Author: Plum Sykes
Genres: fiction
“Wives Like Us” by Plum Sykes is set in the idyllic yet socially competitive Cotswold villages of Little Bottom, Middle Bottom, Great Bottom, and Monkton Bottom. The novel paints a vivid picture of the lives of the wealthy elite, affectionately dubbed the “Country Princesses,” who inhabit these picturesque English countryside locales. The story unfolds against a backdrop of opulent country homes, lavish parties, and the intricate social hierarchies that define the lives of its characters.
Plum Sykes, renowned for her sharp wit and keen observations of high society, brings her signature style to “Wives Like Us,” infusing the narrative with humor and satire. The author, who gained fame with her best-selling novels “Bergdorf Blondes” and “Party Girls Die in Pearls,” once again explores the themes of social status, friendship, and resilience through the lens of her quirky and endearing characters.
Summary
“Wives Like Us” by Plum Sykes is a hilarious and smart satire set in the picturesque yet drama-filled Cotswold villages of Little Bottom, Middle Bottom, Great Bottom, and Monkton Bottom. The story revolves around Tata Hawkins, an American divorcée Selby Fairfax, and a quirky ensemble of characters, including rich wives, tycoons, a butler, and even a pair of miniature sausage dogs.
After a major argument about a missing suite of diamonds, Tata moves out of Monkton Bottom Manor with her daughter and butler, Ian Palmer, to teach her husband a lesson. Meanwhile, Bryan, Tata’s husband, escapes to Venice with a bikini designer. As Tata struggles to regain her status and navigate the complexities of her relationships, the novel delivers a comedy of errors filled with sharp wit and keen observations about the upper crust of English society. “Wives Like Us” is a delightful blend of humor and heart, making it a perfect read for those looking for a light yet engaging story set against the backdrop of the beautiful British countryside.
Main characters
Tata Hawkins: The protagonist, a wealthy and stylish woman who leaves her husband after a fight over missing diamonds. Tata is determined, headstrong, and always aiming to maintain her status.
Selby Fairfax: An American divorcée who inherits the estate next to Tata’s. She is glamorous, independent, and initially reluctant to befriend Tata.
Ian Palmer: The executive butler who follows Tata after she leaves her husband. Ian is efficient, loyal, and has a penchant for vintage Gucci loafers.
Bryan Hawkins: Tata’s husband, who flees to Venice with a bikini designer, leaving Tata to fend for herself and their daughter.
Sophie Thompson and Fernanda Ovington-Williams: Tata’s best friends, each dealing with their own heartaches and distractions.
The Pennybacker-Hoare Sisters: The posh siblings plotting to keep Tata from reclaiming her position as the Queen of the Bottoms.
Plot
The plot of “Wives Like Us” centers around Tata Hawkins’s efforts to rebuild her life and regain her social standing after a dramatic fallout with her husband. Tata’s journey is fraught with humorous and sometimes absurd obstacles, from dealing with her estranged husband’s antics to navigating the complex dynamics of the local elite. The story is a comedic exploration of friendship, rivalry, and the pursuit of happiness in a world where appearances often matter more than reality. The subplots involving Selby Fairfax’s adjustment to her new life, Ian Palmer’s attempts to keep everything running smoothly, and the various misadventures of Tata’s friends and rivals add richness and variety to the narrative.
Writing style
Plum Sykes’s writing style in “Wives Like Us” is sharp, witty, and effortlessly chic. Her ability to blend humor with social commentary makes for an engaging and entertaining read. The dialogues are crisp, and the descriptions of the Cotswold countryside and the luxurious lifestyles of the characters are vivid and immersive. Sykes has a knack for capturing the absurdity of the elite with a light-hearted touch, making the book both laugh-out-loud funny and subtly insightful.
Themes
“Wives Like Us” explores several themes, including:
Social Status and Appearance: The novel delves into the importance placed on social standing and how characters go to great lengths to maintain their positions.
Friendship and Rivalry: The relationships between the women in the story highlight both the supportive and competitive aspects of their friendships.
Love and Betrayal: Tata’s tumultuous relationship with her husband and the romantic entanglements of other characters underscore the complexities of love and trust.
Resilience and Reinvention: Tata’s journey is a testament to the power of resilience and the ability to reinvent oneself in the face of adversity.
message
The core message of “Wives Like Us” is about the resilience of the human spirit and the importance of maintaining a sense of humor in the face of life’s challenges. The novel encourages readers to find strength in friendships, embrace their individuality, and not take themselves too seriously. It is a reminder that, regardless of the glittering facades, everyone faces their own set of struggles and that sometimes, a good laugh is the best way to cope.
Strength
One of the primary strengths of “Wives Like Us” is its humor. Plum Sykes has a talent for crafting witty and sharp observations that make the book a joy to read. The characters are well-drawn and relatable in their flaws, making their antics both amusing and endearing. The setting of the Cotswold villages adds a charming and picturesque backdrop to the story, enhancing the overall reading experience. Additionally, the novel’s lighthearted approach to serious themes like betrayal and resilience makes it an uplifting and enjoyable read.
Weakness
While “Wives Like Us” is a delightful read, some readers might find the focus on materialism and the privileged lifestyles of the characters off-putting. The emphasis on designer clothes, luxurious homes, and social status might seem excessive to those looking for more depth and substance in a story. Additionally, the pacing of the novel can be uneven, with certain parts feeling drawn out and repetitive, particularly the numerous descriptions of food and fashion. Some readers may also struggle to keep track of the large cast of characters and their various subplots.
conclusion
In conclusion, “Wives Like Us” by Plum Sykes is a fun and entertaining satire that offers a humorous glimpse into the lives of the wealthy and privileged. While it may not be everyone’s cup of tea, those who enjoy lighthearted comedies with a touch of social commentary will find much to appreciate. The novel’s witty writing, engaging characters, and picturesque setting make it a delightful escape into a world of opulence and hilarity.
Reader’s experience
Reading “Wives Like Us” is like indulging in a guilty pleasure. The book’s humor and charm make it a perfect companion for a lazy afternoon or a summer vacation. The relatable struggles and triumphs of the characters, despite their exaggerated lifestyles, offer a comforting and enjoyable reading experience. The novel’s ability to make readers laugh and forget their worries, even if only for a while, is its greatest strength.
recommendation
“Wives Like Us” is highly recommended for readers who enjoy witty and humorous takes on social dynamics and relationships. Fans of Plum Sykes’s previous works, such as “Bergdorf Blondes” and “Party Girls Die in Pearls,” will find this novel to be a worthy addition to their collections. It is also a great choice for those looking for a light, entertaining read that doesn’t take itself too seriously. However, if you prefer more profound and introspective literature, this might not be the book for you. For everyone else, “Wives Like Us” promises a delightful and laughter-filled reading experience.
Happy Reading 🙂
Book Available on Amazon :https://www.amazon.com/Wives-Like-Us-Plum-Sykes/dp/0062429086
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