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A Powerful Season
She thought retirement would be her happy ending. The world had other plans.
Lacey turns sixty with a retirement party, a sold house, and a Norwegian cruise—the perfect reward for four decades of dedication. She's earned her leisure, planned her relaxation, and can finally stop fixing everyone else's problems. But somewhere between midnight sun and morning coffee, the Type A executive who spent decades solving problems discovers she can't switch off that easily.
The reappearance of her ex and her children’s activism bring trouble to paradise, and Lacey realizes she’s not built for sitting still, and the world needs her expertise now more than ever.
Will the woman who spent her career fixing other people's problems discover that her biggest challenge—and greatest opportunity—has been waiting for her all along?
For anyone who's ever wondered if their most important chapter might be the one they never planned to write.
Perfect for fans of Elin Hilderbrand and Shelby Van Pelt who love stories about women who refuse to fade quietly into their golden years.
Lacey turns sixty with a retirement party, a sold house, and a Norwegian cruise—the perfect reward for four decades of dedication. She's earned her leisure, planned her relaxation, and can finally stop fixing everyone else's problems. But somewhere between midnight sun and morning coffee, the Type A executive who spent decades solving problems discovers she can't switch off that easily.
The reappearance of her ex and her children’s activism bring trouble to paradise, and Lacey realizes she’s not built for sitting still, and the world needs her expertise now more than ever.
Will the woman who spent her career fixing other people's problems discover that her biggest challenge—and greatest opportunity—has been waiting for her all along?
For anyone who's ever wondered if their most important chapter might be the one they never planned to write.
Perfect for fans of Elin Hilderbrand and Shelby Van Pelt who love stories about women who refuse to fade quietly into their golden years.
209 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 21, 2025
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 81 reviews
August 25, 2025
3 stars
Retirement isn’t merely an endpoint; it marks the dawn of a new chapter. Our central character, Lacey, grapples with an overwhelming sense of emptiness as she transitions into this new phase of life. Struggling with loneliness and the absence of clear future aspirations, she finds it difficult to embrace a life of leisure. Lacey is not one to idle away her days; instead, she yearns for purpose and engagement.
Through a series of unexpected events, she stumbles upon a newfound passion—becoming a vocal advocate for climate change. This cause ignites a fire within her, giving her life a sense of urgency and significance.
However, my connection with Lacey remained tenuous throughout the narrative. Her sometimes-dramatic approach and her attitude made it challenging to empathize with her plight. Compared to the vibrant and audacious characters found in other novels by Kathryn that I have thoroughly enjoyed, Lacey felt like an uphill battle to understand, which detracted from my overall experience of the story. The plot itself was intriguing, yet it often ventured into repetitiveness, which tested my patience and focus.
Nonetheless, I urge you not to let my reservations deter you from exploring Lacey's journey. There’s a possibility that her struggle might resonate with your own experiences or inspire you to uncover your passion and redefine your direction in life. You might find within these pages a spark that motivates you to embrace your future with open arms.
Retirement isn’t merely an endpoint; it marks the dawn of a new chapter. Our central character, Lacey, grapples with an overwhelming sense of emptiness as she transitions into this new phase of life. Struggling with loneliness and the absence of clear future aspirations, she finds it difficult to embrace a life of leisure. Lacey is not one to idle away her days; instead, she yearns for purpose and engagement.
Through a series of unexpected events, she stumbles upon a newfound passion—becoming a vocal advocate for climate change. This cause ignites a fire within her, giving her life a sense of urgency and significance.
However, my connection with Lacey remained tenuous throughout the narrative. Her sometimes-dramatic approach and her attitude made it challenging to empathize with her plight. Compared to the vibrant and audacious characters found in other novels by Kathryn that I have thoroughly enjoyed, Lacey felt like an uphill battle to understand, which detracted from my overall experience of the story. The plot itself was intriguing, yet it often ventured into repetitiveness, which tested my patience and focus.
Nonetheless, I urge you not to let my reservations deter you from exploring Lacey's journey. There’s a possibility that her struggle might resonate with your own experiences or inspire you to uncover your passion and redefine your direction in life. You might find within these pages a spark that motivates you to embrace your future with open arms.
August 15, 2025
This book was a beautiful love story about one woman’s idea about what retirement was going to be like but what happens when life gets thrown at you and your life gets turned upside down!
It’s was such an amazing and wonderful storyline with great character building.
I really liked most was the part about the climate and how as people we have inhabited here and the damage we have caused and are causing to the climate and not really thought about what it means to people fifty or sixty years down the line!
It’s was such an amazing and wonderful storyline with great character building.
I really liked most was the part about the climate and how as people we have inhabited here and the damage we have caused and are causing to the climate and not really thought about what it means to people fifty or sixty years down the line!
September 5, 2025
A thoughtful, engaging story about redefining life after retirement—with a welcome nod to real-world issues like climate change. I connected with the main character as she explored new directions in life, and I especially appreciated the realistic way the author showed what everyday people can do about climate change. The mix of relatable themes and a few surprising turns made it a rewarding read.
August 23, 2025
3.4
Recently retired, Lacey has lots of plans for what she wants to do with her time, strutting out of her long-term job as a project manager, with her head held high and thoughts on a future just for her. Being a single mom for so long has meant that Lacey hasn't had much time to think about what she wants for herself, so she plans a Norwegian cruise. At the same time, she decides to sell her home and purchase her friend Deb's mother's house to help her out. But things don’t quite go to plan, especially when her ex-husband, Sean, shows up on the cruise, and tragedy strikes her friend Deb. As Lacey finds more out about herself and the state of the world around her, she is forced to rethink her plans for the future, and her place and part in all of it.
This is a thought-provoking novel with a lot of heart that has a lot to say about climate change and the importance of doing your part for the world around you. I must say, though, there were quite a few times when I wished other characters would just leave Lacey alone; the poor woman was just trying to enjoy her retirement, and she was being pulled in so many directions. Her kids, Maddie and Zach, especially did this - as soon as the woman had retired, they were already telling her how she should spend her time. Gosh darn it, that woman has earned a break.
I really understood the importance of the messages in this book; however, I couldn't help but feel they overshadowed some of the more human elements. Lacey spent so much of the book feeling guilty and becoming upset by the state of the world, but spent, I felt, very little time exploring her own thoughts, feelings and even wants. Also, gosh, her friend Debbie, poor woman, goes through the absolute ringer. The things Lacey did for her were sweet, and the human aspects of this book - loneliness, feeling lost, and dealing with the feeling of no longer being needed - were truly wonderful and thought-provoking. I just felt that the book could have lingered on them a bit more.
All in all, this is a thought-provoking and heartfelt read that will tug at your heartstrings and make you consider your own place in the world. Though it wasn’t entirely my cup of tea, I would recommend this to anyone who loves a character-driven story that explores real-world issues and politics, as well as the wild journey that life can take us on.
Recently retired, Lacey has lots of plans for what she wants to do with her time, strutting out of her long-term job as a project manager, with her head held high and thoughts on a future just for her. Being a single mom for so long has meant that Lacey hasn't had much time to think about what she wants for herself, so she plans a Norwegian cruise. At the same time, she decides to sell her home and purchase her friend Deb's mother's house to help her out. But things don’t quite go to plan, especially when her ex-husband, Sean, shows up on the cruise, and tragedy strikes her friend Deb. As Lacey finds more out about herself and the state of the world around her, she is forced to rethink her plans for the future, and her place and part in all of it.
This is a thought-provoking novel with a lot of heart that has a lot to say about climate change and the importance of doing your part for the world around you. I must say, though, there were quite a few times when I wished other characters would just leave Lacey alone; the poor woman was just trying to enjoy her retirement, and she was being pulled in so many directions. Her kids, Maddie and Zach, especially did this - as soon as the woman had retired, they were already telling her how she should spend her time. Gosh darn it, that woman has earned a break.
I really understood the importance of the messages in this book; however, I couldn't help but feel they overshadowed some of the more human elements. Lacey spent so much of the book feeling guilty and becoming upset by the state of the world, but spent, I felt, very little time exploring her own thoughts, feelings and even wants. Also, gosh, her friend Debbie, poor woman, goes through the absolute ringer. The things Lacey did for her were sweet, and the human aspects of this book - loneliness, feeling lost, and dealing with the feeling of no longer being needed - were truly wonderful and thought-provoking. I just felt that the book could have lingered on them a bit more.
All in all, this is a thought-provoking and heartfelt read that will tug at your heartstrings and make you consider your own place in the world. Though it wasn’t entirely my cup of tea, I would recommend this to anyone who loves a character-driven story that explores real-world issues and politics, as well as the wild journey that life can take us on.
September 27, 2025
Lacey is at the end of her working life, having just gotten a settlement from her job where she has climbed the ladder and made many sacrifices to get to where she is, she is sad that she plateaued towards the end despite her best efforts, so when the opportunity came, she grabbed it with both hands and threw herself a retirement party as well.
This is where Lacey realises that she has made no plans for this new era, so she decided on the spur of the moment to book a cruise to Norway, but while she is preparing to leave, she has a sudden thought that she needs to downsize and the home she brought her kids up in is too big and empty, so she also puts that on the market and happens upon an opportunity to buy somewhere smaller at the same time.
Lacey feels like she is on top of the world as she boards her ship and watches the coastline fade, she finally settles down to read and relax, as she deserves after all the years she put into fixing things for other people, but fate has a spanner to throw into the mix, her ex-husband, this is one reconnection she never planned, but one she goes along with, as well as the emotions associated with this, she also learns a lot of hard truths about the environment from other passengers and this throws her into a bit of an emotional spiral.
When the cruise ends, Lacey is almost ready to move onto the next stage of her plan, but fate again has another spanner and everything she had planned falls through and so she takes solace in the comfort of her children, but even this sparks more emotions. Will Lacey be able to finally find the peace she was desperate to find, or will this downward spiral she is experiencing swallow her whole and destroy any idea of rest and relaxation she was hoping for? This is a fictional book about what to do when fate throws you off course and life seems to be one long stretch of trouble, how to emotionally tackle life after retirement and navigate any new powerful season in your life through a rollercoaster of emotions.
This is where Lacey realises that she has made no plans for this new era, so she decided on the spur of the moment to book a cruise to Norway, but while she is preparing to leave, she has a sudden thought that she needs to downsize and the home she brought her kids up in is too big and empty, so she also puts that on the market and happens upon an opportunity to buy somewhere smaller at the same time.
Lacey feels like she is on top of the world as she boards her ship and watches the coastline fade, she finally settles down to read and relax, as she deserves after all the years she put into fixing things for other people, but fate has a spanner to throw into the mix, her ex-husband, this is one reconnection she never planned, but one she goes along with, as well as the emotions associated with this, she also learns a lot of hard truths about the environment from other passengers and this throws her into a bit of an emotional spiral.
When the cruise ends, Lacey is almost ready to move onto the next stage of her plan, but fate again has another spanner and everything she had planned falls through and so she takes solace in the comfort of her children, but even this sparks more emotions. Will Lacey be able to finally find the peace she was desperate to find, or will this downward spiral she is experiencing swallow her whole and destroy any idea of rest and relaxation she was hoping for? This is a fictional book about what to do when fate throws you off course and life seems to be one long stretch of trouble, how to emotionally tackle life after retirement and navigate any new powerful season in your life through a rollercoaster of emotions.
September 5, 2025
A Powerful Season is a heartwarming and realistic portrayal of loneliness, guilt, and emotional vulnerability, especially in the face of aging and societal expectations. It explores several rich and thought-provoking themes such as aging, retirement, identity, reinvention, family dynamics, loneliness, resilience, navigating change, purpose, societal issues, climate activism, and personal growth. The story follows Lacey, a 60-year-old woman who enters retirement expecting peace and leisure but quickly realizes that stepping away from work doesn’t mean stepping away from purpose. Her plans unravel as she confronts personal challenges, including the reappearance of her ex-husband, her children’s activism, and a growing awareness of climate change. The reappearance of her ex-husband and her children’s activism force Lacey to reevaluate her relationships and role within her family. She soon realizes she’s not built for idleness and discovers a renewed sense of purpose. Lacey confronts emotional upheaval, family drama, and societal issues, as she navigates how her identity shifts from her roles as wife, mother, and executive. Her journey reflects the strength required to redefine oneself later in life and suggests that meaning can be found in unexpected places and moments. This book gives a realistic portrayal of aging and purpose and contains an empowering message for older women. It challenges the notion that life slows down after sixty and instead portrays retirement as a gateway to transformation. This book is a celebration of bold women who refuse to fade quietly into their golden years.
September 14, 2025
A Powerful Season by Kathryn Dodson is the story of Lacey and her journey through retirement. After working hard her entire adult life, Lacey is given a retirement package from her project management company. She is both excited and nervous to start this new chapter in her life. With her ex husband halfway across the country, and her two adult children living hours away, Lacey is faced with time to focus on herself for the first time. She quickly discovers that it's not so easy to just hit pause after a life filled with schedules, tasks, and responsibilities. Despite feeling somewhat lost, Lacey manages to navigate her uncertainty until she finally lands where she really belongs. Along this journey, she rekindles old relationships, forges new friendships, and learns to better understand those closest to her. Lacey knows her life will never be what it used to be, but she'll fumble through until she finds success, no matter how long it takes!
The character is Lacey is someone I believe most women can relate to, in one way or another. Whether you've been a caretaker, the bread winner, a mother, a wife, a friend, single, married, divorced - her life is so full of different chapters we're bound to find a connection somewhere. This story is an easy read that will leave you guessing while simultaneously warming your heart. It may even raise some awareness for environmental and climate change concerns and hopefully encourage everyone to look for ways to help, no matter how small!
The character is Lacey is someone I believe most women can relate to, in one way or another. Whether you've been a caretaker, the bread winner, a mother, a wife, a friend, single, married, divorced - her life is so full of different chapters we're bound to find a connection somewhere. This story is an easy read that will leave you guessing while simultaneously warming your heart. It may even raise some awareness for environmental and climate change concerns and hopefully encourage everyone to look for ways to help, no matter how small!
September 11, 2025
Kathryn Dodson’s A Powerful Season follows Lacey, who is retiring at the age of sixty after spending the majority of her life climbing the corporate ladder in a project management career. She’s not sure what to do with her life now she’s not working - travel, relocate, downsize, volunteer? She’s got a lot of choices to make, and I was happy with the decisions she made in the end, I just wish we got to see more of the outcomes of those decisions instead of such a focus on the mess she makes along the way. My favourite characters were probably. Maddie and Zach. I know I probably found them more relatable because they’re around my age, but I also felt like they were genuine, caring people who were often misunderstood even by their own parents. My least favourite character was, unfortunately, Lacey. At different points throughout the story, she came across as self-entitled, self-absorbed, judgemental, hypocritical, reckless, and inconsiderate. I’m glad we got to see her growth, but I was hoping for more. I recommend this book, because just because I didn’t love the main character/narrator doesn’t mean I don’t understand the importance of a story about a woman her age, in the circumstances she’s in. I also loved how Kathryn Dodson took the opportunity to voice the importance of climate activism through fiction, it’s such an interesting way to raise awareness. ‘I didn’t understand that each seed is a miracle, each drop of rain a portent of life or death.’
September 16, 2025
One month before turning 60, Lacey has been handed the “golden parachute” by her medical equipment employer – 12-monts full salary and payment for any accumulated vacation time. She’s actually kind of relieved, her job as Project Manager just hasn’t been the same lately. Not having fully prepared for retirement, she is suddenly delighted to have some time on her hands. Her first act is to book a Norwegian cruise, as she contemplates the possibility of retiring at sea permanently … that is, until life begins to intervene with a bff who is in dire straits, an ex-husband who shows up unexpectedly, and two kids who fear she’s not going to live up to her potential.
This book is part of Dodson’s Powerful Women series. She does a fabulous job of capturing the feels and dilemmas of a woman who savors the fact that retirement is not the end, but only the beginning. The author’s text incorporates a broad range of emotions including guilt, grief, conflict between helping vs. boundary setting, and the sheer joy of rediscovering sexuality. In addition, she subtly raises questions regarding how we wish to define our productive years, and how we come to terms with being comfortable alone yet contribute to developing a supportive community. Throughout the text Dodson also weaves in the dilemmas presented by climate change. All of this is packed into just 241 pages of a quick-read novel that manages to highlight the joy involved in aging and empowerment. Well done, Ms. Dodson.
This book is part of Dodson’s Powerful Women series. She does a fabulous job of capturing the feels and dilemmas of a woman who savors the fact that retirement is not the end, but only the beginning. The author’s text incorporates a broad range of emotions including guilt, grief, conflict between helping vs. boundary setting, and the sheer joy of rediscovering sexuality. In addition, she subtly raises questions regarding how we wish to define our productive years, and how we come to terms with being comfortable alone yet contribute to developing a supportive community. Throughout the text Dodson also weaves in the dilemmas presented by climate change. All of this is packed into just 241 pages of a quick-read novel that manages to highlight the joy involved in aging and empowerment. Well done, Ms. Dodson.
September 8, 2025
When Lacey retires she thought it was time to live, relax, and enjoy life. However she quickly realizes that life isn’t all sunshine and roses on the other side of retirement. What will she decide to do?
I’ve read books by this author before and A Powerful Season, though it’s good, it’s not my favorite. A story of women empowerment though it definitely is. It goes through the trials and tribulations that one woman goes through to find herself. From being held back because of her gender to the realization of the freedoms that come once out from under “the man’s” thumb, she realizes she can do anything.
Lacey was ready for a new life. She got her buyout, a year’s salary, more than she expected was her ticket to freedom. Out from a job that made her miserable, no advancement but took advantage of her knowledge. But what was she to do next?
She decided to take a cruise and even played with the idea of spending her whole next part of her life on cruises. Traveling to Norway was fun, but running into her ex husband along the way could ruin her trip. However, between him and another passenger she befriended, she realized that she won’t be able to sit down and relax forever and that the planet needed help. A thought her kids were trying to get her to help and accept she finally sees it.
Will that be her next journey?
What will she decide when the cruise ends?
I’ve read books by this author before and A Powerful Season, though it’s good, it’s not my favorite. A story of women empowerment though it definitely is. It goes through the trials and tribulations that one woman goes through to find herself. From being held back because of her gender to the realization of the freedoms that come once out from under “the man’s” thumb, she realizes she can do anything.
Lacey was ready for a new life. She got her buyout, a year’s salary, more than she expected was her ticket to freedom. Out from a job that made her miserable, no advancement but took advantage of her knowledge. But what was she to do next?
She decided to take a cruise and even played with the idea of spending her whole next part of her life on cruises. Traveling to Norway was fun, but running into her ex husband along the way could ruin her trip. However, between him and another passenger she befriended, she realized that she won’t be able to sit down and relax forever and that the planet needed help. A thought her kids were trying to get her to help and accept she finally sees it.
Will that be her next journey?
What will she decide when the cruise ends?
September 26, 2025
This was a entertaining read about one woman's journey of self discovery. After spending her life working in the corporate world Lacey finds herself retired and with a chance to finally do all the things she wants to and has dreamed of. However life is never that easy and the challenges life continues to throw her way proves she will never be able to stop.
What I loved about this story is the fact Lacey starts a new chapter of her life but she is never far away from the life and madness she knew before.
It is a beautiful story about realising that just because one chapter ends doesn't mean an even better one isn't just about to unfold.
When Lacey retires she dreams of a peaceful life, relaxation and peace. But when her ex husband returns and trouble is brought to her door by her children she realises that her skills and expertise are still needed in the world. The question is how can she make her mark now that society says she has to retire and slow down.
This was a beautiful story about reinventing yourself, self discovery and overcoming obstacles no matter how big they see. This story spoke to me as even though I am not near retirement age I am entering a new phase of my life which has caused me to feel a little lost but Lacey's story has encouraged me to never stop dreaming and reinventing myself
What I loved about this story is the fact Lacey starts a new chapter of her life but she is never far away from the life and madness she knew before.
It is a beautiful story about realising that just because one chapter ends doesn't mean an even better one isn't just about to unfold.
When Lacey retires she dreams of a peaceful life, relaxation and peace. But when her ex husband returns and trouble is brought to her door by her children she realises that her skills and expertise are still needed in the world. The question is how can she make her mark now that society says she has to retire and slow down.
This was a beautiful story about reinventing yourself, self discovery and overcoming obstacles no matter how big they see. This story spoke to me as even though I am not near retirement age I am entering a new phase of my life which has caused me to feel a little lost but Lacey's story has encouraged me to never stop dreaming and reinventing myself
September 6, 2025
A Powerful Season (Unfinished Business: Stories of Bold Women) by Kathryn Dodson. I really loved this book and I think part of the reason is because I'm coming up on my retirement years. It's the story of Lacey who is in the season of life that she is getting to retire after years of working her project manager job. Her whole life has been about doing her job and taking care of everyone else especially her kids as she was a single mom. They are grown and out of the house and the only person she needs to worry about is herself. She books herself a Norwegian Cruise and is ready to enjoy but when she gets on the boat she see her ex husband is on the same cruise. She also realizes while on the cruise that her kids and ex still need her and she is happier when she is taking care of people. She also sells her house and buys her friends mom's house in order to help her friend and they ends up being a crazy situation. Realizing that being still is not Lacey's forte she begins to feel lonely and no longer needed. Also having time to think about the state of our World leaves her feeling sad and helpless. Will Lacey be able to really enjoy retirement or will she be better off going back to work? Read this thought provoking read!
September 18, 2025
A Powerful Season (Unfinished Business: Stories of Bold Women) by Kathryn Dodson
5 Star Review
When Lacey received the deal she had been waiting for, she retired within the month. The next adventure of her life was before her. After selling her house and deciding that traveling the world via cruise ship, several things get in her way. Global warming becomes an ache in her heart right along with her ex-husband. Her children try to push her into volunteering with causes, to make a difference and keep busy. All Lacey wants is to have some relaxation and enjoy her remaining years. Lacey has to make some hard decisions about her life, ones that could anger her ex-husband and alienate her children. What does she decide? I can’t tell you. You have to read this amazing book yourself!
Kathryn Dodson has once again dragged me into the story within the first couple of pages. This story is relatable for those of us in the 50-plus category and it really made me think about the years to come. The characters are colorful (especially the ones from Texas), well written and entertaining. This book is easy to read and I couldn’t put it down.
5 Star Review
When Lacey received the deal she had been waiting for, she retired within the month. The next adventure of her life was before her. After selling her house and deciding that traveling the world via cruise ship, several things get in her way. Global warming becomes an ache in her heart right along with her ex-husband. Her children try to push her into volunteering with causes, to make a difference and keep busy. All Lacey wants is to have some relaxation and enjoy her remaining years. Lacey has to make some hard decisions about her life, ones that could anger her ex-husband and alienate her children. What does she decide? I can’t tell you. You have to read this amazing book yourself!
Kathryn Dodson has once again dragged me into the story within the first couple of pages. This story is relatable for those of us in the 50-plus category and it really made me think about the years to come. The characters are colorful (especially the ones from Texas), well written and entertaining. This book is easy to read and I couldn’t put it down.
September 25, 2025
A wonderful well written story redefining life after retirement. Things don't always go as we think they should, plans change, people change, tragedies strike, and you may have to rethink your plans for the future. These things and more have been the challenge for Lacey, recently retired and ready to start her new work free life. Even though the book spent what I thought was a little too much time with climate change (not that I don't care about it) I wanted more of Lacey and her new life. I loved the help Lacey gave to her friend Deb. I am also sure that I will run into some of the same things she does with her kids. I do think that this is a very thought provoking. not only about the world and what is happening but as I get closer to retirement myself, it has made me aware of the thoughts that may come of loneliness, feeling lost or that I am not needed anymore or guilt and aging and the social expectations that may come with it all. I think a lot of women (possibly men) can relate in many ways to Lacey and this book whether you are a mom, friend, wife, single, divorced or the breadwinner. There is a little something for everyone.
August 25, 2025
3.5 Stars
A Powerful Season by Kathryn Dodson is a heartwarming tale that celebrates resilience, reinvention, and the unyielding spirit of women who refuse to let life’s later chapters fade into the background. This story explores the idea that life’s most meaningful moments often come when least expected.
As I have mentioned before, Ms. Dodson’s writing is quite rich and evocative - painting vivid scenes, while strumming on your heartstrings.
Even though the FMC navigates personal challenges, unexpected opportunities, and the complexities of relationships all with gritty determination, I had trouble connecting with or investing in her as would have like to, or expected.
The author explores themes of self-discovery and embracing change so I would recommend this to anyone who likes women’s fiction, or is simply seeking a reminder that it’s never too late to embrace life’s possibilities, or to ‘write’ a new chapter.
Looking forward to seeing what Ms. Dodson has in store for us next.
Happy Reading…
A Powerful Season by Kathryn Dodson is a heartwarming tale that celebrates resilience, reinvention, and the unyielding spirit of women who refuse to let life’s later chapters fade into the background. This story explores the idea that life’s most meaningful moments often come when least expected.
As I have mentioned before, Ms. Dodson’s writing is quite rich and evocative - painting vivid scenes, while strumming on your heartstrings.
Even though the FMC navigates personal challenges, unexpected opportunities, and the complexities of relationships all with gritty determination, I had trouble connecting with or investing in her as would have like to, or expected.
The author explores themes of self-discovery and embracing change so I would recommend this to anyone who likes women’s fiction, or is simply seeking a reminder that it’s never too late to embrace life’s possibilities, or to ‘write’ a new chapter.
Looking forward to seeing what Ms. Dodson has in store for us next.
Happy Reading…
September 26, 2025
Kathryn Dodson's "A Powerful Season" is a very thoughtful story about a woman who faces the realities of life when she retires from working as a project manager. As Lacey, our main character, seeks to relax and start to enjoy a life of retirement, she faces soul-searching awareness of the realities of climate change. Lacey realizes that, as a woman who has spent her whole life raising her children on her own, as she is a divorcee, and working full time to allow her children all the things their hearts desired, including a college education, she is a little lost in life and seeking a purpose. Every turn, she finds a little more resistance from life pushing back at her, making it hard to navigate her new status as a retired woman of 60. Will Lacey be able to find her new normal, and if so, will those who love her be able to accept the changes she is making? This was a very thought-provoking read full of life, love, and lifelong decisions that are informative as we look at our own lives.
@Brandy Rymer
09/2025
@Brandy Rymer
09/2025
April 7, 2026
Lacey has just turned sixty when she accepts a buyout from her employer and turns it into retirement. Her children are adults, and there is no relationship in her life tying her down. After years of hard work as a single mom and an ambitious employee, she is free to reap the rewards.
As she heads out on a Norwegian cruise, she ponders a life at sea, roaming a world she hasn’t had time to visit. But as she pays attention to the conditions of this changing world and marvels at the beauty she sees, she questions her place in its fragile future.
A Powerful Season, by Katherine Dodson, is both entertaining and thought-provoking. Through Lacey’s character, we experience the anxiety, pain, and joy that accompany finding your place after retirement, dealing with adult family members who are struggling, and finding love and friendship as you age. All in tandem with Lacey’s new awareness that climate change is changing everything for everyone, especially for those she loves most—her children.
August 22, 2025
This is an author that I have enjoyed reading from the first book that I picked up. I enjoy their ability to pull me into the story from the beginning and keep me tuning pages to the end. I enjoy this author’s characters and what they bring to the story. This is a well written story about Lacy and her struggle to “sit still”. Lacy has made a life of being dedicated to everyone but herself. She is realizing that she just can’t stop and her ex and family need her. Will she realize that her greatest opportunity has yet to come? I enjoyed Lacy and how strong of a character she is. She is connectable and relatable. She is someone that you can feel for throughout the story. I enjoyed watching the growth of the plot throughout. This is a fast paced, hard to put down, engaging story and one you don’t want to miss. I enjoyed reading this book and look forward to seeing what is next for this author. I highly recommend this book.
September 20, 2025
I love that the heroine of the story is a sixty year old woman who refuses to fade into the background during her golden years. Lacey turns sixty, has a retirement party, sells her house and books herself on a Norwegian cruise. She feels that after four decades of dedication at work and fixing everyone’s problems, that she’s earned some relaxation and leisure time. However, Lacey soon discovers that she can’t just switch off that easily and she finds it difficult to sit still. With her ex husband reappearing and her children involved in climate activism, she finds that her greatest opportunity and biggest challenge is yet to come. The intriguing storyline and fascinating characters kept me happily turning the pages. I love Lacey and how her character developed throughout the story. The author is obviously passionate about climate change and the importance of climate activism, and she wove this into the overall story. An enjoyable and engaging read.
September 27, 2025
If you’re looking for a book that’ll make you rethink retirement, you need to check this one out. I’ve read several books by Kathryn Dodson, and she never disappoints. She has this amazing ability to create characters and storylines that pull you in and don’t let go. I dove into this one as soon as I could, and I didn’t come up for air until the last page.
The main character, Lacey, feels so real and relatable in so many ways. She’s about to retire, ready to kick back and relax, but of course, life has other plans. What I loved about this story is how it strikes the perfect balance of humor and heart as Lacey navigates this new chapter. It’s a sweet reminder that sometimes, the greatest adventures happen when you think the story is over.
Another fantastic book by Kathryn Dodson, and I’ve already recommended it to a bunch of friends. Now I’m passing the word to you. Can’t wait to see what she has in store for us next!
The main character, Lacey, feels so real and relatable in so many ways. She’s about to retire, ready to kick back and relax, but of course, life has other plans. What I loved about this story is how it strikes the perfect balance of humor and heart as Lacey navigates this new chapter. It’s a sweet reminder that sometimes, the greatest adventures happen when you think the story is over.
Another fantastic book by Kathryn Dodson, and I’ve already recommended it to a bunch of friends. Now I’m passing the word to you. Can’t wait to see what she has in store for us next!
August 9, 2025
Somewhat on a whim, I went into this one blind, and the author was new to me. The start was promising as I got pulled into the story right away as we meet a woman on the verge of retirement. We follow her in her early days of retirement, as she tries to find her feet in this new setting. She struggles with loneliness, a lack of purpose, and dread, as she begins to grasp the seriousness of climate change.
Despite my own approaching retirement, and recognition of our destruction of the planet, I quickly lost interest in the story, which seemed repetitive. I didn’t connect with main character, who was weepy and combative. The book is probably better suited for readers who enjoy women’s fiction and don’t mind characters being unrealistically dramatic and emotional.
I was provided with an ARC (thanks to the author & publisher!) and I am voluntarily posting my honest review.
Despite my own approaching retirement, and recognition of our destruction of the planet, I quickly lost interest in the story, which seemed repetitive. I didn’t connect with main character, who was weepy and combative. The book is probably better suited for readers who enjoy women’s fiction and don’t mind characters being unrealistically dramatic and emotional.
I was provided with an ARC (thanks to the author & publisher!) and I am voluntarily posting my honest review.
August 23, 2025
I really enjoyed this story of a woman's transition to a vital and active retirement, dealing with finding her purpose and renegotiating her relationships. I've never been on a Norwegian cruise or explored a beautiful Oakland neighborhood, but now I feel like I have! I didn't find the story to be at all predictable or pat; I was surprised at several points by both the story's twists and the unexpected emotional depths of the characters. I especially found Lacey's grappling with the grief, helplessness, and guilt associated with climate change to be realistic in a way I haven't seen in other women's fiction. And imagine, a story in which a 60-year-old woman enjoys her sexuality without a single saggy boob joke! I'm eager to read the author's other books in this series for their portrayals of women entering the third phase of their lives with continued drive and spirit.
September 10, 2025
A Powerful Season follows the story of Lacey, a sixty-year-old executive who rewarded her future self with a twelve-month buyout on her house, in order to prepare for her golden years – including a retirement celebration and cruise plans. But when her life takes a side quest, she will have to contend with the resurgence of her ex and, even worse, her children. As she navigates this next journey, she will have to confront the idea that maybe retirement isn’t the ending she imagined, but more a jump start to her next act. Touching on the theory of second acts and self-discovery, the story of Lacey will give you a great story about learning to live after the midlife decision for retirement. This book was a great read, full of reflection and compassion about the second half of life. I am so glad I picked this book up as it really was an emotional and joyous read.
September 15, 2025
This is the first book I have read from this author and she has a new fan. I have read some other golden women books but this story exceeded my expectations. This is the first book of the Unfinished Business series and this is how you start a series. I fell in love with this main character right from the beginning. It only took me a few hours to devour this amazing story. I can’t wait to read book number two.
Lacey is now sixty and just retired. She is excited about getting to live her life the way she wants to. Lacey is ready for the cruise of a lifetime. She has earned this for all the years she was in the corporate world. Lacey enjoys her time until she runs into her ex. She is now thinking about what will happen next when the cruise is over. Will Lacey be able to enjoy her retirement or will she feel lost without her job?
Lacey is now sixty and just retired. She is excited about getting to live her life the way she wants to. Lacey is ready for the cruise of a lifetime. She has earned this for all the years she was in the corporate world. Lacey enjoys her time until she runs into her ex. She is now thinking about what will happen next when the cruise is over. Will Lacey be able to enjoy her retirement or will she feel lost without her job?
August 24, 2025
4 Stars
A Powerful Season (Unfinished Business: Stories of Bold Women) By Kathryn Dodson
A Powerful Season( Unfinished Business: Stories of Bold Women) is a wonderfully written story that pulled me in from the beginning and I had a hard time putting it down until I finished. I lost all track of time and couldn’t stop reading I had to know what was going to happen next. I felt a strong connection with Lacy and felt like my life for the most part. I’m just like Lacy and put everyone first before myself. It’s a hard adjustment when you’ve been that way your whole life. Lacy realizes he family and her ex need her. When will she realize the best is yet to come? I highly recommend reading this book to find out what happens next. I can’t wait to read more from this Author.
A Powerful Season (Unfinished Business: Stories of Bold Women) By Kathryn Dodson
A Powerful Season( Unfinished Business: Stories of Bold Women) is a wonderfully written story that pulled me in from the beginning and I had a hard time putting it down until I finished. I lost all track of time and couldn’t stop reading I had to know what was going to happen next. I felt a strong connection with Lacy and felt like my life for the most part. I’m just like Lacy and put everyone first before myself. It’s a hard adjustment when you’ve been that way your whole life. Lacy realizes he family and her ex need her. When will she realize the best is yet to come? I highly recommend reading this book to find out what happens next. I can’t wait to read more from this Author.
September 4, 2025
This book definitely left me thinking after I was finished. I am nowhere near retirement age, but I am always planning. I think that's how I related to Lacey in a lot of ways. I feel like she had such an idea of what retirement was supposed to be, but ended up not having a clue. I do feel like she held such a burden on herself to fix everything for everyone. I'm glad she started making decisions for herself and even allowed herself to have some fun along the way. This book will definitely have you thinking about how you are living your own life and what your future and your families looks like. Everything we do, large or small, can make a difference no matter if it feels like you're on a sinking ship. It's a quick read, but meaningful.
September 23, 2025
A Powerful Season By Kathryn Dodson
Just wow. It is so incredible how much I relate to this book, the story, the characters. This book is wonderful. So much growth and discovery of self. Healing and moving through the whole story.
It is an easy read, flows really well. I loved all the twists and lessons and the way it worked from one issue to the next. Very real world experience.
The story is one I believe many will find a common experience with as it goes through quite a few. I felt like I was reading a piece of my possible future and it was so engaging and easy to read that I flew through it!
I really do love it, am happy to have it in my collection and will watch for more from this author.
Just wow. It is so incredible how much I relate to this book, the story, the characters. This book is wonderful. So much growth and discovery of self. Healing and moving through the whole story.
It is an easy read, flows really well. I loved all the twists and lessons and the way it worked from one issue to the next. Very real world experience.
The story is one I believe many will find a common experience with as it goes through quite a few. I felt like I was reading a piece of my possible future and it was so engaging and easy to read that I flew through it!
I really do love it, am happy to have it in my collection and will watch for more from this author.
September 24, 2025
In a nutshell, Lacey is facing life changes as she heads into retirement, she struggles with this a bit until she finds a new passion/purpose. A series of twists and turns has her find this new purpose and the storyline develops from there.
I am a fan of this author and I have read a few of her books now but I have to be honest and this is my least favourite of the ones I have read so far. It could simply just be that I didn't feel as connected to the lead character, Lacey, as I have with characters in previous books. This is purely a personal thing so I do encourage you to try this book for yourself because you may well feel an instant connection. This wonderful author is talented and I will definitely be reading more.
I am a fan of this author and I have read a few of her books now but I have to be honest and this is my least favourite of the ones I have read so far. It could simply just be that I didn't feel as connected to the lead character, Lacey, as I have with characters in previous books. This is purely a personal thing so I do encourage you to try this book for yourself because you may well feel an instant connection. This wonderful author is talented and I will definitely be reading more.
September 26, 2025
I felt like I was reading a book about my older self. Other than having a big career, I connected with Lacey. All the stuff she was thinking about and being worried about, I get it because I think of them too. Not going to lie, her kid's kind of bugged me. You know how some vegans are just really extra and dramatically pushy, that's her kids. They wouldn't let her try to make a choice on how she wanted to spend her retirement. I liked when her and her ex reconnected, not excusing who he was when they got divorced and why, but I liked that the author had them cross paths again as they're both trying to figure out what's next in their lives. Even though the main character is a retired woman, I think readers in their 20's and up will enjoy this read.
December 30, 2025
This book had everything going for it in the beginning. It was about a women in my age group. It was about topics that I will be facing. It focused on causes that matter to me. Yet with all that going for it, it was a very rare DNF for me, Once I hit half way, I could not go another page.
I found Lacey, a women who really had everything going for her, just a whinny mess. My goodness women, you are 60, no need to talk about her life ending soon. With luck she has a long way to go
And the story line with her ex. We all know where that was going.
I keep checking the time left in this book on my Kindle, and every time I checked it seemed more time had been added.
Sometimes it's best to just call it quits.
No shame in not finishing a book you do not enjoy. So no shame here.
I found Lacey, a women who really had everything going for her, just a whinny mess. My goodness women, you are 60, no need to talk about her life ending soon. With luck she has a long way to go
And the story line with her ex. We all know where that was going.
I keep checking the time left in this book on my Kindle, and every time I checked it seemed more time had been added.
Sometimes it's best to just call it quits.
No shame in not finishing a book you do not enjoy. So no shame here.
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