The Introverted Bookworm

Finally reaching breaking point after receiving a patronizing email from HR apparently offering “support” to women of a certain age, fifty-two-year-old (menopausal) Heidi writes an angry email, saving it to her drafts folder. However, when she accidently hits the “send button,” havoc ensues! She finds herself being the face of a new menopause group at her workplace, sparking changes and new insights that she didn’t think were possible.

Wow, what a frank, engaging story! Any woman who, like me, is starting to worry about the onset of perimenopause, or is in the midst of the menopause itself, will find a lot about Heidi that is deeply relatable. First off, she is a very down-to-earth character. Some readers might be put off by her language, for instance; but I loved her colloquial style and no-bullshit approach to life. For example, at the start of the novel, she is making lunch for a bunch of visitors, getting angrier and more irritable by the minute, admitting that “If Mother Theresa came begging at my door for all the fucks I have to give, I’d have to send her away empty handed.”

I think that in central protagonist, Heidi, the author has endeavored to create an authentic, true-to-life character, who is openly struggling with the many (and oftentimes hideous) symptoms of menopause. She suffers from brain fog, gastrointestinal issues, and many other symptoms. At one point, she can’t even remember the name for cauliflower, having to Google its description instead: “White lumpy that looks like a brain.” Humorous moments like this that forge a connection with the reader, creating an immersive (as well as thought-provoking) narrative.

I liked the romance element, with flashy hotshot musician, Nick, juxtaposed with the more reserved, thoughtful character of Jacob. With a university reunion in sight, Heidi has to navigate her way through these new relationships, discovering who she is and what she wants in the process.

To me, what makes “Hot Not Bothered” stand out is that way it reflects the experiences and emotions of women of a certain age in a frank and amusing manner. I enjoyed this book a lot: it has a no-holds-barred style that is as refreshing as it is engaging.