Thursday, August 6, 2009

The Lie: A Novel Book Review

The Lie is about a woman's quest for authenticity in a world of lies, brutality, and pretend.

By Fredrica Wagman
Published by Zoland Books
April 2009;$14.95US/$16.95CAN; 978-1-58642-157-1

From FSB Associates:

Ramona Smollens has a chance meeting on a park bench with an older man, Solomon Columbus. The two became lovers, and soon Ramona is leaving the home of her mother and recently deceased father for marriage and the trappings of adult life. She takes with her a dark family secret, the sort of secret one simply did not talk about, one that would stalk her as she matured into her role as wife and mother. Coming of age in 1950s America, Ramona gets her cues about a woman's role from the world around her, and about female sexuality from the silver screen. But when experience teaches her that Hollywood's ideal is in fact "the lie," truth and desire collide with a force that is deeply moving and unforgettable.

Author Bio
Fredrica Wagman is the author of six previous novels. They are Playing House; Magic Man, Magic Man; Peachy; and Mrs. Hornstein and His Secret Little Wife. She has four grown children and lives with her husband in New York City. For more information please visit www.fredricawagman.com

My take on the book:
This little book of 224 pages had many hidden treats and treasure. How appropriate today to read such a book where we all seem to be hanging on to every word, every style, every action the "Hollywood" types do and say! Ramona, who was coming of age in the 50s did exactly the same thing with Rita Hayworth! I wonder if the stars really want us to worship them? Are we to only worship their public appearances or is it ok to dig in head first and be in their daily life at home behind closed doors? Some times I don't think they "get it". They want privacy yet they flaunt their stuff for all to see at their choosing.
I love Ramona! You will know her when you read this book. She will be someone you recognize. It might be you! So what is The Lie? Is it Ramona's Lie? I would love to tell you but I don't want to ruin the book for you. You have to get to at least page 198 to begin to really realize what it is all about!

Thanks to FSB Associates for the review copy!

1 comment:

  1. There are stars that rise to the top and manage to live outside the limelight. Their children must be better off for it. The book sounds interesting and I'd love to read it.

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