The Spectacular by Fiona Davis

*** My Review ***

Fiona Davis, renowned for her historical fiction novels centered around iconic New York City landmarks, delivers another great book with “The Spectacular.” Set in 1950s New York, this dual timeline story explores the captivating world of the Rockettes at Radio City Music Hall. Seamlessly interweaving past and present, Davis crafts a tale filled with ambition, family dynamics, psychological profiling, and a relentless pursuit of a notorious bomber. With meticulous research and a knack for creating vivid dance sequences, she offers readers an unforgettable reading experience.

The story introduces Marion Brooks, a nineteen-year-old aspiring dancer who defies societal expectations by auditioning for the Rockettes. Davis skillfully captures Marion’s journey as she navigates the grueling routines and strives to stand out amidst the ensemble. However, Marion’s dreams collide with the menace of the “Big Apple Bomber,” who has plagued New York City for sixteen years. Trapped between her passion for dance and the need to catch the criminal, Marion becomes entangled in a gripping investigation, forcing her to make heart-wrenching sacrifices.

As Marion finds herself pulled deeper into the investigation, she forms an unlikely alliance with Dr. Peter Griggs, a young psychiatrist who specializes in mental illness. Peter’s innovative approach to psychological profiling catches Marion’s attention, and together they embark on a mission to aid the authorities in identifying the criminal behind the bombings.

Dr. Griggs’s profile of the bomber proves to be a crucial breakthrough in the case. His deep understanding of the human psyche allows him to analyze the bomber’s behavior patterns, motivations, and potential targets. The police, initially skeptical of this unorthodox approach, gradually realize the value of psychological profiling in their desperate search for the elusive perpetrator.

Marion’s firsthand encounter with the bomber provides critical information that helps refine the profile and narrow down the suspect list. With her unwavering determination and willingness to take risks, Marion becomes an invaluable asset to the investigation. She uses her position as a Rockette to draw the bomber’s attention, hoping to lure him back to Radio City Music Hall and expose his identity.

As Marion delves deeper into the dangerous game of cat and mouse, she finds herself torn between her duty to catch the bomber and the safety of her loved ones. Her actions put her at odds with her domineering father, who becomes even more determined to protect her and bring her back home. Repairing their fractured relationship becomes an additional challenge for Marion, who must navigate the complexities of family bonds and societal expectations while fighting to bring an end to the reign of terror.

“The Spectacular” offers an intriguing plotline that skillfully blends elements of historical fiction and mystery, creating a captivating read. Fiona Davis pays homage to New York City’s landmarks and institutions, delighting NYC enthusiasts with her vivid descriptions. The author’s expertise in crafting captivating historical settings shines through, enabling readers to vividly experience the magic of Radio City Music Hall and the legendary Rockettes. The novel not only provides a compelling storyline but also introduces readers to the behind-the-scenes world of the Rockettes, showcasing their grueling schedules and breathtaking performances. In her afterword, Davis provides further insights into the real-life events and individuals that inspired her characters and stories, adding a layer of authenticity to the narrative.

Davis’s exceptional attention to detail shines through as she seamlessly integrates historical facts about the Rockettes and the true story of the bomber. The author’s ability to strike a balance between providing fascinating insights and avoiding overwhelming readers with excessive information is commendable. Furthermore, Davis’s talent for crafting captivating dance sequences infuses the narrative with frenetic energy and immerses readers in the world of the Rockettes.

The book excels in portraying Marion’s personal growth and struggles as a woman in the 1950s. Her determination, gumption, and ambition make her a relatable and inspiring protagonist. The exploration of Marion’s family dynamics, particularly her complex relationship with her father and sister, adds depth to the narrative. Davis masterfully delves into themes of conformity, societal expectations, and the pursuit of one’s dreams, resonating with readers on an emotional level.

While the mystery of the “Big Apple Bomber” takes center stage in this novel, Davis manages to strike a balance between suspense and historical fiction. However, some aspects, such as the romance and police interactions, feel somewhat contrived and less realistic. Nevertheless, the story remains engrossing, and readers will find themselves turning the pages to uncover the truth behind the bombings and Marion’s fate.

Furthermore, some readers may find Marion’s actions and words to be anachronistically feminist for the time period and her specific circumstances. While the exploration of feminist themes can be a welcome addition, it is important for historical fiction to strike a balance between accurately reflecting the era and incorporating modern sensibilities.

The pacing of “The Spectacular” also presents challenges. The beginning of the novel unfolds at a slow pace, potentially testing the patience of readers seeking a more immediate hook. Conversely, the last third of the book feels jam-packed with events, leading to an imbalance in the overall structure and potentially leaving certain plot points and character arcs underdeveloped.

Despite these drawbacks, “The Spectacular ” by Fiona Davis still manages to entertain and captivate with its unique blend of history and mystery. Readers who appreciate immersive historical settings and are willing to overlook the novel’s shortcomings may find themselves engrossed in the world Davis creates. Ultimately, “The Spectacular” offers a compelling premise and a glimpse into 1950s New York, making it a worthwhile read for fans of Fiona Davis and those drawn to historical fiction with a touch of mystery.