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Old Ducks Club #1
The Old Ducks' Club
Sophia Gregory is fading away…
Recently split from her married lover and about to turn sixty, Sophia doesn’t recognise the old woman staring back at her in the mirror. Where has her life gone so wrong? How has it come to this? A quiet holiday in beautiful Rhodes is the perfect chance for her to find herself again.
Until she meets the Old Ducks!
Bold and brash, Juliette, Kim and Anita are three friends who are determined not to grow old gracefully – and they are Sophia’s worse nightmare! But when Sophia is made an honorary member of The Old Ducks’ Club, she begins to discover a new side to life. Dancing and drinking till dawn Sophia starts to shake off her grey, drab old life and finds the fun side to living again!
And when she meets her gorgeous Greek neighbour, Theo, she thinks that maybe, if she’s just a little braver, she can learn to spread her wings again....
It’s never too late to teach an Old Duck new tricks!
Recently split from her married lover and about to turn sixty, Sophia doesn’t recognise the old woman staring back at her in the mirror. Where has her life gone so wrong? How has it come to this? A quiet holiday in beautiful Rhodes is the perfect chance for her to find herself again.
Until she meets the Old Ducks!
Bold and brash, Juliette, Kim and Anita are three friends who are determined not to grow old gracefully – and they are Sophia’s worse nightmare! But when Sophia is made an honorary member of The Old Ducks’ Club, she begins to discover a new side to life. Dancing and drinking till dawn Sophia starts to shake off her grey, drab old life and finds the fun side to living again!
And when she meets her gorgeous Greek neighbour, Theo, she thinks that maybe, if she’s just a little braver, she can learn to spread her wings again....
It’s never too late to teach an Old Duck new tricks!
324 pages, ebook
First published May 18, 2021
1542 people are currently reading
1346 people want to read
About the author
Maddie Please
26 books226 followersMaddie Please was born in Dorset, brought up in Worcestershire and went to University in Cardiff.
After a career as a dentist Maddie now lives in Devon with her exceptionally handsome and supportive husband. They have 4 adult-ish children all of whom have left home and are probably rather surprised by all this. She did warn them.
Maddie is a voracious reader, and would enjoy hoovering, defrosting the fridge and cleaning the windows but unfortunately she doesn't really have time. She is very disciplined and sensible about her writing and she likes to write every day because it gets her out of doing the ironing.
After a career as a dentist Maddie now lives in Devon with her exceptionally handsome and supportive husband. They have 4 adult-ish children all of whom have left home and are probably rather surprised by all this. She did warn them.
Maddie is a voracious reader, and would enjoy hoovering, defrosting the fridge and cleaning the windows but unfortunately she doesn't really have time. She is very disciplined and sensible about her writing and she likes to write every day because it gets her out of doing the ironing.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 376 reviews
May 23, 2021
Favorite Quotes:
I’d been finding now I was approaching sixty that there had been a gradual increase in my invisibility… But sometimes that was a good thing, to be able to merge into the background. It meant I’d probably make a good shoplifter. Not that I ever would of course.
I didn’t have the figure for crossover bodices and dangling ties. I tended to look as though I was wearing a hospital gown backwards which wasn’t the look I was hoping for.
I needed to get the tweezers out and check my incipient moustache. I think it’s to do with hormones or lack of them. I dimly remember my grandmother when I was a child; she could have given Hercule Poirot a run for his money by the time she had died at eighty-seven.
I bet she will look at you with an evil glint in her eye and ask you awkward questions. That’s what they do, old aunts… Stewart had three of them who were positively poisonous. Like the witches in Macbeth without the cauldron. Or the humanity. They came to our wedding because Stewart was too scared not to invite them and they sat together making snide comments. Asking if I was pregnant or just fat. Did I think it was appropriate to wear white? … And she will probably have an evil old dog on her lap, so make a fuss of it… but don’t try and stroke it because it will probably bite you. Stewart’s Auntie Mim had a Pomeranian with teeth like needles and the same temperament as Mim. I sometimes think Mim would have bitten me too given half a chance.
My Review:
Being that I am of a certain age and well qualified to be an Old Duck – I delighted in this lively and engaging tale featuring mature women with spunk; and yes, we do exist. This was my first exposure to the wry wit and amusing charm of Maddie Please and I quickly succumbed to her magic and found myself in Greece, overindulging in food and drink while sitting in a hot tub with new friends. Clearly, her clever arrangements of words resonated with me. Her characters were colorful and uniquely quirky yet endearing and curiously knowable. The storylines were pleasantly entertaining and easy to follow with generous helpings of humor, lush descriptions, and observant insights. Proof that we can be sassy and still classy and it is never too late to start a new chapter of our own. I need more of this and have added her to my list of favorites.
I’d been finding now I was approaching sixty that there had been a gradual increase in my invisibility… But sometimes that was a good thing, to be able to merge into the background. It meant I’d probably make a good shoplifter. Not that I ever would of course.
I didn’t have the figure for crossover bodices and dangling ties. I tended to look as though I was wearing a hospital gown backwards which wasn’t the look I was hoping for.
I needed to get the tweezers out and check my incipient moustache. I think it’s to do with hormones or lack of them. I dimly remember my grandmother when I was a child; she could have given Hercule Poirot a run for his money by the time she had died at eighty-seven.
I bet she will look at you with an evil glint in her eye and ask you awkward questions. That’s what they do, old aunts… Stewart had three of them who were positively poisonous. Like the witches in Macbeth without the cauldron. Or the humanity. They came to our wedding because Stewart was too scared not to invite them and they sat together making snide comments. Asking if I was pregnant or just fat. Did I think it was appropriate to wear white? … And she will probably have an evil old dog on her lap, so make a fuss of it… but don’t try and stroke it because it will probably bite you. Stewart’s Auntie Mim had a Pomeranian with teeth like needles and the same temperament as Mim. I sometimes think Mim would have bitten me too given half a chance.
My Review:
Being that I am of a certain age and well qualified to be an Old Duck – I delighted in this lively and engaging tale featuring mature women with spunk; and yes, we do exist. This was my first exposure to the wry wit and amusing charm of Maddie Please and I quickly succumbed to her magic and found myself in Greece, overindulging in food and drink while sitting in a hot tub with new friends. Clearly, her clever arrangements of words resonated with me. Her characters were colorful and uniquely quirky yet endearing and curiously knowable. The storylines were pleasantly entertaining and easy to follow with generous helpings of humor, lush descriptions, and observant insights. Proof that we can be sassy and still classy and it is never too late to start a new chapter of our own. I need more of this and have added her to my list of favorites.
May 13, 2021
The Old Ducks Club would be a lovely beach or vacation read. The setting in Rhodes, Greece, the description of the food, and the scenery, are enticing and bright. This is the first book by Maddie Please that I have read. I found her writing style to engaging and I loved that Sophia was on the verge of 60.
When Sophia needs to get away from the end of a bad relationship, she heads to beautiful Rhodes, Greece to escape. There, she meets the vibrant Old Ducks who are old friends and are living life to its fullest while escaping from their own lives back in the UK. After a rough start, Sophia embraces the group and the supportive connection they provide.
This book is funny and light. Sophia's relationship with ex Lucian and new beau Theo is not the whole story. The story is more about Sophia's own transformation. Thank you, NetGalley for the Arc. I just reviewed The Old Ducks' Club by Maddie Please. #TheOldDucksClub #NetGalley
When Sophia needs to get away from the end of a bad relationship, she heads to beautiful Rhodes, Greece to escape. There, she meets the vibrant Old Ducks who are old friends and are living life to its fullest while escaping from their own lives back in the UK. After a rough start, Sophia embraces the group and the supportive connection they provide.
This book is funny and light. Sophia's relationship with ex Lucian and new beau Theo is not the whole story. The story is more about Sophia's own transformation. Thank you, NetGalley for the Arc. I just reviewed The Old Ducks' Club by Maddie Please. #TheOldDucksClub #NetGalley
December 29, 2022
Sophia is almost sixty when she leaves Lucian, her boss and her lover of five years and takes a trip to Rhodes. With noisy neighbours next door celebrating Sophia's first night there is not a pleasant experience. Juliette, Kim and Anita who refer to themselves as The old Ducks Club have no intention of growing old gracefully. Sophia despairs of her holiday being much of a holiday with them next door but when they make her an honorary member of the club, she gets sucked into their easy lifestyle and crazy antics that rely heavily on alcohol and a hot tub.
Sophia also meets her other neighbour Theo. He seems interested in her but after Lucian she is hesitant to trust any man again in a hurry. Will she learn to trust again? And will her friendship with the Old Ducks last beyond the holiday period?
Though it is billed as ‘rip-roaring laugh out loud story, I would not class it that way. It is mostly amusing but sometimes it just felt like the author was trying all too hard. Despite that criticism it is an enjoyable read about friendship and of romance.
The setting of Greece is great and all the food sounded amazing. Not so much the baklava and pastries (all too sweet for this person) but all the savoury dishes.They reminded me of a great Greek restaurant my husband and I used to go to years ago.
A light amusing read. I liked it but just didn't love it. Others may respond differently.
Sophia also meets her other neighbour Theo. He seems interested in her but after Lucian she is hesitant to trust any man again in a hurry. Will she learn to trust again? And will her friendship with the Old Ducks last beyond the holiday period?
Though it is billed as ‘rip-roaring laugh out loud story, I would not class it that way. It is mostly amusing but sometimes it just felt like the author was trying all too hard. Despite that criticism it is an enjoyable read about friendship and of romance.
The setting of Greece is great and all the food sounded amazing. Not so much the baklava and pastries (all too sweet for this person) but all the savoury dishes.They reminded me of a great Greek restaurant my husband and I used to go to years ago.
A light amusing read. I liked it but just didn't love it. Others may respond differently.
June 23, 2021
Sophia Gregory is almost sixty and doesn't have much to show for her life. She recently quit her job working with her married lover because she is tired of the way he treats her. When she looks at herself in the mirror, she doesn't recognize the old woman staring back at her. She decides a trip is what she needs, so heads off to Rhodes, Greece. She's hoping for a nice quiet holiday, but her neighbours, "The Old Ducks" are anything but quiet. Juliette, Kim and Anita are three friends who are determined not to grow old gracefully and finally convince Sophia to joint their group. She lets loose and has a wonderful time. Dancing, drinking and a handsome neighbour, all help Sophia see what she is missing out on.
I have been enjoying stories with characters close to my age. Being retired and widowed, I could identify with these women and would love to travel with some of my crazy girlfriends. It was great to see Sophia let loose and gain female friends to have fun with. I laughed at this story and the ladies antics, but was also worried, when one of them gets arrested. Juliette, Kim and Anita are bold, loud, brassy, colourful and caring. They are also supportive and friendly, welcoming Sophia to join them. Having female friends is so important, and it was like Sophie came alive. Theo is also caring and sweet. He was not pushy, he just befriended Sophia and let her move forward at her own pace. This is a story full of laughs, new friendships, fresh opportunities, a different outlook on life with a possible romance. It has great characters, a beautiful setting and life changing events that put a huge grin on my face. I really enjoyed this story and it was a perfect book to read sitting by te pool. The publisher generously provided me with a copy of this book upon request. The rating and opinions shared are my own.
I have been enjoying stories with characters close to my age. Being retired and widowed, I could identify with these women and would love to travel with some of my crazy girlfriends. It was great to see Sophia let loose and gain female friends to have fun with. I laughed at this story and the ladies antics, but was also worried, when one of them gets arrested. Juliette, Kim and Anita are bold, loud, brassy, colourful and caring. They are also supportive and friendly, welcoming Sophia to join them. Having female friends is so important, and it was like Sophie came alive. Theo is also caring and sweet. He was not pushy, he just befriended Sophia and let her move forward at her own pace. This is a story full of laughs, new friendships, fresh opportunities, a different outlook on life with a possible romance. It has great characters, a beautiful setting and life changing events that put a huge grin on my face. I really enjoyed this story and it was a perfect book to read sitting by te pool. The publisher generously provided me with a copy of this book upon request. The rating and opinions shared are my own.
March 19, 2021
3.5 Stars
I really enjoyed The Old Duck's Club, especially the Rhodes setting and the Old Duck's themselves.
On the other hand it took me a while to even remotely connect to Sophia, in part because of her initial responses to both meeting Theo, and to the group of women in the villa next to her, who wake her up on their first night with loud hot tub antics.
Yet as she got to know them, she is shown a way of life that she never imagined possible for a woman of a certain age, of women just not caring what society may think of them.
The two weeks she teams up with the Old Ducks are the most entertaining of the book, as they get up to all sorts, there is even an incident in a night club involving the police, and its adds a life and soul to the book.
And I really enjoyed the setting of Rhodes and various bits of sightseeing done, in addition to the mentions of delicious sounding Greek meals in restaurants and the spattering of Greek phrases included to add a bit of flavour to the book.
But with Sophia, when she was by herself and also with any man, she just drove me a bit mad, I just struggled to connect with her, which i think is what contributed to this book taking me far longer than I would have thought to read it. That, and I seemed to have no time to read over the past few days, and my concentration was all over the place, and it always drives me slightly demented when I can't read a book in sizeable portions at the very least.
I will say I really loved, hating Lucian whenever he was present, either via phone or later in the book where we see a bit more of him, just after a rather amusing scene that involved paint!
It's an enjoyable book and had I read it perhaps on holiday myself, I would have probably loved it a lot more. The writing is good, the plot interesting, and I did love the idea that life doesn't end at age 60, and seeing Sophia coming up with a plan for the rest of her life. There is certainly some character development over the course of the book, and I was really happy for her and the changes she makes to her life, by the time the book reaches its conclusion.
Thank to you Boldwood Books and Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
I really enjoyed The Old Duck's Club, especially the Rhodes setting and the Old Duck's themselves.
On the other hand it took me a while to even remotely connect to Sophia, in part because of her initial responses to both meeting Theo, and to the group of women in the villa next to her, who wake her up on their first night with loud hot tub antics.
Yet as she got to know them, she is shown a way of life that she never imagined possible for a woman of a certain age, of women just not caring what society may think of them.
The two weeks she teams up with the Old Ducks are the most entertaining of the book, as they get up to all sorts, there is even an incident in a night club involving the police, and its adds a life and soul to the book.
And I really enjoyed the setting of Rhodes and various bits of sightseeing done, in addition to the mentions of delicious sounding Greek meals in restaurants and the spattering of Greek phrases included to add a bit of flavour to the book.
But with Sophia, when she was by herself and also with any man, she just drove me a bit mad, I just struggled to connect with her, which i think is what contributed to this book taking me far longer than I would have thought to read it. That, and I seemed to have no time to read over the past few days, and my concentration was all over the place, and it always drives me slightly demented when I can't read a book in sizeable portions at the very least.
I will say I really loved, hating Lucian whenever he was present, either via phone or later in the book where we see a bit more of him, just after a rather amusing scene that involved paint!
It's an enjoyable book and had I read it perhaps on holiday myself, I would have probably loved it a lot more. The writing is good, the plot interesting, and I did love the idea that life doesn't end at age 60, and seeing Sophia coming up with a plan for the rest of her life. There is certainly some character development over the course of the book, and I was really happy for her and the changes she makes to her life, by the time the book reaches its conclusion.
Thank to you Boldwood Books and Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
March 24, 2022
I recently read Sisters Behaving Badly by the author and enjoyed it that much that I went and bought another of her books. Am so glad I did as she takes me to the most wonderful locations!
Having gone to Rhodes for the first time last year on holiday, this was the next best thing to be taken back there again and loved visualising all the sights and sounds in my head. I loved the idea of renting out a house and being where the locals are of which I thought Sophia was very brave to go there on her own. Her holiday doesn’t go quite to plan though thanks to the British holiday makers next door to her!
The friendships are what really make this story. I loved these women that belonged to The Old Ducks Club. Them as well as Sophia go to show that you can enjoy yourself regardless of age. As a woman who is getting on in life, growing old to a certain point is something that has always scared me but reading this book has made me realise that some of my best years are still to come. I so hope I get to carry on traveling abroad and meeting new friends along the way.
The Old Ducks Club was a wonderfully uplifting and fun read. As with the author’s previous novel I have read, there are plenty of laugh out loud moments and whilst yes, romance does play apart in this book, I love that essentially this is about stepping outside of your comfort zone and learning more about what you want in life. It also goes to show you can make life long friends at different stages of your life and just how important friendship is. Another great read that is the perfect pick me up!
Having gone to Rhodes for the first time last year on holiday, this was the next best thing to be taken back there again and loved visualising all the sights and sounds in my head. I loved the idea of renting out a house and being where the locals are of which I thought Sophia was very brave to go there on her own. Her holiday doesn’t go quite to plan though thanks to the British holiday makers next door to her!
The friendships are what really make this story. I loved these women that belonged to The Old Ducks Club. Them as well as Sophia go to show that you can enjoy yourself regardless of age. As a woman who is getting on in life, growing old to a certain point is something that has always scared me but reading this book has made me realise that some of my best years are still to come. I so hope I get to carry on traveling abroad and meeting new friends along the way.
The Old Ducks Club was a wonderfully uplifting and fun read. As with the author’s previous novel I have read, there are plenty of laugh out loud moments and whilst yes, romance does play apart in this book, I love that essentially this is about stepping outside of your comfort zone and learning more about what you want in life. It also goes to show you can make life long friends at different stages of your life and just how important friendship is. Another great read that is the perfect pick me up!
May 25, 2021
Fifty-nine year old Sophia Gregory realises she needs to change her way of life. She’s recently split from her married lover after realising how he was using her – and he was caught with a student by his wife. She’s resigned from her job and booked herself a month’s holiday in a villa on the Greek island of Rhodes to give herself a chance to consider her options. The noisy trio of ladies who are holidaying in the neighbouring villa initially appear to be just what she doesn’t want, but soon prove to be exactly what she needs. Juliette, Kim and Anita are slightly older than Sophia but all three are determined to grow old disgracefully. They’re bold, loud, colourful and caring, supportive and friendly, welcoming Sophia to join them as members of their Old Ducks’ Club.
Get ready for laughs galore, new friendships, fresh opportunities, a different outlook on life and a possible romance, too in this fabulous read. It is a hilarious story, with great characters, a beautiful setting and life changing events that put a huge grin on my face. This is a keeper, a story to go back to if you’re feeling in need of a healthy dose of sunshine and laughter. This is a brilliant, inspiring and fantastic read that I highly recommend to anyone but especially to those around sixty years old!
Thank you Boldwood Books and NetGalley for my copy of this book which I have voluntarily read, grinning and chuckling my way through it and honestly reviewed.
Get ready for laughs galore, new friendships, fresh opportunities, a different outlook on life and a possible romance, too in this fabulous read. It is a hilarious story, with great characters, a beautiful setting and life changing events that put a huge grin on my face. This is a keeper, a story to go back to if you’re feeling in need of a healthy dose of sunshine and laughter. This is a brilliant, inspiring and fantastic read that I highly recommend to anyone but especially to those around sixty years old!
Thank you Boldwood Books and NetGalley for my copy of this book which I have voluntarily read, grinning and chuckling my way through it and honestly reviewed.
August 28, 2025
Started and finished date - 22.08.25 to 24.08.25.
My rating - Three Stars.
This book was okay but I didn't love it and I found is book to be bit boring also I think people who like the silver haired sisterhood by Judy Leigh or a year of Mr maybes by Judy Leigh may like is book. The cover of book was okay but bit boring. The writing was okay and the writing was easy to follow also I think the ending of book was fine. The atmosphere was okay but it was a bit bland and the romance in the book was okay but bit dull. The paced of plot was well structured and steady paced. The characters was okay but I did found them bit annoying and I think needed to be flash out bit more.
My rating - Three Stars.
This book was okay but I didn't love it and I found is book to be bit boring also I think people who like the silver haired sisterhood by Judy Leigh or a year of Mr maybes by Judy Leigh may like is book. The cover of book was okay but bit boring. The writing was okay and the writing was easy to follow also I think the ending of book was fine. The atmosphere was okay but it was a bit bland and the romance in the book was okay but bit dull. The paced of plot was well structured and steady paced. The characters was okay but I did found them bit annoying and I think needed to be flash out bit more.
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May 19, 2021What a super, fun read! Just the thing to put the sparkle back lockdown.
Newly single and fast approaching the big 6-0, Sophia is dismayed at her reflection in the mirror and decided that a sunny break on a Greek Island is just the ticket. Settling in to her holiday home and looking forward to a quiet break, she didn't bargain for her neighbours; Juliette, Kim and Anita - known as the Old Ducks' Club - are also on holiday, but quiet is the last thing they want for their two weeks. And what's more, they want Sophia to join them. Joining in with these three women, Sophia begins to live her life again and when she meets her neighbour, Theo, she wonders if it's too late for love . . .
This is a terrifically upbeat read! Set in beautiful Rhodes, I rather fancy staying in Sophia's apartment myself; living in Scotland I'm getting quite desperate to sit outside with my coffee of a morning. A gorgeous setting to which the author does full justice and a cast of beautifully created characters all add up to making this a fabulous read - exactly what's needed as so many are dreaming of heading off on holiday. I just have to mention the bright, cheerful cover of this one; doesn't it just make you want to pick it up? A thoroughly delightful read from beginning to end, this is one I'm happy to recommend. 4.5*.
Newly single and fast approaching the big 6-0, Sophia is dismayed at her reflection in the mirror and decided that a sunny break on a Greek Island is just the ticket. Settling in to her holiday home and looking forward to a quiet break, she didn't bargain for her neighbours; Juliette, Kim and Anita - known as the Old Ducks' Club - are also on holiday, but quiet is the last thing they want for their two weeks. And what's more, they want Sophia to join them. Joining in with these three women, Sophia begins to live her life again and when she meets her neighbour, Theo, she wonders if it's too late for love . . .
This is a terrifically upbeat read! Set in beautiful Rhodes, I rather fancy staying in Sophia's apartment myself; living in Scotland I'm getting quite desperate to sit outside with my coffee of a morning. A gorgeous setting to which the author does full justice and a cast of beautifully created characters all add up to making this a fabulous read - exactly what's needed as so many are dreaming of heading off on holiday. I just have to mention the bright, cheerful cover of this one; doesn't it just make you want to pick it up? A thoroughly delightful read from beginning to end, this is one I'm happy to recommend. 4.5*.
May 20, 2021
I have decided to name myself as an honorary duck. I may have to lie about my age a little but I want in on the love, friendship and shenanigans of these wonderful ladies.
I adored this novel and the character (most of them). Sophia was a character I didn’t completely warm to at first but as she gained confidence and began to figure out who she was I loved who she grew into. She was initially prickly and frustratingly blind to a lot of things but as her journey progressed, she softened and opened up to more things.
The friendship between Sophia and The Old Ducks was so heart-warming and inspiring. I loved learning about each Duck and their stories and how supportive and non-judgmental they are. Their thirst for fun and adventure and zest for life was so much fun to read about it. They brought Sophia back to life and taught her to start trusting and living again. For me this was the highlight of the whole book.
I’ve never been to Rhodes but Maddie’s vivid description of the streets, sights and food have made this a must on my destination list. It was a wonderful backdrop to stage such an uplifting tale and it worked perfectly.
This was a great book to escape into for a few hours and was a lot of fun to read.
I adored this novel and the character (most of them). Sophia was a character I didn’t completely warm to at first but as she gained confidence and began to figure out who she was I loved who she grew into. She was initially prickly and frustratingly blind to a lot of things but as her journey progressed, she softened and opened up to more things.
The friendship between Sophia and The Old Ducks was so heart-warming and inspiring. I loved learning about each Duck and their stories and how supportive and non-judgmental they are. Their thirst for fun and adventure and zest for life was so much fun to read about it. They brought Sophia back to life and taught her to start trusting and living again. For me this was the highlight of the whole book.
I’ve never been to Rhodes but Maddie’s vivid description of the streets, sights and food have made this a must on my destination list. It was a wonderful backdrop to stage such an uplifting tale and it worked perfectly.
This was a great book to escape into for a few hours and was a lot of fun to read.
March 22, 2021
The Old Ducks' Club by Maddie Please will whisk you away to beautiful Rhodes as you join Sophia on the journey of a lifetime. This is an escapist read that will keep you smiling, and might even be a catalyst for beginning your very own life makeover. Life, after all, does not end at sixty.
When Sophia travels to Rhodes on the cusp of her sixtieth birthday, she is feeling adrift and wonders if the best moments of life have passed her by. Enter a trio of rowdy holidaying neighbours who refuse to grow old gracefully, and are striving to live their very best lives. When they recruit Sophia to the Old Ducks' Club she will begin to realize that with the right attitude and a willingness to embrace all that life has to offer, the fun is only just beginning.
I love the novels of Maddie Please, and this one is another laugh out loud, feel good romp to add to your TBR immediately.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for an ARC of this title.
When Sophia travels to Rhodes on the cusp of her sixtieth birthday, she is feeling adrift and wonders if the best moments of life have passed her by. Enter a trio of rowdy holidaying neighbours who refuse to grow old gracefully, and are striving to live their very best lives. When they recruit Sophia to the Old Ducks' Club she will begin to realize that with the right attitude and a willingness to embrace all that life has to offer, the fun is only just beginning.
I love the novels of Maddie Please, and this one is another laugh out loud, feel good romp to add to your TBR immediately.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for an ARC of this title.
May 24, 2021
The perfect feel-good summer read.
This is a book for ladies over a certain age who intend to grow old disgracefully, much like me.
At the beginning of the book we meet Sophia, a research assistant who has had enough of dreary grey Oxford and she’s had enough of her boss Lucian. He is rude, arrogant, self absorbed and very controlling. He doesn’t appreciate Sophia and all that she does for him. This only fuels Sophia’s low self-esteem and lack of confidence. As her 60th birthday is fast approaching, she’s feeling rather old, lonely and invisible.
Sophia books a holiday to Greece, she’s looking forward to a bit of peace and quiet and maybe a bit of sightseeing. However, her new holiday neighbours Anita, Juliette and Kim aka The Old Ducks’ Club have other ideas.
This is a fun read and sheer escapism.
This is a book for ladies over a certain age who intend to grow old disgracefully, much like me.
At the beginning of the book we meet Sophia, a research assistant who has had enough of dreary grey Oxford and she’s had enough of her boss Lucian. He is rude, arrogant, self absorbed and very controlling. He doesn’t appreciate Sophia and all that she does for him. This only fuels Sophia’s low self-esteem and lack of confidence. As her 60th birthday is fast approaching, she’s feeling rather old, lonely and invisible.
Sophia books a holiday to Greece, she’s looking forward to a bit of peace and quiet and maybe a bit of sightseeing. However, her new holiday neighbours Anita, Juliette and Kim aka The Old Ducks’ Club have other ideas.
This is a fun read and sheer escapism.
April 17, 2024
Prompt-a book about friends
Sophia has taken off to Rhodes for a quiet working vacation. But, the three ladies next door, drinking and hollering in the hot tub, aren't letting her sleep. So starts the journey of these four friends.
I laughed and hoped that when I'm 60 plus, I get to be and old duck.
Sophia has taken off to Rhodes for a quiet working vacation. But, the three ladies next door, drinking and hollering in the hot tub, aren't letting her sleep. So starts the journey of these four friends.
I laughed and hoped that when I'm 60 plus, I get to be and old duck.
May 9, 2021
What a lovely read!
I loved how the character of Sophia evolves during the story, and especially enjoyed the idea that your new life can start at any moment, even on your sixtieth birthday.
There are some laugh out moments, but also occasions to think about what it means to really live your own life, not just let it "live you".
Maddie Please is a new author to me, but I will certainly look out for other books of hers!
Thank you to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I loved how the character of Sophia evolves during the story, and especially enjoyed the idea that your new life can start at any moment, even on your sixtieth birthday.
There are some laugh out moments, but also occasions to think about what it means to really live your own life, not just let it "live you".
Maddie Please is a new author to me, but I will certainly look out for other books of hers!
Thank you to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
June 9, 2022
I so love this author! The characters are my age and so many different personalities! It’s easy for everyone to identify with at least one. The story takes place in Greece and the adventures are funny.
Need to find another one book she wrote.
I listen to the audiobook. I believe it’s the same narrator as the first book by Maddie Please I listened to. Both the author and narrators are good!
Need to find another one book she wrote.
I listen to the audiobook. I believe it’s the same narrator as the first book by Maddie Please I listened to. Both the author and narrators are good!
January 22, 2024
This book is a mixture of "Little Old Lady who Broke All the Rules" and a love story. I can totally see this book as a cute BBC series or movie. It was a fun, light book for anyone
August 3, 2024
3.75 ✨
May 23, 2021
One of the joys about books featuring older characters is that ability to identify with their lives – but I must confess that, at least at the start, the only thing I felt I had in common with Sophia was my age. Actually, she was younger than me – approaching her 60th birthday – and I did find her rather difficult to love. When we first meet her, she’s had a particularly rough time – her married lover, who’s never shown any sign of being ready to commit (he’s waiting for their children not to need them any more – they’re in their 30s, and that did make me smile!), has had a fling with a young student, and she’s taking a holiday in Rhodes to lick her wounds. She’s hurting, she’s spiky, and just a little bit whingy – and seriously, planning to edit her lover’s book while on her break, after everything he’d done?
I did start to sympathise though when she found her peace disturbed by the three 60-something women next door having a riotous time in their hot tub in the early hours of the morning. She’s justifiably grumpy about that – but, instead of immediately looking for somewhere else to stay (which is what I think I’d’ve done!), they become firm friends (the Old Ducks’ Club of the title) and go on to lead her on a series of madcap and out-of-comfort-zone adventures. She does become far more likeable when she loosens her stays a little, and begins to gain in self-confidence – there’s some good character development, some interesting and well-told back stories, and a satisfying portrayal of female friendship and the difference it can make.
And then there’s the romance – and it’s surprising how that can make your sense of self-worth blossom too. Theo – who owns the houses the women are staying in – is an all-round nice guy, family-orientated, with an edge of sadness about him. He’s wonderfully persistent too, and won’t be rebuffed however hard she might try. I thought the developing relationship and the chemistry between them worked really well – until it’s approaching the end of her stay in paradise, the other three Old Ducks have returned home, and Sophia has a badly-timed and particularly unwelcome visitor.
I didn’t really find the book “laugh out loud”, but there was certainly a lot that made me smile – and I particularly enjoyed the book’s conclusion, tying up a few loose ends, and finding Sophia a very much changed person from the woman we’d first met. The “adventures” delighted me rather less – they did make me cringe a little at times, particularly the one big moment of drama (at their age they really should have known better – but that perhaps says more about me being particularly po-faced and lacking a sense of fun!).
One thing I did enjoy very much was the book’s sense of place – whether walking by the harbour or visiting the bakery on the corner, sailing to a nearby bay, visiting a beach or eating at a taverna with a particularly perfect view, the author does a lovely job of bring Rhodes to life, and you can really feel the warmth of the sun. And there’s a lot of lovely eating and drinking – that’s something I always rather enjoy on holiday too!
So I will admit it was a bit of a mixed bag for me – but full kudos to the author for showing that age is no barrier to fun in the sun, and that it’s never too late to make changes in your life and think about a fresh start. The book might have worked rather better as a beach read (I read it with the heating cranked up, as the rain pounded the windows…), one you could happily pick up and put down between liberal applications of suntan lotion – there are certainly a good number of Shirley Valentine moments, and the whole book has a real sense of fun, balanced with just enough reflection about age not being the barrier older women can sometimes make it. I’ll be looking forward to seeing what the author does next, with every confidence that she’ll successfully iron out the few tiny niggles that prevented me from entirely loving this one.
I did start to sympathise though when she found her peace disturbed by the three 60-something women next door having a riotous time in their hot tub in the early hours of the morning. She’s justifiably grumpy about that – but, instead of immediately looking for somewhere else to stay (which is what I think I’d’ve done!), they become firm friends (the Old Ducks’ Club of the title) and go on to lead her on a series of madcap and out-of-comfort-zone adventures. She does become far more likeable when she loosens her stays a little, and begins to gain in self-confidence – there’s some good character development, some interesting and well-told back stories, and a satisfying portrayal of female friendship and the difference it can make.
And then there’s the romance – and it’s surprising how that can make your sense of self-worth blossom too. Theo – who owns the houses the women are staying in – is an all-round nice guy, family-orientated, with an edge of sadness about him. He’s wonderfully persistent too, and won’t be rebuffed however hard she might try. I thought the developing relationship and the chemistry between them worked really well – until it’s approaching the end of her stay in paradise, the other three Old Ducks have returned home, and Sophia has a badly-timed and particularly unwelcome visitor.
I didn’t really find the book “laugh out loud”, but there was certainly a lot that made me smile – and I particularly enjoyed the book’s conclusion, tying up a few loose ends, and finding Sophia a very much changed person from the woman we’d first met. The “adventures” delighted me rather less – they did make me cringe a little at times, particularly the one big moment of drama (at their age they really should have known better – but that perhaps says more about me being particularly po-faced and lacking a sense of fun!).
One thing I did enjoy very much was the book’s sense of place – whether walking by the harbour or visiting the bakery on the corner, sailing to a nearby bay, visiting a beach or eating at a taverna with a particularly perfect view, the author does a lovely job of bring Rhodes to life, and you can really feel the warmth of the sun. And there’s a lot of lovely eating and drinking – that’s something I always rather enjoy on holiday too!
So I will admit it was a bit of a mixed bag for me – but full kudos to the author for showing that age is no barrier to fun in the sun, and that it’s never too late to make changes in your life and think about a fresh start. The book might have worked rather better as a beach read (I read it with the heating cranked up, as the rain pounded the windows…), one you could happily pick up and put down between liberal applications of suntan lotion – there are certainly a good number of Shirley Valentine moments, and the whole book has a real sense of fun, balanced with just enough reflection about age not being the barrier older women can sometimes make it. I’ll be looking forward to seeing what the author does next, with every confidence that she’ll successfully iron out the few tiny niggles that prevented me from entirely loving this one.
May 24, 2021
Sophia has escaped to Rhodes to get away from her married ex. She plans on working while she’s away and enjoying some peace. Until she’s woken early in the morning by the new arrivals next door – three older ladies who are swigging from the wine bottle in the hot tub and laughing ridiculously loud. She’s not impressed and knows she’ll have to have a word with them. What she doesn’t expect is to be inducted into the Old Ducks Club!
Hanging out with them, drinking and laughing makes her realise how she’s changed over the years, and how she needs to find the real her again…….And as well as making some wonderful new friends, she catches the eye of the gorgeous Greek neighbour Theo, and after spending time with him realises she needs to be brave and see where things go…….
This is the funniest thing I’ve read in a long time………I don’t think I’ve ever laughed out loud so many times in one book! The things the Old Ducks get up to are hilarious – I really hope I”m like them when I’m in my sixties!!
The characters are all brilliant. Sophia appears to be a bit snooty at first but soon relaxes and I loved the other side of her. Watching her re-find herself after five years with an idiot was wonderful – she really does spread her wings which is lovely to watch. Juliette, Kim and Anita are fabulous! You won’t be able to not love them! Theo is an adorable older man and Lucian…..well, I’ll let you read about him for yourselves!
I adored the setting and just wanted to be with them on holiday! Even though it was nearly out of season, the twisting alleyways, flowers, little bakeries and taverna’s made it sound so beautiful – it will make you yearn to be on holiday (especially after us being locked down for so long!). The little house Sophia is staying in sounds perfect; who wouldn’t want to stay there, and then wake up and have tea and pastries in the little garden with the Greek sparrows?!
I loved the plot which will keep you turning the pages, keep you laughing and have you hoping for Theo and Sophia to get together!! You’ll also be cheering on the other Old Ducks to make some changes to their lives too. The fact that this was about women in their sixties was brilliant, and even as a thirty-something it was easy to imagine how life might be for them all, and I loved that some of them just didn’t care! The way the story is written really worked for me and was part of the reason I laughed so much. I felt like Sophia was chatting away to me half the time, and that made it a thoroughly enjoyable book to lose myself in.
So overall, I can’t praise this enough. If you’re looking for a book that you won’t want to put down, will have you laughing your socks off and will give you that bit of romance that we all love, with some outstanding characters, then you should definitely check this out. I can’t wait to read more from Maddie. Highly recommended by me.
Hanging out with them, drinking and laughing makes her realise how she’s changed over the years, and how she needs to find the real her again…….And as well as making some wonderful new friends, she catches the eye of the gorgeous Greek neighbour Theo, and after spending time with him realises she needs to be brave and see where things go…….
This is the funniest thing I’ve read in a long time………I don’t think I’ve ever laughed out loud so many times in one book! The things the Old Ducks get up to are hilarious – I really hope I”m like them when I’m in my sixties!!
The characters are all brilliant. Sophia appears to be a bit snooty at first but soon relaxes and I loved the other side of her. Watching her re-find herself after five years with an idiot was wonderful – she really does spread her wings which is lovely to watch. Juliette, Kim and Anita are fabulous! You won’t be able to not love them! Theo is an adorable older man and Lucian…..well, I’ll let you read about him for yourselves!
I adored the setting and just wanted to be with them on holiday! Even though it was nearly out of season, the twisting alleyways, flowers, little bakeries and taverna’s made it sound so beautiful – it will make you yearn to be on holiday (especially after us being locked down for so long!). The little house Sophia is staying in sounds perfect; who wouldn’t want to stay there, and then wake up and have tea and pastries in the little garden with the Greek sparrows?!
I loved the plot which will keep you turning the pages, keep you laughing and have you hoping for Theo and Sophia to get together!! You’ll also be cheering on the other Old Ducks to make some changes to their lives too. The fact that this was about women in their sixties was brilliant, and even as a thirty-something it was easy to imagine how life might be for them all, and I loved that some of them just didn’t care! The way the story is written really worked for me and was part of the reason I laughed so much. I felt like Sophia was chatting away to me half the time, and that made it a thoroughly enjoyable book to lose myself in.
So overall, I can’t praise this enough. If you’re looking for a book that you won’t want to put down, will have you laughing your socks off and will give you that bit of romance that we all love, with some outstanding characters, then you should definitely check this out. I can’t wait to read more from Maddie. Highly recommended by me.
November 10, 2023
This was a lovely fun read . Made a change from my usual thrillers .
March 19, 2021
I received an ARC from Boldwood Books through NetGalley for an honest review. Sophia was going to be 60 and didn't recognize the woman she was, and that is what led me to want to read the book. I think a lot of women think that way, and I am one of them. Sophia decided to go on a holiday to Rhodes, and it was there that she met Juliette, Kim and Anita, who were in their 60s too. They were the Old Ducks" Club and wanted to feel alive again, have fun, and were there for two weeks. At first Sophia wanted nothing to do with them, but it wasn't long before she joined them in the hot tub, drinking wine, and having fun hanging out with them.
Sophia didn't like the man next door who owned the houses that her and her new friends were renting. As she got to know him, and it seemed like since meeting her three new friends, she had allowed her mind to open and accept new things. Sophia was liking the person she was becoming.
I am not one to go on vacation, but reading this book, has helped me realize, I want to feel alive again and have some fun too.
Sophia didn't like the man next door who owned the houses that her and her new friends were renting. As she got to know him, and it seemed like since meeting her three new friends, she had allowed her mind to open and accept new things. Sophia was liking the person she was becoming.
I am not one to go on vacation, but reading this book, has helped me realize, I want to feel alive again and have some fun too.
May 22, 2021
I’m sixty and I totally related with these ladies! I did great with my fiftieth birthday, but the day I turned sixty I looked in the mirror like Sophia and seen me and wrinkles and OLD looking back! Sophia realized she had been a dupe for five years by her married boss. So, she quit her job and went to Rhodes, Greece for a month holiday.
She meets three other ladies all in there sixties facing different life dilemmas and were there to decide what they were going to do next. These ladies had formed a friendship from their University years and now they called themselves the Old Ducks Club. They asked Sophia to now join since she was in their same boat.
This book grabbed me from start to finish! The author Maddie Please has some great witticisms and obviously knows what men are like when they are hangers on! Plus she had some super funny observations about the male sex that were spot on! Lol!
I would recommend this book to anyone looking for a great book!
I received a free advanced copy from NetGalley and these are my willingly given thoughts and opinions.
She meets three other ladies all in there sixties facing different life dilemmas and were there to decide what they were going to do next. These ladies had formed a friendship from their University years and now they called themselves the Old Ducks Club. They asked Sophia to now join since she was in their same boat.
This book grabbed me from start to finish! The author Maddie Please has some great witticisms and obviously knows what men are like when they are hangers on! Plus she had some super funny observations about the male sex that were spot on! Lol!
I would recommend this book to anyone looking for a great book!
I received a free advanced copy from NetGalley and these are my willingly given thoughts and opinions.
April 10, 2021
Sophia takes a trip to Rhodes for a holiday and to get some work done, only to find herself staying next door to noisy neighbours. After a night of irritation due to her neighbours late night drinking/noise, Sophia meets the ladies in question, what she thinks will be an awkward situation due to her irritation and their previous nights behaviour, turns into new friendships and a bond she hadn't expected. Between meeting these ladies and the lovely Theo, life changes for Sophia in a positive way...
A story of finding good friends, love and a new lease of life as she turns 60, it's never too late.
A great lighthearted read, perfect for reading sitting out in the sun. I've not read any books by this author before, but definitely add to my authors to look out for.
A story of finding good friends, love and a new lease of life as she turns 60, it's never too late.
A great lighthearted read, perfect for reading sitting out in the sun. I've not read any books by this author before, but definitely add to my authors to look out for.
June 27, 2021
I fell in love with this book. I lived it from start to finish.
I was not in love with Sophia, the lead character, at the beginning. “What a prig..” I thought, “What a pompous bore!”.
But as Sophia discovers the delights of Rhodes, where she has escaped to, as she discovers the meaning of true friendship and learns to be herself, so I have grown to like her.
The Old Ducks are lovely, disparate characters, who accept each other and support each other. They welcome Sophia into their midst and help her to be herself and leave the last behind. As I am the same age as some of the Ducks, I can appreciate and relate to much of the story.
This book has led me to check out and plan my own get away to Rhodes.
Well written, witty and relatable. I thoroughly recommend The Old Ducks Club.
I was not in love with Sophia, the lead character, at the beginning. “What a prig..” I thought, “What a pompous bore!”.
But as Sophia discovers the delights of Rhodes, where she has escaped to, as she discovers the meaning of true friendship and learns to be herself, so I have grown to like her.
The Old Ducks are lovely, disparate characters, who accept each other and support each other. They welcome Sophia into their midst and help her to be herself and leave the last behind. As I am the same age as some of the Ducks, I can appreciate and relate to much of the story.
This book has led me to check out and plan my own get away to Rhodes.
Well written, witty and relatable. I thoroughly recommend The Old Ducks Club.
October 31, 2022
Rating up, from 3.5 stars because this one nails it.
What does a sixty year-old-woman do, trying to find her way when she knows that most of her life is behind her? Romance happens. Ups and downs occur, just as they do in a young woman's life.
It's not easy being an old duck, wondering how one has so quickly passed into her senior years. Maddie Please, in her lighthearted way, plunges into the subject, telling a story so many of us can relate to. Friendship pulls us through the rough times, and love, in a way that we never dreamt possible, is out there for those brave enough to take chances.
We're still young at HEART. An excellent book for women who don't want to give up hope.
What does a sixty year-old-woman do, trying to find her way when she knows that most of her life is behind her? Romance happens. Ups and downs occur, just as they do in a young woman's life.
It's not easy being an old duck, wondering how one has so quickly passed into her senior years. Maddie Please, in her lighthearted way, plunges into the subject, telling a story so many of us can relate to. Friendship pulls us through the rough times, and love, in a way that we never dreamt possible, is out there for those brave enough to take chances.
We're still young at HEART. An excellent book for women who don't want to give up hope.
March 21, 2021
At last fiction that celebrates women over 50!
Sophia is teetering on the brink of 60, she has left her job and unsatisfactory relationship. She has booked an apartment in Rhodes for a month, to think things over. Her quiet reverie is interrupted by a rowdy crowd of sixty something women in the house next door. Now the fun begins. The Old Ducks’ Club made me laugh out loud and shot YES. Here are feisty, funny, joyful women who have made mistakes but are determined to go forward with style.
Thank you to Boldwood and NetGalley for an ARC in return for an unbiased review
Sophia is teetering on the brink of 60, she has left her job and unsatisfactory relationship. She has booked an apartment in Rhodes for a month, to think things over. Her quiet reverie is interrupted by a rowdy crowd of sixty something women in the house next door. Now the fun begins. The Old Ducks’ Club made me laugh out loud and shot YES. Here are feisty, funny, joyful women who have made mistakes but are determined to go forward with style.
Thank you to Boldwood and NetGalley for an ARC in return for an unbiased review
March 22, 2021
What an absolute delight! This was a feel good read that kept my interest all the way through. I really enjoyed the setting and the characters and found the storyline entertaining. The ending was satisfying without being too sugary sweet. This novel will appeal to readers of Joanna Nell but I like that the main character is almost 60 rather than almost 80. I will be recommending this to the staff at our school library and I will be searching out other books by Maddie Please.
I received this arc from netgalley in exchange for my honest review.
I received this arc from netgalley in exchange for my honest review.
May 18, 2021
I would just like to say a big thank you to Rachel’s Random Resources for very kindly forwarding me a copy of this book, for my Kindle, in return for an honest review.
When you read this book you need to be prepared to be envelopes in the beauty of Rhodes, it’s a perfect escapist read.
Sophia travels to Rhodes and soon comes across three neighbours who refuse to grow old gracefully and just want to have a bit of fun while they can.
It was a wonderful, heartwarming story, mixed in with some very funny moments that keeps you engrossed right until the very end...
When you read this book you need to be prepared to be envelopes in the beauty of Rhodes, it’s a perfect escapist read.
Sophia travels to Rhodes and soon comes across three neighbours who refuse to grow old gracefully and just want to have a bit of fun while they can.
It was a wonderful, heartwarming story, mixed in with some very funny moments that keeps you engrossed right until the very end...
May 30, 2021
There are so few books with characters over 60, making this story fun and relatable. Sophia leaves her home in Oxford to take a vacation in Rhodes, Greece. She is leaving a bad relationship and hoping to find some peace and quiet. Next door to her rental is a house of three women vacationers, loud, brash and enjoying life. I really enjoyed the story of their growing friendship, Sophia’s relationship with Theo, and the descriptions of Greece. I recommend for readers of women’s fiction, particularly those of us in the mature years. Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC.
June 16, 2021
Rhodes is now on my bucket list thanks to The Old Ducks Club. The food, sunshine, and sights are all perfectly portrayed in this wonderfully charming novel. Sophia is almost sixty and has grown weary of her life in Oxford. Suddenly single, she jets off to Rhodes where she meets three hilarious, gregarious women who invite her to join The Old Ducks Club. Inspired by their zest for life, Sophia realises that age is just a number especially when her gorgeous Greek neighbour Theo comes along. This book will have you tingling with warmth from the first page. Highly recommend.
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