Heart of the Matter by Emily Giffin

Short and sweet: Giffin is a Wahoo (law school). If that's not enough to convince you that her writing is good, then take my word for it. It is. Read her books.

My affinity for Giffin's writing has nothing to do with her status as an alumna (alumnus? whatever) of The University. It doesn't hurt though.

I've read all of her novels. I've liked all of her novels. This one was interesting. It explores one single relationship from the perspective of two people (only one of whom is directly involved) who are affected by its existence -- the wife and the mistress. And get this - you don't hate the mistress. Do you hate the husband? Clearly. I don't know if I could ever find an author talented enough to make me like the cheating husband. But you don't hate the mistress, and I think that's a sign of what a good author Giffin is. Nothing feels contrived. It all feels like something that could really happen to someone you know (although I hope not to any of you...or myself).

It's not funny, it's not lighthearted, but it's not so heavy that you feel like you have to put it down (or in the freezer). It'll make you think.