I am an avid reader with a particular fondness for stories about complex individuals engaging in tumultuous situations. Ella Berman’s latest novel, L.A. Women, delves into the world of female friendship, artistic ambition, and deception set against the backdrop of 1960s Hollywood, drawing inspiration from the legendary rivalry between Joan Didion and Eve Babitz.
The narrative follows Lane Warren, a once-prominent writer seeking to revive her career by crafting a book centered on Gala Margolis, her enigmatic friend and occasional competitor. However, Lane’s plans are thwarted by Gala’s sudden disappearance, leaving her desperate to uncover the truth in order to complete her work.
Interwoven with the present-day mystery are flashbacks to the origins of Lane and Gala’s complex relationship, which began amidst the glitz and glamour of 1960s Los Angeles. Their bond evolves from tentative friendship to bitter rivalry as jealousy and ambition drive a wedge between them, ultimately leading to a pivotal moment that alters the course of their lives.
Upon immersing myself in the story, I was captivated by its depth and found it difficult to set the book aside, eagerly anticipating the resolution of the characters’ intertwined fates. The richly crafted world created by Berman promises hidden nuances that invite revisitation in the future.
Exploring themes of mental health, addiction, and the complexities of love, L.A. Women offers a compelling narrative that would spark engaging discussions in a book club setting. Praise for the novel has been effusive, with authors like Chelsea Bieker and Paige Harbison lauding its transportive quality and compelling character portrayals.
L.A. Women is now available for purchase through Waterstones and Amazon, offering readers the opportunity to delve into this absorbing tale. For more literary recommendations, reviews, and updates, consider subscribing to our free newsletter, The Bookish Drop, on Substack.
