Rating: 5/5 Stars
Genre: Historical Fiction

1962 - Beverly Diamond has just walked into her husband's office for a midday delivery of home baked cookies and finds him and his secretary in a compromising scene. She immediately kicks him out of their home they share with their two young children and has to make a plan of how to live during this time period now as a single, soon to be divorced, mother of two with no job and no educational background in the 1960s. Her husband had run the Maryland senatorial campaign for the incumbent candidate, and Beverly grew up with her father in politics, so she knows her way around an election. Beverly craftily inserts herself into the campaign for the underdog, Michael Landau. Beverly works tirelessly to help Michael pay attention to issues that really matter and transforms his campaign and also finds herself, connection, and a dream future in the process.

I absolutely loved this author's previous book, Don't Forget to Write, so Behind Every Good Man was a highly anticipated read for me and it absolutely lived up to and exceeded expectations. I really enjoy reading about the 1960s time period, which is where the other book is set and I believe her next one too, so this author knows it really well and it was written very accurately as well as just excellent 60s vibes. I loved all the women's rights context we got throughout the book with this time period often referred to as "Second Wave Feminism", with the early 1960s being just the start, as the Equal Pay Act would be signed into law the following year! It was just so interesting to read about society's expectations of women during this time and the DC politics (even if this isn't your thing I would still give this book a try as it was done in such a palatable easy to read way and I still learned a lot). The characters in this book were funny, likeable, and really strong. The way Beverly came in and handled the floundering campaign was some of my favorite scenes. I literally laughed out loud during moments. I also enjoyed a few Easter egg moments from her previous book. I can't wait for her next release!

Thank you to Lake Union Publishing and NetGalley for an eARC. The above thoughts and honest review are my own.

This is the absolute PERFECT read for anyone struggling with the current political times. Confino knows how to write historical fiction with incredible heart. The characters in this book are so well developed and so authentic. Absolute perfection!

This is the second book I have read from this author and I was just as mesmerized with this one as with the first. The style and dialogue in this author's writing makes it such a great joy to read. I really had fun reading this one. The characters were well developed and the interactions were compelling. I liked that this book really created so many different funny mental pictures and that it was so original. I am ready for my next book by this author. Thanks for the ARC, NetGalley.

I have loved every book by this author so far. Behind every good man was no different. Sara finds a way to tell a romance story with making about so much more than romance. I love the depth growth of the characters and will continue to be an auto-buy author for me!

Sarah Goodman Confino has become a must-read author for me. I was giddy to get an advanced copy of her latest novel and finished it in a single weekend! She just has a way with writing strong female characters with a comedic bent. Her latest book revolves around a '60s housewife who discovers her husband's betrayal, which upends her world and sends her into the workforce for the first time. She's a funny, well-written character surrounded by a great plot. Midge Maisel would definitely be friends with Beverly Diamond!

Behind Every Good Man is the fourth novel by American author, Sara Goodman Confino. It may be 1962, but when former-Congressman’s daughter Beverly Diamond finds her husband in a compromising position with his secretary, she’s not prepared to be the silent, dutiful wife and look the other way. The mother of two packs his bags and tosses him out of the marital home. Then, to make herself feel better, she does a bit of home redecorating on his charge card.

When he threatens to sell the house, something that will force her and two small children into a tiny apartment, she realises she needs a job. But, having married Larry without finishing college, she has no formal qualifications or experience. Her try at a retail position lasts only a few hours. But when she sees a piece on a young man running for the Senate in opposition to Sam Gibson, it’s a lightbulb moment. Larry may be Sam’s campaign manager, but Bev is the one with experience in that field, having been there for all of her father’s political career.

Running Michael Landau’s campaign for the Senate will be the perfect revenge on Larry, and it doesn’t take a lot to convince the Senate aspirant, even if his current campaign manager continues to object. And before very long before Bev has another good reason the help Michael win a seat: he’s the right man for the job. There won’t be any filibustering on important issues from him, and it’s quickly clear that he’s ready to represent all his constituents, not just the white male ones.

Bev is lucky that Millie Gelman has decided to move in with her daughter to look after her grandchildren, so she can throw her all into campaigning, although she is a little concerned about her parents’ marriage. Soon, though, she’s proving that who you know is quite important. But Larry and Sam aren’t going down without a fight, and they know how to fight dirty…

It may be the era that Goodman Confino has chosen, but there’s a definite Lessons In Chemistry feel to the story, and her smart, gutsy protagonist reinforces that. She easily evokes the era and the public mindset of the time. Her characters are appealing, their dialogue often laugh-out-loud funny, and the reader can’t help but cheer them on. Very entertaining.
This unbiased review is from an uncorrected proof copy provided by NetGalley and Lake Union Publishing.

This was my first book by Sara Goodman Confino. I absolutely loved it. Beverly’s antics and attitude were powerful, but also made me laugh. Her husband Larry was awful. It was historical fiction, while still being very approachable for people who do not enjoy the genre. I will definitely be working my way through this author’s other books!

I loved “Behind Every Good Man.” Sara did a great job writing Bev- what a funny, delightful character! I wish I could meet her in person. I also loved Bev’s mom. She’s a fire cracker!

I adore Sara Goodman Confino's writing - this is a fantastic book! My first tendency is to say this is a beach read, but it really is more. I loved the story, I think the depiction of women in the 60’s is very accurate. Women having political knowledge was unnecessary, the men were to take care of “all that stuff.”

As far as the writing, the story was fast paced and characterizations were good. An easy read, but also a cultural lesson.

4.25 ⭐️. Sara Goodman Confino is easily becoming one of my favorite authors. I was so excited for this book after Don’t Forget to Write, and I was not disappointed! Being from the DC area myself, this particular novel was very entertaining and honestly, felt like a breath of fresh air.

After Beverly catches her husband at his office with his pants down behind his desk being 'assisted' by his secretary, she has an awakening and takes a stand making choices about her life and her role as a wife and mother that were not common in the 60's. I'm not typically a fan of historical fiction but I love stories about a woman's journey and subsequent empowerment and this is just that. Funny, heartwarming, charming, serious - it's got it all including an appearance from Jackie Kennedy. Another winner for #saragoodmanconfino

Thank you for the ARC! #netgalley #behindeverygoodman #lakeunionpublishing #saragoodmanconfino

Beverly Diamond for president!! Goodman Confino’s ability to create such a lovable and realistic protagonist is remarkable. This story wouldn’t have worked if readers weren’t able to root for Beverly so passionately. I fell head over heels for this historical fiction title and highly recommend it.

Okay, this book is everything! I honestly can’t get enough of her writing. Her stories pull you in from the start and don’t let go. Confino has this incredible way of capturing emotions and family dynamics in a way that feels so real.

Behind Every Good Man by Sara Goodman Confino is classified as contemporary fiction, specifically falling under the genres of women’s fiction and literary fiction. The novel explores themes of relationships, personal identity, and societal expectations, focusing on the dynamics between a woman and her family as they navigate life. It blends emotional depth with real-world issues, making it relatable for readers interested in character-driven stories. She writes flawed, real characters who feel like people you could know in real life, which I absolutely love as a reader.

I first discovered Confino through a Facebook group I’m in, where everyone was raving about her, and honestly… they were spot on. Every book I’ve read by her has been a hit. Her storytelling is captivating, her characters are so well-developed, and the way she weaves themes of love, loyalty, and self-discovery is just amazing.

Her books deserve WAY more attention— if you’re not reading Sara Goodman Confino, you’re seriously missing out. I highly recommend this one, and every other book she’s written.

Behind Every Good Man is a powerful and emotional exploration of love, sacrifice, and identity. Confino’s writing pulls you into the characters’ lives, making you reflect on the complexities of relationships.

Behind Every Good Man by Sara Goodman Confino is a witty and empowering tale of a woman’s rise from personal betrayal to political success. When Beverly Diamond catches her husband in a compromising position, she channels her anger into helping a political underdog, Michael Landau, run for office. With sharp intelligence and determination, Beverly not only challenges her husband’s career but also begins to carve out her own path. This engaging, fast-paced story offers a smart and humorous take on second chances, women’s independence, and the 1960s political landscape, all while exploring the complexities of love, betrayal, and self-empowerment.

I absolutely loved the book Don't Forget to Write by this author and had hoped to love this book just as much. It took me awhile to finish this book. I put it down for awhile then picked it back up, determined to finish it, and I'm happy that I did. While it was slow to start, I appreciated that the author discusses the importance of women's rights, sisterhood, family, friendship, and the emotional support, love and hope that those qualities provide. I'm not a fan of book about politics but this author made the story entertaining by showing us the transformation of a sidelined wife to a powerful force in the political arena. It shined a light on the strength and resilience of women. I loved the sweet taste of personal victory this story brought to us!

🗳️ Ok, if you loved ‘Lessons In Chemistry’ you’ve got to pick up ‘Behind Every Good Man’ by @saraconfino. Thank you to @amazonpublishing for the free look at this. It’s out now! I finished this in the final hours of 2024 and it was such a fantastic way to wrap up my reading year.

🗳️ This book got swept up in the shuffle of my never ending TBR and I didn’t get to it before its pub day and then I just didn’t prioritize it— but just before the end of the year I wanted something light and fun and decided to try this and I’m so 👏🏼 glad 👏🏼 I 👏🏼 did! I loved it!

🗳️ This is all about female empowerment, challenging the status quo, and the transition of women into the workforce beyond secretaries in the 1960’s. It’s got a political flair with a message that unfortunately still resonates today. It’s also chock full of great characters who bring the sass which I LOVE. And if you’re read Confino’s previous novel ‘Don’t Forget to Write’ then you’ll recognize some of your old favorites!

🗳️ This is light and airy but at the same time, pretty darn powerful. It kept my attention from the first page and I thoroughly enjoyed the read, and can’t recommend it enough! Is this on your radar at all? Have you read it, or is it on your TBR? Thoughts?

Sara Goodman Confino can do no wrong! Behind Every Good Man is the third book of hers I've read and I loved it. The book had me in my feels, smiling, laughing, and not wanting it to end.

Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for a copy of this book in exchange for a review.

Oh my gosh, this book is such a treat! From the very first page, it had me hooked with its humor, heart, and ridiculously relatable moments. The main character is so lovable—flawed but fierce—and her journey feels so genuine. It’s one of those stories where you laugh out loud one minute and then get hit with all the feels the next.

The writing is sharp and witty, and the dialogue? Perfection. I couldn’t get enough of the clever banter and the way the relationships unfolded—especially the marriage dynamics, which are equal parts hilarious and heartfelt. It’s such a refreshing and honest take on love, partnership, and all the messiness that comes with it.

If you’re looking for a fun, uplifting read that also sneaks in a few life lessons, this one’s a total winner. It’s like chatting with a good friend who just gets you. Seriously, don’t miss it!

I love a political book set in DC with a side of female empowerment. Behind Every Good Man by Sara Goodman Confino is such a gem.

Many thanks to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for sharing this book with me.