Book Club Read Aug: Going Dutch by Katie Fforde

There's something wonderfully comforting about a Katie Fforde novel.

The charming settings, relatable characters, heartwarming friendships, and the promise that even after life's biggest setbacks, a new beginning might be waiting just around the corner.

This August, the HEA Book Club is heading to the waterways of England with Going Dutch by Katie Fforde.

When Jo's husband suddenly leaves her and her daughter’s friend Dora calls off her engagement, neither woman is where she expected to be in life.

Finding themselves living together on a barge on the Thames, the pair must navigate not only life on the water but also the uncertainty of starting over.

As they adjust to their new circumstances, Jo and Dora discover that sometimes the most unexpected changes can lead to the most rewarding opportunities. Along the way, they build a friendship that helps them face new challenges, embrace fresh possibilities, and perhaps even open their hearts to new relationships.

Going Dutch is a romance, but it's also a story about resilience, friendship, and finding your footing when life takes an unexpected turn.

Many romance novels focus on first loves or dramatic beginnings. This story explores something equally important: what happens when a chapter closes and you're forced to figure out what comes next.

There's something incredibly hopeful about watching characters rebuild their lives and discover that sometimes a fresh start can be the best gift of all. This is the sort of book best enjoyed with a warm drink, a cosy blanket, and a quiet afternoon set aside for reading.

Whether you're already a longtime Katie Fforde fan or this is your first introduction to her books, we'd love for you to read along with us this month.

Be sure to join our discussion threads throughout August and let us know your favourite moments, characters, and quotes.

As winter continues here in Australia, Going Dutch feels like the perfect cosy escape—a story filled with friendship, hope, fresh starts, and the reminder that it's never too late for a new chapter.

Here's to another month of wonderful books, thoughtful conversations, and happily ever afters.

Join the Happily Ever After Book Club:
Don’t forget to join our Facebook group so you can be part of the conversation as we read together. We’d love to hear what you think, share favorite quotes, and chat about all the moments throughout the book.

Happy reading everyone!