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The Good Woman's Guide to Making Better Choices
How well do you ever really know your husband? And how did Libby - a thoroughly decent straighty one-eighty who's never even had a speeding ticket - end up with Ludo?
Loyal country girl Libby Popovic lives a golden life with her confident financier husband Ludo and their two children, Harrison and Ava. When Ludo is jailed for financial fraud, and her friends and family lose tens of thousands of dollars as a result, Libby feels agonizingly complicit for hosting the final investor pitch in their home. Matters go from atrocious to worse when her possessions and home are repossessed, Libby is sacked and a priceless family heirloom is wrecked. While camping out at the rural goat farm where she was raised, she's forced to re-evaluate her life choices.
A warm, funny and outrageously unfair novel about deception, financial fraud and goat's cheese, and the possibility of starting your life all over again when everything goes south of the border.
Loyal country girl Libby Popovic lives a golden life with her confident financier husband Ludo and their two children, Harrison and Ava. When Ludo is jailed for financial fraud, and her friends and family lose tens of thousands of dollars as a result, Libby feels agonizingly complicit for hosting the final investor pitch in their home. Matters go from atrocious to worse when her possessions and home are repossessed, Libby is sacked and a priceless family heirloom is wrecked. While camping out at the rural goat farm where she was raised, she's forced to re-evaluate her life choices.
A warm, funny and outrageously unfair novel about deception, financial fraud and goat's cheese, and the possibility of starting your life all over again when everything goes south of the border.
- GenresNonfictionAudiobook
384 pages, Paperback
First published December 26, 2023
8 people are currently reading
239 people want to read
About the author
Liz Foster
2 books12 followersLiz Foster was born and raised in England. She has lived in Sydney since 1991. Following a career in marketing, she began writing creative fiction seven years ago – editing the fifty page Australian Tax Office guide was the tipping point. The Good Woman’s Guide to Making Better Choices is her first novel.
Liz is passionate about smart and heartfelt book club fiction - creating character driven, page-turning, uplifting stories in quirky Australian settings, with big themes that resonate.
When she’s not writing she’s peppering her family with questions about plot and character scenarios, listening to podcasts, reading out loud and boring the dog senseless.
Liz is passionate about smart and heartfelt book club fiction - creating character driven, page-turning, uplifting stories in quirky Australian settings, with big themes that resonate.
When she’s not writing she’s peppering her family with questions about plot and character scenarios, listening to podcasts, reading out loud and boring the dog senseless.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 64 reviews
March 12, 2024
EXCERPT: If Libby had known this would be the most traumatic day of her life, she would have dressed better. And eaten better too. Sort of like The Last Supper, but in reverse: all the enjoyment of the meal without the foreboding.
Because that's how trauma sometimes rolled. Out of a clear blue sky, without warning.
Well, there was an actual heavy thunderstorm that day, but still.
After it rolled in, every miniscule detail remained in her head, as though branded by a red-hot cattle iron. The sear of spilled milk on the stone kitchen bench. Ludo's jacket flung across the couch. Black clouds crowding the horizon, gathering pace and darkening as they careened in from the ocean. An open newspaper, its pages fluttering on the rooftop terrace before a powerful gust snatched and hoisted it over Bondi Beach towards the heads. A single blue feather, elegant and long, discarded from Miss Marple's tail. Ana's dirty kneepads dumped on the floor near the penthouse lift, right where you stepped when you got out. The clash of Ludo's Bruno Marrs ringtone with the violin sonata coming from Harrison's room. A single jar of Beechworth Goat's Cheese scraped clean and propped near the sink, ready for washing.
It was a bugger, because she had always loved Bruno Marrs, and now she couldn't listen to him at all.
ABOUT 'THE GOOD WOMAN'S GUIDE TO MAKING BETTER CHOICES': How well do you ever really know your husband? And how did Libby – a thoroughly decent straight one-eighty who's never even had a speeding ticket – end up with Ludo?
Loyal country girl Libby Popovic lives a golden life with her confident financier husband Ludo and their two children, Harrison and Ana. When Ludo is jailed for financial fraud, and her friends and family lose tens of thousands of dollars as a result, Libby feels agonizingly complicit for hosting the final investor pitch in their home. Matters go from atrocious to worse when her possessions and home are repossessed, Libby is sacked and a priceless family heirloom is wrecked. While camping out at the rural goat farm where she was raised, she's forced to re-evaluate her life choices.
MY THOUGHTS: A great beginning to this author's career!
Quirky, humorous and touching - how many of us have married only to discover, however many years later, that the man we married is nothing like we believed he was? And how many of us, like Libby, enjoyed our lives so didn't look too closely? Because, after all, what you don't know can't hurt you - can it?
I had fun with this light-hearted but touching story about a woman whose whole life implodes when her husband is jailed for fraud. And you know how, when one thing goes wrong, everything goes wrong? It does. Libby slowly discovers strengths she never knew she had as disaster after disaster continues to rain down on her.
There is a brilliant cast of supporting characters - her children Ana and Harrison; her elderly friend Hazel and Hazel's parrot Miss Marple; her mother Maggie and her aunt Dido; Alexi the IT genius who loves to perform card tricks; and many more including a goat called Kim Kardashian.
I loved Libby's sense of moral justice, but it is Hazel who comes up with a brilliant plan to put matters right.
There is a small thread of romance, not unexpected, but it is only a minor player in the plot. It felt right.
A light, entertaining and enjoyable read.
⭐⭐⭐.7
#TheGoodWomansGuidetoMakingBetterChoices #NetGalley
THE AUTHOR: Liz Foster was born and raised in England. She has lived in Sydney since 1991. Following a career in marketing, she began writing creative fiction seven years ago – editing the fifty page Australian Tax Office guide was the tipping point. The Good Woman’s Guide to Making Better Choices is her first novel.
Liz is passionate about smart and heartfelt book club fiction - creating character driven, page-turning, uplifting stories in quirky Australian settings, with big themes that resonate.
When she’s not writing she’s peppering her family with questions about plot and character scenarios, listening to podcasts, reading out loud and boring the dog senseless.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Affirm Press via NetGalley for providing a digital ARC of The Good Woman's Guide to Making Better Choices by Liz Foster for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
The Good Woman's Guide to Making Better Choices by Liz Foster was published December 2023.
https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
Because that's how trauma sometimes rolled. Out of a clear blue sky, without warning.
Well, there was an actual heavy thunderstorm that day, but still.
After it rolled in, every miniscule detail remained in her head, as though branded by a red-hot cattle iron. The sear of spilled milk on the stone kitchen bench. Ludo's jacket flung across the couch. Black clouds crowding the horizon, gathering pace and darkening as they careened in from the ocean. An open newspaper, its pages fluttering on the rooftop terrace before a powerful gust snatched and hoisted it over Bondi Beach towards the heads. A single blue feather, elegant and long, discarded from Miss Marple's tail. Ana's dirty kneepads dumped on the floor near the penthouse lift, right where you stepped when you got out. The clash of Ludo's Bruno Marrs ringtone with the violin sonata coming from Harrison's room. A single jar of Beechworth Goat's Cheese scraped clean and propped near the sink, ready for washing.
It was a bugger, because she had always loved Bruno Marrs, and now she couldn't listen to him at all.
ABOUT 'THE GOOD WOMAN'S GUIDE TO MAKING BETTER CHOICES': How well do you ever really know your husband? And how did Libby – a thoroughly decent straight one-eighty who's never even had a speeding ticket – end up with Ludo?
Loyal country girl Libby Popovic lives a golden life with her confident financier husband Ludo and their two children, Harrison and Ana. When Ludo is jailed for financial fraud, and her friends and family lose tens of thousands of dollars as a result, Libby feels agonizingly complicit for hosting the final investor pitch in their home. Matters go from atrocious to worse when her possessions and home are repossessed, Libby is sacked and a priceless family heirloom is wrecked. While camping out at the rural goat farm where she was raised, she's forced to re-evaluate her life choices.
MY THOUGHTS: A great beginning to this author's career!
Quirky, humorous and touching - how many of us have married only to discover, however many years later, that the man we married is nothing like we believed he was? And how many of us, like Libby, enjoyed our lives so didn't look too closely? Because, after all, what you don't know can't hurt you - can it?
I had fun with this light-hearted but touching story about a woman whose whole life implodes when her husband is jailed for fraud. And you know how, when one thing goes wrong, everything goes wrong? It does. Libby slowly discovers strengths she never knew she had as disaster after disaster continues to rain down on her.
There is a brilliant cast of supporting characters - her children Ana and Harrison; her elderly friend Hazel and Hazel's parrot Miss Marple; her mother Maggie and her aunt Dido; Alexi the IT genius who loves to perform card tricks; and many more including a goat called Kim Kardashian.
I loved Libby's sense of moral justice, but it is Hazel who comes up with a brilliant plan to put matters right.
There is a small thread of romance, not unexpected, but it is only a minor player in the plot. It felt right.
A light, entertaining and enjoyable read.
⭐⭐⭐.7
#TheGoodWomansGuidetoMakingBetterChoices #NetGalley
THE AUTHOR: Liz Foster was born and raised in England. She has lived in Sydney since 1991. Following a career in marketing, she began writing creative fiction seven years ago – editing the fifty page Australian Tax Office guide was the tipping point. The Good Woman’s Guide to Making Better Choices is her first novel.
Liz is passionate about smart and heartfelt book club fiction - creating character driven, page-turning, uplifting stories in quirky Australian settings, with big themes that resonate.
When she’s not writing she’s peppering her family with questions about plot and character scenarios, listening to podcasts, reading out loud and boring the dog senseless.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Affirm Press via NetGalley for providing a digital ARC of The Good Woman's Guide to Making Better Choices by Liz Foster for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
The Good Woman's Guide to Making Better Choices by Liz Foster was published December 2023.
https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
December 23, 2023
A good debut novel with an engaging main character and a good story.
When Libby Popovic's husband, Ludo, goes to jail for fraud she loses everything. Left with two teenage children, no home and no money she moves back home to her mother and Aunty Dido's goat farm. Libby goes on to show what she is really made of as she navigates her way back to a good life for all of them.
This is a light, easy read with many quirky characters. Actually my one criticism is that there were maybe too many - if I was distracted for a moment I would suddenly find I was reading about someone whose name I did not recognise. A small issue though and probably as much my fault as the book's.
Altogether a good start for this author and I look forward to what she writes next.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
When Libby Popovic's husband, Ludo, goes to jail for fraud she loses everything. Left with two teenage children, no home and no money she moves back home to her mother and Aunty Dido's goat farm. Libby goes on to show what she is really made of as she navigates her way back to a good life for all of them.
This is a light, easy read with many quirky characters. Actually my one criticism is that there were maybe too many - if I was distracted for a moment I would suddenly find I was reading about someone whose name I did not recognise. A small issue though and probably as much my fault as the book's.
Altogether a good start for this author and I look forward to what she writes next.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
November 6, 2023
Libby Popovic looks to have a perfect life, she lives in a luxury apartment with views of Bondi Bay, with her husband Ludo, teenage son Harrison and daughter Ava who’s a tomboy. Ludo is a financial advisor, he runs the company with his business partner Maya Labovitz, and they’re always coming up with ideas of how to make money and looking for investors.
Libby is shocked when the police arrive at their apartment, they want to speak to Ludo, he’s jailed for financial fraud, and her friends and family lose money as a result. Libby feels so guilty, she hosted the final investor pitch in their home, not that she knew it was a scam and now the apartment and all of their possessions have been repossessed.
Libby goes to stay with her mum Maggie and aunty Dido in Victoria, they have a goat farm and make award winning cheese. Libby grew up in Beechwood, she's used to living in the country, Ava loves it as well and Harrison seems a bit preoccupied and that’s to be expected considering what’s happened.
I received a digital copy of The Good Woman’s Guide to Making Better Choices by Liz Foster from Affirm Press and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. A thought provoking and at times hilarious and very relatable narrative about the main character Libby having complete faith in her husband of twenty years, like many women she let him handle the finances, she trusts him and it's a big mistake.
The other characters in the book are wonderful and quirky, Libby’s friend Hazel and her parrot Miss. Maple, aunty Dido, Alexi, Jake, mum Maggie, Rocky and the goats. Libby doesn’t require the finer things in life, she already has what she needs, her family, friends, and morals.
A coming to your senses story, Libby is a likeable character, she's strong, resilient and many readers will relate to the overall theme of the narrative, which is Libby taking off her rose coloured glasses, righting wrongs, looking at life and what she want's from a different perspective and four stars from me.
Libby is shocked when the police arrive at their apartment, they want to speak to Ludo, he’s jailed for financial fraud, and her friends and family lose money as a result. Libby feels so guilty, she hosted the final investor pitch in their home, not that she knew it was a scam and now the apartment and all of their possessions have been repossessed.
Libby goes to stay with her mum Maggie and aunty Dido in Victoria, they have a goat farm and make award winning cheese. Libby grew up in Beechwood, she's used to living in the country, Ava loves it as well and Harrison seems a bit preoccupied and that’s to be expected considering what’s happened.
I received a digital copy of The Good Woman’s Guide to Making Better Choices by Liz Foster from Affirm Press and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. A thought provoking and at times hilarious and very relatable narrative about the main character Libby having complete faith in her husband of twenty years, like many women she let him handle the finances, she trusts him and it's a big mistake.
The other characters in the book are wonderful and quirky, Libby’s friend Hazel and her parrot Miss. Maple, aunty Dido, Alexi, Jake, mum Maggie, Rocky and the goats. Libby doesn’t require the finer things in life, she already has what she needs, her family, friends, and morals.
A coming to your senses story, Libby is a likeable character, she's strong, resilient and many readers will relate to the overall theme of the narrative, which is Libby taking off her rose coloured glasses, righting wrongs, looking at life and what she want's from a different perspective and four stars from me.
January 15, 2024
Sweet, wonderful and completely quirky. I loved this debut. It does come complete with a host of supporting characters-some including a goat named Kim Kardashian and a parrot by the name of Miss Marple..I won’t spoil it for you, but let me say Libby was just a gorgeously good woman, the story as delightful as it could be when you know from the outset there jail time for fraud. Big love and such high recommendations. Can’t wait to see what Liz Foster writes next!!
November 24, 2024
3.5★
The Good Woman’s Guide To Making Better Choices is a debut novel by Aussie author Liz Foster. It was a fun, quirky, entertaining and enjoyable read. I did find it a little difficult to keep up with all the characters that were being introduced throughout the storyline, but apart from that it was well worth reading.
With thanks to Netgalley and the publishers for my digital copy to read and review.
The Good Woman’s Guide To Making Better Choices is a debut novel by Aussie author Liz Foster. It was a fun, quirky, entertaining and enjoyable read. I did find it a little difficult to keep up with all the characters that were being introduced throughout the storyline, but apart from that it was well worth reading.
With thanks to Netgalley and the publishers for my digital copy to read and review.
January 22, 2024
What a fantastic debut!
Honestly ticked all the boxes - well rounded and interesting characters, witty writing, great settings and so many fun plot twists.
Could not recommend this enough for anyone looking for a lighthearted and fun summer read.
Honestly ticked all the boxes - well rounded and interesting characters, witty writing, great settings and so many fun plot twists.
Could not recommend this enough for anyone looking for a lighthearted and fun summer read.
October 19, 2024
I absolutely loved this book
Funny, light hearted and a feel good book
I read it in record time because I enjoyed it so much
Liz has an amazing talent for describing people and places so beautifully and vividly so you can truly experience them and want to read more
This heartwarming book brought a smile to my face
Funny, light hearted and a feel good book
I read it in record time because I enjoyed it so much
Liz has an amazing talent for describing people and places so beautifully and vividly so you can truly experience them and want to read more
This heartwarming book brought a smile to my face
February 3, 2024
Throughly enjoyed this debut novel. Found I couldn’t put it down - the plot is fast paced and engaging. Looking forward to seeing what this new author will produce next.
April 29, 2024
A fabulous and FUN read. Who knew that drones could sort out all of life’s challenges? (Well, maybe everyone knew that, but still…) A gorgeous debut by a talented new author!
January 28, 2024
The Good Woman’s Guide to Making Better Choices by @lizfosterauthor
What an absolutely delightful debut novel by yet another wonderful Australian author.
Libby leads a charmed life with husband Ludo and their two teenagers living the life at Bondi in a penthouse. Life is perfect - or so she thinks - until the police come knocking on her door looking for her husband. Life begins to unravel for Libby. The husband she thought she knew ends up in prison and they lose the lot.
A quirky and charming story of discovering who you are and starting over. I loved Libby and the entertaining cast of characters - the goat Kim Kardashian and talking bird Miss Marple. As well as Libby’s Mum and Aunty Dido.
Another 5 star ⭐️ ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ read from me
Book number #9 in #ktbookbingo - eight words in the title
What an absolutely delightful debut novel by yet another wonderful Australian author.
Libby leads a charmed life with husband Ludo and their two teenagers living the life at Bondi in a penthouse. Life is perfect - or so she thinks - until the police come knocking on her door looking for her husband. Life begins to unravel for Libby. The husband she thought she knew ends up in prison and they lose the lot.
A quirky and charming story of discovering who you are and starting over. I loved Libby and the entertaining cast of characters - the goat Kim Kardashian and talking bird Miss Marple. As well as Libby’s Mum and Aunty Dido.
Another 5 star ⭐️ ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ read from me
Book number #9 in #ktbookbingo - eight words in the title
January 25, 2024
Overall i light and easy read (listen as audiobook). But long winded in places, but overall a nice story.
January 21, 2024
Loved this book - smart, easy read with lovely characters and great premise. Also great balance of story with meaning and humour. Title slightly misleading as it may suggest a self help type read but it is not - it’s a novel. Similar to Lianne Moriaty ie a what would you do/what if premise. Read it.
March 13, 2025
I don’t know if I’ve ever read a book with such a lengthy title, but don’t let that deter you, it’s a fabulous read.
This story really captivates your imagination in a way that makes you wonder what choices you would make and what you would do given the same circumstances that Libby faces with her kids, Harrison and Ana. Their lives are in turmoil and they are about to discover that there is more than one secret pulling this family apart.
There are two points of view that we follow along with. Firstly, is Libby, a country girl at heart who will do anything for her kids and family, then there is her 17yo son Harrison, who is seeing the events and his world in a whole different light to his parents and those around him.
Bondi is where they are living, but I’m not sure that it ever truly feels like home for Libby, Harrison and Ana. As events unfold, Libby discovers a strength she never knew she had, as well as developing a deeper friendship with Hazel, her crime and mystery loving neighbour.
I must admit that although I loved Libby’s friends in the city, I was more like her than I realised, and felt more at home in the story when they were at Beechworth Goat Farm with Maggie, Dido and ‘the girls’.
This book is about second chances, family, chasing dreams, righting wrongs and realising what matters, but ultimately it’s a heartwarming tale of Libby and her discovery that even when you are at your rock bottom, there is still hope, love and support all around….you just have to open your eyes to it.
The Good Woman’s Guide To Making Better Choices will have you feeling an array of emotions, from betrayal and despair to triumph and achievement, with plenty of light-hearted moments and funny predicaments. Definitely worth adding to your reading pile.
Thank you Liz Foster for my #gifted copy.
#thegoodwomansguidetomakingbetterchoices
#lizfoster
#thegirls
#affirmpress
This story really captivates your imagination in a way that makes you wonder what choices you would make and what you would do given the same circumstances that Libby faces with her kids, Harrison and Ana. Their lives are in turmoil and they are about to discover that there is more than one secret pulling this family apart.
There are two points of view that we follow along with. Firstly, is Libby, a country girl at heart who will do anything for her kids and family, then there is her 17yo son Harrison, who is seeing the events and his world in a whole different light to his parents and those around him.
Bondi is where they are living, but I’m not sure that it ever truly feels like home for Libby, Harrison and Ana. As events unfold, Libby discovers a strength she never knew she had, as well as developing a deeper friendship with Hazel, her crime and mystery loving neighbour.
I must admit that although I loved Libby’s friends in the city, I was more like her than I realised, and felt more at home in the story when they were at Beechworth Goat Farm with Maggie, Dido and ‘the girls’.
This book is about second chances, family, chasing dreams, righting wrongs and realising what matters, but ultimately it’s a heartwarming tale of Libby and her discovery that even when you are at your rock bottom, there is still hope, love and support all around….you just have to open your eyes to it.
The Good Woman’s Guide To Making Better Choices will have you feeling an array of emotions, from betrayal and despair to triumph and achievement, with plenty of light-hearted moments and funny predicaments. Definitely worth adding to your reading pile.
Thank you Liz Foster for my #gifted copy.
#thegoodwomansguidetomakingbetterchoices
#lizfoster
#thegirls
#affirmpress
March 25, 2024
If you are looking for a good, entertaining read that has just enough intrigue to keep you immersed, this would be a great pick. There is romance, deception, redemption and, most importantly, a goat farm!
Libby and Ludo seem to have it all - a picture perfect marriage, two gorgeous talented children and a lifestyle to match. But when Ludo is suddenly arrested for financial fraud, Libby finds out that her seemingly ideal life hasn't been built of too solid a foundation.
When she finds herself back in Beechworth - with old friends, family and the comforts of home - she realises that maybe she's just a farm girl after all.
Libby and Ludo seem to have it all - a picture perfect marriage, two gorgeous talented children and a lifestyle to match. But when Ludo is suddenly arrested for financial fraud, Libby finds out that her seemingly ideal life hasn't been built of too solid a foundation.
When she finds herself back in Beechworth - with old friends, family and the comforts of home - she realises that maybe she's just a farm girl after all.
May 13, 2024
At first glance I thought this book was a self-help guide but then I saw that it was a novel. The story is delightful and very easy to relate to in today's world of challenges with family relationships, money, work and looking for a happy life.
The setting in Sydney and Beechworth cleverly draws in both NSW and Victorian readers.
Jo Foster has a very down-to-earth, relaxed writing style. I found myself getting immersed in the story and enjoying the chance to escape into the lives of the Popovic family over a coffee each day.
Rather than spend time browsing through your phone, try reading this book to give your day a lift.
The setting in Sydney and Beechworth cleverly draws in both NSW and Victorian readers.
Jo Foster has a very down-to-earth, relaxed writing style. I found myself getting immersed in the story and enjoying the chance to escape into the lives of the Popovic family over a coffee each day.
Rather than spend time browsing through your phone, try reading this book to give your day a lift.
April 1, 2024
This was an enjoyable read, full of life’s foibles, and joys. Showing how our choices affect evening thing we do in life and how our choices affect everyone in our life’s. Following dreams and whims, and makes us questions should we trust our passions or not.
September 2, 2024
Enjoyable.
I would have preferred a little more interaction with the Ana, Hazel, Dido and Maggie. They had the potential to make this story more humorous and add a layer of interest. For example, when Ana had the couple in the basement teaching him how to skateboard, that was a great interaction. There were only a few times that I felt connected to the family. Most of the time I felt that the story was trying very hard but never really reached what it could have been.
I would have preferred a little more interaction with the Ana, Hazel, Dido and Maggie. They had the potential to make this story more humorous and add a layer of interest. For example, when Ana had the couple in the basement teaching him how to skateboard, that was a great interaction. There were only a few times that I felt connected to the family. Most of the time I felt that the story was trying very hard but never really reached what it could have been.
February 4, 2024
This was a very difficult book to put down. I was extremely excited to read this one and it did not let down, it exceed my expectations greatly. I think it was a really good first novel from author Liz Foster.
It started off with a really engaging prologue which made me intrigued to discover more. The writing really helped you to connect with the characters, I felt like I knew Libby and Harrison and I quickly developed a connection to both characters. This made me care about them and I felt their emotions with them.
The story was full of plenty of surprises, with plenty of secrets and twists that I did not expect. I felt like every time I thought I knew where the story was going and what would happen next, something would happen and completely change that. As a result, the story was super exciting and meant I would just continue reading and reading, not wanting to stop.
I will be recommending this story to everyone I know, I thoroughly enjoyed it.
It started off with a really engaging prologue which made me intrigued to discover more. The writing really helped you to connect with the characters, I felt like I knew Libby and Harrison and I quickly developed a connection to both characters. This made me care about them and I felt their emotions with them.
The story was full of plenty of surprises, with plenty of secrets and twists that I did not expect. I felt like every time I thought I knew where the story was going and what would happen next, something would happen and completely change that. As a result, the story was super exciting and meant I would just continue reading and reading, not wanting to stop.
I will be recommending this story to everyone I know, I thoroughly enjoyed it.
March 24, 2024
I devoured this wonderful book in one day and thoroughly enjoyed every minute of this page turner. This book contains warm and likable characters with lots of depth and interesting, intersecting plot lines. I laughed out loud at the many comical situations in the book and loved the journey of the main protagonist who was a highly relatable, flawed and ultimately an authentic heroine. I loved being transported back to Bondi and Beechworth, two very special places in the world (and well worth a visit for those who have not been). And who doesn't love a storyline where the good people, with good values outsmart those with bad intent. Kudos to Liz Foster this first time author who had me at the title.
January 1, 2024
This book had it all!
A goat farm, fraud, infidelity, pay back, marriage, following your dreams and starting over.
What a fabulous read! I devoured this book and loved how different it was! I was completely invested in how things were going to end up and was taken on a great ride! It was fun, funny, exciting and page turning!
Libby was such a trooper, it was unfair that she was dealt with some major blows due to her husband’s dodgy business, but she powered on and it all worked out perfectly!
Thank you so much to the team at @affirmpress for sending me a copy of this gem!
A goat farm, fraud, infidelity, pay back, marriage, following your dreams and starting over.
What a fabulous read! I devoured this book and loved how different it was! I was completely invested in how things were going to end up and was taken on a great ride! It was fun, funny, exciting and page turning!
Libby was such a trooper, it was unfair that she was dealt with some major blows due to her husband’s dodgy business, but she powered on and it all worked out perfectly!
Thank you so much to the team at @affirmpress for sending me a copy of this gem!
March 10, 2024
A solid good book to ready - easy to read, feel good story and likeable characters. Good to read something that flowed after my last read!
October 8, 2024
The plot had a few holes but the characters were endearing. Not a surprising ending. Easy ready.
April 9, 2024
A good mix of everything including cheese !
November 19, 2023
Thanks to NetGalley and Affirm Press for letting me read this book for an honest review. I loved this book and finished it in less than 24 hours. How I felt for poor Libby when her husband ended up in jail and her life was thrown upside down and she basically had to start again, but how she blossomed through those moments. The characters of her two children Harrison and Ana played important side roles through the story, as did the location of her home town Beechworth. The story was an easy read and delightful.
March 23, 2024
Nice. Had its moments. A good main character & a quirky characterful support cast. Enjoyed the Australian sense of place. A debut novel and will look out for the next.
November 1, 2023
"The Good Woman's Guide to Making Better Choices" by Liz Foster is a masterful exploration of the intricacies of life, trust, and self-discovery. Through the lens of the protagonist, Libby Popovic, Foster weaves a complex narrative that takes readers on an emotional journey filled with ups and downs, humor, and profound reflections.
At the outset, we are introduced to Libby, a seemingly ordinary woman living a charmed life with her husband, Ludo, and their two children. The contrast between her unassuming persona and the shocking revelation of Ludo's financial fraud arrest creates an immediate sense of suspense. Libby's guilt and inner turmoil as a result of her unwitting involvement in the investor pitch that led to financial disaster are palpable. This conflict catalyzes a deeper exploration of her character and a reflection on the choices she's made.
Foster's writing shines in the way she infuses humor and wit into this otherwise dire situation. The inclusion of goat's cheese and Libby's return to the rural goat farm where she was raised adds a unique charm to the narrative. These seemingly quirky elements provide both comic relief and a sense of groundedness, creating a world that is both relatable and enchanting.
One of the novel's standout features is the character development. Libby's transformation from a sheltered and seemingly naive woman to a resilient and empowered individual is both heartwarming and inspiring. Readers will find themselves rooting for her as she navigates the tumultuous aftermath of her husband's actions, and as she rediscovers her own agency and sense of self.
What makes "The Good Woman's Guide to Making Better Choices" so resonant is its ability to provoke deep self-reflection in readers. It compels us to ponder the choices we make in life, the unpredictability of the future, and the strength of the human spirit when faced with adversity. Foster's writing is engaging, evocative, and heartfelt, making the novel a compelling read for anyone who appreciates a blend of humor, drama, and self-discovery.
This book is not merely a story; it's a contemplation of life's twists and turns, and the way we respond to them. It's a testament to the power of reinvention and the resilience of the human spirit. Liz Foster's "The Good Woman's Guide to Making Better Choices" is an excellent choice for those seeking a thought-provoking and emotionally resonant novel that lingers in the mind long after the final page is turned.
I received a copy via NetGalley and all opinions are my own.
At the outset, we are introduced to Libby, a seemingly ordinary woman living a charmed life with her husband, Ludo, and their two children. The contrast between her unassuming persona and the shocking revelation of Ludo's financial fraud arrest creates an immediate sense of suspense. Libby's guilt and inner turmoil as a result of her unwitting involvement in the investor pitch that led to financial disaster are palpable. This conflict catalyzes a deeper exploration of her character and a reflection on the choices she's made.
Foster's writing shines in the way she infuses humor and wit into this otherwise dire situation. The inclusion of goat's cheese and Libby's return to the rural goat farm where she was raised adds a unique charm to the narrative. These seemingly quirky elements provide both comic relief and a sense of groundedness, creating a world that is both relatable and enchanting.
One of the novel's standout features is the character development. Libby's transformation from a sheltered and seemingly naive woman to a resilient and empowered individual is both heartwarming and inspiring. Readers will find themselves rooting for her as she navigates the tumultuous aftermath of her husband's actions, and as she rediscovers her own agency and sense of self.
What makes "The Good Woman's Guide to Making Better Choices" so resonant is its ability to provoke deep self-reflection in readers. It compels us to ponder the choices we make in life, the unpredictability of the future, and the strength of the human spirit when faced with adversity. Foster's writing is engaging, evocative, and heartfelt, making the novel a compelling read for anyone who appreciates a blend of humor, drama, and self-discovery.
This book is not merely a story; it's a contemplation of life's twists and turns, and the way we respond to them. It's a testament to the power of reinvention and the resilience of the human spirit. Liz Foster's "The Good Woman's Guide to Making Better Choices" is an excellent choice for those seeking a thought-provoking and emotionally resonant novel that lingers in the mind long after the final page is turned.
I received a copy via NetGalley and all opinions are my own.
November 8, 2023
Liz Foster, The Good Woman's Guide to Making Better Choices, Affirm Press, December 2023.
Thank you, NetGalley, for providing me with this uncorrected proof for review.
With its strong beginning The Good Woman’s Guide to Making Better Choices promises much. What could be more attractive than a penthouse with a view to Bondi Beach as a setting? However, as the lift to the penthouse rises after Libby answers the intercom and invites its occupants, one showing a police badge, into her life this scene is shattered. Ludo, her husband, ends the prologue with an apology.
Chapter 1 leaves the Bondi penthouse behind with a return to the past in rural Victoria. Here, Foster regales the reader with some lovely comedy - Kim Kardashian being told to hurry? Residing in an abode with an old five bar gate and a gravel drive? The goat farm introduces Maggie and Ana, Libby’s mother and daughter, her aunt Dido, together with the mention of friend Hazel and her parrot Miss Marple. The visit to the farm recalls Libby’s happy childhood with her brother Evan and their mother. The absence of a father has had little impact on their lives with their mother and aunt, friend Jake, the goats and the business.
Then, the idyllic past becomes the fraught present. Libby’s son, Harrison, has had a childhood as a gifted music student. However, hostility to the classical music his parents encourage is a marked comparison with the carefree life of his sister and her skateboarding, and his mother’s past. Evan and his wife’s longing to have children and their reliance on expensive IVF becomes a point of conflict with Libby after Maggie gives the siblings $20,000 each. Financial issues become a source of conflict between Ludo, his business partner, Libby and their friends and neighbours.
With all the appearance of a simple story in which the country and city are juxtaposed to the advantage of the country, Foster reveals her cleverness as she depicts a more complex picture of both. The country and city lives of the characters are described well, the story line for each is interesting and the resolution is satisfying. The earlier writing is lively and has some comic moments. However, I felt that the work leading up to the resolution was a little less engaging. I also wonder about the title and its relevance to what becomes less social commentary on the choices Libby makes than a romantic story. There is nothing wrong with a story in which problems are resolved to the advantage of the characters who have created sympathy, but the title appeared to offer something more.
Thank you, NetGalley, for providing me with this uncorrected proof for review.
With its strong beginning The Good Woman’s Guide to Making Better Choices promises much. What could be more attractive than a penthouse with a view to Bondi Beach as a setting? However, as the lift to the penthouse rises after Libby answers the intercom and invites its occupants, one showing a police badge, into her life this scene is shattered. Ludo, her husband, ends the prologue with an apology.
Chapter 1 leaves the Bondi penthouse behind with a return to the past in rural Victoria. Here, Foster regales the reader with some lovely comedy - Kim Kardashian being told to hurry? Residing in an abode with an old five bar gate and a gravel drive? The goat farm introduces Maggie and Ana, Libby’s mother and daughter, her aunt Dido, together with the mention of friend Hazel and her parrot Miss Marple. The visit to the farm recalls Libby’s happy childhood with her brother Evan and their mother. The absence of a father has had little impact on their lives with their mother and aunt, friend Jake, the goats and the business.
Then, the idyllic past becomes the fraught present. Libby’s son, Harrison, has had a childhood as a gifted music student. However, hostility to the classical music his parents encourage is a marked comparison with the carefree life of his sister and her skateboarding, and his mother’s past. Evan and his wife’s longing to have children and their reliance on expensive IVF becomes a point of conflict with Libby after Maggie gives the siblings $20,000 each. Financial issues become a source of conflict between Ludo, his business partner, Libby and their friends and neighbours.
With all the appearance of a simple story in which the country and city are juxtaposed to the advantage of the country, Foster reveals her cleverness as she depicts a more complex picture of both. The country and city lives of the characters are described well, the story line for each is interesting and the resolution is satisfying. The earlier writing is lively and has some comic moments. However, I felt that the work leading up to the resolution was a little less engaging. I also wonder about the title and its relevance to what becomes less social commentary on the choices Libby makes than a romantic story. There is nothing wrong with a story in which problems are resolved to the advantage of the characters who have created sympathy, but the title appeared to offer something more.
December 13, 2025
The Good Woman’s Guide to Making Better Choices surprised me in the best way. What begins as a light, witty novel quickly deepens into a thoughtful exploration of trust, complicity, and the quiet ways women are expected to absorb the consequences of other people’s mistakes. Libby Popovic is an instantly sympathetic protagonist sensible, loyal, and determined to do the “right” thing. Watching her world unravel after Ludo’s fraud is both painful and compelling, especially as she wrestles with guilt over hosting the final investor pitch and the damage done to people she loves. The emotional weight of that responsibility is handled with nuance rather than melodrama. I particularly enjoyed the contrast between Libby’s former polished life and her return to the rural goat farm of her childhood. Those scenes bring warmth, humor, and a grounded sense of perspective to the story, and they’re where Libby’s quiet self-reckoning really begins. The goat’s cheese isn’t just a quirky detail it becomes part of the novel’s charm and its message about simplicity, resilience, and rebuilding from scratch. Liz Foster balances serious themes financial fraud, betrayal, and social shame with sharp observations and understated humor. The novel never feels preachy, but it does ask important questions about how well we really know the people we love and how easily “good women” can be swept along by decisions they didn’t make but must live with. This is a warm, thoughtful, and quietly empowering read about starting over when everything goes wrong. I closed the book feeling both unsettled and hopeful which, for me, is the mark of a story that lingers.
May 15, 2024
Ruthlessness, risk-taking and a relaxed attitude to the rules are traits commonly found in entrepreneurs, as well as many criminals. When Libby’s businessman husband of twenty years crosses the line between creative accounting and fraud, Libby must question everything about her life and the man she married.
The Good Woman’s Guide to Making Better Choices really hit home for me, as I was once in a similar situation to Libby. While the choice may seem black and white to some, Liz Foster captures all the nuances and myriad reasons why a woman may choose to stay with a man who breaks the law.
In the wake of her husband’s transgression, Libby is left to deal with public shame, financial ruin, and emotional trauma. Her initial shock and denial sees her clinging to the wonderful life she had created, and she believes that the current crisis is just a temporary one. However, in her husband’s absence, uncomfortable truths come to light that Libby can no longer ignore.
A compelling story that questions how well we really know the people closest to us and reveals the fragility of the foundations on which we build our lives.
Would you stay with your partner if they were facing jail time?
The Good Woman’s Guide to Making Better Choices really hit home for me, as I was once in a similar situation to Libby. While the choice may seem black and white to some, Liz Foster captures all the nuances and myriad reasons why a woman may choose to stay with a man who breaks the law.
In the wake of her husband’s transgression, Libby is left to deal with public shame, financial ruin, and emotional trauma. Her initial shock and denial sees her clinging to the wonderful life she had created, and she believes that the current crisis is just a temporary one. However, in her husband’s absence, uncomfortable truths come to light that Libby can no longer ignore.
A compelling story that questions how well we really know the people closest to us and reveals the fragility of the foundations on which we build our lives.
Would you stay with your partner if they were facing jail time?
February 19, 2024
This is Liz Foster's first published book and one hopes she goes on to have much more success. This book is exciting, has a little romance running through it and encaptures the atmosphere of Sydney very well. It was in many ways a page turner , it had a great plot with fraud and disenchantment running through it from start to finish. I would thoroughly recommend this book to anyone who wants a good book to read at any time of the day and the illustration on the cover is just as uplifting.
Hope you have started your next one as I cannot wait.
Hope you have started your next one as I cannot wait.
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