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3.66 AVERAGE
3.66 AVERAGE
I am looking forward to reading more by this author. Loved the Darby/Esme story but I wasn't a fan if the Rose story. The women in the 1950's showed more strength and independence than Rose did in 2016.
I was excited to read a book set in the Barbizon, and I adore dual timeline novels, but the writing style in this one is not great and neither of the heroines were very compelling.
The protagonist of this book is an asshole, and uses a sob story to explain her asshole behavior so instead of, say, calling the cops, they soften IMMEDIATELY and give her exactly what she wants. Over and over and over and over again.
What a fascinating story! I really enjoyed both POVs so much and found myself flying through the book because I just loved being immersed in their lives. If the Barbizon is a real place then I’d love to see it someday.
This time the author takes on the story of the young career women who lived in The Barbizon Hotel for Women during the 1950's. Current timeline - Rose Lewin is living her dream life in the Barbizon with her nearly divorced boyfriend and working for a small publishing company. In the blink of an eye, she is jobless, homeless and boyfriendless ...
When Rose learns of a murder mystery involving one of the career girls of the 50's, she decides that this is the story that could save her ...
Once again, the author does a fine job of interlinking two timelines to tell the story of a historical landmark in New York City.
When Rose learns of a murder mystery involving one of the career girls of the 50's, she decides that this is the story that could save her ...
Once again, the author does a fine job of interlinking two timelines to tell the story of a historical landmark in New York City.
The plot is fascinating but execution was a bit of a letdown. The story flips between Rose - a journalist in Manhattan going through a breakup - and Darby, who has lived in Rose's building, the Barbizon, since 1952. I would rather have picked one point of view: either Rose's as she puts her journalism skills to use and discovers each piece of Darby's history, or Darby's solely. I found Darby's POV better written - all of Rose's conflicts bored me - but I didn't feel as if the dialogue for Darby really sounded much like 1952.
Started slow. Would have liked to learn more about other women in this book.
adventurous
dark
emotional
mysterious
reflective
sad
tense
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Plot
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Complicated
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
I didn't love this one as much as [b:The Address|33607640|The Address|Fiona Davis|https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1494949882l/33607640._SY75_.jpg|54427214] but it was still enjoyable. I felt this one was much more soap opera dramatic to me which in the modern storyline isn't as enjoyable as it is in the historic.
The Dollhouse by Fiona Davis is a quick and easy read. The book has history with added touches of romance, mystery, and even a bit of foodie interest. I really enjoy learning about the history of the Barbizon. The story, however, feels predictable with an ending that is too neatly tied up. The book is an entertaining summer but not one that will stay with me.
Read my complete review at: http://www.memoriesfrombooks.com/2016/08/the-dollhouse.html.
Reviewed for the Penguin First to Read program.
Read my complete review at: http://www.memoriesfrombooks.com/2016/08/the-dollhouse.html.
Reviewed for the Penguin First to Read program.