Dance, Glamour and more: Starring Adele Astaire (by Eliza Knight)

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I enjoyed Eliza Knight’s earlier novel, The Mayfair Bookshop, which was about Nancy Mitford. I was therefore eager to see how this author would tell Adele Astaire’s story; readers can rest assured that she has done a good job.

Many are familiar with Fred Astaire, here called Freddy when he was younger; this makes him feel more approachable and vulnerable than the star that is often pictured. Although perhaps less well known, Fred’s sister, Adele, danced with him for many years. While in this story, Freddie is often seen as quite serious, Adele wants to have some fun.

The two Astaires, with this last name that they were not born to, began dancing as young children. With all of their talent they went far. In part of this story, they are the toast of London as their newest show is a great success. This leads them to mingle with many famous people; just two of whom were Noel Coward and David, the Prince of Wales.

In these pages, Adele is portrayed as questioning what she wants in life. Is it dance and fame or could it be a marriage and family?

Adele’s foil is the fictional Violet, a young woman whom Adele befriends. Violet has grown up poor; she is hard working and passionate about dance. Her story is told as it intersects with Adele’s.

Rich with period details, glamour and a good story line, this is a title to pick up. Recommended for historical fiction fans.

Many thanks to NetGalley and William Morrow for this title. All opinions are my own.

Pub date: 06 June 2023

From the Publisher

Editorial Reviews

Review

“Starring Adele Astaire peels back the layers on Adele Astaire’s life beyond the stage while highlighting how ferociously an intrepid dreamer must fight for an edge into the spotlight. Eliza Knight’s in-depth research brings these stories to life in exquisite, vibrant detail that will captivate readers everywhere.” — Madeline Martin, New York Times and international bestselling author

“Just as Adele Astaire received standing ovations for her performances, so too does Eliza Knight deserve to be similarly acclaimed for this book. I can’t believe I’d never heard of this incredible woman and I loved how the novel shone a well-deserved spotlight on this less famous but exceptionally talented Astaire sibling. Bravo Eliza Knight – and please take a bow. You’ve written a showstopper of a story.”  — Natasha Lester, New York Times bestselling author of The Paris Orphan