"This illuminating and hilarious novel is a must-read for every woman who is approaching or going through the various stages of menopause, done in such a way as to make the reader burst out laughing as she recognizes herself within the thoughts and actions of Kimberly and the other residents of the Menopause Ranch.
Deborah’s treatment of this subject which affects just about every member of the population, both female and male, is searching and inspiring. It helps the reader understand and celebrate her own journey through womanhood by taking her on an enlightening trip and giving her the opportunity to acknowledge what is happening in her life and with her body.
The characters come alive through Deborah’s words with the wisdom of our mothers, grandmothers and great-grandmothers.
I was disappointed to reach the end of the book, wishing it would continue for a lot longer. I enjoyed every single page. This is a book I can highly recommend, not only to women who are nearing, experiencing, or past menopause but also to young women who will one day reach that stage."A fine blend of good humor, warmth and wisdom, mixed with historical perspective of what women have forgotten about themselves through the ages. Recommended as a gift book or simply for the pleasure of reading and reawakening the lost sides of oneself."
Midwest Book Review
"Right from that great opening line – I was hooked. Nice job of showing us the narrator’s irascible character; through actions, thoughts and especially dialogue. It’s a nice touch to have the pages at the end of the book that enable a reader to work out her own thoughts." Susan Breen, Judge, Writer's Digest, International Self-Published Book Awards
"One does not visit this place by choice. Women worldwide will be deposited at its gates kicking, screaming and fighting it all the way, or with wonder and acceptance. We enter our menopausal years timidly, oftentimes scared and very rarely ready. Why is that? Author Deborah Vaughn expects that by taking the reader on a fictional trip through mythology and histories of countries and religions that we will approach some understanding about the origins of our perspectives on midlife and menopause.
Through the centuries our roles have been carefully etched out, engraved in our hearts and minds, and unfortunately prohibit us from looking at this pivotal time in our lives with anything other than dread; it doesn't have to be that way. The first step towards a fresh perspective is understanding and education.
Honestly, for me, the idea of visiting a place called Menopause Ranch seems downright torturous, but by the time I finished Vaughn's creative novel, I found myself wishing there was such a place. The women who visit are wrapped-in and clothed with the very essence of who they are; warmly supported in the move to embrace their uniqueness. Menopause Ranch is a place of rest, a place of peace, a place that provides a banquet of love and deep understanding."
Melinda Cianos, Reviewer, Boomer Womens' World
"I had the honor of purchasing this book in the author’s home town of Sedona, Arizona. I was hooked from the beginning and only wish there was such a wonderful place in reality. The advice on menopause is helpful and worth considering. It’s a book that gives you an “Ah Ha” moment time after time. I can hardly wait for the next book."
L. Sauder, Reviewer, Amazon.com