal experiences, which leads him to see his wife in a new light. As one grows closer, the other pulls away, which makes the other draw even closer, and you wonder if this could mean a new beginning for this relationship, or not.
The story takes place in the eighties, and maybe I missed something–but I didn’t know that until about 20% into the book. That could very well be my own issue of skipping a page or two, or not recognizing the era, but it was a bit jarring for me so far in. I think indicating the time period within the first few pages would have been beneficial, because time periods can help dictate the societal norms of that era. But again, maybe it had been mentioned and I missed it. The ending was an unexpected one, and something I didn’t see coming. But given Alice and her characterization, it felt right. Alice Alone was an open, honest read and wholeheartedly steered clear of pulling any punches.
Alice Alone is an interesting perspective on pushing through with a loveless marriage. The way both characters describe their lives and their relationship felt nothing short of sad and laced with marital duty. For so long, Alice had her children to tend to, and to turn to. But once she becomes an empty nester, she discovers just how much is lacking within her marriage. Peter feels the same way, but there are tones of familial understanding; the type of relationships and marriages that were seen within his own life weren’t ones based on happiness or fulfillment. Marriages were based on obligation. It feels like one big obligation for this relationship, and Alice has had enough.
The way in which Alice takes matters into her own hands had been shocking, but yet it had come as no surprise. The more shocking elements consisted of the ways she’d gone about it, and how quickly her choices revved up until it felt completely out of her control. The author did a great job of portraying that image as well as the emotions that Alice feels. There seems to be a real disconnect with the sorts of consequences that can come from her actions. Maybe because she feels she really doesn’t have anything to lose. That kind of freedom can certainly feel liberating.
The loss she experiences later on wasn’t unexpected. A large part of me had hoped for the best for her, because I wanted to see good things happen in Alice’s life. For so long, she’s been an extension of everyone else and for everyone else, but has never really had something for herself. Funnily, Peter has his own epiphanies due to personal experiences, which leads him to see his wife in a new light. As one grows closer, the other pulls away, which makes the other draw even closer, and you wonder if this could mean a new beginning for this relationship, or not.
The story takes place in the eighties, and maybe I missed something–but I didn’t know that until about 20% into the book. That could very well be my own issue of skipping a page or two, or not recognizing the era, but it was a bit jarring for me so far in. I think indicating the time period within the first few pages would have been beneficial, because time periods can help dictate the societal norms of that era. But again, maybe it had been mentioned and I missed it. The ending was an unexpected one, and something I didn’t see coming. But given Alice and her characterization, it felt right. Alice Alone was an open, honest read and wholeheartedly steered clear of pulling any punches.
February 19, 2023
It’s only when her youngest daughter Robin leaves home that Alice realises that – after life had become no more than being a wife and mother, and until then it had been enough – she is no longer in love with her husband, and that there might just be more to life. At fifty-one, and after having her steely-grey bob transformed into something a little more adventurous, a chance encounter helps her discover a whole new side to herself – and it only makes her hungry for more. Her husband Peter, however, is forcibly reminded that his neglected wife really is the woman he loves – just at the time when Alice’s new life is going a little off the rails. Then there’s a shift – the family (a touch uncomfortably) reunited for Christmas, followed by daughter Robin showing few signs of leaving thereafter – and the drama that ensues sees Alice with a rather different focus, and a new way to regain her sense of purpose.
Part of the considerable fascination of this book is its eighties setting – a world that’s strangely unfamiliar now, with its different constraints and expectations, but I’m sure this really is what life could be like for women of Alice’s background. Are the characters likeable? I must say that I found Alice relatively easy to identify with – her choices might not have been mine, but I never felt she was unsympathetic, and particularly real for a woman of her time. Peter, with his paunch and comb-over, who briefly thinks his young protege might find him attractive, was very real too – women are a mystery to him in so many ways, and there’s little possibility of him ever understanding Alice’s restlessness. Despite the third person narrative, the author gets right inside both characters, their deeper feelings and motivations – and does so with particular insight and sensitivity, laying them bare for the reader, but also with a lovely touch of gentle humour.
Although character driven, I really loved some of the set pieces – especially both the significant restaurant scenes, the first changing the direction of Alice’s life, the second making Peter understand what’s important. The uncomfortable tête-à-tête between father and daughter was wonderful too – reported rather than seen, but excruciatingly funny and awkward. I will admit that I found the book’s later developments a touch less engaging than Alice’s initial adventures – but I was so deliciously caught up in the characters’ lives (the author does that SO well) that the pages did turn rather faster as I wondered quite where the story was going.
This was a book I thoroughly enjoyed – gently paced, exploring the dynamics of relationships, with well-developed characters who engaged me at every level. And yes, it’s a book of its time – but that only increased my enjoyment. I’d be more than happy to see the re-release of more of her back catalogue – but I’m also eager to see what the author does next.
Part of the considerable fascination of this book is its eighties setting – a world that’s strangely unfamiliar now, with its different constraints and expectations, but I’m sure this really is what life could be like for women of Alice’s background. Are the characters likeable? I must say that I found Alice relatively easy to identify with – her choices might not have been mine, but I never felt she was unsympathetic, and particularly real for a woman of her time. Peter, with his paunch and comb-over, who briefly thinks his young protege might find him attractive, was very real too – women are a mystery to him in so many ways, and there’s little possibility of him ever understanding Alice’s restlessness. Despite the third person narrative, the author gets right inside both characters, their deeper feelings and motivations – and does so with particular insight and sensitivity, laying them bare for the reader, but also with a lovely touch of gentle humour.
Although character driven, I really loved some of the set pieces – especially both the significant restaurant scenes, the first changing the direction of Alice’s life, the second making Peter understand what’s important. The uncomfortable tête-à-tête between father and daughter was wonderful too – reported rather than seen, but excruciatingly funny and awkward. I will admit that I found the book’s later developments a touch less engaging than Alice’s initial adventures – but I was so deliciously caught up in the characters’ lives (the author does that SO well) that the pages did turn rather faster as I wondered quite where the story was going.
This was a book I thoroughly enjoyed – gently paced, exploring the dynamics of relationships, with well-developed characters who engaged me at every level. And yes, it’s a book of its time – but that only increased my enjoyment. I’d be more than happy to see the re-release of more of her back catalogue – but I’m also eager to see what the author does next.
June 30, 2023
When I started reading I didn't know that the book was over 30 year old and couldn't quite.work out when it was set. Alice is in her early 50s and at the start of the novel she is waving off her youngest child, Robin, as she leaves home. This leaves Alice with am empty nest and a husband whom she realises she doesn't really love. The book is written from Alice's point of view and describes her feelings of bereftness and hopelessness in the early days after Robin leaving. We learn about her life and marriage and watch as she seeks to shed her old skin and embark on a version of self discovery, of sorts. The book had an air of nostalgia being set in the 80s, with no mobile phones or Internet and old fashioned views. Alice's life as a middle aged housewife paints a very different version of life to the 50 something women I know. It's really interesting as a social timestamp, to compare how things were back then. I was a child when the book was published so it was a bit of a blast from the past. In the second half of the book Alice's life changes in a different way and we find out more about her husband and children. Things take on a slightly darker note within Alice's psyche which, given the subject matter which I won't reveal, could well be attributed to menopause. The ending felt rather abrupt and I would love to know how the author would approach the novel now as an experienced author. The book was slow paced but overall enjoyable and I would like to read some of Brookfield's newer novels to see how they compare. 3.5 stars
February 27, 2023
There was something about the simple, alliterative title of this book, and the cover design, that sparked my interest.
On first impressions, the book's protagonist, Alice, was not the type of character that I had expected. I had expected perhaps a younger, feistier character. Nevertheless, I felt the author wrote in a way that made me like Alice, and connect with her while I was reading. In fact, there was something about her that I found quite endearing.
While I liked Alice as a protagonist, I found that her husband irritated me, and wondered if the author had intentionally written him to come across as unlikeable to readers. I had a feeling that later in the story, Alice's character may develop further, and was interested to see how that might happen. As I read on, the story had a certain juiciness that I found surprising. I found it entertaining, but also quite thought-provoking and heartwarming to read.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for a free copy to review.
On first impressions, the book's protagonist, Alice, was not the type of character that I had expected. I had expected perhaps a younger, feistier character. Nevertheless, I felt the author wrote in a way that made me like Alice, and connect with her while I was reading. In fact, there was something about her that I found quite endearing.
While I liked Alice as a protagonist, I found that her husband irritated me, and wondered if the author had intentionally written him to come across as unlikeable to readers. I had a feeling that later in the story, Alice's character may develop further, and was interested to see how that might happen. As I read on, the story had a certain juiciness that I found surprising. I found it entertaining, but also quite thought-provoking and heartwarming to read.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for a free copy to review.
July 17, 2023
I have quite enjoyed some of Amanda Brookfield’s more recent books but found this one rather superficial and unengaging. Although it was written and set in the 80s, the characters all spoke as if they were in a Noel Coward play making the dialogue stilted and unrealistic. I felt that the character of Alice was also rather anachronistic and that her attitudes were old fashioned for the period. I found the character unappealing and her story, set in Brookfield’s habitual cosy, privileged, metropolitan bubble, unrelatable and far-fetched.
January 19, 2024
excellent
I have enjoyed reading this so much how Amanda put so much into her writing and it’s a pleasure to read I have read straight off six of Amanda’s books and can say how much I have enjoyed each one MoyaBlake.x
I have enjoyed reading this so much how Amanda put so much into her writing and it’s a pleasure to read I have read straight off six of Amanda’s books and can say how much I have enjoyed each one MoyaBlake.x
January 8, 2026
Of it’s time.
February 18, 2023
When I started reading I didn't know that the book was over 30 year old and couldn't quite.work out when it was set. Alice is in her early 50s and at the start of the novel she is waving off her youngest child, Robin, as she leaves home. This leaves Alice with am empty nest and a husband whom she realises she doesn't really love. The book is written from Alice's point of view and describes her feelings of bereftness and hopelessness in the early days after Robin leaving. We learn about her life and marriage and watch as she seeks to shed her old skin and embark on a version of self discovery, of sorts. The book had an air of nostalgia being set in the 80s, with no mobile phones or Internet and old fashioned views. Alice's life as a middle aged housewife paints a very different version of life to the 50 something women I know. It's really interesting as a social timestamp, to compare how things were back then. I was a child when the book was published so it was a bit of a blast from the past. In the second half of the book Alice's life changes in a different way and we find out more about her husband and children. Things take on a slightly darker note within Alice's psyche which, given the subject matter which I won't reveal, could well be attributed to menopause. The ending felt rather abrupt and I would love to know how the author would approach the novel now as an experienced author. The book was slow paced but overall enjoyable and I would like to read some of Brookfield's newer novels to see how they compare
February 23, 2023
ALICE ALONE - AMANDA BROOKFIELD.
MY REVIEW: Take a trip back to the eighties. Alice is in her fifties, and the story begins as her youngest child, Robin is leaving home.
As Alice finds herself with an empty nest and stuck in a loveless marriage, she seeks new adventures and rediscovery.
What will it take to give Alice the fulfilment in her life that she so desperately craves?
Alice Alone, is one of those books that I finished a little while ago, but I’m still mulling over and questioning.
I’m a little undecided as to how I felt about Alice. Being not too far behind her in age and with children who are rapidly growing up and needing me less and less, I could wholeheartedly relate to Alice’s feelings of being lost and not knowing who she was anymore.
As much as I empathised with Alice, I wasn’t so keen on some of her life choices.
Over all, I enjoyed the story. I was keen to know where the characters were going and how they would get there.
This story was a trip down memory lane and a nostalgic look at how life was in the eighties. Times really were very different then.
I enjoyed Amanda Brookfield’s writing style. She really taps into her characters and writes them warts and all, with some raw and honest emotions.
Alice Alone reeled me in. At times I found it an uncomfortable read, but still engaging and compelling.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
With thanks to Rachel’s Random Reads, Netgalley and Boldwood for a digital advanced copy of this title.
MY REVIEW: Take a trip back to the eighties. Alice is in her fifties, and the story begins as her youngest child, Robin is leaving home.
As Alice finds herself with an empty nest and stuck in a loveless marriage, she seeks new adventures and rediscovery.
What will it take to give Alice the fulfilment in her life that she so desperately craves?
Alice Alone, is one of those books that I finished a little while ago, but I’m still mulling over and questioning.
I’m a little undecided as to how I felt about Alice. Being not too far behind her in age and with children who are rapidly growing up and needing me less and less, I could wholeheartedly relate to Alice’s feelings of being lost and not knowing who she was anymore.
As much as I empathised with Alice, I wasn’t so keen on some of her life choices.
Over all, I enjoyed the story. I was keen to know where the characters were going and how they would get there.
This story was a trip down memory lane and a nostalgic look at how life was in the eighties. Times really were very different then.
I enjoyed Amanda Brookfield’s writing style. She really taps into her characters and writes them warts and all, with some raw and honest emotions.
Alice Alone reeled me in. At times I found it an uncomfortable read, but still engaging and compelling.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
With thanks to Rachel’s Random Reads, Netgalley and Boldwood for a digital advanced copy of this title.
January 1, 2023
Set in 1986, Alice lives with her husband Peter. Her last grown child has just flown the nest and Alice is at rather a loss. She has spent all her years looking after the three children and also Peter who struggles to find even the sugar in the kitchen and whom she realises she probably doesn't even like let alone love. Being invited to what she anticipates as rather a dull dinner party she gets her hair dyed. The next morning, she refuses to get out of bed as she usually does to make Peter's breakfast, being fed up with being defined as the wife, the mother- anything but her own self. What transpires awakens Alice and she even surprises herself.
I enjoyed this, it's very much a story of the era. For those that perhaps didn’t live through it, yes times were different in lots of ways. Although women worked they were rather under valued at times and in different professions. Misogyny was alive and kicking as were several things we women would rather forget. I mention these as they are a part of the story and the era. Peter having a few glasses of something and then driving would be something we are horrified about now but sadly then it happened far more often than it should- which is why things have changed since.
A story of realising who you are and trying to be yourself, which isn't always easy given circumstances. A read of an era and a woman's choice.
I enjoyed this, it's very much a story of the era. For those that perhaps didn’t live through it, yes times were different in lots of ways. Although women worked they were rather under valued at times and in different professions. Misogyny was alive and kicking as were several things we women would rather forget. I mention these as they are a part of the story and the era. Peter having a few glasses of something and then driving would be something we are horrified about now but sadly then it happened far more often than it should- which is why things have changed since.
A story of realising who you are and trying to be yourself, which isn't always easy given circumstances. A read of an era and a woman's choice.
February 18, 2023
I requested Alice Alone because I've reviewed some Amanda Brookfield books and I wanted to see what her first novel was like. Written in 1989, Alice Alone follows the life of Alice, a 50 year old mother after her youngest daughter leaves home.
I was drawn in by the first scene, and felt for Alice in the moment her daughter left., but as the story unfolded I felt it very hard to stay interested in.
The characters to me were not well formed and I felt the book to be too dialogue-rich., not delving into the characters' backstory enough. I actually found Alice to be quite unlikeable from the first chapters onwards. I kept waiting to find out if she'd change, but that didn't happen. I found her friends superficial.
I felt Peter was quick to be angered, and did not like him, either.
To me, the pacing dragged. I really tried to stay interested in the novel, but I couldn't and I skimmed some parts.
Thanks to Amanda Brookfield, Boldwood Books and Rachel's Random Resources for my eARC in exchange for an honest and voluntary review.
3 stars
I was drawn in by the first scene, and felt for Alice in the moment her daughter left., but as the story unfolded I felt it very hard to stay interested in.
The characters to me were not well formed and I felt the book to be too dialogue-rich., not delving into the characters' backstory enough. I actually found Alice to be quite unlikeable from the first chapters onwards. I kept waiting to find out if she'd change, but that didn't happen. I found her friends superficial.
I felt Peter was quick to be angered, and did not like him, either.
To me, the pacing dragged. I really tried to stay interested in the novel, but I couldn't and I skimmed some parts.
Thanks to Amanda Brookfield, Boldwood Books and Rachel's Random Resources for my eARC in exchange for an honest and voluntary review.
3 stars
January 8, 2023
A poignant relatable read for any middle aged woman!
Empty nest syndrome, menopause, a loss of purpose and falling out of love with your significant other!
We all deal differently with life events and Alice is no exception, once her youngest leaves home Alice has a revelation that there must be more to life now she is no longer needed as a parent at home, her relationship with her husband is stilted and stale so being adventurous and spontaneous she embarks on extra marital activities and starts to feel rejuvenated and with purpose!
As Alice and her husband drift further apart, Xmas looms ever closer,Alice is dreading Xmas and all it entails but after a surprise disclosure from her youngest daughter suddenly Alice has a purpose in life once more as she is needed once again!
Although rather dated I really enjoyed this book and felt it was a very real reflection of middle age!
Thank you netgalley for this early read.
Empty nest syndrome, menopause, a loss of purpose and falling out of love with your significant other!
We all deal differently with life events and Alice is no exception, once her youngest leaves home Alice has a revelation that there must be more to life now she is no longer needed as a parent at home, her relationship with her husband is stilted and stale so being adventurous and spontaneous she embarks on extra marital activities and starts to feel rejuvenated and with purpose!
As Alice and her husband drift further apart, Xmas looms ever closer,Alice is dreading Xmas and all it entails but after a surprise disclosure from her youngest daughter suddenly Alice has a purpose in life once more as she is needed once again!
Although rather dated I really enjoyed this book and felt it was a very real reflection of middle age!
Thank you netgalley for this early read.
February 23, 2023
I was on the understanding that this was a new book release, then I found out that it was a re-release of a book released back in '89. I had wondered throughout as Alice's clothing choices, tartan skirts, brooches on her blouses had made me thnk it wasn't common attire for a woman of my age.
I personally don't have children, but the book was definitely relatable in terms of the menopause and finding myself being in a 'middle aged' rut.
The characters were relatable and their portrayal honest. While I felt for Peter, the downtrodden, unappreciated husband, I found myself disliking Alice for how she was treating him and for being so self centered. That's not how relationships work after all!
Nevertheless, Alice Alone is a quick, page turning read that questions the complexities of marriage and relationships when the inevitable empty nest syndrome kicks in.
Many thanks to Rachel's Random Resources for my tour spot.
Rating ⭐⭐⭐⭐
I personally don't have children, but the book was definitely relatable in terms of the menopause and finding myself being in a 'middle aged' rut.
The characters were relatable and their portrayal honest. While I felt for Peter, the downtrodden, unappreciated husband, I found myself disliking Alice for how she was treating him and for being so self centered. That's not how relationships work after all!
Nevertheless, Alice Alone is a quick, page turning read that questions the complexities of marriage and relationships when the inevitable empty nest syndrome kicks in.
Many thanks to Rachel's Random Resources for my tour spot.
Rating ⭐⭐⭐⭐
February 22, 2023
Rereleased, this is actually Amanda Brookfield’s debut novel. Set in the 1980s, it portrays life through the eyes of the central character, Alice, as she struggles to deal with ’empty nest’ syndrome when her youngest child leaves home.
What is particularly poignant is the obvious depiction of the era; a time when attitudes towards women and expectations of wives within marriages was very different to today.
The writing style makes this an easy read, even if the content is sometimes a little uncomfortable. It would certainly suit readers who have an understanding of the era or those who have maybe found themselves in Alice’s situation.
I can imagine that readers’ reactions to Alice and her behaviour will vary widely based on their own personal beliefs and experiences. Nevertheless, it is an engaging exploration into her life and mind.
With thanks to the author, Rachel at Random Resources and Boldwood Books for the opportunity to participate in the tour.
What is particularly poignant is the obvious depiction of the era; a time when attitudes towards women and expectations of wives within marriages was very different to today.
The writing style makes this an easy read, even if the content is sometimes a little uncomfortable. It would certainly suit readers who have an understanding of the era or those who have maybe found themselves in Alice’s situation.
I can imagine that readers’ reactions to Alice and her behaviour will vary widely based on their own personal beliefs and experiences. Nevertheless, it is an engaging exploration into her life and mind.
With thanks to the author, Rachel at Random Resources and Boldwood Books for the opportunity to participate in the tour.
January 27, 2023
This felt like a book of two halves - the first was 50 something Alice coming to terms with an empty nest after her youngest daughter Robin leaves home and Alice is left with endless days ahead of her with no substance. She then embarks on a different, secret life as which brings excitement and love into her life.
The second half of the book is set around when Christmas when Robin returns home and never leaves and all the while, Alice is nursing a broken heart.
Set in the 80s this feels like a book of its time - although Alice is in her 50s the way she is described she seems a lot older and quite dowdy and as I'm a woman in my 50s I hope to god, I'm nothing like her!
I didn't like her as a character, she came across as being really spoilt and selfish and even her daughter Robin seemed to be quite similar in personality.
The second half of the book is set around when Christmas when Robin returns home and never leaves and all the while, Alice is nursing a broken heart.
Set in the 80s this feels like a book of its time - although Alice is in her 50s the way she is described she seems a lot older and quite dowdy and as I'm a woman in my 50s I hope to god, I'm nothing like her!
I didn't like her as a character, she came across as being really spoilt and selfish and even her daughter Robin seemed to be quite similar in personality.
February 22, 2023
I thought this would be a more current book and I wish the synopsis had been more accurate about the time frame. It's a rewrite of a short story written years ago by the author and it takes place in 1986. However, much of it seems like it would be more appropriate to life in the 1950's.
I was fairly bored by the storyline (except for when Alice is mistaken for a prostitute!) and felt that the characterizations were a bit shallow and a little all over the place. It made for an interesting slice of life in the short space of a year of a woman after her youngest child leaves home. We can feel the ennui. If it was written anew today I would commend the author on establishing that voice and time. But again, this is not a book I would have chosen to read if I had known the era in which it takes place.
Thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for an advance reader's copy.
I was fairly bored by the storyline (except for when Alice is mistaken for a prostitute!) and felt that the characterizations were a bit shallow and a little all over the place. It made for an interesting slice of life in the short space of a year of a woman after her youngest child leaves home. We can feel the ennui. If it was written anew today I would commend the author on establishing that voice and time. But again, this is not a book I would have chosen to read if I had known the era in which it takes place.
Thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for an advance reader's copy.
February 21, 2023
This is a fantastic book about what life is like when the last of the children who have always needed you leave home and you feel redundant. I was totally engrossed from page one. A real page turner where I was unsure of the outcome until the last page. Alice Hatton is totally lost when youngest child leaves home and realised that empty nest syndrome is very much a real thing. The story then follows Alice as she tries to find herself again. A very honest and thought provoking that really looks at human nature, relationships and also friendships for women in the age bracket of 50+ I liked the fact that it also touched on how her husband dealt with it all. Thank you to Netgalley and Boldwood Books for the opportunity to read this in exchange for an honest review.
January 22, 2023
Thanks so much to NetGalley and Boldwood Books!
This book was originally published in the 80s.
Alice's last child has left the nest! She realizes she isn't in love with her husband anymore.
There's a lot in this book as Alice tries to figure out her life. It does feel dated at times (a cell phone would have made certain things easier), and I thought Alice was written a lot older than she actually was. It's not a bad book, but I had a hard time rooting for Alice. I think it was written like that though since she is doing things for herself and discovering her life in this new phase. It comes off at selfish at times, and I'm wondering if that was the intent of the author.
This book was originally published in the 80s.
Alice's last child has left the nest! She realizes she isn't in love with her husband anymore.
There's a lot in this book as Alice tries to figure out her life. It does feel dated at times (a cell phone would have made certain things easier), and I thought Alice was written a lot older than she actually was. It's not a bad book, but I had a hard time rooting for Alice. I think it was written like that though since she is doing things for herself and discovering her life in this new phase. It comes off at selfish at times, and I'm wondering if that was the intent of the author.
February 5, 2023
It’s the late 80’s and Alice is coming to terms with an empty nest after her youngest daughter leaves home and Alice is left with endless days ahead of her with not much purpose. She then embarks on a secret life of affairs, bringing excitement into her life.
Peter, Alice’s husband, has dreams about one of his employees. It’s his escape from his loveless marriage.
I don’t agree much with Alice, as far as what she does in the end, but it’s the 80’s and that’s what we did, sweeping it under the carpet.
I found the writing to be amazing, but the story to be boring.
Much thanks to the publisher, Author and NetGalley for the chance to read in exchange for an honest review.
Peter, Alice’s husband, has dreams about one of his employees. It’s his escape from his loveless marriage.
I don’t agree much with Alice, as far as what she does in the end, but it’s the 80’s and that’s what we did, sweeping it under the carpet.
I found the writing to be amazing, but the story to be boring.
Much thanks to the publisher, Author and NetGalley for the chance to read in exchange for an honest review.
January 14, 2023
I was given this book by NetGalley for an honest review-
After years of raising her children the last one leaves home. Alice is lost and finds she doesn’t love her husband.
With many empty hours she decides she must find herself and a new life. She heads out and finds herself in a one night stand and later an affair but will this bring happiness? Will is last?
And then The shock of her daughter coming home pregnant. Once again Anna’s life is full - but what will happen if her daughter and baby leave?
After years of raising her children the last one leaves home. Alice is lost and finds she doesn’t love her husband.
With many empty hours she decides she must find herself and a new life. She heads out and finds herself in a one night stand and later an affair but will this bring happiness? Will is last?
And then The shock of her daughter coming home pregnant. Once again Anna’s life is full - but what will happen if her daughter and baby leave?
February 9, 2023
It is surprising that this novel was Brookfield's debut novel writing about a season in life she can't know anything about. I do, though. I know how lonely and long days can seem when the children have left. The problem is that our heroine is acting out in a way I can't relate to and her manipulative manners are hard to digest.
December 31, 2007
I was so disappointed in the main character. I kept listening because I kept hoping the story was going to end up in a good place (the main character thought it did but I do not agree with her).
August 31, 2013
Debut novel. Set in London. Alice and her husband become empty nesters. Alice has affairs - her daughter has a baby.
January 23, 2014
Not a very good book. Very boring really.
August 12, 2015
enjoyed this story of the 'crisis' and how Alice gets through it...
February 25, 2019
It was quite old fashioned when reading it now. Didn't really enjoy it unfortunately as I am normally a fan of Amanda Brookfield
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