Sometimes when I read historical fiction, I will find a book that has it all: characters that feel like someone I would know in real life, a setting that is so captivating that even when I'm not reading the novel, I'm thinking about it and the opportunity to learn about an event or period of time that I'm not familiar with or can't get enough of. We Came Here to Shine checked every one of those of boxes.
Set at the 1939 World's Fair in New York, Vivi has come from Hollywood to star in the Aquacade show with promises that if she does well a starring movie role awaits her return. Max is a journalism student with high hopes of being placed with the Times for her internship, only to find out that instead she has been assigned to Today at the Fair, the daily newspaper associated with the World's Fair. Vivi and Max cross paths at the Fair and forge a quick bond. While two very different personalities, they see each other strengths and weaknesses and promise to encourage each other to reach for their dreams.
I absolutely loved this book. All of the descriptions of the World's Fair and Aquacade were so vivid, I believe it was the next best thing to experiencing it first hand. Vivi and Max's characters were flawed, yet perfect in a way. I also loved the little hints to the author's other novel The Subway Girls, that was also one of my favorite historical fiction reads. I couldn't help but wish my Mom was also around to read this book. She loved Johnny Weissmuller and of course, Esther Williams, so I know she would have enjoyed this book as much as I did. It is truly a great read and perfect for historical fiction fans looking for an immersive read.
I received this book courtesy of St. Martin's Press through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Set at the 1939 World's Fair in New York, Vivi has come from Hollywood to star in the Aquacade show with promises that if she does well a starring movie role awaits her return. Max is a journalism student with high hopes of being placed with the Times for her internship, only to find out that instead she has been assigned to Today at the Fair, the daily newspaper associated with the World's Fair. Vivi and Max cross paths at the Fair and forge a quick bond. While two very different personalities, they see each other strengths and weaknesses and promise to encourage each other to reach for their dreams.
I absolutely loved this book. All of the descriptions of the World's Fair and Aquacade were so vivid, I believe it was the next best thing to experiencing it first hand. Vivi and Max's characters were flawed, yet perfect in a way. I also loved the little hints to the author's other novel The Subway Girls, that was also one of my favorite historical fiction reads. I couldn't help but wish my Mom was also around to read this book. She loved Johnny Weissmuller and of course, Esther Williams, so I know she would have enjoyed this book as much as I did. It is truly a great read and perfect for historical fiction fans looking for an immersive read.
I received this book courtesy of St. Martin's Press through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
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