The Weekend by Charlotte Wood

3 1/2 stars
Four older women friends have been coming together at this Australian beach house for years. This time is very different because Sylvie isn't with them and they are there to sort through her things, tidy the house and grieve. Jude arrives with her ancient deaf dog who is barely hanging on with a thread but he is Jude's lifeline and she can't let him go. Wendy is a bit of a mess and Adele seems to be hoping to reclaim some of the celebrity of her youth. Too much wine, too much drama and too many dog accidents as well as unwelcome guests make for a week of truth none of them want. While not a happy book it does feel very genuine about long time female friendships and growing old.