As my 40th birthday draws closer, I’m drawn to looking back at the defining moments of my life and the times I wish I could do once again, maybe a bit differently. That’s why I couldn’t wait to read When Women Talk Volume 3, Notes From The Future.
Co-author Elle Mott joined WOW! Women on Writing for a blog tour of this book to celebrate the collection and share her own contribution. It features women sharing what they would tell themselves when they were younger.
Before we get to my review, here’s more about the book:
Ever wish you could call your younger self and say, “It’s going to be okay”?
In When Women Talk: Notes From the Future, ten incredibly diverse women look back and do just that.
This isn’t an “I told you so” lecture; this book gathers honest, heartfelt stories from women across generations, reaching back to tell their younger selves what truly matters. From messy breakups to career wins, these stories offer a roadmap for your own journey. It’s not about quick fixes; it’s about the timeless wisdom of resilience, self-worth, and trust. You need to read this because it feels like a long coffee date with your future, much wiser best friend.
“While a single voice can make an impact, many voices can make change. We all have a purpose and a story to tell; there is someone who needs to hear it, and by showing up we can make a difference in someone’s life, career, or business.” — Cathy Kuzel, curator.
“We don’t have to bring ill-emotions from an unsettling childhood event into our adulthood. And yet if we do, there is hope for renewal. After all, it takes what it takes to get us to where we are today in life. Sometimes the journey from nightfall to sunrise is not an overnight matter.” — Elle Mott, co-author.
My Review of When Women Talk Volume 3, Notes From The Future
I was so moved by the contributions in this collection. You’ll find so many powerful lessons within, from reassurances to warnings to encouragement, all for each writer’s younger self. Elle’s contribution in particular touched me. I loved her honesty about how one Halloween night changed so much for her and what she learned through healing and looking back.
Some of the lessons found in this book go back to trusting yourself and your instincts. Others are about giving yourself room to grow, learn, and explore. Many of the lessons are about self-acceptance and loving yourself.
If you are looking for a book that calls for some reflection, add this one to your reading list. You can also buy it from the When Women Talk Bookstore or Amazon.
About the Co-Author, Elle Mott
Elle Mott writes creative nonfiction focused on resiliency, empowerment, and advocacy. She is a featured co-author in the new book, When Women Talk Volume 3 (The Connected Woman, 2026). Elle toured with WOW! earlier this year for the historical biography, “Marie Conner, A Leading Lady” (Luminare Press, 2026). She is also the author of “Out of Chaos, A Memoir” (Boyle & Dalton, 2018), and “People Helping People” (2020). Her shorter pieces are widely featured in ezines, literary journals, national news magazines, and regional collections. Elle works at the public library in downtown Cincinnati and dedicates her free time to her passion for writing. She lives in nearby northern Kentucky with two cats and several pet birds.
Website: https://ellemottauthor.com
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