Andrew lives alone, mostly estranged from his sister, with only a few friends through a model railway forum. But his colleagues think he's married with two children, and he doesn't know how to break through the lies he's told. His job is for the local council helping to arrange funerals for those who have died alone, part of it is trying to find out if they have any family who might be able to help - and he's starting to wonder if that's what will happen to him in a few years time. Until Peggy joins the team. Their burgeoning friendship starts to bring him out of his shell and into reality, via some horrendous dinner parties with colleagues, and virtual friends becoming real.

There are some nicely observed funny moments, and real tragedy behind Andrew's retreat from the world. The story is in a similar vein to Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine - and whilst I loved that and very much enjoyed this, I do hope we aren't going to have a rush of copycat books! I can recommend this one highly though, it's a good story, very believable and with real knowledge of what a pauper's funeral involves. Lots to think about!

I adored this. This is just what fans of Eleanor Oliphant have been waiting for.... heartwarming, uplifting, poignant, authentic and wise. Andrew is in his 40s with no real friends to speak of bar a few fellow model railway enthusiasts that he talks to online, a job with the council sorting through the homes of recently deceased who have no known next of kin..... and the small matter of a non existent wife and children who he made up in an awkward situation in a job interview.....
when his boss decides he wants to get to know his team better and suggests each person hosting a dinner party at their home Andrews white life is in danger of being uncovered and jeopardising all he has....
This has true multi generational appeal. So good. Read it!