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City Girls Forever
*** THE NUMBER ONE BESTSELLING AUTHOR ***
'One of Scanlan's great strengths is her gift for writing fully rounded characters, and this is Scanlan at her very best' Irish Independent
The City Girls are back!
And as City Girl, Devlin Delaney’s iconic gym and spa, prepares to mark a big anniversary, Devlin and her best friends Caroline and Maggie are looking forward to a fabulous party where they can all put their problems behind them and celebrate.
Devlin’s past has returned to haunt her, with a shocking revelation. But she’s strong and her beloved Luke has her back.
Caroline is facing up to issues she’s long suppressed, with the help of a man who’s becoming more than a friend. Will happiness finally be hers?
Maggie’s family is driving her mad. Her ex, Terry, and their daughter don’t get on, and she’s made an alarming discovery about her elderly mother’s financial affairs. She wants to run far, away.
Sparks are going to fly, and some people are going to get a lot more than they bargained for!
Once a City Girl, a City Girl Forever. Nothing will stop their celebration . . . or will it?
Praise for City Girls Forever:
‘I LOVE this book. There is a real sense of these wise women who are dealing with life, the menopause, their careers and being in charge of their own mental health and yet having great friends. I think it's Patricia Scanlan's strongest book ever!’ Cathy Kelly
‘I BAWLED, roared laughing and was on the edge of my seat. It's a masterclass in storytelling - so many strands!! Patricia Scanlan is at the absolutely top of her game. Readers are in for such a treat, Scanlan has returned our girls to us and they are as loveable and as relatable as they ever were’ Ciara Geraghty
‘It felt like I’d just bumped into such great old friends… ones I haven’t seen since school and have missed SO much, and am desperately wanting to know everything that’s happened to them… I was in book heaven’ Caroline Grace-Cassidy
'One of Scanlan's great strengths is her gift for writing fully rounded characters, and this is Scanlan at her very best' Irish Independent
The City Girls are back!
And as City Girl, Devlin Delaney’s iconic gym and spa, prepares to mark a big anniversary, Devlin and her best friends Caroline and Maggie are looking forward to a fabulous party where they can all put their problems behind them and celebrate.
Devlin’s past has returned to haunt her, with a shocking revelation. But she’s strong and her beloved Luke has her back.
Caroline is facing up to issues she’s long suppressed, with the help of a man who’s becoming more than a friend. Will happiness finally be hers?
Maggie’s family is driving her mad. Her ex, Terry, and their daughter don’t get on, and she’s made an alarming discovery about her elderly mother’s financial affairs. She wants to run far, away.
Sparks are going to fly, and some people are going to get a lot more than they bargained for!
Once a City Girl, a City Girl Forever. Nothing will stop their celebration . . . or will it?
Praise for City Girls Forever:
‘I LOVE this book. There is a real sense of these wise women who are dealing with life, the menopause, their careers and being in charge of their own mental health and yet having great friends. I think it's Patricia Scanlan's strongest book ever!’ Cathy Kelly
‘I BAWLED, roared laughing and was on the edge of my seat. It's a masterclass in storytelling - so many strands!! Patricia Scanlan is at the absolutely top of her game. Readers are in for such a treat, Scanlan has returned our girls to us and they are as loveable and as relatable as they ever were’ Ciara Geraghty
‘It felt like I’d just bumped into such great old friends… ones I haven’t seen since school and have missed SO much, and am desperately wanting to know everything that’s happened to them… I was in book heaven’ Caroline Grace-Cassidy
525 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 20, 2025
114 people are currently reading
174 people want to read
About the author
Patricia Scanlan
71 books399 followersPatricia Scanlan was born in Dublin, where she still lives. Her #1 bestsellers include Apartment 3B; Finishing Touches; Foreign Affairs; Promises, Promises; Mirror, Mirror; City Girl; City Woman; City Lives; and Francesca’s Party. She has sold millions of books worldwide and is translated into many languages. Patricia is the series editor and a contributing author to the award winning Open Door literacy series, which she developed for adult literacy.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
March 29, 2025
Very disappointed with this one. I absolutely adore Patricia Scanlan but I feel she has dropped the ball with this one. I read the city girls saga just prior to the release of City Girls Forever so the whole thing is pretty fresh in my mind. The continuity errors in this book are just too many for me to enjoy it.
Caroline never had an eating disorder in the previous books yet we are led to believe this is something she has struggled with all her life.
Same for Devlin's endometriosis. Never a whisper of it now its something that stopped her getting pregnant and she has suffered with since her twenties. Never mentioned in the previous books.
Maggie's daughter Shona is the youngest of her lot but in this book she's now the oldest. Also her siblings have completely changed along with their spouses.
Devlin looks back at her mother Lydia as an unhappy alchoholic who made her life miserable. Conviently forgetting they had made up and completely turned their relationship around.
Her aunts name that died in the accident was Kate, not Frances.
Also barely a mention of how she got on raising Finn the much longed for baby she had in the 3rd book.
Also please don't get me started on the #metoo aspect of the book. Devlin went and had an affair with CCK quite willingly. Yes he was a smarmy git but he didn't attack her. Ridiculous.
This book just seems like it doesn't connect to the previous 3 and other than the names of the main characters being the same I would think this is about different women.
Caroline never had an eating disorder in the previous books yet we are led to believe this is something she has struggled with all her life.
Same for Devlin's endometriosis. Never a whisper of it now its something that stopped her getting pregnant and she has suffered with since her twenties. Never mentioned in the previous books.
Maggie's daughter Shona is the youngest of her lot but in this book she's now the oldest. Also her siblings have completely changed along with their spouses.
Devlin looks back at her mother Lydia as an unhappy alchoholic who made her life miserable. Conviently forgetting they had made up and completely turned their relationship around.
Her aunts name that died in the accident was Kate, not Frances.
Also barely a mention of how she got on raising Finn the much longed for baby she had in the 3rd book.
Also please don't get me started on the #metoo aspect of the book. Devlin went and had an affair with CCK quite willingly. Yes he was a smarmy git but he didn't attack her. Ridiculous.
This book just seems like it doesn't connect to the previous 3 and other than the names of the main characters being the same I would think this is about different women.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 2, 2025
Loved it!
October 31, 2024
It was so nice to be back with Devlin, Caroline and a Maggie and to see how things are going for them since we last heard from them in City Lives. I actually went back and read the previous books in the series before starting this one . City Girls Forever was a wonderful read and I devoured it in a few sittings . These women are strong and feisty and I love the way they have each others backs . Whilst this is an easy read it’s also one that deals with various life issues that arise . There was tears and laughter throughout the book. I was really glad that I went back and re read the previous books to refresh my memory. But this one can be read as a standalone. If you were a fan of the City Girl series back in the day then you will love this one.
April 15, 2025
Firstly, I have read other reviews saying this is fine to read as a stand alone book.
If you do that you're missing out on 3 great books, please read them in order.
This catch-up with the girls decades later is just amazing.
They all have issues to deal with, just different ones to when they were younger but their friendship gets them through it all. Loved it! My favourite author!
If you do that you're missing out on 3 great books, please read them in order.
This catch-up with the girls decades later is just amazing.
They all have issues to deal with, just different ones to when they were younger but their friendship gets them through it all. Loved it! My favourite author!
December 9, 2025
It was lovely being back in the company of the City Girls. Three relatable main characters, Caroline, Devlin and Maggie and the dilemmas and events they face as they approach middle age.
It's both heartwarming and heartbreaking but above all an underlying story of friendship and love.
It's both heartwarming and heartbreaking but above all an underlying story of friendship and love.
December 15, 2025
City Girls Forever is Patricia Scanlan doing what she does best: serving friendship, chaos, emotional growth, and women who feel so real you half-expect them to text you mid-chapter. Thank you to Simon & Schuster, Patricia Scanlan, and NetGalley. This truly felt like a backstage pass to the City Girls’ reunion tour: glitter, gossip, and emotional baggage included.
There are three certainties in life: death, taxes, and Patricia Scanlan giving us a cast of women whose lives are more dramatic than my attempts at parallel parking. In City Girls Forever, Scanlan reunites us with Devlin, Caroline, and Maggie, older, wiser, but still magnificently entangled in enough personal upheaval to fuel several seasons of prestige television. I devoured every page like a bucket of fries I promised myself I wouldn’t touch.
Devlin is on the brink of celebrating a major anniversary for her iconic gym and spa, think aromatherapy, abs of steel, and clients who claim to love burpees. Naturally, she’s throwing a fabulous party, the kind where someone will definitely cry in the bathroom, and someone else will deliver an intensely emotional toast after two glasses of Prosecco.
But peace is never that simple. A shocking revelation from Devlin’s past arrives like an ex texting “hey stranger” at 2 a.m. Thankfully, Luke is there, solid, supportive, and the human equivalent of a weighted blanket. Watching Devlin juggle business, love, and unexpected emotional landmines confirms her status as a full-blown superhero in Lululemon.
Caroline’s storyline hits especially close to home. With the quiet support of a man who is very much more than a friend (we see you, Caroline), she finally begins unpacking long-ignored emotional baggage. Her arc is tender, relatable, and deeply satisfying, the kind that makes you want to hug her or at least Venmo her a spa day. She deserves softness, and this book lets her claim it.
Then there’s Maggie navigating a family dynamic so chaotic it deserves its own warning label. Between clashes involving her ex, their daughter, and some deeply unsettling discoveries about her elderly mother’s finances, Maggie’s instinct to run feels painfully relatable. But watching her face responsibility with humour, exhaustion, and heart is one of the novel’s biggest strengths. She brings peak “I just need five minutes alone” energy, and honestly, same.
Scanlan weaves these three storylines together with her signature warmth and wit. Each woman is flawed, funny, fiercely loyal, and achingly human, the kind of friend you’d want on speed dial when life goes sideways. Everything builds toward the big celebration, which predictably does not go according to plan, because this is a Patricia Scanlan novel and calm is purely theoretical.
Secrets surface, sparks fly, emotional breakthroughs land, and a few characters receive exactly the surprises they deserve. Whether you’re a longtime City Girls fan or brand new to the series, City Girls Forever delivers heart and humour in equal measure.
Once a City Girl, always a City Girl and forever a magnet for beautifully relatable chaos. City Girls Forever is an immersive read, blending moments of gripping grit with a comforting warmth that wraps around you like a hug, anchored by absorbing characters and a compelling plot.
There are three certainties in life: death, taxes, and Patricia Scanlan giving us a cast of women whose lives are more dramatic than my attempts at parallel parking. In City Girls Forever, Scanlan reunites us with Devlin, Caroline, and Maggie, older, wiser, but still magnificently entangled in enough personal upheaval to fuel several seasons of prestige television. I devoured every page like a bucket of fries I promised myself I wouldn’t touch.
Devlin is on the brink of celebrating a major anniversary for her iconic gym and spa, think aromatherapy, abs of steel, and clients who claim to love burpees. Naturally, she’s throwing a fabulous party, the kind where someone will definitely cry in the bathroom, and someone else will deliver an intensely emotional toast after two glasses of Prosecco.
But peace is never that simple. A shocking revelation from Devlin’s past arrives like an ex texting “hey stranger” at 2 a.m. Thankfully, Luke is there, solid, supportive, and the human equivalent of a weighted blanket. Watching Devlin juggle business, love, and unexpected emotional landmines confirms her status as a full-blown superhero in Lululemon.
Caroline’s storyline hits especially close to home. With the quiet support of a man who is very much more than a friend (we see you, Caroline), she finally begins unpacking long-ignored emotional baggage. Her arc is tender, relatable, and deeply satisfying, the kind that makes you want to hug her or at least Venmo her a spa day. She deserves softness, and this book lets her claim it.
Then there’s Maggie navigating a family dynamic so chaotic it deserves its own warning label. Between clashes involving her ex, their daughter, and some deeply unsettling discoveries about her elderly mother’s finances, Maggie’s instinct to run feels painfully relatable. But watching her face responsibility with humour, exhaustion, and heart is one of the novel’s biggest strengths. She brings peak “I just need five minutes alone” energy, and honestly, same.
Scanlan weaves these three storylines together with her signature warmth and wit. Each woman is flawed, funny, fiercely loyal, and achingly human, the kind of friend you’d want on speed dial when life goes sideways. Everything builds toward the big celebration, which predictably does not go according to plan, because this is a Patricia Scanlan novel and calm is purely theoretical.
Secrets surface, sparks fly, emotional breakthroughs land, and a few characters receive exactly the surprises they deserve. Whether you’re a longtime City Girls fan or brand new to the series, City Girls Forever delivers heart and humour in equal measure.
Once a City Girl, always a City Girl and forever a magnet for beautifully relatable chaos. City Girls Forever is an immersive read, blending moments of gripping grit with a comforting warmth that wraps around you like a hug, anchored by absorbing characters and a compelling plot.
March 31, 2025
City Girls Forever by Patricia Scanlan published March 20th with Simon & Schuster and is the fourth book in the City Girls Series, following on from City Girl, City Woman and City Lives.
The first three books in the City Girl series were written in the 1990s so, for Patricia Scanlan’s fans, this latest addition is a really unexpected treat. Devlin, Maggie and Caroline have had a lot going on in their busy lives over the intervening years and we re-join them now as they face the challenges of those menopausal years as they deal with life-changing decisions and the complexities of middle age.
Successful career women in their chosen fields they all live extremely busy lives but their friendship has remained steadfast over the years as they deal with both personal and work-related problems. The strength of their relationship is the real appeal of this novel as, no matter what passes, they always are respectful of each other’s decisions and prepared to defend and support each other through thick and thin.
All three, at some point, have serious issues to contend with but with a wise word, a gentle nudge, a listening ear, a helping hand and warm smile nothing is too big, nothing is too scary for Devlin, Maggie and Caroline to handle.
Patricia Scanlan has a very generous heart which shines through in her writing. Many different aspects of the story will resonate with different readers as the three girls navigate their day-to-day. Written sensitively, they balance maturing children, aging parents, divorce, affairs, eating disorders, sexual assault and so much more. A relatable and comforting read, though at times, perhaps, a little dated, City Girls Forever is sure to delight many readers who will be thrilled to find out what happened next to these three formidable women. Warm-hearted and engaging, an escapist and compassionate read.
The first three books in the City Girl series were written in the 1990s so, for Patricia Scanlan’s fans, this latest addition is a really unexpected treat. Devlin, Maggie and Caroline have had a lot going on in their busy lives over the intervening years and we re-join them now as they face the challenges of those menopausal years as they deal with life-changing decisions and the complexities of middle age.
Successful career women in their chosen fields they all live extremely busy lives but their friendship has remained steadfast over the years as they deal with both personal and work-related problems. The strength of their relationship is the real appeal of this novel as, no matter what passes, they always are respectful of each other’s decisions and prepared to defend and support each other through thick and thin.
All three, at some point, have serious issues to contend with but with a wise word, a gentle nudge, a listening ear, a helping hand and warm smile nothing is too big, nothing is too scary for Devlin, Maggie and Caroline to handle.
Patricia Scanlan has a very generous heart which shines through in her writing. Many different aspects of the story will resonate with different readers as the three girls navigate their day-to-day. Written sensitively, they balance maturing children, aging parents, divorce, affairs, eating disorders, sexual assault and so much more. A relatable and comforting read, though at times, perhaps, a little dated, City Girls Forever is sure to delight many readers who will be thrilled to find out what happened next to these three formidable women. Warm-hearted and engaging, an escapist and compassionate read.
March 30, 2025
I have such a soft spot for Patricia Scanlon, I used to steal my mam's when I was young and devoured them..I devoured every Patricia Scanlon book she had and I was genuinely so excited to see another city girls released!
Reading this new boo felt like a warm and nostalgic hug and the story was great, I loved the narrative expanding to include new characters like Shona and Dervla.
I did roll my eyes at some scenes, Shona confronting Chloe's bullies was one example.
No one, and I mean NO ONE talks like that.
The #metoo and endometriosis storylines felt like a reach to be relevant. There's no doubt that Devlin was taken advantage of back in the first book, groomed and treated terribly. She was manipulated into sex which is awful and absolutely a form of abuse but not a direct assault like Nenita. The book imo doesn't deal with this gray line enough and relegates the characters who were actually assaulted to the background. It feels like shoehorning in a relevant topic to be honest. The same with the endometriosis.. it's something that is vital to be spoken about and awareness be raised but you can't just give a character a disease which they never had before...
But my main gripe..
What is with the continuity errors????!!!!!!!!!
Like seriously it's really really bad continuity stuff.. Shona was the youngest in the OG books, now she's the oldest.... How in the world did this happen???!!!!!
Maggie's siblings/family names are completely different.
Devlin's aunt was named Kate, not Frances.
This is really bad, on both Patricia and the publishers.
Reading this new boo felt like a warm and nostalgic hug and the story was great, I loved the narrative expanding to include new characters like Shona and Dervla.
I did roll my eyes at some scenes, Shona confronting Chloe's bullies was one example.
No one, and I mean NO ONE talks like that.
The #metoo and endometriosis storylines felt like a reach to be relevant. There's no doubt that Devlin was taken advantage of back in the first book, groomed and treated terribly. She was manipulated into sex which is awful and absolutely a form of abuse but not a direct assault like Nenita. The book imo doesn't deal with this gray line enough and relegates the characters who were actually assaulted to the background. It feels like shoehorning in a relevant topic to be honest. The same with the endometriosis.. it's something that is vital to be spoken about and awareness be raised but you can't just give a character a disease which they never had before...
But my main gripe..
What is with the continuity errors????!!!!!!!!!
Like seriously it's really really bad continuity stuff.. Shona was the youngest in the OG books, now she's the oldest.... How in the world did this happen???!!!!!
Maggie's siblings/family names are completely different.
Devlin's aunt was named Kate, not Frances.
This is really bad, on both Patricia and the publishers.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 27, 2025
Around 8 years’ ago, I picked up a book called ' City Girl’. I loved reading about Caroline, Maggie and Devlin over the years. I was thrilled to get a Netgalley preview of City Girls Forever. Patricia Scanlan has again woven her magic. The 'girls' are now navigating midlife and all of the trials and tribulations that it entails. The author has not shied away from
the more difficult subjects such as rape and struggles with endometriosis and its consequences. These women are not perfect but none of us are. But as a reader I identified with their struggles probably more so with Maggie, her mum, Nelsie and her awful brother, Tony. I rooted for her to finally find some time for herself as she seemed to be juggling so many balls and trying to look after everyone else but never getting time for herself. Without giving too much away, I wanted Caroline to get her happy ending as I felt she was so very lost. I just wanted Devlin to get the peace she needed and for her to finally heal. I'm not sure this is the last 'City Girl’ book but I would certainly love to read another. I simply love Patricia's style of writing. Warmth, kindness and humour just radiate from her books. Thank you again for the preview. I would recommend this as a wonderful, cosy read which definitely makes you smile and feel good, something which is needed right now.
the more difficult subjects such as rape and struggles with endometriosis and its consequences. These women are not perfect but none of us are. But as a reader I identified with their struggles probably more so with Maggie, her mum, Nelsie and her awful brother, Tony. I rooted for her to finally find some time for herself as she seemed to be juggling so many balls and trying to look after everyone else but never getting time for herself. Without giving too much away, I wanted Caroline to get her happy ending as I felt she was so very lost. I just wanted Devlin to get the peace she needed and for her to finally heal. I'm not sure this is the last 'City Girl’ book but I would certainly love to read another. I simply love Patricia's style of writing. Warmth, kindness and humour just radiate from her books. Thank you again for the preview. I would recommend this as a wonderful, cosy read which definitely makes you smile and feel good, something which is needed right now.
January 9, 2025
What a fabulous read. I thoroughly enjoyed every word.
City Girls Forever catches up with Devlin, Caroline and Maggie, some thirty years on from when we first met them in City Girl.
This book works perfectly well as a standalone read about the lives of three lifelong friends who have seen each other through thick and thin, through heartaches and joys, supporting and loving each other unconditionally for better and for worse. That said I've just indulged in the joy of re-reading all three of the previous books, City Girl, City Woman and City Lives and the four-part binge-read has been nothing short of exquisite.
Not only is this a tale of true friendships, but it also touches on some very serious issues, while at the same time, each book shines a light on some of the pertinent real-life issues affecting Ireland in the times in which they are set. From the Civic Centre in Dublin’s Wood Quay to the site of the new children’s hospital, they provide a modern history lesson.
I now have a huge City Girl shaped hole in my life and I'm feeling bereft to have left the ladies' company.
City Girls Forever catches up with Devlin, Caroline and Maggie, some thirty years on from when we first met them in City Girl.
This book works perfectly well as a standalone read about the lives of three lifelong friends who have seen each other through thick and thin, through heartaches and joys, supporting and loving each other unconditionally for better and for worse. That said I've just indulged in the joy of re-reading all three of the previous books, City Girl, City Woman and City Lives and the four-part binge-read has been nothing short of exquisite.
Not only is this a tale of true friendships, but it also touches on some very serious issues, while at the same time, each book shines a light on some of the pertinent real-life issues affecting Ireland in the times in which they are set. From the Civic Centre in Dublin’s Wood Quay to the site of the new children’s hospital, they provide a modern history lesson.
I now have a huge City Girl shaped hole in my life and I'm feeling bereft to have left the ladies' company.
November 20, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ City Girls Forever by Patricia Scanlon
I was about sixteen when I was first introduced to Patricia Scanlon’s books predominantly City Girls. I fell in love with Devlin, Caroline and Maggie and they became a part of my life. Reading this book gave me such nostalgic joy and brought me right back to my teenage years.
We rejoin the three girls as they battle new challenges and try to make sense of their lives. They reminisce over the last twenty years at their highs and lows and celebrate their wonderful friendship which is as strong as ever. Life is far from over for these three ladies. There is still so much they want to do.
I loved this book as much as every other Patricia Scanlon book. She is a truly exceptional writer in how she portrays these strong, powerful women. She invents the most loveable characters and ignites such warmth and joy in me with every word I read. Her characters are always so relatable and I love how she promotes other Irish authors, businesses, areas etc in the story. This is such a feel-good, cosy, easy book to read made even better in front of the fire with a hot chocolate.
Thank you so much to @netgalley for providing me with an ARC of this book in return for my honest review.
I was about sixteen when I was first introduced to Patricia Scanlon’s books predominantly City Girls. I fell in love with Devlin, Caroline and Maggie and they became a part of my life. Reading this book gave me such nostalgic joy and brought me right back to my teenage years.
We rejoin the three girls as they battle new challenges and try to make sense of their lives. They reminisce over the last twenty years at their highs and lows and celebrate their wonderful friendship which is as strong as ever. Life is far from over for these three ladies. There is still so much they want to do.
I loved this book as much as every other Patricia Scanlon book. She is a truly exceptional writer in how she portrays these strong, powerful women. She invents the most loveable characters and ignites such warmth and joy in me with every word I read. Her characters are always so relatable and I love how she promotes other Irish authors, businesses, areas etc in the story. This is such a feel-good, cosy, easy book to read made even better in front of the fire with a hot chocolate.
Thank you so much to @netgalley for providing me with an ARC of this book in return for my honest review.
May 19, 2025
l have to say l had preconceived ideas of how this book would pan out, based on that formula of book and l don't know why really but l expected it to be a bit twee and predictable but whilst it was a little l have to say l was really surprised. Patricia has a great book here, it's pace is great, the relationships great (here was where l found the predictably l expected, friends for life, having each others backs etc etc) and she gives even time to all 3 women, their other relationships and lives and weaves a great story which was always believable. She tackles the emotional, the physical, the spiritual and there is great humour here too. l loved Maggies relationship with her mother. The day she dropped her at her brothers house l lol. lt dips into the areas of elder abuse, teenage pregnancy, bulimia, alcoholism, endometriosis, infidelity, blended families, sexual abuse and more. So much going on but it all works beautifully and l literally could not put down. Highly recommend.
May 16, 2025
Patricia Scanlan has long been a favorite author of mine for years. I think I have read all her books. I re-read Francesca’s Party every year and read the City Girl books years ago so was thrilled to see another story about Devlin, Caroline and Maggie.
The girls are now middle-aged women, set in life but with some regrets as we all have. Devlin still has her wonderful business and wonderful husband, Caroline’s life is lonelier than she would like, but that could change and Maggie once again is traversing the trials and tribulations of a difficult family. It was lovely to visit the three again, like catching up with old friends. Though this book can be read as a stand alone do yourself a favor, read the series from the beginning. You will not regret it,
Thanks to Netgallely, Simon and Schuster UK and the author for the chance to read and review this ARC.
The girls are now middle-aged women, set in life but with some regrets as we all have. Devlin still has her wonderful business and wonderful husband, Caroline’s life is lonelier than she would like, but that could change and Maggie once again is traversing the trials and tribulations of a difficult family. It was lovely to visit the three again, like catching up with old friends. Though this book can be read as a stand alone do yourself a favor, read the series from the beginning. You will not regret it,
Thanks to Netgallely, Simon and Schuster UK and the author for the chance to read and review this ARC.
January 22, 2025
The return of the City Girls series see Devlin, Caroline and Maggie taking on middle age. Devlin's City Girl gym and spa is turning 35, but as she prepares to party, her past returns in a shocking way. Maggie is struggling with family problems, and Caroline is facing the fact she will never have the life she wanted.
It was lovely to revisit the characters I first read about many years ago. I'll admit I struggled with working out how old everyone was supposed to be, so I had to stop thinking too hard about it at times because some things didn't make sense in my head! I enjoyed the mix of happy, sad and amusing content, in the well written and easy to read style that you expect from a Patricia Scanlan novel. A good read.
It was lovely to revisit the characters I first read about many years ago. I'll admit I struggled with working out how old everyone was supposed to be, so I had to stop thinking too hard about it at times because some things didn't make sense in my head! I enjoyed the mix of happy, sad and amusing content, in the well written and easy to read style that you expect from a Patricia Scanlan novel. A good read.
January 6, 2025
How I loved catching up with Caroline, Devlin, and Maggie.
This is set many years later, and the women are now settled into their careers.
I loved how we were transported into each of their lives and all the events that unfolded. How they had each other's backs and supported one another. True friendship.There was certainly plenty going on. A wedding, a funeral, and a court case while dealing with the everyday family stuff.
I really didn't want this to ever end.
I'm hoping there may be another where we see the three women in their old age. You never know
Thanks to Netgalley and Simon and Schuster UK for the ARC in return for an honest review.
This is set many years later, and the women are now settled into their careers.
I loved how we were transported into each of their lives and all the events that unfolded. How they had each other's backs and supported one another. True friendship.There was certainly plenty going on. A wedding, a funeral, and a court case while dealing with the everyday family stuff.
I really didn't want this to ever end.
I'm hoping there may be another where we see the three women in their old age. You never know
Thanks to Netgalley and Simon and Schuster UK for the ARC in return for an honest review.
January 26, 2025
The girls are back in town.
How great it was to catch up with Devlin, Caroline and Maggie again. Fans of Patricia Scanlon will be delighted to reacquaint themselves with the feisty ladies and to see how life has been treating them. Older yes, wiser yes, but still ready to take on the world if needs be. Having grown up with these girls it’s great to find out how life has evolved for them, the good the bad and the ugly. . I think long time fans will not be disappointed and new readers will be ordering the back catalogue to get to know these ladies better.
For me this is a 4.5 ⭐️book.
Many thanks to #NetGalley and #simonschusterUK for my ARC of this great book
April 10, 2025
🎧 OMG Patricia Scanlan never lost it! I’ve loved her books from a young age and this one didn’t disappoint. It had it all - family, relationships, friendships along with life’s up and downs. I loved the characters especially Devlin, Caroline and Maggie and all that comes with them. I’m not going to lie I’ve laughed, cried and fell apart through this one so buckle up as this one brings you on a journey. I especially loved this one on audio and Caroline Lennon did a fantastic job on the narration. Scanlan deals with many relevant topics within this read and does it really well. If you’re a fan of Patricia Scanlan you need to read this one but prepare to feel all the emotions. LOVED IT 🥰…
May 9, 2025
I really enjoyed City Girls Forever. Patricia Scanlan has a way of pulling you into the lives of her characters—you feel like you’re right there with them in Dublin, navigating all the ups and downs. I got really caught up in Devlin, Caroline, Maggie, and Laura’s stories. Each of them is dealing with something so different, but their friendship (and drama!) ties it all together.
There were moments where things felt a bit drawn out or predictable, but I didn’t mind too much—I was happy to be along for the ride. If you enjoy stories about strong female friendships, messy relationships, and personal growth, this is a cozy, satisfying read
There were moments where things felt a bit drawn out or predictable, but I didn’t mind too much—I was happy to be along for the ride. If you enjoy stories about strong female friendships, messy relationships, and personal growth, this is a cozy, satisfying read
February 23, 2025
Wow, I remember reading and enjoying the original trilogy many years ago, so was very intrigued to see this pop up, and what a great book it is too, bringing back all the old characters, now 30 years later.
You don't need to have read the original books, but if you have it will be more enjoyable and although I haven't read them for years ( I have them on my bookshelf), I still remembered the gist of them and remember them very fondly.
City Girls Forever is a great book very well written by Patricia Scanlan - a joy to read and hear more about Devlin, Caroline and Maggie!!
You don't need to have read the original books, but if you have it will be more enjoyable and although I haven't read them for years ( I have them on my bookshelf), I still remembered the gist of them and remember them very fondly.
City Girls Forever is a great book very well written by Patricia Scanlan - a joy to read and hear more about Devlin, Caroline and Maggie!!
March 6, 2025
#CityGirlsForever #NetGalley How great to catch up with the girls again!! I read the original trilogy many years ago and it was so lovely to catch up with Devlin, Maggie and Caroline all these years later. Although related to the previous trilogy it is perfectly capable of being read as a stand alone although if you haven't read the originals, please do - if you enjoyed this book you wont be disappointed. Superbly written by Patricia Scanlan, there is a perfect mix of laughter and tears. A great read
March 19, 2025
This is such a gorgeous heartwarming read from Patricia Scanlan. The support given and received by the three women and the longevity of their friendship is wonderful. They’ve been there for each other over so many years and through so many trials and tribulations.
Patricia Scanlan has a way of writing that invites you into the story - you feel invested in the women’s stories and feel every emotion they go through. Their thoughts and feelings captured at every stage of their stories.
The stories reflect their lives and loves and each of the women demonstrate their strength and bravery to live life to the full.
TW alert. Assault mentioned but handled sensitively
Patricia Scanlan has a way of writing that invites you into the story - you feel invested in the women’s stories and feel every emotion they go through. Their thoughts and feelings captured at every stage of their stories.
The stories reflect their lives and loves and each of the women demonstrate their strength and bravery to live life to the full.
TW alert. Assault mentioned but handled sensitively
April 25, 2025
Many readers will know Patricia Scanlan, a legend of Irish fiction whose writing career stretches well over three decades.
She pioneered women’s fiction when City Girl and its sequels were released. Now she’s back and better than ever with the long-awaited fourth instalment in the series.
City Girls Forever reintroduces readers to Scanlan’s iconic trio — Devlin, Caroline, and Maggie — for the first time in over 25 years.
Read my full review for the Irish Examiner here:
https://www.irishexaminer.com/lifesty...
She pioneered women’s fiction when City Girl and its sequels were released. Now she’s back and better than ever with the long-awaited fourth instalment in the series.
City Girls Forever reintroduces readers to Scanlan’s iconic trio — Devlin, Caroline, and Maggie — for the first time in over 25 years.
Read my full review for the Irish Examiner here:
https://www.irishexaminer.com/lifesty...
August 13, 2025
Brilliant
What a brilliant catch up story with City Girls Forever. I read The City Girls series a few years ago and so loved each book. Thanks Patricia for writing this book and reintroducing us to the Girls. I was so excited when saw this follow up new book with the Girls on kindle. Memories came flooding back. Would so recommend whole series of City Girls to any reader. I have read all your books now. Hope you have another coming soon.
What a brilliant catch up story with City Girls Forever. I read The City Girls series a few years ago and so loved each book. Thanks Patricia for writing this book and reintroducing us to the Girls. I was so excited when saw this follow up new book with the Girls on kindle. Memories came flooding back. Would so recommend whole series of City Girls to any reader. I have read all your books now. Hope you have another coming soon.
May 20, 2025
Too many continuity errors
I enjoyed catching up with Devlin, Maggie and Caroline after having read the City Girl series when it was first published.
The continuity errors were very off putting making the book not as enjoyable as I'd hoped.
Worth a read if you are new to City Girl.
I enjoyed catching up with Devlin, Maggie and Caroline after having read the City Girl series when it was first published.
The continuity errors were very off putting making the book not as enjoyable as I'd hoped.
Worth a read if you are new to City Girl.
January 17, 2025
A fabulous book taking us back to the lives of The City Girls.
Set in Dublin it follows the firm friends Maggie, Caroline and Devilin. Now in their 50s they are still firm friends.
A lovely cozy read set in one of my beautiful favourite places.
Set in Dublin it follows the firm friends Maggie, Caroline and Devilin. Now in their 50s they are still firm friends.
A lovely cozy read set in one of my beautiful favourite places.
March 23, 2025
Patricia Scanlon really fueled my love of reading in my late teens and early twenties with The City Girl books and Foreign Affairs. Picking up the City Girls series so many years later is like coming back to a warm hug. So comforting. An easy but satisfying read.
March 23, 2025
Nicola’s review
Patricia has done herself proud at writing this novel. I finished reading it in 4 days flat! It flows really well and it’s nice and gal pally. I found it easy to envisage the scenes. There’s lots of events and travelling in it.
Patricia has done herself proud at writing this novel. I finished reading it in 4 days flat! It flows really well and it’s nice and gal pally. I found it easy to envisage the scenes. There’s lots of events and travelling in it.
March 30, 2025
I devoured this in a weekend. Great to get back to the world of Dev, Maggie and Caroline. I had all the feels and emotions whilst immersed in the adventures of the ladies. It was like catching up with old friends. Great to have another Patricia Scanlan book to read. I'm only sad I've finished it!
May 7, 2025
Been a great fan of these three girls for many years and read the other books several times. Their friendship is always heartwarming and this hook doesn’t disappoint at all. Really easy read, would definitely recommend
May 19, 2025
Was so looking forward to this to see what had become
of Devlin, Caroline and Maggie. The storyline is good but the link back to the original storyline is not. A lot of inconsistencies which was both disappointing and frustrating.
of Devlin, Caroline and Maggie. The storyline is good but the link back to the original storyline is not. A lot of inconsistencies which was both disappointing and frustrating.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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