Off the Record

by Sara Goodman Confino

An aspiring newspaper reporter comes across a mystery that threatens to turn the Cold War hot in a funny, thrilling, and strictly undercover romantic comedy by the bestselling author of Don’t Forget to Write.

In 1962, opportunities are typically few for nice Jewish girls clacking away at ninety words per minute in a newspaper typing pool. Except Judy Greenberg isn’t typical. An aspiring reporter in DC, she’s aiming for journalistic greatness—not finding a husband. Just don’t tell her mother.

Then one day she answers her boss’s private line. The message is curiously cryptic. It’s also delivered in a Russian accent. Judy is certain she has stumbled upon a scoop. Charming reporter Jack Fields isn’t one to dismiss Judy’s instincts. Perfect. A seasoned ally she can trust, not to mention pass off as a pretend boyfriend around her relieved parents. Together, they’re following the leads—from a clandestine hotel bar to the dressing room of a slinky Cuban nightclub singer to an exhilarating underground of secrets and spies stretching from Moscow to Havana to Texas.

Now Judy must choose between the safe life expected of her or one hell of a dangerous story that could make her career. She might even fall in love for real. If her ambitions don’t get her killed.

Genres: Historical Fiction, Romance, Contemporary

Kindle Edition

Expected publication June 9, 2026

Reviews

[Genny · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you Lake Union Publishing for providing this ARC for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.

Judy is a fresh-out-of-college, Jewish woman trying to get her foot in the door in the male-dominated field of journalism. She is quick-witted, sassy, and determined to make a name for herself in a career she loves despite her parents (and society) wanting her only aspirations to be that of marriage and child-rearing.

Confino writes in a way that draws you in right away by straddling serious situations with humorous quips in conversation and Judy’s internal monologue. The world of the 1960s is alive in well on the lines of this book, and our main character takes strides and follows her intuition to navigate her way through coded messages and less than “above board” situations to get to the bottom of the hot news story that is about to break. Yet despite the fact it’s set in the past, there are a multitude of themes that make this charismatic woman relatable in a modern setting as well.

I have read every single book by this author, and this one was refreshingly different and yet just as enjoyable as her others. It was a genuine delight to read. Be sure to grab a copy when it’s released on June 9, 2026!

[callistoscalling · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you to the publisher for a gifted copy; all thoughts are my own!

📖 Book Review 📖 Sara Goodman Confino does it again. Am I surprised? Absolutely not. Does she make me once again want to travel back to the 1960’s to smash the patriarchy in the tiniest pair of heels paired with pristine fashion? One hundred percent.

Global tensions might be cold, but Judy Greenberg is fresh out of college and her ambition is hot. Armed with an impressive resume of journalism experience from her alma mater, she lands a gig in DC amongst the other typing gals with dreams of something bigger. Life has a funny way of giving us possibilities and when she answers the boss’s phone, she might just be on to a breaking story.

With the help - and some pesky hindrance - of handsome reporter Jack Fields, Judy sets out to crush this story and break glass ceilings. Sara Goodman Confino writes novels that speak to readers across generations, highlighting the power in our shared connection. While this latest novel is set in the 1960’s, when women were hardly in journalism, the themes Confino writes are no less relevant today. Off the Record is a beautiful examination of where we’ve been, our current milieu, and a hopeful glimpse to the future…all wrapped up in Sara Goodman Confino’s superbly flawless flair for historical fiction and all around fabulousness.

[Anne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thanks to NetGalley for the advance copy.
This was a 10/10 and I stayed up way to late to finish reading it.
I was pulled into the plot quickly and thoroughly connected with the man characters. It was the perfect amount of character development, intrigue, social commentary (1960s smart women trying to make their way in a male dominated workplace and negotiating societal expectations of marriage and kids) and romance wrapped into a well-written and engaging book.
If you see a fan of Sara Goodman Confino’s books, you’ll love this one.

[Heather Bennett · Rating 4 out of 5]

True to Sara Coffino Goodman’s style, this is another witty, fun, fast-paced novel. I always get a kick out of the overprotective, matchmaking Jewish mothers. Judy, an aspiring journalist, is trying to make it in a man’s world during the 1960s, facing setback after setback. Still, her grit and determination make her easy to root for.

The meet-cute and fake-dating romance was genuinely heartwarming. That said, I didn’t love the main storyline itself. It felt improbable that a single message would lead to such a major attempt of assassination discovery, and the ending—complete with a brand-new career path—was a bit of an eye-roll for me.

Thank you Netgalley for the ARC to get another SCG fix ☺️

[Angela · Rating 4 out of 5]

Off The Record was a fun and quick read! The story was written in a way that “just one more page” quickly turns into 50 and then somehow you’ve finished the book. It’s a fast paced story of an aspiring reporter who finally gets a job with a newspaper but has to work her way up from just simply typing the stories that the “real reporters” find- that is until she gets a call that gives here the story of a lifetime. The story and storytelling pull you in immediately- however the middle seemed a bit rushed and I wish the book was a bit longer!
Thank you NetGalley and Lake Union Publishing for the ARC!

[Kristy Meyer · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was honored to get an ARC copy of this book from one of my favorite authors and this did not disappoint. Thank you NetGalley! I loved following Judy along her journey in the newspaper world in the 1960's.

[Jen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ahhhhh SGC made me drop everything and read again! This would have been a one-sitting read for me if I didn't have family obligations to fulfill. Instead it was two :) This time we transport back to 1962 DC during the Kennedy administration and the Cold War. The Bay of Pigs operation had failed. Women struggle to make inroads into male-dominated careers (despite a college degree), families have deeply engrained notions about who their daughters should aspire to become. Don't skip the Author's Note at the end because although this is fiction, much of the historical aspect of the story is rooted in fact and common..."practices" at the time.

Judy has a journalism degree, but was relegated to the typing pool where reporter Jack Fields latches on to her for his edits (remember...typing pool, not Editor ;) ) and even takes credit for her work after she essentially rewrites his pieces. When Judy finds herself filling in as a secretary on the 7th floor, she answers a phone call and realizes she may have stumbled into an exclusive scoop that could change her career. Thankfully she mended fences with Jack fairly quickly as they follow leads through DC nightlife. She pretends Jack is her boyfriend to appease her meddling family, as well as help her get to the bottom of the dangerous lead.

Faking dating and close proximity tropes can get old for me, but SGC freshened them both up with her signature wit, historical facts mixed with fiction, and interesting characters you can't help but root for. The added mystery made this even more fun to read. Sara brings new energy to historical fiction with her unique voice. I swear I can hear all of her female main characters voices as Midge Maisel! And yes, there is a FABULOUS grandma in this one who provides the readers with many laughs, while making Judy eye-roll and smile.

Thanks to Sara Goodman Confino, Lake Union Publishing, and NetGalley for the e-ARC in exchange for an honest review. 'Off the Record' was such a delight to devour!

[Michael Gizzi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sara Goodman Confino's books get characterized as women's fiction, jewish fiction, historical fiction. They are all of the above, but they are more. They are great literature. She is a fantastic writer, with the ability to draw you in. Her lastest, Off the Record, takes her into new territory. Yes, the book tells the story of the challenges women face for equal treatment. Yes, it provides a glimpse into the world of Jewish families. This book adds something new, it introduces two characters, Judy Greenberg and Jack Fields, and introduces us to the Cold War intrigue of the 1960s. Judy is a newly graduated journalism major from the University of Maryland who is forced to take a job in the typing pool at a Washington DC newspaper. She is determined to make her way as a journalist, and not take the expected route of getting married and becoming a house wife. Jack is a young reporter at the paper, working the White House beat. Their paths cross almost immediately, and yes sparks fly, but so does the recognition of Judy's skills as a writer (and editor). The story then takes a dramatic turn when Judy inadvertently uncovers what she believes is a coded message, and together she and Jack work to uncover the meaning of the message and break the story.

Off the Record quickly becomes a story driven to solve the mystery. The pace moves quickly, the pieces come together, but not without great character development and some family drama. By the end of the book, Sara Confino has provided us with a truly enjoyable tale, and sets up the possibility for sequels and further adventures. I hope we get see more of these characters.

[Brittany | BrittanyIsBooked · Rating 5 out of 5]

Judith Greenberg doesn't want to be a housewife whose sole purpose is to have babies and please her husband. But that is what her parents want. So, instead of going to Uncle Gil's lawfirm to meet a nice, respectable, Jewish man... Judy goes to the newspaper to pursue her goal of becoming a journalist. Judy is not given a journalist job, but she is placed in the typing pool with the other women. And Jack Fields take a particular interest in her. One day, when Judy is filling in for an editor, she answers the phone and receives a mysterious phone call which can only be one thing: the lead that is going to give her the break she needs to make it as a journalist. Together with Jake Fields, Judy uncovers the mystery and tries to make a name for herself. Judy is punchy, and tenacious, and everything we women in 2026 hope that women in 1966 (or, 1962) were like, even if the world was telling them to sit down, hush up, and make babies.

I am a person who reads to completion - I will read the prologue, epilogue, author's note, and acknowledgements because I need to know it all. But, I think there is something extra special in the author's note for a historical fiction that just really should not be missed. This book is no exception, and I think it explained why the characters were written the way they were and why they were all so amazing.

Judy is Confino's best FMC, and I will not be taking any arguments. Thank you to Sara, NetGalley, and the publisher for my ARC. All opinions are my own.

[Barbara · Rating 5 out of 5]

Once again, Ms. Goodman has created a memorable plucky and witty protagonist in Judy Greenberg. Set in the early 1960s during the Kennedy Administration (although she never names him), we meet Judy who is trying to parlay her brand-new degree in journalism into a reporter job, but takes a job in a the typing pool at the Washington Digest, a newspaper that has no women reporters; in fact, during this time period only a handful of woman were employed as reporters at major newspapers. She, of course, plans to move up. Her mother, on the other hand, only wants to see Judy married to a nice, rich Jewish man.

As Judy is cleaning up her work at the end of the day during a temporary secretarial assignment to one of the editors, she takes a call for this boss from a man with a Russian accent and a cryptic missive that stimulates Judy’s reporting spidey senses. From there, she teams up with Jack Fields, the junior White House correspondent, to try to uncover a story, while also constantly lying to her parents about her relationship with Jack. Hilarity, some dangerous and tense moments, and a bit of romance ensue.

I highly recommend this if you need some light reading that is not fluff at all.

Thanks to NetGalley, Lake Union Publishing, and Ms. Goodman for the opportunity to read the ARC of this fun book (which I had already pre-ordered) before its publication on June 9, 2026.

[Serena · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am such a fan of fellow Peloton Mom Sara Goodman Confino and all her feel-good books. Her writing is the perfect palate cleanser reading - a consistent mix of beautiful character development, fast pacing, light heartedness, and a touch of important and era-appropriate women’s history. Set in the 1960s and centered around the political tensions with Russia and Cuba at the time, SGC took a fun new approach with this book!

In her newest book, Off the Record, new Journalism graduate Judy Greenberg is looking for the break that’s going to enable her to build her journalism career - and is not looking for a job that’s going to land her a husband and end her aspirations. When she finds herself working in the typing pool at the Washington Digest, it’s not exactly the big break she was hoping for but it’s a step in the right direction. She’s determined to prove herself and become a real journalist - and when an opportunity presents itself, she jumps at it.

Judy’s career comes with new friends, unexpected romance, complicated family dynamics, and a foray into dangerous territory that requires skill and trust.

Thank you to NetGalley and Lake Union Publishing for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[S · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sara Goodman Confino’s writing is just as captivating here as it is in her other books, and from the very beginning you can feel the care behind it. It’s immediately clear how much time she invested in researching the details to make the world of the story feel grounded, believable, and fully lived in.

The characters feel natural and authentic, and the dynamics between them ring true. The familial relationships in particular stand out, the connections, the conversations, the small moments that make the characters feel like real people. As the story moves forward and the stakes rise, the drama never feels manufactured or forced. It unfolds in a way that feels earned and true, which makes it easy to stay immersed.

And beyond all of that, it’s simply fun to read. The pacing keeps you moving, the moments land, and you enjoy being in the story rather than feeling pushed through it.

If you have any connection to the DC area, you’ll especially appreciate how accurate the rhythm of the city feels. The social dynamics and the way things move behind the scenes feel true to real life in a way you can't fake.

A smart, immersive, genuinely enjoyable read from start to finish.

[Gayathri Sunil · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5⭐️ I absolutely loved this book. Thank you NetGalley for this ARC.

This was such a great read. Sara Goodman Confino writes characters that feel incredibly real, it feels like you know people like them in your life. One thing that really surprised me was how funny and witty the dialogue was, which isn’t something I expect from historical fiction. Jack and Judy had great banter, and their interactions with each other and with everyone else were genuinely fun to read. I loved the camaraderie between the typing pool girls and the chaotic but warm family moments. This book has really has so much heart. The mystery subplot added a nice layer of tension as well throughout the story.

The final reveal (without giving spoilers) felt a little far-fetched at first, but after reading the author’s note, it was clear how much research went into fact checking, making the ending plausible enough for fiction. Overall, the story and writing style really drove the book, making this hard to put down once I picked it up.

#OfftheRecord #NetGalley

[Stef · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you NetGalley for this ARC.

Historical fiction meets humor and intrigue in Sara Goodman Confino’s Off the Record.

Judy Greenberg is determined to become a journalist with dream of front page headlines and a byline above the fold, but in 1960s Washington, D.C., she’s relegated to the women’s section or the typing pool. Rather than get stuck writing about household products or recipes, Judy takes a job in the typing pool at a D.C. paper with hopes of working her way up. While taking a message for her boss, Judy is certain she’s just discovered a scoop.

I could not put this book down. Once again, Sara Goodman Confino had me laughing out loud, reading past my bedtime, and learning more about parts of the Cold War than high school taught me. Between the Greenberg family’s many personalities, Judy’s sharp wit, and political intrigue, I was entertained from start to finish. I enjoyed the attention to detail in all of the locations mentioned as someone who grew up outside of DC. Make sure you read the author’s note to learn more about the events that take place in this novel.

[Gwendolyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Many thanks to NetGalley & the Publisher for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Wow, can SGC write or what?! I take my 4 and 5 star ratings very seriously, and she never fails to earn one. This one was 4.5 rounded up and I enjoyed every minute. I read it in less than 24 hours because I could hardly put it down.

Off the Record is historical fiction with a touch of romcom for extra entertainment. The banter is spot on, the "historical" part is interesting without being dry, there's a "mystery" element, as well as a plot twist/surprise added in for some extra excitement. As always, I absolutely love the Jewish representation and female empowerment.

Ms. Confino's writing is absolute perfection. Every book is so polished and well written; she truly has a gift.

[Estelle T · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved Off the Record and would highly recommend it. I’ve enjoyed all of Sara Goodman Confino’s books, and this one surprised me with its unexpected storyline while still delivering everything I love about her writing.

She is a gifted storyteller, and I adore how she infuses humor and heart into her characters. I found myself laughing out loud and unable to put the book down. By the time I reached the end, I was genuinely sad to leave the world she created.

This is a fun and engaging read that I think many people will enjoy.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for an advanced copy.

[Kim Estess · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 Stars! I am a huge fan of Sara Goodman Confino. Her writing often makes me laugh out loud and her characters are always relatable and lovable.

Judy Greenburg is an absolute delight. I loved her entire extended family, and loved her relationships with each her mom, sister, dad, and grandma. As a former journalism major myself, I really enjoyed watching her work towards her goal of working as a reporter.

The historical references were interesting and left me wanting to learn more about the era - I don’t know much at all about Cuban missile crisis timeframe.

The end got a little bit wild and farfetched, but it left me smiling and happy, with a solid book hangover.

[Amanda McCormick · Rating 5 out of 5]

This may be my favorite book of Sara’s yet! She has become an automatic read for me and I jumped so quickly at the chance to grab this ARC off NetGalley. I absolutely love the way Sara writes her characters and progresses her stories. I love reading stories of strong women in the 60s paving the way. Yes there’s always a love story but that isn’t the main focus ever. What I particularly loved about Off the Record was that this held a bit of a mystery to uncover and some suspense that honestly had me on the edge of my seat. I couldn’t put this one down! Thank you to Lake Union Publishing and NetGalley for the ARC. Be sure to add this to your list to read on pub day - June 9th!

[Megan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sara Goodman Confino has a wonderful ability to infuse humor into historical fiction. I especially loved her characters—the grandma and Judy are the best! I think a sequel to follow their new exploits is definitely needed. Learning more about 1960s DC was fascinating, as was the way she wove in women’s issues of the time. The added mystery and the work that Jack and Judy do keep the pace fast and engaging. This is my second Confino book, and they’re just feel-good reads—I’ll definitely be reading more. Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC!

[Anna R · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to the publishers for the advance copy of Off the Record. All opinions shared are my own.

I was so excited to dive into Sara Goodman Confino’s newest novel, Off the Record. Off the Record is a perfect blend of historical fiction, mystery and romance. Set in the world of 1960s Washington DC, Off the Record takes us into the world of newspapers and unexpected love. It has Confino’s signature characters: a feminist protagonist, a well-matched love interest and a plucky grandmother that keeps the main character on her toes. Highly recommend for a quick and fulfilling read.

[Melissa Rodrigues · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another absolutely joy by Sara! Well thought out and complicated characters that are completely relatable even with the change of era.
Story kept me guessing right up til the end and rooting for everyone

[Catlover12carley · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was Okkkk. I thought I’d love it but it just wasn’t the great resd I thought but it was enjoyable at parts .

[Sarah Rollins · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you to netgalley for the opportunity to read this ARC. What an incredible story! Loved everything about it from start to finish.