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3.57 AVERAGE
3.57 AVERAGE
I didn't dislike this. I didn't necessarily like it, either. I certainly was more interested in the film history than any of the characters. Meissner didn't skimp on relatable, but also judgable, flaws, which mostly exasperated me. I think you were supposed to love everyone in spite of them, but the writing didn't make me feel close to anyone.
It was fun to read about the making of "Gone With the Wind". A quick, easy read. Nothing too deep.
sad
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Complicated
An entertaining story whose characters drew me in and became real to me. The Old Hollywood setting was interesting and the "Gone With the Wind' connection only increased my enjoyment of the book. I felt the author seamlessly wove real characters with the fictional, which can sometimes be tricky and awkward. I will continue to seek out Susan Meissner's works.
emotional
reflective
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Complicated
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
I have read Gone With the Wind 7 times so this caught my eye a while ago and has been on my TBR list for a while. This book tells the story of the friendship between Violet and Audrey, two secretaries working for Selznick movie studio during the filming of GWTW. Through their years of ups and down, secrets and lies, they always find a way to maintain the bond between them. A good, solid story of female friendship and the things we do out of love and fear.
Entertaining read set in the backdrop of the Gone With the Wind movie set. Anyone who loves a good story will enjoy reading this fun story.
Originally posted at ChristianShelfEsteem.wordpress.com
Susan Meissner captures Old Hollywood — the good, the bad, and the glamourous — in her new novel Stars Over Sunset Boulevard.
Moving from her Alabama home, 22 year old Violet Mayfield seeks a fresh start in California. While searching for a roommate, Violet meets Audrey Duvall. Despite there differences, which are varied and numerous, Audrey takes Violet under her wings and the two quickly form an unusual friendship. Throughout the book, I often found their personal choices and treatment of one other peculiar — this created intrigue.
Usually, I settle into a story, grow comfortable with the characters, and begin to anticipate their next move. Yet Meissner kept me guessing, especially with the curious friendship between Violet, Audrey, and Bert. Even as time passes the interaction among the three was unexpected.
With every book I read, I earnestly seek to find a Christian message. Both women suffered from emotional wounds they either masked or attempted to heal on their own. The fact that neither character express faith in God, could explain why at times their lives seemed to blow them hither and yon. My perceptions upon completing this book are that Audrey and Violet had voids in their lives which neither a man nor success could fill.
In summary, Stars Over Sunset Boulevard possesses rich historical details, intrigue, and a bit of the unexpected. Meissner's beautiful prose rang through for me just as it did in A Fall of Marigolds and Secrets of a Charmed Life. As far as a notable Christian message — I'd love to know your thoughts. Overall, it was an enjoyable read that left me pondering "would things have turned out differently if...".
I received this book free from the author in exchange for my review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
Susan Meissner captures Old Hollywood — the good, the bad, and the glamourous — in her new novel Stars Over Sunset Boulevard.
Moving from her Alabama home, 22 year old Violet Mayfield seeks a fresh start in California. While searching for a roommate, Violet meets Audrey Duvall. Despite there differences, which are varied and numerous, Audrey takes Violet under her wings and the two quickly form an unusual friendship. Throughout the book, I often found their personal choices and treatment of one other peculiar — this created intrigue.
Usually, I settle into a story, grow comfortable with the characters, and begin to anticipate their next move. Yet Meissner kept me guessing, especially with the curious friendship between Violet, Audrey, and Bert. Even as time passes the interaction among the three was unexpected.
With every book I read, I earnestly seek to find a Christian message. Both women suffered from emotional wounds they either masked or attempted to heal on their own. The fact that neither character express faith in God, could explain why at times their lives seemed to blow them hither and yon. My perceptions upon completing this book are that Audrey and Violet had voids in their lives which neither a man nor success could fill.
In summary, Stars Over Sunset Boulevard possesses rich historical details, intrigue, and a bit of the unexpected. Meissner's beautiful prose rang through for me just as it did in A Fall of Marigolds and Secrets of a Charmed Life. As far as a notable Christian message — I'd love to know your thoughts. Overall, it was an enjoyable read that left me pondering "would things have turned out differently if...".
I received this book free from the author in exchange for my review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
I think I could get lost in a Susan Meissner novel everyday. This one wasn't my favorite of hers but there is a high bar set and even still, I really loved it. The one thing that would've made it better for me personally would be if I had known a darn thing about Gone with the Wind. I'm embarrassed by my complete lack of knowledge regarding that very huge part of American culture and I'm hoping to remedy that quick!