The Life She Wanted

**4-4.5 Stars**

This story is based in New York in the 1920’s, the main character Pandora grew up barely remembering her mother as she left when she was young but she has a close bond with her father Willie who was a great tennis player now a top instructor to the rich. She was not born into riches but she blends in with them and learns what she can.

In those days women had the raw deal which meant they were only recognised if they had a man by their side a were married. Pandora always wanted to be a fashion designer and as money was short she could only achieve this by being married to someone with means. Her father has always instilled in her that if she married it must be for love.

When she thought she met the man she wanted it did not work out with him meeting someone else.

Now she thinks she has finally found the one, then he reveals something that breaks her heart, they strike a deal and soon the marriage is rocked by scandal. Pandora now with a daughter decides to travel to Paris, this is because the scandal paves the end of her dreams before they are realised as reputation is everything in those circles.

Pandora still has her dream. She is even more determined and finds other avenues. Armed with all the knowledge she has required in Paris she returns to America with a new found determination to make it without a man to help her.

How will her life pan out? Will she be put off as doors are closed one after the other? And will she find the love she always dreamed of?

I really enjoyed this book but the only downside for me is that I would have liked the ending to have a bit of strife then come to conclusion. It will make more sense when or if you read it and if you agree with me. It just seemed a touch contrived.

This is a nice story but goodness me the narration is not good! Any pronunciation of "European" words are appalling! It rather spoils the whole thing.