At first I found this decision strange, but I came to realise that it simply emphasises the point that the protagonist’s story can be applied to anyone, and her sense of anonymity allows the reader to position themselves within the story.

One of the things which really struck me about this novel is that the protagonist, a thirty-something struggling writer who moves from her home in Ireland to London to forge a new life with Theo, remains unnamed throughout the novel. Hazel Hayes does a fantastic job of introducing many important contemporary issues, and examines how all of these outside pressures can take their toll on a couple. Another strong figure within the story is Theo’s mother, who creates conflict between the couple derived from her alcoholism and her desire to control Theo and his relationships, which is born out of a place of loneliness. As a woman of colour, Maya also takes pride in her heritage, and helps promote the idea of individualism, as well as being a shoulder to cry on. Amongst the host of secondary characters, I’m sure many readers will agree with me when I say that Maya, the protagonist’s best friend, was by far my favourite. The protagonist’s frequent expression of her Irish heritage displays just how important it is to stay connected to your roots and to the people who have helped form your identity. As well as the central relationship between the protagonist and Theo, Hazel Hayes also examines the dynamics between the couple and their friends and family.

Out of love book hazel hayes