Give My Regards To Broadway
The Chelsea Girls by Fiona Davis
July 30, 2019
Dear Mr. Hemingway,
I love reading books that take place in the city that never sleeps. Whether the story takes place in the present or during a different time period, New York City never disappoints. The Chelsea Girls by Fiona Davis is no exception. This historical fiction novel is centered around the famous Chelsea Hotel in Manhattan during the McCarthy era. It follows two friends on their way to stardom during a very turbulent time in our American history. Get ready to go on a historical journey filled with friendship, betrayal, and the darkest of secrets. Pull out your Playbill and get comfy in your seat…let’s give our full attention to Broadway!
Hazel Ripley and Maxine Meade met in Italy while performing in plays for the soldiers during the USO Tour at the tail end of World War Two. After their tour was complete, the two friends went their separate ways. Hazel put her acting aside and became a playwright for Broadway, while Maxine went on to become a famous American actress. Their paths cross again in NYC at the Chelsea Hotel in the early 1950s. Together they worked on Hazel’s debut Broadway play with Maxine in the lead role. While the ladies and the rest of the cast and crew were hard at work, tension began to rise all around them. The McCarthy era was officially upon them and Americans (especially in the entertainment industry) were falsely accused of being Communists or Communist sympathizers. With people being questioned all around them and spies lingering in the background, no one felt safe in Hazel’s production, including Hazel. As opening night approaches, Hazel’s precious play is about to be derailed. Who can she trust? Who is talking to whom? How will this impact her play? Readers will be held in suspense throughout this novel. The pages of Davis’ book will quickly be turning as you lounge in your beach chair waiting to find out what happens next.
As a fan of Fiona Davis’ previous books, The Chelsea Girls did not disappoint. Readers will quickly be immersed in a story with an atmosphere rich in history and filled with colorful characters. Davis’ beautifully crafted story captures the glamour, drama and paranoia of the time. With New York City shining in the background, Davis brings to life a time period I have not personally experienced reading in a work of fiction (I found that refreshing). I feel confident saying that readers will be captivated by Hazel and Maxine’s story. Another A+ for Fiona Davis.
Until next time Mr. H. I’m heading on a two-week vacation very soon. Don’t miss me too much!!!!!!! I will write to you when I return!!!!!
Your Biggest Fan,
Kelly
P.S. In my opinion, this glamorous book deserves to be paired with something stunning!. Check out this scarf by Aggro Jo. The Gray Fox and Raspberry Trim compliment the cover of this bookmaking this a WINNING COMBINATION! Her line of scarves is flirty, classy, and gorgeous. These lightweight beauties are a joy to wear. I would be thrilled if someone gave me a copy of The Chelsea Girls by Fiona Davis paired with this awesome scarf. Ummmmmmmmmm, wouldn’t you!!!!!!!
Click here to purchase The Chelsea Girls by Fiona Davis
Click here to check out The Gray Fox & Raspberry Trim Scarf mentioned above.
