Contemporary
Odile, a French woman living in Edinburgh, may be getting older, but she refuses to fade away or conform to what is expected of her. Like her friends, old and new, Odile is a testament that mature women acquire their strength through the struggles of life.
After all that experience, sacrifice, rage even, she is determined to remain relevant. She intends to live her precious life to the full and very much on her terms.
Odile has worked hard at leaving her past behind. With time, she has forged her own path and raised her daughter, Rowan, singlehandedly, against the odds. Yet, the past has a habit of resurfacing, no matter what. Besides, what she calls her past belongs to her daughter too, and it is Rowan who will put Odile to the test.
Is Odile really the woman she thinks she is? Can she find her way of making things right and discover her own way of ageing well? Her quest begins.
Here's what readers have to say about this book....
I loved this book. Emotional, brave and particulary gripping in parts. Could not wait to turn the page....... I totally get that some of us over 60 may feel overlooked, undervalued and underestimated by society today. But in 'Grey Matters' Danielle proved to us that if you have a dream, whatever your age, just go for it. Danielle also managed to capture the importance of having true friends. The bond between friends. Friends who deeply care about each other is as described a beautiful thing to experience. Can't wait for the next book.
I read this book in 2 sittings and thoroughly enjoyed it. I will definitely read it again as I think it is one of those books that makes you think and examine your own thoughts, ideas and feelings- beautifully written.
This is a compelling but sensitive portrayal of a very difficult subject matter. I loved how the relationships were portrayed, particularly across the generations. We recognise elements of Odile and her friends in all of us and that relatability is what makes it a great read. All in all a superb debut.
This book was well written and was very difficult to put down. It was so thought provoking and made me think about my life. Once you get to a certain age you can easily forget what matters in your life. When children leave home and you are at retirement age it is difficult to find your new life. I thoroughly enjoyed it.
What a joy it is to read this novel! The story has so many interesting and skilfully intermingled strands and the contrast between light and dark is fascinating and, at times, shocking. The examination of women’s friendships and relationships - love and conflict - is uplifting and compelling. The book is hugely insightful and exudes honesty. Brilliant.
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