Title: Farewell, Dorothy Parker
Author: Ellen Meister
First published February 21, 2013
308 pages, Hardcover
ISBN: 9780399159077 (ISBN10: 039915907X)
Rating: 3.48
Overview
Meet Rebecca Fine, a beauty columnist who always seems to be unlucky in love. That is until she sets her sights on Max Stoddart, her handsome new colleague at the Daily Vanguard.
With his charming personality and devilishly good looks, Max seems like the perfect catch, but is he too good to be true? As Rebecca navigates the ups and downs of her new relationship, she must also deal with the return of her high school nemesis, Lipstick, who is now engaged to her widowed father.
When a hot tip takes Rebecca to the heart of the Paris cosmetics world, she uncovers a scandal that could rock the beauty industry and jeopardize world peace. Can Rebecca win the Pulitzer and the man of her dreams, or will her past come back to haunt her?
Find out in the hilarious and heartwarming novel, Apocalipstick.
Editoral Review
Ellen Meisters Farewell, Dorothy Parker is a captivating and witty novel that tells the story of Violet Epps, a struggling writer, who is mourning the loss of her mother and navigating a difficult divorce. As an ode to the legendary writer and social critic, Dorothy Parker, Meister explores themes of love, loss, friendship, and the meaning of success in the literary world.
Published in 2013, Meisters novel falls under the category of womens fiction, with its relatable protagonist and emphasis on self-discovery. Meisters writing style is engaging, peppered with clever references to Parkers famous quips and sharp observations.
The novels setting, in the heart of New York Citys literary scene, adds to its charm as we follow Violet on her journey to finishing her first book. The novels plot revolves around Violets relationship with Dorothy Parker, who surprisingly reappears in Violets life as a ghost.
Through their unlikely friendship, Violet learns to confront her fears and insecurities, and begins to discover her voice as a writer. The conflict arises when Violet must decide whether she wants to achieve success on her own terms or to follow in Dorothy Parkers footsteps and be remembered for her wit and sarcasm.
One of the strengths of Farewell, Dorothy Parker is its well-developed and relatable characters. Violets struggles as a writer trying to make a name for herself are relatable for many aspiring artists.
Dorothys wit and sarcasm adds an element of humor to the novel, and her ghostly presence provides a unique twist to the story. Meister does an excellent job in bringing these characters to life and creating an authentic depiction of the literary world.
However, the plot is at times predictable, and some of the conflicts and resolutions are too neatly tied up. Additionally, Meisters use of Dorothy Parkers ghost as a plot device, although intriguing, can feel gimmicky at times.
Despite its flaws, Farewell, Dorothy Parker is a delightful novel that would be enjoyed by fans of womens fiction, especially those interested in the literary world. Meisters writing style is engaging, and the novels themes of self-discovery and learning to find ones voice are deeply resonant.
The novels overarching message, that success is defined by ones own terms and not societal expectations, is a refreshing take on the traditional rags to riches story. In conclusion, Farewell, Dorothy Parker is a worthy read for those who enjoy womens fiction and the literary world.
Meisters crafting of characters is exceptional, and her style of writing keeps us engaged. We recommend it to anyone looking for an enjoyable and thought-provoking read.
Score: 7 out of 10.
