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Lillian And Dash (2013)

by Sam Toperoff(Favorite Author)

3.43 of 5 Votes: 4

ISBN

1590515684 (ISBN13: 9781590515686)

languge

English

genre

Historical Fiction

publisher

Other Press

review 1: As a rule, I steer away from reading novels taking prominent historical figures (Hemingway, Churchill, Lincoln) as their protagonists. It seems like a cheap way to develop the main character since we already know a lot about them. This novel re-imagining the lives and relationship of Lillian Hellman (I have not seen any of her plays) and Dashiell Hammett (I've read most of his books) caught my eye, and I think it works impressively well. Mr. Toperoff is an experienced writer, and that becomes evident in the subtle ways he handles the characters of Lilly and Dash. They were passionate and sensitive lovers for over three decades with often long periods of separation between their visits. Hammett comes off as having the saddest life, especially in his later years after the U.... moreS. government and IRS hounded him for his political leanings. I guess the right of free speech was skipped during the witch hunts. He actively served in two world wars and most of the committee members he testified in front of had little or even no military service. Interestingly enough, he had the last laugh and is buried in Arlington Memorial Cemetery with the other fallen veterans. I had some quibbles but then who doesn't when reading a novel? Overall, I was nothing short of entertained and learned a few things to boot. Great job!
review 2: An engaging look at a fascinating couple. I wouldn't have wanted to be their neighbor, more likely their drinking buddy (which is saying a lot, as I don't drink). Alternately fascinating and repellent, these two are always interesting, and undeniably brilliant. The sparkling wit of their early years subsides all-too soon into Dash's deepening alcoholism and illness, which characterized far too many of his later, unproductive years. Lillian, though difficult in so many ways, sustained them both, financially and through her strong will, through his decline. A love story that is both unique and powerful. less

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