|(Thank you to the publisher and TLC Book Tours for providing me with a copy of this book!)|
The riveting story of one brave young woman’s struggle to free herself from a web of deceit.
For misfit Libby Archer, social expectations for young women in Rochester, New York, in the mid-1950s don’t work. Her father has died, leaving her without parents, and her well-meaning friends are pressuring her to do what any sensible single girl must do: marry a passionate, persistent hometown suitor with a promising future. Yet Libby boldly defies conventional wisdom and plans to delay marriage—to anyone—by departing for her uncle’s Belfast estate. In Ireland, Libby seeks not only the comfort of family but also greater opportunities than seem possible during the stifling McCarthy era at home.
Across the Atlantic, Libby finds common ground with her brilliant, invalid cousin, Lazarus, then puts her trust in a sophisticated older woman who seems to be everything she hopes to become. Fraught with betrayal and long-kept secrets, as well as sudden wealth and unexpected love, Libby’s journey toward independence takes turns she never could have predicted—and calls on courage and strength she never knew she had.
Historical fiction at its best! I just loved Beauty and Attention by Liz Rosenberg.
Its the 1950s and women are taught that being wives and mothers is the only career choice on hand. Except, its really not. And Libby Archer knows this. She wants to see the world and experience life, so she heads off to Ireland to stay with family. She befriends her ailing cousin, Lazarus ( a charming man ), who seems to understand her desire for freedom and pursuing her dreams (whatever those may be). Ireland seems like a good fit, until it isn't anymore - thanks to a falling out with Lazarus. As a result, Libby gets bested and winds up married and living the life she was trying so hard to escape from. Talk about moving backwards! And that is all I will write about the plot of the story. If you want to find out whether or not Libby remains unhappily ever after, you will have to read this unputdownable story for yourself.
Beauty and Attention is a captivating story that has you rooting for Libby. You find yourself following her on this journey of self-discovery and cringing when things don't look so good for her. And her friendships with Henry and Lazarus were the best - they were my favorite parts of the story. Oh, and the twists and turns woven into Libby's life are so darn good. I really loved this book! I though that Rosenberg's writing was spot on. Her rich, vivid, and in-depth details of the places Libby visited were superb - they made me feel like I was walking around Ireland and Italy with her. I just really enjoyed this story so much. Rosenberg's book is terrific!
I would happily recommend Beauty and Attention to fans of Rosenberg's works, fans of historical fiction (with a romantic bent), and anyone looking for their next great read.
Here's the link to the TLC Book Tour schedule for: Beauty and Attention
GIVEAWAY: Thanks to the publisher I am able to give away one (1) copy of this book! All you have to do to enter the giveaway is leave me a comment. Don't forget to include your email address - that way I can contact you, if you win the book. Last date to enter is November 22nd. US/Canada residents only. Good luck!!