The Book Club for Troublesome Women: A Book Club Must-Read

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I have been in a few book clubs over the years. I also follow book clubs with established feminist themes like Our Shared Shelf and Reese’s Book Club. Therefore, I certainly have a soft spot for stories about women gathering around books. This was picked for my club, and The Book Club for Troublesome Women by Marie Bostwick caught my interest with that title alone. What kept me reading was the honest, heartfelt way the story unfolded. This isn’t just a cozy read about a group of women swapping opinions over tea, though there’s some of that, too. It’s about the messy, beautiful work of building community when you least expect it and discovering that it’s never too late to speak up, start over, or stand strong.

Below is a brief summary, followed by my thoughts on how this book played out for our club—and whether I’d recommend it for yours.

BOOK SUMMARY & STATS

THE BOOK CLUB FOR TROUBLESOME WOMEN SUMMARY

In The Book Club for Troublesome Women, Marie Bostwick brings together a diverse cast of women who, each facing their own crossroads, find strength and solidarity in an unexpected book club. What begins as a reluctant gathering turns into a lifeline as the members share not just their opinions on literature but also their life stories—complete with regrets, reinventions, and resilience. With warmth, wit, and Bostwick’s signature heart, this novel celebrates the healing power of female friendship and the courage it takes to rewrite your own story, especially when life doesn’t go according to plan.

THE BOOK CLUB FOR TROUBLESOME WOMEN STATS

Title	The Book Club for Troublesome Women
Author	Marie Bostwick
Book Club(s)	N/A
Publication Date/Year	April 22, 2025
Page Count	372
Genre(s)	Historical Fiction, Fiction, Book Club, Books about Books, Historical
Setting	Virginia
Goodreads Rating	4.12
Audience	Adult
Series	No
Translator	N/A
Awards	N/A

BOOK RATING & REVIEW

RATING

BCR Rating	4
Availability	4
Format	5
Length	4
Diversity	4
Bechdel Test	Pass
Page Turner	No

THE BOOK CLUB FOR TROUBLESOME WOMEN REVIEW

I read The Book Club for Troublesome Women with my book club, and it turned out to be one of those picks that sparks genuine conversation and sticks with you after the meeting ends. Originally, I started with the Kindle version but found myself behind schedule just two days before our discussion, so I switched to the audiobook. While I didn’t quite finish in time, I wrapped it up shortly after.

This book is rich with themes that matter, especially for women navigating big life shifts, friendships, and questions of identity and purpose. I truly appreciated how Bostwick handled very topical women’s issues with honesty and compassion. These stories ring true, and you can feel the time, care, and research she put into telling them right.

One of the highlights for me was following the food and drink woven throughout the chapters. It added a layer of warmth and familiarity that really grounded the characters and the club. And speaking of the characters, I found something relatable in each of them. Whether it was their struggles, their humor, or the ways they supported one another, I saw pieces of myself and the women in my life in all of them.

But what stood out most was the exploration of female friendship—how complex, healing, and necessary it can be. Bostwick gets that just right.

Overall, this is a strong 4-star read for me, and I’d call it a must-read for book clubs. There’s so much to unpack, and it opens the door for personal stories and deeper reflections. I’m glad I stuck with it—and I’d happily recommend it to anyone looking for a heartfelt, thought-provoking read.

THE BOOK CLUB FOR TROUBLESOME WOMEN BOOK CLUB RESOURCES

BCR RECOMMENDATION

Add The Book Club for Troublesome Women to your club’s pick list now.

Not only is it an engaging, heartfelt read with plenty of rich themes to discuss, but the book club within the book actually inspired me to think about how we run our own meetings. One moment that stood out was their group’s rule: “You can’t just say you don’t like the book. You’ve got to explain why.” It’s a small thing, but it’s a great reminder that thoughtful discussion deepens the experience, even when opinions differ.

I also appreciated the way the characters were mindful of each other’s food preferences and sensitivities at their gatherings. It felt real and relatable, and a subtle nod to the quiet ways we care for each other in community.

If your club enjoys books that balance emotional depth with uplifting moments—and that open the door to reflecting on your own friendships, choices, and seasons of change—this one is a sure bet. It’s a book that doesn’t just give you something to talk about. It invites you to talk about what matters.

BOOK DISCUSSION

If you’re planning to read The Book Club for Troublesome Women with your group, you’re in for a treat—both literally and figuratively. This novel is brimming with discussion-worthy themes and nostalgic charm, and with a little inspiration from the book itself, you can create a meeting that’s just as memorable as the story.

Start with the Author’s Website

Marie Bostwick offers excellent resources and background on her website. Its’ definitely worth visiting before your discussion. You’ll find insights into her writing process, bonus material, and both a reading group and a meeting guide in one to help you shape your conversation and setting if you choose.

Get in the Mood

Set the tone with a few fun, on-theme touches:

Music: Put on some classic Eydie Gormé in the background to evoke the era and spirit of the story.
Games: If your group is up for it, break out a board game like Stratego—a nod to the book’s characters and their gathering style.
Fragrance & Flair: A quick spritz of Chanel No. 5 can transport you into the book’s world before your guests even sit down.

Host Like the Ladies in the Book: Menu Ideas

Recreate the spirit of their gatherings with a nostalgic, party-ready spread:

Snickerdoodles or sugar cookies
Turkey & mushroom roll-ups
Chicken salad – in toast cups like the book or on tea sandwiches, croissants or crackers.
Smoky salmon cream cheese spread with crackers
Radish roses for garnish—because presentation matters!
Coconut ambrosia cake

Drinks to Serve

Punch: Mix cranberry juice, frozen orange juice concentrate, 7 Up, and a splash of white rum (optional)
A classic Sidecar for vintage flair
Hot Toddy: perfect if your group meets in cooler months or wants something warm and comforting
Dubonnet on the rocks: elegant and of the era

This book was made for lively discussion, and adding a few thoughtful touches can turn your meeting into something truly special. Have fun with it—and don’t forget to discuss what your group found “troublesome” or transformative.