The Spectacular by Fiona Davis: A Luminous Look at Art, Ambition, and the Rockettes’ Golden Era

The Spectacular by Fiona Davis is the first of her novels I’ve read—and I can’t believe it took me this long to discover her storytelling. Davis writes with grace and heart, and stepping into Marion Brooks’s world feels like slipping into a time alive with music, ambition, and courage.

Set in 1950s New York City, this historical fiction novel shines a light on the iconic Rockettes and the legendary Radio City Music Hall. Davis captures not only the glitter and grandeur of performance but also the deeper questions of identity, family, and the cost of chasing your dreams. It’s a story about love, loyalty, and finding your own rhythm when the world expects something else.

“I’m aware of my limitations, but I’m not defined by them”

What I loved most is how Davis intertwines art and resilience—showing how creativity can be both a calling and a lifeline. The world of performance, the pulse of the city, and the quiet courage of its characters all come together in a story that feels timeless and deeply human.

As a lifelong admirer of the arts (and of New York’s unstoppable energy), I was moved by how Davis honors the dreamers—the ones who chase their spotlight even when it costs them comfort or approval. The Spectacular is a beautiful tribute to bravery, creativity, and the belief that art can shape a life.

Reader’s Note: In just a few weeks, I’ll be seeing The Spectacular live at Radio City Music Hall and spending 48 unforgettable hours in New York City. I can’t wait to experience that same performance magic in person and share what it’s like to see this piece of history come alive as they celebrate 100 years of legacy. (Stay tuned for my next travel post featuring favorite NYC spots!)

If you enjoy stories that explore identity, art, and legacy, you’ll also love my review of The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue—a reflection on what it means to be seen and remembered.

Cozy Up with These Fall Reads

There’s nothing better than curling up under a soft blanket with a mug of something warm and a good book—no matter the season. If you’re looking for stories that bring comfort, reflection, and a touch of magic, here are four cozy reads to add to your fall list.
From wartime England to the golden age of Hollywood, these novels explore love, identity, legacy, reinvention, loss, and resilience—themes themes that invite reflection and linger long after the last page.

1. The Secret Book of Flora Lea by Patti Callahan Henry
   Set in wartime England, this tender historical novel follows two sisters separated during World War II and the decades-long search for what was lost. Nostalgic and mysterious, it’s a story that reminds us how remembering the past helps shape our future.

2. The Postcard by Anne Berest
   A moving blend of mystery, memoir, and history, The Postcard explores identity, memory, and the power of legacy. It’s a thoughtful, emotional read that pairs perfectly with the reflective spirit of autumn—and might just spark conversations about your own family’s past this Thanksgiving.

3. The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid
   A captivating story of old Hollywood glamour, ambition, and identity. As Evelyn Hugo shares her rise to fame and the choices that defined her, this novel explores love, loss, and the price of living life on your own terms. Elegant and emotionally rich, it’s the perfect fall read for anyone who loves stories about reinvention and resilience.

4. Violeta by Isabel Allende
   Told through a series of heartfelt letters, this historical fiction novel is a moving exploration of family, compassion, and strength in the face of change—a tender reminder that love endures even in the darkest seasons. A beautiful story to curl up with on quiet, reflective days.

Create Your Own Cozy Reading Ritual

Reading isn’t just an activity—it’s a moment of pause, a quiet return to yourself. This season, turn your reading time into a small, intentional ritual:

• Find your corner. A favorite chair, a pile of blankets, or a spot by the window—anywhere that feels like yours.

• Make it sensory. Brew tea, pour coffee, or savor a glass of wine. Let the act of preparation remind you that this time belongs to you.

• Set the mood. Play soft music—lo-fi jazz, acoustic guitar, or gentle rain. Let sound frame your solitude.

• Add a little glow. Light a candle or strike a match just to watch the flame flicker. It’s a reminder to be present.

Reading is an experience—and it can become a moment of centering, an act of self-care. Let every story remind you of the quiet joy of slowing down. Because books aren’t just for escaping life—they’re for finding pieces of yourself within it.

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