Fiona Caine answers your problems

My ex-husband was very violent towards me and I've been divorced for three years.

I have, perhaps surprisingly, remained close to my in-laws who treat me like one of the family.

My ex-husband's brother recently separated from his wife and has moved back to be with his parents, so I now meet him when I go around there.

He is the complete opposite to my ex and is kind, considerate and very thoughtful.

For some reason, though, his mother is very protective towards him and she does not like him talking to me.

He seems very interested in me though and I have wondered what would happen if we took things further.

I wouldn't want to upset my mother-in-law, but he seems like a really nice guy.

P. G.

FIONA SAYS: IT COULD BE TRICKY

Your in-laws may treat you like of one of the family, but that clearly does not extend to the idea of a relationship between you and their other son.

If you try to go against their wishes in this, I think you can expect a fairly bumpy ride and the good relationship you've had to date will probably be lost.

You are both adults, though and, if you genuinely care for each other, there is no real reason why you should both pass up a chance at happiness.

I would suggest you are cautious and take things slowly though - you don't know why his marriage broke down for a start, so don't go expecting too much. It may be that your mother-in-law is trying to protect you from another mistake!