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asurges's review
3.0
A really great summer read, with a pretty funny concept: Leona Helmsley as an ice-cream magnate. The story takes you from 1908 New York to the 80s, and the history of immigrants is very interesting. However, the writing sometimes suffers from trying too hard; for example, every time the main character called the reader "darling," I gagged a little. It was just too much, and I think Gilman, whose non-fiction, I've really enjoyed, could have created that voice in other ways.
lurdesabruscato's review
5.0
The story of a scrappy Russian émigré doing whatever she must to survive in the tough tenements of New York, The Ice Cream Queen of Orchard Street is as rich and decadent as the product our protagonist creates. Not only are you educated in all things confectionary, you marvel at the sweet and sour turns a life, a partnership, a business, an empire takes. This was a delicious summer treat.
emiliedoleshel's review
3.0
The premise of this book started off with promise. So did the first half of the book. I think that the first person narrative took away from the story as the main character wasn't likable. When the plot wasn't propelled by the first person voice of speaking directly to the reader, I enjoyed the book much more
bridget_h's review
2.0
Really, 2.5 starts. It was a pretty good book but at not at all what it seemed to be - not your typical historical fiction/chick-lit. It's really the story of a ruthless business woman and her regrets through life.
chiantechick's review
5.0
Brilliant. Witty. Lillian is a delightful little devil and there is some beautiful, uncommon history notes of truth in the novel.
mariesreads's review
5.0
I loved this. Wonderful voice, nice construction, and a narrator you understand even if you don't like her. Extremely entertaining!
hgarf13's review
4.0
I liked it more than I thought I would. This book is rich with references and history.
heartofoak1's review
3.0
good but it was a bit overly long at the end - did we really need what amounted to a several page, complete re-cap of the story? it DID make me want to eat ice cream every day =)