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Better Luck Next Time
"Do you want to read something funny? Let’s say, a novel set at a divorce ranch in Reno in the 1930s? A book with memorably eccentric characters, sparkling dialogue, a satisfying plot twist, and some romance and sex? A feel-good literary comedy/western? Here it is, then, the book you've been looking Julia Claiborne Johnson’s Better Luck Next Time."—Julie Schumacher, author of Dear Committee Members and The Shakespeare Requirement
The eagerly anticipated second novel from the bestselling author of Be Frank with Me, a charming story of endings, new beginnings, and the complexities and complications of friendship and love, set in late 1930s Reno.
It’s 1938 and women seeking a quick, no-questions split from their husbands head to the “divorce capital of the world,” Reno, Nevada. There’s one they have to wait six-weeks to become “residents.” Many of these wealthy, soon-to-be divorcees flock to the Flying Leap, a dude ranch that caters to their every need.
Twenty-four-year-old Ward spent one year at Yale before his family lost everything in the Great Depression; now he’s earning an honest living as a ranch hand at the Flying Leap. Admired for his dashing good looks—“Cary Grant in cowboy boots”—Ward thinks he’s got the Flying Leap’s clients all figured out. But two new guests are about to upend everything he thinks he Nina, a St Louis heiress and amateur pilot back for her third divorce, and Emily, whose bravest moment in life was leaving her cheating husband back in San Francisco and driving herself to Reno.
A novel about divorce, marriage, and everything that comes in between (money, class, ambition, and opportunity), Better Luck Next Time is a hilarious yet poignant examination of the ways friendship can save us, love can destroy us, and the family we create can be stronger than the family we come from.
The eagerly anticipated second novel from the bestselling author of Be Frank with Me, a charming story of endings, new beginnings, and the complexities and complications of friendship and love, set in late 1930s Reno.
It’s 1938 and women seeking a quick, no-questions split from their husbands head to the “divorce capital of the world,” Reno, Nevada. There’s one they have to wait six-weeks to become “residents.” Many of these wealthy, soon-to-be divorcees flock to the Flying Leap, a dude ranch that caters to their every need.
Twenty-four-year-old Ward spent one year at Yale before his family lost everything in the Great Depression; now he’s earning an honest living as a ranch hand at the Flying Leap. Admired for his dashing good looks—“Cary Grant in cowboy boots”—Ward thinks he’s got the Flying Leap’s clients all figured out. But two new guests are about to upend everything he thinks he Nina, a St Louis heiress and amateur pilot back for her third divorce, and Emily, whose bravest moment in life was leaving her cheating husband back in San Francisco and driving herself to Reno.
A novel about divorce, marriage, and everything that comes in between (money, class, ambition, and opportunity), Better Luck Next Time is a hilarious yet poignant examination of the ways friendship can save us, love can destroy us, and the family we create can be stronger than the family we come from.
284 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 5, 2021
About the author
Julia Claiborne Johnson
2 books674 followersJulia Claiborne Johnson is the author of the bestselling Be Frank with Me, a finalist for the American Bookseller’s Association Best Debut Novel Award. She grew up on a farm in Tennessee before moving to New York City, where she worked at Mademoiselle and Glamour magazines. She now lives in Los Angeles with her comedy-writer husband and their two children.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,132 reviews
April 28, 2021
I previously read Be Frank With Me by this same author and loved it, but unfortunately this one was a bit of a letdown for me in comparison. This is for the most part more of a character driven novel instead of a plot driven novel, which can already be a negative for some people but I actually like these kinds of novels. The problem for me was that the two main characters of this particular story, Ward and Emily, actually felt like the weakest characters of the book. I wish we got to 'see' more of their personal backstories and their life after the ranch, instead of just being told. I also never felt the chemistry between them. I actually wish this book was about Nina instead and written from her point of view. And I could do without the quasi plot twist at the end completely.
Basically, go read Be Frank With Me instead if you haven't already.
Basically, go read Be Frank With Me instead if you haven't already.
January 23, 2021
Do you know about the divorce ranches in Reno, Nevada? This is the second or third book I’ve read in the last couple years that focuses on the “Reno Cure,” in the “divorce capital of the world, where women would travel to Nevada for a quickie divorce. Better Luck Next Time is such a fun blend of a book: historical fiction, quirky characters, lots of humor, a bit of a twist, and even some romance.
But this book isn’t really about the divorces. It’s about friendship, love, and second chances and larger than life characters share their stories. Better Luck Next Time is a slower-building, character-driven story, and I enjoyed the time I invested in getting to know them all!
I received a gifted copy.
Many of my reviews can also be found on my blog: www.jennifertarheelreader.com and instagram: www.instagram.com/tarheelreader
But this book isn’t really about the divorces. It’s about friendship, love, and second chances and larger than life characters share their stories. Better Luck Next Time is a slower-building, character-driven story, and I enjoyed the time I invested in getting to know them all!
I received a gifted copy.
Many of my reviews can also be found on my blog: www.jennifertarheelreader.com and instagram: www.instagram.com/tarheelreader
December 16, 2020
I always welcome the opportunity to read a historical fiction book that does not take place during World War 2 as that seems to dominate the genre. A story revolving around a 1930s dude ranch in Nevada where wealthy women come to stay as they await their divorce paperwork to be finalized was certainly enough to convince me to check this one out. An interesting idea and I appreciate the author's attempt to bring something different to the genre. Unfortunately, I can't say I loved the actual reading experience of it all.
Way back when, Reno, Nevada was known as the divorce capital of the world. If you wanted a quickie divorce, you stayed in the state for 6 weeks in order to become a "resident", and there you go, divorce granted. In 1938, Ward was 24 years old and working as a ranch hand at the Flying Leap dude ranch. Nina and Emily are two of the guests staying at the ranch as they are both going through the process of divorcing their husbands. Nina is an amateur pilot and a frequent guest at this ranch as she is back for her third divorce. Emily left her husband in San Francisco to kick him to the curb so to speak, but it also meant leaving her daughter behind as well.
The story doesn't have much action and that's part of the reason it was a slow read for me. The main issue though was I struggled with my interest level in the characters. Every single one fell flat, including Nina, who I believe was set up to be the fascinating one of the bunch. I wanted to feel more invested in their lives.
Having said that, when I finally finished the book, I had a much better understanding of what the author was trying to accomplish with the story. There are complex layers to each character but it doesn't come across very well until you have the time to sit back and reflect. So while it is frustrating it wasn't that much of a fun read at the time, I do think I got something of value from the experience.
Thank you to William Morrow for sending me an advance copy of this book! All thoughts expressed are my honest opinion.
Way back when, Reno, Nevada was known as the divorce capital of the world. If you wanted a quickie divorce, you stayed in the state for 6 weeks in order to become a "resident", and there you go, divorce granted. In 1938, Ward was 24 years old and working as a ranch hand at the Flying Leap dude ranch. Nina and Emily are two of the guests staying at the ranch as they are both going through the process of divorcing their husbands. Nina is an amateur pilot and a frequent guest at this ranch as she is back for her third divorce. Emily left her husband in San Francisco to kick him to the curb so to speak, but it also meant leaving her daughter behind as well.
The story doesn't have much action and that's part of the reason it was a slow read for me. The main issue though was I struggled with my interest level in the characters. Every single one fell flat, including Nina, who I believe was set up to be the fascinating one of the bunch. I wanted to feel more invested in their lives.
Having said that, when I finally finished the book, I had a much better understanding of what the author was trying to accomplish with the story. There are complex layers to each character but it doesn't come across very well until you have the time to sit back and reflect. So while it is frustrating it wasn't that much of a fun read at the time, I do think I got something of value from the experience.
Thank you to William Morrow for sending me an advance copy of this book! All thoughts expressed are my honest opinion.
January 6, 2021
I wasn't sure I'd like this as it looked a bit too romancey for me but I really loved it. Perhaps because my grandmother was a black-jack dealer in Reno and was divorced during this same time period? For whatever reason it worked for me in a comforting way...like watching an old black and white film.
March 11, 2021
“You know it’s time to file for divorce when all your fantasies about your husband involve him being dead.”
I’m pretty sure Barnes & Noble’s ceaseless emails pushing this for their book club was the driving force behind me adding it to the TBR. (It definitely wasn’t the ugly cover!) Anyway, I read the premise before putting in my library request and while I’m not a huge reader of historic fiction, the premise of wealthy women basically vacationing while awaiting their “quickie” (a/k/a six week) divorces in Reno back in the late 1930s certainly caught my attention. Then I waited until I got the friendly reminder notifying me it would expire in a day to ever start reading it. Winning!
Anyway, this wasn’t terrible but I wasn’t a huge fan either. I think I’m in a bit of a funk. Nearly everything I’ve picked up lately has been falling in the 2.5-3.5 Star range. I’m going to go ahead and give this a straight up 3 Stars and point out just a few things that didn’t work for me. To begin with a positive, the ladies at the ranch were a real hoot. In particular Nina. It was so easy to picture one of America’s sweethearts playing the part on the big screen back in the day . . . .
I could even deal with the over-the-top humor which was very much in the style of . . . .
But when the leading male is claimed to be a ringer for . . . .
And a supposed Ivy League brainiac to boot from a well-to-do family who lost it all during the Great Depression whose voice kept making me hear this guy in my head . . . .
Well, that was just distracting. Not to mention the fact that this book is all supposed to be about the WOMEN and ditching that zero and such but a DUDE is telling us the story? Right when I would really find myself getting lost in the tale, he’d chime in with some bullshit I could give a fart about and distract me from the only story that mattered – those of the potential divorcées. I’ve worked in large firms my entire adult life. I’ve had my fill of uninteresting old men wanting to talk only about themselves all day while attempting to put the interesting women on mute thankyouverylittle.
The good news is, I’m an avid enough reader to appreciate the fact that sophomore novels are hard. Especially coming off of a story featuring one of the best male characters ever. His name is Frank and I encourage everyone to read about him. I’m just going to chalk this latest release up as a great idea, but a bit of a flop on the delivery.
I’m pretty sure Barnes & Noble’s ceaseless emails pushing this for their book club was the driving force behind me adding it to the TBR. (It definitely wasn’t the ugly cover!) Anyway, I read the premise before putting in my library request and while I’m not a huge reader of historic fiction, the premise of wealthy women basically vacationing while awaiting their “quickie” (a/k/a six week) divorces in Reno back in the late 1930s certainly caught my attention. Then I waited until I got the friendly reminder notifying me it would expire in a day to ever start reading it. Winning!
Anyway, this wasn’t terrible but I wasn’t a huge fan either. I think I’m in a bit of a funk. Nearly everything I’ve picked up lately has been falling in the 2.5-3.5 Star range. I’m going to go ahead and give this a straight up 3 Stars and point out just a few things that didn’t work for me. To begin with a positive, the ladies at the ranch were a real hoot. In particular Nina. It was so easy to picture one of America’s sweethearts playing the part on the big screen back in the day . . . .
I could even deal with the over-the-top humor which was very much in the style of . . . .
But when the leading male is claimed to be a ringer for . . . .
And a supposed Ivy League brainiac to boot from a well-to-do family who lost it all during the Great Depression whose voice kept making me hear this guy in my head . . . .
Well, that was just distracting. Not to mention the fact that this book is all supposed to be about the WOMEN and ditching that zero and such but a DUDE is telling us the story? Right when I would really find myself getting lost in the tale, he’d chime in with some bullshit I could give a fart about and distract me from the only story that mattered – those of the potential divorcées. I’ve worked in large firms my entire adult life. I’ve had my fill of uninteresting old men wanting to talk only about themselves all day while attempting to put the interesting women on mute thankyouverylittle.
The good news is, I’m an avid enough reader to appreciate the fact that sophomore novels are hard. Especially coming off of a story featuring one of the best male characters ever. His name is Frank and I encourage everyone to read about him. I’m just going to chalk this latest release up as a great idea, but a bit of a flop on the delivery.
February 10, 2021
"There really is no predicting whether the person you marry will be a keeper, is there?"
Dr. Howard Stovall Bennett III
"Our D-I-V-O-R-C-E becomes final today . . ."
Tammy Wynette
Once upon a time there was one way to easily dissolve a not-so-happily-ever-after marriage, and it involved establishing residency in Reno, Nevada for six weeks. So many women made a beeline for the state, that a small industry sprang up to accommodate their needs as they waited to become separated from their spouses. Set in 1938, this tale involves a small group of soon-to-be-divorcees living at a dude ranch. Two women in particular, shy Emily, and ballsy Nina, jump to the forefront, and most of the action revolves around their antics as they become fast friends and confidantes. The story is told, fifty years after the fact, by Ward, one of the "cowboys" on the ranch.
Though I had my doubts going in, I gotta admit to really enjoying this one. It was the perfect combination of humor and drama, with just the right amount of quirkiness thrown in for fun. Now I've got to go looking for Johnson's first book while I wait for whatever she dreams up next.
Dr. Howard Stovall Bennett III
"Our D-I-V-O-R-C-E becomes final today . . ."
Tammy Wynette
Once upon a time there was one way to easily dissolve a not-so-happily-ever-after marriage, and it involved establishing residency in Reno, Nevada for six weeks. So many women made a beeline for the state, that a small industry sprang up to accommodate their needs as they waited to become separated from their spouses. Set in 1938, this tale involves a small group of soon-to-be-divorcees living at a dude ranch. Two women in particular, shy Emily, and ballsy Nina, jump to the forefront, and most of the action revolves around their antics as they become fast friends and confidantes. The story is told, fifty years after the fact, by Ward, one of the "cowboys" on the ranch.
Though I had my doubts going in, I gotta admit to really enjoying this one. It was the perfect combination of humor and drama, with just the right amount of quirkiness thrown in for fun. Now I've got to go looking for Johnson's first book while I wait for whatever she dreams up next.
December 22, 2020
3.75 Cowboy Stars
Exploring the world of a Reno ranch in the late 1930s when women seeking divorces would stay for six weeks to speed up the process! This one is from the point of view from a young and handsome ranch hand who was asked to work as much as possible with his shirt off!
There are some memorable characters with big personalities in this one and a bit of romance thrown in too. Many of the women were wealthy and some were on multiple divorces! Our narrator, Ward, is a hard-working ranch hand and frequently is called upon to drive the ladies to town and lead them on horseback rides. He sees the women fleeing cheating husbands and others that still seem to love their husbands.
An interesting historical fiction tale focused on a bit if history I didn’t know much about at all! This one made for a great break in between heavier reads.
Thank you to Book Club Girls/William Morrow/Custom House and NetGalley for my complimentary copy. This one is set to release 1.5.2021.
Exploring the world of a Reno ranch in the late 1930s when women seeking divorces would stay for six weeks to speed up the process! This one is from the point of view from a young and handsome ranch hand who was asked to work as much as possible with his shirt off!
There are some memorable characters with big personalities in this one and a bit of romance thrown in too. Many of the women were wealthy and some were on multiple divorces! Our narrator, Ward, is a hard-working ranch hand and frequently is called upon to drive the ladies to town and lead them on horseback rides. He sees the women fleeing cheating husbands and others that still seem to love their husbands.
An interesting historical fiction tale focused on a bit if history I didn’t know much about at all! This one made for a great break in between heavier reads.
Thank you to Book Club Girls/William Morrow/Custom House and NetGalley for my complimentary copy. This one is set to release 1.5.2021.
January 18, 2021
2.5 Stars — Set in 1938, BETTER LUCK NEXT TIME gives a snap shot of life on a Nevada dude ranch for out-of-state wealthy women seeking a quickie divorce. They simply live there for six weeks to establish residency, and then they’re free.
The story is told through Ward’s eyes, a young man working as a ranch hand at the Flying Leap. He becomes entangled in the drama and shenanigans of two clients, Emily and Nina, one leaving a cheating husband in San Francisco, and the other an heiress working on divorce number three.
The unique premise grabbed my attention, because I love 20th century historical fiction, especially pre-WWII. While the book had plenty of charm, overall it wasn’t a good fit for me. Maybe humorous fiction isn’t my cup of tea? I did enjoy watching the friendship grow between the unlikely pair of Emily and Nina, though their relationship didn’t end up how I expected it to, and at times they were hard to take.
The book begins in 1988, with Ward in a nursing home telling what happened the year of 1938 at the Flying Leap to an unknown character. At times I would forget that I was in Ward’s head, with him just describing what was going on with other characters. Then he would go off on a tangent about something else, which was jarring. I think this was a case of loving the premise, and not the execution.
BETTER LUCK NEXT TIME has a lot of heart, and mixes comic relief into the sad & stressful situation of these characters. Maybe not as enjoyable as I thought it would be, but I know many readers will love it.
The story is told through Ward’s eyes, a young man working as a ranch hand at the Flying Leap. He becomes entangled in the drama and shenanigans of two clients, Emily and Nina, one leaving a cheating husband in San Francisco, and the other an heiress working on divorce number three.
The unique premise grabbed my attention, because I love 20th century historical fiction, especially pre-WWII. While the book had plenty of charm, overall it wasn’t a good fit for me. Maybe humorous fiction isn’t my cup of tea? I did enjoy watching the friendship grow between the unlikely pair of Emily and Nina, though their relationship didn’t end up how I expected it to, and at times they were hard to take.
The book begins in 1988, with Ward in a nursing home telling what happened the year of 1938 at the Flying Leap to an unknown character. At times I would forget that I was in Ward’s head, with him just describing what was going on with other characters. Then he would go off on a tangent about something else, which was jarring. I think this was a case of loving the premise, and not the execution.
BETTER LUCK NEXT TIME has a lot of heart, and mixes comic relief into the sad & stressful situation of these characters. Maybe not as enjoyable as I thought it would be, but I know many readers will love it.
January 24, 2021
In response to the Great Depression, Nevada did two things to turbocharge its economy: legalize gambling and reduce the waiting time to grant a divorce from the national standard sixth months to "only" six weeks. Luxury ranches sprang up in response to this, catering to wealthy women who wanted to end their current marriage.
Better Luck Next Time is a love story set in one of these commercial monuments to the end of love. Not surprisingly, it isn't always a happy story, but I really enjoyed several things about it. First, the characters are all well drawn, complex, interesting people who I enjoyed getting to know and learn about. Second, the narrator is a smart, folksy, friendly man telling this story from the end of his life, which gives the story an air of wisdom, nostalgia, and slight melancholy. Finally, one of the messages of this book is that love is hard to find and keep so grasp it when you can, but even if you can't hold it, life does go on. That's a message that is both positive and sad, poignant and true, and one I can get fully behind.
**Thanks to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
Better Luck Next Time is a love story set in one of these commercial monuments to the end of love. Not surprisingly, it isn't always a happy story, but I really enjoyed several things about it. First, the characters are all well drawn, complex, interesting people who I enjoyed getting to know and learn about. Second, the narrator is a smart, folksy, friendly man telling this story from the end of his life, which gives the story an air of wisdom, nostalgia, and slight melancholy. Finally, one of the messages of this book is that love is hard to find and keep so grasp it when you can, but even if you can't hold it, life does go on. That's a message that is both positive and sad, poignant and true, and one I can get fully behind.
**Thanks to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
February 7, 2021
First book I've read from beginning to end in over 12 months. And what a lovely welcome back to the world of fiction! I was transported to Reno circa 1938, far far away from Covid and the insurrection and everything going on in our world right now. And I thoroughly enjoyed the diversion. Julia crafts a beautiful story with delicious detail and characters that will stay with you. Ward's voice is distinct and unique, giving this tale such a lovely regional flavor. He feels very much of that time and place, and he kind of just sweeps you up and takes you on this ride, and I loved every bit of it. Perfect pandemic escape.
December 31, 2022
4 Stars for Better Luck Next Time (audiobook) by Julia Claiborne Johnson read by David Aaron Baker.
This is a fun story set at a divorce ranch in Reno in the 1930’s. The story is told by one of the ranch hands. He talks about some of his interactions he had with the interesting ladies that stayed at the ranch while waiting the six weeks so they can become residents of Nevada. Once they are residents, they can get a quick divorce and move on with their lives. He finds love and heart break while working at the ranch and ultimately the story has a touching ending.
This is a fun story set at a divorce ranch in Reno in the 1930’s. The story is told by one of the ranch hands. He talks about some of his interactions he had with the interesting ladies that stayed at the ranch while waiting the six weeks so they can become residents of Nevada. Once they are residents, they can get a quick divorce and move on with their lives. He finds love and heart break while working at the ranch and ultimately the story has a touching ending.
April 11, 2021
Like the premise but very shallow, poorly executed. Narrator, Ward, is about the dumbest hero I’ve read in a long time.
February 3, 2021
3.5 stars.
Better Luck Next Time , Julia Claiborne Johnson's new book, is a fun and poignant look at marriage, divorce, friendship, love, and finding yourself.
In 1938, if women wanted a quick divorce they had to go to Reno, Nevada, where after a six-week stay which gave them residency, their divorce would be granted. Some of the wealthier women stayed at the Flying Leap, a dude ranch (also known as a “divorce ranch”), where they could enjoy pampering and companionship until their six-week time period was complete.
The women who come to the Flying Leap are either completely determined to get a divorce or they’re wavering; they either have confidence or lack it; and nearly all have moments of weakness. (Some, however, seem to be repeat customers.) Some warm to and make connections with their fellow guests, but some let the strain get to them.
The story is told through the eyes of Ward, a young, handsome man who works as a ranch hand at the Flying Leap. He recollects this time many years later as well as his encounters with Emily, a timid woman who drove herself from San Francisco after she had had enough of her cheating husband, and Nina, an heiress back for her third divorce. The relationships among the three form the crux of the story.
I thought this book offered really interesting social commentary and a fun look at women’s role in society in the 1930s. I don’t think this was necessarily “historical fiction” per se, but it was an interesting time for women in particular. There’s some romance, some emotion, some fun—it was a slow-paced but engaging read.
Custom House Books provided me a complimentary copy of Better Luck Next Time in exchange for an unbiased review. Thanks so much for making it available!
Check out my list of the best books I read in 2020 at https://itseithersadnessoreuphoria.blogspot.com/2021/01/the-best-books-i-read-in-2020.html.
Check out my list of the best books of the last decade at https://itseithersadnessoreuphoria.blogspot.com/2020/01/my-favorite-books-of-decade.html.
See all of my reviews at itseithersadnessoreuphoria.blogspot.com.
Follow me on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/the.bookishworld.of.yrralh/.
Better Luck Next Time , Julia Claiborne Johnson's new book, is a fun and poignant look at marriage, divorce, friendship, love, and finding yourself.
In 1938, if women wanted a quick divorce they had to go to Reno, Nevada, where after a six-week stay which gave them residency, their divorce would be granted. Some of the wealthier women stayed at the Flying Leap, a dude ranch (also known as a “divorce ranch”), where they could enjoy pampering and companionship until their six-week time period was complete.
The women who come to the Flying Leap are either completely determined to get a divorce or they’re wavering; they either have confidence or lack it; and nearly all have moments of weakness. (Some, however, seem to be repeat customers.) Some warm to and make connections with their fellow guests, but some let the strain get to them.
The story is told through the eyes of Ward, a young, handsome man who works as a ranch hand at the Flying Leap. He recollects this time many years later as well as his encounters with Emily, a timid woman who drove herself from San Francisco after she had had enough of her cheating husband, and Nina, an heiress back for her third divorce. The relationships among the three form the crux of the story.
I thought this book offered really interesting social commentary and a fun look at women’s role in society in the 1930s. I don’t think this was necessarily “historical fiction” per se, but it was an interesting time for women in particular. There’s some romance, some emotion, some fun—it was a slow-paced but engaging read.
Custom House Books provided me a complimentary copy of Better Luck Next Time in exchange for an unbiased review. Thanks so much for making it available!
Check out my list of the best books I read in 2020 at https://itseithersadnessoreuphoria.blogspot.com/2021/01/the-best-books-i-read-in-2020.html.
Check out my list of the best books of the last decade at https://itseithersadnessoreuphoria.blogspot.com/2020/01/my-favorite-books-of-decade.html.
See all of my reviews at itseithersadnessoreuphoria.blogspot.com.
Follow me on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/the.bookishworld.of.yrralh/.
January 4, 2024
This book was a delightful breath of fresh air! I loved the jaunt through a divorcee dude ranch.
Ward was a loveable character, and the ladies were all hot messes.
There was a lot of humor and historical fiction.
Wonderfully written by Julia Claiborne Johnson. I haven't yet had the chance to experience, Be Frank With Me, but I hear nothing but good things.
I highly recommend this one.
5 Stars
Ward was a loveable character, and the ladies were all hot messes.
There was a lot of humor and historical fiction.
Wonderfully written by Julia Claiborne Johnson. I haven't yet had the chance to experience, Be Frank With Me, but I hear nothing but good things.
I highly recommend this one.
5 Stars
December 11, 2020
A really funny story. The story is set at a divorce ranch in Reno in the 1930s. You will remember these odd, eccentric characters. They are so entertaining. A story with a sparkling dialogue. It has sex, romance and a twisting plot. If you are looking for a good comedy/western this book is for you. I am waiting for your next great book.
November 10, 2021
Better Luck Next Time by Julia Claiborne Johnson. Better Luck Next Time is historical fiction set on a divorce ranch outside of Reno, Nevada in the 1930s, told from the perspective of a man named Ward. The ranch houses women who are required to spend six weeks in Nevada to gain residency and then they can obtain a divorce. When the story opens, it is his present day, and he begins to reflect back on one particular six weeks, and the two women Nina and Emily that changed the trajectory of his life. The book is fantastic – I love the way she writes; I love the setting; and I really love Ward - he is now one of my favorite fictional characters.
I interviewed Julia for my podcast and you can listen here: https://www.thoughtsfromapage.com/jul....
I interviewed Julia for my podcast and you can listen here: https://www.thoughtsfromapage.com/jul....
March 4, 2021
I adored Julia Johnson’s book “Be Frank With Me” and “Better Luck Next Time” was equally delightful to read. I didn’t know how well a book described as a comic literary western would work, but in Julia’s hands it truly lived up to that description. The characters are so well developed that I really became invested in their lives and would love to read a sequel. There is something about Julia’s writing that is very cinematic because I could easily envision the whole book playing out in front of my eyes and that’s a rarity among books I’ve read. I highly recommend both of Julia Johnson’s books and can’t wait for the next one.
July 16, 2022
Better Luck Next Time by Julia Claiborne Johnson is an interesting historical fiction that takes the reader (well at least this reader) to a place I have never been before: a “divorce ranch” located in Reno, Nevada in the 1930s. I will let the reader find out more about the concept of the ranch. (Maybe I am the only one that didn’t know that Reno was known for “quickie divorces” at a time when divorce was difficult and most certainly frowned upon.)
I enjoyed learning the stories of Emily, Nina, and Ward. Their characters were endearing, I think, even more so because of their flaws and imperfections. I enjoyed seeing their reflections, growth, and changes. I also enjoyed the satisfying ending.
A memorable and unique read that kept me interested throughout.
I enjoyed learning the stories of Emily, Nina, and Ward. Their characters were endearing, I think, even more so because of their flaws and imperfections. I enjoyed seeing their reflections, growth, and changes. I also enjoyed the satisfying ending.
A memorable and unique read that kept me interested throughout.
November 12, 2020
Better Luck Next Time is a unique story idea for historical fiction, focusing on a dude ranch for divorcees in 1938. The concept is a breath of fresh air from the glut of World War II novels that fill the shelves right now. That being said it didn't do all that much for me, either in concept or in execution. The story is narrated by Ward, who was a staff member on the ranch, as a now retired folksy small town doctor. Some may find this charming, but the reminiscing periodically interrupted by his medical practice that had nothing to do with the story being told was distracting to me. The story itself isn't particularly redeeming to me either, as Ward as a young man was incredibly naïve and a little bit too agreeable, and the women he spends the most time with - Emily and Nina - are self-absorbed and oblivious to the real world problems of most people while the Depression is going on. Nina, the irrepressible one, takes it upon herself to lighten up the more straight-laced Emily. The two are having a grand adventure with Ward as their wingman when Emily's even more self-absorbed daughter Portia shows up as well as Archer, the husband she plans to divorce. Beyond the fact that a paper mache horse head and fairy wings have already made a significant appearance by this point, why shouldn't things get even messier? I would have liked this story to be more interesting, more redeeming and more engaging, but I just couldn't bring myself to like any of these characters or the rambling storyline.
February 28, 2021
First of all, thank you so much to Bookclub Girl, William Morrow, and Julia Claiborne Johnson for my copy of Better Luck Next Time! This was another type of book I never read, a funny historical novel about marriage, divorce, and love. It was about a ranch outside of Reno where soon to be divorced women could go and wait for it to be finalized. The story was from the perspective of a ranch hand named Ward who lost everything in the Great Depression before he came to work at the Flying Leap. He is handsome and charming, and talks about his experience with two women, Emily and Nina, two women waiting to get divorced.
Thoughts: I thought this setting was very unique and this premise was one I hadn’t heard of before. I never knew about “divorce ranches” and found the premise interesting. This story wasn’t really a specific genre, just a tale about a man and his interactions with the women around him. The characters were interesting, especially Nina, and the perspective of Ward was unique. The book read like a discussion with an old man, which was a bit confusing when he went off on tangents.
The part I enjoyed was more of the social commentary on women in the 1930s and the idea of women being able to survive without their husbands. The book was slow though and most of the book nothing really happened. I found myself wanting to skip to the “good parts” but when I finished I didn’t find anything too engaging. 3-stars for the unique premise.
Thoughts: I thought this setting was very unique and this premise was one I hadn’t heard of before. I never knew about “divorce ranches” and found the premise interesting. This story wasn’t really a specific genre, just a tale about a man and his interactions with the women around him. The characters were interesting, especially Nina, and the perspective of Ward was unique. The book read like a discussion with an old man, which was a bit confusing when he went off on tangents.
The part I enjoyed was more of the social commentary on women in the 1930s and the idea of women being able to survive without their husbands. The book was slow though and most of the book nothing really happened. I found myself wanting to skip to the “good parts” but when I finished I didn’t find anything too engaging. 3-stars for the unique premise.
January 28, 2021
Hilarious, touching--altogether brilliant. If you loved BE FRANK WITH ME (and who didn't?!) this book is for you.
January 22, 2021
Julia Claiborne Johnson’s novels are quirky in the most fantastic way. I really enjoyed learning about divorce dude ranches in Reno. The cast of characters was vibrant and memorable and endearing.
3.5 star
3.5 star
December 23, 2020
I had heard good reviews of Julia Claiborne Johnson's debut novel Be Frank With Me. I was intrigued by the cover of Better Luck Next Time, the vintage photo of women at play. I am so, so happy that I put in my name in to win an ARC. This was a bright, warm, and happy light in the midst of Michigan's dismal winter and COVID-19 self isolation.
I laughed out loud, starting with the first page with the narrator's epigram, "Some men are born gigolos; others have it thrust upon them."
In 1988, Dr. Howard Stovall Bennett III (Ward) tells his story to an unnamed interviewer, recalling six weeks in 1938 that changed his life.
He took any job he could find during the Depression after his family lost their wealth and home. A Cary Grant look-a-like, he leaves his manual labor work to become a fake cowboy on a Reno dude ranch that offers wannabe divorcees a six-week residency to qualify for a quick divorce.
Ward was hired to perform ranch chores, provide eye-candy, and to "squire rich, brokenhearted ladies around Reno," which he proclaims was good experience for his future career as a doctor.
But that career was far in the future in 1938 when Nina and Emily arrive at The Flying Leap ranch. Nina is a 'repeat customer' with all the vibe and audacity of a Flapper, and she determines to help Emily loosen up and live a little.
OK, actually live it up a LOT. Like teenage schoolgirls, they go on larks and involve Ward as their chauffeur and partner in crime. Over-the-top scenes involve skinny dipping and Bottom's head and fairy wings from the theater department.
I loved all the women at the ranch, and the other cowboy Sam, and the ranch owners, and even the husbands and insolent daughter; it's an ensemble that lends itself to insight and humor.
The writing is so clever, the setting so unique and bizarre, the characters flawed and zany but human and lovable.
Warm and generous, with a heartwarming twisted ending, this was a real delight.
I received an ARC from the publisher through LibraryThing. My review is fair and unbiased.
I laughed out loud, starting with the first page with the narrator's epigram, "Some men are born gigolos; others have it thrust upon them."
In 1988, Dr. Howard Stovall Bennett III (Ward) tells his story to an unnamed interviewer, recalling six weeks in 1938 that changed his life.
He took any job he could find during the Depression after his family lost their wealth and home. A Cary Grant look-a-like, he leaves his manual labor work to become a fake cowboy on a Reno dude ranch that offers wannabe divorcees a six-week residency to qualify for a quick divorce.
Ward was hired to perform ranch chores, provide eye-candy, and to "squire rich, brokenhearted ladies around Reno," which he proclaims was good experience for his future career as a doctor.
But that career was far in the future in 1938 when Nina and Emily arrive at The Flying Leap ranch. Nina is a 'repeat customer' with all the vibe and audacity of a Flapper, and she determines to help Emily loosen up and live a little.
OK, actually live it up a LOT. Like teenage schoolgirls, they go on larks and involve Ward as their chauffeur and partner in crime. Over-the-top scenes involve skinny dipping and Bottom's head and fairy wings from the theater department.
I loved all the women at the ranch, and the other cowboy Sam, and the ranch owners, and even the husbands and insolent daughter; it's an ensemble that lends itself to insight and humor.
The writing is so clever, the setting so unique and bizarre, the characters flawed and zany but human and lovable.
Warm and generous, with a heartwarming twisted ending, this was a real delight.
I received an ARC from the publisher through LibraryThing. My review is fair and unbiased.
January 12, 2021
I have received this ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Better Luck Next Time was a different adventure for me when going down a historical route. Mostly because every time I dive into a historical book, ARC or not, it's mostly around a war. So, I'm not going to lie - this was different and I was really excited to take the chance to dive into it.
Since I've never been married, divorced, or wanted to go to a camp with people - this intrigued me. Yeah, I went to summer camp for soccer back in the day but that doesn't mean I wanted to. Or that I liked it. That being said, this was pretty interesting to see the couples go through what they went through.
Each character was pretty unique and brought something fun and different to the group. Yet, I kind of felt bored while listening to the book. I wouldn't necessarily say it was a slow paced book through and through but nothing really excited me either. It was still enjoyable to see who was going to stay together or not towards the end though.
In the end, I'm happy that I got the chance to dive into something new.
Better Luck Next Time was a different adventure for me when going down a historical route. Mostly because every time I dive into a historical book, ARC or not, it's mostly around a war. So, I'm not going to lie - this was different and I was really excited to take the chance to dive into it.
Since I've never been married, divorced, or wanted to go to a camp with people - this intrigued me. Yeah, I went to summer camp for soccer back in the day but that doesn't mean I wanted to. Or that I liked it. That being said, this was pretty interesting to see the couples go through what they went through.
Each character was pretty unique and brought something fun and different to the group. Yet, I kind of felt bored while listening to the book. I wouldn't necessarily say it was a slow paced book through and through but nothing really excited me either. It was still enjoyable to see who was going to stay together or not towards the end though.
In the end, I'm happy that I got the chance to dive into something new.
December 27, 2020
3.5 stars rounded up
An fun and interesting look at a 1930s divorce ranch and the 6 week stint that a group shared on the ranch. These ranches (true from history) were a place women could go spend 6 weeks at to get their Nevada citizenship which then allowed them to divorce their husband.
We meet a cast of women but the two main women involved are Nina (on her third trip to the ranch) and Emily. The two pair up and become fast friends. One drives an automobile while the other an airplane denoting them both as strong women.
The story is told from the point of view of one of two ranch hands, Ward. Ward is a young man from TN. The two women take a liking to Ward and manage to entwine him in several of their hijinks.
Ward is telling the story to an interviewer who has been visiting him at his retirement home armed with a picture from those 6 weeks and a tape recorder to get the story. The story stops as Ward comes back to his present time to make commentary about lessons learned or about his life after the ranch. In the end this style helped the book come full circle but throughout the story it sometimes made it feel a bit jerky in pace.
The book was not a fast read as there isn't a ton of action but I appreciated the story greatly by the end.
Thank you to NetGalley and Harper Collins audio for an advanced copy of the audiobook in exchange for my honest opinion.
An fun and interesting look at a 1930s divorce ranch and the 6 week stint that a group shared on the ranch. These ranches (true from history) were a place women could go spend 6 weeks at to get their Nevada citizenship which then allowed them to divorce their husband.
We meet a cast of women but the two main women involved are Nina (on her third trip to the ranch) and Emily. The two pair up and become fast friends. One drives an automobile while the other an airplane denoting them both as strong women.
The story is told from the point of view of one of two ranch hands, Ward. Ward is a young man from TN. The two women take a liking to Ward and manage to entwine him in several of their hijinks.
Ward is telling the story to an interviewer who has been visiting him at his retirement home armed with a picture from those 6 weeks and a tape recorder to get the story. The story stops as Ward comes back to his present time to make commentary about lessons learned or about his life after the ranch. In the end this style helped the book come full circle but throughout the story it sometimes made it feel a bit jerky in pace.
The book was not a fast read as there isn't a ton of action but I appreciated the story greatly by the end.
Thank you to NetGalley and Harper Collins audio for an advanced copy of the audiobook in exchange for my honest opinion.
February 28, 2021
I had never heard of the “Reno cure” and was delighted to read a historical fiction story about something I knew nothing about. The concept of dude range sequel getaways for wealthy women to stay in so they could quickly and legally divorce. I found myself struggling to engage and get into this story because the characters all fell kind of flat for me. I liked the general format of the story - and elderly Ward telling a journalist type person talking about his time as a pseudo cowboy in his youth. And the ending had a nice (but predictable twist). I felt like all of the characters had good potential but maybe there were too many to fully develop? I felt like the most love able character was Dumpling the horse.
February 13, 2021
Historical fiction is just quickly becoming a fan fav of mine... Better Luck Next Time taught me again about a time I have never known about. Who knew there was “divorce ranch” located in Reno, Nevada in the 1930’s? Julia Claiborne Johnson builds a slow story about this time and the individuals that run, reside, and visit the fictional(but based on fact) Flying Leap ranch. It is rich with descriptions of etiquette from that time and dialogue over the relationships that were forming. Who isn’t captivated by a Nina that comes into their lives? The cover made me buy this book, but the acknowledgement and Author’s Notes made me want to go back and read it again! Pick this one up if you are a historical fiction fan, although it can be slow to build, I couldn’t think of a better book to stay on my mind through Valentines weekend! ♥️
June 26, 2021
A charming and likable follow up to Be Frank With Me. I loved the setting - a dude ranch in Reno where women went while they awaited divorces. Filled with great characters, nothing too difficult, but richly satisfying.
December 16, 2020
Thank you to @netgalley and @harperaudio for the early audio copy of BETTER LUCK NEXT TIME by Julia Claiborne Johnson (PUB DATE 1.5.2021)
This book was wholly unique and a breath of fresh air. The story is narrated by Ward, described as "Cary Grant in cowboy boots", as he reflects back on his time working at the Flying Leap, a divorce ranch in Reno during the 1930's. The ranch caters to a cast of independent, eccentric, and conflicted soon-to-be divorced women.
It was a feel-good story full of old-fashioned charm. I appreciated how the author created a humorous romp while blending in emotionally contemplative elements.
The narration was fabulous. I felt like I was a guest on the ranch. My only gripe, which is a consistent audiobook gripe, is the voicing of the 14 yr old character. Her narration came across much younger than 14 and it pulled me out of the story a bit.
This book was wholly unique and a breath of fresh air. The story is narrated by Ward, described as "Cary Grant in cowboy boots", as he reflects back on his time working at the Flying Leap, a divorce ranch in Reno during the 1930's. The ranch caters to a cast of independent, eccentric, and conflicted soon-to-be divorced women.
It was a feel-good story full of old-fashioned charm. I appreciated how the author created a humorous romp while blending in emotionally contemplative elements.
The narration was fabulous. I felt like I was a guest on the ranch. My only gripe, which is a consistent audiobook gripe, is the voicing of the 14 yr old character. Her narration came across much younger than 14 and it pulled me out of the story a bit.
March 18, 2021
3.5 thoughts soon.
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