What do you think?
A Dangerous Age
Couture royalty meets downtown grit and heady artists mingle with freewheeling socialites in A Dangerous Age, a sophisticated, indulgent, and delicious novel of contemporary New York City that women of all ages will devour.
It’s the dog days of a sweltering Manhattan summer, and four sophisticated best friends who once took New York by storm are secretly falling apart at the seams. Lucy’s marriage to a renowned artist is slowly crumbling, with an explosive secret that threatens them both. Sarah, in the middle of auditioning for an auspicious new television show, realizes that her socialite standing is in jeopardy after countless disastrous events. Billy—a queen in the kitchen—has finally left her former life behind to become a highbrow cuisine artist. And Lotta, a knockout downtown art dealer, spends her free time guzzling cocktails in both the grittiest and most expensive clubs around town—but now, she’s taken it a little too far.
In this addicting and refreshing comedy of manners reminiscent of Edith Wharton, Lucy, Sarah, Billy, and Lotta go to all ends to hide their troubles in a city that worships only the young, twentysomething it-girl. But in the end, there’s no denying that these women have all entered a very dangerous age...and who knows how they’ll emerge on the other side.
It’s the dog days of a sweltering Manhattan summer, and four sophisticated best friends who once took New York by storm are secretly falling apart at the seams. Lucy’s marriage to a renowned artist is slowly crumbling, with an explosive secret that threatens them both. Sarah, in the middle of auditioning for an auspicious new television show, realizes that her socialite standing is in jeopardy after countless disastrous events. Billy—a queen in the kitchen—has finally left her former life behind to become a highbrow cuisine artist. And Lotta, a knockout downtown art dealer, spends her free time guzzling cocktails in both the grittiest and most expensive clubs around town—but now, she’s taken it a little too far.
In this addicting and refreshing comedy of manners reminiscent of Edith Wharton, Lucy, Sarah, Billy, and Lotta go to all ends to hide their troubles in a city that worships only the young, twentysomething it-girl. But in the end, there’s no denying that these women have all entered a very dangerous age...and who knows how they’ll emerge on the other side.
369 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 7, 2016
About the author
Kelly Killoren Bensimon
6 books17 followersKelly Killoren Bensimon is a model, jewelry designer, former editor of Elle Accessories, and the author of In the Spirit of the Hamptons I & II, American Style, The Bikini Book, and I Can Make You Hot. An avid equestrian, Killeen Bensimon lives in New York City with her two teenage daughters.
A Dangerous Age is her first novel.
A Dangerous Age is her first novel.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 75 reviews
March 29, 2016
4 Lost & Found in NYC Stars
* * * * It's Live!
I, like many, first met this author through reality television. Which is an oxymoron if ever there was one... as the actual reality level of what we see on the screen, probably leaves much to be desired...However, with everything... there are moments which cannot be scripted as they come across as too raw... too voyeuristic...and that, I think is the underlining draw of these shows...to catch people revealing parts of themselves they never intended.
A Dangerous Age by Kelly Killoren Bensimon with Teresa DiFalco (Women's Fiction) takes everything past viewers thought they knew about our author and turns it back at us with a knowing, sly twist. This is not the book I thought she was writing. I am happy to report, I underestimated her skill and was very pleasantly surprised. Kelly Killoren Bensimon took everything she knows about her life, her views of New York City and relationships...and weaves an intriguing tale. It has true moments to savior and enough extras to keep readers guessing about what is hinted at, nodded to and out and out played from our past viewing guilty pleasures.
But make no mistake, this book presents an insiders look at a section of Society which does exist. It is the population of wealth, artistry, family lineage and hustlers. Killoren takes us by the hand and introduces us to all the places we have read about, naming eateries, shops, galleries.... any place these people inhabit. It does give flavor and authenticity yet sometimes can feel a tad over the top...
Yet, over the top may be exactly what this is about....
We have 4 friends who have remained friends over decades. Each has their thing... one, a woman who is a smart chef trying to market a book, does paid dinners by subscription, and has a knack for knowing wines and creating specialty drinks. Another is a beauty who has a gallery, handles up and coming artists and long time recreational drug use. We also have the Society gal who is about to marry a Wall Street Wizard... and her main focus is getting onto a new Reality Show. This is to boost her branding and exposure.
And then there is our teller of it all....she was a one time model who came to New York City from the Mid West and met the man who changed her life....an artist of the level all dream to be. A man who took her by the hand and wooed her, cherished her and made her his wife...second wife. This man was older, settled and she was head over heels....together they were everywhere... and his paintings were the talk of the town.
Years pass and like the story of the frog slowly being in water that is getting warmer and warmer...not realizing what is to come....these 4 women seem to be on a collision course of some kind...each with blinders to what the outcomes could be....
We follow them as they work through all of the hurtles; be it a hysterically, funny dinner for the would be producers of the Reality show or task of tracking down the illusive blogger everyone is talking about for the article which will save a magazine. There are the use of hashtags, texting from strangers and the ramp up of a much anticipated art showing. All of these things are tied together and slowly come to a conclusion which touch all.
This had insight and depth; a vision of what it is like to see life go by and be at that point where you feel you are tottering...on the brink of a possible downturn...Is it real...are things set and there is no way to redirect them....It is an interesting time in women's lives... as there is still time to adapt and adjust before Society puts us on the shelf... and you feel like the expiration date is looming close.
This incorporates many nods to those who wish to find them...and I will not spoil it for you. There were well written secondary characters... people who would actually be in all of the surroundings. And there was New York City in all her splendor... in my opinion, there is nothing like her....
I am very pleased to say this surprised the hell out of me. It was much more than I expected. It did explore relationships and the main one may cause some wondering as to whether lines were crossed over the years by the artist. In the end though, I felt the outcome was exactly as I had anticipated from the start. It worked for me and was a worth while read.
~~~~~ Before Reading ~~~~~
Disclaimer...
I, like many, followed The Real Housewives shows from Bravo. It was a time when these fantasy situations were the rage. We would watch these women gossip, shop and do charity events in amazing clothes...all from different cities.
My guilty pleasure was the New York City Series...and it really heated up during the second and third season. Needless to say, it introduced me to a woman named Kelly Bensimon. She was a tall, athletic, model, and mom who had a history of society/artistic endeavors due to the life of modeling and her ex husband, fashion photographer Gilles Bensimon.
Watching these seasons were like watching a car crash... they were impossible not to take in...the impact of them on the participants took a toll... and all of it was in front of the media/Page Six, etc.
Now no matter whose "side" you took in rooting for the "housewife" of choice...it really didn't matter because as Reality TV is... nothing truly is reality...These so called "friends" would never have been friends in the real world and they were smashed together in situations for drama...so who is to say what we saw had any basis in reality.
I bring all of this up because Kelly Killoren (Bensimon) has put out her first novel, A Dangerous Age with Teresa DiFalco .
Kelly has written other books about Dieting, Bikinis and How To Make Yourself Hot...
With the blurb tease...the description is lending itself to all sorts of assumptions...a veiled story of all the players she dealt with on Housewives...It's only natural to assume....
Yes, there are similarities...after all, it is the mantra of the writing world... Write What You Know...
but I get the sense so far... she is looking to do a bit more than that... and it will be interesting to see where this goes...
I promise to report back...
A gifted copy was provided by Gallery, Threshold, Pocket Books via NetGalley for an honest review.
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
* * * * It's Live!
I, like many, first met this author through reality television. Which is an oxymoron if ever there was one... as the actual reality level of what we see on the screen, probably leaves much to be desired...However, with everything... there are moments which cannot be scripted as they come across as too raw... too voyeuristic...and that, I think is the underlining draw of these shows...to catch people revealing parts of themselves they never intended.
A Dangerous Age by Kelly Killoren Bensimon with Teresa DiFalco (Women's Fiction) takes everything past viewers thought they knew about our author and turns it back at us with a knowing, sly twist. This is not the book I thought she was writing. I am happy to report, I underestimated her skill and was very pleasantly surprised. Kelly Killoren Bensimon took everything she knows about her life, her views of New York City and relationships...and weaves an intriguing tale. It has true moments to savior and enough extras to keep readers guessing about what is hinted at, nodded to and out and out played from our past viewing guilty pleasures.
But make no mistake, this book presents an insiders look at a section of Society which does exist. It is the population of wealth, artistry, family lineage and hustlers. Killoren takes us by the hand and introduces us to all the places we have read about, naming eateries, shops, galleries.... any place these people inhabit. It does give flavor and authenticity yet sometimes can feel a tad over the top...
Yet, over the top may be exactly what this is about....
We have 4 friends who have remained friends over decades. Each has their thing... one, a woman who is a smart chef trying to market a book, does paid dinners by subscription, and has a knack for knowing wines and creating specialty drinks. Another is a beauty who has a gallery, handles up and coming artists and long time recreational drug use. We also have the Society gal who is about to marry a Wall Street Wizard... and her main focus is getting onto a new Reality Show. This is to boost her branding and exposure.
And then there is our teller of it all....she was a one time model who came to New York City from the Mid West and met the man who changed her life....an artist of the level all dream to be. A man who took her by the hand and wooed her, cherished her and made her his wife...second wife. This man was older, settled and she was head over heels....together they were everywhere... and his paintings were the talk of the town.
Years pass and like the story of the frog slowly being in water that is getting warmer and warmer...not realizing what is to come....these 4 women seem to be on a collision course of some kind...each with blinders to what the outcomes could be....
We follow them as they work through all of the hurtles; be it a hysterically, funny dinner for the would be producers of the Reality show or task of tracking down the illusive blogger everyone is talking about for the article which will save a magazine. There are the use of hashtags, texting from strangers and the ramp up of a much anticipated art showing. All of these things are tied together and slowly come to a conclusion which touch all.
This had insight and depth; a vision of what it is like to see life go by and be at that point where you feel you are tottering...on the brink of a possible downturn...Is it real...are things set and there is no way to redirect them....It is an interesting time in women's lives... as there is still time to adapt and adjust before Society puts us on the shelf... and you feel like the expiration date is looming close.
This incorporates many nods to those who wish to find them...and I will not spoil it for you. There were well written secondary characters... people who would actually be in all of the surroundings. And there was New York City in all her splendor... in my opinion, there is nothing like her....
I am very pleased to say this surprised the hell out of me. It was much more than I expected. It did explore relationships and the main one may cause some wondering as to whether lines were crossed over the years by the artist. In the end though, I felt the outcome was exactly as I had anticipated from the start. It worked for me and was a worth while read.
~~~~~ Before Reading ~~~~~
Disclaimer...
I, like many, followed The Real Housewives shows from Bravo. It was a time when these fantasy situations were the rage. We would watch these women gossip, shop and do charity events in amazing clothes...all from different cities.
My guilty pleasure was the New York City Series...and it really heated up during the second and third season. Needless to say, it introduced me to a woman named Kelly Bensimon. She was a tall, athletic, model, and mom who had a history of society/artistic endeavors due to the life of modeling and her ex husband, fashion photographer Gilles Bensimon.
Watching these seasons were like watching a car crash... they were impossible not to take in...the impact of them on the participants took a toll... and all of it was in front of the media/Page Six, etc.
Now no matter whose "side" you took in rooting for the "housewife" of choice...it really didn't matter because as Reality TV is... nothing truly is reality...These so called "friends" would never have been friends in the real world and they were smashed together in situations for drama...so who is to say what we saw had any basis in reality.
I bring all of this up because Kelly Killoren (Bensimon) has put out her first novel, A Dangerous Age with Teresa DiFalco .
Kelly has written other books about Dieting, Bikinis and How To Make Yourself Hot...
With the blurb tease...the description is lending itself to all sorts of assumptions...a veiled story of all the players she dealt with on Housewives...It's only natural to assume....
Yes, there are similarities...after all, it is the mantra of the writing world... Write What You Know...
but I get the sense so far... she is looking to do a bit more than that... and it will be interesting to see where this goes...
I promise to report back...
A gifted copy was provided by Gallery, Threshold, Pocket Books via NetGalley for an honest review.
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
May 23, 2016
It's rare to find a contemporary women’s fiction novel that features women of a certain age, mainly middle age – GASP! However, this new release is one for women of any age because it tells it like it is. A fresh story ripped from the pages of New York society, this engaging read is one I was thrilled to be asked to review. A refreshing change to traditional women’s fiction.
Scrambling to be something rather than just exist, these four ladies have been friends for years. They know everything about life in New York and every one who matters. They also know too much about each other and some know more than they let on. Plenty of drama and a in-depth look at the challenges of a midlife woman.
The author offers up a story full of secrets to hide and the scramble to still be someone in society. This book is an engrossing read that took me by surprise. While the beginning felt a tad slow as we got to meet the ladies, the story really picked up and became intriguing as the second half developed.
Even though I figured out some of the mysteries along with way, the ending was still a lovely surprise that leaves you with a feel good memory that all can be right with the world, even through the pressures of New York society.
Scrambling to be something rather than just exist, these four ladies have been friends for years. They know everything about life in New York and every one who matters. They also know too much about each other and some know more than they let on. Plenty of drama and a in-depth look at the challenges of a midlife woman.
The author offers up a story full of secrets to hide and the scramble to still be someone in society. This book is an engrossing read that took me by surprise. While the beginning felt a tad slow as we got to meet the ladies, the story really picked up and became intriguing as the second half developed.
Even though I figured out some of the mysteries along with way, the ending was still a lovely surprise that leaves you with a feel good memory that all can be right with the world, even through the pressures of New York society.
March 29, 2017
Grade: C-
A Dangerous Age blurb gives off an an older womens’ sex in the city vibe. While there is definitely that vibe, I felt it was more of an insulated journey of discovery for a group of four 40 plus friends whose lives begin to unravel and they must figure out how to stop the flow… and if they really want to. Using current events along with a definite nod towards various designers, establishments, and celebrity personalities, Bensimon gives readers an insider’s view into the ups and downs of being a socialite in a city that celebrates beauty and youth over everything.
An interesting, if not somewhat shallow and superficial, book that brings forth some stunning revelations from the overall dramatic mess of these four women. I enjoy reading dramatic women’s fiction; especially from well-known drama queens. I enjoyed Brandi Glenville’s revenge-fueled divorce docu-comedy and Jenna Jamisons’ romance contemporary was much better than I expected so I thought to give this one a try. As a woman over 40, I can certainly empathize with some of the issues these women deal with in here. The world we live in constantly bombards us with messages that we must do everything humanly possible to stay young and attractive. Exercise, surgery, chemicals, etc…It’s exhausting and depressing. Especially as men are allowed to age with minimal fuss while society treats women as if we broke a major covenant by allowing a wrinkle to grace our face or gray hair to converge on our head naturally.
There is some drag to the storyline and the dialogue ranges from humorous to trite to a grammatical mess. The sheer amount of brand advertising is ridiculous but as this is a book about NY socialites and written by a former Real Housewives reality star so you can’t be too shocked by it. A mysterious subplot involving a blogger just made me laugh. A Dangerous Age is a lightweight ball of fluff that doesn’t require much in terms of thought or commitment. Fashionistas and reality show minions will adore this homage to Gods that keeps NY revolving while others will just wonder what the hell these women are talking about.
A Dangerous Age blurb gives off an an older womens’ sex in the city vibe. While there is definitely that vibe, I felt it was more of an insulated journey of discovery for a group of four 40 plus friends whose lives begin to unravel and they must figure out how to stop the flow… and if they really want to. Using current events along with a definite nod towards various designers, establishments, and celebrity personalities, Bensimon gives readers an insider’s view into the ups and downs of being a socialite in a city that celebrates beauty and youth over everything.
An interesting, if not somewhat shallow and superficial, book that brings forth some stunning revelations from the overall dramatic mess of these four women. I enjoy reading dramatic women’s fiction; especially from well-known drama queens. I enjoyed Brandi Glenville’s revenge-fueled divorce docu-comedy and Jenna Jamisons’ romance contemporary was much better than I expected so I thought to give this one a try. As a woman over 40, I can certainly empathize with some of the issues these women deal with in here. The world we live in constantly bombards us with messages that we must do everything humanly possible to stay young and attractive. Exercise, surgery, chemicals, etc…It’s exhausting and depressing. Especially as men are allowed to age with minimal fuss while society treats women as if we broke a major covenant by allowing a wrinkle to grace our face or gray hair to converge on our head naturally.
There is some drag to the storyline and the dialogue ranges from humorous to trite to a grammatical mess. The sheer amount of brand advertising is ridiculous but as this is a book about NY socialites and written by a former Real Housewives reality star so you can’t be too shocked by it. A mysterious subplot involving a blogger just made me laugh. A Dangerous Age is a lightweight ball of fluff that doesn’t require much in terms of thought or commitment. Fashionistas and reality show minions will adore this homage to Gods that keeps NY revolving while others will just wonder what the hell these women are talking about.
May 27, 2016
This story centers around the New York Society and four friends trying to live life in that Society Circle. As with friends who have been friends for a long time they all know everything there is to know about each other. Some things they all acknowledge openly and others they keep to themselves. We have a chef/caterer turned author, a beautiful woman known for her recreational drug use and owns an art gallery, the Society member soon to be married to a Wall Street tycoon, and the Midwest transplant who was a former model and the voice of the story. We follow these woman as they maneuver thru their lives and Society, as they live day to day, and each one oblivious to how their actions will affect their futures or even that they are responsible for where they each are in their lives. This is a great read looking into a window on what New York Society would be like. I would like to thank the Publisher and Net Galley for the chance to read this ARC.
March 24, 2017
Originally posted at SmexyBooks-http://smexybooks.com/2017/03/march-m...
Grade: C-
A Dangerous Age blurb gives off an an older womens’ sex in the city vibe. While there is definitely that vibe, I felt it was more of an insulated journey of discovery for a group of four 40 plus friends whose lives begin to unravel and they must figure out how to stop the flow… and if they really want to. Using current events along with a definite nod towards various designers, establishments, and celebrity personalities, Bensimon gives readers an insider’s view into the ups and downs of being a socialite in a city that celebrates beauty and youth over everything.
An interesting, if not somewhat shallow and superficial, book that brings forth some stunning revelations from the overall dramatic mess of these four women. I enjoy reading dramatic women’s fiction; especially from well-known drama queens. I enjoyed Brandi Glenville’s revenge-fueled divorce docu-comedy and Jenna Jamisons’ romance contemporary was much better than I expected so I thought to give this one a try. As a woman over 40, I can certainly empathize with some of the issues these women deal with in here. The world we live in constantly bombards us with messages that we must do everything humanly possible to stay young and attractive. Exercise, surgery, chemicals, etc…It’s exhausting and depressing. Especially as men are allowed to age with minimal fuss while society treats women as if we broke a major covenant by allowing a wrinkle to grace our face or gray hair to converge on our head naturally.
There is some drag to the storyline and the dialogue ranges from humorous to trite to a grammatical mess. The sheer amount of brand advertising is ridiculous but as this is a book about NY socialites and written by a former Real Housewives reality star so you can’t be too shocked by it. A mysterious subplot involving a blogger just made me laugh. A Dangerous Age is a lightweight ball of fluff that doesn’t require much in terms of thought or commitment. Fashionistas and reality show minions will adore this homage to the gods who keep NY revolving while others will just wonder what the hell these women are talking about.
Grade: C-
A Dangerous Age blurb gives off an an older womens’ sex in the city vibe. While there is definitely that vibe, I felt it was more of an insulated journey of discovery for a group of four 40 plus friends whose lives begin to unravel and they must figure out how to stop the flow… and if they really want to. Using current events along with a definite nod towards various designers, establishments, and celebrity personalities, Bensimon gives readers an insider’s view into the ups and downs of being a socialite in a city that celebrates beauty and youth over everything.
An interesting, if not somewhat shallow and superficial, book that brings forth some stunning revelations from the overall dramatic mess of these four women. I enjoy reading dramatic women’s fiction; especially from well-known drama queens. I enjoyed Brandi Glenville’s revenge-fueled divorce docu-comedy and Jenna Jamisons’ romance contemporary was much better than I expected so I thought to give this one a try. As a woman over 40, I can certainly empathize with some of the issues these women deal with in here. The world we live in constantly bombards us with messages that we must do everything humanly possible to stay young and attractive. Exercise, surgery, chemicals, etc…It’s exhausting and depressing. Especially as men are allowed to age with minimal fuss while society treats women as if we broke a major covenant by allowing a wrinkle to grace our face or gray hair to converge on our head naturally.
There is some drag to the storyline and the dialogue ranges from humorous to trite to a grammatical mess. The sheer amount of brand advertising is ridiculous but as this is a book about NY socialites and written by a former Real Housewives reality star so you can’t be too shocked by it. A mysterious subplot involving a blogger just made me laugh. A Dangerous Age is a lightweight ball of fluff that doesn’t require much in terms of thought or commitment. Fashionistas and reality show minions will adore this homage to the gods who keep NY revolving while others will just wonder what the hell these women are talking about.
June 2, 2016
Stretch out on the chaise by a pool or beach and dive into the lives of four longtime friends in NYC that are at pivotal points in their lives. Then appreciate the fact that the characters are over the age of 40, dress fabulously, dine well, drink often, work out like bosses, own their sexuality and still have aspirations for themselves.
This is my sophisticated guilty pleasure read for the summer.
A Dangerous Age is basically the perfect equation for an entertaining chick lit read; one part grown-up version of Gossip Girl with the mysterious blogger + two parts Sex in the City for the fashion sense and friendships + a dash of Real Housewives drama for fun.
Art, gastronomy and literature play parts in this story as well. Actual culture in chick lit is as refreshing as fresh raspberries threaded onto a sprig of rosemary garnishing a craft cocktail! Mentions of fashion, art, food, etc. would naturally be included because that’s the world these women are constantly exposed to and live in. It’s authentic rather than pretentious or forced.
Another thing to be appreciated is that these women eat, literally all the time and not once does anyone body shame another or deny themselves or make a negative comment about their weight. They’re self-confident enough to enjoy food and booze and men without apologies.
There aren’t any huge twists or surprises but A Dangerous Age does hit all of those points that make for a great summer read. Pop a bottle of bubbly, settle in and enjoy.
I received an advanced copy of A Dangerous Age via NetGalley for an honest review of this book. Thanks to the publisher and author for the opportunity!
This is my sophisticated guilty pleasure read for the summer.
A Dangerous Age is basically the perfect equation for an entertaining chick lit read; one part grown-up version of Gossip Girl with the mysterious blogger + two parts Sex in the City for the fashion sense and friendships + a dash of Real Housewives drama for fun.
Art, gastronomy and literature play parts in this story as well. Actual culture in chick lit is as refreshing as fresh raspberries threaded onto a sprig of rosemary garnishing a craft cocktail! Mentions of fashion, art, food, etc. would naturally be included because that’s the world these women are constantly exposed to and live in. It’s authentic rather than pretentious or forced.
Another thing to be appreciated is that these women eat, literally all the time and not once does anyone body shame another or deny themselves or make a negative comment about their weight. They’re self-confident enough to enjoy food and booze and men without apologies.
There aren’t any huge twists or surprises but A Dangerous Age does hit all of those points that make for a great summer read. Pop a bottle of bubbly, settle in and enjoy.
I received an advanced copy of A Dangerous Age via NetGalley for an honest review of this book. Thanks to the publisher and author for the opportunity!
May 24, 2016
“A Dangerous Age” by Kelly Killoren Bensimon, published by Gallery Books.
Category – Fiction/Literature Publication Date – June 07, 2016.
When does one encounter “A Dangerous Age”, in New York it would seem to be not only your numerical age but when one seems to lose the vitality and beauty associated with the young and vibrant?
Four young ladies who have grown up together and have enjoyed a wonderful New York life now find themselves possibly on the outside looking in. How does one combat this change in life? Do you help one another or is it every girl for herself. If you choose to help, are you helping yourself as well, or are you only looking out for your own welfare.
These four ladies not only have to face those questions but also must face a possible complete turnaround in their lives. They can no longer expect things to be the same, and may find it a difficult course to leave their world of comfort.
A wonderful novel that is definitely geared toward women, a novel that will keep the reader wondering how these four women will come out on the other side. Will they accept the changes that they have to make, or will they maintain the status quo and become another victim to the young women invading their world.
Category – Fiction/Literature Publication Date – June 07, 2016.
When does one encounter “A Dangerous Age”, in New York it would seem to be not only your numerical age but when one seems to lose the vitality and beauty associated with the young and vibrant?
Four young ladies who have grown up together and have enjoyed a wonderful New York life now find themselves possibly on the outside looking in. How does one combat this change in life? Do you help one another or is it every girl for herself. If you choose to help, are you helping yourself as well, or are you only looking out for your own welfare.
These four ladies not only have to face those questions but also must face a possible complete turnaround in their lives. They can no longer expect things to be the same, and may find it a difficult course to leave their world of comfort.
A wonderful novel that is definitely geared toward women, a novel that will keep the reader wondering how these four women will come out on the other side. Will they accept the changes that they have to make, or will they maintain the status quo and become another victim to the young women invading their world.
March 29, 2016
Wow, at first I was like okay this is really hard to get into. A lot of characters and why do authors have to name their characters with the same first consonants? And then when they start using nicknames? My mind just goes on overload. That being said, once I FINALLY figured out who everyone was, I really got into this book. (Definitely over my 100 page limit) The mysterious texts, the copycat picture, who was Odin? and the way Lucy would let Titus treat her? That right there serious got my palm up and ready for some serious slapping. Although I thought I knew early on who the textor was and I did! (Get it yourself and see if you can guess!)
Like I said, it took a while, but I did get into it. There was pieces of mystery involved that really wanted to make me read further. If it hadn't got better it was going to be "Bye Felicia", but it picked up, way up.
Huge thanks to Gallery, Threshold Books for approving me and to Net Galley for providing me with a free e-galley in exchange for an honest review!
Like I said, it took a while, but I did get into it. There was pieces of mystery involved that really wanted to make me read further. If it hadn't got better it was going to be "Bye Felicia", but it picked up, way up.
Huge thanks to Gallery, Threshold Books for approving me and to Net Galley for providing me with a free e-galley in exchange for an honest review!
March 22, 2017
Girl Drama
May 11, 2016
I don’t know about you, but I love a cute and funny ‘girlfriends’ type of book. If you’re looking for a nice story that has a little bit of everything in it, this is the story for you. Any woman who is in their 40s or about to embark down the fabulous forties road, will definitely be able to relate to these smartly crafted characters.
What’s strange is that I never really thought about my forties being a dangerous age. To me, your age is truly a number, but what that number represents for some women can make all the world of difference. Take Lucy, our protagonist. She’s forty-two and in an 18-year old marriage to one of New York’s finest artists, Titus. Things just aren’t what they seem anymore. Everything has gotten old, especially since her hubby is several years older than her. All the things they used to do together have come to an abrupt halt. She’s in a very vulnerable and insecure state; not exactly sure what has become of her and Titus. They don’t even share a marital bed anymore, and sex has all but become nonexistent. Thankfully, she has her three solid rocks to fall upon for support, Sarah, Lotta and Billy. If it weren’t for them, she’d be in worse shape than her mental state already is.
Unfortunately, even though she has them for comfort, they, too, have their own fair share of problems. But the one thing that remains a constant in their lives is that they have each other to lean on. Lucy’s mother seems to have it all put together. She’s in her sixties and living life to the fullest. She’s trying to get her daughter to add a little heat to her otherwise fizzling marriage. Lucy doesn’t really want to take her mother’s advice. Sarah is so intent on getting her reality show, all she cares about is who will see her and creating as much buzz in the media circuit as she can muster. Lotta certainly has a great name because everything she does is ‘a lotta’ it. She’s into any and everything that has a pulse and makes her feel like she’s reliving her twenties again. One minute they were young women looking forward to the future and before anyone blinked, their forties crept up on them out of nowhere. Where did the decades go and who was the thief that robbed them of their youth? Hmm, that thief is none other than Father Time, and he isn’t always a great daddy depending on how you spent your time coming up the ranks, as these four women soon found out the hard way.
Lucy has another dilemma. While she’s deeply concerned that her husband no longer desires her, she’s been receiving some rather racy text messages from an unknown person. Every time she goes down the street, she’s constantly looking over her shoulder to see if the man standing a little too close or walking by too swiftly is ‘the’ one who has been texting her. She’s falling in love with a text. Oh dear, how sad can you get? Who knew words could be so powerful? Lotta does a little too much drinking and drugging. Sarah is pretty uptight, until the producers for her would-be reality show comes to a dinner party she hosts that her bestie, Billy, has slaved over the stove for. It turned out to be a party that soon no one would ever forget.
Needless to say, these women had a little bit of everything going on in their lives and this was truly an unforgettable read. I enjoyed the comedy and realness to these women. Any woman can really relate to these characters regardless as to what stage of life you’re in. This is definitely one of those books that qualifies under the “me time” category. Get you a glass of nice wine, sit back and enjoy. I know I certainly did.
The Sexy Nerd gives this novel four stars. It’s a very satisfying read, cute and zany all wrapped up into one. This would be an outstanding book for any women’s book clubs out there. I can just see the cork popping, wine flowing and the laughter beginning. This is definitely a woman’s read, and one you’ll be talking about for years to come.
What’s strange is that I never really thought about my forties being a dangerous age. To me, your age is truly a number, but what that number represents for some women can make all the world of difference. Take Lucy, our protagonist. She’s forty-two and in an 18-year old marriage to one of New York’s finest artists, Titus. Things just aren’t what they seem anymore. Everything has gotten old, especially since her hubby is several years older than her. All the things they used to do together have come to an abrupt halt. She’s in a very vulnerable and insecure state; not exactly sure what has become of her and Titus. They don’t even share a marital bed anymore, and sex has all but become nonexistent. Thankfully, she has her three solid rocks to fall upon for support, Sarah, Lotta and Billy. If it weren’t for them, she’d be in worse shape than her mental state already is.
Unfortunately, even though she has them for comfort, they, too, have their own fair share of problems. But the one thing that remains a constant in their lives is that they have each other to lean on. Lucy’s mother seems to have it all put together. She’s in her sixties and living life to the fullest. She’s trying to get her daughter to add a little heat to her otherwise fizzling marriage. Lucy doesn’t really want to take her mother’s advice. Sarah is so intent on getting her reality show, all she cares about is who will see her and creating as much buzz in the media circuit as she can muster. Lotta certainly has a great name because everything she does is ‘a lotta’ it. She’s into any and everything that has a pulse and makes her feel like she’s reliving her twenties again. One minute they were young women looking forward to the future and before anyone blinked, their forties crept up on them out of nowhere. Where did the decades go and who was the thief that robbed them of their youth? Hmm, that thief is none other than Father Time, and he isn’t always a great daddy depending on how you spent your time coming up the ranks, as these four women soon found out the hard way.
Lucy has another dilemma. While she’s deeply concerned that her husband no longer desires her, she’s been receiving some rather racy text messages from an unknown person. Every time she goes down the street, she’s constantly looking over her shoulder to see if the man standing a little too close or walking by too swiftly is ‘the’ one who has been texting her. She’s falling in love with a text. Oh dear, how sad can you get? Who knew words could be so powerful? Lotta does a little too much drinking and drugging. Sarah is pretty uptight, until the producers for her would-be reality show comes to a dinner party she hosts that her bestie, Billy, has slaved over the stove for. It turned out to be a party that soon no one would ever forget.
Needless to say, these women had a little bit of everything going on in their lives and this was truly an unforgettable read. I enjoyed the comedy and realness to these women. Any woman can really relate to these characters regardless as to what stage of life you’re in. This is definitely one of those books that qualifies under the “me time” category. Get you a glass of nice wine, sit back and enjoy. I know I certainly did.
The Sexy Nerd gives this novel four stars. It’s a very satisfying read, cute and zany all wrapped up into one. This would be an outstanding book for any women’s book clubs out there. I can just see the cork popping, wine flowing and the laughter beginning. This is definitely a woman’s read, and one you’ll be talking about for years to come.
June 7, 2016
Title: A Dangerous Age
Author: Kelly Killoren
Publisher: Gallery Books
Reviewer: Mollien
Release Date: June 7, 2016
Genre(s): Women's Fiction
Page Count: 368 pages
Heat Level: 2 flames out of 5
Rating: 3 stars out of 5
Blurb:
Review:
This is a story about four women who have been friends for a long time. Some longer than others. They are in their early 40's, and life is different then what it used to be. This is their journey. Their ups and downs and the surprises that they face. I think I am one of the few people that have never watched a real house wife show. The story was interesting, but not my usual type of story.
Review Copy of A Dangerous Age provided by the Gallery Books for an honest Review. Reviewed by Mollien from Alpha Book Club
Author: Kelly Killoren
Publisher: Gallery Books
Reviewer: Mollien
Release Date: June 7, 2016
Genre(s): Women's Fiction
Page Count: 368 pages
Heat Level: 2 flames out of 5
Rating: 3 stars out of 5
Blurb:
Couture royalty meets downtown grit and heady artists mingle with freewheeling socialites in A Dangerous Age, a sophisticated, indulgent, and delicious novel of contemporary New York City that women of all ages will devour.
It’s the dog days of a sweltering Manhattan summer, and four sophisticated best friends who once took New York by storm are secretly falling apart at the seams. Lucy’s marriage to a renowned artist is slowly crumbling, with an explosive secret that threatens them both. Sarah, in the middle of auditioning for an auspicious new television show, realizes that her socialite standing is in jeopardy after countless disastrous events. Billy—a queen in the kitchen—has finally left her former life behind to become a highbrow cuisine artist. And Lotta, a knockout downtown art dealer, spends her free time guzzling cocktails in both the grittiest and most expensive clubs around town—but now, she’s taken it a little too far.
In this addicting and refreshing comedy of manners reminiscent of Edith Wharton, Lucy, Sarah, Billy, and Lotta go to all ends to hide their troubles in a city that worships only the young, twentysomething it-girl. But in the end, there’s no denying that these women have all entered a very dangerous age...and who knows how they’ll emerge on the other side.
Review:
This is a story about four women who have been friends for a long time. Some longer than others. They are in their early 40's, and life is different then what it used to be. This is their journey. Their ups and downs and the surprises that they face. I think I am one of the few people that have never watched a real house wife show. The story was interesting, but not my usual type of story.
Review Copy of A Dangerous Age provided by the Gallery Books for an honest Review. Reviewed by Mollien from Alpha Book Club
May 31, 2016
Check out my review here: http://ivoryowlreviews.blogspot.com/2...
Disclaimer: I was given a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. I received no additional compensation.
My Review:
I was beyond impressed with this novel. I wasn't sure what to expect from a Real Housewife. Well, I expected fluff. Even though the storyline follows a familiar set-up (4 women in NYC) it did not rely on cupcakes and shoes to carry the pace. Each of the women have their own problems but this story is told from Lucy's point of view. She is funny and rational. I didn't roll my eyes at any of her thoughts or statements (like I tend to do with a lot of "women's fiction" protagonists.) She is supportive of her artist husband's routines and quirks but when their sex life is all but forgotten, it's easy to think that he may be having an affair with one of his models. There are a few "secrets" that I was so happy to have not figured out until they were exposed. I've been wanting a "women's fiction" release that was not sappy sweet perfection, beach houses in the rain, and all the same boring scenes. A Dangerous Age hit the mark.
Disclaimer: I was given a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. I received no additional compensation.
My Review:
I was beyond impressed with this novel. I wasn't sure what to expect from a Real Housewife. Well, I expected fluff. Even though the storyline follows a familiar set-up (4 women in NYC) it did not rely on cupcakes and shoes to carry the pace. Each of the women have their own problems but this story is told from Lucy's point of view. She is funny and rational. I didn't roll my eyes at any of her thoughts or statements (like I tend to do with a lot of "women's fiction" protagonists.) She is supportive of her artist husband's routines and quirks but when their sex life is all but forgotten, it's easy to think that he may be having an affair with one of his models. There are a few "secrets" that I was so happy to have not figured out until they were exposed. I've been wanting a "women's fiction" release that was not sappy sweet perfection, beach houses in the rain, and all the same boring scenes. A Dangerous Age hit the mark.
June 1, 2016
I LOVED this book! My favorite aspects of women's fiction are all here: NYC, fashion, friendship, art, glitz and glamour, food, humor...all combined with a bit of a mystery and a writing style that brings you right in and doesn't let you go. I didn't want this book to end. I was honestly quite surprised at how well written it was, I was expecting fluff considering the author is a former Real Housewife of New York but there were several times this book forced some deep thinking and had me pondering on love vs desire and choices we make. I'm looking forward to reading more from this author. Highly recommended! Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the ARC
Read
June 14, 2016As a fan of RHONYC, I was attracted to the book because it seemed to promise an insider view. It kind of delivers, but aspects of it are really half baked. One plot thread has Lucy playing cat and mouse with a mysterious blogger, meeting her and getting to ask questions. The questions are just so dumb; the blogger advises her, and with good reason, "Be better." That correspondence, and the resulting column, could have been places to do so many fun things and all they did was cement my feeling that the character had no business being a writer.
Also, what are all these rich people doing in Manhattan all summer, never going to the Hampton?
Also, what are all these rich people doing in Manhattan all summer, never going to the Hampton?
April 20, 2024
Hosestly, a perfect chic lit novel. The writing was engaging, there were some great quotes and thought provoking monologues. Predictable at times, but still a really fun beach read. If you like Lauren Weisberger and The Devil Wears Prada type of writing, you'll enjoy this one too.
July 11, 2021
This book felt like a trip from Kansas to Nebraska in a car with no air conditioning. It was slow, unpleasant, boring, and uneventful.
May 13, 2017
2 not so dangerous stars for A DANGEROUS AGE.
Four longtime friends, 40-somethings in the city, spend a sultry summer contemplating the meaning of life, their own mortality and whether they can have real, lasting happiness. Lucy, Sarah, Billy and Lotta get together frequently, sharing stories and struggles of reality TV shows, artists, sex with strangers and lots and lots of food, wine and drugs.
I'll preface this by saying that I'm an artsy person. It's been part of my life since I was a child, in fact it was even my minor in college. But Ms. Killoren acutely captures that which I hate most about the art world: the esoteric musings, the "fuck you" (but please PLEASE like my work) mentality and the ridiculously pretentious discussions that make observers feel both confused and insane with anger. As for A DANGEROUS AGE as a whole…I didn't care for it. The constant threat and encouragement of infidelity, the sheer ridiculousness of Lucy's home life with husband Titus, Lotta's hot messiness and Sarah's strange middle-aged compulsion to land a reality TV show. Though I don't know her work, I understand that the author is a socialite, former model and Real Housewife, so I'm gathering that A DANGEROUS AGE is somewhat autobiographical. I'll skip the second half of her story (and the next story in this series), thanks. With no actual sex scenes, reading about a bunch of snooty NYC women drinking and chatting (only occasionally about sex) left me yawning and wishing I was doing just about anything else.
Four longtime friends, 40-somethings in the city, spend a sultry summer contemplating the meaning of life, their own mortality and whether they can have real, lasting happiness. Lucy, Sarah, Billy and Lotta get together frequently, sharing stories and struggles of reality TV shows, artists, sex with strangers and lots and lots of food, wine and drugs.
I'll preface this by saying that I'm an artsy person. It's been part of my life since I was a child, in fact it was even my minor in college. But Ms. Killoren acutely captures that which I hate most about the art world: the esoteric musings, the "fuck you" (but please PLEASE like my work) mentality and the ridiculously pretentious discussions that make observers feel both confused and insane with anger. As for A DANGEROUS AGE as a whole…I didn't care for it. The constant threat and encouragement of infidelity, the sheer ridiculousness of Lucy's home life with husband Titus, Lotta's hot messiness and Sarah's strange middle-aged compulsion to land a reality TV show. Though I don't know her work, I understand that the author is a socialite, former model and Real Housewife, so I'm gathering that A DANGEROUS AGE is somewhat autobiographical. I'll skip the second half of her story (and the next story in this series), thanks. With no actual sex scenes, reading about a bunch of snooty NYC women drinking and chatting (only occasionally about sex) left me yawning and wishing I was doing just about anything else.
September 30, 2026
This was very RHONY coded, even if Kelly herself claims she was trying to make the friend group within more authentic than the one she was involved with.
Billy is very Bethenny coded, and I'll die on this hill.
The art society stuff was a little boring, but it was a dishy, trashy read - a good palate cleansing one that I'd been meaning to read since before it came out (I was approved for the eARC on Netgalley and never downloaded it before it archived) and bought it years ago, long before I even branched out beyond Jersey housewives, so I didn't really know who Kelly was. Even though she had a ghost writer (that was a whole storyline in later seasons between two other wives) this was decently done for what it is.
Billy is very Bethenny coded, and I'll die on this hill.
The art society stuff was a little boring, but it was a dishy, trashy read - a good palate cleansing one that I'd been meaning to read since before it came out (I was approved for the eARC on Netgalley and never downloaded it before it archived) and bought it years ago, long before I even branched out beyond Jersey housewives, so I didn't really know who Kelly was. Even though she had a ghost writer (that was a whole storyline in later seasons between two other wives) this was decently done for what it is.
July 31, 2017
I'm a sucker for any book in which NYC plays a character... especially the glamorous, over-the-top character it is. At first I was distracted by the writing style (terrible? strange flow?) then I got into the pace and the story. I guessed most of the "plot twists" but it was still enjoyable food for thought on the lives being lived all around/on top of us and the boatloads of characters this city contains. Also was a well-timed read after running into KB at SoulCycle in the Hamptons 💁🏻
May 13, 2017
An entertaining story. After reading a serious classic, I was looking for something light and less depressing. I didn't have high hopes for the quality of the story, but I was pleasantly surprised. There was more depth to the story & main character than expected, making this a good 3.5 star read.
July 9, 2018
I was shocked to like this novel more than I expected initially. It’s a really great, easy, fun summer read. The “mysteries” are obvious but it’s NYC candy from the name drops to the clothes to the locations.
February 17, 2017
something about this book made me think of an ultra modern version of the women. The ending was unexpected. Great summer poolside read. This has adult content.- language, sexual situations ect
June 22, 2017
Interesting read about 4 friends in New York
July 9, 2017
Nothing happened the entire book, but at least it was a fast read. Kelly is more fun on the Real Housewives, obviously.
August 16, 2017
Not as bad as I thought it was going to be
June 30, 2019
It was not as thrilling as I thought it was going to be. The last 50 pages made the whole book.
August 4, 2019
This was a perfect rich bitch Manhattan summer book
July 16, 2020
omg if you like sex and the city this is the perfect book for you
March 22, 2017
A story about four friends in NYC. All are in their 40's and all are somewhat of a mess. I found the main character annoying and the others weren't any better. Not the kind of book about women's friendship that is at all uplifting. I wouldn't read it again.
March 12, 2017
This was a fun read; like in an episode of Sex and the City, the characters were obsessed with labels, partying, names, and style. A quick read, with a bit of romance, mystery, and drugs. I enjoy reading all the references to the lives of chic New York City socialites.
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