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The Autumn of Ruth Winters
8 hours, 17 minutes
In this heartwarming story about second acts and second chances, a no-nonsense retiree, very much set in her ways, must learn to adapt and make peace with her past in order to build a fulfilling future.
Ruth Winters is retired, widowed, and resigned to spending the rest of her life alone in her suburban home. She likes her routine and uses it to avoid having to spend time with other people. She probably wouldn’t call herself fulfilled, but it’s too late now to go chasing happiness.
Then three things happen at a beloved niece makes a big announcement, an old flame reaches out, and her estranged sister receives life-changing news. Ruth finds herself reconnecting with people she thought were long gone from her world, as she is forced to reconsider her expectations for this phase of her life.
None of this fits into Ruth’s routine—in fact, the whole thing just blows to bits. But when Ruth starts to pick up the pieces, she discovers that maybe it’s not too late to make something new after all.
In this heartwarming story about second acts and second chances, a no-nonsense retiree, very much set in her ways, must learn to adapt and make peace with her past in order to build a fulfilling future.
Ruth Winters is retired, widowed, and resigned to spending the rest of her life alone in her suburban home. She likes her routine and uses it to avoid having to spend time with other people. She probably wouldn’t call herself fulfilled, but it’s too late now to go chasing happiness.
Then three things happen at a beloved niece makes a big announcement, an old flame reaches out, and her estranged sister receives life-changing news. Ruth finds herself reconnecting with people she thought were long gone from her world, as she is forced to reconsider her expectations for this phase of her life.
None of this fits into Ruth’s routine—in fact, the whole thing just blows to bits. But when Ruth starts to pick up the pieces, she discovers that maybe it’s not too late to make something new after all.
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First published November 5, 2024
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About the author
Marshall Fine
12 books62 followersMarshall Fine is an author, journalist, critic, historian, and filmmaker.
His first novel, "The Autumn of Ruth Winters," will be published by Lake Union Press in November 2024.
His second novel, "Clara’s Girl," was recently purchased by Lake Union Press, to be published in the fall of 2025.
Fine is the author of three biographies: "Bloody Sam: The Life and Films of Sam Peckinpah" (1991); "Harvey Keitel: The Art of Darkness" (1998); and "Accidental Genius: How John Cassavetes Invented the American Independent Film" (2006).
Fine started writing rock criticism for the Minneapolis Star at the age of 18, beginning a journalism career that covered a half-century. He spent 25 years as film critic and entertainment writer for Gannett Newspapers and another 10 as film/TV critic for Star magazine. He wrote the website Hollywood & Fine.com from 2008-16.
His writing has appeared in the Los Angeles Times, New York Daily News, USA Today, New York Observer, Variety, Premiere, Cosmopolitan, Sports Illustrated, Penthouse, Indiewire.com and Entertainment Weekly. He conducted the Playboy Interview with both Howard Stern and Tim Robbins, and wrote more than two dozen cover stories for Cigar Aficionado as contributing editor.
Fine is a four-time former chairman (1992, 2002, 2006, 2015) and member emeritus of the New York Film Critics Circle. He was named general manager of the NYFCC in 2016 and retired from the position in 2021. He received a special award from the group in 2022 for "service to the group and his many decades on the New York film scene."
After 20 years of programming and hosting subscription film clubs at four different venues in the New York area, he retired in May 2021 as critic-in-residence at The Picture House in Pelham, NY, where he created its sold-out film club. He received the Harold Lloyd Lifetime Achievement Award from The Picture House in 2021.
Fine spent the 2020-21 academic year as an adjunct journalism professor at Purchase College-SUNY.
He directed and produced the documentary features "Robert Klein Still Can’t Stop His Leg" and "Do You Sleep in the Nude?", and the short documentary, "Flo Fox’s Dicthology."
His photography show, “Natural & Unnatural,” was exhibited in the Ossining Public Library Gallery in January 2023.
His first novel, "The Autumn of Ruth Winters," will be published by Lake Union Press in November 2024.
His second novel, "Clara’s Girl," was recently purchased by Lake Union Press, to be published in the fall of 2025.
Fine is the author of three biographies: "Bloody Sam: The Life and Films of Sam Peckinpah" (1991); "Harvey Keitel: The Art of Darkness" (1998); and "Accidental Genius: How John Cassavetes Invented the American Independent Film" (2006).
Fine started writing rock criticism for the Minneapolis Star at the age of 18, beginning a journalism career that covered a half-century. He spent 25 years as film critic and entertainment writer for Gannett Newspapers and another 10 as film/TV critic for Star magazine. He wrote the website Hollywood & Fine.com from 2008-16.
His writing has appeared in the Los Angeles Times, New York Daily News, USA Today, New York Observer, Variety, Premiere, Cosmopolitan, Sports Illustrated, Penthouse, Indiewire.com and Entertainment Weekly. He conducted the Playboy Interview with both Howard Stern and Tim Robbins, and wrote more than two dozen cover stories for Cigar Aficionado as contributing editor.
Fine is a four-time former chairman (1992, 2002, 2006, 2015) and member emeritus of the New York Film Critics Circle. He was named general manager of the NYFCC in 2016 and retired from the position in 2021. He received a special award from the group in 2022 for "service to the group and his many decades on the New York film scene."
After 20 years of programming and hosting subscription film clubs at four different venues in the New York area, he retired in May 2021 as critic-in-residence at The Picture House in Pelham, NY, where he created its sold-out film club. He received the Harold Lloyd Lifetime Achievement Award from The Picture House in 2021.
Fine spent the 2020-21 academic year as an adjunct journalism professor at Purchase College-SUNY.
He directed and produced the documentary features "Robert Klein Still Can’t Stop His Leg" and "Do You Sleep in the Nude?", and the short documentary, "Flo Fox’s Dicthology."
His photography show, “Natural & Unnatural,” was exhibited in the Ossining Public Library Gallery in January 2023.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 615 reviews
September 27, 2024
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I love books about ordinary people doing ordinary things. I didn't like Ruth Winters very much at first but as she grew as a person she grew on me. (you are never too old to change) Ruth has had a lot of trauma in her life and her relationship with her younger sister, Veronica has suffered because of it. When Veronica becomes ill and needs Ruth for rides to her doctor appointments the two start on a journey of forgiveness.
During this time Ruth's fiftieth high school reunion is coming up and an old school chum she went on a date with once contacts her. I loved reading about Ruth acting like a teenager and trying on clothes getting giddy for her date. It was so charming when she and her sister acted like the young girls they used to be.
I am so into books about other people's family drama and once again I find myself loving a book with realistic, older characters. And even though Ruth has to deal with her sister's illness this was still a feel-good story in the end. A story about a second chance at love, loss, family and teaching an old dog new tricks and one that deserves all the stars.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the Advance Readers Copy.
The Book Review Crew Blog
I love books about ordinary people doing ordinary things. I didn't like Ruth Winters very much at first but as she grew as a person she grew on me. (you are never too old to change) Ruth has had a lot of trauma in her life and her relationship with her younger sister, Veronica has suffered because of it. When Veronica becomes ill and needs Ruth for rides to her doctor appointments the two start on a journey of forgiveness.
During this time Ruth's fiftieth high school reunion is coming up and an old school chum she went on a date with once contacts her. I loved reading about Ruth acting like a teenager and trying on clothes getting giddy for her date. It was so charming when she and her sister acted like the young girls they used to be.
I am so into books about other people's family drama and once again I find myself loving a book with realistic, older characters. And even though Ruth has to deal with her sister's illness this was still a feel-good story in the end. A story about a second chance at love, loss, family and teaching an old dog new tricks and one that deserves all the stars.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the Advance Readers Copy.
January 17, 2025
"In this heartwarming story about second acts and second chances, a no-nonsense retiree, very much set in her ways, must learn to adapt and make peace with her past in order to build a fulfilling future."
The Autumns of Ruth Winters does not come with a mystery or suspense, but a heartwarming understanding of life alone. Ruth retired unwillingly when her company she was with for 40 years just let her go. Her husband died 20 years ago, but so much more has changed her direction in life. When she was in college, her parents were in a car accident. Her mother died and her father was incapable of caring for himself and she unselfishly took care of him in their home and canceled her own plans. Her bitterness comes from her sister's choices, Veronica who went on with her life without a glance back to their father or Ruth.
Ruth was way behind on technology, as simple as using a cell phone, but her simplicity and content in life makes me want to throw my phone away.
Everything is about to change when she gets a call from her sister for her help. Veronica has cancer and needs Ruth's help getting her to her appointments for chemotherapy. Then, a high school flame, Martin, calls her to invite her to eat and go to their 50th high school reunion. Then, her niece, Chloe wants her to be her unborn baby's Godmother.
It is a heartwarming story about second chances and finding peace in your life, as well as forgiveness to let go of the past and move forward. I enjoyed it and Ruth's ordinary life.
The narrator Joyce Bean did an excellent job portraying Ruth's voice.
The Autumns of Ruth Winters does not come with a mystery or suspense, but a heartwarming understanding of life alone. Ruth retired unwillingly when her company she was with for 40 years just let her go. Her husband died 20 years ago, but so much more has changed her direction in life. When she was in college, her parents were in a car accident. Her mother died and her father was incapable of caring for himself and she unselfishly took care of him in their home and canceled her own plans. Her bitterness comes from her sister's choices, Veronica who went on with her life without a glance back to their father or Ruth.
Ruth was way behind on technology, as simple as using a cell phone, but her simplicity and content in life makes me want to throw my phone away.
Everything is about to change when she gets a call from her sister for her help. Veronica has cancer and needs Ruth's help getting her to her appointments for chemotherapy. Then, a high school flame, Martin, calls her to invite her to eat and go to their 50th high school reunion. Then, her niece, Chloe wants her to be her unborn baby's Godmother.
It is a heartwarming story about second chances and finding peace in your life, as well as forgiveness to let go of the past and move forward. I enjoyed it and Ruth's ordinary life.
The narrator Joyce Bean did an excellent job portraying Ruth's voice.
November 10, 2024
I'm giving this book 5 stars because I've finally found a book I can relate to. From the first pages, I felt as if I was reading about myself.
Ruth is not a spring chicken. Most of her life is already behind her. She is heading towards her remaining years with acceptance and calm resignation. When she was young she had a clear idea about her future. But then life happened and she had to do what she had to do. Being socially awkward by nature, over time Ruth grew even more withdrawn from her surroundings, lonelier, and more reserved. Ruth receives devastating news about her sister, with whom she has not a very friendly relationship, and an invitation to a school reunion. This will turn Ruth's world upside down and make her realize that her life is not lost.
This is a beautiful story about family, forgiveness, second chances, love and life. Because we have far less control over our lives than we think. Every child wants to be a doctor, an astronaut, a famous singer, etc. But someone has to make and sell shoes, bake bread, paint our house, write a good book and sell it well. Not living your dream doesn't make you less successful, it can make you unhappy if you let it happen. This impacts your family in one way or another. Ruth and her sister Veronica spent most of their lives hating each other for all the wrong reasons. If only they talked sooner.
Beautiful story, real-like relatable characters, well-paced, believable. All of this is sprinkled with tenderness and understanding.
Go and hug someone.
Ruth is not a spring chicken. Most of her life is already behind her. She is heading towards her remaining years with acceptance and calm resignation. When she was young she had a clear idea about her future. But then life happened and she had to do what she had to do. Being socially awkward by nature, over time Ruth grew even more withdrawn from her surroundings, lonelier, and more reserved. Ruth receives devastating news about her sister, with whom she has not a very friendly relationship, and an invitation to a school reunion. This will turn Ruth's world upside down and make her realize that her life is not lost.
This is a beautiful story about family, forgiveness, second chances, love and life. Because we have far less control over our lives than we think. Every child wants to be a doctor, an astronaut, a famous singer, etc. But someone has to make and sell shoes, bake bread, paint our house, write a good book and sell it well. Not living your dream doesn't make you less successful, it can make you unhappy if you let it happen. This impacts your family in one way or another. Ruth and her sister Veronica spent most of their lives hating each other for all the wrong reasons. If only they talked sooner.
Beautiful story, real-like relatable characters, well-paced, believable. All of this is sprinkled with tenderness and understanding.
Go and hug someone.
August 24, 2024
Ruth Winters is a woman who likes things the way that they are, she doesn’t like change just for the sake of something different, she likes having a routine, and she sticks to that routine, unless it is unavoidable. She’s retired, and spends most of her days with the children that she babysits. She is content with her life as it is, and doesn’t need a man.
Trauma touched her life when she was younger, her parents were in a car accident, which left her to care for her father in the years that followed, while her younger sister, Veronica, went off to live her life, marrying when she was in college. A distance between them followed.
When Veronica calls her, asking her a favor after all these years, Ruth is both surprised and somewhat reticent. After all, they haven’t been in touch for ages, and Ruth seems to be very set in her ways. But even though so many years have passed, she is a bit hesitant, but hopeful this reunion will change things for the better.
A story of family, love, loss, and finding a path through it all.
Pub Date: 05 Nov 2024
Many thanks for the ARC provided by Lake Union Publishing
January 28, 2025
Ruth Winters may think it's all behind her (life, that is), and going through the motions is all that is ahead, but readers are provided a first-hand view of her very different future. Surprises for this unemployed widow retired by her employer's choice rather than her own come from circumstance upon circumstance. Each leaves its mark on grumpy and curmudgeonly Ruth who knows how to hold grudges and remember the slights of life. Every day presents anew, spreading out experiences uninteresting, dismaying, not at all in her set of preferences, which are hard, stinky and hairy as well. A few compromises occur that are bearable. Some are deal breakers - no loss (nothing much to lose). Oh, and all uncomfortable. But after all, who likes to be uncomfortable?? Not Ruth. She's got a routine and standards higher than most; expectations lower than most.
The entire well-told tale reminds, recommends and even gives pushy nudges to take down barriers, and reconcile old grudges, defuse toxic feuds. To convince stubborn hearts into which we often stuff feelings to instead try out a teachable, open-hearted approach as we greet each new day. The implied promise is that we will find, like Ruth, our own senses spring forth newly recognized, we are overcome by comforts long forgotten, and the astonishing surprise that many of our earliest dreams are never lost and, better yet, are flexible and ageless.
All the stars to Marshall Fine (and his Fine Writing) and grand narrating by Joyce Bean.
*A sincere thank you to Marshall Fine, Lake Union Publishing, and NetGalley for an ARC to read and review independently.* 25|52:8a
The entire well-told tale reminds, recommends and even gives pushy nudges to take down barriers, and reconcile old grudges, defuse toxic feuds. To convince stubborn hearts into which we often stuff feelings to instead try out a teachable, open-hearted approach as we greet each new day. The implied promise is that we will find, like Ruth, our own senses spring forth newly recognized, we are overcome by comforts long forgotten, and the astonishing surprise that many of our earliest dreams are never lost and, better yet, are flexible and ageless.
All the stars to Marshall Fine (and his Fine Writing) and grand narrating by Joyce Bean.
*A sincere thank you to Marshall Fine, Lake Union Publishing, and NetGalley for an ARC to read and review independently.* 25|52:8a
August 19, 2024
Ruth is a widow who has been made redundant and spends her days babysitting other people’s small children.
She is set in her ways and does not like anything to change her routine.
When her estranged younger sister reaches out for her help Ruth is not happy and feels that she is being used but she decides to go along with it anyway.
I really enjoyed this book and though Ruth was a great character
A feel good story about second chances.
Thank you to NetGalley and Lake Union Publishing for my e- copy in exchange for an honest review.
She is set in her ways and does not like anything to change her routine.
When her estranged younger sister reaches out for her help Ruth is not happy and feels that she is being used but she decides to go along with it anyway.
I really enjoyed this book and though Ruth was a great character
A feel good story about second chances.
Thank you to NetGalley and Lake Union Publishing for my e- copy in exchange for an honest review.
November 28, 2024
The Autumn Of Ruth Winters is the first book by award-winning American journalist, critic, filmmaker and author, Marshall Fine. At nearly seventy, Ruth Winters has resigned herself to a dull and lonely old age: she missed out on the career she dearly wanted due to family obligations; after a lacklustre marriage that left her poorer in several ways when it ended, she has been widowed for twenty years; and in the last year, she was made redundant by her employer of thirty-seven years, forcing her to babysit neighbourhood children to make ends meet (the silver lining? The kids are a delight, the one thing that takes the resting scowl from her face).
The call from her niece, Chloe is a lovely surprise: will Ruth consent to become the godmother to the baby she is expecting? The call from her younger sister, Veronica, a woman who carried entitlement to a new level, is not welcome, asking a favour after she and Ruth have not spoken for a year. The letter from Martin Daly in Denver is a blast from the past: the insolent, rebellious, smart-mouthed, bright-but-underachieving classmate from her last year of high school, who was able to make her laugh, and took her on a date, just the once.
Chloe is able to convince her aunt that she’s the right person to be a godmother, and the idea that it will annoy her sister tips the balance. Veronica informs Ruth that she has liver cancer and needs Ruth to drive her to a chemotherapy session, something that sees Ruth trying to balance her decades-long resentment with obligation. Martin’s letter tries to interest her in attending the fifty-year high school reunion: no thanks!
A chat with the neighbour who is the closest Ruth has to a friend has her recalling the numerous incidents that have put her at odds with her sister, but also her late mother’s reminder that she only has one sister. Ruth grudgingly acquiesces to helping out, and is shocked at Veronica’s appearance. Ruth is also surprised that Veronica brings up all these contentious instances, and sincerely apologises.
Meanwhile, Ruth’s polite rejection of the reunion invitation does nothing to daunt Martin’s entreaties: could they at least meet and catch up while he is in town?
Fine gives the reader a wonderfully moving tale whose protagonist holds a grudge that seems quite justified for over fifty years, clinging to her routine until events conspire to force a new configuration of her life. Both the dying sister and the reunion prompt reminiscences that Ruth initially resists, until she simply cannot. Fine’s story demonstrates that it’s never too late to forgive, to love, and to do what you really want. More from Marshall Fine is most welcome!
This unbiased review is from an uncorrected proof copy provided by NetGalley and Lake Union Publishing.
The call from her niece, Chloe is a lovely surprise: will Ruth consent to become the godmother to the baby she is expecting? The call from her younger sister, Veronica, a woman who carried entitlement to a new level, is not welcome, asking a favour after she and Ruth have not spoken for a year. The letter from Martin Daly in Denver is a blast from the past: the insolent, rebellious, smart-mouthed, bright-but-underachieving classmate from her last year of high school, who was able to make her laugh, and took her on a date, just the once.
Chloe is able to convince her aunt that she’s the right person to be a godmother, and the idea that it will annoy her sister tips the balance. Veronica informs Ruth that she has liver cancer and needs Ruth to drive her to a chemotherapy session, something that sees Ruth trying to balance her decades-long resentment with obligation. Martin’s letter tries to interest her in attending the fifty-year high school reunion: no thanks!
A chat with the neighbour who is the closest Ruth has to a friend has her recalling the numerous incidents that have put her at odds with her sister, but also her late mother’s reminder that she only has one sister. Ruth grudgingly acquiesces to helping out, and is shocked at Veronica’s appearance. Ruth is also surprised that Veronica brings up all these contentious instances, and sincerely apologises.
Meanwhile, Ruth’s polite rejection of the reunion invitation does nothing to daunt Martin’s entreaties: could they at least meet and catch up while he is in town?
Fine gives the reader a wonderfully moving tale whose protagonist holds a grudge that seems quite justified for over fifty years, clinging to her routine until events conspire to force a new configuration of her life. Both the dying sister and the reunion prompt reminiscences that Ruth initially resists, until she simply cannot. Fine’s story demonstrates that it’s never too late to forgive, to love, and to do what you really want. More from Marshall Fine is most welcome!
This unbiased review is from an uncorrected proof copy provided by NetGalley and Lake Union Publishing.
June 29, 2024
Ruth Winters doesn’t like change, thank you very much. Widowed 20 years, she babysits and lives a small life. This book is about the autumn of her life, reconnecting with her sister, who left her to care for their ailing father after Ruth graduated. Ruth believes the right thing is always the hardest thing to do.
It’s a character study of an introverted, rigid, empath. Ruth is really devoted to the stories she has about herself, and over the course of the story, little by little, these start allowing her to finally grow. She even attends her 50 year reunion.
It is a quick read, not triggering, but not what I would call heartwarming, it lacks the emotion for that. I found myself rooting for Ruth, but didn’t find myself terribly invested in any other characters.
A solid effort for a debut novelist.
Thanks to NetGalley and Lake Union Publishing for the ARC.
Book will be released November 4, 2024.
It’s a character study of an introverted, rigid, empath. Ruth is really devoted to the stories she has about herself, and over the course of the story, little by little, these start allowing her to finally grow. She even attends her 50 year reunion.
It is a quick read, not triggering, but not what I would call heartwarming, it lacks the emotion for that. I found myself rooting for Ruth, but didn’t find myself terribly invested in any other characters.
A solid effort for a debut novelist.
Thanks to NetGalley and Lake Union Publishing for the ARC.
Book will be released November 4, 2024.
January 4, 2025
3 stars. I’m a bit of an outlier it looks like, this ended up being too depressing for me and didn’t really have enough of a payoff at the end. The majority of the book is focused on the miserable life the MC had and then it’s a sudden ramp up to joy but with no actual internal work to explain why.
Ruth Winters is a widow who has slowly been cut off from the world. Her parents and husband are dead, her sister is estranged and she has been laid off. When her sister calls asking for a favor it opens the floodgates to reminiscing over how she was wronged but also finally allows for the healing she needs.
I kept hoping that the reason Ruth’s sister was so terrible was because Ruth misunderstood her. However when I realized she was just an incredibly selfish person, I just couldn’t get behind the redemption arc for her. In general I had problems with the low level of introspection and development for both sisters and I never got the warm fuzzy feeling I usually get in stories like this
Ruth Winters is a widow who has slowly been cut off from the world. Her parents and husband are dead, her sister is estranged and she has been laid off. When her sister calls asking for a favor it opens the floodgates to reminiscing over how she was wronged but also finally allows for the healing she needs.
I kept hoping that the reason Ruth’s sister was so terrible was because Ruth misunderstood her. However when I realized she was just an incredibly selfish person, I just couldn’t get behind the redemption arc for her. In general I had problems with the low level of introspection and development for both sisters and I never got the warm fuzzy feeling I usually get in stories like this
November 14, 2024
I enjoyed Marshall Finds debut. It’s a story of misunderstandings, sister love, forgiveness, second chances and hope. Ruth Winters is 70 and set in her ways. The author shows us how strong the bond is between sisters and how we can change our ways with love and help from our friends.
February 10, 2025
As an outlier to the others who have read this, I found it depressing
There was so much unhappiness through most of this book, I found it depressing to read. By the 50% mark I was about to abandon it but instead, sped read through the rest of it. Ruth’s life was explained in tedious detail but more time was spent discussing how much she and her sister hated one another and how many trials and tribulations Ruth stoically endured for her entire life than the tiny bits of happiness found. There was a bit of happiness and reconciliation between sisters at the end, helped along perhaps by medical marijuana because of Veronica’s illness. Then at the very end there’s the hint of what maybe, maybe might be an elder romance in the future. Two little nuggets. I’m an elder myself, in my 70s so you might think this would resonate with me but it mostly dulled my brain. I need more than the recounting of a woman’s unhappy life to merit more stars.
There was so much unhappiness through most of this book, I found it depressing to read. By the 50% mark I was about to abandon it but instead, sped read through the rest of it. Ruth’s life was explained in tedious detail but more time was spent discussing how much she and her sister hated one another and how many trials and tribulations Ruth stoically endured for her entire life than the tiny bits of happiness found. There was a bit of happiness and reconciliation between sisters at the end, helped along perhaps by medical marijuana because of Veronica’s illness. Then at the very end there’s the hint of what maybe, maybe might be an elder romance in the future. Two little nuggets. I’m an elder myself, in my 70s so you might think this would resonate with me but it mostly dulled my brain. I need more than the recounting of a woman’s unhappy life to merit more stars.
October 19, 2024
Lately, there seems to be an abundance of books on the market featuring “older” main characters. Maybe they have always been there, but I’m noticing them more because I am now becoming “older” myself. Conundrum!
This is Ruth's story. You could call it her “coming of age” story even though that term usually applies to a young person coming into adulthood. Ruth, a retired lady, has led a very straight, structured life. She is not social at all. She only speaks when she has to. She lives by her own rules. She is quite introverted. But, she's not unhappy. This is just her life. She doesn't want to call attention to herself. She has aged out of her job that she held for 40 years as a bookkeeper.
As usual in this trope, the transformation starts. It's fun to watch Ruth's personality and life change. She is a likeable woman, to begin with, but she discovers that life can be a social experience. She discovers emotion. She discovers fun. Ruth is surprised to discover that she is enjoying herself.
There is a a more serious portion of the story, involving a sister, with whom Ruth has had a contentious relationship for many years.
I really enjoyed this book. The only criticism I might give is that once the transformation of Ruth started, it happened very quickly, instead of gradually, which would have been more realistic. But, I can choose the believe that this social persona was just under the surface of Ruth's psyche, just waiting to burst forth. It's never too late for second chances.
Entertaining and fun read.
Thank you to NetGalley and the Publisher for the Advance Readers Copy.
This is Ruth's story. You could call it her “coming of age” story even though that term usually applies to a young person coming into adulthood. Ruth, a retired lady, has led a very straight, structured life. She is not social at all. She only speaks when she has to. She lives by her own rules. She is quite introverted. But, she's not unhappy. This is just her life. She doesn't want to call attention to herself. She has aged out of her job that she held for 40 years as a bookkeeper.
As usual in this trope, the transformation starts. It's fun to watch Ruth's personality and life change. She is a likeable woman, to begin with, but she discovers that life can be a social experience. She discovers emotion. She discovers fun. Ruth is surprised to discover that she is enjoying herself.
There is a a more serious portion of the story, involving a sister, with whom Ruth has had a contentious relationship for many years.
I really enjoyed this book. The only criticism I might give is that once the transformation of Ruth started, it happened very quickly, instead of gradually, which would have been more realistic. But, I can choose the believe that this social persona was just under the surface of Ruth's psyche, just waiting to burst forth. It's never too late for second chances.
Entertaining and fun read.
Thank you to NetGalley and the Publisher for the Advance Readers Copy.
November 4, 2024
Ruth Winters is a woman who’s become accustomed to her life as it is. A widow who devoted much of her young adult life to caring for her father, she worked as a book-keeper for decades and is now - after being laid off - babysitting for children in the neighbourhood. Ruth has a difficult relationship with her younger sister, and first impressions heavily suggest Ruth is on the autistic spectrum.
The phrase ‘an odd duck’ is made for Ruth, but her bluntness and thought process as she navigates the world around her made her a more sympathetic character than you might imagine.
The book follows Ruth as she reconnects with her sister and finds herself starting to embrace small changes. Through her growing interactions we get more of a sense of her personality. I couldn’t quite get my head around how old she was, but it was hard not to find yourself drawn to Ruth. A feel-good story about family, second chances and finding the courage to move out of your comfort zone.
Thanks to NetGalley for giving me the chance to read and review this.
The phrase ‘an odd duck’ is made for Ruth, but her bluntness and thought process as she navigates the world around her made her a more sympathetic character than you might imagine.
The book follows Ruth as she reconnects with her sister and finds herself starting to embrace small changes. Through her growing interactions we get more of a sense of her personality. I couldn’t quite get my head around how old she was, but it was hard not to find yourself drawn to Ruth. A feel-good story about family, second chances and finding the courage to move out of your comfort zone.
Thanks to NetGalley for giving me the chance to read and review this.
August 4, 2024
(3.5 stars!)
Reminiscent of reads like A Man Called Ove, The Autumn of Ruth Winters follows a no nonsense retiree who finds in grief and second chances a new lease on life.
This was a fine read. I enjoyed Ruth and the premise overall. Although it's unfortunate how long it took, I'm glad Ruth could move past old hurts and begin truly enjoying herself and her life.
I will say I struggled with some parts of this read. It felt pretty obvious this was written by a man. It also lacked a level of emotion and nuance I expected given the premise and concepts presented. With a doubt, I rooted for Ruth, but there was a disconnect. The ending was also a bit abrupt. Felt like we focused more on the past when I would've preferred a more elongated ending as a trade off.
Overall, a nice quick contemporary fiction read. Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for my advance copy in exchange for my honest review.
Reminiscent of reads like A Man Called Ove, The Autumn of Ruth Winters follows a no nonsense retiree who finds in grief and second chances a new lease on life.
This was a fine read. I enjoyed Ruth and the premise overall. Although it's unfortunate how long it took, I'm glad Ruth could move past old hurts and begin truly enjoying herself and her life.
I will say I struggled with some parts of this read. It felt pretty obvious this was written by a man. It also lacked a level of emotion and nuance I expected given the premise and concepts presented. With a doubt, I rooted for Ruth, but there was a disconnect. The ending was also a bit abrupt. Felt like we focused more on the past when I would've preferred a more elongated ending as a trade off.
Overall, a nice quick contemporary fiction read. Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for my advance copy in exchange for my honest review.
March 4, 2025
Being young can be difficult. Being old can be difficult too. Marshall Fine does a remarkable job of exploring how we perceive the time between childhood and the autumn of life. For the most part the story takes us through the layers of how a person develops the view of themselves, (right or wrong) and how others view them. Through Ruth's life we see how easy easy it is to rationalize choices in the name of love, duty, hurt, and anger. The conflict between the two sisters is real, believable, and sometimes funny, but leads the reader toward hope. If the author wanted to encourage introspection, he was successful.
November 3, 2024
This was a moving debut story about estranged sisters, second chances, regrets and reconciliations as Ruth and Veronica find themselves unexpectedly reunited later in age thanks to a horrible cancer diagnosis.
The book was mainly told from Ruth's perspective, a woman who has mostly lived her life being misunderstood and ridiculed but yet always yearning for love and acceptance. I loved embarking on Ruth's journey of healing and forgiveness with her dying sister as they rehash their hurtful pasts.
Great on audio narrated by Joyce Bean and perfect for fans of books like How does that make you feel, Magda Eklund? Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an early digital and audio copy in exchange for my honest review!
The book was mainly told from Ruth's perspective, a woman who has mostly lived her life being misunderstood and ridiculed but yet always yearning for love and acceptance. I loved embarking on Ruth's journey of healing and forgiveness with her dying sister as they rehash their hurtful pasts.
Great on audio narrated by Joyce Bean and perfect for fans of books like How does that make you feel, Magda Eklund? Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an early digital and audio copy in exchange for my honest review!
June 30, 2024
This book follows an original premise, we are following a retiree that goes through a shift in her routine-based lifestyle, after receiving life-changing news from her sister, who she hasn’t spoken to in quite a while. The character growth is immense as she learns to adapt to an ever-changing world.
I think many readers would love this novel, as it brings out so many emotions and reveals how hard life can be, even as you grow old. A glimpse of romance brought light to the story and would please any romance lover. It is also a very unique story, as it follows an older woman who is surrounded with grief, which is not as common in fiction, I thought it was well written and personally really enjoyed it.
I really liked the story structure, with a mix of memories, letters to the present time. I really enjoyed the inner voice, revealing Ruth’s emotions, beliefs and feelings. Especially to get a glimpse at her view on herself as well as others, and the view others have on her. I like the pun in the name/title, with the seasons.
I really enjoyed being able to relate to the character, even though I am not a retiree, Marshall Fine did an excellent job in making the characters feel their age, not younger or older.
I quite enjoyed following Ruth’s emotions, I think the writing style enables us to see how people you might not expect to experience pain, still do. Which makes sure you are able to feel compassionate, frustrated and much more for many characters throughout the story. I also really enjoyed that the conversation of the difficulties women faced after losing their husband, when they had not done any of the administrative chores within the household.
I appreciate the ending, which is a hopeful and positive, with a lot of character growth. This was an amazing read and I would recommend it to many.
[ARC copy through netgally]
I think many readers would love this novel, as it brings out so many emotions and reveals how hard life can be, even as you grow old. A glimpse of romance brought light to the story and would please any romance lover. It is also a very unique story, as it follows an older woman who is surrounded with grief, which is not as common in fiction, I thought it was well written and personally really enjoyed it.
I really liked the story structure, with a mix of memories, letters to the present time. I really enjoyed the inner voice, revealing Ruth’s emotions, beliefs and feelings. Especially to get a glimpse at her view on herself as well as others, and the view others have on her. I like the pun in the name/title, with the seasons.
I really enjoyed being able to relate to the character, even though I am not a retiree, Marshall Fine did an excellent job in making the characters feel their age, not younger or older.
I quite enjoyed following Ruth’s emotions, I think the writing style enables us to see how people you might not expect to experience pain, still do. Which makes sure you are able to feel compassionate, frustrated and much more for many characters throughout the story. I also really enjoyed that the conversation of the difficulties women faced after losing their husband, when they had not done any of the administrative chores within the household.
I appreciate the ending, which is a hopeful and positive, with a lot of character growth. This was an amazing read and I would recommend it to many.
[ARC copy through netgally]
February 15, 2025
I listened to this audiobook alongside the book and enjoyed it.
Ruth is a retired bookkeeper that has spent most of her life doing what she thought she should do rather than what she wanted. She grew up with a little sister that lived her life exactly as she pleased. In their 20s their parents were in an accident that left Ruth taking on a lot of responsibility as her sister ran off and married for money. Fast forward 50 years and the sisters are still not talking. When Ruth hears that her sister has a life threatening illness she doesn’t know how to react. Is it time to put their differences aside and reconnect?
This is a feel good book about reinventing yourself and reimagining your life.
Ruth is a retired bookkeeper that has spent most of her life doing what she thought she should do rather than what she wanted. She grew up with a little sister that lived her life exactly as she pleased. In their 20s their parents were in an accident that left Ruth taking on a lot of responsibility as her sister ran off and married for money. Fast forward 50 years and the sisters are still not talking. When Ruth hears that her sister has a life threatening illness she doesn’t know how to react. Is it time to put their differences aside and reconnect?
This is a feel good book about reinventing yourself and reimagining your life.
November 2, 2024
I'm a bit torn about this book, because there were so many strong moments, but there were also times when it was very drawn out. The lengthier scenes were usually flashbacks that had too much detail and not enough impact. But, overall, I did like the redemptive plot and themes of forgiveness and second chances with love and family. It was hopeful and heartwarming and I think an admirable effort for a debut novel. I was impressed with how the male author portrayed the feelings and insecurities of women. They were very accurate.
Thank you to NetGalley and Lake Union for this advanced copy.
Thank you to NetGalley and Lake Union for this advanced copy.
August 17, 2025
I can't believe this book received so many high ratings. I found the characters and plot to be one dimensional. A glaring mistake about a Jewish funeral occurring on the Sabbath left me shaking my head in disappointment with the author.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 6, 2025
Ruth Winters is a lonely and bitter woman who often gets in her own way. After working for 40 years for the same company, she was let go and takes to babysitting to earn some extra money. Her husband died 20 years prior and she has no children and no relationship with her sister. She does have a relationship with her sister's daughter Chloe and her occasional talks with her niece is a highpoint in her life. Ruth is a difficult sort of person, sort of like the main character in "A Man Called Ove" and she holds long grudges that make it difficult for her to move on with her life. Something changes when her sister Veronica calls her and says that she has cancer and asks Ruth to take her to chemotherapy as her husband will be out of town. At the same time Ruth receives an email from a man she briefly dated in high school, asking if Ruth will be attending their upcoming 50 year reunion and expressing a desire to meet up with her for lunch. Ruth spends most of her time alone, can she change?
Ruth was a difficult character to like or understand. She expresses no desire for friendship or romance and admits to hating her sister for various disagreements they had over the years. I would have liked the character to be more fleshed out. Also, Ruth's age is all over the place. Her 50th high school reunion is coming up making her 67-68 years old. Later she says she was born in 1951 which would make her around 72 or so. Then she also says she was 35 years old in 1980 which would make her 79. She also seems much older in that she knows nothing about using cell phones or WIFI. despite having recently worked in a large company. Every woman I know in their 60's uses smart phones to at least take pictures, go on social media and play games. Their is also a flashback where Ruth took her niece to a Bon Jovi concert and was so appalled at the new fangled 'rock music 'she had to wear ear plugs. If Ruth is 67-68 she would have listened to Led Zeppelin, Bruce Springsteen,The Rolling Stones and yes Bon Jovi when she was in her teens and 20's, so not being familiar with and hating rock music made her seem ancient.
Once Ruth begins to help her sister who is very ill, she begins to unpack some of her resentment and realizes her sister is sorry for the way she treated Ruth. Ruth also decides to not only go to her reunion but perhaps give her old date John a chance. A good novel about second chances but the age discrepancies plus fat shaming and Ruth's general attitude was a bit off putting and prevented me from really caring about this character. Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for a copy of this ARC for review.
Ruth was a difficult character to like or understand. She expresses no desire for friendship or romance and admits to hating her sister for various disagreements they had over the years. I would have liked the character to be more fleshed out. Also, Ruth's age is all over the place. Her 50th high school reunion is coming up making her 67-68 years old. Later she says she was born in 1951 which would make her around 72 or so. Then she also says she was 35 years old in 1980 which would make her 79. She also seems much older in that she knows nothing about using cell phones or WIFI. despite having recently worked in a large company. Every woman I know in their 60's uses smart phones to at least take pictures, go on social media and play games. Their is also a flashback where Ruth took her niece to a Bon Jovi concert and was so appalled at the new fangled 'rock music 'she had to wear ear plugs. If Ruth is 67-68 she would have listened to Led Zeppelin, Bruce Springsteen,The Rolling Stones and yes Bon Jovi when she was in her teens and 20's, so not being familiar with and hating rock music made her seem ancient.
Once Ruth begins to help her sister who is very ill, she begins to unpack some of her resentment and realizes her sister is sorry for the way she treated Ruth. Ruth also decides to not only go to her reunion but perhaps give her old date John a chance. A good novel about second chances but the age discrepancies plus fat shaming and Ruth's general attitude was a bit off putting and prevented me from really caring about this character. Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for a copy of this ARC for review.
December 9, 2024
Waste Of Time
I am sorry to leave such a bad review, but I just had to warn others not to buy this book. I want them to save money and time.
I got this book as a December first read. I was excited to read it as the main character is around my age. I really thought it would be a nice change of pace after the thrillers I usually read. When I opened the first page I seriously couldn’t get into this book. At page 90 out of 200 pages I just had to quit. First of all Ruth is a bitter, mean spirited person! She holds grudges with everyone. I did read forward to the class reunion and was appalled at how the writer had her act while she was there. She had to have 3 drinks to open up. Then she made up lies and told everyone the lies. Even going to extremes when someone asked her what she did for a living, she was aloof and sternly said “if I told you, I’d have to kill you” then she continued to drink more and act like a immature teenager in front of her whole class!
How is the writer. She couldn’t be more wrong about women in their 60’s. She made Ruth to be a horribly angry, grudge holding old bitty with absolutely no confidence at all unless she’s drunk and then goes the complete opposite and acts over confident and better than everyone else. Women in their 60’s are beyond all of that drama. They don’t wish to cause more. And making up lies is so not like women in their 60’s. By the time a woman is that old, she no longer is so hard, no longer lies to impress others, she doesn’t give a hoot what anyone thinks of her. No more petty drama is in her life. A woman in her 60’s is way beyond all that middle school stuff. She has peace in her heart and goes about her time enjoying her life.
I’ve never read a book that was so inaccurate in all my life!! Plus it was filled with nothing but boring, meaningless filler that takes up the entire book. There is no story or no plot. Just the writer rambling on about nonsense. I’m surprised this ever got published.
Pass this one by.
I am sorry to leave such a bad review, but I just had to warn others not to buy this book. I want them to save money and time.
I got this book as a December first read. I was excited to read it as the main character is around my age. I really thought it would be a nice change of pace after the thrillers I usually read. When I opened the first page I seriously couldn’t get into this book. At page 90 out of 200 pages I just had to quit. First of all Ruth is a bitter, mean spirited person! She holds grudges with everyone. I did read forward to the class reunion and was appalled at how the writer had her act while she was there. She had to have 3 drinks to open up. Then she made up lies and told everyone the lies. Even going to extremes when someone asked her what she did for a living, she was aloof and sternly said “if I told you, I’d have to kill you” then she continued to drink more and act like a immature teenager in front of her whole class!
How is the writer. She couldn’t be more wrong about women in their 60’s. She made Ruth to be a horribly angry, grudge holding old bitty with absolutely no confidence at all unless she’s drunk and then goes the complete opposite and acts over confident and better than everyone else. Women in their 60’s are beyond all of that drama. They don’t wish to cause more. And making up lies is so not like women in their 60’s. By the time a woman is that old, she no longer is so hard, no longer lies to impress others, she doesn’t give a hoot what anyone thinks of her. No more petty drama is in her life. A woman in her 60’s is way beyond all that middle school stuff. She has peace in her heart and goes about her time enjoying her life.
I’ve never read a book that was so inaccurate in all my life!! Plus it was filled with nothing but boring, meaningless filler that takes up the entire book. There is no story or no plot. Just the writer rambling on about nonsense. I’m surprised this ever got published.
Pass this one by.
January 8, 2025
Audiobook. 2/2.5 stars. 🤷🏻♀️
My first dud of 2025. I’m definitely in the minority with this one. I had such a hard time with the doom and gloom worst case scenario MC.
It is a quick read and got lots of 4 and 5 star reviews (which I don’t understand) but I don’t hand those stars out willy nilly! 😉🤣
My first dud of 2025. I’m definitely in the minority with this one. I had such a hard time with the doom and gloom worst case scenario MC.
It is a quick read and got lots of 4 and 5 star reviews (which I don’t understand) but I don’t hand those stars out willy nilly! 😉🤣
October 18, 2024
The Autumn of Ruth Winters is an absolute gem of a book! From the very first page, I felt a deep connection to Ruth, the protagonist. Growing up as an outsider, her struggle to find her place in the world resonates deeply. Now retired, Ruth seems to accept a lonely, repetitive life, but everything changes when her sister falls ill, her niece shares exciting news, and her long-lost school crush reaches out.
These unexpected events force Ruth to confront her past and reconnect with family and friends in a truly heart-warming way. Her journey of her transformation and healing is beautifully portrayed, reminding us all that it’s never too late to embrace change and seek a fabulous future.
This book has me laughing out loud and brought a few tears to my eyes as well. It’s a stunning second-chance story that beautifully captures the complexities of life and love. Highly recommend!
These unexpected events force Ruth to confront her past and reconnect with family and friends in a truly heart-warming way. Her journey of her transformation and healing is beautifully portrayed, reminding us all that it’s never too late to embrace change and seek a fabulous future.
This book has me laughing out loud and brought a few tears to my eyes as well. It’s a stunning second-chance story that beautifully captures the complexities of life and love. Highly recommend!
May 13, 2025
Pleasant change of pace.
I spend a lot of time reading psychological thrillers from the likes of Daniel Hurst, Frieda McFadden, and others. On occasion, however, I like to just read a nice even-flowing story of normal people facing the real life challenges most of us have experienced. This was a very comforting and realistic story to which I could relate having had a similar relationship with my brother akin to the two sisters in this story.
This book is well written and the story is interesting and does not drag or lose focus. Most appealing to me was the book’s ending: it didn’t end with everything tied up neatly, but left room for the reader to imagine what things
were in store for Ruth Winters. She will be in my mind for a while, I suspect.
I spend a lot of time reading psychological thrillers from the likes of Daniel Hurst, Frieda McFadden, and others. On occasion, however, I like to just read a nice even-flowing story of normal people facing the real life challenges most of us have experienced. This was a very comforting and realistic story to which I could relate having had a similar relationship with my brother akin to the two sisters in this story.
This book is well written and the story is interesting and does not drag or lose focus. Most appealing to me was the book’s ending: it didn’t end with everything tied up neatly, but left room for the reader to imagine what things
were in store for Ruth Winters. She will be in my mind for a while, I suspect.
December 28, 2024
I have now lost two reviews that I had written about the book. So I will just say, it’s a book that I identified with strongly as the character, Ruth Winters, is the same age as I, also had a sister/only sibling who she has a difficult relationship with until her sister dies. It’s written in a spare kind of way, no flowery deep descriptions of things but written in a way that a good movie affects you. There were so many parts where I responded in my mind, “oh yeah? Oh YEAH!” Or “I wish that….”
I’m glad that I read it and recommend it to women of my generation, women who have lost family that they wish they’d had a better relationship with, women who might wonder if there’s life after 70 ;)
I’m glad that I read it and recommend it to women of my generation, women who have lost family that they wish they’d had a better relationship with, women who might wonder if there’s life after 70 ;)
January 18, 2025
Wonderful story about no-nonsense Ruth Winters, a 70+ year old widow living in Minneapolis, Minnesota. She is sharp, regimented, and living a life of duty instead of what she dreamed when she was younger. When her estranged sister calls to ask her for a favor, Ruth’s life changes.
This is a wonderful story filled with family conflict, grief, bitterness, love, change, and ultimately forgiveness.
I really enjoyed the characters in this story. I feel like I have come in contact with many Ruths in my day, but with this one, I wanted to continue watching from the sidelines to see how her life eventually turns out.
*Contrary to what Goodreads shows, I only read it once not twice.😆
This is a wonderful story filled with family conflict, grief, bitterness, love, change, and ultimately forgiveness.
I really enjoyed the characters in this story. I feel like I have come in contact with many Ruths in my day, but with this one, I wanted to continue watching from the sidelines to see how her life eventually turns out.
*Contrary to what Goodreads shows, I only read it once not twice.😆
May 1, 2025
A Lovely Surprise
I wasn’t expecting to enjoy this book and I only decided to read it because of the reviews. I alternated between reading it and listening to it on Audible. As a woman in her 60’s I was able to connect with Ruth and her story. The stories we tell ourselves throughout our lives to make sense of things; and then to find out that some of the stories weren’t true. The relationships that we have missed and the people we could have known better. This is a novel about grabbing hold of what’s important in life and not letting it pass us by. Great narrator in the Audible version.
I wasn’t expecting to enjoy this book and I only decided to read it because of the reviews. I alternated between reading it and listening to it on Audible. As a woman in her 60’s I was able to connect with Ruth and her story. The stories we tell ourselves throughout our lives to make sense of things; and then to find out that some of the stories weren’t true. The relationships that we have missed and the people we could have known better. This is a novel about grabbing hold of what’s important in life and not letting it pass us by. Great narrator in the Audible version.
December 19, 2024
Weak four stars. I received a digital ARC in exchange for a review. Opinions are my own.
Such an odd book for me - I enjoyed it, and it irritated the heck out of me. Since I was born in the Minneapolis, MN area and lived there the first 45 years of my life I certainly knew all the Minneapolis locations mentioned in the book, but they all felt like name dropping - like stretches to include the name of a community without the need to do so, if that makes sense.
I was also irritated be the abrupt ending. But everything else was an enjoyable read, thus the (weak) four stars. Best thing about the book? The MC, Ruth Winters.
Such an odd book for me - I enjoyed it, and it irritated the heck out of me. Since I was born in the Minneapolis, MN area and lived there the first 45 years of my life I certainly knew all the Minneapolis locations mentioned in the book, but they all felt like name dropping - like stretches to include the name of a community without the need to do so, if that makes sense.
I was also irritated be the abrupt ending. But everything else was an enjoyable read, thus the (weak) four stars. Best thing about the book? The MC, Ruth Winters.
September 30, 2025
Mi-a plăcut foarte mult de Ruth.
Cartea a fost înduioșătoare și a expus emoțiile lui Ruth și relația ei cu oamenii din jur, în special cea cu sora ei.
A fost întotdeauna directă, siguratică, foarte aspră cu ea însăși. A făcut întotdeauna ce a trebuit, indiferent de dorințele ei.
Acum, la o vârstă înaintată, descoperă că viața poate fi mai mult decât rutină și singurătate.
M-a pus serios pe gânduri povestea ei, în special datorită faptului că am rezonat fooarte mult cu personajul.
Cartea a fost înduioșătoare și a expus emoțiile lui Ruth și relația ei cu oamenii din jur, în special cea cu sora ei.
A fost întotdeauna directă, siguratică, foarte aspră cu ea însăși. A făcut întotdeauna ce a trebuit, indiferent de dorințele ei.
Acum, la o vârstă înaintată, descoperă că viața poate fi mai mult decât rutină și singurătate.
M-a pus serios pe gânduri povestea ei, în special datorită faptului că am rezonat fooarte mult cu personajul.
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