Reviews with content warning for Suicide attempt - The Manhattan Girls: A Novel of Dorothy Parker and Her Friends

I've adored Dorothy Parker since I was a teen, and as soon as I read the blurb, I knew this book was a must-read. I loved this narrative of Dorothy and her pals—real women who made significant contributions to the arts scene in NYC in the 1920's, who will inspire readers to run to Google to learn more about them.

Paul has created a richly layered interpretation of their lives and friendships, which she weaves together with great skill; I couldn't put this one down, because I needed to know what would happen next in these women's fascinating lives. However, the author is careful to note the lines between fact and fiction, so as not to lead readers astray.

My only critique is that, at times, I felt Dorothy was portrayed not just as flawed and fragile, but rather tragic. Perhaps I just don't want to see her in that light, but it felt a tad overdone to me.

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emotional lighthearted reflective medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Character
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? It's complicated
Diverse cast of characters? No
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

2.0

Let me start off by saying the atmosphere of the story is superb. Gill Paul illustrates the era well through witty writing. I've only heard of Dorothy Parker by name and I was completely unfamiliar with the other main characters (Winifred Lenihan, Jane Grant, and Peggy Leach). This was a good exploration of their world, especially the ups and downs of friendship.

My reason for giving two stars: Content. I can't articulate the exact reasons why without giving potential spoilers. People familiar with these women's lives will not be surprised, so that's on my end for being in the dark. I'll leave it by saying certain events and themes were upsetting to me. If I'd picked this up on my own I would have stopped reading. Because this is an ARC review, I wanted to follow through. Given some of the parts I didn't like weren't isolated (and told in detail), I ended up skimming the later part of the book. Under other circumstances, this would be a book I would enjoy. Although, I did not find myself particularly attached to any of the characters, but again, I was unfamiliar with them and sometimes that influences my taste when reading about real-life characters.

Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with a free ARC copy in exchange for my honest review.

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