OVERVIEW
This was a very descriptive book with exquisite details about the clothing and jewelry worn by the characters. Unfortunately, the character development and storyline were lacking in my opinion.
This was a light and easy-to-read historical novel set during the late 1920s of the incredibly rich who lived on the Mainline near Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The excesses reminded me of an F. Scott Fitzgerald novel.
I really wanted to love this novel, but I liked it.
OVERALL REVIEW: 3.5 stars
Writing: 3.5 stars
Anita writes very descriptively throughout this novel about clothing, jewelry, homes, clubs, and parties. It must have required a tremendous amount of research to find out all of this detailed information about the 1920s.
Character development: 3.0 stars
There is a lot about what the characters look like - hair, clothing, and jewelry are discussed in detail. But, what is inside them in their hearts and minds is just not explored enough for me. I like a really deep dive into the characters' back story so I can connect and feel a kinship with them. Unfortunately, I did not feel this with this novel.
The primary characters are Helen and Edgar. The novel explores their relationship and how it evolves. Both of them are entitled society people who meet during Helen's debutante season in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
The secondary characters are high society in other parts of the world including Helen and Edgar's friends, family, and business associates.
Storyline: 4.5 stars
This really is the story of Helen and Edgar. There are secondary characters who come in and out of the storyline to add to the suspense and drama. The storyline is set during the wealthy indulges right before the Great Depression.
There is a decent storyline, but it was a bit too predictable. Don't get me wrong as this was a nice change from the heavy WWII novels that I have been reading. But, this novel is like fast food and could have been a three-course gourmet meal. Since not all reading has to be life-changing, this novel will be a perfect beach read in the summer.
The main locations were Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; London, England; Deauville, France; and Portofino, Italy.
Memorable/Informative: 3.0 stars
I did not know what the Mainline was at all. So I had to research it once I started this novel.
Book cover: 3.5 stars
I don't think that this is an accurate depiction of this novel.
Book title: 3.5 stars
It was okay.
Recommend
BOOK INFORMATION
NetGalley ARC Kindle book
The Philadelphia Heiress by Anita Abriel
283 pages
Lake Union Publishing
Release date of 03/26/2024
INFORMATIONAL LINKS
Happy reading,
Dorothea 💜
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