Five years after leaving university, Lizzie Jordan considers herself one of life''s failures.

Unlike her highflying friends, Lizzie works as a typist, shares a grotty flat and ''makes do'' with an unexciting boyfriend.

But she has a secret love - Brian, a handsome American she dated at university, five years ago. In her emails she pretends her life is a whirl of extravagant parties and million-pound business deals.

Then one day, Brian announces he''s coming to stay! Lizzie''s secret life is about to be rumbled unless she comes up with a cunning plan. But even the most best-laid plans have a habit of going horribly wrong...

Praise for Chrissie Manby

Very funny, hugely feel-good, and the perfect antidote for anyone who worries that the only career ladder they''ve achieved is a run in their tights - Fiona Walker

Nothing short of brilliant - Marie Claire