The Phoenix ballroom: a novel
Description
From the wildly popular bestselling author of The Keeper of Lost Things: a heartfelt and inspiring story about a wealthy widow who revives a beloved famous local landmark—and restores joy and sparkle to her own life in the process.
It’s never too late to start dancing again...
For fifty years, Venetia Hargreaves’s world revolved around her husband. She built their life around his big career, with dinner on the table at six, a lovely home, and a dutiful son just as business-minded as his father. Now Venetia’s a wealthy widow left with a beautiful but empty home, an enviable bank balance, and a distinct feeling that she missed the boat. Once upon a time, she was a dance instructor who dreamed of opening her own ballroom school with a fellow teacher who won her heart. Instead, Venetia chose the safer path.
So, at seventy-four years of age, Venetia declares her independence, first with a makeover, and then by adopting a new dog. But something is still missing...until on one of her dog walks by the river she passes by a building she remembers all too well. In her youth it was the spectacular Phoenix Ballroom, where she used to teach waltzes and tangos. These days it’s a community center and spiritualist church, funded by a mysterious benefactor who only pays for the upkeep.
Eager to revive at least one meaningful thing from her past, Venetia buys the Phoenix Ballroom, and finds a supportive and loving community of lost souls who become a delightful multigenerational family-by-choice.
As the ballroom regains its former glory, the community and Venetia’s humdrum life are revived as well...proving wonderful things can come from the darkest of places.
More Details
9780063386679
9780063348752
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Published Reviews
Booklist Review
As Venetia Hamilton Hargreaves mourns her husband, she contemplates what she will do next. Her son suggests she employ a "granny nanny," a companion to help with errands and keep Venetia company. When Liberty Bell arrives to interview, the women have an instant connection, as Liberty is grieving for her mother. Soon Venetia's house is filled with warmth and affection. But Venetia can't stop thinking about the ballroom where she first met her husband, now up for sale. Dirty and unmaintained, it's nothing like it used to be, as Venetia remembers fondly in flashbacks. At the same time, both Liberty and Venetia are exploring mysteries left behind by the people they loved. Apart from one traumatic scene, this tale is sweet and heartwarming. The ballroom itself is the heart of the story, but the novel's charm lies in its bevy of supporting characters. Venetia's grandson, sister-in-law, friends, a dog named Colin Firth, and a homeless man named Crow fill out the cast, weaving a web of intriguing subplots. Perfect for fans of Annie England Noblin and Lucy Gilmore.
Booklist Reviews
As Venetia Hamilton Hargreaves mourns her husband, she contemplates what she will do next. Her son suggests she employ a "granny nanny," a companion to help with errands and keep Venetia company. When Liberty Bell arrives to interview, the women have an instant connection, as Liberty is grieving for her mother. Soon Venetia's house is filled with warmth and affection. But Venetia can't stop thinking about the ballroom where she first met her husband, now up for sale. Dirty and unmaintained, it's nothing like it used to be, as Venetia remembers fondly in flashbacks. At the same time, both Liberty and Venetia are exploring mysteries left behind by the people they loved. Apart from one traumatic scene, this tale is sweet and heartwarming. The ballroom itself is the heart of the story, but the novel's charm lies in its bevy of supporting characters. Venetia's grandson, sister-in-law, friends, a dog named Colin Firth, and a homeless man named Crow fill out the cast, weaving a web of intriguing subplots. Perfect for fans of Annie England Noblin and Lucy Gilmore. Copyright 2024 Booklist Reviews.