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Flappers #3
Diva
If you love The Great Gatsby , you'll want to read the Flappers series.
Joy and tragedy collide in DIVA, the riveting conclusion to the Flappers series, set in the dazzling Roaring Twenties. Parties, bad boys, speakeasies—life in Manhattan has become a woozy blur for Clara Knowles. If Marcus Eastman truly loved her, how could he have fallen for another girl so quickly? Their romance mustn't have been as magical as Clara thought. And if she has to be unhappy, she's going to drag everyone else down to the depths of despair right along with her.
Being a Barnard girl is the stuff of Lorraine Dyer's dreams. Finding out that Marcus is marrying a gold digger who may or may not be named Anastasia? A nightmare. The old Lorraine would have sat by and let the chips fall where they may, but she's grown up a lot these past few months. She can't bear to see Marcus lose a chance for true love. But will anyone listen to her?
Now that the charges against her have been dropped, Gloria Carmody is spending the last dizzying days of summer on Long Island, yachting on the sound and palling around with socialites at Forrest Hamilton's swanky villa. Beneath her smile, though, Gloria's keeping a secret. One that could have deadly consequences . . .
Joy and tragedy collide in DIVA, the riveting conclusion to the Flappers series, set in the dazzling Roaring Twenties. Parties, bad boys, speakeasies—life in Manhattan has become a woozy blur for Clara Knowles. If Marcus Eastman truly loved her, how could he have fallen for another girl so quickly? Their romance mustn't have been as magical as Clara thought. And if she has to be unhappy, she's going to drag everyone else down to the depths of despair right along with her.
Being a Barnard girl is the stuff of Lorraine Dyer's dreams. Finding out that Marcus is marrying a gold digger who may or may not be named Anastasia? A nightmare. The old Lorraine would have sat by and let the chips fall where they may, but she's grown up a lot these past few months. She can't bear to see Marcus lose a chance for true love. But will anyone listen to her?
Now that the charges against her have been dropped, Gloria Carmody is spending the last dizzying days of summer on Long Island, yachting on the sound and palling around with socialites at Forrest Hamilton's swanky villa. Beneath her smile, though, Gloria's keeping a secret. One that could have deadly consequences . . .
320 pages, Hardcover
First published July 10, 2012
32 people are currently reading
2379 people want to read
About the author
Jillian Larkin
6 books346 followersJillian Larkin’s fascination with flappers and the 1920s began during her childhood, which included frequent home screenings of the classic Julie Andrews/Carol Channing film Thoroughly Modern Millie. She lives in New York
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 208 reviews
October 15, 2025
4,5
Le meilleur tome de la saga. J'ai eu un petit pincement au coeur de quitter tous les personnnages après cette fin que je trouve très satisfaisante.
Le meilleur tome de la saga. J'ai eu un petit pincement au coeur de quitter tous les personnnages après cette fin que je trouve très satisfaisante.
December 4, 2013
Similar Books: The Debutantes by Cora Harrison, Parlor Games by Maryka Biaggio, Bright Young Things by Anna Godbersen
I've really enjoyed reading this series, and I'm sort of sad it's over. Jillian Larkin is very similar to Anna Godbersen in the way she tells a story, and I love a good historical. But while I liked the final installment in the Flappers series, I thought it didn't quite capture the magic of the first book.
Honestly, Larkin could have ended this series at book 2. Everything was wrapped up - not necessarily in a happily-ever-after sort of way but in what I felt like was a satisfying ending. Book 3 then had to launch a lot of new plotlines, which were interesting but otherwise unnecessary. This resulted in what I thought was some rushed plot threads that were tied together too quickly.
For one, Lorraine and her new boy. Now, I LOVE Lorraine. She was my favorite character throughout the series. She has a wonderful amount of character growth, and she made me laugh constantly. Her chapters were always my favorite! And while I liked her new guy, I thought the development of their romance was too fast. I wish I could have seen him throughout the series and watched their relationship build. But on the flip side, I thought he was PERFECT for her! Love Larkin's choice here.
Clara's plotline felt continued from previous books, and I thought her story in this book was believable. But Gloria's felt tacked on, like it was added because Larkin ran out of story for her and just added another bit. I never liked Gloria much, but I found her kind of superfluous in this book. Her relationship with Jerome was adequately wrapped up at the end of book 2, and I thought it felt stretched in this one.
I did, however, enjoy the introduction of the new character, Forest, who is VERY Jay Gatsby-esque. I felt like he and Ruby were straight out of a Fitzgerald novel (which is ironic, since Forest says that he doesn't like Mr. Fitzgerald's books - purposeful irony, I'm assuming). And the end to his story was also very Fitzgerald. My inner literary nerd enjoyed this bit very much. :)
Overall, I think fans of the series will enjoy this book. But neither books 2 nor 3 really captured that spark of magic that was in book 1. I think maybe Larkin should have kept the series set in Chicago, among all the mobsters and mystery. Because once the girls set foot in New York, the story felt like an Anna Godbersen remake. Which is sad, as Larkin is obviously a talented writer.
Still, I'd recommend this series. It's got lots of great flapper info, and I loved all the slang and fashion!
I've really enjoyed reading this series, and I'm sort of sad it's over. Jillian Larkin is very similar to Anna Godbersen in the way she tells a story, and I love a good historical. But while I liked the final installment in the Flappers series, I thought it didn't quite capture the magic of the first book.
Honestly, Larkin could have ended this series at book 2. Everything was wrapped up - not necessarily in a happily-ever-after sort of way but in what I felt like was a satisfying ending. Book 3 then had to launch a lot of new plotlines, which were interesting but otherwise unnecessary. This resulted in what I thought was some rushed plot threads that were tied together too quickly.
For one, Lorraine and her new boy. Now, I LOVE Lorraine. She was my favorite character throughout the series. She has a wonderful amount of character growth, and she made me laugh constantly. Her chapters were always my favorite! And while I liked her new guy, I thought the development of their romance was too fast. I wish I could have seen him throughout the series and watched their relationship build. But on the flip side, I thought he was PERFECT for her! Love Larkin's choice here.
Clara's plotline felt continued from previous books, and I thought her story in this book was believable. But Gloria's felt tacked on, like it was added because Larkin ran out of story for her and just added another bit. I never liked Gloria much, but I found her kind of superfluous in this book. Her relationship with Jerome was adequately wrapped up at the end of book 2, and I thought it felt stretched in this one.
I did, however, enjoy the introduction of the new character, Forest, who is VERY Jay Gatsby-esque. I felt like he and Ruby were straight out of a Fitzgerald novel (which is ironic, since Forest says that he doesn't like Mr. Fitzgerald's books - purposeful irony, I'm assuming). And the end to his story was also very Fitzgerald. My inner literary nerd enjoyed this bit very much. :)
Overall, I think fans of the series will enjoy this book. But neither books 2 nor 3 really captured that spark of magic that was in book 1. I think maybe Larkin should have kept the series set in Chicago, among all the mobsters and mystery. Because once the girls set foot in New York, the story felt like an Anna Godbersen remake. Which is sad, as Larkin is obviously a talented writer.
Still, I'd recommend this series. It's got lots of great flapper info, and I loved all the slang and fashion!
June 29, 2012
This is the third book in the Flappers series by Jillian Larkin, and let me start off by saying that this is a series well worth submerging yourself in. As stated above, the books are set in the middle of the 1920’s and follow the lives of three extraordinary Flappers who always seem to find trouble and chaos wherever they go. If you follow my blog at all you know that I love stories that follow more than one lead character. Gloria, Lorraine, and Clara’s stories eventually intertwine and only makes for a more interesting story!
Jillian’s writing is the ultimate and her love and interest in the 1920’s really comes through within the pages. The audacity of these three women is equivalent to the styles and attitudes carried by women in the Roaring 20’s. Each woman is outspoken and genuine is her own way. Each chapter is titled with the name of the woman being described and this makes the book so much easier to keep up with! Their stories eventually fuse together and a mystery unfolds that sends the girls on a wild goose chase.
My favorite character was Gloria Carmody, who had just recently gotten out of jail for killing a man who was trying to in turn kill her fiancé. This girl has guts! I loved her and all the gumption that she brought to the pages. Her fiancé was actually an African American man who made his money playing in jazz clubs and trying not to get mauled by angry white mobs. She toured with him as a phenomenal jazz singer. She took a lot of negativity from other people about the man that she chose to associate with, especially during a time such as the 20’s, but she never slowed down and neither did her love for Jerome.
This was actually the first book that I have read in awhile that focused on this era and the realism of it made me want to read more and more. From the jazz music and flutes of champagne to the strands of pearls and the sequined flapper dresses; I was absorbing every word. Larkin provides a well detailed analysis of what life was really like in this decadent time period. The plot along with all the wonderful descriptions only added to the romantic aspects of the book and all the relationships that began to unfold and old loves that were made new. This is definitely an intriguing read that I would suggest for anyone and I hope that Jillian decides to provide us, her readers, with a more inside view on her favorite era!
***A copy of this book was provided to me by Netgalley in return for an honest review***
Jillian’s writing is the ultimate and her love and interest in the 1920’s really comes through within the pages. The audacity of these three women is equivalent to the styles and attitudes carried by women in the Roaring 20’s. Each woman is outspoken and genuine is her own way. Each chapter is titled with the name of the woman being described and this makes the book so much easier to keep up with! Their stories eventually fuse together and a mystery unfolds that sends the girls on a wild goose chase.
My favorite character was Gloria Carmody, who had just recently gotten out of jail for killing a man who was trying to in turn kill her fiancé. This girl has guts! I loved her and all the gumption that she brought to the pages. Her fiancé was actually an African American man who made his money playing in jazz clubs and trying not to get mauled by angry white mobs. She toured with him as a phenomenal jazz singer. She took a lot of negativity from other people about the man that she chose to associate with, especially during a time such as the 20’s, but she never slowed down and neither did her love for Jerome.
This was actually the first book that I have read in awhile that focused on this era and the realism of it made me want to read more and more. From the jazz music and flutes of champagne to the strands of pearls and the sequined flapper dresses; I was absorbing every word. Larkin provides a well detailed analysis of what life was really like in this decadent time period. The plot along with all the wonderful descriptions only added to the romantic aspects of the book and all the relationships that began to unfold and old loves that were made new. This is definitely an intriguing read that I would suggest for anyone and I hope that Jillian decides to provide us, her readers, with a more inside view on her favorite era!
***A copy of this book was provided to me by Netgalley in return for an honest review***
December 16, 2014
I received a free digital copy through Net Galley.
I'm sad to see this series end. I'll miss the glitz and the glamor, and of course, the drama!
Gloria has had the best plot so far: interracial romance, starring in shows at speakeasies, being hunted by the mob, and getting arrested! But in Diva her story seems to have flat-lined. She's released from prison on the condition that she helps bring in Forrest Hamilton, a probable con-man. Part One of this plot wasn't that interesting, but then Jerome is back! We actually get the addition of his POV this time around, which I really enjoyed. It's far more interesting than his cousin, Vera's, was in Ingenue. It was about time that we see how Jerome feels about everything that has been happening. Too bad he only gets three chapters. I think the author could have strengthened this book with a bit more of Jerome, since he's been such a driving force in the series.
Clara, the flapper queen and gossip columnist, has seemed to have lost her way. I found her a little bland in the previous book after loving her in the first book, but now her attitude is back and in full swing as she attempts to fend off her boss' unwanted advances and works on a scheme with...Lorraine! Clara's story seemed to fade into the background at times, and was overshadowed by Lorraine's, since they're very closely related.
Did Lorraine lose some brain cells between the end of Ingenue and now? Or is sobriety just getting to her. I've loved Lorraine's over-the-top dramatics in the previous two books, but now she's truly just dumb and annoying. She's stalking Marcus again, but she's managing to get perfect grades due to being blacklisted from all of the swanky clubs. She still holds a bit of a grudge against Gloria, even though everything that has happened is her own fault! I was still interested in her story though, since this girl is truly a train wreck, and I simply cannot look away!
With Diva, the Flappers series has ended with a bang. Literally. While, I didn't enjoy this one as much as the previous two, it's still a worthy addition to the series. It also wraps up everyone's stories quite nicely.
"The characters in books shouldn't have all the fun, right?" (95% eARC)
Read more of my reviews at Pinkindle Reads & Reviews.
I'm sad to see this series end. I'll miss the glitz and the glamor, and of course, the drama!
Gloria has had the best plot so far: interracial romance, starring in shows at speakeasies, being hunted by the mob, and getting arrested! But in Diva her story seems to have flat-lined. She's released from prison on the condition that she helps bring in Forrest Hamilton, a probable con-man. Part One of this plot wasn't that interesting, but then Jerome is back! We actually get the addition of his POV this time around, which I really enjoyed. It's far more interesting than his cousin, Vera's, was in Ingenue. It was about time that we see how Jerome feels about everything that has been happening. Too bad he only gets three chapters. I think the author could have strengthened this book with a bit more of Jerome, since he's been such a driving force in the series.
Clara, the flapper queen and gossip columnist, has seemed to have lost her way. I found her a little bland in the previous book after loving her in the first book, but now her attitude is back and in full swing as she attempts to fend off her boss' unwanted advances and works on a scheme with...Lorraine! Clara's story seemed to fade into the background at times, and was overshadowed by Lorraine's, since they're very closely related.
Did Lorraine lose some brain cells between the end of Ingenue and now? Or is sobriety just getting to her. I've loved Lorraine's over-the-top dramatics in the previous two books, but now she's truly just dumb and annoying. She's stalking Marcus again, but she's managing to get perfect grades due to being blacklisted from all of the swanky clubs. She still holds a bit of a grudge against Gloria, even though everything that has happened is her own fault! I was still interested in her story though, since this girl is truly a train wreck, and I simply cannot look away!
With Diva, the Flappers series has ended with a bang. Literally. While, I didn't enjoy this one as much as the previous two, it's still a worthy addition to the series. It also wraps up everyone's stories quite nicely.
"The characters in books shouldn't have all the fun, right?" (95% eARC)
Read more of my reviews at Pinkindle Reads & Reviews.
March 14, 2013
Oh, my. I was supposed to finish this book 3 days ago but I came out with a fever. So I didn't read for like, 2 days, which is really bad and I felt horrible because this book was so good, maybe too good to put down just because I was sick.
But, anyways, I felt infinitely better last night (although I do feel sick now) and stayed up for about 2 hours in the bathroom and didn't go to sleep until 1. Guess what I was doing? Finishing this book! Looks like I got 200 pages down in 2 hours. I really am speeding back up.
Anyways, Jillian Larkin is absolutely po-si-lute-ly fabulous. Did I say that already? Yeah, I did.
This is one of the series in which I liked the first book the most. I mean, this one was great and all but the first one was where everything began, and I like the beginning. DIVA, no matter how fabulous of a conclusion it was, I still like VIXEN out of the three. (And Gloria and Lorraine are both gorgeous, however I have to admit that Clara sure rocks the covergirl looks)
I'm sad to say goodbye to this series. (Dang, I've been reading third books in series recently. Ha.)
This was a wonderful conclusion and it taught us about love, about determination, about redemption, and about friendship and loyalty. Some characters appear to me differently now, because of their positive endeavors. I won't say whom, but for those who've read this series I think y'all know who I'm talking about.
That ending made me cry.
Overall, the 1920's has become such a glamorous and beautiful decade to me, nevermind the flappers and the booze and the speakeasies. Jillian Larkin made it all fascinating.
But, anyways, I felt infinitely better last night (although I do feel sick now) and stayed up for about 2 hours in the bathroom and didn't go to sleep until 1. Guess what I was doing? Finishing this book! Looks like I got 200 pages down in 2 hours. I really am speeding back up.
Anyways, Jillian Larkin is absolutely po-si-lute-ly fabulous. Did I say that already? Yeah, I did.
This is one of the series in which I liked the first book the most. I mean, this one was great and all but the first one was where everything began, and I like the beginning. DIVA, no matter how fabulous of a conclusion it was, I still like VIXEN out of the three. (And Gloria and Lorraine are both gorgeous, however I have to admit that Clara sure rocks the covergirl looks)
I'm sad to say goodbye to this series. (Dang, I've been reading third books in series recently. Ha.)
This was a wonderful conclusion and it taught us about love, about determination, about redemption, and about friendship and loyalty. Some characters appear to me differently now, because of their positive endeavors. I won't say whom, but for those who've read this series I think y'all know who I'm talking about.
That ending made me cry.
Overall, the 1920's has become such a glamorous and beautiful decade to me, nevermind the flappers and the booze and the speakeasies. Jillian Larkin made it all fascinating.
April 26, 2012
This book wants to be a grownup. It wants to have lyrical language and characters stumbling through adult problems and relationships. Unfortunately, it doesn’t come close to living up to this. The characters are no more well developed than they were in the last book and, perhaps even moreso, they tend to act out to drown their problems. While that’s certainly one approach to take, it’s certainly not one that makes the character grow. Nor does it manage to engage me as a reader…there’s only so many times you can tell me the characters are drinking too much before I just don’t care anymore. The attempts to “shock” the reader by the behavior doesn’t quite make it either since the actions are normal for the time period they are in. I think the attempt to make this a YA novel just doesn’t work…the improper balance of adult settings and scenes with teen reactions causes both audiences to be short changed from what could be a good story. The dual personality of it is frustrating and exhausting and I wish the author had been given more editorial guidance on writing appropriate to a specific genre for marketing purposes because, as written, it’s very hard to place in the hands of the correct reader.
ARC Galley Proof
ARC Galley Proof
June 18, 2020
If I were to compare all three books, this one would probably be the worst. While I’ve definitely been reading Larkin for the drama, this was just too much. Way too much, especially towards the end. The book, as a whole, had its moments—I liked that the former villain, Lorraine, redeemed herself and found out that she was more than some petty, unconfident woman. Everyone in the series gets a happy ending! That’s not a problem, of course. It’s definitely that kind of book.
August 21, 2017
This series starts off with a bang and end with a wimper. Gloria has been front and centered with her story full of angst, pain, love, danger and betrayal. Clara had her moments and was coming in to her own in the second book. Lorraine is a train wreck who is trying to repair her image. Marcus has his heart broken and then gets engaged too quickly.
In this book Gloria is in jail and quickly freed to spy on a con man. Clara is just hanging out being a socialite. Lorraine is in school leading a boring life. This book was just flat, and went nowhere to a conclusion that happened very awkwardly.
In one page, Marcus wedding is turned upside down, Lorraine is forgiven, Jerome reappears and Clara is just there.
In this book Gloria is in jail and quickly freed to spy on a con man. Clara is just hanging out being a socialite. Lorraine is in school leading a boring life. This book was just flat, and went nowhere to a conclusion that happened very awkwardly.
In one page, Marcus wedding is turned upside down, Lorraine is forgiven, Jerome reappears and Clara is just there.
October 2, 2019
So this was,,,,, bad. I had honestly forgotten that I’d read it. It was so forgettable that literally days after I finished reading it, I forgot what happened.
Honestly, you could take each of the character’s first and last chapters and delete everything in the middle and still have a coherent book. While it was entertaining to read, it was just pointless.
Somehow, though, it seemed rushed, too. The book seemed so short, and even though barely anything happens throughout, the ending seemed so rushed. I wish there were fewer scenes of Gloria and the rich guy (I don't even remember his name) in the middle and at least three more chapters at the end.
I mean, the ultimate end was satisfying. All the love interests you want to be together are together and happy and safe. But I wanted a little more of a wrap-up, is all.
Honestly, you could take each of the character’s first and last chapters and delete everything in the middle and still have a coherent book. While it was entertaining to read, it was just pointless.
Somehow, though, it seemed rushed, too. The book seemed so short, and even though barely anything happens throughout, the ending seemed so rushed. I wish there were fewer scenes of Gloria and the rich guy (I don't even remember his name) in the middle and at least three more chapters at the end.
I mean, the ultimate end was satisfying. All the love interests you want to be together are together and happy and safe. But I wanted a little more of a wrap-up, is all.
May 23, 2012
I know I have said this before but I love the 1920s! The flappers, the dangers of drinking and getting caught, the music and dancing...I love it all! So it was no surprise to me that I enjoyed this series. I was sad that this was the last book but it was a very enjoyable and quick read.
Gloria is out of jail but only on one condition. She needs to find how Forrest Hamilton has so much money. The FBI is sure that it is something illegal and they send Gloria in, undercover, to find out. Gloria, not knowing where Jerome is, agrees to do it in the hopes that she can keep herself and her fiance out of jail.
Once she meets Forrest, she realizes he is actually a good guy. She meets him, his shady man, Pembroke, and his other houseguests, Glamour and Glitz and Ruby and Marty. She quickly discovers that there is more between Forrest and Ruby than meets the eye. She must discover how Forrest is getting his money and get proof for the FBI, find Jerome and help Forrest and Ruby. Sounds easy right?
Meanwhile, Clara, Goria's cousin, is still heartbroken over her breakup with Marcus Eastman. This is made worse when she finds out that he has quickly found another woman and gotten engaged. She tries to put Marcus behind her and continue with her journalism career at The Manhattanite, the local rag magazine and even goes out with her boss, Parker, a few times. At a party put on by Forrest Hamilton, she is reunited (sort of) with Gloria and Lorraine Dyer. Lorraine tells Clara that the woman Marcus is marrying is a gold digging con artist and together they must expose her and stop Marcus from making the biggest mistake of his life.
Lorraine is a student at Barnard College. She is still disliked by everyone for her part in putting Gloria in jail. Her only friends are her roommate, Becky, and Melvin, the nerdy guy who has hung around her since school started. Lorraine thinks she is madly in love with Marcus Eastman and follows him through the campus of Columbia. When she discovers that he is engaged to a con artist, she seeks out Clara and together with Melvin, they attempt to expose the con. While working with Melvin, Lorraine finds out that maybe there is more to a guy than just his looks and his wallet.
I loved all the main characters in this book! They were strong, smart and funny! I liked how everything came around full circle and even though they all left each other in the first book, they all find each other again in this one. Lorraine grew up a lot in this book and I enjoyed seeing that.
The secondary characters were great too! Glamour and Glitz were flaky and all they cared about was drinking and dancing but they were fun to listen too. Pembroke was completely creepy and Forrest was very mysterious. Melvin was sweet and he put up with a lot from Lorraine but wasn't a total pushover.
I liked how this book ended the series. It was a complete happy ending, for the most part. I thought the wedding events were a little unrealistic. I mean, really? How much excitement can you have in one wedding? But it was still fun to read and it was definitely exciting!
This book comes out in July and if you have read the first two books, I highly recommend picking up this one. If you haven't read the first two books, what are you waiting for? Go read them so you can be ready in July for this one!
Gloria is out of jail but only on one condition. She needs to find how Forrest Hamilton has so much money. The FBI is sure that it is something illegal and they send Gloria in, undercover, to find out. Gloria, not knowing where Jerome is, agrees to do it in the hopes that she can keep herself and her fiance out of jail.
Once she meets Forrest, she realizes he is actually a good guy. She meets him, his shady man, Pembroke, and his other houseguests, Glamour and Glitz and Ruby and Marty. She quickly discovers that there is more between Forrest and Ruby than meets the eye. She must discover how Forrest is getting his money and get proof for the FBI, find Jerome and help Forrest and Ruby. Sounds easy right?
Meanwhile, Clara, Goria's cousin, is still heartbroken over her breakup with Marcus Eastman. This is made worse when she finds out that he has quickly found another woman and gotten engaged. She tries to put Marcus behind her and continue with her journalism career at The Manhattanite, the local rag magazine and even goes out with her boss, Parker, a few times. At a party put on by Forrest Hamilton, she is reunited (sort of) with Gloria and Lorraine Dyer. Lorraine tells Clara that the woman Marcus is marrying is a gold digging con artist and together they must expose her and stop Marcus from making the biggest mistake of his life.
Lorraine is a student at Barnard College. She is still disliked by everyone for her part in putting Gloria in jail. Her only friends are her roommate, Becky, and Melvin, the nerdy guy who has hung around her since school started. Lorraine thinks she is madly in love with Marcus Eastman and follows him through the campus of Columbia. When she discovers that he is engaged to a con artist, she seeks out Clara and together with Melvin, they attempt to expose the con. While working with Melvin, Lorraine finds out that maybe there is more to a guy than just his looks and his wallet.
I loved all the main characters in this book! They were strong, smart and funny! I liked how everything came around full circle and even though they all left each other in the first book, they all find each other again in this one. Lorraine grew up a lot in this book and I enjoyed seeing that.
The secondary characters were great too! Glamour and Glitz were flaky and all they cared about was drinking and dancing but they were fun to listen too. Pembroke was completely creepy and Forrest was very mysterious. Melvin was sweet and he put up with a lot from Lorraine but wasn't a total pushover.
I liked how this book ended the series. It was a complete happy ending, for the most part. I thought the wedding events were a little unrealistic. I mean, really? How much excitement can you have in one wedding? But it was still fun to read and it was definitely exciting!
This book comes out in July and if you have read the first two books, I highly recommend picking up this one. If you haven't read the first two books, what are you waiting for? Go read them so you can be ready in July for this one!
July 1, 2012
3.5/5 stars!
Okay, so this one dragged in a few places (mostly, I think, because the main arcs were wrapped up in book two), but I did like the ending and the epilogue for the closure it finally gave everyone involved in this series. At first I asked myself why this book was needed at all, and I eventually got my answer. “Diva” is a fun end to an equally fun trilogy, even if this one is more of an epilogue to the previous fast-paced high-action books full of glamorous mobsters and flappers.
I found this one had a lot less urgency (even though there should have been more, considering Gloria’s tenuous position with the FBI), and felt that it lingered in more places than it should have compared to the previous two. That being said, Larkin’s use of sensory language and imagery soars the most in this final book – I could taste the food and drink, feel the lovely dresses and my hair bobbed, and feel the salty wind in my face on the yacht. The fashions were awesome, and I did kind of feel like bobbing my hair by the end of everything. It’s kind of what saved the book, with the exception of the ending – the ending made it all worth it.
I also do feel like Larkin could have used Jerome for more than just a punching bag, but with what evidence we do have of how African-Americans were treated during this period, I suppose it’s true to that. He felt a little underused compared to everyone else, and considering how central he was to the previous book (and now, to how Gloria is serving out her sentence for the feds), it almost felt like he was tossed away, and that wasn’t too great. I did like how everyone sort of mended fences, and the last two chapters were some of the most fantastic of the trilogy. But in between those, there was an unpleasant laggy feeling, so…I don’t really know what to make of it. But because the ending was so insanely awesome, it makes up for the lag. I also wondered why we were given new characters as some of the time they felt like filler, but they acted as good foils (though throwing the semi-love triangle didn’t really flow too well with everything else) for other characters that were otherwise occupied. All in all, I’m satisfied with what I got, but I think it could have used another editorial pass or two to make it feel a little less disjointed/rough around the edges altogether.
Final verdict? If you’ve read this far into the trilogy, you may as well finish it. Fans of the first two books will love this final book in the series, and finally feel a sense of closure with our heroes getting their happily ever afters they sorely deserve. “Diva” is out July 10th 2012 from Random House in North America, so be sure to check it out then!
(posted to goodreads, shelfari, and birthofanewwitch.wordpress.com)
Okay, so this one dragged in a few places (mostly, I think, because the main arcs were wrapped up in book two), but I did like the ending and the epilogue for the closure it finally gave everyone involved in this series. At first I asked myself why this book was needed at all, and I eventually got my answer. “Diva” is a fun end to an equally fun trilogy, even if this one is more of an epilogue to the previous fast-paced high-action books full of glamorous mobsters and flappers.
I found this one had a lot less urgency (even though there should have been more, considering Gloria’s tenuous position with the FBI), and felt that it lingered in more places than it should have compared to the previous two. That being said, Larkin’s use of sensory language and imagery soars the most in this final book – I could taste the food and drink, feel the lovely dresses and my hair bobbed, and feel the salty wind in my face on the yacht. The fashions were awesome, and I did kind of feel like bobbing my hair by the end of everything. It’s kind of what saved the book, with the exception of the ending – the ending made it all worth it.
I also do feel like Larkin could have used Jerome for more than just a punching bag, but with what evidence we do have of how African-Americans were treated during this period, I suppose it’s true to that. He felt a little underused compared to everyone else, and considering how central he was to the previous book (and now, to how Gloria is serving out her sentence for the feds), it almost felt like he was tossed away, and that wasn’t too great. I did like how everyone sort of mended fences, and the last two chapters were some of the most fantastic of the trilogy. But in between those, there was an unpleasant laggy feeling, so…I don’t really know what to make of it. But because the ending was so insanely awesome, it makes up for the lag. I also wondered why we were given new characters as some of the time they felt like filler, but they acted as good foils (though throwing the semi-love triangle didn’t really flow too well with everything else) for other characters that were otherwise occupied. All in all, I’m satisfied with what I got, but I think it could have used another editorial pass or two to make it feel a little less disjointed/rough around the edges altogether.
Final verdict? If you’ve read this far into the trilogy, you may as well finish it. Fans of the first two books will love this final book in the series, and finally feel a sense of closure with our heroes getting their happily ever afters they sorely deserve. “Diva” is out July 10th 2012 from Random House in North America, so be sure to check it out then!
(posted to goodreads, shelfari, and birthofanewwitch.wordpress.com)
July 10, 2012
Hello Guys and Dolls,
Thanks for tuning in for WTF's musing's on Diva, the final installment of Jillian Larkin's Flapper series.
If you have come to expect the glitz, glamor, dirt, danger, and secrets...secrets...secrets. You will not be disappointed.
Though only a few months have passed since the heart-stopping conclusion of the last tale and where we find the players in our little drama; so much has changed.
Gloria and Jerome...
As usual, life can never be simple for these two.
Yes...Gloria has been freed from jail after killing the man that tried to kill Jerome, but at what cost?
It seems that if our little jailbird wants to stay free she has to sing a sweet tune to the Feds about a certain producer who is living the high-life on money from "low places".
Jerome it seems can never catch a break. While he waits for news of his lady love; certain people are determined to make his life as hard as possible.
The QUESTION: Will these two ever be free to make beautiful music together, or are they doomed to sing solos of heartache and loss forever?
The ANSWER: Read the book.
Clara and Marcus....
While Clara is busy being the mouth of Manhattan as the star reporter for the Manhattanite, Marcus has been hitting the books over on the campus of Columbia University and...planning a wedding?
That's right folks.
It seems that Marcus wasted no time in finding another 'forever girl' when Clara chose working over wifing.
The QUESTIONS: Is Marcus' new love all that she seems, or does her bridal veil hide more than just her pretty pout?
Has Clara really thrown in the towel on her 'happy ending' with Marcus?
The ANSWER: Read the book.
Lorraine...
Try as she might, this girl can never seem to get it right. Though she has traded in the nightlife of the speakeasy set for the highlighters and note books of Barnard College; she is still on the outs because of her rep as "the girl who ratted out Gloria Carmondy".
The QUESTION: Will Lorraine ever be able to make amends for all the wrong that she has done?
The ANSWER: Read the book?
WTF Are You Reading? says...
This book is well worth the wait. It is packed with all the romance, action, intrigue, an passion of the other books in the series, and still managed to hold it's own plot-wise. Readers will be happy to note that while the first two books focus on the girls, the boys are allowed to shine a little brighter in this read. This book is a fitting end to the sparkle, spectacle, triumph, and tragedy, that serve as the calling cards of THE FLAPPERS.
Find this review here:WTF Are You Reading?: This "Diva" Lives Up to The Legend
Thanks for tuning in for WTF's musing's on Diva, the final installment of Jillian Larkin's Flapper series.
If you have come to expect the glitz, glamor, dirt, danger, and secrets...secrets...secrets. You will not be disappointed.
Though only a few months have passed since the heart-stopping conclusion of the last tale and where we find the players in our little drama; so much has changed.
Gloria and Jerome...
As usual, life can never be simple for these two.
Yes...Gloria has been freed from jail after killing the man that tried to kill Jerome, but at what cost?
It seems that if our little jailbird wants to stay free she has to sing a sweet tune to the Feds about a certain producer who is living the high-life on money from "low places".
Jerome it seems can never catch a break. While he waits for news of his lady love; certain people are determined to make his life as hard as possible.
The QUESTION: Will these two ever be free to make beautiful music together, or are they doomed to sing solos of heartache and loss forever?
The ANSWER: Read the book.
Clara and Marcus....
While Clara is busy being the mouth of Manhattan as the star reporter for the Manhattanite, Marcus has been hitting the books over on the campus of Columbia University and...planning a wedding?
That's right folks.
It seems that Marcus wasted no time in finding another 'forever girl' when Clara chose working over wifing.
The QUESTIONS: Is Marcus' new love all that she seems, or does her bridal veil hide more than just her pretty pout?
Has Clara really thrown in the towel on her 'happy ending' with Marcus?
The ANSWER: Read the book.
Lorraine...
Try as she might, this girl can never seem to get it right. Though she has traded in the nightlife of the speakeasy set for the highlighters and note books of Barnard College; she is still on the outs because of her rep as "the girl who ratted out Gloria Carmondy".
The QUESTION: Will Lorraine ever be able to make amends for all the wrong that she has done?
The ANSWER: Read the book?
WTF Are You Reading? says...
This book is well worth the wait. It is packed with all the romance, action, intrigue, an passion of the other books in the series, and still managed to hold it's own plot-wise. Readers will be happy to note that while the first two books focus on the girls, the boys are allowed to shine a little brighter in this read. This book is a fitting end to the sparkle, spectacle, triumph, and tragedy, that serve as the calling cards of THE FLAPPERS.
Find this review here:WTF Are You Reading?: This "Diva" Lives Up to The Legend
September 13, 2012
I haven't read the first two books of this series, but I was really intrigued when I saw that it was about flappers in the 1920s. I love that era, but I have never actually read a young adult book set in that time, so I knew I was in for a treat!
The book starts out with Gloria being released from jail and agreeing to spy on a playwright in order to earn her freedom. The whole background of her situation and how everyone was related to one another was very confusing in the beginning, but that's because I haven't read the first two books. I think as a reader who is familiar with this series, they will be able to follow along much better than I did. Despite my lack of background knowledge, I was able to pick up enough to follow along for the rest of the story.
Aside from the confusion, Diva definitely held the notorious Roaring Twenties storyline. There were fabulous parties, speakeasies, fashion icons, and just crazy lives in general. I really grew to like Lorraine, Clara, and Gloria and their individual stories and personalities. There was some mystery with how Forrest, the playwright, could be so young and so wealthy, along with where Jerome went and all of these conspiracies fit together. It seems like no one can stay out of trouble and there is some heart that's breaking around every corner.
All of the characters are definitely unique in their own ways, but that just makes the story so much more interesting. The parties are fantastic and their lives are just so much different from ours today that I couldn't get enough of the time period. I really wish that I had read the first two books in the series so that I could spend more time in this era and really get the most out of the final book of the series. If you're a fan of the first two novels, definitely pick up the final book! And if you haven't read them, I would recommend checking out the first book of this series because I know it has to offer a fun story about an era that was pure fabulousness.
The book starts out with Gloria being released from jail and agreeing to spy on a playwright in order to earn her freedom. The whole background of her situation and how everyone was related to one another was very confusing in the beginning, but that's because I haven't read the first two books. I think as a reader who is familiar with this series, they will be able to follow along much better than I did. Despite my lack of background knowledge, I was able to pick up enough to follow along for the rest of the story.
Aside from the confusion, Diva definitely held the notorious Roaring Twenties storyline. There were fabulous parties, speakeasies, fashion icons, and just crazy lives in general. I really grew to like Lorraine, Clara, and Gloria and their individual stories and personalities. There was some mystery with how Forrest, the playwright, could be so young and so wealthy, along with where Jerome went and all of these conspiracies fit together. It seems like no one can stay out of trouble and there is some heart that's breaking around every corner.
All of the characters are definitely unique in their own ways, but that just makes the story so much more interesting. The parties are fantastic and their lives are just so much different from ours today that I couldn't get enough of the time period. I really wish that I had read the first two books in the series so that I could spend more time in this era and really get the most out of the final book of the series. If you're a fan of the first two novels, definitely pick up the final book! And if you haven't read them, I would recommend checking out the first book of this series because I know it has to offer a fun story about an era that was pure fabulousness.
April 9, 2012
Between the jazz, booze and scandal, the world has completely changed for all of our once-innocent flappers. The wild clubs of Prohibition-era New York have changed their lives forward, from launching promising careers in journalism and show business to brushes with the law and scandalous relationships. All of the drama comes to a climatic end in Jillian Larkin's Diva, the final book in her Flappers trilogy, where dreams come true and romance triumphs.
After narrowly escaping prison, Gloria spends her time in luxury on Long Island, losing herself in a life of secrets and socialites. Meanwhile, Lorraine is trying to break into Broadway while running after the love of her life, no matter what it takes. Clara has fallen into the dark work of parties, booze and speakeasies, and lost the love of a boy she thought was the one for her.
The final drama of the Flappers, their lives and loves reach a dramatic climax in Diva, where the girls have completely grown up, and are willing to go as far as it takes to get what they want. Faced with new challenges and even higher stakes, our lovely heroines are forced to make serious choices that will change the courses of their lives.
While I am sad to see this series end, I felt like it had a satisfying (though somewhat "too perfect") ending that fans of these books will enjoy. As much as I don't like saying farewell to the Roaring Twenties, I'm interested to see what other books author Jillian Larkin has in store for us. Anything goes.
After narrowly escaping prison, Gloria spends her time in luxury on Long Island, losing herself in a life of secrets and socialites. Meanwhile, Lorraine is trying to break into Broadway while running after the love of her life, no matter what it takes. Clara has fallen into the dark work of parties, booze and speakeasies, and lost the love of a boy she thought was the one for her.
The final drama of the Flappers, their lives and loves reach a dramatic climax in Diva, where the girls have completely grown up, and are willing to go as far as it takes to get what they want. Faced with new challenges and even higher stakes, our lovely heroines are forced to make serious choices that will change the courses of their lives.
While I am sad to see this series end, I felt like it had a satisfying (though somewhat "too perfect") ending that fans of these books will enjoy. As much as I don't like saying farewell to the Roaring Twenties, I'm interested to see what other books author Jillian Larkin has in store for us. Anything goes.
September 23, 2012
Diva by Jillian Larkin is worth reading for the description of the elegant clothes alone. When Diva begins Clara is tired of the flapper lifestyle and wants Marcus back. Lorraine is now at Barnard but being a college girl is no fun when you have no friends. Lorraine finds out that Marcus’s fiancee is not who she says she is. How will Lorraine tell Marcus when he wants nothing to do with her and neither does anyone else? She will come up with a way because she has grown up.Gloria has been cleared of all charges but she is still not reunited with Jerome.Gloria is now living in Long Island and socializing with Forrest Hamilton and his entourage. However Gloria has more going on in her life than just trying to look snazzy. I loved reading about the roaring twenties as it is one of my favorite time periods. I really feel the Flapper series illustrates how women were changing and wanting more for themselves. Throughout the series I have read about how these young women have gone to great lengths to get what they want. This inspires me as if they were able to take risks then , I can take risks now. As I am reading I can picture the scene and especially the beautiful clothes and that is what makes Diva not only a good historical romance novel for teens but a novel full of captivating descriptions. I would recommend Diva to readers who enjoy the Roaring Twenties and historical romance.
October 23, 2012
Cloche hats, cupid bow lips and speakeasies
“Diva” is the last novel to my beloved Flapper Series. You can find the books (Vixen #1)and (Ingenue #2) on the shelves of basically any book store.This book wasn't as action packed though it should have been, I mean really Gloria, you were mixed up with the FBI. How can that not be fun. This book seemed a bit more gimmicky with it's plot line. There were descriptions of gowns and heels, suits and gleaming hair. This book seemed so slow! The newest characters like Melvin and some of the FBI guys seemed like flat characters - like Flat Stanley.
Evil Lorraine (my favorite) met Melvin and turned over a new leaf. Mr.Jerome had like what? One chapter in the book, so his character wasn't very necessary. He just started the book off , shuttled away and died. The ending was fun, the last few chapters made me laugh but the whole book in a way had me very disappointed about the wrap up. I was like "Happy Ending" , everyone gets exactly what they want - that's all?
“Diva” is the last novel to my beloved Flapper Series. You can find the books (Vixen #1)and (Ingenue #2) on the shelves of basically any book store.This book wasn't as action packed though it should have been, I mean really Gloria, you were mixed up with the FBI. How can that not be fun. This book seemed a bit more gimmicky with it's plot line. There were descriptions of gowns and heels, suits and gleaming hair. This book seemed so slow! The newest characters like Melvin and some of the FBI guys seemed like flat characters - like Flat Stanley.
Evil Lorraine (my favorite) met Melvin and turned over a new leaf. Mr.Jerome had like what? One chapter in the book, so his character wasn't very necessary. He just started the book off , shuttled away and died. The ending was fun, the last few chapters made me laugh but the whole book in a way had me very disappointed about the wrap up. I was like "Happy Ending" , everyone gets exactly what they want - that's all?
May 20, 2016
What a great read! This was a wonderful conclusion to a good series. It's definitely more sensationalist than the Bright Young Things series (a little bit more trashy - but very readable!). This would make a good choice for the summer. If you're into historical fiction, if you'd like some more 1920's reads (into Great Gatsby?!), then this is the series for you! The characters are fun, the plot is driving, and this was just a good way to end it.
June 22, 2013
I'm sad that this series is over! I fell in love with the characters and the whole Flapper era!!
Want to read
November 14, 2011Where is Jerome?
February 11, 2018
And this concludes the Flapper trilogy "...where love is hiding around every corner, music is thriving in every club, and, of course, anything goes."
The story concludes with our original delinquent debutante Gloria getting out of jail only to get caught up with the police in an investigation to take down some gangster or other while trying to get back to her fiance Jerome who was rudely carted away by her bigot father to the middle of nowhere New Jersey. Lorraine is still trying to get in Gloria, Gloria's best friend Marcus, and Gloria's Cousin Clara's good graces after all of her drunken screw-ups before starting college at Bernard. And Clara is trying to decide if a writing career for a gossip rag will really keep her warm at night or is it Marcus, who she broke up with, that will; but that might be a problem since homeboy is bouncing back by getting married to someone he just met to get over Clara. Keep it classy people.
Honestly, I found myself laughing at the absurdity of this entire series to my sister when I was trying to explain the story and decided that I would do it another time. This final book got a good laugh out of me on several occasions which isn't bad, but again the story is a bit absurd. I did like the introduction to some of the newer characters in the story, especially the ones that seems to cool Lorraine's jets a bit. I still really liked Lorraine and Clara's development far more than Gloria's, I actually felt a change in their character. I also really enjoyed the character Forrest Hamilton, I wasn't really sure where the story was going and maybe I'm just easy to please but I was a little surprised at some of the plot twists. Jerome had a few chapters to himself but it really didn't seem necessary since our favorite jazz pianist keep getting caught and thrown places and I just found myself shaking my head and thinking 'stick to music and obsessing over Gloria, bro' since he really wasn't good for much else.
Overall the trilogy was decent and a fun short read; nothing earth-shattering or life-changing. Everything tied up pretty well. I still wondered about Gloria's parents in her relationship with them, but I guess since their daughter is with a black man she was already written off by them so I guess that's the end of that. I wasn't really satisfied with it, but whatever. This is easily something one could read over the summer or just on a rainy day.
The story concludes with our original delinquent debutante Gloria getting out of jail only to get caught up with the police in an investigation to take down some gangster or other while trying to get back to her fiance Jerome who was rudely carted away by her bigot father to the middle of nowhere New Jersey. Lorraine is still trying to get in Gloria, Gloria's best friend Marcus, and Gloria's Cousin Clara's good graces after all of her drunken screw-ups before starting college at Bernard. And Clara is trying to decide if a writing career for a gossip rag will really keep her warm at night or is it Marcus, who she broke up with, that will; but that might be a problem since homeboy is bouncing back by getting married to someone he just met to get over Clara. Keep it classy people.
Honestly, I found myself laughing at the absurdity of this entire series to my sister when I was trying to explain the story and decided that I would do it another time. This final book got a good laugh out of me on several occasions which isn't bad, but again the story is a bit absurd. I did like the introduction to some of the newer characters in the story, especially the ones that seems to cool Lorraine's jets a bit. I still really liked Lorraine and Clara's development far more than Gloria's, I actually felt a change in their character. I also really enjoyed the character Forrest Hamilton, I wasn't really sure where the story was going and maybe I'm just easy to please but I was a little surprised at some of the plot twists. Jerome had a few chapters to himself but it really didn't seem necessary since our favorite jazz pianist keep getting caught and thrown places and I just found myself shaking my head and thinking 'stick to music and obsessing over Gloria, bro' since he really wasn't good for much else.
Overall the trilogy was decent and a fun short read; nothing earth-shattering or life-changing. Everything tied up pretty well. I still wondered about Gloria's parents in her relationship with them, but I guess since their daughter is with a black man she was already written off by them so I guess that's the end of that. I wasn't really satisfied with it, but whatever. This is easily something one could read over the summer or just on a rainy day.
May 6, 2017
I seriously could not get enough of this series!!! I adore it! I fell in love with the characters and could not wait to find out what would happen next!
We start out with Marcus being engaged to another girl! Definitely a bombshell to start off with! Clara keeps trying to appeal to everyone who will read "The Manhattanite" to tell them all about the innocence of her cousin, Gloria. Finally, Gloria gets busted out of jail only to work with the Feds to take down Forrest, a young millionaire whose story seems so eerily similar to Jay Gatsby (in my opinion)! She stays at his mansion and once again lives a life of luxury. Meanwhile, Lorraine is actually sober during college and taking her studies seriously. She makes two new friends, her roommate and a boy named Melvin. Her roommate tells her the real story of Marcus's fiancé, Anastasia, that she's really a gold-digging criminal. Lorraine gets Clara involved so they have to work together to take this girl down. Gloria is trying to find the dirt out on Forrest so she can get out of this mess and see Jerome again. The wedding finally arrives and so many things happen- it is a whirlwind of drama!
Will Marcus marry "Anastasia"? Will he get back with Clara? Has Lorraine met the man of her dreams? What happens to Forrest? Does Gloria take him down? Does she finally get to see and be with Jerome again?
We start out with Marcus being engaged to another girl! Definitely a bombshell to start off with! Clara keeps trying to appeal to everyone who will read "The Manhattanite" to tell them all about the innocence of her cousin, Gloria. Finally, Gloria gets busted out of jail only to work with the Feds to take down Forrest, a young millionaire whose story seems so eerily similar to Jay Gatsby (in my opinion)! She stays at his mansion and once again lives a life of luxury. Meanwhile, Lorraine is actually sober during college and taking her studies seriously. She makes two new friends, her roommate and a boy named Melvin. Her roommate tells her the real story of Marcus's fiancé, Anastasia, that she's really a gold-digging criminal. Lorraine gets Clara involved so they have to work together to take this girl down. Gloria is trying to find the dirt out on Forrest so she can get out of this mess and see Jerome again. The wedding finally arrives and so many things happen- it is a whirlwind of drama!
Will Marcus marry "Anastasia"? Will he get back with Clara? Has Lorraine met the man of her dreams? What happens to Forrest? Does Gloria take him down? Does she finally get to see and be with Jerome again?
January 1, 2022
I might of liked this book if it wasn't for oh so many reasons. I too am fascinated with the 20's era as the with the author. This book just... didn't do a whole lot for me. Perhaps if I actually read it (vs listened by audio) I might think a little better but the narrator was probably one of the worst ever and most likely ruined the entire book. Her voices were primarily the same for each character except for "Rain" who sounded like she had just hacked up a lung. All of the other females had different high tones of Betty Boop and the men all sounded like idiots with schmoozy rich, swank lazy vibes. Probably that is what was intended but just awful.
Gloria is out of prison for killing a man in defense of her black boyfriend. A HUGE no-no at the time. She helps the Feds to take down a leading mobster so she can maintain her freedom from incarceration. With a singing voice "of an angel" she dreams of not just being a socialite but a a real swank movie star. All characters- well most speak with their own voice in the dialogue but all tie together.
Meh the dialogue could have been better but really the narrator killed it for me.
Gloria is out of prison for killing a man in defense of her black boyfriend. A HUGE no-no at the time. She helps the Feds to take down a leading mobster so she can maintain her freedom from incarceration. With a singing voice "of an angel" she dreams of not just being a socialite but a a real swank movie star. All characters- well most speak with their own voice in the dialogue but all tie together.
Meh the dialogue could have been better but really the narrator killed it for me.
July 13, 2018
And with that, this delightful and dramatic series that I loved way more than I thought I would has come to an end.
I really admire the fact that "Diva" wrapped up almost every storyline, and I closed the book without any irritation at something the author didn't address or the way it ended. I thought it was a fantastic and certainly dramatic conclusion to this fun little series and I'm really happy with the way it ended, which is sometimes not the case with series such as these. I would also like to remark on how funny this installment was! I could tell the author really focused on adding comedic bits throughout the novel, especially regarding the character of Lorainne, and it made the reading experience really enjoyable.
While I did have a problem with the book's over attention to detail regarding EVERY SINGLE OUTFIT and the extreme parallels of Forrest and Gatsby, "Diva" was overall a solid conclusion to this fun and glamorous series.
I really admire the fact that "Diva" wrapped up almost every storyline, and I closed the book without any irritation at something the author didn't address or the way it ended. I thought it was a fantastic and certainly dramatic conclusion to this fun little series and I'm really happy with the way it ended, which is sometimes not the case with series such as these. I would also like to remark on how funny this installment was! I could tell the author really focused on adding comedic bits throughout the novel, especially regarding the character of Lorainne, and it made the reading experience really enjoyable.
While I did have a problem with the book's over attention to detail regarding EVERY SINGLE OUTFIT and the extreme parallels of Forrest and Gatsby, "Diva" was overall a solid conclusion to this fun and glamorous series.
May 1, 2018
So I grabbed this audiobook from my local library's overdrive without realizing it was the last in a trilogy. That ended up being okay. All that happened in the last two books were summarized at the beginning of Diva.
Now I am not the best judge for 1920s historical, because I tend to hold them up against one of my absolute favorites; The Diviners by Libba Bray.
The problem I had with Diva was mostly the cliche' dialogue and shallow plot. There was a lot of "I love you" thrown around like just saying it could convey all, and fix everything. And the plot was a group of friends saving their friend/and ex-boyfriend of one, from marrying a grifter.
Maybe I would have been invested in it if I started at book one, but the repetitive dialogue is what killed it for me.
Now I am not the best judge for 1920s historical, because I tend to hold them up against one of my absolute favorites; The Diviners by Libba Bray.
The problem I had with Diva was mostly the cliche' dialogue and shallow plot. There was a lot of "I love you" thrown around like just saying it could convey all, and fix everything. And the plot was a group of friends saving their friend/and ex-boyfriend of one, from marrying a grifter.
Maybe I would have been invested in it if I started at book one, but the repetitive dialogue is what killed it for me.
October 4, 2017
This book was an excellent finish to an awesome series. If you're looking for something other than the usual girl meets boy, girl meets vampire, girl meets werewolf, girl meets fairy, etc. thing definitely look into this book series.
It takes the reader on an adventure through the Roaring 1920s and holds your attention until the very end. The characters were very relatable and world the author created was one I didn't want to leave. End point: this was a good book and I really enjoyed reading it.
It takes the reader on an adventure through the Roaring 1920s and holds your attention until the very end. The characters were very relatable and world the author created was one I didn't want to leave. End point: this was a good book and I really enjoyed reading it.
November 22, 2020
It was amazing! Kept me on the edge of my seat almost all the time. I was however disappointed that throughout this series and especially in this last book that we never got Marcus's perspective. We've gotten the perspective of all the main characters we've know throughout the series except for his, and since this book was sort of about him it would have been nice, especially when Clara went to see him about Anastasia.
It was a nice wrap up and a lovely read. I do love how the characters came to grow and mature throughout the series, 9/10 would definitely recommend!
It was a nice wrap up and a lovely read. I do love how the characters came to grow and mature throughout the series, 9/10 would definitely recommend!
July 13, 2022
This book felt like Larkin made a 3 book deal but couldn’t logically piece together a trilogy. Diva was an unnecessary addition to the story. The majority was fluff. At 225/308 pages in, I told my boyfriend that I was still waiting for something to happen. Since there was no depth to the characters, I wasn’t phased by the ending. The only reason it has 2 stars instead of 1 is due to Larkin’s ability to keep you engaged despite the lack of action. Her style is fast paced and lively but her plot fell flat.
January 27, 2019
I loved this whole series, anyone who can find me more books set in this era, or can send me recommendations I would totally appreciate it! I just loved the story, the characters, the time period this series had me hooked for seriously all of a week, that's how long it took me to finish. It was hard to end the stories or Lorraine, Clara, and Gloria, but there are always other books and this series was probably the best I've read in a long time!
March 20, 2021
This volume of the trilogy was heavy on descriptions of the clothes. If that heaviness existed in the other books, it didn’t stand out as much. This was a light, quick read that didn’t require a lot of concentration. I’m glad I finished the series and the setting (1920s flappers) was divine. I can see teen girls eating it up – especially with the clothing descriptions (it made me wish it was illustrated). Not the best books ever but enjoyable.
July 8, 2023
I randomly picked up this book at a second-hand bookshop and realised it was part of a three-part series. This is the third instalment of the Flapper series and it does not disappoint in the slightest.
Although there is some writing which is a bit adolescent and cringeworthy; it is still intriguing and definitely worth a read especially if you are into historical fiction books that are set in the 20s.
Although there is some writing which is a bit adolescent and cringeworthy; it is still intriguing and definitely worth a read especially if you are into historical fiction books that are set in the 20s.
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