The NOT MY JOB ANYMORE Book Club Companion

Dear Readers,

Many of the reviews have suggested my latest novel, Not My Job Anymore, will make a compelling book club read. With this hope in mind, allow me to present The Not My Job Anymore Book Club Companion…

…which so far consists of the following questions and topics for discussion designed to help readers explore ways in which the characters and story relate to their own lives.

Discussion prompts:

1. When you first met Viola, what was your impression of her? Did your opinion of her change as the story unfolded? If so, what changed your mind?

   
   

2. Viola quietly takes on most of the responsibilities in her marriage rather than argue about who should do them. Why do you think so many people avoid addressing unequal partnerships until resentment has already taken root? Have you ever seen this happen in real life?

   
   

3. Which everyday frustration in the novel felt the most familiar to you?

   
   

4. Before learning the truth about her husband's long-kept secret, do you think Viola's marriage was already beyond saving? Why or why not?

   
   

5. How much should a spouse's illness influence decisions about forgiveness, separation, or divorce? Is there ever a point where compassion and self-preservation come into conflict?

   
   

6. After her mother's death, Viola finds comfort in talking to her mother's favorite chair. Have you ever had a place, object, or tradition that made you feel close to someone you've lost? Why do you think those connections can be so powerful?

   
   

7. Viola faces difficult decisions while caring for an aging parent. If you've had a similar experience, what challenges surprised you the most? Looking back, is there anything you wish you had done differently?

   
   

8. Even during difficult times, the novel finds moments of humor. Which scene made you laugh or smile the most, and why do you think it worked?

   
   

9. Michael enters Viola's life when she least expects it. If you found yourself single after the age of sixty, would you consider dating again? Would you be looking for a lifelong partner, companionship, or something else?

   
   

10. Would you be willing to try online dating? If not, what would hold you back? What, if anything, might persuade you to give it a chance?

    
    

11. Viola lies to Michael about her relationship status. At what point, if any, did her deception become unacceptable? Could you understand why she did it even if you disagreed with her choice? How might you have handled the situation differently?

    
    

12. What stereotype about growing older does the novel challenge most successfully? Which one made you laugh because it was so true?

    
    

13. Some of the characters discover that life doesn't always unfold according to plan. Do you believe it's ever too late to reinvent yourself, pursue happiness, or begin again? Have you ever experienced or witnessed a fresh start later in life?

I’d love to hear what you think about the list and if you have anything to add. Even better, if you try out the questions at your book club gathering, please let me know if they help produce a lively discussion. Though if you prefer the kind of clubs I do—the ones with wine—it may be hard to tell.

❤️Margie

Finished Not My Job Anymore and wondering what to read next? Preorder Not My Match Anymore, Book Two of the Not Anymore series, right now. 

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