The Ex-Boyfriend's Handbook - Matt Dunn

The cover of the Ex-Boyfriend's Handbook by Matt Dunn caught my eye, but it the cover blurb by Sophie Kinsella definitely intrigued me. One of my favourite chick lit authors recommending a male 'chick lit' author? Well....it was a good recommendation! What a fun read this was!

Edward Middleton is happily settled into a ten year relationship with Jane. But Jane isn't as happily settled...Edward comes home one day to an empty apartment and a note from Jane, who has headed off to Tibet for three months to 'sort some things out'.

"I suggest you use this opportunity to take a long hard look at yourself in the mirror. P.S. I realize at this point I'm supposed to say something like 'it's not you, it's me', but in actual fact, it is you."

With the help of his friend Dan, Edward sets out to be the new, improved Edward when Jane returns in three months.

Dunn has perfectly captured the 'other side of the coin' if you will - chick lit from the male point of view.  I loved the character of Edward - he was warm and real, someone you would like to have as a friend - or a boyfriend! His journey towards 'the new Edward' is by turns hilarious, heartbreaking and eye opening.  The character of Dan is pretty much a polar opposite - a walking talking cliche overly consumed with the mirror and himself.  The dialogue between the two is quite witty. I quite enjoyed the supporting character of Wendy - the local barmaid. I think she has a story to tell as well.

I enjoy chick lit and was pleasantly surprised by Dunn's writing. This was such an easy, entertaining read. I enjoyed the male perspective and protagonist. I would definitely pick up another book by this author.

Dunn's 6th novel - The Accidental Proposal - will be a sequel to The Ex-Boyfriend's Handbook. You can find Matt Dunn on Twitter.