Charcuterie Girl
JA Wright
Saint John’s Creek Publishing, LLC (2025)
ISBN: 979-8991539319
Reviewed by Stephanie Elizabeth Long for Reader Views (07/2025)
Emma Davis is angry at the world. Between her failing marriage to an adulterous husband, struggling with her weight, and being disrespected by her misogynistic boss, it’s no wonder she succumbed to a rage-fueled meltdown at a McDonald’s in her little town. This was rock bottom for the tired mom.
A Healthy Horizons weight-loss meeting was the last place she’d expect to make a friend. Still, outgoing Evelyn Hanover (Evy) changed all that. With her infectious laugh and sarcastic quips, Evy won Emma over. The two bond over weight loss woes and single life, and take on the chaotic world of online dating. They are almost ready to give up on love when Emma meets a handsome stranger.
Things seem to be finally falling into place for Emma, flirting with the prospect of love, finalizing her divorce, and having Evy’s unwavering support. But life always has a way of throwing curveballs. When Evy and Emma are given some life-altering news, it changes everything.
Charcuterie Girl is JA Wright’s stunning debut novel about the power of sisterhood. Emma is stuck in a rut of self-loathing and anger, when Evy becomes a beacon of hope for the down-on-her-luck single mother. Together, they navigate adversity, celebrate wins, and offer unwavering support. The author highlights the beauty of building up other women rather than tearing them down, and I’m here for the feel-good vibes!
Every woman needs a partner in crime when embarking on life’s adventures, and Evy and Emma (along with their friend Mona) have their fair share of fun. From speed dating fiascos to leaping out of airplanes together, there is no shortage of knee-slapping humor as the women find themselves in amusing and sometimes shocking situations that will have readers in stitches. I haven’t had this much fun reading a novel in a while. The writing was so effortlessly immersive that I felt like I was part of their group.
Beyond the lighthearted aspects, Charcuterie Girl explores weightier themes like grief, illness, and death, which adds another layer of dimension. The heart-wrenching moments will appeal to readers who don’t shy away from emotionally charged writing, reminding us that we must take the bad with the good. Sometimes life can be tremendously unfair, but when we find our tribe of people, it makes the landing much softer when we fall.
Charcuterie Girl by JA Wright is a well-rounded novel that boasts excellent character development thanks to a cast of relatable characters. Readers will experience a full range of emotions while engrossed in Emma and Evy’s adventures. Add this book to the top of your summer reading list; you won’t regret it!