Despite being very well-written I found the novel a frustrating read, largely due to its languid pace and taking far too long to broach the contents of the much purported letter. The first detail that Seddon reveals regarding it comes on page 216 with where it was found, but as to the content it proves unforthcoming. For too long I floundered as the story explores the evolution of a friendship but never really sets it stall out and it is this which sapped my enthusiasm for staying invested and when it comes, the secret proves a damp squib. The denouement feels rushed and unconvincing and whilst I appreciate that love comes in many forms and maintaining a constant friendship with one’s partner is pivotal, individuals also change, mature and their paths diverge and they are often unrecognisable as the children they were. Disappointedly the blazing argument heading into the finale is the first time that the reader is offered a window into Paul’s mindset and his character articulating his feelings. Prior to this the reader is left in the dark and I really do think the story would have benefitted from being in part narrated by Paul. That the underwhelming conclusion is explored in little depth does not help and in the end the marriage felt like forcing a round peg into a square hole and thus the story left me unmoved.