Olivia Wolfgang-Smith's novel Mutual Interest takes its time, gets going, and then...ends. (I received a free advance review copy.) I must admit, this one was on the verge of DNF, but I stuck with it, got to the gist of the story, and then was left wondering what the point of it all was in the end. I mean, if I had read this with a book club, we'd for sure have some discussion about the character of Vivian and the lives of all women at the end of the 1800s/early 1900s. And perhaps that's what the author wanted?
Vivian is not like other girls. She doesn't want to live in her hometown of Utica, New York with her overbearing and disapproving parents. Enticed by the charms and society in Manhattan, Vivian sets forth to make her fortune - or find someone who can make it for her. Enter Oscar, a mildly successful businessman in the personal care (soap) industry. Vivian sees potential there, and recognizes an almost kindred spirit in Oscar. Both are still single, and once married, both are willing to turn a blind eye to the other's indiscretions: Oscar's with men and Vivian's with women. Through Vivian, Oscar's business begins to grow, and she soon brings in another person of interest to take the business to the next level. Squire is Oscar's rival, but upon a chance meeting (planned by Vivian), the two realize how in sync they are, both in business and in love. Our random threesome begins a life of business success and happiness. But is everybody really happy?
I liked the little life our main characters carved out for themselves, working around the laws of the day and overcoming societal expectations. You'll find yourself rooting for these three outcasts.
The historical elements woven throughout this work of fiction are interesting to read. I'm still not quite sure why I had to learn about the year without a summer in the beginning, but perhaps this type of literary fiction is just over my head.
Mutual Interest is published by Bloomsbury and will be available to purchase on February 4, 2025. I received a free ARC from the publisher.
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