Title: The Editor
Author: Steven Rowley
First published April 2, 2019
320 pages, Kindle Edition
Rating: 3.79
Overview
In Steven Rowley’s newest novel, The Editor, struggling writer James Smale finally gets his big break when his candidly autobiographical novel is picked up by none other than the iconic Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis. As James’s book threatens to upend his already fragile relationships, he finds himself unable to finish the manuscript.
But with Jackie’s unexpected friendship and encouragement, James is able to confront his past and write an authentic ending. As James delves into his complicated relationship with his mother, he discovers a long-held family secret that Jackie may have orchestrated all along.
With humor, poignancy, and originality, The Editor is a novel about the transformative power of both writing and unexpected friendships.
Editoral Review
The Editor, written by Steven Rowley and published on April 2, 2019, is a standout novel that explores profound themes of identity, healing, and forgiveness. Rowley, widely acclaimed for his bestselling debut novel, Lily and the Octopus, delivers yet another captivating read.
The Editor tells the story of a struggling novelist, James Smale, who is grappling with writer’s block after the sudden passing of his mother. In a desperate attempt to jumpstart his writing career, Smale takes on an assignment to write a memoir about his iconic editor, Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, who he discovers is also struggling with personal demons.
Rowley masterfully weaves the narratives of Smale and Onassis, jumping between their perspectives and exploring their complex family dynamics. Through their interwoven stories of grief, loss, and reconciliation, Rowley illuminates the power of storytelling to heal and connect us with others.
The novel is set in 1990s New York, and Rowley expertly captures the era’s glamour and grit, from the fashion trends to the city’s changing skyline. Throughout the novel, Rowley also subtly comments on societal issues such as mental health and the AIDS crisis, making The Editor a poignant reflection on our contemporary social landscape.
Rowley’s writing is emotive and evocative, providing deep insights into the human experience. His characters are skillfully crafted with nuanced personalities and motivations, and their relationships are deftly explored with sensitivity and insight.
The Editor’s pacing is flawless, with twists and turns that keep the reader engaged until the very last page. Rowley delicately builds tension while exploring weighty themes, making The Editor a masterclass in storytelling.
Overall, The Editor is a magnificent work of literature that is not to be missed. Rowley’s exceptional writing, complex characters, and masterful storytelling make this a must-read for anyone interested in exploring the human condition.
It is a book that resonates with readers long after the final page is turned. I would give The Editor a rating of 8 out of 10, based on its superb writing, engrossing plot, and adept character development.
While the novel is near-perfect in execution, there are moments where the pacing felt slightly off-balance, and some readers may find themselves struggling to connect initially with the protagonists. However, these minor criticisms do little to detract from the novel’s overall excellence.
I would highly recommend The Editor to anyone looking for an emotive and poignant read that explores profound themes of grief, healing, and reconciliation. It is a powerful commentary on the human condition that is sure to leave readers moved and enlightened.
