Although this book was set 60 years ago, I could still relate to the women and story within. I am a wife and mom of 3 which I absolutely love, but I’ve always felt like I needed “more” so I also run my own small business. The struggle of keeping all of the balls in the air is real but at the end of the day, also very rewarding. Anyone in a similar position will likely enjoy this book as well. I love how the author wrapped everything up with the updates at the end!

Many thanks to NetGalley and HarperCollins Focus | Harper Muse for the opportunity to read The Book Club for Troublesome Women by Marie Bostwick, who cannot be surpassed in Historical Fiction writing. The characters are beautifully and fully written, each of whom possess personality all their own; complex and believable. One of the best books I've read tis year.

This is the first book that I have read by this author, and what a treat it was! Set in 1963, it is story of four women, who read The Feminine Mystique in their book club, become firm friends and make their way in life. The depiction of life in the 1960 s was really interesting, with details like Margeret not being able to open a bank account in her own name without her husband’s consent. What especially impressed me was the recognition that not all women have the power to make choices, and that often this applies to men too. Walt was a gorgeous character, who acknowledged his shortcomings and tried to do his best. The idea of other women helping others to get a leg up in life was wonderful. The part about Jackie Kennedy was so moving, and the joyous ending was delightful. Many thanks to NetGalley for a chance to read this thought provoking book.

OHHH! This is good!
I was brought back to the sixties where four wonderful friends could have been my own mother and her friends!
When women were housewives, and did not have a voice. They managed their homes and the children, but received a weekly allowance for groceries.

This story centers around four neighborhood ladies who decide to start a book club.
The very first novel they read, (The Feminine Mystique by Betty Friedan) creates a curiosity for each, and they start to wonder why they cannot go into the community and work to help their family and enjoy time outside of the home?
Well... why can't they?

This is a delightful, historical fiction journey that really had me rooting for these amazing women while bringing me back to my own mom's kitchen!

Thank you to @NetGalley and to @HarperMuse Books for this neat ARC and allowing me to review. Well done!

This is my kind of historical fiction! The cast of characters in The Book Club for Troublesome Women captured my heart and kept me turning the pages. This is the kind of book that you have to set aside when you finish and just let it sit with you for a while. I reacted similarly when I read Lessons in Chemistry, Remarkably Bright Creatures, The Personal Librarian, and Frozen River. All of which are some of my favorite books. This is a great book club book and one I think lots of readers will enjoy.

Great book. Read it in 3 days. 4 women staring a Book Club and their friendship for many years. This book is great for any book club, lots of tropics for discussion with this book.

This book was entertaining and, for me, a walk down a nostalgic lane. I was a high school sophomore in 1963, so the context of the story is very real for me. The political and social historical elements are artfully woven into the story that features four women who join ranks in a book club inspired by Betty Friedan’s “The Feminine Mystique.” I loved that these women, from diverse backgrounds, find inspiration in their friendship in a wealthy suburb. While none of the woman emerged as a public figure for the revolutionary trend of women’s rights, each, in her own way, added her voice and her actions to the paradigm shift of the time. We all owe a debt to the “troublesome” women who refused to be satisfied with the status quo. This novel illuminates in a personal and relatable way the challenges they faced.

My thanks to the author, the publisher, and NetGalley for the privilege of reviewing this book. The opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

This review is being posted immediately to my GoodReads account and will be posted on Amazon upon publication.

I loved this novel SO much and will be giving it out as gifts as soon as it is available in paperback! I thoroughly enjoyed the stories of all four of the main characters, and appreciate how the author gently introduced each one so as not to confuse me. It was a fascinating look into the lives of 30's-40's women in the 60's. I was in my early teens at that time, and the characters' stories has helped me to understand what my mother and grandmother had been going through when I was growing up. This is not only women's fiction at its finest, it is also excellent historical fiction. I learned a lot!

Thanks to Netgalley, and the author and publisher, for an advanced reading copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

The Book Club for Troublesome Women is the engaging story of the four women who comprise the titular book club. The group is made up of Margaret, Charlotte, Viv, and Bitsy, each a compelling character in her own right, and tells of the struggles and triumphs each women faces as a women in the early sixties, commencing in the year 1963.

All of the women are married. In addition, Margaret is a mother and sometimes writer, Charlotte, mother and aspiring artist, Viv, mother and part-time nurse and Bitsy, a stable hand. Some of them face troubles will spouses, others worry about finances and some worry about their career choices. All have very full lives, but their differences don’t stop them from coming together to form a book club and reading The Feminist Mystique, Betty Friedan’s manifesto about being a woman and sometimes feeling a wanting of more in their lives. Can what they want be found at home, or is it more than their quaint, planned Virginia suburb can offer them?

I really enjoyed this book. Marie Bostwick knows how to weave together a compelling narrative filled with interesting, multi-layered characters. The action was virtually non-stop and left me guessing at what would happen next, which is supreme praise from me on a work of fiction. I never found myself wondering when the book would be over or checking my percentage read as I have been known to do on books I feel are boring or dragging on too slowly. A delightful book that i wholeheartedly recommend.

I received this advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review and feedback.

Hats off to Marie, this book was excellent!! As I devoured every page, I thought to myself how far women have come and then I thought I hope and pray I don't see the trend of falling back. I saw so much of my mother's generations life in this story, no checking account with a man's signature, no birth control without the husband signature, the wifey things but the story wad well written of these 4 women's lives, how they intertwined, she made you care, you fell in love with them.I hope you Give this book a whirl, I loved it from the beginning, I will tell my book lover friends.. I hope it touches your soul. Thank you Netgalley for sharing this read with me.

Four Suburban house wife’s read the new book The Feminine Mystique and realize in the changing world that they actually do have options and they can choose to work outside of the home and not just be a plain Suburban woman who stays home and takes care of the family and house. The friendship they form and the support they give each other is life changing in so many ways for the four of them. They begin to take jobs outside of the home and realize that they have options that can make a difference to others.
This book is based in the 60’s era which was when I was born and grew up. I can personally relate to this story and the challenges that we as women have faced and overcome as going to the bank and doctors office and needing your husbands permission for an account or prescription.
Well done Marie!! Thank you to NetGalley for the opportunity to review this book.

On the surface, Margaret Ryan is the quintessential housewife, but her inner discontent feels like a quiet rebellion waiting to spark. Her encounter with the enigmatic Charlotte Gustafson ignites that spark, leading to the creation of a book club that becomes so much more than a literary gathering. With The Feminine Mystique as their catalyst, Margaret, Charlotte, Bitsy, and Viv embark on a journey of self-examination and collective empowerment.

The strength of this novel lies in its characters, who are richly drawn and complex. Margaret’s yearning for something beyond her white-picket-fence life, Bitsy’s struggle with societal expectations, Viv’s sharp wit, and Charlotte’s unconventional allure form the heart of this beautifully rendered story. Each woman brings a unique perspective, and their dynamic—marked by shared laughter, hard truths, and deep camaraderie—feels authentic and profoundly moving.

The novel captures the era’s culture with meticulous detail, from glossy magazines dictating the ideal woman’s role to the simmering undercurrent of the feminist movement. Yet, its themes resonate universally, offering a timeless look at the courage it takes to question norms and redefine one’s place in the world.

Bostwick’s prose is sharp and tender, balancing humor with poignant reflections. The group’s transformation from dutiful housewives to self-assured individuals is inspiring, and their nickname, “The Bettys,” serves as a tribute to Betty Friedan and to every woman who has dared to want more.

This is a must-read for fans of historical fiction and anyone who has ever felt the stirrings of something more just beyond their reach. It is uplifting, empowering, and unforgettable.

The publisher provided ARC via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

OMG. Thankyou Marie. Such a privilege to be able to read this book.
What a story. I’m a big fan of the Cobbled Court series but this standalone book is my new favourite.
Four women create a bookclub, calling themselves the Betty’s after the author of their first read The Feminine Mystique.
A truly eye opening story about women living in the 1960’s and how they did not have their independence and how they grew their friendships through the hardships and joys at that time in the USA.

Marie Bostwick’s *The Book Club for Troublesome Women* is a heartwarming celebration of friendship, resilience, and the power of finding your people when life takes unexpected turns. With her signature wit and emotional depth, Bostwick creates a tapestry of relatable characters and compelling stories that come together in a way that feels like sharing a glass of wine and a laugh with old friends. It’s a novel that reminds us how transformative the bonds of community can be.

The story centers around four women—each at a crossroads in their lives—who are brought together through a book club that quickly becomes much more than just a discussion group. From career upheavals to relationship struggles to finding a sense of self after years of putting others first, these women navigate the joys and messiness of life with humor, honesty, and unwavering support for one another. Bostwick masterfully weaves their individual stories into a cohesive narrative, showing how their friendships become the anchor each of them needs.

What makes this novel shine is Bostwick’s ability to create characters that feel authentic and multidimensional. Each woman has her own unique voice and set of challenges, yet their connections are universal. Their conversations are raw and real, often peppered with sharp humor that lightens even the heaviest moments. The interplay between vulnerability and strength in their interactions is what makes their dynamic so compelling.

The book club itself serves as a metaphor for growth and rediscovery. Through their shared love of books, the women find parallels between the stories they read and their own lives, leading to moments of insight, courage, and transformation. Bostwick doesn’t shy away from tackling tough topics, but she does so with grace and a light touch, ensuring the story remains uplifting even when it’s delving into life’s harder truths.

The pacing of the novel is just right, giving readers time to connect with each character’s journey while maintaining a steady momentum. Bostwick’s writing is warm and accessible, with vivid descriptions and heartfelt reflections that draw readers into the world of these “troublesome women.” The small-town setting adds to the charm, serving as both a backdrop and a character in its own right, with its quirks and sense of community.

*The Book Club for Troublesome Women* is a feel-good novel that will resonate with anyone who’s ever leaned on a friend during tough times or found strength in unexpected places. Marie Bostwick has crafted a story that’s as much about personal growth as it is about the bonds that help us along the way. Perfect for fans of women’s fiction, book clubs, or simply stories that make you laugh, cry, and cheer all at once, this novel is a five-star celebration of friendship and the magic of shared stories.

"The Book Club for Troublesome Women" was an INCREDIBLE read that I have already recommended to my book club. Reading about the lives of these women was inspirational, often funny, and so dang relatable.

I LOVED this book, it was well written and made me once again thankful for all that women in the 60's managed to do to get themselves more fulfilling roles that paved the way for al women today.
The characters were realistic and each had such different experiences but they all wanted 'something more' and managed to get enough traction to follow their passions.
Imagine having six children and being pregnant with the seventh and then going to work. WOW, amazing.
Such a great read and I can't wait to see the movie!

The writing is sharp, witty, and relatable. I loved how it tackled real-life issues without ever feeling preachy.

This book reminded me why women supporting women is so powerful and why it's okay (necessary, even!) to embrace the "troublesome" parts of ourselves.

Thank you for letting me read this great book! I look forward to more from this author.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. I really related to "The Book Club for Troublesome Women" and hated to put it down each night. Women in suburbia, different from each other in so many ways, yet inescapably bound by the expectations set for them in the 1950s and 1960s. Then along comes a book. Each of the wives in this novel retold part of my own life. The memories of Ms. Magazine arriving in my mailbox every month, along with the self-doubt and second guessing of my choices; Betty Friedan, of course, and the ideas she wrote out loud; the inequalities we are still striving to fix seventy years onward. I need to stress, up front, that this book mostly deals with problems that faced white middle-class women. It is not an accurate account of a multi-cultural area, nor does it deal much with urban issues. In a lot of ways, real-life white middle-class suburbia still doesn't. Intersectionality doesn't really show its face in these pages. This is a novel, and one that is aimed at a particular group of readers.

The protagonists of "The Book Club for Troublesome Women" are strong, vulnerable, loving, loyal, and most of all ready. They're ready to make changes and help one another survive those changes. The men in their lives vary in important ways, but each represents an aspect of the roles men play in our society. Just as the women, not one of them is perfect nor totally evil (though one comes mighty close). Margaret, Viv, Charlotte, and Bitsy are my new best friends and I'd love for them to show up at my next book club meeting. I think this novel will certainly be there!

I LOVED the ladies in this book! I was transported to the 60's and wanted to be part of their bookclub. While it take places many decades ago, the storyline is still timeless. Women still face similar issues and still find themselves wanting more at times. The crux of this book is the strong female friendships which are priceless. Looking forward to when this book comes out so that I can pick it for my own book club!

It's the 1960's and Margaret has it all... At least according to the women's magazines she reads. She is a housewife with three kids and a husband, but feels like something is missing. Her husband got her a new magazine subscription and that didn't help. She meets her newest neighbor, Charlotte, who is full of everything it seems Margaret is not. Wanting to get to know her, she creates a bookclub, gets her friends Viv and Bitsy to join, and then Charlotte insists they read Betty Friedan's new book. Suddenly everything is changing and this is the story of the Betty's book club. An excellent read where you can't help but root for all four women!

Bostwick conveys the lives of 1960s housewives with great detail, veracity, and insight. It really makes you think about women's rights and how far we have come. The book club started by 4 women acts as a catalyst for potential change. Margaret, Charlotte, Bitsy, and Viv each have their own personal struggles and desires. Their friendship is the driving force behind the novel. Ultimately "the Bettys" are empowering and uplifting. Their personal journeys are inspiring and I loved how they support each other. This is both a story about personal growth as well as friendship. Bostwick balances poignancy with humor in a delightful way.

Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for an advance e-galley; all opinions in my review are 100% my own.

Ah, finally, a great book set in the 1960s! It's my favourite era to read about and yet many novels make the mistake of sounding a bit like a modern day story. Marie Bostwick really nailed the historical fiction element and I loved it. This is a lovely story about four women living in 1960s suburbia. It's more on the slow side in terms of plot (the characters more than make up for this) but I really enjoyed it.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers.

This was a really well done piece of historical fiction. The author not only recreated the 60s accurately but created characters that were distinct and interesting. Watching the friendships blossom and going through the ups and downs of lives and relationships with these women was such a pleasure. I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys historical fiction and in particular women's fiction. My only slight criticism is that the ending was a bit rushed. We get a recap of everyone's recent lives all at once, and that wasn't as satisfying as it might have been. But all in all this was a really góod book.

Really loved everything about this novel. Set in the 60s, four women find friendship and form a book club starting with The Feminine Mystique. What they uncover is a reflection on their role in their families, society, and with each other. This is a really fun read and would be great for current day book clubs!

This is a fun trip through the lives of four women in the early 1960s as they discover that suburbia isn't all it's cracked up to be and become lifelong friends. I thoroughly enjoyed this novel and will be recommending it to my book club. I love how each woman grew and became a fuller version of herself. The story is captivating, and I couldn't wait to see what happened next. It illustrates how far women's rights have come in 60 years.

"I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own." I loved this book. Each of the characters was thoroughly describe with loveable and annoying qualities (makes them very realistic). The power and importance of female friendship is the main focus of the story. Strong women encouraging each other to bring out their best qualities. I will honestly say, I was nervous about the whole feminism thing but it was tastefully done. My favorite quote was " If Women stuck up for one another the way men do, this would be a very different world" Enjoy this one it was great. Happy Reading!!!

One book in the 60s changed the lives and opportunities of women across the country. This is the story of 4 of those women in a Virginian suburb supposedly living the Dream.

📖 Historical fiction
📖 Power of sisterhood
📖 Civil rights era
📖 Empowerment

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨/5

Viv is a no bs, nurse and military wife mom of 6 who says how it is to most people. Bitsy is a young woman in a new marriage with her older, equine-focused vet husband. Charlotte is the rule-breaking, freespirited artist mom who moved in down the street. And Margaret is supposed to be the mom who has it all! Great house, working husband, 3 kids. But she can’t pinpoint what is still missing. None of them can. Not without being called ungrateful or odd. Until one book release awakens something they didn’t know was even dormant.

Will one book change their lives? Or will it be the newfound bonds and friendships these women forge in a time of change and chain-breaking for women everywhere?

A beautiful ode to the different journeys of womanhood. To those who did what they had to, to those who constantly pushed the boundaries, and to the women who forged full steam ahead to allow a path for the rest of us. I found this a beautiful homage to every kind of woman. Terrible to read how women’s curriculums were changed, their guidance counselors counseled how to find husbands, and professional programs didn’t allow women because they would ‘leave to start a family anyway’. But honorific in a way of how far we have come, and how far we still have to go.

Viv and Tony are my favorites. No notes. Watching how husbands acted then and still act now was horrifying and heartbreaking because women were taught to take what they are given and be grateful. I am proud of women now and the journey it has taken to get here. This book reminded me of that. I cried, I laughed, I cheered.

Favorite quotes:

“Somewhere down the road, maybe you’ll help pave the road for somebody else. That’s how the world gets better. One generation helping the next.”

“There may be many destinations in a woman’s journey, many seasons in her life.”

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

I absolutely loved this book! I enjoyed the different character vantage points throughout the different stages of their lives. I found the historical references to be so interesting from a women's point of view. The author did a wonderful job of sharing the challenges women have faced over the years and just how far we still have to come. I wish everyone had a group of "Bettys" to get them through life!

A beautifully written and thought provoking book. I absolutely loved it and will be buying it as a gift for friends and recommending it to my book club.

This novel is fun, thought provoking, and a great look back at the 60’s when women were struggling to find their way in a male dominant world.

Margaret Ryan was bored and wanted more in life, so she started a four woman book club in her elite neighborhood. Each woman is going through her own life troubles, but through friendship and a book called “The Feminine Mystique”, they learn to be more assertive and outspoken. They all had dreams and convictions, and each woman had a voice in the story.

This book is extremely well written, humorous at times, and quite illuminating. Bostwick has always been on my list of must reads and this books cements it. Thank you, NetGalley and Harper Collins Focus for the advanced reader copy of this 5-star book.

The start was slow, but once the Bettys met for the first book club meeting, it took off running! What a glorious story of sisterhood, fighting for what’s right for others, finding the right path for you, accepting ourselves and each other for who we truly are, and demanding honest effort and care from those we love. This book lived up to its title and I miss the characters already!

The Book Club for Troublesome Women by Suzanne O’Sullivan is a witty and heartwarming novel that explores the power of friendship, resilience, and personal growth. The story follows a group of women who, despite their varied backgrounds and struggles, find solidarity and strength through their shared love of books. As they navigate their individual challenges—ranging from relationship woes to career setbacks—they discover how reading can offer both solace and inspiration. O’Sullivan’s writing is sharp and humorous, yet deeply compassionate, capturing the complexities of womanhood with authenticity. The characters are vibrant and relatable, making this an enjoyable read for anyone looking for an uplifting, thought-provoking story about community and self-discovery.

Loved it from the opening paragraph to the final period. If you think the good old days were good this book will educate you- if you don’t, this book will give you more reasons why, An absolute gem.

Sometimes there are stories that come to you when you need it the most, this was one of those. The premise is about a group of housewives in the 1960s who come together to read ‘The Feminine Mystique’ by Betty Friedman. They live in a suburban neighborhood with all the HOA rules & regulations that haven’t previously been imposed on this generation. They are not typical beatniks or radicals and represent about 80 percent of the white female population.

At a point in each of these women’s lives, they desire something that they can’t name. They are bored, restless and are missing…something. Throughout the book Ms. Bostwick sets the tone with the major historical events outside the insular community of Concordia. I caught myself researching events and policies for accuracy, because as a society we couldn’t have really been that ass backwards in the 1960s, right? I’ve never been so grateful for pregnancy tests that didn’t involve poisoning a rat with pee.

I’m now realizing that I owe my mother a bit more grace than I previously held. As a contemporary of the women of this story, she grew up with the limitations her gender provided and how she was ‘supposed to find true happiness’ in this role, or she was damaged. There is more to the story that my therapist will be so happy to go over with me in detail.

With the world seemingly against their gender, an unpopular war and a nation involved in a race war, these women find that they can conquer it all with the support of each other, just as a good book club should do.

Thank you NetGalley for a copy of this ARC and for me to start the weekend on a positive note.

This book was emotional for me. I loved it truly because it was so powerful. The author captured the times so perfectly. I highly recommend this book to anyone. I definitely would love to own this book. 10/1000 recommend. It’s been a while where I enjoyed a book so much.

What an interesting story! It follows the lives of four women in the 1960s as they learn about themselves and who they are in a time where women didn’t have the same rights and opportunities as we do today. They are introduced to Betty Friedan’s The Feminine Mystique and start their own book club. They call themselves The Bettys.

I really enjoyed each of the main characters and their individual journeys.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Gosh, I loved this book! The characters were so well-developed, they felt like my own bosom friends! Of course, the setting of small-town America in the 60’s was fascinating, as was the surge of feminism throbbing throughout the book. I feel like I learned so much from this book! The author mentions so many prominent events from the time and includes the characters’ reactions; this was so well done, I really felt I was there! I can't say enough good things about this book: the plot was multi-layered and something interesting happened on practically every page. This could not be more well-written, in my opinion. Bravo, Ms. Bostwick! Thank you to Harper Muse and NetGalley for the advanced copy in exchange for my honest review. What a treat this was!

If you want a history of the decade that changed America—the 1960s—this is about as good as it gets in fiction. Four women — ‘stay-at-home housewives’ -bemoan their fate as women and start a book club just as the controversial book by Betty Friedman hits the market, awakening a renaissance in the way women perceived their roles after WWII.

Post-war women, having filled men's roles, found themselves reduced to the status of married servants to often difficult or absent husbands, a situation that angered many. These well-developed characters produced empathy in me, which I haven’t felt in a book in quite a while. These four women started a book club, which changed how they thought of themselves, their marriages, and their lives.

I thoroughly enjoyed this tale because I watched how women changed in that era and through the rest of the twentieth century. With Civil Rights peaking and political assassinations terrorizing the country, these four women found their voices, and these events forever changed their lives and the lives of others.

In an era where women fought to vote, get a credit card, a bank account, or hold a job after marriage, I applauded these four women throughout the story. That some of these problems still exist or are coming back into vogue in some political circles is cringeworthy after all these women endeared. But a reading of this history is something every woman should attempt to digest. You will understand your great-grandmothers, grandmothers, mothers, sisters, etc., in a new light. Women were tired of getting permission from their husbands for their daily needs.

I highly recommend this book to any woman who needs a dose of realistic history to understand how important these dreams were to the boomers and the young girls the women of this era raised. The story’s setting, how their husbands dictate what they can say or do, and what medicine or social aspects of life they may embrace are eye-opening.

I absolutely, totally, completely loved this book. I highly recommend it to all women who want a voice in their own lives and the lives of future women. The book is truly inspirational. I gave it five stars all around.

I want to thank Net Galley, the author, and the publisher, for the opportunity to read this book as a free ARC. This review is voluntary and is mine alone.

In historical fiction, I love mid-century-era stories about the moments when women wake up--when they see the world accurately, see what's available to them and start to ask questions about why the rest of the opportunities aren't. This book captured that well. The characters were enjoyable to spend time with; each one had her own satisfying story arc. I loved this book!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

I loved this book. My favorite genre of historical fiction is mid century and this one was just perfect to dive into the lives of four very different friends. Set in the early 1960s, we meet four very different housewives trying to figure out new roles, their identity in the ever changing world of the 1960s. With the creation of their book club by reading the controversial novel of its time, The Feminine Mystique by Betty Friedan, they call themselves the Betty’s and begin to explore what it means to be fulfilled outside of housework and husbands and kids. A topic that still is relevant today.

I love the character development of each woman as they become who they want to be without losing themselves as mothers and wives can do in their families. I didn’t want the book to end and it would be the perfect book for a book club to read and discuss.


Thank you Netgalley to read the ARC of this book in return for my honest review. Will definitely recommend this book to others.

Brilliant novel about how the rights and roles of women began to change during the 1960’s. It all started with a book and 4 neighbors who started a book club that would change the path of their lives. . The setting of this novel is in a northern Virginia suburb in 1963 ,where Maggie, Charlotte, Vivian and Bitsy form a book club and read “ The Feminine Mystique” which opens the thoughts of why can’t we have it all, who says we can only be mothers and not run companies. I thought the writing was excellent, the story read quickly and the reader could easily relate to each of the characters situations. Thank you Netgalley, , Harper Muse publishing for giving me a chance to read the advance copy. .

Thank you, NetGalley! This book was so good! As a mom of 3 girls, it was so relatable. It's so hard figuring out who you are outside of being a mother. This book isn't just for moms, I want to make that clear. It's for everyone, especially women. It is a beautiful representation of friendship and how powerful it can be.

I wouldn't have lasted five minutes as a 1960s suburban American housewife, lemme tell you..

But oh was this book such a delight. Margaret, Viv, Bitsy, and Charlotte may live in a planned development with cookie-cutter similar houses, but they are all unique and passionate women with their own stories to tell and their own dreams they've been too afraid to share. When Charlotte suggests the first book for their new book club be "The Feminine Mystique", the four women begin to have those brutally honest conversations and become a tight-knit group affectionately called "The Bettys".

Their subsequent books take them through personal and professional ups and downs as they try to find their own version of happiness and fulfillment in a world that is rapidly changing yet still closing many doors in their faces. It made me exasperated and sad but ultimately so thankful for the generations of women before us that kept showing up and pulling other women up along with them. While it was a fictional book set decades before today, I think many modern women will relate to the same struggles and frustrations.

May become one of my most recommended books of 2025!

The Book Club for Troublesome Women is an exploration of self-discovery, friendship, and the complexities of postwar American womanhood. Set in 1960s suburbia, the novel follows Margaret Ryan, a seemingly perfect housewife who, despite her picture-perfect life in Concordia, feels a gnawing emptiness of "wanting more". Everything changes when she meets Charlotte Gustafson, a free-spirited newcomer whose arrival sparks the creation of a book club that, unintentionally, becomes a lifeline for Margaret and her new friends - The Betty's!

The story is full of wit and laughter and love but it's also extremely deep and thought-provoking, as the women bond over their shared dissatisfaction with the roles society expects them to play. The reading of The Feminine Mystique at their bookclub becomes a catalyst for the women to confront the dissonance between the American Dream they’ve been sold and the reality of their inner lives. The friendships that form in this book club—Margaret, Charlotte, Bitsy, and Viv—are at the heart of the story, I adored the sisterhood between the Betty's so much.

What makes The Book Club for Troublesome Women particularly moving is its exploration of how women support each other, not just in good times, but in the moments of doubt and crisis that so often accompany personal growth. The women’s vulnerability, their laughter, and their messy, flawed selves make you ache for the kind of friendships that can weather any storm. At times reading this book honestly felt like a warm hug from my best friend.

I also dwelled a lot on the assertion that we are an impatient generation..we're always living for the next best thing, or i am anyway, dreaming of finding the one, moving in, getting engaged, then kids ~ always chasing happiness and fulfilment as if it's a tangible object when it's not, it's a choice, every waking day. "Pinnacle moments are exactly that, pulses of joy that usually don't last and are frequently accompanied by unforeseen complications". If you rely on these pinnacle moments to make you happy you'll spend your life chasing ghosts.

The Book Club for Troublesome Women is a beautiful tribute to the power of books to bring people together, it reminds you of the strength found in shared experiences, laughter, and above all, sisterhood.

I picked this book up, thinking that it would be something that would motivate a woman. But, guess what?, This is not only about women but about everyone who is struggling with identity crisis or just out there surviving!!

The story is about four women, who start a bookclub, start reading books and realize that they need to find themselves apart from being a wife and a mother. They recognise the need to notice themselves and to be happy.

📚 The story is set in 1963 and showcases that generation where women were considered to play the role of wife and mother only. They didn't even get enough opportunities to do what they wanted to do, so couldn't earn, had to focus on their children, their household and in turn were judged for asking for money.
📚 There are several political indicidents marked in the book, that roots the story back in that generation.
📚 The life of the women back then were tough and the story highlights things such as - Racism, husbands insulting their wives, husbands accepting that they hate their job, children, pregnancies, difficulty in conceiving, depression, sending children off to college, infidelity, fight of being something, marriage fights and struggle to be together, forgiving and the toughest of the times 'getting divorced'.
📚 The plot beautifully covers the story of all four women, giving enough justice to individual stories by connecting them to their past.
📚 The best part is the end, where the character's whereabouts are shown 30 years later. It completed the story in full circle.

I never knew that I would pickup something dated in past era but looks like this story was perfect!!

Many thanks to NetGalley and Harper Collins Focus for the free book in exchange for my honest review.

Its the 1960s and four suburban housewives from different walks of life form an unbreakable bond through their book club, forever altering the course of their lives.

I loved that the first book that the women read is the The Feminine Mystique which focuses on the core issue of these housewives and their dissatisfaction with domestic life. With the radical socio and economic changes headed their way, the reader gets a front row seat into the characters lives as they face motherhood, community and feminism. The Bettys are very likeable and relatable. This is a fast paced and entertaining read!

Highly recommend!

The Book Club for Troublesome Women by Marie Bostwick is an engaging and thought-provoking read. Set in the 1960s, it follows four suburban housewives who form a book club and discover the transformative power of Betty Friedan's The Feminine Mystique. As the women grapple with their personal struggles and societal expectations, their bond and the book spark significant growth and change in their lives. I couldn’t put it down—Bostwick beautifully captures the complexities of women’s lives during a time of social upheaval, highlighting the value of literature and sisterhood. This novel offers a compelling glimpse into the challenges and triumphs of women seeking fulfillment beyond the roles they were expected to play.

Margaret Ryan, a housewife in the sixties forms a book club with a few women in the neighborhood. She goes outside her comfort zone and invites Charlotte a new neighbor relocated from the “big city” - Charlotte will come if she can pick the book. This is the begin of the Betty’s.

This story is a fantastic look into the life of a woman in the 1960s. The expectations society puts upon them and what women are expected too tolerate from the world around them. These women find friendship and support and challenge expectations pushed onto them. It was a great story and the characters are relatable- a great read!

Such a good book! I love that it followed different women who had very different lives. It was so nice to see this side of motherhood and see the side of women being more than mothers. It highlighted how women are so much more than just their wife/mom boxes. Found family trope!

I really enjoyed this book! It activated my feminine rage without a doubt. This is such an important read because we need to remember how much women before us have fought for us to be where we are today.

I fell in love with the characters and they were so relatable in so many ways. I think every woman will be able to identify one way or the other with one or several of these characters.

Marie is an incredible writer and I was completely enthralled from start to finish! This was such a wonderful read!

Thank you so much to NetGalley, HarperCollins Focus, Harper Muse and Marie Bostwick for giving me an ARC of this incredible book!

I can't recommend it enough! I really enjoyed this book, I couldn't put it down, I finished it in a couple of days!

Four women who live just outside of Washington DC in the early 1960's become friends, united by being in a book club where they first read Betty Friedan's The Feminine Mystique. The "Betty's" become close as they go thru struggles between their traditional roles as wives and mothers while also wanting careers and passions. One is an aspiring magazine writer, one is an equine vet assistant to her husband, one is an aspiring artist from a judgmental wealthy family, and one is a former combat nurse with six kids. These four friends explore who they are and what they want out of their lives, set to the backdrop of the mid-1960's.

This was a great historical fiction book. It felt like the spirit sister to The Women by Kristin Hannah, so if you liked that one, you might like this one too. I thought the four women were great and so well written and different enough from each other that I didn't have any trouble keeping them straight (so refreshing!) I loved the rural Maryland setting and the time period, with a few touches of well-known names to help center the cultural time period. I listened to this on audio and read it and really liked both versions. They audio was great and kept the pace moving well.

I would highly recommend this historical fiction novel for readers of Kristin Hannah and Beatriz Williams. Thank you to Netgalley for the advance copy and audio for review.

📖 New Book Review 📖

I would like to thank NetGalley and the publisher for giving me the opportunity to read this book in exchange for a fair and honest review.

This book was a very slow starter for me. I felt like there should be the climactic point in the book but there wasn’t. What I did find, however, was a group of women better known as “The Bettys” who create a small book club. This story takes place in the early 1960s when women were not meant to work and ridiculed when they did. It was viewed as a slight upon their husbands whose job was to work and bring in a good wage. Their first book is The Feminine Mystique and each woman finds themselves written on the pages which does not thrill them. This story cements their relationships. Individually each of them wants a different life than they have. They want more and wants their lives to have meaning and purpose. With the Betty’s support each of them begins to redefine who they are in their relationship but also who they are on their own. This enables them to go out and enjoy life; return to work after having children; go to university and reevaluating the relationships they have with their husbands/partners. Not all of these changes are successful, however, they have one another that empowers them, supports them and encourages them.

This book took me on a journey backwards in time, and, gave me 4 new friends. Furthermore, it highlighted just how different society was back then. Despite starting as a slow burner it was a beautifully written book that I will definitely read again.

The Book Club for Troublesome Women is a compelling, unputdownable read that brilliantly captures the struggles and awakenings of women in 1960s Concordia. Through the lives of four women in their 20s and 30s, it explores the tension between societal expectations and personal ambition—between the roles they were told to accept and the dreams they were forced to abandon.

Everything changes when their book club picks The Feminine Mystique. As they turn its pages, their perspectives shift, desires ignite, and the power of sisterhood takes center stage.

Marie’s storytelling is both sharp and heartfelt, weaving humor, friendship, and defiance into a narrative that celebrates the courage to challenge the status quo. This was a five-star read for me—moving, thought-provoking, and utterly unforgettable.

This for me was a 5 star read.

Thanks to @netgalley and @Harpermusebooks for the ARC.

I received a complimentary copy of this ebook. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

The Book Club for Troublesome Women
Pub Date: Apr 22 2025

#NetGalley #ladysnuffy #books #bookgram #booktok #booknerd #arc #TheBookClubForTroublesomeWomen #harpercollinsAu #historicalfiction #womensfiction

Thank you so much NetGalley for an ARC of this novel. I haven't read a book lately that I enjoyed as much I as did this one. Being a child of the 60's this story brought back memories of my childhood. Each character was interesting and I thought Marie Bostwick developed each very well. In fact, each character could have a book where they were the main character. It's amazing what women have had to go through to gain independence and respect and it's not better now in 2025! I wish my mother was alive so I could ask about opening a checking account and gaining a prescription for the pill without my father's signature or approval! I fondly remember my mother hosting her friends. I wonder if she was part of a Betty's group! I also was lucky to receive an advanced audible copy of the book. I enjoy reading and listening together. The audible was amazing! I will certainly recommend this to my friends and fellow readers as well as my own book club! Thank you again for a delightful, thought provoking book!
Leslie Ponder

I did not expect to love this book as much as I did. I suppose part is due to the fact that I grew up in the sixties and 1963 is a year etched deeply in my memory. Women couldn’t get birth control without their husband’s approval in 1963, nor could they open a bank account in their own name, even though they were simply trying to cashing their own pay checks. How quickly we forget, but now my Granddaughter is roughly the same age that I was in the early 6o ‘s and I see her rights being stripped away.

The story of four neighbors ( Margaret, Betsy, Viv, and Charlotte, begins in March 1963 when they form a book club called The Betty’s after reading Betty Friedan’s classic The Feminine Mystique. Books can change lives and be the catalyst for change, and throughout the book we see how friendship can facilitate important transformation in the lives of these women, as they strive to live their best life. I thoroughly enjoyed this trip back into the past and it’s a good reminder that women still possess the strength to go after what they are due. We have plenty left to fight for.

Highly recommended.

I loved this book. I loved how it made me laugh, think, cry, and more. I loved how the women became friends because of a book/book club. I loved the characters and the message that women can have dreams outside of being a mother or housewife. I loved how Margaret’s marriage was a side plot and how they evolved as characters and as a couple. Will recommend this book! Thank you very much for the advanced copy!

A WITTY, INSIGHTFUL, AND NOSTALGIC JOURNEY

Margaret Ryan was living every woman’s dream in the 1960s. She had a loving husband, three beautiful children, and a station wagon. She lived in Concordia, North Carolina, an exclusive and picturesque suburb. Yet, like many women of this age, Margaret felt restless.

Upon meeting the newest neighbor, Charlotte Gustafson, Margaret is intrigued and wants to know her better. She devises a Book Club get-together and invites two other neighbor women, Bitsy and Viv. The thing I love about this group is that these four have nothing in common except they are neighbors! Margaret is pretty happily married with three children. Viv is married to a career Navy man with six children. She served as a nurse during the War, too. Bitsy is still a newlywed and married to the local veterinarian, who is much older than her. Charlotte is the Wild Card. She has moved from New York and dresses in Designer Fashions every day! She is an aspiring painter and quite liberal in her thinking compared to the other three women. For the Book Club’s first Book, they chose “The Feminine Mystique.” As they share cocktails, they also share secrets and goals, and friendships start to form. They realize they all feel like they are missing out on something. They decide to name themselves the Bettys after Betty Friedan.

The Book Club, which started without much thought, soon became a lifeline for the Bettys. They become a type of family, and each will need it in one way or another before the year is out. I like how the author gives each character a part of the story. It makes for a much more interesting book. They learned so much about each other and even more about themselves that year. They understand that each of them is smarter than they thought, loves deeply, will step in to help one another immediately, and is wise beyond her years.

Harper Muse and NetGalley provided me with a complimentary copy of this book. However, my opinions are entirely my own and uninfluenced.

The Book Club for Troublesome Women by Marie Bostwick, was a great women's historical fiction look. It is about how a group of women form a Book Club, starting with reading the Feminine Mystique by Betty Friedan and other books with "troublesome" them, examining the roles women fill on our society, that allow the group image a new trajectory for their lives, breaking the bonds of the cultural expectations for women of the 1960's. Through the book club and the exploration of their lives, these women develop strong bonds and support each other in achieving their own agency.

This book paints the historical events of the time including the civil rights movement. I am sure some people will be upset that the book did not address some of the other politics around race at the time, I appreciated that this book only focused on the characters in the book and their experience, instead of trying to be all things for all audiences.

Written in the spirit of The Women by Kristin Hannah and Mona Lisa Smile by Deborah Chiel, it demonstrates the importance of women's friendships and the need to support each other. I hope that this book inspires a new generation of women to read the classics mentioned in this book.

I want to thank HarperCollins Focus | Harper Muse and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this ARC. My Opinions are my own.

I loved this one! Especially in today’s climate, I think it’s an important reminder about the importance of female friendships. I hope for all women, that they find their own group of “Betty’s”. While the book was a little predictable in terms of the final outcomes, I loved how the stories intertwined! I would definitely recommend this to friends and book clubs alike!

I LOVED this book, The Book Club for Troublesome Women, by Marie Bostwick.

Women of the 60s, with all the rules and stereotypes set out for women then, live in a neighborhood. One decides to start a book club. They start out with The Feminine Mystique That book, cocktails provided by one of the more eccentric women, start the truths flowing.

While they have different lives and backgrounds, they all show up for one another in the best ways.

The books takes us through time changing, with all the turbulence that came with that decade.

I'll reiterate that I LOVED this book. I lost a lot of sleep, and I was a bit sad when I finished it.

I highly recommend this book.

Thank you to Harper Collins Focus and Net Galley for a digital ARC of this title in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.

#TheBookClubforTroublesomeWomen #MarieBostwick #NetGalley #HarperCollinsFocus

Thank you NetGalley, Harper Muse and Marie Bostwick for the advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!

You know it’s a good book when you forget that its story is fictional. The way that I connected with Charlotte, Margaret, Viv and Bitsy felt seamless, like if I were to show up to their book club to talk about The Feminine Mystique I would be welcomed without a bat of an eyelash. Finding yourself as a woman in 2025 can be hard - finding yourself in 1960 as a woman that can’t even open their own bank account without their husband’s permission… just puts in perspective how far we have come in the last 60 years, but the work is also far from done.

This book was about navigating life, breaking social norms and finding empowerment within yourself. If Concordia, Virginia were a real place - sign me up to be a new resident, just so I could join the “Betty’s” and their book club.

Also, thank you for adding the part about Charlotte having power windows in her car, because I would have never googled when they became a thing - and would have never known they were invented in the 1940s.

This was like a 1950s desperate housewives and I loved it! Not at all what I was expecting but different. A bookclub I could join! Loved the characters. And the narrator is one of my very favorites!

Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC.

Margaret Ryan was getting ready for the first meeting of her new book club. What to serve? Her daughter Beth told her mother to just make oatmeal cookies and be done with it. Margaret wanted it special.

Even though big changes don't happen all at once, reading their first book, The Feminine Mystique, made this group feel something. It was important to them to find their sense of self, their future, and their worth.

It's always a little scary, right? Meeting new people and letting them get to know you? That was the rub about starting a book club in their neighborhood. The women were nervous about being judged but excited to get together. They wanted fellowship.

This story was set in a northern Virginia suburb called Concordia. Its premise is based on a controversial book titled The Feminine Mystique. The book didn’t solve problems but helped create a lively discussion at their first book club meeting. The discussion highlighted the women's shared experience of isolation, powerlessness, and a lack of voice. There had to be more to life than raising children and taking care of their family.

Who’d ever guess that four friends with their impromptu book club would change their lives and those around them forever? I highly recommend this book for your book club. It will bring lively discussion at your book club meeting. There are a few cuss words sprinkled about, which felt natural, with closed-door romance. This story takes place in the 1960s, when people drank and smoked in public. I’ve never read a book by this author before. I’ll be checking out more of her books. This is a must read.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I requested and received a copy of this book from the publisher, Netgalley. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Nora St. Laurent
TBCN Where Book Fun Begins!
The Book Club Network blog https://psalm516.blogspot.com/

For a book set in the 1960s, this book is certainly relevant to current events and culture. Contemporary women will see familiar patterns

Firstly, the cover on this is absolutely beautiful and I am absolutely obsessed with it !

The story was a whole vibe from start to finish and I loved it ! .

I would recommend this book to everyone and anyone who loves to read !!

This book was not what I thought it would be: namely, that a group of older women would gather as a book club and get into sticky issues to solve together. Not at all.
This book is about young women, most of them struggling with beginning salaries of their husbands. The women do get together as a book club, as I had originally thought, but they bond beyond just reading books. into family crises, disappointments, and successes. The story timeline covers 1960-approximately 2000. The group reminded me somewhat of M. McCarthy's "The Group" but closer to what I had experienced in my younger days as a wife and mother on lower social and economic levels.
I could relate to their book club premise to connect to other women for relief and respite. Many book clubs are not as welcoming to newcomers which seems counter to what women can do for each other.
What I learned in this story was it's ok to look for friends in a book club and enjoy their company beyond that place. Don't get discouraged if you don't find real depth or friendship right away. Sometimes, it takes a while to get to know people.

I LOVED this book. Not only was it well written, the theme resonated with me, having grown up in the 1960's. The author captures the daring of these women to break out of the "this is how it's done jail" of the times. I also really enjoyed Ms. Bostwick bringing in real women who where pioneers in their fields during that era.

"An ounce of pretension is worth a pound of manure”

“A woman is like a tea bag. You never know how strong it is until it’s in hot water.” - Eleanor Roosevelt

“You can have it all, just not all at the same time.”

“Somewhere down the road, maybe you’ll help pave the road for somebody else. That’s how the world gets better. One generation helping the next.”

This is the first book by this author that I have read.
An engaging story of four women in the 1960’s who are neighbors with nothing in common form a book club. Calling themselves the “Bettys”after reading ‘The Feminine Mystique’ by Betty Friedman.
Characters that are multi layered, growth, society, era of civil rights, power of sisterhood, rediscovery, friendships. Strong women loyal to each other, as they share challenges. An historical fiction journey worth the read.

Thank you NetGalley and Harper Muse for the opportunity to read this thought provoking book.

Fair warning if you’re thinking of reading this book: it will probably infuriate you.

Author Marie Bostwick does an incredible job of portraying the issues women faced in the United States in the early 60s, having her protagonists experience several of the common challenges women dealt with. As a feminist who reads a lot of history I was already acquainted with these facts, so while I found it troubling (I had to pause the book several times and read one of the others on my weekly TBR), I didn’t find any of it surprising.

One of the saddest parts about this book, is probably how true-to-life it actually is. In light of what the US is experiencing right now, many women are becoming more familiar with what our mothers and grandmothers lived through, but there are still far too many who either remain unaware or believe that books like this exaggerate the truth when, in fact, the opposite is true; there is even more the author could have revealed.

I found it to be an excellent book; well written and engaging. It’s fast paced, but if you’re like me it isn’t the sort of thing you read in one sitting simply because you want a break from how annoyed you will be with most of the men in the book. The author does also make mention of the fact that the patriarchy harms men, a valid point that I thought well worth including, particularly in the way she wrote it into the plot. I don’t want to put any spoilers in here, but I gotta say that Walt ended up being one of my favorite characters in the book.

Writing the book against the backdrop of major historical events like the assassination of Medgar Evans, the March on Washington, and John F. Kennedy’s assassination while including and humanizing historical figures like the Washington Post’s Katherine Graham and Jackie Kennedy as secondary characters had to have been difficult, but it was a stroke of genius.

I don’t read a lot of historical fiction. I read a lot of history, so most historical fiction, to me, is boring and rife with inaccuracy, and I avoid it. A friend recommended this book to me, and I want to take a moment here, because they’re probably reading this, and say “You were right about this book. It made me mad, but I loved it.”

I would not be at all surprised if, someday in the future when we get rid of the current administration and begin putting the world back to rights, this book ends up on some professor’s required reading curriculum. Before that happens it’ll probably be banned, so get your copy and read it, because every woman should know about what’s in these pages.

Disclosure: I received an ARC of this book from the publisher via NetGalley and am leaving a voluntary review.

What an interesting and insightful treatise about American women and their social, economic and political advances since 1963. Having been a young matron in the sixties I can attest to the validity of all the barriers Bostwick cited as well as the general lifestyle. Yep, we’ve come a long way, Baby!

As with all Bostwick’s books this one centers around female friendships and how women support each other through life’s trials and tribulations. I loved the historic personages and events that she wove into her story.

I received this ARC from NetGalley and the publisher, Harper Muse, in exchange for an honest review. As a longtime fan of Bostwick’s books, I think my fellow Bostwick book-lovers will be very pleased with this new direction in her writing. Highly recommended.

I adored this book, partly, I am sure because it spoke of a time in America in which I grew up. The sixties were turbulent times indeed and were one in which women for the first time, found their strategies and new voices. The author really gave an accurate picture through her different characters of the times for women, and the maturation of them throughout their lives. Their relationships with spouses and with each other made for a great read and one with which I could identify. Reading it was like sitting down with an old and dear friend. I loved it!

Loved this book. It was such a great look at the importance and value of the women's friendships, navigating their marriages, and obstacles and discrimination women faced during the 1960s just for being female. While each of the women loved their families, they were moving in the direction of wanting fulfillment in their own identities in careers too, especially after coming out of post-ww2 when they had that opportunity in a way they previously didn't.

While women's autonomy and opportunities are certainly not perfect still, living during a time where your whole life was dictated by your husband or you're automatically discounted everywhere outside the home because you're a woman would be infuriating to me. The uphill climb that was well described but valiantly fought by these women was so commendable and inspiring. I'm thankful women decades past fought for the benefit I have to be a working mom now, as well as being seen for my own value in most cases without all their barriers.

The honesty and transparency that author gave each woman was just so well done. It looked at the difficulty and beauty of their marriages - and from a really different type of relationship that each one had with her husband, so it was very well rounded - was just so real. I think anyone who's been married for a decent amount of time could relate with one or other of the women at any given moment. But I loved how much they were determined to make things work, knew they weren't perfect, allowed themselves to bend when needed and stand up when also called for, to give their best and encouraged each other when they didn't feel like doing so. The author portrayed each in a way that I just loved each of them for their own reasons.

I loved the importance the book club and their friendships had too. They pressed boundaries, weren't afraid to be themselves once they got to know each other, made mistakes, took risks with each other, and were unfailing in their loyalty to each other despite their differences.

It honestly was pretty inspiring with all their imperfections and attitudes despite. Overall just a really great book and highly recommend.

Thanks to Netgalley for the advanced copy of this book. All opinions are mine.

This was such a fun book! I really enjoyed reading about these four women and the bonds they form. The book club aspect is only a small part of the relationships that blossom among them. If you enjoy historical fiction featuring strong women, or if you enjoyed books such as Lessons in Chemistry, you will adore this book! Thank you to Net Galley, the author, and the publisher for an advance e-reader copy of this book.

This book beautifully captures the struggles and triumphs of women in the 1960s. It explores the importance of female friendships, their marriages, and their fight against societal discrimination. The characters are relatable and inspiring, each with their own unique story. The author portrays the complexities of their relationships and the power of their bond. A truly heartwarming and empowering read. A 5-star read from a housewife life me., 🥹

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

When Margaret Ryan decided to knock on the door of the newest family in her Concordia neighborhood, she had no way of knowing just how life changing that decision would be. Bored with the same old group of women in the neighborhood coffee klatch, Margaret was immediately drawn to Charlotte because she was the opposite of what was then the status quo. After a rocky start, a book club was born and the first book was The Feminine Mystique by Betty Friedan. Viv and Bitsy soon joined the group. They were so energized by the book, that they began to call themselves the Bettys. The book club became so much more that just a place to read and talk about books. This group of women would grow and learn together and find and give support that none of them had experienced before. This book is an incredible testimony to the strength of women and the bonds of friendship. It is a beautifully written story and one that won't soon be forgotten.

What an incredible read this book was. The memories of the time came flooding back while at the same time I had my eyes open as to how limiting a woman’s life was in the sixties. I enjoyed this book from start to finish. The main characters were amazing and I found myself cheering for them. If you are looking for a thoughtful yet nostalgic read hurry out and pick this book up. You will not be disappointed!

Loved this book! Such a unique, sympathetic and empowering view into the lives of four very different women from the 1960s. The struggles and lessons learned apply to any decade as the challenges come in many different forms with diverse outcomes.

Didn’t love the title though - Troublesome Women sounds apologetic when these fictional, but could be very real, ladies have every reason to be proud of their multitude of accomplishments.

Thanks to NetGalley and HarperCollins Focus for the opportunity to read this ARC.

Four, female friends face challenges from society and their own families in their quests to find out if there's more to life than raising husbands and children. I found the female characters to be well written, with diverse personalities and different upbringings, but somehow, they found each other. I would love to join The Book Club for Troublesome Women and drink "truth serum" while discussing life and books.

One sign of a good book is that it makes you think. I went down so many rabbit holes with this one and learned quite a bit about the 60's and how far women have come (and how far we still have to go).

I received an ARC copy from NetGalley and all opinions are my own. I reviewed this for my book club and can almost guarantee they will be purchasing their own copies when the book is released.

Marie Bostwick delivers a heartfelt and thought-provoking novel in The Book Club for Troublesome Women, a story of female friendship, personal growth, and the quiet but powerful resilience of four suburban women in the 1960s. Set in Virginia in 1963, the novel follows Margaret, Charlotte, Viv, and Bitsy-each unique in her own right-navigating the complexities of marriage, motherhood, career ambitions, and societal expectations. Their book club, sparked by The Feminine Mystique, becomes more than a gathering: it is a catalyst for self-discovery and change.

Bostwick's writing is immersive and captivating, introducing readers to the daily lives of these women while weaving in a historical context that highlights both the progress and persistent struggles of the feminist movement. The friendships at the heart of the story are superbly developed, showing the strength to be found in shared experiences and support, even as the women come from different backgrounds.

Although the novel is character-driven and slow-paced, the emotional depth and nuances of the narrative make it a rewarding read. At times, the challenges faced by the women are resolved too neatly, and the lack of diverse perspectives is noticeable, but overall, this is a compelling and inspiring book that reminds us how far we have come...and how far we have yet to go.

A must-read for lovers of historical fiction, feminist literature, and stories that celebrate the power of female friendships.

What a moving story!! Margaret, Viv, Bitsy, and Charlotte - all suburban housewives in the 1960's seem to have perfect lives but feel something is missing. When they start a book club and read The Feminine Mystique by Betty Friedan, it opens their eyes to new possibilities and helps them question the roles they've been given.

I loved the strong bond between these women. Their friendship gives them the courage to face their struggles, challenge society's expectations, pursue careers, and create fulfilling lives. The writing is heartfelt and easy to connect with. Overall, a touching story about friendship, self-discovery, and finding the strength in each other. I loved it and found it powerful and inspiring.

This was a phenomenal read! Margaret, Bitsy, Charlotte and Viv were the epitome of what a book club in the 1960s would look like. Faced with real life issues, in and out of the household, these four women find friendship, support, and a place to share their personal thoughts and feelings that society had led them to have long kept to themselves.
This book was the whole package. It's very rare that I finish a book and don't have a single thought of what I wish was done a bit differently, but this book was absolutely an exception. Very well-written, moderately paced, and full of juicy gossip that kept me wanting 'just one more chapter'

Thank you, NetGalley and Harper Muse, for the early read in exchange for my honest review.

The Book Club for Troublesome Women by Marie Bostwick is set in 1963 against the backdrop of the civil rights movement and the shifting landscape of women's rights. The story follows four suburban housewives—Margaret, Viv, Bitsy, and Charlotte—who form a book club to explore literature challenging societal norms. Beginning with Betty Friedan’s The Feminine Mystique, they examine women's societal roles and the cultural expectations of the 1960s, inspiring them to imagine new life paths.

As they engage in discussions, the women confront personal challenges: Charlotte navigates a toxic marriage, while Bitsy seeks self-worth amidst societal pressures. The book club becomes a supportive space where they form strong bonds and empower each other to pursue their desires and aspirations.

I loved how the author gave each woman their own story and voice. Although the story started a bit slow, I couldn't put it down once their lives began to intertwine! I have been on a historical fiction kick lately, and this one didn't disappoint!

Quotes I loved:
"You know 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."
"You can have it all, just not all at the same time."
"Things have a way of working out when and how they're meant to. Youll see."
"Acquaintances abound, but true friendships are rare and worth waiting for."
"It is a man's world. And there's not a thing we can do about it"

Thank you to NetGalley, HarperCollins Focus, Harper Muse and Marie Bostwick for giving me an ARC! I loved this book, it may be my favorite read of the year! The characters were lovely and well-developed. Their backgrounds helped round out the story and added depth to the broader stories being told. I loved them all and despised some of their spouses, and was so pleased with the way their stories were wrapped up at the end. I love historical fiction and this fit the bill in every imaginable way. Serious, informative, transformative, and just an all around well-written novel. Can't say enough and will be recommending this to others!

I loved this story of four housewives from different backgrounds and statuses who join together to form a bookclub. We then follow them through their ups and downs during the year of 1963.
All the lead characters had worthy storylines and reflected the different issues that women faced at the time. An eye opening read that highlights the frustrations and many limitations that were imposed on women at the time.
I look forward to reading more from this author.
Thanks to Netgalley and HarperCollinsFocus for this ARC.

“The Book Club for Troublesome Women” by Marie Bostwick
a MUST READ book.
Yes, the four lead characters are female and white and married… BUT they could be any gender, any color, and any other different you can think of. It is a story of 4 people learning to find what makes them happy, glad to be alive, and happy to get up and live another day (not just face it). They do not ‘Have To’ accept someone else’s (society’s) vision of what should make them happy. Or, you can read this book just because it is a really good story. Marie’s best so far. Happy Reading ! !

I could not love this book more than I do. Imagine a gang of 1963 housewives getting together, forming a book club, and a book changes their outlook on everything. I fell in love with every single character and simply did not want this to end. I kept picturing this as a movie or limited series. Right now, it is my favorite book of 2025.

I did both the audio and ebook and both were outstanding. Please read this book.

When I first read the description of "The Book Club for Troublesome Women", I saw that it was inspired by a conversation Marie Bostwick, the author, had with her mother regarding a 1960's book entitled "The Feminine Mystique". The author's mother told her, "That book changed my life."
Through the conversation, Marie Bostwick says that she knew what her next book would be about.

"The Book Club for Troublesome Women" is set in the 60's and follows the lives of 4 women who become friends and develop a support system spurred by reading "The Feminine Mystique", the book that was stirring up all manner of controversy during that time.

This was the first book that I have read by Marie Bostwick and I loved her writing.
The characters were very well fleshed out.
I felt what they were feeling.
I celebrated their successes.
I loved watching the women grow, stand up for themselves, call out injustices, discover things about themselves.
Even recognizing in some ways, that many of their behaviors were formed as a direct result of the actions of men in their lives.
Watching them have the honesty and the strength to begin the battle against their own behaviors was inspiring.

This story was, for the most part, an uplifting read.

As a women who has lived the life of "The Cinderella Syndrome", raised in middle class America in the 60's, where I was told that I needed to be sweet and pretty so I could find a husband to take good care of me, this book really spoke to me in the context of the messages imbedded in girls and women during that time.
Personally experiencing a transformational change during my late 30's early 40's, I became an independent woman who relied only on herself for long enough to know who I am deep down. This lead to knowing exactly what I wanted and what I would never tolerate again.

The story of The Bookclub for Troublesome Women was so realistic in the setting and attitudes of these 4 women.

The more I read, the more I realized that these young women were not "troublesome" at all.
They simply wanted something contrary to what others wanted for them.

The males were very strongly against a book that would "empower" women. All they could focus on was the next hot meal served to them by their subservient wife.

The older generation of women were aghast to think that young women would even be interested in something so radically against the role that women had always played in society. "Who will take care of my son?" "What will my friends think?"

The bottom line for me was that we, as women, should have the choice to be who we want to be.
Not because of what society says we should be.

It was about having the freedom of choice to be able to pursue the things that fulfill US and make us happy.
This doesn't have to be a high-powered career, or holding down a job to make us feel like we are contributing to society in that way.
It can also be feeling content and comfortable staying home and caring for the family and home, without shame or feeling you are not as essential as a career woman.

The point is: I get to choose.

I recommend this book to anyone who wants a good story sprinkled with inspiration along the way.

Thank you to Harper Muse and Netgalley for the privilege of reading the ARC of this book.

The Book Club for Troublesome Women
Marie Bostwick
April 22, 2025

The women who lived and grew up in Concordia, Virginia were housewives in a tight circle of newly developed houses. Upper middle class and conservative ladies that raised their children and became close friends with their neighbors. When Charlotte moved in, the women in their local group decided to form a book club. Margaret was nominated to venture down to the new sector and ask the newcomer if she would like to attend. By the end of their discussion Maggie had let Charlotte pick the first novel - The Feminine Mystique. It was an unusual selection for the women to read however, each who joined the group attempted to read it.
The Book Club for Troublesome Women will be published on April 22, 2025 by Harper Muse of HarperCollins Publishing. I was able to read and review Bostwick´s latest novel via NetGalley. Having not read a synopsis of the book, I was pleasantly surprised. As I read the first chapters of Maggie and the Bettyś comradery I was impressed with Marie Bostwick´s story telling. I found myself remembering my own early life of living in a new area of town where houses were being built and neighborhood women were all becoming friends. The idle talk was so similar to the Concordia gossip.With each chapter I became more involved with the story and the memories of how we grew and our momś manner of living adapted with the development of our nation. For readers who grew up in the 60s this book will ring a true cord in their memories. Marie Bostwick has given women a test in remembering how protected life once was. We have traveled a long road these past fifty plus years. I challenge readers to come along with ´The Bettys´ and enjoy the journey.

10/10 no notes. This book was wonderful and I didn't want to put it down.

Set in the early 1960's, we have women who call themselves the Betty's. These women are married and homemakers and mothers. As a new women comes to town, the women invite her to join their book club. She only joins if they read "The Feminine Mystique." The women decide and the book changes their lives. These women decide to stand up for their rights and be their own person. Bostwick intertwines the narrative from the different perspectives, so you really see what is going on behind the scenes in these women's lives.

I've realized that I enjoy a good historical fiction novel when it is centered around women fighting for their rights as human beings. I recommend this for everyone to read. Another hist. fic. at the top of my favorites list!!

I was lucky enough to receive an early copy of @harpermusebooks The Book Club for Troublesome Women and I loved this book!

The title instantly captivated me, especially with “Book Club” in it, and it truly delivered! This novel follows the journey of four women in the early sixties who decide to invigorate their housewife lives by forming a book club and reading “The Feminine Mystique.” Though they came for the books, they gained so much more through the bonds they created over literature.

Each character grapples with her own struggles and triumphs as they seek balance and understanding of what it means to be a fulfilled woman today. In a time when women couldn’t even open a bank account, they felt guilty not embracing every aspect of homemaking.

I thoroughly enjoyed getting to know Charlotte, Viv, Margaret , and Bitsy, each adding unique perspectives to the narrative. Many pressures they faced in the past resonate with us in 2025, prompting us to question if we are enough, doing enough, or making the right life choices. We often juggle countless roles while striving to “have it all,” as society dictates.

This book fostered deep human connections, providing a poignant snapshot of suburban housewives during that era. It instilled hope as I witnessed these women navigate societal restrictions, a challenge we still face today regarding women’s rights and uplifting each other. The author expertly illustrates the progress of the feminist movement while shedding light on how much still needs to be done. I reflected on my grandmother raising children in the 60s, feeling a profound connection to the women who came before us and the transformative power of a book to broaden our lives and perspectives!

This comes out April 22nd and I highly recommend it to fans of Kristin Hannah, Kate Quinn and Historical Fiction lovers! I also think it makes a wonderful bookclub book read and discussion ☺️. Thank you so much @harpermusebooks for this ALC/ARC and to Marie for writing such a wonderfully written book!

Having come of age in the late ‘60s, this novel was a trip back in time. The author truly captured the budding discontent of women with their treatment in the workplace and the expectations of them in their homes and communities. The characters, for the most part, feel genuine and their struggle to feel fulfilled is real. Because the women are different ages with different marital situations and home lives, the story manages to feel inclusive of the climate of the time. This would be a great bookclub choice!

Thanks to NetGalley and Harper Muse for the ARC to read and review.

By 1960s standards, Margaret Ryan is living the American woman's dream. She has a husband, three children, a station wagon, and a home in Concordia--one of Northern Virginia's most exclusive and picturesque suburbs. On paper, she has it all. So why doesn't that feel like enough? Margaret is thrown for a loop when she first meets Charlotte Gustafson, Concordia's newest and most intriguing resident. As an excuse to be in the mysterious Charlotte's orbit, Margaret concocts a book club get-together and invites two other neighborhood women--Bitsy and Viv--to the inaugural meeting. As the women share secrets, cocktails, and their honest reactions to the controversial bestseller The Feminine Mystique, they begin to discover that the American dream they'd been sold isn't all roses and sunshine--and that their secret longing for more is something they share. These four friends have no idea their impromptu club and the books they read together will become the glue that helps them hold fast through tears, triumphs, angst, and arguments--and what will prove to be the most consequential and freeing year of their lives.


Thoughts
Oh I loved this book. Four women in different parts of their lives and marriages come together to read books that are challenging the status quo. It reminded me of the quote “here’s to strong women, may we know them, may we be them, may we raise them.” I love a good book about the strength and determination of women and this delivered.

This book gave me major Lessons in Chemistry vibes, which I loved.
Margaret, Bitsy, Charlotte, and Viv are an increasingly progressive book club. The women grow disatisified with the social expectations of being a woman in the 50s/60s. Do they continue to go with the flow, or do they shake things up in their marriages, social circles, and dreams?
Being a member of a book club that has feministic/equality views myself made me identify with each of the characters in different ways. Definitely must read this!

Thank you, NetGalley and the publisher, for a chance to read this ARC. I received a complimentary e-copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

The Book Club for Troublesome Women by Marie Bostwick is an engaging and thought-provoking novel that beautifully captures the complexities of women's lives in 1963. This book doesn’t just skim the surface of history—it dives into the societal and familial challenges that women faced and how some found the strength to push back against the constraints placed upon them.

One of the things I loved most about this novel was how layered the women’s stories were. Each character had her own struggles, yet their journeys intertwined in a way that felt natural and real. Bostwick does an excellent job of showing how expectations were placed on women—not just by men, but sometimes by other women too.

Bostwick also does an incredible job of highlighting the small but significant obstacles women faced—things like opening a bank account or getting birth control without a husband's permission. These everyday struggles may seem shocking to modern readers, but they were very real in 1963, and in some ways, women are still fighting for true equality today.

What really made this book stand out for me was how much I recognized these women. We all know them—they are our mothers, our grandmothers, and for some readers, maybe even great-grandmothers. Their struggles, their resilience, their desire for more while still loving their families—it all felt so authentic. The book club and their reading of The Feminine Mystique weren’t just plot points; they were catalysts for reflection, making each woman reassess what she wanted for herself, not just what society dictated.

I have not read other books by Marie Bostwick, but I will be adding some of her other titles to my TBR List. I highly recommend The Book Club for Troublesome Women to historical fiction lovers, readers who enjoy books about books or book clubs, and those interested in feminism and women's rights. This is a great novel filled with rich, character-driven stories that explore how people navigate societal expectations. Lisa Flanagan, the audio version's narrator, was terrific. She did an excellent job with all the characters' voices, bringing their words to life. I truly loved this book, and I learned so much from it.

Thank you to HarperCollins Focus | Harper Muse and NetGalley for the privilege of being able to listen and read along with the printed copy. The book is due to be released on April 22, 2025.

Winner: Marie Bostwick's The Book Club for Troublesome Women is the best book I've read this year. Four newly suburban women choose The Feminine Mystique as their first book, not knowing how life changing reading it will be. With humor and compassion, Bostwick portrays the challenges women faced trying to be more than housewives and mothers in post WW2, supporting each other through life crises, as well as celebrating each other. As a Baby Boomer, I benefitted from the convictions and commitments of women like these who fought for more.

This was really good! Litfic isn't my typical genre but I am glad that I picked this one up. I thought this was incredibly well done, the characters and the plot kept me invested and I was honestly gripping my chair to see what happened next.

“‘What?’ He shouted. ‘What can you possibly want that we don’t already have? What?’ There was a pause, then the sound of a sob, choked with confusion and shame. ‘I don’t know. I don’t know. Just…more.’” - Ruth, Margaret’s mother, The Bookclub for Troublesome Women

The Book Club for Troublesome Women is the fascinating story of four women who form a book club based off the novel The Feminine Mystique by Betty Friedan which was an actual (and for some controversial) book published at the time this story takes place. The novel is set in the outskirts of the Georgetown/D.C. area. The bookclub members are Margaret, Charlotte, Viv, and Bitsy and the story explores the struggles and celebrations each woman confronts over the course of nine months in 1963.

All four women are married and three are mothers. Margaret begins a part-time job as a writer of lighthearted stories for a popular women’s magazine, Charlotte is striving to be an artist, Viv is a part-time nurse and Bitsy works as a stable hand. All four women face challenges with relationships, finances and careers. Friedan’s novel, a proclamation about being a woman and the unspoken feeling of wanting of more in their lives spurs these characters to reflect on what it means to themselves and, eventually, to the people around them.


I highly enjoyed this book. Marie Bostwick intertwines true historical events with the plot which emphasizes the importance of the challenges the women addressed.. The four women have very distinct personalities and compulsive narratives. I found myself very engaged and eager to find time to sit and read this book.


Thank you to NetGalley. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

5.0 stars
HIGHLY recommend

"I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own"

This was a fantastic historical fiction novel about March to November 1963. Four women join a book club and become best friends. Unfortunately, real life intrudes and they all experience issues, problems, and hardships along the way, but their friendships hold them up. The four female characters grow, develop, and become stronger because of this intense friendship!

I didn't know much about the 1960s. I was a toddler when this story occurred and a kid for the rest of it. But I must confess that it was an eye-opening book!

The strong writing, character development, and storyline are all top-notch. I'm just grateful to read a historical fiction book NOT about WWII!

If you like historical fiction, STRONG female characters, or want to learn about 1963, read this book!!


Goodreads: - https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/7430878809 - posted 3/26/2025
StoryGraph: - https://app.thestorygraph.com/reviews/7defd9d5-9fa9-4913-a5d1-377fb87bfffb?redirect=true - posted 3/26/2025
Booksbydorothea Blog: - https://booksbydorothea.blogspot.com/2025/03/review-book-club-for-troublesome-women.html - posted 3/26/2025

Thank you Net Galley for the ARC of this book. The Book Club for Troublesome Women is set in the 1960s, when a group of women began a book club in their neighborhood. The first book they read was Betty Friedan's :The Feminine Mystique." It brought up a lot of feelings in these women and each have their own way of dealing with the changes that were occurring in society. The characters are all wonderful If you loved "Lessons in Chemistry, you will love this book. These women grew and triumphed each in their own way. This will be THE book club selection this year.

1963, friendship, family drama, and books? This was excellent! Four women form a strong friendship starting with a book club. These ladies are all very different but a perfect match in creating a sisterhood. They each have to face frustrating personal issues and it was inspiring to watch the growth they experienced. The ending was very satisfying. This book shows how far we’ve come but also how much more we have to go. Overall it was fast paced, interesting, and I’m happy I was able to read an early copy. 5 stars and highly recommend 📚

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Marie Bostwick has captured what life was like for well-to-do women in a new Virginia suburb shortly after WWII. Four housewives, all new to their neighborhood, get together to form a book club. Their first selection is The Feminine Mystique. One is a former nurse and the other three are want-to-bes—a writer, an artist, and a veterinarian. Among them they have fourteen children. Bostwick does an excellent job of developing four stories around what life was like in the early fifties. Though I was born in the 1950s, I had little knowledge of how women were treated by employers, colleges, and businesses during that time. The superiority of men and husbands truly surprised me. I could not put this book down and highly recommend it. It is a wonderful piece of historical fiction dealing with a time and subjects not commonly dealt with in present day literature. I think this book will be huge this summer. I thank NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this ARC.

Thank you to Net Galley and Harper Collins Focus for the chance to read and review this book. All opinions are my own.
I enjoyed this book! It reminded me of my mom. It takes place in the 1960's. It is the story of four women who have a good life but want just a little more. They form a book club based on the book The Feminine Mystique. Over cocktails and shared secrets, they develop a deep friendship. I have read many books by Marie Bostwick. She is one of my favorite authors! This book was just as good as her other books. I highly recommend it!

This book was everything! I fell in love with the characters and the entire storyline was perfection. Bostwick was able to make every woman in this book brave and complicated, each having their own unique to them (but not unique to the time) challenges with husbands, bosses, and overall expectations and limitations placed on them. I rooted for every single one and loved how they pulled together for each other when times were tough.

Be prepared to be annoyed though, as it was certainly infuriating to think it wasn't all that long ago that a woman couldn't even open her own checking account without her husband's signature.

One of my favorite books as of late, definitely recommend this gem of historical fiction!

Book Review

📖📖📖📖📖

The Betty’s, I loved them. What a fabulous story about four women hell bent on finding their own way during a time when women had to ask permission. The Book Club of Troublesome women finds four women, The Betty’s, in a book club after reading The Feminine Mystique.

Margaret, Bitsy, Viv, and Charlotte… All looking for their own calling, in their own way. They come together and realize they can be exactly who they want to be and this story follows each of their paths as they journey to find themselves. Living a life with husbands who run the households, banks that require their husband’s signature , and places of employment that favor men.

Set in the 1960s, these women were on the cusp of finding something bigger and something better. And each of their stories is worthy of reading.

I could not put this down and I could not have loved it more. A top five read in 2025 for me.

For sure, I am a troublesome woman!

Thank you to @netgalley and @harpermusebooks for this advanced readers copy. Out on April 22nd, you want to miss this one!

#troublesomewomen #mustread

Marie Bostwick is an auto buy author for me. I loved her latest, The Book Club for Troublesome Women was awesome!