Mourning Glory

Most likely you've never heard of the author Warren Adler. I certainly had no idea that such a man existed, let alone wrote novels, until about a week ago. A week ago, my sister brought home Adler's latest novel "Mourning Glory." After she devoured it (and devour is really the best way to describe how she tore through it), she handed it to me and ordered, "Read! Now!" Ok, maybe she didn't order me to read it. But she did highly recommend it. This is one case when taking the advice of an older sibling works out! I loved "Mourning Glory." If you're a fan of contemporary romances but are weary of the same plot over and over again, then check out "Mourning Glory." It's modern-day romance with a very unique twist. The twist? The main character, an attractive middle-aged woman Grace Sorentino, goes looking for men in all the wrong (but for her, right) places- funerals! The funerals of the men's recently deceased former spouses, to be more specific. The real meat of the novel deals with the consequences (often funny, often heartstring-tugging) of her actions. Hint: true love is an unforeseen consequence! I was pleasantly surprised by "Mourning Glory," and recommend it to anyone looking for a light yet satisfying summer read.

What a wacky concept. A luckless lady goes hunting for a rich husband by attending funerals of wealthy men who have just lost their wives. I was appalled at first, but the way Mr. Adler worked it out for Grace Sorentino was pretty logical and I began to admire her tactics. Hell, why not? Mourning Glory is a kind of primer for women looking to latch on to a poor unsuspecting rich guy at his most vulnerable moment. By the middle of the book, I began to believe in the idea and followed Grace through her various machinations hoping she would land the guy. I wish I had the guts to do what she did. I recommend this novel highly.

I had never read any of Mr. Adler's book before picking up Mourning Glory. I did, however, see the movie The War of the Roses, an adaptation of one of his earlier books. I didn't know what I had missed. Mourning Glory had me hooked immediately. What I liked the most, aside from the great dialogue and fast paced reading, was the way in which Mr. Adler weaved this tale of one woman's fight to rise from the depths by finding a wealthy widow. The fact is that I am an ardent feminist and believe that a woman must seek independence on her own and not be dependent on any man's bounty. At first I was offended by Grace Sorentino's cynical approach to the method by which she chose to save herself and her dysfunctional daughter. Then I bonded with her and understood both her plight and the method she chose. This is the story of survival and in the end I cheered Grace on and understood how she might take this step. I am curious how other ardent feminists like myself might react to this story, which I found both maddening and profound.

Adler is up to his old tricks ala The War of the Roses and Random Hearts. Mourning Glory is funny, insightful and full of irony. I really liked Grace Sorentino and admired her fighting spirit in the face of so much trouble. And who doesn't try to reinvent themselves to better their position. I really thought Mr. Adler outdid himself in Mourning Glory and I feel comfortable about recommending it to anyone.

Mourning Glory is a powerful story of a woman down on her luck with no prospects, a divorcee with a dysfunctional daughter, who embarks on an unconventional strategy to find a wealthy man to free her from her dilemma. Flying in the face of contemporary feminine doctrine she develops a unique strategy and finds her mark, only to discover how deep emotions can thwart any cynical plan. The character of Grace Sorentino is marvelously portrayed and one follows her strange and compelling journey with rapt attention and deep involvement. Adler writes with his usual flair for sharp dialogue, surprise plotting and bittersweet humor that will take your on a wild ride through a complicated and often hostile world.