The Midlife Birthday Club

by Rachel Hanna

Three lifelong friends. Three fiftieth birthdays in the same season. One pact signed on a dusty rose napkin.

Claire Morrison has been married to Greg for twenty-six years. She still puts dinner on the table at six. She still folds the laundry the way he likes it. She still hasn't been kissed on purpose in longer than she can remember. Somewhere along the way, the man who used to look at her across a room stopped looking at all. The third-grade teacher who used to paint, who used to laugh too loud, who used to want things — Claire isn't sure where that woman went, but she knows Greg hasn't noticed she's missing.

Harper Ellis runs a financial division managing two hundred million dollars from a fourteenth-floor office in Charleston. Silk blouses. Architectural heels. A condo on East Bay Street with no kitchen table. She eats dinner standing at the sink because tables are for people who let other people stay. Years ago, there was a man named Jordan who built things with his hands and saw straight through her, and the day she realized she needed him was the day she walked away. She tells herself she made the right choice. She has been telling herself that for a very long time.

Nina Vargas lives in a cottage on Edisto Island where her husband David's boots are still by the back door eighteen months after he died. The marsh view he fell in love with is the view she can no longer stand. Her teenage daughter is angry. Her mother-in-law is praying. And Nina is wide awake at three in the morning, every single morning, wondering if a person can grieve so hard they forget how to be alive.

Then their fiftieth birthdays arrive, three weeks apart, and on the porch where these women have told each other the truth for thirty years, they sign a napkin. Three rules. Three signatures. One dusty rose every month for the next year, they will do one thing that scares them. Something none of them has ever done. They will do it together. No backing out.

Twelve months. Twelve adventures. Three women who walked onto that porch certain that fifty was where the story quietly ended, and find out — one terrifying, ridiculous, holy yes at a time — that fifty might be exactly where the real story begins.

A funny, tender, sometimes-cry-into-your-coffee South Carolina Lowcountry novel about female friendship, midlife reinvention, the men who learn to look again, and the grace of choosing yourself in the second half of life.

Three Best FriendsMidlife ReinventionBucket List PactMarriage Going ColdCareer Woman Who Walked AwayWidow Choosing to Live AgainFemale FriendshipMulti-POV Women's FictionSouthern Lowcountry SettingHeat Just Kisses Heartwarming Series Standalone HEA Third Person, Multi Content Clean women's fiction, on-page grief, mature themes of marriage and widowhood

Perfect for fans of Fannie Flagg, Mary Kay Andrews, and Katherine Center. Meet the three best friends you didn't know you needed.

Genres: Audiobook, Romance, Fiction, Contemporary

358 pages, Paperback

Published June 1, 2026

About the author

Hey there! Before I tell you all about myself, can I invite you to join my private Rachel's Readers Facebook group? That's where my readers hang out, discuss my books, participate in giveaways and learn about new releases.

You can join us here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/Rache...

So who am I? My name is Rachel Hanna, and I am a wife, mother of three incredible kids (maybe I am a BIT biased?), two lovable doggies and one cat that lives outside and thinks he owns the world. Okay, I also have a gecko now too. Don't judge me.

I started writing as a young child, and I went into the field of Journalism for many years as an adult. Now, as a romantic fiction writer, I get to live out my own daydreams every single day and share them with readers around the world!

I'm a Southern chick living near Atlanta, so I say "yes, ma'm" and "ya'll", but I wouldn't have it any other way. :)

Reviews

[Kimberly · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was a little slow at times, but was otherwise an enjoyable read. I found the character struggling with grief relatable and thought their pact was courageous and inspiring.

[Amanda Faison · Rating 2 out of 5]

As a beach read I would give this a 3, but compared to other books this is a 2 for me. Honestly enjoyed it, but wasn’t the most riveting read.

[Barbara McKee · Rating 4 out of 5]

First of all, I'm always jealous of women who have a lot of friends that live in the same town. 😄 Friends that will just show up for you and do things. Hard things and silly things and thoughtful things. But the three in this story know how to show up for each other in ways that they didn't even know they needed. I love the idea of the napkin, I love the idea of the scary things and I love the idea that older women can continue to surprise themselves and others and don't need to be invisible.
A favorite Rachel Hanna, for sure! 💜

[Holley Cuppia · Rating 4 out of 5]

Predictable but satisfying story. Very relatable!! Three lifelong friends are turning 50 and their lives are stale if not stagnant. 1 married but feels invisible, 1 a widow, and 1 a strong, independent single woman. They make a pact to do 1 scary thing a month for the next 12 months.

Very relatable to me as a retired teacher, kids in college and older, and suddenly I don’t know who I am anymore. I’m getting better and finding out again, and doing a few scary things from time to time.

[Lynne Macdonald · Rating 5 out of 5]

Four women who just got too comfortable with the life's and really got into a rut decided to change things up. A contract written on a birthday napkin had these women agree to do something daring and exciting on every Saturday of the month. 12 adventures. The three women bonded even more firmly. Their lives changed.
I highly recommend this book,

[Courtney Baily · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow. This is the most impactful book I’ve read in a while, I laughed, cried and didn’t want it to end.

[Suzanne · Rating 5 out of 5]

I just finished The Midlife Birthday Club, and honestly, Rachel Hanna has done it again! She always knows how to write characters that feel like real people, and this book was no exception

This is a heartfelt, funny, and inspiring story about three women who have been friends for thirty years and are all turning fifty. Rather than letting life pass them by, they decide it’s time to shake things up. They form a “birthday club” with a pact: once a month for an entire year, they will commit to doing something that completely scares them. As they tackle these monthly challenges, Harper, Claire, and Nina are forced to face their personal insecurities and past heartaches. It’s a testament to the enduring power of friendship and finding the courage to step outside your comfort zone, no matter your age.

Though I haven’t shared the specific life experiences of these women, their stories took me on a full emotional journey. I laughed, I cried, and I spent much of the book imagining myself trying to keep up with their monthly adventures—most of which I certainly couldn’t pull off (especially the last one)! Nevertheless, I wish I could learn to “let go” the way they did; watching their growth was truly inspiring.

Each woman in this book faces her own personal struggles, and together they find the strength to overcome them, make necessary life changes, and learn to trust again. They discover that stepping outside their comfort zones is essential to achieving the life they deserve. This book offers valuable lessons on trust, marriage, and moving forward after a devastating loss. I believe there is something for everyone to take away from this book.

If you enjoy books that you can relate to that are equal parts funny, emotional, & heartfelt, you will love getting to know Clair, Harper & Nina.

[Wendy · Rating 5 out of 5]

*Review of advance copy received from author*


I have yet to meet a Rachel Hanna book that I didn't enjoy, however this one takes the cake (no pun intended).
Three friends at a certain stage of life decide that they all need a change in their current way of living, and the best way to achieve that is through a year of adventures. As with all of RH's books, this was filled with characters that you wanted to know, or if you're very lucky, you already have one like them in your life. In TMBC I found the 3 main characters to be like looking in a mirror - I saw parts of myself not only in each of their core personalities, but in their individual situations as well. They were just SO RELATABLE and I found myself examining how I had been navigating (that sounds nicer than handling right?) my own path of grieving the loss of a loved one and all that comes with that, going from your carefree 20s to your... not 20s and realizing all the sudden how much you've changed as you're now the adult in the room, the wife, the caregiver of a parent. Seeing how these women faced their need for change and embraced it had me both laughing out loud and getting teary eyed. I've never felt so deeply for a character or their story as this one. Maybe the next person who reads TMBC hasn't yet experienced a death or realized a little part of them has been lost along the way, but I know that in life we've all lost something that matters to us and there are many lessons to be learned in this book, one that is perfectly peppered with the right amount of realism, humor and love. Here's hoping for a part 2 ????

*ARC review*

[Kathleen · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was an extraordinary book about three women who will do anything to change their lives and risk marriage, relationships but the one thing they won't risk is their friendship that has last many years. They have seen each other through so much, lives highs and lows and so they make a bucket list packed to take 12 months and do one thing that will take them out of their comfort zone and test themselves that even the scariest things in life they can still come on on top and their friendship will always be there. I could not put this book down and had to keep reading until I was finished and then I didn't want it to end.
The bond between women is the strength that always keeps them together and is the true love and friendship. Rachel Hanna has written such a book and she knows just how to go about it in her wonderful style. It's not my first book by her and it will not be my last. I can't to read more books by this wonderful author

[Jessica · Rating 3 out of 5]

I really enjoy Rachel Hanna’s books, and The Midlife Birthday Club was another heartwarming read. The friendships between the three women were the highlight for me, and I loved the message that life doesn’t stop at 50—there are still new adventures, second chances, and opportunities to reinvent yourself.

That said, this one was a little slower than I was expecting. The story focused more on the characters’ personal growth than the plot, and at times it felt repetitive as each woman worked through her own journey. While I appreciated the uplifting themes, I never found myself completely invested the way I have with some of Rachel Hanna’s other books.

Overall, it’s a sweet, feel-good novel with lovable characters and plenty of heart. If you enjoy women’s fiction centered on friendship and fresh starts, it’s worth picking up, even if it wasn’t one of my favorites from this author.

[Barbara · Rating 5 out of 5]

Claire Morrison, Harper Ellis, and Nina Vargas, lifelong friends, each have their own problems at home and have come to the conclusion that something has to change. Together, they enter a pact to do something scary each month for a year, with each of them getting the chance to choose what that might be. Nothing dangerous. Just adventures they’re afraid to try, which scares them, but they do them anyway. There will be no backing out. Their choices are sometimes funny, sometimes indeed scary, but in the end, lifechanging in a good way.

This was such a heartwarming, feel good story. Have some tissues nearby but also be prepared to laugh out loud.

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Terri Steffes · Rating 5 out of 5]

I rarely rate a book a 5 Star read, but this book found me just when I needed it. I absolutely loved The Midlife Birthday Club by Rachel Hanna. It's a story about friendship, celebrating one another, and discovering that midlife still holds plenty of adventures and new beginnings.

The best part? By the time I finished, I found myself wishing a Birthday Club existed in my own life! Imagine a group of friends who intentionally celebrate each other's birthdays—not just with gifts, but with time, laughter, good food, and genuine encouragement. What a beautiful tradition that would be.

Looking for that book that you connect with? Look no further.

[Kristi H · Rating 5 out of 5]

More Than a Midlife Adventure

Thank you for my ARC of The Midlife Birthday Club. This is my honest review.

As someone approaching mid‑life, I couldn’t resist diving into this vibrant story of three best friends doing the same. Their adventures are fun, heartfelt, and full of surprises. I found myself laughing out loud one moment and tearing up the next — especially as Nina’s grief echoed my own experience of losing a relative in a similar way.

If you’re looking for a story that celebrates friendship, adventure, and the joy of rediscovering yourself, you’ll absolutely love this book.

[Lisa Lemakos-Biscardi · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book hit me with all the feels!! 5🌟 and I wish I could give more. What a heartwarming story. I felt a connection with each of these women. I laughed, I cried, and did not want the book to end. I hope this story continues. I think these women have so much more to show us! Thank you Rachel for always hitting it out of the park. You are an auto-buy author for me. You never disappoint!! Please read this book. It reminds us how important our friendships are and what a gift it is to step out of the box and do the scary things!! What a delight!!

[Brandy Blackwell · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book! Following old friends as they all turn 50 and are finding themselves again. Challenging each other to step outside their comfort zone on fun and exciting adventures each month also pushes each woman to examine her everyday life to find what is missing. Such a great idea with lots of laughs and some tears that can also help the reader think about what adventures they may want to embark on as new stages of life arrive.

[Tammie F · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such a heartwarming, feel-good read! Rachel Hanna has such a gift for creating characters who feel like friends. I loved the friendship between the women in this book. Reading this was a good reminder that life can still surprise you in the very best ways, no matter your age. As someone navigating this stage of life myself, I found it especially relatable and appreciated how it captured this stage of life so authentically. Now I want to start a Midlife Birthday Club! Well done!

[Jamie Merritt · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great feel good story from Rachel Hannah. I absolutely loved the concept of the napkin pact! (Can be fun for sisters too). Just when I thought the karaoke adventure would be my favorite moment, the stand‑up comedy chapter stole the show. I laughed out loud so funny! Hands down my favorite scene.This book was sweet, fun, and full of emotions. I’m already looking forward to reading more stories by Rachel Hannah.

[Roxanne Miles · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love this author and I recommend her often. Her stories are sweet and full of community and they always make me want to crawl into that community and pull up a chair. Three women turning fifty who decide they need to have some new experiences. For the next twelve months, they take turns choosing an experience and they sign it on their napkin. I loved each of the adventures and now know that I, too, need a wave tattoo with my son's initials. I loved it.

[Macy · Rating 4 out of 5]

A lovely, well narrated listen. Friends are so important and these women will do anything and everything for each other. When they're each a little stuck, they help each other in the most wonderful ways with a year long challenge to get them out of their ruts. The heart, emotion, deep abiding love for each other, what they will do for each other to help them all move forward and and find happiness is well crafted and a truly enjoyable well narrated listen.

[Kelly Ohnmacht tucker · Rating 5 out of 5]

Yet another hit from Rachel Hanna!!! If you love a good clean romance, Rachel is your girl. There are so many little things that any woman over 50 can relate to. Might not be the big "issues" these ladies are facing, but the smaller one hit hard too! I would recommend this a hundred times! Can't wait for the next Rachel Hanna read!!

[Mary Jackson _TheMaryReader · Rating 4 out of 5]

I felt like I was at a birthday party for true friends. Hanna writes so you think you are living it out on the pages of her books. This was so much fun to read. I found a piece of each of the ladies in myself. This was a refreshing read and one that I recommend. It really has made me think a lot about life.

[Lynn · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was amazed to see the high Goodreads ratings until I realized there were only 89 reviews. I also researched and saw that it is a self-published book. I suspect that answers some of my questions.
The overall topic of the story was interesting and entertaining. Basically it was well-written and I enjoyed the characters.
But I listened to the audiobook and was amazed to hear the South Carolina beach locations of Edisto Island and Folly Beach mispronounced throughout the book. (I even checked the pronunciation to make sure that it wasn’t my mistake.)
As a long-time Pat Conroy fan I have read and listened to so many books that took place in the low country.
It was a small detail, but it really bothered me.

[Elizabeth Carter · Rating 4 out of 5]

Such a warm, feel‑good midlife story — I really loved this one.
It’s cozy, uplifting, and full of that gentle Rachel Hanna charm that makes her books so easy to sink into. The friendships, the fresh‑start energy, and the small‑town setting all come together in such a comforting way. It’s sweet without being cheesy and heartfelt without being heavy. Just a genuinely delightful read.

[Teresa Ruggles · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Midlife Birthday Club was a great read. I felt like I was looking into a mirror as I read each woman’s story. Rachel Hannah did a great job telling all three women’s perspectives in one book. Love her stories!

[Jamie Sherwood · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have loved all of Rachel Hanna’s Books and I feel the same about this one! I loved going on these monthly journeys with these wonderful characters. Just shows you can do anything and don’t just settle!!🫶🫶🫶

[Laurie Tanner · Rating 3 out of 5]

The idea for the book is cute, but it was soooo predictable and repetitive I could hardly make it to the end. I also hated the fact that the happiness of every single character depended on a man. Single women can be just as creative, brave, and happy as those with a partner! The story had so much potential but it was just very boring.

[Kerri Innocenzi · Rating 5 out of 5]

It was a great book ! It took me a night and a 1/2 to read this, make you appreciate what is happening in your life and whom is in your life ! Go read this and Thank you Arc and Rachel Hanna !!!!!

[Jill Clark mcnenly · Rating 5 out of 5]

Exceptional book, I laughed, I cried & I truly enjoyed it. I can so relate to these women. Way to go Rachel.

[Myleisha · Rating 3 out of 5]

I liked this book. Full of inspiration and bravery from these three women. I want to be brave like them.

I really related to Harper.

[K H · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have to say that I enjoyed this book. I could see where things can seem hard in life. I loved how they each got to pick out what to do and all the wonderful changes that they went through.