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The Midlife Trilogy #2
A Midlife Baby
'It’s sad, it’s funny, it’s every woman’s life.' Reader Review 'Brilliantly written, with so many twists that you just won’t see coming.' Reader Review
'I feel as though I am part of their friendship group now.' Reader Review
Trying to walk the tricky tightrope of family responsibilities, Helen pours out her heart to her loyal girlfriends. But when the close group try to help her move forward, they find themselves instead on a direct path to conflict as strained friendships and family ties collide in an act of unforgivable pain.
'I feel as though I am part of their friendship group now.' Reader Review
Trying to walk the tricky tightrope of family responsibilities, Helen pours out her heart to her loyal girlfriends. But when the close group try to help her move forward, they find themselves instead on a direct path to conflict as strained friendships and family ties collide in an act of unforgivable pain.
362 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 1, 2022
1038 people are currently reading
440 people want to read
About the author
Cary J. Hansson
11 books106 followersI'm a fifty something mum of three, an ex-dancer, actress, waitress, cleaner, TV presenter, double-glazing sales rep, fax machine operator. You name it and I’ve cleaned it, served it, sent it or sold it.
I write stories about ordinary people, living lives of extraordinary courage and I can promise only two things: no knights in shining armour and no flying cars. My fictional characters save themselves, as in the end we all must do.
A Midlife Holiday is my debut. Here's what people are saying:
“I haven’t devoured a book in one sitting for a long time but I literally could not put this down. It shouldn’t be so rare (or refreshing) to read about the lives of middle-aged women, but it is. Cary J Hansson handles her subject matter with authenticity, providing some seldom heard (yet much-needed) commentary on midlife. The book is compulsively readable ... funny, brutally honest, extremely relatable and a perfect summer read." SouthAsia Magazine
"A fantastic page-turner filled with humor, life lessons, and enlightenment. The book has a beautiful storyline interpreted by well-developed characters. It was also realistic and unpredictable. I am nowhere near fifty, but the midlife crisis is real. The author was also spot-on with friendships. Sustaining friendships isn’t easy, let alone managing them for three decades. " Readers Favorite
I write stories about ordinary people, living lives of extraordinary courage and I can promise only two things: no knights in shining armour and no flying cars. My fictional characters save themselves, as in the end we all must do.
A Midlife Holiday is my debut. Here's what people are saying:
“I haven’t devoured a book in one sitting for a long time but I literally could not put this down. It shouldn’t be so rare (or refreshing) to read about the lives of middle-aged women, but it is. Cary J Hansson handles her subject matter with authenticity, providing some seldom heard (yet much-needed) commentary on midlife. The book is compulsively readable ... funny, brutally honest, extremely relatable and a perfect summer read." SouthAsia Magazine
"A fantastic page-turner filled with humor, life lessons, and enlightenment. The book has a beautiful storyline interpreted by well-developed characters. It was also realistic and unpredictable. I am nowhere near fifty, but the midlife crisis is real. The author was also spot-on with friendships. Sustaining friendships isn’t easy, let alone managing them for three decades. " Readers Favorite
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 134 reviews
November 1, 2022
I am a big fan of 'A Midlife Holiday' (check out my review here: http://www.southasia.com.pk/2022/06/2...) so I was honoured (and delighted) to be given early access to 'A Midlife Baby'. The sequel delves a little deeper, tackling some serious themes, like a big sister to the previous novel.
Author Cary J Hansson captures real life perfectly, warts and all. She picks up without preamble and thrusts us straight into the guts of marital discord. I feel a collective air punch on the cards as Hansson illustrates that awkward moment when you FINALLY give up on your marriage… but your spouse insists on couples counselling, just to flog the dead horse some more. She also lays bare middle-aged male bewilderment. I almost feel sorry for them. I do! Until Hansson shows us male entitlement and then I'm like "Yep. No thanks, lads."
Hansson navigates the subtle changes in a newly-deceased relationship skilfully. The lack of physical contact and newfound awkwardness. The microaggressions and eventual division of assets. But what I love most about these books is their unflinching representation of women in midlife. It's a messy time, as we try to rise from the ashes of our youth and embrace the next chapter. This book feels more contemplative, and helps us to better understand the dynamics of the friendships between Helen, Caro and Kay. I'm not going to give away any plot points, because I want you to experience it for yourself, but suffice it to say - bring hankies!
Heart-wrenching and deeply emotional in places, with 'A Midlife Baby' Cary J Hansson doesn't pull any punches. The book ends with a dramatic flourish, leaving me desperate to find out what happens in the final instalment of the trilogy. Until then, I'll miss our trio of pals but feel confident leaving them in Hansson's capable hands. Roll on book three in 2023!
Author Cary J Hansson captures real life perfectly, warts and all. She picks up without preamble and thrusts us straight into the guts of marital discord. I feel a collective air punch on the cards as Hansson illustrates that awkward moment when you FINALLY give up on your marriage… but your spouse insists on couples counselling, just to flog the dead horse some more. She also lays bare middle-aged male bewilderment. I almost feel sorry for them. I do! Until Hansson shows us male entitlement and then I'm like "Yep. No thanks, lads."
Hansson navigates the subtle changes in a newly-deceased relationship skilfully. The lack of physical contact and newfound awkwardness. The microaggressions and eventual division of assets. But what I love most about these books is their unflinching representation of women in midlife. It's a messy time, as we try to rise from the ashes of our youth and embrace the next chapter. This book feels more contemplative, and helps us to better understand the dynamics of the friendships between Helen, Caro and Kay. I'm not going to give away any plot points, because I want you to experience it for yourself, but suffice it to say - bring hankies!
Heart-wrenching and deeply emotional in places, with 'A Midlife Baby' Cary J Hansson doesn't pull any punches. The book ends with a dramatic flourish, leaving me desperate to find out what happens in the final instalment of the trilogy. Until then, I'll miss our trio of pals but feel confident leaving them in Hansson's capable hands. Roll on book three in 2023!
October 30, 2022
After reading the first in this Trilogy, I was given a copy of A Midlife Baby as an ARC for an unbiased review.
I say this all the time, but it's true. I love a series where you can slot straight back into the story, having known the characters previously.
We meet with the trio of friends; Caro, hoping have a baby at the end of the last book after going for treatment, secure in the knowledge that she was never going to have a child conventionally since she was too far along in her life to find that kind of relationship; Helen, who wants to have her life back, after slogging away for the past couple of decades as a wife and mother, to people who don't seem grateful in the least; and Kay, a single parent to an adult child with his own needs, and a mother with dementia, and a father who doesn't want to cause any issues.
Without giving away some of the surprises at the beginning and end of the book, I'll say that it was good to see what was going on in their lives and how they were handling the subtle (and sometimes not so subtle) changes that were occurring.
Caro needs to balance her life with the thought of possible motherhood as a middle-aged woman while holding down a powerful job, where news of pregnancy wouldn't go down well.
Helen has to find a way to stand her ground with her husband and children if she is ever going to leave the marriage, which has left her feeling trapped and unappreciated for so many years.
Kay is dealing with anxiety, from the choices she is having to make for her parents and at the thought of her son gaining independence, as well as some awful goings on in her day job, as well as the awful effects of Perimenopause.
A sad story in some ways, but there are high points and so much that women of a certain age could relate to. I know I did!
Above all, a testament to true friendship. We can put our friends through the ringers, but only the real friends stay with you throughout.
And I can't wait for book three!
I say this all the time, but it's true. I love a series where you can slot straight back into the story, having known the characters previously.
We meet with the trio of friends; Caro, hoping have a baby at the end of the last book after going for treatment, secure in the knowledge that she was never going to have a child conventionally since she was too far along in her life to find that kind of relationship; Helen, who wants to have her life back, after slogging away for the past couple of decades as a wife and mother, to people who don't seem grateful in the least; and Kay, a single parent to an adult child with his own needs, and a mother with dementia, and a father who doesn't want to cause any issues.
Without giving away some of the surprises at the beginning and end of the book, I'll say that it was good to see what was going on in their lives and how they were handling the subtle (and sometimes not so subtle) changes that were occurring.
Caro needs to balance her life with the thought of possible motherhood as a middle-aged woman while holding down a powerful job, where news of pregnancy wouldn't go down well.
Helen has to find a way to stand her ground with her husband and children if she is ever going to leave the marriage, which has left her feeling trapped and unappreciated for so many years.
Kay is dealing with anxiety, from the choices she is having to make for her parents and at the thought of her son gaining independence, as well as some awful goings on in her day job, as well as the awful effects of Perimenopause.
A sad story in some ways, but there are high points and so much that women of a certain age could relate to. I know I did!
Above all, a testament to true friendship. We can put our friends through the ringers, but only the real friends stay with you throughout.
And I can't wait for book three!
March 24, 2024
A Midlife Baby by Cary J. Hansson
Midlife Trilogy #2
10h 27m narrated by Lisa Armytage, 320 pages
Genre: Women's Fiction
Featuring: Parts, Quinquagenarians, Long-Term Friendships, Martial Issues, England, Counseling, Divorce, Secrets, Infidelity, Infertility, Pregnancy, Sainsbury's, Sandwich Generation, Workplace Conflicts, Self-Actualization, Long Chapters, Kyrenia, Cyprus (mentioned frequently); Profanity, Grief, Parents, Drama, Mourning, Stonehenge, Transition, Cliffhanger
Rating as a movie: R for adult content
Songs for the soundtrack: "Brahms's Lullaby," "Edge of Seventeen" by Stevie Nicks, "Friday I’m in Love" by The Cure
My rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️½👵🤰
My thoughts: ▶️ - I'm only back because I need an audiobook and I have no time to look for one.
📱8% 51:04 Part 1 Chapter 2 - I'm so lost. 😆 It's my own fault. If I don't hear about this baby soon I'll be moving on. Helen is on my nerves. I knew Libby's secret from the start, she's working a nerve as well.
📱26% 2:49:05 Part 2 Ch. 7 - I took a nice long break and it's better, but still not great.
📱34% 3:39:10 Part 2 Chapter 9 - I really am going to bed this time. I just couldn't leave it there. Now it's on a roll, but I'll find out tomorrow.
This was so much better than book 1, I might have to read book 3 after all. I still haven't attached to any of the characters but I feel like I understand them now.
Recommend to others: Maybe. This story could go either way.
Midlife Trilogy
1. A Midlife Holiday (2022)
2. A Midlife Baby (2022)
3. A Midlife Gamble (2023)
the story of the ring (2023)
Midlife Trilogy #2
10h 27m narrated by Lisa Armytage, 320 pages
Genre: Women's Fiction
Featuring: Parts, Quinquagenarians, Long-Term Friendships, Martial Issues, England, Counseling, Divorce, Secrets, Infidelity, Infertility, Pregnancy, Sainsbury's, Sandwich Generation, Workplace Conflicts, Self-Actualization, Long Chapters, Kyrenia, Cyprus (mentioned frequently); Profanity, Grief, Parents, Drama, Mourning, Stonehenge, Transition, Cliffhanger
Rating as a movie: R for adult content
Songs for the soundtrack: "Brahms's Lullaby," "Edge of Seventeen" by Stevie Nicks, "Friday I’m in Love" by The Cure
My rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️½👵🤰
My thoughts: ▶️ - I'm only back because I need an audiobook and I have no time to look for one.
📱8% 51:04 Part 1 Chapter 2 - I'm so lost. 😆 It's my own fault. If I don't hear about this baby soon I'll be moving on. Helen is on my nerves. I knew Libby's secret from the start, she's working a nerve as well.
📱26% 2:49:05 Part 2 Ch. 7 - I took a nice long break and it's better, but still not great.
📱34% 3:39:10 Part 2 Chapter 9 - I really am going to bed this time. I just couldn't leave it there. Now it's on a roll, but I'll find out tomorrow.
This was so much better than book 1, I might have to read book 3 after all. I still haven't attached to any of the characters but I feel like I understand them now.
Recommend to others: Maybe. This story could go either way.
Midlife Trilogy
1. A Midlife Holiday (2022)
2. A Midlife Baby (2022)
3. A Midlife Gamble (2023)
the story of the ring (2023)
November 2, 2022
Was fortunate to receive a copy of this before it launched online. Having read previous books in this series, I was thrilled to get my hands on this. Well, it's definitely another bestseller from Cary, such an easy to read tale of three friends, whose lives are reaching that midlife crisis and a baby suddenly features in all their lives, but all in different ways. Absolutely loved it and highly recommend you get your hands on a copy. Can't wait for Cary's next book
November 3, 2022
Free courtesy of Cary J Hansson.
I absolutely loved this book, following on from where A midlife holiday left off, the three friends Helen, Kay and Caro are back from Cyprus and trying to figure out their new perspectives on life that the holiday raised.
Helen is trying to move her life on, after events in Cyprus, She wants a divorce and to go travelling but the obstacles of life keep conspiring against her. How will she cope with the family dramas and will she ever put her needs first.
Kay knows that her autistic son, managed and coped whilst she was away, and is looking to move out to an assisted living facility and realising at last that she and her dad needs help with her mother, it is decided, very reluctantly to put her in a home. Whilst she is trying to deal with all this, an accusation at work surfaces. After being a teacher for 20 years, Kay is mortified.
Caro is facing challenges and hasn't told anyone outside of the girls, she is excited but scared. How will her life change as so far it's been all about work. She goes on a massive emotional journey in this book.
The three friends, whilst still trying to support each other, show that friendships aren't always easy and they need work. The ending was really abrupt but I am looking forward to the next one, which I think maybe sad. There are twists and turns throughout and I would recommend this book as it's amazing but read the Midlife Holiday first so that this book makes more sense as you will have more background information.
I absolutely loved this book, following on from where A midlife holiday left off, the three friends Helen, Kay and Caro are back from Cyprus and trying to figure out their new perspectives on life that the holiday raised.
Helen is trying to move her life on, after events in Cyprus, She wants a divorce and to go travelling but the obstacles of life keep conspiring against her. How will she cope with the family dramas and will she ever put her needs first.
Kay knows that her autistic son, managed and coped whilst she was away, and is looking to move out to an assisted living facility and realising at last that she and her dad needs help with her mother, it is decided, very reluctantly to put her in a home. Whilst she is trying to deal with all this, an accusation at work surfaces. After being a teacher for 20 years, Kay is mortified.
Caro is facing challenges and hasn't told anyone outside of the girls, she is excited but scared. How will her life change as so far it's been all about work. She goes on a massive emotional journey in this book.
The three friends, whilst still trying to support each other, show that friendships aren't always easy and they need work. The ending was really abrupt but I am looking forward to the next one, which I think maybe sad. There are twists and turns throughout and I would recommend this book as it's amazing but read the Midlife Holiday first so that this book makes more sense as you will have more background information.
January 23, 2026
One of my ‘rules’ of reading is that if there’s a series/trilogy/however many books - I absolutely have to read them in order so apologies for any spoiler as I start this review. Caro, Helen and Kay have been friends since university. They’re now in their fifties. They went on holiday to Corfu - actually for some IVF treatment for Caro although Helen didn’t know about that when she agreed to go on holiday (Kay did); she’s thought it was just an adventure. It’s not just Caro who’s pregnant as we start this book but, also, Helen finds that her daughter who’s just about finished at uni is also, unexpectedly, pregnant. Honest, joyful and sad experiences as we hear the next phase of these ladies’, and their families, lives.
October 29, 2022
A superb follow up to A Midlife Holiday. We catch up with Helen, Kay and Caro again and become immersed in their lives.
I laughed and I cried. This book encompasses a wide range of emotions which took my breath away like the dip of a roller coaster, it captivated me and put my life on hold for 48 hours whilst I got totally engrossed in this book.
A triumph of writing and I cannot wait for the next installment.
Highly recommended, 5 stars from me.
I laughed and I cried. This book encompasses a wide range of emotions which took my breath away like the dip of a roller coaster, it captivated me and put my life on hold for 48 hours whilst I got totally engrossed in this book.
A triumph of writing and I cannot wait for the next installment.
Highly recommended, 5 stars from me.
November 2, 2022
A Midlife Baby is the second in a trilogy and picks up directly at the point where the first book in the series, A Midlife Holiday, leaves off. If you have not already read it then I suggest you do, not only because it is a fantastic book but it will make reading A Midlife Baby make much more sense.
For my full review please visit my blog at:
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For my full review please visit my blog at:
https://leftontheshelfbookblog.blogsp...
May 16, 2023
This book is the second in a trilogy so if you were to read it I suggest you bag a copy of 'A midlife holiday' first as that builds the setting for this next book.
I think I liked this second book more than the first. I felt the first set the scene for the changes that these ladies were beginning to make and this one really begins to explore more in terms of the friendship they have and the secrets they have kept from each other.
As per the first book Helen seems to be the most central character although you do also see the lives of Kay and Caro unfold. Watching them all try to find ways to navigate themselves after their holiday which exposed so many cracks in their lives and friendships was very enjoyable.
I found them all wholly relatable, maybe because I am creeping closer to that middle age range and I saw parts of myself in all of them.
My frustration at Helen and her inability to stand up for what she wanted was huge, I wanted her to be strong and selfish but understood that her years of being a good wife and mother had stopped her from putting herself first. And boy did I want to throttle Lawrence on many occasion!
The horror of Kays struggles at work was hard to read, as a teacher, what a nightmare that someone would accuse you of something you hadn't done 😳 and to not have the support from your team. It would be unbearable.
Caro's struggles were heart breaking, but watching her come to peace with her mother and brush off all her other issues to face life as it comes was a breath of fresh air
I think I liked this second book more than the first. I felt the first set the scene for the changes that these ladies were beginning to make and this one really begins to explore more in terms of the friendship they have and the secrets they have kept from each other.
As per the first book Helen seems to be the most central character although you do also see the lives of Kay and Caro unfold. Watching them all try to find ways to navigate themselves after their holiday which exposed so many cracks in their lives and friendships was very enjoyable.
I found them all wholly relatable, maybe because I am creeping closer to that middle age range and I saw parts of myself in all of them.
My frustration at Helen and her inability to stand up for what she wanted was huge, I wanted her to be strong and selfish but understood that her years of being a good wife and mother had stopped her from putting herself first. And boy did I want to throttle Lawrence on many occasion!
The horror of Kays struggles at work was hard to read, as a teacher, what a nightmare that someone would accuse you of something you hadn't done 😳 and to not have the support from your team. It would be unbearable.
Caro's struggles were heart breaking, but watching her come to peace with her mother and brush off all her other issues to face life as it comes was a breath of fresh air
December 1, 2023
Again in this book, I found myself realaring most to Caro. Helen is still getting up the nerve to leave her husband (but still hasn't at the end of the book) and Caro has everything bad happen to her. She loses her baby, her mom has a stroke. She quits her job. She has all these new emotions and is trying to figure out life. She needs her friends.
Towards the end of the book I was so angry. Caro took Libby's baby for a walk (after Libby had a breakdown and literally told Caro to take her baby. Which sounded like she wanted her to take him permanently to me) and lost track of time. So for that Helen can't forgive her?! WTAF? This is the second book on the series and the second book where I dont know why they are friends with Helen. She is not a good friend to Caro or Kay. She's judgmental and honestly selfish.
It's funny how a lot of reviews mention friendship and how these books show the strong bonds of friendship. But not to me. I understand Helen being terrified when they couldn't locate Caro and the baby. But cutting her out without any explanation is not being a true friend. Especially knowing what had recently happened in her life (her mother having the stroke and her quitting her job). I hope the bird book redeems Helen and that she finally has the courage to actually get on with her life bc she's getting on my nerves.
Also, superb writing for making me feel all these things and actually caring this much about the characters. 🤩 I need a friend to read them so I can rant on and on. 😆
Towards the end of the book I was so angry. Caro took Libby's baby for a walk (after Libby had a breakdown and literally told Caro to take her baby. Which sounded like she wanted her to take him permanently to me) and lost track of time. So for that Helen can't forgive her?! WTAF? This is the second book on the series and the second book where I dont know why they are friends with Helen. She is not a good friend to Caro or Kay. She's judgmental and honestly selfish.
It's funny how a lot of reviews mention friendship and how these books show the strong bonds of friendship. But not to me. I understand Helen being terrified when they couldn't locate Caro and the baby. But cutting her out without any explanation is not being a true friend. Especially knowing what had recently happened in her life (her mother having the stroke and her quitting her job). I hope the bird book redeems Helen and that she finally has the courage to actually get on with her life bc she's getting on my nerves.
Also, superb writing for making me feel all these things and actually caring this much about the characters. 🤩 I need a friend to read them so I can rant on and on. 😆
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 26, 2025
Good story
When Kay, Helen, and Caro return from their holiday, things in their lives have changed.
Helen, who was getting ready for a divorce, now has her very pregnant daughter living back in her home. Expecting Helen to raise her grandchild. Caro, newly pregnant at 51, is trying to figure out how to announce her pregnancy to her boss. And Kay had to come to terms with moving her sick mom into a home.
But everything changes fast for the friends.
When Kay, Helen, and Caro return from their holiday, things in their lives have changed.
Helen, who was getting ready for a divorce, now has her very pregnant daughter living back in her home. Expecting Helen to raise her grandchild. Caro, newly pregnant at 51, is trying to figure out how to announce her pregnancy to her boss. And Kay had to come to terms with moving her sick mom into a home.
But everything changes fast for the friends.
December 1, 2022
This book is the second in a trilogy, following A Midlife Holiday, which focused on the activities of three women, friends since college, on their trip to celebrate Helen's fiftieth birthday. Her friend Kay simply goes, escaping the life of a single mother who has been a caregiver to her adult autistic son and her aging parents. Caro, the single successful businesswoman, goes for a clinic specializing in later years invitro fertilization. Each has their own agenda yet the three are so vry connected. They are so close to each other, but we learn of secrets each has kept through the 30 years of friendship.
Midlife Baby picks up after the women return home. Did things go as they thought? Of course not!
Without going into details, this books gives the reader more twists and turns than expected. I was sure I knew what would happen with Helen when she returned home to a marriage that was stifling. In tryng to escape the marriage, all else falls apart with her children and husband. Like many women wanting out of a marriage, she discovers it is easy to say but sometimes difficult to do when ending a marriage. Kay returns home and realized her son managed without her, which is somewhat frightening for her to accept. But, she is still her parents', especially her mother, caregiver and must face these challenges...something not unusual for a woman her age. The Caro, who returns home finally pregnant, begins to realize that you cannot always get what you want. She discovers how gragile friendship is and how easily it is lost. Several things happen with their relationships and just as you are sure you know what will occur next, the author throws a twist in which you just did not see coming.
As the book ends, with each woman in unhappy situations, the final twist appears and leaves you hanging, waiting for book #3! Both books I have read now were good. Book 1 made me wish I had some of Helen's nerve and Book 2 made me wonder what I would do in Helen's situation and how each woman will handle this next phase of their friendship.
#CaryJHansson
Midlife Baby picks up after the women return home. Did things go as they thought? Of course not!
Without going into details, this books gives the reader more twists and turns than expected. I was sure I knew what would happen with Helen when she returned home to a marriage that was stifling. In tryng to escape the marriage, all else falls apart with her children and husband. Like many women wanting out of a marriage, she discovers it is easy to say but sometimes difficult to do when ending a marriage. Kay returns home and realized her son managed without her, which is somewhat frightening for her to accept. But, she is still her parents', especially her mother, caregiver and must face these challenges...something not unusual for a woman her age. The Caro, who returns home finally pregnant, begins to realize that you cannot always get what you want. She discovers how gragile friendship is and how easily it is lost. Several things happen with their relationships and just as you are sure you know what will occur next, the author throws a twist in which you just did not see coming.
As the book ends, with each woman in unhappy situations, the final twist appears and leaves you hanging, waiting for book #3! Both books I have read now were good. Book 1 made me wish I had some of Helen's nerve and Book 2 made me wonder what I would do in Helen's situation and how each woman will handle this next phase of their friendship.
#CaryJHansson
December 12, 2022
Thank you to the author for a pre publication copy. In return for an honest review!
This is the second book in the trilogy. Following the friendship and individual lives of Helen, Caro and Kay. All are so different from the other but they've all got their own struggles and live very different lives. Caro is in the midlife and has got pregnant via an IUI clinic abroad. However will she be able to succeed at this part of her life like she can her work or will it all go bottoms up? Whilst Helen realises since her Cyprus holiday that she wants a divorce from Lawrence but will her family stand in the way? Whilst Kay is struggling with the carers responsibilities for her son and parents but will her career fall into disarray too?
I loved the first book in the trilogy and jumped at the chance of Following these three again
This book, as I have mentioned, is the second one but it can be read as a stand alone something which this author has got down to a tee. Although by reading the first book as well you will be able to bask in the beauty of the character growth which is shown with the decisions they make post their holiday.
The characters have such love and empathy to give to each other although such opposites. Each character has such a loveable heart even through the struggles which life has thrown at then. This book really shows you how three people can live such separate lives but still unite in their friendship.
Furthermore this book is a page turner with so many twists and turns. The author has a nack of presenting you with two or three ways the book may go but then abruptly turning it a third way which you really don't expect. I have never had an author make me want to read the next book just by the last sentence alone but this one has!!
On the other hand I did find Helen's character particularly repetitive. Everything she did or said came back to her divorce. Which I understand was a big part in her life but she often told you rather than showed you the impact it qas havjbg on her.
This is the second book in the trilogy. Following the friendship and individual lives of Helen, Caro and Kay. All are so different from the other but they've all got their own struggles and live very different lives. Caro is in the midlife and has got pregnant via an IUI clinic abroad. However will she be able to succeed at this part of her life like she can her work or will it all go bottoms up? Whilst Helen realises since her Cyprus holiday that she wants a divorce from Lawrence but will her family stand in the way? Whilst Kay is struggling with the carers responsibilities for her son and parents but will her career fall into disarray too?
I loved the first book in the trilogy and jumped at the chance of Following these three again
This book, as I have mentioned, is the second one but it can be read as a stand alone something which this author has got down to a tee. Although by reading the first book as well you will be able to bask in the beauty of the character growth which is shown with the decisions they make post their holiday.
The characters have such love and empathy to give to each other although such opposites. Each character has such a loveable heart even through the struggles which life has thrown at then. This book really shows you how three people can live such separate lives but still unite in their friendship.
Furthermore this book is a page turner with so many twists and turns. The author has a nack of presenting you with two or three ways the book may go but then abruptly turning it a third way which you really don't expect. I have never had an author make me want to read the next book just by the last sentence alone but this one has!!
On the other hand I did find Helen's character particularly repetitive. Everything she did or said came back to her divorce. Which I understand was a big part in her life but she often told you rather than showed you the impact it qas havjbg on her.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 28, 2022
In a Mid-Life Baby, we get to re-visit Caro, Kay and Helen. They’re all back from the trip to Cypress and first up is Helen. After her beach adventure she is so over being married and although her husband isn’t an old them remaining that way and insist they go to counseling Helen can’t help but to see it all as a joke and by the time she convinces him it’s over something else in their life is just beginning. Then there’s poor little K she’s such a good teacher but when a parent accuses her of bullying their child totally overrides any good memories of Cyprus that she had. She was right on the cusp of having it just a little bit easier in life and now her career could be ruined and of course there’s Caro she’s 50 and so intent on having her baby she’s traveled the world and had adventures most people will never have and now she wants what most women want and that’s a baby. This book was so good I don’t want to give anything away but just know this is the second book in the trilogy and I was prepared for it not to be as good as the first but OMG I think it may be better!
This book covers highly emotional subjects such as what do you do when someone you completely love does something to someone else you completely love… Who is emotions do you tend to first if it’s something unforgivable do you have to forgive? This book was so good I wish so much I could say what happened in the spot but I will not just know there’s tears there’s happiness more tears and of course happiness. Carrot Johansen is such a great author and can bring you to the brink of every emotion known to man and then bring you back unapologetically. I loved this book so much! Please forgive any mistakes as I dictate most of my review.
This book covers highly emotional subjects such as what do you do when someone you completely love does something to someone else you completely love… Who is emotions do you tend to first if it’s something unforgivable do you have to forgive? This book was so good I wish so much I could say what happened in the spot but I will not just know there’s tears there’s happiness more tears and of course happiness. Carrot Johansen is such a great author and can bring you to the brink of every emotion known to man and then bring you back unapologetically. I loved this book so much! Please forgive any mistakes as I dictate most of my review.
October 28, 2022
After their Midlife holiday, three lifelong friends Helen, Kay and Caro return home, each determined to change their lives for the better. As the saying goes, " Man makes plans and god laughs." Or women in this case.
Of course things don't follow the plans they made and the road ahead is rocky for them all.
Helen has fell out of love and wants her own life now that her two children are grown up and she's fed up playing second fiddle to her husband Lawrence's outdoor pursuit hobbies.
Kay also wants her life to be less stressful and vows to give her autistic son more freedom to live by himself. She also has to make decisions about her mother and it's breaking her heart. Her work life at the school hits a very nasty bump in the road and Kay feels she can't cope with it all.
Caro is deep in her mid life crisis and makes controversial decisions that her friends don't agree with and what will everyone else think of what she is doing?
Each one of the women suffers a blow to their plans and they have to re think their futures.
I loved this book and found it hard to put down as so many different things was happening to the women. The women are likeable characters which enables you to have empathy with them and how their lives are going. It poses the question of " When do you stop being a mother ? Do you have to put your life on hold until they leave school? Start working? Get married? Forever ? Do the decisions you make when young determine the rest of your life?
This is the sequel to A Midlife Holiday but it can be read as a stand alone book but I do recommend you read book one first as there is a third book coming out next year and I can't wait to read it.
Of course things don't follow the plans they made and the road ahead is rocky for them all.
Helen has fell out of love and wants her own life now that her two children are grown up and she's fed up playing second fiddle to her husband Lawrence's outdoor pursuit hobbies.
Kay also wants her life to be less stressful and vows to give her autistic son more freedom to live by himself. She also has to make decisions about her mother and it's breaking her heart. Her work life at the school hits a very nasty bump in the road and Kay feels she can't cope with it all.
Caro is deep in her mid life crisis and makes controversial decisions that her friends don't agree with and what will everyone else think of what she is doing?
Each one of the women suffers a blow to their plans and they have to re think their futures.
I loved this book and found it hard to put down as so many different things was happening to the women. The women are likeable characters which enables you to have empathy with them and how their lives are going. It poses the question of " When do you stop being a mother ? Do you have to put your life on hold until they leave school? Start working? Get married? Forever ? Do the decisions you make when young determine the rest of your life?
This is the sequel to A Midlife Holiday but it can be read as a stand alone book but I do recommend you read book one first as there is a third book coming out next year and I can't wait to read it.
November 27, 2023
I really enjoyed the first book in this trilogy and was looking forward to this one. It was good as well, though not quite as good as Book 1.
This story is a continuation from the first book in the series. We pick up the story shortly after the return to "normal" life after the vacation in Cyprus. I suppose it was relatively realistic, but disappointing that not much changed when they returned home.
Helen, after finally realizing her husband was a selfish jerk, swore she was going to get divorced in the last book. In this book, it isn't quite as easy to get that done and it leads the reader to dislike her husband even more.
Kay is also learning to stand up for herself in a slightly different way. She has a lot on her shoulders and it is easy to feel like she could use another break as she deals with work stressors, causing her to question herself and the good that she has done.
Caro is living her best life one minute, seeming to have it all, only for things to abruptly change and in true Caro fashion, she ran away and tried to suffer alone. Fortunately, her friends tried to help, but Caro needed more than what they could offer.
Like the first book, the stories of the women were realistic, but I didn't feel as well-connected to the characters this time, even though I had read the first book pretty recently. I was disappointed in the progression of some parts, frustrated at other times, yet realized that perhaps this was more true to real life than I ultimately wanted.
This story is a continuation from the first book in the series. We pick up the story shortly after the return to "normal" life after the vacation in Cyprus. I suppose it was relatively realistic, but disappointing that not much changed when they returned home.
Helen, after finally realizing her husband was a selfish jerk, swore she was going to get divorced in the last book. In this book, it isn't quite as easy to get that done and it leads the reader to dislike her husband even more.
Kay is also learning to stand up for herself in a slightly different way. She has a lot on her shoulders and it is easy to feel like she could use another break as she deals with work stressors, causing her to question herself and the good that she has done.
Caro is living her best life one minute, seeming to have it all, only for things to abruptly change and in true Caro fashion, she ran away and tried to suffer alone. Fortunately, her friends tried to help, but Caro needed more than what they could offer.
Like the first book, the stories of the women were realistic, but I didn't feel as well-connected to the characters this time, even though I had read the first book pretty recently. I was disappointed in the progression of some parts, frustrated at other times, yet realized that perhaps this was more true to real life than I ultimately wanted.
April 5, 2025
Oh, the drama just keeps on coming. This book just kept on delivering more and more drama for our three heroines. I loved it. I couldn't put it down. I loved the ups and downs of their relationships, and hearing all their thoughts that they don't voice to each other (when maybe they should). They all have to figure out how to move on in their lives, and how to support each other in all of the trials.
February 21, 2023
I really enjoyed the first book in this planned trilogy, A Midlife Holiday, and this second instalment builds brilliantly on the adventures, trials and tribulations that we were introduced to. I felt it was even better than the first...which makes me very excited for the last book!
This is an insight into the worlds of three women facing down middle-age and all it brings, both good and bad. They are all inspirational in their own right, no-one sweeps in to save them, they save themselves and prop each other up along the way. What I find even more uplifting though is the power of them as a three. They are fully there for each other, strengthening and lifting up whenever it's needed. They are fully invested in moving forward collectively even though their priorities and issues and approaches to mid-life are all different. You get a genuine feel of the depth of their connection. These are the kind of friends you go to war for.
There is no sugar-coating in this book - all the good and the bad are there to be experienced, including the less than hospitable thoughts they, on occasion, have towards each other. It's a realistic view of the messiness and imperfections of people. The depiction of a dying long-term relationship is particularly unvarnished. All the petty-mindedness and empty victories that it's so easy to fall into even though you have loved and built a life with this person previously is on show.
I truly can't wait for the last book, even though I am already anticipating the sadness at not hearing more about Caro, Helen and Kay.
This is an insight into the worlds of three women facing down middle-age and all it brings, both good and bad. They are all inspirational in their own right, no-one sweeps in to save them, they save themselves and prop each other up along the way. What I find even more uplifting though is the power of them as a three. They are fully there for each other, strengthening and lifting up whenever it's needed. They are fully invested in moving forward collectively even though their priorities and issues and approaches to mid-life are all different. You get a genuine feel of the depth of their connection. These are the kind of friends you go to war for.
There is no sugar-coating in this book - all the good and the bad are there to be experienced, including the less than hospitable thoughts they, on occasion, have towards each other. It's a realistic view of the messiness and imperfections of people. The depiction of a dying long-term relationship is particularly unvarnished. All the petty-mindedness and empty victories that it's so easy to fall into even though you have loved and built a life with this person previously is on show.
I truly can't wait for the last book, even though I am already anticipating the sadness at not hearing more about Caro, Helen and Kay.
January 10, 2024
If you did not like Helen Winters in book 1 of this trilogy, you will really hate her by the time you get to the end of book 2. It did not take me until the end because I already knew I didn’t like her. In book one, Helen had already showed herself to be a Fairweather friend. She has your back unless you do something that she finds immoral or unacceptable. Really it just makes her judgmental. Because who is she to judge? In book one she had an affair, and in the next breath was judging one of her girlfriends for what she considered to be inappropriate behavior. Hypocrite.
But this book also had redeeming qualities. The overall theme was melancholy, and could be said to even be depressing. Wait. I did say redeeming qualities. What made these melancholy moments good was that they were very realistic. It was good to read about women in their 50s and the problems they faced.
It is no wonder that these friends were always fighting. Each of them has their own issues and are not content, well some of them are not content, in their own skin. Each of them have their own problems that keep them from seeing the problems of one another.
But this book also had redeeming qualities. The overall theme was melancholy, and could be said to even be depressing. Wait. I did say redeeming qualities. What made these melancholy moments good was that they were very realistic. It was good to read about women in their 50s and the problems they faced.
It is no wonder that these friends were always fighting. Each of them has their own issues and are not content, well some of them are not content, in their own skin. Each of them have their own problems that keep them from seeing the problems of one another.
February 4, 2024
The ladies are back in book 2 of this trilogy and I liked this one just as much as the 1st book. Giving this one a 3.7 because I just feel like the women in this book are so relatable. Fresh from their trip to Cyprus, all three women have to deal with decisions they made while traveling. Helen is adamant about moving forward with her divorce but her daughter Libby has thrown a wrench in those plans. Caro has something traumatic happen to her that rocks her world and makes her truly sit back and think about the things that are really important in life. Kay has moved her mom into a nursing home and the guilt around that has been eating her alive, not to mention all the concerns she has for her son. These women behave like siblings and just like siblings, they fall out. Towards the end of the book, Caro and Helen have a fight that neither of them think they can come back from. Kay, forever the peace maker steps in to fix things by dropping some news that will destroy them. There is such a cliffhanger at the end of this book, that I immediately have to start the next book to see what happens. I have a feeling I will be crying a lot in the final book.
November 1, 2022
Midlife Baby by Cary J Hansson
This is the second Midlife series we continue to follow the lives of Kay , Caro and Helen. Who we first met in the midlife ladies when they all went to Cyprus to celebrate their 50th birthdays. We continue on with their stories after their return from Cyprus
All I can say is it is brilliantly written following life’s trials and tribulations with many twists that you just won’t see coming
Whilst the characters are fabulous bad and good. Full of happiness sadness trauma and misunderstanding all subjects dealt with delicately and compassionately.
Furthermore The end I did not see coming and their are a number of scenarios that are possible but none are what happened.
Loved it Cary you have nailed life to a tee!! Every Woman should read the Midlife series. Although makes no difference if you didn’t read the first as it can be read as a stand alone book. However I know once you read this one you'll be back to read A Midlife Holiday
A very well done and well deserved 5/5
This is the second Midlife series we continue to follow the lives of Kay , Caro and Helen. Who we first met in the midlife ladies when they all went to Cyprus to celebrate their 50th birthdays. We continue on with their stories after their return from Cyprus
All I can say is it is brilliantly written following life’s trials and tribulations with many twists that you just won’t see coming
Whilst the characters are fabulous bad and good. Full of happiness sadness trauma and misunderstanding all subjects dealt with delicately and compassionately.
Furthermore The end I did not see coming and their are a number of scenarios that are possible but none are what happened.
Loved it Cary you have nailed life to a tee!! Every Woman should read the Midlife series. Although makes no difference if you didn’t read the first as it can be read as a stand alone book. However I know once you read this one you'll be back to read A Midlife Holiday
A very well done and well deserved 5/5
December 16, 2023
the 2nd book of 3 friends that went to vacation in Greece. One went to get baby inplanted in her womb, the other two are women who are over worked and over looked and need recharge.
So this book is the after math of what happened when they are in Greece. Caro had a miscarriage and gotten a hysterectomy which killed her baby dream. Helen wanted to separate but her daughter came home 7 mo pregnant, and Kay, is facing a dark mark on her record and putting her mother into assisted living.
This book is very sad. I felt despaired while reading it. I am about the age of these 3 characters, I don't have that urge like Caro to have babies, I am thankful that my parents aren't like Kay's mom, I am not like Helen who don't make demands and push for her right in the family, she swallows her hurts and let her family take advantage of her. Really, Helen, grow a pair, and fight for your freedom. You don't have to be a martyr, or past aggressive, just speak up and point out the wrong ideas your family members have. how are they going to know what you want?
So this book is the after math of what happened when they are in Greece. Caro had a miscarriage and gotten a hysterectomy which killed her baby dream. Helen wanted to separate but her daughter came home 7 mo pregnant, and Kay, is facing a dark mark on her record and putting her mother into assisted living.
This book is very sad. I felt despaired while reading it. I am about the age of these 3 characters, I don't have that urge like Caro to have babies, I am thankful that my parents aren't like Kay's mom, I am not like Helen who don't make demands and push for her right in the family, she swallows her hurts and let her family take advantage of her. Really, Helen, grow a pair, and fight for your freedom. You don't have to be a martyr, or past aggressive, just speak up and point out the wrong ideas your family members have. how are they going to know what you want?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 28, 2022
A Midlife Baby picks up three weeks after Helen, Caro and Kay return from their midlife holiday in Cyprus. Each is changed by their time away from reality, and each is determined to start putting themselves first, as alien as this is for them.
But life throws curveballs in the way for all of them, and it is their enduring friendship that will ultimately get them through the latest trials and tribulations. Even though their friendship is tested to breaking point.
A very honest story about the reality of life as you approach midlife, how you re-evaluate choices made many years before, and how you attempt to navigate your way through life's slings and arrows.
This sequel ends quite abruptly with a cliffhanger which will definitely make you want to continue reading about Caro, Kay and Helen and I really hope these three awesome women find their way to living their best lives.
But life throws curveballs in the way for all of them, and it is their enduring friendship that will ultimately get them through the latest trials and tribulations. Even though their friendship is tested to breaking point.
A very honest story about the reality of life as you approach midlife, how you re-evaluate choices made many years before, and how you attempt to navigate your way through life's slings and arrows.
This sequel ends quite abruptly with a cliffhanger which will definitely make you want to continue reading about Caro, Kay and Helen and I really hope these three awesome women find their way to living their best lives.
October 30, 2022
A midlife baby continues the story of Caro, Kay and Helen after they return from their Midlife holiday. All three women return ready to make major changes to their lives, however as always in Midlife, their plans are about to be influenced by external factors…. husbands, children, parents, life…..
But the girls/ladies/friends carry on the best they can, making the most of their situations and trying their best to live the life the really want, not the lives they’ve had to deal with over the past couple of decades.
A story of friendship, heartbreak, determination and love. I particularly love this series as I’m Midlife myself at the moment and so much of the story is so close to my own circumstances and that of my friendship group, so it’s refreshing to read about.
Another lovely read, looking forward to the final read next year.
But the girls/ladies/friends carry on the best they can, making the most of their situations and trying their best to live the life the really want, not the lives they’ve had to deal with over the past couple of decades.
A story of friendship, heartbreak, determination and love. I particularly love this series as I’m Midlife myself at the moment and so much of the story is so close to my own circumstances and that of my friendship group, so it’s refreshing to read about.
Another lovely read, looking forward to the final read next year.
March 21, 2024
The girls are back! After their Midlife Holiday, Helen, Carol, and Kay return home to England to find that everything is rapidly changing. Carol has decided, at age 50, to have a baby. Helen realizes her marriage is falling apart, and Kay has a major health issue to contend with. Mix in a pregnant college -age daughter, a nefarious husband, and the rapidly changing dynamics of mid-life friendship, and the ladies are off and running again.
This book was even better than the first one, a deeper dive into the intricate web of female friendship. The characters ring true to the first book, with more complexities as the reader discovers there is always more to uncover with the three friends, their families, jobs, and how to fit in having a life of ones own.
I really enjoyed this 2nd book in the series, and I'm looking forward to the next book, "A Midlife Gamble."
This book was even better than the first one, a deeper dive into the intricate web of female friendship. The characters ring true to the first book, with more complexities as the reader discovers there is always more to uncover with the three friends, their families, jobs, and how to fit in having a life of ones own.
I really enjoyed this 2nd book in the series, and I'm looking forward to the next book, "A Midlife Gamble."
October 10, 2022
It was lovely to revisit the lives of Helen, Kay and Caro once again. Things have changed since Cyprus. Helen wants a divorce and her son won’t speak to her. Kay is in trouble at work and Caro is expecting her first child at 50. As always with these long term friends there is plenty of drama and also many unexpected events. This book kept me reading as I desperately wanted to know what was going to happen next. I did find the ending a little annoying as it left you on a cliff hanger. I really hope that soon there will be book 3 so that I can find out what will happen next.
I highly recommend this book and can’t wait for the next book hopefully.
Thank you to the Author and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for my honest review.
I highly recommend this book and can’t wait for the next book hopefully.
Thank you to the Author and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for my honest review.
October 27, 2022
The three friends are back, Caro, Helen & Kay after their holiday to Cyprus, and need to face the consequences. I really enjoyed the previous book, and this is just as good. It follows the next few months after the holiday and the fall out for them. It’s easy to identify with the women, as we’ve all done some of the things that they have, with varying degrees of success. The characters are so real they feel like people you could be friends with - I’d want to shake Helen at times, admire Caro,and confide in Kay. Nicely written, it feels like you’re reading about real lives. Can’t wait for the next chapter in their lives. 4⭐️
I received a copy of this book to read in exchange for an honest review via the author.
I received a copy of this book to read in exchange for an honest review via the author.
November 1, 2022
I would firstly just like to say a big thank you to the author, who very kindly forwarded me an arc copy of her book, for my Kindle, in return for my honest review.
This is actually book number two in the ‘Midlife Trilogy’ series but can also be very easily read as a stand alone with no problems at all. Although the first part of these characters stories are told in book one…
A Midlife Baby is a wonderful book that explores true friendship and revolves around a trio of friends.
The three friends, Helen, Kay and Caro were great characters and I really enjoyed getting involved in all their lives. They all have a different set of problems and need to have a little re-think about their futures too.
This was a wonderful, heartwarming book and I can’t wait for the next instalment…….
This is actually book number two in the ‘Midlife Trilogy’ series but can also be very easily read as a stand alone with no problems at all. Although the first part of these characters stories are told in book one…
A Midlife Baby is a wonderful book that explores true friendship and revolves around a trio of friends.
The three friends, Helen, Kay and Caro were great characters and I really enjoyed getting involved in all their lives. They all have a different set of problems and need to have a little re-think about their futures too.
This was a wonderful, heartwarming book and I can’t wait for the next instalment…….
November 6, 2022
I was delighted to read this book as I have also read the first book in the series "A Mid-life Holiday". You could follow this book as a standalone book but you will get so much out of it by also reading the first book.
The story picks up from the 3 friends Helen, Kay and Caro's return from their life changing holiday in Cyprus. It very much charts the ups and downs of the ladies and the difficult things they have to deal with. A great story about friendship, told with great feeling. You will find yourself laughing one moment and then being shocked the next. I don't want to give too much away but it did end on a real cliff hanger and I can't wait for the next part.
The story picks up from the 3 friends Helen, Kay and Caro's return from their life changing holiday in Cyprus. It very much charts the ups and downs of the ladies and the difficult things they have to deal with. A great story about friendship, told with great feeling. You will find yourself laughing one moment and then being shocked the next. I don't want to give too much away but it did end on a real cliff hanger and I can't wait for the next part.
December 4, 2023
A Midlife Holiday, A Midlife Baby and A Midlife Gamble are nominally a trilogy. In fact, they are one really long novel, since the second and third start where the previous one ends. I read them consecutively as one book. The story is an interesting one about three women in their early 50s who have known each other for 30 years. Overall, I would recommend them even though the last third of the final book does become what I felt was somewhat maudlin and needlessly melodramatic. (That could very well just be me; I have been called a cynic many times over the years.) The writing holds up well over hundreds of pages and the characters remain consistent.
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