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Hollywood's Garden of Allah #6
Twisted Boulevard: A Novel of Golden-Era Hollywood
Have you ever wanted to climb into a time machine and visit Hollywood during its heyday? When the Red Scare ends, paranoia lingers. Can Tinseltown recover to take on television? After an exile from MGM, ousted screenwriter Marcus Adler is looking for his way back into the biz. When he hatches a plan to start over with a disgraced movie star, a Hollywood censor reminds Marcus that the misdeeds of the past aren’t soon forgotten. Hollywood Reporter columnist Kathryn Massey is always looking for a hot tip. She never expected it would come from Lauren Bacall, and point her toward a new career high. But when a trip to the set of Sunset Boulevard reveals a haunting glimpse into her past, Kathryn isn’t sure who to trust, especially when a hot new rival hits town. Gwendolyn Brick thought her new store would be a hit, but she never realized it could become a target. Threatened by Los Angeles’ most notorious madam, Gwendolyn will need a Hollywood-style miracle to keep her store alive. Twisted Boulevard is the sixth installment in the Hollywood’s Garden of Allah saga. If you like richly woven details, the Golden Age of Hollywood, and characters who come to life, then you’ll love Martin Turnbull’s captivating historical fiction series. Hollywood’s Garden of Allah Book 1 – “The Garden on Sunset” Book 2 – “The Trouble with Scarlett” Book 3 – “Citizen Hollywood” Book 4 – “Searchlights and Shadows” Book 5 – “Reds in the Beds” Book 6 – “Twisted Boulevard” Martin Turnbull's Garden of Allah novels have been optioned for the screen by film & television producer, Tabrez Noorani. INTERVIEW WITH THE AUTHOR Your Garden of Allah novels are rich in the history and lore of classic era Hollywood. What was your original inspiration? I came across an online article about the Garden of Allah Hotel, which opened on Sunset Boulevard in 1927 just before “The Jazz Singer” ushered in the talkies, and closed in 1959, the year that “Ben Hur” announced the last hurrah of the studio system. The Garden’s residents witnessed the unfolding evolution of Hollywood and actively participated in it. How has writing these novels changed your view of this golden age that we perceive as the greatest era of film production? L.A. was a much less densely populated city. Consequently, all movie industry workers were far more likely to know each other. People moved from MGM to Paramount to Twentieth Century-Fox to RKO to Warner Bros. Two or three degrees of separation were usually enough! Why did you not go the safe route and change the names of the major players to suit your story? The whole point of recounting the history of Hollywood through the eyes of the Garden’s residents was because so many celebrities lived there. Harpo Marx and Sergei Rachmaninoff were neighbors, F. Scott Fitzgerald played charades with Dorothy Parker, Errol Flynn got drunk, Ginger Rogers was always looking for a tennis partner, and Bogart courted Bacall. I Why tell it if I’m going to change the names? Do you think stories set in old Hollywood are becoming more popular because of Turner Classic Movies? <
381 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 4, 2016
101 people are currently reading
191 people want to read
About the author
Martin Turnbull
22 books241 followersMartin Turnbull has worked as a private tour guide showing both locals and out-of-towners the movie studios, Beverly Hills mansions, Hollywood hills vistas and where all the bodies are buried. For nine years, he has also volunteered as an historical walking tour docent with the Los Angeles Conservancy. He worked for a summer as a guide at the Warner Bros. movie studios in Burbank showing movie fans through the sound stages where Bogie and Bacall, Bette Davis, Errol Flynn, and James Cagney created some of Hollywood’s classic motion pictures.
From an early age, Martin was enchanted with old movies from Hollywood’s golden era–from the dawn of the talkies in the late 1920s to the dusk of the studio system in the late 1950s–and has spent many, many a happy hour watching the likes of Garland, Gable, Crawford, Garbo, Grant, Miller, Kelly, Astaire, Rogers, Turner, Welles go through their paces.
When he discovered the wonderful world of biographies, autobiographies, and memoirs, his love of reading merged with his love of movies and his love of history to produce a three-headed hydra gobbling up everything in his path. Ever since then, he’s been on a mission to learn and share as much as he can about this unique time.
Originally from Melbourne, Australia, Martin moved to Los Angeles in the mid-90s.
From an early age, Martin was enchanted with old movies from Hollywood’s golden era–from the dawn of the talkies in the late 1920s to the dusk of the studio system in the late 1950s–and has spent many, many a happy hour watching the likes of Garland, Gable, Crawford, Garbo, Grant, Miller, Kelly, Astaire, Rogers, Turner, Welles go through their paces.
When he discovered the wonderful world of biographies, autobiographies, and memoirs, his love of reading merged with his love of movies and his love of history to produce a three-headed hydra gobbling up everything in his path. Ever since then, he’s been on a mission to learn and share as much as he can about this unique time.
Originally from Melbourne, Australia, Martin moved to Los Angeles in the mid-90s.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
March 11, 2017
I was hesitant to read what I thought was the last volume in The Garden of Allah series, but lo and behold, Vol VII: Tinseltown Confidential will be released in June. Whew! I don't think I've enjoyed following the lives of such characters since I read Marilyn Harris's Eden series. This was another fun ride full of scandal, sin, and secrets. The ending is a humdinger, played to the melodramatic hilt and I ate up every word of it. But now that I'm finished, the month of June seems so far away.
July 16, 2017
Each book in this series is better than the last!
Unlike a lot of books that are part of a series, Martin Turnbull's Garden of Allah books only get better with each new offering. Twisted Boulevard certainly continues this pattern; in fact, it might be my favorite in the whole series. Although every book by Martin is well-written and a ton of fun to read, this is a series that rewards you for sticking around.
For all of us who daydream of being a fly on the wall at the Garden of Allah, or one of the swanky clubs and restaurants frequented by our favorite classic Hollywood stars, Martin's book bring us as close to that reality as we'll ever get. In Twisted Boulevard, we meet back up with Kathryn, Gwendolyn, and Marcus, and we're also introduced to a few new characters, some of them historic, such as Walter Winchell. Martin's ability to interweave the stories of the characters he's created with real-life famous celebrities is what makes his books so delicious. We can really pretend we're attending the LA premiere of All About Eve to support our friend Bette Davis, or that we're verbally sparring with rival entertainment personality Walter Winchell while Spencer Tracy stumbles towards the bar.
I highly recommend this book and the series it's part of if you're a fan of the Golden Era of Hollywood. Martin's love for this era and its beloved stars shines through on every page, and this is escapism at its best. My only complaint is that Martin's not a magician that can turn these books out every week!
Unlike a lot of books that are part of a series, Martin Turnbull's Garden of Allah books only get better with each new offering. Twisted Boulevard certainly continues this pattern; in fact, it might be my favorite in the whole series. Although every book by Martin is well-written and a ton of fun to read, this is a series that rewards you for sticking around.
For all of us who daydream of being a fly on the wall at the Garden of Allah, or one of the swanky clubs and restaurants frequented by our favorite classic Hollywood stars, Martin's book bring us as close to that reality as we'll ever get. In Twisted Boulevard, we meet back up with Kathryn, Gwendolyn, and Marcus, and we're also introduced to a few new characters, some of them historic, such as Walter Winchell. Martin's ability to interweave the stories of the characters he's created with real-life famous celebrities is what makes his books so delicious. We can really pretend we're attending the LA premiere of All About Eve to support our friend Bette Davis, or that we're verbally sparring with rival entertainment personality Walter Winchell while Spencer Tracy stumbles towards the bar.
I highly recommend this book and the series it's part of if you're a fan of the Golden Era of Hollywood. Martin's love for this era and its beloved stars shines through on every page, and this is escapism at its best. My only complaint is that Martin's not a magician that can turn these books out every week!
November 29, 2017
The Garden of Allah novels by Martin Turnbull are just plain fun to read. We started off during the silent era and progressed through the coming of sound, a Great Depression, World War II, the HUAC and now the threatening presence of television. All through the series, we get to know Marcus Adler, Kathryn Massey and Gwendolyn Brick who each have stories of their own. In Book 6, Marcus's love life takes a sudden curve, Kathryn discovers some not-so-good information about the father she never knew and Gwendolyn ends up with her own business along with some incriminating evidence that threatens the very core of Tinseltown. Mr. Turnbull cleverly weaves Hollywood history and it's real-life characters into the story-line. My favorite is Kathryn's relationship with tough gal Bette Davis. If you like reading about Hollywood, than the Garden of Allah series is for you! Looking forward to the next one!
March 2, 2020
Book 6 follows Marcus as he tries to get back into screenwriting, with mixed success. Television provides a brief opportunity, but in the end he has to leave the country to continue on with his career. He searches for and finds Oliver, and in the end it goes better than expected.
Kathryn deals with a scheming new comer (and wins!); learns more about her past and overcomes obstacles in her career.
Gwendolyn has the most interesting storyline in this novel, as she is targeted for her possession of a certain madame's client cards, and has some interesting opportunities come her way.
Another solid novel in the series.
Kathryn deals with a scheming new comer (and wins!); learns more about her past and overcomes obstacles in her career.
Gwendolyn has the most interesting storyline in this novel, as she is targeted for her possession of a certain madame's client cards, and has some interesting opportunities come her way.
Another solid novel in the series.
August 20, 2020
A Hollywood Fan Must Read
This is my first time reading a series and I'm on the 7th book in The Garden of Allah group.I couldn't imagine reading about the same subject repeatedly but have enjoyed all of them thus far. I am very much looking forward to the remaining three books and also sorry to see them end.
Every book is so well written historically, descriptively, well phrased and finely crafted. If you are an old Hollywood fan, to miss reading this would be a shame.
I find myself reading every credit while watching TCM movies. It's as if you have had a personal connection with those in the movies. Please read this series and I hope you enjoy them all as I have.
This is my first time reading a series and I'm on the 7th book in The Garden of Allah group.I couldn't imagine reading about the same subject repeatedly but have enjoyed all of them thus far. I am very much looking forward to the remaining three books and also sorry to see them end.
Every book is so well written historically, descriptively, well phrased and finely crafted. If you are an old Hollywood fan, to miss reading this would be a shame.
I find myself reading every credit while watching TCM movies. It's as if you have had a personal connection with those in the movies. Please read this series and I hope you enjoy them all as I have.
June 29, 2017
As always Martin hits it out the ball park with another awesome read! I posh be reading about Marcus, Katherine and Gwynnie and this one did not disappoint. I feel like I know these characters like friends. Marcus hit some rough patches but things are looking up for him! Can't wait to read the next book and see what's next for these friends!
August 2, 2017
It as eventful or compelling
At least not in the "grand scheme" sort of way. But yay for the appearance of Marilyn! And yay for Oliver getting resolution. The girls and Marcus are getting old--and I still wish there were more of the younger generation . Ruby was good but not quite what I wanted...
At least not in the "grand scheme" sort of way. But yay for the appearance of Marilyn! And yay for Oliver getting resolution. The girls and Marcus are getting old--and I still wish there were more of the younger generation . Ruby was good but not quite what I wanted...
September 5, 2017
SUNSET STRIP ALLAH: BOOK 6
I really hated to finish this book. I felt by this time I was saying goodbye to some old friends. GWENDOLYN finally fulfills her dream, Katherine, has a whole set of new problems come up, which she can always handle, and Marcus, well there's a surprise ending . Good book , have fun! 😁👗🗾👛🏨
I really hated to finish this book. I felt by this time I was saying goodbye to some old friends. GWENDOLYN finally fulfills her dream, Katherine, has a whole set of new problems come up, which she can always handle, and Marcus, well there's a surprise ending . Good book , have fun! 😁👗🗾👛🏨
December 9, 2017
Excellent
The author has done an amazing job of making sure each book is its own and easily connected to one another. The individual novels are a great read, and worth every moment spent reading this series. The story line was well written and enjoyed the variety of entertainment the author created in these stories.
The author has done an amazing job of making sure each book is its own and easily connected to one another. The individual novels are a great read, and worth every moment spent reading this series. The story line was well written and enjoyed the variety of entertainment the author created in these stories.
December 25, 2017
Our three friends have their hands full
Katherine has to watch out for Walter Winchell, Gwendolyn deals with Lincoln Tattler's death and Leila O'Roark's infamous client cards, and they all have to be wary of Ruby Court land.
At least things are looking up for Marcus. All aboard for this roller coaster ride to '50's Hollywood.
Katherine has to watch out for Walter Winchell, Gwendolyn deals with Lincoln Tattler's death and Leila O'Roark's infamous client cards, and they all have to be wary of Ruby Court land.
At least things are looking up for Marcus. All aboard for this roller coaster ride to '50's Hollywood.
February 17, 2018
I have been enjoying this series. The three main characters are moving on with their lives. Having Marcus go off to Italy to work on movies. Made me wonder about "spaghetti westerns". Will we no longer hear from Marcus now that he's there? Waiting to read book seven because I don't want the series to end.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 29, 2021
I love this series.
I have really loved this series and have become very invested in Katherine, Gwendoline and Marcus. They are fab, very loveable characters. I know I'm edging closer to the end and I know I'll be sorry. These novels are we-written and extremely readable. Recommended.
I have really loved this series and have become very invested in Katherine, Gwendoline and Marcus. They are fab, very loveable characters. I know I'm edging closer to the end and I know I'll be sorry. These novels are we-written and extremely readable. Recommended.
December 11, 2016
Loved this book! Loved the series! I am so very sad the book had to end! Another book coming? I love how the author immerses one into the era; it is almost like you are right next to the characters experiencing what they experience! I hope the series continues!
December 15, 2017
This last book (so far, I hope) in the series is a little more soapy than the others and a little less historical. I would still give it 4 1/2 stars. So if you are thinking of continuing the series, Mr. Turnbull, I'll be there to get the next one.
July 23, 2019
Martin Turnbull requests honest reviews because he is without a New York publisher. After six books, I honestly don’t know why he doesn’t have one. This series is delightful and grows more so with each passing book. I dread it coming to an end.
December 6, 2019
This series is addicting. I can’t wait to finish a book so I can start the next. It’s become a game of mine to do a quick search of the characters in these books. Their lives are fascinating and pieces of history I would have never known had it not been for this series.
June 12, 2020
This series is fun for me. It is not particularly deep, yet I have grown to love these characters as they have moved through the golden ages of Hollywood. Quick and enjoyable reads and always fun to see resolutions they create for events around them.
April 9, 2023
It's #6 out of a series of 9 books. I love these books and characters so much I'm anxious to read through them quickly, but love them so much I don't want them to end. I feel like I have new best friends, Kathryn, Gwendolyn and Marcus.....
October 2, 2018
Love this series.
March 16, 2020
Very enjoyable series
The lives of three friends during the Golden Age of Hollywood are told in this series. I look forward to reading the next book.
The lives of three friends during the Golden Age of Hollywood are told in this series. I look forward to reading the next book.
June 14, 2021
Book Six of Nine. Good continuation of the story. Kindle..
April 21, 2024
Black lists lead the way in this installment. Ending a bit abrupt. Otherwise a good story.
September 29, 2024
Who remembers Sunset Boulevard, this variety delights the senses. Thank you fir your words Martin Turnbull and Lance Roger Axt your superb eloquence, very much appreciated gentlemen (-:
May 26, 2017
Enjoyed it but perhaps not QUITE as much as the others. Didn't seem to have quite as strong a focal point. I do so LOVE the characters however. They are like old friends now.
There are lots of references which always delight me - one to Angelino Heights area of LA, which I fell in love with a couple of visits ago, and another to a song - Nat King Cole's "Nature Boy" is playing on a car radio. It's those kind of atmospherics that make this series great.
Looking forward to the next instalment.
There are lots of references which always delight me - one to Angelino Heights area of LA, which I fell in love with a couple of visits ago, and another to a song - Nat King Cole's "Nature Boy" is playing on a car radio. It's those kind of atmospherics that make this series great.
Looking forward to the next instalment.
February 28, 2017
Number 6 in the wonderful Garden of Allah series does not disappoint! Martin Turnbull delivers another delightful fictional account of life in and around Hollywood's Garden of Allah residence. At this point in the series we are old friends with Kathryn, Marcus, Gwendolyn, and the famous and infamous people rhey associate with. With the Red Scare behind them, the characters are faced with the dawn of television and what it's about to bring. Again, Turnbull weaves fact through glorious fiction to place readers right in the middle of what must have been tumultuous times for Hollywood. I never want these books to end! I'll just have to wait for Book 7, Tinseltown Confidential, which comes out in June. Hooray!
February 6, 2017
I can't believe it's over. This series gets better and better with every book. My fingers are crossed that Mr. Turnbull has another in the works.
Once again, you feel you've been transported back to a golden age of Hollywood surrounded by all the stars in the heavens. This book had the reappearance by Better Davis (among others) and a new curvy blonde. The Hollywood blacklist continues and a madam has a list of names....and of course our trio of friends is right in the middle of everything.
Once again, you feel you've been transported back to a golden age of Hollywood surrounded by all the stars in the heavens. This book had the reappearance by Better Davis (among others) and a new curvy blonde. The Hollywood blacklist continues and a madam has a list of names....and of course our trio of friends is right in the middle of everything.
January 14, 2017
Twisted Boulevard
After finishing this book I *may* have sat for several minutes hugging my kindle and bawling my eyes out (yeah, I totally did). Twisted Boulevard had it all, laughter, tears and righteous indignation. I love the characters in this book. Over the course of this series so far, they have come to feel like family. And who doesn't love a story set against the backdrop of classic Hollywood? This book and the series are just fabulous. I especially appreciated the self doubt and slightly adrift feelings expressed by Kathryn and Marcus, following their 40th birthdays. It is something I, myself, have dealt with since my 40th birthday last year. It really is a rather strange age to be. As for the book, I would highly recommend it to pretty much everyone.
After finishing this book I *may* have sat for several minutes hugging my kindle and bawling my eyes out (yeah, I totally did). Twisted Boulevard had it all, laughter, tears and righteous indignation. I love the characters in this book. Over the course of this series so far, they have come to feel like family. And who doesn't love a story set against the backdrop of classic Hollywood? This book and the series are just fabulous. I especially appreciated the self doubt and slightly adrift feelings expressed by Kathryn and Marcus, following their 40th birthdays. It is something I, myself, have dealt with since my 40th birthday last year. It really is a rather strange age to be. As for the book, I would highly recommend it to pretty much everyone.
February 7, 2017
Another wonderful addition
Every time I read another book in this series I keep waiting for the dud...the one book that's not quite as good as the others, yet it never happens! Twisted Boulevard may be one of my favorites yet. The characters evolve so much in this story, and I hope there is another to follow because I am dying to read what happens next!
Every time I read another book in this series I keep waiting for the dud...the one book that's not quite as good as the others, yet it never happens! Twisted Boulevard may be one of my favorites yet. The characters evolve so much in this story, and I hope there is another to follow because I am dying to read what happens next!
November 15, 2016
Another great story
I love these books. I almost feel like I've gone back in tim while I'm reading. The three main characters are likeable & Turnbull has done a super job of fleshing out their personalities & storylines. I also love the little tidbits he adds in about the real life stars. There's a little part about Hedy Lamar that I had no idea she did in her lifetime, & this story had me looking up more info about her. Can't wait til the next book.
I love these books. I almost feel like I've gone back in tim while I'm reading. The three main characters are likeable & Turnbull has done a super job of fleshing out their personalities & storylines. I also love the little tidbits he adds in about the real life stars. There's a little part about Hedy Lamar that I had no idea she did in her lifetime, & this story had me looking up more info about her. Can't wait til the next book.
November 14, 2016
One of the few series of late that I've followed and looked forward to the next installments. I understand this is the last book, and it does have a note of bittersweet to it. This story takes the main trio into the 50s and the changing industry - blacklists, the advent of television, hints of regime changes among celebrities. I'll miss reading these stories.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews