When we reach a certain age, we figure that we know what the rest of our lives hold—and it probably looks something like work, travel, grandkids, and retirement. But in The Better Half by Alli Frank and Asha Youmans, a middle-aged woman finds her whole world shaken by a completely unexpected turn of events.

Full review published in NightsAndWeekends.com and aired on Shelf Discovery

3.5⭐️ rounded up

I found this to be a well-written and interesting but incredibly frustrating read. I didn’t realize going into it that <spoiler> an unexpected late-in-life pregnancy </spoiler> was going to play a large role in the story, or I probably would have skipped this one. Then watching everyone in Nina’s life ignoring her feelings and trying to force her into making a decision she clearly was at best on the fence about making…. She never stood a chance of deciding for herself. <spoiler> So much for a woman’s right to choose. </spoiler>

The school admissions issues, and the race-related family issues were compelling, and I was also definitely rooting for Nina- just possibly not in the same, more conventional way the narrative expected me to? Definitely eager to hear and learn from others’ perspectives on this one.

Thank you Alli Frank, Mindy’s Book Studio, and NetGalley for providing this ARC for review consideration. All opinions expressed are my own.

A main character that is in my age group? Check! This was a fantastic story to read. The characters are well defined and were enjoyable to read about. I loved the relationship the main one has with her dad. It is a book that unfolded in a smooth way with good pace. Drama and laughter. AMAZING dialogue. Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC. Five stars.

Nina Clarke is finally head of her private school- her dream job. She takes a vacation with her best friend to celebrate, which results in life changing decisions.

This was a great story about a professional black woman struggling with some life decisions. I loved that the MC was in her forties; it’s an age group I love to read about because I totally relate! This was a story true to life - nothing too crazy except normal life drama. There were also additional struggles that a woman of color would come across, especially when starting a relationship with a white man.

“Ambivalence about your future gets you nowhere other than exactly where you are.”

The Better Half comes out 7/4.

One of our Satellite Sisters Best Beach Bag Books for 2023. A funny, sexy, heartfelt story about Nina Morgan Clarke and a hilarious look behind the scenes at a fancy private school in Pasadena. Nina’s just been named the first Black, female, first generation Head of School when she’s faced with a life-altering choice in her private life. This is the third book by Franks and Youmans, collaborators and close friends who met as educators and school administrators. It’s from Mindy Kaling and Mindy’s Book Studio so you just know it’s a good time.