As I finished reading the book "Casino Singer" by Emily Hutton, I couldn't help but feel a sense of nostalgia and longing for the glamorous world of casinos and show business that the protagonist, Lily, inhabited. The author did a fantastic job of drawing me into the story and making me feel like I was right there with Lily as she navigated the ups and downs of her career.
One of the things that struck me most about the book was the vivid descriptions of the casino world. From the glitzy stage performances to the smoky gambling floors, Hutton painted a picture that was both captivating and slightly unsettling. It was clear that while Lily enjoyed the attention and excitement of performing, she also struggled with the darker side of the industry, including the pressure to always be "on" and the constant scrutiny from audience members and critics.
Another aspect of the book that resonated with me was Lily's internal struggle between following her dreams and staying true to herself. Throughout the story, she grapples with the idea of compromising her values in order to achieve success, and it was both heartbreaking and inspiring to see her ultimately choose authenticity over fame.
I also appreciated the way Hutton explored the complexities of Lily's relationships, both romantic and platonic. Her dynamic with her fellow performers, her manager, and her love interest felt realistic and well-developed, adding depth to the story and giving insight into Lily's character.
Overall, "Casino Singer" was a captivating read that delved into the glamorous yet often tumultuous world of show business. It was a story of ambition, passion, and resilience, and I found myself rooting for Lily every step of the way. I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a compelling story with well-drawn characters and a touch of old Hollywood charm.