The Break, by Marian Keyes

Amy is a busy 40-something with a business, three children and a lot on her plate. Following the deaths of his father and his friend, her husband Hugh has been sunk in a depression he can’t break free of. Hugh decides he needs a break from their life and their marriage; he will leave behind all responsibilities and go travelling in Asia for six months. But he’ll definitely be back. There is nothing Amy can do to dissuade him and she is left to deal with everything, torn between rage and heartbreak as she tries to stay afloat. But Hugh’s selfish decision means Amy is also on a break, with the opportunity to explore what she wants in life too. Keyes trademark wry funny style has the reader firmly in Amy’s corner, even while questioning some of her choices. The predictable conclusion is inevitable but a bit annoying, with the story very much about the journey rather than the destination.