The Secret Life of Mrs. London by Rebecca Rosenberg on Bette's Bookshelf

The Secret Life of Mrs. London by Rebecca Rosenberg on Bette’s Bookshelf

San Francisco, 1915. As America teeters on the brink of world war, Charmian and her husband, famed novelist Jack London, wrestle with genius and desire, politics and marital competitiveness. Charmian longs to be viewed as an equal partner who put her own career on hold to support her husband, but Jack doesn’t see it that way…until Charmian is pulled from the audience during a magic show by escape artist Harry Houdini, a man enmeshed in his own complicated marriage. Suddenly, charmed by the attention Houdini pays her and entranced by his sexual magnetism, Charmian’s eyes open to a world of possibilities that could be her escape.

As Charmian grapples with her urge to explore the forbidden, Jack’s increasingly reckless behavior threatens her dedication. Now torn between two of history’s most mysterious and charismatic figures, she must find the courage to forge her own path, even as she fears the loss of everything she holds dear.

The Secret Life of Mrs. London by Rebecca Rosenberg on Bette’s Bookshelf

This novel is a great read for history buffs, especially if you enjoy stories set in early 20th Century America. The author describes her characters as complex and complicated and indeed they are. Charmaine London is the wife of famous writer Jack London. This story is hers, it delves into the challenges of her relationship with Jack, who is unpredictable and an alcoholic, and her love affair with the Great Houdini. It is interesting to see her grow into an awareness of who she really is. The thing I enjoyed most was that the story dances on a fine wire between fact and fiction, but as you read, you believe every word.

About Bette Lee Crosby

It is the wit and wisdom of that Southern Mama Crosby brings to her works of fiction; the result is a delightful blend of humor, mystery and romance along with a cast of quirky charters who will steal your heart away. Her work was first recognized in 2006 when she received The National League of American Pen Women Award for a then unpublished manuscript. She has since gone on to win nineteen awards for her work; these include: The Royal Palm Literary Award, the FPA President’s Book Award Gold Medal, Reader’s Favorite Award Gold Medal, and the Reviewer’s Choice Award.