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Adele: The Forgotten Sister of Fred Astaire
Adele is a tale of talent, glamour and fame at the height of the roaring 20s.
1973: Californian journalist Ellie Morgan sets out on a mission to research the life of Adele Astaire, famed 1920s dancer and comedienne, older sister to Fred Astaire. She uncovers a wealth of material from the people who knew her.
1905: Eight-year-old Adele Austerlitz moves from her humble home in Omaha, Nebraska, with her five-year-old brother Fred, to New York to begin training at a professional stage academy. They undertake a gruelling schedule of rehearsals and touring, setting the foundations of what will be the most famous and sought-after dance partnership on 1920s Broadway.
1928: Patricia Ryan, a no-nonsense Irish girl takes a job as a housemaid at Lismore Castle in County Waterford, Ireland.
All of their lives will intersect, weaving the tale of one of the most famous women of her time – charismatic entertainer, celebrity, fashion icon, muse to artists and writers, and favourite of royalty.
450 pages, Paperback
First published March 5, 2020
45 people are currently reading
135 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
July 18, 2023
I 100% picked up this book because of its connection to Lismore Castle in Co Waterford. A beautiful town whose castle has long since captured my imagination.
I came for the castle setting but Adele the bubbly main character captured my heart. It’s set pre Old Hollywood, Fred and his sister Adele worked relentlessly as child dancing stars. Fred Astaire went on to win Hollywood but Adele chose a different path.
I loved seeing glimpses of their dancing lives through the roaring twenties. The author captured the era so poignantly and I felt dazzled by the glamour of Adele’s lifestyle. But also absolutely heartbroken by some of battles she faced.
Her infectious good nature and canny ways of landing on her feet made her an intriguing and inspirational figure to read about. I loved that she never felt jealous of Fred’s fame, or that she didn’t let sadness defeat her. She felt like an irrepressible character and someone I won’t forget in a hurry.
Highly recommended if you like historical fiction, and main characters who march to the beat of their own drum.
I came for the castle setting but Adele the bubbly main character captured my heart. It’s set pre Old Hollywood, Fred and his sister Adele worked relentlessly as child dancing stars. Fred Astaire went on to win Hollywood but Adele chose a different path.
I loved seeing glimpses of their dancing lives through the roaring twenties. The author captured the era so poignantly and I felt dazzled by the glamour of Adele’s lifestyle. But also absolutely heartbroken by some of battles she faced.
Her infectious good nature and canny ways of landing on her feet made her an intriguing and inspirational figure to read about. I loved that she never felt jealous of Fred’s fame, or that she didn’t let sadness defeat her. She felt like an irrepressible character and someone I won’t forget in a hurry.
Highly recommended if you like historical fiction, and main characters who march to the beat of their own drum.
March 25, 2020
ADELE: The Forgotten Sister of Fred Astaire. Dancer, Icon, Star by Nicola Cassidy is quite simply a delicious read. Just published with Poolbeg Press, it is a wonderful blend of fact and fiction capturing the life of a fascinating individual.
I had heard of Adele Astaire. I was aware of the fact she had been a child dancer doing a double act with her younger brother, Hollywood legend, Fred Astaire. But that was it. That really was the extent of my knowledge and then I picked up ADELE and no other word for it, but I devoured this book. A captivating read bringing that exciting era of vaudeville theatre and live performances, before the talkies, very much into the readers imagination. Adele (Delly) and Fred (Freddie) Austerlitz were born in Omaha Nebraska to Fritz and Johanna. From a very young age Adele was a cheeky entertainer, playing for the crowd and lapping up the attention. Her younger brother, Fred, remained in her shadow, a slightly more serious boy.
Times were difficult for the Austerlitz family in Omaha and on seeing the talent of their children, a decision was made to take them to New York for stage school which would hopefully open up a career in show business. It was always Adele that was expected to be the famous one, and while she was the darling of the theater, as the years passed her light faded and Fred’s sparkled brightly, his elegance, his iconic dance style forever etched in our minds. But what happened to Adele? What was her story?
Nicola Cassidy takes the reader on the most scintillating journey through the early 20th century, an era where society changed beyond recognition.
The Austerlitz’ changed their name to Astaire, a name they felt would be more memorable as a stage name. They became a very recognised children’s act, with their theatrical performances receiving great praise. They did face down some opposition and had many challenges to overcome with their biggest being when Adele was no longer a child. Their performance had to change…and change radically. Fred’s skill and his demand for precise moves and perfect performances rattled Adele. She was a fun-loving girl who enjoyed the slap-dash style of performing, getting the laughs and the joining in with her audience. But they did adapt and success was theirs again as they took their act to the UK and were adored by the British public.
Nicola Cassidy weaves fictitious events around the lives of Adele and Fred with a really captivating story-line. And of course Nicola also includes the delightfully true Irish connection!
It’s 1973 and Ellie Morgan is a Californian journalist determined to uncover the life and times of Adele Astaire. For personal reasons she is intent on her research, which takes her hundreds of miles across states. Meeting a few interested folk and making some fascinating discoveries about Adele Astaire on her journey, reveals to Ellie more than she could have ever imagined.
From the breweries of Omaha, Nebraska to the theatres of New York, from London to the beautiful Lismore Castle in Co. Waterford, ADELE is a book that enchants and offers pure escapism from our daily lives. Nicola Cassidy weaves her magic around this incredible tale with gorgeous, vivid descriptions of the gin filled, cocktail swilling Roaring 20s to the war years and it’s impact on the world. There are moments of heartbreak and grief which help balance the book and give the reader a ‘behind-the-scenes’ look at the harshness of life on the road and the difficult choices that oft were made. Adele Astaire was an extremely talented, intelligent, fun-loving gal who was incredibly close to her family. She had an incredible work ethic but could never match that of her beloved brother Fred. He had an in-built determination with an intense need for constant perfection. They were a wonderful pairing and their love and respect for each other shines through the pages, but they did face much upheaval in their lives.
ADELE is a bewitching, compelling glorious read from start to finish. It is a glamorous, entertaining and charismatic read, one I thoroughly enjoyed. ADELE is a first-rate,superb novel from Nicola Cassidy, the perfect read for all with an interest in historical fiction and for any with an interest in the Astaire siblings.
Highly recommend!
I had heard of Adele Astaire. I was aware of the fact she had been a child dancer doing a double act with her younger brother, Hollywood legend, Fred Astaire. But that was it. That really was the extent of my knowledge and then I picked up ADELE and no other word for it, but I devoured this book. A captivating read bringing that exciting era of vaudeville theatre and live performances, before the talkies, very much into the readers imagination. Adele (Delly) and Fred (Freddie) Austerlitz were born in Omaha Nebraska to Fritz and Johanna. From a very young age Adele was a cheeky entertainer, playing for the crowd and lapping up the attention. Her younger brother, Fred, remained in her shadow, a slightly more serious boy.
Times were difficult for the Austerlitz family in Omaha and on seeing the talent of their children, a decision was made to take them to New York for stage school which would hopefully open up a career in show business. It was always Adele that was expected to be the famous one, and while she was the darling of the theater, as the years passed her light faded and Fred’s sparkled brightly, his elegance, his iconic dance style forever etched in our minds. But what happened to Adele? What was her story?
Nicola Cassidy takes the reader on the most scintillating journey through the early 20th century, an era where society changed beyond recognition.
The Austerlitz’ changed their name to Astaire, a name they felt would be more memorable as a stage name. They became a very recognised children’s act, with their theatrical performances receiving great praise. They did face down some opposition and had many challenges to overcome with their biggest being when Adele was no longer a child. Their performance had to change…and change radically. Fred’s skill and his demand for precise moves and perfect performances rattled Adele. She was a fun-loving girl who enjoyed the slap-dash style of performing, getting the laughs and the joining in with her audience. But they did adapt and success was theirs again as they took their act to the UK and were adored by the British public.
Nicola Cassidy weaves fictitious events around the lives of Adele and Fred with a really captivating story-line. And of course Nicola also includes the delightfully true Irish connection!
It’s 1973 and Ellie Morgan is a Californian journalist determined to uncover the life and times of Adele Astaire. For personal reasons she is intent on her research, which takes her hundreds of miles across states. Meeting a few interested folk and making some fascinating discoveries about Adele Astaire on her journey, reveals to Ellie more than she could have ever imagined.
From the breweries of Omaha, Nebraska to the theatres of New York, from London to the beautiful Lismore Castle in Co. Waterford, ADELE is a book that enchants and offers pure escapism from our daily lives. Nicola Cassidy weaves her magic around this incredible tale with gorgeous, vivid descriptions of the gin filled, cocktail swilling Roaring 20s to the war years and it’s impact on the world. There are moments of heartbreak and grief which help balance the book and give the reader a ‘behind-the-scenes’ look at the harshness of life on the road and the difficult choices that oft were made. Adele Astaire was an extremely talented, intelligent, fun-loving gal who was incredibly close to her family. She had an incredible work ethic but could never match that of her beloved brother Fred. He had an in-built determination with an intense need for constant perfection. They were a wonderful pairing and their love and respect for each other shines through the pages, but they did face much upheaval in their lives.
ADELE is a bewitching, compelling glorious read from start to finish. It is a glamorous, entertaining and charismatic read, one I thoroughly enjoyed. ADELE is a first-rate,superb novel from Nicola Cassidy, the perfect read for all with an interest in historical fiction and for any with an interest in the Astaire siblings.
Highly recommend!
May 14, 2023
3.5/5 Even die-hard fans of early 20th century musicals (like myself) probably don't know that one of their greatest - Fred Astaire - had an older sister, and those that do know little about her. This novel is a way to get to know who she was, and understand why she didn't have the movie career that her little brother achieved. My #bookreview of this novel is on my blog here. https://tcl-bookreviews.com/2020/11/1...
January 17, 2021
I think the author Nicola Cassidy describes this as bio-fiction, and Adele Astaire, sister of Fred Astaire, an intriguing character who was once his equally famous stage partner seems to have been written out of history. Part of this is due to the fact that she retired relatively early and didn't do the movies thing which really catapulted Fred to super stardom.
We follow her in the early years, the graft to stardom and everything else that follows. There is even an interesting link to Lismore Castle in Ireland where she lived following her marriage to an aristocrat.
I enjoyed this read, historical fiction can be dull but this was consistently like a refreshing glass of prosecco, light and enjoyable (apart from several sad scenes that I obviously won't spoil). I particularly loved the chapters on the roaring twenties when her and Fred were a hard-working and partying duo. I don't know a lot about Adele Astaire but I really enjoy history and the research by the author seemed meticulous.
Adele was a larger than life character and the book fell down for me in the breadth of her life, there was just too much information some of it mundane and skimmable. I would have preferred more focus on the exciting part of her life or perhaps flashback as the plot device was a bit empty..but as I say a highly enjoyable read which would be perfect for the beach, the back garden or to entertain you during a global pandemic!
We follow her in the early years, the graft to stardom and everything else that follows. There is even an interesting link to Lismore Castle in Ireland where she lived following her marriage to an aristocrat.
I enjoyed this read, historical fiction can be dull but this was consistently like a refreshing glass of prosecco, light and enjoyable (apart from several sad scenes that I obviously won't spoil). I particularly loved the chapters on the roaring twenties when her and Fred were a hard-working and partying duo. I don't know a lot about Adele Astaire but I really enjoy history and the research by the author seemed meticulous.
Adele was a larger than life character and the book fell down for me in the breadth of her life, there was just too much information some of it mundane and skimmable. I would have preferred more focus on the exciting part of her life or perhaps flashback as the plot device was a bit empty..but as I say a highly enjoyable read which would be perfect for the beach, the back garden or to entertain you during a global pandemic!
March 21, 2020
I received a free electronic ARC of this bio-history from Book Siren and Nicola Cassidy. Thank you all for sharing your hard work with me. I have read this exciting tale of my own volition, and this review reflects my honest opinion of this work. I must add Nicola Cassidy to my must-read author list. This work reflects massive amounts of research on her part, and with her prose, she brings to life the time, the place, the world of the 1920s and adds to our knowledge of WWII in London.
Adele Astaire and her more immediately recognizable brother Fred were an important part of the growth and the face of modern theater and the early movie industry. And while most of our young people have seen Fred in films and Utube shorts, Adele cut an equally wide swathe in the theater. It was, in fact, Adele's chance to attend a dancing school that was behind the families' move to New York City. That dancing school in which younger Fred also grew to shine so brightly.
This tale is fascinating. My Mother (born 1930) spoke fondly of Adele Adaire- she was part of Mom's youth, as Fred's movies were a part of my younger years. Mom would have devoured this story, as did I. Nicola Cassidy has brought us a wonderful slice of the Roaring 20s and the early days of film.
Reviewed of Goodreads and Amazon. Not available for review on Barnes&Noble, Bookbub, Kobo or GooglePlay.
Adele Astaire and her more immediately recognizable brother Fred were an important part of the growth and the face of modern theater and the early movie industry. And while most of our young people have seen Fred in films and Utube shorts, Adele cut an equally wide swathe in the theater. It was, in fact, Adele's chance to attend a dancing school that was behind the families' move to New York City. That dancing school in which younger Fred also grew to shine so brightly.
This tale is fascinating. My Mother (born 1930) spoke fondly of Adele Adaire- she was part of Mom's youth, as Fred's movies were a part of my younger years. Mom would have devoured this story, as did I. Nicola Cassidy has brought us a wonderful slice of the Roaring 20s and the early days of film.
Reviewed of Goodreads and Amazon. Not available for review on Barnes&Noble, Bookbub, Kobo or GooglePlay.
July 17, 2020
This book is an historical fiction written from the point of view of Adele Astaire, Fred Astaire's older sister, and chronicles their journey to the stage, both in the U.S. and Europe. The story is rich with detail and the characters are well-developed, so much so that I took a bit of a dislike to Adele and the way she tended to put down her brother but it seems to be typical among sibling rivalries. The book is told in alternating perspectives from past to present, with a woman who researches the history of the Astaire family but this kind of peters out about a third of the way into the book. I was much more interested in Adele Astaire's perspective so the modern-day parallel story could be left out of the equation, in my opinion. It was a story that held my attention from the start, and is so well-written that I felt as if I was an observer alongside Adele and Fred. I highly recommend this book if you are a fan of historical fiction.
March 23, 2020
Thank you to Booksirens for sending me an advance review copy for free. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I was intrigued by Adele when I first applied for an ARC: it isn't my usual kind of read but although I have heard of Fred Astaire (mainly from my grandma) I didn't know anything about his sister Adele, so I decided to give the book a go. Wow I am glad I did!
Nicola Cassidy brings the Astaires to life through her amazing writing. The majority of the novel is told from Adele's perspective: starting from when she is just a child. Cassidy, in turn, writes in a childish, conversationalist prose with this becoming steadily more mature along with our protagonist . By presenting Adele's life through her own eyes the reader feels her pain intensely: particularly towards the end of the novel. I'm not ashamed to say I was openly weeping at certain points.
Some critics may say that anyone can take a universally emotive topic and make you cry during a story. Well Cassidy goes one step further: through the character of Adele's father and the contrasting relationship she has with her mother and brother, the reader also witnesses the overwhelming feeling of absence- almost numbness towards the patriarchal figure. Similarly we also feel apprehension when we can recognise history repeating itself before Adele does: we can predict that this ending will not be an altogether happy one and it is this foresight and empathy that Nicola Cassidy creates which is unparalleled with any other book I have read recently.
Adele (the novel and the character) has glitz, glamour, heartache and inspiration. However, the novel has a steadying undertone with the changing effect of World War Two and the presence of several working class, dedicated women at the heart of the story.
Nowadays, it may be Fred Astaire who springs to mind but it was Adele who paved the way: it's about time she was given the chance to step out from her brother's shadow and regain the spotlight once again.
I was intrigued by Adele when I first applied for an ARC: it isn't my usual kind of read but although I have heard of Fred Astaire (mainly from my grandma) I didn't know anything about his sister Adele, so I decided to give the book a go. Wow I am glad I did!
Nicola Cassidy brings the Astaires to life through her amazing writing. The majority of the novel is told from Adele's perspective: starting from when she is just a child. Cassidy, in turn, writes in a childish, conversationalist prose with this becoming steadily more mature along with our protagonist . By presenting Adele's life through her own eyes the reader feels her pain intensely: particularly towards the end of the novel. I'm not ashamed to say I was openly weeping at certain points.
Some critics may say that anyone can take a universally emotive topic and make you cry during a story. Well Cassidy goes one step further: through the character of Adele's father and the contrasting relationship she has with her mother and brother, the reader also witnesses the overwhelming feeling of absence- almost numbness towards the patriarchal figure. Similarly we also feel apprehension when we can recognise history repeating itself before Adele does: we can predict that this ending will not be an altogether happy one and it is this foresight and empathy that Nicola Cassidy creates which is unparalleled with any other book I have read recently.
Adele (the novel and the character) has glitz, glamour, heartache and inspiration. However, the novel has a steadying undertone with the changing effect of World War Two and the presence of several working class, dedicated women at the heart of the story.
Nowadays, it may be Fred Astaire who springs to mind but it was Adele who paved the way: it's about time she was given the chance to step out from her brother's shadow and regain the spotlight once again.
April 7, 2020
This is an extremely well research and well written novel on the careers of Adele Astaire and her brother Fred. I didn’t know much if anything, about her, because she was no longer performing by the time I was old enough to enjoy his later movies.
Adele was the focus of the start of their careers, as their mother moved them to New York to seek dance teachers for an up and coming Adele. Fred was just along and was soon seen to have talent as well.
This story takes us from New York to London and around the world, following their storied careers. Nicola Cassidy is a skilled writer that captured their personalities and brought Adele’s story to us. I enjoyed this bio-fiction account a lot and recommend it highly. Thank you for the opportunity to review it.
Adele was the focus of the start of their careers, as their mother moved them to New York to seek dance teachers for an up and coming Adele. Fred was just along and was soon seen to have talent as well.
This story takes us from New York to London and around the world, following their storied careers. Nicola Cassidy is a skilled writer that captured their personalities and brought Adele’s story to us. I enjoyed this bio-fiction account a lot and recommend it highly. Thank you for the opportunity to review it.
March 23, 2020
Just finished this novel about the life of Fred Astaire's older sister Adele. Meticulously researched and stitched together using actual interviews, Cassidy tells her story in a variety of ways, introducing us to a big cast that revolve around the main character. Adele led an extraordinary life, both on and off the stage and her stages spanned continents. Loved how the book was put together - it took guts to use as many angles as Cassidy did but she played a blinder. Lovely escape from the news and virus worries.
March 8, 2020
I received this as an ARC for free and am reviewing it, for free, voluntarily.
I fell in love with the cover for this book and selected it solely based on that. The book was well researched and as a result the personality of Adele Astaire, especially in her years as a wife, come through spectacularly. The beginning starts out a little slow, as it is from the perspective of a child, but is woven in between bits of the present, from an adult’s perspective, with bits from the past to make it flow more evenly and keep the readers interest.
It was a lovely story of a forgotten star of the stage. I loved finding Adele Astaire’s story after the stage and recommend it to anyone who wants a nice quiet book to read by the fire.
I fell in love with the cover for this book and selected it solely based on that. The book was well researched and as a result the personality of Adele Astaire, especially in her years as a wife, come through spectacularly. The beginning starts out a little slow, as it is from the perspective of a child, but is woven in between bits of the present, from an adult’s perspective, with bits from the past to make it flow more evenly and keep the readers interest.
It was a lovely story of a forgotten star of the stage. I loved finding Adele Astaire’s story after the stage and recommend it to anyone who wants a nice quiet book to read by the fire.
March 8, 2020
This historical fiction novel is described by the author as a Bio-Fiction. It is based on copious research and gives great insight into the life of Adele Astaire.
Adele was a complicated individual who grew up on the stage. When she felt she was missing something she left the stage and found love. The marriage described in the novel was very sad. The character of her ladies maid while fictional was based on a real relationship she had with an employee. Patricia’s character is well developed and believable. Throughout most of the novel patricia’s daughter is the narrator. This book was an ARC through BookSiren for my honest review.
Adele was a complicated individual who grew up on the stage. When she felt she was missing something she left the stage and found love. The marriage described in the novel was very sad. The character of her ladies maid while fictional was based on a real relationship she had with an employee. Patricia’s character is well developed and believable. Throughout most of the novel patricia’s daughter is the narrator. This book was an ARC through BookSiren for my honest review.
April 26, 2020
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I thought this was such an interesting book. Once I got started it was hard to put down. I loved the characters and how it told the story in different kinds of formats along with the narration. I love how it went back and forth between Ellie Morgan in 1973 who is a journalist covering a story about Adele, Adele herself, and another narration by a young girl named Patricia who is a house keeper in an Irish Castle during the 1920s. All three lives weave together through out the story. I never knew Fred Astaire had an older sister that he danced with during their childhood years all the way until they were in their late 20s. I think that Adele is such an interesting person and I want to learn more about her.
I thought this was such an interesting book. Once I got started it was hard to put down. I loved the characters and how it told the story in different kinds of formats along with the narration. I love how it went back and forth between Ellie Morgan in 1973 who is a journalist covering a story about Adele, Adele herself, and another narration by a young girl named Patricia who is a house keeper in an Irish Castle during the 1920s. All three lives weave together through out the story. I never knew Fred Astaire had an older sister that he danced with during their childhood years all the way until they were in their late 20s. I think that Adele is such an interesting person and I want to learn more about her.
October 4, 2020
I love historical bio-fiction, especially women with interesting lives and Adele by Nicola Cassidy has been on my wishlist list since I first heard about it.
Adele’s story is extraordinary. From child actor to Broadway superstar to English Lady living in a castle. Sister to legendary Fred Astaire, she was a huge star in her own right before retiring in the 1930s.
The story is told from different perspectives. Journalist, Ellie is researching a biography of Adele and begins by revisiting her childhood hometown. Locals are welcoming and willing to share stories of the Astaires.
Later chapters are told by Patricia Ryan, a young Irish woman who becomes a housemaid at Lismore Castle, an Irish estate by the wealthy Cavendish family.
Other chapters are told through Adele’s own voices as she grows from precocious child to superstar and through celebrations and heartaches.
From the beginning it is clear that while Adele has talent and charisma, little brother Freddie has something extra special. He practices until perfect and never tires of dances while Adele gets restless and bored. She loves the limelight and thrives from the reaction of the audience.
The book vividly recreates the turn of the century vaudeville circuit and the Astaires journey to fame on Broadway.
I loved the characters of mother, Ann. She is completely dedicated to giving her talented children every opportunity for success, leaving her husband and friends to take them to New York for dance lessons and stage opportunities.
Adele herself is charismatic and feisty. She is hardworking and determined to be successful. Her charm and sense of humour leave lasting impressions on everyone she meets.
Her relationship with husband, Charlie Cavendish is such a s tragic love story as the couple struggle to deal with the death of their children and Charlie’s increasing alcoholism.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. The different perspectives join together well to tell the story. Its definitely made me want to find out more about Adele and Fred Astaire and their extraordinary lives. And the cover is absolutely gorgeous.
Thank you Nicola Cassidy and Book Sirens for gifting me a copy of this book in return for an honest review.
Adele’s story is extraordinary. From child actor to Broadway superstar to English Lady living in a castle. Sister to legendary Fred Astaire, she was a huge star in her own right before retiring in the 1930s.
The story is told from different perspectives. Journalist, Ellie is researching a biography of Adele and begins by revisiting her childhood hometown. Locals are welcoming and willing to share stories of the Astaires.
Later chapters are told by Patricia Ryan, a young Irish woman who becomes a housemaid at Lismore Castle, an Irish estate by the wealthy Cavendish family.
Other chapters are told through Adele’s own voices as she grows from precocious child to superstar and through celebrations and heartaches.
From the beginning it is clear that while Adele has talent and charisma, little brother Freddie has something extra special. He practices until perfect and never tires of dances while Adele gets restless and bored. She loves the limelight and thrives from the reaction of the audience.
The book vividly recreates the turn of the century vaudeville circuit and the Astaires journey to fame on Broadway.
I loved the characters of mother, Ann. She is completely dedicated to giving her talented children every opportunity for success, leaving her husband and friends to take them to New York for dance lessons and stage opportunities.
Adele herself is charismatic and feisty. She is hardworking and determined to be successful. Her charm and sense of humour leave lasting impressions on everyone she meets.
Her relationship with husband, Charlie Cavendish is such a s tragic love story as the couple struggle to deal with the death of their children and Charlie’s increasing alcoholism.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. The different perspectives join together well to tell the story. Its definitely made me want to find out more about Adele and Fred Astaire and their extraordinary lives. And the cover is absolutely gorgeous.
Thank you Nicola Cassidy and Book Sirens for gifting me a copy of this book in return for an honest review.
March 30, 2020
Full review on my blog at: thewolfpad.com
“Adele” is a historical fiction heavily based on the true happenings and it takes us on a journey of Adele’s life from when she was a little girl up to her 40’s. Together with her brother Fred, they had trained at professional dance academies in the early years, cultivating their natural talents, to later perform in the sold-out shows on Broadway. As a famous brother-sister duo, they have taken theatres by storm; Adele is known for witticism and her ability to charm the audience, while Fred remained the more stoic and professional of the two.
Patricia Ryan, an Irish housemaid in 1928, and Ellie Morgan, a Californian journalist in 1973, are two characters used to beautifully link the whole story together. I did not see their entire significance until the very end of the novel and the way it was done in was satisfactory, with a bit of wit to it. Quite clever indeed.
Nicola has a remarkable ability to transport her reader into the exact time and place of her choosing. She does so by the eloquent speech and vivid imagery she uses in her writing. When I read her previous novel, I was in awe at the amount of knowledge that was put into the storyline and I felt the same reading 'Adele'. It is clear how much research time the author has dedicated and I can greatly appreciate that - it makes a difference. Everything, from the dialogue, through clothing description, to scenery, reads authentic, it all belongs in the historical period that's mentioned.
I went through a rollercoaster of emotions reading this novel. It was as if I have experienced all the ups and downs of Adele together with her. It was a remarkable journey of a remarkable woman, whose story won't be so easily forgotten now thanks to Nicola.
“Adele” is a historical fiction heavily based on the true happenings and it takes us on a journey of Adele’s life from when she was a little girl up to her 40’s. Together with her brother Fred, they had trained at professional dance academies in the early years, cultivating their natural talents, to later perform in the sold-out shows on Broadway. As a famous brother-sister duo, they have taken theatres by storm; Adele is known for witticism and her ability to charm the audience, while Fred remained the more stoic and professional of the two.
Patricia Ryan, an Irish housemaid in 1928, and Ellie Morgan, a Californian journalist in 1973, are two characters used to beautifully link the whole story together. I did not see their entire significance until the very end of the novel and the way it was done in was satisfactory, with a bit of wit to it. Quite clever indeed.
Nicola has a remarkable ability to transport her reader into the exact time and place of her choosing. She does so by the eloquent speech and vivid imagery she uses in her writing. When I read her previous novel, I was in awe at the amount of knowledge that was put into the storyline and I felt the same reading 'Adele'. It is clear how much research time the author has dedicated and I can greatly appreciate that - it makes a difference. Everything, from the dialogue, through clothing description, to scenery, reads authentic, it all belongs in the historical period that's mentioned.
I went through a rollercoaster of emotions reading this novel. It was as if I have experienced all the ups and downs of Adele together with her. It was a remarkable journey of a remarkable woman, whose story won't be so easily forgotten now thanks to Nicola.
April 11, 2020
I received an electronic ARC of this book from Library Thing in exchange for an honest review.
Before reading this book, I hadn't heard much about Adele Astaire. As with many other women, her story got lost in the noise of the 20th century. Adele was a talented performer, with rare ability to connect with the audience, who refused to change her medium to film. She loved the immediacy of the theatre too much, and her movie attempts just amplified her insecurities.
Adele was loved by her contemporaries for her charm and glamour while being a down-to-earth person people could connect with. Her personal story is the one of sacrifice, with not a traditional happy end, but it is also a story of resilience. Despite her personal tragedies, she always pushed forward and blended in the turbulent tides of the times she lived in. She managed to change and adapt.
There's something about the novels set mostly in the 1920/1930s. It may be just me liking to read about that time, but it feels like those novels are somehow less forgettable, the characters stronger, the tragedy just a normal part of life.
Nicola Cassidy's writing is spot on. Most of the novel is written in the first person, and Adele's voice keeps evolving as she grows up. There is another perspective by a young journalist Ellie working on a piece about Adele's life and housemaid Patricia, who was Adele's companion. These perspectives are not central to the novel, but they offer a sort of framing and postscript to whatever happened in Adele's life.
There are interludes of fictionalized interviews and newspaper articles to offer a different point of view and foreshadow the coming events. It made for a nice change of pace in the novel.
Before reading this book, I hadn't heard much about Adele Astaire. As with many other women, her story got lost in the noise of the 20th century. Adele was a talented performer, with rare ability to connect with the audience, who refused to change her medium to film. She loved the immediacy of the theatre too much, and her movie attempts just amplified her insecurities.
Adele was loved by her contemporaries for her charm and glamour while being a down-to-earth person people could connect with. Her personal story is the one of sacrifice, with not a traditional happy end, but it is also a story of resilience. Despite her personal tragedies, she always pushed forward and blended in the turbulent tides of the times she lived in. She managed to change and adapt.
There's something about the novels set mostly in the 1920/1930s. It may be just me liking to read about that time, but it feels like those novels are somehow less forgettable, the characters stronger, the tragedy just a normal part of life.
Nicola Cassidy's writing is spot on. Most of the novel is written in the first person, and Adele's voice keeps evolving as she grows up. There is another perspective by a young journalist Ellie working on a piece about Adele's life and housemaid Patricia, who was Adele's companion. These perspectives are not central to the novel, but they offer a sort of framing and postscript to whatever happened in Adele's life.
There are interludes of fictionalized interviews and newspaper articles to offer a different point of view and foreshadow the coming events. It made for a nice change of pace in the novel.
November 16, 2020
Nicola Cassidy dubs her latest work 'bio-fiction - a work of fiction based on facts’. Indeed “Adele” is a loose biography of Fred Astaire lesser known sister, whose life was destined to greatness, but was forgotten by history. What a life it was !! fame, fortune and a title before loneliness and tragedy.
For most of us, the knowledge of the Astaires doesn't go beyond Fred’s perfect footwork, but his success is in large because of his sister. Adele’s ambition and drive were the perfect half of Fred’s creativity and perfectionism. Her joie de vivre was the balance for his moodiness.
It is very unfortunate that no movie of the famous dancing siblings exists.
This life is told from three female protagonists POV, Adele own’s voice ( interesting to see how the narrative evolves as Adele ages and her circumstances change ), Ellie Morgan a journalist researching the fame 1920 dancer in the nineteen-seventies, and Lismore castle Irish housemaid Patricia Ryan.
The gilded ages are wonderfully described with multitude of known characters peppered through ( Walt Disney, Charlie Chaplin and Winston Churchill to name few ). Interviews and articles of the times have been integrated in the book which add a sense of authenticity to the account.
Nicola Cassidy is definitively a writer to recognize. She is a must read Irish author. Her style is very appealing. Her stories have a mysterious element floating in the background that is extremely enticing. The reader is compelled to get engaged.
I would highly recommend reading both ‘Adele” and her previous book “The nanny at number 43”.
I received this ARC from Book Siren and Nicola Cassidy in exchange for my unbiased opinion.
For most of us, the knowledge of the Astaires doesn't go beyond Fred’s perfect footwork, but his success is in large because of his sister. Adele’s ambition and drive were the perfect half of Fred’s creativity and perfectionism. Her joie de vivre was the balance for his moodiness.
It is very unfortunate that no movie of the famous dancing siblings exists.
This life is told from three female protagonists POV, Adele own’s voice ( interesting to see how the narrative evolves as Adele ages and her circumstances change ), Ellie Morgan a journalist researching the fame 1920 dancer in the nineteen-seventies, and Lismore castle Irish housemaid Patricia Ryan.
The gilded ages are wonderfully described with multitude of known characters peppered through ( Walt Disney, Charlie Chaplin and Winston Churchill to name few ). Interviews and articles of the times have been integrated in the book which add a sense of authenticity to the account.
Nicola Cassidy is definitively a writer to recognize. She is a must read Irish author. Her style is very appealing. Her stories have a mysterious element floating in the background that is extremely enticing. The reader is compelled to get engaged.
I would highly recommend reading both ‘Adele” and her previous book “The nanny at number 43”.
I received this ARC from Book Siren and Nicola Cassidy in exchange for my unbiased opinion.
March 30, 2020
I received an electronic ARC of this book from Library Thing in return for an honest review.
My favorite lens for a historical fiction book is through the eyes of an individual well-known in their time but more hidden through the passage of time. Adele Adaire, older sister and long-time showbiz partner of Fred Astaire, is one such individual. Reader, I ate this novel up.
Adele focuses around three main characters: a writer working on a book about our titular character by visiting her birthplace in Omaha, Nebraska; a housemaid working in an Irish castle in the 1930s; and, of course, Adele herself across several decades.
In addition to revealing Adele's past and fame as part of a double-act with Fred from their youth, this novel's structure allow us to glimpse immigrant communities of Omaha; vaudeville; the theatre scenes of Broadway and the West End (including at least one musical you may know and love); and of course, Irish castle living. Since I hadn't heard of Adele before, I wanted to know what happened to her and how Ginger Rogers ended up being the woman I think of when I think of Fred Astaire.
There's lots to love here, and the tone is light and airy enough to make this book a quick and enjoyable read. I promise when you finish you, too, will want to tell your friends all about Adele.
My favorite lens for a historical fiction book is through the eyes of an individual well-known in their time but more hidden through the passage of time. Adele Adaire, older sister and long-time showbiz partner of Fred Astaire, is one such individual. Reader, I ate this novel up.
Adele focuses around three main characters: a writer working on a book about our titular character by visiting her birthplace in Omaha, Nebraska; a housemaid working in an Irish castle in the 1930s; and, of course, Adele herself across several decades.
In addition to revealing Adele's past and fame as part of a double-act with Fred from their youth, this novel's structure allow us to glimpse immigrant communities of Omaha; vaudeville; the theatre scenes of Broadway and the West End (including at least one musical you may know and love); and of course, Irish castle living. Since I hadn't heard of Adele before, I wanted to know what happened to her and how Ginger Rogers ended up being the woman I think of when I think of Fred Astaire.
There's lots to love here, and the tone is light and airy enough to make this book a quick and enjoyable read. I promise when you finish you, too, will want to tell your friends all about Adele.
September 21, 2020
Although I only viewed brief movie clips of the dancer Fred Astaire when family watched them when I was small—he was popular well before I was born—I found this novel of Adele, his sister, highly entertaining. This “bio-fiction,” as the author calls it, is really about both of them, their early childhood in Omaha, move to New York, dance training there, and early shows. The narrative follows their careers, evolution of shows in London, back in the U.S., encounters with royalty and even ‘Winston Churchill. Adele’s eventual retirement from show business and marriage to Charles Cavendish are described, as is Charles‘ eventual decline into alcoholism.
The story moves well and is very interesting—especially Adele’s life with Charles as Lady Cavendish in a capacious home in Ireland, complete with many staff. The sadness of the loss of their newborn children and its impact is also well-described. The only minor fault I found was the device of a biographer of Adele writing Adele’s life story. I felt that this detracted a bit from the narrative, but only slightly.
In sum this was a well-written and fascinating book of two dancer-celebrities in show business in an era long past.
The story moves well and is very interesting—especially Adele’s life with Charles as Lady Cavendish in a capacious home in Ireland, complete with many staff. The sadness of the loss of their newborn children and its impact is also well-described. The only minor fault I found was the device of a biographer of Adele writing Adele’s life story. I felt that this detracted a bit from the narrative, but only slightly.
In sum this was a well-written and fascinating book of two dancer-celebrities in show business in an era long past.
March 26, 2020
Written in five parts, this book, which Nicola Cassidy describes as bio fiction, takes us from Audition straight through to Encore. In California, in the ’70s Ellie Morgan is on a mission to research the life of Adele Astaire, sister and original dance partner to Fred. Ellie wants to tell her story, to highlight her time in history. From their childhood in Nebraska to her teenage years in New York. Adele’s friendship with her lady’s maid Patricia Ryan and her married life in the stunning Lismore Castle in Co. Waterford here in Ireland. It is all captured between these pages
Within this novel, Nicola Cassidy portrays a young determined child, an ambitious, spirited young woman. She captures the happy carefree wife and the utter devastation of a young mother. Nicola Cassidy is an eloquent writer who has an innate ability to draw you into the time and place of the period she’s writing and to feel the emotions of her characters. Fact interspersed with fiction has delivered a wonderful book that will take you on an emotional trip around the dancefloor.
Within this novel, Nicola Cassidy portrays a young determined child, an ambitious, spirited young woman. She captures the happy carefree wife and the utter devastation of a young mother. Nicola Cassidy is an eloquent writer who has an innate ability to draw you into the time and place of the period she’s writing and to feel the emotions of her characters. Fact interspersed with fiction has delivered a wonderful book that will take you on an emotional trip around the dancefloor.
August 27, 2020
How I loved this book! It cleverly weaves the story of Adele Astaire, from her early childhood through years as a celebrity and her marriage to Charles Cavendish. Like the protagonist, the story moves seamlessly between America, London and Ireland, brilliantly evoking Broadway, the West End, Chatsworth House and Lismore Castle. Told in Adele’s voice, as well as her Irish maid's, the narrative is interweaved with interviews with people and personalities who encountered her along the way. The writing is assured, with a beautifully light touch, which perfectly reflects the subject and the era. I particularly liked how the author handled the relationship between Adele and Charles, and found her depiction of the later stage of their relationship, and his descent, extremely moving, especially her mother’s role and relationship with Charles. Reading the book makes me want to explore further the life and times of Adele Astaire, and I will definitely read the non-fiction sources the author cites.
May 11, 2020
Before there was Fred Astaire, there was Adele. This is the story of Adele Astaire and how she and her brother Fred took the dancing world by storm in the early 1900s. From Broadway to Paris to London, this dynamic duo knew both massive success as well as heartbreaking disappointments. Follow Adele as she begins her dancing dreams, becomes a part of a dynamic partnership with her brother, and finds a life outside the theater and love amid the British aristocracy.
This was a wonderful story and at every turn I wanted to Google Adele Astaire and discover more about her...but I made myself wait until I finished reading...and I was not disappointed. She was a very famous dancer and keep right on par with her infamous brother until her retirement. You will not be disappointed in this wonderful novel! Thank you so much LibraryThing for the Early Reviewer's e-book!
This was a wonderful story and at every turn I wanted to Google Adele Astaire and discover more about her...but I made myself wait until I finished reading...and I was not disappointed. She was a very famous dancer and keep right on par with her infamous brother until her retirement. You will not be disappointed in this wonderful novel! Thank you so much LibraryThing for the Early Reviewer's e-book!
March 31, 2020
This was an interesting endeavour for me. Cassidy had written a fictional biography of a real celebrity. Adele is the fictionalized life of Adele Astaire. Based loosely on interviews that Astaire herself recorded for a memoir that didn't materialize, Cassidy used those memories to fashion a story.
And what a compelling read! Hard to put down. Even more difficult to keep in mind that it wasn't all reality. I thoroughly enjoyed this glimpse into a truly iconic, extremely talented celebrity duo.
Thank you Nicola Cassidy for this book!
[Many thanks to Booksirens and the author for the opportunity to read an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. This is my honest review, the opinions expressed herein are entirely my own.]
And what a compelling read! Hard to put down. Even more difficult to keep in mind that it wasn't all reality. I thoroughly enjoyed this glimpse into a truly iconic, extremely talented celebrity duo.
Thank you Nicola Cassidy for this book!
[Many thanks to Booksirens and the author for the opportunity to read an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. This is my honest review, the opinions expressed herein are entirely my own.]
October 2, 2020
Adele Astaire truly is the forgotten sister who deserved to be remembered. Long before Fred became a movie star, Adele and Fred danced in shows across the world. They were a power couple who illuminated the stage together. But love entered Adele’s life and she gave it all up, became Lady Adele and moved to an estate in Waterford Ireland with her husband. Tragedy unfortunately marked the second half of Adele’s life which included unbearable losses and regrets.
I’m so glad that I found this book and learned more about this wonderful woman. I can’t wait to read biographies about her and Fred. It’s amazing how a single decision in her life, to marry a British Lord and retire from dancing left her to be forgotten by history with Fred being remembered as the famous Astaire dancer.
Thank you so much to Book Sirens for the free digital copy of this book.
I’m so glad that I found this book and learned more about this wonderful woman. I can’t wait to read biographies about her and Fred. It’s amazing how a single decision in her life, to marry a British Lord and retire from dancing left her to be forgotten by history with Fred being remembered as the famous Astaire dancer.
Thank you so much to Book Sirens for the free digital copy of this book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 23, 2020
This is by far the best novel I have read so far in 2020. I adore historical fiction and old Hollywood, and the 1920s so this book was just calling my name!
I have read and thoroughly enjoyed the authors previous works also. So I knew I would love this book! She is a fantastic author, everything has been thoroughly researched and it is such a joy to read.
I genuinely was captivated from start to finish and I was heartbroken by the end but I am so glad to know a little bit more about Adele after watching and enjoying her brother Fred’s movies all my life.
I would absolutely recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a great story particularly if you are interested in show business and 1920s glamour!
I have read and thoroughly enjoyed the authors previous works also. So I knew I would love this book! She is a fantastic author, everything has been thoroughly researched and it is such a joy to read.
I genuinely was captivated from start to finish and I was heartbroken by the end but I am so glad to know a little bit more about Adele after watching and enjoying her brother Fred’s movies all my life.
I would absolutely recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a great story particularly if you are interested in show business and 1920s glamour!
May 9, 2020
My second book by Nicola Cassidy, and definitely not my last! In this book, we dive into the exceptional life of not one but two of the most famous American dancers and singers of the first half of the XXth century. Cassidy takes us on a journey starting in Adele's early childhood. We experience the hardship of relentless practicing (talent is not enough!), the strain of the family, the choices which are not always choices.
I did not know anything about Adele Astaire. However Nicola Cassidy brought her to life as a lively, real and very likeable character.
Thank you Nicola and BookSirens for letting me read this book for free!
I did not know anything about Adele Astaire. However Nicola Cassidy brought her to life as a lively, real and very likeable character.
Thank you Nicola and BookSirens for letting me read this book for free!
August 24, 2020
Fun story of Adele Astaire and her extraordinary life on and off the stage.
I appreciated how the author brought you through her time as a talented sassy child star, hanging up her dancing shoes and personal life as an adult. I loved Fred Astaire in movies as a child, bringing Adele to life was very enjoyable for me. Reading about her family, the ups and downs of her life, the travel, challenges of war and her personal losses was very interesting.
The vivid imagery of their escapades and the famous people they interact with was excellent.
Really liked how the author brought all the characters together at the end.
Very enjoyable read!
I appreciated how the author brought you through her time as a talented sassy child star, hanging up her dancing shoes and personal life as an adult. I loved Fred Astaire in movies as a child, bringing Adele to life was very enjoyable for me. Reading about her family, the ups and downs of her life, the travel, challenges of war and her personal losses was very interesting.
The vivid imagery of their escapades and the famous people they interact with was excellent.
Really liked how the author brought all the characters together at the end.
Very enjoyable read!
January 29, 2021
I didn’t actually finish this book, although I was really enjoying the chance to see into Adele’s thoughts and life. I’m a big Fred Astaire fan, so I appreciated getting to know his sister and first dance partner. But I had to stop reading when she got to her second pregnancy. I knew where things were headed, and I just couldn’t deal with it - it hit a bit too close to home. I had expected the book only to cover the period of Adele's life during which she was performing on stage (which was actually a good chunk of her life), so I was pleasantly surprised when it continued past her retirement from the stage. Really, I would have liked to finish this book, and maybe one day I will.
October 3, 2021
I really enjoyed this novel. It was interesting, entertaining, moving, funny and easy to read. Adele Astaire truly is the forgotten one and even though I'd heard of her, I loved learning more. Cassidy's writing, as always, is very descriptive and melodic with nice character development. I think this undertaking was very brave as much of it had to be speculative (thus, the "fiction" in historical fiction), but I think it was well-researched and sympathetic to what we know about Adele. Overall, definitely recommend, for anyone who loves the '20s, musical theatre, or modern American and Irish history.
March 15, 2020
I received this as an ebook ARC through book sirens in exchange for an honest review. I selected this book because of the time in which it was set and have no prior knowledge of Fred Astaire or his sister. I found the book to be interesting and engaging. It did more than once inspire me to stop and research on my own about the Astaire history. It was a great story. However, I did not like the child's voice in the beginning. It felt out of place and little unsettling to me. In viewing the whole picture though, this seems very small. Great work, Nicola, I'll be looking into your other books.
August 3, 2020
Captures your heart. A beautifully written merge of both reality and fiction, woven through the early 20th century. As someone who has watched many a Fred Astaire movie, I had no idea of the history of performances with his sister, Adele. The scenes, events and conversations that Nicola Cassidy has created, send you back in time and make it effortless to visualise what it must have been like. The story just flows along fluidly, making it such an enjoyable read.
Now I want to visit Lismore Castle in Ireland!!
Now I want to visit Lismore Castle in Ireland!!
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