What do you think?
Rate this book
The Wrong Knickers for a Wednesday
Dutch Courage is the South African title
The Wrong Knickers for a Wednesday is the UK title for the same novel.
Grace has led a pretty sheltered life. So when her sister begs her to take her place as a Rihanna impersonator at a club in Amsterdam, no alarm bells go off … until she finds herself onstage in the city’s famous red-light district with only a pole for support and her knickers in a knot.
Thrown into strip-club life, and forced to share an apartment with an exotic troupe of impersonating divas with Lady Gaga-sized egos, Grace has to learn some hard lessons fast. One: living with Marilyn Monroe and Madonna isn’t easy. And two: transformations don’t happen overnight – especially when your bra is determined to sabotage your dance routine.
Hilarious and smart with heart, Dutch Courage is Paige Nick’s new comedy about what’s left once your clothes come off.
The Wrong Knickers for a Wednesday is the UK title for the same novel.
Grace has led a pretty sheltered life. So when her sister begs her to take her place as a Rihanna impersonator at a club in Amsterdam, no alarm bells go off … until she finds herself onstage in the city’s famous red-light district with only a pole for support and her knickers in a knot.
Thrown into strip-club life, and forced to share an apartment with an exotic troupe of impersonating divas with Lady Gaga-sized egos, Grace has to learn some hard lessons fast. One: living with Marilyn Monroe and Madonna isn’t easy. And two: transformations don’t happen overnight – especially when your bra is determined to sabotage your dance routine.
Hilarious and smart with heart, Dutch Courage is Paige Nick’s new comedy about what’s left once your clothes come off.
- GenresFiction
247 pages, ebook
Published August 16, 2016
23 people are currently reading
237 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
June 24, 2017
Grace is a good girl from Cape Town. She’s nice and stable, a little innocent, a touch naïve. And now she’s strips at a club in Amsterdam. While pretending to be Rihanna…
A favour to her sister has landed her in a world over which she has no control - a world of strippers and madams and bouncers and drugs. A world where it’s not only the impersonators who are not who they seem…
A rollicking, rioting romp featuring Madonna, Lady Gaga, Marilyn Monroe, Paris Hilton and Dolly Parton. OK, not the ACTUAL stars, but the impersonators in ‘Dutch Courage’ are a whole bunch more fun!
A favour to her sister has landed her in a world over which she has no control - a world of strippers and madams and bouncers and drugs. A world where it’s not only the impersonators who are not who they seem…
A rollicking, rioting romp featuring Madonna, Lady Gaga, Marilyn Monroe, Paris Hilton and Dolly Parton. OK, not the ACTUAL stars, but the impersonators in ‘Dutch Courage’ are a whole bunch more fun!
December 26, 2016
Natalie has always taken care of Grace and now Grace has a chance to do something back for her sister. Natalie has a broken leg and she can't go to Amsterdam to perform. Natalie is a Rihanna impersonator. Because Grace looks very much like her she asks her sister to cover for her. She badly needs the money and Grace doesn't want to let her sister down. Only when she arrives in Amsterdam she discovers that the nightclub that's supposed to be her workplace is a strip club instead. She has no money and she owes the owners as soon as she stays a night under their roof. She shares an apartment with several other strippers who all resemble celebrities and she has only got a short amount of time to learn how to be one of them.
Grace used to live an uneventful life. She studied to become a teacher and she's engaged to Lucas. He doesn't know she's in Amsterdam to take her sister's place, he thinks she's there to teach. Grace has to lie to her fiancé, she has to overcome her stage fright, she has to deal with nudity in front of strangers, customers who want more than she's prepared to give and hostile coworkers. She also makes friends, she learns how to dance, she gains confidence and she has some fun. Will she be able to fake it until she makes it and will she succeed in keeping her sister's secrets or will she be found out?
Like A Virgin is an original story. Grace has to become a stripper if she ever wants to get out of Amsterdam again and if she wants to help her sister. She doesn't know how to perform, she's doesn't fit into her sister's clothes very well and she has to find a way to overcome her fears very quickly because she has to get on that stage to be able to escape it as soon as she'll be able to. She's in a tricky situation, but she's strong and she makes the most of it, often with a little bit of help. After every failure she gets up again and starts over. I loved that about her character. She makes friends with some of the other strippers and it was wonderful to read their advice and their fantastic one-liners. Grace does what she has to do and she stumbles through it while making money for her sister. There are plenty of funny scenes and I laughed quite a lot while I was reading this story. The idea of accidental stripping is pretty absurd and it really works.
Paige Nick has written a terrific story. Like A Virgin is a quick and easy read and I really enjoyed it. I liked the descriptions of the setting, the clothes and especially the dancing. I could easily picture Grace's impossible situation. Because all of the main characters look like celebrities it felt like I already knew them, which was a surreal experience. Paige Nick has a great sense of humor and her story is amusing and different. I really liked Like A Virgin, it's a fabulous read.
Grace used to live an uneventful life. She studied to become a teacher and she's engaged to Lucas. He doesn't know she's in Amsterdam to take her sister's place, he thinks she's there to teach. Grace has to lie to her fiancé, she has to overcome her stage fright, she has to deal with nudity in front of strangers, customers who want more than she's prepared to give and hostile coworkers. She also makes friends, she learns how to dance, she gains confidence and she has some fun. Will she be able to fake it until she makes it and will she succeed in keeping her sister's secrets or will she be found out?
Like A Virgin is an original story. Grace has to become a stripper if she ever wants to get out of Amsterdam again and if she wants to help her sister. She doesn't know how to perform, she's doesn't fit into her sister's clothes very well and she has to find a way to overcome her fears very quickly because she has to get on that stage to be able to escape it as soon as she'll be able to. She's in a tricky situation, but she's strong and she makes the most of it, often with a little bit of help. After every failure she gets up again and starts over. I loved that about her character. She makes friends with some of the other strippers and it was wonderful to read their advice and their fantastic one-liners. Grace does what she has to do and she stumbles through it while making money for her sister. There are plenty of funny scenes and I laughed quite a lot while I was reading this story. The idea of accidental stripping is pretty absurd and it really works.
Paige Nick has written a terrific story. Like A Virgin is a quick and easy read and I really enjoyed it. I liked the descriptions of the setting, the clothes and especially the dancing. I could easily picture Grace's impossible situation. Because all of the main characters look like celebrities it felt like I already knew them, which was a surreal experience. Paige Nick has a great sense of humor and her story is amusing and different. I really liked Like A Virgin, it's a fabulous read.
May 20, 2017
First of all this is not my usual genre for reading but I guess it's good to read books which are a little outside the box!
I actually found this book really funny, a giggle and an occasional squirmy moment appear in each chapter as Grace a young woman with little experience of the world is persuaded by her sister Natalie (who she resembles) to stand in for her in a job at a striptease club in Amsterdam as a Rihanna singer - yes you read this right! Crazy idea but it works!
Grace literally stumbles from one disaster to the next as at first she finds ways to escape the awful situation and then embraces and even finds ways to improve her act.
A fun read.
I actually found this book really funny, a giggle and an occasional squirmy moment appear in each chapter as Grace a young woman with little experience of the world is persuaded by her sister Natalie (who she resembles) to stand in for her in a job at a striptease club in Amsterdam as a Rihanna singer - yes you read this right! Crazy idea but it works!
Grace literally stumbles from one disaster to the next as at first she finds ways to escape the awful situation and then embraces and even finds ways to improve her act.
A fun read.
June 27, 2016
Funny as much as it is heart-breaking. Great plot, wonderful ending. It surprised me how difficult it was for me to read about the lot of women in the sex industry - in this respect the book did not reveal anything new to me, and yet, despite its light moments, the portrayal here left me with a lump in my throat. Fascinating insight into a deeply saddening world and a tribute to the amazing women who survive in it.
September 12, 2016
Hilarious, sassy, cheeky and so much fun ... and poignant in all the right places (no, not THOSE places!!!!). Paige Nick knows how to write a brilliant page-turner, and does it with style. Straight-laced Grace has offered to replace her sister Natalie as a Rihanna impersonator in an Amsterdam nightclub. But in true Natalie style (which Grace should have learned by now), she may have failed to give Grace one or two minor details that might turn out to be of quite major importance! What follows is a rambunctious romp into a lifestyle Grace never had a clue even existed. With Paige's attention to detail and meticulous research though, there's much insight and sensitivity shown to those who choose to work in an industry that has so much negativity thrown its way, and one cannot help but gain a much deeper understanding of it by the time one has reached the end of this book. 5 stars (in all the right places!!) and 10 out of 10 to Paige Nick!!!
April 23, 2016
I loved this book! Like a breath of fresh air, it felt nice to read a story with an idea I have never seen before. Even better - I never saw the ending coming!
To help her sister out, Grace finds herself in Amsterdam working as a celebrity impersonator who also strips for the first time in her life, all the while hiding it from her fiance. With a star-studded (albeit impersonators) cast of characters, this book made me laugh and had me intrigued with shenanigans that can happen in this world.
Highly highly recommend to all who are looking for a book that can make them laugh, is a quick read and is hard to put down! Paige Nick has a fan in me, and I look forward to any new novels from her in the future!
I received this e-book from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
To help her sister out, Grace finds herself in Amsterdam working as a celebrity impersonator who also strips for the first time in her life, all the while hiding it from her fiance. With a star-studded (albeit impersonators) cast of characters, this book made me laugh and had me intrigued with shenanigans that can happen in this world.
Highly highly recommend to all who are looking for a book that can make them laugh, is a quick read and is hard to put down! Paige Nick has a fan in me, and I look forward to any new novels from her in the future!
I received this e-book from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
September 27, 2016
Sjoe, what a book! What we learn about ourselves in situations we would never expected to be in! I truly hope I don't end up in such a situation as I really don't think I'll be able to do what Grace did. The story is well written and the strange mix of characters well worth it. And I never saw that ending coming!
August 27, 2016
Before I a trip, I browse the airport bookshop for that singular book that's going to be my companion on my journey. I was delighted to pick up Dutch Courage. Such a fantastic read with badass characters, a compelling plot and flipping funny to boot.
August 23, 2016
Such a great read! If you're in the mood for a chuckle, this is the book you need in your life. Really, really good stuff. ^_^
December 31, 2019
Loved loved loved this book!!! My favourite of hers by far. A wonderful story told with warmth and humour. Would love to see it as a movie or series
January 16, 2017
This was an easy read, perfect to start my year off. Not the sort of book I would recommend, but it is a perfect beach book.
May 2, 2016
This is the story of a naïve girl from South Africa who flies to Amsterdam to fulfil a contract her sister had committed to before breaking her leg. Grace is to spend a couple of months as a Rihanna impersonator to raise money for her sister to go back to college. The story revolves around the club where Grace performs and introduces other impersonators who work at the club and also share a house. She, understandably, struggles with what she needs to do to earn the most money possible while also trying to keep the truth from her fiancé Lucas who is back home in South Africa. Through his messages Lucas comes across as controlling and possessive, something pointed out by one of her new friends from the club although it takes some time for Grace to see it.
Certain elements of the story were predictable, such as the son taking over the running of the club from his parents and changing the rules for the performers. I have to say though that I didn't expect the twist featuring Marilyn Monroe!
The ending seemed a little sudden for my liking, Lucas suddenly appearing and changing from disapproving of the performing to wanting Grace to continue so that she can earn money for their future within the same conversation seemed a little unlikely to me. I also wasn't convinced that Grace would suddenly have the initiative to suggest something to Rihanna's people when they contact her.
Certain elements of the story were predictable, such as the son taking over the running of the club from his parents and changing the rules for the performers. I have to say though that I didn't expect the twist featuring Marilyn Monroe!
The ending seemed a little sudden for my liking, Lucas suddenly appearing and changing from disapproving of the performing to wanting Grace to continue so that she can earn money for their future within the same conversation seemed a little unlikely to me. I also wasn't convinced that Grace would suddenly have the initiative to suggest something to Rihanna's people when they contact her.
September 5, 2016
My true rating is 3.5 : if only I could work out how to produce half a star ...
A lively tale by one of my fave South African authors. Natalie (who is a double-crossing liar of note) breaks a leg and can't fulfill her new job contract in an Amsterdam strip club. She persuades her innocent sister, Grace, to take her place, because she - Natalie - desperately needs the Euros.
However, she omits to explain to her sister what the job entails. Poor Grace finds out the hard way.
Fun, smart, great characters, fascinating insight into the lives of dancer/strippers. Finally the villains get their just desserts, and virtue is rewarded: very satisfying! The title is inspired.
A quick, enjoyable read. Recommended.
A lively tale by one of my fave South African authors. Natalie (who is a double-crossing liar of note) breaks a leg and can't fulfill her new job contract in an Amsterdam strip club. She persuades her innocent sister, Grace, to take her place, because she - Natalie - desperately needs the Euros.
However, she omits to explain to her sister what the job entails. Poor Grace finds out the hard way.
Fun, smart, great characters, fascinating insight into the lives of dancer/strippers. Finally the villains get their just desserts, and virtue is rewarded: very satisfying! The title is inspired.
A quick, enjoyable read. Recommended.
May 20, 2017
First of all this is not my usual genre for reading but I guess it's good to read books which are a little outside the box!
I actually found this book really funny, a giggle and an occasional squirmy moment appear in each chapter as Grace a young woman with little experience of the world is persuaded by her sister Natalie (who she resembles) to stand in for her in a job at a striptease club in Amsterdam as a Rihanna singer - yes you read this right! Crazy idea but it works!
Grace literally stumbles from one disaster to the next as at first she finds ways to escape the awful situation and then embraces and even finds ways to improve her act.
A fun read.
I actually found this book really funny, a giggle and an occasional squirmy moment appear in each chapter as Grace a young woman with little experience of the world is persuaded by her sister Natalie (who she resembles) to stand in for her in a job at a striptease club in Amsterdam as a Rihanna singer - yes you read this right! Crazy idea but it works!
Grace literally stumbles from one disaster to the next as at first she finds ways to escape the awful situation and then embraces and even finds ways to improve her act.
A fun read.
December 26, 2016
I liked this - I had heard good reports of it and I enjoy reading South African writers so bought it for my book club. It was an interesting idea - Grace impersonates her sister who is herself a Rihanna impersonator and is launched into a journey or what we might call self-discovery and is saved from a nondescript life as a teacher with a controlling husband. It's fun in places, funny at times, and an enjoyable read. I found the text messages rather annoying, but I hate "text message speak" and all the ridiculous abbreviations.
June 3, 2016
Set in Amsterdam 2016. A rollicking read, with a happy ending (pun intended). Strong characterisation, with brilliantly rendered broken English spoken by the strippers from Eastern Europe & South America. I think most female readers - those of us who are NOT professional dancers & athletes with perfect bodies - will be able to identify with the main protagonist's negative inner dialogue & insecurities. All in all, a feel-good story, great for a laugh & a bit of escapism.
May 24, 2016
It kept me up until the early hours of the morning...simply because I couldn't put it down!!!
It was hilarious, and can't remember when last I had such good laughs.
Paige brings Amsterdam to you and you really feel like you have front row seats to the life of the Madonna's, Paris' and RiRi's.
Well done to an awesome author for yet another AMAZING book.
Love your work, please write more...SOON!
It was hilarious, and can't remember when last I had such good laughs.
Paige brings Amsterdam to you and you really feel like you have front row seats to the life of the Madonna's, Paris' and RiRi's.
Well done to an awesome author for yet another AMAZING book.
Love your work, please write more...SOON!
January 27, 2019
This book has been the highlight of my day! I couldn't wait to get home and read it after work or on weekends. I loved the characters, how they were written and the way the story progressed. This book is perfect for anyone looking to laugh and explore a different side of the norms we are taught to believe about many things in this world.
August 21, 2016
Written well and I loved the accents but I was a bit disappointed as I just couldn't believe the plot of her going over to "dance" without having a inkling of exactly what she was in for and then the fantasy ending.
January 1, 2019
I've been meaning to read this book for the longest time! It was a fun read; I guess the biggest problem I had was that I couldn't really relate to her decisions. Nevertheless its always good to read outside your comfort zone so I'm glad I read it.
Read
August 5, 2016– A YouTube video called 'How To Striptease For Beginners' looks promising. It has just short of two million hits. Two million people can't be wrong, can they? Maybe they can - look at Crocs. –
August 24, 2016
Accomplished, confident, fun read. Paige Nick carries off the somewhat daring far-fetched plot with skill. Verrry nice.
December 13, 2016
I found an eye into the world of stripping interesting but that's about it I'm afraid.
June 6, 2025
Paige Nick is a South African author writing very engaging and entertaining fiction. Dutch Courage is one of her earliest novels and follows Gracie, whose resemblance to a famous celebrity takes her on an unexpected journey… but hey, the things we do for family! Along the way, she stumbles onto a path of growth and self-discovery. The book has a strong voice and good humor, though the ending felt a bit too abrupt. I also would’ve liked more time to get to know the characters, especially Gracie. Still, it’s well-executed and shines a light on the adult entertainment industry, offering a humanizing (and often funny) take on the lives behind the scenes.
February 11, 2018
Funny and eye-opening!
Funny story about the good sister that is Grace. Fairly predictable in the outcome of her partner but some little shockers at the end which make it worth reading from cover to cover!
Funny story about the good sister that is Grace. Fairly predictable in the outcome of her partner but some little shockers at the end which make it worth reading from cover to cover!
April 27, 2024
At some point in our life, perhaps we all need a bit of Dutch Courage!
The book was an enjoyable read, filled with just the right dose of drama. It highlights the strength of human character in the midst of desperation and gives a glimpse into the sizzling nightlife of showbizz in Amsterdam.
The book was an enjoyable read, filled with just the right dose of drama. It highlights the strength of human character in the midst of desperation and gives a glimpse into the sizzling nightlife of showbizz in Amsterdam.
April 24, 2025
Maybe 2.5 stars. I found the story so far fetched and the characters so irritating that I nearly ditched the book but I finished it so it gets 2.5 stars. A story of a South African girl who is tricked into stripping in Amsterdam. Immature writing and stereotyped characters. Meh.
December 3, 2017
It was hard to believe at times as the central character was portrayed as being so naive. However, it was compelling enough to want to understand what happened in the end.
May 3, 2021
Loved it! Nice easy read and some bits were hilarious x
Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews