This is only one of many books I have read this long, hot, lazy, French summer but it is the best. The sensitive story of a friendship which slides into a love affair that never really happens has all the subtlety of the book's title. Mercedes, Sadie, Poppy, three names for the complex heroine; you will want to say to her 'Stop! Stay with your nice husband who smiles even when he is sleeping'.
(Sandra Lee - bwl 5 October 2000 ) |
