Virtuous Women

by Ann Goltz

There's only one way to be virtuous. Or is there?

In the two years since her mother’s death, seventeen-year-old Hope Wagner has single-handedly raised and homeschooled her ten younger siblings while keeping her father’s house. When her father marries the strange newcomer to their church, Hope is allowed to begin a courtship that will make her a helpmeet in her own right. Much to her surprise, her betrothed has a vision for their life that includes radical ideas like education, careers, and choosing how many children they want to have rather than leaving it up to God. For the first time Hope can imagine a different future than the one her father’s planned for her, and she wants that future more than she’s ever wanted anything else.

Jennifer Levine has always wanted a large, close-knit family that lives according to traditional values, just like all those families she reads about in her beloved historical novels. When Michael, a handsome, successful widower at her new church begins to court her, Jennifer believes she’s found the life of her dreams. But Jennifer’s new life is a nightmare of inadequacy and futility as she tries to embody her husband’s idea of a virtuous woman, and she discovers the dark side of their conservative Christian sect. When Jennifer finally rejects Michael’s authority over her, she launches the family into a crisis that threatens Hope’s future and will change their lives forever.

Genres: Fiction

368 pages, Paperback

First published March 5, 2024

Reviews

[Suanne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Virtuous Women is a complex novel of faith in a changing world. Hope Wagner was raised in a fundamentally religious family. Her mother dies giving birth to her eleventh child, but the father refuses to seek medical attention, feeling that physicians are shysters. Hope, at fifteen, assumes the role of mother to her ten siblings. She cooks all the meals, supervises the children in their chores and behavior, homeschools them, does the laundry, shoes for the groceries, and is woefully unappreciated. The father, Micheal, is a staunch unrelentingly man, a deacon in a fundamental sect whose interpretation of the Bible appears akin to the Taliban’s interpretation of the Koran. Women are helpmeets with no interests outside the home. There is no room in Michael’s eyes or those of his god for errors of any sort, sin of any sort. Hope is forced to set aside her dreams and her prospects for marriage and a lifestyle unlike that of her father.

The prose is simple and understated, in keeping with the no-frills lives of this family. Goltz skillfully navigates the intersection of fundamental Christians living in a world that no longer suits them. These are the MAGA base. Michael’s sons are “future warriors in the battle to bring American and the world back to Christ” while his daughters, if not “raised to understand the importance of Christian motherhood, they would abandon their families and be deceived by the lies of feminism and worldly self-fulfillment.” Overall this is a thought-provoking novel that
Looks at the darker side of fundamentalism and shows how the patriarchal structure of the family perpetuates the oppression of children, leaving then no autonomy in the pursuance of their own lives. This book will definitely haunt you.

[Linda Zagon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ann Goltz, the Author of “Virtuous Women” has written a poignant, emotional and thought-provoking novel. The Genres for this novel are Women’s Religious Fiction, Sibling Fiction, Domestic Life Fiction, and Fiction. The author vividly describes her setting and dramatic characters. The characters are complex, complicated and flawed. This is quite a shocking reveal of how a “Virtuous” Woman might be viewed in a Religious cult.

Hope has been raising her ten siblings since her mother passed away two years ago. She is only 17, and yet. the responsibilities and her father’s expectations of what she has to do makes it nearly impossible. If she makes any mistakes there are consequences. Her father decides to court a new congregant from the church, not realizing her background. Jennifer Levine wants to experience what a “Virtuous family” is and the two are wed.Before the wedding, Jennifer believes this is what she is looking for. Now Hope can have an arranged marriage.

When Jennifer realizes the “dark side” of her dream, there are changes. Hope’s courting is called off for seven years, and things seem very intense,

This is a very dark, intense, and emotional book. Women are cast aside in this environment, and are abused. I appreciate that the author is sympathetic and empathetic, and indicates that this is wrong on so many levels. This is a very though-provoking and memorable novel that I would recommend.

[Chelsie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Virtuous is a bit of an eye opening read about two women and the choices they make based on how they were raised and a misconstrued belief. Hope has been raising her siblings since her mother passed away and knows no different. Raised in the church and to always obey her father's word she does not know much about the outside world until her father finally remarries and Jennifer her step-mother often has different views and opinions on things that often go against her father and the church's beliefs. Jennifer has always thought life in the olden days like in the novels she reads would be a wonderful way to live. After searching out different churches, she finds one that seems to fit the mold of these stories and marries widow with a house full of children who need a mother. But it quickly becomes apparent that this is not like the stories she has always sought to live life, but more of a cult where religion is used to command obedience, structure, fear and to live life exactly how the church sees fit. It was interesting to read the two different view points of Jennifer and Hope in this story and it was really eye opening in understanding how women and others get caught up in these religions that use church and the Bible to control others. Thank you to the author for the complementary novel and to Suzy Approved Book Tours for the invite. This review is of my own opinion and accord.

[Lori · Rating 5 out of 5]

All I can say is Wow!! I'm absolutely floored at such a powerful story!
Makes me mostly sad, angry and I'm in disbelief that such a religion/cult can treat women anyway they like.
At first, I thought it was the Mormons but it's not but close.
This isn't the work of God at all but man/Satan!
I did like the story however and I'm left thinking about it long afterwards.
A book like this only comes along once in a lifetime for me. I just couldn't put it down! It was really good!
I really admired Jennifer! I don't blame her one bit for what she did. I can't imagine putting myself in that situation.
I honestly didn't think much about Michael being the way he was at the beginning but wow! Those poor children! So sad!
I honestly began to dislike him as I read on. He actually made the hairs stand up on the back of my neck and along my arms.
I cried at what happened to Grace. I somehow had a feeling that it would happen because of her upbringing and cruel father...Men! Ugh!
The one who my heart really went out to was Hope. I feel that I can relate to her especially towards the end.
This book really does deserve 5 stars and more..I had a hard time putting it down so I lost some sleep but it was oh so worth it.
Please have a box of tissues at the ready cause believe me you'll need them.
I'm also going to be honest I almost DNF this book cause there are some very tough and emotional issues as well.
This new to me author has done a fantabulous job with this novel. This novel will be will be added to my list of favorites
I highly recommend this novel.
My thanks for a copy of this book. I was NOT required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.

[Booksandcoffeemx · Rating 4 out of 5]

What an intense and compelling read.

Virtuous Women explores relationships, family, womanhood and religion. Not an easy read at times but a thought-provoking read that will keep you turning pages.
A great debut.

Thank you Suzy Approved Book Tours for this tour invite.

𝗩𝗶𝗿𝘁𝘂𝗼𝘂𝘀 𝗪𝗼𝗺𝗲𝗻 by Ann Goltz released March 5, 2024.

https://www.instagram.com/booksandcof...

[Erica · Rating 3 out of 5]

I won this book in a Goodreads giveaway! I enjoyed the book a lot. Interesting story showcasing many perspectives and experiences people face in very traditional/conservative churches. I wished that Jennifer had a bit more depth and that the author expanded on her past/ what led her to want to join this church because it seemed a bit flat and unbelievable. I also thought some of the messaging was too explicit and surface level and would’ve appreciated more subtlety or symbolism that could be open to interpretation/discussion. but I loved reading the different chapters from perspectives of different characters over such a long period of time. covered so much and did it well! would definitely read another book like this

[Melissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Okay but I definitely thought I was going to have no interest in this book but let me tell you I started reading and was CAPTIVATED. Why, I have no idea, it’s not my normal style of book, but there was a slight air of mystery in between the lines and I couldn’t put it down.

Anyway, this story follows a family in a very religious household/church congregation that’s just one step away from being a cult. I thought this was maybe going to be a historical fiction but actually it takes place in current times spanning from 2008-2023.

It’s interesting, it’s heartbreaking, there’s characters you root for and ones you don’t, and I was invested in all of them. Definitely give this fiction a try!

[Julie Porter · Rating 5 out of 5]

Virtuous Women by Anna Goltz is a brilliant Contemporary Literature Novel that skewers religious cults and the Quiverfull Movement by showing the detrimental effect that they have on the women who are involved within them. In a time when women’s rights are eroding because of interference from Christian Evangelicals, the dangers that such a strict environment can bring cannot be stressed enough.

Hope Wagner is the oldest girl in a religious family of ten children. Because of her status, she has to fill the motherly role towards caring for her younger siblings left by the death of their mother. However she is soon to approach the marrying age of 18 and her father, Michael will be left without a housekeeper. The elders of the Church of the Covenant order Michael to get remarried and they have the perfect candidate. Enter Jennifer Levine, a newcomer to the Church from an outsider background.

Goltz’s writing is brilliant with how she captures how people fall into such Fundamentalism and how people can be destroyed when they religiously (pun not intended) follow such a path.What is fascinating about the first half of the book is that the Church of the Covenant seems deceptively alright.

If you read a lot of Inspirational Fiction or watch a lot of Hallmark Holiday Rom Coms, you might recognize the pattern: Big city career woman with secret longing for a simple life finds herself in a cute old fashioned town with good old fashioned values. She meets a handsome rugged salt-of-the-earth local, usually a widower with children. Complications ensue but she decides to ditch her old life behind, stay in the town, marry the local, and conform to his ways. Expect quirky locals, beautiful natural settings, a sob story about the couple in question, detailed Holiday seasons, and definitely a trip or two or three to church to remind you that yes these are Faith-driven locals.

That's all present in Virtuous Women, but something seems off about it. The Wagner's seem at first like a decent family albeit very strict. Some details like the kids being home schooled could be attributed to their Conservative upbringing. They seem to be in a community whose members genuinely look out for and communicate with each other. Michael might be stern but he is honest and appears free of religious hypocrisy.

In this fast paced world of immediate gratification, ever present technology, and gloomy and doom-driven news, it's understandable why someone like Jennifer would want to be a part of this life, especially someone like Jennifer.

Jennifer is the type of modern woman who has the past in a nostalgia filter. She reads Classic Literature and wears vintage clothing. She works as a nanny and secretly resents her employer’s affluent attention seeking lifestyle. Her career driven parents were more interested in obtaining wealth and status than parenting. She is the type probably much like many of her Readers, who would like to go into a time machine, travel to the past, and stay there. But her vision of the past is not the same as the reality.

There are some early red flags that suggest that life in this Church isn't all that was originally advertised. Those signs are designed to make the hair stand on the back of the mind and eyes narrow in suspicion wondering what Jennifer is getting herself into.

There's an early moment where Hope is assaulted on her way home from grocery shopping and her father blames her for the attack. There is the moment where Jennifer enters the church wearing period clothing but one that is too ornate and showy for the plain clothes congregation. There are plans to marry Hope off right away to Joel, a young man who comes from another family of believers even though she's only 18 and her younger sisters are also preparing for their future weddings. One of the biggest warnings occurs after Jennifer uses her money to buy her future stepdaughter’s wedding dresses and Michael becomes furious and physically violent, accusing Jennifer of violating his commands as the man of the house. They are present and definitely can't be ignored. It doesn't take long for Jennifer to realize that she may have gotten the old fashioned life that she thought that she wanted but she also got all that came with it including Christian Nationalism and subjugation towards women.

Jennifer is an example of someone from the outside who stumbles into a cult where everything is new and fresh to her and all rules have to be explained. Since she is so new, she questions everything around her when her suspicions and concerns manifest themselves. She sees a patriarchal system where women are second class citizens. Where God's love and forgiveness is minimized and his judgemental wrath and punishment are emphasized. Where education is limited to only what the church allows to be taught and advancement is diminished for boys and practically non-existent for girls. Where distrust in the government is so high that they don't go to hospitals even if they're dying or seek welfare when they are starving. Where girls are raised solely to be wives and mothers and are ordered to breed lots of children and have no choice in the matter. Once Jennifer realizes the dangers that she has gotten herself into, she begins to look for a way out.

Jennifer may have been thrust into the Church of the Covenant but another character reveals the pain of having been born into it: Hope who, after Jennifer leaves the book, becomes the primary protagonist. She had been raised by her father and the Church and never knew any other life. Her brainwashing began so early that she doesn't acknowledge that's what it is. Every time she mildly questions her upbringing, slightly disagrees with the lessons being taught, or considers a career in midwifery, she believes that she is sinning and that she needs to pray and read the Bible to seek attrition. She isn't even allowed the freedom to disagree or think for herself in her own mind. Her father's church has her convinced that as a woman, she is a weak vessel who needs to be controlled and made submissive.

Those nagging worrisome doubts that came into Hope’s head and then disappeared come to surface with the arrival of Jennifer and her subsequent marriage to her father. Suddenly those doubts come in a human form that becomes a catalyst for Hope finding her own independence. She sees the life that she has complacently accepted as one that imprisons and restrains those within it. The seemingly charming old fashioned plot gives way to something darker, more sinister, and more realistic than the life Jennifer imagined and Hope lived with every day.

With such a savage take down of cults, I sort of expected the book to climax in a violent and bloodthirsty manner which resulted in the death of the cult. That is not actually what happens. The cult instead destroys itself. It is destroyed from within as young members grow up and break free from their programming and older members refuse to go beyond their rigid beliefs to accommodate and adapt to the changing world.

The Wagner Family themselves implode as the children fall into early death, domestic violence, unwanted pregnancy, estrangement, elopement, and rebellion. Some leave and then come back penitent. Others settle into unhappy marriages in which they outwardly follow the values in which they were raised but now makes them inwardly miserable. They become aware that their rigid religious upbringing left them unprepared for the world and in many ways was responsible for the troubles in which they found themselves.

The only way that some of the Wagner Children can receive any type of fulfillment and contentment is to leave the Church and their family and make a clean break from the way of life in which they were raised.

Virtuous Women is the type of book that reminds us that religion can be a good thing in small doses but for all too many, it is used as a means of control and oppression. Sometimes the most courageous, faithful, and virtuous thing that a person can do is live outside of and out speak against it.

[Elizabeth Gauffreau · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ann Goltz’s Virtuous Women opens with a church scene, as toddler Benjamin wriggles out of his seventeen-year-old sister Hope’s arms and bolts for the door. Hope goes after him, pleading with him to behave, so he can avoid their father’s belt across his back.

This scene is emblematic of the world of the evangelical Church of the Covenant into which Hope was born. The paterfamilias reigns supreme in carrying out the will of God as dictated by the all-male church elders. These dictates take the form of enforced worship, a strict dress code, homeschooling of children, prohibitions against using birth control and medical doctors, not to mention early marriages arranged by girls’ fathers. Any straying from God’s will as embodied in the father (or husband) is met with physical punishment.

Also attending the worship service that day is Jennifer, a “worldly” woman who has been going from church to church in search of a simpler life with a loving family, where her role as “helpmeet” will be clear and unequivocal.

Hope’s widowed father Michael comes to marry Jennifer at the urging of the church elders, and Jennifer takes over Hope’s role as primary housekeeper and caregiver for her father and nine siblings.

The story of the Wagner family unfolds in two sections. The first section focuses on Micheal and Jennifer’s courtship and marriage, as well as Hope’s freedom to be courted by Joel, a young man she has been drawn to for a long while. Family life becomes fraught as Jennifer gradually realizes that the simple, loving family life she imagined is not what she is now living.

The second section takes place six years later, focusing on the fallout from Jennifer’s ultimate rejection of Michael and the Church of the Covenant. Hope, the primary point-of-view character, has been left damaged, in constant fear of God’s wrath.

Jennifer and Michael are secondary point-of-view characters, which was a wise decision on the author’s part. I struggled a bit with Jennifer’s character at first, so entering her point-of-view helped me understand and relate to her desire for the simple life.

Michael’s point of view gave me insight into his character as well. He is not portrayed as the one-dimensional villain of the piece. Rather, he is portrayed as completely taken in by the doctrines of the Church of the Covenant. He is seriously deluded in believing he is carrying out God’s will, albeit no less culpable for the abuse he inflicts, which is horrific at times. He does have a few moments of doubt whether he is doing the right thing, but his belief in his role as family patriarch wins out.

Although Christ is mentioned throughout the novel, the loving Savior of the New Testament–God’s new covenant with humankind–is conspicuously absent. The Church of the Covenant invokes the vengeful God of the Old Testament. I can’t help but draw a parallel with the current rise of Christian nationalism in the US. For me, this parallel makes Virtuous Women both a timely and an important read.

[Chantelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Virtuous Woman" by Ann Goltz navigates the complexities of faith, family, and individual agency in a captivating tale that challenges conventional notions of virtue and womanhood. Set in a conservative Christian community, the novel follows the intertwining journeys of two women, Hope Wagner and Jennifer Levine, as they grapple with the expectations placed upon them by society and their loved ones.

At the center of the narrative is Hope Wagner, a resilient seventeen-year-old who shoulders the responsibility of caring for her ten younger siblings following her mother's passing. Despite the weight of her duties, Hope dreams of a future beyond the confines of her father's strict beliefs, one where she can pursue education, career, and personal autonomy. When a courtship offers her a glimpse of this alternate reality, Hope finds herself torn between the familiar comforts of tradition and the allure of newfound freedom.

On the other hand, Jennifer Levine embodies the archetype of the traditional woman, yearning for a large, harmonious family and a life rooted in timeless values. However, her marriage to Michael, a widower with rigid beliefs, quickly unravels Jennifer's idealized vision as she grapples with feelings of inadequacy and disillusionment. Through Jennifer's journey, the novel delves into the complexities of submission, control, and the consequences of challenging established norms.

Goltz's narrative is both thought-provoking and emotionally resonant, offering a nuanced exploration of faith and identity. The characters are skillfully crafted, each grappling with their own internal conflicts and desires. Hope's journey towards self-discovery is particularly compelling, as she navigates the tension between loyalty to her family and the pursuit of her own dreams.

Moreover, "Virtuous Woman" sheds light on the darker aspects of religious fundamentalism, exposing the ways in which power dynamics can perpetuate oppression and control. Jennifer's story serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of autonomy and agency in the face of patriarchal structures.

Overall, "Virtuous Woman" is a poignant and timely novel that challenges readers to question societal expectations and embrace the complexities of individuality. Goltz's eloquent prose and richly drawn characters make for a compelling read that lingers in the mind long after the final page is turned.

[Shreedevi Gurumurty · Rating 5 out of 5]

Quiverfull is a Christian theological position that sees large families as a blessing from God.It encourages procreation, abstaining from all forms of birth control, natural family planning, and sterilization reversal. The movement derives its name from Psalm 127:3–5, where many children are metaphorically referred to as the arrows in a full quiver.Some sources have referred to the Quiverfull position as providentialism,while other sources have simply referred to it as a manifestation of natalism.It also combines creationism and biblical patriarchy.It is most widespread in the US but it also has adherents in Canada,Australia, NZ, England, etc.As birth-control methods advanced during the late 19th and early 20th centuries(1930 Lambeth Conference), many conservative Christian movements issued official statements against their use, citing their incompatibility with biblical beliefs and ideals.In addition, there are those who contend that Quiverfull's "internal growth" model is a manifestation of a broader trend which is reflected in the lifestyles of such groups as Orthodox Jews (particularly Haredi and Hasidic Jews) and certain Christians including Orthodox Calvinists of the Netherlands, traditional Anabaptists (such as Old Order Amish, Old Colony Mennonites, and certain Conservative Mennonites), some traditional Methodists of the conservative holiness movement, and Laestadian Lutherans of Finland.This combines a movement of opinions within some ethnic, linguistic, religious, regional, or other identifiable groups.In the 20th century, Quiverfull as a modern Christian movement began to emerge.Nancy Campbell began publishing her magazine Above Rubies, which promotes and glorifies stay-at-home mothers who have as many children as possible, in 1977.While Campbell is in measure responsible for formulating Quiverfull ideas, the movement sparked most fully after the 1985 publication of Mary Pride's book The Way Home: Beyond Feminism, Back to Reality.People practice Quiverfull for Obedience to God,missionary effort,and population and geography.Quiverfull has been criticised for being sexist and demeaning towards women,and that it breeds systemic abuse.

[Lori · Rating 5 out of 5]

All I can say is Wow!! I'm absolutely floored at such a powerful story!
Makes me mostly sad, angry and I'm in disbelief that such a religion can treat women anyway they like.
At first, I thought it was the Mormons but it's not but close.
I did like the story so much that was left thinking about it long afterwards.
A book like this only comes along once in a lifetime for me. I just couldn't put it down! It was really good!
I really admired Jennifer! I don't blame her one bit for what she did. I can't imagine putting myself in that situation.
I honestly didn't think much about Michael being the way he was at the beginning but wow! Those poor children! So sad!
I honestly began to dislike him as I read on. He actually made the hairs stand up on the back of my neck and along my arms.
I cried at what happened to Grace. I somehow had a feeling that it would happen because of her upbringing and cruel father...Men! Ugh!
The one who my heart really went out to was Hope. I feel that I can relate to her especially towards the end.
This book really does deserve 5 stars and more..I had a hard time putting it down so I lost some sleep but it was oh so worth it.
Please have a box of tissues at the ready cause believe me you'll need them.
I'm also going to be honest I almost DNF this book cause there are some very tough and emotional issues as well.
This new to me author has done a fantabulous job with this novel.
This new to me author has done a fantabulous job with this novel.
Be sure to read the author's notes at the end. Very interesting!
I've never heard of this movement until I read this novel. I then looked the movement up and got am education to better understand this novel.
This novel will be will be added to my list of favorites
I highly recommend this novel.
My thanks for a copy of this book. I was NOT required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.

[Janis Daly · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reading this book against the backdrop of Proverbs 31, often held up as the biblical blueprint for the “ideal, or virtuous, woman,” demonstrates the power of interpretation. I had referenced Proverbs 31 in the eulogy I gave about my mother to celebrate her as a woman of strength, wisdom, and industriousness—someone who should be respected and praised for her capabilities. In the case of my mother, many times she also carried the virtue or title of breadwinner for our family, an independent, confident woman who rose to meet challenges placed in her path. In contrast, Virtuous Women exposes how interpretations can twist words and meanings to justify control and subjugation. In this case, it is the interpretation by the elders—the men—of a fundamental Christian church.

Set within a deeply religious society defined by domination and adherence to strict gender roles, the reader becomes immersed in the daily life of the community. Rules and routines direct every thought and action. Author Ann Goltz uses those devices to shape her characters and their personal journeys. At its core, the novel tells the story of two women navigating their distinct paths through a rigid environment. One “outsider” woman yearns for the stability that tradition offers, while the other is coming of age and beginning to question the beliefs she has been raised to believe as the Gospel. To add balance to the complexity of the story, we also view the community through the eyes of one of the men, an elder of the church, the father to the young woman, and the husband to the “outsider” woman.

With hints of Maragaret Atwood’s The Handmaid’s Tale and Jon Krakauer’s Under the Banner of Heaven, Virtuous Women examines the isolating grip of religious extremism. Learning that Goltz is a minister by trade added more authenticity to the novel with her insights into the socio-historical context of the Bible and the inner workings of a parish community.

[Melissa (Nissa_the.bookworm) · Rating 4 out of 5]

𝐑𝐄𝐀𝐃 𝐓𝐇𝐈𝐒 𝐈𝐅 𝐘𝐎𝐔
📖 are looking for an emotional read
🧒🏻 have ever had to care for your siblings
🔥 enjoy cult-like stories
🏃‍♀️ ever wanted to run away

• 𝐖𝐇𝐀𝐓 𝐈𝐓’𝐒 𝐀𝐁𝐎𝐔𝐓

In the two years since her mother’s death, seventeen-year-old Hope Wagner has single-handedly raised and homeschooled her ten younger siblings while keeping her father’s house. When her father marries the strange newcomer to their church, Hope is allowed to begin a courtship that will make her a helpmeet in her own right. Much to her surprise, her betrothed has a vision for their life that includes radical ideas like education, careers, and choosing how many children they want to have rather than leaving it up to God. For the first time Hope can imagine a different future than the one her father’s planned for her, and she wants that future more than she’s ever wanted anything else. But when her father’s new wife rejects his authority over her, she launches the family into a crisis that threatens Hope’s future and will change their lives forever.

• 𝐌𝐘 𝐓𝐇𝐎𝐔𝐆𝐇𝐓𝐒

Wow. This book was an emotional rollercoaster. Hope is a strong character - I can’t imagine taking care of 10 siblings all by myself. Watching her live this life was both intriguing and horrifying all at once. As a Christian, I find it hard to read about these cult-like practices that supposed “Christians” teach and live as this is not true Christianity, but a way to enslave people. Still, it was a trip to read about this particular family’s way of life. I couldn’t believe this was taking place in modern times either. That was really gut wrenching for me. Overall, an important read!

[Roberta Harold · Rating 5 out of 5]

A compelling story of women's isolation and virtual imprisonment in a right-wing Christian cult and their attempts to escape, which might seem extreme until you realize that so many of the world's cultures are rigidly patriarchal, and value women only for their roles as breeders and caretakers of men and children. The experiences of Hope, her siblings, and her stepmother may be more the global norm than the exception, and certainly have been the historical norm for women.

In this nuanced yet propulsive narrative, what Goltz does so well is to bring the characters in her story alive and give the reader ample reason to empathize with them--she even does this with the father of the main protagonist, who is in many respects the villain of the story. Everyone's acting in the best way they can in conformance with deeply held (or inculcated) beliefs, while struggling with the human feelings and desires that are in opposition to them. The story's conflicts and plot are dramatic and I found the book very difficult to put down--one cares deeply about whether and to what degree Hope and other women in her world will be able to escape a seemingly impossible situation.

With resonances of Mary Gordon's "Final Payments" and Margaret Atwood's The Handmaid's Tale", "Virtuous Women" is a story that will linger long in my memory and prompt re-reading as we fight cultural forces we once thought obsolete but which are threatening women's historic gains in the US and worldwide.

[Lainey Cameron · Rating 5 out of 5]

Virtuous Women is a fascinating family saga, set around a large family who practice fundamental Christianity.

The novel is told from the perspective of several point of view characters. After her mother’s death, seventeen-year-old Hope has stepped in as substitute mother to her ten younger siblings, forgoing her own hope of a future and marriage. Her father, Michael, an elder in his church, is being pushed to remarry.

Jennifer joins the church and wants to marry into a family where she can return to what she views as traditional values and focus on bringing up children. But after she marries Michael, she struggles to fit in. She quickly learns that although there are benefits to focusing on family, they are outweighed by a traditional patriarchal approach that expects her to submit to her husband and all men's authority over her.

I’m a reader who didn’t grow up in this environment. When I read Virtuous Women, I felt like I was entering a new world where women were celebrated for being submissive, also known as "virtuous," and where traditional gender roles were enforced along with the rule of God.

Virtuous Women has major Handmaid’s Tale vibes and will appeal to readers who appreciated that book and TV series. At times, the story felt fantastical because the views being portrayed are so extreme. But this book is not speculative fiction. In fact, Virtuous Women is all the more terrifying because it’s based on the real-life situation of growing up as part of a Quiverfull family in a modern Christian fundamentalist community.

A riveting and immersive study on the dangers of patriarchal authority and isolation. Thought-provoking and at times shocking, a story with important themes that will stay with me long after reading.

[Judy Blachek · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book delves into the world of the Quiverfull movement, which I was aware of but reading this made it all come to life for me.

Hope is the eldest daughter of a large family whose mother has died, leaving Hope as the caretaker of her ten younger siblings. The work load is never-ending and the expectations on Hope are overwhelming and to me, unfair. Plus, there are all of the rules on how to dress and even think.

A stranger named Jennifer Levine starts to come to their church. While the other women all wear dresses and never cut their hair, Jennifer stands out because she is dressed as women would on Little House on the Prairie. Jennifer has an idealized picture about life in a large family who lives off of the land, which she hopes to find in the church community. The church elders convince Hope's father, Michael, to court her and he eventually marries her.

Jennifer struggles to adapt to living the way that the Quiverfull movement dictates. I'm not going to give away spoilers--the remainder of the book is about this struggle and how the family reacts to the ensuing drama--especially how it affects Hope.

This is well written and compelling if you want to read about this subset in our culture. The misogyny and cruelty is not glossed over in any way.

[Farah G · Rating 3 out of 5]

Hope Wagner's family belongs to a conservative Christian sect, so when her mother dies, Hope is expected to take on the care and homeschooling of her many younger siblings. Against the odds, she does so successfully.

There are few options for Hope until her father's remarriage frees her to indulge in her own courtship ritual with a man who is unexpectedly forward-thinking. For the first time since her mother's death, Hope is able to see happiness as being within her grasp.

But it turns out that it may be a mirage, after all. Because her father Michael's expectations of his new wife Jennifer may just be more than the latter is able or willing to live up to...

This is a poignant story that brings home the limited choices of women stuck in conservative churches and societies. Perhaps the saddest thing is that in many parts of the world, Hope's story will resonate even in 2024. An interesting read. It gets 3.5 stars.

I received a free copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review

[Debbie Rozier · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is incredibly compelling.

It’s a fictional book about a religious group that closely resembles the real life Quiverfull movement (a conservative Christian movement) and focuses on two women. One woman who has been born into the faith (Hope) and a second woman who chooses to join the faith (Jennifer).

The book is divided up into two parts based on time periods. Part One time period is between 2008-2010. Part Two time period is between 2016-2023.

The characters in this book are written so realistically that I had to remind myself that I wasn’t reading a memoir.

The author holds a Masters Degree in Divinity and is a former pastor (not associated with the type church written about here). I think having the author with that background adds to its authentic feeling.

This one would be good for book club discussions. I think it would also be fascinating to read this fictional account of these women and compare it to a memoir about a woman who left that sort of lifestyle. I would bet the stories may not be too different.

[Nancie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Goltz is a master at tackling a tense issue with tact and dignity. At heart it’s the story of two women navigating through their surroundings One, craves the stability of tradition The other is coming of age and beginning to question what she’s been taught.

Although it is set within a deeply religious society reliant on heavily enforced gender roles, this novel is not a commentary on faith or religion. It’s a tricky mix and Goltz succeeds in keeping the story focused on the characters and their internal and external challenges. Each one is attempting to navigate life according to their chosen path, making decisions and living with the consequences of both mistakes and triumphs.

This book moved me, challenged me, and left me thinking deeply about my own choices.
Ful disclosure, in my personal life I am anti-religious and extremely independent- the antithesis of the women depicted in this book, and I loved it.

Please, do yourself a favor and read this book. It’s a gem.

[Lia Lorimer · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is such a powerful novel that it is difficult to give it the review it deserves!
It was difficult, at times, to comprehend that this thought-provoking study of human nature, based on fact, is set in the twenty-first century.
Hope, aged fifteen is the eldest of eleven children, living in a patriarchal, extremely authoritarian society, controlled by the church and daily Bible study. Having been indoctrinated from birth and/or with the desire to conform to expectations, she is destined to run the household and care for her father and younger siblings after the death of her mother in childbirth.
Ms Goltz writes a story which makes even a faith-filled Christian question her religion! I seldom read the “Author’s Notes” at the end of a book, but this is almost essential to this novel.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Susan Ballard (subakkabookstuff) · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a story of two women living in a Quiverfull community. I had never heard of that term, but I feared it might be a community that twisted Biblical teachings. As I read deeper into this intense book, my suspicions were confirmed.

The author has written a thought-provoking and emotional novel. It pulls back the veil on this movement that uses “religion” as an excuse for abuse, oppression, and misogyny. I would dare say this teeters on a cult-like community.

The women’s journeys are well-developed and quite complex. Not only are they wrestling with their faith, values, and family dynamics, but they also struggle internally to find purpose, agency, and a voice.


𝐴 𝑣𝑒𝑟𝑦 𝑒𝑚𝑜𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛𝑎𝑙 𝑟𝑒𝑎𝑑!


Thank you @suzyapprovedbooktours and @anngoltzwriter for a spot on tour and a gifted book.

[Sarah · Rating 4 out of 5]

This story is at times tough to read. I did not like how the church where this family belonged to treated women. They were made to be a housewife and a mother and they couldn't ever think of being something else or they would be shunned and treated poorly. I constantly had to remind myself while reading that this was modern times and not like the 1800s.

Hope unfortunately had to become the "mom" of her siblings after their mom died. When a woman comes seeking their church and then becomes her stepmother, she begins to see what a life outside this church would be and she is conflicted but curious. She battles with herself all the time and after her stepmother realizes that she doesn't want to belong to this place...Hope's world changes drastically and, I felt, never for the better.

The first 100 pages were slow going for me and then I just flew through the rest!

[Karen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you to NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this book..I feel that this was a powerful, sad, harrowing story of a religious group that women were not even treated with any respect, theywere present to take care of a husband and have as many children as possible , maintain a household and always submit to the husband. This story focuses on the elder daughter, Hope, who raised all 10 of her younger siblings,after her mother’s death when she was only 15. This story is so sad and frankly scary that this does exist in this world, but I realize that there are people who are alright with this lifestyle. I found this book to be very interesting and enlightening, it will remain with me for a long time.

[Nursebookie · Rating 5 out of 5]

𝐓𝐈𝐓𝐋𝐄: 𝐕𝐈𝐑𝐓𝐔𝐎𝐔𝐒 𝗪𝐎𝐌𝐄𝐍⁣
𝐀𝐔𝐓𝐇𝐎𝐑: 𝐀𝐍𝐍 𝐆𝐎𝐋𝐓𝐙⁣
𝐏𝐔𝐁 𝐃𝐀𝐓𝐄: 𝟎𝟑.𝟎𝟓.𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟒 ⁣
⁣
Sometimes you come across a book so chilling and intriguing, you just can’t help but keep turning those pages - that’s Virtuous Women for me. I was deeply immersed into 17-year-old Hope Wagner’s world as she navigates her life within her closed knit faith community. The dark underbelly of this congregation is slowly revealed and bad behavior towards women is slowly exposed despite the religious guise. ⁣
⁣
The writing is superb and the author does a great job exposing the dangers of religions bordering to cultish behaviors. Themes addressed in this book truly grabs the heart and makes me appreciate being a woman with freedom.⁣
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[Denzel Struchen · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book centers around a family that is part of church that pick and choices what parts of the Bible is valid and twists some parts to meet the desire of men. Having been raised in The Salvation Army where both husband and wife are equally called to minister and myself stepping away from them to be a youth evangelist I see both sides of the interpretation. The story is well written with a great plot line and is an eye opener for everyday Christians. Yes they're still groups that believe men lead and women bred and clean. Please read the story for both entertainment and enlightenment

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Lara Stevems · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a unique book because it was unpredictable. In this way it felt very real and it certainly made me think about Christianity and the different ways it is practiced. I live in New Zealand and this book was set in America and I loved the insights into the strong conservative faith followed.

There is much to love in this book that focuses on women. I saw the book as having two main characters. One woman born into the family and one woman who married into it. But it is also a good read, a good story. It would be a good read for book clubs as there is lots of diverse characters to discuss and a lot happens.

[Miss W Book Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

Virtuous Women by Ann Goltz is a thought-provoking book about a family that is in a Christian sect, though seems more cultish if I am being honest.

Virtuous Women is based on the true story of the Quiverfull family.

I enjoyed the multiple perspectives. The story centers around Hope who is only 17 years old and steps in to help reais her younger brothers and sisters.

Traditional roles of women are enforced in this fundamental community.

This is a well written novel, sad and shocking and at times hard to read.

The characters are well written and fleshed out. The story is captivating and thought provoking.
An excellent read.

[Dawnny · Rating 5 out of 5]

Seventeen-year-old Hope, has been raising her ten siblings since her mother's death. She follows their fundamentalist Christian faith and values. She homeschools her siblings, does the shopping, and keeps the household. When the father meets and marries Jennifer, a newcomer to the church, things start to change. Jennifer who wanted a simple old fashioned life like in the books she reads, finds living this new life isnt quite what she expected and it's more of a religious cult with values that are different from her own. This was engaging. I like stories like this. A great book for book clubs as there is so much to discuss about it.

Dawnny Ruby
Novels N Latte
Hudson Valley NY

[Suzanne Charles · Rating 4 out of 5]

What does it mean to be a virtuous woman? My personal definition is far from the fundamentalist sect’s standard portrayed in this novel. At times, it was hard to read the detailed descriptions of life for the women in the “quiver full” lifestyle. But the story is so well written that I was completely engrossed - almost like watching a reality tv show. I found myself questioning if where and to whom we are born is really the ultimate factor that determines our world view. The storyline is rich in detail and complex, and the main characters are memorable. Overall, the fact that families like this exist is fascinating and frightening at the same time.