Having a penchant for stories that delve into the tumultuous lives of complex characters, I recently delved into Ella Berman’s newest novel, L.A. Women. This captivating book draws inspiration from the legendary Hollywood feud between Joan Didion and Eve Babitz, exploring themes of female camaraderie, artistic aspirations, and betrayal set against the backdrop of 1960s Hollywood glamour.
The narrative follows Lane Warren, a once-celebrated writer attempting to revive her career by crafting a tale centered on Gala Margolis, her enigmatic friend-turned-foe. However, Lane’s creative process hits a roadblock as Gala mysteriously disappears, leaving her narrative hanging in the balance.
Alternating between Lane’s current struggles and the genesis of her complicated bond with Gala a decade earlier during the vibrant L.A. social scene of the ’60s, the novel immerses readers in a saga of envy, ambition, and unforeseen consequences.
As their relationship evolves from tentative friendship to bitter rivalry fueled by jealousy and ambition, the characters navigate themes of mental health, addiction, and the complexities of love. The narrative’s unpredictable twists and flawed characters make it a compelling choice for book clubs and individual readers alike.
Renowned authors have praised L.A. Women for its immersive quality. Chelsea Bieker describes it as “Transportive, hypnotic, and addictive,” while Paige Harbison lauds the characters as “dazzling, messy, and utterly captivating.”
L.A. Women is now available for purchase at Waterstones and Amazon, offering readers a chance to delve into a world brimming with intricate details and emotional depth. For more literary recommendations and updates, subscribe to our free newsletter, The Bookish Drop, on Substack.