Billed as "For fans of Lessons in Chemistry or The Help", "In The Family Way" is a moving and thoughtful look at motherhood, what it is to be a woman and what secrets lie behind closed doors.

Set in 1960s suburban America, we are introduced to a group of women who are carving out their path in life bound by the strictures of patriarchal society. They are all well realised and are brave, compassionate, foolish and flawed all at the same time.

Whilst the tone of the writing is generally light-hearted don't let it fool you, this story deals with difficult topics including domestic violence, sexual assault, underage pregnancy and abortion. It doesn't shy away from the facts and the reality of life for many women during this period so some readers may struggle during the middle third because of that (I know I certainly did). But, as I found, it is worth sticking through those sections as the final third is a wonderful wrap up for all of our characters. 

This is a thought provoking, insightful and well written story that draws you in and doesn't let go and comes highly recommended.