Crestmont
By Holly Weiss
Author website http://www.hollyweiss.com/
Historical Fiction
ISBN 978-1-935188-10-0
Reviewed by Daphne Kalotay, author of Russian Winter
Holly Weiss’s debut novel is a nostalgic take on the goings-on at a fashionable 1920s inn, where the heroine, Grace, takes refuge as a housekeeper to escape a forbidden love. A likeable all-American girl, Grace bobs her hair and changes her name to Gracie, acknowledging the transformation ahead of her.
We meet other staff members and visitors to the resort, and more heartache awaits Gracie—but when, over halfway through the book, a famed opera singer arrives, Gracie’s natural talent is allowed its due.
Weiss’s omniscient narrator gives the reader a heartfelt overview of Eagles Mere, Pennsylvania and its history; the narrative is book-ended by multiple prologues (one of them particularly inventive) and an epilogue that reveals what becomes of Gracie.
There is real nostalgia in Weiss’s writing—for a simpler time. Just as the opera singer, Rosa, advises Gracie, Weiss too has chosen to “sing” something she truly loves. This is a historical novel for those who want to retreat to a 1920s free of grit, like Weiss’s smooth, efficient prose.
The author may be contacted at http://twitter.com/HWeissauthor . Midwest review says of her book,
"Crestmont is a fine and riveting read for historical fiction fans, highly recommended." Find the reviewer at http://www.daphnekalotay.com/.
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