My Julian Barnes bingeing continues and it's still as satisfying as the first bitebook.

What a nice surprise to come across some old friends, the threesome made up of Gillian, Stuart and Oliver, whom I first met in Love, etc., which I listened to a couple of weeks ago. Even better, this book was beautifully narrated by the same extraordinary actors, Steven Pacey, Alex Jennings, Clare Higgins. You see, when I requested this audiobook, I had no idea what it was about.

Despite the fact that the characters and the plot were very familiar, I still enjoyed listening to the three of them bickering, interacting, reminiscing and having their different takes on what had happened. This novel focuses more on the beginning of Gillian's relationship with Stuart, followed by their divorce so that Gillian could marry Oliver, Stuart's best friend.

Again, the narration is absolutely divine, as the three characters are talking directly to us, in some ways pleading their case. I liked Gillian, despite the fact that she'd left the reliable, nice guy, albeit a bit boring, Stuart, for the good-looking charmer, with no substance or work ethic, Oliver.

Julian Barnes is a great observer of people. His intelligence and erudition are more than apparent. His command of the English language is astonishing. I feel smarter just by paying attention to his words. Being entertained and touched by his books is just a bonus.

Again, I take a bow.