What do you think?
Rate this book
The Blue Butterfly: A Novel of Marion Davies
New York 1915, Marion Davies is a shy eighteen-year-old beauty dancing on the Broadway stage when she meets William Randolph Hearst and finds herself captivated by his riches, passion and desire to make her a movie star. Following a whirlwind courtship, she learns through trial and error to live as Hearst’s mistress when a divorce from his wife proves impossible. A baby girl is born in secret in 1919 and they agree to never acknowledge her publicly as their own. In a burgeoning Hollywood scene, she works hard making movies while living a lavish partying life that includes a secret love affair with Charlie Chaplin. In late 1937, at the height of the depression, Hearst wrestles with his debtors and failing health, when Marion loans him $1M when nobody else will. Together, they must confront the movie that threatens to invalidate all of Marion’s successes in the movie industry: Citizen Kane.
248 pages, Paperback
First published May 3, 2022
164 people are currently reading
7028 people want to read
About the author
Leslie Johansen Nack
3 books147 followersLeslie Johansen Nack is the author of two award-winning books: her debut memoir, Fourteen, and her historical novel, The Blue Butterfly. Her forthcoming sequel, Nineteen: A Daughter’s Memoir of Reckoning and Recovery, concludes her raw and deeply personal story, chronicling her path to sobriety and a renewed sense of hope. Nack graduated from UCLA with a degree in English literature and overcame past traumas to raise two children in a healthy, loving home. She is a member of NAMW, the Historical Novel Society, and the PNWA. She lives outside Seattle with her husband.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 168 reviews
April 21, 2022
The story of the actress Marion Davies and the publishing baron William Randolph Hearst, comes to life in this fascinating look at one of the legendary romances of the last century. Marion came from a family of four sisters with varying degrees of beauty and talent. Her mother’s goal was to have all her daughters marry into wealth and security, and she believed that the New York stage was the best vehicle for success. Marion and Hearst’s deep and passionate relationship lasted for thirty-four years, but they never married because his wife would not grant him a divorce.
Born in Brooklyn, Marion takes to the stage as a chorus girl, eventually landing a job in the Ziegfeld Follies. There she catches the eye of the wealthy and much older Hearst. He pursues her with gifts and flowers. Even though she is warned against him by her fellow dancers; Marion and Hearst are soon involved in an ardent affair. Hearst takes charge of Marion’s career eventually forming his own movie production company so that Marion can become a film star. Despite Hearst never flagging love for Marion, the two can not marry because Hearst’s wife will not grant him a divorce. Eventually he moves Marion and her family to Hollywood so that Marion’s career can truly take off. Despite her love for Hearst, Marion begins an affair with Charlie Chaplin which continues on and off for years. In the end Marion remains with Hearst until his death, their love and devotion to each other never dying away despite all of the obstacles thrown in their path.
From the bright lights of Broadway, trips to European capitals, yachting to South America, and living in the sumptuous San Simeon, this novel teems with images of wealth, opulence and the famous. Their Hollywood circle of friends include L.B. Mayer, Mary Pickford, Greta Garbo and Clark Gable to name but a few. Wild parties, affairs and gossip are all apart of Marion’s lifestyle. The novel teems with delightful descriptions of exquisite clothes, gleaming jewels, grand mansions, and sumptuous feasts. The Blue Butterfly will transport the reader to another time, as well as a world most of us will experience.
Many of us only know Marion’s story from the vapid portrayal of her in Orson Welles’ movie Citizen Kane. This book paints the picture of a women whose talent, intelligence and drive created a rich life for herself and her family despite the many obstacles thrown in her way. Though her life was not without tragedy, the love between Marion and Hearst was always there sustaining her.
Pulling from far ranging sources such as newspaper and magazine articles; IMBD; the Hearst Castle website; various biographies of Hearst; as well as a posthumously published autobiography of Marion that used her own recorded thoughts; Ms. Nack has brought to the pages of this novel a moving story of Marion Davies and the multi-faceted life she led.
Thank you to She Writes Press and NetGalley for the e-ARC.
Born in Brooklyn, Marion takes to the stage as a chorus girl, eventually landing a job in the Ziegfeld Follies. There she catches the eye of the wealthy and much older Hearst. He pursues her with gifts and flowers. Even though she is warned against him by her fellow dancers; Marion and Hearst are soon involved in an ardent affair. Hearst takes charge of Marion’s career eventually forming his own movie production company so that Marion can become a film star. Despite Hearst never flagging love for Marion, the two can not marry because Hearst’s wife will not grant him a divorce. Eventually he moves Marion and her family to Hollywood so that Marion’s career can truly take off. Despite her love for Hearst, Marion begins an affair with Charlie Chaplin which continues on and off for years. In the end Marion remains with Hearst until his death, their love and devotion to each other never dying away despite all of the obstacles thrown in their path.
From the bright lights of Broadway, trips to European capitals, yachting to South America, and living in the sumptuous San Simeon, this novel teems with images of wealth, opulence and the famous. Their Hollywood circle of friends include L.B. Mayer, Mary Pickford, Greta Garbo and Clark Gable to name but a few. Wild parties, affairs and gossip are all apart of Marion’s lifestyle. The novel teems with delightful descriptions of exquisite clothes, gleaming jewels, grand mansions, and sumptuous feasts. The Blue Butterfly will transport the reader to another time, as well as a world most of us will experience.
Many of us only know Marion’s story from the vapid portrayal of her in Orson Welles’ movie Citizen Kane. This book paints the picture of a women whose talent, intelligence and drive created a rich life for herself and her family despite the many obstacles thrown in her way. Though her life was not without tragedy, the love between Marion and Hearst was always there sustaining her.
Pulling from far ranging sources such as newspaper and magazine articles; IMBD; the Hearst Castle website; various biographies of Hearst; as well as a posthumously published autobiography of Marion that used her own recorded thoughts; Ms. Nack has brought to the pages of this novel a moving story of Marion Davies and the multi-faceted life she led.
Thank you to She Writes Press and NetGalley for the e-ARC.
April 27, 2022
Question: 🤔
Have you ever read a book you enjoyed so much that you could not wait to tell your friends about it? The Blue Butterfly by Leslie Johansen Nack is that book for me. Y-E-S!!! It is that good, and you don't want to miss it!
Who is Marion Davies, and what makes this book a delicious read?
Marion Davies was a silent film star with a brilliant career. Marion never received credit for her work due to her scandalous long-time affair with William Randolph Hearst, the huge multimillionaire newspaper tycoon. Not only was Marion his mistress, but she also had his child out of wedlock and loved him with an unmatched fierce, passionate ferocity.
At one time, Marion was the richest woman in Hollywood and loved entertaining her friends Charlie Chaplin, Mary Pickford, Clark Gable, and Groucho Marx. The book is historical fiction based on true accounts of the classic Hollywood a-listers. It is full of sizzling details about their lavish, sometimes indecent lifestyles. It is "ooh la la" juicy! 🍾🍸
The Blue Butterfly is available on May 3rd.
5 Huge ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Thank you, NetGalley and She Writes Press, for this delectable book. Way to go, Leslie Johansen Nack! Historical fiction fans are going to love this book!
Have you ever read a book you enjoyed so much that you could not wait to tell your friends about it? The Blue Butterfly by Leslie Johansen Nack is that book for me. Y-E-S!!! It is that good, and you don't want to miss it!
Who is Marion Davies, and what makes this book a delicious read?
Marion Davies was a silent film star with a brilliant career. Marion never received credit for her work due to her scandalous long-time affair with William Randolph Hearst, the huge multimillionaire newspaper tycoon. Not only was Marion his mistress, but she also had his child out of wedlock and loved him with an unmatched fierce, passionate ferocity.
At one time, Marion was the richest woman in Hollywood and loved entertaining her friends Charlie Chaplin, Mary Pickford, Clark Gable, and Groucho Marx. The book is historical fiction based on true accounts of the classic Hollywood a-listers. It is full of sizzling details about their lavish, sometimes indecent lifestyles. It is "ooh la la" juicy! 🍾🍸
The Blue Butterfly is available on May 3rd.
5 Huge ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Thank you, NetGalley and She Writes Press, for this delectable book. Way to go, Leslie Johansen Nack! Historical fiction fans are going to love this book!
April 11, 2023
I yield at 30%. I’ve been on a real Golden Age of Hollywood kick so I thought I’d love this book but Marion just felt so hollow. Something about the way it was written kept me at arms length from the emotions of the characters. The writing was stilted and had a “I don’t know how to show so I’ll just tell” feel to it. It should have been a book I devoured; instead I read 3 other books while trying to plod through it before giving up.
Anyone have a recommendation for a good biography of Marion Davies?
Anyone have a recommendation for a good biography of Marion Davies?
November 15, 2022
The book reads as if it really is Davies’ autobiography. The actress was not highly educated, but she was smart and spirited, qualities that make the reader root for her. This story is also a timely reminder of what women would have been up against in Hollywood. She was a brave and complex figure, whose true potential was stifled by a powerful, overbearing man.
Marion Davies (1897-1961), the long-time mistress of newspaper tycoon William Randolph Hearst, is portrayed as a talented woman with loyalty, fortitude and a strong work-ethic. This depiction of Marion by Nack, does much to dispel the impression of her created by Orson Welles in his movie Citizen Kane, which centred on a thinly-disguised Hearst, called “Kane” in the film. The movie characterized Marion Davies as a “drunk, talent-less, bored, spoiled has-been.”
This novel has really used historical FICTION liberally, not to be confused as a biographical work, very interesting and enjoyable.
Marion Davies (1897-1961), the long-time mistress of newspaper tycoon William Randolph Hearst, is portrayed as a talented woman with loyalty, fortitude and a strong work-ethic. This depiction of Marion by Nack, does much to dispel the impression of her created by Orson Welles in his movie Citizen Kane, which centred on a thinly-disguised Hearst, called “Kane” in the film. The movie characterized Marion Davies as a “drunk, talent-less, bored, spoiled has-been.”
This novel has really used historical FICTION liberally, not to be confused as a biographical work, very interesting and enjoyable.
January 20, 2023
3.5 stars rounded down.
This is a fictionalized account of the relationship between Marion Davies and William Randolph Hearst.
They met when she was about 19 and he was around 40. He was married with 5 sons and the richest man in the world, as he ran the Hearst Corporation of publishing, real estate and other businesses. He promoted her acting career and pretty much ran her life, supporting her and her extended family while still maintaining a relationship with his wife, Millicent. Marion and WR’s relationship continued until his death in 1951, although he remained legally married to Millicent.
The book is told from Marion’s POV. She loved WR but was continually frustrated and angry over her second class status in his life. She is portrayed as a talented yet underrated actress and an appendage to WR’s life. She is also a very active alcoholic and chain smoker throughout the book. The story claims she had a years long affair with Charlie Chaplin, as well as other men while with Hearst. In the author’s note, Nack doesn’t differentiate between what is truth and what is fiction as authors of this genre often do. At times the book dragged as Marion often complained about her role, or lack of one, in WR’s life. She comes across as someone who sold herself to WR because of his wealth and power, although she truly loved him. The writing is just OK and a bit pedestrian at times. All the characters are one dimensional and never really come alive on the page.
I did enjoy the descriptions of San Simeon which I visited years ago. I dug out my souvenir book to look at the pictures again. What an amazing place.
The story is interesting, though, especially if you enjoy books about old Hollywood, which I do. I just think that the story could have been exceptional if written by a different author.
This is a fictionalized account of the relationship between Marion Davies and William Randolph Hearst.
They met when she was about 19 and he was around 40. He was married with 5 sons and the richest man in the world, as he ran the Hearst Corporation of publishing, real estate and other businesses. He promoted her acting career and pretty much ran her life, supporting her and her extended family while still maintaining a relationship with his wife, Millicent. Marion and WR’s relationship continued until his death in 1951, although he remained legally married to Millicent.
The book is told from Marion’s POV. She loved WR but was continually frustrated and angry over her second class status in his life. She is portrayed as a talented yet underrated actress and an appendage to WR’s life. She is also a very active alcoholic and chain smoker throughout the book. The story claims she had a years long affair with Charlie Chaplin, as well as other men while with Hearst. In the author’s note, Nack doesn’t differentiate between what is truth and what is fiction as authors of this genre often do. At times the book dragged as Marion often complained about her role, or lack of one, in WR’s life. She comes across as someone who sold herself to WR because of his wealth and power, although she truly loved him. The writing is just OK and a bit pedestrian at times. All the characters are one dimensional and never really come alive on the page.
I did enjoy the descriptions of San Simeon which I visited years ago. I dug out my souvenir book to look at the pictures again. What an amazing place.
The story is interesting, though, especially if you enjoy books about old Hollywood, which I do. I just think that the story could have been exceptional if written by a different author.
August 5, 2023
This historical fiction bookThe Blue Butterfly was an enjoyable book about Marion Davies, the long-time mistress of William Randolph Hearst, a most generous sugar daddy who saw to it that Marion's early 1900's career as a silent film star and movie producer was successful. I have rounded my rating up to a 5 because I enjoyed it more than just a 4.
The story moves quickly and maintained my interest. It is clear that the author has done her research, and the references to the amount of money Hearst spent making making Ms. Davies and some of her other family members v-e-r-y comfortable is staggering when one considers the historical context and what the average American income was like at the time. The book clearly conveys the tension between Hearst and his wife, Millicent, as well as their grown children as time went by. Millicent put up with it because she clearly enjoyed her position in society. As for Marion Davies, she felt secure enough in her position as the permanent mistress that she didn't reserve her affections for just William Randolph. Readers will recognize the names of the other players and party people; I won't drop any names here to avoid spoilers. There are also some family secrets that revealed in this book that I did not previously know, and a few quick internet searches led to some interesting photographs and articles about death-bed confessions in Palm Spring, California, in more contemporary times.
Although I love a lot of historical fiction (such as the books by Ruta Sepetys, author of Fountains of Silence and I Must Betray You and others, I seldom gravitate towards Hollywood personalities. However, I have enjoyed tours of Hearst's home in Central California, the so-called "Hearst Castle," and had always heard that this was a special playground for Hearst and Davies.
The story moves quickly and maintained my interest. It is clear that the author has done her research, and the references to the amount of money Hearst spent making making Ms. Davies and some of her other family members v-e-r-y comfortable is staggering when one considers the historical context and what the average American income was like at the time. The book clearly conveys the tension between Hearst and his wife, Millicent, as well as their grown children as time went by. Millicent put up with it because she clearly enjoyed her position in society. As for Marion Davies, she felt secure enough in her position as the permanent mistress that she didn't reserve her affections for just William Randolph. Readers will recognize the names of the other players and party people; I won't drop any names here to avoid spoilers. There are also some family secrets that revealed in this book that I did not previously know, and a few quick internet searches led to some interesting photographs and articles about death-bed confessions in Palm Spring, California, in more contemporary times.
Although I love a lot of historical fiction (such as the books by Ruta Sepetys, author of Fountains of Silence and I Must Betray You and others, I seldom gravitate towards Hollywood personalities. However, I have enjoyed tours of Hearst's home in Central California, the so-called "Hearst Castle," and had always heard that this was a special playground for Hearst and Davies.
December 19, 2021
I knew William Randolph Hearst had a mistress, actress Marion Davies, and I was aware of the rumor that Citizen Kane was based on them, but I had no idea she was so accomplished, or how much of a love story their relationship was. The Blue Butterfly is an intimate look at two complicated people and their complicated relationship, and it takes you back in time to the astonishing world of the uber-rich. If you love the Golden Age of Hollywood, you'll especially love this novel about Hearst and Davies!
June 2, 2022
The Blue Butterfly is what Charlie Chaplin called Marion Davies, of which they had a long affair, supposedly unbeknownst to William Randolph Hearst. This is a story about Marion Davies and her lifelong affair with Mr. Hearst until his death in 1951.
Marion started out in 1915 as a showgirl with the Ziegfield Follies. Marion meets William Randolph Hearst at one of the shows, the wealthy owner of numerous newspapers. They started a lifelong affair, he kept promising that he would divorce his wife Millicent, but she would not divorce him, thus the affair.
Hearst and Davies go through many tumultuous years together where he dotes on her and lavishes her with gifts, houses, etc. Marion's career takes off from doing silent pictures to talkies. She had a comedic flair which made her successful. Hearst was very controlling when it came to her career—only wanting her to do historical-type roles.
He also built numerous houses for her, including The Ocean House and The Hearst Castle in San Simeon California, a castle in Wales, and St.Donat's Castle. They also had Wyntoon which originally was his mother's estate. He also supported Marion's sisters and parents. Marion became pregnant with Hearst's child, Patricia, but had her raised by Marion's sister Rose. Rose was not able to care for her so she eventually ended up living with Marion. They eventually acknowledged that they were parents to Patricia.
Numerous scandals plagued the couple, including the death of Thomas Ince, plus her own pregnancy. The movie Citizen Kane by Orsen Welles portrayed Susan Alexander Kane, based on Marion as a lackluster actress. Orsen later apologized for the negativity but it ruined acting for her. At the age of 40, Marion unhappy with the roles she played, decided to retire from acting.
Hearst ended up in debt to the banks and he avoided bankruptcy with the help of Marion's gift of several million dollars but the company was still in a trust, the company flourished again during WWII. His health started to fail and he died in 1951. Marion ended up marrying again, unhappily and died in 1961 from cancer and alcoholism.
I really enjoyed the story immensely, the rich are not always happy as we think they are. I found Marion to be a woman who was dependent on Hearst, although she claimed that she wanted her independence, she still was dependent on Hearst. Despite their age difference they were devoted to each other but they both had dalliances with other people. I found the whole story fascinating, especially reading about Hearst's wealth and all the properties that they had.
Written with great knowledge and research, this is a story that will stay with me for a while.
I received a copy of the book for review purposes only.
Marion started out in 1915 as a showgirl with the Ziegfield Follies. Marion meets William Randolph Hearst at one of the shows, the wealthy owner of numerous newspapers. They started a lifelong affair, he kept promising that he would divorce his wife Millicent, but she would not divorce him, thus the affair.
Hearst and Davies go through many tumultuous years together where he dotes on her and lavishes her with gifts, houses, etc. Marion's career takes off from doing silent pictures to talkies. She had a comedic flair which made her successful. Hearst was very controlling when it came to her career—only wanting her to do historical-type roles.
He also built numerous houses for her, including The Ocean House and The Hearst Castle in San Simeon California, a castle in Wales, and St.Donat's Castle. They also had Wyntoon which originally was his mother's estate. He also supported Marion's sisters and parents. Marion became pregnant with Hearst's child, Patricia, but had her raised by Marion's sister Rose. Rose was not able to care for her so she eventually ended up living with Marion. They eventually acknowledged that they were parents to Patricia.
Numerous scandals plagued the couple, including the death of Thomas Ince, plus her own pregnancy. The movie Citizen Kane by Orsen Welles portrayed Susan Alexander Kane, based on Marion as a lackluster actress. Orsen later apologized for the negativity but it ruined acting for her. At the age of 40, Marion unhappy with the roles she played, decided to retire from acting.
Hearst ended up in debt to the banks and he avoided bankruptcy with the help of Marion's gift of several million dollars but the company was still in a trust, the company flourished again during WWII. His health started to fail and he died in 1951. Marion ended up marrying again, unhappily and died in 1961 from cancer and alcoholism.
I really enjoyed the story immensely, the rich are not always happy as we think they are. I found Marion to be a woman who was dependent on Hearst, although she claimed that she wanted her independence, she still was dependent on Hearst. Despite their age difference they were devoted to each other but they both had dalliances with other people. I found the whole story fascinating, especially reading about Hearst's wealth and all the properties that they had.
Written with great knowledge and research, this is a story that will stay with me for a while.
I received a copy of the book for review purposes only.
March 26, 2022
I was first captivated by the beautiful cover on this novel and later by the story itself.
Beginning in 1915 in New York, until 1951 in California, this story details the lengthy love affair between the multimedia billionaire, William Randolph Hearst, and a much younger dancer, actress, and later a silent film star, Marion Davies. Her long time dedication to Hearst was fueled by love and all the things that he and his money could buy for her; clothes, jewelry, limos, trips, penthouse apartments, homes for her family, acting and directing jobs and a movie studio. However, their happiness was contrasted by the sadness within their lives and their relationship.
The author, Ms. Nack, does a beautiful job of portraying the life of Marion Davies with WRH as one of complete love and devotion, even during the times of betrayal. Their lives were filled with glamorous parties with A-list movie stars, directors, scientists and politicians. And, even during the most trying times, Marion stood by him.
I highly recommend this book to readers who love stories of old Hollywood and the lives of the rich and famous. I found myself doing further research on these characters as well as Charlie Chaplin, Mary Pickford, and Greta Garbo.
My sincere thanks to NetGalley and the publisher, She Writes Press, for giving me the opportunity to read a digital ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review. Publication date: May 3, 2022.
Beginning in 1915 in New York, until 1951 in California, this story details the lengthy love affair between the multimedia billionaire, William Randolph Hearst, and a much younger dancer, actress, and later a silent film star, Marion Davies. Her long time dedication to Hearst was fueled by love and all the things that he and his money could buy for her; clothes, jewelry, limos, trips, penthouse apartments, homes for her family, acting and directing jobs and a movie studio. However, their happiness was contrasted by the sadness within their lives and their relationship.
The author, Ms. Nack, does a beautiful job of portraying the life of Marion Davies with WRH as one of complete love and devotion, even during the times of betrayal. Their lives were filled with glamorous parties with A-list movie stars, directors, scientists and politicians. And, even during the most trying times, Marion stood by him.
I highly recommend this book to readers who love stories of old Hollywood and the lives of the rich and famous. I found myself doing further research on these characters as well as Charlie Chaplin, Mary Pickford, and Greta Garbo.
My sincere thanks to NetGalley and the publisher, She Writes Press, for giving me the opportunity to read a digital ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review. Publication date: May 3, 2022.
May 24, 2022
“I was William Randolph Hearst’s girlfriend, and I had everything a girl could ever dream of—except for an authentic life.”
✮✮✮✮
This is the story of Marion Davies, broadway dancer at 18, and her whirlwind romance with William Randolph Hearst (WR). She takes up a position as his mistress in private, staying loyal to him throughout everything, including a secret baby. They lead a complex life together through affairs, deaths, births, bankruptcy.
While based around the real lives of Marion Davies and William Randolph Hearst, the historical fiction novel was really well imagined, and a pure work of art. I truly felt like I was reading the life story of Marion Davies, and honestly I felt fully heartbroken for her at many moments throughout. The last few chapters had me absolutely balling with tears that I couldn’t control.
This novel was well researched and written, and felt like the pages were really coming to life in my mind. Some times the book was fast paced, while others it was slow, but overall a brilliant read!
✮✮✮✮
This is the story of Marion Davies, broadway dancer at 18, and her whirlwind romance with William Randolph Hearst (WR). She takes up a position as his mistress in private, staying loyal to him throughout everything, including a secret baby. They lead a complex life together through affairs, deaths, births, bankruptcy.
While based around the real lives of Marion Davies and William Randolph Hearst, the historical fiction novel was really well imagined, and a pure work of art. I truly felt like I was reading the life story of Marion Davies, and honestly I felt fully heartbroken for her at many moments throughout. The last few chapters had me absolutely balling with tears that I couldn’t control.
This novel was well researched and written, and felt like the pages were really coming to life in my mind. Some times the book was fast paced, while others it was slow, but overall a brilliant read!
December 29, 2021
Having been to Hearst Castle many times, and driven past the Annenberg Guest House on the Pacific Coast Highway a few too many times, I definitely had an interest in Marion Davies the person. Ms. Nack has done a fabulous job winding factual information about Marion Davies with this fictional book. When the book took Marion to Hearst Castle, I could visualize what I was reading as well as if I were at the party myself. If you have an interest in Hollywood history, especially around the 30's, OR you are interested in Hearst (because of your visits to the Castle), I highly recommend you read this book. You will have a hard time putting it down!
October 18, 2022
This biographical fiction story of Marion Davies, a silent film actress and producer and long-term mistress of William Randolph Hearst, could have been interesting if we had been given more about her career and less of the repetitive (and appalling) extravagances of Hollywood, along with the name dropping of all the other equally unpleasant stars of those times. Every character in the book was unlikeable, self-serving and apparently concerned only about showing off their wealth and connections. Surely Marion Davies had some deeper concerns and emotions? Even her love for her 'secret' daughter and her 'care' for her parents and siblings was described (told rather than shown) in ways that gave no clues to real emotions and feelings and torment. Her story and that of her family and 'friends' as told here had no depth. But clearly Davies achieved a great deal in her career, in a time when women were treated as chattels and in Hollywood, as trophies. This is the story I would have liked to have read, with the glittering lifestyle and parties and private zoos and mansions etc as a background that she rose above, at least in the sense that she did have a career even if it was, at least in the beginning, bank-rolled by her main (but not only!) lover. Sadly, it seems likely that the US film industry still attracts and supports appalling excesses, and little has changed, at least in 'Hollywood' . 2.5 to a generous 3 stars; the author did have to read through the biographical histories in order to roll it all out in this novel, and perhaps the result is accurate after all: the story of a woman who got what she thought she wanted in a world that she had been told was the pinnacle of success!
March 17, 2022
I grew up knowing the names of Greta Garbo, Ingrid Bergman, Joan Crawford, and many other female actresses that my grandmother and parents grew up watching. Marion Davies was not among these names. Even after knowing about the movies Citizen Kane and Mank, I still knew nothing about Marion Davies. Hollywood doesn’t give Marion Davies enough credit for her many accomplishments. The Blue Butterfly has taught me so much about Marion and more. It brought attention to the questionable nature of many prominent male actors of the time (yes Charlie Chaplin is a creep) and the blatant sexism that women endured. Marion Davies is more than just the mistress of WR Hearst. She fought to put herself first and devoted herself to protecting her family and loved ones. The author did a wonderful job telling Marion’s story. At times I felt like I was a guest at one of Marion’s lavish parties because the imagery is unreal. If you love historical fiction with juicy Hollywood secrets, this book is a must.
January 27, 2022
I received an Advance Reader copy of this book. I enjoyed this read, I am a big fan of historical fiction, this is the story of Marion Davies, the long time mistress of William Randolph Hearst, 30 years his junior. Not much has been written about Marion, perhaps because history wasn’t kind to her, a beautiful, talented silent film star who loved Hearst but Hearst never divorced his wife so she was never truly validated by him. An interesting peek into how the extremely wealthy lived. If you haven’t yet visited Hearst Castle, you will want to, I want to go back and visit it again.
May 12, 2022
Such a delight to get an advance copy of The Blue Butterfly, the story of Marion Davies (who I had never heard of) and William Randolph Hearst (who I could only tell you had a castle and was in publishing). How great to be carried away to a world of fabulous wealth and fame, and feel the heartbreak, joy, love and control of this love affair in every page. An unforgettable read.
May 3, 2022
4.5*
I have always loved the old Hollywood movies thanks to my mother - my youth was all about Saturday nights and Bill Collins, Golden Years of Hollywood. The Blue Butterfly tells the story of Marion Davies, an actress from both the silent and talking films and long time mistress of publishing magnate, William Randolph Hearst. It makes for compelling reading if stories of this era interest you.
“Remember this day. Your life is about to change.” I whirled around as she studied me for a few minutes. “You’re like a blue butterfly with dew on its wings.”
Growing up I knew the names of Greta Garbo, Ingrid Bergman, Joan Crawford, and many others but I had never heard of Marion Davies. I knew of the film Citizen Kane, yet still nothing associated with her. This book shed amazing light on all these connections (I have to watch Mank now which I believe is on Netflix). The Blue Butterfly has taught me so much about Marion and more. The author does an incredible job of weaving fact and fiction in telling Marion’s amazing story, so much so that I felt like a guest at one of her lavish parties.
“I’ve never heard so much fuss about a twenty-five-year-old who’s never made a movie,” WR said. “Why is it called Citizen Kane?”
This really is engaging historical fiction. The amount of research the author has done is impressive (although at times a little too much with the info dump and thus missing half a star for me). There are so many characters to appreciate eg. Charlie Chaplin, along with information about Hollywood, movie making and lifestyles of the then rich and famous. It is also about relationships - family, friends and partners. This book will have you racing to Google to see and learn more which, to my mind, is always a good sign.
“Please drop the quest for a Best Actress award for me. It isn’t possible with the caliber of films I’m offered.”
If you love stories of the original golden years of Hollywood, look no further. I feel embarrassed not to know of Marion and her incredible life. Thankfully this book rectifies all that and takes you on an incredible journey from Marion’s early days through to her sad end. It leaves you wondering what her life and career may have been if not for her involvement with Hearst. If you love this era then I definitely recommend reading this book.
‘I was William Randolph Hearst’s girlfriend, and I had everything a girl could ever dream of - except for an authentic life.’
This review is based on a complimentary copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. The quoted material may have changed in the final release.
I have always loved the old Hollywood movies thanks to my mother - my youth was all about Saturday nights and Bill Collins, Golden Years of Hollywood. The Blue Butterfly tells the story of Marion Davies, an actress from both the silent and talking films and long time mistress of publishing magnate, William Randolph Hearst. It makes for compelling reading if stories of this era interest you.
“Remember this day. Your life is about to change.” I whirled around as she studied me for a few minutes. “You’re like a blue butterfly with dew on its wings.”
Growing up I knew the names of Greta Garbo, Ingrid Bergman, Joan Crawford, and many others but I had never heard of Marion Davies. I knew of the film Citizen Kane, yet still nothing associated with her. This book shed amazing light on all these connections (I have to watch Mank now which I believe is on Netflix). The Blue Butterfly has taught me so much about Marion and more. The author does an incredible job of weaving fact and fiction in telling Marion’s amazing story, so much so that I felt like a guest at one of her lavish parties.
“I’ve never heard so much fuss about a twenty-five-year-old who’s never made a movie,” WR said. “Why is it called Citizen Kane?”
This really is engaging historical fiction. The amount of research the author has done is impressive (although at times a little too much with the info dump and thus missing half a star for me). There are so many characters to appreciate eg. Charlie Chaplin, along with information about Hollywood, movie making and lifestyles of the then rich and famous. It is also about relationships - family, friends and partners. This book will have you racing to Google to see and learn more which, to my mind, is always a good sign.
“Please drop the quest for a Best Actress award for me. It isn’t possible with the caliber of films I’m offered.”
If you love stories of the original golden years of Hollywood, look no further. I feel embarrassed not to know of Marion and her incredible life. Thankfully this book rectifies all that and takes you on an incredible journey from Marion’s early days through to her sad end. It leaves you wondering what her life and career may have been if not for her involvement with Hearst. If you love this era then I definitely recommend reading this book.
‘I was William Randolph Hearst’s girlfriend, and I had everything a girl could ever dream of - except for an authentic life.’
This review is based on a complimentary copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. The quoted material may have changed in the final release.
did-not-finish
January 14, 2023Didn't read this one. Was intrigued by the tale inspired by a real story. However, I decided I really didn't want to read about Mr. Hearst keeping a mistress.
March 2, 2022
The Blue Butterfly: A Novel of Marion Davies by Leslie Johansen Nack is a great historical fiction that takes us into the fascinating and colorful life of Marion Davies.
This is the first book I have read from this author, and it most certainly won’t be the last.
I am shamefully going to admit I knew ver little about Marion Davies before now. Learning about her professional and personal lives and her complicated relationship with William Randolph Hearst was definitely enlightening and interesting.
The author did a great job at creating an engaging narrative while adding the appropriate historical detail.
I certainly enjoyed this book and recommend it.
5/5 stars
Thank you NG and She Writes Press for this wonderful arc and in return I am submitting my unbiased and voluntary review and opinion.
I am posting this review to my GR and Bookbub accounts immediately and will post it to my Amazon, Instagram, and B&N accounts upon publication on 5/3/22.
This is the first book I have read from this author, and it most certainly won’t be the last.
I am shamefully going to admit I knew ver little about Marion Davies before now. Learning about her professional and personal lives and her complicated relationship with William Randolph Hearst was definitely enlightening and interesting.
The author did a great job at creating an engaging narrative while adding the appropriate historical detail.
I certainly enjoyed this book and recommend it.
5/5 stars
Thank you NG and She Writes Press for this wonderful arc and in return I am submitting my unbiased and voluntary review and opinion.
I am posting this review to my GR and Bookbub accounts immediately and will post it to my Amazon, Instagram, and B&N accounts upon publication on 5/3/22.
April 28, 2022
This was my first book via @netgalley @shewritespress. Oh my word! This book was tailor made for me! If you like historical fiction and you’re interested in early Hollywood cinema then you will love this book! It is based on the love affair between actress Marion Davies and multimillionaire newspaper publisher William Randolph Hearst. In 1916 Marion Davies was a Ziegfeld Girl aged 19 when she started receiving flowers/gifts from Hearst. Although he was already married they embarked on a love affair that would last until his death in 1951. This book transports you back in time to New York’s Theatre to early Hollywood cinema where Marion and “HR” mixed with Chaplin, Garbo, Louis B Mayer, Mary Pickford ….. Honestly, I could not put it down. I had heard of both Marion and HR but I didn’t know anything in-depth so now I have to go off on a non fiction tangent to discover and watch more about them. Their wealth was just bonkers - I’ve googled some of their properties and they are just as lavish as the book portrays. But they are both really likeable. I wanted to be at a dinner party with then quaffing champagne and debating whether “talkies” would catch on or not. Absolutely brilliant!!
January 23, 2022
The unique love story of Marion Davies and publisher William Randolph Hearst challenges my feminist instinct to condemn this filthy rich tycoon who groomed the vulnerable beauty with rare talent to receive his attentions and lavish gifts until she is totally trapped in the gilded cage he constructs around her. How would Marion Davies have fared without his controlling influence on her career, and her life? But, she was raised to catch a rich man—she did, and it cost her dearly. No marriage, but a life-long love affair which defied the conventions of the time, and wrapped her in luxury, but left her no control over her career, or her life.
May 20, 2022
Leslie Johansen Nack has written a savory tale featuring Marion Davies and the amazing cast of characters that she wove into her life – most importantly, William Randolph Hearst. The Blue Butterfly portrays a complicated and semi-tragic Davies, who battles addictions and romances in the unlikeliest of settings. The beyond-extravagant Hearst Castle becomes her operating theater, playground, love nest, and sometimes a refuge. Hers was a life lived large, and Nack has brought her to vibrant life in this story.
June 17, 2022
The Blue Butterfly is the fascinating story of movie star Marion Davies during the golden age of Hollywood. It covers her captivating and unusual life, including her complicated romance with William Randolph Hearst. Well researched and beautifully written, this is a moving portrait that is hard to put down.
April 10, 2022
More reviews (and no fluff) on the blog http://surrealtalvi.wordpress.com/
Blue Butterfly is a strangely inert story that could easily have been converted to a 1-room play. Nearly 3/4 of the book takes place in Marion's living room and involves the same scene repeated ad nauseum: Hearst comes to visit with expensive presents, Marion is petulant that he won't divorce his wife and marry her, they have sex, he leaves, and she spends the next day annoyed and whining about the situation. It made for a very boring biography that gave us so little about the fantastic milieus of New York and Hollywood of the 1920s as well as Heart's mansion in San Simeon, California.Plot: Marion was born into an Irish Catholic family whose mother, after after four girls, decided the only thing to be done was to put her daughters into the theater young and expect them to land a rich husband before they got too old. Marion does the best of the sisters but never could get the marriage out of her incredibly wealthy sugar daddy, newspaperman William Randolph Hearst. But what he does do is sponsor her into movies and she begins a long career as a studio owner and actress. All the while, she bemoans spending holidays, her birthdays, and even the birth of a secret child alone.
About half way through the book, I was starved for scenes of both New York and Hollywood of the 1910s to 1920s. This was a huge transition period - when movies moved from NYC to California for the better weather and eventually the whole industry was disrupted by the addition of sound ('talkies"). This was the time of the great actors and actresses - from Chaplin to Garbo, Mary Pickford, Douglas Fairbanks, etc. But we get to see very little of it unless those actors happened to visit Marion in her home. Because nearly all the scenes were the same, as noted above, it is a claustrophobic read. The full attention is on the frustration of Marion at Hearst showing up and then leaving - so we never get a feel for LA, for information about the movies, what it was like working in that field, etc. It's just "WR (Hearst) is with his wife again, I'm going to go out and: (fill in the blank: drink, mope, have affairs). We never get on set with Marion for the movies and they are only mentioned in passing.
But even more frustrating is that the characters were very one dimensional. Marion is written as a vapid, annoying, simple minded, and eminently selfish woman-child. We get absolutely NO personality from Hearst at all - he just shows up, gives her presents, calls her Rosebud, gives a kiss, then leaves again the next morning. It is very hard to see why she would have loved him as the book purports and the only reason to stay with him is that he gave her so much monetarily (even setting up her family). I wanted to know more about Hearst and what he was like but we get nothing about him at all. He might as well have been an actor extra - walking in and out of scenes with very little to do.
All the other characters fare the same. Her parents, sisters, and other actors all feel like cardboard cutouts with little in the way of nuance or human complexity. It's all so simplistic - I'm not sure if this was a writing choice by the author because Marion herself was a shallow and pointless person or if it was unintentional. But there just wasn't enough meat on the bones in this biography - surely there was more to Marion than just looks.
It is an easy and quick read - not much happens and there isn't much depth. Don't expect to be immersed in the era (1920s) or the early Hollywood industry. Don't expect to learn much about Hearst or get a feel for the person he was. And don't expect to actually like Marion - she spends most of her time pouting, getting drunk, partying, and whining to Hearst. Nearly every character was thoroughly unlikable and spent most of the book making really bad decisions in life. Reviewed from an advance reader copy provided by the publisher.
Want to read
May 5, 2022This is a beautifully written novel of Marion Davies and her rise to stardom while being William Randolph Hearst’s Mistress. Marion deeply loved Hearst but divorce from his wife was never in the cards. The storyline follows Marion Davies through the ups and downs and rise to fame in the early 1910’s. Davies had to overcome a stutter she had whenever she was nervous.
Leslie Johansen Nack does a wonderful job of transporting you to the fame and fortunes of an era that was both exciting and terrifying.
Thank you to #netgalley and #shewritespress for allowing me to read the eARC of this book. All opinions expressed above are my own.
Leslie Johansen Nack does a wonderful job of transporting you to the fame and fortunes of an era that was both exciting and terrifying.
Thank you to #netgalley and #shewritespress for allowing me to read the eARC of this book. All opinions expressed above are my own.
May 6, 2022
Biographical fiction at its gripping and irresistible best, THE BLUE BUTTERFLY is told with heartbreaking care and vivid detail. Impossible to put down, I kept promising myself ‘Just one more chapter’ into the wee hours of the morning as I devoured the touching, compelling, and often tumultuous pages.
June 9, 2022
Actually 2.5 stars
The Blue Butterfly tells the love story between actress Marion Davies and billionaire William Randolph Hearst. When Marion Davies first meets William Randolph Hearst, she is eighteen and has joined Ziegfeld Follies. The two decide to court. However, Marion cannot be William Randolph Hearst’s wife. Instead, she can only be his mistress. This is because his wife refuses to divorce. Marion agrees to this decision. The two have a relationship that lasted for three decades.
I have heard of the silent film star, Marion Davies, but I did not know much about her life. Thus, I was eager to read The Blue Butterfly that focuses on her romance with William Randolph Hearst. In The Blue Butterfly, I found Marion Davies to be a very unlikable person. This novel showed Marion to be very narcissistic. She seemed to be more interested in William Randolph Hearst’s money than the person himself. She loves the high life and does not care to hurt others as long as she gets what she wants in the end. She also committed many foolish actions. Thus, Marion seemed to be a very cold person that I could not sympathize her actions or relate to her. I felt indifferent to her internal struggles.
Overall, this novel is about passion, ambition, and change. The characters in the story were very unlikable and selfish. Some of the scenes in this novel were also repetitive. However, there were a few good points about the novel. I did like how Hollywood changed over a period of time. I did like the historical details in the novel, and it is clear the author did her research. I believe fans of Old Hollywood may want to give this novel a try. I recommend The Blue Butterfly for fans of Platinum Doll, Marlene, and Beautiful Invention!
(Note: I read an ARC copy of this book in courtesy of the publisher. All opinions expressed are my own.)
The Blue Butterfly tells the love story between actress Marion Davies and billionaire William Randolph Hearst. When Marion Davies first meets William Randolph Hearst, she is eighteen and has joined Ziegfeld Follies. The two decide to court. However, Marion cannot be William Randolph Hearst’s wife. Instead, she can only be his mistress. This is because his wife refuses to divorce. Marion agrees to this decision. The two have a relationship that lasted for three decades.
I have heard of the silent film star, Marion Davies, but I did not know much about her life. Thus, I was eager to read The Blue Butterfly that focuses on her romance with William Randolph Hearst. In The Blue Butterfly, I found Marion Davies to be a very unlikable person. This novel showed Marion to be very narcissistic. She seemed to be more interested in William Randolph Hearst’s money than the person himself. She loves the high life and does not care to hurt others as long as she gets what she wants in the end. She also committed many foolish actions. Thus, Marion seemed to be a very cold person that I could not sympathize her actions or relate to her. I felt indifferent to her internal struggles.
Overall, this novel is about passion, ambition, and change. The characters in the story were very unlikable and selfish. Some of the scenes in this novel were also repetitive. However, there were a few good points about the novel. I did like how Hollywood changed over a period of time. I did like the historical details in the novel, and it is clear the author did her research. I believe fans of Old Hollywood may want to give this novel a try. I recommend The Blue Butterfly for fans of Platinum Doll, Marlene, and Beautiful Invention!
(Note: I read an ARC copy of this book in courtesy of the publisher. All opinions expressed are my own.)
March 6, 2022
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for my honest review. The Blue Butterfly is historical fiction based on the life of Marion (Douras) Davies a beautiful young woman growing up in the early 1900s. She had four sisters, and the advice her mother gave them was to make sure that they married for smart financial reasons not love. Marion dreamed of being on stage, and it was while she was a dancer that she caught the eye and heart of married William Randolph Hearst the newspaper mogul. That began a relationship that not only brought Marion love but a luxurious life and launched her career as a movie actress.
I loved this book! It was a tough time to be a woman, when your appearance was your value, but Marion was able to use her looks to then find her actual talent. The relationship she had with WR was often difficult but one that she knew she couldn’t live without — he had provided her entire family with a life they could never have had without him in it. Ultimately, she loved him dearly, and it wasn’t just the money that kept them together.
As I read, I kept wondering how much was fact and which things were fiction, but the entire story is believable. I had never heard of Marion Davies prior to reading Blue Butterfly. We have all heard of Charlie Chaplin, Mary Pickford, Greta Garbo, and so many others mentioned in the book. It’s sad that Marion Davies’ name got filed away in some lost page of movie history. For anyone who loves old Hollywood era type books, I highly recommend this one!
I loved this book! It was a tough time to be a woman, when your appearance was your value, but Marion was able to use her looks to then find her actual talent. The relationship she had with WR was often difficult but one that she knew she couldn’t live without — he had provided her entire family with a life they could never have had without him in it. Ultimately, she loved him dearly, and it wasn’t just the money that kept them together.
As I read, I kept wondering how much was fact and which things were fiction, but the entire story is believable. I had never heard of Marion Davies prior to reading Blue Butterfly. We have all heard of Charlie Chaplin, Mary Pickford, Greta Garbo, and so many others mentioned in the book. It’s sad that Marion Davies’ name got filed away in some lost page of movie history. For anyone who loves old Hollywood era type books, I highly recommend this one!
May 24, 2022
The Blue Butterfly by Marion Davies. Thanks to @booksparks and @shewritespress for the gifted copy #src2022 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I didn’t know who Marion Davies was but knew I’d love the book as soon as I read that she was a famous mistress (ahem I mean actress!). Old school “mistresses” fascinate me and the book shows how it was almost a career of its own. I loved how the story really showed the love between Marion and Hearst. I hope it was like that in real life because despite their age difference in warmer my heart. Affair and intrigue aside, Marion had a pretty dramatic life with her family. It was heartbreaking and made for a good story outside of the romance.
“I was William Randolph Hearst’s girlfriend, and I had everything a girl could ever dream of - except for an authentic life.”
The Blue Butterfly is available now.
I didn’t know who Marion Davies was but knew I’d love the book as soon as I read that she was a famous mistress (ahem I mean actress!). Old school “mistresses” fascinate me and the book shows how it was almost a career of its own. I loved how the story really showed the love between Marion and Hearst. I hope it was like that in real life because despite their age difference in warmer my heart. Affair and intrigue aside, Marion had a pretty dramatic life with her family. It was heartbreaking and made for a good story outside of the romance.
“I was William Randolph Hearst’s girlfriend, and I had everything a girl could ever dream of - except for an authentic life.”
The Blue Butterfly is available now.
June 2, 2022
This is an intricate look at the life of silent film star Marion Davis and her 40-year affair with William Randolph Hearst.
Learning about this affair and the insane amount of money WR spent of Marion was quite interesting. I definitely spent a lot of time googling facts about the places Hearst bought her and all the travel they did. The silent film transitioning to talkies was fun to learn about as well. The writing was a bit stilted which kept me from really feeling engaged or connected to any of the characters. It was a fine read that I’m sure a lot of people will enjoy.
Learning about this affair and the insane amount of money WR spent of Marion was quite interesting. I definitely spent a lot of time googling facts about the places Hearst bought her and all the travel they did. The silent film transitioning to talkies was fun to learn about as well. The writing was a bit stilted which kept me from really feeling engaged or connected to any of the characters. It was a fine read that I’m sure a lot of people will enjoy.
March 14, 2022
This is a historical fiction novel about the silent film star, Marion Davies. The story centers around her 40-year affair with William Randolph Hearst, her career and the absolute extravagance of their lives. It was an interesting view into that time period of stage and movies. Overall, an enjoyable read.
This was an advance reader’s copy from NetGalley. *3.5 stars*
This was an advance reader’s copy from NetGalley. *3.5 stars*
Displaying 1 - 30 of 168 reviews