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The Divorce Party
by Laura Dave

Published: 2009-04-28
Paperback : 272 pages
5 members reading this now
3 clubs reading this now
2 members have read this book
Recommended to book clubs by 3 of 3 members
The second novel from the acclaimed author of Eight Hundred Grapes

" Sizzle Factor: SPF 50. A secret marriage, lies about affairs . . . even sex on the day of the divorce party" (USA Today)-the hottest beach read of the summer


Laura Dave is widely recognized as an up-and-coming talent in ...
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Introduction

The second novel from the acclaimed author of Eight Hundred Grapes

" Sizzle Factor: SPF 50. A secret marriage, lies about affairs . . . even sex on the day of the divorce party" (USA Today)-the hottest beach read of the summer


Laura Dave is widely recognized as an up-and-coming talent in women's fiction. Now, with her characteristic wit and warmth, she captures a much-discussed cultural phenomenon that has never been profiled in fiction before-divorce celebrations. Set in Hamptons high society, The Divorce Party features two women-one newly engaged and one at the end of her marriage-trying to answer the same question: when should you fight to save a relationship, and when should you let go?

An insightful and funny multi-generational story, this deeply moving novel is sure to touch anyone whose heart has weathered an unexpected storm.

Editorial Review

No editorial review at this time.

Excerpt

Some years, I gaze around the Thanksgiving table and I feel almost painfully grateful for my own bounty, for the abundance that is my life, for everything that brought me to this moment, with these people, inside this light. ... view entire excerpt...

Discussion Questions

1. Nate suggests that people with some money act differently than people with a lot of money. What does he mean? If you were to come into a large sum of money, in what ways would you expect it to change you? How would you want your life to stay the same?
2. Gwyn seems to place most of the blame for her marital problems squarely on her husband. How much responsibility does Eve bear? Do you think Gwyn should have been harder on her? How much responsibility lies with Gwyn?
3. Put yourself in Maggie’s shoes. Would your trust in Nate be shattered? Do you think you’d be able to overcome your uncertainty about him? Is it ever best not to know the truth?
4. Do you think a divorce party is a good idea? Would you hold a celebration for a divorce or a break-up? Would you attend one?
5. How do you see Gwyn faring? What about her husband’s relationship with Eve? How do you expect it to evolve?
6. Should Gwyn have confronted Thomas earlier? How do you think their story would have been different?
7. In what ways has Maggie been affected by her mother’s leaving? What about Nate and Georgia? How have they been affected by their relationships with their parents?
8. Do you know women like Murphy? Why do you think she would make up a crazy story and make a stranger uncomfortable? Maggie could have avoided worrying about Murphy if she’d only confronted Nate about what Murphy said. If she’d come right out and asked him, do you think Maggie would have believed Nate’s denial?
9. Music is woven throughout The Divorce Party and is ultimately critical to the book’s resolution. Why is music such an important part of love stories?

Notes From the Author to the Bookclub

A note from Laura:

Is your reading group discussing THE DIVORCE PARTY? I'd love to join your discussion, either by answering questions by email or by scheduling a 30-minute call by SKYPE or speakerphone. My favorite part of publishing THE DIVORCE PARTY has been talking with reading groups around the country (and around the world!). Our discussions have taken us to so many surprising and wonderful places, and--wherever we go--I always seem to learn new things about family, love and relationships.

Please email me at [email protected], and we can set up a good time to speak. I look forward to connecting, and hope you enjoy THE DIVORCE PARTY!

Book Club Recommendations

Member Reviews

Overall rating:
 
 
  "Let's Party!"by Toni B. (see profile) 01/19/12

These girls are great! This book is filled with surprises for everyone! By the time i reached the section in this book that was the actual divorce party....I couldn't wait! I was like bring it on! I... (read more)

 
  "LOVED IT!"by caryn d. (see profile) 07/23/11

 
  "IMPOSSIBLE TO PUT DOWN"by dana j. (see profile) 05/22/09

From page 1, I was absolutely in love with this novel about two women who find themselves on different ends of marriage--one trying to start her life with her new fiance, one trying to leave her marriage... (read more)

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