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The Seven O'Clock Club
'Finished in one sitting. Had no idea where it was going but knew there was something lurking. Incredible twist. Ends with a final lap of the ride when you think it is all over . . . I will be recommending this to friends' Ericka Waller
At seven o'clock one Tuesday evening, in a perfectly ordinary tower block near Westminster, four strangers meet for the first time. They each have three things in all suffered a traumatic experience six months earlier; all exhibit a dogged inability to put it behind them; and all accepted an invitation to attend tonight's counselling session with the unconventional Genevieve - a determined woman with an unusual theory to test.
But this isn't a novel about psychotherapy or self-forgiveness. Because there is another reason these four people have been brought together. And when that perfectly ordinary tower block near Westminster turns out to be not quite so ordinary, all five are forced to make some unexpected - and, for some, impossible - decisions . . .
A novel about friendship, strength and love, The Seven O'Clock Club is a reminder that life can give you hope. Even in the darkest of spaces.
READERS LOVE THE SEVEN O'CLOCK CLUB
'Heartwarming ... I had tears of joy in my eyes'
'Superbly well plotted and well paced. What I didn't expect was the twist...'
'This is a sit down and devour it in one sitting book, stays with you afterwards book'
'WHAT AN AMAZING BOOK! My easiest five stars so far this year'
'I was heartbroken, crying, laughing and just completely encouraging each character'
The Seven O'Clock Club was a Sunday Times bestseller in the second week of April 2025.
At seven o'clock one Tuesday evening, in a perfectly ordinary tower block near Westminster, four strangers meet for the first time. They each have three things in all suffered a traumatic experience six months earlier; all exhibit a dogged inability to put it behind them; and all accepted an invitation to attend tonight's counselling session with the unconventional Genevieve - a determined woman with an unusual theory to test.
But this isn't a novel about psychotherapy or self-forgiveness. Because there is another reason these four people have been brought together. And when that perfectly ordinary tower block near Westminster turns out to be not quite so ordinary, all five are forced to make some unexpected - and, for some, impossible - decisions . . .
A novel about friendship, strength and love, The Seven O'Clock Club is a reminder that life can give you hope. Even in the darkest of spaces.
READERS LOVE THE SEVEN O'CLOCK CLUB
'Heartwarming ... I had tears of joy in my eyes'
'Superbly well plotted and well paced. What I didn't expect was the twist...'
'This is a sit down and devour it in one sitting book, stays with you afterwards book'
'WHAT AN AMAZING BOOK! My easiest five stars so far this year'
'I was heartbroken, crying, laughing and just completely encouraging each character'
The Seven O'Clock Club was a Sunday Times bestseller in the second week of April 2025.
369 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 15, 2025
672 people are currently reading
36053 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 1,310 reviews
March 31, 2025
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The Book Review Crew Blog
This was an engrossing and emotional debut with a unique mix of heartwarming content and surprising twists. It was a wonderful tale of grief and the healing process, and the author dealt with it with sensitivity and depth without using the typical character portrayals. I loved how it was an entire group going through the grief process, and each one was different. It set up the various stages of grief in a uniquely profound manner. This group needed each other, and it just proves that connection, community and shared experience can mean a lot and can make a big difference.
The character development was easy to see as the book progressed; they were richly drawn and relatable. I found myself completely invested in their journeys of self-discovery and healing. The relationships between the group members are well crafted and clearly show the power of human connection. The plot twist was both unexpected and impactful, it added a layer of depth and complexity to the storyline. The narrative itself is well-paced, gradually building tension. I was emotionally invested in the story when the twist came along, so it made it more effective.
The author’s writing style is very expressive and insightful as well as thought-provoking, making it a very immersive read. It made me think of my own experiences of losing loved ones. But don’t worry, it’s not all doom and gloom, the book does an excellent job of mixing very heavy emotional moments with times of happiness. Amelia Ireland has written a moving and unforgettable story that will hit home with anyone who has lost a loved one.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the Advance Readers Copy.
The Book Review Crew Blog
This was an engrossing and emotional debut with a unique mix of heartwarming content and surprising twists. It was a wonderful tale of grief and the healing process, and the author dealt with it with sensitivity and depth without using the typical character portrayals. I loved how it was an entire group going through the grief process, and each one was different. It set up the various stages of grief in a uniquely profound manner. This group needed each other, and it just proves that connection, community and shared experience can mean a lot and can make a big difference.
The character development was easy to see as the book progressed; they were richly drawn and relatable. I found myself completely invested in their journeys of self-discovery and healing. The relationships between the group members are well crafted and clearly show the power of human connection. The plot twist was both unexpected and impactful, it added a layer of depth and complexity to the storyline. The narrative itself is well-paced, gradually building tension. I was emotionally invested in the story when the twist came along, so it made it more effective.
The author’s writing style is very expressive and insightful as well as thought-provoking, making it a very immersive read. It made me think of my own experiences of losing loved ones. But don’t worry, it’s not all doom and gloom, the book does an excellent job of mixing very heavy emotional moments with times of happiness. Amelia Ireland has written a moving and unforgettable story that will hit home with anyone who has lost a loved one.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the Advance Readers Copy.
March 4, 2025
Grief has five stages … or is it seven? Even more? It depends on who you ask.
Genevieve Dempsey has, through various means, advertised an experimental grief therapy group that promises a “different approach” to healing based on her unique theory. Four participants are selected. Their job? Show up at 7 o’clock every Wednesday night for four weeks.
Who are they?
✦ 52 year-old Victoria: a no-nonsense, tell-it-like-it-is, emotionally charged lawyer who takes a more skeptical stance on things.
✦ 31 year-old Freya: a kind, sensitive wife and interior designer struggling in her marriage and given to panic attacks.
✦ 20 year-old Mischa: a quiet girl prone to occasional outbursts who’s lost her sense of self after giving up so much of her own life to care for her ailing mother.
✦ 29 year-old Callum: an arrogant once-successful rock star who’s fallen from grace with his record label after spiraling from drug and alcohol abuse.
All four of these have experienced a loss or tragedy, which are only alluded to initially, but not revealed to the reader until later. I actually liked this, because it kept the focus on the four getting to know each other and bond, which they did pretty quickly despite a rough start.
Watching their wildly different personalities bounce off each other and Genevieve during the therapy process was my favorite part of the book. Dealing with intense guilt and grief, at any given moment the four could be loving, sensitive, funny, combative, supportive, sarcastic, heart-warming or hostile, so be ready for ALL the emotions!
So what makes this story unique from every other work of fiction dealing with the topic of grief?
The answer comes about three quarters of the way in when one of the BEST twists I’ve seen in a LONG time came. It certainly changed the course of the rest of the book! If you can be patient with the slower build-up, it’s worth the wait!
I don’t want to say too much about the specifics of the characters’ relationships with one another, because this is a book where you’ll want to discover those things for yourself. I’ll only say that the love that grows between them was heart-warming and such a special thing to witness.
I’ve never read a book quite like this one, and in a sea of books that struggle to be unique, that’s about the highest compliment I can give!
If you enjoy a thought-provoking book with a creative premise, complicated character dynamics, magical realism, romance, and an emotional arc that will have you both laughing and reaching for the tissues, I whole-heartedly recommend this stunning debut by Amelia Ireland. I can’t wait to see what she thinks up next!
★★★★ ½
Thanks to Berkley Publishing, NetGalley and author Amelia Ireland for this digital ARC to honestly review. It’s out on April 15, 2025.
Genevieve Dempsey has, through various means, advertised an experimental grief therapy group that promises a “different approach” to healing based on her unique theory. Four participants are selected. Their job? Show up at 7 o’clock every Wednesday night for four weeks.
Who are they?
✦ 52 year-old Victoria: a no-nonsense, tell-it-like-it-is, emotionally charged lawyer who takes a more skeptical stance on things.
✦ 31 year-old Freya: a kind, sensitive wife and interior designer struggling in her marriage and given to panic attacks.
✦ 20 year-old Mischa: a quiet girl prone to occasional outbursts who’s lost her sense of self after giving up so much of her own life to care for her ailing mother.
✦ 29 year-old Callum: an arrogant once-successful rock star who’s fallen from grace with his record label after spiraling from drug and alcohol abuse.
All four of these have experienced a loss or tragedy, which are only alluded to initially, but not revealed to the reader until later. I actually liked this, because it kept the focus on the four getting to know each other and bond, which they did pretty quickly despite a rough start.
Watching their wildly different personalities bounce off each other and Genevieve during the therapy process was my favorite part of the book. Dealing with intense guilt and grief, at any given moment the four could be loving, sensitive, funny, combative, supportive, sarcastic, heart-warming or hostile, so be ready for ALL the emotions!
So what makes this story unique from every other work of fiction dealing with the topic of grief?
The answer comes about three quarters of the way in when one of the BEST twists I’ve seen in a LONG time came. It certainly changed the course of the rest of the book! If you can be patient with the slower build-up, it’s worth the wait!
I don’t want to say too much about the specifics of the characters’ relationships with one another, because this is a book where you’ll want to discover those things for yourself. I’ll only say that the love that grows between them was heart-warming and such a special thing to witness.
I’ve never read a book quite like this one, and in a sea of books that struggle to be unique, that’s about the highest compliment I can give!
If you enjoy a thought-provoking book with a creative premise, complicated character dynamics, magical realism, romance, and an emotional arc that will have you both laughing and reaching for the tissues, I whole-heartedly recommend this stunning debut by Amelia Ireland. I can’t wait to see what she thinks up next!
★★★★ ½
Thanks to Berkley Publishing, NetGalley and author Amelia Ireland for this digital ARC to honestly review. It’s out on April 15, 2025.
April 16, 2025
DENIAL-ANGER-BARGAINING-DEPRESSION -ACCEPTANCE
These are the five most recognizable stages of GRIEF, but not everyone shares the same journey toward healing and sometimes a person can get stuck in one of the stages.
Genevieve Dempsey is a therapist who is leading a “first of its kind” experimental treatment designed to heal the broken hearts of those who find themselves in this predicament.
To participate the subjects have to agree to attend at least 4 sessions on 4 consecutive Wednesday nights at 7 O’Clock PM.
Four strangers with seemingly “nothing in common” -Freya-Mischa-Callum and Victoria will be her first patients. The story unfolds from their alternating POV’s as they move through the process in their weekly sessions and become more than just confidants.
But, Genevieve may have to flexible if she hopes to deem this experience a success….because these four were NOT selected at random.
I have been seeking out unique stories, having grown tired of the endless “locked room” mysteries that dominated last year’s thriller market, and this one definitely DID fit the bill, with short chapters moving the story along at a quick pace.
Because I wasn’t shocked by the reveal, this didn’t score as high for me as it has for some other reviewers- but it is definitely a DEBUT that I was pleased to discover, and it made for a fun buddy read with Master Detective MarilynW! 🕵🏻♀️
Available now!
Thank You to Berkley Publishing for the gifted ARC provided through NetGalley. As always, these are my candid thoughts!
These are the five most recognizable stages of GRIEF, but not everyone shares the same journey toward healing and sometimes a person can get stuck in one of the stages.
Genevieve Dempsey is a therapist who is leading a “first of its kind” experimental treatment designed to heal the broken hearts of those who find themselves in this predicament.
To participate the subjects have to agree to attend at least 4 sessions on 4 consecutive Wednesday nights at 7 O’Clock PM.
Four strangers with seemingly “nothing in common” -Freya-Mischa-Callum and Victoria will be her first patients. The story unfolds from their alternating POV’s as they move through the process in their weekly sessions and become more than just confidants.
But, Genevieve may have to flexible if she hopes to deem this experience a success….because these four were NOT selected at random.
I have been seeking out unique stories, having grown tired of the endless “locked room” mysteries that dominated last year’s thriller market, and this one definitely DID fit the bill, with short chapters moving the story along at a quick pace.
Because I wasn’t shocked by the reveal, this didn’t score as high for me as it has for some other reviewers- but it is definitely a DEBUT that I was pleased to discover, and it made for a fun buddy read with Master Detective MarilynW! 🕵🏻♀️
Available now!
Thank You to Berkley Publishing for the gifted ARC provided through NetGalley. As always, these are my candid thoughts!
May 6, 2025
The Seven O'Clock Club is the story of four strangers suffering a loss they can't get past on their own, brought together for a new type of grief therapy:
Victoria - 41, lawyer; acerbic and openly cynical.
Freya - 31, interior designer; appears sickly and disoriented.
Mischa - 20, Insurance CSA; lonely and confused.
Culum -29, rock artist; cocky, and craving booze and drugs.
Once a week, group sessions occur at 7:00 PM. led by Genevieve, the group facilitator, who poses questions to be answered by each participant in a round-robin style.
The group slowly melded, interacted, and became comfortable with one another. This is when Genevieve threw the group a curve...
The Seven O'Clock Club had a slow start, but not in a bad way. Getting to know the characters and the storyline takes a minute, and Ireland took the right time. The storyline is creative, the writing has a simple, easy flow, and both kept me flipping the pages.
That leaves the characters my favorite part of this story. All five were interesting, but I liked Victoria and Cullum best. This story wouldn't be as enjoyable as it is without either one. They are both unlikable at first, and then something changes all that. Are you curious yet?
The story lost a little of its magic toward the end, the last 15%, when it became too predictable. That's just me, though, and it is magical realism. So who's looking, right?
Lastly, I want to share why I chose to read this book. I have been struggling with grief for almost two years now from my sister's passing. I am working through it with help, including friends and family, but it becomes overwhelming sometimes and surfaces when I least expect it. My takeaway from this book is you are never alone in your feelings, and talking to others and sharing your story is genuinely beneficial.
The Seven O'Clock Club is an impressive debut novel, and I look forward to more from this talented author!
4.25⭐
Thank you to Berkley and Amelia Ireland for the DRC through NetGalley. This is my honest and voluntary review.
Victoria - 41, lawyer; acerbic and openly cynical.
Freya - 31, interior designer; appears sickly and disoriented.
Mischa - 20, Insurance CSA; lonely and confused.
Culum -29, rock artist; cocky, and craving booze and drugs.
Once a week, group sessions occur at 7:00 PM. led by Genevieve, the group facilitator, who poses questions to be answered by each participant in a round-robin style.
The group slowly melded, interacted, and became comfortable with one another. This is when Genevieve threw the group a curve...
The Seven O'Clock Club had a slow start, but not in a bad way. Getting to know the characters and the storyline takes a minute, and Ireland took the right time. The storyline is creative, the writing has a simple, easy flow, and both kept me flipping the pages.
That leaves the characters my favorite part of this story. All five were interesting, but I liked Victoria and Cullum best. This story wouldn't be as enjoyable as it is without either one. They are both unlikable at first, and then something changes all that. Are you curious yet?
The story lost a little of its magic toward the end, the last 15%, when it became too predictable. That's just me, though, and it is magical realism. So who's looking, right?
Lastly, I want to share why I chose to read this book. I have been struggling with grief for almost two years now from my sister's passing. I am working through it with help, including friends and family, but it becomes overwhelming sometimes and surfaces when I least expect it. My takeaway from this book is you are never alone in your feelings, and talking to others and sharing your story is genuinely beneficial.
The Seven O'Clock Club is an impressive debut novel, and I look forward to more from this talented author!
4.25⭐
Thank you to Berkley and Amelia Ireland for the DRC through NetGalley. This is my honest and voluntary review.
September 19, 2025
A truly captivating, un-put-downable read!
How to describe this beautifully engrossing, immersive story? It was almost impossible to put this book down - it was that good. Don't be fooled by that cozy title!
These descriptors come easily to mind: intelligently written, highly imaginative, empathetic, unflinching examinations of weighty issues like grief and depression, and, above all, the importance of reaching out and banding together as a group for support.
Four people respond to an ad seeking participants in a group therapy study. These four participants range in temperament from the ferociously strong, middle aged Victoria, to the young and sweetly docile Mischa. Beautiful Freya is a shadow of her former vivacious self, and Callum has hit rock bottom - thanks to the usual overindulgence in drugs, sex and partying - after his meteoric rise to the top of the music industry.
Each of these four are having issues with grief, despair and anger: Each has experienced a profound loss or life changing event that has effectively put the brakes on their everyday lives and plunged them into emotional and physical inertia.
You might think that this is one big cry-fest, but Callum and Victoria, in their own unique way, provide much needed comic relief to temper the weighty emotions and themes in this fascinating story. The characters became very real to me - Amelia Ireland's skillful layering of the various back stories and the stages of the group study kept you turning the pages for more.
There were several "I did not see that coming" moments: no spoilers, but this story had just about EVERYTHING in it: drama, suspense and even a mystery or two to solve. I exclaimed out loud more than once, so well orchestrated were those bombs dropped as the plot unfolded! (As I said above: Do not be fooled by that somewhat "cozy" title: this is anything but cozy!)
I highly, highly, highly recommend this great read: I'm rating this one a 10 out of 5 stars because this story so obviously came from a true, lived experience and I was sorry to have turned the last page. (This appears to be Amelia Ireland's debut novel. Well done!)
My thanks to the author, Amelia Ireland, her publishers, and NetGalley for an ARC of this beautifully written, heartfelt novel in exchange for an honest review. I loved it!
(Expected publication date: April 15, 2025)
How to describe this beautifully engrossing, immersive story? It was almost impossible to put this book down - it was that good. Don't be fooled by that cozy title!
These descriptors come easily to mind: intelligently written, highly imaginative, empathetic, unflinching examinations of weighty issues like grief and depression, and, above all, the importance of reaching out and banding together as a group for support.
Four people respond to an ad seeking participants in a group therapy study. These four participants range in temperament from the ferociously strong, middle aged Victoria, to the young and sweetly docile Mischa. Beautiful Freya is a shadow of her former vivacious self, and Callum has hit rock bottom - thanks to the usual overindulgence in drugs, sex and partying - after his meteoric rise to the top of the music industry.
Each of these four are having issues with grief, despair and anger: Each has experienced a profound loss or life changing event that has effectively put the brakes on their everyday lives and plunged them into emotional and physical inertia.
You might think that this is one big cry-fest, but Callum and Victoria, in their own unique way, provide much needed comic relief to temper the weighty emotions and themes in this fascinating story. The characters became very real to me - Amelia Ireland's skillful layering of the various back stories and the stages of the group study kept you turning the pages for more.
There were several "I did not see that coming" moments: no spoilers, but this story had just about EVERYTHING in it: drama, suspense and even a mystery or two to solve. I exclaimed out loud more than once, so well orchestrated were those bombs dropped as the plot unfolded! (As I said above: Do not be fooled by that somewhat "cozy" title: this is anything but cozy!)
I highly, highly, highly recommend this great read: I'm rating this one a 10 out of 5 stars because this story so obviously came from a true, lived experience and I was sorry to have turned the last page. (This appears to be Amelia Ireland's debut novel. Well done!)
My thanks to the author, Amelia Ireland, her publishers, and NetGalley for an ARC of this beautifully written, heartfelt novel in exchange for an honest review. I loved it!
(Expected publication date: April 15, 2025)
February 23, 2025
4.5🌟
A support group like no other.
Four individuals, all suffering from their own personal grief, have been brought together to participate in an unconventional support group run by a woman named Genevieve.
It takes time before they let their walls down and begin to share their stories. Their individual reasons for attending this group aren't disclosed until about midway through the book. But that was ok, it gave me the chance to bond with the characters before their big reveal.
Then, grip your kindles tightly because there’s a twist that will shock and rock your world. I literally said out loud, “Well…I did NOT see that coming!”
And that’s all you're getting from me! Go in blind as I did and I think you’ll have the best experience.
I loved all four characters, and of course Genevieve. I grew to feel and understand their pain and wanted the best outcome for each one. Brilliantly plotted…well executed!
This was an extremely clever and moving debut. I’m always looking for something a bit out of the box and this fit the bill perfectly! Looking forward to seeing what this very talented author comes up with next!
Thank you to Berkley Publishing Group via NetGalley
A support group like no other.
Four individuals, all suffering from their own personal grief, have been brought together to participate in an unconventional support group run by a woman named Genevieve.
It takes time before they let their walls down and begin to share their stories. Their individual reasons for attending this group aren't disclosed until about midway through the book. But that was ok, it gave me the chance to bond with the characters before their big reveal.
Then, grip your kindles tightly because there’s a twist that will shock and rock your world. I literally said out loud, “Well…I did NOT see that coming!”
And that’s all you're getting from me! Go in blind as I did and I think you’ll have the best experience.
I loved all four characters, and of course Genevieve. I grew to feel and understand their pain and wanted the best outcome for each one. Brilliantly plotted…well executed!
This was an extremely clever and moving debut. I’m always looking for something a bit out of the box and this fit the bill perfectly! Looking forward to seeing what this very talented author comes up with next!
Thank you to Berkley Publishing Group via NetGalley
June 1, 2025
4.5 ⭐️ Poignant, captivating, and deeply moving—this book was absolutely fabulous.
The cover first caught my eye, but I went into this one without knowing too much about it. And honestly, I think that made the experience even better. From the very first page, I was drawn in by the characters and the depth of their stories. I didn’t know how or why their lives would connect, but I was captivated by each of them, eager to understand the threads that would eventually weave them together. And then—when that moment came, the shock of it hit so hard I gasped out loud. I had to sit with it, letting it all sink in.
What made this book so powerful was the way it gave each character their own space to be heard. Their individual perspectives weren’t just compelling; they felt necessary. Each chapter flowed seamlessly, pulling me further into their lives, their grief, their guarded hopes. The character development was incredible, unfolding in ways that felt honest and deeply human. I couldn’t help but root for them—not just in healing, but in discovering what might be waiting for them on the other side of pain.
And then there was the relationship between two characters that had me absolutely hooked. I don’t want to give anything away, but the way it developed felt so natural, so well done. By the end, I was just so pleased with how everything played out.
This book was so much more than I expected—it wasn’t just about grief or healing, but about connection, resilience, and the quiet bravery it takes to step forward. I spent time with these characters, truly sat with them, and by the end, I didn’t want to let them go. There’s so much I want to say, but I can’t, because this is a story that needs to unfold exactly as it’s meant to—for each reader, in their own time.
I received a copy from the publisher through NetGalley.
The cover first caught my eye, but I went into this one without knowing too much about it. And honestly, I think that made the experience even better. From the very first page, I was drawn in by the characters and the depth of their stories. I didn’t know how or why their lives would connect, but I was captivated by each of them, eager to understand the threads that would eventually weave them together. And then—when that moment came, the shock of it hit so hard I gasped out loud. I had to sit with it, letting it all sink in.
What made this book so powerful was the way it gave each character their own space to be heard. Their individual perspectives weren’t just compelling; they felt necessary. Each chapter flowed seamlessly, pulling me further into their lives, their grief, their guarded hopes. The character development was incredible, unfolding in ways that felt honest and deeply human. I couldn’t help but root for them—not just in healing, but in discovering what might be waiting for them on the other side of pain.
And then there was the relationship between two characters that had me absolutely hooked. I don’t want to give anything away, but the way it developed felt so natural, so well done. By the end, I was just so pleased with how everything played out.
This book was so much more than I expected—it wasn’t just about grief or healing, but about connection, resilience, and the quiet bravery it takes to step forward. I spent time with these characters, truly sat with them, and by the end, I didn’t want to let them go. There’s so much I want to say, but I can’t, because this is a story that needs to unfold exactly as it’s meant to—for each reader, in their own time.
I received a copy from the publisher through NetGalley.
April 16, 2025
Wow, I was not expecting this book to be my first 5 star read this year.
Hey Siri please play- Never Felt So Alone by Labrinth
I went into this story almost completely blind, all I knew was that it centered around strangers in group therapy. But from the very first chapter, I was hooked. I read it in one sitting, completely swept up in the raw vulnerability and quiet strength of these characters. What caught me most off guard was how deeply emotional it turned out to be, I genuinely didn’t expect to cry, but I found myself in tears, feeling everything right alongside them. I thought it would be a mellow read, but instead, it reached in and touched something tender in me.
Told through the eyes of four very different people, Freya, Callum, Mischa, and Victoria, each of them carries their own unique kind of heartbreak. A once passionate interior designer barely holding her marriage and anxiety at bay, a former rockstar numbed by addiction and regret, a young woman who’s never truly lived for herself, and a high-functioning lawyer with emotional walls so high you can’t see over them. What brings them together is an unconventional grief therapy group that meets every Tuesday at 7 p.m. and what unfolds is something quietly extraordinary.
The story is thoughtfully framed through the stages of grief....denial, anger, bargaining, depression, acceptance, allowing each character their own space to breathe, break, and begin again. What makes this book truly powerful is how intentionally each voice is given room to be heard. Their perspectives didn’t just add depth, they felt necessary. Their pain was palpable, their growth hard-won, and their connection with each other felt like something sacred slowly blooming. Every chapter flowed like a gentle current pulling me deeper, not just into their stories, but into their grief, their loneliness, their tentative hope. The character development was nothing short of remarkable. It felt real, messy, vulnerable, and beautifully human. This wasn’t just a book about grief, it was a story about love in all its forms, about the courage to open your heart again, and about the healing power of being truly seen.
By the end, I wasn’t ready to say goodbye. I felt like I had lived with these characters, ached with them, and in some quiet way, healed with them. If you’re drawn to emotionally rich, character-driven stories that explore the messy beauty of healing and human connection, I can’t recommend this enough. Readers who love Fredrik Backman will feel right at home here. And if The Wedding People left a mark on you, this one absolutely will too.
Hey Siri please play- Never Felt So Alone by Labrinth
I went into this story almost completely blind, all I knew was that it centered around strangers in group therapy. But from the very first chapter, I was hooked. I read it in one sitting, completely swept up in the raw vulnerability and quiet strength of these characters. What caught me most off guard was how deeply emotional it turned out to be, I genuinely didn’t expect to cry, but I found myself in tears, feeling everything right alongside them. I thought it would be a mellow read, but instead, it reached in and touched something tender in me.
Told through the eyes of four very different people, Freya, Callum, Mischa, and Victoria, each of them carries their own unique kind of heartbreak. A once passionate interior designer barely holding her marriage and anxiety at bay, a former rockstar numbed by addiction and regret, a young woman who’s never truly lived for herself, and a high-functioning lawyer with emotional walls so high you can’t see over them. What brings them together is an unconventional grief therapy group that meets every Tuesday at 7 p.m. and what unfolds is something quietly extraordinary.
The story is thoughtfully framed through the stages of grief....denial, anger, bargaining, depression, acceptance, allowing each character their own space to breathe, break, and begin again. What makes this book truly powerful is how intentionally each voice is given room to be heard. Their perspectives didn’t just add depth, they felt necessary. Their pain was palpable, their growth hard-won, and their connection with each other felt like something sacred slowly blooming. Every chapter flowed like a gentle current pulling me deeper, not just into their stories, but into their grief, their loneliness, their tentative hope. The character development was nothing short of remarkable. It felt real, messy, vulnerable, and beautifully human. This wasn’t just a book about grief, it was a story about love in all its forms, about the courage to open your heart again, and about the healing power of being truly seen.
By the end, I wasn’t ready to say goodbye. I felt like I had lived with these characters, ached with them, and in some quiet way, healed with them. If you’re drawn to emotionally rich, character-driven stories that explore the messy beauty of healing and human connection, I can’t recommend this enough. Readers who love Fredrik Backman will feel right at home here. And if The Wedding People left a mark on you, this one absolutely will too.
June 8, 2025
This book was such a realistic version of the unique differences in grief and ways of coping. It really pulled me in and I could not stop reading.
I did not expect the twist at all and I also have completely mixed feelings about it. When I started this book, I honestly did not have any idea there was some magical elements to it. I thought it was just about grief and working through that. I would have preferred it that way I believe.
While the twist totally took me for complete surprise, I think there were a lot of the elements of it that seemed rushed together and too unbelievable. However, I still enjoyed it overall and really enjoyed the epilogue.
The writing style especially for the first 3/4 of the book was wonderful. I would absolutely read this author again.
I did not expect the twist at all and I also have completely mixed feelings about it. When I started this book, I honestly did not have any idea there was some magical elements to it. I thought it was just about grief and working through that. I would have preferred it that way I believe.
While the twist totally took me for complete surprise, I think there were a lot of the elements of it that seemed rushed together and too unbelievable. However, I still enjoyed it overall and really enjoyed the epilogue.
The writing style especially for the first 3/4 of the book was wonderful. I would absolutely read this author again.
October 17, 2025
Four strangers have a agreed to be part of a new type of therapy that helps deal with grief and loss. While all four have reservations that they need therapy, their mental walls begin to crumble, allowing for relationships to form. As they move further through the therapy, they realize they were brought together for a reason.
This is certainly a compelling read. Each character was drawn out so that we could get an idea of who they are but also allow us to see their internal conflicts. How it all ended up tying together was done very well. However, I will admit I was able to suss out the ending pretty early on.
This definitely isn’t my typical read, but after seeing so many rave reviews from my GR friends, I decided to give it a try and very happy that I did .
This is certainly a compelling read. Each character was drawn out so that we could get an idea of who they are but also allow us to see their internal conflicts. How it all ended up tying together was done very well. However, I will admit I was able to suss out the ending pretty early on.
This definitely isn’t my typical read, but after seeing so many rave reviews from my GR friends, I decided to give it a try and very happy that I did .
June 1, 2025
3.8 Stars
One Liner: A good debut! Introspective
Genevieve is a psychologist who wants to try a new kind of group therapy for grief. She picks four candidates – Victoria (52), Freya (31), Callum (29), and Mischa (20), people dealing with different types of grief and personal battles.
They are to meet once a week in Genevieve’s home. Of course, all of them are skeptical about this, but give it a try (some more grudgingly than others). However, as they start to speak and get to one another, things change. Maybe, they might have a chance to finally move on from whatever is crushing their souls.
One day, they find out the reason they were chosen for this therapy, and it tests their newly formed friendships like no other. What happens next?
The story comes in the first-person POVs of Genevieve, Freya, Victoria, Mischa, and Callum.
My Thoughts:
The book is divided into multiple parts, like denial, anger, bargaining, depression, etc.
After a short intro via Genevieve’s report written after the therapy ended, we go back to how it began. The four main characters get a chapter each as introductions.
Luckily, the character POVs are distinct and have specific narrative styles. Callum’s are filled with F-bombs. Victoria is snarky and snobbish. Freya is detached. Mischa is lost and overwhelmed. This makes it easy to track whose POV we are reading.
The initial setup takes time, so the first 30% is slow. We get sneak peeks into their lives, keeping the interest levels high. Emotions also run high, so it is not really a light-hearted book. Since the therapy is for grief, there are quite a few triggers as well. One of the characters is into substance abuse.
As each character reveals their past and the key incident, we can see their pain and anguish. They also start to bond with each other, which makes things easy and complicated.
There are a few hints about the twist that would come. I did guess some of it and wondered if that’s what it would be. It was but with something extra. However, this is a deal breaker. You’ll either like it or hate it. If you like it, you’ll enjoy the book more.
I did like how things proceeded despite the repetition of actions and dialogues where they go back and forth about a few things.
One thing that didn’t really work for me was the romance part. It’s not organic, and the explanation didn’t help. A toned-down version wouldn’t suit the plot, but the way it is doesn’t work either. Maybe a combined backstory might have helped. I’m not sure!
The ending is quite good too. It ties up the loose ends without moving away from the main plot. This does result in an open-ish end, which is just right here.
To summarize, The Seven O'Clock Club is a good debut read dealing with different types of grief, found family, and learning to move on. I will be interested in reading the author’s future books.
Thank you, NetGalley and Black & White Publishing (Bonnier UK), for eARC. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
#NetGalley #TheSevenOClockClub
***
P.S.: No self-respecting Indian (descendant) would call it ‘chai tea’, that too when talking to their kin.
***
TW:
One Liner: A good debut! Introspective
Genevieve is a psychologist who wants to try a new kind of group therapy for grief. She picks four candidates – Victoria (52), Freya (31), Callum (29), and Mischa (20), people dealing with different types of grief and personal battles.
They are to meet once a week in Genevieve’s home. Of course, all of them are skeptical about this, but give it a try (some more grudgingly than others). However, as they start to speak and get to one another, things change. Maybe, they might have a chance to finally move on from whatever is crushing their souls.
One day, they find out the reason they were chosen for this therapy, and it tests their newly formed friendships like no other. What happens next?
The story comes in the first-person POVs of Genevieve, Freya, Victoria, Mischa, and Callum.
My Thoughts:
The book is divided into multiple parts, like denial, anger, bargaining, depression, etc.
After a short intro via Genevieve’s report written after the therapy ended, we go back to how it began. The four main characters get a chapter each as introductions.
Luckily, the character POVs are distinct and have specific narrative styles. Callum’s are filled with F-bombs. Victoria is snarky and snobbish. Freya is detached. Mischa is lost and overwhelmed. This makes it easy to track whose POV we are reading.
The initial setup takes time, so the first 30% is slow. We get sneak peeks into their lives, keeping the interest levels high. Emotions also run high, so it is not really a light-hearted book. Since the therapy is for grief, there are quite a few triggers as well. One of the characters is into substance abuse.
As each character reveals their past and the key incident, we can see their pain and anguish. They also start to bond with each other, which makes things easy and complicated.
There are a few hints about the twist that would come. I did guess some of it and wondered if that’s what it would be. It was but with something extra. However, this is a deal breaker. You’ll either like it or hate it. If you like it, you’ll enjoy the book more.
I did like how things proceeded despite the repetition of actions and dialogues where they go back and forth about a few things.
One thing that didn’t really work for me was the romance part. It’s not organic, and the explanation didn’t help. A toned-down version wouldn’t suit the plot, but the way it is doesn’t work either. Maybe a combined backstory might have helped. I’m not sure!
The ending is quite good too. It ties up the loose ends without moving away from the main plot. This does result in an open-ish end, which is just right here.
To summarize, The Seven O'Clock Club is a good debut read dealing with different types of grief, found family, and learning to move on. I will be interested in reading the author’s future books.
Thank you, NetGalley and Black & White Publishing (Bonnier UK), for eARC. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
#NetGalley #TheSevenOClockClub
***
P.S.: No self-respecting Indian (descendant) would call it ‘chai tea’, that too when talking to their kin.
***
TW:
June 16, 2025
OH MY GOD!!!!!
guys😭😭😭😭 okay i went into this totally blind i only knew that it was about grief and that Meagan loved it so i thought why not give it a chance? and omg!!!!! it was so beautiful
i fully support going into this blind because nothing could’ve prepare me for what happened and i was SO SHOCKED!!!
it’s essentially about 4 very different people meeting at a grief counseling. Victoria, a serious lawyer who thinks this counseling thing is a bullshit. Mischa, a young girl who is grieving her mom. Freya, a lonely married woman. Callum, a famous guitarist with serious drug addiction. their story and counseling sessions has me hooked from the start and later the revelation!!! i loved this so much😭😭😭
THE ENDING😭 oh my god i cried it was so beautiful
a weird combination but if you love the good place and invisible string this is for you😭🥹
guys😭😭😭😭 okay i went into this totally blind i only knew that it was about grief and that Meagan loved it so i thought why not give it a chance? and omg!!!!! it was so beautiful
i fully support going into this blind because nothing could’ve prepare me for what happened and i was SO SHOCKED!!!
it’s essentially about 4 very different people meeting at a grief counseling. Victoria, a serious lawyer who thinks this counseling thing is a bullshit. Mischa, a young girl who is grieving her mom. Freya, a lonely married woman. Callum, a famous guitarist with serious drug addiction. their story and counseling sessions has me hooked from the start and later the revelation!!! i loved this so much😭😭😭
THE ENDING😭 oh my god i cried it was so beautiful
a weird combination but if you love the good place and invisible string this is for you😭🥹
May 13, 2025
**Many thanks to Berkley and Amelia Ireland for an ARC of this book provided via NetGalley!**
"The only cure for grief is action." - George Henry Lewes
Therapist Genevieve Dempsey is more than ready to take action: she has a game plan. For those attempting to move through the 5 stages of grief made famous by Elisabeth Kübler-Ross (Denial, Anger, Bargaining, Depression, and Acceptance), this arduous and deeply personal journey can be made that much more complicated when the subject at hand becomes 'stuck' in one of the stages and feels unable to progress to the next. Genevieve has come up with a new methodology to help these patients specifically: the group all agrees to meet for 4 consecutive Wednesdays at 7pm to see if their shared experience can help move them through their pain. But who are the four special individuals Genevieve has hand selected to be part of this unique club?
There's 41 year old Victoria, a beautiful, no-nonsense lawyer who isn't afraid to speak her mind; Mischa, a young woman freshly twenty, who works in insurance but feels uncertain about her life path; Freya, a 31 year old battling anxiety and panic attacks amidst uncertainty in her marriage, and Callum, a bona fide rock star who has suffered a rather public fall from grace and superstardom after a battle with drugs and alcohol. Each of the members of this club have suffered a loss, but as the reader, we are not treated to their FULL stories until they begin to reveal them and open up to Genevieve and one another in their sessions. Much like the members of the Breakfast Club, this group initially looks at one another with a skeptical eye, doubting that they have ANYTHING in common other than suffering loss, and the first session is a bit bumpy. But as their stories slowly unwind and they collectively open their hearts and minds to this unorthodox way of handling their pain, bonds begin to form in ways that NONE of them (especially facilitator Genevieve) expected.
But when the shocking truth behind HOW they were selected comes to light, everything changes - and in an instant, the shaky alliances and budding feelings between some members of the group are called into question. This glimpse into the gravity of their collective future leaves EVERYONE reeling...and more than a bit terrified at the multitude of unknowns. With stakes sky-high, will the Seven O'Clock Club complete their mission and help to move one another through the stages of grief and toward inner peace? Or will fear and uncertainty keep them frozen in their pain...forever?
I'll just come out and say it: this is a STUNNING debut. It's hard to even fathom that Amelia Ireland is this confident, prolific, and steadfast as a writer in this first effort. This is the sort of novel that feels reminiscent of Matt Haig and Meg Shaffer: these are the kind of authors that make magical realism seem not only easy, but natural and believable, and Ireland feels like a contemporary to these authors from the jump. While this book does require a bit of patience as you get to know the characters and 'go around the circle' (as it were), by the time the biggest twist is revealed, you'll be breathlessly anticipating each of their fates as though they were members of your own family, disjointed as most families truly are, in their own way. The balance of varying ages and slightly contrarian and complex personalities sets the stage for not just conflict, but simmering dramatic (and perhaps even romantic...) tension along the way, and although you only get to know this crew over the course of one month, the level of soul searching and deep vulnerability furthers their character development far more than the simple confines of the narrative itself allows.
I looked at this book as sort of a one act play, and could almost picture the spiral of folding chairs, with a spotlight hitting each participant as they slowly and methodically shared their heartache. There is a simplicity to this sort of storytelling that feels reminiscent of an "Our Town" or the like: we don't need a thousand settings, pointless side characters, or drama for the sake of drama in this story. The pure exploration of what grief does to us and how we either adapt (or in the case of our characters, DON'T) is more than enough fodder for discussion and thought all on its own. But of course, this IS magical realism, and as such, we end up with one WHOPPER of a twist - one that if you don't predict it (and I'll be honest, I 1000% did not!) will truly knock your socks clean off your feet...and across the room to the nearest laundry basket! 🧦 I won't say much more about it, but I have noticed other reviewers being careful not to spoil the surprise...so do yourself a favor and don't do ANY unnecessary Googling or trying to find out details about this one; going in blind WILL pay off!
And while I can't reveal the fate of this one-of-a-kind found family or some of the unique ties they discover that MIGHT be destined to keep them tethered forever, while the road to acceptance may be long and paved with fear and doubt, it is the love they share that just might fill all of the cracks in the road...and lead each of them back to themselves.
💗
4 stars
"The only cure for grief is action." - George Henry Lewes
Therapist Genevieve Dempsey is more than ready to take action: she has a game plan. For those attempting to move through the 5 stages of grief made famous by Elisabeth Kübler-Ross (Denial, Anger, Bargaining, Depression, and Acceptance), this arduous and deeply personal journey can be made that much more complicated when the subject at hand becomes 'stuck' in one of the stages and feels unable to progress to the next. Genevieve has come up with a new methodology to help these patients specifically: the group all agrees to meet for 4 consecutive Wednesdays at 7pm to see if their shared experience can help move them through their pain. But who are the four special individuals Genevieve has hand selected to be part of this unique club?
There's 41 year old Victoria, a beautiful, no-nonsense lawyer who isn't afraid to speak her mind; Mischa, a young woman freshly twenty, who works in insurance but feels uncertain about her life path; Freya, a 31 year old battling anxiety and panic attacks amidst uncertainty in her marriage, and Callum, a bona fide rock star who has suffered a rather public fall from grace and superstardom after a battle with drugs and alcohol. Each of the members of this club have suffered a loss, but as the reader, we are not treated to their FULL stories until they begin to reveal them and open up to Genevieve and one another in their sessions. Much like the members of the Breakfast Club, this group initially looks at one another with a skeptical eye, doubting that they have ANYTHING in common other than suffering loss, and the first session is a bit bumpy. But as their stories slowly unwind and they collectively open their hearts and minds to this unorthodox way of handling their pain, bonds begin to form in ways that NONE of them (especially facilitator Genevieve) expected.
But when the shocking truth behind HOW they were selected comes to light, everything changes - and in an instant, the shaky alliances and budding feelings between some members of the group are called into question. This glimpse into the gravity of their collective future leaves EVERYONE reeling...and more than a bit terrified at the multitude of unknowns. With stakes sky-high, will the Seven O'Clock Club complete their mission and help to move one another through the stages of grief and toward inner peace? Or will fear and uncertainty keep them frozen in their pain...forever?
I'll just come out and say it: this is a STUNNING debut. It's hard to even fathom that Amelia Ireland is this confident, prolific, and steadfast as a writer in this first effort. This is the sort of novel that feels reminiscent of Matt Haig and Meg Shaffer: these are the kind of authors that make magical realism seem not only easy, but natural and believable, and Ireland feels like a contemporary to these authors from the jump. While this book does require a bit of patience as you get to know the characters and 'go around the circle' (as it were), by the time the biggest twist is revealed, you'll be breathlessly anticipating each of their fates as though they were members of your own family, disjointed as most families truly are, in their own way. The balance of varying ages and slightly contrarian and complex personalities sets the stage for not just conflict, but simmering dramatic (and perhaps even romantic...) tension along the way, and although you only get to know this crew over the course of one month, the level of soul searching and deep vulnerability furthers their character development far more than the simple confines of the narrative itself allows.
I looked at this book as sort of a one act play, and could almost picture the spiral of folding chairs, with a spotlight hitting each participant as they slowly and methodically shared their heartache. There is a simplicity to this sort of storytelling that feels reminiscent of an "Our Town" or the like: we don't need a thousand settings, pointless side characters, or drama for the sake of drama in this story. The pure exploration of what grief does to us and how we either adapt (or in the case of our characters, DON'T) is more than enough fodder for discussion and thought all on its own. But of course, this IS magical realism, and as such, we end up with one WHOPPER of a twist - one that if you don't predict it (and I'll be honest, I 1000% did not!) will truly knock your socks clean off your feet...and across the room to the nearest laundry basket! 🧦 I won't say much more about it, but I have noticed other reviewers being careful not to spoil the surprise...so do yourself a favor and don't do ANY unnecessary Googling or trying to find out details about this one; going in blind WILL pay off!
And while I can't reveal the fate of this one-of-a-kind found family or some of the unique ties they discover that MIGHT be destined to keep them tethered forever, while the road to acceptance may be long and paved with fear and doubt, it is the love they share that just might fill all of the cracks in the road...and lead each of them back to themselves.
💗
4 stars
May 28, 2025
I found the first part of this book fascinating as the characters worked through their issues together. It takes a turn for the weird later and kind of falls apart after that.
May 11, 2025
the setup…
Genevieve Dempsey is a psychologist who has a theory about the five stages of grief and has assembled four people to participate in an experiment designed to mend their broken hearts. There’s Victoria, an acerbic 52-year old lawyer who doesn’t think she belongs there; Mischa, a 20-year old who can’t find a place in this world; Callum, a 29-year old rock star whose career and life is tanking because of his drug and alcohol abuse; and Freya, a 31-year old interior designer whose marriage is failing and suffers from panic attacks. Each has experienced a recent loss and Genevieve believes their sharing it with the group will put them on the path to being healed.
the heart of the story…
The group is unconventional and it didn’t take long for me to get invested in all of them, individually and collectively. They meet once a week at seven o’clock and participation is fragile until something magical begins to happen and they start bonding. But there’s more…and I never saw it coming!!!
the narration…
Clare Corbett, Emma Gregory, Luke Francis and Nikki Patel all gave wonderful performances, each sounding like the characters they portrayed as designed. Their storytelling skills were excellent and made a complicated structure flow with ease.
the bottom line…
The transitions between characters are seamless as they navigate through each group stage. I was rooting for all of them in different ways and got caught up in the spirit of the story, especially when it took a turn that lifted my imagination. I’ve not read a story quite like this and Ireland is an author to watch. I certainly will. 4.5 stars
Posted on Blue Mood Café
Genevieve Dempsey is a psychologist who has a theory about the five stages of grief and has assembled four people to participate in an experiment designed to mend their broken hearts. There’s Victoria, an acerbic 52-year old lawyer who doesn’t think she belongs there; Mischa, a 20-year old who can’t find a place in this world; Callum, a 29-year old rock star whose career and life is tanking because of his drug and alcohol abuse; and Freya, a 31-year old interior designer whose marriage is failing and suffers from panic attacks. Each has experienced a recent loss and Genevieve believes their sharing it with the group will put them on the path to being healed.
the heart of the story…
The group is unconventional and it didn’t take long for me to get invested in all of them, individually and collectively. They meet once a week at seven o’clock and participation is fragile until something magical begins to happen and they start bonding. But there’s more…and I never saw it coming!!!
the narration…
Clare Corbett, Emma Gregory, Luke Francis and Nikki Patel all gave wonderful performances, each sounding like the characters they portrayed as designed. Their storytelling skills were excellent and made a complicated structure flow with ease.
the bottom line…
The transitions between characters are seamless as they navigate through each group stage. I was rooting for all of them in different ways and got caught up in the spirit of the story, especially when it took a turn that lifted my imagination. I’ve not read a story quite like this and Ireland is an author to watch. I certainly will. 4.5 stars
Posted on Blue Mood Café
April 15, 2025
When I started this book, I went into it somewhat blind and was immediately drawn in to the different characters and their stories. I didn't quite know how these strangers would cope in this type of environment and I didn't see how they all tied together until the reveal. To say I was in shock at the reveal is an understatement and I gasped out loud.
I loved that each character had their own POV and we got to see the story from their side. The character development was superb. This book does switch POV's quite frequently so if that isn't your thing, this may annoy you a bit, but the transitions are smooth between chapters and the read is well worth it.
Not only was I captivated by each character's life and story but I was intrigued by the potential romantic interest between two of these individuals. I love how this particular storyline played out and I was so happy with the outcome.
The epilogue was adorable and I would likely read a novel based solely on the characters involved.
I was planning on giving this one 4 stars but by the emotions and reactions this book elicited I have no other option to give it 5 stars. Also, the fact that this is a debut novel is mind blowing and I cannot wait to read more from Amelia.
There are several other novels and movies I could liken this book to but I fear I cannot for possible spoilers and I do not want to ruin this for anyone.
Thank you Berkley Publishing Group | Berkley and NetGalley for access to the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Pub Date: 4/15/25
I loved that each character had their own POV and we got to see the story from their side. The character development was superb. This book does switch POV's quite frequently so if that isn't your thing, this may annoy you a bit, but the transitions are smooth between chapters and the read is well worth it.
Not only was I captivated by each character's life and story but I was intrigued by the potential romantic interest between two of these individuals. I love how this particular storyline played out and I was so happy with the outcome.
The epilogue was adorable and I would likely read a novel based solely on the characters involved.
I was planning on giving this one 4 stars but by the emotions and reactions this book elicited I have no other option to give it 5 stars. Also, the fact that this is a debut novel is mind blowing and I cannot wait to read more from Amelia.
There are several other novels and movies I could liken this book to but I fear I cannot for possible spoilers and I do not want to ruin this for anyone.
Thank you Berkley Publishing Group | Berkley and NetGalley for access to the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Pub Date: 4/15/25
February 12, 2025
This started out slow... but boy did this TAKE OFF! I was intrigued by the entire process and felt so deeply for the characters. I was interested in seeing if the group counseling sessions would work and help all of their grieving processes. I was absolutely SHOCKED by the first twist. Like, audibly gasped so loud I scared my kid. Lol, everything after that point was also fascinating and wonderful. I loved this, every single part! I will absolutely be reading more books by this author now.
I received this book from NetGalley and Berkley to read/review. All of the statements above are my true opinions after fully reading this book.
I received this book from NetGalley and Berkley to read/review. All of the statements above are my true opinions after fully reading this book.
April 19, 2025
4.5 Stars!
THE SEVEN O'CLOCK CLUB by Author Amelia Ireland is a mesmerizing, emotional story that takes a turn I had no idea was coming. I'm glad I went into this one virtually clueless, not knowing what to expect, as I think it enhanced the overall reading experience, and when the shocking turn occurred, I was already so deeply invested in these character's lives that I couldn't turn back even if I wanted to. Without giving anything away, I'll say I'm still not completely clear how I feel about the twist in this one - maybe because it was so unexpected to me - but I do know I was riveted in my seat from beginning to end and finished emotionally drained.
Four strangers respond to different ads seeking participants for a new, experimental grief counseling group set to meet once a week a seven o'clock in the evening. The four who show up couldn't be more different except for one thing . . . all four at struggling with moving on from a personal, devastating loss in their lives. Middle aged Victoria appears arrogant and indifferent, unkempt Freya is a shell of her former self, Mischa is young, innocent and anxious to please and then there's Callum, a bad boy rocker who plummeted from the top of the music world to hit rock bottom in a pool of alcohol, drugs and careless sex. None of the four wants to be there so why are they? What drove or persuaded these four individuals to get up off the floor and seek help? And who is Genevieve - the mysterious, secretive leader of the group? As this story unfolds, each individual's story is revealed - their grief, their shattered dreams, their personal disaster - as they slowly begin letting down their guard. As weeks go by and all four continue showing up, relationships form, and hearts begin healing. And yet, there's a growing unease that Geneviere is keeping something from them. And when she finally plays her trump card, total shock ensues for both characters and readers if they've gone into this book blind. That's all I can say about the plot line without spoilers. Read the book one page, once chapter at a time, and it'll consume you. I still can't stop thinking about it a week or so later.
THE SEVEN O'CLOCK CLUB is an emotional rollercoaster that highlights grief, depression, healing, human connections, and forgiveness. Readers will find it easy to feel empathy for these characters as they are written with such expertise and depth, such emotion, that it almost feels like you're a part of the seven o'clock club too. I finished the book over a week ago and still find myself thinking about it. Highly recommended to fans of Literary Fiction and Magical Realism.
Many thanks to Berkley Publishing for a complimentary arc of this title & a blog tour invitation! This review is published on my blog Cross My Heart Reviews.
THE SEVEN O'CLOCK CLUB by Author Amelia Ireland is a mesmerizing, emotional story that takes a turn I had no idea was coming. I'm glad I went into this one virtually clueless, not knowing what to expect, as I think it enhanced the overall reading experience, and when the shocking turn occurred, I was already so deeply invested in these character's lives that I couldn't turn back even if I wanted to. Without giving anything away, I'll say I'm still not completely clear how I feel about the twist in this one - maybe because it was so unexpected to me - but I do know I was riveted in my seat from beginning to end and finished emotionally drained.
Four strangers respond to different ads seeking participants for a new, experimental grief counseling group set to meet once a week a seven o'clock in the evening. The four who show up couldn't be more different except for one thing . . . all four at struggling with moving on from a personal, devastating loss in their lives. Middle aged Victoria appears arrogant and indifferent, unkempt Freya is a shell of her former self, Mischa is young, innocent and anxious to please and then there's Callum, a bad boy rocker who plummeted from the top of the music world to hit rock bottom in a pool of alcohol, drugs and careless sex. None of the four wants to be there so why are they? What drove or persuaded these four individuals to get up off the floor and seek help? And who is Genevieve - the mysterious, secretive leader of the group? As this story unfolds, each individual's story is revealed - their grief, their shattered dreams, their personal disaster - as they slowly begin letting down their guard. As weeks go by and all four continue showing up, relationships form, and hearts begin healing. And yet, there's a growing unease that Geneviere is keeping something from them. And when she finally plays her trump card, total shock ensues for both characters and readers if they've gone into this book blind. That's all I can say about the plot line without spoilers. Read the book one page, once chapter at a time, and it'll consume you. I still can't stop thinking about it a week or so later.
THE SEVEN O'CLOCK CLUB is an emotional rollercoaster that highlights grief, depression, healing, human connections, and forgiveness. Readers will find it easy to feel empathy for these characters as they are written with such expertise and depth, such emotion, that it almost feels like you're a part of the seven o'clock club too. I finished the book over a week ago and still find myself thinking about it. Highly recommended to fans of Literary Fiction and Magical Realism.
Many thanks to Berkley Publishing for a complimentary arc of this title & a blog tour invitation! This review is published on my blog Cross My Heart Reviews.
May 19, 2025
A twist I didn't see coming!
The Seven O’Clock Club begins with Genevieve, a therapist, conducting an experimental grief therapy group. She has selected four participants—Victoria, Callum, Mischa, and Freya—who must attend weekly group therapy sessions for four weeks.
Initially, the group is hesitant. Victoria, Callum, Mischa, and Freya are either skeptical about therapy or reluctant to share the reasons for their presence. What we do know is that they all have lost someone, and the loss has marked them. At different stages of grief, they doubt Genevieve’s ability to help.
As readers learn about these characters and their losses, it’s easy to grow attached, rooting for their healing and the release of their inner demons. Then comes a plot twist that changes everything.
This entertaining debut delivers a compelling narrative and richly developed characters. Despite exploring profound loss and guilt, the story avoids being overly somber. Ultimately, it offers hope.
Cliffhanger: No
4/5 Fangs
A complimentary copy was provided by Berkley via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
MrsLeif's Two Fangs About It | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram
The Seven O’Clock Club begins with Genevieve, a therapist, conducting an experimental grief therapy group. She has selected four participants—Victoria, Callum, Mischa, and Freya—who must attend weekly group therapy sessions for four weeks.
Initially, the group is hesitant. Victoria, Callum, Mischa, and Freya are either skeptical about therapy or reluctant to share the reasons for their presence. What we do know is that they all have lost someone, and the loss has marked them. At different stages of grief, they doubt Genevieve’s ability to help.
As readers learn about these characters and their losses, it’s easy to grow attached, rooting for their healing and the release of their inner demons. Then comes a plot twist that changes everything.
This entertaining debut delivers a compelling narrative and richly developed characters. Despite exploring profound loss and guilt, the story avoids being overly somber. Ultimately, it offers hope.
Cliffhanger: No
4/5 Fangs
A complimentary copy was provided by Berkley via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
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May 24, 2025
Happy pub day you gorgeous book!! Thank you so much @berkleypub #berkleypartner for the free book!! 🥰
This book!! 😍I don’t often pick of a book that deals with grief but I did because the reviews were SO amazing!! Let me tell you.. this was indeed fantastic!!
Four strangers get together once a week. They have nothing in common except that they can not cope with their loss. They can not move on… they are quite literally stuck in life…. Understandable right? 😭
SOO… that normally would not be my kind of book… but let me tell you why it was. I LOVED every character. Everyone was so likable and I loved when they opened up and shared their story. These characters were SO well developed! I truly cared about them. 🫶Oh wait.. there is more…
BOOM!! That twist!! I have no idea where that twist came from…😳 I was completely blindsided! 🤯 It was absolutely brilliant.. and it changed.. EVERYTHING!! 👏 It blew my mind. Go in blind.. Trust me!!
All I can say is WOW what a debut!! I can’t wait to see what @ameliaireland_author comes up with next!!
This book!! 😍I don’t often pick of a book that deals with grief but I did because the reviews were SO amazing!! Let me tell you.. this was indeed fantastic!!
Four strangers get together once a week. They have nothing in common except that they can not cope with their loss. They can not move on… they are quite literally stuck in life…. Understandable right? 😭
SOO… that normally would not be my kind of book… but let me tell you why it was. I LOVED every character. Everyone was so likable and I loved when they opened up and shared their story. These characters were SO well developed! I truly cared about them. 🫶Oh wait.. there is more…
BOOM!! That twist!! I have no idea where that twist came from…😳 I was completely blindsided! 🤯 It was absolutely brilliant.. and it changed.. EVERYTHING!! 👏 It blew my mind. Go in blind.. Trust me!!
All I can say is WOW what a debut!! I can’t wait to see what @ameliaireland_author comes up with next!!
April 16, 2025
Like what?!? I'm having trouble describing The Seven O'Clock Club. This debut by Amelia Ireland was not what I was expecting, and I loved it! It's heartwarming and heartbreaking, satisfying and shocking.
I loved all the characters, but Callum was my favorite. I appreciated the slow reveal of why each person ended up in group therapy. The strong connection to the characters made me feel more deeply how they were impacted by the events.
I went into this just knowing it involved a grief therapy group. I was ready to cry. I was NOT prepared to be blindsided! I don't want to ruin it for anyone else. I want you all to feel the way I did when I screamed out loud at 2 am. Thankfully, my husband was at work. 😅
Read this if you like:
• Found family
• Page-turners
• Stories about forgiveness
• Books that will surprise you
• Books that will make you cry
Many thanks to @berkleypub for the complimentary ARC.
I loved all the characters, but Callum was my favorite. I appreciated the slow reveal of why each person ended up in group therapy. The strong connection to the characters made me feel more deeply how they were impacted by the events.
I went into this just knowing it involved a grief therapy group. I was ready to cry. I was NOT prepared to be blindsided! I don't want to ruin it for anyone else. I want you all to feel the way I did when I screamed out loud at 2 am. Thankfully, my husband was at work. 😅
Read this if you like:
• Found family
• Page-turners
• Stories about forgiveness
• Books that will surprise you
• Books that will make you cry
Many thanks to @berkleypub for the complimentary ARC.
February 2, 2025
I can’t believe how high this awful book was rated. I gave two stars because before the 75% mark it wasn’t bad…not good…but not bad. Four people touched by grief in a therapy group bond together. The writing is occasionally cringey and trite, the characters not particularly believable, but then it totally went off the rails with a “twist”. The twist is so ridiculous that I couldn’t continue. Waste of my time
April 15, 2025
You know that feeling when a book quietly sneaks up on you? You think you’re just signing on for a mellow little story about strangers in group therapy, and then—you’re all in, emotionally tangled up with characters you didn’t even know you were rooting for. That’s The Seven O’Clock Club by Amelia Ireland.
Fundamentally, it’s a story about four very different people—Freya, Callum, Mischa, and Victoria—each dealing with their own brand of heartbreak. An interior designer with a fraying marriage and anxiety attacks, a washed-up rockstar numbed by addiction, a young woman who’s never had a chance to live her own life, and a lawyer who could win medals in emotional lockdown. They’re brought together for an experimental grief therapy session every Tuesday night at 7 p.m.—The Seven O’Clock Club. Grief therapy with strangers: what could go wrong? Or better yet—what could go right?
This isn’t just another ‘unlikely group of people become friends and grow emotionally’ novel. Well…it kinda is, but much more. The characters don’t become instant friends. There’s resistance. Skepticism. Snark. They eye each other like they’re waiting for the twist.
Ireland writes with clear empathy such that even when a character is being frustrating, you still want to understand why. And once those emotional walls start crumbling, the connections that form feel earned, not scripted. Found family tropes can get overly sweet or predictable, but this one strikes a balance—heartfelt without being saccharine.
And, to be fair, there is a big twist, and it lands when you’ve let your guard down. No spoilers, but let’s just say it’s a “Wait, what?!” moment.
This was one of those books that made me feel immersed, less like I’d read a novel and more like I’d been part of a process. I didn’t want to leave the club. And if Amelia Ireland ever decides to check back in on this group five years later, I’ll be the first one to RSVP. Highly recommended.
Fundamentally, it’s a story about four very different people—Freya, Callum, Mischa, and Victoria—each dealing with their own brand of heartbreak. An interior designer with a fraying marriage and anxiety attacks, a washed-up rockstar numbed by addiction, a young woman who’s never had a chance to live her own life, and a lawyer who could win medals in emotional lockdown. They’re brought together for an experimental grief therapy session every Tuesday night at 7 p.m.—The Seven O’Clock Club. Grief therapy with strangers: what could go wrong? Or better yet—what could go right?
This isn’t just another ‘unlikely group of people become friends and grow emotionally’ novel. Well…it kinda is, but much more. The characters don’t become instant friends. There’s resistance. Skepticism. Snark. They eye each other like they’re waiting for the twist.
Ireland writes with clear empathy such that even when a character is being frustrating, you still want to understand why. And once those emotional walls start crumbling, the connections that form feel earned, not scripted. Found family tropes can get overly sweet or predictable, but this one strikes a balance—heartfelt without being saccharine.
And, to be fair, there is a big twist, and it lands when you’ve let your guard down. No spoilers, but let’s just say it’s a “Wait, what?!” moment.
This was one of those books that made me feel immersed, less like I’d read a novel and more like I’d been part of a process. I didn’t want to leave the club. And if Amelia Ireland ever decides to check back in on this group five years later, I’ll be the first one to RSVP. Highly recommended.
March 22, 2025
The premise of this book immediately drew me in. Four strangers, each grappling with grief, agree to attend group therapy. Every week, they sit together, hesitantly opening up about their lives while avoiding the traumatic events that led them there. Their therapist, Genevieve, is also navigating new territory, testing a technique she hasn’t used before. What they don’t realize is that she has another reason for bringing them together.
Although avoiding grief cannot be avoided, I wanted to see if the book would move forward in how to deal with it without being bogged down for so long. I also wanted to see if this book would resonate with my trauma with my divorce from infidelity on my ex husband’s part. Luckily, it was not, but I did feel that the book focused too much on grief as a messaging tool that I slowly got bored with the characters. There’s only so much back and forth between the four main characters where it began to feel monotonous. However, the big reveal was unexpected and won me over in the end. I won’t reveal too much, but the twist made the entire journey worth it, even if it took so long for me to get to the point of enjoyment. Amelia Ireland’s debut was unique that’s for sure and I would read more from her in the future.
Although avoiding grief cannot be avoided, I wanted to see if the book would move forward in how to deal with it without being bogged down for so long. I also wanted to see if this book would resonate with my trauma with my divorce from infidelity on my ex husband’s part. Luckily, it was not, but I did feel that the book focused too much on grief as a messaging tool that I slowly got bored with the characters. There’s only so much back and forth between the four main characters where it began to feel monotonous. However, the big reveal was unexpected and won me over in the end. I won’t reveal too much, but the twist made the entire journey worth it, even if it took so long for me to get to the point of enjoyment. Amelia Ireland’s debut was unique that’s for sure and I would read more from her in the future.
July 16, 2025
I am struggling with how to rate this book. I was thoroughly engrossed, reading this book about a grief counseling for four individuals whose stories are so different, yet tied together with the death of a loved one at the center of it. The group is small, just four people with Genevieve as their counselor. They meet once a week at 7 o'clock.
They are hesitant to open up as the pain from their grief is still so strong and raw. They also bring a lot of their personalities to the sessions that at times hinders conversation. One is haughty and dominant, another is cocky and brash, the third is weak and lacks self confidence, while the fourth has withdrawn from life. Slowly, they each start to share and begin to find ways to support each other even as they begin to work through the stages of grief in a more healthy way.
Then, at about the 3/4 point, a twist occurs that initially made me stop reading, put the book the aside for a bit because I wasn't prepared for that change in direction for the story. I lost a loved one and even though it was five years ago, I still found elements of this book that resonated with me. And when the story took such a turn, I was almost angry at the author because I stupidly expected the psychologist in the story to come out with some kind of miracle cure for these patients and their grief that I could use in my own life.
After taking a breather, I came back to the book and finished it, and enjoyed it. And I smacked my head to say "um, Julie, there is no cure for grief! What were you really expecting anyway?!"🤔
They are hesitant to open up as the pain from their grief is still so strong and raw. They also bring a lot of their personalities to the sessions that at times hinders conversation. One is haughty and dominant, another is cocky and brash, the third is weak and lacks self confidence, while the fourth has withdrawn from life. Slowly, they each start to share and begin to find ways to support each other even as they begin to work through the stages of grief in a more healthy way.
Then, at about the 3/4 point, a twist occurs that initially made me stop reading, put the book the aside for a bit because I wasn't prepared for that change in direction for the story. I lost a loved one and even though it was five years ago, I still found elements of this book that resonated with me. And when the story took such a turn, I was almost angry at the author because I stupidly expected the psychologist in the story to come out with some kind of miracle cure for these patients and their grief that I could use in my own life.
After taking a breather, I came back to the book and finished it, and enjoyed it. And I smacked my head to say "um, Julie, there is no cure for grief! What were you really expecting anyway?!"🤔
May 16, 2025
This felt like 2 different books smashed together for me. I enjoyed the first half about working through grief and then it was like *poof* 3 weeks later you’re all cured and let’s start a sci fi story.
May 6, 2025
Grief can take many forms, and there are many stages in the grieving process. This book brings four very different people together in a group to address their grief. Very different, but all stuck and unable to move on. Freda, Callum, Mischa and Victoria meet their group leader Genevieve at 7:00 on a Tuesday, and she asks them to all commit to four weekly sessions. After the first session, they get together and connections begin to form.
Talking about the incident that has set each of them off and brought them to this group is emotionally heart wrenching for each of them. They open up in a way they’ve been unable to with others, and begin to trust each other. Then Genevieve shares some information that shifts everything… and sends them in new directions.
It’s a difficult book to describe without sharing too much. It sounds depressing, and there is sadness, but there is also laughs and connection. The beginning is slower paced, as we get to know each of the characters. But then the author does an outstanding job of bringing in the reader and making us part of the group. It’s a very unique and original storyline, and I think it will stay with me.
“Is time really the best healer? No, not at all. Acceptance is. Which obviously takes time, yes. But if you don’t accept what’s happened to you, all the time in the world can go by and it won’t make the slightest bit of difference… I don’t mean acceptance in the form of acknowledgment that the event happened. I mean acceptance in the sense of being ready to let go.”
A 4-1/2 for me… not sure if I’m going up or down or if I may change after more thought? The message is conveyed in such a lovely way…
Talking about the incident that has set each of them off and brought them to this group is emotionally heart wrenching for each of them. They open up in a way they’ve been unable to with others, and begin to trust each other. Then Genevieve shares some information that shifts everything… and sends them in new directions.
It’s a difficult book to describe without sharing too much. It sounds depressing, and there is sadness, but there is also laughs and connection. The beginning is slower paced, as we get to know each of the characters. But then the author does an outstanding job of bringing in the reader and making us part of the group. It’s a very unique and original storyline, and I think it will stay with me.
“Is time really the best healer? No, not at all. Acceptance is. Which obviously takes time, yes. But if you don’t accept what’s happened to you, all the time in the world can go by and it won’t make the slightest bit of difference… I don’t mean acceptance in the form of acknowledgment that the event happened. I mean acceptance in the sense of being ready to let go.”
A 4-1/2 for me… not sure if I’m going up or down or if I may change after more thought? The message is conveyed in such a lovely way…
June 17, 2025
OBSESSED with that ending. this book made me question what happens after we pass away. I truly felt like I was one of the characters in this book sitting at these meetings.
this book follows 4 strangers who go to meetings to heal from their trauma. some are more hesitant to open up/skeptical, while others are loud and share immediately. at first I didn't think all the characters we necessary to the plot until some of their stories started to wrap into each other and make more sense. my heart was breaking the more this went on.
such a good, quick paced, magical realism that is definitely in my top reads of the year now
this book follows 4 strangers who go to meetings to heal from their trauma. some are more hesitant to open up/skeptical, while others are loud and share immediately. at first I didn't think all the characters we necessary to the plot until some of their stories started to wrap into each other and make more sense. my heart was breaking the more this went on.
such a good, quick paced, magical realism that is definitely in my top reads of the year now
December 3, 2024
“Trust me, baby cakes, I got this.”
4.5 ⭐️
Well I did not see that one coming. What a genuinely captivating and poignant tale of grief and all that comes with the process of grieving a loved one.
The plot was simple enough, but well-executed. Amelia Ireland did such a phenomenal job at intertwining our main characters’ stories in a way that kept you right there in the meeting with them each week. Never giving too much away but still enough to keep you right there.
Without going into too much detail, the big reveal was not something I had initially considered. It comes in like a mic drop and gave me a genuine full body reaction. I promptly spent the following 30 minutes remembering every instance that could have been foreshadowing and resolved I simply would have to give it another read at some point.
TLDR; just go in as blind as you can and take the journey with them. Worth the read for sure.
Thank you to NetGalley and Berkley Publishing Group for the arc in exchange for an honest review!
4.5 ⭐️
Well I did not see that one coming. What a genuinely captivating and poignant tale of grief and all that comes with the process of grieving a loved one.
The plot was simple enough, but well-executed. Amelia Ireland did such a phenomenal job at intertwining our main characters’ stories in a way that kept you right there in the meeting with them each week. Never giving too much away but still enough to keep you right there.
Without going into too much detail, the big reveal was not something I had initially considered. It comes in like a mic drop and gave me a genuine full body reaction. I promptly spent the following 30 minutes remembering every instance that could have been foreshadowing and resolved I simply would have to give it another read at some point.
TLDR; just go in as blind as you can and take the journey with them. Worth the read for sure.
Thank you to NetGalley and Berkley Publishing Group for the arc in exchange for an honest review!
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