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Book Review for 79 Park Avenue by Harold Robbins
Okay, first of all I have to say that Robbins was probably commenting on society's obsession with the flesh and flair of a beautiful woman like Marja. The events in her life revolve around her sexuality and her ability to manipulate others based on that. However, she loses her purpose, and dreams trying to please them. The money she wants so badly is important because it will provide her a life her family never had.
I loved the idea, but I'm sad to see that her character is a victim of her own circumstances. I really like her character and want her to do well. Robbins creates other likable characters, but none as deeply detailed or as intriguing as Marja.
As the story unfolds, the reader is drawn closer, curious not only about Marja's overflowing sexuality, but her mysterious past, dark secrets and tethers to so many contrasting lifestyles. In one chapter she conveys a spirit of chaste affection and seduces others with tender kindness.
in the next she is a vixen, satin and lace drips from her skin and her words are seductive and rich.
When she finally snaps, her ferocity and blood thirst are warranted but frightening. Other characters tremble at her mercy succumbing to the power of carnal vengeance.
Finally, in the last chapter Marja is hardly recognizable abandoning all the history and intrigue we eagerly followed. I loved the story and I really wanted to meet Marja by the end of the book. I suspect she lurks in some reality near me, but because she is so diverse her elusive presence will be hard to ever detect.
Catch it here
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I read that prolific writers like Robbins with big publishing backing up, use a lot of other writers to churn out books at a rapid rate. These writers may set up the storyline, but the other writers fill in the details. And, that many books are written on formulas to sell. That's why I like indie writers who have original things to write about.
Ron