The Friendship Club: A Novel

Nobody writes about female friendships better than Robyn Carr and her latest novel, The Friendship Club, is a perfect example.

Marni hosts a successful cooking show on television. Like Ina Garten ( The Barefoot Contessa), the show is filmed in her own home, where she is ably assisted by Ellen, who has been with her for twenty years. Ellen is creative with food but has no desire to appear on camera, she is happy to leave that to Marni.

Sophia is interning with Marni and hopes to have a career in broadcast journalism. Marni's daughter Bella is anxiously awaiting the birth of her first child with her husband Jason.

Although Marni has very successful career, her love life could use some work. She was widowed at a young age and now is divorced show more from her second husband after she caught him cheating on her. Ellen was a longtime caregiver for her seriously ill husband and is wary about getting into a new relationship.

Sophia is excited about a new man in her life, but soon discovers that he is possessive and potentially dangerous. Marni had experience with that with her first husband and begins to worry about Sophia. Bella has concerns about her own marriage as well.

As the story progresses, Marni finds herself unexpectedly attracted to a new man in her life and Ellen's retired firefighter neighbor would like to start a romance with her. Marni jumps in with both feet and encourages Ellen not to let her past get in the way of a possible happy future.

I liked that we see relationships at all stages and ages- young Sophia, Bella and her husband as they await the birth of a baby, and Marni and Ellen in the 60s opening up their hearts to new possibilities.

Robyn Carr's characters are always so interesting, and seeing older women excited about new romance is enjoyable and refreshing to read. And no matter how long ago you went through a pregnancy, you can relate to Bella's situation. Carr's male characters are well drawn and realistic too.

I enjoy foodie books, and reading about Marni and Ellen's recipes and Ellen's volunteer work feeding people fleeing wildfires was fascinating. The Friendship Club is a wonderful book to gift to your girlfriends on Galentine's Day, I highly recommend it.

Thanks to Harlequin Books for putting me on their Winter 2024 Blog Tours. show less

Marni has her own cooking show. And she is too busy for a new man in her life. However, her pregnant daughter, Bella, is determined Marni needs to start dating. Then there is Ellen. Ellen is Marni’s best friend and colleague. They both have issues with being with someone new right now. Neither are looking for a relationship. But as we all know, that is when a relationship finds you. There is also a sweet young intern, Sophia. Marni is worried Sophia is in a toxic relationship. Marni pulls out all stops to protect her.

Usually when a story has this many main characters, it can get confusing. But Robyn Carr has worked her magic and these characters meld so well together and the storylines intertwine and create an appealing tale.

I show more especially enjoyed Bella and Sophia. Bella and her pregnant hormones!!! She does not make life easy. And Sophia, she is so mild mannered and polite. So, when she gets into this abusive relationship she truly does not know how to handle it. I love how Marni guides and protects her.

Need a good story about friendship and family…THIS IS IT! Grab your copy today.

I received this novel from the publisher for a honest review. show less