Since I Don't Have You - Louise Candlish

I've come to thinking one of the perks of a trip to TESCO is a quiet moment browsing the book isle (which only comes a close second to a nibble of something in the car on the way home). For a time I've felt mildly embarrassed regarding this means of selecting 'literature', alas it works for me... and this is how I met Louise Candlish.

In fact, I'm sure this meeting only happened by the chance of a 'Buy two for £8' or similar offer, a chance well spent I'd say.

This is a story about friends, dear friends, with lives that mingle and divide, and it’s about a pact made of love and protection. I found the honesty and reality of these relationships roused emotions felt for my own close friends, and from there on in, I felt like I was wearing Rachel's shoes.

Rachel's solitary trip to Santorini gives time and space for the reader to empathise with where life is taking her, for the most part against her will. The overwhelming love, hurt, uncertainty, frailty, and spirit to evolve from being subject to them all.

I was relieved to find the reality endured through to the conclusion of the book, even when brought to tears, I'd rather have honest bitter-sweet than sugar coated.

One of the unique things about this book - given that it sits amongst readers of light-hearted 'chick-lit' - is that it touched on things so precious, that it's stayed present in my thoughts, a reminder of the things in life worth investing in.