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52 pages 1 hour read

Ghosts

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2020

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Book Brief

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Dolly Alderton

Ghosts

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2020
Book Details
Pages

338

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

London • Contemporary

Theme
Publication Year

2020

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

Ghosts by Dolly Alderton follows 32-year-old Nina Dean, a food writer navigating the complexities of online dating while managing her father's dementia diagnosis and dealing with the evolving dynamics of friendships and relationships. The novel explores themes like gender roles, relationship changes, and caregiving for someone with cognitive decline.

Contemplative

Bittersweet

Melancholic

Reviews & Readership

4.1

134,574 ratings

70%

Loved it

24%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Dolly Alderton's Ghosts deftly explores modern relationships with humor and poignancy, capturing the complexities of love, friendship, and self-discovery. Critics praise the relatable characters and witty dialogue, though some find the plot predictable. Overall, it balances sincerity and satire, making it an engaging read for contemporary fiction fans.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Ghosts?

Readers who enjoy contemporary romances with a touch of humor and keen social observation, such as in Bridget Jones's Diary by Helen Fielding or How to Be a Woman by Caitlin Moran, will likely find Ghosts by Dolly Alderton captivating. The book features relatable characters and explores modern dating, friendships, and personal growth.

4.1

134,574 ratings

70%

Loved it

24%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

Character List

Nina Michael Dean

Nina is the protagonist and narrator, a food writer navigating the complexities of online dating, past relationships, and familial responsibilities, all of which challenge her independence and self-assurance.

Nina’s oldest friend, married with two children, whose evolving role as a mother affects her friendship with Nina and illustrates the pressures of maintaining a perfect image.

Nina’s single, vivacious friend who provides comic relief, guidance in online dating, and a strong sense of companionship amid their contrasting personalities.

Nina’s first serious relationship from a dating app, characterized by initial passion and unexplained disappearance, complicating her views on love and trust.

Nina’s ex-partner who remains a friend; his stable relationship with someone else contrasts with Nina’s romantic struggles, offering a sense of closure and reflection.

Book Details
Pages

338

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

London • Contemporary

Theme
Publication Year

2020

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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