Alcott has made a career out of writing book whose
backstories are near an anniversary day. Her second novel, The Dressmaker (a fabulous read BTW), was published during the 100th
anniversary year of the Titanic’s sinking. Her new novel, A Touch of Stardust, comes out on the heels of the 75th
anniversary of the movie Gone With The
Wind release.
Protagonist Julie Crawford wants nothing more than to become
a Hollywood. After graduating from Smith College, she leaves her hometown of
Fort Wayne behind and heads west. We first meet Julie in 1938. She has a menial
job with David O. Selznick Studios. She is making her way to one of the
backlots with an important message for Selznick. Julie founds herself on the
set of GWTW’s burning of Atlanta set.
When she finally finds the director, he’s atop a tower,
watching the action. After climbing to deliver her message, Julie gets to meet
a lovely young woman, Vivien Leigh; the King of Hollywood, actor Clark Gable;
and screwball comedy sensation, actress Carole Lombard. That night she also
meets Andy Weinstein, Selznick’s right-hand man.
Alcott’s novel has many layers. First there is the Old
Hollywood connection before WWII. Second
is the love story of Rhett Butler and Scarlett O’Hara. Third is the love story
between Gable and Carole. Fourth, the one between Julie and Andy. Five, the story
the Jews and WWII.
I wouldn’t call this a romance novel, not by any means. I
felt as if I was at Selznick Studios watching the filming of that remarkable
movie. I felt as if I was a witness to the great love Gable and Lombard shared.
I give A Touch of
Stardust 5 out of 5 stars.
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