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Brenda Barker's Next Chapter
At sixty-four, Brenda Barker's life is anything but over-though someone should tell that to her butcher, who insists on calling her "ma'am" when the other customers are "miss." With her husband gone, her only child moving to Japan, and a literary "expert" telling her she has no business writing, Brenda does what any sensible woman would ignores the advice, packs her bags, and heads to a high-stakes writers' conference in the California wine country.
Armed with a manuscript, a bottle of pinot noir, and a fierce determination to prove the world wrong, Brenda embarks on the adventure of a lifetime-complete with wine-fueled confidence, surprise friendships, and a few romantic sparks she definitely didn't plan for.
Brenda Barker's Next Chapter is a celebration of second (and third!) chances, the power of believing in yourself-and finding your voice when it matters most.
Armed with a manuscript, a bottle of pinot noir, and a fierce determination to prove the world wrong, Brenda embarks on the adventure of a lifetime-complete with wine-fueled confidence, surprise friendships, and a few romantic sparks she definitely didn't plan for.
Brenda Barker's Next Chapter is a celebration of second (and third!) chances, the power of believing in yourself-and finding your voice when it matters most.
318 pages, Paperback
Published February 2, 2026
1 person is currently reading
15 people want to read
About the author
Wendy Tokunaga
9 books28 followersWendy Nelson Tokunaga is the author of the novels, Midori by Moonlight and Love in Translation, Falling Uphill, His Wife and Daughters and the award-winning No Kidding. Her latest book is a collection of short stories called Postcards From Tokyo. Her non-fiction title is Marriage in Translation: Foreign Wife, Japanese Husband. She received her MFA from University of San Francisco and has her own private editing practice, specializing in novels and memoirs. She also teaches for Stanford’s Online Writer’s Studio Novel Certificate Program. Visit her at www.WendyTokunaga.com and follow her on Twitter at @Wendy_Tokunaga.
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Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews
May 4, 2026
This was such a joy to read. I love reading about older main characters and second chances at finding happiness again. This book has a good amount of humor and drama to keep you flipping the pages. Brenda was a determined and motivated lady. I will definitely want to read more books by Wendy in the future!
Thank you to the publisher and netgalley for the gifted copy. All opinions are my own.
Thank you to the publisher and netgalley for the gifted copy. All opinions are my own.
March 11, 2026
I loved this book!
Not only was it fantastic upscale women's fiction featuring an engaging middle-aged main character, the novel also offers behind-the-scenes insights into the writing life.
The unique setting of a writers conference in California's wine country affords readers a glimpse into the not-always-glamorous business of writing ... from attending lectures, workshops, and mentor sessions to pitching literary agents and meeting with editors.
All while armed with a debut manuscript and plenty of wine!
Not only was it fantastic upscale women's fiction featuring an engaging middle-aged main character, the novel also offers behind-the-scenes insights into the writing life.
The unique setting of a writers conference in California's wine country affords readers a glimpse into the not-always-glamorous business of writing ... from attending lectures, workshops, and mentor sessions to pitching literary agents and meeting with editors.
All while armed with a debut manuscript and plenty of wine!
March 16, 2026
Wendy Tokunaga challenges society’s myths and misconceptions of getting old in her delightful 2026 novel Brenda Barker’s Next Chapter.
She resents being called ma’am. And when a writing coach suggests a course at the Senior Center, dismissing her chances of getting into a writer’s conference, Brenda Barker becomes more determined than ever to kick-start a writing career at the age of sixty-four.
When she’s accepted into the renowned Sky Ridge Writer’s Conference in Sonoma County, California, she knows it’s a make-or-break opportunity. Though she’s spent most of her years in the small town of Hillwood, comfortable in the life she and her late husband created, Brenda’s not going to let North Carolina or society’s preconceptions about old age define her new life.
She is, however, in for a rollercoaster-ride of surprises at the wine country writer’s conference. Writers, all younger than Brenda, vie for the attention of publishing agents and the conference presenters, and some of them are not what they seem.
Celebrated author Gabriel Bernard who headlines the conference seems ready to deliver the inspiration the aspiring writers signed up for. “You know how I define what a writer is?” he asks. ”A writer is someone for whom writing is more difficult than it is for other people.”
Bernard seems especially eager to mentor attractive female authors. While Brenda uncovers evidence of his predatory nature, she’s also balancing the joy and trepidation of unexpected romance, the demands of presenting her writing and the fight-or-flight drama of her cottage roommates.
Wendy Tokunaga takes full advantage of the intimacy and immediacy of writing in the present tense with a first-person point-of-view.
At every turn, Brenda confesses her inner feelings to us. “I could just leave well enough alone and not stick my nose in someone else’s business. But, as you may have noticed, it seems I have trouble doing just that. . . I’m still so galled over Gabriel Bernard.”
Looking through Brenda’s eyes, Tokunaga delivers distinctive character assessments – “Velda shakes her thick, long, blue-black hair. Her makeup borders on Cleopatra by way of the 1960s, a poor man’s vintage Cher.”
Her pop cultural references pull us directly into her era’s influences on Brenda’s life – her late husband’s love of Elvis, Conway Twitty and Brenda Lee, the rivalry between George Harrison and Mark Lindsay of Paul Revere & the Raiders as her favorite teen heartthrob.
Self-definition is the stand-out theme of Brenda Barker’s Next Chapter. “I am an individual, not a ‘Boomer.’ And certainly not even all sixty-four-year-olds are the same. We’re all different, and I only ask to be treated with respect and as an individual, being the unique person that I am, regardless of my age.”
I suggest you put this light, insightful and engaging novel at the top your 2026 summer reading list.
She resents being called ma’am. And when a writing coach suggests a course at the Senior Center, dismissing her chances of getting into a writer’s conference, Brenda Barker becomes more determined than ever to kick-start a writing career at the age of sixty-four.
When she’s accepted into the renowned Sky Ridge Writer’s Conference in Sonoma County, California, she knows it’s a make-or-break opportunity. Though she’s spent most of her years in the small town of Hillwood, comfortable in the life she and her late husband created, Brenda’s not going to let North Carolina or society’s preconceptions about old age define her new life.
She is, however, in for a rollercoaster-ride of surprises at the wine country writer’s conference. Writers, all younger than Brenda, vie for the attention of publishing agents and the conference presenters, and some of them are not what they seem.
Celebrated author Gabriel Bernard who headlines the conference seems ready to deliver the inspiration the aspiring writers signed up for. “You know how I define what a writer is?” he asks. ”A writer is someone for whom writing is more difficult than it is for other people.”
Bernard seems especially eager to mentor attractive female authors. While Brenda uncovers evidence of his predatory nature, she’s also balancing the joy and trepidation of unexpected romance, the demands of presenting her writing and the fight-or-flight drama of her cottage roommates.
Wendy Tokunaga takes full advantage of the intimacy and immediacy of writing in the present tense with a first-person point-of-view.
At every turn, Brenda confesses her inner feelings to us. “I could just leave well enough alone and not stick my nose in someone else’s business. But, as you may have noticed, it seems I have trouble doing just that. . . I’m still so galled over Gabriel Bernard.”
Looking through Brenda’s eyes, Tokunaga delivers distinctive character assessments – “Velda shakes her thick, long, blue-black hair. Her makeup borders on Cleopatra by way of the 1960s, a poor man’s vintage Cher.”
Her pop cultural references pull us directly into her era’s influences on Brenda’s life – her late husband’s love of Elvis, Conway Twitty and Brenda Lee, the rivalry between George Harrison and Mark Lindsay of Paul Revere & the Raiders as her favorite teen heartthrob.
Self-definition is the stand-out theme of Brenda Barker’s Next Chapter. “I am an individual, not a ‘Boomer.’ And certainly not even all sixty-four-year-olds are the same. We’re all different, and I only ask to be treated with respect and as an individual, being the unique person that I am, regardless of my age.”
I suggest you put this light, insightful and engaging novel at the top your 2026 summer reading list.
May 3, 2026
Brenda Barker's Next Chapter is a delightful book about a 64-year old woman who is going through her next chapter. She lost her husband to cancer, and her only son is moving to Japan with his pregnant wife.
When Brenda's good friend learns she wrote a book, she is encouraged to share it with the world. Brenda is discouraged when a professional hands back her manuscript with loads of suggestions, along with a recommendation to enroll in a writing course at a seniors' centre. Brenda assumed her chances are minimal, but was both shocked and delighted when she received an email welcoming her to the exclusive Sky Ridge Writer’s Conference in Sonoma County, California. She set off to enjoy a week among fellow writers and see what she could learn. As an oenophile, she also intended to take full advantage of being in the middle of wine country. Brenda's week at the conference was a week she wouldn't soon forget. She met a variety of people, made some new friends, and there might even have been a love interest.
I enjoyed the audiobook narrated by Wendy Robinson. Robinson really brought Brenda to life. It seems rare to find mature woman as the female lead, and I loved it. Brenda character is easy to appreciate. She's experienced life and yet there are still many things she has not done. She recognizes that she has a lot of life left to live and does so with gusto. Her inner voice, which built up her confidence, was wonderful. It shows that there is never an age at which one may not struggle with self-doubt.
While there are some heavier topics in the book such as infidelity and sexual harassment, overall I found it to be a lighthearted and easy read. This was the first book I have read by Tokunaga, I hope to have the opportunity to explore more of her writing.
When Brenda's good friend learns she wrote a book, she is encouraged to share it with the world. Brenda is discouraged when a professional hands back her manuscript with loads of suggestions, along with a recommendation to enroll in a writing course at a seniors' centre. Brenda assumed her chances are minimal, but was both shocked and delighted when she received an email welcoming her to the exclusive Sky Ridge Writer’s Conference in Sonoma County, California. She set off to enjoy a week among fellow writers and see what she could learn. As an oenophile, she also intended to take full advantage of being in the middle of wine country. Brenda's week at the conference was a week she wouldn't soon forget. She met a variety of people, made some new friends, and there might even have been a love interest.
I enjoyed the audiobook narrated by Wendy Robinson. Robinson really brought Brenda to life. It seems rare to find mature woman as the female lead, and I loved it. Brenda character is easy to appreciate. She's experienced life and yet there are still many things she has not done. She recognizes that she has a lot of life left to live and does so with gusto. Her inner voice, which built up her confidence, was wonderful. It shows that there is never an age at which one may not struggle with self-doubt.
While there are some heavier topics in the book such as infidelity and sexual harassment, overall I found it to be a lighthearted and easy read. This was the first book I have read by Tokunaga, I hope to have the opportunity to explore more of her writing.
May 10, 2026
Brenda is navigating life as a widow on the brink of death it seems to everyone else. Yes, she is near retirement age, has a grown child with one of his own on the way and may have a few gray hairs but life isn't over for her! Just because her husband has passed away doesn't mean she needs to give up and wait her turn. Deciding to finally finish her novel, she apply's to a high-stakes writer conference and gets accepted. Off to California she heads and quickly she realizes just how much of an "old" amateur writer she is, when they couldn't at first find her on the list that should have been the first red flag! But they did accept her, she has the email to prove it so she isn't giving up no matter how young, or well ahead of her these over achievers appear. When one of the roommates accuses one of the well sought after authors of stealing her work at a previous conference, Brenda isn't sure what to think? She's determined to follow her dream no matter the amount of wine, drama and chances she needs! I enjoyed Brenda's spunk, the references to past shows, music and people through out as well as the array of characters built into this story. This did have laugh out loud parts and I loved Brenda's internal thoughts on many things. Thank you to the author for the complementary novel and to Suzy Approved Book Tours for the invite. This review is of my own opinion and accord.
February 8, 2026
After her husband’s death, the protagonist of Brenda Barker's Next Chapter, Brenda decides to write the book her spouse, Maynard, always disparaged. She married him, a rodeo cowboy turned construction worker, because he offered stability. Now, he’s dead, their only child and his Japanese wife are moving to Japan, and Brenda finds herself at a crossroads. She takes a chance and signs up for the Sky Ridge Writer’s conference in California wine company and submits her novel about a chef named Clementine who communes with ancient goddesses from three different cultures.
Brenda Barker’s Next Chapter is a such fun read! Overall, it is gently humorous with some real laugh-out-loud moments. It’s a second-chance at life story stirred with a bit of romance and a bit of thriller. Tokunaga does a perfect job of not only capturing Brenda’s naivety about the world of publishing, the necessity for a social media following, etc, but also her general ingenuousness about the world and her personal convictions and strengths. As an author who published her first work at 66, I thoroughly enjoyed identified with Brenda.
Brenda Barker’s Next Chapter is a such fun read! Overall, it is gently humorous with some real laugh-out-loud moments. It’s a second-chance at life story stirred with a bit of romance and a bit of thriller. Tokunaga does a perfect job of not only capturing Brenda’s naivety about the world of publishing, the necessity for a social media following, etc, but also her general ingenuousness about the world and her personal convictions and strengths. As an author who published her first work at 66, I thoroughly enjoyed identified with Brenda.
March 23, 2026
I thoroughly enjoyed this warm-hearted novel about 64-year-old Brenda, from North Carolina, who proves it's never too late to pursue your dreams. After the death of her husband Maynard, who'd been into bull-riding and watching NASCAR races, Brenda decides to fulfill her lifelong ambition of becoming a writer. She pens a novel and then, encouraged by a friend, applies to a prestigious and competitive writers' conference in the wine country of California. (Foodies beware! The descriptions of meals and wines will have you drooling!)
Once Brenda gets to the conference, she becomes enmeshed in various literary dramas - writers ghosted by agents, writers stealing other writers' stories, sexual harassment, and so on. There's a bit of romance, too. Having been to a writers' conference or two myself, I found it all quite believable.
Overall, the vibe is cozy, and the story moves along at a nice clip. I gobbled this one up in two days!
Once Brenda gets to the conference, she becomes enmeshed in various literary dramas - writers ghosted by agents, writers stealing other writers' stories, sexual harassment, and so on. There's a bit of romance, too. Having been to a writers' conference or two myself, I found it all quite believable.
Overall, the vibe is cozy, and the story moves along at a nice clip. I gobbled this one up in two days!
April 7, 2026
Brenda Barker's Next Chapter by Wendy Tokunaga is such an incredible story.
Midlife vibes, cozy vibes, writer vibes, I loved this book so much!
I love Brenda who is 64 and honestly gives me hope it's never too late to start over or pursue your dreams.
When her husband dies, she decides to finally become a writer, which has been her lifelong dream.
She writes a book and goes to a very competitive writing conference in California. SO, FANCY!
The food OMG!!!!! That's what writers go for, LOL!!!
There is so much drama at the writer's conference, and I absolutely believed it having several author friends who have told me some STORIES!
This was a fun, well written story that I read in one day!
Highly recommend!
Midlife vibes, cozy vibes, writer vibes, I loved this book so much!
I love Brenda who is 64 and honestly gives me hope it's never too late to start over or pursue your dreams.
When her husband dies, she decides to finally become a writer, which has been her lifelong dream.
She writes a book and goes to a very competitive writing conference in California. SO, FANCY!
The food OMG!!!!! That's what writers go for, LOL!!!
There is so much drama at the writer's conference, and I absolutely believed it having several author friends who have told me some STORIES!
This was a fun, well written story that I read in one day!
Highly recommend!
May 9, 2026
Brenda Barker is the type of character you cheer on from the beginning and wish only the best as she navigates this next segment of life without her husband. I've read several books dealing with the loss of a spouse recently and all of them have a similar vein of hope and courage running through them. Brenda is taking on a new career as a writer and her experiences at a writer's retreat have a profound effect on her future and provide healing and growth in her journey. Well-written and heartwarming this novel will resonate with many and provide inspiration to those seeking a new direction at any age.
I received a gifted copy in exchange for an honest review.
I received a gifted copy in exchange for an honest review.
April 15, 2026
This was humorous, thought provoking and just what I needed. I liked that Brenda was middle aged and ready to start the next chapter of her life. After her husband dies and her son is moving away, Brenda wants to be a writer. Even though she's told she has no business writing she heads off to a writer's retreat where is good food, wine, jealousy and maybe even love. As a sixty year old widow I really loved this. It's definitely never too late to go for the things you want in life.
Dawnny Ruby
Novels N Latte
Hudson Valley NY
Dawnny Ruby
Novels N Latte
Hudson Valley NY
April 23, 2026
I have a soft spot for stories about second chances, and when it’s about a woman in her sixties like Brenda, even better.
Reading this was such a delight. I absolutely loved Brenda’s character, her determination, her humor, and the way she refuses to let anyone define what she can or can’t do.
I’m a firm believer that there’s no age limit to follow your dreams, and this story left me feeling genuinely inspired.
A story about second chances that’s uplifting, compelling, and so much fun.
Reading this was such a delight. I absolutely loved Brenda’s character, her determination, her humor, and the way she refuses to let anyone define what she can or can’t do.
I’m a firm believer that there’s no age limit to follow your dreams, and this story left me feeling genuinely inspired.
A story about second chances that’s uplifting, compelling, and so much fun.
May 5, 2026
I read this book in one sitting. I adored it. It has widow Brenda Barker who is an older main character (64 years old). It has a writer’s retreat set in the California wine country. It has a behind the scenes look at the hardships of trying to publish a book. It also has some fabulous descriptions of food and wine.
Brenda makes friends, gains confidence, and has an overall refresh to her life.
Brenda makes friends, gains confidence, and has an overall refresh to her life.
May 8, 2026
Brenda was such a likable character, and I thoroughly enjoyed her story! I loved reading about the writer’s conference, and the fact that it was in wine country was an added bonus for this wine lover! The secondary characters were fantastic as well and added a lot to the story. Delightful!
May 2, 2026
I found this book too wordy. I was bored at times. This book was not for me. I did finish the book. The narrator did a fine job.
April 13, 2026
I love Author Wendy Tokunaga’s title of “Brenda Barker’s Next Chapter” for this enjoyable, memorable and captivating novel. There is a double meaning to the title that is just perfect. The female protagonist in this story, Brenda Barker is attempting to write a book, and is also pushing her boundaries to the next chapter in her life. Brenda is 64 years young, and is a widow. Her son and his wife are expecting a baby, and moving to Japan. A Literary Book Expert isn’t enthralled with Brenda’s first book. Brenda finds that she is in need of new opportunities and chances to have a sense of purpose, proving self-worth, finding herself, and enjoying what life can offer. When the opportunity to go to a Writer’s Retreat, near Wine Country, Brenda takes off.
Brenda does meet an assortment of colorful and dramatic characters. She also gets to sample new wines, and meet new friends. At the writing retreat, there are shenanigans, jealousy, betrayals, psychological manipulation, sexual advances and a chance to win a writing award. Is there a possibility for Brenda to find love? There is adventure, mystery, suspense, wine-tasting, dancing and beautiful scenic views.
I appreciate how the author mentions the importance of family, friendship, communication, honesty, self-worth and self-importance, love and hope. I highly recommend this delightful novel
Brenda does meet an assortment of colorful and dramatic characters. She also gets to sample new wines, and meet new friends. At the writing retreat, there are shenanigans, jealousy, betrayals, psychological manipulation, sexual advances and a chance to win a writing award. Is there a possibility for Brenda to find love? There is adventure, mystery, suspense, wine-tasting, dancing and beautiful scenic views.
I appreciate how the author mentions the importance of family, friendship, communication, honesty, self-worth and self-importance, love and hope. I highly recommend this delightful novel
Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews