Hearties Review: The Single Ladies of Jacaranda Retirement Village

It’s safe to say that 79-year-old pensioner Peggy Smart is in a bit of a rut. Her life revolves around never-ending doctor appointments, the sometimes-humiliating weekly aqua aerobics classes and daydreaming about a handsome widower and fellow village resident Brian Cornell (who incidentally still has his own teeth).

But when Angie Valentine, glamorous fashionista and Peggy’s long-lost friend unexpectedly appears after five decades of silence, Peggy’s beige world is turned upside down. How did Angie find her and what is she doing at the Jacaranda Retirement Village of all places? Peggy doesn’t know it, but Angie’s abrupt appearance is about to lead her and the elderly residents of the village on a path of self-discovery.

Drawing on her own experiences as a GP author Joanna Nell deftly explores society’s treatment of the elderly, the struggles and insecurities that come with ageing and the importance of heartfelt and enduring friendship in an entertaining and honest way.

A beautifully written tale that is equal parts heartwarming, hilarious and poignant, The Single Ladies of the Jacaranda Retirement Village is an ode to ageing disgracefully and proof that it is never too late to find love and enjoy life.

If you loved Grace and Frankie, The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel and The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry then this is your next must-read!