All Booked Up

by Melody Carlson, Suzie Althens (Narrator)

Empty nester and widow Riva Owen lives in the Victorian house that's been in her family for three generations, but finances have become a challenge she can no longer ignore. Her daughter is pushing her to move, and after considering all her options, Riva knows selling would be the smartest course. But she just can't bring herself to leave years of memories—and her cherished library filled with hundreds of books.

When she pursues an alternative—opening her home to women like her who have been forced to make lifestyle changes and need a room to rent—Riva is unprepared for the mix of personalities and peculiarities of her new housemates. She is even more unprepared for Marcus, the handsome and handy older brother of one of her new tenants. The possibility of finding love again feels overwhelming, even as her tenants seem to have romantic schemes of their own.

Warm your heart with a contemporary romance story of found family, booklovers, new beginnings, and an unexpected second chance at love in Melody Carlson's delightful signature style.

Genres: Christian Fiction, Christian, Romance, Contemporary, Womens Fiction, Books About Books, Fiction

Audible Audio

First published March 1, 2026

About the author

Melody Carlson is the award-winning author of over two hundred books, several of them Christmas novellas from Revell, including her much-loved and bestselling book, The Christmas Bus.

She also writes many teen books, including the Diary of a Teenage Girl series, the TrueColors series, and the Carter House Girls series.

Melody was nominated for a Romantic Times Career Achievement Award in the inspirational market for her books, including the Notes from a Spinning Planet series and Finding Alice, which is in production as a Lifetime Television movie. She and her husband serve on the Young Life adult committee in central Oregon.

Reviews

[BookLoverAmanda]

Did Not Finish after roughly one third of the book.

The premise is a recent widow opening her home to renters and the promise of found family and second chances is warm and appealing, but the execution left me disengaged and unwilling to continue.

What I liked
- The setup feels like we could have some good bookish elements with the books and depth from grief of loss. The library and bookish elements add charm to it for any book lover. The characters are kind of like golden girls style ladies if you will so that's fun in general. I love a good friendship story, especially with older characters, so I really wanted to love this but it just wasn't working... see below.

Why I DNF’d:
Honestly, for me, the characters just felt too surface level. I felt like I wasn't getting to know them well enough to care. I could never really "connect" to them I guess. Too much gossip and petty conflicts for my taste. That is pretty true to the Golden Girls I guess, but I still couldn't come to care for them. The romance was awkward, just didn't connect because this guy is the center of everyone's interest.

I do like some of Melody's books, but this one just wasn't for me. I saw a review mention this would probably be great as a series for each character and I fully agree.

Content/Trigger Warning: Clean romance, no language, grief from spouse loss

Thank you to the publisher for sending me a copy to honestly read and review. All thoughts are my own.

[theliterateleprechaun]

4 ⭐

This uplifting book comes with a subtle message!

When Kenzie Owen’s dad, Paul, dies after a long fight with cancer, she wants to protect her mom. Kenzie’s heart is in the right place, but trying to usher her mom, 61-year-old Riva, into a senior’s residence isn’t necessarily in Riva’s best interest.

I could see both sides of the issue with this one because we’re experiencing it right now with an elderly parent. My heart hurt for Riva because I could see how she wanted her mom to simplify her life, clear out the clutter and move on. Been there. However, I could also see Riva’s point of view, and this is where I got a huge lesson. Riva sees a different way to start afresh and it involves staying in her Victorian home and renting out 4 rooms!

Although I didn’t connect with any of the other characters, Laurel, Windy, Fiona, and Kitty, I was interested in seeing if these 5 unique women could “find the space and grace to live peacefully together.” There certainly were some ups and downs, but Riva shows that moving on looks different for everyone. Kenzie was worried that her mom’s huge library of books was holding her hostage, and she referred to her mom’s library as a jail. Gasp. Riva gently allowed her daughter to see her point of view - that they were her friends, her passion and definitely her problem! I like how the author explored grief and the mother-daughter dynamic. Loss of control can result in anger but Riva learns to diffuse it and their relationship survives. Sometimes, mother knows best!

I’ll remember this book for the reminder that “family is where you find it.”

I was gifted this copy and was under no obligation to provide a review.

[Alicia (aliciasbooksanctuary) · Rating 3 out of 5]

OVERALL STAR RATING: 3/5
CLEAN RATING: 5/5

I loved the premise of this book - like a modern-day Golden Girls plot. A recent widow opens up her home to renters in order to make ends meet. Each woman has their own unique story and struggles. I would have loved to go deeper and learn more about this entire cast of characters, however. I feel as though I didn't fully get to know or connect with any of them. There's a male character in this story as well who basically everyone in the house is interested in romantically which gets a little awkward. I was never actually rooting for a relationship for any of them because the whole thing felt weird.

A very quick read, but I do think the immaturity level of these grown women was a bit of a turn off. There's a lot of gossip and petty junior high type chaos that takes place that was making me feel frustrated as I read. Too surface level for my personal reading taste.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

*For more reviews and bookish content, be sure to follow me on Instagram @aliciasbooksanctuary

[Chris Jager · Rating 4 out of 5]

A delightful read for a icy weekend. All booked up by Melody Carlson is a lovely story about women learning what it really means to be to be friends, but also a family. Riva is loosing the house her and her husband owned. A quick suggestion gives her an idea, take in roommates. What follows is a read that any women over a certain age will complete adore and even makes us wish for a group of women just like them to be part of.
Melody has long been an author that I have loved to read. She has a way of creating a world you want to be part of. She pens stories that make you want to be a better person. I plan on reading her books for years to come. You should also.

[Misty Wilson · Rating 4 out of 5]

A delightful story of forgiveness, second chances, and learning to live again. Enduring characters who find their way into your heart drawing out all the emotions. The eclectic group of women- Riva, Windy, Laurel, Fiona, and Kitty- although very different from each other, each have something to teach us from their stories. I found myself laughing, crying, and feeling their frustration as they learn to navigate life living together and face the challenges of their own lives.

The story quickly draws you in making it difficult to put down. I found myself invested in the storyline. It touches your heart and soul. It did not disappoint.

I was given a complimentary copy of this book by the publisher through NetGalley. All opinions expressed are completely my own.

[Jenny x Carolena]

Melody Carlson delivers a tender and heartfelt story about grief, healing, and the courage it takes to begin again. Riva Owen, a widow and empty nester, finds herself at a crossroads a year after her loss—torn between holding onto the past and stepping into an uncertain future. Rather than letting go of her beloved family home and treasured library, she chooses a path that brings unexpected companionship, opening her doors to women also navigating life’s transitions.

The story handles grief in a very real and gentle way. Riva’s journey reflects the quiet, everyday process of learning how to move forward while still honoring what she’s lost. Her healing unfolds gradually through meaningful connections, small moments of courage, and the support of those around her. Watching her open her heart again—to friendship, change, and even the possibility of love—felt sincere and uplifting.

This was an incredibly sweet and comforting read that balances emotional depth with optimism. It’s a gentle reminder that even after profound loss, it’s never too late to look forward, rediscover joy, and embrace the possibility of new beginnings.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

[Hannah · Rating 3 out of 5]

An overall sweet and sentimental book following people as they navigate the stages of grief and build new relationships. This did have my least favorite trope of, “it’s been a year, it’s time to move on,” but it was handled well overall so it didn’t mess with my experience too much. There’s a certain topic brought up during her grief group around the 50% mark that wasn’t handled in a way I’d prefer, and that definitely took me out of the story. Otherwise, I thought this book was a well done women’s fiction and I enjoyed reading about the character’s ups and downs, the bookish connections and how fiction can teach life lessons, and the genuine friendships. Aside from those aforementioned qualms, the book did a good job of discussing grief after losing a loved one.

Thank you NetGalley and Revell for the ARC. All opinions are my own.

[ꫂ᭪ · Rating 2 out of 5]

2 ⭐️ i got to read the arc audiobook. i felt the topic of grief being explored was interesting and thorough. i did however had a difficult time enjoying it because some of the roommates are difficult to like based on their childish personalities at times.

[Elaine · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another beautiful story with some heart-wrenching messages interspersed throughout, and where FAITH shines through each chapter!

But honestly, she had me at 'discombobulated' early on in the book!! (Something my Mom would say frequently, but that I haven't heard used in years, now! ) 😢

Riva is a widow. She lost her husband a little over a year ago and has been having a really hard time making it day to day. She has two grown children, but they are off leading their own lives. She lives in a beautiful, old, Victorian home that's been in her family for generations...
But, after losing her husband, and facing lots of medical bills, home taxes, and routine repairs...well, she's not sure she will be able to keep the home she adores. And... all of the books that have accumulated over many generations. But, she's not sure she'll have any other choice than to sell.

One day her friend encourages (more like begs her) to go to a grief counseling meeting in her neighborhood. She really does not want to go... but to appease her friend, she goes. While there she meets a lovely older woman named Windy. They seem to hit it off right away.
So, when Windy leaves the meeting and finds Riva walking home, well she offers her a ride. And she is shocked to find that she LIVES in the house she has always adored as she drives by!
Riva asks her in to see the home and tells her of her predicament.
Windy says she would LOVE to rent a room here. Would she be open to this? Her condo building has just raised their rents AGAIN... and she cannot afford to stay there! And she's pretty sure her other friend, the one who suggested Riva go to the meeting, would move too! As she lives in the same building...

This gives her some thoughts to ponder...
And she finally decides that if she DOES rent the rooms out, she could keep the home and catch up on all the bills.

And so, she puts it out there that she's renting rooms... only to women... and the home fills up!

What she does not think about is that each of these women will have their own thoughts and feelings and moods... etc. And that this might not work out just as planned.

And that is when God comes in to the picture. And the beauty of saying a prayer. Asking for help. Guiding his flock...

This was a touching and beautiful tribute to women all over the world... just trying to make ends meet, and yet, giving all of themselves in the process. But also, finding friends and family that you were not born with...

And, the pure joy of helping others, and being there for others as well!

4 1/2 beautiful, tear-stained, heart-filling-up, emotional, wonderful stars for me, happily rounded up to 5!! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

#AllBookedUp by @MelodyCarlson and narrated beautifully by @SuzieAlthens.

*** This one HAS NOT BEEN RELEASED YET!!! Please look 👀 for it in a few days on 3/17/26!! ***

Thanks so much to #NetGalley, @RBMedia and @RecordedBooks for an ALC of the audiobook in exchange for an honest review!!

You can also find my reviews on: Goodreads,
Instagram: @BookReviews_with_emsr and/or
My Facebook Book Club: Book Reviews With Elaine

Thanks so much for reading! And if you ‘liked’ my review, please share with your friends, & click ‘LIKE’ below… And, let me know YOUR thoughts if you read it!! 📚⭐️

[Ciara Hartman · Rating 4 out of 5]

🎧 Audio Review: Really enjoyed the narration for this story!

📝 Story Review: This was a good one! I very much enjoyed the story and seeing how it played out.

Riva lives alone in a Victorian home, her husband having passed away 18 months before. She’s facing the reality of losing the home that’s been in her family for generations as well as the amazing library in it. - But after joining a grief support group, opportunity opens up… she’s given the idea of taking in boarders who pay monthly for a room and therefore she could continue to stay in her home. - But it’s hard to know what you’re getting into when you don’t really know the person you’re letting inside your home or how different people will get along when living in the same space.

This story showcased how grief can affect people and the time it takes for pain to lessen. How easy it is to be afraid to keep living when your loved one has passed away. It also brought forth a beautiful story of found family and friendships blossoming later in life (these ladies are in their 50s-60s), but not without some drama! One of the boarders was quite different from the rest in her behavior and became troublesome. (Personally I didn’t feel bad for her because she created her own issues, but Riva began to feel that she needed their help to change her ways and was very patient with her.) Also, you had drama from older ladies taking an interest in one man and acting very childish about him and having jealousy spring up time and time again. - Really loved how it all worked out! (Also, book club was incorporated in an interesting manner!)

The only thing I wasn’t a big fan of was that god/prayer/faith came into play numerous times during the story and I tend to veer away from that in fiction, but thankfully it wasn’t too overwhelming.

My Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4/5

Vibes: Comforting; informative; cozy; amazing found family vibes!

Tropes 👇

- Life after loss
- Home repairs/gardening
- Book club
- FMC’s in their 50s-60s
- Found family
- Female friendships
- Jealousy
- One home, multiple tenants

CW’s 👇

- Cancer
- Loss of loved ones
- Grief group
- Mention of death from car accident
- Drug use
- Alcohol use/overindulging
- Unkind comments about appearance

Audio Release Date: March 17, 2026
Audio Run Time: 8 hrs, 31 mins
Narrated By: Suzie Althens
Genre: Women’s Fiction
POV: Single; Third Person

Thank you to NetGalley and RBmedia for this ALC in return for my honest review!

[Emily · Rating 4 out of 5]

All Booked Up was an enjoyable read written by Melody Carlson. Whether you are young and hip or older and groovy, this Golden Girlsesque book will hook you in.

Riva is in the process of dealing with her grief, but is finding herself at a place where she might have to consider selling her beloved home to be able to live. Her husband has passed away, and the finances have dwindled. When Riva finds her acquaintances from the grief group also in need of some housing. Is it a crazy idea to rent out rooms in her house to almost near strangers? Maybe, but that is what Riva decides to do. With five women in one house, all single/widows, something is bound to go sideways. And that is what happens when the male specimen comes around. When more than one woman has their eye on the same man, things get hairy.

Each lady has something to add to the story. Riva is learning she can be happy without her late husband.
Windy- grew up in a commune and has a lot to offer the group. She is also responsible for bringing in the male counterparts, as her brother Marcus is always showing up.
Laurel is finding a way to open up to a relationship again, and how to find her own self.
Fiona has moved halfway across the world to help her brother and is quite content with where she is.
Kitty, as her name would suggest, is quite catty when it comes to, well, everything. As Riva tells her, she is like Lydia. A little naïve and flighty, with an alcohol problem and a way of catching the wrong kind of men. She is trying to hold on to her youth with every ounce of her being. Putting the other women in the group down to try to make herself appear younger and almost better than the rest.  

There were a lot of hard topics in this book. It deals a lot with grief, the different layers of it, and the different ways each person deals with grief. I will warn you that it also mentions medically assisted suicide. It is brought up in the grief group, and then we find out that one of the spouses used it to end their life. I did appreciate that Riva was truly bothered by it, and they discussed it. But I can’t say that I really loved that it was in the book.  

*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, which I received from the author. A positive review was not required. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.

[January · Rating 5 out of 5]

All Booked Up by Melody Carlson (2026)
8h 56m narrated by Suzie Althens, 272 pages

Genre: Contemporary Christian Romance,

Rating as a movie: PG-13 for innuendos and adult situations

Featuring: Widow, Empty Nester, Small-Town Oregon, Victorian Home, Sexagenarians, Support Group, Friendships, Boarding, Books About Books, Retirees, Gardening, Dinners, Roommates, Quadragenarian, Cat, Book Club, Drama, Found Family

My rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🏡📚🍛

My thoughts:📱42% 5h 9m left Chapter 13 - I was loving this story until it decided to stop playing. Ugh!
📱85% 1h 22m left Chapter 24 - I got busted reading at 1 am so I'm off to get my beauty sleep for better health. I'm loving this story. It's hilarious.

Prior to reading All Booked Up I've read 12 Melody Carson books, so I'm no expert and 10 of them were Christmas books, but this got to be the best book I've ever read by her. I absolutely loved it from start to finish and there are several moments where I was cracking up laughing. I found myself frequently sharing the jokes in this story with my mother. Although there were some romantic elements it doesn't really check the boxes of a romance. I didn't want the fun to end, on the brightside I added some titles to my TBR. This is an awesome story even if you are not a fan of Christian Fiction. Thank you to NetGalley and RBMedia for providing this audiobook in exchange for an honest review.

Recommend to others: 💯 I'd totally recommend it to anyone who is into lighthearted contemporary books.

Songs for the soundtrack: "Boot Scootin' Boogie" by Brooks & Dunn

Books and Authors mentioned: Louis L'Amour, Tom Clancy, Oliver Twist by Charles Dickens, The Golden Girls by Susan Harris, Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen, Nancy Drew Mystery Stories by Carolyn Keene, A Gentleman in Moscow by Amor Towles, F. Scott Fitzgerald, Ulysses by James Joyce, Notting Hill by Richard Curtis, Charlie's Angels by Ivan Goff and Ben Roberts, Death Is Nothing at All by Henry Scott Holland, Pretty Woman by J. F. Lawton, Pacific Heights by Daniel Pyne, King Arthur and His Knights of the Round Table by Roger Lancelyn Green, Pollyanna by Eleanor H. Porter, Gospel of John by John the Apostle, One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest by Ken Kesey, The Hundred and One Dalmatians by Dodie Smith, Redeeming Love by Francine Rivers, The Shell Seekers by Rosamunde Pilcher, Small Things like These by Claire Keegan

[Vickie · Rating 5 out of 5]

The story of four women who join together to live in widow Riva’s house is one that kept me engaged. I laughed as they partied together, teared up when they talked together about their past losses and in general, I thoroughly enjoyed this novel. Riva doesn’t have the money to keep her house now that she is a widow, so she follows the advice of a new woman she meets and decides to rent out rooms. She doesn’t want to sell her home because of the library that has a collection of all of her books and well as her husband’s books. Riva chooses, interviews and accepts four women to come and live in her home. The story unfolds as conflicts erupt between some of the women and Riva, as the homeowner, has to act as a mediator as well as the one who reminds each of the women of the rules. I loved Riva’s plan to have each woman read a book and then discuss it. Her choices of books for each tenant is nothing short of brilliant, showing her ability to understand what made each woman tick. I also enjoyed the character Marcus, a brother of one of the tenants named Windy, and a widower who must be very handsome since more than one of the women in the house is attracted to him. That sub-plot is a central part of a lot of the story. The real center of the story is forming friendships, being vulnerable and honest with friends, and learning to move into an uncertain future while leaving the past behind. This is a faith-centered book with lots of heart and truth in it. It captivated my attention right away since all of the main characters are older and entering the part of life where there is a lot of unexpected and sometimes scary change. That made the book so realistic and helped me to identify with the flaws of the characters. This is a quick and engaging read, with lots to love and book discussions that added to my interest in continuing to read. This book deserves more than five stars for being so relatable and such a heart-felt story of women who find strength that they didn’t know they had.
I voluntarily received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley. I was not required to write a positive review, and all opinions expressed are my own.

[Ausjenny · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thanks to the Publisher and Netgalley for my review copy.

What can I say Melody Carlson does it again. Another great book. The starts with Riva and her daughter talking about her large library of books. Kenzie would like her to get rid of the books even burning them and Riva can't she loves books. Riva is a widow and the cost of upkeep for her house is becoming too much. She may need to move but can she part with her books.

Through circumstances she decides to rent rooms in her house to other women. This leads to a house with five very different women all single due to different circumstances. One of the women has a older brother who is a handyman and helping is sister and her friend with moving. With five different personalities there is bound to be teething issues. We see this fairly early on especially with one lady. She is trying and at times I would have liked to knock some sense into her. However, this does lead to a good book. Seeing how Melody would deal with the issues and what resolution would happen.

This book deals with grief and the different stages and how little things can bring up memories and feelings the characters have to deal with. It also has healing. One of the early scenes is Riva attending a grief support group and it is a recurring theme. We learn early that Riva's husband Paul died of cancer and Riva was his carer. This in itself adds a layer to grief. If you are in this situation or just recently widowed, you may find this book difficult at times. I also think for those a little into the grief journey would find this book helpful. Showing how grief is normal and it doesn't just go away and there is no time limit.

Overall, I loved the ending, but I would love to read more of these characters. There is so many more stories that could from this scenario and would make a great series. I know this probably won't happen but I can hope.

If you enjoy books with real situations dealing with real issues and strong characters give this book a go.

[Tammy Lunsford - Escape to Books By Tammy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This author has a talent for bringing her stories to life with characters that jump off of the pages. This book was filled with characters from all walks of life. Some were a little different and marched to the beat of their own drum, while others covered up their insecurities with sharp, cutting words to others while also running from aging while also chasing youth. But they all had one thing in common - loneliness and loss of some sort.

Comfort zones are hard to leave, but sometimes God puts people in our pathway to help us see there is more life to live, even after a gut-wrenching, tragic loss.

Riva is widowed and living all alone in a big house. Not only is she lonely, finances have been tight since her husband's death. The thought of selling her generational home to strangers breaks her heart into pieces. When a friend suggests renting some of her rooms out to other women, she is hesitant, but after prayer realizes this could be the answer to her problems.

What happened after mixing five women together under one roof was, at times, comical, and at other times it was sad. Each woman has a very unique story and even more unique personality. I have always said there is nothing harder to deal with than a group of women, of any age, and that is very true in this story. This is more than a Golden Girls type story because these women each possess a skill set or talent that at least one needs. There are no coincidences. God has a plan, and His plans for these women were laid out before they ever met.

I loved the book club aspect of this story. Riva's love of books was a game changer for her housemates.

The author showed that grief is layered and different for different people, but very personal for each individual. But it also helps to have someone to share with. This story was very emotional, but also very satisfying.

Thank you to Revell, NetGalley and the author for this ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[ErinTalksBooks · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars from me!! Thank you NetGalley for the arc of this audiobook in exchange for an honest review.

I listened to this in a little more than a day. Let’s start with I enjoyed the narrator, which we all know can make or break a book. This book follows Riva who is a widow trying to continue living in the home she shared with her late husband. With finances a little tight, she considers selling, but is hesitant to part with not only the memories she shared with her late husband but also with her in home library filled with books she has collected over the years. After a strange encounter at a grief support group and some encouragement from her friends (old and new) she decides to open up her large Victorian home to renters. All females. All in their 50-60’s. All in need of female companionship. Or so they thought.

I went into this book thinking it was going to be a rom com. While it did have some love interests at times, this was more to do about found family, the exploration of grief, and faith. This book is like the Golden Girls in paperback (or audiobook) form. I honestly kept thinking about them throughout. Personally, as a 43 year old single childless woman, I repeatedly returned to this idea of how this would be a fun way to live. A bunch of single ladies living together, talking about books, gardening, eating dinner, listening to music in the garden, and still being a great group of friends? Sign me up!! No, for real!

I think this book could be for everyone, but especially if you are in the age range of 50-65, this is for you. I did feel a little like I couldn’t relate at times to the characters because I’m younger than them (even though not by much 😭). But some of them acted like they were in their 20’s, which was also a little off putting. I also would have loved to gotten deeper into the roommates characters as it mostly focused on Riva’s character and the rest were just supporting members.

Enjoy!

[Monica H (TeaandBooks) · Rating 3 out of 5]

All Booked Up by Melody Carlson drew me in with the bookish cover. While there is some talk about books, the story is mainly about a widowed woman who takes in boarders for financial reasons. It is a character driven novel about relationships.

Riva Owen lives in a large Victorian house that has been in her family for generations. Her lawyer husband passed away several months earlier and her finances were now a challenge. Riva doesn't want to move and leave her house--and her library of cherished books.

After some consideration, instead of moving, Riva takes in boarders. With a few women living under the same roof, they have to learn to navigate different personalities and challenges as housemates. There are some men included in the story but there isn't a lot of romance in All Booked Up. This book focuses on friendships.

I enjoyed getting to know Riva and the other ladies in her house to start with. Then, when they were living together, there was some gossip and childish behavior that I didn't really like reading about. Kitty was the biggest challenge to like for all of the housemates and this reader. I am not sure I found the ending entirely believable but it was a happy ending. It was a little too convenient and didn't seem quite realistic to me.

With several widows and a widower in the story, there is also a focus on grieving. There is a grief support group that characters attend. In one meeting they talk about assisted suicide. Those who are currently grieving, may want to be prepared for that.

The talk about books and a book club is more towards the end of All Booked Up. I found that part to be interesting but I expected it to play a bigger part in this book than it did based on the title.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.

[Terri Gillespie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this trend in fiction—communities of women who bring humor, faith, inspiration, and healing. Melody Carlson’s latest release, ALL BOOKED UP, is a wonderful example. This book embodies so much about surviving grief emphasizing that healing is not a solitary process. The group of women that are brought together and the issues they have are so perfect in relaying the author’s message of redemption, forgiveness, and love.

THE STORY: Widowed empty nester Riva Owen lives in the Victorian house that's been in her family for three generations, but finances have become a challenge she can no longer ignore. Her daughter is pushing her to move, and after considering all her options, Riva knows selling would be the smartest course. But she just can't bring herself to leave decades of memories—and her cherished library filled with hundreds of books.
When she pursues an alternative—opening her home to women like her who need a room to rent—Riva is unprepared for the mix of personalities and peculiarities of her new housemates. She is even more unprepared for Marcus, the handsome and handy-man older brother of one of her new tenants. The possibility of finding love again feels overwhelming, even as her tenants seem to have romantic schemes of their own.

5 STARS BECAUSE as someone who has experienced a recent loss, I found the depiction of community and its power for that organic healing process especially moving. Melody Carlson’s experiences shine through in her beautiful prose and genuine insights, but what truly sets her apart is her gift for weaving real-life struggles with uplifting moments. This makes ALL BOOKED UP both relatable and inspiring—a heartfelt story that lingers long after the last page.

I received an ARC from NetGalley through Bethany House Publishing for my honest review.

[Michele The Stick · Rating 3 out of 5]

All Booked Up is a story of five single older women coming together under one roof. I liked the story itself. I am a sucker for found family.

As a 50 year old woman, I like seeing older women have stories around finding themselves and enjoying their lives.

I did not know that it was a Christian story when I began reading it and I don't care for that. It's not that I don't like characters to have spirituality, it is more their reliance on God and the rituals of religion that I find unappealing.

I also didn't like the judgement that these women seemed to have against romance novels and also their deference to men was alarming.

It was an easy read and there was sufficient character development, despite feeling as if I was being told more than shown what the characters were thinking and feeling.

The ending felt too convenient and I didn't feel as if Kitty had a satisfactory redemption arc.

While listening to the narration, I never got lost in the story. Suzie Althens has a pleasant voice, but lacks breath control and the sound of her taking deep inhales pulled me out of the story every few moments. She had a passable Irish accent, but did not try to vary any of the other character's voices. This story might be one best experienced by reading with your eyes.

If you are looking for an easy fast fast-paced Christian, found family story about older women connecting with themselves and each other, then this might be a good book for you. For me, I would have liked to see some humor and more heart in this novel about five women finding what it means to be home.

Thank You to Netgalley, the author, and RB Media for allowing me to listen to this book in exchange for an honest review.

[Nora St Laurent · Rating 5 out of 5]

Riva's husband passed away eighteen months ago, and her kids are pressuring her to sell their family home. The cost of living and maintaining the old home is expensive. The reality has recently hit her too; a friend suggests taking in roommates. Her home was big enough. She wonders.

It's been said that authors write about their experiences. Melody Carlson provides readers with an insight into a grieving program she may have gone through after her husband passed away in December 2024. I liked how the author incorporated her love of reading and books into the story.
I appreciated Riva's ability to be bold with her friends' support. I liked how she tried to help everyone get along while overcoming the challenges posed by the wide variety of characters. It was difficult.

I've read several of this author's books, and each novel inspires me to learn more about the community she spotlights. I truly value Melody's ability to write stories that deepen and strengthen my faith. This book serves as an example of how fiction can impart life lessons and cultivate genuine friendships, which the author excellently depicts in this novel. I highly recommend this heartwarming story, and be sure to check out her other novels.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I requested and received a copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Nora St. Laurent
TBCN Where Book Fun Begins!
The Book Club Network blog

[Chelsie · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was such a cute read! Reva is still grieving the passing of her husband a year later and feels like she is loosing everything. She isn't sure how she is going to stay in this large Victorian house that has been in her family for decades. Her daughter is telling her to just burn all those books and sell the place. When a good friend tosses out the idea of renting out the rooms, Reva isn't sure what to think. She has been used to the quiet and being all by herself but she just cannot afford it any longer and renting out rooms might not be so and, she would be choosing the renters after all. Soon word gets out and Reva has plenty of people inquiring about these open rooms. After some interviewing, negotiations with terms and rules she decides she will do this. So far things are working well, they are all getting along and each seem to bring something to the house. When Laurel suggests that her hairdresser is looking for a room, Reva decides to give her a chance. Kitty is quite the opposite of the rest of the women and soon the house is upheaved by her. Seconding guessing things Reva wonders if this was the right decision after all after situation after situation with Kitty keeps happening and the others have expressed thoughts of moving out. When Reva finally confront Kitty and an old friend of hers shows up, Reva realizes that maybe it's Kitty who needed them after all, and a second chance might be just what she needs. This was a very enjoyable heartfelt read. Thank you to the author and Revell Fiction for the complementary novel. This review is of my own opinion and accord.

[Lori Parrish · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved every minute of this one! Si much so that I was sad when it ended. I love Carlson's books!
I just finished this wonderful novel. Wow!
Grief can hit anytime anywhere. This amazing book shows that. Poor Riva!! Caught between the middle of friends and life oh my.
Kitty is the one character that I didn't like. I didn't like from the get go. But yet at the same time I felt sorry for her. If that makes sense.
I thought it was a bad idea to begin with but then we wouldn't habe a story lol.
I don't think the house liked it either lol. Houses do have stories to tell too.
This story did end up with some funny places but yet at the same time wanted to shake some of these characters bc they acted like children. I already name one earlier but that's all I'll do.
I really did enjoy this story.
Riva was a delight in getting to know. As this story shows there are some very hard decisions to make but infeel like the characters come out better for them.
I truly loved all these characters from their personalities to their amazing friendships. Yes, people wont always get along but that's what makes this story such a cute and delightful one.
Carlson did a wonderful job with this story. Im looking forward to more from her.
Her stories will make your day believe me.
5 stars for keeping me interested all the way through.
Thanks for the opportunity to read and review this awesome novel. I was NOT required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine.

[Madison Warner Fairbanks · Rating 3 out of 5]

All Booked Up by Melody Carlson
Christian women’s fiction with minor secondary romance. Closed door.
Riva Owen is a widow and struggling to make payments on the old Victorian house that has been in her family for generations. She’s not interested in moving, in part because of the massive library in the house that has brought her years of joy and comfort. Trying to find a solution other than selling, she talks to friends around the small town and finds that housing is in demand, in particular for single woman in her age group. Riva decides to open her home to women needing a place to rent, praying for direction, and spiritual support. Soon, her house and heart are filled as she opens her doors.

🎧 I listened to an audiobook narrated by Suzie Althens who has created a rich and pleasing version of this story. There are distinct voices with different accents, cadences and tempos to keep the keep the key players straight.
The audiobook kept my attention at a pace of 1.5 to 1.7 to best match local conversation speed.

Older characters, mostly at or near retirement age, bring comfort and friendship to a newly created boarding house in a community where apartments are in short supply.
Loved the built friendships as the women became to know each other. Of course there is going to be some incompatibility in a new group.

Lovely with the caveat that the reader is fine with spirituality in the text.

I received a copy of this from NetGalley and RBmedia

[Tracie Wallace · Rating 5 out of 5]

All Booked Up by Melody Carlson
I don’t know where to start. I loved so many things about this book. The characters are phenomenal. I walked right into this story, like I was there with Riva. I identified with her immediately, that library!
Riva, a recent widow struggles with grief and staying in her home with a mound of medical bills. Forming connections, she invites four women to move into her home and her life is changed forever.
There is growth among the characters, the setting is wonderful in an old Victorian home with a sizeable library.
This book embodies so much about surviving grief and healing. The group of women that are brought together and the issues they have are so perfect in relaying the author’s message of redemption, forgiveness, and love.
I don’t want to give away too much but I really couldn’t walk away for a minute. I was invested and immersed in the story. It’s about grief, healing, friends, found family, grace, and it has books, a home library, and a book group. That’s all I’m going to say. I was so pleased to be given an opportunity to review an ARC of this book, and I will sing its praises. If you’re over 50, and you want an uplifting story, this is your book!
I would like to thank Melody Carlson and NetGalley for the opportunity to review an ARC of this book. The opinions expressed in this review are my own. 5/5⭐

[Elizabeth Eckmeyer · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this book as I usually love Melody Carlson's books. She has an amazing talent to take a heavy subject and some how make a light and airy story that will have you up half the night because you can't put it down.

Riva is a widow of eighteen months. She is adjusting and grieving in her family home that has been passed down a few generations through her family. She is coming to the realization that her giant home is to big for just her and to expensive. She especially doesn't want to give up her library book collection.

Windy is a hippie women who lives life on her own terms. She also is a widow and suggests that Riva rent the rooms in her house out. Laurie is a long term friend of Riva and is divorced. Fiona is an Irish waitress at an Irish pub. Kitty is an eccentric beautician.

This book is a modern day golden girls. These women come together through loss and looking for hope. As they learn to live together they also are learning to get to know themselves in a new light. Each women is experiencing grief through the death of her husband or divorce. They find friendship in the encouragement of their housemates and learn to see a new positive future for themselves. I highly recommend reading this!

A complimentary copy of this book was provided by Baker Publishing Group through Interviews and Reviews via NetGalley. All opinions are mine alone.*

[Hannah's Biblioblurbs · Rating 4 out of 5]

👵📚 If the Golden Girls started a book club in a cozy small town, this might be the book they’d pick.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Looking for a precious small-town read with plenty of giggles and just the right sprinkle of romance? 💕📚 Look no further! Melody Carlson delivers exactly that in All Booked Up.

Perfect for readers who enjoy:
📚 Cozy small-town settings
💬 Witty banter and friendship dynamics
💞 Light romance
✝️ Christian themes of grace and forgiveness
☕ Feel-good comfort reads

I listened to the audiobook, and the narrator was fabulous 🎧✨ Great tone, great pacing (though I’m definitely one of those people who cranks the speed up once I get into a story 😆). Each character had a distinct voice, which made it easy to follow and really brought the story to life.

This Christian fiction novel gracefully weaves together themes of grief, loneliness, friendship, and romance 🤍🌷. The witty banter had me laughing out loud more than once—honestly it gave me a cleaner, cheesier Golden Girls vibe 👵💬 and I loved every minute of it.

Carlson wraps everything up with a sweet Christian message about love, grace, and forgiveness ✝️💗 that leaves you feeling warm and happy by the end. While some of the characters came across a bit immature or catty at times 🙈, it also helped highlight their growth later in the story 🌱.

Overall, it’s a cozy, feel-good read that leaves you smiling 😊📖

Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher, and the author for the ALC and the opportunity to share my honest thoughts! 🙏✨

[Carley Stoppani · Rating 2 out of 5]

DNF at 55%

Widowed Riva is on the brink of losing her long-time family home following her husband’s passing. The solution? Open her extra rooms for rent to other women in similar situations. Riva must navigate the personalities of her new housemates & process her feelings for the handsome brother of one of her new tenants.

I decided to DNF this book at 55%. I wasn’t the biggest fan of the characters, their conflicts, or how they solved their problems. The issues seemed really petty for a group of people all over 50 years old. The characters themselves had potential, but as the story continued, I never felt like I got to know them any better and ultimately never felt like I connected to the story. Also, this is a Christian story which I was unaware of until I started reading it. I would have liked to see that mentioned in the description as I would have likely opted to pass on this book altogether.

This is an objectively cute and wholesome story about grieving and found family. As much as I am not the target audience for this his book, I do think it could be good for someone going through something similar. 2 stars because it was not a bad book, just not the book for me!

Thank you to NetGalley and RBmedia for the advanced listeners copy of this audiobook!! All opinions are my own.

[Jeanne · Rating 3 out of 5]

Review for All Booked Up by Melody Carlson Audiobook narrated by Suzie Althens.

Riva is a widow who lives in a large Victorian house. She might have to move due to finances, but chance encounter gives her the idea of opening her house up to women boarders. The boarders are women who have been widowed, divorced, raised children, lost their homes. All have a lot of life experience so I expected this book to be about women coming together in friendship and support. Unfortunately that wasn’t what I found in this book.

One boarder that was added was insulting people from the start and not cleaning up after herself. Rather than speaking to her about her behavior, they stayed quiet, cleaned up after her, and then had numerous gripe sessions with each other complaining about this roommate. The other issue is that one woman had a brother and two of the other women started acting like boy-crazy teenagers around him. The decisions that the women came to regarding men coming to the house because of the women’s behavior was odd. I never felt like I got to know more about the characters other than Riva and Markus.

The narration was easy to listen to.

Thank you to the author, RB Media, and NetGalley for the Advanced Listener Copy (ALC) of this book and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.

[Rachel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Widowed empty nester Riva Owen lives in the Victorian house that's been in her family for three generations, but finances have become a challenge she can no longer ignore. Her daughter is pushing her to move, and after considering all her options, Riva knows selling would be the smartest course. But she just can't bring herself to leave decades of memories—and her cherished library filled with hundreds of books.

I loved this book. I listened to it in one day, it is a quick and easy listen and eventhough there were some sad themes with loss and others, I really enjoyed the Christian themes and how people can be good.
The book is a great simple story and would love more from it in a series with the ladies living together.

This book is described as having Christian themes and mentions praying and God. I do not understand why anyone would request to read it and then complain about those exact things the book is about. Also if you're going to review a book, at least be respectful enough to finish it before giving a review.

That being said, I really enjoyed this book and the ladies that found some companionship and friendship after losing loved ones.

Thank you NetGalley for this advanced audio

[Christine Barth · Rating 4 out of 5]

This review by librarian Christine Barth was first published in the November 2025 issue of Library Journal.

A widow for more than a year, Riva has moved past her grief, but she cannot bear to part with her Victorian house full of books. However, she might not be able to afford to keep the home. A chance encounter at a grief support group brings free-spirit Windy into her life, and when her best friend Laurel also expresses willingness to pay rent for a bedroom in her dated dwelling, Riva becomes the landlord to a motley crew of women of a certain age.

When clashing personalities break the fragile peace, the boarders almost come to blows over the attentions of Windy's widowed brother Marcus. Riva must seek the Lord's guidance on how to bring everyone together -- and required reading from her extensive library may just be the ticket.

VERDICT: Filling a gap in the market both for novels focusing on friendship and for those featuring mature characters, Carlson (Welcome to the Honey B&B) pens a delightful tale of aging gracefully despite past struggles. In addition to her latest, Carlson's fans might also want to check out Rebekah Millet and Sara Brunsvold's books.