The Hopefuls

Beth follows her husband Matt to Washington D.C. when he takes a position in Barack Obama's White House. As a Texas transplant struggling to find her place in the competitive political scene, she feels isolated and uncertain about her new life in the capital. The couple befriends Jimmy and Ashleigh, another political couple whose charm and ambition draw them into an intense friendship. When both couples relocate to Texas for a campaign, the dynamics between them shift as professional and personal relationships become entangled. Through Beth's perspective, the novel examines the impact of political ambition on marriage and friendship. The story explores themes of loyalty, identity, and the cost of pursuing power while maintaining relationships in the high-pressure world of American politics.

Readers found the insider perspective on DC political life authentic and relatable, particularly the portrayal of young couples navigating careers and relationships in Washington. Many connected with the dynamics between friends and spouses under career pressure. Positive reviews highlighted Close's sharp observations of social dynamics and realistic dialogue. Readers appreciated the honest depiction of marriage struggles and career jealousy. Common criticisms focused on the slow pacing, with several readers noting the story dragged in the middle sections. Some found the main character Beth too negative and self-absorbed. Multiple reviews mentioned frustration with passive plot progression. Ratings: Goodreads: 3.5/5 (13,000+ ratings) Amazon: 3.8/5 (250+ ratings) Book of the Month Club: 3.9/5 Sample review: "Close nails the strange dance of comparing yourself to other couples and the subtle competition in friendships" - Goodreads reviewer Critical review: "Beth's constant complaining made it hard to stay invested in her story" - Amazon reviewer

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🌟 Author Jennifer Close worked as a campaign staffer herself, lending authenticity to her portrayal of life in Washington, D.C. political circles 📚 The book was partly inspired by Close's own experience moving from New York City to Washington, D.C. when her husband took a job with the Obama administration 🗳️ The novel captures the unique phenomenon of "Washington couples" - where one spouse's political career dramatically affects both partners' social and professional lives 🏛️ The book's depiction of Texas politics draws from Close's time living in Austin, where her husband worked on a state campaign ✨ The novel was named one of the best books of 2016 by Entertainment Weekly, Washington Post, and NPR's Fresh Air