Megan Chance, known for her evocative historical fiction like A Splendid Ruin and A Dangerous Education, returns with Glamorous Notions, a tale that seamlessly blends Hollywood glamour with the chilling undercurrents of betrayal and hidden identities. Set against the vibrant yet deceptive backdrop of 1955 Los Angeles, Chance weaves a story that not only entertains but also probes into the darkest corners of human ambition and fear.
Overview
In Glamorous Notions, Lena Taylor, the head costume designer for Lux Pictures, holds the secrets of Hollywood’s finest. However, beneath her poised exterior lies a turbulent past. Formerly Elsie Gruner, a talented fashion designer from Ohio, Lena’s journey from an art academy in Rome to the shadowy alleys of LA is nothing short of riveting. The novel delves into Lena’s constant battle to maintain her fabricated identity while a sinister plot from her past threatens to unravel her carefully constructed life.
Plot Analysis: A Labyrinth of Lies
The plot unfolds like a film noir, with Lena’s past and present colliding in dramatic fashion. Chance employs a dual timeline, moving between Lena’s present in Hollywood and her past as Elsie in Rome. The narrative gains momentum as Lena’s engagement to a prominent screenwriter pushes her into the public eye, increasing the risk of exposure.
The Rome storyline is particularly captivating, showcasing Elsie’s naive descent into a world of jazz clubs and dangerous liaisons through her friendship with the enigmatic Julia. The mystery surrounding Julia’s intentions and the chilling murder that ensues are expertly handled, keeping readers guessing until the final chapters. Meanwhile, the Hollywood setting offers a juxtaposition of glamour and danger, with Lena’s encounters with movie stars adding layers of intrigue and authenticity.
Character Development: The Masks We Wear
Lena Taylor/Elsie Gruner is an exceptionally crafted protagonist. Her duality drives the novel, with Chance portraying her as both a survivor and a deceiver. The tension between her desire for a fresh start and the shadows of her past creates a relatable yet suspenseful arc.
Julia’s character, however, stands as the most enigmatic force in the story. She embodies the allure and danger of post-war Europe, serving as both a friend and a catalyst for Elsie’s downfall. The supporting characters, including Lena’s fiancé and the Hollywood elite, are well-developed, contributing to the novel’s authentic feel.
Writing Style: Atmospheric and Cinematic
Megan Chance’s prose is vivid and immersive. She paints scenes with a filmmaker’s eye, allowing readers to visualize every detail of Lena’s world. The dialogue is sharp, capturing the essence of 1950s Hollywood while maintaining the tension of a thriller. Chance’s ability to balance elegance with grit enhances the storytelling, particularly during the novel’s darker moments.
Themes Explored: Identity, Betrayal, and Reinvention
Glamorous Notions tackles complex themes of identity and the fragility of facades. Lena’s struggle with her sense of self, as she shifts from Elsie to Lena, underscores the universal fear of being unmasked. The novel also delves into the allure of reinvention, highlighting how running from the past can often lead directly into the traps of the future.
Betrayal is a central theme, not only in Lena’s relationships but also in the broader sense of trust within a glittering yet cutthroat industry. Chance uses the Hollywood setting to amplify this theme, with Lena’s profession as a costume designer serving as a metaphor for the masks people wear.
Strengths and Weaknesses
Strengths:
Engaging Dual Timeline: The alternating chapters between Rome and Hollywood add depth and intrigue.
Strong Protagonist: Lena’s character arc is layered and compelling.
Authentic Setting: Chance’s meticulous research brings 1950s Hollywood to life.
Weaknesses:
Pacing Issues: The Rome storyline occasionally overshadows the Hollywood narrative, leading to slight imbalances.
Supporting Characters: While Lena and Julia are well-developed, some secondary characters could benefit from more depth.
Who Should Read This Book?
Fans of historical fiction with a mystery twist will find Glamorous Notions a captivating read. It is perfect for readers who enjoy stories about identity, reinvention, and the dark side of glamour. If you loved novels like The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid or The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern, this book will likely resonate.
Conclusion: A Glimmering yet Haunting Tale
Glamorous Notions is a testament to Megan Chance’s storytelling prowess. It captures the allure of old Hollywood while weaving a suspenseful and emotionally resonant narrative. Though not without its flaws, the novel’s strong character work and atmospheric setting make it a worthy addition to the historical fiction and mystery thriller genres. This book is highly recommended for those who appreciate a story with both style and substance.