Parlour Games

‘Mavis Cheek may well be the spokeswoman for a generation.’ Observer

Celia, housewife, mother and wonderful cook, is celebrating her fortieth birthday.

In her smart London home, her major worries are private schooling and the misplaced zeal of Neighbourhood Watch vigilantes. But the house of cards collapses around her, as friends and a sister turn edgy and fickle, a long-time admirer turns into a crude jester, and Celia spies her husband embracing a ghastly woman in a ‘Come Dancing’ frock.

‘A very funny book – one of those rare books that make you laugh out loud. Imagine the wicked social observation of Jilly Cooper mixed with the needle wit of Fay Weldon and you’ll get the picture.’ New Woman

‘Cheek is a witty, original writer.’ Sunday Telegraph

‘Mavis Cheek has a sharp ear and a wicked eye for the discreet lack of charm of the bourgeoisie.’ The Times