Whenever You’re Ready by Trish Bolton delves into the intricate lives of older women, navigating through the complexities of grief, suicide, infidelity, and addiction. Despite the heavy themes, the narrative radiates hope, highlighting the often-overlooked strength, resilience, and wisdom of older women.

The story revolves around Lizzie, Alice, and Margot, profoundly affected by the sudden death of their close friend Claire. In the midst of grief, the unravelling of past secrets becomes a pivotal point, urging them to confront their shared history to move forward.

The highlight of the book for me is its authentic characters. All are meticulously developed, each possessing a distinct charm and flaws that make them feel like familiar friends. Trish Bolton skillfully exposes the hidden interior lives of these women, shaped by experiences that influence their interactions with others.

Whenever You’re Ready extends a warm embrace, evoking a spectrum of emotions from heartbreak to laughter. It left me with a sense of optimism about the resilience that comes with aging and how important the connections we form across our lifetime truly are.