Anita Brookner: The Bay of Angels [2001] paperback

When her widowed mother marries a wealthy older man and moves to Nice, Zoe's life changes forever. Alone in London, she discovers a new-found freedom and independence - until a sudden and tragic accident forces her to re-examine her life and expectations: maybe settling down isn't for everyone. For the first time Anita Brookner lays out the ground rules for a single life - not necessarily an uncomplicated one - and in the end shows that you can be single and happy.