I have just finished Marian Keyes new novel This Charming Man, and I must say that I am wholly undecided whether I actually like this book or not?

The ‘charming’ or not so charming protagonist, Paddy De Courcy is an evil Irish politician and the embodiment of fear itself for all the women involved in the plot. He is a serial domestic abuser and the plot follows the relationships he has with various women, gradually revealing the violence behind the seemingly perfect façade.

I think the feminine and sparkly cover betrayed the harsh, gritty storyline within; I expected a light hearted rom-com style read, and instead got a graphic insight into the imprisoned life a sufferer of domestic violence leads.

This is not to say this ‘informative’ novel is bad, just unexpected and very sad. Keyes is clever in the way she portrays the acrimonious Paddy, first making you empathise with his situation lulling you into a false representation of his character, and then swiftly pulling the rug from beneath your feet!

The violent scenes are somewhat heartbreaking, which should in effect make it a gripping and good read, however I still come to the conclusion that it is just not something I would like to read about.

Sorry Keyes, although it is an educating read it is just not my cup of tea!

Rating: 2/5