The Widows' Book Club

Widows #4

by Julia Jarman

Preorder the BRAND NEW laugh-out-loud, feel-good read for ladies of a certain age! 👓 📚🍷 'Uplifting, funny, poignant, resonant, this is a pacy tale of friendship, frolics and solidarity.' Judy Leigh

Welcome to the Widows’ Book Club, where the wine flows freely and the gossip is irresistible…

Janet, Viv and Zelda’s monthly meet-ups have been a safe haven over the past few a chance to share life’s ups and downs and laugh their way through widowhood with a glass of wine in hand. But when Janet’s old flame Lewis walks back into her life – still charming, still handsome, and still very much married to his formidable wife Christobel – the widows find themselves caught up in unexpected drama.

Keen to show they are as cultured as Lewis and Christobel’s other friends, Janet fibs that the widows have a book club. So they set one up. But when Christobel demands she join and then promptly starts to take over, real life becomes much messier (and more exciting) than fiction…

What will this next chapter bring for them all?

A warm and witty tale of friendship, rivalry, love and second chances – perfect for anyone who knows a book club is about so much more than just the books!

Praise for Julia

‘This is a book that made me laugh, it put a lump in my throat and most of all gave me hope that I’ll still be drinking wine and laughing with my friends for many years to come. A joyous romp of a read.’ ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

‘Full of laugh-out-loud moments and unexpected twists. I can’t wait to read the next one!’ ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

‘This is the nicest, happiest, saddest most unputdownable book that I have read since...... Since forever!!!! Absolutely lovely!!!!’ ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

‘Loved loved this book- so enjoyed the relationships of all the characters a real page turner, with some unexpected twist and turns. An excellent book would highly recommend this it will bring a smile to your face.’ ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

‘A cracking fun read. Loved every page. The characters fascinating. Poignant and found it very moving. Strongly recommend!’ ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

‘Julia Jarman has an original entertaining style that makes you want to read on.’ Katie Fforde

'What a tonic! Julia Jarman’s books should be bottled and handed out on the NHS.' Judy Leigh

‘Julia’s writing is a sparkling delight.’ Sophie Hannah

‘Full of humanity, heartache and humour. I loved it!’ Adèle Geras

Genres: Womens Fiction

328 pages, Kindle Edition

Published February 11, 2026

About the author

Julia Jarman is a British author of books for children of all reading ages and ability.

Reviews

[Jessica Tracey · Rating 4 out of 5]

The widows book club review

Blurb
Welcome to the Widows’ Book Club, where the wine flows freely and the gossip is irresistible…
Janet, Viv and Zelda’s monthly meet-ups have been a safe haven over the past few years: a chance to share life’s ups and downs and laugh their way through widowhood with a glass of wine in hand. But when Janet’s old flame Lewis walks back into her life – still charming, still handsome, and still very much married to his formidable wife Christobel – the widows find themselves caught up in unexpected drama.
Keen to show they are as cultured as Lewis and Christobel’s other friends, Janet fibs that the widows have a book club. So they set one up. But when Christobel demands she join and then promptly starts to take over, real life becomes much messier (and more exciting) than fiction…
What will this next chapter bring for them all?
A warm and witty tale of friendship, rivalry, love and second chances – perfect for anyone who knows a book club is about so much more than just the books!

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Although part of a series I had no issues diving into this book and becoming engrossed in the story. The friendship between the characters who have clearly been through a lot together is comforting and loveable. And you follow them as they start up a book club and deal with some newbies to their village

Much in a similar style to milly johnsons works, with themes throughout destined to make you fall in love, feel frustrated and overall feel a part of the book club yourself

Thankyou to love book tours for the review copy

[Becky Collins]

Janet has lived in a village named Elmsley and one of her older friend and his wife are moving to the next village over. Dr. Lewis and his wife Christobel had moved there from London. Lewis was an outdoor guy but his wife definitely was a city girl. Janet’s friend Viv, Zelda and Libby had been in a Widow’s Wine club but when Christobel shows up and Janet wants to sound sophisticated so she says they have a book club. Christobel tried to be in charge of everything and everyone. The other ladies didn’t really care for her. And, for some reason it seems like Christobel was constantly pushing Janet to spend more time with Lewis. It was so much fun reading this and seeing how everything works out in the end.

I received this ARC from Netgalley for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Always Reading Between The Wines · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Widows' Book Club by Julia Jarman
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Genre: Contemporary | Women’s Fiction | Humour 
Pages: 392
Publisher: Boldwood Books - The Shelfcare Club

📚 Blurb 📚
Welcome to the Widows’ Book Club, where the wine flows freely and the gossip is irresistible…
Janet, Viv and Zelda’s monthly meet-ups have been a safe haven over the past few years: a chance to share life’s ups and downs and laugh their way through widowhood with a glass of wine in hand. But when Janet’s old flame Lewis walks back into her life – still charming, still handsome, and still very much married to his formidable wife Christobel – the widows find themselves caught up in unexpected drama. Keen to show they are as cultured as Lewis and Christobel’s other friends, Janet fibs that the widows have a book club. So they set one up. But when Christobel demands she join and then promptly starts to take over, real life becomes much messier (and more exciting) than fiction… What will this next chapter bring for them all? A warm and witty tale of friendship, rivalry, love and second chances – perfect for anyone who knows a book club is about so much more than just the books!

⭐️ Review ⭐️
A really charming and heartwarming book about friendship, heartache and learning that you don't always have to live up to expectations. Though this is part of the 'Widows...' series by Jarman, you can definitely read this as a standalone and I love that about the book. The central widows: Janet, Zelda, and Viv, and their co-opted 'newbie' Libby are really fun characters, they'd clearly be a great group to have a wine with (I love their punny name- The Muscateers!). The premise of them getting together to enjoy life following the loss of their husbands is a really sweet premise. In this book we get to see more of Janet's life, as Christobel and her husband Lewis are figures from Janet's past. It was interesting to see the dynamics when external characters are introduced. As Janet says in the book, Christobel and Lewis are her 'London friends', her 'gallery and books' friends and so I love that the (very realistic) insecurity of these meet ups being judged by city-girl Christobel meant the Janet felt she had to invent a book club as a 'cover' for the Muscateers lunches and wine catch ups.

As a book club host, I know that sometimes the camaraderie is just as important as the stories and I really felt that Jarman understood this and portrayed it well in the book. You can really feel the friendship these women have in how they look out for each other. A real feel-good book which was a lovely change of pace from some of my recent reads. Thanks to NetGalley, LBT and Julia Jarman for the eARC.

[Laurie · Rating 4 out of 5]

The four “Muscateers,” and members of the Widows’ Wine Club, Janet, Viv, Zelda, and Libby, are back in this charming story that, as with the other books in this series, again emphasizes friendship, second chances, and “all for one, and one for all.” While it’s a chance to catch up with all four women, this story, which can also be read as a stand-alone, focused more on Janet and her relationship with her long-time friends (and married couple) Lewis and Christobel, who have left cosmopolitan London and moved nearby for a slower paced life in the country. Janet, fearing that Christobel will think her friends aren’t as sophisticated or intellectual as the London crowd, says that they, too, have a book club. Thus, the monthly get-togethers at local restaurants (with lots of wine), have now taken on a new component as the friends also gather once a month to discuss books ranging from classics to more contemporary works (with nibbles and wine, of course). Not everything goes smoothly, as Christobel ruffles more than a few feathers when she commandeers the proceedings. I loved the dialogue and pushback from the others, whether in defense of one another or just speaking up for themselves!

The book club goes beyond just talking about books, and it’s beyond those meetings where lovely moments of humor, self-discovery, and the pure joy of knowing that there are people who truly have your back shine through. Although for much of the book I was annoyed with Janet for her unrelenting defense of Christobel, who I found insufferable, I enjoyed how the story progressed and was very happy to spend time again with these delightful characters. I hope there are more Muscateers adventures to come. Thank you to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the opportunity to read this ARC.

[Leanne · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Widows’ Book Club is an absolute delight from start to finish. It’s warm, funny, and full of the kind of heart that makes you want to gather your closest friends, pour a generous glass of wine, and settle in for a long chat.

Janet, Viv, and Zelda are instantly lovable—three women who have weathered grief together and built a little sanctuary out of their monthly meet‑ups. Their bond feels genuine and comforting, which makes it all the more entertaining when life throws them a curveball in the form of Janet’s old flame, Lewis, and his formidable wife, Christobel.

The book club fib is such a fun catalyst for the story, and watching the women scramble to turn it into something real is both hilarious and endearing. Christobel’s arrival—and her immediate takeover—adds just the right amount of drama, pushing the widows out of their comfort zones and into a new chapter none of them expected.

What really shines is the warmth threaded through every page. This is a story about friendship, self‑discovery, and the joy of finding excitement again when you least expect it. The humour is gentle but sharp, the emotional moments land beautifully, and the characters feel like people you’d genuinely want to spend time with.

A cosy, uplifting read that reminds us a book club is rarely just about the books—it’s about the people who show up. Perfect for fans of feel‑good fiction with heart and a dash of mischief.

My thanks to Julia Jarman, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC

[Zara Dal · Rating 4 out of 5]

I went into The Widows’ Book Club not realising it was part of a series, but that didn’t detract from my enjoyment at all. It works beautifully as a standalone.

Viv, Janet, Zelda and Libby are the real heart of this story. Each woman has her own distinct personality, history and voice, and they feel genuinely well-rounded. I loved how different they all were, yet how naturally they fit together. That balance made their friendship feel authentic rather than forced.

From the very first chapters, I could tell this was going to be a cosy, comforting read and it absolutely delivered. The warmth radiates from the pages. There’s a lovely sense of camaraderie as the women lift one another up, support each other, and navigate life’s complications together. That feeling of shared strength and solidarity is what makes this book shine..

Things become particularly interesting when Janet’s so-called “London friends” — her former flame Lewis and his wife Christobel — arrive on the scene, with Christobel makung her presence very much known. Their dynamic adds tension and a subtle shake-up to the established rhythm of the group, which keeps the story engaging without losing its cosy core.

Overall, this is a warm, friendship-driven read filled with humour, heart, and emotional depth. If you’re looking for strong female friendships and characters you’ll enjoy spending time with, this is a lovely one to pick up.

[Theresa · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Widows’ Book Club by Julia Jarman was a quietly moving read that really surprised me. I went into it expecting something gentle and cozy, and while it definitely has that feel, there’s also a lot of emotional depth woven into the story.

What I loved most was the focus on grief, friendship, and the comfort that books can bring during difficult times. The women in the book club all feel distinct, each carrying their own loss, and watching their relationships grow felt genuine and heartfelt. I especially appreciated how the story handled grief—not rushed or overly dramatic, but honest and compassionate.

This is a slower, reflective read, but that suited the story perfectly. It’s the kind of book you want to take your time with, letting the emotions settle and the characters grow on you. By the end, I felt like I’d spent time with real people rather than just finishing a story.

Overall, The Widows’ Book Club is a thoughtful, comforting novel about healing, connection, and finding joy again after loss. A lovely choice if you enjoy character-driven stories with heart and hope.

[Susan Johnston · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am fond of these stories of women of a certain age who overcome obstacles and find satisfaction and often love. Four friends meet regularly for a book club that never is about the book but is a great reason to drink wine and gossip. All four are devoted as they have seen each other through many trials and tribulations that are part of getting older. All is well until a friend of Janet’s moves locally from London. Christobel is manipulative and bossy and while the other three try to give her the benefit of the doubt, they are aghast at how she treats her husband. Janet has rose coloured glasses and does not see what is going on. Or perhaps more fairly prefers to deny it. It frustrates her friends but they are loyal.

After a series of set ups and machinations, Janet is forced to see the truth and finally stand her ground. It’s lovely to see someone who has been a mug for so long finally fight back. And the tools with which she does are quite dirty. Literally. The other friends also have some personal choices to make but none comes close to Janet. Well done wallflower. Five purrs and two paws up.

[Firetruckmama · Rating 3 out of 5]

I received an eARC of this book from NetGalley and the publisher, for which I thank them.

“The Widows’ Book Club” is by Julia Jarman. I thought that this book was a stand-alone - and while it can be read that way - it is part of a series, so, if like me, you feel a bit lost at the beginning, that’s why. It took me a while to keep track of who was who (and background info), but once the story got rolling, it became easier to do so. While I like the idea of this book - a group of friends gathering together initially to, you know, get together and chat over wine and nibbles at a local place, it morphed into a book club (“we do discuss books”) with a friend of one of the members moving near the town where these women gather. I found the new character to be a pain in the neck and really didn’t like how her friend, Janet, kept defending her (use you eyes, Janet!). This book, at its core, is about friendship and having the protection of said friends. It has a bit of humor and fun. Overall, a 3.25 read for me.

[Page Escapes by J · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Widows’ Book Club is a warm, character-driven novel that celebrates friendship while exploring how life can still surprise you long after you think the biggest chapters are behind you. Janet, Viv, and Zelda’s decision to create a “fake” book club quickly spirals into real drama when new personalities, romantic entanglements, and lingering past connections enter their lives.

The pacing moves comfortably—never rushed but consistently engaging—allowing the relationships and comedic moments to unfold naturally. Jarman’s prose leans into gentle humor and emotional sincerity, making the characters feel relatable and lived-in. One of the novel’s strongest elements is the dialogue; the witty exchanges between the widows create both laughter and emotional depth, grounding the story in believable friendship dynamics.

Plot-wise, the narrative balances lighthearted chaos with meaningful reflections on loneliness, companionship, and rediscovering joy. It’s a charming read that reminds us that new beginnings don’t belong to any particular age.

[Nicole Normand · Rating 3 out of 5]

I received a free copy from NetGalley and I'm willingly leaving a review
I liked the beginning enough but once Christobel came into the picture, it went down from there. For some reason, she had something to prove and did it without thinking of any consequences there could be. Dominance over other people. This is what I felt all through the book, until the very end. Janet is about to have a nervous breakdown at any moment. Quianna is a parasite that latches on and never lets go. Viv and Patrick balance out everyone in the book; I liked them the most. Zelda and Richard are a mystery to me; is he blind? I'm surprise Libby doesn't like Christobel; they would get along fine. At some point in the story, it seems the book was connected to a series; it is but it did not say so when I chose the book. Near the end, I was a little confused when Janet couldn't sleep because she had felt Lewis' lips close to her neck? What??? He put his hand on her back to help her up the stairs - that's it. The author seems to really like the colors white and red for decorations; it's all over the place.

[Miki Jacobs · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Muscateers as they call themselves have a great time with their leisurely lunches and catch ups.
When Janet's London friends decide to move to the area, she panics a bit as she finds Christobel, a bit much even for a weekend. She makes Janet feel inferior. But Janet loves her time with Lewis, Christobel's husband and Janet's long ago crush.
Panicking and trying to show that they are not uneducated yokels, she tells Christobel that they have a book club which Christobel muscles her way into, even inviting other people.
Over the next fews months life changes in various ways for Janet and culminates in a holiday she is bamboozled into.
But as things do, everything falls into place.
A nice gentle read, infuriating at times.

[Bianca Duthie · Rating 4 out of 5]

The cover and blurb looked and sounded so much fun so I couldn't wait to read it.
I really liked the friendship of the four muscateers, they were truly the best of friends with so much shared history, care and consideration of one another. Their friendship was so heartwarming. They are a group of mature ladies with a lot of life experience and I thought they were something to aspire to be like!
I really didn't like Christobel, until France where I finally understood her.
This appears to be part of a series, though I didn't feel like I was missing anything massively. I hope though that if there are further instalments we find out more about Janet's health.
Overall an enjoyable read that I am sure many will like.

[Melissa Book (e)ND · Rating 3 out of 5]

'The Widows' Book Club' is a fun, ensemble, romantic comedy, which follows Janet, a recently widowed retiree, and her wine club, as they try to impress Janet's friend by turning their wine club into a "serious" book club. And wackiness ensures.

This is a book which falls in a series, but can stand alone. I do wonder if readers who have been with the series from the beginning would feel more invested in the characters. It did take me some time to keep everyone straight and even then, I think I was missing some backstory which may have helped with the storyline. I also didn't love that woman vs. woman conflict was so necessary to drive the plot.

Thank you to Julia Jarman and Boldwood Books for the ARC of 'The Widows' Book Club' in exchange for a honest review.

[Mary C · Rating 4 out of 5]

Time to catch up with the four "Muscateers" Janet Viv. Zelda and Libby. While details are provided as to what's going on in each woman's life the main focus is Janet's London friends Christobel and Lewis moving nearby. As Janet frets about how the couple will fit in with her friends, it becomes evident that the marriage isn't in the best shape Janet is eager to help the couple while dealing with her attraction to Lewis. A planned trip doesn't work out as planned and a secret is revealed Delightful story of the bonds of friendship and second chances.
#TheWidowsBookClub #BoldwoodBooks #NetGalley

[Karen · Rating 5 out of 5]

An avid reader myself I loved how the author used the setting of a book club to show how reading can influence your own life and also as a background to the plot. Janet, Viv, Libby and Zelda scramble together to form a book club to impress Janet’s sophisticated friends, married couple Christobel and Lewis, who have just moved from London. Christobel wastes no time in taking over the proceedings though and soon gets everyone’s back up but Janet won’t see any wrong with her longstanding friends. But is their marriage as perfect as they portray? A fun heartwarming story woven with warmth and friendship woven throughout

[Nana · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story intrigued me because I knew something was going on, and I couldn't figure out what it was. The widows, Janet, Vic, and Zelda, have quite the life, and when Christobel and her husband Lewis moves the next town over, things sure do change. The author gives us clues, and Christobel is very mysterious.
The story takes us on their journey, which made me laugh, it made me question things, and the women and I learned it all at the same time. The author did an amazing job writing this story.
I received an ARC from Boldwood Books through NetGalley. I hope you choose to read this book, it isn't like what I expected, which was wonderful.

[Euge Fernandez · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another hilarious tale about The Widows’ Wine Club, aka the Musketeers.
Janet’s London friends from college, her oldest friends, Lewis and Christobel decided to move to rural Bedforshire where Janet lives. She is not pleased about this change, she knows she aught to be pleased, but she is not. They were her fun friends, people she went to the theatre with, and enjoy galleries and books.
The Widows’ Wine Club meets every first Friday of every month for lunch, wine and …now books, apparently.
I always enjoy these women and the relationship they have supporting each other in the difficult path they are going through.

[Merkie · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 rounded to 4
I thought that The Widows' Book Club was a really sweet book. There is a focus on friendship and connection that rises to the top despite the plots and schemes. I really didn't like Christobel as a character. In going into this book I didn't realize it was part of an ongoing series. But I can say with confidence that you can read this without having read previous books. I think that you would have a better idea of the backstory of some of the characters by reading the other books in the series but I don't think it impacts the read enough to detract.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for this ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.

[Kindle Book Worm By The Sea · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was a bit lost at the beginning of this book, then upon some quick research after finishing the book find out it’s the second in a series, altho it can be read as a standalone, I did get a bit lost at the beginning.

Over all a nice little read about love, heartache and friendship. It follows a group of widows, whom stories are told in the first book, find second and in some cases 3rd chances at love.

Although I found Quinellas character a bit random and not really needing a part, I’m guessing her story may be told in another book.

Thank you to Netgalley, the publisher and author for the e-ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.

[Deborah · Rating 3 out of 5]

The Widows' Book Club by Julia Jarman is a character-driven novel that follows Janet, Viv, Zelda, and Libby as they navigate life after loss. The group, known as The Muscateers, holds lively gatherings featuring wine and gossip. Though this is part of a series, that shouldn't stop you from reading this book on its own. This particular novel concentrates on Janet's story, as an old flame and his unlikable wife, Christobel, move to her town and join the friends' newly formed book club. It is a story of love, heartache, and friendship.

Thank you, NetGalley and Boldwood Books, for an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

[Lesley · Rating 4 out of 5]

The story focuses on widow Janet and her friends. Firstly her village group and secondly her old friends from her youth. When Christobel and Lewis move to her area, she tries to integrate Christobel with her newer friends but she doesn’t endear herself to them and they are also appalled at how she treats her husband. Janet on the other hand insists they have a happy marriage, until she too starts to have doubts.
This was a well written (though not what I would describe as ‘laugh out loud’) story with a happy ending, but perhaps overly long.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Stephanie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Book Review: The Widows' Book Club

Publisher: Boldwood Books (February 11, 2026)
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Plot Summary: Janet, Viv, and Zelda have always used their monthly meet-ups as a safe haven to laugh through widowhood with plenty of wine. But when Janet's old flame, Lewis, reappears, she impulsively claims they have a cultured book club to impress him. Now, the ladies actually have to read, all while dealing with Lewis’s overbearing wife, Christobel, who crashes the club and threatens to ruin their next chapter with her competitive streak!

My Thoughts: This was such a delight! This was the first book I've read by Julia Jarman, and it certainly won't be my last. It is a heartwarming story that proves life doesn't stop being messy or exciting just because you’ve reached a certain age. The female friendship between the main female characters was the absolute highlight for me. They are the kind of friends we all hope to have in our corner. It’s a witty look at social rivalries and the funny things we do to impress people from our past. If you’ve ever been in a book club that was more about the snacks and wine than the actual reading, you will feel right at home with this one!

Tropes & Highlights:
Found Family (Over 60s)
Second Chances
Small Town Drama
Book Club Within A Book

Recommended For: Fans of The Thursday Murder Club (minus the murder!) or anyone who loves a drama with mature characters and stories about the enduring power of best friends.

Thank you to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!

[Helen · Rating 4 out of 5]

When two groups of friends collide.
Long standing friends from medical training day's as young adults move from London to the countryside.
Janet is trying to meld the long standing friendship with her supportive country friends.
Personality clashes and denied romantic feelings surface.
Secrets are uncovered and can they move forward to a happier future for all.
Revisiting the group of older ladies who feel like friends from previous books.
Janet's story this outing. Can easily be read as a stand alone but great as part of the series.
Enjoy I did

[Emily · Rating 3 out of 5]

✨3 stars✨

This was a quick read dealing with a group of older women with a focus on their friendship and their book club. I enjoyed seeing the books that the characters read and their discussions around them.

If you have enjoyed this author’s previous books then I think you will enjoy this new release!

I received an ARC from the publishers via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!

[Sam Ing · Rating 3 out of 5]

Firstly, thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for this ARC.

I didn't realise that this book was part of a series so was feeling a bit lost. It's a book about friendship which was lovely, however I didn't really get into the book. Maybe I just don't enjoying reading books about book clubs 🤣Janet's friend was annoying too.

[Sheila · Rating 3 out of 5]

I received a free copy of, The Widow's Book Club, by Julia Jarman, from the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. Zelda, Viv, and Janet are friends and decide to start a book club. This was a sweet read, communication is the key to any friendship or romance.

[Kate Wells · Rating 5 out of 5]

A lovely feel good second chance midlife kinda book with a lot of introspection and trying to do the right thing. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

[Margaret · Rating 4 out of 5]

A wonderful joyful addition to this series .

[Melanie · Rating 2 out of 5]

I didn't warm to any of the characters unfortunately, and the story didn't hold my interest.