A Crown of Stars

by Shana Abe

A sumptuously vivid and poignant account of the Lusitania’s fateful last days, drawn from the true story of an extraordinary young actress who survived the unthinkable—for fans of Marie Benedict, Louis Bayard, Fiona Davis, Kate Quinn, and HBO’s The Gilded Age.

In turn of the century England, the Jolivet family lives a charmed existence. Daughter of a wealthy vineyard owner and a French pianist, vivacious Marguerite, the eldest of three, loves spinning stories and entertaining her family’s well-connected friends. No one is surprised when she announces, at 18, that she intends to become an actress. Her sister, Inez, a virtuosa violinist, moves to London with her. Soon the two beauties are being celebrated in the highest social circles.

Marguerite takes the stage name Rita, and quickly draws the attention of legendary theater producer Charles Frohman. From the West End to Broadway, and then in the new medium of silent film, Rita is known for her “sultry eyes, her mystic smile,” and her star burns brighter with every role. While filming in Italy, she’s courted by a charismatic aristocrat and Rita feels on the verge of a life even better than her dreams. Inez, meanwhile, has already found love, and travels the world with her adored husband.

Yet soon, war is raging across Europe. Rita, in New York for the premiere of Cecil B. DeMille’s The Unafraid, receives word from Inez that their brother is about to enlist. Hoping to see him before he departs, Rita books a ticket on the fastest steamer the RMS Lusitania. But the ship sails under a British flag, and the German government warns that all such vessels are fair game. Few believe Germany would risk attacking a ship carrying Americans, certainly not one as swift and imposing as the Lusy.

Once aboard, Rita is delighted to discover both Charles and her brother-in-law as fellow passengers.The days pass in a haze of parties and pleasurable pursuits, and the comforts of the luxury ocean liner are almost enough to calm Rita’s ripples of unease. But as the ship nears Liverpool, every assumption will be tested, and Rita, her family, and the world, will be changed forever by the voyage’s infamous and catastrophic end . . .

Genres: Historical Fiction, Fiction, Historical, Adult, World War I, British Literature, War

352 pages, Paperback

Published February 24, 2026

About the author

Shana Abé is the award-winning, New York Times, USA Today, Publishers Weekly, and Wall Street Journal bestselling author of seventeen books, including the acclaimed Drákon Series and the Sweetest Dark Series.

She has a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from the University of Southern California, and currently resides in the mountains of Colorado with her very patient husband and a lot of pets.

Reviews

[Louise · Rating 3 out of 5]

(2.5 stars)
Thank you to Kensington and Tandem Collective Global for the advance copy of A Crown of Stars by Shana Abe. This tale is historical fiction that centers around the sinking of the Lusitania in 1915. I have to admit I only knew the bare bones of that tragedy but saw a monument to it when I visited Cobh, Ireland last spring. (Cobh was called Queenstown at the time and that’s how the author refers to it, which confused me at first. Glad the author used the appropriate term, though!)

Anyway, back to the book. Unfortunately, I was quite disappointed in it. The first 70% or so of the book really dragged. We get a TON of description, whether it was what people were wearing, the decor of a room, the plants in a garden, and so forth. It made the pace really slow, and didn’t help the story advance. Other than an enticing prologue, we really get nothing related to the Lusitania until rather late in the book. Those sections were good, but there just wasn’t enough of them. We spent the majority of time learning about the young lives of the two sisters, Rita and Inez Jolivet, how Rita started her acting career and Inez her violin career. It wasn’t until the excellent author’s note at the end that I found out that virtually all the main characters were actual people. I had no idea.

I do wish that an editor had done more editing on this one - it would have been a more enjoyable read if it had moved along at a better, more typical pace, with much less description. In the end, I’m glad I didn’t DNF it, but stuck with it (mostly due to a readalong sponsored by Tandem Collective Global).

[Elaine · Rating 3 out of 5]

Although the ending (or I should say the last hour or so…) was terrific, I feel like the first 60-80% of the book could’ve been significantly shortened… and would’ve been a much more enjoyable read.

I thought of DNF’ing this one, and I probably should have…
Instead I kept going.
And, the ending was wonderful!

Strong. Incredible. A real tear-jerker…
And tied up all the loose ends….

BUT….getting through the rest of the book was rough.
I understand the author was painting the picture of two sisters who were so very close their entire lives…but it was not all that interesting for me…

I’m sure there are MANY who totally enjoyed this one, but for me, it was a miss.

3 stars for me! ⭐️⭐️⭐️

#ACrownOfStars by Shana Abe and narrated nicely by Chloe DeBurgh.

This one is being released today, 2/24/26… so, look 👀 for it on shelves now!

Since I am not giving a glowing review, I will limit my posts to Goodreads, NetGalley and my personal FB and IG pages…

You can also find my reviews on: Goodreads,
Instagram: @BookReviews_with_emsr and/or
My Facebook Book Club: Book Reviews With Elaine

Thanks so much for reading! And if you ‘liked’ my review, please share with your friends, & click ‘LIKE’ below… And, let me know YOUR thoughts if you read it!! 📚⭐️

[Stephanie · Rating 2 out of 5]

Two stars for the first 75% which was just lots of unnecessary description of two sisters, Rita who becomes a successful play actress, and Inez is a violinist in the early 1900s. Just because there's lots of attempted lush description of a book, doesn't make it a worthwhile one.

2.5 stars for the remaining book is where the tragic fall of Lusitania actually happens. A whole lot of nothing, quite frankly. This is my second Shana Abe book, and I'm finding her historical fiction novels to be more surface level, as opposed to becoming enthralled with the story line.

“Yellow horseshoe vetch and magenta corncockles, lacy white cow parsley, and—as they got closer to the sea—pink papery clusters of thrift, clinging tenaciously to rocky ledges.”

Ok cool description, but imagine ten more pages like this on a settle setting. More plot please!

[Donna · Rating 4 out of 5]

DRC from Edelweiss and Kensington / Kensington Publishing Corp.
Historical fiction about family, sisterly bond, and the sinking of the RMS Lusitania. Marguerite and Inez are close and have grown up with all the comforts money can buy. Marguerite wants to be an actress and Inez becomes a violinist. As they negotiate first London and then New York, they each thrive in their chosen professions. They also each find love. All falls apart when their younger brother enlists in the war and “Rita” travels back to London to see him before he leaves. Inez is already there - but her husband George is also on his way. Rita and George meet up on the ship RMS Lusitania. The rest, as they say, is history.

[Literary Redhead · Rating 5 out of 5]

An utterly absorbing WWI histfic story about the Jolivet sisters: Rita, an actress, and Inez, a violinist. When learning that their brother was soon to enlist, Rita travels on the RMS Lusitania from New York to try to see him before he departs. She was one of only 763 survivors out of nearly 2,000 on board when the ship was sunk by the Germans. Her brother-in-law died there too, leaving her sister distraught. Inez committed suicide after learning of his death. A beautifully written tale that captures the tragic event and its devastating aftermath with poignance and power. Highly recommended!

[Deanna Lynn Sletten · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Crown of Stars is a sweeping and emotionally resonant historical romance that combines elegance, depth, and genuine heart. Shana Abe once again proves her talent for blending rich historical atmosphere with a love story rooted in loyalty and quiet devotion.

Set in the refined world of European royalty and aristocracy, the novel unfolds with grace and restraint. Abe’s prose is luminous, drawing readers into a world of glittering courts, whispered obligations, and lives shaped by duty. Yet beneath the grandeur lies a deeply human story of longing, sacrifice, and second chances.

One of the most powerful elements of the novel is the voyage aboard the ill-fated RMS Lusitania. Their time on the Lusitania adds a layer of poignant tension and historical gravity to the story. As the looming tragedy approaches, every shared glance and unspoken word carries greater weight. Abe handles this real historical event with sensitivity and care, weaving it seamlessly into the emotional arc of the characters without overshadowing their personal journey.

The heroine is dignified, intelligent, and quietly courageous, navigating a world of rigid expectations with strength and composure. The hero is equally compelling—honorable yet burdened by responsibility. Their romance develops naturally, grounded in shared history and steadfast devotion rather than fleeting passion.

What makes this novel particularly moving is its sense of inevitability—of love tested by circumstance and history itself. The Lusitania scenes heighten the emotional stakes, reminding readers how fragile happiness can be, and how enduring true love must be to survive.

For readers who appreciate historical romance written with depth, authenticity, and emotional resonance, A Crown of Stars is a beautifully crafted and unforgettable read. It is a story of grace under pressure, loyalty in the face of danger, and a love strong enough to endure even the darkest hour.

[Helen - Great Reads & Tea Leaves · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5*

It is a rare gift when an author manages to be both a meticulous historian and a great storyteller. This is my third Shana Abé novel and once more I was transported by her blend of lyrical prose and human emotion. In A Crown of Stars, Abé proves once again why she is a master of the biographical fiction genre. She doesn’t just retell history, she reignites the spirit of the era.

The novel follows the real-life figure of Rita Jolivet (of whom I had never heard) a stage and silent film star of the early 20th century. While her life was already one of glamour and acclaim, Abé focuses on the harrowing pivot point of Rita's biography: the May 1915 voyage of the RMS Lusitania.

The story traces Rita’s journey from the bright lights of the theatre to the fog-drenched Atlantic. As she boards the "Greyhound of the Seas" to return to her family in England amidst the tensions of WWI, the narrative builds a sense of mounting dread. We see the luxury of the first-class cabins contrasted with the looming threat of German U-boats, culminating in a vivid, minute-by-minute account of the ship’s final 18 minutes!

The hallmark of great historical fiction is the "Wikipedia rabbit hole" it often sends one down. Abé clearly spent a significant amount of time in the archives for this one.

* The Details of the Voyage: Beyond the sinking itself, the book captures the specific social atmosphere of the Lusitania - the menus, the specific passenger lists, and the dismissive attitude many had toward the German embassy's warnings.

* Rita Jolivet's Authenticity: Abé is so disciplined with the facts - from Rita’s brother-in-law (the eccentric George Vernon) to her composure during the disaster, the "fiction" in this book acts merely as the connective tissue between well-documented truths.

* The WWI Context: The book brilliantly captures the shift from the "Gilded Age" mentality to the brutal reality of modern warfare.

Shana Abé is renowned for finding "forgotten" women of history and placing them back on the pedestal they deserve. In Rita Jolivet, she finds a protagonist who is both vulnerable and incredibly resilient. Abé is a fabulous writer and this is a poignant tribute not just to the actress, but to the 1,198 souls lost in a tragedy that changed the course of the Great War.

If you enjoyed Abé's previous works like The Second Mrs. Astor (highly recommend) this is a mandatory addition to your TBR. It’s a haunting, beautifully researched exploration of survival and the end of an era.

[Caitlin Barnett · Rating 3 out of 5]

First of all, thank you to Netgalley and Kensington Publishing for allowing me access to an advance copy of A Crown of Stars by Shana Abé in exchange for my honest review and opinions.

In A Crown of Stars, Shana Abé takes on the tragedy of the Lusitania from a somewhat different direction than most books about this incident. While the sinking of the Lusitania is obviously a pivotal part of the story, that’s not where the book begins. Abé takes a very character-driven approach. Using historical research, she writes the story of a real life family who become affected by the unfolding events.

We follow the lives of the Jolivet sisters, both of whom are chasing their passions across the globe. The older sister, Marguerite, finds her ambition through stage and film. She finds herself famous and adored by the masses of fans that can’t get enough of her. The younger sister, Inez, is somewhat more introverted and seeks her joy through the beautiful music she creates with her beloved violin.

As the two sisters find their way in the world, Inez is blessed with a true love, saying that her husband’s heart is her home. Marguerite, on the other hand, has a somewhat more standoffish approach. She worries that love will make her beholden to another and take away from her aims.

With the war in Europe creating an environment of fear and uncertainty, Marguerite finds herself rushing back to London from New York in an effort to say farewell to her brother after he enlists. She believes she will make it because she is taking the fastest steamer in the world, the Lusitania. Surely the opulence of the ship and the privileges afforded to the rich and famous will shield them from any danger.

They are very wrong.

The harrowing events that take place cause anguish for the Jovilet family, as Marguerite isn’t the only member of the family on board the fated ship.

Abe’s eloquent writing portrays the raw emotion and pain afflicted upon those forced to live and cope with what occurred. By first creating a connection to the family and the characters, the reader is able to feel the ache more keenly. While historical accurate, it doesn’t read like a play-by-play of what happened on the seas that day. It becomes personal and highlights the far reaching implications beyond just what happened to those on board.

I hadn’t read any of Abé’s previous works before this, but if this is a taste of her talents, I am interested to see what else she has in store.

[The History Mom · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a wonderful book about two unknown women from history, sisters Rita and Inez Jolivet. As Rita chases her dreams of stardom on the stage and screen, Inez quietly builds a life as a musician and wife. When WWI begins, their lives are changed irrevocably. As one of the sisters boards the ill-fated Lusitania, neither sister has any idea what lies ahead.

I was captivated by this book. Abe’s descriptive writing and attention to historical details makes the story sing. I loved learning about the behind-the-scenes of early 20th century stagecraft, but the descriptions of the Lusitania was my favorite part of the book. I felt the horror of the event viscerally and couldn’t believe all that happened.

I adored Abe’s previous book (An American Beauty) and look forward to reading more by her!

Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for my ARC.

[Henny T · Rating 4 out of 5]

A beautiful story of a tragedy not widely known. We all know the name Titanic, why is it that Lusitania doesn’t hold the same weight? Shana Abe did a wonderful job bringing The Lusitania and Rita Jolivet back to life.

The book started a little slow, but the beautiful and intricate detail make up for that. The historical lexicon and vivid imagery transport you back in time. I very much enjoyed this book.

[Shes_a_book_geek · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rita and Inez Jolivet had stolen my heart by the conclusion of this book, and it surprised me that I felt this way. We get to experience the talents of the sisters, the way their lives were similar yet so different, and there was tragedy in ways that were unexpected.

About halfway through the book, I wondered whether I was listening to the right one because I thought it centred around a ship by the name of Lusitania. We did get there with about a quarter of the book being left and when I got to the end, I realised why it came into the story so late in the book.

At the end of the book, the author spoke about the true story around Rita and the Lusitania and this fed my factual, loving soul…I couldn’t help but investigate Rita and the Lusitania further. I love when a book gets you to explore beyond the story in the pages.
If you love a little history and enjoy a little flair, this book is for you.

Thanks to Netgalley for an advanced audio copy of this book.

[Trina · Rating 5 out of 5]

Second book by this author for me. I enjoy her writing style so much. I even won this advance copy! This story will stay with me for awhile.

[Carole Barker · Rating 4 out of 5]

The lives, loves and tragedies of sisters during the Gilded Age

Marguerite, Inez and their brother Alfred Jolivet had a privileged upbringing in England in the late 1800s, an unusual one due perhaps in part to their parents being French rather than English. The Jolivets were wealthy and moved in the top social circles, yet neither daughter wanted to follow the normal path of young ladies of their social status by securing an eligible husband. Marguerite, the vivacious and outgoing beauty and eldest child, was determined to become an actress, while the quiet and shy Inez was a gifted musician, both playing the violin beautifully and writing her own music. Their mother Pauline supported their dreams and persuaded their father to do the same. Marguerite began her career on the London stage, soon catching the eye of legendary theater producer Charles Frohman, and would go on to great acclaim on Broadway and in silent films as Rita Jolivet (and find love with an Italian count). Inez, who accompanied her sister to London, would not only further her training as a violinist and become very successful in her own right, she would meet and fall in love with the handsome George Vernon, a gifted tenor and (perhaps) an agent for the US government. The sisters' happiness and success would be impacted first by the commencement of the Great War and later by a transatlantic crossing in May of 1915....aboard the Lusitania.
A Crown of Stars is a novel of historical fiction that is based upon the true story of British actress Rita Jolivet who was aboard the Lusitania when it was torpedoed by a German U-boat and sank off the coast of Ireland, Author Shana Abe brings the two sisters to life, with letters from Inez to Rita after the tragic events on the Lusitania threaded through the narration of the years that led up to that fateful day. As the story unfolds the reader is shown in great detail the life of young women of their class at that time, the realities of creating a life on the stage, and the strong sisterly bond between the Jolivet girls. As the novel begins, the focus is more on two sheltered girls experiencing life in London, flirting with the rules of society and falling in love. For me the more compelling part of the book comes later on, when Rita is aboard the Lusitania and discovers that both Charles and George are on board as well. Life aboard the luxury liner, the tensions felt by the passengers and crew in the face of warnings from Germany that the ship could be a target, and then the horrible hours after being struck by the torpedo are all described in vivid detail. It is hard not to be moved by what Rita experienced and the effects on her and the rest of her family afterwards. I would rate the book a solid 4; that might have been higher if the book had focused more on the events leading up to and on the Lusitania, but it is still overall an informative and well-written story sure to appeal to fans of the author as well as readers of Marie Benedict, Kate Quinn and Allison Pataki. My thanks to NetGalley and Kensington Publishing for allowing me access to the novel in exchange for my honest review.

[The Sassy Bookworm · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book Review: A Crown of Stars by Shana Abe

Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars

I recently finished A Crown of Stars by Shana Abe, and it’s a beautifully crafted novel that left a lasting impression on me. This story is a rich tapestry of early 20th-century life, woven around the real-life tragedy of the Lusitania’s sinking, seen through the eyes of an extraordinary young actress.

The novel follows Marguerite Jolivet, a vibrant and ambitious young woman from a privileged background in England. With her father running a successful vineyard and her mother a talented pianist, Marguerite grows up surrounded by art and culture. At 18, she boldly decides to pursue her dream of acting, adopting the stage name Rita. Alongside her sister Inez, a gifted violinist, Rita quickly rises in the theater world—from London’s West End to Broadway, and even silent films—capturing attention with her sultry presence and captivating smile.

Life seems full of promise, especially when Rita finds herself wooed by an aristocrat while filming in Italy. Meanwhile, Inez is happily married and traveling the world with her husband. But as the shadow of war spreads across Europe, the siblings’ lives take a dramatic turn. Rita learns that their brother is about to enlist and decides to see him before he departs—booking passage on the RMS Lusitania, the fastest ocean liner of its time.

The narrative brilliantly captures the opulence and social glamour aboard the Lusitania, while gradually building tension as warnings of danger loom ominously. Rita’s journey on the ship, surrounded by familiar faces like her brother-in-law and famed theater producer Charles Frohman, is a poignant mix of joy and anxiety. The story culminates in the harrowing and world-changing sinking of the Lusitania, an event that alters the course of many lives forever.

What stood out most to me was not just the historical backdrop but how deeply the characters were brought to life. Shana Abe’s writing is lush and evocative—the kind that pulls you into another era so completely you can almost hear the clinking glasses and feel the ocean breeze. The blend of fictional storytelling with real historical events felt seamless and respectful, adding emotional depth without losing accuracy.

And I have to mention—this book made me cry, which is rare for me these days. The characters’ struggles and triumphs touched me in unexpected ways. Plus, the cover is absolutely gorgeous—a perfect match for the elegant yet emotional journey inside.

In short, if you enjoy historical fiction that’s rich in atmosphere, stirring in emotion, and well-researched, A Crown of Stars is definitely worth picking up. It’s a captivating read I can wholeheartedly recommend.

⚠️This review was written based on personal opinions and experiences with the book. Individual preferences may vary⚠️

[Smithers · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thank you to Kensington Publishing and Goodreads for my free ARC.

What a great Historical Fiction read about the Jolivet sisters, WWI, and the Lusitania. I even learned a bit of history as I read. Plus, the Author's notes were a nice accompaniment after finishing the book.

Join the lives of the Jolivet family. Mainly the book revolves around the sisters, Rita & Inez. Rita becomes a well known if not famous actress and Inez a very talented violinist. Rita is the sister with dreams of making it big and experiencing all life has to offer. On the other hand, Inez is quiet and thoughtful. Shy but not a total wallflower, even when she tries.

The first half of the book revolved around the sisters when they lived at home interacting in that world with their family. You get a peak into how talented Inez is with her violin. Then we move to New York with the sisters and by now Inez had quite the romance with her husband George Vernon. Their marriage was something may women dream about. While Rita wasn't quite ready to give herself entirely to a man she does eventually. I think she is afraid of losing who she is and what she has accomplished to be a wife. I also think she was afraid to make a mistake with her commitment to one man forever. She was an actress in silent films even the ones of Charlie Chaplain. She then moved onto talkies and was probably more well known for those. She was a star in that time.

The last portion of the novel revolved around Rita's time getting to and sailing on the Lusitania. How coincidental her brother-in-law George and friend Charles were also on the ship. We also heard about other high profile people on the ship such as a Vanderbilt. The description of the opulent and lavish times on the ship were so descriptive. I could see it in my mind and how it related to the story overall.

No one really believed the Germans would torpedo this ship - it was faster than uboats. But they did. It was a horrific scene and aptly described. I teared up quite a bit. What grit Rita had until rescued and in Ireland. She realized she wanted what her sister had with George - a great marriage built on love and trust. I don't want to spoil this for anyone so I won't spill the shocker at the end that had me tearing up.

Right now, this has been my most favorite read of 2026. I laughed, cried, and ultimately had hope and then cried again. I love a great emotional story. That is was based on true people and events was just a bonus. Shana Abe has a way with words and details!

[Darla · Rating 4 out of 5]

The angels raised their arms. They summoned a circle of stars, right there in the middle of the day. A crown of stars that descended to her, glorious and spinning, so glorious she had to close her eyes and drop her head and sleep.

The Lusitania. The name invokes images of hopeful passengers, a voyage cruelly cut short, a symbol of the U-boat's tyranny.

When I saw this new offering from Shana Abe, I jumped at the chance to read about Rita Jolivet and her experience on the Lusitania. Some notes:

🎬Marguerite (Rita) Jolivet was a silent screen star who survived the Lusitania and later made a film about it called "Lest We Forget." She starred in the film and produced it making it necessary for her to act in sequences recreating the disaster.

🌟I love the title and the cover. Rita Jolivet's star power shines through in the book. Her sister Inez (Leigh) was luminescent in her own right as a violinist. Inez's husband George was also on the Lusitania and the author incoroporates journal entries of hers within the book. The two sisters were very close.

👶I will never forget reading in Dead Wake: The Last Crossing of the Lusitania by Erik Larsen about a woman in labor while the ship was sinking. In this book I found out that the Lusitania's ship company, the Cunard Line, was known for its excellent health care on board the ship. Pregnant women booked their passage with intentions to give birth on the ship and take advantage of the Cunard health plan.

👭I do think Kate Morton fans will also enjoy this new release. This book featured fabulous characters, unfortunately it took too long for any of them to board the Lusitania. I also felt the story was a bit bogged down at times by attempts to do too much telling about the varied settings.

Happy Publication Day - February 24, 2026. Thank you to Kensington and Edelweiss+ for a DRC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.

[psych0_4books · Rating 4 out of 5]

I listened to the audiobook and liked the VA's performance. She brought the characters to life in spectacular fashion, where you could feel the difference between the sisters and their journeys.

As for the plot, it is an interesting story following the Jolivet sisters as they pursue careers in the limelight during the Edwardian era. Marguerite (Rita) annoyed me at first but as the story continued, she grew on me. Her approach to performing/acting and owning the stage was admirable but I felt that Rita had a flair for being selfish, like when ignores her younger sister Inez's discomfort and request for a chaperone. But Rita is also a breath of fresh air for a historical fiction story. She is strong-willed and independent, going for what she wants and not apologizing for it. Her approach to romance is very surface as Rita refuses to give up her dreams to sit at home and wither away

I liked Inez, maybe because I could relate to her better. Her love for the violin shines and she delivers shy but powerful performances. While she performs, she toes the line of being humble and ladylike while allowing her passion and talent to shine through. The romantic plot between Inez and George was cute, with Inez being demure and cautious of society's watchful eye while George, the dashing American, brought his charm and different worldview, cueing a change in the quieter Jolivet sister.

The second part of the book picks up as the events leading to World War One happen. Rita ends up in New York and gets a message from Inez that their brother enlisted. Rita boards in the ill-fated Lusitania and discovers that her brother-in-law is also on the craft when the unimaginable happens. Because of the deep descriptions of the Jolivet family and their friends/acquaintances, you feel emotional as they pick up the pieces after the traumatic event.

This is the first book that I have read by Shana Abé and I look forward to reading the others.

*Huge thanks to Netgalley and Tantor Media for the ALC*

[Sharon · Rating 4 out of 5]

It was terrifically interesting to learn about the life of Rita Jolivet and her sister, Inez Vernon, a talented violinist, Shana Abe sets her novel just before WWI, and winds through rural England, London, New York, Hollywood, Italy, and aboard the Lusitania (in May 1915). If that feels like a whirlwind, it reflects the force of nature that Rita (aka Marguerite and Countess Margarita) Jolivet seemed to be. Even in her late teens she was pushing boundaries asking her parents to allow her to live in London, apart from her parents, to pursue her dreams of being an actress. In the book she charged after the things she wanted, I enjoyed how vivacious Rita was, and how passionate about those she loved--the sibling relationship between Inez and Rita was poetic.

I would have imagined that the author exaggerated Rita's verve but when Cecil B. DeMille and Charles Frohman made appearances in the story, I was curious about how much was for the fiction part of historical fiction. Several searches after the book led me to believe that the character possibly closely resembled the remarkable woman who inspired her, and Shana Abe fashioned a compelling story out of her life.

The description of the Lusitania, and it's terrible end, were painted just as vividly, although in a much more somber tone. The historical importance of this act of war and its aftermath drew a picture possibly more poignant for being told through the eyes of survivors.

I wondered what in her life had made Rita Jolivet so fearful and avoidant of marriage and family, considering that she seemed to have come from a fairly close and loving family. I'm not sure the novel really addressed that, tbh, but I'm not sure it needed and explanation. My sincere thanks to NetGalley and Kensington Books for the eARC. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this historical fiction novel from Shana Abe and all opinions are my own

[Mary · Rating 4 out of 5]

At the turn of the twentieth century, young Rita Jolivet dreams of performing on Broadway, but her parents are not quite ready to allow her to venture across the Atlantic Ocean. However, they partially acquiesce to her wishes to hone her skills on the London stage, as long as her sister Inez accompanies her. When finally invited to travel to Broadway, Rita embraces the chance to pursue her childhood dream. But with war unfolding in Europe and her brother stepping up to defend, Rita makes the impossible decision to return home, and her journey aboard the fated Lusitania will bring her closer to the war than she ever expected. This thoughtful, historical fiction novel chronicles the true story of Rita Jolivet in a way that is accessible and immediate for contemporary readers. Told through the perspectives of both sisters, the narrative progresses in a more or less linear path interspersed with asides that offer additional insight and foreshadowing into future events. Contemplative, well-crafted narrative and immersive dialogue effectively place readers within this time period, utilizing constructs that emphasize the societal expectations of the time juxtaposed against the true human emotions felt by both young women. Weighty subject matter and an intense series of scenes related to the Lusitania’s fate make the book best suited to mature readers. Young adults and adults alike will find this story to be appealing, especially readers with an interest in both the early twentieth century and historical fiction novels. Back matter includes an author's note and discussion questions for further understanding and reflection. This is a beautiful addition to historical fiction collections for mature readers.

[Annette · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Crown of Stars is based on the true story of a young actress who survived catastrophic voyage on Lusitania.

Early 1900, England. Marguerite Jolivet comes from a privileged family and from an early age enjoys spinning stories and entertaining her family’s friends. At eighteen, she reveals her intention of becoming an actress.

Her younger sister, Inez, is not happy about Marguerite leaving the house as both sisters have a very close bond. But Inez has a gift of her own. She is a talented violinist. This allows her to follow her sister as they both move to London.

They quickly become celebrated in London, where Marguerite takes the stage name of Rita. Their careers take them in different geographical directions. Inez remains in Europe and Rita moves to Broadway in NYC. Despite the distance, the sisterly bond remains strong with love and support for each other.

The war in Europe makes the brother of Rita and Inez enlist, and that makes Rita rush to Europe on the fastest steamer which is attacked by Germany. The events turn tragically for many, even for some who were on land, and had hard time coping with the events.

The story mainly focuses on the lives of the sisters, with some events presented in vivid and descriptive writing, giving it a slower pace. The pace picks up with the events of Lusitania towards the end of the story.

This historical romance, eloquently written, is a great choice for those who enjoy the focus on relationships presented at leisurely pace.

Source: ARC was provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

[Kat valentine ( Katsbookcornerreads) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another marvelous historical romance from author Shana Abe!

The Crown of Stars is set during the glittering Gilded Age and follows two sisters from a wealthy, privileged family as they chase their very different dreams.

Marguerita “Rita” Jolivet longs to become a famous Broadway actress — and with her beauty and charm, she seems destined to take the world by storm. She lives life boldly, refusing to let any one man claim her heart.

Her quiet, shy younger sister, Inez “Leigh,” finds her own spotlight as a gifted violinist. She falls instantly in love with the powerful and debonair George Vernon — a mysterious gentleman whispered to be an actual spy.

We follow both sisters through love, ambition, fame, and heartbreak, while witnessing the beautiful bond that only sisters share. But everything changes during a fateful voyage aboard the Lusitania, a tragedy that — like the Titanic — still haunts us today. One sister is left shattered by grief, while the other finally stops running from the one thing she cannot control: love.

Shana Abe is a gifted storyteller. Her lush, atmospheric writing and richly layered characters blend romance with real historical events in a way that feels both sweeping and intimate.

This is a clean historical romance that focuses on courtship, relationships, and the enduring strength of sisterhood. It is a heartfelt, emotional read that will stay with you long after the final page.

📅 Releases February 2026 — and it is absolutely one to mark on your calendar.

Thank you to Netgalley and Kensington and Shana Abe for the ARC!💋😉

[Doreen Prentiss Gabriellini · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Crown of Stars by Shana Abe is my third book by this author. It is the story of two sisters Rita and Inez Jolivet. This is a true event and the sisters are real people. The story was very well researched. While this is not the first time I have read about the Lusitania Ms. Abe’s attention to detail is awesome but not overwhelming. These are wonderful characters that you will not soon forget. In the beginning I felt that the story was about Rita and Inez an actress and a violinist. Ultimately the story is not only about the disaster of the Lusitania but a story of sisterhood.

One of the interesting parts of the story is that at beginning of each chapter is a quote from Inez. It makes you feel so much closer to her. Rita was a woman before her time. She made her acting career during a time when women were just starting out on the silver screen.

It turns out that Rita was a passenger on the Lusitania. The ship was attacked by a German submarine. This tragedy was a pivotal point in the First World War. The information about the ship and it’s descriptions of it’s interiors and its sinking are still vivid in my mind.

I love how Ms. Abe creates an atmosphere that is not to weighed down but draws you in. Her character creation is exceptional. They are deep and memorable and are brought to life. You feel their happiness, sadness and grief. Well done. I can’t wait to see what Ms. Abe has in store for us next.

[Jennifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an advanced reader copy of the audiobook of A Crown of Stars by Shana Abe, and while it took me a little while to fully settle into the story (plus, life interrupted), once I did, I absolutely couldn’t stop listening.

What truly captured my heart was the bond between Rita and her sister, Inez. Their camaraderie felt so authentic and tender. Rita’s fierce independence paired beautifully with Inez’s quiet, steady strength. Together, they created a special relationship that was both inspiring and achingly real.

Of course, like many of us, I learned about the sinking of the RMS Lusitania in school. But this novel transformed a historical event into something deeply personal and devastating. Abe doesn’t just recount history — she brings it vividly to life through characters whose hopes, dreams, and futures feel tangible. Knowing what was coming did nothing to soften the emotional impact. The ending truly crushed me. So many innocent lives lost. So many possibilities extinguished far too soon.

The audiobook narrator did a fabulous job bringing the characters to life, adding depth and emotion that made the experience even more immersive.

Even with its tragic, inevitable conclusion, this story lingered with me long after it ended. A beautifully written, well researched, and deeply moving historical novel.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an advanced copy in exchange for my honest review.

[Tara · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rita and Inez are British sisters from a well-off family. While Inez is a concert violinist, Rita peruses her dream of acting. Inez finds love with an American man and moves to New York while Rita's career starts to take off in Italy (where she starts a love affair with a titled Italian gentleman) and then Hollywood. As WWII breaks out, their younger brother enlists in the British army. While Inez is already in England visiting, both Rita and Inez's husband race home to see their brother off to battle. However, their journey on the Lusitania does not go well.

I have read and really liked Shana Abe's previous historical fictions, and I really enjoyed this one too. There is a ton of character building and not a lot of plot for the first 75% of the book and then the tone and pacing completely change. I really loved the characters and the plotline, especially since they are fictionalized real people and events, but I did struggle a bit with the uneven pacing. However, I knew very little about the fateful voyage of the Lusitania and found this book really interesting. Following two sisters was a very good way to approach this subject and time period.

Thank you to Netgalley for the advance copy for review. All books are read by me and no AI was used in the writing of this review.

[Perrin Larton · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book began very slowly for me. Seemingly unrelated stories of the two sisters, Margarita and Inez Jolivet, along with their parents and brother. Lots of talk about where they were living and scenery. I wanted this book to talk about the ship Lusitania that was sunk in 1915 by a German Submarine...but...once I settled back into the book and reigned in my Lusitania fixation...I enjoyed this very much.

Told in 4 parts, the journey was what this book was about. Rita becoming an actress, Inez becoming a virtuoso violist, family there to bolster them when others thought the girls were too worldly, and a much loved brother. For Rita, a first husband that tried to change her and for Inez a husband that completed her.,

The book picked up speed as it went along and I could hardly swipe quickly enough when the Lusitania disembarked from New York. Historically we know what happened, less than 800 of the almost 2000 aboard died. Emotionally I was shattered when some of Rita's companions died. Heart wrenching for her to have to let loved ones in England know, and much sadness in the family after another tragedy.

After I read A Crown of Stars, I had to do some Googling to find out what was fact and what was fiction. Very interesting and I hope others will do the same. A very worthwhile read. Four stars since the beginning was so slow.

[Dina Ovando-Brown · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is my first book by Shana Abe and it was an fascinating historical novel based on the real lives of the Jolivet family, particularly sisters, "Rita" an actress, and Inez, a famed violinist .
I found the beginning a bit slow, yet the author's writing is descriptively lush with their childhood and home setting woven in magical aura, keeping me engaged in their early years.
The largest part focuses on their careers coming to fruition and relationships, with several famous people and events part of the story. The pace picks up with how the war impacts their lives, how it leads them to the ill fated Lusitania and the tragic aftermath for the survivors and the families of those lost.
The historical details are meticulously recorded, demonstrating the author's research and understanding of the events. The pacing is a bit uneven, I would have liked more about actual event and how the movie did. The romances are clean with the family love and friendships at the center. The author's notes are a great reference.
I highly recommend this well written and unique historical book about the beautiful bond of real life sisters whose lives were so tragically changed by the sinking of the Lusitania.
I'd like to give Kensington Publishing and NetGalley a big note of gratitude for the ARC, it was a privilege and pleasure. All opinions expressed are my own.

[Amanda Butzen · Rating 2 out of 5]

If you are hoping for a book solely about the Lusitania this book is not for you. Our main character does not actually board the Lusitania until page 213.

The first 200 pages of the book are a rather dry story of two sisters and their rise to fame. I enjoyed Inez's character but nothing felt special or really captured me about this part of the story. It felt like a run of the mill historical fiction but from the perspective of two nepo babies who never needed to try too hard for anything. Additionally, for Alfred being the reason she was on the Lusitania, he was barely in the book at all.

The book shifts tone somewhat drastically and it is startling. It needs to be serious since it is describing a tragedy, but after a story of two rich sisters, the transition is tough to swallow. When there are finally some descriptions of the boat and how passengers were acting, I realized how much I had been craving this story that I thought I would be getting.

I really admire that this book set out to tell the story of an event I do not see explored often in fiction. I had hoped that I would learn much more about the book as someone who was previously very interested in the Titanic.

Would have appreciated a warning for suicide, though I am sure the author wanted it to be a surprise and startling. Just feels irresponsible to throw that in at the end.

[Connie · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Crown of Stars by Shana Abe was a solid historical fiction novel set before, during and after the sinking of the Lusitania, which took place in 1915 and was a precipitating event to the United States entering WWI. One of the most famous survivors was French actress Rita Jolivet. I didn't know much about her life, so I was caught unaware by some of the plot points. I learned more about the history of the Lusitania while enjoying a beautiful story of the bond between sisters as well as the tragic tale of a famous ship that was torpedoed and sunk by the Germans.

Most of the story takes place before the infamous sinking. In fact, my one beef with the book is that the pacing and tone are uneven: for over half of the book Rita and her sister Inez are living a charmed life with plays, concerts and famous friends. Once Rita boards the Lusitania the action quickly kicks in and leads to the dramatic conclusion. The writing was strong, and the characters fleshed out well. I appreciated the thorough author's note, which explained the history vs fiction and the author's extensive research.

I will recommend this to readers who like historical fiction with Downton Abbey-ish vibes.

Thank you to Kensington Publishing and NetGalley for the digital ARC in exchange for my honest review.

[Barbara Mates · Rating 5 out of 5]

To me the hallmark of good historical fiction is taking the reader out of today and to that time by recreating it through how the characters go through their days--their conversations, what they are are wearing and eating, news events. By those parameters Abe excelled in her work, A Crown of Stars set in the early 1900's. The reader can picture the characters and root for the Jolivet sisters who were each other's biggest fans. Rita became a star of the silent screen and Inez an accomplished musician and traveled in elite circles but always were there for each other. It was a fascinating time to read about and while everyone has heard about the Titanic, the horror of the Lusitania has been sorely neglected but now luckily brought to light in an accessible and highly readable format. I actually used a few of the excellent resources the author provided to learn more about the sisters and the Lusitania.
Beautifully written... an example this sage advice "Don't wait for someday. Don't wait for a dream to become real. Take a reality and make it your dream ".
Thanks to the author for writing the book, publisher for publishing and providing me with an ARC.

[Marianne Reese · Rating 5 out of 5]

A well written story of the lives of sisters, Marguerite (Rita) and Inez, as they mature into adulthood remaining close, but taking separate paths, Rita as an actress and Inez as a violinist. Their love and support for each other is strong, and their lives intertwine in unexpected ways. Their closeness and the strength of their relationship though is not enough to overcome a heartbreaking twist of events after the Lusitania massacre that affected and destroyed their lives, and the lives of friends and thousands of others.

This story captivated me and it’s one I’ll think about often. I liked the writing style, however there was one line that had me rolling my eyes, and I thought about how lame it was to the end of the story…and then I read the ‘Author’s Note and Acknowledgement’ at the end and chuckled.
The line: “…then stepped, one foot at a time, into the bath.” 🤦🏻‍♀️
My thought: Duh, how else would she get into the bath? Cannon ball it?! Dive? Vault? 🙄
Her Author’s Notes: she praises her editor for her guidance etc. especially when it comes to some precious word or phrase that she foolishly begs to keep…
I figured this must be one of those phrases. 😂