This was an interesting read - and refreshing to see the non US centric approach as is so common in this style of book.
Author's insights were well framed, and very relatable as people's stories were consistently used to illustrate the discussion.

Comprehensive gathering of personal stories and extensive data about women in their late 40's and 50's being forced out of their corporate jobs for a variety of reasons, many of whom then go on to have their own very successful businesses. Unsurprising to many women but it is helpful to see all this research in one place, which will be affirming to many and reassuring that this is an issue that needs addressing. One, issue is the misogynist, ageist prejudice against women of a certain age whilst men apparently gain more gravitas. Second, it is clear that lots of talent and experience is being thrown away, often to make huge profit elsewhere, which is just not good fiscal sense. Thirdly, there is also a lot in here around caring either for children, partners, or for older, infirm parents and again the expectation that this is a woman's job. An important and timely book.

With thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

I would say this was quite an academic read, in how it was written, but inevitably an interesting read all the same. I've yet to reach the middle age, but the book resonated despite the fact it's dedicated to women a little older (to around my own mum's age), as I have observed the women the age cohort above me and older seem to struggle to smash past a glass ceiling that is no longer super obvious yet it is apparent in just how few seem to get to that role level. A worthy read to anyone in HR.

This book is based on research in the UK but has application for the United States too. The author talked in depth to women executives to blow up the false narratives on why women leave organizations at the top of their game. Often the mythology is that women want freedom to strike out on their own or are in the "sandwich" generation and need to take care of children and aging parents. What organizations don't look at typically are the systemic challenges in organizations that keep women from achieving their potential. Even the author struggled to get sponsorship for her dissertation on this topic (and sometimes by other women!) There is a section on Menopause which is critically important and only recently has been getting focus in the news and among legislators. I encourage leaders and HR professionals to read this book to start examining the systemic barriers for women in organizations.

Thank you to Netgalley and Practical Inspiration Publishing for an ARC and I left this review voluntarily.

The topic of the book is clear and it is engaging as a woman currently going through the menopause.
It hit home with some of the experiences such as 'empty nest syndrome' and 'brain fog' that I can especially relate to.
I was expecting this book to entice me to have it in my hands all the time and read it non- stop.
Unfortunately, it didnt do that for me.
It felt as though I was reading a dissertation/university report. I felt that the many references took most of the page up rather than the detail behind them.
I have a huge amount of respect for the author and it is clear that a massive amount of research and many hours of work has been carried out to produce an account of a hot topic for professional women in senior positions in organisations.
I agree that the book is for HR professionals and senior executives both men and women.