Blog Tour: Limelight by Melody Carlson

Synopsis:

Claudette Fioré used to turn heads and break hearts. She relished the glamorous Hollywood lifestyle because she had what it takes: money, youth, fame, and above all, beauty. But age has withered that beauty, and a crooked accountant has taken her wealth, leaving the proud widow penniless and alone. Armed with stubbornness and sarcasm, Claudette returns to her shabby little hometown and her estranged sister. Slowly, she makes friends. She begins to see her old life in a new light. For the first time, Claudette Fioré questions her own values and finds herself wondering if it’s too late to change.

My Thoughts: Limelight hooked me right from the start. When Claudette began remembering her life, I wanted to see what got her to the point of despair at the age of 82. It seemed as if the author disappeared and I was left in a cozy setting with a very real Claudette, not just a character in a book, telling me her story; I was mesmerized.

Looking back over her married life of luxury to one of Hollywood's premier directors, Claudette had many wistful memories of fabulous parties, scintillating company and the sheer joy of never having to worry about finances. Now a reversal of fortune has landed Claudette back to the little house where she grew up. Thinking she is far superior to the small town residents of Silverton, she rebuffs their attempts to be friendly.

After some hilarious mishaps and meeting people who are more than willing to help her, Claudette begins to open her heart to new possibilities. Having to learn to do for herself is almost overwhelming at her age, but when she finally does learn to do a few things, she feels a small sense of accomplishment. As time goes by, she is more than willing to forge new friendships and mend some old ones, particularly with Violet, her estranged sister. Claudette learns that no matter how old she has become, it's not too late to learn new things.

I finished the book in 2 sittings, being reluctant to put it down. One of the things I found enjoyable was Claudette's Hollywood reminiscences with some very recognizable names. Carlson does a wonderful job with her characters, fleshing them out to be fully developed and easily imaginable. I like the way she drew Claudette and showed her growth from the beginning of the book to the end of the story. 4 ****stars

This book was provided for review by the Waterbrook Multnomah Publishing Group. For more info on the book please visit Random House.