City of Friends

City of Friends is the standout twentieth novel from the esteemed Joanna Trollope, taking the top spot in bestsellers. As Stacey Grant checks her phone once more, she sees various messages: pleas from her friends, notes from her colleagues, and an unusually demanding one from Steve saying, 'Call me.' Yet, she finds herself unable to respond to anyone. Sitting tense at the edge of her seat, she stares at the ground and wonders if she’s losing her sanity. Is this what happens when a career abruptly ends?Losing her job seems like the end of the world for Stacey. Her identity had always been tied to being a high-powered City executive, holding a Senior Partner position at one of London's premier private equity firms. Now, Stacey must come to terms with a life void of professional success, filled instead with days at home, caring for her dog and ill mother while waiting for her accomplished husband to return. Despite her circumstances, she can still rely on her long-time friends, known as The Girls—Beth, Melissa, and Gaby—who’ve stood by her from university days through myriad highs and lows.However, these successful women are not without their personal struggles. When Stacey’s job loss uncovers a betrayal meant to remain hidden, their enduring bonds face the ultimate challenge, testing their friendships to unprecedented limits.