The Address

The Address by Fiona Davis 400 pages 

Author Fiona Davis, known for her use of iconic Manhattan landmarks as characters in her novel, features the Dakota Apartment Building. That name may ring a bell to contemporary readers, even though the building dates back to the 1800s. Just outside The Dakota is where rock legend John Lennon was murdered. Lennon’s untimely death is mentioned, but more as a historical footnote than a contribution to the plot. 

Davis also uses dueling timelines to create the landmarks settings. This time the story vacillates between 1884 and 1984. 

In 1884, Sara Smythe is the head housekeeper of London’s Langham Hotel. Looking out the window of her office, Sara sees a child dangling from an open window. Her quick reaction saves the child. The child’s father is struggling architect Theodore Camden. He is eternally grateful and eventually offers Sara the position of manager of the Dakota…in the U.S. 

Sara accepts and sails for New York. The Dakota is not yet finished, but Theodore and Sara make a great team. So much so that later, when Theodore strikes out on his own, Sara goes with him. 

In 1984, Bailey Camden is just out of rehab and ready to start her life afresh. Bailey is not biologically related to Theodore, but is the great-granddaughter of his ward. The former interior designer isn’t sure what to do, so she enlists her “cousin” Melinda to help her at the Dakota, which she is vigorously renovating. Gutting is probably a better word, as Melinda is taking Theodore’s former apartment and making it sleek and sophisticated. 

Davis allows the readers to see the struggles of Sara and Bailey and what secrets the Dakota hides… and now. We also get to see the building’s grandeur at two distinct times. The secrets involve the stabbing of Theodore and a missing sheath that could hold the key to who inherits Theodore’s fortune. 

I’ve loved all of Davis’ other novels and this one is no exception. “The Address” receives 5 out of 5 stars in Julie’s world.