Sunday, December 29, 2024

The Spectacular, by Fiona Davis

Author Fiona Davis sets all her novels at NYC landmarks. This one is set at Radio City Music Hall, where we learn the history and inner-workings of the Rockettes. The bulk of the book is set in 1956, though it starts 37 years later, with an older Marion Brooks (protagonist). 

In 1956, Marion was a dance teacher, just 19 yrs old. She and her sister Judy were raised by their single dad, after their mother was killed when they were 7 (Marion) and 10 (Judy). 

Marion had a boyfriend, of whom her domineering dad approved. A marriage proposal was assured. But when Marion auditions for the Rockettes, her life gets turned upside down - in so many ways. Her dad hates that she has deviated from the plan he had in his head for her. 

This book was a page turner, and Davis is a really good writer. There's danger. Romance. A strong woman character. 

Without giving spoilers, I enjoyed finding out - after the book was done - how much of the book was historically true. 

Highly recommend!

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