The Briar Club

Set in 1950s Washington, The Briar Club explores female friendships and secrets in a boarding house during the McCarthy era, revealing deep tensions and hidden truths.

In The Briar Club, the acclaimed author returns with a poignant exploration of female friendships set against the backdrop of a Washington, D.C. boarding house during the turbulent McCarthy era. The narrative unfolds in 1950, where the residents of Briarwood House maintain a delicate balance of secrecy and respectability, each concealing their own truths behind closed doors. The atmosphere is thick with tension, as the specter of paranoia looms large in the wake of political turmoil.

The arrival of Grace March, a mysterious newcomer, disrupts the status quo. Her unique charm and weekly dinner parties draw together a diverse group of women, including a refined English beauty, a policeman's daughter, a frustrated baseball star, and a staunchly pro-McCarthy typist. As they bond over shared meals and personal struggles, the women find solace in their newfound camaraderie. However, Grace harbors a dark secret that threatens to unravel the fragile connections they have formed.

When an unexpected act of violence shatters their fragile peace, the members of the Briar Club are forced to confront their fears and question their loyalties. As tensions escalate, they must determine who among them poses the greatest threat. The Briar Club is a gripping tale that delves into themes of trust, resilience, and the complexities of female empowerment during a time of societal upheaval.