WW Book Club for September 10th — 16th, 2023

Welcome, fellow book enthusiasts and literature lovers, to the eleventh week of the Woman’s World — also known as ‘WW’ — book club!

As you know, every week our book editors will introduce you to seven brand-new page-turners that are just right for women over 45. We hope you will find a few jewels that are a perfect addition to your reading lists, your book club line-ups and/or your nightstand pile.

This week we’ve got everything from heartwarming women’s fiction to gripping historicals to charming cozy mysteries to swoony romances to beautiful home decor guides, no matter what kind of bookish mood you’re in, these reads are sure to bring you joy!

And there’s one thing we can guarantee: These reads are curated especially to lift your mood, lower your stress and make you feel great.

Here, our book club round-up for September 10th to September 16th — let us know which ones you end up reading and what you think. We love hearing from you!

In the mood for an emotional, unputdownable story?

Pick up The Breakaway by Jennifer Weiner

Bestselling author Jennifer Weiner has penned more than 20 captivating novels—and her latest is a saga of life-changing journeys, tough topics and love. At age 33, Abby Stern thinks she’s living the happy ending she wanted with her childhood sweetheart, Mark. But on a bike trip to Niagara Falls, Abby spots Sebastian, who she spent a night with years ago. Reflecting on what she wants, Abby decides what true love means to her.

Book cover for book club The Breakaway by Jennifer Weiner

On the hunt for a charmingly cute whodunit?

Crack into Mrs. Jeffries Aims to Win by Emily Brightwell

A thrilling whodunit unravels in the next installment of Emily Brightwell’s Victorian Mystery series. During a storm at the West London Archery Club’s archery competition, businessman Jeremy Marks is murdered with arrows from a bow. Then when Inspector Witherspoon investigates, he discovers the victim had enemies among the archery contestants. Now, Mrs. Jeffries and the inspector must target the real killer—quickly!

In the market for a historical suspense full of intrigue?

Get lost in Harlem After Midnight by Louise Hare

The bright lights of Broadway, twisted secrets and a handsome musician…this heart-racing page-turner touches on it all. When Lena Aldridge finally makes it to NYC from London, she decides she’ll do anything to make her dreams of being a Broadway star come true. She gets wrapped up with Will Goodman, a musician who takes her in. But she realizes he may have secrets of his own that could put her in danger.

Interested in a riveting 19th century page-turner?

Immerse yourself in The Stockwell Letters by Jacqueline Friedland

This gripping, inspirational tale follows passionate activist Ann Phillips during the 19th century. When she falls ill just before her 24th birthday, her husband, Wendell, forbids her from joining any further anti-slavery outings. But when fugitive slave Anthony Burns is apprehended in Boston, Ann decides she’ll do whatever it takes to help him. What follows is a saga based on a true story of a relentless fight for freedom.

Looking for inspiring home decor ideas?

Check out White and Faded: Restoring Beauty in Your Home and Life by Janet Parrella-Van Den Berg

Studies show that beautifully designed interior spaces provide a sense of refuge and calm that can transform our lives for the better. In her new book, designer and founder of the interior design business White & Faded Janet Parrella-Van Den Berg offers simple decor tips that make a big impact—like how to easily bring in seasonal charm, refurbish antiques and declutter. With personal stories and warm advice, she helps readers restore beauty—and joy!—to their homes.

White and Faded home decor book cover for book club

Want to kick back with a magically delightful tale?

Try Big Little Spells by Hazel Beck

Rebekah Wilde was eighteen when she left St. Cyprian after being stripped of her magic. A decade later, she must return to Joywood Coven. Rebekah is happy to reunite with her sister and her friends, but soon they all realize her return may signal something darker and more dangerous than anyone imagined. Now, Rebekah seeks help from the ruthless and immortal Nicholas Frost. Years ago, he was her secret magic tutor…and also her secret crush. But the icy immortal is as arrogant as ever, and if he feels anything for Rebekah—or witchkind—it’s nearly impossible to gauge.

Yearning for a spicy-sweet romance?

Dive into The Love Plot by Samantha Young

Star Shine Meadows is a free spirit who works as a costume character actor and believes in ‘no strings attached’ relationships. One day while she is working a princess party, she meets the birthday girl’s grumpy and handsome Uncle, Rafe Whitman. Meanwhile, Rafe is facing a predicament. He’s a busy veterinarian with no patience for dating—and yet his family won’t stop nagging him to find a girlfriend. So when he runs into the obnoxiously cheery Star again, he makes her an offer: He’ll pay her more than she would make doing her odd jobs if she’ll pretend to be his girlfriend at family get-togethers. She’ll make some much-needed money and his family will get off his back. It’s a win-win, right? As the two unexpectedly grow closer, their chemistry soars. After all, they do say opposites attract…