Linda_A

A family saga covering three generations, this first novel of Michelle Collins Anderson develops an elaborate fiction around a true event in 1928 in West Plains, Missouri. One hot night the dance hall (in the author's home town) exploded, killing 39 people. From this event, Anderson weaves a story involving the Flower twins and their family.

The protagonist is a 15 year old girl (Daisy) who has been "dumped" with her grandmother in West Plains for the summer. Her grandmother is the town funeral director and undertaker. Daisy wangles her way into an internship at the local newspaper and convinces the editor to let her prepare a four-part series featuring local survivors memories of the explosion leading up to the 50th anniversary.

Daisy finds there are some people who just don't want to talk about it. Others are reluctant but eventually come forth. Along the way she is learning new information about her family.

The story builds to the climactic ending, part of which had me in happy tears! I recommend this book.

The Roaring Days of Zora Lily is a riveting story about a young Seattle woman who recognizes her passion and skills for costuming and couture dress designing and makes good on them. From a disadvantaged background, she is cautious but determined to gain independence and recognition for her one-of-a-kind creations. A disillusioning experience in Hollywood requires great courage and fortitude to continue despite the disappointing setback. Forging ahead, she meets some influential people with helpful advice and connections. She also falls in love with a man who she feels is above her station and could not possibly be interested in her.

It is quite by accident that Lily's talent becomes the focus of a Smithsonian exhibition 100 years later. And all will be revealed.

Having grown up in Seattle, I loved the references to familiar locations. It made this very readable story even more so.