If You Leave

by Margaret Hutton

In the final year of World War II, Audrey is holding tightly to her dream of becoming a painter, while falling hard for a naval doctor. Not long after they marry he’ s sent overseas, leaving her alone in Washington, DC. Audrey rents a room to Lucille, launching an unlikely friendship that’ s a comfort to them both. But not everything is quite what it seems. Although Lucille’ s past has been a mystery to Audrey, nothing prepares her for the shock when Lucille abandons their makeshift family— including her child— and retreats to her orchard home in North Carolina. When the women meet again in 1973, Lucille is intent on mending the past. But Audrey is focused on leaving her unhappy marriage, and Lake, the daughter Lucille left behind, is trapped in an abusive relationship. If You Leave is an intimate, immersive story exploring motherhood, love, and art, as three women carve a wayward path toward reconciliation.

Genres: Historical Fiction, Fiction

304 pages, Paperback

Published October 21, 2025

Reviews

[Laura Scalzo · Rating 5 out of 5]

IF YOU LEAVE will crack your heart and repair it with transportive precision and luxurious prose. Steeped in themes of motherhood, abandonment, and loss, the novel spans three decades. Every character transcends the page and takes root in your bones. What may be more astonishing than the intoxicating writing is how the artful, elegant parts are balanced against the whole, a vibrant, well-paced story of the “delicate fretwork” of female confidences turned tangled family saga.

[barbi ⋆｡°✩ · Rating 4 out of 5]

Beautifully written tale of two women who met by chance and forever changed each other's lives. Told in two timelines, If You Leave captures a story of Audrey and Lucille against a backdrop of WWII and then again in the 70s. It captures the motifs of motherhood, family and abandonment which take you on an emotional journey.
The characters felt real, their relationships complex and imperfect, their actions sometimes frustrating and other times evoking sympathy. I think that the author crafted a captivating story which flows slowly yet it is hard to put down and in a way, it leaves you haunted.

Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an e-ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.

[☆ piupiu ☆ · Rating 3 out of 5]

this book may be a victim of my reading slump because i found it hard to get into and the pacing was slow for me, but at the same time i do want to revisit this someday because i feel like I could really get more out of it and so many people are raving about it

thank you netgalley and the publisher for the arc

[Mary-Hall Hutton · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a treat it is to read your aunt’s book! Hutton’s debut novel is deeply moving. Maybe I’m biased but Hutton is extremely skilled in her craft, some may call her a literary wizard! What a perfect Christmas party gift or stocking stuffer. Wink wink, nudge nudge.

[Lauren Kidd · Rating 5 out of 5]

Our story begins at the beginning of WWII, Audrey's new husband has just been sent overseas, leaving his mother's huge house empty. Audrey decides to take on boarders to fill the loneliness. An unlikely friendship, and secrets, are grown within these spaces. Over the course of three decades, we embark on a journey with Audrey and Lucille as they navigate raising Lucille's daughter, and how their lives fit, or don't fit together.

First and foremost, impeccable writing. Hutton brings the reader into the fold. We are living in the home with both these women; we are facing their deepest struggles and desires as we try to navigate their lives and choices that will follow them forever.

It's a slow burn. There's not a ton happening, but when it does, it's remarkable and effortless. I felt for these characters on a much deeper level, and I haven't had a novel quite reach that point in the last year. These women are broken, but relatable and make decisions that regular, normal people would make, whether they are right or wrong.

Although the reader learns the "secret" well before our protagonist does, the pacing is perfect, watching Audrey face this over the course of the novel was not rushed or painstakingly slow.

For me, the themes of independence v. codependence, love v lust, motherhood v childlessness, were so poignant and well done. As a reader who cannot relate to themes of motherhood, I felt for these women regardless of my childlessness.

Well done. I would read anything by this author again.

I want to thank NetGalley, the publisher, and the author for an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.

[Diana · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5/5 STARS!
beautifully written story about two women who cross paths and end up on a journey of their own complex stories, a journey they go through alone and together. it is deep, intimate, emotional, and overall a poignant read about being a woman and wanting to be seen. the characters here feel so real, raw, and relatable. i think that's wherein the power of the story lies.

i am truly at a loss for how good and powerful this was. this book is for one of those days you need a good cry, for sure! the author's writing is immersive, compelling, and captivating. while some may find this a bit of a slow read, it's perfect as is. from start to finish, it is breathtaking.

you don't even HAVE to ask if i would recommend this, because YES! hands down, would recommend this. i think this is a book i will reflect on for quite some time. and i think it would be one that other's would agree on as well.

thank you to Regal House Publishing for allowing me the opportunity to read an advanced copy via NetGalley. i leave this review of my own volition. all thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Jennifer H · Rating 5 out of 5]

• Atmospheric historical detail: The wartime DC backdrop brings a vivid period texture—from women’s shifting roles to emotional turbulence on the home front.
• Complex female characters: Audrey, Lucille, and Lake each negotiate sacrifice, autonomy, and connection in strikingly different yet intersecting ways.
• Emotional subtlety: Themes of abandonment, ambition, and redemption unfold naturally, never feeling forced or overwritten.

If You Leave is a quietly powerful debut that probes the difficult choices women make around love, art, and motherhood. With empathetic insight and beautifully measured prose, Margaret Hutton builds a story that lingers—an elegiac portrait of how we carry departure and return within our lives.

Highly recommended for lovers of historical fiction with emotional subtlety, and anyone interested in stories of female identity grappling with loss and commitment

[Ellen Ross · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. A beautiful historical novel of the bond between two women over the course of many years. I loved the character development in this book and the beautiful descriptive way each scene was set for me as the reader. I am all about stories where women realize how empowered they can be so this one had me so giddy inside. Friendship is never easy and this books reinforces that in so many ways.

[India · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brilliant narrative that captures the feminine spirit — no one can out do Margaret Hutton!

[Liz · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing debut, Margaret!! Especially enjoyed the DC references and complex look at motherhood.

[Courtney Pityer · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is actually a very unique story that starts against the backdrop of the second world war and spans to about thirty years afterwards. It tells the story of two friends who actually had a falling out over a situation but after aome time away from each other they realized that their old friendship was actually the strongest bond that they had. I for one enjoyed reading this story because it was different from other books that I had read in the past. Margaret Hutton did such an amazing job at crafting the story. I will have to look into read more books of hers in the future.

[Kelly · Rating 2 out of 5]

2.25 ⭐
Unfortunately, I slogged through this book. I didn't find the characters to be particularly likable, and the plot dragged, especially in the beginning (I enjoyed the last ~40 pages).
Here are some of my thoughts, bulleted:
>Lucille was such an unsympathetic character, and I couldn't understand her actions and motivations*
>I wished there was more about Audrey and Daniel's relationship, especially at the end of the book and when they lived together with Lucille
>Lots of things happen off-page but are not explained well
>There isn't enough inner monologue- I felt like I didn't know what the characters were thinking/their motivations, which I think led to them feeling flat

*I didn't understand why she decided to have the baby and then essentially abandon it, then try to be a part of her life 30 years later? Lucille's interactions in the 70's part of the book were so frustrating to me, especially how she interacted with Ray and Lake.

Overall, I think that the premise of this book has a lot of potential, but I think it was not executed as well as it could have been. Don't get me wrong, it had its moments- I liked the dynamic of Audrey, Lucille, and Daniel, but I felt like we didn't get enough of it. I also felt like Audrey and Ben's relationship as well as his relationship with Lucille could've been fleshed out more. I also liked Audrey and Prudy's interactions, but again, wanted more.
This book had its good moments, but unlikable characters and a vague, meandering plot made it forgettable.
ARC provided by Netgalley

[Martha Anne Toll · Rating 5 out of 5]

I could not put this book down. Written with exquisite sensitivity, the starting premise (a woman forced to raise the child of her husband’s one night stand ) is such a terrific platform for the quiet, seething drama underlying this novel. The two women — Lucille and Audrey- especially Audrey, are complex and beautifully drawn. An accomplished and thought provoking debut.

[Arshiya Sultana · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars
It’s set during the WWII, when Audrey, a young painter, marries a naval doctor and forms an unlikely friendship with her roommate Lucille. However, Lucille's mysterious past and sudden departure years later have a lasting impact on Audrey and her daughter Lake, leading to a complex journey of love, motherhood, and reconciliation.

It dragged in the beginning, but got better towards the end. I felt as if the characters lacked depth, which something crucial to me because it explains characters motivations and behaviour, why the character did something, the “why” is more important to me and I felt this book fails to convey that.

Talking about Audrey and Lucille, their relationship feels weird to be and something about Lucille just feels off(for lack of a better word). I just did not vibe with them.

Overall, I loved the concept and the themes that this books deals with like motherhood and independence and depending upon others but I’m afraid it didn’t quite hit the mark though it had potential.

Recommended to people who love historical fiction, and slow burn genres, as there isn’t much happening at once. Things pick up the pace quite slowly so you can enjoy it.

And on a personal note, I love the author. She is so sweet and kind. Keep up the good work.

Thanks NetGalley, Regal House Publishing, and the author for an ARC in exchange for an honest review. Appreciate it!

[Ashley Gordon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Audrey and Lucille meet in DC near the end of WWII when women are experiencing a degree of freedom not normally afforded to them outside of wartime. Audrey is newly married to a naval doctor and set on becoming an artist. Lucille is a NC transplant whose heart is still back home in the orchards. The secret Lucille holds threatens the life she’s built both in DC and back home. However, the bond the women forge in the 40s remains through the 70s as they grapple with what it means to mother and support their unconventional family.

What a beautiful depiction of a complicated situation. I love how the story was revealed through the alternating timelines, even though when the complications began in the beginning I had to flip back to back sure my eyes weren’t playing tricks on me. 👀

I would choose to read literary fiction over historical fiction every single time, but the marriage of the two was so well done here. The time period provided context for major points of the plot and societal expectations of both time periods, but the character development still shined above it all. My heart truly broke for each of the main characters as the story progressed, and of course the ending made me cry at the strength they showed despite their failings.

2025 is truly the year of the incredible debut!

Thanks to NetGalley and Regal House for the ARC!

[Sanna · Rating 4 out of 5]

First things first - I love this beautiful book cover! The colours and the intensive yet relaxed look in her eyes. It got me from first sight.

Also the story swallowed me in shortly. Margaret Hutton writes beautifully about the very complex friendship of two women. What is love, loyalty and motherhood about, after all?

In Washington, while time of World War II, Audrey happened to meet Lucille. These two young women shared together a moment and that formed a tie between them for a long time - but not the easiest kind.

Now it´s 1973, and Audrey is a painter, in crossroads with her marriage and life. She is planning to leave her husband, and gets to think the past when old friend comes by. Lucille has her own plans for Lake, the daughter she left behind long time ago. How will their future end up like?

I think this book, even still touching and enchanting, is also one needing the reader to concentrate and sink into the story. It is building up slowly and letting the reader to know more piece by piece. The characters were not always likeable, but felt real and I started to care about them. A beautiful story, not a happy one, but enjoyable to read, if you like historical fiction like me.

Thank you for NetGalley, Regal House Publishing, and the author for an eARC!

[reese ★ · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.75 rounded off to 4 stars!

"if you leave" is quiet, emotional, and kinda haunting in the best way. it’s one of those books that doesn’t scream at you, it just slowly sinks into your chest and stays there.

the story explores love, loss, and the hard parts of moving on. the writing is soft but powerful, and the emotions feel real, like the kind of pain you don’t always talk about but definitely feel. margaret hutton has this gentle way of writing that makes even the saddest parts feel beautiful. it’s not a fast-paced book, but it doesn’t need to be. it’s more about the characters and the little moments that change everything. perfect if you're in the mood for something reflective and bittersweet.

this one’s for when you're feeling a little quiet yourself, or just need a good cry and some healing after! ^__^

[Kim · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a tough book to rate because of the tough, tough subject matter. I am giving it 3.5 stars rounded up to 4 because this was such an ambitious story to write. This is a dual timeline story. During WWII, two women meet by chance, Audrey and Lucille. Audrey has married a soldier right before he was sent off to war. She is accepting of friendship with Lucille who ends up moving in with Audrey while her husband is away. Lucille has secrets she doesn't want to reveal, and the story just gets more and more complicated. The second timeline is over 20 years later and explores the family dynamics of both of these women. They both have complicated views of motherhood and have had very different experiences with marriage and their extended families.

Thanks to NetGalley, the author and the publisher for the eARC of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.

[Clara · Rating 5 out of 5]

Margaret Hutton’s If You Leave is a remarkable work of historical fiction that feels utterly alive. It tells the story of Audrey and Lucille, whose complex friendship is shaped by a betrayal that both tears them apart and binds them together forever. It is also a story about motherhood—a compelling portrayal of parental love that does not shy away from the darker sides of this bond. Hutton’s writing is stunning and evocative. Her characters are one-of-a-kind—so wonderfully fleshed out and unique that I feel I’d immediately recognize Audrey or Lucille if I met them in real life. The novel steers clear of easy judgments, instead lingering on and accepting the complexity of its characters’ emotions. If you Leave is a beautiful, compassionate and gripping deep dive into the messy miracle of human relationships.

[Asia Macdonald · Rating 4 out of 5]

Margaret Hutton’s If You Leave is a beautifully written and emotional novel that explores the complexities of grief, resilience, and personal rediscovery. From the very first chapter, I was drawn into the protagonist’s journey who is a woman navigating the aftermath of loss while trying to rebuild her life with honesty and grace. Margaret Hutton’s writing is elegant and evocative, and her characters feel deeply raw and human. I appreciated how the novel handled themes of identity and healing. The story was compelling, and holds important messages for the reader. This book is a powerful reminder to people everywhere that leaving doesn’t have to be the end, but rather a new, fresh beginning .Thank you Margaret Hutton, Regal House Publishing, and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for an honest review!

[Elizabeth Meeker · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a treasure! This book was especially meaningful because my cousin wrote it, so I was looking for nods to her past and references to North Carolina. The book is beautifully written, although the characters are not always easy to love. If you enjoy art, there are passages that will astound with their detail and emotion about creating art and the reluctance to share it with the world.

The book explores motherhood from many angles. It begins in the 1940’s and ends in the 1970’s, and touches on the changing roles for women during this time. One of the towns in NC, Pomona, is fictional but based on land where my grandfather’s family owned a factory and produced fire brick for industrial kilns. Pomona is the goddess of fruit trees, and before the factory there was an orchard there.

Give yourself some time to read this novel, so you can fully grasp how it’s woven together. I look forward to reading it again and making connections I might’ve missed the first time. And if any of you ever do a book club on it, be sure to invite me!

[Cecie Workman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Margaret Hutton’s "If You Leave" was a most enjoyable and thought provoking read. Set in the decades of the 1940s-70s, the saga of the unmarried mother has a different twist. I read the book hurriedly the first time to establish the timeline, plot and host of characters. The second reading allowed me to absorb the beauty of the details and the art of language to become immersed in the lives of these two women. The research required to bring them alive including the history of women in the wartime effort in DC, the elements of artistry, the plagues of apple orchard farming, and even medical surgical detail was extraordinary. She has portrayed the changing roles of women from homemakers to the work place but also vividly reminds us of the unchanging call of women as the caregivers. Definitely put this book on your “must reads” list.

[SmallPressPicks · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved the way this novel explores the complications of mothering and of everything that can come with it: a sense of obligation, resentment over personal sacrifices, and through all of this, an enduring bond of love. By immersing us in the lives and travails of Audrey and Lucille, the two women at the heart of the story, Hutton also considers the bonds of friendship, how far they can be tested, and how much we owe–or can expect from–others we’ve grown close to. With lyricism, insight, and compassion, IF YOU LEAVE considers how seemingly broken relationships can mend, and how the most lasting or meaningful bonds aren’t always forged by blood. The novel captivated me from the first page and left me with the certainty that Hutton is a novelist to watch.

[Marie · Rating 4 out of 5]

This one was beautifully written and reminded me of Tom Lake by Ann Patchett—probably because of the close mother–daughter relationships, theater moments, and small town vibes.

The first third of the book was a struggle; I had to drag myself through the slow pacing and gentle introductions. But somewhere after the midpoint things started happening and I was hooked, but the ending left me waiting for something more—it felt more like a comma than a period.

Overall, it’s a heartfelt story about art, love, and messy family ties, 3.75-4.

Thanks NetGalley and Regal House Publishing for the ARC in exchange for a review.

[Kathleen Novak · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loss often hides in the layers of color—Margaret Hutton’s exquisite debut novel sketches her characters and their impossible situations, then begins to paint them fully with intricate blendings, broad strokes, and smears off the paper. If You Leave follows two women who meet in Washington, D.C. during the tumultuous years of World War II. Their choices in love, friendship and motherhood keep them both bonded and bruised as the story builds, back and forth in time, ever confident, lovely, and disturbing.

[Patty Ramirez · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5⭐️

The premise of this book is unique and that is what drew me to the story. It started it off strong, but started losing some steam at around 50%.

There were some memorable moments on this that makes the story one that I probably won’t forget.

Overall, a good story about friendship and motherhood.

Lucille: I hate you…

Thank you to Regal House publishing and the author for providing a free copy of this book through NetGalley.

[Ruba Abu Ali · Rating 5 out of 5]

‘If You Leave’ by Margaret Hutton is beautifully written. This engrossing novel flows smoothly like a river on a Spring day. Its rhythm is quiet and comforting.

It tackles friendship, art, love, motherhood, complex human relationships, raw honesty, and at times shame in a most graceful manner.

Many thanks to NetGalley, the publisher, and the author for the e-ARC of this captivating read.

[tee ♡ · Rating 4 out of 5]

Unfortunately it did take me time to get through this book but that’s on me. This book was beautifully written and the author did a great job at exploring the complexity of each character and delved into important themes such as friendship, love, motherhood and heartbreak.


Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with an arc.

[April Richards · Rating 5 out of 5]

If You Leave is a beautifully written, intelligent novel about the complex relationship between two women making their way in Washington DC during World War II.