Three best friends, one big betrayal, and a whole lot of life insurance money. The Retirement Plan is a sharply funny, slightly murderous debut that dives into the chaos of long-term marriages, lifelong friendships, and the dreams we have for our golden years. When Pam and her friends Shalisa, Nancy, and Marlene find out their husbands have botched a retirement investment—and essentially sunk their future beach condo dreams—they’re left bitter and broke. But everything changes after one of the husbands dies in a freak accident and his widow pockets a massive life insurance payout…and moves to Florida.

That’s when the women learn their own husbands each have similar seven-figure policies, and the idea of retirement suddenly has a very deadly new meaning. They begin plotting with a hitman (yes, really), only to realize their husbands aren’t as clueless as they seem—they’ve got a secret plan of their own. Cue a suspenseful, darkly funny game of marital cat and mouse, where the line between villain and victim blurs fast.

This audiobook was such a fun and easy listen! It perfectly balances outrageous antics with surprisingly heartfelt moments. Yes, it’s totally over the top at times—there are plenty of “wait, what?!” moments—but that’s part of its charm. Underneath all the scheming and shenanigans is a thoughtful story about growing older, the complexities of marriage, and how even the most buried secrets can change everything.

Sure, it’s a bit ridiculous, but I had a blast with it. If you’re looking for something twisty but light, and a little zany in all the right ways, The Retirement Plan is the perfect vacation read. Think The First Wives Club meets The Thursday Murder Club—just with more murder plots and margaritas.

AMAZON | GOODREADS | BOOKSHOP | ★★★★

The Retirement Plan is out now. Huge thank you to William Morrow and Mac Millan Audio for my advanced copy in exchange for my honest opinion.  If you liked this review please let me know either by commenting below or by visiting my instagram @speakingof.books.