A Map to Paradise by Susan Meissner

 A Map to Paradise

Book Summary

1956, Malibu, Something is not right on Paradise Circle.

With her name on the Hollywood blacklist and her life on hold, starlet Melanie Cole has little choice in company. There is her next-door neighbor, Elwood, but the screenwriter’s agoraphobia allows for just short chats through open windows. He’s her sole confidante, though, as she and her housekeeper, Eva, an immigrant from war-torn Europe, rarely make conversation.

Then one early morning Melanie and Eva spot Elwood’s sister-in-law and caretaker, June, digging in his beloved rose garden. After that they don’t see Elwood at all anymore. Where could a man who never leaves the house possibly have gone?

As they try to find out if something has happened to him, unexpected secrets are revealed among all three women, leading to an alliance that seems the only way for any of them to hold on to what they can still call their own. But it’s a fragile pact and one little spark could send it all up in smoke…

My Thoughts

I look forward to reading Susan Meissner’s latest novel each year. I picked up A Map to Paradise to see where the author would take us this year.  I was transported back to 1956 when Hollywood actors, writers, and producers were terrified of being put on the Hollywood blacklist.  A Map to Paradise is a character driven story that moves at a leisurely pace.  The characters are developed with flaws.  I like when the characters are realistic.  The three women (June, Eva, and Melanie) have had ups and downs in their lives (some more than others).

The story was interesting, but it was somewhat predictable with repetitive details.  When someone is digging in a rose garden in the middle of the night, it is obvious what they are doing.  I wish there had been more suspense and action (something to liven up the story).  The story felt flat (reminded me of a flat line on a heart monitor).   At times, the dialogue felt forced (felt like the author was trying too hard).  I liked that June and Eva became friends.  I found the epilogue to be a letdown.  I have read all of Susan Meissner’s books (I have been hooked since I read “A Lady in Waiting”, and A Map to Paradise was not a hit with me (if I ranked Susan Meissner's books from favorite to least favorite, this book would be at the bottom of the list).  While A Map to Paradise was not a home run with me, I look forward to reading Susan Meissner’s next novel.  

A Map to Paradise is available from Amazon. Check out Susan Meissner's other novels here. Thank you for stopping by today.  Tomorrow I am featuring Green Patures by Patricia Johns.  There will be a giveaway for you to enter!  The weather has been odd in my area (Tampa Bay area of Florida).  Normally, we have some mild spring weather (low 70s if we are lucky).  This week, I wear jeans and a sweater one day (low 60s yesterday), capris the next, shorts for two days, and then back to jeans.  I will enjoy the cool weather while it lasts because the heat will soon arrive.  I hope that you have a happy spring day.  Take care and Happy Reading!

Kris

The Avid Reader

*I voluntarily read an advanced copy of this book.  I am not required to leave a review.  The comments and opinions expressed are strictly my own.