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.

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.

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

- Ghosts is the debut novel by Dolly Alderton, who is also known for her bestselling memoir Everything I Know About Love.
- The book explores contemporary themes such as online dating and modern relationships, often drawing from Alderton's personal experiences and observations.
- Dolly Alderton has received acclaim for her insightful examination of female friendship and the complexities of adult life, seamlessly crossing the boundary from non-fiction to fiction with Ghosts.

**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.

**Katherine**  
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.

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

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

**Joe**  
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.

Dolly Alderton

Adult

Novel

Fiction

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Prologue-Part 1, Chapter 3

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Part 1, Chapters 4-6

Ghosts Part 1, Chapters 4-6 Summary & Analysis

Part 1, Chapters 7-10

Ghosts Part 1, Chapters 7-10 Summary & Analysis

Part 2, Chapters 11-13

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Part 2, Chapter 14-Epilogue

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