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383
Novel • Fiction
Louisiana • 1930s-1990s
1996
Adult
18+ years
850L
Divine Secrets of the Ya-Ya Sisterhood by Rebecca Wells follows Sidda, a successful New York theater director, as she navigates her troubled relationship with her mother, Vivi, with the help of Vivi's lifelong friends, the Ya-Yas, and their shared memories documented in a scrapbook. Sensitive topics include substance misuse disorders, mental health conditions, death by suicide, child abuse, domestic abuse, and racism.
Emotional
Heartwarming
Bittersweet
Nostalgic
Contemplative
563,277 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Divine Secrets of the Ya-Ya Sisterhood by Rebecca Wells evokes strong emotional responses through its exploration of complex mother-daughter relationships and lifelong female friendships. Praised for its rich character development and Southern charm, criticisms include a sometimes meandering plot and occasional emotional manipulation. Overall, it’s celebrated for heartwarming, relatable storytelling.
Fans of The Joy Luck Club by Amy Tan or Fried Green Tomatoes at the Whistle Stop Cafe by Fannie Flagg will enjoy Divine Secrets of the Ya-Ya Sisterhood by Rebecca Wells. This novel is perfect for readers who appreciate rich, multi-generational stories about the complexities of female friendships, Southern charm, and emotional resilience.
563,277 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Viviane "Vivi" Abbott Walker
Sidda's mother and a member of the Ya-Ya Sisterhood, Vivi is fiercely creative and complex, and her tumultuous relationship with Sidda forms a central part of the narrative.
Teensy Whitman Claiborne
A lively and forthright member of the Ya-Ya Sisterhood known for her free-spirited nature and outspokenness.
Caro Bennett Brewer
An outspoken and loyal member of the Ya-Ya Sisterhood who plays an influential role in encouraging peace between Vivi and Sidda.
Necie Kelleher Ogden
The most traditional and maternal member of the Ya-Ya Sisterhood, supporting her friends with quiet strength and warmth.
Connor McGill
Sidda's fiancé, a calm and affectionate man, whose love and support motivate Sidda in her personal journey.
Shep Walker
Vivi's patient and introverted husband, who finds solace in farming and duck hunting, displaying a quiet love for his family.
Vivi’s Parents: Buggy and Taylor Abbott
Vivi's parents whose tumultuous relationship and strict upbringing significantly influence Vivi's life and choices.
Jacques "Jack" Whitman
Teensy's brother and Vivi's first love, whose legacy and influence resonate deeply with Vivi and the Ya-Ya Sisterhood.
383
Novel • Fiction
Louisiana • 1930s-1990s
1996
Adult
18+ years
850L
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