Everything Is Perfect (Maxine Fawcett, Michael Joseph)

The protagonists of what was once deemed ‘chick lit’ have grown older and now face the trials of middle age. In Maxine Fawcett’s debut novel, Everything Is Perfect, Cassandra is no exception. Between the ongoing fallout of a difficult childhood, her declining mother who lives overseas, her children’s struggles, missing her career and the sense of achievement it gave her, and a stale marriage, Cassandra’s life unravels. Symptomatic of this is her fondness for shopping, caring about appearances, drinking and, most chillingly, an unshakeable obsession with a recently widowed school dad that turns into stalking. In short, everything is far from perfect in her life. While her misguided beliefs and actions mean Cass is not an overly likeable character, Cass’s behaviour might arouse some reader sympathy in highlighting what can happen when trauma remains unprocessed and relationship issues aren’t addressed. Cass’s story drives the plot, but she’s accompanied by a well-drawn crew of minor characters, including children, friends, and an insular school-gate community. Sprinkled with humour, the tension in the novel builds as Cass’s behaviour deteriorates and her hidden tragedies and life choices bring her unstuck. Set on Sydney’s Northern Beaches, this novel is less densely woven than some other commercial women’s fiction titles, but will sit comfortably in the shadows of popular giants such as Sally Hepworth and Liane Moriarty. It should suit those who enjoy character-driven suburban dramas.

Books+Publishing reviewer: Joanne Shiells is a former editor of Books+Publishing and current high school English teacher. Books+Publishing is Australia’s number-one source of pre-publication book reviews.

Books+Publishing pre-publication reviews are supported by the Copyright Agency Cultural Fund.

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