The Bookish Ashley

Cecily von Ziegesar delivers another dose of irresistible drama and high society intrigue in Gossip Girl You Know You Love Me. This second installment in the Gossip Girl series keeps the scandalous secrets and Upper East Side glamour rolling.

The story revolves around Blair Waldorf, the ultimate queen bee, as she navigates the challenges of her seventeenth birthday while juggling Ivy League aspirations and a tumultuous relationship with the charismatic Nate. The plot thickens when it becomes apparent that Nate may have strayed into forbidden territory.

What makes this series so engaging is von Ziegesar’s witty and sharp writing style, which immerses readers in the world of Manhattan’s elite. The characters are deliciously flawed, and their extravagant lifestyles are both alluring and repelling. As they scheme, gossip, and flirt their way through the pages, you can’t help but be captivated.

“You Know You Love Me” manages to capture the essence of teenage drama and the pressures of growing up in a world where appearances mean everything. It’s a guilty pleasure read that keeps you turning pages, eager to uncover the next scandalous revelation.

While not without its flaws, including some predictable plot twists, this book is an addictive continuation of the Gossip Girl saga. If you’re a fan of the series or enjoy indulging in tales of wealthy, privileged teenagers behaving badly, this book is sure to satisfy your craving for drama, secrets, and a glimpse into the glamorous lives of the Upper East Side’s elite.

Rating: 4/5 Stars

Rowan Beaird’s “The Divorcees” is a captivating journey back in time to the glamour and allure of 1950s Reno. Set against the backdrop of a society where divorce was still a taboo, this novel weaves a tale of women breaking free from societal constraints and discovering the power of friendship, desire, and independence.

The story revolves around Lois Saunders, a woman trapped in a loveless marriage, who finds herself at the Golden Yarrow, one of Reno’s famous “divorce ranches.” Beaird paints a vivid picture of this era, where women seeking divorce had to endure a six-week residency requirement. The ranches offered a glimpse of freedom amidst the stifling expectations of the 1950s.

What truly sets “The Divorcees” apart is the introduction of Greer Lang, a character as beguiling as she is unconventional. Lois’s journey to self-discovery takes an exhilarating turn with Greer’s arrival. The dynamic between these two women is beautifully portrayed, showcasing the transformative power of friendship.

Beaird’s writing immerses you in this bygone era, where housewives and movie stars mingled at gin-soaked casinos, and the allure of newfound freedom hung in the air. The descriptions are rich and transportive, making you feel like you’re right there alongside Lois and Greer as they navigate the complexities of their time.

While “The Divorcees” is undeniably engrossing, it occasionally meanders in its pacing, which is why it falls just short of a full five-star rating. However, this minor flaw is easily overshadowed by the intriguing characters and the evocative setting.

In conclusion, “The Divorcees” by Rowan Beaird is a riveting page-turner that delves into a world of female empowerment, desire, and the pursuit of independence. If you’re a fan of historical fiction with strong character-driven narratives, this book is a must-read. It’s a journey through time that will leave you both entertained and thoughtful, ultimately making it a solid four-star read.

Rating: 4/5 stars