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emmacr2024's review against another edition
4.0
Why on earth did I leave it so long to read a book by Hazel Gaynor even if said book was utterly fantastic? I'll admit I have Hazel's two previous releases The Girl Who Came Home and A Memory of Violets waiting patiently in my huge T.B.R but it was this third release The Girl from the Savoy which really sparked my interest and made me want to read my first Hazel Gaynor. Thankfully I wasn't one bit disappointed and anyone else I know reading this book feels the exactly same way. The author has such an incredible way of sucking you into the story and time period that you find this book extremely hard to put down. Yes it is quite hefty at over 500 pages but it doesn't drag in any way as you are so absorbed in the story of the irrepressible young girl Dolly Lane with big dreams and ambitions who only wants to see herself on the stage doing what she loves best. Although the cover for the UK edition of this book is nice for once I fell totally in love with the US cover and normally it is always the opposite way around for me. But the cover is only one minor aspect even if it is what catches people's eyes in a bookshop it's what's inside that counts and here the plot,characters and setting jump out at you from the pages as the reader is made to feel they are transported back in time to the roaring twenties the era of The Bright Young Things.
The book is set in the early 1920's when the shadows of World War One still hang over the world, men and women are struggling to come to terms with all they have witnessed and endured. It is hard to pick up the pieces after witnessing such horrors and devastation but a chink of light is appearing. The upper classes are enjoying wild raucous parties full of dances and merriment. The theatres are full to capacity and maybe there is hope for the future. War altered people in so many ways and now change and movement needs to happen in all aspects of life. Women are determined to fight for their liberties and independence. As Hazel says 'The past is a vibrant colourful world in which people fell in and out of love, fought for their beliefs, faced poverty and fear about their families. Not so very different to modern life at all'. That is is so very true but the people living in the 1920's would be delighted at just how far we have come in under 100 years even if not every aspect of today's society are not all positive. Our heroine Dolly wants to be at the centre of everything in this bright new creative world but there is alot to experience before her hopes can come true.
The prologue opens in 1916 in a Lancashire town as Dolly waves goodbye to her true love Teddy Cooper. Conscription has played a part in their forced separation and Dolly despite her optimism of believing he will be back before people knows he has gone, deep down she understands life will change but can they claw back some sense of normality once everything has been dealt with. Fast forward 7 years later and Dolly is now in London alone and working as a maid for the upper classes which is not what she wanted for her life but needs must. Dolly has always been put down and made to feel like she cannot achieve anything but this girl is a person of character and strength and the reader can see a spark deep within Dolly waiting to burst forth. She is someone who knows what she wants and will achieve it not by ruthless means but through sheer hard work and determination. She will get there eventually but when faced with this comment you do wonder is it all worth it? 'You, Dorothy Lane, are a prime example of someone who will never get on in life. You will never become anything'. As Dolly is rushing for an interview in the famous Savoy hotel in London she literally bumps into Perry Clements a struggling musician returned from the war. This chance meeting will instigate a series of events which will have a profound effect on Dolly. Dolly is accepted for the job in the Savoy and here is where the book begins to shine as the authors writing comes alive. Her descriptive abilities make the hotel feel like a character itself and it was fascinating to read about a world where quite often only the privileged few get access too. Viewing the hotel and the world of The Bright Young Things from Dolly's eyes was fascinating and full of such rich and interesting detail. 'The Savoy is much more than a hotel Dorothy. It has a personality all of its own.It casts a sort of spell on people the moment they walk through the door and step into the front hall'. I can say I felt the exact same about this book as it cast a spell on me so much that I read it in two sittings and was sad to turn the last page.
The story is told from three perspectives that of Dolly, Teddy and Loretta. Teddy's chapters are heart breaking, moving and so incredibly raw and honest. Told so simply yet everything the author wanted to convey was there and as you reach the conclusion of his storyline you find yourself letting out a sigh and realising the beauty of what Hazel had written. That a character had never given up hope but in the end had to make an unbearable decision to move on through tears and hurt through no ones creation except external world events. Loretta is a star at the end of a glistening career struggling with internal emotions and happenings. Her reluctance to give in and accept the inevitable future will tear you apart but her relationship with Dolly and her goal to see a brighter future for the young girl is to be cherished and applauded. Loretta is tormented by the past, holding in too many secrets and turning a blind eye to the inevitable. She is a strong woman but I understood how she was reluctant to let go without making sure she had done her best with everything in the present whilst preparing for the future. The connections between Perry, Dolly and Loretta once established flow naturally throughout the storyline and do make you believe' wonderful adventures await those who dare to find them'. Dolly herself is comparable to Loretta not in terms of background, social standing or wealth but how she has also suffered and an event is hanging over her tearing her apart.She needs some resolution before she can fully embrace her true destiny. 'By the time war was over, my heart was broken my dreams were shattered, my hopes were bruised.Without ever stepping onto a battlefield, I too was wounded'. This story tells Dolly's journey to peace and happiness incredibly well and highlights just what a special, gifted storyteller Hazel Gaynor truly is. She brings the past to life in such a scintillating, dazzling way that that you will be sorry to leave the characters behind.
What sets this book apart from other historical fiction that may be out there at the moment is the attention to detail and the simply sublime writing. There were so many sentences where I felt the need to stop and take stock for a moment and normally I race through a book where as here I wanted to savour every moment. Hazel has done impeccable research and clearly enjoyed the entire process of writing this book as the characters, plot and setting are all covered to perfection. I found myself equally enamoured with both Dolly and the glamorous movie star Loretta May even though they are poles apart in terms of backgrounds and careers the author established how in the end we are all the same. We have aspirations for ourselves some are achievable some or not. We have challenges and difficulties. Some are rich some are poor but beneath it all we are all made of the same stuff and a common bond/friendship/trust/love can be created and can see us through the good and bad times. People can sense Dolly is unique and destined for great things and so too can Loretta as she wants to harbour Dolly's talents and know that in addition to her career she has left a legacy and helped someone see their goals come true.
What I did enjoy was that yes in a way this was a rags to riches story but yet it wasn't too in your face. I wouldn't have liked it if the story became too seedy and Dolly was hurt or experienced the nasty side of the world she inhabited. Instead it was so tastefully written and I grew to love Dolly and Loretta in equal measure even if Loretta's story pulled at the heartstrings. Her willingness to help others and hide her own suffering was admirable to say the least. At the beginning of each chapter there was a quote which I soon came to learn would be features somewhere within the chapter, I found myself eager to see how said quote would fit in with the development of the story in that chapter and a contented smile would come to my face when I discovered how Hazel had weaved it in to the story. I've not seen this done before and thought it was very clever.
Hazel Gaynor really makes you feel like you have travelled back in time you believe in the characters and their stories that they actually did exist at the time where anything was achievable with some courage and strength. The Girl from the Savoy will make you want to take a trip to London and stay in the Savoy and just sit there in contemplation imagining Dolly working there behind the scenes cleaning the rooms, trying on a dress or shoe belonging to a rich lady or movie star when she thought no one was looking. But deep down Dolly knew she was destined for greater things and despite sadness in her past with an event that haunts her (which I might add was brilliantly handled towards the end and it was such a nice touch that the usual clichés didn't apply. I liked that Hazel went against the norm as it allowed the story to feel even more real and not every strand of a story has to conform to convention), she was going to reach the top and Loretta could see that in Dolly and wanted the best for her. 'The longing for something has never left me. I felt it like a fluttering of wings in my heart'.
This book will make you want to cut your hair into the flapper style and to throw a 1920's themed evening with dancing and cocktails galore. The Girl from The Savoy proved to be an exhilarating journey into the past full of vibrancy, depth, honesty and emotion which provided an insightful view into a time of dazzling theatre shows and fascinating characters all seen through the eyes of a young woman who grows and develops wonderfully throughout the novel. Yes we read of other characters viewpoints but it truly was Dolly who was the star of this book and the one who will remain with you for quite some time. So if you find yourself looking for an intelligent, detailed, absorbing, brilliantly written story this summer this book is the one for you and I'm sure Hazel will earn plenty of new fans with this release (me included). I'm excited to discover what era Hazel will take us to next.
The book is set in the early 1920's when the shadows of World War One still hang over the world, men and women are struggling to come to terms with all they have witnessed and endured. It is hard to pick up the pieces after witnessing such horrors and devastation but a chink of light is appearing. The upper classes are enjoying wild raucous parties full of dances and merriment. The theatres are full to capacity and maybe there is hope for the future. War altered people in so many ways and now change and movement needs to happen in all aspects of life. Women are determined to fight for their liberties and independence. As Hazel says 'The past is a vibrant colourful world in which people fell in and out of love, fought for their beliefs, faced poverty and fear about their families. Not so very different to modern life at all'. That is is so very true but the people living in the 1920's would be delighted at just how far we have come in under 100 years even if not every aspect of today's society are not all positive. Our heroine Dolly wants to be at the centre of everything in this bright new creative world but there is alot to experience before her hopes can come true.
The prologue opens in 1916 in a Lancashire town as Dolly waves goodbye to her true love Teddy Cooper. Conscription has played a part in their forced separation and Dolly despite her optimism of believing he will be back before people knows he has gone, deep down she understands life will change but can they claw back some sense of normality once everything has been dealt with. Fast forward 7 years later and Dolly is now in London alone and working as a maid for the upper classes which is not what she wanted for her life but needs must. Dolly has always been put down and made to feel like she cannot achieve anything but this girl is a person of character and strength and the reader can see a spark deep within Dolly waiting to burst forth. She is someone who knows what she wants and will achieve it not by ruthless means but through sheer hard work and determination. She will get there eventually but when faced with this comment you do wonder is it all worth it? 'You, Dorothy Lane, are a prime example of someone who will never get on in life. You will never become anything'. As Dolly is rushing for an interview in the famous Savoy hotel in London she literally bumps into Perry Clements a struggling musician returned from the war. This chance meeting will instigate a series of events which will have a profound effect on Dolly. Dolly is accepted for the job in the Savoy and here is where the book begins to shine as the authors writing comes alive. Her descriptive abilities make the hotel feel like a character itself and it was fascinating to read about a world where quite often only the privileged few get access too. Viewing the hotel and the world of The Bright Young Things from Dolly's eyes was fascinating and full of such rich and interesting detail. 'The Savoy is much more than a hotel Dorothy. It has a personality all of its own.It casts a sort of spell on people the moment they walk through the door and step into the front hall'. I can say I felt the exact same about this book as it cast a spell on me so much that I read it in two sittings and was sad to turn the last page.
The story is told from three perspectives that of Dolly, Teddy and Loretta. Teddy's chapters are heart breaking, moving and so incredibly raw and honest. Told so simply yet everything the author wanted to convey was there and as you reach the conclusion of his storyline you find yourself letting out a sigh and realising the beauty of what Hazel had written. That a character had never given up hope but in the end had to make an unbearable decision to move on through tears and hurt through no ones creation except external world events. Loretta is a star at the end of a glistening career struggling with internal emotions and happenings. Her reluctance to give in and accept the inevitable future will tear you apart but her relationship with Dolly and her goal to see a brighter future for the young girl is to be cherished and applauded. Loretta is tormented by the past, holding in too many secrets and turning a blind eye to the inevitable. She is a strong woman but I understood how she was reluctant to let go without making sure she had done her best with everything in the present whilst preparing for the future. The connections between Perry, Dolly and Loretta once established flow naturally throughout the storyline and do make you believe' wonderful adventures await those who dare to find them'. Dolly herself is comparable to Loretta not in terms of background, social standing or wealth but how she has also suffered and an event is hanging over her tearing her apart.She needs some resolution before she can fully embrace her true destiny. 'By the time war was over, my heart was broken my dreams were shattered, my hopes were bruised.Without ever stepping onto a battlefield, I too was wounded'. This story tells Dolly's journey to peace and happiness incredibly well and highlights just what a special, gifted storyteller Hazel Gaynor truly is. She brings the past to life in such a scintillating, dazzling way that that you will be sorry to leave the characters behind.
What sets this book apart from other historical fiction that may be out there at the moment is the attention to detail and the simply sublime writing. There were so many sentences where I felt the need to stop and take stock for a moment and normally I race through a book where as here I wanted to savour every moment. Hazel has done impeccable research and clearly enjoyed the entire process of writing this book as the characters, plot and setting are all covered to perfection. I found myself equally enamoured with both Dolly and the glamorous movie star Loretta May even though they are poles apart in terms of backgrounds and careers the author established how in the end we are all the same. We have aspirations for ourselves some are achievable some or not. We have challenges and difficulties. Some are rich some are poor but beneath it all we are all made of the same stuff and a common bond/friendship/trust/love can be created and can see us through the good and bad times. People can sense Dolly is unique and destined for great things and so too can Loretta as she wants to harbour Dolly's talents and know that in addition to her career she has left a legacy and helped someone see their goals come true.
What I did enjoy was that yes in a way this was a rags to riches story but yet it wasn't too in your face. I wouldn't have liked it if the story became too seedy and Dolly was hurt or experienced the nasty side of the world she inhabited. Instead it was so tastefully written and I grew to love Dolly and Loretta in equal measure even if Loretta's story pulled at the heartstrings. Her willingness to help others and hide her own suffering was admirable to say the least. At the beginning of each chapter there was a quote which I soon came to learn would be features somewhere within the chapter, I found myself eager to see how said quote would fit in with the development of the story in that chapter and a contented smile would come to my face when I discovered how Hazel had weaved it in to the story. I've not seen this done before and thought it was very clever.
Hazel Gaynor really makes you feel like you have travelled back in time you believe in the characters and their stories that they actually did exist at the time where anything was achievable with some courage and strength. The Girl from the Savoy will make you want to take a trip to London and stay in the Savoy and just sit there in contemplation imagining Dolly working there behind the scenes cleaning the rooms, trying on a dress or shoe belonging to a rich lady or movie star when she thought no one was looking. But deep down Dolly knew she was destined for greater things and despite sadness in her past with an event that haunts her (which I might add was brilliantly handled towards the end and it was such a nice touch that the usual clichés didn't apply. I liked that Hazel went against the norm as it allowed the story to feel even more real and not every strand of a story has to conform to convention), she was going to reach the top and Loretta could see that in Dolly and wanted the best for her. 'The longing for something has never left me. I felt it like a fluttering of wings in my heart'.
This book will make you want to cut your hair into the flapper style and to throw a 1920's themed evening with dancing and cocktails galore. The Girl from The Savoy proved to be an exhilarating journey into the past full of vibrancy, depth, honesty and emotion which provided an insightful view into a time of dazzling theatre shows and fascinating characters all seen through the eyes of a young woman who grows and develops wonderfully throughout the novel. Yes we read of other characters viewpoints but it truly was Dolly who was the star of this book and the one who will remain with you for quite some time. So if you find yourself looking for an intelligent, detailed, absorbing, brilliantly written story this summer this book is the one for you and I'm sure Hazel will earn plenty of new fans with this release (me included). I'm excited to discover what era Hazel will take us to next.
suvata's review against another edition
4.0
• Kindle e-book • Chirp audiobook
London 1923: Dolly Lane is a dreamer; a downtrodden maid who longs to dance on the London stage, but her life has been fractured by the Great War. Memories of the soldier she loved, of secret shame and profound loss, by turns pull her back and spur her on to make a better life.
London 1923: Dolly Lane is a dreamer; a downtrodden maid who longs to dance on the London stage, but her life has been fractured by the Great War. Memories of the soldier she loved, of secret shame and profound loss, by turns pull her back and spur her on to make a better life.
maplegrey's review against another edition
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
3.75
beastreader's review against another edition
5.0
I read The Girl Who Came Home and really thoroughly enjoyed it, however this book I could not stop reading from this author. I kept seeing this one make its way around the web a lot of times and each time I wanted to read it that much more. I finally got the chance to read this book. It far exceeded my expectations. I was instantly transported into the 1920's, the Savoy Hotel, and the grueling world of Broadway productions.
Until some books where one or two main character's voices are strong, in this book I loved all of the voices from Dolly, Loretta, Teddy, and Perry. Each one had a story to tell that was lovely. Although I was very drawn to Loretta, then Dolly, Teddy and Perry equally. The Girl from the Savoy is a must read.
Until some books where one or two main character's voices are strong, in this book I loved all of the voices from Dolly, Loretta, Teddy, and Perry. Each one had a story to tell that was lovely. Although I was very drawn to Loretta, then Dolly, Teddy and Perry equally. The Girl from the Savoy is a must read.
judithdcollins's review against another edition
5.0
A special thank you to HarperCollins and LibraryThing Early Reviewers for an ARC in exchange for an honest review. Glamorous Cover.
Talented Hazel Gaynor returns following A Memory of Violets (2015) and The Girl Who Came Home (2014) with her latest, THE GIRL FROM THE SAVOY —Impressive, evocative, and captivating— rich in history, culture, art, and charm.
. . “Men and girls came and went like moths among the whisperings and the champagne and the stars.” – F. Scott Fitzgerald, The Great Gatsby
A young woman working as a chambermaid in a luxury historical hotel in London, dreaming of a dazzling career on stage, a chorus girl, a flapper, an actress, and beyond—from difficult choices, life altering changes, and devastating aftermath of soldiers, and the women left behind, during the war and post war.
From London stage -entertainment, allure, and glamour of the stars and the roaring 1920s!
Set in the years just after the Great War, when social boundaries were changing and women especially were fighting for greater independence. Told from three POV and narrators: Dolly, Loretta, and Teddy.
“That’s the beauty of a life on the stage. One can be whomever one chooses to be.”
The novel opens with a Prologue, Lancashire, England, March 1916—Teddy is going off to war, leaving Dorothy (Dolly) behind. Hope. Love. Adventure is their motto. Teddy was always her inspiration to be better. To strive for something far beyond her reach.
Then a brief chance meeting. An intriguing man. A composer.
“It is only by trying and failing, by losing something we really love, that we discover how much we want it.”
Flash forward to London 1923 with Dolly. She was a nicknamed “Dolly Daydreamer” from the other maids. She is delighted to begin a new position as a maid at The Savoy Hotel London. Where she can be surrounded by the rich and famous. A maid with ambition.
An opulent hotel with an impressive guest list, Hollywood stars, privileged American heiresses, and the darlings of London society. A place where the utmost discretion is required at all times. She will share a room with three other maids. Dolly gets a glimpse of the magic-from the dresses, shoes, glamour, and glitter of those around her. She longs to dance on the London stage. She wants an audition.
Her life takes a turn when she responds to a songwriter’s ad for a “muse” and becomes immersed into London’s theater scene. Will she ever be good enough? She was told fortune favors the brave. Nobody made it in this business by being coy and demure.
We also meet iconic star of the stage, the darling of the West End, Loretta May and her brother Perry. Dolly is now a part of this world and Loretta has everything Dolly wants and desires. Loretta is the darling of London society. The rebellious society, dressed, photographed, and painted and written by the best names in the world.
She was the reason everyone saved their money for their wages to buy ticket to her performance, and stand for hours to get a glimpse. They swoon over the star. However, Loretta’s life in crumbling yet all her fans are unaware of her pain. With secrets of her own. Loretta and Dolly may have more in common than they may think.
Dolly wonders if Teddy hears music. If he remembers how they used to love dancing. She wonders if he thinks of her all. A butterfly. Will the butterfly spread its wings in search for adventures? Life dances on.
Two men. Teddy and Perry. They mingle and change and she can’t stop dancing. When she closes her eyes, Dolly sees Perry. When she rests her check against the pillows, it is Teddy’s cheek she rests against.
If only the past could be locked away in the darkness and forgotten.
With flashes and heartbreaking letters to Teddy at war from Dolly, now in a hospital. Someone reading the letters to Teddy (perhaps a nurse, he thinks). From conditions they do not understand from the war, treating with hypnosis, electric shock, and warm baths. The guns are silent and yet he is still fighting his war.
He has his memories of Dolly, if he can remember. The War, the nurse reading the letters, and the butterfly in the window. Teddy always said she would be special. Teddy was always chasing butterflies. He never kept them. He liked to admire and let them go. A love so strong.
The highs, lows, and intensity of the time. From emotions, the damage, brokenness, friendships, shame, loss, loyalty, the aftermath of the war, romance, and aspirations and dreams of women of this era. From dazzle, scandal, love, music, success, and glamour. All intriguing to an ordinary girl like Dolly.
How does war change people and lives?
Gaynor poignantly captures the difficulties and impacts of war on the young men who survived during this time with the characters of Perry and Teddy. The burdens of war—a part of our history and the realities of war. I liked the contrast between the different social classes, and the two women, as well as time and place. Three distinct voices: the (Teddy) war, (Dolly) a maid, and a (Loretta) star.
“Get a job in a shop. Marry a nice young chap. Leave the dancing to someone else.”
Impeccably researched, Gaynor’s vivid and dazzling descriptions makes you feel as though you were re-living the era and the characters come alive on each page. I enjoyed the creative format of the novel with each chapter clearly defined by its voice and characters, and a lead in quote intro, setting the stage, broken out in Acts One (Hope), Two (Love) and Three (Adventure). The stages of life. Many metaphors and lovely quotes.
From a broken solider; shell shock (psychological disturbance caused by prolonged exposure to active warfare, especially being under bombardment.) what we call today PTSD. Gaynor offers vast references and additional reading regarding women and men in the 1920s as well as a wealth of historical and insightful information, and as an added plus, an entire playlist of music from the era.
With Loretta’s character, the author captures the essence of these amazing women, and the private life of a woman behind the spotlight. Dolly’s character is based on The Gaiety Girls and Cochran’s Young Ladies —working-class girls’ dreams. Where young girls flocked to the theater night after night, known as gallery girls. Where they watched their favorite stars perform, to forget their troubles at home. The wanted to laugh, sing, dance, and dazzle.
Music: Adore listening to music from this era with the jazz bands such as the Savoy Orpheans, the resident band at the sumptuous Savoy during the period in which the novel is set. Gaynor provides a playlist, and enjoyed watching/listening to all of her recommended songs, via YouTube.
I love the 1920s! As always, love reading of the "inspiration" (behind the scenes). A blending of fact and fiction, infusing lost stories and forgotten voices from the past. Gaynor breathes new life into her characters, with her imagination and powerful prose. (Definitely agree with her about the hats).
Fascinating additional reading of Rupert D'Oyly Carte (1876 –1948) an English hotelier, theatre owner and impresario, best known as proprietor of the D'Oyly Carte Opera Company and Savoy Hotel.
Highly recommend! For fans of Beatriz Williams, Kathleen Tessaro, Susan Meissner, and Karen White. Have also pre-ordered the audio, narrated by Jennifer Jones, Lucy Rayner, and Paul Fox. As mentioned previously, I am quickly becoming a fan of historical fiction, drawing me away from my typical mystery suspense thrillers. Have not read Fall of Poppies: Stories of Love and the Great War, quickly added to my TBR list.
* * * * *
On a personal note: In reference to a previous Tweet, I cannot help but think about this era, the characters, the novel (especially Dolly) and the Hotel Savoy London, and the American Bar--when I look out my window at legendary 5-star oceanfront Palm Beach, FL Breakers Resort.
The music from the HMF is a prime example of this era. Named for The Breakers’ founding father, Henry Morrison Flagler this thrillingly glamorous retreat is an ode to golden era Palm Beach, with all of its high style, and unapologetic decadence. At HMF they take the social rituals of cocktail culture as the perfect antidote to the incivility of modern life. Reminiscent of a bygone era. (Our own Savoy) When stepping into room, the ambiance, the mood, takes you back: Listen to the Music It awakens your spirit, and resonates the glamour and sophistication of the exciting and dazzling 1920's. (all of these selections are on my personal playlist).
Talented Hazel Gaynor returns following A Memory of Violets (2015) and The Girl Who Came Home (2014) with her latest, THE GIRL FROM THE SAVOY —Impressive, evocative, and captivating— rich in history, culture, art, and charm.
. . “Men and girls came and went like moths among the whisperings and the champagne and the stars.” – F. Scott Fitzgerald, The Great Gatsby
A young woman working as a chambermaid in a luxury historical hotel in London, dreaming of a dazzling career on stage, a chorus girl, a flapper, an actress, and beyond—from difficult choices, life altering changes, and devastating aftermath of soldiers, and the women left behind, during the war and post war.
From London stage -entertainment, allure, and glamour of the stars and the roaring 1920s!
Set in the years just after the Great War, when social boundaries were changing and women especially were fighting for greater independence. Told from three POV and narrators: Dolly, Loretta, and Teddy.
“That’s the beauty of a life on the stage. One can be whomever one chooses to be.”
The novel opens with a Prologue, Lancashire, England, March 1916—Teddy is going off to war, leaving Dorothy (Dolly) behind. Hope. Love. Adventure is their motto. Teddy was always her inspiration to be better. To strive for something far beyond her reach.
Then a brief chance meeting. An intriguing man. A composer.
“It is only by trying and failing, by losing something we really love, that we discover how much we want it.”
Flash forward to London 1923 with Dolly. She was a nicknamed “Dolly Daydreamer” from the other maids. She is delighted to begin a new position as a maid at The Savoy Hotel London. Where she can be surrounded by the rich and famous. A maid with ambition.
An opulent hotel with an impressive guest list, Hollywood stars, privileged American heiresses, and the darlings of London society. A place where the utmost discretion is required at all times. She will share a room with three other maids. Dolly gets a glimpse of the magic-from the dresses, shoes, glamour, and glitter of those around her. She longs to dance on the London stage. She wants an audition.
Her life takes a turn when she responds to a songwriter’s ad for a “muse” and becomes immersed into London’s theater scene. Will she ever be good enough? She was told fortune favors the brave. Nobody made it in this business by being coy and demure.
We also meet iconic star of the stage, the darling of the West End, Loretta May and her brother Perry. Dolly is now a part of this world and Loretta has everything Dolly wants and desires. Loretta is the darling of London society. The rebellious society, dressed, photographed, and painted and written by the best names in the world.
She was the reason everyone saved their money for their wages to buy ticket to her performance, and stand for hours to get a glimpse. They swoon over the star. However, Loretta’s life in crumbling yet all her fans are unaware of her pain. With secrets of her own. Loretta and Dolly may have more in common than they may think.
Dolly wonders if Teddy hears music. If he remembers how they used to love dancing. She wonders if he thinks of her all. A butterfly. Will the butterfly spread its wings in search for adventures? Life dances on.
Two men. Teddy and Perry. They mingle and change and she can’t stop dancing. When she closes her eyes, Dolly sees Perry. When she rests her check against the pillows, it is Teddy’s cheek she rests against.
If only the past could be locked away in the darkness and forgotten.
With flashes and heartbreaking letters to Teddy at war from Dolly, now in a hospital. Someone reading the letters to Teddy (perhaps a nurse, he thinks). From conditions they do not understand from the war, treating with hypnosis, electric shock, and warm baths. The guns are silent and yet he is still fighting his war.
He has his memories of Dolly, if he can remember. The War, the nurse reading the letters, and the butterfly in the window. Teddy always said she would be special. Teddy was always chasing butterflies. He never kept them. He liked to admire and let them go. A love so strong.
The highs, lows, and intensity of the time. From emotions, the damage, brokenness, friendships, shame, loss, loyalty, the aftermath of the war, romance, and aspirations and dreams of women of this era. From dazzle, scandal, love, music, success, and glamour. All intriguing to an ordinary girl like Dolly.
How does war change people and lives?
Gaynor poignantly captures the difficulties and impacts of war on the young men who survived during this time with the characters of Perry and Teddy. The burdens of war—a part of our history and the realities of war. I liked the contrast between the different social classes, and the two women, as well as time and place. Three distinct voices: the (Teddy) war, (Dolly) a maid, and a (Loretta) star.
“Get a job in a shop. Marry a nice young chap. Leave the dancing to someone else.”
Impeccably researched, Gaynor’s vivid and dazzling descriptions makes you feel as though you were re-living the era and the characters come alive on each page. I enjoyed the creative format of the novel with each chapter clearly defined by its voice and characters, and a lead in quote intro, setting the stage, broken out in Acts One (Hope), Two (Love) and Three (Adventure). The stages of life. Many metaphors and lovely quotes.
From a broken solider; shell shock (psychological disturbance caused by prolonged exposure to active warfare, especially being under bombardment.) what we call today PTSD. Gaynor offers vast references and additional reading regarding women and men in the 1920s as well as a wealth of historical and insightful information, and as an added plus, an entire playlist of music from the era.
With Loretta’s character, the author captures the essence of these amazing women, and the private life of a woman behind the spotlight. Dolly’s character is based on The Gaiety Girls and Cochran’s Young Ladies —working-class girls’ dreams. Where young girls flocked to the theater night after night, known as gallery girls. Where they watched their favorite stars perform, to forget their troubles at home. The wanted to laugh, sing, dance, and dazzle.
Music: Adore listening to music from this era with the jazz bands such as the Savoy Orpheans, the resident band at the sumptuous Savoy during the period in which the novel is set. Gaynor provides a playlist, and enjoyed watching/listening to all of her recommended songs, via YouTube.
I love the 1920s! As always, love reading of the "inspiration" (behind the scenes). A blending of fact and fiction, infusing lost stories and forgotten voices from the past. Gaynor breathes new life into her characters, with her imagination and powerful prose. (Definitely agree with her about the hats).
Fascinating additional reading of Rupert D'Oyly Carte (1876 –1948) an English hotelier, theatre owner and impresario, best known as proprietor of the D'Oyly Carte Opera Company and Savoy Hotel.
Highly recommend! For fans of Beatriz Williams, Kathleen Tessaro, Susan Meissner, and Karen White. Have also pre-ordered the audio, narrated by Jennifer Jones, Lucy Rayner, and Paul Fox. As mentioned previously, I am quickly becoming a fan of historical fiction, drawing me away from my typical mystery suspense thrillers. Have not read Fall of Poppies: Stories of Love and the Great War, quickly added to my TBR list.
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On a personal note: In reference to a previous Tweet, I cannot help but think about this era, the characters, the novel (especially Dolly) and the Hotel Savoy London, and the American Bar--when I look out my window at legendary 5-star oceanfront Palm Beach, FL Breakers Resort.
The music from the HMF is a prime example of this era. Named for The Breakers’ founding father, Henry Morrison Flagler this thrillingly glamorous retreat is an ode to golden era Palm Beach, with all of its high style, and unapologetic decadence. At HMF they take the social rituals of cocktail culture as the perfect antidote to the incivility of modern life. Reminiscent of a bygone era. (Our own Savoy) When stepping into room, the ambiance, the mood, takes you back: Listen to the Music It awakens your spirit, and resonates the glamour and sophistication of the exciting and dazzling 1920's. (all of these selections are on my personal playlist).
bookswritingandmore's review against another edition
5.0
When Dolly Lane’s boyfriend Teddy Cooper went to war, Dolly expected them to marry upon his return. Dolly, a farmer’s daughter from Lancashire had always had her head in the clouds, dreaming of the West End and Broadway stages. In 1923, Dolly after working as a maid in a dreary little place gets one step closer to her dream: she just snatched a position at the very posh Savoy hotel. While hurrying, she crashes into a handsome russet-haired gentleman who drops a pile of music sheets: Perry Clements is an aspiring composer in search of a muse. He is on his way to his weekly tea at the Claridge with his sister Loretta, a famous stage actress, and also Dolly’s idol. That chance meeting in the rain would change both of their lives…
The author's prose is refined and subdued, yet perfectly reflects the era in the vocabulary and the dialogues; the period details are stunning in their accuracy and vividness, as if captured by a a photograph. The author displays such an astonishing knowledge of the artistic world at that time, whether it concerns the movies, the music, or the celebrities. The writing really carries the reader through out the story and makes you feel as if you are part of the 20's for at least a little while.
There are also plenty of interesting secondary characters who in their own way influence the course of the story. I loved Dolly's side kick at the Savoy. She had personality and was always up for fun and games. All the scenes with the two of them together were splendid.
There are three different perspectives in the book. Loretta the dancer, Dolly the dreamer and Teddy the boy Dolly was to marry. Each gives a totally different picture of the times they are living in from their points of view. Loretta struggles with her stage presence and the secret the hides. Dolly dreams of being on stage one day and not having to clean other people's room anymore. Teddy, I will leave to the author to describe to you. His story is a special one and any information might give away too much.
Let me just say, this book is a rare and special one. Miss Gaynor is quickly becoming one of my favorite historical fiction writers.
The author's prose is refined and subdued, yet perfectly reflects the era in the vocabulary and the dialogues; the period details are stunning in their accuracy and vividness, as if captured by a a photograph. The author displays such an astonishing knowledge of the artistic world at that time, whether it concerns the movies, the music, or the celebrities. The writing really carries the reader through out the story and makes you feel as if you are part of the 20's for at least a little while.
There are also plenty of interesting secondary characters who in their own way influence the course of the story. I loved Dolly's side kick at the Savoy. She had personality and was always up for fun and games. All the scenes with the two of them together were splendid.
There are three different perspectives in the book. Loretta the dancer, Dolly the dreamer and Teddy the boy Dolly was to marry. Each gives a totally different picture of the times they are living in from their points of view. Loretta struggles with her stage presence and the secret the hides. Dolly dreams of being on stage one day and not having to clean other people's room anymore. Teddy, I will leave to the author to describe to you. His story is a special one and any information might give away too much.
Let me just say, this book is a rare and special one. Miss Gaynor is quickly becoming one of my favorite historical fiction writers.
kty11's review against another edition
4.0
This was amazing! The characters and development of the story was great and by far my favorite book this year. I couldn't help but fall in love with each character and root for Dolly, the main character. This book definitely did a great job in putting a perfect picture into your head while reading.
100pagesaday's review against another edition
4.0
Dorothy Lane, Dolly to her friends, has always dreamed of more for herself than to be a maid. However, as World War I approaches, her love, Teddy is sent off and things change drastically for them both. Teddy returns with shell shock and Dolly has endured much in his absence. Now, Dolly chases adventure in London where she finds employment as a maid to the stars at the Savoy. While at the Savoy, Dolly takes up an advertisement for a musician looking for a muse. Perry Clements is a struggling composer, his sister Loretta May is a starlet of the stage. Dolly agrees to inspire Perry while Loretta teaches her to stand out in a crowd and brings Dolly closer to the life she has dreamed about.
A tantalizing story about love, loss, recovery and ambition that spans World War I through the Jazz Age in London. Switching points of view between Dolly, Loretta and Teddy there is a very full view of the damaging effects of the war from every angle. Dolly's was the most intriguing for me as her secrets kept during the war unravel and she begins to finally realize her dreams. Dolly is a true dreamer and adventurer. I admired her resilience and ability to chase her fantasy life. Teddy's point of view was also crucial for me, even though it didn't quite fit in with the Dolly and Loretta's shared experiences. His struggle with shell shock and remembering what he could have had was very delicately done and drew me into his experience. Finally, what drew me into the book was the setting and time period, the glamour of the Savoy was brilliantly described and the mood of the time could be imagined through the descriptions of music, theatre, dance and dress.
A tantalizing story about love, loss, recovery and ambition that spans World War I through the Jazz Age in London. Switching points of view between Dolly, Loretta and Teddy there is a very full view of the damaging effects of the war from every angle. Dolly's was the most intriguing for me as her secrets kept during the war unravel and she begins to finally realize her dreams. Dolly is a true dreamer and adventurer. I admired her resilience and ability to chase her fantasy life. Teddy's point of view was also crucial for me, even though it didn't quite fit in with the Dolly and Loretta's shared experiences. His struggle with shell shock and remembering what he could have had was very delicately done and drew me into his experience. Finally, what drew me into the book was the setting and time period, the glamour of the Savoy was brilliantly described and the mood of the time could be imagined through the descriptions of music, theatre, dance and dress.
christinavarela's review against another edition
4.0
A rags to riches story, a kin to My Fair Lady, minus the predictability which was a welcome surprise. Entertaining.