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The Not Anymore
Not My Job Anymore
She lost her mother—and found her fury.
What happens when a woman who has spent forty years being dutiful decides she’s done surviving—and starts living dangerously instead?
Set against the icy beauty of a Massachusetts beach town in winter, this novel is a sharp, darkly funny, emotionally charged story about marriage, betrayal, grief, desire, and reinvention at the exact moment life is supposed to be winding down. Viola arrives to bury her mother and settle an estate. Instead, she uncovers a devastating secret linking her mother and her husband, Anthony—a lie that has shaped her entire adult life.
Fueled by rage, heartbreak, and a long-buried hunger for freedom, Viola begins sabotaging the version of herself everyone expects. She plunges into the freezing Atlantic with her outrageous best friend Jackie, becomes obsessed with the stranger who rescues her, battles with her dead mother’s ghost, and watches as a violent nor’easter threatens to destroy the fragile house—and identity—she’s trying to rebuild.
At once wickedly witty and deeply moving, this is a story for anyone who has ever wondered whether it’s too late to change their life, reclaim their body, or choose themselves over obligation. Readers will find a fearless heroine navigating late midlife reckoning with humor, sensuality, and fury, wrapped inside a page-turning mystery and storm-lashed coastal drama.
What happens when a woman who has spent forty years being dutiful decides she’s done surviving—and starts living dangerously instead?
Set against the icy beauty of a Massachusetts beach town in winter, this novel is a sharp, darkly funny, emotionally charged story about marriage, betrayal, grief, desire, and reinvention at the exact moment life is supposed to be winding down. Viola arrives to bury her mother and settle an estate. Instead, she uncovers a devastating secret linking her mother and her husband, Anthony—a lie that has shaped her entire adult life.
Fueled by rage, heartbreak, and a long-buried hunger for freedom, Viola begins sabotaging the version of herself everyone expects. She plunges into the freezing Atlantic with her outrageous best friend Jackie, becomes obsessed with the stranger who rescues her, battles with her dead mother’s ghost, and watches as a violent nor’easter threatens to destroy the fragile house—and identity—she’s trying to rebuild.
At once wickedly witty and deeply moving, this is a story for anyone who has ever wondered whether it’s too late to change their life, reclaim their body, or choose themselves over obligation. Readers will find a fearless heroine navigating late midlife reckoning with humor, sensuality, and fury, wrapped inside a page-turning mystery and storm-lashed coastal drama.
272 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 1, 2026
About the author
Margie Benedict
12 books13 followersAward-winning novelist Margie Benedict writes emotionally resonant, genre-defying fiction rooted in the power of second chances. From coastal suspense to time-twisted mysteries and sweeping speculative worlds, her stories follow characters who rise, reclaim their agency, and rewrite their destinies.
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July 31, 2026
Not My Job Anymore by Margie Benedict (2026)
Not Anymore #1
272-page Kindle Ebook
ADC courtesy of Riveting Reads Inc, Independent Book Publishers Association (IBPA), Members' Titles, and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
Genre: Literary Fiction, Women's Fiction, Contemporary Romance, Domestic Fiction
Movie Rating Equivalent: R for adult content
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️¾🛬🏺💔👩🎨
Featuring: Praise, Titled Chapters, Death of Parent, Reminiscing, Mother-Daughter Relationship, Boston, Massachusetts; Cambridge, Massachusetts; Stanford, California; Family Dynamics, Marital Issues, Sexagenarians, Sex, Secrets, Author's Links - Site and Newsletter, Excerpt from Dreadmarrow (aka Dreadmarrow Thief), Bibliography for Margie Benedict
I don't typically read literary fiction, but a lot of these contemporary versions are really good. I erroneously assumed Not My Job Anymore was a nonfiction book, possibly about weaponized incompetence in husbands and women taking their power back.
Well, I was half right! I was not expecting the messy bombs this book dropped, but it was quite entertaining. Although it was not mind-blowing as far as domestic fiction goes, it was good enough that I am definitely going to be on the lookout for Book 2, Not My Match Anymore. I think it features the friend as a protagonist, so hopefully, there will be an update on Viola as well.
Recommend to others: Yes, especially if you are looking for a book about a woman in her 60s.
Not Anymore
1. Not My Job Anymore (2026)
2. Not My Match Anymore (Dec. 2026)
Songs for the Soundtrack: "Don’t Stop Me Now" by Queen, "Light My Fire" by The Doors, "Misty Mountain Hop" by Led Zeppelin, "Let It Go" by Idina Menzel
Books and Authors Mentioned: Invader by Marjory Kaptanoglu, Last Girl Standing by Marjory Kaptanoglu, Before the Killing by Marjory Kaptanoglu, Thieves of Magic series by Margie Benedict, Harry Potter series by J. K. Rowling, Murder, She Wrote by Peter S. Fischer, Richard Levinson, and William Link; The Book of Mormon by Matt Stone, Robert Lopez, and Trey Parker; Fictional Small Town Massachusetts; The Graduate by Calder Willingham and Buck Henry [based on] The Graduate by Charles Webb; Dirty Dancing by Eleanor Bergstein, Bride of Frankenstein by William Hurlbut [based on] Frankenstein; or, The Modern Prometheus by Mary Shelley I Love Lucy by Bob Carroll Jr., Madelyn Pugh Davis and Jess Oppenheimer [based on] My Favorite Husband by Bob Carroll Jr., Madelyn Pugh Davis and Jess Oppenheimer [based on] Mr. and Mrs. Cugat, the Record of a Happy Marriage by Isabel Scott Rorick AND Outside Eden by Isabel Scott Rorick; Thelma & Louise by Callie Khouri, Titanic by James Cameron, The Indiana Jones Series by George Lucas, Sesame Street by Joan Ganz Cooney and Lloyd Morrisett; Lawrence of Arabia by Robert Bolt and Michael Wilson [inspired by] Seven Pillars of Wisdom by Thomas Edward Lawrence; the Brothers Grimm - Jacob Grimm and Wilhelm Grimm, Frozen by Jennifer Lee [based on] The Snow Queen by Hans Christian Andersen [and] The Ice Queen by Hans Christian Andersen; Frankenstein or The Modern Prometheus by Mary Shelley; The Gift of the Magi by O. Henry
Not Anymore #1
272-page Kindle Ebook
ADC courtesy of Riveting Reads Inc, Independent Book Publishers Association (IBPA), Members' Titles, and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
Genre: Literary Fiction, Women's Fiction, Contemporary Romance, Domestic Fiction
Movie Rating Equivalent: R for adult content
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️¾🛬🏺💔👩🎨
Featuring: Praise, Titled Chapters, Death of Parent, Reminiscing, Mother-Daughter Relationship, Boston, Massachusetts; Cambridge, Massachusetts; Stanford, California; Family Dynamics, Marital Issues, Sexagenarians, Sex, Secrets, Author's Links - Site and Newsletter, Excerpt from Dreadmarrow (aka Dreadmarrow Thief), Bibliography for Margie Benedict
I don't typically read literary fiction, but a lot of these contemporary versions are really good. I erroneously assumed Not My Job Anymore was a nonfiction book, possibly about weaponized incompetence in husbands and women taking their power back.
Well, I was half right! I was not expecting the messy bombs this book dropped, but it was quite entertaining. Although it was not mind-blowing as far as domestic fiction goes, it was good enough that I am definitely going to be on the lookout for Book 2, Not My Match Anymore. I think it features the friend as a protagonist, so hopefully, there will be an update on Viola as well.
Recommend to others: Yes, especially if you are looking for a book about a woman in her 60s.
Not Anymore
1. Not My Job Anymore (2026)
2. Not My Match Anymore (Dec. 2026)
Songs for the Soundtrack: "Don’t Stop Me Now" by Queen, "Light My Fire" by The Doors, "Misty Mountain Hop" by Led Zeppelin, "Let It Go" by Idina Menzel
Books and Authors Mentioned: Invader by Marjory Kaptanoglu, Last Girl Standing by Marjory Kaptanoglu, Before the Killing by Marjory Kaptanoglu, Thieves of Magic series by Margie Benedict, Harry Potter series by J. K. Rowling, Murder, She Wrote by Peter S. Fischer, Richard Levinson, and William Link; The Book of Mormon by Matt Stone, Robert Lopez, and Trey Parker; Fictional Small Town Massachusetts; The Graduate by Calder Willingham and Buck Henry [based on] The Graduate by Charles Webb; Dirty Dancing by Eleanor Bergstein, Bride of Frankenstein by William Hurlbut [based on] Frankenstein; or, The Modern Prometheus by Mary Shelley I Love Lucy by Bob Carroll Jr., Madelyn Pugh Davis and Jess Oppenheimer [based on] My Favorite Husband by Bob Carroll Jr., Madelyn Pugh Davis and Jess Oppenheimer [based on] Mr. and Mrs. Cugat, the Record of a Happy Marriage by Isabel Scott Rorick AND Outside Eden by Isabel Scott Rorick; Thelma & Louise by Callie Khouri, Titanic by James Cameron, The Indiana Jones Series by George Lucas, Sesame Street by Joan Ganz Cooney and Lloyd Morrisett; Lawrence of Arabia by Robert Bolt and Michael Wilson [inspired by] Seven Pillars of Wisdom by Thomas Edward Lawrence; the Brothers Grimm - Jacob Grimm and Wilhelm Grimm, Frozen by Jennifer Lee [based on] The Snow Queen by Hans Christian Andersen [and] The Ice Queen by Hans Christian Andersen; Frankenstein or The Modern Prometheus by Mary Shelley; The Gift of the Magi by O. Henry
June 7, 2026
Thanks to Netgalley for this advanced reader copy, after reading the synopsis on netgalley i knew i needed to request this book. Its my first Margie Benedict book pleased it stay it wont be my last, I really felt like i needed a palette cleanser after reading horrors and thrillers. This gladly did the job i needed as its a very realistic read.I also feel that some books are read at the right time in life so if you find yourself at a cross roads or approaching some form of change in your life, this book will help.
Viola has just lost her mother and although am not fond of reading sad stories i found this the absolute opposite as the sadness its there in the book, but it also gives a new chapter for Viola. This is quite refreshing and honest, Viola really re-evaluates everything in her life. I think the book has a deeper reflecting and it certainly makes you look closer at relationships with family.
Voila makes some choices and they are bold, she wants to reinvent herself and knows that life is really too short, this was the part that i loved. The things and the people who she would once literally go to the end of the earth for were no longer serving her purpose. Voila has put herself last and finds herself constantly running around after everyone else. You can see the self neglect in Voila and she looks into the future and realises how the years have just gone by.
It was great going back in time to uncover the memories but the most real thing about this book is we can love our parents but also not serve to choice their path and not agree with everything or the decisions made. Its perfectly ok to put yourself first with your own ideas and trust the process. Voila felt as a child she had to fit onto what her parents wanted and it went against her own desires.
The painting in this book just really shows how she literally felt. But i found it energising and almost like i was cheering Viola on from the side lines. I love how this women can be 63 but doing exactly what she wants.
The author has done a perfect job with balancing the emotions of grief, family life, lost desires , and fresh starts. If you need to make the change then do it! Just what i needed to hear!
Viola has just lost her mother and although am not fond of reading sad stories i found this the absolute opposite as the sadness its there in the book, but it also gives a new chapter for Viola. This is quite refreshing and honest, Viola really re-evaluates everything in her life. I think the book has a deeper reflecting and it certainly makes you look closer at relationships with family.
Voila makes some choices and they are bold, she wants to reinvent herself and knows that life is really too short, this was the part that i loved. The things and the people who she would once literally go to the end of the earth for were no longer serving her purpose. Voila has put herself last and finds herself constantly running around after everyone else. You can see the self neglect in Voila and she looks into the future and realises how the years have just gone by.
It was great going back in time to uncover the memories but the most real thing about this book is we can love our parents but also not serve to choice their path and not agree with everything or the decisions made. Its perfectly ok to put yourself first with your own ideas and trust the process. Voila felt as a child she had to fit onto what her parents wanted and it went against her own desires.
The painting in this book just really shows how she literally felt. But i found it energising and almost like i was cheering Viola on from the side lines. I love how this women can be 63 but doing exactly what she wants.
The author has done a perfect job with balancing the emotions of grief, family life, lost desires , and fresh starts. If you need to make the change then do it! Just what i needed to hear!
June 2, 2026
OVERALL RATING:
⭐⭐⭐⭐🍪
4 stars + 1 cookie!
I am pleasantly surprised to have loved this. I think timing matters when it comes to books, because I happened to pick up Not My Job Anymore during what can only be described as a "quarter-life crisis," and it felt like exactly the book I needed.
From the very first page, the writing pulled me in. The prose is personal, reflective, and intimate. What I appreciated most was how authentic Viola's narration felt. The novel begins with the death of Viola's mother, but that's really only the first domino: what follows is a story about grief, family history, betrayal, divorce, identity, and the strange freedom that arrives afterwards. So, even if the flashbacks were brief, it was as if I was very connected with our main character. Her mother was not idealized. She was loving, but frustrating; overbearing, but sometimes supportive, and hurtful in different measures--much like many real mothers are. I found myself connecting deeply with those chapters.
In many ways, the emotional core of the book worked wonderfully for me. I laughed, I cried, and then I laughed and cried at the same time. There were passages that made me put the book down simply to sit with what I had just read. More than once, it reminded me to text my own mother.
Not My Job Anymore is a tender reminder that growing older is not the end of becoming who you are. I'm far from our protagonist's age, yet this was one of the first novels I've read that genuinely eased some of my fears about aging. Spending time inside the mind of a 63-year-old woman was unexpectedly comforting; it doesn't pretend that getting old is easy, but it presents later life as something rich with memory, love, grief, humor, and possibilities.
This novel is for readers who enjoy empowering women's fiction and reflective family stories. Because the novel is so rooted in a woman's interior life, your enjoyment depends heavily on whether her reflections resonate with you personally.
I received a free copy from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
4 stars + 1 cookie!
I am pleasantly surprised to have loved this. I think timing matters when it comes to books, because I happened to pick up Not My Job Anymore during what can only be described as a "quarter-life crisis," and it felt like exactly the book I needed.
From the very first page, the writing pulled me in. The prose is personal, reflective, and intimate. What I appreciated most was how authentic Viola's narration felt. The novel begins with the death of Viola's mother, but that's really only the first domino: what follows is a story about grief, family history, betrayal, divorce, identity, and the strange freedom that arrives afterwards. So, even if the flashbacks were brief, it was as if I was very connected with our main character. Her mother was not idealized. She was loving, but frustrating; overbearing, but sometimes supportive, and hurtful in different measures--much like many real mothers are. I found myself connecting deeply with those chapters.
In many ways, the emotional core of the book worked wonderfully for me. I laughed, I cried, and then I laughed and cried at the same time. There were passages that made me put the book down simply to sit with what I had just read. More than once, it reminded me to text my own mother.
Not My Job Anymore is a tender reminder that growing older is not the end of becoming who you are. I'm far from our protagonist's age, yet this was one of the first novels I've read that genuinely eased some of my fears about aging. Spending time inside the mind of a 63-year-old woman was unexpectedly comforting; it doesn't pretend that getting old is easy, but it presents later life as something rich with memory, love, grief, humor, and possibilities.
This novel is for readers who enjoy empowering women's fiction and reflective family stories. Because the novel is so rooted in a woman's interior life, your enjoyment depends heavily on whether her reflections resonate with you personally.
I received a free copy from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
July 23, 2026
Not My Job Anymore was an interesting read with a premise I was really drawn to — a woman who has spent decades being the person everyone else needs her to be finally reaching a point where she starts asking what she wants for herself.
I really liked the idea behind Viola’s story. The exploration of identity, grief, marriage, betrayal, and what happens when you realise you’ve spent years putting pieces of yourself aside was something I found really interesting. I also appreciated that this was a story about a woman later in life choosing to redefine herself, because those stories aren’t always the ones we get to read.
Margie Benedict did a great job capturing that feeling of being stuck between the life you’ve built and the life you wonder you could have had. There were moments where I understood Viola’s anger, frustration, and desire to finally make choices for herself. I also enjoyed the friendship between Viola and Jackie — it brought some warmth and humour into what could have been a much heavier story.
For me, though, I didn’t always feel completely connected to the story. There were so many interesting ideas being explored — the secrets surrounding Viola’s mother and husband, her reinvention, the mysterious elements, and her journey of self-discovery — that at times it felt like the story was trying to do a lot at once. Some of the more unusual elements worked for me less than others, and I think I would have preferred a little more focus on Viola’s emotional journey and less on some of the extra plot elements.
Overall, I’m glad I read it. I think readers who enjoy women’s fiction about second chances, starting over, and finding yourself after years of putting others first will probably connect with Viola’s story. It had a lot of heart and some really interesting ideas — it just didn’t quite become the emotionally gripping read I was hoping it would be.
⭐️⭐️⭐️½ 3.5 stars
I really liked the idea behind Viola’s story. The exploration of identity, grief, marriage, betrayal, and what happens when you realise you’ve spent years putting pieces of yourself aside was something I found really interesting. I also appreciated that this was a story about a woman later in life choosing to redefine herself, because those stories aren’t always the ones we get to read.
Margie Benedict did a great job capturing that feeling of being stuck between the life you’ve built and the life you wonder you could have had. There were moments where I understood Viola’s anger, frustration, and desire to finally make choices for herself. I also enjoyed the friendship between Viola and Jackie — it brought some warmth and humour into what could have been a much heavier story.
For me, though, I didn’t always feel completely connected to the story. There were so many interesting ideas being explored — the secrets surrounding Viola’s mother and husband, her reinvention, the mysterious elements, and her journey of self-discovery — that at times it felt like the story was trying to do a lot at once. Some of the more unusual elements worked for me less than others, and I think I would have preferred a little more focus on Viola’s emotional journey and less on some of the extra plot elements.
Overall, I’m glad I read it. I think readers who enjoy women’s fiction about second chances, starting over, and finding yourself after years of putting others first will probably connect with Viola’s story. It had a lot of heart and some really interesting ideas — it just didn’t quite become the emotionally gripping read I was hoping it would be.
⭐️⭐️⭐️½ 3.5 stars
May 27, 2026
Losing a parent definitely changes the way certain books hit emotionally, and Not My Job Anymore ended up affecting me more than I expected.
This book really captures that stage of life where you start looking around and asking yourself if the life you built is actually the life you still want. Viola is grieving the loss of her mother while also dealing with a marriage that has slowly drained her over the years, and honestly, a lot of her emotions felt very real to me.
As someone in my 50s who recently lost my mom, the mother-daughter parts hit hard. The imagined conversations with her mother after her death felt especially relatable because grief really does work like that sometimes. You carry those conversations around with you long after someone is gone.
I also loved seeing a story centered around a woman in her 60s who is still messy, emotional, angry, funny, impulsive, and trying to figure herself out. We do not get enough books like that. So many women’s fiction books focus on younger characters, and this felt refreshing.
The cold coastal Massachusetts setting added so much atmosphere too. Everything felt stormy and unsettled in a way that matched Viola’s emotional state perfectly.
I wouldn’t really call this a romance as much as a later-in-life reinvention story with some romance woven into it. Watching Viola slowly stop living for everyone else was honestly the strongest part of the book for me.
The ending wrapped up a little faster than I wanted, and there were moments where I wished Viola had a bit more self-awareness, but overall I found this emotional, witty, thoughtful, and very readable.
I think this would make an excellent book club discussion book, especially for women navigating aging parents, grief, marriage, identity, and major life changes later in life.
This book really captures that stage of life where you start looking around and asking yourself if the life you built is actually the life you still want. Viola is grieving the loss of her mother while also dealing with a marriage that has slowly drained her over the years, and honestly, a lot of her emotions felt very real to me.
As someone in my 50s who recently lost my mom, the mother-daughter parts hit hard. The imagined conversations with her mother after her death felt especially relatable because grief really does work like that sometimes. You carry those conversations around with you long after someone is gone.
I also loved seeing a story centered around a woman in her 60s who is still messy, emotional, angry, funny, impulsive, and trying to figure herself out. We do not get enough books like that. So many women’s fiction books focus on younger characters, and this felt refreshing.
The cold coastal Massachusetts setting added so much atmosphere too. Everything felt stormy and unsettled in a way that matched Viola’s emotional state perfectly.
I wouldn’t really call this a romance as much as a later-in-life reinvention story with some romance woven into it. Watching Viola slowly stop living for everyone else was honestly the strongest part of the book for me.
The ending wrapped up a little faster than I wanted, and there were moments where I wished Viola had a bit more self-awareness, but overall I found this emotional, witty, thoughtful, and very readable.
I think this would make an excellent book club discussion book, especially for women navigating aging parents, grief, marriage, identity, and major life changes later in life.
July 2, 2026
Contemporary Fiction | Adult (NetGalley ARC)
Let me open by saying this is a funny, sad, provocative, even startling story of a woman in grief and in rage. I loved it! When Viola Sagewood Bluff’s mother suddenly passes away, it’s only the first in a series of events that cause her to question her life, its path, and even her marriage. Upon news of her passing, Viola heads to her mum’s home in Massachussetts, leaving her husband home in California where he is writing a book. Now in her 60s, Viola is increasingly dissatisfied with the life she has made for herself, and as she grieves her mother’s death, she both recalls memories of time with her both good and bad, and carries on imaginary conversations with her. In preparing the home for eventual sale, Viola discovers a letter from her mother that completely upends her. The chapter is called “Mom’s Despicable Letter.” I won’t spoil the reveal, but I will say it’s shocking news, and Viola decides that after 40 years, she’s had enough of putting everyone else first. It’s time to make some changes, and once she starts she doesn’t stop! There was a time in my own past where that kind of thing happened, and I think author Benedict did a bang-up job of capturing the internal feelings of fury, despair, and thrill of starting over. Viola makes some rash decisions that are easy to defend as she is thousands of kilometres from home, but eventually it all comes crashing down around her. Along the way she pushes back against unreasonable demands, rediscovers her artistic talent and plays with the idea of dating again. The character development is authentic with natural-sounding dialogue, the icy East Coast setting is nicely detailed, and the plot is both realistic and enjoyable. My thanks to Riveting Reads for the digital reading copy provided through NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
Let me open by saying this is a funny, sad, provocative, even startling story of a woman in grief and in rage. I loved it! When Viola Sagewood Bluff’s mother suddenly passes away, it’s only the first in a series of events that cause her to question her life, its path, and even her marriage. Upon news of her passing, Viola heads to her mum’s home in Massachussetts, leaving her husband home in California where he is writing a book. Now in her 60s, Viola is increasingly dissatisfied with the life she has made for herself, and as she grieves her mother’s death, she both recalls memories of time with her both good and bad, and carries on imaginary conversations with her. In preparing the home for eventual sale, Viola discovers a letter from her mother that completely upends her. The chapter is called “Mom’s Despicable Letter.” I won’t spoil the reveal, but I will say it’s shocking news, and Viola decides that after 40 years, she’s had enough of putting everyone else first. It’s time to make some changes, and once she starts she doesn’t stop! There was a time in my own past where that kind of thing happened, and I think author Benedict did a bang-up job of capturing the internal feelings of fury, despair, and thrill of starting over. Viola makes some rash decisions that are easy to defend as she is thousands of kilometres from home, but eventually it all comes crashing down around her. Along the way she pushes back against unreasonable demands, rediscovers her artistic talent and plays with the idea of dating again. The character development is authentic with natural-sounding dialogue, the icy East Coast setting is nicely detailed, and the plot is both realistic and enjoyable. My thanks to Riveting Reads for the digital reading copy provided through NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
July 2, 2026
I love when women’s fiction remembers that reinvention does not belong exclusively to twenty-somethings.
Not My Job Anymore is sharp, atmospheric, darkly funny, and emotionally loaded in the best possible way. Margie Benedict gives us Viola, a woman who arrives in a frozen Massachusetts beach town to bury her mother and settle an estate, only to uncover the kind of betrayal that does not simply break your heart — it rearranges the entire architecture of your life.
What I loved most about this book is how deeply rooted it is in Viola’s interiority. Her grief, fury, desire, resentment, shame, and hunger for freedom all sit right on the page, complicated and alive. She is not written as an “older protagonist” in a novelty sense, but as a full, contradictory, sensual, angry, funny, wounded woman who is finally done performing dutifulness for everyone else. Honestly? Good for her. Burn the emotional chore chart.
The familial relationships are especially strong here. The mother-daughter dynamic is prickly, painful, and layered, with that specific kind of intimacy where love and resentment have been sharing the same room for decades. Add in marriage, betrayal, female friendship, a dead mother’s ghost, a mysterious stranger, and the icy drama of a coastal Massachusetts winter, and the whole thing becomes both emotionally grounded and genuinely page-turning.
The setting is also a standout. The cold beach town, the freezing Atlantic, the nor’easter, the fragile house — it all mirrors Viola’s internal reckoning beautifully without ever feeling overdone. It is stormy, moody, sensual, and a little feral.
This is empowering women’s fiction with teeth. It is about grief, rage, aging, desire, obligation, and the radical act of deciding that survival is no longer enough.
A huge thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC.
Not My Job Anymore is sharp, atmospheric, darkly funny, and emotionally loaded in the best possible way. Margie Benedict gives us Viola, a woman who arrives in a frozen Massachusetts beach town to bury her mother and settle an estate, only to uncover the kind of betrayal that does not simply break your heart — it rearranges the entire architecture of your life.
What I loved most about this book is how deeply rooted it is in Viola’s interiority. Her grief, fury, desire, resentment, shame, and hunger for freedom all sit right on the page, complicated and alive. She is not written as an “older protagonist” in a novelty sense, but as a full, contradictory, sensual, angry, funny, wounded woman who is finally done performing dutifulness for everyone else. Honestly? Good for her. Burn the emotional chore chart.
The familial relationships are especially strong here. The mother-daughter dynamic is prickly, painful, and layered, with that specific kind of intimacy where love and resentment have been sharing the same room for decades. Add in marriage, betrayal, female friendship, a dead mother’s ghost, a mysterious stranger, and the icy drama of a coastal Massachusetts winter, and the whole thing becomes both emotionally grounded and genuinely page-turning.
The setting is also a standout. The cold beach town, the freezing Atlantic, the nor’easter, the fragile house — it all mirrors Viola’s internal reckoning beautifully without ever feeling overdone. It is stormy, moody, sensual, and a little feral.
This is empowering women’s fiction with teeth. It is about grief, rage, aging, desire, obligation, and the radical act of deciding that survival is no longer enough.
A huge thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC.
June 13, 2026
What makes this novel so appealing is the wit woven into almost every page…or at least every chapter. The storyline follows the classic trope of a woman who has devoted her life to a husband who takes all her caretaking for granted and comes to the realization that she is no longer happy in fulfilling this stultifying role. An opportunity to break out of the mold comes when the protagonist’s mother dies unexpectedly and she returns to her hometown to settle the estate.
Viola has had mixed feelings about her relationship with her mother, but when she discovers an emotionally shattering secret, her fury has little recourse for expression. Viola channels it into a hilarious painting of her mother’s favorite chair and has ongoing conversations with her mother’s spirit. Amid reconciling all this grief, betrayal and disillusionment, Viola meets a charming man for whom she develops real feelings, but she is still married to her professor husband who is on the other side of the county. The story unfolds as she begins to discover who she is and what she really wants for the remaining years of her life. It is a rite of passage for a 63-year-old woman who is no longer willing to subjugate her needs and desires and to settle for less than she deserves.
This is a quick read that addresses serious issues with a delightful (an appropriate) backdrop of humor. It is both thought-provoking and entertaining. I thoroughly enjoyed engaging in Viola’s journey of self-discovery.
My thanks to the author, the publisher, and NetGalley for the privilege of reviewing this book. The opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
This review is being posted immediately to my Amazon account.
Viola has had mixed feelings about her relationship with her mother, but when she discovers an emotionally shattering secret, her fury has little recourse for expression. Viola channels it into a hilarious painting of her mother’s favorite chair and has ongoing conversations with her mother’s spirit. Amid reconciling all this grief, betrayal and disillusionment, Viola meets a charming man for whom she develops real feelings, but she is still married to her professor husband who is on the other side of the county. The story unfolds as she begins to discover who she is and what she really wants for the remaining years of her life. It is a rite of passage for a 63-year-old woman who is no longer willing to subjugate her needs and desires and to settle for less than she deserves.
This is a quick read that addresses serious issues with a delightful (an appropriate) backdrop of humor. It is both thought-provoking and entertaining. I thoroughly enjoyed engaging in Viola’s journey of self-discovery.
My thanks to the author, the publisher, and NetGalley for the privilege of reviewing this book. The opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
This review is being posted immediately to my Amazon account.
May 25, 2026
I liked this book because it tackled issues we need to see more of in women’s fiction: aging, mom-daughter relationships, death of a parent, adultery, mothering adult children, mature marriages, divorce, mature dating, changing careers, and/or pursuing dreams later in life. It would make a great book club selection because of this.
The main character, Viola, is in a long-time marriage to a needy and manipulative husband who doesn’t appreciate her. Instead of dealing with that directly, she has become very passive-aggressive and generally miserable. When her mother passes away, she travels from California to her childhood home of Massachusetts to deal with her mother’s affairs only to uncover one hell of a secret that rocks her world and that is the catalyst for changing her life.
Initially, I was disappointed that “changing her life” was simply “having an affair.” However, eventually circumstances help prompt more substantial changes – although I would have liked to see more self-reflection in the main character. She’s witty and entertaining, but I didn’t find her all that endearing.
While I wouldn’t necessarily categorize the book as a romance per se, I enjoyed the romantic elements it contained. The end did feel rushed, though. I would have liked a bit more of a fade out there. Otherwise, I liked the allusions to a fated romance.
Overall, Not My Job Anymore is an entertaining novel about a woman who comes into her own and takes control of her life in her sixties and takes us along for the ride.
Thank you to Margie Benedict and NetGalley for the eARC of this novel. I will always provide an honest review.
The main character, Viola, is in a long-time marriage to a needy and manipulative husband who doesn’t appreciate her. Instead of dealing with that directly, she has become very passive-aggressive and generally miserable. When her mother passes away, she travels from California to her childhood home of Massachusetts to deal with her mother’s affairs only to uncover one hell of a secret that rocks her world and that is the catalyst for changing her life.
Initially, I was disappointed that “changing her life” was simply “having an affair.” However, eventually circumstances help prompt more substantial changes – although I would have liked to see more self-reflection in the main character. She’s witty and entertaining, but I didn’t find her all that endearing.
While I wouldn’t necessarily categorize the book as a romance per se, I enjoyed the romantic elements it contained. The end did feel rushed, though. I would have liked a bit more of a fade out there. Otherwise, I liked the allusions to a fated romance.
Overall, Not My Job Anymore is an entertaining novel about a woman who comes into her own and takes control of her life in her sixties and takes us along for the ride.
Thank you to Margie Benedict and NetGalley for the eARC of this novel. I will always provide an honest review.
June 9, 2026
Not My Job Anymore is a compelling story about what happens when a woman who's spent decades taking care of everyone else decides she's finally had enough.
Viola arrives in a small Massachusetts beach town to bury her mother and settle her affairs, but instead uncovers a secret that shakes the foundation of her marriage and forces her to reevaluate her entire life. What follows is a journey through grief, rage, self-discovery, and reinvention.
I really enjoyed seeing a protagonist in this stage of life take center stage. Viola's anger, heartbreak, and determination to stop living by everyone else's expectations made her an interesting and relatable character. The novel tackles themes of aging, identity, friendship, desire, and second chances with both humor and emotional honesty.
The coastal winter setting was one of my favorite aspects of the book. The cold Atlantic waters and approaching storm created a strong atmosphere that complemented the emotional tension of the story.
Although some parts felt a bit drawn out and a few developments didn't fully work for me, I remained invested in Viola's journey and appreciated the book's message that personal growth and change don't have an expiration date.
A thoughtful and entertaining read for fans of women's fiction, family drama, and stories about finding yourself when life takes an unexpected turn.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing an advance copy for review.
Viola arrives in a small Massachusetts beach town to bury her mother and settle her affairs, but instead uncovers a secret that shakes the foundation of her marriage and forces her to reevaluate her entire life. What follows is a journey through grief, rage, self-discovery, and reinvention.
I really enjoyed seeing a protagonist in this stage of life take center stage. Viola's anger, heartbreak, and determination to stop living by everyone else's expectations made her an interesting and relatable character. The novel tackles themes of aging, identity, friendship, desire, and second chances with both humor and emotional honesty.
The coastal winter setting was one of my favorite aspects of the book. The cold Atlantic waters and approaching storm created a strong atmosphere that complemented the emotional tension of the story.
Although some parts felt a bit drawn out and a few developments didn't fully work for me, I remained invested in Viola's journey and appreciated the book's message that personal growth and change don't have an expiration date.
A thoughtful and entertaining read for fans of women's fiction, family drama, and stories about finding yourself when life takes an unexpected turn.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing an advance copy for review.
June 29, 2026
Not My Job Anymore is a spectacular, deeply resonant self-discovery romance. It proves it is never too late to rewrite your own story. The book follows Viola, a woman in her sixties who takes control of her life after the collapse of a 40-year marriage.
Benedict is famous for writing about the power of second chances. Here, she tackles heavy, real-world themes with absolute grace. The narrative beautifully explores aging, complex mother-daughter dynamics, the grief of losing a parent, deception, and adultery. It dives deep into the realities of mothering adult children, navigating divorce, and entering the modern world of dating.
At its core, this novel is about the universal human need to be seen for who you truly are. Viola’s journey of changing careers and pursuing dormant dreams later in life is both inspiring and fiercely entertaining.
NOTE: Viola has a wonderfully sharp, sarcastic tone. If you do not appreciate sarcasm, this humour might not be for you. However, if you love a witty, cynical, and fiercely independent protagonist, you will absolutely adore her.
This is a beautiful, triumphant ride about a woman finally coming into her own. Highly recommended!
Thank you, NetGalley, for an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Benedict is famous for writing about the power of second chances. Here, she tackles heavy, real-world themes with absolute grace. The narrative beautifully explores aging, complex mother-daughter dynamics, the grief of losing a parent, deception, and adultery. It dives deep into the realities of mothering adult children, navigating divorce, and entering the modern world of dating.
At its core, this novel is about the universal human need to be seen for who you truly are. Viola’s journey of changing careers and pursuing dormant dreams later in life is both inspiring and fiercely entertaining.
NOTE: Viola has a wonderfully sharp, sarcastic tone. If you do not appreciate sarcasm, this humour might not be for you. However, if you love a witty, cynical, and fiercely independent protagonist, you will absolutely adore her.
This is a beautiful, triumphant ride about a woman finally coming into her own. Highly recommended!
Thank you, NetGalley, for an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
June 13, 2026
I don’t know anyone that enjoys being the punchline in a joke that borders on humiliation…Add to that pain if the betrayal is sent by family or a romantic partner! That was my first thought when Viola, our central character, experiences this plus loss of a mother plus a drastic change of scenery & weather all in one swift punch.
My second thought when reading? If you live long enough, the same cast of characters keep making appearances in your world. It might be 30 or 40+ years, but you have a better than average chance of them turning up again. They also keep repeating either good or the especially bad behaviors.
This is a vague review, but this is also a book that seems like discussing Viola’s quandaries lends itself to giving away spoilers.
I most enjoyed Viola’s conversational & sometime sarcastic discussions both with people & also in her mind – hence the book’s title.
I felt the book was an authentic & delightful experience right up to the ending. The final scene just didn’t match all the emotional growth that Viola had undergone. I would still recommend this, but I’m curious if the ending was a rewrite or if it was the intention of the author?
My second thought when reading? If you live long enough, the same cast of characters keep making appearances in your world. It might be 30 or 40+ years, but you have a better than average chance of them turning up again. They also keep repeating either good or the especially bad behaviors.
This is a vague review, but this is also a book that seems like discussing Viola’s quandaries lends itself to giving away spoilers.
I most enjoyed Viola’s conversational & sometime sarcastic discussions both with people & also in her mind – hence the book’s title.
I felt the book was an authentic & delightful experience right up to the ending. The final scene just didn’t match all the emotional growth that Viola had undergone. I would still recommend this, but I’m curious if the ending was a rewrite or if it was the intention of the author?
June 14, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This was such a relatable and entertaining read.
What I loved most was the humor and sarcasm woven throughout the story. The main character’s thoughts felt authentic and realistic, especially for anyone who has ever found themselves questioning whether a relationship is still serving them. There were so many moments where I found myself thinking, “Yep, we’ve all been there.”
Beyond the humor, the story touches on marriage, self-discovery, and finding the courage to choose yourself and pursue happiness. I was invested in the character’s journey from beginning to end and appreciated the honest look at personal growth and starting over.
My only complaint is that the ending felt a little rushed. After such a well-developed story, I would have loved more time with the resolution and the characters before turning the final page.
Overall, this was a funny, heartfelt, and empowering read about knowing your worth and embracing a new chapter. If you enjoy women’s fiction with relatable characters, witty humor, and themes of personal growth, I’d definitely recommend adding this one to your TBR.
This was such a relatable and entertaining read.
What I loved most was the humor and sarcasm woven throughout the story. The main character’s thoughts felt authentic and realistic, especially for anyone who has ever found themselves questioning whether a relationship is still serving them. There were so many moments where I found myself thinking, “Yep, we’ve all been there.”
Beyond the humor, the story touches on marriage, self-discovery, and finding the courage to choose yourself and pursue happiness. I was invested in the character’s journey from beginning to end and appreciated the honest look at personal growth and starting over.
My only complaint is that the ending felt a little rushed. After such a well-developed story, I would have loved more time with the resolution and the characters before turning the final page.
Overall, this was a funny, heartfelt, and empowering read about knowing your worth and embracing a new chapter. If you enjoy women’s fiction with relatable characters, witty humor, and themes of personal growth, I’d definitely recommend adding this one to your TBR.
July 3, 2026
Thank you to netgalley for the arc of this book.
I found the description of this book intriguing. A 63-year-old woman experiences the death of her mother and simultaneously gets the motivation to really question why she is staying in her decades-long marriage. What ensues is the best kind of crash out; one in which a woman who has been strong for someone else her entire life, finally finds out how to be strong for herself. In life, the pendulum often swings in wide arcs, and this story is no exception. Faced with a bit of information that rocks the foundations of both her relationship with her now dead mother and her husband, Viola no longer feels obligated to sacrifice her own desires on the altar of a crappy marriage. This novel is witty and a bit edgy, but also so illustrative of the freedom that is available if you are willing to just let it go. It is a highly entertaining read with enough substance to be thought-provoking. I gave it 4 stars because I found it a bit predictable, and the romance didn't really give me all the feels.
I found the description of this book intriguing. A 63-year-old woman experiences the death of her mother and simultaneously gets the motivation to really question why she is staying in her decades-long marriage. What ensues is the best kind of crash out; one in which a woman who has been strong for someone else her entire life, finally finds out how to be strong for herself. In life, the pendulum often swings in wide arcs, and this story is no exception. Faced with a bit of information that rocks the foundations of both her relationship with her now dead mother and her husband, Viola no longer feels obligated to sacrifice her own desires on the altar of a crappy marriage. This novel is witty and a bit edgy, but also so illustrative of the freedom that is available if you are willing to just let it go. It is a highly entertaining read with enough substance to be thought-provoking. I gave it 4 stars because I found it a bit predictable, and the romance didn't really give me all the feels.
May 30, 2026
Viola is already feeling miserable, mainly in her marriage, when she must leave her home in CA and travel back to her family home in MA after her mother dies. While taking care of her mother’s estate, Violet realizes that much of what she has handled in her life is Not My Job Anymore in the aptly titled book by Margie Benedict.
This story showcases a woman in her 60s who decides to finally stand up for herself and start living her own life, not the life her husband or daughter wants her to live. Written by Benedict with humor and heart, we follow Violet while she experiences some sadness, late-in-life realizations and a willingness to embrace new relationships on her path to self-discovery.
This book was both engaging and touching… a joy to read!
3.5* rounded up to 4*
Thank you to Riveting Reads and NetGalley for this ARC. All opinions are my own.
This story showcases a woman in her 60s who decides to finally stand up for herself and start living her own life, not the life her husband or daughter wants her to live. Written by Benedict with humor and heart, we follow Violet while she experiences some sadness, late-in-life realizations and a willingness to embrace new relationships on her path to self-discovery.
This book was both engaging and touching… a joy to read!
3.5* rounded up to 4*
Thank you to Riveting Reads and NetGalley for this ARC. All opinions are my own.
June 9, 2026
Not My Job Anymore is a story about an older woman, Viola, who finds herself after her mother passes. Viola’s husband is the classic man-baby. He refuses to do anything for himself, relying on Viola for even the most basic needs. He’s smart, so he thinks he’s better than everyone. His behavior in this book was infuriating… which is absolutely the point, bravo!
Viola has to deal with her mother’s affairs across the country, and her husband refuses to join her. Heaven forbid he inconvenience himself over something so trivial as death. Upon her death, Viola’s mother leaves her a letter with a whopper of a secret, throwing Viola into her self-care era.
This was a lovely novel reminding us that it’s never too late to change your life.
Thank you to NetGalley and Riveting Reads Inc. for this ARC.
Viola has to deal with her mother’s affairs across the country, and her husband refuses to join her. Heaven forbid he inconvenience himself over something so trivial as death. Upon her death, Viola’s mother leaves her a letter with a whopper of a secret, throwing Viola into her self-care era.
This was a lovely novel reminding us that it’s never too late to change your life.
Thank you to NetGalley and Riveting Reads Inc. for this ARC.
June 29, 2026
Viola lost her mother unexpectedly and this hits her hard. She thought she was close to her mother but going through stuff she has revelations that changes her world. She questions her mothers ethics, her secrecy and then questions herself - realising that she herself is guilty of not facing the unpleasant facts in her own relationships.
Coming back to her late mother’s home opens a new vista for Viola. What could be and the vista is exciting. Her earlier desire to be an artist, find a lover, ignore and later divorce her selfish husband, and finally live for herself. Reaching that goal came with hiccups on the way but Viola didn’t it all.
The elements of grief, lost dreams and new starts are very well expressed in this read. Gives a lot of hope that it is never too late for anything.
A very enjoyable read.
Coming back to her late mother’s home opens a new vista for Viola. What could be and the vista is exciting. Her earlier desire to be an artist, find a lover, ignore and later divorce her selfish husband, and finally live for herself. Reaching that goal came with hiccups on the way but Viola didn’t it all.
The elements of grief, lost dreams and new starts are very well expressed in this read. Gives a lot of hope that it is never too late for anything.
A very enjoyable read.
May 25, 2026
THIS was a very fun, clever read. As a woman in her 50's, I could relate with so much of how she felt, thought and behaved. Man, that was real life.
I LOVED that this book was written from the perspective of an older woman. I'm not quite her age but I sure hope to be someday. The fact that there are romances from this age perspective is just lovely. I didnt know this was a romance when I picked it...and I'm not positive it IS a romance. More a coming of age...old age. We've seen similar books...the one it reminded me of the most was Wifey by Judy Blume. It went a different way than I expected and I liked this diversion too!
Very engaging, fast paced and interesting. I finished it in a day!
*Was gifted this book by Netgalley.
I LOVED that this book was written from the perspective of an older woman. I'm not quite her age but I sure hope to be someday. The fact that there are romances from this age perspective is just lovely. I didnt know this was a romance when I picked it...and I'm not positive it IS a romance. More a coming of age...old age. We've seen similar books...the one it reminded me of the most was Wifey by Judy Blume. It went a different way than I expected and I liked this diversion too!
Very engaging, fast paced and interesting. I finished it in a day!
*Was gifted this book by Netgalley.
June 22, 2026
When I started reading this book, I was immediately interested in the age of the author. Being in the age range of the main character, this book didn’t resonate with me. But we’re all having different experiences. I think the author Margie Benedict would be a lot of fun to hang out with, but I didn’t find the book humorous. I liked many characters in the book and thought they were well developed. Anthony felt like a very believable character!
This would make a great book club pick. There are many interesting relationship and aging discussions to have around this book. I wouldn’t hesitate to hand this book to a library patron though it would not be the first book I would recommend. I would bundle Not My Job Anymore with That Old Cape Magic by Richard Russo.
This would make a great book club pick. There are many interesting relationship and aging discussions to have around this book. I wouldn’t hesitate to hand this book to a library patron though it would not be the first book I would recommend. I would bundle Not My Job Anymore with That Old Cape Magic by Richard Russo.
June 26, 2026
So much to unpack when reading this novel. My first Margie Benedict book, and it dealt with so many issues - grief, adultery, control in relationships, love, friendships, and mother/daughter relationships. Our protagonist, Viola, unexpectedly loses her mother and heads east to deal with the house, money, etc. What she discovers there is that she likes being away from her controlling husband. She also rediscovers her love of painting, her high school friends, and takes a dive into the world of online dating, which leads to some troubles that do resolve in the end.
This was an enjoyable read - actually a great summer beach read, or in my case, a hammock read. Thanks to NetGalley and Riveting Reads for the e-arc in exchange for an honest review.
This was an enjoyable read - actually a great summer beach read, or in my case, a hammock read. Thanks to NetGalley and Riveting Reads for the e-arc in exchange for an honest review.
July 1, 2026
This was great. I think people my age who are mothers are all reaching this point in our mid forties of just being exhausted from doing all of the things for everyone else and of course, our hormones are off the rails. I was rooting for Viola the whole time and wondering if I would have the guts to do what she did. I love a story of reinvention when life gets you down and man does this hit that idea on the head. I think it's an important book for middle aged women as well. We do not have to be the people we think we do or do the things that we have always done when they aren't serving us or the people in our lives anymore. This is a great book and I hope that you all read it!
June 4, 2026
I received an ARC of Not My Job Anymore thanks to the publisher through NetGalley and leave this review voluntarily.
Not My Job Anymore was a great self-discovery romance taking place later in life (following a 40 year marriage). I love how the relationship starts and how it develops. The tension between the characters is swoon-worthy. Even if you are not typically up for a older character romance (like me), this may still be for you because the self-discovery aspect makes it feel a bit younger in the best way.
Not My Job Anymore was a great self-discovery romance taking place later in life (following a 40 year marriage). I love how the relationship starts and how it develops. The tension between the characters is swoon-worthy. Even if you are not typically up for a older character romance (like me), this may still be for you because the self-discovery aspect makes it feel a bit younger in the best way.
June 18, 2026
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC.
This is the story of Viola who has been married for 40 years and after her Mom suddenly passes away, Viola realizes that she has been a "doormat" for many years. She does everything for her husband and he just expects it. She lives where he wants, they eat the foods that he wants, they go places he wants. After her Mom passes away, she is left to finalize the estate and clean out her childhood home. After reading a letter her late Mom left for her, Viola decides to make a change and live her life for herself for a change.
This is the story of Viola who has been married for 40 years and after her Mom suddenly passes away, Viola realizes that she has been a "doormat" for many years. She does everything for her husband and he just expects it. She lives where he wants, they eat the foods that he wants, they go places he wants. After her Mom passes away, she is left to finalize the estate and clean out her childhood home. After reading a letter her late Mom left for her, Viola decides to make a change and live her life for herself for a change.
June 22, 2026
ARC from NetGalley - I was really intrigued by the description of this book and the first half really grabbed my attention. I thought her interactions with her husband were funny and thought it was going to be a light fun read. When I got to the part with the letter from her mom, my jaw dropped and I was shocked. What followed of her getting revenge with a new man (who was very obviously the man from the car lot that saved her, was very annoyed she didn't ask him any follow up questions about that) wasn't what I expected, but it was entertaining and a satisfying ending.
June 23, 2026
Escape
How many people wind up becoming the go-for? Can you go for this? Can you go for that? What are you making for dinner? I told you I was sick. There’s food in the refrigerator fix yourself something and put it in the microwave. I guess I just won’t eat. I’ve heard that a few times in this marriage. He isn’t as bad as this woman’s husband, but I am so sick and tired of being the one who goes through the mail who handles the bills who cooks the food who cleans who puts things away who organizes things, etc. in this book. This woman breaks free.
How many people wind up becoming the go-for? Can you go for this? Can you go for that? What are you making for dinner? I told you I was sick. There’s food in the refrigerator fix yourself something and put it in the microwave. I guess I just won’t eat. I’ve heard that a few times in this marriage. He isn’t as bad as this woman’s husband, but I am so sick and tired of being the one who goes through the mail who handles the bills who cooks the food who cleans who puts things away who organizes things, etc. in this book. This woman breaks free.
August 3, 2026
Not My Job Anymore by Margie Benedict was a new to me author that did not leave me disappointed. I was enthralled in the idea of an older female having to deal with the loss of her mother all the while being stuck and trying to get unstuck from her relationship.
The characters were charming, the plot interesting, the witty banter and dialogue intriguing.
I picked up this book SOLEY on the book title and it delivered. I read the entire thing on a lazy Sunday afternoon and didn't look back. I will be looking more into the authors writings.
The characters were charming, the plot interesting, the witty banter and dialogue intriguing.
I picked up this book SOLEY on the book title and it delivered. I read the entire thing on a lazy Sunday afternoon and didn't look back. I will be looking more into the authors writings.
June 7, 2026
Too many incidents to be plausible
Being a woman of a certain age, I looked forward to reading this book; however, repeatedly it disappointed. The characters were not believable (the daughter seemed more like a 20 year old) and the main character was not likable, nor was her husband,but that was part of the storyline. How did he show up, with no explanation? Just too unrealistic , overall.
Being a woman of a certain age, I looked forward to reading this book; however, repeatedly it disappointed. The characters were not believable (the daughter seemed more like a 20 year old) and the main character was not likable, nor was her husband,but that was part of the storyline. How did he show up, with no explanation? Just too unrealistic , overall.
June 19, 2026
Viola lost her mother and struggles with some issues between them. She has been married for 40 years and has catered to her husband the entire time. She is DONE. When she goes to handle her mother's affairs, she decides to step out of her life. The snarky comments and real thoughts she has are refreshing. I received an advanced reader copy of this book from NetGalley, and this is my honest review.
July 27, 2026
Not My Job Anymore
Wow! This is my first time reading Margie Benedict, and I'm excited to explore more of her work. I was completely absorbed in this book—so much so that I purchased the audiobook to keep the story going without interruption. It's a powerful, emotionally resonant tale with genuine humor throughout. The characters are beautifully developed and truly engaging. Highly recommended.
Wow! This is my first time reading Margie Benedict, and I'm excited to explore more of her work. I was completely absorbed in this book—so much so that I purchased the audiobook to keep the story going without interruption. It's a powerful, emotionally resonant tale with genuine humor throughout. The characters are beautifully developed and truly engaging. Highly recommended.
May 28, 2026
A beautiful love story
Viola is miserable in her marriage to a college professor. She has given up so much of herself to be with him. He treats her like a servant. Her mother dies and she embarks on a journey of self discovery. Her mother confesses a secret about her and Viola’s husband that turns her world upside down. Unputdownable love story.
Viola is miserable in her marriage to a college professor. She has given up so much of herself to be with him. He treats her like a servant. Her mother dies and she embarks on a journey of self discovery. Her mother confesses a secret about her and Viola’s husband that turns her world upside down. Unputdownable love story.
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