Graham Cavanaugh finds himself caught between the chaotic charm of his second wife, Audra, and the reemergence of his first wife, Elspeth. Audra's unconventionality, from her non-stop chatter during childbirth to her open-door policy for the doorman and the Origami Club, makes life exhausting yet vibrant. As Graham navigates the daily challenges of marriage and raising a child with Asperger's, Elspeth's return forces him to question his choices and the very nature of love and commitment. The narrative explores the complexities of past and present relationships within the framework of modern domestic life.

The novel is praised for its humor and sharp observations on contemporary relationships, with the Daily Mail calling it 'The Best Feel-Good Novel Around.' Readers and critics alike have noted Katherine Heiny's ability to capture the often exhausting, yet ultimately endearing, realities of marriage and family life. The book's strength lies in its relatable portrayal of difficult choices and the messy, unpredictable nature of love. It offers a witty and insightful look at how past relationships continue to shape present lives.