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Releasing Gillian's Wolves
Releasing Gillian's Wolves is the story of a political wife forced to finally do something about her faltering marriage. We frequently see women standing by their Senator/Congressman/Religious figure husbands at press conferences as these men admit to all sorts of bad behavior. Releasing Gillian's Wolves explores what holds one such woman in place and what happens when she finally decides to let go.
- GenresContemporary
288 pages, Paperback
First published July 1, 2011
86 people want to read
About the author
Tara Woolpy
4 books69 followersUnder various names, Tara Woolpy has been writing and publishing fiction for over thirty years. Tara earned her Bachelor’s degree in English Literature from Whitworth College after which she spent a year at the Women Writers Center in Cazenovia, New York. While pursuing her writing career, she paid the rent through an astonishing number of jobs—she’s been a waitress, a shop owner, a retail clerk, a half-way house counselor and a commercial diver. Eventually, she took a midlife hiatus from writing to become an aquatic scientist. As such, she also holds a Master’s degree from Oregon State University and a Ph.D. from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Now she teaches biology online for the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay and has come back to writing fiction with new passion and wonder at the long, serpentine beauty of life.
Under her own name she is the author of The Lacland series, loosely linked novels set in the fictional upper midwestern town of Lacland, including Releasing Gillian's Wolves and Raising Wild Ginger and the forthcoming Midnight Supper at the Rise and Shine, all published by Tara’s own imprint, Bats in the Boathouse Press.
In addition to the novels, her short stories and poems have appeared in Focus, Corymb, Kalliope, Alligator Juniper and the anthology The Things that Divide Us from Seal Press.
Under her own name she is the author of The Lacland series, loosely linked novels set in the fictional upper midwestern town of Lacland, including Releasing Gillian's Wolves and Raising Wild Ginger and the forthcoming Midnight Supper at the Rise and Shine, all published by Tara’s own imprint, Bats in the Boathouse Press.
In addition to the novels, her short stories and poems have appeared in Focus, Corymb, Kalliope, Alligator Juniper and the anthology The Things that Divide Us from Seal Press.
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
August 7, 2011
I won this book on goodread First Reads, thank you very much. At first I was rightly annoyed by all the garbage Gillian tolerated from her husband Jack. The biggest annoyance came whenever Gillian was called Jill by her husband Jack; there's even a campaign line that may amuse some about Jack and Jill going up the Hill together (he's a Congressman -- get it?). Then there is the matter of Jack's many infidelities. It's her house they live in, yet she allows him to live there after she can take no more of him. I wanted to scream at her to stay in her house and make him leave. However by midpoint, I was enjoying the book a great deal more as she stops putting up with him and sets about to radically change her life. Gillian's friends, adult children, mother-in-law, and the gay couple next door are all people I'd like to know personally. And Jack gets what he deserves finally. The recipes Woolpy inserted here and there sound great and I hope to make at least the brownies sometime soon.
July 1, 2011
Releasing Gillian’s Wolves – Review by Martha A. Cheves, Author of Stir, Laugh, Repeat
“Jack, I don’t care what you do, I really don’t. But,” I paused until I was sure of his full attention, “you might want to keep it in your pants. All deals are off if I wake some morning to find your dirty laundry all over the papers.” Jack blanched, started to speak, stopped and simply nodded. He sat back in his chair and watched me in silence as I ate my dinner. He finished his drink. We were both relieved when Mark rang the doorbell. I nodded to Mark as he entered the kitchen. “Hi, make yourself at home, there’s more salad in the bowl if you’d like. I’ll clean up later.” I turned to Jack. “Excuse me, I have work to do,” and I exited out the patio door, down the steps and through the grass to the cabin. I closed the door behind me and collapsed onto the couch before I let out the first sob. The cabin air felt moist and hot, but I hugged myself close as I rocked back and forth, feeling it all crumble away.’
Gillian Wolf Sach is married to Congressman Jack Sach. That’s if you can call it a marriage. Gillian has played the part of being the “good wife” for years while Jack has played the part of being the “bad husband.” It appears that if it wore a skirt and fell for his celebrity status, they were fair game for on the side activities. But when Gillian became suspicious of his affair with an aide younger than their own daughter, something clicked. In her own words “One day something, could be something unimportant that you’d usually gloss right over, something tips you over the line and things change. You might not even know it at the time, but that’s when a bad marriage ends.” And hers did. She promised to stay with Jack until the end of the next election but made no promises after that.
The day after the election Gillian left to first visit her daughter and then on to Amsterdam where her long time friend Edward was now living with his significant other Sam. A trip that started as an attempt to collect herself and her feelings ended up becoming the beginning of a new life for Gillian. But when she receives word that the FBI have a warrant out for her she sees the possibility of her new life slipping through her fingers.
It seems like there is always a political figure ending up in the news due to their extramarital activities and I’ve often wondered why their spouse seems to stand by them. Why not just leave, make them leave and/or divorce and get it over with. After reading Releasing Gillian’s Wolves, I now have a bit more of an understanding as to why they stay. There is always that slight hope of things changing, they feel the world will see them as the cause of the failure, the list goes on and on. Gillian felt all of these but she also didn’t want the publicity that her family would be put through if the real truth regarding Jack came out. And in the beginning she took the out that many, whether in the political eye or not, seem to take. Ignore it and run away. Sort of like “out of sight, out of mind.” But that never works. Problems must be faced to be solved.
When I first started reading Releasing Gillian’s Wolves I had no idea as to what it was going to be about. It turned out to be a beautiful love story with a message that there can be life after love and that we all deserve to be happy. I loved it!
2010
Bats in the Boathouse Press
280 pages
ISBN# 978-0-9832033-0-8
Review Stir, Laugh, Repeat at Amazon.com Stir, Laugh, Repeat
“Jack, I don’t care what you do, I really don’t. But,” I paused until I was sure of his full attention, “you might want to keep it in your pants. All deals are off if I wake some morning to find your dirty laundry all over the papers.” Jack blanched, started to speak, stopped and simply nodded. He sat back in his chair and watched me in silence as I ate my dinner. He finished his drink. We were both relieved when Mark rang the doorbell. I nodded to Mark as he entered the kitchen. “Hi, make yourself at home, there’s more salad in the bowl if you’d like. I’ll clean up later.” I turned to Jack. “Excuse me, I have work to do,” and I exited out the patio door, down the steps and through the grass to the cabin. I closed the door behind me and collapsed onto the couch before I let out the first sob. The cabin air felt moist and hot, but I hugged myself close as I rocked back and forth, feeling it all crumble away.’
Gillian Wolf Sach is married to Congressman Jack Sach. That’s if you can call it a marriage. Gillian has played the part of being the “good wife” for years while Jack has played the part of being the “bad husband.” It appears that if it wore a skirt and fell for his celebrity status, they were fair game for on the side activities. But when Gillian became suspicious of his affair with an aide younger than their own daughter, something clicked. In her own words “One day something, could be something unimportant that you’d usually gloss right over, something tips you over the line and things change. You might not even know it at the time, but that’s when a bad marriage ends.” And hers did. She promised to stay with Jack until the end of the next election but made no promises after that.
The day after the election Gillian left to first visit her daughter and then on to Amsterdam where her long time friend Edward was now living with his significant other Sam. A trip that started as an attempt to collect herself and her feelings ended up becoming the beginning of a new life for Gillian. But when she receives word that the FBI have a warrant out for her she sees the possibility of her new life slipping through her fingers.
It seems like there is always a political figure ending up in the news due to their extramarital activities and I’ve often wondered why their spouse seems to stand by them. Why not just leave, make them leave and/or divorce and get it over with. After reading Releasing Gillian’s Wolves, I now have a bit more of an understanding as to why they stay. There is always that slight hope of things changing, they feel the world will see them as the cause of the failure, the list goes on and on. Gillian felt all of these but she also didn’t want the publicity that her family would be put through if the real truth regarding Jack came out. And in the beginning she took the out that many, whether in the political eye or not, seem to take. Ignore it and run away. Sort of like “out of sight, out of mind.” But that never works. Problems must be faced to be solved.
When I first started reading Releasing Gillian’s Wolves I had no idea as to what it was going to be about. It turned out to be a beautiful love story with a message that there can be life after love and that we all deserve to be happy. I loved it!
2010
Bats in the Boathouse Press
280 pages
ISBN# 978-0-9832033-0-8
Review Stir, Laugh, Repeat at Amazon.com Stir, Laugh, Repeat
January 23, 2016
Gillian Sachs is your typical stand-by-your-man political wife. Her husband, Jack, is handsome, charismatic and a real hound dog. He’s had numerous affairs during his 30-year marriage, but his campaign manager, Mark, works diligently to cover them up. Gillian prefers to ignore them all and instead drowns her sorrow in cooking. She’s a whiz in the kitchen; her cooking is legendary, and she caters all of Jack’s events. That is, until the night she comes face-to-face with Jack’s latest conquest, a young 20-something campaign worker. Time stands still for Gillian and her carefully crafted house of cards comes tumbling down. For the first time in 30 years, Gillian starts thinking and doing what’s best for her.
Gillian moves into her cabin studio on their property and begins to dissect her life. She relies on her childhood friend, Edward and his partner, Sam to begin to understand what her next steps are; it’s essentially a 30-year coming-of-age journey. The author does an excellent job of bringing Edward and Sam to life. They are as important to the story as Gillian is and I found myself laughing out loud at some of their conversations. Gillian is a broken woman and Ms. Woolpy helps the reader feel every emotion that Gillian feels as she begins to rebuild her life. The writing pulls you in—one moment light and breezy and the next, anguished suffering.
My only complaint with the story is all the passages describing in great detail every step of preparing some of the meals and the cooking process. While I understand that cooking is Gillian’s passion, along with her painting, I would have preferred less description in the kitchen and more passages about her thought process while painting. It is her passion as an artist that finally saves Gillian and sends her on the path to a new life.
RELEASING GILLIAN’S WOLVES is an excellent story of one woman’s path to personal salvation. Ms. Woolpy pulls you into the morass of Jack and Gillian in the opening pages and I happily turned page after page to find out what happened next. Recommended.
Gillian moves into her cabin studio on their property and begins to dissect her life. She relies on her childhood friend, Edward and his partner, Sam to begin to understand what her next steps are; it’s essentially a 30-year coming-of-age journey. The author does an excellent job of bringing Edward and Sam to life. They are as important to the story as Gillian is and I found myself laughing out loud at some of their conversations. Gillian is a broken woman and Ms. Woolpy helps the reader feel every emotion that Gillian feels as she begins to rebuild her life. The writing pulls you in—one moment light and breezy and the next, anguished suffering.
My only complaint with the story is all the passages describing in great detail every step of preparing some of the meals and the cooking process. While I understand that cooking is Gillian’s passion, along with her painting, I would have preferred less description in the kitchen and more passages about her thought process while painting. It is her passion as an artist that finally saves Gillian and sends her on the path to a new life.
RELEASING GILLIAN’S WOLVES is an excellent story of one woman’s path to personal salvation. Ms. Woolpy pulls you into the morass of Jack and Gillian in the opening pages and I happily turned page after page to find out what happened next. Recommended.
August 9, 2011
The writing is to the point, almost brisk at times, without a lot of frills and unnecessary descriptions that can weight story's of this type down in my opinion, yet it never failed to provide the crucial details a reader needed to immerse themselves in the story. Character and plot driven, with a clear purpose stated in it’s blurb, it was not the fault of the author or story that my personal reading interests don’t cater towards women’s fiction or a slice of life American stories, even ones as well written and executed as “Releasing Gillian’s Wolves.”
For someone interested in the genre, it is a very satisfying story and the author proved their expansive knowledge base of insider politics to make it imminently believable. Whatever my own tastes are, I found “Releasing Gillian’s Wolves” to be outstanding in its clarity and the inspiring strength of its main character, Gillian. What impressed me about it most is the way in which the author created a fictional work that provided many real-life situations that eventually had resolution, but never seemed overbearing or patronizing. “Releasing Gillian’s Wolves” is a very admirable, well- thought work of literary fiction.
Full review at my review/interview site, Flying With Red Haircrow http://flyingwithredhaircrow.wordpres...
For someone interested in the genre, it is a very satisfying story and the author proved their expansive knowledge base of insider politics to make it imminently believable. Whatever my own tastes are, I found “Releasing Gillian’s Wolves” to be outstanding in its clarity and the inspiring strength of its main character, Gillian. What impressed me about it most is the way in which the author created a fictional work that provided many real-life situations that eventually had resolution, but never seemed overbearing or patronizing. “Releasing Gillian’s Wolves” is a very admirable, well- thought work of literary fiction.
Full review at my review/interview site, Flying With Red Haircrow http://flyingwithredhaircrow.wordpres...
June 26, 2011
Marriages often crumble for a variety of reasons, and yet one of the more common seems to be lack of fidelity. We often hear about these issues in the news and gossip columns as it pertains to the rich and famous, but the politicians are fair game as well.
In Releasing Gillian’s Wolves by Tara Woolpy, we follow the life of Gillian as she finally realizes that life is passing her by as she waits for her ever unfaithful husband, Congressman Jack Sach to settle down and create a real and loving life with her. After thirty years of marriage and numerous affairs, she has carved a life of good enough, relying on her friends and cooking to bring happiness and joy to her life.
In one fell swoop though, one thing happens that for some reason triggers that rebelliousness deep inside, that want to be the one and only, and to stop being the doormat for a man that cares deeply only about himself. During an election party as she puts the finishing touches on dinner, she meets a very pretty young woman, wearing a necklace very like the one she herself just received from her husband for her birthday. And she knew. She absolutely knew. Not sure what it is, maybe the age difference, or just another conquest, she find she cannot go on.
This one thing, this young girl finally started a cavalcade of feeling and decisions Gillian could not ignore. Concerned about how her decision would affect their two grown children as well as her mother-in-law Pearl, who is more the just that, but a friend and confidant as well, she decides to live separately yet maintain the marriage, for the sake of appearances. When she decides to spend the summer in Amsterdam with her friends Edward and Sam, she meets someone who changes her life. Luke Vanderwerken is a sculptor, one she has admired for years, and is a friend of Edward’s. Drawn to each other by their love of art, they become inseparable. How will this affect her marriage and her family? When her husband becomes embroiled in the fall out of several nefarious schemes, she must return to the states to prove her own innocence of involvement. Will she ever see Luke again, and how will she finally find the life she deserves?
Tara Woolpy has done a wonderful job of developing characters that seem real. You can envision Jack, the erstwhile politician, with his group of interns and his charismatic demeanor. Gillian strikes a balance that leaves you at once concerned for her, and yet keeps you rooting for her. Other than her art and her friends, food is the thing she turns to for comfort. Tara has interspersed recipes in the chapters as Gilliam cooks her way though many of her issues.
Edward and Sam are a enchanting couple, and she makes you feel the connection with them. Edward and Gilliam have known each other their whole lives, and have the Grandfathers (as they are referred to) to thank for the largess in their life. The money and foundation started by the Grandfathers will sustain them through their lifetime, and with their upbringing, they are more like siblings then friends.
Luke is rugged and serious about his art. He is often introspective and messy; he gets into his work and is not always charming. He is not even really much to look and yet Gilliam finds that bit of him that is what she has been searching for her entire life. And for Luke that same spark is reciprocated, creating a closeness neither of them expected.
This is a story of life and love, and treats you to the generousness of those who care. Gilliam’s life and exploits keep you captivated, and the recipes are an added extra. If you enjoy a light love story and a story of growth, you will enjoy this often fun and quirky novel.
I would recommend this as a light summertime read, and a great book for a reading group. There is politics and deviousness, as well as love and redemption. It would make for a great discussion.
This book was received free from the author. All opinions are my own based off my reading and understanding of the material.
In Releasing Gillian’s Wolves by Tara Woolpy, we follow the life of Gillian as she finally realizes that life is passing her by as she waits for her ever unfaithful husband, Congressman Jack Sach to settle down and create a real and loving life with her. After thirty years of marriage and numerous affairs, she has carved a life of good enough, relying on her friends and cooking to bring happiness and joy to her life.
In one fell swoop though, one thing happens that for some reason triggers that rebelliousness deep inside, that want to be the one and only, and to stop being the doormat for a man that cares deeply only about himself. During an election party as she puts the finishing touches on dinner, she meets a very pretty young woman, wearing a necklace very like the one she herself just received from her husband for her birthday. And she knew. She absolutely knew. Not sure what it is, maybe the age difference, or just another conquest, she find she cannot go on.
This one thing, this young girl finally started a cavalcade of feeling and decisions Gillian could not ignore. Concerned about how her decision would affect their two grown children as well as her mother-in-law Pearl, who is more the just that, but a friend and confidant as well, she decides to live separately yet maintain the marriage, for the sake of appearances. When she decides to spend the summer in Amsterdam with her friends Edward and Sam, she meets someone who changes her life. Luke Vanderwerken is a sculptor, one she has admired for years, and is a friend of Edward’s. Drawn to each other by their love of art, they become inseparable. How will this affect her marriage and her family? When her husband becomes embroiled in the fall out of several nefarious schemes, she must return to the states to prove her own innocence of involvement. Will she ever see Luke again, and how will she finally find the life she deserves?
Tara Woolpy has done a wonderful job of developing characters that seem real. You can envision Jack, the erstwhile politician, with his group of interns and his charismatic demeanor. Gillian strikes a balance that leaves you at once concerned for her, and yet keeps you rooting for her. Other than her art and her friends, food is the thing she turns to for comfort. Tara has interspersed recipes in the chapters as Gilliam cooks her way though many of her issues.
Edward and Sam are a enchanting couple, and she makes you feel the connection with them. Edward and Gilliam have known each other their whole lives, and have the Grandfathers (as they are referred to) to thank for the largess in their life. The money and foundation started by the Grandfathers will sustain them through their lifetime, and with their upbringing, they are more like siblings then friends.
Luke is rugged and serious about his art. He is often introspective and messy; he gets into his work and is not always charming. He is not even really much to look and yet Gilliam finds that bit of him that is what she has been searching for her entire life. And for Luke that same spark is reciprocated, creating a closeness neither of them expected.
This is a story of life and love, and treats you to the generousness of those who care. Gilliam’s life and exploits keep you captivated, and the recipes are an added extra. If you enjoy a light love story and a story of growth, you will enjoy this often fun and quirky novel.
I would recommend this as a light summertime read, and a great book for a reading group. There is politics and deviousness, as well as love and redemption. It would make for a great discussion.
This book was received free from the author. All opinions are my own based off my reading and understanding of the material.
January 16, 2016
Gillian has been been married to Jack Sach for thirty years. Throughout most of those years Jack has been a politician, currently he is a United States Congressman representing the great state of Wisconsin. Gillian has always been the faithful, dutiful wife. Hosting parties and fundraisers, takes care of her mother-in-law, was the parent at home for their two children until they were grown. Jack, of course travels a lot due to his job, but he has never been faithful. More affairs than Gillian can count, but she always turned a blind eye, to spare her family the public spotlight and humiliation that would occur if the affairs would be made public.
Gillian's grandfather was a very astute business man and he and his partner left their children very well off, they have a trust fund worth millions and 2 beautiful homes and property on a Northern Wisconsin lake. Edward and Gillian grew up together almost like brother and sister and they are each other's rock. Edward is openly gay, a successful photographer and in a new relationship, but has a past full of addiction and bad relationships. Gillian has ways to escape from her everyday pain. She loves to cook and garden and is a painter, she can let her despair, sadness and aggression bleed out on her canvas, but leans heavily on Edward.
Edward's life is hitting a great path and Gillian's is about to spiral out of control. She will need him now more than ever. She is starting to worry that she will never be happy and continues to worry about the effects her actions will not only have on her, but her children, her friends and even her mother-in-law.
I LOVED IT!!!!!
Gillian has a heart so big and a man in her life to stupid to appreciate it. He is a man that thinks he can do no wrong and rules, vows and laws don't apply to him.
Tara Woolpy has given us characters to fall in love with and one big character to hate. I loved it!!!!! When I started reading this book I thought it was going to be like one of my favorite television shows, The Good Wife, but Gillian blew that assumption away within the first chapters. Gillian was beaten down on the inside and hemmed in on the outside trying to do the right things for everyone but herself. When could she start living for herself not others? Ever?
This is the second book in a week that I could not put down. Both debut novels. Unbelievable!!
This story is excellently written, flows at a perfect pace, has fabulous settings and wonderful characters. A great piece of Woman's Fiction. While the book is nowhere near autobiographical the author knows her subject matter well. Her mother represented Northern Idaho in the state senate seven times. She works in the same academic field as Edward's new love and she currently lives in Northern Wisconsin the main setting of her story and I assume from the descriptions of other places in the book she has traveled a little bit in her lifetime.
Tara, I know you are teaching to pay the bills but you have a great gift given to very few, you are a wonderful storyteller. I can't wait to read more of your work.
This is a book I highly recommend. It should not be missed and you will want to read more from Tara Woolpy, I guarantee it.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the author. 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."
Gillian's grandfather was a very astute business man and he and his partner left their children very well off, they have a trust fund worth millions and 2 beautiful homes and property on a Northern Wisconsin lake. Edward and Gillian grew up together almost like brother and sister and they are each other's rock. Edward is openly gay, a successful photographer and in a new relationship, but has a past full of addiction and bad relationships. Gillian has ways to escape from her everyday pain. She loves to cook and garden and is a painter, she can let her despair, sadness and aggression bleed out on her canvas, but leans heavily on Edward.
Edward's life is hitting a great path and Gillian's is about to spiral out of control. She will need him now more than ever. She is starting to worry that she will never be happy and continues to worry about the effects her actions will not only have on her, but her children, her friends and even her mother-in-law.
I LOVED IT!!!!!
Gillian has a heart so big and a man in her life to stupid to appreciate it. He is a man that thinks he can do no wrong and rules, vows and laws don't apply to him.
Tara Woolpy has given us characters to fall in love with and one big character to hate. I loved it!!!!! When I started reading this book I thought it was going to be like one of my favorite television shows, The Good Wife, but Gillian blew that assumption away within the first chapters. Gillian was beaten down on the inside and hemmed in on the outside trying to do the right things for everyone but herself. When could she start living for herself not others? Ever?
This is the second book in a week that I could not put down. Both debut novels. Unbelievable!!
This story is excellently written, flows at a perfect pace, has fabulous settings and wonderful characters. A great piece of Woman's Fiction. While the book is nowhere near autobiographical the author knows her subject matter well. Her mother represented Northern Idaho in the state senate seven times. She works in the same academic field as Edward's new love and she currently lives in Northern Wisconsin the main setting of her story and I assume from the descriptions of other places in the book she has traveled a little bit in her lifetime.
Tara, I know you are teaching to pay the bills but you have a great gift given to very few, you are a wonderful storyteller. I can't wait to read more of your work.
This is a book I highly recommend. It should not be missed and you will want to read more from Tara Woolpy, I guarantee it.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the author. 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."
July 1, 2012
The author requested a review for Raising Wild Ginger, which is a follow up to this book, but since I don’t do ARC’s I decided to go ahead and read Gillian’s while I was waiting for the next one to be published.
Plot: This story is about a really nice woman (Gillian) who is married to a total douche canoe (Jack). While there is a little emphasis on Jack’s behavior, his numerous affairs and generally self-centered behavior, most of the focus is on how Gillian deals with moving on. I found it interesting, and oddly realistic, that it seems like one day she just snaps, and decides that she can’t tolerate his low-down, dirty, cheating ass anymore. The reader gets to follow her along on her journey as she works through feelings of betrayal, heartbreak, joy, and hope.
Characters: No man is an island…that goes for women too. Gillian has a lovely little group of friends that are her support system. But first, I want to talk about Gillian herself. She is a very well balanced character, neither soft and spineless nor heartless and cold. She does her best thinking when she is cooking. Be prepared for frequent and serious cravings while reading this book! I was eating left over dinner at midnight! I really enjoyed all of her direct interactions with Jack. And a really big part for me in any book is dialogue. I can handle many things, but forced dialogue isn’t one of them. I can happily say that every word uttered in this book felt natural. Every conversation felt genuine and real.
Edward and Sam (who are the main characters in Raising Wild Ginger if I’m not mistaken) are a really awesome couple that you can’t help but love. If they are half as awesome in the next book as they were in this one I’ll be a happy reader. Maggie is also a delight.
Gillian’s adult children, John and Aurora are also great characters, as well as Jack’s mom Pearl.
As a side note: one of the really minor characters, Evelyn, was the best mean old bitch I have ever seen.
While a reader can sometimes sympathize with the villain in a story, this isn’t one of those times. There isn’t a single thing about Jack that you could possibly like. He is selfish, egotistical and…well he’s a politician…need I say more? The fact that he is also an adulterer, to me, was really just a symptom of his extremely flawed personality. He is the kind of guy who, if given the opportunity, I would gladly junk punch just for shits and giggles.
I really liked the fact that Luke wasn’t exactly male model material. His being a physically average guy lends a much more realistic aspect to the story. His personal history also had a very honest ring to it.
Overall: I really enjoyed this book. I couldn’t put it down and yet I couldn’t even put my finger on why until the end. It wasn’t action packed or filled with mystery…so why couldn’t I put it down? Because I like Gillian’s character so much that I had to know how things were going to work out for her. I definitely recommend this book because I bet you’ll like her too. Just remember…have a snack handy…or maybe several, because with as much as she cooks in this book, you are bound to get hungry at some point.
Plot: This story is about a really nice woman (Gillian) who is married to a total douche canoe (Jack). While there is a little emphasis on Jack’s behavior, his numerous affairs and generally self-centered behavior, most of the focus is on how Gillian deals with moving on. I found it interesting, and oddly realistic, that it seems like one day she just snaps, and decides that she can’t tolerate his low-down, dirty, cheating ass anymore. The reader gets to follow her along on her journey as she works through feelings of betrayal, heartbreak, joy, and hope.
Characters: No man is an island…that goes for women too. Gillian has a lovely little group of friends that are her support system. But first, I want to talk about Gillian herself. She is a very well balanced character, neither soft and spineless nor heartless and cold. She does her best thinking when she is cooking. Be prepared for frequent and serious cravings while reading this book! I was eating left over dinner at midnight! I really enjoyed all of her direct interactions with Jack. And a really big part for me in any book is dialogue. I can handle many things, but forced dialogue isn’t one of them. I can happily say that every word uttered in this book felt natural. Every conversation felt genuine and real.
Edward and Sam (who are the main characters in Raising Wild Ginger if I’m not mistaken) are a really awesome couple that you can’t help but love. If they are half as awesome in the next book as they were in this one I’ll be a happy reader. Maggie is also a delight.
Gillian’s adult children, John and Aurora are also great characters, as well as Jack’s mom Pearl.
As a side note: one of the really minor characters, Evelyn, was the best mean old bitch I have ever seen.
While a reader can sometimes sympathize with the villain in a story, this isn’t one of those times. There isn’t a single thing about Jack that you could possibly like. He is selfish, egotistical and…well he’s a politician…need I say more? The fact that he is also an adulterer, to me, was really just a symptom of his extremely flawed personality. He is the kind of guy who, if given the opportunity, I would gladly junk punch just for shits and giggles.
I really liked the fact that Luke wasn’t exactly male model material. His being a physically average guy lends a much more realistic aspect to the story. His personal history also had a very honest ring to it.
Overall: I really enjoyed this book. I couldn’t put it down and yet I couldn’t even put my finger on why until the end. It wasn’t action packed or filled with mystery…so why couldn’t I put it down? Because I like Gillian’s character so much that I had to know how things were going to work out for her. I definitely recommend this book because I bet you’ll like her too. Just remember…have a snack handy…or maybe several, because with as much as she cooks in this book, you are bound to get hungry at some point.
July 26, 2011
You will all recognize the story - it's in the news regularly. This celebrity, that politician, this scandal, that affair. And we all think 'What a jerk!' or, perhaps 'He did good things politically, why should we care about his private life?' And what about her? Do we think 'I can't believe she is still with him.' or do we think of her at all? Releasing Gillian's Wolves by Tara Woolpy, tells her story. If you are interested in a more detailed synopsis, click here.
Tara Woolpy does a commendable job of taking us into the pain of living in an adulterous, public marriage. It is easy to judge the players from the outside but the reality inside is always more complicated than the general public gives credit. Never once did I feel like Gillian was a doormat - OK maybe before we meet her in the book she had that tendency but she's so done with that. I loved her from the get go. Ms Woolpy has made Gillian into a real woman. She has strengths and also weaknesses and insecurities. She has compassion for her friends and amazing loyalty to those she loves and she's a great cook. Thank you, Tara, for including a few recipes!!
The supporting cast in the book is strong. It is easy to seriously dislike Jack. He is the epitome of a political weasel (I know - not all politicians are weasels. But Jack is. Read it, you'll see) I did not once feel sorry for him. He deserved everything he got. And yet, even those he hurt recognized that he had positive things to offer in the political arena. I hope you are getting the idea that none of these characters are two dimensional. They have layers (like an onion or parfait, if you will)
There was only one part of the book that I really take issue with. At one point I felt that Gillian acted completely out of character. It felt almost like a scene that is thrown into a movie strictly to up the rating without any concrete connection to the plot. Don't get me wrong, it wasn't an overly explicit scene just somehow separate from the plot. Luckily this slip did not ruin the book. It remains a niggling irritation in the back of my mind and likely brought the 'rating' (if I did such things) from 5 down to a 4 stars.
The best part of the whole book came at the end when the title of the book connected with the story in a beautifully romantic and visual way. Because I don't want to spoil it for you - that's all I'm going to say about that.
It is always a joy to read a novel written by a talented author. Tara Woolpy is one of the more talented authors I've read lately. Releasing Gillian's Wolves is just the beginning of, what I know, will be a long and satisfying relationship between this author and this reader!
Tara Woolpy does a commendable job of taking us into the pain of living in an adulterous, public marriage. It is easy to judge the players from the outside but the reality inside is always more complicated than the general public gives credit. Never once did I feel like Gillian was a doormat - OK maybe before we meet her in the book she had that tendency but she's so done with that. I loved her from the get go. Ms Woolpy has made Gillian into a real woman. She has strengths and also weaknesses and insecurities. She has compassion for her friends and amazing loyalty to those she loves and she's a great cook. Thank you, Tara, for including a few recipes!!
The supporting cast in the book is strong. It is easy to seriously dislike Jack. He is the epitome of a political weasel (I know - not all politicians are weasels. But Jack is. Read it, you'll see) I did not once feel sorry for him. He deserved everything he got. And yet, even those he hurt recognized that he had positive things to offer in the political arena. I hope you are getting the idea that none of these characters are two dimensional. They have layers (like an onion or parfait, if you will)
There was only one part of the book that I really take issue with. At one point I felt that Gillian acted completely out of character. It felt almost like a scene that is thrown into a movie strictly to up the rating without any concrete connection to the plot. Don't get me wrong, it wasn't an overly explicit scene just somehow separate from the plot. Luckily this slip did not ruin the book. It remains a niggling irritation in the back of my mind and likely brought the 'rating' (if I did such things) from 5 down to a 4 stars.
The best part of the whole book came at the end when the title of the book connected with the story in a beautifully romantic and visual way. Because I don't want to spoil it for you - that's all I'm going to say about that.
It is always a joy to read a novel written by a talented author. Tara Woolpy is one of the more talented authors I've read lately. Releasing Gillian's Wolves is just the beginning of, what I know, will be a long and satisfying relationship between this author and this reader!
December 28, 2013
When you’ve reached your breaking point in life you have a few choices. You can keep moving forward and hope it gets better or you make a change. After more than twenty years of marriage to Jack, an unfaithful congressman, Gillian is finally ready to move on. Although Gillian has known for quite some time that Jack has been around the block with a number of women, she had always looked past his indiscretions. Her drive to protect her children and Jack’s career allowed her to forgive and forget. Unfortunately for Jack, this affair was the tipping point for Gillian. Gillian finally decided it’s her time to be happy and no longer bogged down with the role and responsibility that comes with being a politician’s wife. Filled with newfound freedom, Gillian takes valiant steps to reconnect with past passions, mend relationships with her children and embrace life for all it’s worth.
Releasing Gillian’s Wolves is a touching story of how one woman reclaimed her life. The book starts by painting a normal day in the life of Gillian. Her routine of tending to her much loved garden, cooking for campaign volunteers and taking care of her mother-in-law, shows us that Gillian has a good heart. Even after discovering her husband’s latest affair, she attempts to take the high road and support him and his platform. Her noble efforts lets us see that even though she is ready for a new life, she may not be truly prepared to cut all ties to Jack. Gillian continues to struggle with claiming her independence throughout the story, which is something I think many readers can relate to (even if their husbands aren’t cheating on them). Author, Tara Woolpy does a beautiful job of showing us Gillian’s passion for food (as a warning this book could make you hungry) and art. Her zeal for these two things is continually brought out in each part of the book as Gillian learns to be her own person.
Overall, Releasing Gillian’s Wolves is a lovely story that provides hope and inspiration for women who may find themselves in a similar situation. My one issue with the story is the occasional use of excessive details. There were multiple scenes that described the prepping and setting of the dinner table. While I understand that these were meant to show Gillian’s affection for food and family, at times I felt like these descriptions slowed the pace of the story.
Please, don’t let my nit-picking deter you from giving this book a try. Watching Gillian rediscover herself and trying new experiences made for pleasurable read.
(This book was provided to Compulsion Reads for review by the author.)
Releasing Gillian’s Wolves is a touching story of how one woman reclaimed her life. The book starts by painting a normal day in the life of Gillian. Her routine of tending to her much loved garden, cooking for campaign volunteers and taking care of her mother-in-law, shows us that Gillian has a good heart. Even after discovering her husband’s latest affair, she attempts to take the high road and support him and his platform. Her noble efforts lets us see that even though she is ready for a new life, she may not be truly prepared to cut all ties to Jack. Gillian continues to struggle with claiming her independence throughout the story, which is something I think many readers can relate to (even if their husbands aren’t cheating on them). Author, Tara Woolpy does a beautiful job of showing us Gillian’s passion for food (as a warning this book could make you hungry) and art. Her zeal for these two things is continually brought out in each part of the book as Gillian learns to be her own person.
Overall, Releasing Gillian’s Wolves is a lovely story that provides hope and inspiration for women who may find themselves in a similar situation. My one issue with the story is the occasional use of excessive details. There were multiple scenes that described the prepping and setting of the dinner table. While I understand that these were meant to show Gillian’s affection for food and family, at times I felt like these descriptions slowed the pace of the story.
Please, don’t let my nit-picking deter you from giving this book a try. Watching Gillian rediscover herself and trying new experiences made for pleasurable read.
(This book was provided to Compulsion Reads for review by the author.)
July 5, 2011
There are many cliches that can be applied to crooked politicians and their antics, such as politics makes for strange bedfellows or, my personal favorite, "in politics, stupidity is not a handicap." The sad truth is that politicians (business moguls, professional athletes, and other celebrities) often think that they can do whatever they want, especially if it’s illegal or immoral, and no one will ever know or say anything. When the dirt comes out, whether its about fiscal improprieties, adultery or both, the question arises as to why the wives stand by their men. Isn't that taking "for better or worse" a little too far? That is the question that Tara Woolpy asks in Releasing Gillian's Wolves.
Gillian Wolf Sachs is a 49-year-old socially inept (her words) wife, mother, grandmother and artist. Her husband is a 53-year-old Congressman running for reelection, Jack Sachs. Due to Gillian's social ineptitude she usually hides behind food, no not eating herself into oblivion, but providing food to others. Gillian is a nurturer at heart. She has put up with her husband's escapades for years and tolerated it because she didn't want to cause a media frenzy. She also thinks that she's protecting her children . . . her grown children. Her daughter Aurora no longer even has a relationship with her father because of his sexual escapades. Her son John is a little more forgiving and even comes home to help with the reelection campaign. This is when things get dicey. John falls for a campaign intern that is younger than he is and apparently this intern had a relationship with his father. When this is confirmed, John has a meltdown and Gillian decides to leave town. The truly sad part is that Gillian's friends and even Jack's mother, Gillian's mother-in-law, are all advocating her divorcing Jack and moving on with her life.
Releasing Gillian's Wolves is about self-discovery and discerning one's self worth. Gillian must find that she is worthy as an individual, not only of love and affection, but simply as a human being. That might sound simple when you're relatively young, but it is often a difficult message to grasp when you're more than 40 and have never worked outside of the home. Ms. Woolpy's characters are all too believable in that none of them are without human faults and insecurities. All of the characters are searching, in their own, way to find happiness or to hold onto it for as long as possible. It was this realistic struggle that provides one possible answer as to why these women stay . . . and better yet, why they may leave.
Gillian Wolf Sachs is a 49-year-old socially inept (her words) wife, mother, grandmother and artist. Her husband is a 53-year-old Congressman running for reelection, Jack Sachs. Due to Gillian's social ineptitude she usually hides behind food, no not eating herself into oblivion, but providing food to others. Gillian is a nurturer at heart. She has put up with her husband's escapades for years and tolerated it because she didn't want to cause a media frenzy. She also thinks that she's protecting her children . . . her grown children. Her daughter Aurora no longer even has a relationship with her father because of his sexual escapades. Her son John is a little more forgiving and even comes home to help with the reelection campaign. This is when things get dicey. John falls for a campaign intern that is younger than he is and apparently this intern had a relationship with his father. When this is confirmed, John has a meltdown and Gillian decides to leave town. The truly sad part is that Gillian's friends and even Jack's mother, Gillian's mother-in-law, are all advocating her divorcing Jack and moving on with her life.
Releasing Gillian's Wolves is about self-discovery and discerning one's self worth. Gillian must find that she is worthy as an individual, not only of love and affection, but simply as a human being. That might sound simple when you're relatively young, but it is often a difficult message to grasp when you're more than 40 and have never worked outside of the home. Ms. Woolpy's characters are all too believable in that none of them are without human faults and insecurities. All of the characters are searching, in their own, way to find happiness or to hold onto it for as long as possible. It was this realistic struggle that provides one possible answer as to why these women stay . . . and better yet, why they may leave.
May 22, 2011
Releasing Gillian’s Wolves, by Tara Woolpy: A Review by Beth Tornes
Releasing Gillian’s Wolves is a gem of a first book. You won’t want to put down once you get started. It is well-written, funny, and chock full of womanly wisdom. Gillian is wholly captivating—a smart, savvy politician’s wife who seems smooth and polished on the surface, a superb hostess, a gifted cook—but whose surface belies a very spiritual being who is original and wild, an artist, dreamer and lover who feels betrayed by having to tuck away her own life, and exist superficially with the lies and hypocrisies of her domestic situation, one that eats away at her spirit. At the same time, she remains a devoted and loving mother whose children (fascinating characters in their own right) have become alienated as she has by their father’s endless affairs. They rally to her side, and in her struggles, she is supported by them, by a dear gay friend named Edward (her lifelong best friend), his partner, Sam, and ironically, her mother-in-law, the funny and extravagant Pearl. Throughout the novel, Gillian’s romance with cooking and food connects her to things real and earthy, such as the magical “Survive Anything Double Chocolate Brownies,” (recipe included!), which sustain her creative and playful spirit.
The novel follows Gillian through the maelstrom of discovering her husband’s affair with a young intern, who also happens to be their son’s girlfriend—the proverbial straw that breaks the camel’s back—waking Gillian out of her somnolence, and throwing her smack into a divorce. In facing her anger, her anxieties and uncertainty about the future, she strides fearlessly down the road of independence and healing. In the process she re-discovers and re-envisions who she is, and what (and whom) she loves. Her long-forgotten love of painting returns, and as she begins tapping into her creativity, it opens doors she could never have imagined. Escaping to Amsterdam, then to an isolated Greek island, she lives the American dream of reinventing oneself in the face of enormous odds. In the process, Gillian becomes an inspiration to all who know her—including the reader—to follow our dreams and release the wolves within us.
Releasing Gillian’s Wolves is a gem of a first book. You won’t want to put down once you get started. It is well-written, funny, and chock full of womanly wisdom. Gillian is wholly captivating—a smart, savvy politician’s wife who seems smooth and polished on the surface, a superb hostess, a gifted cook—but whose surface belies a very spiritual being who is original and wild, an artist, dreamer and lover who feels betrayed by having to tuck away her own life, and exist superficially with the lies and hypocrisies of her domestic situation, one that eats away at her spirit. At the same time, she remains a devoted and loving mother whose children (fascinating characters in their own right) have become alienated as she has by their father’s endless affairs. They rally to her side, and in her struggles, she is supported by them, by a dear gay friend named Edward (her lifelong best friend), his partner, Sam, and ironically, her mother-in-law, the funny and extravagant Pearl. Throughout the novel, Gillian’s romance with cooking and food connects her to things real and earthy, such as the magical “Survive Anything Double Chocolate Brownies,” (recipe included!), which sustain her creative and playful spirit.
The novel follows Gillian through the maelstrom of discovering her husband’s affair with a young intern, who also happens to be their son’s girlfriend—the proverbial straw that breaks the camel’s back—waking Gillian out of her somnolence, and throwing her smack into a divorce. In facing her anger, her anxieties and uncertainty about the future, she strides fearlessly down the road of independence and healing. In the process she re-discovers and re-envisions who she is, and what (and whom) she loves. Her long-forgotten love of painting returns, and as she begins tapping into her creativity, it opens doors she could never have imagined. Escaping to Amsterdam, then to an isolated Greek island, she lives the American dream of reinventing oneself in the face of enormous odds. In the process, Gillian becomes an inspiration to all who know her—including the reader—to follow our dreams and release the wolves within us.
July 11, 2011
A congressman, his wife, and his affairs.
Gillian had been married to Jake for over 30 years, and always knew about his affairs. The latest affair really got to her since it was a 20-year old....younger than his daughter and also part of his campaign team. Gillian never went on the tours, but when Jake had dinners at their home, she was always in the kitchen cooking while everyone else was enjoying themselves. She just wasn't the social type and dreaded each campaign year. She usually was alone during the campaign and especially during these dinner engagements.
But......she did have her friend Edward from childhood to lean on and exchange thoughts with. Edward was her buffer and confidante. With Edward's help Gillian decided that she didn't want to jeopardize Jack's campaign so she gave Jack some ultimatums about his behavior. He said he didn't like them, but the alternative was worse.
She continued to endure many campaign luncheons and to pretend to be Jack's lovely, faithful wife. Could she go on like this? She wasn't sure. "On this election morning, my mind ran faster than my feet. I had a life to plan." Page 107
Gillian did have a plan, and it didn't include Jack. She wanted to do some traveling alone and to see how things would work out...she visited her somewhat estranged daughter and also Edward and Sam in Amsterdam.
Amsterdam was wonderful for Gillian....she and her friends even made a trip to Greece for Thanksgiving. Then all the fun came to an abrupt stop and, of course, because of Jack.
The book keeps your interest and draws you into the emotional makeup of each character...each had his/her own personal, interesting stories. You could feel Gillian's pain and wonder how she carried on. This was a book about friendship, love, and endurance.
The cover was just as enticing as the story...the lake, the cabin, and the ambiance of it all reels you in simply by looking at the cover of the book. I truly enjoyed RELEASING GILLIAN’S WOLVES. 5/5
Gillian had been married to Jake for over 30 years, and always knew about his affairs. The latest affair really got to her since it was a 20-year old....younger than his daughter and also part of his campaign team. Gillian never went on the tours, but when Jake had dinners at their home, she was always in the kitchen cooking while everyone else was enjoying themselves. She just wasn't the social type and dreaded each campaign year. She usually was alone during the campaign and especially during these dinner engagements.
But......she did have her friend Edward from childhood to lean on and exchange thoughts with. Edward was her buffer and confidante. With Edward's help Gillian decided that she didn't want to jeopardize Jack's campaign so she gave Jack some ultimatums about his behavior. He said he didn't like them, but the alternative was worse.
She continued to endure many campaign luncheons and to pretend to be Jack's lovely, faithful wife. Could she go on like this? She wasn't sure. "On this election morning, my mind ran faster than my feet. I had a life to plan." Page 107
Gillian did have a plan, and it didn't include Jack. She wanted to do some traveling alone and to see how things would work out...she visited her somewhat estranged daughter and also Edward and Sam in Amsterdam.
Amsterdam was wonderful for Gillian....she and her friends even made a trip to Greece for Thanksgiving. Then all the fun came to an abrupt stop and, of course, because of Jack.
The book keeps your interest and draws you into the emotional makeup of each character...each had his/her own personal, interesting stories. You could feel Gillian's pain and wonder how she carried on. This was a book about friendship, love, and endurance.
The cover was just as enticing as the story...the lake, the cabin, and the ambiance of it all reels you in simply by looking at the cover of the book. I truly enjoyed RELEASING GILLIAN’S WOLVES. 5/5
July 11, 2011
Whereas many works of women's fiction center around main characters in their twenties or thirties, Releasing Gillian's Wolves focuses on a quinquagenarian with a green thumb, artistic talent, and closet full of "Congressman's Wife" clothing. For decades, she's dealt with her philandering husband's bad behavior by painting in her studio, working in her garden, and taking care of friends and family, including the mother-in-law whom her husband routinely neglects. Jack's newest paramour, a twenty-something intern, proves to be the straw that breaks the proverbial camel's back. After thirty years of marriage, she finally makes a stand for herself.
Unlike many tales of adultery, this one involves little in the way of broken furniture and nasty shouting matches. Instead, Gillian calmly states her terms and walks away in an admirable show of strength. We follow her along her path to healing, an international journey that includes a healed rift with an estranged daughter and a holiday in the Netherlands that is saturated in art. Releasing Gillian's Wolves is not so much about intrigue as it is about life and second chances at creating a full one.
The storyline is, in a word, comfortable in terms of pacing and ambiance. The salacious events surrounding Jack are treated more as prop or catalysts than focal points, and while that approach suits a tale of personal growth and healing, I would have liked to have had a few more details. Even so, there is more than enough material to keep one entertained. Intimate descriptions of various food items whet the appetite, while refreshingly deep conversations stimulate the mind. Each section actually starts off with a recipe related to that part of the story, including a brownie recipe I am now eager to try.
Releasing Gillian's Wolves is a book I'd recommend to anyone who needs renewed faith towards the women's fiction genre. It isn't light and fluffy, nor is it petulant and melodramatic; it is thoughtful, accessible, and above all, real.
Hide and Read
(Review copy provided by the author)
Unlike many tales of adultery, this one involves little in the way of broken furniture and nasty shouting matches. Instead, Gillian calmly states her terms and walks away in an admirable show of strength. We follow her along her path to healing, an international journey that includes a healed rift with an estranged daughter and a holiday in the Netherlands that is saturated in art. Releasing Gillian's Wolves is not so much about intrigue as it is about life and second chances at creating a full one.
The storyline is, in a word, comfortable in terms of pacing and ambiance. The salacious events surrounding Jack are treated more as prop or catalysts than focal points, and while that approach suits a tale of personal growth and healing, I would have liked to have had a few more details. Even so, there is more than enough material to keep one entertained. Intimate descriptions of various food items whet the appetite, while refreshingly deep conversations stimulate the mind. Each section actually starts off with a recipe related to that part of the story, including a brownie recipe I am now eager to try.
Releasing Gillian's Wolves is a book I'd recommend to anyone who needs renewed faith towards the women's fiction genre. It isn't light and fluffy, nor is it petulant and melodramatic; it is thoughtful, accessible, and above all, real.
Hide and Read
(Review copy provided by the author)
Read
February 20, 2014It turns out that Tara Woolpy's book, Releasing Gillian's Wolves, is a page turner. I say "It turns out" because it didn't start that way for me, but it definitely gets there. I stayed up way past my bedtime to keep reading. And I won't spoil anything for you, but there's a terrific surprise in the end.
This tale about a middle-age woman, wife of a congressman, mother of two, who is dissatisfied with her marriage and feels as worn out as the path she beats between her house and Mother Pearl's, her neighbor Edward's who is more of a brother, her private retreat…her cabin, and all the other places she is dashing off to with arms full of homemade bread, jam, salads, tomato sauce, soup, pasta and more. Gillian cares for everyone it seems, except for herself. Although, Gillian reassures you and herself that her gardening, cooking, limitless sharing of all that she lovingly prepares with the people she loves nourishes her. So what's the problem? Gillian has turned away from herself…her potential. She needs to "feast on her life" as Walcott would say. So, this is the story of Gillian's life, imperfect and hollow in some ways, full, rich and very recognizable in others. And it is the story of Gillian's taking back her life, scratching the surface to reignite her talent, her passion, and her potential. In the end, I felt that Gillian is someone I'd want as a friend. I liked her, admired her, as well as her daughter and son-in-law.
Tara Woolpy takes us on an interesting journey as Gillian begins to find her way back to herself. She touches on many issues, the differences and weights that we carry that make us interesting to each other rather than divide us. She courageously and sensitively unearths them like the vegetables in her garden. We meet Edward and Sam, Mother Pearl and Aziza, Luke, and others, who are wise enough to see Gillian's large loving spirit and to love her for who she is.
Releasing Gillian's Wolves isn't a literary masterpiece, but it is a good read with the happy ending Tara Wooly promises. I'll read the sequel.
This tale about a middle-age woman, wife of a congressman, mother of two, who is dissatisfied with her marriage and feels as worn out as the path she beats between her house and Mother Pearl's, her neighbor Edward's who is more of a brother, her private retreat…her cabin, and all the other places she is dashing off to with arms full of homemade bread, jam, salads, tomato sauce, soup, pasta and more. Gillian cares for everyone it seems, except for herself. Although, Gillian reassures you and herself that her gardening, cooking, limitless sharing of all that she lovingly prepares with the people she loves nourishes her. So what's the problem? Gillian has turned away from herself…her potential. She needs to "feast on her life" as Walcott would say. So, this is the story of Gillian's life, imperfect and hollow in some ways, full, rich and very recognizable in others. And it is the story of Gillian's taking back her life, scratching the surface to reignite her talent, her passion, and her potential. In the end, I felt that Gillian is someone I'd want as a friend. I liked her, admired her, as well as her daughter and son-in-law.
Tara Woolpy takes us on an interesting journey as Gillian begins to find her way back to herself. She touches on many issues, the differences and weights that we carry that make us interesting to each other rather than divide us. She courageously and sensitively unearths them like the vegetables in her garden. We meet Edward and Sam, Mother Pearl and Aziza, Luke, and others, who are wise enough to see Gillian's large loving spirit and to love her for who she is.
Releasing Gillian's Wolves isn't a literary masterpiece, but it is a good read with the happy ending Tara Wooly promises. I'll read the sequel.
Read
September 28, 2011I'll admit, it took me a minute to get into this story. I had a hard time connecting to Gillian, the wife of a Congressman up for re-election.She just seemed to be a sweet middle-aged woman who cooks all the time and lets her philandering husband walk all over her. A few chapters in, when Gillian finds a hotel key and realizes that her husband has taken up with a woman several years younger than their daughter, is when she begins to take a stand. It's a small stand at first but it's that first glimmer of hope that there is a stronger woman hiding under supportive political wife facade.
I don't have much in common with Gillian. She's closer to my mother's age than my own and I've never been a rich, political wife but I've been in an unhappy marriage and so I related to her on that level. My own failed marriage wasn't an issue of adultery or anything of that sort but I understood Gillian's hesitance in ending her marriage. It slowly gets to where it's easier to be unhappy than deal with the drama of ending it all. Gillian is in that place in the beginning and the entire book is her journey to find the strength to get through the drama and move on with her life. I've been there, so despite our twenty year age difference, I was totally able to connect with Gillian.
It was refreshing to hear of an older woman, picking up the pieces of her life and moving forward, finding happiness and even romance again. Too many stories focus on twenty and thirty-somethings that you almost forget that it's possible to start over later in life. It's nice to be reminded that new beginnings do not belong solely to the young. I found it a lovely story about standing up for yourself, and demanding a better life for yourself. I'd recommend it for anyone needing a reminder that it's OK to start over.
I don't have much in common with Gillian. She's closer to my mother's age than my own and I've never been a rich, political wife but I've been in an unhappy marriage and so I related to her on that level. My own failed marriage wasn't an issue of adultery or anything of that sort but I understood Gillian's hesitance in ending her marriage. It slowly gets to where it's easier to be unhappy than deal with the drama of ending it all. Gillian is in that place in the beginning and the entire book is her journey to find the strength to get through the drama and move on with her life. I've been there, so despite our twenty year age difference, I was totally able to connect with Gillian.
It was refreshing to hear of an older woman, picking up the pieces of her life and moving forward, finding happiness and even romance again. Too many stories focus on twenty and thirty-somethings that you almost forget that it's possible to start over later in life. It's nice to be reminded that new beginnings do not belong solely to the young. I found it a lovely story about standing up for yourself, and demanding a better life for yourself. I'd recommend it for anyone needing a reminder that it's OK to start over.
October 2, 2011
As prevalent as politics today are rampant with scandal, I am surprised this is one of the few novels I've come across dealing with a crooked and morally bankrupt politician- and he's not even the main character! Our main character is the wife, a long-suffering woman who puts up with her husband's bull for years before finally having had enough, what ensues is the story. While this may seem trite, the subject was handled deftly in ways where I hated who I was supposed to and loved everybody else, but not in a smarmy glad-handing or boring way. I really did come to care for the wholly original cast of characters, and not as predictable as one might expect: Gillian is definitely middle-aged (gives me hope that I still could do something with my life yet, she has a few years on me) and once she hatches from the cocoon of political life she has allowed herself to be trapped in for all the usual reasons (the children, the in-laws, the political platform, etc.) she blossoms into a woman with her own ideas, aspirations and art. This life starting over at fifty seems almost new, authors usually have their protagonists do this at thirty, maybe forty, so I really enjoyed Gillian's new lease on life as well as the direction she took it; her adult children's positive rather than petulant reactions; her friends' lives and their interactions with her (I love the back story on her gay friend- but you'll have to read the book for that- it's worth it just for how unusual that whole dynamic is); and then the prerequisite new love affair (also not completely by rote either!) All in all, I found this outing by Ms Woolpy a breath of fresh air, and I look forward to reading more by this author.
June 22, 2011
Gillian has been married to Congressman Jack Sach for three decades, during which time he has never been faithful to her. One day he goes too far and Gillian decides she isn’t going to take it anymore. I am of two minds here. On the one hand, this is a well-written book with believable characters, great scenery, and a plausible story. On the other, the romantic relationships are all a bit on the gooey side, and it’s always a little dispiriting to read about someone who succeeds only because they’re discovered and helped by someone who is already successful. (Maybe that’s the way it works most of the time, but occasionally it’d be nice to read about success through hard work and determination rather than the right person coming along and taking them under their wing.) Not that this latter bit is a huge part of the story. Quite the contrary, actually: it’s more about Gillian taking her first tentative steps in life as Gillian rather than just the wife of Jack Sach. And it’s about food. There are a few folksy recipes sprinkled throughout which are worth reading even if you don’t cook, and everything Gillian prepares sounds delicious. In the end, it’s just a sweet story about a pleasant, middle-aged woman. Nothing too memorable, but a good beach read.
October 26, 2011
I read this book for Rebecca's Reads, so please see my full review at http://rebeccasreads.com.
An excerpt:
Who hasn’t read a story about a cheating politician lately? It’s a tired tale. Tara Woolpy breathes new life through Gillian, a character full of strength even when she’s hiding from her circumstances. She’s trapped at first, but never a victim. My respect and admiration for Gillian escalated when she refused to stand next to Jack during the inevitable press conference to explain his misdeeds. Although Gillian was the standout character, several ancillary characters made their mark. My favorite was Momma Pearl, Jack’s mother, and her unwavering support for her daughter-in-law while never failing to be her son’s mother.
Final analysis: With such engaging female characters, I was disappointed at times with the under-developed male characters. The author hinted at some juicy story for Edward, Luke and even Jack with no follow-through, and there were slow parts in the middle. But overall, readers who enjoy connecting with a strong woman and her journey through pain and adversity will embrace the story and its female lead, Gillian. I know I was rooting for her from page one.
An excerpt:
Who hasn’t read a story about a cheating politician lately? It’s a tired tale. Tara Woolpy breathes new life through Gillian, a character full of strength even when she’s hiding from her circumstances. She’s trapped at first, but never a victim. My respect and admiration for Gillian escalated when she refused to stand next to Jack during the inevitable press conference to explain his misdeeds. Although Gillian was the standout character, several ancillary characters made their mark. My favorite was Momma Pearl, Jack’s mother, and her unwavering support for her daughter-in-law while never failing to be her son’s mother.
Final analysis: With such engaging female characters, I was disappointed at times with the under-developed male characters. The author hinted at some juicy story for Edward, Luke and even Jack with no follow-through, and there were slow parts in the middle. But overall, readers who enjoy connecting with a strong woman and her journey through pain and adversity will embrace the story and its female lead, Gillian. I know I was rooting for her from page one.
August 4, 2011
After 30 years of marriage, Gillian Sach can’t imagine what her life would be like if she were not the “Congressman’s Wife”. Her life is a routine of secrets held by her adulterous husband, Jack Sach. One last commitment of infidelity and Gillian is finally at her breaking point. With her best friend since childhood, Edward, she flees to find a new life and love that she never thought was possible. As the limelight shines on her husband for illegal activities, Gillian finally starts to create a new and fulfilling life for herself and her family.
Tara Woolpy’s debut novel is an intricate blend of family affairs, love, hate, romance, and politics. This is a very good read for the romance and drama genre. As her debut novel, there is much anticipation for more to come, many hope that this is not the end of the road for Gillian’s story. I give 4 bookmarks to Releasing Gillian’s Wolves in hope of many more to come.
Tara Woolpy’s debut novel is an intricate blend of family affairs, love, hate, romance, and politics. This is a very good read for the romance and drama genre. As her debut novel, there is much anticipation for more to come, many hope that this is not the end of the road for Gillian’s story. I give 4 bookmarks to Releasing Gillian’s Wolves in hope of many more to come.
April 18, 2011
In my retirement I read quite a bit – usually three to four different types of books at a time, a snippet here and a snippet there. But I only read one novel at a time, so I put aside Ken Follett’s latest when I received my advance review copy of Tara Woolpy’s “Releasing Gillian’s Wolves.” I’m so glad that I did. Her timely story of the experiences of the spouse of a philandering politician captured me completely. By the time I finished, I felt that I knew her, her family, and especially her friends, both old and new. Although Gillian is an artist in her studio and also in her kitchen, it is obvious that our author is one as well, as she paints a wonderful, entertaining landscape for the reader to enjoy.
May 15, 2011
This started off strong and then became a bit slow in the middle. One turn off was the conversations that the characters had at certain points within the novel. However, the book did pick up. I really started rooting for Gillian. I can't imagine being in such a tough spot and not doing anything about it.
I enjoyed seeing Gillian's character grow to be something not so shy and reserved. I was happy to see her stand up and not become a pushover.
I will say, I was not expecting her husband to get into such a terrible predicament. However, I am glad he did as he really needed to pay for his crimes and for the way he treated his family for years.
I enjoyed seeing Gillian's character grow to be something not so shy and reserved. I was happy to see her stand up and not become a pushover.
I will say, I was not expecting her husband to get into such a terrible predicament. However, I am glad he did as he really needed to pay for his crimes and for the way he treated his family for years.
dnf
May 1, 2011I made it to 30%. Author has an engaging writing style, but it simply wasn't for me. The story itself is too slow and takes too long to get exciting. I liked the heroine, but all she does (in the first 30 percent anyway) is talk to her gay friends and cook. I also kinda found her a pushover.. I get that she wants to help her husband's campaign, but that's HER house, not his. Send HIM to live in the cabin and what's with cooking for him?? This bothered me too much.
I recommend it for fans of Maeve Binchy.
I recommend it for fans of Maeve Binchy.
September 29, 2011
I won this book as a First Reads copy. I absolutely loved this book. I took it on the plane with me and started reading it during my short flight. After I got to the hotel I couldn't put it down. I loved the characters and how they could be the locals in any town. I have also read other books that include little recipes here and there and find it fun to see the characters favorite foods. I have already recommended this book to many of my friends.
April 15, 2011
I like this book. Luke sums up the story nicely when he says, "Sometimes by the time something we dread arrives we are already gone." Woolpy skillfully gets Gillian 'gone'. Her conversations between women friends, mother and daughter and homosexual lovers are a delight to read. My recommendation is don't go on vacation without it.
October 12, 2011
Make that 4 stars if you're looking for an easy read. Can't help liking the main character, honestly what I liked was it was really more novel than cliche story about politician's scorned wife. Back cover doesn't do it justice.
Ps I won this on good reads giveaways! Woo!
Ps I won this on good reads giveaways! Woo!
May 14, 2011
This was a great book. It started off slow but got better as I kept reading. This book had a great ending. I loom forward to reading Tara's next books.
keep-in-mind
May 8, 2011Added 5/8/11. Keep in mind.
August 16, 2014
4.5 stars.I won and received this book for free thru Goodreads First reads.Thank you very much
October 3, 2012
New author...good book
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