Tonight, at long last, we’ll read the final chapter of “Good Wives” written by Louisa May Alcott titled “Harvest Time”. It’s hard to believe, but we have been reading this book for the first time as we’ve read it to you, and that first chapter was started back in December 2019, when Snoozecast was less than 1 year old. We took a break after part one concluded in June 2022 to explore other books. By popular request, we reopened the story in 2023, beginning the second part of Little Women—originally published separately as Good Wives. In our last chapter, “Under the Umbrella,” Jo, busy but lonely, had often thought of Professor Bhaer and regretted their stiff parting. On a rainy errand she met him beneath an umbrella; as they walked, he gently explained why he had stopped reading her sensational tales, and Jo told him she had left that work behind for truer writing—bringing them closer. In the rain he confessed his love, and Jo happily returned it. They reached the March home soaked but radiant, where Marmee quickly understood, and the chapter closed on Jo’s quiet, genuine happiness and the promise of a life with Bhaer. — read by 'V' — Sign up for Snoozecast+ to get expanded, ad-free access by going to snoozecast.com/plus!

Tonight, we’ll read the next chapter of “Good Wives” written by Louisa May Alcott titled “Under the Umbrella”. This is also known as the second half of the “Little Women” novel and is considered the 46th chapter as part of that work as a whole. In our last chapter, “Daisy and Demi,” Meg’s twins become the delight of the March household. Meg devotes herself to their care, while John takes special pride in his son, dreaming of the man he will grow into. The babies charm the entire family—Jo, at first unsure of them, warms up and plays the lively aunt, while Laurie and the others also share in the joy of helping raise the little one. — read by 'V' — Sign up for Snoozecast+ to get expanded, ad-free access by going to snoozecast.com/plus!

Tonight, we’ll read the next chapter of “Good Wives” written by Louisa May Alcott titled “My Lord and Lady”. This is also known as the second half of the “Little Women” novel and is considered the 45th chapter as part of that work as a whole. In our last chapter, Laurie visits the March home with Amy, and the newlyweds share lighthearted banter with Jo and Mrs. March. Laurie reveals his plans to work seriously in business to please his grandfather, while Amy speaks of creating a warm home before stepping into society. Later, at home, they discuss Jo’s possible marriage to Professor Bhaer, with Laurie assuring Amy he would be happy for them. The couple then talk warmly about their shared desire to use their wealth to discreetly help those in need, particularly struggling artists, ambitious young women, and “poor gentlefolk” who cannot ask for aid. They pledge to make generosity a joyful part of their life together, seeing it as a way to strengthen their own marriage while brightening the lives of others. — read by 'V' — Sign up for Snoozecast+ to get expanded, ad-free access by going to snoozecast.com/plus!

Tonight, we’ll read the next chapter of “Good Wives” written by Louisa May Alcott titled “My Lord and Lady”. This is also known as the second half of the “Little Women” novel and is considered the 44th chapter as part of that work as a whole. In our last chapter, Jo, feeling somewhat alone amid her family’s celebration of Amy’s return, is surprised by the unexpected arrival of Professor Bhaer. She welcomes him with visible joy, and he’s warmly embraced by the March family. Jo observes his thoughtful presence and quiet charm, sensing a change in him—and in herself. As the family gathers to sing in memory of Beth, Jo and the Professor perform a duet that hints at growing affection. Though he claims to be in town on business, it becomes clear that Jo is the true reason for his visit. — read by 'V' — Sign up for Snoozecast+ to get expanded, ad-free access by going to snoozecast.com/plus!

Tonight we'll read the next chapter of Good Wives, written by Louisa May Alcott, titled "Surprises". This is also known as the second half of the Little Women novel, and is considered the 43rd chapter as part of that work as a whole. In our last chapter, Jo found herself adrift in a quieter home, struggling to lift her spirits or rekindle her sense of purpose. Though she tries to be useful, her days feel empty until simple comforts. Conversations with her parents. Small household tasks, and time with Meg and the children begin to steady her. Encouraged to write again, Jo pours her heart into a story that unexpectedly resonates with readers. She warmly supports Amy and Laurie's news, though it stirs her own longing for connection. Alone in the attic, Jo finds an old note from Professor Bear and holds it close. Sensing something quietly beginning. — read by 'V' — Sign up for Snoozecast+ to get expanded, ad-free access by going to snoozecast.com/plus!

Tonight we'll read the next chapter of Good Wives, written by Louisa May Alcott, titled "Learning to Forget". This is also known as the second half of the Little Women novel, and is considered the 41st chapter. As part of that work as a whole. In our last chapter, the March family drew closer together as they cherished their time with Beth and prepared for the inevitable. And now we pick up with Lori as he strives to better himself after Amy's scathing advice. Realize he must move on from Jo's rejection. He attempts to channel his sorrow into music, but finds himself distracted and uninspired. — read by 'V' — Sign up for Snoozecast+ to get expanded, ad-free access by going to snoozecast.com/plus!

Tonight, we’ll read the next chapter of “Good Wives” written by Louisa May Alcott titled “The Valley of the Shadow”. This is also known as the second half of the “Little Women” novel and is considered the 40th chapter as part of that work as a whole. In the last episode, Laurie lingered in Nice for a month, growing closer to Amy but sinking in her esteem due to his laziness and aimlessness. Amy, unwilling to coddle him, gives him a blunt but heartfelt lecture on his wasted potential. Stung but stirred, Laurie finally decides to leave for his grandfather, leaving Amy both satisfied and unexpectedly wistful at his absence. In tonight’s chapter, the March family draws closer together, cherishing their time with Beth as they prepare for the inevitable. — read by 'V' — Sign up for Snoozecast+ to get expanded, ad-free access by going to snoozecast.com/plus!

Tonight, we’ll read  the next chapter of “Good Wives” written by Louisa May Alcott titled “Lazy Laurence”. This is also known as the second half of the “Little Women” novel and is considered the 39th chapter as part of that work as a whole.   In the last episode, we followed Meg’s life as a new mom of twins, and her struggles to balance her roles of mother with wife. The motherly side had taken completely over for months and her relationship with John was more distant than either of them liked. Luckily, Meg sought the good advice from her mother, and found creative ways to find time for not just her husband, but her self, along with her babies. Tonight’s chapter shifts the focus back to Laurie, who, after his time in Europe, has settled into a state of idleness and self-indulgence. Still nursing the wounds of Jo’s rejection, he lounges about, feeling purposeless despite his wealth and charm. He has fallen into the role of a "lazy" young man, avoiding serious work or ambition, much to the disapproval of Amy. — read by 'V' — Sign up for Snoozecast+ to get expanded, ad-free access by going to snoozecast.com/plus!

Tonight we'll read the next chapter of Good Wives, written by Louisa May Alcott, titled "On the Shelf". This is also known as the second half of the Little Women novel, and is considered the 38th chapter as part of that work as a whole. The concept of being on the shelf, in reference to the chapter title, speaks to the Victorian era's rigid views on marriage and womanhood. Women who remained unmarried beyond a certain age were often seen as having lost their value in society. However, through Jo, Alcott subtly challenges this notion by showing that a woman's worth isn't defined by marriage, but by her passions, relationships, and personal growth. In fact, Alcott once wrote, "I'd rather be a free spinster and paddle my own canoe." In the last chapter, new impressions, Laurie and Amy spent time together in France, where Laurie, recovering from his rejection by Jo, began to see Amy in a new light. Amy, more mature and poised, challenged Laurie to take life more seriously, and their friendship started to shift toward something deeper.  — read by 'V' — Sign up for Snoozecast+ to get expanded, ad-free access by going to snoozecast.com/plus!

Tonight we'll read the next chapter of Good Wives, written by Louisa may Alcott, titled "New Impressions". This is also known as the second half of the Little Women novel, and is considered the 37th chapter as part of that work as a whole. In the last chapter, Jo returns home and is troubled by the changes in Beth. Although Beth appears happy, Jo senses that her sister is fading away. Beth reveals that she has known for some time that she is dying, but has kept it to herself, trying to remain positive for the family. Jo is heartbroken and struggles to accept the truth, but Beth comforts her, assuring her that it is best. — read by 'V' — Sign up for Snoozecast+ to get expanded, ad-free access by going to snoozecast.com/plus!

Tonight, we’ll read the next chapter of “Good Wives” written by Louisa May Alcott titled “Beth’s Secret”. This is also known as the second half of the “Little Women” novel and is considered the 36th chapter as part of that work as a whole. In the last chapter, Laurie graduates with honors and invites Jo to celebrate with him, but during their walk, he finally confesses his love for her, hoping she’ll reciprocate. Jo, though fond of him, gently but firmly declines, explaining she cannot love him in the way he desires and believes they are unsuited for marriage. Despite Laurie’s disappointment and insistence, Jo holds to her decision, urging him to move on, though it pains them both. — read by 'V' — Sign up for Snoozecast+ to get expanded, ad-free access by going to snoozecast.com/plus!

Tonight, we’ll read the next chapter of “Good Wives” written by Louisa May Alcott titled “Heartache”. This is also known as the second half of the “Little Women” novel and is considered the 35th chapter as part of that work as a whole. In the last chapter, Jo tried to make a living by writing sensational stories for a magazine, keeping it a secret from her family. She was successful, but when Professor Bhaer gently criticized such work as shallow and harmful, it made her reconsider. Realizing she was sacrificing her integrity for quick money, Jo burned her manuscripts and decided to stop writing anything she wouldn’t be proud of. Though it meant starting over, it marked a turning point as she chose a more genuine path, guided by her own conscience and the Professor’s encouragement. — read by 'V' — Sign up for Snoozecast+ to get expanded, ad-free access by going to snoozecast.com/plus!

Tonight, we’ll read the next chapter of “Good Wives” written by Louisa May Alcott titled “A Friend”. This is also known as the second half of the “Little Women” novel and is considered the 34rd chapter as part of that work as a whole. Our last episode was the chapter focused on letters Jo wrote from the New York boarding house she is working within as governess to the girls Kitty and Minnie. She also befriends a professor who lives in the house named Frederich Bhaer, a kind and playful older man that gives German lessons. He is poor and raising his two nephews. Jo also becomes friendly with Miss Norton, who requests she escort her sometimes to lectures and concerts. Jo enjoys a masked New Years Eve party and is generally quite content in her new role. — read by 'V' — Sign up for Snoozecast+ to get expanded, ad-free access by going to snoozecast.com/plus!

Tonight, we’ll read the next chapter of “Good Wives” written by Louisa May Alcott titled “Jo’s Journal”. This is also known as the second half of the “Little Women” novel and is considered the 33rd chapter as part of that work as a whole. Our last episode was the chapter titled “Tender Troubles” and in it, Beth’s behavior worries Mrs. March. After observing Beth in secret, Jo concludes that Beth must have fallen in love with Laurie. Jo also suspects that Laurie has fallen in love with herself. To put a damper on that, Jo decides to move away and work for a family friend for a while, to give herself some space.  — read by 'V' — Sign up for Snoozecast+ to get expanded, ad-free access by going to snoozecast.com/plus!

Tonight, we’ll read the next chapter of “Good Wives” written by Louisa May Alcott. This is also known as the second half of the “Little Women” novel and is considered the 32st chapter as part of that work as a whole. Our last episode was the chapter titled “Our Foreign Correspondent” and Amy writes from her travels abroad, sharing her excitement and experiences in London and Paris. She describes sightseeing, social gatherings with friends, and romantic adventures, including a potential suitor, Fred. Amy reflects on the practicality of a marriage with Fred, valuing his wealth and status, while assuring her family that she will make prudent decisions.This next chapter is titled “Tender Troubles”. — read by 'V' — Sign up for Snoozecast+ to get expanded, ad-free access by going to snoozecast.com/plus!

Tonight, we’ll read the 8th chapter to “Good Wives” written by Louisa May Alcott. This is also known as the second half of the “Little Women” novel and is considered the 31st chapter as part of that work as a whole. Our last episode was the chapter titled “Consequences” in which Amy organizes a successful fair to raise money for the family of an impoverished artist, displaying her leadership and generosity. Laurie surprises everyone by buying a large quantity of items, significantly contributing to the funds raised. — read by 'V' — Sign up for Snoozecast+ to get expanded, ad-free access by going to snoozecast.com/plus!

Tonight, we’ll read the 7th chapter to “Good Wives” written by Louisa May Alcott. This is also known as the second half of the “Little Women” novel and is considered the 30th chapter as part of that work as a whole. Our last episode was the chapter titled “Calls” in which Amy March, the youngest of the March sisters, navigates her social life and responsibilities. Amy is given the task of calling on the various high-society women in their town, a duty she undertakes with a mixture of determination and trepidation. As she visits each home, Amy observes and interacts with the women, learning valuable lessons about social etiquette, personal ambition, and the complexities of adult relationships. During her calls, Amy encounters a range of characters, from the pretentious and insincere Mrs. Chester to the more genuine and kind-hearted Mrs. Moffat. These interactions provide Amy with insights into the social expectations and superficial judgments that often govern society. Despite feeling somewhat out of place and intimidated, Amy maintains her composure and grace. — read by 'V' — Sign up for Snoozecast+ to get expanded, ad-free access by going to snoozecast.com/plus!

Tonight, we’ll read the 5th chapter to “Good Wives” written by Louisa May Alcott. This is also known as the second half of the “Little Women” novel. Our last episode was the chapter titled “Domestic Experiences” in which Meg navigates her life as newlyweds with John. She also grapples with the expectations placed upon her (and which she places on herself) as a married woman, striving to embody the ideal of a "good little wife." Meg faces challenges as she navigates the complexities of married life, but also finds moments of joy and fulfillment in her role, learning the importance of compromise, communication, and mutual respect. — read by 'V' — Sign up for Snoozecast+ to get expanded, ad-free access by going to snoozecast.com/plus!

Tonight, we’ll read the 5th chapter to “Good Wives” written by Louisa May Alcott. This is also known as the second half of the “Little Women” novel. Originally, Alcott had it published as a second book but in later publishings the two were combined. Our last episode was the chapter titled “Literary Lessons” in which Jo, consumed by her writing fervor, neglects basic needs as she delves into her craft. She shifts focus from romances to thrillers inspired by a chance encounter. Entering a contest, she wins $100, enabling her to send Beth and Marmee for a seaside retreat. Her new genre proves lucrative, supporting her family. Though facing revisions and mixed reviews, she ultimately earns several hundred dollars from her published novel. — read by 'V' — Sign up for Snoozecast+ to get expanded, ad-free access by going to snoozecast.com/plus!

Tonight, we’ll read the fourth chapter to “Good Wives” written by Louisa May Alcott. This is also known as the second half of the “Little Women” novel. Originally, Alcott had it published as a second book but in later publishings the two were combined.   Our last episode was the chapter titled “Artistic Attempts” In it, Amy grows serious in her undertaking to become a real artist. Aunt March has enrolled her in a drawing class, and as a result she experiments with many methods as the results collect around the house.  Amy then invites her drawing class for lunch. Determined to provide a proper meal, she promises to cover expenses. Despite initial support from her mother, Jo finds the plan frivolous. Preparation proves challenging: costs soar, and the weather dampens spirits. None of the guests show up, leaving the family to salvage what they can of the meal. Hope lingers for the next day, but with no provisions at home, Amy ventures out for a lobster. She manages to persuade one guest to join, salvaging the occasion. Though embarrassed, the family accommodates the unexpected guest. Amy and her friend enjoy a pleasant day together, despite the setbacks.