What's so great is that you're paying attention to your feelings - that's good! It's like you're finding out who you are, what you want, etc...
The thing is, no one is "normal" really..... Those women most likely have the same kind of deep hurts and fears that we all do. They may be using their status/money/clothes or whatever, to hide, just like we did with alcohol.
I like the idea of getting to know your friend a little better, like one-on-one. You said you didn't like the books they choose - can you suggest something that is more interesting to you?