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Old Girls #1
Old Girls Behaving Badly
A delightfully heartwarming and funny story that proves it's never too late to change the habits of a lifetime, perfect for fans of Judy Leigh, Hazel Prior and Maddie Please.
Something old, something new, something stolen…?
Gina Knight is looking forward to the prospect of retirement with her husband of forty-three years. Until, to her surprise, said husband decides he needs to 'find himself' – alone – and disappears to Santa Fe, leaving divorce papers in his wake.
Now Gina needs a new role in life, not to mention somewhere to live, so she applies for the position of Companion to elderly Dorothy Reed. At eighty-nine, ‘Dot’ needs someone to help her around the house – or at least, her family seems to think so. Her companion’s first role would be to accompany Dot for a week-long extravagant wedding party.
But when Georgina arrives at the large Norfolk estate where the wedding will take place, she quickly discovers Dot has an ulterior motive for hiring her. While the other guests are busy sipping champagne and playing croquet, Dot needs Georgina to help her solve a mystery – about a missing painting, which she believes is hidden somewhere in the house.
Because, after all, who would suspect two old ladies of getting up to mischief?
Something old, something new, something stolen…?
Gina Knight is looking forward to the prospect of retirement with her husband of forty-three years. Until, to her surprise, said husband decides he needs to 'find himself' – alone – and disappears to Santa Fe, leaving divorce papers in his wake.
Now Gina needs a new role in life, not to mention somewhere to live, so she applies for the position of Companion to elderly Dorothy Reed. At eighty-nine, ‘Dot’ needs someone to help her around the house – or at least, her family seems to think so. Her companion’s first role would be to accompany Dot for a week-long extravagant wedding party.
But when Georgina arrives at the large Norfolk estate where the wedding will take place, she quickly discovers Dot has an ulterior motive for hiring her. While the other guests are busy sipping champagne and playing croquet, Dot needs Georgina to help her solve a mystery – about a missing painting, which she believes is hidden somewhere in the house.
Because, after all, who would suspect two old ladies of getting up to mischief?
280 pages, Paperback
First published May 13, 2024
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April 19, 2024
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I enjoyed The Second Chance Holiday Club so when the author reached out to me with a widget from NetGalley I jumped at the chance and am I ever glad I did.
I am a lot younger than the ladies in this story (Dorothy and Gina) but I could relate to them with my kids being grown and being divorced. Plus their sense of humour was great too...Gina's son called the dog shithead for eating shoes etc. and I died laughing. I adored these ladies and how they helped each other and at the same time helped themselves.
The chapters alternate between the two main character's points of view and I loved being inside their heads...they don't suffer fools easily and it was amazing reading about female leads of a certain age (and a third young woman in her early teenage years joins them.) I loved these three characters so much. Not all the characters are likable, especially Leonard, I loathed him and his ilk. But even some of the bad ones are trying to do better and I admire anyone who does that. Leonard likes to think of himself as an art connoisseur but he's really just a hoarder of expensive things. I loved the descriptions of the art, I could visualize each piece so clearly. And I am a lover of Murano glass from Italy.
Even though the book was quite humourous there are some tough topics in the story, especially dealing with grief and divorce. Gina is also having to deal with going back to work and finding a new job late in life. Galley knows how to write strong female characters and their being older just added to the fun. This one goes into cozy mystery territory and I was so here for it. I loved the ending and am wondering if there will be a book two. (Please)
Now I have to pick up The Golden Girls Road Trip for the Kate Galley trifecta.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the Advance Readers Copy. And a special thank you to the author, Kate Galley, for reaching out to me on Twitter/X.
The Book Review Crew Blog
I enjoyed The Second Chance Holiday Club so when the author reached out to me with a widget from NetGalley I jumped at the chance and am I ever glad I did.
I am a lot younger than the ladies in this story (Dorothy and Gina) but I could relate to them with my kids being grown and being divorced. Plus their sense of humour was great too...Gina's son called the dog shithead for eating shoes etc. and I died laughing. I adored these ladies and how they helped each other and at the same time helped themselves.
The chapters alternate between the two main character's points of view and I loved being inside their heads...they don't suffer fools easily and it was amazing reading about female leads of a certain age (and a third young woman in her early teenage years joins them.) I loved these three characters so much. Not all the characters are likable, especially Leonard, I loathed him and his ilk. But even some of the bad ones are trying to do better and I admire anyone who does that. Leonard likes to think of himself as an art connoisseur but he's really just a hoarder of expensive things. I loved the descriptions of the art, I could visualize each piece so clearly. And I am a lover of Murano glass from Italy.
Even though the book was quite humourous there are some tough topics in the story, especially dealing with grief and divorce. Gina is also having to deal with going back to work and finding a new job late in life. Galley knows how to write strong female characters and their being older just added to the fun. This one goes into cozy mystery territory and I was so here for it. I loved the ending and am wondering if there will be a book two. (Please)
Now I have to pick up The Golden Girls Road Trip for the Kate Galley trifecta.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the Advance Readers Copy. And a special thank you to the author, Kate Galley, for reaching out to me on Twitter/X.
May 15, 2024
After her husband of forty-three years leaves seventy-one-year-old Georgina “Gina” Knight to “find himself,” she is forced to rethink her plans for the future. With her adult children well settled in their own lives and the family home about to be sold, Gina not only needs to find a place to live but also a means to supplement her income after splitting the proceeds from the impending sale. When she sees an advertisement for a Companion to an elderly lady for a well-paying week-long assignment that would require her to accompany the family to Norfolk for a family wedding, she is quick to apply for the position.
Eighty-nine-year-old Dorothy “Dot” Reed isn’t too keen on having a Companion following her around, but when she meets Gina, whom she instantly likes and shares common interests, she has a change of heart. Unbeknownst to Gina at the time, Dorothy has a hidden agenda – a quest to find the culprit responsible for the theft of a piece of art from her home. She believes that the thief will be a part of her grandson’s wedding being held in the sprawling estate of a family friend (whom Dorothy despises) who also happens to be the bride’s uncle.
The narrative follows Gina and Dorothy as they attempt to locate the stolen painting (along with Dorothy’s thirteen-year-old granddaughter Juliet who convinces them to let her join in their efforts) without making it too obvious – not as easy a task as they had anticipated, with the full schedule of festivities that have been planned and the watchful eyes of their host not to mention having to navigate the rising tensions between members of the wedding party, quite a few of whom have their own secrets to protect.
I thoroughly enjoyed Old Girls Behaving Badly by Kate Galley. Heartwarming and humorous with cozy mystery vibes, this was an entertaining read. I loved the descriptions of the lavish estate and Leonard’s home. Both protagonists are interesting characters and I loved their dynamic. I particularly liked Gina’s trajectory and how she emerges from her shell as the narrative progresses. The narrative, shared from the perspectives of Gina and Dorothy, flows well and the characters are well thought out (even the unlikable ones). There is a rather large cast of characters to follow, but this in no way detracts from the overall reading experience. The novel touches upon sensitive issues such as aging, loneliness and grief with compassion. I liked how the author chose to end the story and if I’m not mistaken, the ending indicates that we may get more stories featuring Dot and Gina in the future. If you also enjoy stories that feature mature protagonists who are smart, quick- witted and can hold their own in any situation, you won’t be disappointed.
This was my first Kate Galley novel and I look forward to exploring more of her work.
Many thanks to Boldwood Books for the digital review copy via NetGalley. All opinions expressed in this review are my own.
Connect with me! ✏ Instagram ✏ My Blog ✏ The StoryGraph
Eighty-nine-year-old Dorothy “Dot” Reed isn’t too keen on having a Companion following her around, but when she meets Gina, whom she instantly likes and shares common interests, she has a change of heart. Unbeknownst to Gina at the time, Dorothy has a hidden agenda – a quest to find the culprit responsible for the theft of a piece of art from her home. She believes that the thief will be a part of her grandson’s wedding being held in the sprawling estate of a family friend (whom Dorothy despises) who also happens to be the bride’s uncle.
The narrative follows Gina and Dorothy as they attempt to locate the stolen painting (along with Dorothy’s thirteen-year-old granddaughter Juliet who convinces them to let her join in their efforts) without making it too obvious – not as easy a task as they had anticipated, with the full schedule of festivities that have been planned and the watchful eyes of their host not to mention having to navigate the rising tensions between members of the wedding party, quite a few of whom have their own secrets to protect.
I thoroughly enjoyed Old Girls Behaving Badly by Kate Galley. Heartwarming and humorous with cozy mystery vibes, this was an entertaining read. I loved the descriptions of the lavish estate and Leonard’s home. Both protagonists are interesting characters and I loved their dynamic. I particularly liked Gina’s trajectory and how she emerges from her shell as the narrative progresses. The narrative, shared from the perspectives of Gina and Dorothy, flows well and the characters are well thought out (even the unlikable ones). There is a rather large cast of characters to follow, but this in no way detracts from the overall reading experience. The novel touches upon sensitive issues such as aging, loneliness and grief with compassion. I liked how the author chose to end the story and if I’m not mistaken, the ending indicates that we may get more stories featuring Dot and Gina in the future. If you also enjoy stories that feature mature protagonists who are smart, quick- witted and can hold their own in any situation, you won’t be disappointed.
This was my first Kate Galley novel and I look forward to exploring more of her work.
Many thanks to Boldwood Books for the digital review copy via NetGalley. All opinions expressed in this review are my own.
Connect with me! ✏ Instagram ✏ My Blog ✏ The StoryGraph
September 18, 2025
EXCERPT: COMPANION WANTED FOR ELDERLY WOMAN - NORTH NORFOLK
Temporary position.
Live-in.
BOX:765034
Job specifications: Live-in companion wanted for an elderly woman. You will have your own room with a private bathroom in a substantial home on a large country estate in North Norfolk.
The position is temporary - seven days in the last week of August during a family wedding party.
Your duties will be light. No persona care is involved. The woman requires, in essence, a friendly person to be her companion while the family are otherwise engaged with wedding preparations.
You must be efficient, quick-witted and happy to join the family for their very special occasion.
If the applicant is successful, there is the potential for a permanent position in the woman's London home. . .
ABOUT 'OLD GIRLS BEHAVING BADLY': Something old, something new, something stolen…?
Gina Knight is looking forward to the prospect of retirement with her husband of forty-three years. Until, to her surprise, said husband decides he needs to 'find himself' – alone – and disappears to Santa Fe, leaving divorce papers in his wake.
Now Gina needs a new role in life, not to mention somewhere to live, so she applies for the position of Companion to elderly Dorothy Reed. At eighty-nine, ‘Dot’ needs someone to help her around the house – or at least, her family seems to think so. Her companion’s first role would be to accompany Dot for a week-long extravagant wedding party.
But when Georgina arrives at the large Norfolk estate where the wedding will take place, she quickly discovers Dot has an ulterior motive for hiring her. While the other guests are busy sipping champagne and playing croquet, Dot needs Georgina to help her solve a mystery – about a missing painting, which she believes is hidden somewhere in the house.
Because, after all, who would suspect two old ladies of getting up to mischief?
MY THOUGHTS: I loved these two main characters! Eighty-nine-year-old Dot Reed and seventy-one-year-old Gina Knight just seem to hit it off. Dot really didn't want a companion until she met Gina, who has a skill that Dot needs to fulfil her quest. Gina just wants out of the marital home which is in the process of being sold.
Gina doesn't have a lot of self-confidence, shaken by a departing husband who describes her as 'beige and unexciting.' Dorothy tends to be impulsive and a holder of grudges. At first glance these two have nothing in common, but in truth both are quick-witted and suspicious. Juliet, Dot's thirteen-year-old granddaughter makes the third person in the search for stolen goods in the host's home.
Old Girls Behaving Badly is humorous romp (without being at all silly!) under cover of the upcoming nuptials in a large and stately manor house with staircases, cellars and hidden rooms. Dot and Gina made me think of an aged Nancy Drew!
This read is a lot of fun. It deals with divorce in the elderly, grief, finding your feet again and finding new friends in unexpected places. Every time I think about Old Girls Behaving Badly, I smile. The way Kate Galley has ended this book makes me believe there may be a second book on the horizon. I sincerely hope so.
⭐⭐⭐⭐.4
#OldGirlsBehavingBadly #NetGalley
THE AUTHOR: Kate Galley lives in Buckinghamshire with her husband, children and Meg, their Patterdale Terrier. Much of Kate's inspiration co0mes from the varied lives of her client as a mobile hairdresser.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Boldwood Books via NetGalley for providing a digital ARC of Old Girls Behaving Badly by Kate Galley for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
Temporary position.
Live-in.
BOX:765034
Job specifications: Live-in companion wanted for an elderly woman. You will have your own room with a private bathroom in a substantial home on a large country estate in North Norfolk.
The position is temporary - seven days in the last week of August during a family wedding party.
Your duties will be light. No persona care is involved. The woman requires, in essence, a friendly person to be her companion while the family are otherwise engaged with wedding preparations.
You must be efficient, quick-witted and happy to join the family for their very special occasion.
If the applicant is successful, there is the potential for a permanent position in the woman's London home. . .
ABOUT 'OLD GIRLS BEHAVING BADLY': Something old, something new, something stolen…?
Gina Knight is looking forward to the prospect of retirement with her husband of forty-three years. Until, to her surprise, said husband decides he needs to 'find himself' – alone – and disappears to Santa Fe, leaving divorce papers in his wake.
Now Gina needs a new role in life, not to mention somewhere to live, so she applies for the position of Companion to elderly Dorothy Reed. At eighty-nine, ‘Dot’ needs someone to help her around the house – or at least, her family seems to think so. Her companion’s first role would be to accompany Dot for a week-long extravagant wedding party.
But when Georgina arrives at the large Norfolk estate where the wedding will take place, she quickly discovers Dot has an ulterior motive for hiring her. While the other guests are busy sipping champagne and playing croquet, Dot needs Georgina to help her solve a mystery – about a missing painting, which she believes is hidden somewhere in the house.
Because, after all, who would suspect two old ladies of getting up to mischief?
MY THOUGHTS: I loved these two main characters! Eighty-nine-year-old Dot Reed and seventy-one-year-old Gina Knight just seem to hit it off. Dot really didn't want a companion until she met Gina, who has a skill that Dot needs to fulfil her quest. Gina just wants out of the marital home which is in the process of being sold.
Gina doesn't have a lot of self-confidence, shaken by a departing husband who describes her as 'beige and unexciting.' Dorothy tends to be impulsive and a holder of grudges. At first glance these two have nothing in common, but in truth both are quick-witted and suspicious. Juliet, Dot's thirteen-year-old granddaughter makes the third person in the search for stolen goods in the host's home.
Old Girls Behaving Badly is humorous romp (without being at all silly!) under cover of the upcoming nuptials in a large and stately manor house with staircases, cellars and hidden rooms. Dot and Gina made me think of an aged Nancy Drew!
This read is a lot of fun. It deals with divorce in the elderly, grief, finding your feet again and finding new friends in unexpected places. Every time I think about Old Girls Behaving Badly, I smile. The way Kate Galley has ended this book makes me believe there may be a second book on the horizon. I sincerely hope so.
⭐⭐⭐⭐.4
#OldGirlsBehavingBadly #NetGalley
THE AUTHOR: Kate Galley lives in Buckinghamshire with her husband, children and Meg, their Patterdale Terrier. Much of Kate's inspiration co0mes from the varied lives of her client as a mobile hairdresser.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Boldwood Books via NetGalley for providing a digital ARC of Old Girls Behaving Badly by Kate Galley for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
May 18, 2024
No time for a lengthy review- too busy gardening as every time I turn round there’s another weed sprung up!!
Highly entertaining! A fun read and I’ll definitely read the follow up. Liked the characters.
Kindle Unlimited
Highly entertaining! A fun read and I’ll definitely read the follow up. Liked the characters.
Kindle Unlimited
May 10, 2024
Seventy one year old Gina Knight had had the rug pulled from under her feet when her husband of more than forty years decided he needed to "find himself", leaving Gina not entirely sure what was happening. Knowing her home would be sold, Gina searched for somewhere else to go - she didn't want to encroach on either her son or daughter and their families - and when she applied for the position of companion to an elderly woman, and received the job, Gina decided things were looking up. Dorothy Reed was a spritely eighty nine year old, and needed Gina for the upcoming week of wedding festivities at a mansion belonging to a relative.
Gina was in awe of the place she would be staying in - the majesty and beauty was a sight to behold. But when Dot explained what she had in mind for this week, Gina was immediately hesitant. A painting was missing, and Dot believed it was hidden in the house they were staying in. She tasked Gina with finding it before the week was over. Gina was worried about being caught snooping...
Old Girls Behaving Badly is my first by Kate Galley and it was lots of fun! With Dot and Gina getting up to mischief, and Dot's granddaughter, thirteen year old Juliet, also joining in the fun, it was definitely a week out of the ordinary. An entertaining read, which I thoroughly enjoyed, and recommend highly.
With thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
Gina was in awe of the place she would be staying in - the majesty and beauty was a sight to behold. But when Dot explained what she had in mind for this week, Gina was immediately hesitant. A painting was missing, and Dot believed it was hidden in the house they were staying in. She tasked Gina with finding it before the week was over. Gina was worried about being caught snooping...
Old Girls Behaving Badly is my first by Kate Galley and it was lots of fun! With Dot and Gina getting up to mischief, and Dot's granddaughter, thirteen year old Juliet, also joining in the fun, it was definitely a week out of the ordinary. An entertaining read, which I thoroughly enjoyed, and recommend highly.
With thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
June 29, 2024
This book probably deserves 2.5 stars, but because I can’t give half-stars on GoodReads I have it only 2 because it wasn’t good enough to round up to 3 starts.
I found this book difficult to engage with. I never found the plot gripping; I was never left desperately wanting to know what happens next. The slow beginning combined with a medium climax and long denouement didn’t create much reading satisfaction.
I found this book difficult to engage with. I never found the plot gripping; I was never left desperately wanting to know what happens next. The slow beginning combined with a medium climax and long denouement didn’t create much reading satisfaction.
April 9, 2024
Old Girls Behaving Badly by Kate Galley is a feel-good, cozy mystery/ fiction that follows octogenarian, Dot, and her 71 year old companion, Gina, as they both navigate being newly single. In this novel about friendship and living life to the fullest, we watch these two women not only search to uncover a crime but also form a friendship that they both desperately need and start to help each other heal.
Thank you NetGalley and Boldwood Books, for early access to read Old Girls Behaving Badly in exchange for an honest review. All opinions in this review are mine.
Thank you NetGalley and Boldwood Books, for early access to read Old Girls Behaving Badly in exchange for an honest review. All opinions in this review are mine.
August 5, 2024
Am I giving this fluffy, crazy book 5 stars? YEP
Thanks to Ashley for listening to my ranting and raving about this book for the past 2 days.
Honestly, the mystery reveal at the end was a bit of a letdown. But the whole book besides that was so so good! I will 100% read the next book. I freaking love old people being energized and doing shit.
Thanks to Ashley for listening to my ranting and raving about this book for the past 2 days.
Honestly, the mystery reveal at the end was a bit of a letdown. But the whole book besides that was so so good! I will 100% read the next book. I freaking love old people being energized and doing shit.
July 20, 2025
Review to follow.
July 3, 2024
A fabulously fun read! The main character is 71 years old and finds herself at the precipice of a life change since her 73 year old husband has decided to do a runner. Now, you younger readers (thankfully, that is me too!) don't think this book isn't for you as it absolutely is! The second main character is 89 years old....still stick around you younger readers! Toss in a 13 year old teen with an attitude problem, a mystery of where the stolen item is, trying to solve the crime, being a companion to an older woman, a teen running around recording conversations, a wedding with tons of events and everyone carrying around a ton of secrets and you'll have an inkling of the fun to come in this story. It's witty, poignant, relatable for those of us who are aging (but still younger by decades than the main characters, LOL!) and a delightfully fun read. I do hope that the author will grant us the curtesy of seeing more of these characters as the way it was written, it absolutely could be a series! If you like art, fun, witty dialogue, relatable characters then this book is absolutely one that should go on your read list!
May 14, 2024
When women reach a certain age, they find that the life that defined them is no longer there. These women decide they will not sit idly by and wait to die. This book reminds me so much of the movie Secondhand Lions. They have earned the right to live as they wish and if you don't like it.....too bad. 5 easy stars
December 27, 2024
3.5 ⭐️ A cute little story with a slight mystery.
Goals: riding on a quad at 89. Queen behavior 👵🏼👸🏼
Audiobook
Goals: riding on a quad at 89. Queen behavior 👵🏼👸🏼
Audiobook
May 15, 2024
First, I want to thank Kate Galley, Boldwood Books and Rachel’s Random Resources for providing me with this book so I can bring you this review.
Oh I knew this was going to be a fun easy read when I saw the title of Kate Galley’s book Old Girls Behaving Badly! I had never read anything by Kate Galley before so I was not sure what to expect. However, I was pleasantly surprised.
The beginning of this book was very unique as it was a help wanted ad for a caregiver for a week at a wedding. That instantly caught my attention and made me want to read on.
I loved and appreciated how Gina accepted her son Chris’s sexuality and his marriage to Gavin. Unlike his father Douglas who couldn’t comprehend the concept of love is love.
Speaking of Douglas he was totally shady on the way he broke off his marriage to Gina. He was not one of my favorite characters.
Within Old Girls Behaving Badly a mystery was to be solved of where Dorothy’s late husband's painting went.
Oh I knew this was going to be a fun easy read when I saw the title of Kate Galley’s book Old Girls Behaving Badly! I had never read anything by Kate Galley before so I was not sure what to expect. However, I was pleasantly surprised.
The beginning of this book was very unique as it was a help wanted ad for a caregiver for a week at a wedding. That instantly caught my attention and made me want to read on.
I loved and appreciated how Gina accepted her son Chris’s sexuality and his marriage to Gavin. Unlike his father Douglas who couldn’t comprehend the concept of love is love.
Speaking of Douglas he was totally shady on the way he broke off his marriage to Gina. He was not one of my favorite characters.
Within Old Girls Behaving Badly a mystery was to be solved of where Dorothy’s late husband's painting went.
April 4, 2024
This is a light feel good read about friendship and living life to the fullest no matter what your age. The characters were likable and the mystery was fun. I have never read golden years fiction before and it was nice to see older people as the main characters! Fast, Fun read!
September 14, 2024
I was really hoping for more out of this than I got, truthfully. It moved too slowly for my liking. I liked the idea of two old ladies causing chaos, but that is not what I got.
I'm sure the adventures of Gina and Dorothy are great for some, but they missed the mark for me. Gina's character was a little confusing and she came across as rather underdeveloped in my opinion
I'm sure the adventures of Gina and Dorothy are great for some, but they missed the mark for me. Gina's character was a little confusing and she came across as rather underdeveloped in my opinion
February 17, 2025
This was a cute cozy mystery. It took me forever to read because I set it down for a while. But I decided to pick it back up and am glad I did. For me, it really picked up at the 50% mark.
But if you are looking for a couple of plucky, realistic older ladies trying to solve a mystery, this series might be for you.
But if you are looking for a couple of plucky, realistic older ladies trying to solve a mystery, this series might be for you.
May 22, 2024
This was a fun read. Author is new to me but I will definitely read more.
November 16, 2024
Not what I expected. Even with a somewhat unbelievable plot the story was well presented with no gaping holes making it very enjoyable. What do you do when your husband of 42 years ends your marriage abruptly and you’re left to make a new life at 71 years old. This is the story of how Gina handled that situation. It feels like the ending was possibly a lead into a sequel. I hope so. I’d love to see Gina succeed, and maybe secretly like to see her husband miserably fail…maybe.
April 16, 2024
Thanks to Kate herself for sending me an advanced copy of her new book in return for an honest review.
I have read and absolutely adored Kate's previous two books - The Second Chance Holiday Club and The Golden Girls' Road Trip - they were so gorgeous and such fun and so was thrilled when Kate got in touch about reading her new one. I always feel like I've had a big cosy hug when I read her books.
She has this immense talent and ability to write older characters. So often in fiction, old people, especially women, are written into books as an extra, a novelty, a joke, in the way, is forgetful, is an obstacle. Rarely are they the main star, and that's what I love about her books. She shows such compassion towards them and they make just as good protagonists as any youngster and I for one, love her for that.
There's many, many characters in it, and I don't have the space to go into all them, but I will obviously talk about our two main ladies.
I felt sorry for Gina at first. This is her life and yet it's being ruled by her ex-husband and her children (although more her daughter than her son). She seemed a bit timid, but came into her own when given the chance. She was a really well written character. She's clearly an older lady, but there's enough of a gap between her and Dorothy for you to see this relationship blossom, rather than just having two old women living together. She felt very everyday, like she could be you or I, a friend or a relative. Very relatable and normal, but never dull.
And then we have Dorothy, who I loved. She's this old woman whose family think she needs help, but she doesn't think so, but she does play up to the old woman charade when needed. She is just gorgeous. I could picture her in my mind instantly. For me, she was this boho, free spirit of an old lady, rather than your stereotypical doddery grey-haired grandmother. I found her instantly interesting.
I would say your antagonist, if you want to call him that, is Leonard, Dorothy's relation and behind the week's get together. I won't spoil why or what he does, but he definitely felt very slimy and cold, definitely hiding something, but again very well written, even if I didn't like him much.
It is an uplifting and joyous book, but there are elements of a thriller here, almost a whodunnit, which gave it more depth and made it even more exciting.
Yes, at its heart it is an uplifting book, but it doesn't shy away from difficult topics, such as death, grief, accidents, thievery, old age, divorce, feeling lost, revenge, and blackmail.
It was another of my break-my-rule-of-never-reading-the-kindle-in-bed rule. To be honest, that keeps happening, and I feel it's now become - in the words of one Captain Jack Sparrow - more of a guideline than an actual rule. I just couldn't put it down. I read it in less than 24 hours. That's three of her books read, and all loved, and I cannot wait for future works as she's an excellent storyteller.
I have read and absolutely adored Kate's previous two books - The Second Chance Holiday Club and The Golden Girls' Road Trip - they were so gorgeous and such fun and so was thrilled when Kate got in touch about reading her new one. I always feel like I've had a big cosy hug when I read her books.
She has this immense talent and ability to write older characters. So often in fiction, old people, especially women, are written into books as an extra, a novelty, a joke, in the way, is forgetful, is an obstacle. Rarely are they the main star, and that's what I love about her books. She shows such compassion towards them and they make just as good protagonists as any youngster and I for one, love her for that.
There's many, many characters in it, and I don't have the space to go into all them, but I will obviously talk about our two main ladies.
I felt sorry for Gina at first. This is her life and yet it's being ruled by her ex-husband and her children (although more her daughter than her son). She seemed a bit timid, but came into her own when given the chance. She was a really well written character. She's clearly an older lady, but there's enough of a gap between her and Dorothy for you to see this relationship blossom, rather than just having two old women living together. She felt very everyday, like she could be you or I, a friend or a relative. Very relatable and normal, but never dull.
And then we have Dorothy, who I loved. She's this old woman whose family think she needs help, but she doesn't think so, but she does play up to the old woman charade when needed. She is just gorgeous. I could picture her in my mind instantly. For me, she was this boho, free spirit of an old lady, rather than your stereotypical doddery grey-haired grandmother. I found her instantly interesting.
I would say your antagonist, if you want to call him that, is Leonard, Dorothy's relation and behind the week's get together. I won't spoil why or what he does, but he definitely felt very slimy and cold, definitely hiding something, but again very well written, even if I didn't like him much.
It is an uplifting and joyous book, but there are elements of a thriller here, almost a whodunnit, which gave it more depth and made it even more exciting.
Yes, at its heart it is an uplifting book, but it doesn't shy away from difficult topics, such as death, grief, accidents, thievery, old age, divorce, feeling lost, revenge, and blackmail.
It was another of my break-my-rule-of-never-reading-the-kindle-in-bed rule. To be honest, that keeps happening, and I feel it's now become - in the words of one Captain Jack Sparrow - more of a guideline than an actual rule. I just couldn't put it down. I read it in less than 24 hours. That's three of her books read, and all loved, and I cannot wait for future works as she's an excellent storyteller.
May 12, 2024
Although I enjoyed Old Girls Behaving Badly, it was not what I was expecting. Dorothy's grandson is getting married to the niece of the man that Dorothy loathes. Leonard used to be her husband's partner, the man he mentored, until he became so competitive, that Phillip couldn't stand it. Ready to retire, he sold his share of the business to Leonard and they planned to never see him again. After his retirement, Phillip won a small painting in an art competition, a type of scavenger hunt, but shortly after he won it, someone broke in and stole it. While chasing the thief, Phillip tripped and fell down the outside stairs hitting his head. He died in the hospital shortly after. Dot is sure that Leonard had the painting, and she wants it back as well as see him in jail. Gina is hired as her companion for the week before the wedding at Leonard's country estate. As well as being her companion, she is asked to find the painting.
This is a book full of secrets, staring with Dorothy's and Gina's. I really liked both of these ladies and being older they think they can sneak around and nobody will notice them. Leonard, is suspicious of Gina and watches her quite closely, so she is often seen or caught where she shouldn't be. I did not like Leonard at all. He is smarmy, loves to hear his own voice, narcissistic, and just a miserable human being. He brags constantly and even his generosity in hosting the wedding is not without his personal reasons. Caroline, his niece, is such a lovely young woman, I am surprised that she doesn't see through him. I have to say I really enjoyed Juliet, Dot's granddaughter. She is young and doesn't want to spend a week with these old folks. She is bored, and miserable, a typical teen. There were lots of fun activities planned such as a garden party, horseback riding and quad riding, which I would have enjoyed. The mystery of what happened to the painting, where it is, and who actually stole it was very well done, with everything flowing well. I loved Gina's snooping, and eventually she gets a couple of people on her side to help her without letting the cat out of the bag. I was impressed with how smart Gina was, putting clues together, and knowing so much about art, that helped her in her quest. This is a mystery, on the cozy side, with great characters, some humour, but not as much as I was expecting, a well-plotted mystery and great ending. It sounds like there might be another mystery with Gina as a sleuth, but only time will tell. If you enjoy an entertaining mystery with great characters and a well-written storyline, then I recommend you pick up Old Girls Behaving Badly.
This is a book full of secrets, staring with Dorothy's and Gina's. I really liked both of these ladies and being older they think they can sneak around and nobody will notice them. Leonard, is suspicious of Gina and watches her quite closely, so she is often seen or caught where she shouldn't be. I did not like Leonard at all. He is smarmy, loves to hear his own voice, narcissistic, and just a miserable human being. He brags constantly and even his generosity in hosting the wedding is not without his personal reasons. Caroline, his niece, is such a lovely young woman, I am surprised that she doesn't see through him. I have to say I really enjoyed Juliet, Dot's granddaughter. She is young and doesn't want to spend a week with these old folks. She is bored, and miserable, a typical teen. There were lots of fun activities planned such as a garden party, horseback riding and quad riding, which I would have enjoyed. The mystery of what happened to the painting, where it is, and who actually stole it was very well done, with everything flowing well. I loved Gina's snooping, and eventually she gets a couple of people on her side to help her without letting the cat out of the bag. I was impressed with how smart Gina was, putting clues together, and knowing so much about art, that helped her in her quest. This is a mystery, on the cozy side, with great characters, some humour, but not as much as I was expecting, a well-plotted mystery and great ending. It sounds like there might be another mystery with Gina as a sleuth, but only time will tell. If you enjoy an entertaining mystery with great characters and a well-written storyline, then I recommend you pick up Old Girls Behaving Badly.
November 1, 2024
DNF @40%
I thought this would be fun, but a 70+ year old lady being manipulated and taken advantage of by an even older lady is just not entertaining.
I thought this would be fun, but a 70+ year old lady being manipulated and taken advantage of by an even older lady is just not entertaining.
October 22, 2024
My husband and I listened to this together on a road trip and he enjoyed it but I was bored out of my mind. The title was so promising! I was expecting Dorothy to be this eccentric, hilarious, foolhardy, larger than life character, but she wasn’t. I wanted to see more development with Gina, but she remained “beige” the whole way through. The rest of the characters were pale shadows as well, so by the time we reached the climax we didn’t really care about it. Such a shocker this book has garnered such a high rating here on Goodreads!
November 20, 2024
Good story but not great. The title of the book didn’t really go with the actual plot of the story in my opinion. I enjoyed Gina and Dorothy and also teenager Juliet, but had a hard time keeping all the rest of the family members straight. It seemed like the ending set the stage for a sequel, but I don’t know if I will look it up.
November 8, 2024
3.5. Lighthearted and helped me keep my mind off the impending doom I felt after the election 🙃
November 15, 2024
Really really cute novel about the ability to remake yourself regardless of your age
April 22, 2025
I thought the story itself was very sweet and silly and enjoyable. I had a difficult time getting used to the different POVs since Gina’s is 1st person and Dot’s is 3rd. I haven’t read another book that swaps POVs before.
April 24, 2025
3.7⭐️
0🌶️
Listened to the audiobook on Hoopla
I read this book blind. Unfortunately the title gave me false hope of wild antic if two older women like Frankie and Grace. This book is a little more dark and more mystery. The story was overall enjoyable and fast paced with good character growth but not what I was hoping for.
0🌶️
Listened to the audiobook on Hoopla
I read this book blind. Unfortunately the title gave me false hope of wild antic if two older women like Frankie and Grace. This book is a little more dark and more mystery. The story was overall enjoyable and fast paced with good character growth but not what I was hoping for.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 1, 2024
This was a delightful and fun cozy mystery that once again shows just how much life we have left even in our 80’s!
I’ve come to enjoy and appreciate novels where older women are shown as brave, strong, and more than capable of adapting! And more than that, they love having fun!
This book is available now!
I’ve come to enjoy and appreciate novels where older women are shown as brave, strong, and more than capable of adapting! And more than that, they love having fun!
This book is available now!
February 24, 2025
Cute story, but poor execution. Frankly, it’s a boring beige, cosy mystery that offers no hijinks that the cover, title and synopsis imply. And as far as it being a mystery, well that’s even debatable.
This book leaves you wanting. There is a lot of information and parts of the story that literally go nowhere. There are a lot of characters introduced in a manner that is confusing as to who is who.
As for the “mystery” we know the who, what, when and where, but the why is not fully fleshed out; nor are any of the characters, which is a shame. Old Girls Behaving Badly has a strong premise that unfortunately falls flat in its delivery.
⭐️⭐️💫
P.S. I never know how to star a book when I give it a half, like in this instance. Should I round up or down?
This book leaves you wanting. There is a lot of information and parts of the story that literally go nowhere. There are a lot of characters introduced in a manner that is confusing as to who is who.
As for the “mystery” we know the who, what, when and where, but the why is not fully fleshed out; nor are any of the characters, which is a shame. Old Girls Behaving Badly has a strong premise that unfortunately falls flat in its delivery.
⭐️⭐️💫
P.S. I never know how to star a book when I give it a half, like in this instance. Should I round up or down?
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