Suddenly Single

I discovered the books of Sheila O'Flanagan just a month ago, during a trip to Ireland. I bought "He's Got To Go" on a whim; I liked the book so much, I made a special run to Canada for more! O'Flanagan specializes in female protagonists who are strong, seemingly in control of their successful lives -- and then utterly stunned when love goes awry. Alix Callaghan fits the type to a tee -- a banker at the top of her game, generally out of touch with her feelings, rigidly in charge of her mostly-male office, and living with a man she loves. Trouble is, he wants a family, and a more traditional partner -- and Alix can't be that woman.The book focuses on Alix's journey from a bewildered, rejected, and ultimately lost person to someone with a bit more balance and perspective in her life. Anyone who's ever been unexpectedly dumped (and utterly unable to cope) will identify with her actions -- spying on her ex and his new love is just one example.Meanwhile, O'Flanagan weaves in a sub-plot about Alix's father, who walked out on her, her sister and her mother when Alix was just 3. The family dynamics ring true; her domestic, slightly nosy older sister and concerned, and also slightly nosy, mother are believable, sympathetic characters. As is Alix, really: even in 2003, it can be difficult to be a woman in a man's world, constantly striving to prove herself, and shutting down her softer side in the process. A good read? You bet. And definitely worth the border crossing!