If you liked City of Girls this one is for you!

As a fan of Fiona Davis and a lover of New York City, I was excited to read her newest release! This book also mainly takes place in one timeline unlike the others! Although entertaining, the characters and storyline needed more balance.

7 personnes ont trouvé cela utile

Fear, Foes and Friendship

I truly loved this novel. I don’t usually write reviews, but this seemed worth the while. The characters are well-developed, leaving you rooting for them despite flaws and mishaps. The author transports you to the McCarthy Era, and you’re awakened to the period - from the dialogue, culture, and idiosyncrasies to the feelings of joy, love, pain, indecision, and loss. Definitely worth the credit.

3 personnes ont trouvé cela utile

Great wartime and entertainment history '40s-'60s

I thoroughly loved the characters and Fiona Davis' descriptive way of writing, although this was not at the top of my favorites list. Having said that, I enjoy her writing so much and will still swarm to read/listen to the next book she puts out! This is a great story, steeped in historical events from the wartime '40s through the uninhibited '60s. It gave me additional insight into the Red Scare witch hunt that I didn't learn, or maybe retain, from history class as well as the entertainment business of the time periods. This is a book worth reading!

Like a radio play. Great voice actors in the roles

Fiona Davis’ The Chelsea Girls is a fantastic read. Historical fiction told from multiple points of view following the friendship arc of two women who meet as U.S.O. performers, and all that transpires between them until the late-1960s. Primary focus is set in the politics and sometime absurdities of post WWII NYC’s Broadway theater world, California’s film industry, and the larger politics of the United States at the time. And, yes, Greenwich Village’s Hotel Chelsea figures prominently into the story. Davis explores the challenges of loyalties toward the self and others. Issues of sexism, women’s empowerment, blacklisting/blackmailing, and the McCarthy era witch hunts arise, including historical figures from the theater (realistically depicted quirky folks), and political figures such as Joseph McCarthy and Roy Cohn who make appearances. A well crafted tale of mystery, intrigue, charm, and dramatic action channeled through in depth and entertaining characters. Ultimately, though, this is a powerful story of friendship. ***Top notch voice narration from both actors***

Entertaining and Intriguing

I found this story both interesting and informative. It was enlightening to a time in our country that I was not previously familiar with while yet the characters were intelligent, funny and emotional. This is a story of love, loss, injustice and bittersweet forgiveness. Yet I will remember this story the most for the lessons of true friendship and moral strength of character.