The Briar Club: A Novel

I know I’m in the minority, but this book wasn’t for me. I expected a typical historical fiction novel, but it turned out to be a collection of character stories woven into a mystery set in the 1950s. The story begins in Washington at Briar House, an all-women's boarding house. Quinn introduces various characters, including the owner and her children, as she explores the McCarthy era's impact on women. While it presents a murder mystery, the novel offers deeper insights into female friendship and the residents' struggles against sexism and racism in post-World War II America. The formation of the Briar Club brings the women together to share experiences and support each other. Though I initially found the story engaging, I felt the author included too many topics, which slowed down the narrative and made it hard for me to connect with the story.

this was a great book! i really enjoyed the deep dive into each character (character development) it was such an interesting way to tell the story! loved the recipes!!!! i learned some things about the 50’s that i never knew. the narrator was the absolute best ever! my new favorite! i highly recommend this book.

It was delightful to be in the boarding house with a cadre of women that brought something different to each other during the 50s.

I enjoyed the premise, the plot twists, and the house as a character. I agree with other reviewers who said there was so much going on it was difficult to become emotionally invested in the story. Also, the landlady was, for me, unbelievable in her selfishness and abuse of her children. I liked all the other characters, but because they remained flat and one dimensional until their chapter came up, I didn’t really become invested in the overall story until the book was over halfway finished. But I loved the ending, and all the cultural and historical topics covered.

Loved this book. The characters were so good and I enjoyed the way Kate Quinn laid out the timeline.