A lot could happen in a building that you wouldn’t even know about it. ‘One Fifth Avenue’ is the most sought after address in Manhattan – for the pedigree of its tenants and its vintage architecture. But don’t be fooled by the exterior’s elegance and poise (the very embodiment of traditional elite New York society) – because a lot lies behind closed doors. From drama to lust, to murder and romance, ‘One Fifth’ reveals a lot…
Candace Bushnell is acclaimed novelist and creator of the world of ‘Sex and the City’, which enthralled many women all over the world by giving them a glimpse into the lives of New York City’s favorite four girls. This celebrated author delves into the society she knows best, writing about the pain, loneliness and torture behind the glitz and glamour of New York society.
She brings us an intriguing look at the five women who “rule” the building of ‘One Fifth’—from Ened Merle, the oldest tenant of the building to Mindy Gooch, the head of the building’s board, all seek ways to move up the ladder of New York high society.
Poignant and direct, Bushnell’s writing leaves no room for flourishes and instead makes the point with wit and irony as she sheds light onto the changing sociological and political contexts of New York’s elites.
‘One Fifth Avenue’ is a great replacement novel for Gossip Girl fans who are still recovering from the abrupt end of their beloved series. It is the perfect mix of drama and romance yet it is not the kind of novel from which you would expect a happy and easy ending. Rather, expect a more of a realistic—even tedious—conclusion.
By Azza El Masri
