Virginia Lloyd was single at 32, married at 33, and widowed at 34.
A young professional woman finally meets the man she wants to spend the rest of her life with, only to discover that he is terminally ill. After her beloved John's death from cancer, Virginia was faced with addressing the chronic rising damp problem in the house they had shared and, over her first year as a young widow, her house had to dry from the inside out - and so did Virginia.
The Young Widow's Book of Home Improvement is a wry and touching love story that plays with the parallels between our homes and ourselves.
'This clear-eyed memoir about love, life, grief and renewal is full of humorous touches and unexpected moments.' Australian Women's Weekly
'Reading Lloyd's reconstructions of their conversations, and her later thoughts on life without her soul mate could be maudlin and soppy, but they actually shine with love and leave you feeling happy that there could be such love in the world.' Bookseller + Publisher
'This book's power lies in its gentle reminder that we should all live this way; that at the end of your days to have loved and be loved is the greatest achievement of all.' Good Reading
'The story that unfolds within its oddly serene-looking cover is more nuanced than this suggests, both more painful and more joyous … The house like Lloyd herself, was weeping.' Sun Herald
'This book is both profound and universal. It is a truly remarkable piece of writing, which should be read by everyone who wants to understand the mysteries of love and death.' Sydney Morning Herald
'The writing is skilfully controlled, incredibly honest and at times very funny. This is a beautifully written love story that is far more about love than it is about death. A very rewarding read.' Manly Daily
'Eschewing wretchedness and sentimentality, this work is a requiem for Lloyd’s beloved husband and a testimony to her own survival. It is valiant compelling writing.' Age
'From great loss comes a gift in the form of this lovely, insightful book.' Australian Women’s Weekly
'A quite remarkable memoir.' Sydney Morning Herald / Age
