To Have and to Hold by Helen Chandler

From the outside, Ella has the happy marriage, the cute kids and the comfortable home - inside, she craves something more. But giving in to temptation will stir up a whole heap of trouble . . . Imogen's relationship with Pete was once fun and carefree but since they've become parents, everything is different. Then an accident provides the catalyst for a life-changing decision. Fifteen-year-old Phoebe is miserable at home and at school. And now her dad, who was always her ally, seems completely distracted by something - or someone. Maybe it's time Phoebe took a stand, and took control of her own life. As Ella, Imogen and Phoebe contemplate taking the biggest risk of their lives, marriages, families and friendships hang in the balance. Should they take the leap, or will they risk losing everything?

To Have and to Hold follows the story of three girls who are all at a low and depressing point in their lives. Ella seems to have a loving husband and idyllic family set up but she still feels as though something is missing. Her friend Imogen is in a relationship with Pete but their relationship is hanging on by a thread , Imogen clearly doesn't love him anymore but feels she should stay for their daughters sake. Then there is Phoebe who is coming up to her important exams but her world is a constant battle ground, bullied at school about her weight and when she comes home the battle continues with her mum.

I loved both Imogen and Phoebe, their characters were very different but yet their problems both need them to be strong, make a choice and make a big change for their lives. I felt I could relate to Phoebe the most so I looked forward to her parts in the book the most.
I really didn't like Ella which is the first time in a long time that I haven't liked a main character. I couldn't relate to her and also I couldn't believe her flippant actions. This aside I still thoroughly enjoyed this book, the storyline managed to hold my attention the whole way through. There are a variety of day to day problems covered in this book from weight issues to adultery to name a few so the storyline was actually quiet believable.

I enjoyed this book and would recommend if your looking for a book with characters you can relate to and a realistic storyline with an easy writing style.

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