Thank you Netgalley & Harper Collins Focus for an arc of this book!
The summary of this really pulled me in. It's set in the 60's and it is basically about a group of women who create a book club and their life throughout the years as they grow closer and go through life together. I enjoyed the overall plot and themes. Some themes include: feminism, societal pressures, gender roles, emotional maturity, and racism.
However, I couldn't connect with any of the characters. Not sure if it was their language or the events of the book but it never clicked for me. I did enjoy Bitsy and Viv's relationship though.
The author's connection of this book and her mother is touching. I'll be interested in checking out future works by her!

Thank you NetGalley for the audio ARC. I'm glad I wasn't an adult woman in the early 60's. These women's careers were destroyed when they got married & had children. Your husband was head of the household. Just an example: A woman's husband had to sign for her to get Birth Control. I truly enjoyed "The Betty's" book club. They formed a friendship and bonded over books. I will make sure our book club reads this one and may even read " The Feminine Mystique" by Betty Friedman.

I found The Bookclub for Troublesome Women to be one of those reads (or listens, in this case) that left me thinking about the characters repeatedly, even after I had finished it. Each of the four female main characters was so uniquely different, and incredibly loveable in their own ways, and it was so incredibly easy for me as a listener to connect with their stories and the overall messages this novel conveys.

Lisa Flannagan was new to me as a narrator, but I think the way in which she narrated this story was perfectly paced, and she added such a distinct charm and personality to each character. Listening to the lives of these 1960's suburban housewives felt so immersive to the point where I was laughing and crying along. This book is such a testament to the importance of friendship and the power of female support and comradery.

Cannot wait until this is published, so I can pitch it to the local bookclub I attend - 100% certain it will go a treat

Thank you to NetGalley, the author, and Harper Muse Audiobooks for an advanced copy of the audiobook in exchange for a review

Thank you HarperCollins Focus | Harper Muse and Netgalley for ALC

This is an excellent audiobook; Lisa Flanagan does a superb job capturing the characters and the era.

Audiobook rating: 5 ⭐️

Novel rating: TBD

I love historical fiction with strong female characters. This was such a fantastic read. I really enjoyed the characters and their relationship. The narration was excellent too.

While this was not so much about a book club like most book clubs are not I really enjoyed the book overall. I did get confused at the beginning about who was who as far as characters. This book takes place in the 1960s and I really felt transported to that time. The women are treated so much differently and not in a good way by husbands, co-workers, most men. The female friendship between all the women was refreshing and I also liked how the women stood up for themselves throughout the book. Each woman was so different and I liked getting to know each one. I look forward to the author`s next book and am going to go back and read her earlier books too.

The Book Club for Troublesome Women by Marie Bostwick is a witty, heartwarming, and refreshingly honest celebration of female friendship, self-discovery, and the quiet rebellion of living life on your own terms.

From the first few chapters, I instantly fell in love with the narration and how the story was going. 

Margaret Ryan has it all. She lives her American dream—she is a housewife, has kids and lives in the best suburb. She must be happy. And she must not be ungrateful nor desire for more. But deep inside, Margaret believes she wants more from her life. 

She starts a book club and invites her other housewife friends, Charlotte, Bitsy, and Viv.  Soon the women realize they have far more in common than a love of reading.

Each character arrives with her own set of challenges: there is a career burnout, a recent divorcee, a woman facing retirement, a single mom juggling too much, and a free spirit searching for meaning. Their stories unfold with humour, vulnerability, and resilience, weaving together a rich tapestry of modern womanhood.

We must keep in mind that this is 1960s America, where women were fed with a dream that they were considered blessed if they were full-time housewives and that their men were the providers. 

As a woman, I do not think that this is a hundred percent bad idea as when you have babies, you are needed as a full-time mother. If you have a job, it gets extremely overwhelming for a woman to handle both sick babies and whining bosses, with a man (husband) who expects you to smile on dinner table. 

I believe this was the point historically when women decided that if we are doing all the household work and not even being acknowledged for it (a simple thank you works, too!), what is the point of doing all this when you are not even getting paid? For every transaction, as minor as a magazine subscription, you have to face and answer your husband. This is the point when a woman decides to take charge of her own decisions and make her own financial choices. 

Some of the dialogues in the book are something many women can relate to. Like, a man asking: What else do you want? I provide you. Or... I am the one who works. I am tired. What have you been doing all day? Just sit home?

What men don't see is that being a homemaker is also a full-time job. Looking after kids, feeding them, addressing their tantrums, managing groceries, cleaning the house, doing their laundry—it is an exhausting and yet unpaid and thankless job. And for what? You get to hear: What have you been doing all day? 

Bostwick’s writing is warm, witty, and filled with emotional honesty. She explores themes of reinvention, resilience, and the importance of showing up for yourself—and for others. The book club becomes more than just a place to talk about literature; it becomes a lifeline. What makes this novel especially compelling is how the author balances depth with levity. The issues the women face—grief, betrayal, identity, aging, self-worth—are real and relatable, but the author handles them with such grace and wit that the novel never feels heavy. Instead, it’s uplifting and empowering, reminding readers that it’s never too late to change your life or embrace who you truly are.

Marie Bostwick’s The Book Club for Troublesome Women is a warm, witty, and life-affirming novel that celebrates the power of female friendship, personal reinvention, and the healing magic of books. It’s about women refusing to be confined by the roles society assigns them—whether as wives, mothers, employees, or caretakers—and instead embracing their own agency and individuality. The title itself is a nod to this rebellious spirit: being “troublesome” isn’t a flaw but a badge of honour.

Thank you, NetGalley and Harper Collins, for providing me with an Audio ARC.

Expected release date: 22 April 2025

#TheBookClubforTroublesomeWomen #NetGalley

What a great story about friendship, feminism, and chasing dreams. Although it felt a bit long at times, I loved this book! The Betties were an inspiring group of women pushing the limits during misogynistic times and it was so heartwarming seeing all four of them grow as individuals and as friends. This book would make a really great movie!! I thoroughly enjoyed the story.

The Book Club for Troublesome Women is a piece of historical fiction taking place in the 1960's. This novel tells the story of a group of women called the Betties. I loved this group of women and their bucking of the gender norms of the 1960's and the way they support one another. Many of the men in this book made me angry because they are so dismissive of their partners and the women in general which I know was just "the way it was." I am so glad that I did not live in this time. There were also many references to literature that would be reminiscent for many.

I enjoyed the narration and feel that it added to the enjoyment of the novel.

Thank you Net Galley, Marie Bostwick and Harper Collins Focus for the opportunity to preview this title. The opinions shared are my own.
The Book Club for Troublesome Women is expected to be released April 22, 2025. Put this on your TBR!

The Bookclub for Troublesome Women by Marie Bostwick is a historical fiction set in the 1960’s about four women, living in the same community, who start a book club reading the controversial “The Feminine Mystique.” The four women grow close and develop long-lasting friendships as they navigate their lives within a rapidly changing world.

I really enjoyed this one! It had a bit of a Lessons on Chemistry vibe to me. It’s basically a slice-of-life character-driven story with themes of women’s rights and empowerment. It was a good reminder about the social expectations of women were like in the 60s. I typically enjoy historical fiction and this was no exception and also a bit refreshing and easier to read because it wasn’t focused on wartime.

The audiobook is narrated by Lisa Flanagan and she did a nice job telling the story and portraying the characters.

What a beautiful piece of historical fiction! This story follows a group of women, each at different life stages, with unique personalities - who all find themselves living in a newly developed planned community in Northern Virginia. When Margaret suggests they form a book club, their first read is The Feminine Mystique (a real book published during that era). As they gather for their meetings, deep friendships begin to form. Through honest conversations, humour and hearing different perspectives, they each begin to realize a shared sense of discontent with their seemingly perfect lives - and they start to see how the systems around them are stacked against them.
The novel weaves in key historical events and explores the real struggles women faced during that time, such as needing a husband’s approval to access healthcare or finances. Many had to marry simply for security, which often meant sacrificing their own education and careers. Through the intertwined stories of Margaret, Charlotte, Bitsy, and Viv, we see how powerful a strong sisterhood can be. These friendships give each woman the courage to confront past traumas, face new challenges, and support one another in pursuing the lives they truly want.
Their bond moved me to tears more than once. The way these women created a safe space outside of family expectations, where they could be fully themselves, share their experiences, and feel truly heard - was incredibly touching. It reminded me how vital and healing those kinds of friendships can be.
This book beautifully captures the rhythm of everyday life. The women's journeys through marriage, motherhood, and personal growth felt deeply authentic and validating. While many of the legal and social challenges they faced have changed, some of the limiting societal expectations and sentiments still linger today. But throughout this story, the enduring strength and beauty of female friendship shines through - it made me feel deeply grateful for the women in my own life. There is so much beauty to be found, even if life doesn't always unfold the way we imagined.
Thank you to Netgalley and Harper Collins for an advanced copy of the audiobook.

This book follows the lives of women in the 1960s who are housewives feeling like an unnamed something is missing. They come together to form a book club and their first book, The Feminine Mystique, sets them on a trajectory of self discovery and as a result, transform their families lives and their friendships.

As a feminist, I have heard about certain rights that women were denied and ways in which women’s power were diminished. It was nice having a story that (although mostly fictional) showed how these lack of rights affected real women and families. But it didn’t stop there, it also touched on how the limit to women’s rights also pigeonholed men into certain roles as well. The idea that fighting for women’s equality and rights overall is good for everyone, men and women alike, was a theme that I appreciated.

I also appreciated that some of the issues raised in the books are some that still have not fully resolved. I liked the building of community and lifting up other women. These elements gave me some hope and inspiration to keep the fight for equality alive.

I listened to the audiobook, specifically. The narrator was easy to follow and pace was good. I imagine that your reading experience would be comparable however you choose to read this story (ebook, physical copy or audio).

4⭐️

Curlers in, coffee poured, and one radical book in hand. Four friends are about to turn the '60s upside down.

The Book Club for Troublesome Women by Marie Bostwick follows four suburban housewives, Margaret, Viv, Bitsy, and Charlotte, who start a book club to read The Feminine Mystique and begin questioning their traditional roles. As their friendship deepens, each woman is pushed toward self-discovery, empowerment, and the courage to face personal struggles in a rapidly changing world.

This novel challenged me in the best way as it wasn’t my usual escapist fantasy, but something that kept me grounded in real life. As a homemaker, I saw so much of myself in the characters, especially Margaret, who balanced writing and family life. I really related to the Bettys’ quiet longing for something more, while being grateful for the lives they already had. Margaret’s boldness inspires me to keep pursuing my dream of turning book reviewing into something more professional.

I’d recommend this book to stay-at-home moms and traditional wives who need the reminder that it’s okay to want more. Our identities go beyond our roles as wives and mothers.

Narrator Lisa Flanagan does a wonderful job bringing the Bettys and their world to life. She crafted a unique voice for all the characters that helped me understand clearly whose narrative I was in at any given moment. I really enjoyed her narration in collaboration with Bostwick’s novel.

This book works well in both audiobook and print, but if you like audiobooks I would recommend you listen to this one. It really adds to the experience of immersing yourself into 1963 Concordia.

Content Warnings: Pregnancy, Miscarriage, Infertility, Suicide, Infidelity

Thank you NetGalley and Harper Muse for this complimentary advance listening copy. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

What a lovely read! The book club ladies and their stories and backgrounds are varied and dynamic, and I really enjoyed watching their relationships with each other and their families grow and change throughout. I'll admit that at the beginning, I thought that the storyline and family dynamics were feeling a bit forced and obvious, but I enjoyed where Bostwick took us from that starting point.

It was a great blend of historical and informational subject matter plus increasingly nuanced characters with complex desires that you get to see them work out in real time. I particularly loved the intergenerational pieces, where we got to hear about the mothers and daughters of our main group as well -- it really added an extra dimension for me.

In true "women's fiction" fashion, everything gets tied up in pretty neat little bows at the end, so don't go expecting anything super deep or layered on that front, but I felt like it fit nicely with my expectations by the time things were wrapping up. I definitely enjoyed myself and would recommend!

It is 1960, and Margaret Ryan seems to have it all. But the house, husband, three kids, and prestigious neighborhood don't feel like enough for her or her friends Viv and Bitsy. Margaret decides to start a book club as an excuse to meet their newest neighbor, Charlotte, and soon they discover that they want more from the life they have been told is the American dream.
I could not wait to read this book and it did not disappoint me. I loved the relationship between the women and I love the fact that it starts with a book club. It is uplifting to see positive and supportive female relationships. I have been loving historical fiction novels this year and this one is a must-read. The audiobook version of this book was a delight to listen to #gifted

I knew I was going to like this book, but I didn't expect to love it so much.

As the title suggests, it's about a book club filled with troublesome women, but honestly, it's more than just a book club. These women have their own struggles in life, so their stories go way beyond that setting. Even though it takes place in the 1960s, it nails the challenges of being a woman. We often see women as someone's wife, mother, or daughter, but they each have their own unique identities, stories, and potential.

This book is a fantastic exploration of womanhood, female friendships, and how women support each other. It dives into the struggles they face in society while also emphasizing the importance of accepting and nurturing your true self.

I seriously loved this book! Plus, it gives us a glimpse into a specific historical period that adds another layer to the story. Each woman in this narrative is portrayed as strong and resilient, and their development feels so real that it’s like watching everything unfold right in front of you. Everything about this book is worthy of praise, and the audiobook narrator did an amazing job bringing these characters to life.

I’m giving it a solid five stars. I loved the women of this book so much because the way they represent how amazing female friendship can be is the most wholesome and lovable thing ever. This one’s definitely going to stick with me for a long time, and I can't wait to read more from this author. Big thanks to HarperCollins Focus, Harper Muse, and NetGalley for giving me an advanced listening copy of this gem!

It is 1960, and Margaret Ryan seems to have it all. But the house, husband, three kids, and prestigious neighborhood don’t feel like enough for her or her friends Viv and Bitsy. Margaret decides to start a book club as an excuse to meet their newest neighbor, Charlotte, and soon they discover that they want more from the life they have been told is the American dream.

Why Kirsten loves it

Women supporting other women is always a theme I love to see in literature. In a time when a woman couldn’t open her own checking account without her husband’s permission, that theme is crucial for each of these women. As they individually deal with stepping into the limelight and out of the shadows, collectively they support and uplift each other when each stumbles.

I loved the peek into the past and comparing it to how far we’ve come as a country towards women’s rights (a trend I hope doesn’t backslide.) The friendships, drama, and descriptions in this story kept me riveted. It’s one of my favorite books of the year for sure!

If you’re a fan of inspiring historical fiction with a dash of rebellion, you’ll love The Book Club for Troublesome Women! Marie Bostwick spins a vibrant tale of four suburban housewives—Margaret, Viv, Bitsy, and Charlotte—who, after diving into The Feminine Mystique, decide they’ve had enough of the 60s status quo. Set against a raw, real 1963 Northern Virginia backdrop, these ladies—affectionately known as the Bettys—discover friendship, fierce self-discovery, and the courage to fight for their rights and chase their dreams.

The audiobook, narrated brilliantly by Lisa Flanagan, had me hooked from start to finish. Her lively narration perfectly captures the women’s hopes, struggles, and the spark of rebellion in every chapter. Fun, humorous, and thought-provoking, this audiobook is a must-listen for anyone who loves strong women and a good fight for a better life. Highly recommended! The book releases April 22,2025. I gave this 4 ⭐️Thank you to Harper Muse Publishing , and NetGalley for the Advanced Listening Copy of this book. These opinions are my own and were given freely .

THE BOOK CLUB FOR TROUBLESOME WOMEN by Marie Bostwick (Esme Cahill Fails Spectacularly) is one of my favorite books of the year so far. Bostwick has created another work of historical fiction, focusing on the early 1960s and the suburbs of Washington, DC. Four main characters form a book club and become close friends, calling themselves The Bettys in homage to the first book they read together, The Feminine Mystique by Betty Friedan. Readers meet Margaret Ryan who aspires to be a writer and helpmate to her accountant husband, Walt. Charlotte Gustafson is wealthy, creative and unhappy, trapped in a loveless marriage to Howard. Viv Buschetti adores supportive husband Tony, but she yearns to put her nursing skills to work as she manages six (make that seven!) children. Bitsy Cobb is younger and less sure of herself (except for her love of horses) and is married to an older man, Kingsley, a veterinarian. Each woman faces questions about her purpose, a possible career, and the state of her marriage and family, especially relative to societal norms. As Bostwick writes, "They had been raised to believe that the road to a happy, successful adulthood was well defined but extremely narrow, and that deviating from the path was not only irresponsible but wrong, a quick route to certain disaster." Yet, these four quickly grow to support each other and Bostwick delves into personal crises with historical details as background (e.g., remember "the underground currency of American housewives," S&H Green Stamps? And who knew that a married women could not open a bank account at that time without her husband’s signature?). Facing adversity, these four women learn together to appreciate what Eleanor Roosevelt used to say, "A woman is like a tea bag. You never know how strong it is until it's in hot water." THE BOOK CLUB FOR TROUBLESOME WOMEN would be a marvelous book group selection as there is much to consider and discuss here. Katherine Graham and other Washington socialites make cameo appearances. AUDIOBOOK: Lisa Flanagan's narration is excellent and definitely worth a listen.

In its starred review of THE BOOK CLUB FOR TROUBLESOME WOMEN Library Journal says, "Bostwick's latest is ideal for fans of historical fiction and those who enjoyed Bonnie Garmus's Lessons in Chemistry, Kristin Hannah's The Women, or Kate Quinn's The Briar Club, which explore the historical roles of women and the challenges they faced within a society structured to define and limit their roles in and out of the home." Highly recommended. Book groups may also enjoy some of the other selections that the Bettys considered: The Group by Mary McCarthy; Herland (1915) by Charlotte Perkins Gilman; A Town Like Alice by Nevil Shute; short stories by Flannery O’Connor; Babbitt by Sinclair Lewis; Revolutionary Road by Richard Yates; Dearly Beloved or Gift from the Sea by Anne Morrow Lindbergh.

Women's Historical Fiction at its finest! The Book Club for Troublesome Women reminded me of all of the best parts of Desperate Housewives WITHOUT the nasty drama and backstabbing.

Set in an idyllic Virginia suburb, this book sheds light on the lives of four very different housewives brought together to read the highly controversial book, The Feminine Mystic. As the women get to know each other and one another’s joys and frustrations, the reader learns about the restrictions women in the 1960s encountered and how this even created restrictions and pressures on men, albeit to a much smaller degree. These feisty woman band together and find that inner strengths emerge when woman support and lift up other women.
Marie Bostwick has masterfully developed these characters, and by the end of the eleven hour audiobook, I felt highly satisfied yet sad that I was saying goodbye to women I had come to love and admire.

The narrator, Lisa Flanagan, did a wonderful job bringing the author’s words to life and making me feel like I was hanging out with friends.

A huge Thank You to Marie Bostwick for writing such fantastic Women’s Historical Fiction, and to Netgalley and Harper Muse for the joy of being able to enjoy this book before publication!!