Set against the backdrop of a 1950s divorce ranch in Nevada, Beaird’s debut novel invites readers into a realm where secrets, empowerment, and unexpected friendships intertwine.
At the Golden Yarrow Lodge, women gather to wait out the mandatory six-week period required for their divorces. This unique setting—a luxurious haven nestled in the Nevada desert—serves as a refuge for those seeking liberation from unhappy marriages. The lodge buzzes with whispered confidences, shared experiences, and the promise of newfound freedom.
Lois Saunders, one of the divorcees, emerges as a central character. Her life has been stifled by a loveless marriage, and the Golden Yarrow Lodge becomes her sanctuary. Beaird skillfully portrays Lois’s emotional journey—from resignation to empowerment—as she navigates the complexities of newfound independence. Lois’s transformation is palpable; her spirit rekindles, fueled by camaraderie and the promise of a fresh start.
“Inside, she counts each of the twenty-dollar bills, making sure it’s everything she left with, everything her father had given her in order to make it through the next six weeks and back home, now that she’s dependent on him again. Folding the paper seal, she tucks it beneath her mattress like a sin.”
Enter Greer Lang, a guest at the lodge. With her bruised face and enigmatic aura, Greer captivates both Lois and readers. Her allure lies not only in her glamorous facade but also in the layers of mystery that shroud her past. As Lois befriends Greer, their interactions become a delicate dance of trust and curiosity. Greer’s secrets keep us guessing, and her presence adds an electrifying tension to the narrative.
“It’s not that they act like men, but like girls when no men are present.”
Through Lois’s eyes, Beaird illuminates the societal norms and power dynamics of the 1950s. Women faced limited options—marriage or spinsterhood—and divorce was often stigmatized. The novel explores the delicate balance between societal expectations and personal desires. Lois’s journey becomes a microcosm of the larger struggle for female independence during that era.
“I’ve done what I could, but sometimes people prefer to stay where it’s safe, to stick to what they know, even when what they know is a prison.”
Beaird’s writing style mirrors the mood of old black-and-white films. Her descriptive prose paints vivid scenes—the sun-drenched Nevada landscape, the creaking lodge floorboards, and the emotional turmoil of the characters. Readers can practically smell the desert sage and taste the anticipation in the air. Beaird’s ability to evoke sensory experiences immerses us fully in this world.
For a first-time author, Beaird’s achievement is remarkable. Whether you’re drawn to mystery, historical fiction, or character-driven narratives, “The Divorcees” offers something compelling. It captures the complexities of female friendships, the yearning for autonomy, and the quiet rebellion against societal constraints.
“Still, she began to feel stronger. As if a spirit, not of someone dead but of someone yet to be, were passing through her.”
“The Divorcées” combines strong character development, historical context, and beautiful writing. Beaird’s debut resonates long after the last chapter, inviting us to reflect on our own quests for liberation and connection.
Genres: Historical Fiction, Women’s Fiction
Thank you to Pan MacMillan SA for this gifted copy.
About this book: The Divorcees by Rowan Beaird – Pan Macmillan
About the author: Rowan Beaird
@roelia_reads #WeekendReading! The Divorcées by Rowan Beaird. New on the shelf from @Pan Macmillan SA #currentlyreading #roeliareads #gifted #bookreviewer #booktoksa ♬ Love Of My Life – Metrow Ar
