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Old Girls on Deck
Preorder the BRAND NEW hilarious novel from the #1 bestselling author, Maddie Please! It’s never too late to sail a new course...
When retired Jill Parker wins an all-expenses paid mediterranean cruise for two she is thrilled! At 63 life in retirement has got a little bit bland for Jill and this might be just the holiday she and husband Eddy need to get the sparks back in their marriage.
But when Eddy admits he would much prefer to build his patio and look through the latest DIY magazine, Jill is left with only one other option – her sister Diana.
Diana has become rather reclusive since her husband, Caspar died, but perhaps this is the push she needs to bring some excitement back into her life, too?
Could this trip be just what both sisters need to reconnect and chart a new path for their futures?
Excited to be exploring new horizons and catching up, the sisters soon discover that not everything is smooth sailing on board. And as they enjoy cocktails together at sundown, they discover that they are both actually a little all at sea…
Praise for Maddie
'Sea, sunshine, romance and fabulous characters; Maddie's light touch and sense of fun will lift your spirits!' Bestselling author Judy Leigh
'Witty, warm and simply wonderful.' Bestselling author Sarah Bennett
'For a book that’s as cheering and restorative as a long lunch with your very best friend, Maddie Please is the author you need to know!' Bestselling author Chris Manby
'Genuine and life-affirming…a wonderful, light-hearted novel about how it is never too late to find happiness.’ Bestselling author Kitty Wilson
When retired Jill Parker wins an all-expenses paid mediterranean cruise for two she is thrilled! At 63 life in retirement has got a little bit bland for Jill and this might be just the holiday she and husband Eddy need to get the sparks back in their marriage.
But when Eddy admits he would much prefer to build his patio and look through the latest DIY magazine, Jill is left with only one other option – her sister Diana.
Diana has become rather reclusive since her husband, Caspar died, but perhaps this is the push she needs to bring some excitement back into her life, too?
Could this trip be just what both sisters need to reconnect and chart a new path for their futures?
Excited to be exploring new horizons and catching up, the sisters soon discover that not everything is smooth sailing on board. And as they enjoy cocktails together at sundown, they discover that they are both actually a little all at sea…
Praise for Maddie
'Sea, sunshine, romance and fabulous characters; Maddie's light touch and sense of fun will lift your spirits!' Bestselling author Judy Leigh
'Witty, warm and simply wonderful.' Bestselling author Sarah Bennett
'For a book that’s as cheering and restorative as a long lunch with your very best friend, Maddie Please is the author you need to know!' Bestselling author Chris Manby
'Genuine and life-affirming…a wonderful, light-hearted novel about how it is never too late to find happiness.’ Bestselling author Kitty Wilson
306 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 4, 2024
2045 people are currently reading
512 people want to read
About the author
Maddie Please
25 books224 followersMaddie Please was born in Dorset, brought up in Worcestershire and went to University in Cardiff.
After a career as a dentist Maddie now lives in Devon with her exceptionally handsome and supportive husband. They have 4 adult-ish children all of whom have left home and are probably rather surprised by all this. She did warn them.
Maddie is a voracious reader, and would enjoy hoovering, defrosting the fridge and cleaning the windows but unfortunately she doesn't really have time. She is very disciplined and sensible about her writing and she likes to write every day because it gets her out of doing the ironing.
After a career as a dentist Maddie now lives in Devon with her exceptionally handsome and supportive husband. They have 4 adult-ish children all of whom have left home and are probably rather surprised by all this. She did warn them.
Maddie is a voracious reader, and would enjoy hoovering, defrosting the fridge and cleaning the windows but unfortunately she doesn't really have time. She is very disciplined and sensible about her writing and she likes to write every day because it gets her out of doing the ironing.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 184 reviews
July 10, 2024
EXCERPT: I picked the phone up without looking, I assumed it was Diana; she phones me at least once a day, usually about something unimportant, but it's nice to hear from her anyway. At least I get an idea of her mood. Since she was widowed, she's doing very well, but I know she must be very lonely. There have been a lot of unhappy, tearful calls over the last five years, which more often than not saw me in my car going over to try and help. Her new neighbour, Tom, seems to have developed a bot of a crush on her recently. He's always washing out her recycling bins and offering to trim her hedges, so to speak.
'Ahoy there! Everything okay?'
'That's the correct answer!' said an excited voice and then there was the sound of cheering and explosions and car horns and I nearly rang off because I thought it was a nuisance call . . .
ABOUT 'OLD GIRLS ON DECK': When retired Jill Parker wins an all-expenses paid mediterranean cruise for two she is thrilled! At 63 life in retirement has got a little bit bland for Jill and this might be just the holiday she and husband Eddy need to get the sparks back in their marriage.
But when Eddy admits he would much prefer to build his patio and look through the latest DIY magazine, Jill is left with only one other option – her sister Diana.
Diana has become rather reclusive since her husband, Caspar died, but perhaps this is the push she needs to bring some excitement back into her life, too?
Could this trip be just what both sisters need to reconnect and chart a new path for their futures?
Excited to be exploring new horizons and catching up, the sisters soon discover that not everything is smooth sailing on board. And as they enjoy cocktails together at sundown, they discover that they are both actually a little all at sea…
MY THOUGHTS: I enjoyed this book about two sisters in their sixties going on a cruise together. This is another book to add to the great number of enjoyable titles about older women learning to have fun, and becoming wiser while they do so. I guess we all like reading books which feature our own age groups, and it is great to see so many fun and touching books written to please our generation.
Personally, I would love to cruise the Mediterranean, but not on a huge ocean liner. All those people! But all those people provided much light entertainment in Old Girls on Deck. There is a great mix of characters from the absolutely delightful eighty-something-year-old Evelyn to the boring pests who tend to tag along, hopefully, and are sure you should be grateful for their company.
I liked the ways both Jill's and Diana's personal growth is stimulated on the cruise. Diana has been something of a recluse since the death of her husband Casper, while Jill has felt somewhat stuck in a rut with her husband Eddy.
There are the usual high-jinks and laughs I have come to expect from Maddie Please's books which, in Old Girls on Deck, includes getting lost while out sightseeing and missing the boat!
If there is one thing that I can take away from this book it is, and I quote directly, the world is full of kind people. They just don't make it into the news. And exciting and outrageous things can happen at any time.
⭐⭐⭐.6
#OldGirlsonDeck #NetGalley
THE AUTHOR: Maddie Please was born in Dorset, brought up in Worcestershire and went to University in Cardiff.
After a career as a dentist Maddie now lives in Devon with her exceptionally handsome and supportive husband. They have 4 adult-ish children all of whom have left home and are probably rather surprised by all this. She did warn them.
Maddie is a voracious reader, and would enjoy hoovering, defrosting the fridge and cleaning the windows but unfortunately she doesn't really have time. She is very disciplined and sensible about her writing and she likes to write every day because it gets her out of doing the ironing.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Boldwood Books via NetGalley for providing a digital ARC of Old Girls on Deck by Maddie Please for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
'Ahoy there! Everything okay?'
'That's the correct answer!' said an excited voice and then there was the sound of cheering and explosions and car horns and I nearly rang off because I thought it was a nuisance call . . .
ABOUT 'OLD GIRLS ON DECK': When retired Jill Parker wins an all-expenses paid mediterranean cruise for two she is thrilled! At 63 life in retirement has got a little bit bland for Jill and this might be just the holiday she and husband Eddy need to get the sparks back in their marriage.
But when Eddy admits he would much prefer to build his patio and look through the latest DIY magazine, Jill is left with only one other option – her sister Diana.
Diana has become rather reclusive since her husband, Caspar died, but perhaps this is the push she needs to bring some excitement back into her life, too?
Could this trip be just what both sisters need to reconnect and chart a new path for their futures?
Excited to be exploring new horizons and catching up, the sisters soon discover that not everything is smooth sailing on board. And as they enjoy cocktails together at sundown, they discover that they are both actually a little all at sea…
MY THOUGHTS: I enjoyed this book about two sisters in their sixties going on a cruise together. This is another book to add to the great number of enjoyable titles about older women learning to have fun, and becoming wiser while they do so. I guess we all like reading books which feature our own age groups, and it is great to see so many fun and touching books written to please our generation.
Personally, I would love to cruise the Mediterranean, but not on a huge ocean liner. All those people! But all those people provided much light entertainment in Old Girls on Deck. There is a great mix of characters from the absolutely delightful eighty-something-year-old Evelyn to the boring pests who tend to tag along, hopefully, and are sure you should be grateful for their company.
I liked the ways both Jill's and Diana's personal growth is stimulated on the cruise. Diana has been something of a recluse since the death of her husband Casper, while Jill has felt somewhat stuck in a rut with her husband Eddy.
There are the usual high-jinks and laughs I have come to expect from Maddie Please's books which, in Old Girls on Deck, includes getting lost while out sightseeing and missing the boat!
If there is one thing that I can take away from this book it is, and I quote directly, the world is full of kind people. They just don't make it into the news. And exciting and outrageous things can happen at any time.
⭐⭐⭐.6
#OldGirlsonDeck #NetGalley
THE AUTHOR: Maddie Please was born in Dorset, brought up in Worcestershire and went to University in Cardiff.
After a career as a dentist Maddie now lives in Devon with her exceptionally handsome and supportive husband. They have 4 adult-ish children all of whom have left home and are probably rather surprised by all this. She did warn them.
Maddie is a voracious reader, and would enjoy hoovering, defrosting the fridge and cleaning the windows but unfortunately she doesn't really have time. She is very disciplined and sensible about her writing and she likes to write every day because it gets her out of doing the ironing.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Boldwood Books via NetGalley for providing a digital ARC of Old Girls on Deck by Maddie Please for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
June 29, 2024
I loved this funny but also very true story about two sisters in their sixties, going on a cruise together. While enjoying the story, a few things sprang to mind. Why is it that women over say, 60 years of age, are becoming more or less invisible? Being born ‘in the second half of the last century’ myself, I think it’s no wonder books with ‘older women’ are so popular nowadays. I just love Joanna Nell’s books for instance and I think a found a new author to love in Maddie Please. Authors who simply write engaging and funny stories with some unexpected layers and wonderful female OLDER characters.
Jill and Diana may be sisters, they think they have not much in common anymore. Jill is happily married to Eddy, a reliable but slightly boring husband, and Diana is the widow of a captain. A captain on a cruise ship. So she’s been around the world several times, enjoying the voyage and the scenery with her husband. Well… we learn that there is more to that, because Diana realizes, now she’s on her own, that travelling with her husband was always more work than pleasure. Jill slowly realizes that Eddy may be not very adventurous, he’s sweet, hardworking and reliable – and they love each other a lot.
Anyway, Maddie Please is a master in describing travellers of all kinds. The ones that only go on a cruise because they want to brag about it to their friends, the ones that really want to see as much interesting places as possible, and the ones that just want to lead a quiet life without having to bother anymore about cleaning house and doing the shopping. Every now and then I had to stop reading to wipe tears of laughter from my face. I’ve never been on a cruise and I don’t really want to, but you know what? I see the same type of travellers when I take the ferry to Hull to go and visit one of my favourite cities: York. So it’s very cleverly done – and since I’m going to York at the end of this year, I fear I will have to try and keep a straight face because I will be thinking of this lovely book.
This will not be the last Maddie Please book for me.
Thanks to Boldwood Books and Netgalley for this review copy.
Jill and Diana may be sisters, they think they have not much in common anymore. Jill is happily married to Eddy, a reliable but slightly boring husband, and Diana is the widow of a captain. A captain on a cruise ship. So she’s been around the world several times, enjoying the voyage and the scenery with her husband. Well… we learn that there is more to that, because Diana realizes, now she’s on her own, that travelling with her husband was always more work than pleasure. Jill slowly realizes that Eddy may be not very adventurous, he’s sweet, hardworking and reliable – and they love each other a lot.
Anyway, Maddie Please is a master in describing travellers of all kinds. The ones that only go on a cruise because they want to brag about it to their friends, the ones that really want to see as much interesting places as possible, and the ones that just want to lead a quiet life without having to bother anymore about cleaning house and doing the shopping. Every now and then I had to stop reading to wipe tears of laughter from my face. I’ve never been on a cruise and I don’t really want to, but you know what? I see the same type of travellers when I take the ferry to Hull to go and visit one of my favourite cities: York. So it’s very cleverly done – and since I’m going to York at the end of this year, I fear I will have to try and keep a straight face because I will be thinking of this lovely book.
This will not be the last Maddie Please book for me.
Thanks to Boldwood Books and Netgalley for this review copy.
July 6, 2024
Jills in a rut. She doesn't even listen to Radio Wonderful anymore, she's in such a rut, but she doesn't know quite how to go about changing things up. She answers the phone "Ahoy There" as always, thinking it's her sister, but lo and behold it's not her sister, but it is in fact Radio Wonderful calling and she's won a Mediterranean cruise for two. Her husband Eddy would rather stay home and build the patio he's been promising to build now that he's retired and suggests that Jill take her sister Diana, who's life has been in a bit of a tailspin since the death of her husband Casper.
So it's time they both have some fun and step out of their comfort zones and build the bond again as sisters, as things were relatively strained while Diana was married to the controlling Casper. But now both women have the opportunity to face things in a new light-for Jill it's her humdrum life and the state of her marriage and for Diana it's the chance to come out from the shadow of her husband and be her own person, all while enjoying all the benefits of the cruise ship and the gorgeous Mediterranean stops. There's loads of on board activities-their less than successful attempt at chocolate making and line dancing had me chuckling, and Diana's being pursued by the ship's photographer was a fun little romantic addition to the story.
The story is fun, but there's lots of reflection too. And when the cruise comes to an end, you'll be left with a tear in your eye in, a smile on your face and a reminder that it's never too late to enjoy your life or to have a fresh start. A great summer read
Thanks to Boldwood Books and NetGalley for this eArc in exchange for my review
So it's time they both have some fun and step out of their comfort zones and build the bond again as sisters, as things were relatively strained while Diana was married to the controlling Casper. But now both women have the opportunity to face things in a new light-for Jill it's her humdrum life and the state of her marriage and for Diana it's the chance to come out from the shadow of her husband and be her own person, all while enjoying all the benefits of the cruise ship and the gorgeous Mediterranean stops. There's loads of on board activities-their less than successful attempt at chocolate making and line dancing had me chuckling, and Diana's being pursued by the ship's photographer was a fun little romantic addition to the story.
The story is fun, but there's lots of reflection too. And when the cruise comes to an end, you'll be left with a tear in your eye in, a smile on your face and a reminder that it's never too late to enjoy your life or to have a fresh start. A great summer read
Thanks to Boldwood Books and NetGalley for this eArc in exchange for my review
October 12, 2025
This was a cute book about a cruise in the Mediterranean by two women in their sixties. I have been on a cruise to the Mediterranean so I could definitely relate. It was a cute story that put a smile on my face. It was funny and thought provoking at the same time. I would definitely recommend this book to others, whether you like to cruise or not. I gave it a 4 star rating.
June 30, 2024
I’d been genuinely looking forward to reading this book and was delighted to dive right in. Jill’s lacklustre marriage sounded rather depressing, and I wanted to see her find her spark. What better place to look than on a cruise? However, her husband is not on the same page, so she turns to her sister Diana, whose late husband was a cruise ship captain.
Jill is full of life but weighed down by the failing connection between her and her husband, Eddy. Clinging on to the memories of their relationship, she is determined not to see all those years go to waste. Eddy is comfortable in his ways and sees no harm in staying close to home and completing a project that he’s been talking about but never started. It seems to be a familiar theme amongst retired people.
Diana had withdrawn from life since the death of her husband, Casper, and my heart went out to her. Her life had revolved around his work, and we soon learned the extent of that. Joining the cruise is the catalyst for the siblings finally opening up to each other and being totally honest about their lives.
As the story progressed, I genuinely had no clue which way the character’s stories would arc, but I knew that their futures were in safe hands with this author. The two siblings’ characters were beautifully developed, and I thoroughly enjoyed seeing their metamorphosis along the way. There are plenty of supporting characters who introduce a wealth of material to the main story, and I think that Lady Evelyn provides the perfect balance for the comedic moments.
With plenty of laughs and moments for reflection, this fabulous book restored my faith in life after work. I’m certainly looking forward to what my retirement may look like, but not yet.
Jill is full of life but weighed down by the failing connection between her and her husband, Eddy. Clinging on to the memories of their relationship, she is determined not to see all those years go to waste. Eddy is comfortable in his ways and sees no harm in staying close to home and completing a project that he’s been talking about but never started. It seems to be a familiar theme amongst retired people.
Diana had withdrawn from life since the death of her husband, Casper, and my heart went out to her. Her life had revolved around his work, and we soon learned the extent of that. Joining the cruise is the catalyst for the siblings finally opening up to each other and being totally honest about their lives.
As the story progressed, I genuinely had no clue which way the character’s stories would arc, but I knew that their futures were in safe hands with this author. The two siblings’ characters were beautifully developed, and I thoroughly enjoyed seeing their metamorphosis along the way. There are plenty of supporting characters who introduce a wealth of material to the main story, and I think that Lady Evelyn provides the perfect balance for the comedic moments.
With plenty of laughs and moments for reflection, this fabulous book restored my faith in life after work. I’m certainly looking forward to what my retirement may look like, but not yet.
May 15, 2024
I have never read anything by this author before but the subject of the book appealed to me as I’m an avid cruiser. I am so glad I chose this book as it was absolutely brilliant.
It’s all about two sisters who go on a cruise around the Mediterranean after Jill wins the holiday in a radio competition. The story was great fun and i enjoyed the descriptions of the different ports they visited and the ship and other passengers. There were real laugh out loud moments at what the sisters got up to and also the tales about their fellow passengers.
An excellent fun filled book which I would definitely recommend and I can’t wait to read more from Maddie Please.
Thanks to NetGalley, Maddie Please and Boldwood Books for an advance copy in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.
It’s all about two sisters who go on a cruise around the Mediterranean after Jill wins the holiday in a radio competition. The story was great fun and i enjoyed the descriptions of the different ports they visited and the ship and other passengers. There were real laugh out loud moments at what the sisters got up to and also the tales about their fellow passengers.
An excellent fun filled book which I would definitely recommend and I can’t wait to read more from Maddie Please.
Thanks to NetGalley, Maddie Please and Boldwood Books for an advance copy in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.
July 5, 2024
Jill doesn’t even listen to Radio Wonderful any more – in fact, there are a lot of things she doesn’t do any more, her life in a definite rut that she lacks the energy to change. But she doesn’t check who’s calling when picking up the phone, answers with her usual “Ahoy there” thinking it’s her sister, and finds she’s won a Mediterranean cruise for two in their on-air competition. Husband Eddy would rather get on with building the patio he’s been promising her since he retired – so she decides to go with sister Diana, whose life has rather lacked direction since losing her husband Casper.
It’s time for them both to have some fun – starting with an incident with the balloon arch as they get on board, through all the various on board activities with ample quantities of food and drink, and on their excursions ashore. But it’s not all a laugh a minute – there’s plenty of time for sisterly bonding too. For Jill it’s an opportunity to consider the state of her marriage and how humdrum their life together has become – for Diana it proves to be a chance to blossom away from the considerable shadow of her husband and her part in his former career.
Their individual journeys are really engaging, and both women were particularly easy to identify with. Jill’s first person narration – her distinctive voice endlessly entertaining – was peppered with observations about later life that rang true on so many occasions. One that particularly hit close to home for me was about the fear of stepping outside our comfort zone becoming greater with age, perhaps because we become more aware of potential problems and dangers, and the fear begins to stifle us – it made me SO glad I’ve been brave enough to book my own cruise experience, and I plan to enjoy every moment as much as Jill and Diana did. And they really had the most fantastic role model in the friend they found on board, Lady Evelyn – she might be in her eighties, but certainly knows how to have fun.
The author recreates the whole cruise experience quite wonderfully – all the on board activities from the lectures, through their less than successful attempts at chocolate making and line dancing, and the evening shows led by the irrepressible cruise director Dicky. There’s the range of people aboard that everyone who’s ever cruised will recognise – especially those who are best avoided. And, of course, the ever-present ship’s photographer to capture the highs and lows – and the radio station certainly want as many pictures as possible of their winners having a good time – although there are times when they have reason to be rather glad he’s around.
Yes, of course, there are lots of laughs – but a fair bit of drama too, some unexpected romance, and more than a touch of poignancy as both women grow and change and become more comfortable with what their futures hold. The whole story is beautifully told – no shortage of fun, but lots of opportunities for reflection too. And, when the cruise is over, what a thoroughly perfect ending – leaving you with a tear in your eye, a smile on your face, and a nice warmth around the heart.
This was a book that any reader would enjoy, but particularly those who are a little older – I thought it was the perfect reminder that there’s fun to be had whatever age we might be, and that it’s never too late for the excitement of a fresh start. Just wonderful – and one that everyone should add to their summer reading list.
It’s time for them both to have some fun – starting with an incident with the balloon arch as they get on board, through all the various on board activities with ample quantities of food and drink, and on their excursions ashore. But it’s not all a laugh a minute – there’s plenty of time for sisterly bonding too. For Jill it’s an opportunity to consider the state of her marriage and how humdrum their life together has become – for Diana it proves to be a chance to blossom away from the considerable shadow of her husband and her part in his former career.
Their individual journeys are really engaging, and both women were particularly easy to identify with. Jill’s first person narration – her distinctive voice endlessly entertaining – was peppered with observations about later life that rang true on so many occasions. One that particularly hit close to home for me was about the fear of stepping outside our comfort zone becoming greater with age, perhaps because we become more aware of potential problems and dangers, and the fear begins to stifle us – it made me SO glad I’ve been brave enough to book my own cruise experience, and I plan to enjoy every moment as much as Jill and Diana did. And they really had the most fantastic role model in the friend they found on board, Lady Evelyn – she might be in her eighties, but certainly knows how to have fun.
The author recreates the whole cruise experience quite wonderfully – all the on board activities from the lectures, through their less than successful attempts at chocolate making and line dancing, and the evening shows led by the irrepressible cruise director Dicky. There’s the range of people aboard that everyone who’s ever cruised will recognise – especially those who are best avoided. And, of course, the ever-present ship’s photographer to capture the highs and lows – and the radio station certainly want as many pictures as possible of their winners having a good time – although there are times when they have reason to be rather glad he’s around.
Yes, of course, there are lots of laughs – but a fair bit of drama too, some unexpected romance, and more than a touch of poignancy as both women grow and change and become more comfortable with what their futures hold. The whole story is beautifully told – no shortage of fun, but lots of opportunities for reflection too. And, when the cruise is over, what a thoroughly perfect ending – leaving you with a tear in your eye, a smile on your face, and a nice warmth around the heart.
This was a book that any reader would enjoy, but particularly those who are a little older – I thought it was the perfect reminder that there’s fun to be had whatever age we might be, and that it’s never too late for the excitement of a fresh start. Just wonderful – and one that everyone should add to their summer reading list.
June 9, 2024
I have greatly enjoyed Maddie Please’s previous books before, so looked forward to reading this one. This entry is a light story about two sisters, Jill Parker and widowed Diana Wedderburn, both in their early 60’s, who embark on a cruise which Jill has unexpectedly won from something called “Radio Wonderful.” Both sisters are at a bit of a standstill in life, Jill’s husband Eddy having recently retired and she not engaged in enjoyable activities, just house chores; and Diana having lost her loved-but-domineering, ship’s captain-husband, Casper. Once aboard they encounter Evelyn, a lady in her 80’s with plenty of life and fun left, and Raphael, handsome ship’s photographer, both of whom modify the sisters’ life outlook
There are other quirky characters aboard, such as cruise director Dick Dainty, who persuades Diana to overcome her reticence and give a well-received talk on the Bermuda Triangle, and the sisters broaden their perspectives on how to make the most of their remaining lives. Nevertheless, I didn’t enjoy this book as much as others I have loved by Maddie Please. Such as The Old Ducks Hen Do and Old Friends Reunited. I would evaluate this book as 3 1/2 stars, upgraded to 4.
There are other quirky characters aboard, such as cruise director Dick Dainty, who persuades Diana to overcome her reticence and give a well-received talk on the Bermuda Triangle, and the sisters broaden their perspectives on how to make the most of their remaining lives. Nevertheless, I didn’t enjoy this book as much as others I have loved by Maddie Please. Such as The Old Ducks Hen Do and Old Friends Reunited. I would evaluate this book as 3 1/2 stars, upgraded to 4.
April 24, 2025
I laughed out loud a few times, and had tears in my eyes at the end of the cruise…like I went along too, lol. This book just made me feel good and think about what I want for my retirement years. I am definitely enjoying myself and not planning to let life become dreary and routine! Cheers to fun old gals!
March 5, 2025
3,5 ⭐️
June 28, 2024
Old Girls On Deck by Maddie Please Focus is on Jill and her sister Diane both retired and in their 60s, Diane still mourns the loss of her sea captain husband five years on. This is why when Jill wins a 10 day cruis she invite Diane to go with her. Diane is no stranger to cruises after all her husband used to captain them but at first she is reluctant to go until Jill finally convinces her. on this cruise magical things happen and before it’s over both women especially Diane will feel like a new her. At first Diane is admired because of her husband Casper who was a captain for many years and respected by many people and it seems they all want to meet Diane especially after she is on Dix cruise line show but not everyone is interested and Diane because of him or at least not when it comes to the French photographer Rafeal he’s even there when the ladies missed the boat and have a little adventure in Italy. I loved that Jill started missing her husband there was so much a great nurse to this book it was so nice reading about women who had fun and didn’t have to sleep around with every Tom Dick and Harry to have a great vacation. I love MaddiePlease‘s books and although this wasn’t as good as some of her others it is still so worth reading. For some reason I am having a hard time describing what this book is about just know they go on a cruise and learn new things about their self and each other the sisters become closer they meet great friends learn to line dance and it is just an awesome way to pass an afternoon.#BoldwoodBooks, #NetGalley, #MaddiePlease, #OldGirlsOnDeck,
April 10, 2025
I have grown to love British literature and Maddie Please books always bring a smile to my face while reading them. I enjoy reading about older women ... 60-year-old women ... who are finding life is still worth living and there are adventures to be had. This was a delightful read as you travel with Jill and Diana on their cruise (which Jill won) and as they discover more about themselves and what they hope to experience in the coming years. It was refreshing to visualize that we women in our 60s can hope to live life to its fullest for years to come with love, family, friendships, and adventures.
I think a Maddie Please book can be summed up with this statement which is a direct quote from Old Girls on Deck: the world is full of kind people. They just don't make it into the news. And exciting and outrageous things can happen at any time.
As I read the last word and close the book, I release a sigh knowing that I have had a wonderful time living life on a cruise ship with Jill and Diana with lots of laughter sprinkled through the pages.
Thank you to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for my advanced review copy. All opinions and thoughts are my own.
For more reviews, please visit my blog at: https://www.msladybugsbookreviews.com/. Over 1000 reviews posted!
I think a Maddie Please book can be summed up with this statement which is a direct quote from Old Girls on Deck: the world is full of kind people. They just don't make it into the news. And exciting and outrageous things can happen at any time.
As I read the last word and close the book, I release a sigh knowing that I have had a wonderful time living life on a cruise ship with Jill and Diana with lots of laughter sprinkled through the pages.
Thank you to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for my advanced review copy. All opinions and thoughts are my own.
For more reviews, please visit my blog at: https://www.msladybugsbookreviews.com/. Over 1000 reviews posted!
June 22, 2025
KU Free Trial | Editing issues again, but so far my favourite of the author's books | I really enjoyed how positive Jill became about Eddy, it was a particularly nice touch that hasn't been part of the others I've read by Please. I know this is a publisher with about two dozen employees, but this is the second I've read with glaringly obvious editing problems. Jill is our narrator, but she suddenly goes into the third person for a paragraph? And at one point Raphael asks the ladies to go to a specific deck that very night for picture selection, then to dinner afterward. They go to the deck, discuss the imminent meeting with Raphael, then suddenly wake up the next morning, do things all day, and go meet with him for picture selection the following night. It's irritating. A nice little callback to a previous novel, Evelyn mentions her old school friend Eleanor, who is the mother in Vintage Vacation. Fun. I continue to enjoy these as comfort reads, despite being so much younger than the characters.
January 6, 2025
I picked this book because I thought it would be about sisters reconnecting and maybe arguing about how their lives turned out. I was interested because they were older as well.
What I found was just old people being old. I’m not trying to be ageist here, but reading the same formula over and over again… they do a cruise activity, get pictures taken, talk and talk just like old people do… it gets boring fast.
I enjoyed Diana’s date and returning late to the boat. Other than that, most of this book felt like filler.
What I found was just old people being old. I’m not trying to be ageist here, but reading the same formula over and over again… they do a cruise activity, get pictures taken, talk and talk just like old people do… it gets boring fast.
I enjoyed Diana’s date and returning late to the boat. Other than that, most of this book felt like filler.
August 26, 2024
A cute book that made me smile. It's a great book to read on vacation.
October 29, 2024
feel good book
It’s not the end but a new beginning story don’t give up! Easy read and feel good factor what’s not to like
It’s not the end but a new beginning story don’t give up! Easy read and feel good factor what’s not to like
August 25, 2025
My Interest
Once again I was in need of an audio. A long-awaited block buster disappointed badly, so I went trolling the library’s e-audios. I have enjoyed two other books by this author–my reviews are linked:
A Vintage Vacation
Sunrise With the Silver Surfers
The Story
“One minute I was young, wearing tie-dyed t-shirts and cheesecloth skirts, staying up all night functioning on black coffee…cigarettes and alcohol, the next I’m …buying bird seed in bulk on Amazon. And being excited by it. …Two glasses of wine these days and I’m falling asleep.”
“Perhaps women my age just accepted that they would become a support network for other people as we aged? Until we get to a place where we hope other people will care for us?”
At age 63 Jill wins a cruise in a radio contest. Her newly retired husband, Eddie, though prefers to skip it and build a patio with his friends. So, Jill calls her sister Diana who just happes to be newly widowed. Her husband Casper was, wait for it! A cruise ship captain! But don’t worry–that gets worked into the story in a good way.
The board the ship and are soon having fun, making new friends, enjoying the entertainment options and of course eating and drinking great food and cocktails. Their new elderly friend Evelyn, (Lady Evelyn–though she only uses her curtsey title when she “plays the Lady card” to get a perk or two) has discovered that cruising is cheaper than living in her London home and so is enjoying her final years of phsical indepdence in great style. She is great fun for the sisters. A French photographer assigned to get photos of the gals enjoying their cruise, a butler named, yep! Alfred, and a few other folks help or hinder the ladies’ enjoyment of their holday.
Add to all of this a cringe-y first date, an excursion on shore gone awry, and annoying old drunk and a man named Dick Danity and you have a great cruise experience.
Best of all, along the way the ladies discover some truths for themselves–especially Diana who has always been under the thumb of “commanding” Casper the cruise ship captain who has recently made her a widow. All the learning is gentle and unfussy as it should be.
My Thoughts
For the second time I picked up a Maddie Please with a main character just my age! So fun. And then, too, two of my friends, and my brother have all just come back from cruises! (You can read about Susan’s cruise here). [I’ve never been on a cruise]. I really liked Jill, Diana, and Evelyn-but especially Diana who was a very timely character.
As a new generation of women are being aggressively sold the idea of wifedom and motherhood as the ultimate [or only] calling, seeing Diana come out of it all–even having loved her husband and been reasonably happy and never abused, was heartening. It was like seeing my Mom’s generation go to for “Women’s Lib” all over again but this time it was my generation.
After one awful marriage I decided not to bother trying again, but books like this do make me stop and think. Yes it is fiction, but I can find real world examples to look at, too. I also enjoyed Jill’s happy acceptance of her kind, caring Eddie and his love of doing (and avoiding seasickness) and giving her no sense of guilt for going off on a vacation with her sister. That’s a good marriage–even if it is ficiton. And, sure–I can point to real world couples just like that.
This is just another good, fun, up-lifting novel that never gets cloying or precious.
My Verdict
4.0
Old Girls on Deck by Maddie Please
Once again I was in need of an audio. A long-awaited block buster disappointed badly, so I went trolling the library’s e-audios. I have enjoyed two other books by this author–my reviews are linked:
A Vintage Vacation
Sunrise With the Silver Surfers
The Story
“One minute I was young, wearing tie-dyed t-shirts and cheesecloth skirts, staying up all night functioning on black coffee…cigarettes and alcohol, the next I’m …buying bird seed in bulk on Amazon. And being excited by it. …Two glasses of wine these days and I’m falling asleep.”
“Perhaps women my age just accepted that they would become a support network for other people as we aged? Until we get to a place where we hope other people will care for us?”
At age 63 Jill wins a cruise in a radio contest. Her newly retired husband, Eddie, though prefers to skip it and build a patio with his friends. So, Jill calls her sister Diana who just happes to be newly widowed. Her husband Casper was, wait for it! A cruise ship captain! But don’t worry–that gets worked into the story in a good way.
The board the ship and are soon having fun, making new friends, enjoying the entertainment options and of course eating and drinking great food and cocktails. Their new elderly friend Evelyn, (Lady Evelyn–though she only uses her curtsey title when she “plays the Lady card” to get a perk or two) has discovered that cruising is cheaper than living in her London home and so is enjoying her final years of phsical indepdence in great style. She is great fun for the sisters. A French photographer assigned to get photos of the gals enjoying their cruise, a butler named, yep! Alfred, and a few other folks help or hinder the ladies’ enjoyment of their holday.
Add to all of this a cringe-y first date, an excursion on shore gone awry, and annoying old drunk and a man named Dick Danity and you have a great cruise experience.
Best of all, along the way the ladies discover some truths for themselves–especially Diana who has always been under the thumb of “commanding” Casper the cruise ship captain who has recently made her a widow. All the learning is gentle and unfussy as it should be.
My Thoughts
For the second time I picked up a Maddie Please with a main character just my age! So fun. And then, too, two of my friends, and my brother have all just come back from cruises! (You can read about Susan’s cruise here). [I’ve never been on a cruise]. I really liked Jill, Diana, and Evelyn-but especially Diana who was a very timely character.
As a new generation of women are being aggressively sold the idea of wifedom and motherhood as the ultimate [or only] calling, seeing Diana come out of it all–even having loved her husband and been reasonably happy and never abused, was heartening. It was like seeing my Mom’s generation go to for “Women’s Lib” all over again but this time it was my generation.
After one awful marriage I decided not to bother trying again, but books like this do make me stop and think. Yes it is fiction, but I can find real world examples to look at, too. I also enjoyed Jill’s happy acceptance of her kind, caring Eddie and his love of doing (and avoiding seasickness) and giving her no sense of guilt for going off on a vacation with her sister. That’s a good marriage–even if it is ficiton. And, sure–I can point to real world couples just like that.
This is just another good, fun, up-lifting novel that never gets cloying or precious.
My Verdict
4.0
Old Girls on Deck by Maddie Please
November 11, 2025
I wanted to read something uplifting and fun, and this book definitely achieved that for me. I think the premise was really sweet and I loved the overall theme that it’s never too late to make changes and to really enjoy your life.
That said, I’m now thinking the target audience might be a bit older than me and I do feel as though the writing was a little redundant, which is why I went with four stars.
That said, I’m now thinking the target audience might be a bit older than me and I do feel as though the writing was a little redundant, which is why I went with four stars.
December 20, 2025
3.5 Stars
Jill, a retired housewife who is in a rut, accidentally wins a 10 day cruise from a radio contest. She talks her widowed sister in to going with her. They discover much about each other’s lives that they never knew. The also learn much about themselves, too. An introspective look at retirement and aging.
Page 15 - ‘Ferrets bite me if I lie.
Page 76 - Alfred retreated with a nod into the quiet place where 24-hour butlers go when they are not wanted. Perhaps he was hooked up to the wall like a hybrid car and left on charge?
Page 84 - that retirement, just like any other phase in our lives, needed working at. Organising. Planning.
Page 85 - the barge of normality sailed without me many years ago.’
Page 91 - Your experiences are just as valuable as anyone else’s and a lot more interesting than most.’
Page 91 - There is no beauty in youth that cannot be improved by life.’
Page 130 - ‘It’s too dark, isn’t it?’ she said when she saw me squinting. ‘Why do they do that? Is it so we can’t read the prices? I had something very nice the other day, now what was it? Something to do with Shirley.
Page 132 - Grief can be like living two lives at the same time. One where one pretends everything is fine and the other when your poor heart is breaking, and one doesn’t want to get out of bed. It takes effort, and courage to move on.
Page 133 - ‘There is an old saying: every journey has destinations of which the traveller is unaware.
Page 138 - I do recommend it, air travel is so exciting, and always give the cabin crew a little gift when you get on board. Chocolates are a winner. The last time I did that I was upgraded to business class, and it was fun all the way after that,
Page 139 - Congratulations on deciding life is more important than work. What took you so long?
Page 142 - you will never realise how strong you are until there is really no alternative.
Page 152 - ‘And I got on my high horse, you know. A really massive one with stonking great hooves and a big snorty nose.
Page 156 - Why, when everyone seemed happy to discuss their issues, the way they are feeling, how insulted and hurt they are, was it still such a stigma to admit that death was still a crushing and long-lasting blow to the people left behind, I wondered. Why did people feel they needed to pretend everything was okay when it so obviously wasn’t. Was it to protect other people from their true state, or was it to protect themselves?
Page 160 - Older people were more aware of problems and dangers, most of us didn’t like to step out of our comfort zones, and when those zones became smaller, the fear somehow became greater, expanding to fill it, like a great, suffocating cloud.
Page 162 - Most people’s lives are filled with small things, aren’t they? But that doesn’t make them unimportant.’
Page 210 - People keep dropping off the perch. There must be a marvellous party going on up there, that’s how I like to think of it.
Page 211 - I never found the time to be happy because I was too busy being strong, and pretending I was coping. But I think I am going to have fun. At last.’
Page 215 - She had also deliberately dyed her hair grey–something I will never understand, heaven knows the grey makes an appearance for free soon enough on its own.
Page 230 - ‘Here the Italians embrace la vita lenta,’ he replied, ‘the slow life. And many believe in dolce far niente, the sweetness of doing nothing when they get the chance. Italians work to live, they do not live to work. Everyone is your friend, as you can tell, but life is slower and more pleasant. Things get done eventually.’
Page 275 - Everyone needs a bit of a spark in their lives, even someone as old as me. And believe me, that spark will give your life new light and energy. And no, it doesn’t have to be Raphaël or Tom or any other man for that matter. It might be a new interest, writing that book you were thinking about, travelling more, spending time with your son. You may live for another twenty or thirty years. Do you want to spend it stumbling around in the dark?’
Page 276 - the world is full of kind people. They just don’t make it into the news. And exciting and outrageous things can happen at any time.’
Page 294 - “How lucky I am to have something that makes saying goodbye so hard.” Lovely, isn’t it?’
Jill, a retired housewife who is in a rut, accidentally wins a 10 day cruise from a radio contest. She talks her widowed sister in to going with her. They discover much about each other’s lives that they never knew. The also learn much about themselves, too. An introspective look at retirement and aging.
Page 15 - ‘Ferrets bite me if I lie.
Page 76 - Alfred retreated with a nod into the quiet place where 24-hour butlers go when they are not wanted. Perhaps he was hooked up to the wall like a hybrid car and left on charge?
Page 84 - that retirement, just like any other phase in our lives, needed working at. Organising. Planning.
Page 85 - the barge of normality sailed without me many years ago.’
Page 91 - Your experiences are just as valuable as anyone else’s and a lot more interesting than most.’
Page 91 - There is no beauty in youth that cannot be improved by life.’
Page 130 - ‘It’s too dark, isn’t it?’ she said when she saw me squinting. ‘Why do they do that? Is it so we can’t read the prices? I had something very nice the other day, now what was it? Something to do with Shirley.
Page 132 - Grief can be like living two lives at the same time. One where one pretends everything is fine and the other when your poor heart is breaking, and one doesn’t want to get out of bed. It takes effort, and courage to move on.
Page 133 - ‘There is an old saying: every journey has destinations of which the traveller is unaware.
Page 138 - I do recommend it, air travel is so exciting, and always give the cabin crew a little gift when you get on board. Chocolates are a winner. The last time I did that I was upgraded to business class, and it was fun all the way after that,
Page 139 - Congratulations on deciding life is more important than work. What took you so long?
Page 142 - you will never realise how strong you are until there is really no alternative.
Page 152 - ‘And I got on my high horse, you know. A really massive one with stonking great hooves and a big snorty nose.
Page 156 - Why, when everyone seemed happy to discuss their issues, the way they are feeling, how insulted and hurt they are, was it still such a stigma to admit that death was still a crushing and long-lasting blow to the people left behind, I wondered. Why did people feel they needed to pretend everything was okay when it so obviously wasn’t. Was it to protect other people from their true state, or was it to protect themselves?
Page 160 - Older people were more aware of problems and dangers, most of us didn’t like to step out of our comfort zones, and when those zones became smaller, the fear somehow became greater, expanding to fill it, like a great, suffocating cloud.
Page 162 - Most people’s lives are filled with small things, aren’t they? But that doesn’t make them unimportant.’
Page 210 - People keep dropping off the perch. There must be a marvellous party going on up there, that’s how I like to think of it.
Page 211 - I never found the time to be happy because I was too busy being strong, and pretending I was coping. But I think I am going to have fun. At last.’
Page 215 - She had also deliberately dyed her hair grey–something I will never understand, heaven knows the grey makes an appearance for free soon enough on its own.
Page 230 - ‘Here the Italians embrace la vita lenta,’ he replied, ‘the slow life. And many believe in dolce far niente, the sweetness of doing nothing when they get the chance. Italians work to live, they do not live to work. Everyone is your friend, as you can tell, but life is slower and more pleasant. Things get done eventually.’
Page 275 - Everyone needs a bit of a spark in their lives, even someone as old as me. And believe me, that spark will give your life new light and energy. And no, it doesn’t have to be Raphaël or Tom or any other man for that matter. It might be a new interest, writing that book you were thinking about, travelling more, spending time with your son. You may live for another twenty or thirty years. Do you want to spend it stumbling around in the dark?’
Page 276 - the world is full of kind people. They just don’t make it into the news. And exciting and outrageous things can happen at any time.’
Page 294 - “How lucky I am to have something that makes saying goodbye so hard.” Lovely, isn’t it?’
July 9, 2024
The Blurb :
When retired Jill Parker wins an all-expenses paid mediterranean cruise for two she is thrilled! At 63 life in retirement has got a little bit bland for Jill and this might be just the holiday she and husband Eddy need to get the sparks back in their marriage.
But when Eddy admits he would much prefer to build his patio and look through the latest DIY magazine, Jill is left with only one other option – her sister Diana.
Diana has become rather reclusive since her husband, Caspar died, but perhaps this is the push she needs to bring some excitement back into her life, too?
Could this trip be just what both sisters need to reconnect and chart a new path for their futures?
Excited to be exploring new horizons and catching up, the sisters soon discover that not everything is smooth sailing on board. And as they enjoy cocktails together at sundown, they discover that they are both actually a little all at sea…
My Thoughts :
Always thrilled when I hear Maddie please has a new book out and Old Girls on Deck did not disappoint.
We meet sisters Jill and Diana, Jill is happily married to Eddy and they are both now retired.
Diana sadly lost her husband Casper a few years back, and has been trying to navigate life without him.
When Jill wins a competition for an all expenses paid 10 day Mediterranean cruise, she jumps at the idea of a break, but sadly Eddy isnt keen on going and she soon she asks Diana if she would come, as Diana is no stranger to a ship as Casper was once a Captain.
As they embark upon their adventure we learn more about the lives of the sisters and how Diana didnt always have it easy in the shaddow of her husband. Jill feels a bit left behind and bored in life but she soon misses Eddy and realises she loves him deeply.
All the whille Jill and Diana are having a whale of a time rediscovering themselves, they even get a cabin upgrade when the staff find out who Diana really is.
Maddie Please writes the best stories about the older generation and I love this, she puts the reader right there weather you want to be or not. I can certainly visualise and feel what their cruise was like.
An array of great supporting cast especially Evelyn who warmed my heart.
Overall a fun filled story with plenty of surprises and a few twists and turns along the way.
More soon Maddie Please!.
When retired Jill Parker wins an all-expenses paid mediterranean cruise for two she is thrilled! At 63 life in retirement has got a little bit bland for Jill and this might be just the holiday she and husband Eddy need to get the sparks back in their marriage.
But when Eddy admits he would much prefer to build his patio and look through the latest DIY magazine, Jill is left with only one other option – her sister Diana.
Diana has become rather reclusive since her husband, Caspar died, but perhaps this is the push she needs to bring some excitement back into her life, too?
Could this trip be just what both sisters need to reconnect and chart a new path for their futures?
Excited to be exploring new horizons and catching up, the sisters soon discover that not everything is smooth sailing on board. And as they enjoy cocktails together at sundown, they discover that they are both actually a little all at sea…
My Thoughts :
Always thrilled when I hear Maddie please has a new book out and Old Girls on Deck did not disappoint.
We meet sisters Jill and Diana, Jill is happily married to Eddy and they are both now retired.
Diana sadly lost her husband Casper a few years back, and has been trying to navigate life without him.
When Jill wins a competition for an all expenses paid 10 day Mediterranean cruise, she jumps at the idea of a break, but sadly Eddy isnt keen on going and she soon she asks Diana if she would come, as Diana is no stranger to a ship as Casper was once a Captain.
As they embark upon their adventure we learn more about the lives of the sisters and how Diana didnt always have it easy in the shaddow of her husband. Jill feels a bit left behind and bored in life but she soon misses Eddy and realises she loves him deeply.
All the whille Jill and Diana are having a whale of a time rediscovering themselves, they even get a cabin upgrade when the staff find out who Diana really is.
Maddie Please writes the best stories about the older generation and I love this, she puts the reader right there weather you want to be or not. I can certainly visualise and feel what their cruise was like.
An array of great supporting cast especially Evelyn who warmed my heart.
Overall a fun filled story with plenty of surprises and a few twists and turns along the way.
More soon Maddie Please!.
July 7, 2024
Old Girls on Deck by Maddie Please
I received an advance review copy for free thanks to Rachel's Random Resources and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Blurb
When retired Jill Parker wins an all-expenses paid mediterranean cruise for two she is thrilled! At 63 life in retirement has got a little bit bland for Jill and this might be just the holiday she and husband Eddy need to get the sparks back in their marriage.
But when Eddy admits he would much prefer to build his patio and look through the latest DIY magazine, Jill is left with only one other option – her sister Diana.
Diana has become rather reclusive since her husband, Caspar died, but perhaps this is the push she needs to bring some excitement back into her life, too?
Could this trip be just what both sisters need to reconnect and chart a new path for their futures?
Excited to be exploring new horizons and catching up, the sisters soon discover that not everything is smooth sailing on board. And as they enjoy cocktails together at sundown, they discover that they are both actually a little all at sea…
My Opinion
Maddie Please is back with another brilliant book - our main characters are older but no less entertaining. Jill and Diana are sisters, but they have drifted apart. When Jill wins an all expenses paid cruise, Jill's husband suggests that she should take Diana along so the pair can reconnect.
Recently I have read a few books by Maddie Please and they are just lovely. With all of the drama, it was difficult to know where this book was going to go next. This book will have you laughing out loud at some of the antics the sisters get up to. Pack your bags and join the cruise - you won't regret it.
Rating 4/5
I received an advance review copy for free thanks to Rachel's Random Resources and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Blurb
When retired Jill Parker wins an all-expenses paid mediterranean cruise for two she is thrilled! At 63 life in retirement has got a little bit bland for Jill and this might be just the holiday she and husband Eddy need to get the sparks back in their marriage.
But when Eddy admits he would much prefer to build his patio and look through the latest DIY magazine, Jill is left with only one other option – her sister Diana.
Diana has become rather reclusive since her husband, Caspar died, but perhaps this is the push she needs to bring some excitement back into her life, too?
Could this trip be just what both sisters need to reconnect and chart a new path for their futures?
Excited to be exploring new horizons and catching up, the sisters soon discover that not everything is smooth sailing on board. And as they enjoy cocktails together at sundown, they discover that they are both actually a little all at sea…
My Opinion
Maddie Please is back with another brilliant book - our main characters are older but no less entertaining. Jill and Diana are sisters, but they have drifted apart. When Jill wins an all expenses paid cruise, Jill's husband suggests that she should take Diana along so the pair can reconnect.
Recently I have read a few books by Maddie Please and they are just lovely. With all of the drama, it was difficult to know where this book was going to go next. This book will have you laughing out loud at some of the antics the sisters get up to. Pack your bags and join the cruise - you won't regret it.
Rating 4/5
August 1, 2024
In this fun and summery women’s fiction novel, readers join retired Jill Parker and her widowed sister Diana on an all-expenses paid Mediterranean cruise. Diana, reclusive since the death of her husband, has drifted apart from her sister Jill, and this cruise might be the push they need to rebuild their relationship and reconnect in a beautiful ocean setting. Meeting new friends and having adventures, Jill finally has a chance to see the world and Diana can redefine herself in her widowhood, and this cruise might just be the making of them. While not everything is smooth sailing in their personal lives and relationships, these sisters’ exploits may just help them figure everything out and solve their problems. Jill and Diana are extremely different characters and are by no means indistinguishable from each other, and readers will enjoy following their hijinks and seeing them reconnect on the cruise. The other characters in the novel are also unique, with quirky and fun personalities that mesh well with Jill and Diana’s interests and personalities. A fun summer novel with laid-back cruise and Mediterranean vibes, this is an excellent summer read about two sisters and taking that leap to rediscover themselves in a new stage of life.
Thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the advance copy.
Thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the advance copy.
October 29, 2024
Ok, 3 stars isn’t great so I have to explain. Overall it was enjoyable BUT, Jill and Diana are the same age as my sister and me, but in terms of the era we grew up in and attitudes, they’re 20 years older! Jill’s lifestyle before the ship was using the ironing board as a barrier and hoovering around her recently retired husband! Her sister seemed to have sent her son to boarding school so she could spend her life as a spare part on the cruise ship her husband captained. There were hints of dominating behaviour, but I would have expected a lot more than hints for her to desert her son like that, which was full on abandonment.
Aren’t we long past the point where women look up from the washing up to discover there’s more to life? Haven’t we all been mainly juggling careers and families or just juggling! The older woman coming of age storyline seemed 15 to 20 years too late.
I did find it funny in parts and I liked Evelyn! I’ve never been on a cruise, but my worse nightmare would be to keep running into Thelma and Ted! Weren’t they supposed to represent everyone’s fear of a cruise though? Floating Butlins (nothing wrong with Butlins) and no way of escaping those ‘new friends’!
Aren’t we long past the point where women look up from the washing up to discover there’s more to life? Haven’t we all been mainly juggling careers and families or just juggling! The older woman coming of age storyline seemed 15 to 20 years too late.
I did find it funny in parts and I liked Evelyn! I’ve never been on a cruise, but my worse nightmare would be to keep running into Thelma and Ted! Weren’t they supposed to represent everyone’s fear of a cruise though? Floating Butlins (nothing wrong with Butlins) and no way of escaping those ‘new friends’!
July 4, 2024
This was another delightful read by Maddie Please that I thoroughly enjoyed. I’ve read a few books by this author and have found them very entertaining reads. This one was based around 2 sisters who head off on all expenses paid cruise around the Mediterranean. One of the things I love about this author is she bases her characters on women in their sixties . And whilst I’m not of that age yet it makes a lovely change to the usual age bracket in books of women in their thirties and forties. It shows that women can still have lots of fun and laughs at that age also. I loved the way the relationship developed between the sisters as the story progressed. They met another lady on the cruise who was older than them and I thought she was an absolute darling of a character. A fabulous read with a perfect ending.
November 24, 2024
Jill Parker, a retired woman wins an all-expenses-paid Mediterranean cruise for two and invites her sister Diana. Jill wanted her husband Eddy to go along with her, but he would rather stay home and work on his home projects. Diana has been isolated from everyone since the death of her husband Caspar and Jill hopes this trip will bring some spark into Diana’s life. Jill and Diana visit Barcelona, the Cote d’Azur and the Greek Islands. They sample the local cuisine and cultures and indulge in the breathtaking beauty of the Mediterranean. Jill and Diana’s adventures creates a journey of rediscovery and reconnection while rekindling their sisterly bond. The sisters find joy and self-discovery sailing along their Mediterranean cruise. I really enjoyed this heartwarming contemporary women’s fiction novel. .
January 3, 2025
Fun! Fun! Fun!
What a thoroughly entertaining read! I enjoyed “getting to know” Jill and Diana through the author’s words. Their escapades were at times truly LOL-worthy. And the supporting characters on the cruise with them were all so well thought out and presented. Having cruised several times myself, I could definitely relate to the various personalities one is exposed to on board — the chronic complainers, the bumbling buffoons and the ostentatious “larger than life” drama queens. Each character was wonderfully developed and fit so nicely into the storyline. I especially enjoyed the sister relationship as it deepened throughout the story, but most especially when they miss getting back to the ship in time at one port. All in all, I highly recommend this as a fun, lighthearted diversion from reality.
What a thoroughly entertaining read! I enjoyed “getting to know” Jill and Diana through the author’s words. Their escapades were at times truly LOL-worthy. And the supporting characters on the cruise with them were all so well thought out and presented. Having cruised several times myself, I could definitely relate to the various personalities one is exposed to on board — the chronic complainers, the bumbling buffoons and the ostentatious “larger than life” drama queens. Each character was wonderfully developed and fit so nicely into the storyline. I especially enjoyed the sister relationship as it deepened throughout the story, but most especially when they miss getting back to the ship in time at one port. All in all, I highly recommend this as a fun, lighthearted diversion from reality.
June 12, 2024
This is only the second book I have read by this author and look forward to reading more. I love how to is author writes positively about the older generation and shows that there is still a lot of life and new adventures to be had as we get older and that life is for living.
Loved the storyline and the characters were wonderful and engaging and the story had lots of humorous moments as well as serious ones and the more I keep reading and watching programmes about cruises it is making me want to embrace going on one.
I enjoyed how the characters re evaluated their lives during the cruise and how it was the start of a new beginning for them and also finding themselves again now they have started the retirement chapter of their lives.
Loved the storyline and the characters were wonderful and engaging and the story had lots of humorous moments as well as serious ones and the more I keep reading and watching programmes about cruises it is making me want to embrace going on one.
I enjoyed how the characters re evaluated their lives during the cruise and how it was the start of a new beginning for them and also finding themselves again now they have started the retirement chapter of their lives.
May 26, 2025
Required reading for anyone approaching retirement age
0ld Girls on Deck by Maddie Please is such a delightful read. I am not familiar with this writer, but trust me, after reading this laugh out loud "heart-warming read," I will become familiar with her. Being American, I am not as familiar with the British phrasing of the language and the funny quips, but I think that too was part of the enjoyment.
Old Girls on Deck was not only fun reading but thought-provoking on many levels.
This was just one of those happen to find and look like it might be good books to read. I took a chance, and it was by far a winner.
Thank you Maddie Please for your gift of imagination, insight and, humor.
0ld Girls on Deck by Maddie Please is such a delightful read. I am not familiar with this writer, but trust me, after reading this laugh out loud "heart-warming read," I will become familiar with her. Being American, I am not as familiar with the British phrasing of the language and the funny quips, but I think that too was part of the enjoyment.
Old Girls on Deck was not only fun reading but thought-provoking on many levels.
This was just one of those happen to find and look like it might be good books to read. I took a chance, and it was by far a winner.
Thank you Maddie Please for your gift of imagination, insight and, humor.
August 24, 2024
I actually read this on a river cruise.
As always with Maddie Please books, they are lighthearted, feel good reads. Definitely makes me feel that no matter what age you are, fun can still be had.
The characters are likeable, often a little bit quirky and we care what happens to them as we share their adventures on board.
Loved the larger than life Dick Dainty though I think I might have been keen to avoid him had he been on my cruise!
A great holiday read, it made me laugh but there is always a serious side running through her books, they are not totally frivolous.
Looking forward to the next one.
As always with Maddie Please books, they are lighthearted, feel good reads. Definitely makes me feel that no matter what age you are, fun can still be had.
The characters are likeable, often a little bit quirky and we care what happens to them as we share their adventures on board.
Loved the larger than life Dick Dainty though I think I might have been keen to avoid him had he been on my cruise!
A great holiday read, it made me laugh but there is always a serious side running through her books, they are not totally frivolous.
Looking forward to the next one.
November 16, 2024
What a lovely read!
From start to finish this book has had me chortling, chuckling and full belly laughs.
It has me wanting to book a cruise and have an adventure of my own now!
The characters are lovable and some larger than life.
The sisterhood and the friendships are as the blurb say heart-warming and it really is a delightful, wholesome read.
Maddie Please has a fabulous way of turning a phrase with humour and cleverly evokes a warm glow as you get to know the characters she has created in this lovely story of self discovery and growth.
This book found me at the perfect time in my life too.
Enjoy 😊📖
From start to finish this book has had me chortling, chuckling and full belly laughs.
It has me wanting to book a cruise and have an adventure of my own now!
The characters are lovable and some larger than life.
The sisterhood and the friendships are as the blurb say heart-warming and it really is a delightful, wholesome read.
Maddie Please has a fabulous way of turning a phrase with humour and cleverly evokes a warm glow as you get to know the characters she has created in this lovely story of self discovery and growth.
This book found me at the perfect time in my life too.
Enjoy 😊📖
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