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Молодій єврейці Джосаї Герценштайн довелося змінити ім’я на Джозефіну й утекти з рідної Польщі до австралійського Мельбурна. З нічого вона започаткувала невеличкий косметичний бізнес, згодом перетворивши його на справжню імперію краси. Іммігрантка з Канади Констанс Ґардінер першою почала залучати маркетингові стратегії в косметичному світі та найняла до свого магазину темношкіру СіСі Лопес, яка ввійде в історію як творчиня випрямлювача для волосся. Кожен крок Констанс і Джозефіни поступово наближає їх одна до одної. Але про партнерство не йдеться. На тлі створення нових лінійок косметики та маркетингових інновацій, маккартизму, буремних змін у великому світі й таємних культур заборонених клубів, компліментів і заздрощів ці дві жінки змагатимуться за титул королеви косметики. І вони якнайліпше знають, що перемога, як і краса, потребує жертв.
400 pages, Hardcover
First published June 25, 2019
34 people are currently reading
1566 people want to read
About the author
Richard Kirshenbaum
16 books41 followersRICHARD KIRSHENBAUM is CEO of NSG/SWAT, a high-profile boutique branding agency. He has lectured at Harvard Business School, appeared on 20/20, was named to Crain’s New York Business’s “40 under 40” list, and has been inducted into the Advertising Hall of Fame. He is the author of Under the Radar, Closing the Deal, Madboy, and Isn’t That Rich? and the New York Observer's "Isn't That Rich?" column. He lives in New York City with his wife and three children.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 106 reviews
June 14, 2019
Wowza! Rouge was fun, enlightening, and enthralling! ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
Richard Kirshenbaum immediately places the reader smack dab in the mix in between two icons of the beauty industry. There’s a fierce rivalry between these two women and who will be on top of marketing make-up. But it doesn’t start and end there.
Rouge also examines the dreamers who invented the modern cosmetics industry, the woman who made herself a style icon and the richest female in the world, the woman who creates a door-to-door beauty sales business, and the first African American female millionaire.
Everyone wants to be number one at any cost, even if it means murder.
Beginning in 1922 and continuing through 1993, Rouge is perfectly-written, well-paced, and full of antics and drama. I was completely invested in this entertaining story and I loved the historical backdrop of the 30s, probation, McCarthyism, and all the societal pressures that came along with each time period.
Rouge is full of intrigue, the cast of characters are complex, dynamic, and memorable, and I thought this was a masterful presentation of the pursuit of the American dream and the cutthroat nature of business.
I received a complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
My reviews can also be found on my blog: www.jennifertarheelreader.com
Richard Kirshenbaum immediately places the reader smack dab in the mix in between two icons of the beauty industry. There’s a fierce rivalry between these two women and who will be on top of marketing make-up. But it doesn’t start and end there.
Rouge also examines the dreamers who invented the modern cosmetics industry, the woman who made herself a style icon and the richest female in the world, the woman who creates a door-to-door beauty sales business, and the first African American female millionaire.
Everyone wants to be number one at any cost, even if it means murder.
Beginning in 1922 and continuing through 1993, Rouge is perfectly-written, well-paced, and full of antics and drama. I was completely invested in this entertaining story and I loved the historical backdrop of the 30s, probation, McCarthyism, and all the societal pressures that came along with each time period.
Rouge is full of intrigue, the cast of characters are complex, dynamic, and memorable, and I thought this was a masterful presentation of the pursuit of the American dream and the cutthroat nature of business.
I received a complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
My reviews can also be found on my blog: www.jennifertarheelreader.com
June 28, 2019
ɢʟᴀᴍᴏᴜʀ. ɢʟɪᴛᴢ. ᴅʀᴀᴍᴀ.
Richard Kirshenbaum has written an addictive fast-paced story packed with glitz, glamour, and an entire cosmetic case full of drama! Three strong, confident, ruthless women engage in the ultimate power struggle to become the queen of the beauty industry. The bulk of the story takes place in the 30s,40s, and 50s when it was very unusual for women to be major powers in the business world. Josephine, Constance, and CeeCee all break into the beauty Industry in very different ways. They all have secrets to hide and hurdles to jump. This book not only highlighted these ladies rise to the top, but the deep seeded rivalry between them. These women would stop at nothing to claw their way to the top and were NOT willing to share that top spot! All the drama and cattiness sure was fun to read about, but WOW how much easier would it have been if they could’ve all just got along! You know female solidarity!?! While I admired all these women’s tenacity, I didn’t always admire their methodology.
This book was not only entertaining, but it was also very informative. I liked all the little tidbits about how makeup evolve sprinkled throughout the story. There was also plenty of romance and scandal. These women did not leave boring lives, that is for sure! This was a fascinating fast-paced story that you’ll find completely engaging even if you are not into makeup or beauty. It really was about powerful women having to overcome societal expectations in order to succeed, and succeed they did!
🎧🎧🎧 Lauren Ezzo narrated the audio and did a stellar job! I really think she got the tone of these ladies voices spot on. She also did a really good job with Josephine’s Polish accent. Lauren made a great story even better!💄
*** Big thanks to St. Martin’s Press and Macmillan Audio for my copy of this book ***
Richard Kirshenbaum has written an addictive fast-paced story packed with glitz, glamour, and an entire cosmetic case full of drama! Three strong, confident, ruthless women engage in the ultimate power struggle to become the queen of the beauty industry. The bulk of the story takes place in the 30s,40s, and 50s when it was very unusual for women to be major powers in the business world. Josephine, Constance, and CeeCee all break into the beauty Industry in very different ways. They all have secrets to hide and hurdles to jump. This book not only highlighted these ladies rise to the top, but the deep seeded rivalry between them. These women would stop at nothing to claw their way to the top and were NOT willing to share that top spot! All the drama and cattiness sure was fun to read about, but WOW how much easier would it have been if they could’ve all just got along! You know female solidarity!?! While I admired all these women’s tenacity, I didn’t always admire their methodology.
This book was not only entertaining, but it was also very informative. I liked all the little tidbits about how makeup evolve sprinkled throughout the story. There was also plenty of romance and scandal. These women did not leave boring lives, that is for sure! This was a fascinating fast-paced story that you’ll find completely engaging even if you are not into makeup or beauty. It really was about powerful women having to overcome societal expectations in order to succeed, and succeed they did!
🎧🎧🎧 Lauren Ezzo narrated the audio and did a stellar job! I really think she got the tone of these ladies voices spot on. She also did a really good job with Josephine’s Polish accent. Lauren made a great story even better!💄
*** Big thanks to St. Martin’s Press and Macmillan Audio for my copy of this book ***
June 19, 2019
Rouge is the story of three women who become entrepreneurs in the beauty industry in the 1930's. It follows their careers as they invent different types of cosmetics and the reason why they were invented. It is the story of how women can be ruthless when they are climbing the all important "ladder" of success, and how each will step on the other's toes to make it first to the top.
The story begins as the women's rag to riches stories are each told. And how backstabbing between them never stopped, even when they all had succeeded. For them it was not just the climb, but the obsession of staying at the top and trying to push everybody else down. These women become obsessed with fame, power, fortune and social standing and will do anything, including murder, to stay there.
Josiah Herzenstein (Josephine Hertz) was born a Polish Jew who had to keep her heritage a secret. When she leaves Poland to come to America she becomes a workaholic in order to prove her worth and creates a cosmetic company which skyrockets her onto the global stage.
Constance Gardner is her rival. She too had ideas on what women would like, only her approach was a bit different. She, like Josephine, has secrets of her own. Secrets which could destroy her company. And she skyrockets to fame as well. Both women despise each other, and are jealous of the other's fame and power. Unfortunately they feel there can only be room for one cosmetic heiress.
Cee Cee Lopez worked for Constance for many years. She too had an invention which was overlooked. As an African American woman her journey is very different than Josephine and Constance. She will do anything to be the first African American woman to become a millionaire in the cosmetic industry. When a situation occurs and she breaks with Constance she sees this as her chance.
Included in the intriguing story are of course love affairs, heartbreak and intense hatred among the rivals. With everyone trying to vie to be the most extraordinary cosmetic genius, and each plotting against the other, can anybody survive?
This was such an interesting read with a different story. It truly had it all.
Rouge comes out June 25.
Thank you to #NetGalley #St. Martin's Press #Rouge #Richard Kirschenbaum for the advanced copy.
The story begins as the women's rag to riches stories are each told. And how backstabbing between them never stopped, even when they all had succeeded. For them it was not just the climb, but the obsession of staying at the top and trying to push everybody else down. These women become obsessed with fame, power, fortune and social standing and will do anything, including murder, to stay there.
Josiah Herzenstein (Josephine Hertz) was born a Polish Jew who had to keep her heritage a secret. When she leaves Poland to come to America she becomes a workaholic in order to prove her worth and creates a cosmetic company which skyrockets her onto the global stage.
Constance Gardner is her rival. She too had ideas on what women would like, only her approach was a bit different. She, like Josephine, has secrets of her own. Secrets which could destroy her company. And she skyrockets to fame as well. Both women despise each other, and are jealous of the other's fame and power. Unfortunately they feel there can only be room for one cosmetic heiress.
Cee Cee Lopez worked for Constance for many years. She too had an invention which was overlooked. As an African American woman her journey is very different than Josephine and Constance. She will do anything to be the first African American woman to become a millionaire in the cosmetic industry. When a situation occurs and she breaks with Constance she sees this as her chance.
Included in the intriguing story are of course love affairs, heartbreak and intense hatred among the rivals. With everyone trying to vie to be the most extraordinary cosmetic genius, and each plotting against the other, can anybody survive?
This was such an interesting read with a different story. It truly had it all.
Rouge comes out June 25.
Thank you to #NetGalley #St. Martin's Press #Rouge #Richard Kirschenbaum for the advanced copy.
June 23, 2019
This follows three pioneers in the beauty industry from the 1920’s all the way to the 1990’s and we get not one, but three strong, determined, and resourceful main characters to root for. Actually, I didn’t love all three, however I could admire and respect them all for their innovation and ability to break down barriers for women in the workplace, it was pretty inspiring especially as all three overcame some serious obstacles before reaching their ultimate goals and this was mainly set in the twenties and thirties when women being successful businesswoman was just not the norm.
Often I find historical fiction to move at a pretty slow pace but this one flew by, the pacing was incredibly fast, there was always something new and exciting happening in the characters lives, truly never a dull moment. The behind the scenes look at the beauty industry was fascinating, these woman were sharp and hungry and the cattiness between them was unreal. Highly entertaining as well, the lengths they would go to in order to maintain their success was crazy, think manipulation and crafty plotting and scheming. Throw in some glitz and high glamour and you have one hell of a dazzling read.
Recommended as a great addition to your summer reading list, it’s juicy and delicious with plenty of depth and intrigue to keep you turning the pages fast as you can!
Rouge in three words: Sophisticated, Dramatic and Devious.
Often I find historical fiction to move at a pretty slow pace but this one flew by, the pacing was incredibly fast, there was always something new and exciting happening in the characters lives, truly never a dull moment. The behind the scenes look at the beauty industry was fascinating, these woman were sharp and hungry and the cattiness between them was unreal. Highly entertaining as well, the lengths they would go to in order to maintain their success was crazy, think manipulation and crafty plotting and scheming. Throw in some glitz and high glamour and you have one hell of a dazzling read.
Recommended as a great addition to your summer reading list, it’s juicy and delicious with plenty of depth and intrigue to keep you turning the pages fast as you can!
Rouge in three words: Sophisticated, Dramatic and Devious.
June 27, 2019
Kirshenbaum’s story about early cosmetic visionaries navigating their paths from immigrant to multi-billionaire mogul felt more authentic knowing of the author’s real-life connection within the industry. I was drawn into the world of glamor, betrayal and revenge. These women were extremely competitive, shrewd and ruthless. Clearly, backstabbing to get ahead and limitless money does not buy happiness.
September 21, 2020
DNF 23%
Много ми се четеше някоя от ония симпатични старомодни семейни саги за успех, бизнес империи и интриги.
Тази книга е в категорията, но като се изключи нелошият пролог, оттам нататък е пълна скука. Дори статия във “Вог”, описваща възхода на някоя създателка на империя за красота (каквито са и двете героини) би била далеч, далеч по-вълнуваща! А и щеше да е безупречно оформена с илюстрации и стил.
Стилът е сух, дразнещ, не разкриващ нищо за героите, схематичен, по-зле и от треторазряден вестник. Единствено някой филм с красиво заснета епоха и приятни актьори би бил алтернатива. Жалко.
Много ми се четеше някоя от ония симпатични старомодни семейни саги за успех, бизнес империи и интриги.
Тази книга е в категорията, но като се изключи нелошият пролог, оттам нататък е пълна скука. Дори статия във “Вог”, описваща възхода на някоя създателка на империя за красота (каквито са и двете героини) би била далеч, далеч по-вълнуваща! А и щеше да е безупречно оформена с илюстрации и стил.
Стилът е сух, дразнещ, не разкриващ нищо за героите, схематичен, по-зле и от треторазряден вестник. Единствено някой филм с красиво заснета епоха и приятни актьори би бил алтернатива. Жалко.
June 24, 2019
Before starting this book I wasn’t sure this would be for me, as I am not much for makeup or the beauty industry at all, but this book was fascinating! If you love historical fiction, than this one will surely satisfy!
The story follows 3 very different independent and determined women through their lives. They seem to be in competition with the other throughout their entire lives, driven by the other’s successes. Men come and go, but for all three, their one true love is their company.
Well written and so enjoyable, I read it in a day. It’s stories like this one, that make me love historical fiction.
Thank you to St Martin’s Press and NetGalley for this ARC.
The story follows 3 very different independent and determined women through their lives. They seem to be in competition with the other throughout their entire lives, driven by the other’s successes. Men come and go, but for all three, their one true love is their company.
Well written and so enjoyable, I read it in a day. It’s stories like this one, that make me love historical fiction.
Thank you to St Martin’s Press and NetGalley for this ARC.
June 22, 2019
Rouge is a deliciously catty, snarky and highly entertaining portrayal of two pioneers of the beauty industry. Josephine Herz and Constance Gardiner (inspired by cosmetic icons Helena Rubinstein and Elizabeth Arden) come from very different backgrounds and wind up rivals in New York City. Josephine, a Polish Jew, is sent to live with her aunt and uncle in Australia where she soon discovers her talent for salesmanship and beauty advice. After a successful start there, she moves onto London, Paris and ultimately New York leaving her mark in each place. Constance leaves her home in Canada straight for New York where she first goes to work for a pharmaceutical company, learning all she can in order to launch her own company. Eventually these two titans find themselves in a race to be the first to introduce the modern mascara onto the market by using every trick they have learned in chemistry, product development and business.
Set against the backdrop of world events and presenting the difficulties of women’s struggle to compete in the world of business dominated by men, Rouge is a fast paced, entertaining and fascinating novel. Josephine and Constance are complex, intriguing and dynamic characters as are the cast of secondary characters. Readers may find themselves rooting for one or the other along the way, but they will never find themselves bored! I highly recommend this novel to fans of historical fiction and women’s fictions as well as those interested in stories about the beginnings of the beauty industry.
Thanks to St. Martin’s Press and NetGalley for the e-ARC
Set against the backdrop of world events and presenting the difficulties of women’s struggle to compete in the world of business dominated by men, Rouge is a fast paced, entertaining and fascinating novel. Josephine and Constance are complex, intriguing and dynamic characters as are the cast of secondary characters. Readers may find themselves rooting for one or the other along the way, but they will never find themselves bored! I highly recommend this novel to fans of historical fiction and women’s fictions as well as those interested in stories about the beginnings of the beauty industry.
Thanks to St. Martin’s Press and NetGalley for the e-ARC
June 26, 2019
You can also read this review on my blog illbefinealonereads.
A huge thanks to St. Martin's Press for the chance to be a part of this blog tour.
My never ending quest to start liking historical fiction has once again brought me to an amazing read. Rouge has an interesting premise, but more importantly, it’s masterfully executed and exciting throughout.
I really enjoyed the story, it was full of drama and intrigue, and it just consumed me. The characters were well-developed, each with a unique personality that made them memorable.
The word dynamic comes to mind whenever I try to describe anything in this book: the dialogue, the relationships and interactions between the characters, the writing too. It felt as though there were no dull moments in this book. The plot was well paced and the writing flowed beautifully.
I think Rouge is a wonderfully addition to the historical fiction genre, perfect for fans of it, as well as people who are interested in picking up the genre for the first time. It’s definitely worth a read.
I recommend it.
*Copy received through NetGalley
*Rating 5/5 stars
YOU CAN FOLLOW ME ON: MY BLOG | INSTAGRAM | TWITTER
A huge thanks to St. Martin's Press for the chance to be a part of this blog tour.
My never ending quest to start liking historical fiction has once again brought me to an amazing read. Rouge has an interesting premise, but more importantly, it’s masterfully executed and exciting throughout.
I really enjoyed the story, it was full of drama and intrigue, and it just consumed me. The characters were well-developed, each with a unique personality that made them memorable.
The word dynamic comes to mind whenever I try to describe anything in this book: the dialogue, the relationships and interactions between the characters, the writing too. It felt as though there were no dull moments in this book. The plot was well paced and the writing flowed beautifully.
I think Rouge is a wonderfully addition to the historical fiction genre, perfect for fans of it, as well as people who are interested in picking up the genre for the first time. It’s definitely worth a read.
I recommend it.
*Copy received through NetGalley
*Rating 5/5 stars
YOU CAN FOLLOW ME ON: MY BLOG | INSTAGRAM | TWITTER
February 21, 2019
Fascinating! The characters are intriguing and the plot does mirror what we see in the real world. I loved the progression of start to finish of cosmetic industry giants. The setting of the 30's and 40's really tells the story of how the eras dictated opportunities and the way people lived. The pace is fast and it is hard to pull for any one character as none are completely innocent in their cut throat approach to business and romance. A true representation of the possibilities of the American dream and a lesson in be careful what you wish for. A good read.
June 25, 2019
The story begins in 1922 and continues into 1993. Two strong, independent-minded, single women have their own dream to own a beauty business.
Josiah become Josephine Herz, a Jewess who escaped the Nazi invasion of Poland by fleeing to Melbourne Australia with an armload of facial and body creams. Josephine grows an empire of cosmetic products sold in her salons.
Meanwhile tall, blonde Constance Gardiner is in NYC setting up a door to door sales force with her beauty line giving women an opportunity to earn money while raising a family.
The rivalry escalates and other players enter the market as either independents or employees of the 2 Queens.
Very interesting business lessons and diverse needs of different skin types are explored.
Historically the time periods cover the dirty 30's, prohibition, the McCarthy era Communist hunts, sexual diversity as well as society rules make it a very fast moving novel.
I volunteered to read an ARC from St. Martin's Press through Net Galley.
Josiah become Josephine Herz, a Jewess who escaped the Nazi invasion of Poland by fleeing to Melbourne Australia with an armload of facial and body creams. Josephine grows an empire of cosmetic products sold in her salons.
Meanwhile tall, blonde Constance Gardiner is in NYC setting up a door to door sales force with her beauty line giving women an opportunity to earn money while raising a family.
The rivalry escalates and other players enter the market as either independents or employees of the 2 Queens.
Very interesting business lessons and diverse needs of different skin types are explored.
Historically the time periods cover the dirty 30's, prohibition, the McCarthy era Communist hunts, sexual diversity as well as society rules make it a very fast moving novel.
I volunteered to read an ARC from St. Martin's Press through Net Galley.
September 28, 2019
Really tried to get into the flow of this book, but didn’t hold my interest. Hoping for a good late summer read, but the story felt very clunky and disjointed.
July 6, 2019
As a young girl growing up in the late 80’s, early 90’s at the height of the ‘glamour’ industry (well at least for me!), there was no way I could pass on this book.
I was exceptionally interested in cosmetics and the ‘glamor’ industry starting in my early teens, a passion the carried on into my early 20’s. In my youth, there was nothing like seeing who the new ‘Cover Girl’ was going to be, or what new makeup promised to revolutionize my beauty routine.
I was the girl who wore every single cosmetic from age 13. I had horrible acne as a elementary child and because I went to a Catholic school, I wasn’t allowed to wear makeup which was horrible for a girl with terrible skin. But once I transitioned into a public junior high school, all bets were off and thus came my obsession with cosmetics and beauty.
So what I am trying to say is this book appealed to me on a deeply personal level and I was thrilled to read about the cosmetics industry, especially since a man was writing the book.
When I picked this one up, I thought it was going to be more of a non-fiction book, especially since the author has written mostly non-fiction books in the past. I was pleasantly surprised that this book was fiction/historical fiction. I was admittedly a little skeptical about a man writing a book about a predominately female industry, including female characters. No one knows a woman like a woman—-however, this man did hell of a job highlighting female struggles in an industry that was horribly cutthroat!
I could not believe how fast paced this book was and yet how much ground was covered. It was glamorous (as I was expecting it to be), exciting, and ruthless! I couldn’t believe how the women in this industry would stop it nothing to get to the top—-Kirshenbaum did a marvelous job highlighting the cutthroat nature of women in this field for sure!
While I didn’t love the characters or their choices sometimes, I ultimately felt that it was an accurate representation of women in that industry which is what made them interesting. I personally think it’s fun to read about the uber rich and famous, because you know there was an interesting story about how they got there and what they had to give up. Knowing I will never be one of those people, I find it engrossing and interesting because they are so different and far removed from me as a reader that I can’t help but be sucked in. Which was the case in this book.
But this novel was so much more than just snarky cattiness between rival beauty houses or even female and romanic relationships—what I found most exciting about this book was the suspense element. People in this industry will do anything to succeed, including murder and everything else in between. I loved uncovering various plots in this book. It was a wonderful read that kept me eager and interesting for what was going to happen next.
See my full review here
I was exceptionally interested in cosmetics and the ‘glamor’ industry starting in my early teens, a passion the carried on into my early 20’s. In my youth, there was nothing like seeing who the new ‘Cover Girl’ was going to be, or what new makeup promised to revolutionize my beauty routine.
I was the girl who wore every single cosmetic from age 13. I had horrible acne as a elementary child and because I went to a Catholic school, I wasn’t allowed to wear makeup which was horrible for a girl with terrible skin. But once I transitioned into a public junior high school, all bets were off and thus came my obsession with cosmetics and beauty.
So what I am trying to say is this book appealed to me on a deeply personal level and I was thrilled to read about the cosmetics industry, especially since a man was writing the book.
When I picked this one up, I thought it was going to be more of a non-fiction book, especially since the author has written mostly non-fiction books in the past. I was pleasantly surprised that this book was fiction/historical fiction. I was admittedly a little skeptical about a man writing a book about a predominately female industry, including female characters. No one knows a woman like a woman—-however, this man did hell of a job highlighting female struggles in an industry that was horribly cutthroat!
I could not believe how fast paced this book was and yet how much ground was covered. It was glamorous (as I was expecting it to be), exciting, and ruthless! I couldn’t believe how the women in this industry would stop it nothing to get to the top—-Kirshenbaum did a marvelous job highlighting the cutthroat nature of women in this field for sure!
While I didn’t love the characters or their choices sometimes, I ultimately felt that it was an accurate representation of women in that industry which is what made them interesting. I personally think it’s fun to read about the uber rich and famous, because you know there was an interesting story about how they got there and what they had to give up. Knowing I will never be one of those people, I find it engrossing and interesting because they are so different and far removed from me as a reader that I can’t help but be sucked in. Which was the case in this book.
But this novel was so much more than just snarky cattiness between rival beauty houses or even female and romanic relationships—what I found most exciting about this book was the suspense element. People in this industry will do anything to succeed, including murder and everything else in between. I loved uncovering various plots in this book. It was a wonderful read that kept me eager and interesting for what was going to happen next.
See my full review here
July 1, 2019
*View my reviews at www.drinkreadrepeat.com*
Probably like most girls, I don't really have a particularly vivid memory of my first time experimenting with makeup.
Instead, my understanding of the event relies mainly on what my mother remembers. And, as she recounts it, I wasn’t what you would call a natural talent.
As far as she can remember, I first took my first awkward, clumsy, baby-giraffee-esque steps into makeup application as she slathered on her face for the day. I was playing around with a compact of almost exhausted blue eye shadow — which was still fashionable in the late eighties when I was coming of age and, I hear, is making a resurgence now, though I can’t for the fucking life of me understand why.
After ten minutes or so, I tugged on her pant leg, eager to show her how pretty I was. I had, rather confidently, rimmed my eyes deep blue, creating what must have looked like an anemic raccoon mask.
Though, fortunately, my skills have improved in the three decades since this initial experimentation, I'm still neither particularly good with, nor excessively interested in, makeup.
That being said, I absolutely recognize the power of cosmetics. Not only do they provide a way for women to transform their physical appearances, they also allow them to bolster their confidence enabling them to enter the world with less trepidation, more certain not just in their appearance, but also in the inevitability of their success
As a child of 1982, I’ve rarely — read: never — thought about the genesis of make-up. Sure, I’ve seen lots of changes — the birth of the Gameboy, the death of the rotary phone — but makeup never seemed to me to be an industry rich in revolution. It’s always just been...there. Constantly and consistently advertised in magazines aimed at women of all ages and available at every drug store in an overwhelming contingent of varieties.
In the world built by author Richard Kirshenbaum, however, the development of makeup as a distinguishable, accessible category of products was dramatic and rivalry-filled.
In Rouge, readers are introduced to two distinctly different yet equally determined women.
The first, Josephine Herz, emigrated from Poland in the early 1920s, landing first in Australia before settling in America by way of Europe — not the most direct route, I know.
Though she brought little with her from Poland — as her family, certainly not well off, had almost nothing to give her before her departure — she did bring some moisturizer and naturally killer sales skills. And with only these things, she managed to almost single handedly not just revolutionize, but actually invent, the beauty industry.
Or, did she?
Unfortunately, because there is another half of this tale, it’s not so clear cut.
As luck would have it, at almost exactly the same time another woman, Constance Gardner, a Canadian, was setting up a life for herself in New York City. Though she didn’t know for sure what she wanted to do, she did know she wanted to break free from her humble roots and leave everything behind — even her name, which she would change to the incredibly similar yet inarguably bougier Constance Gardiner.
Like Josephine, Constance had a keen sense of capitalism and an eye for innovation. And, also like Josephine, she believed that all women should be able to — and would want to — feel more beautiful.
So she set off on her own path, certain that she had the tenacity necessary not just to develop cosmetic products, but to build a whole industry focused on beautification.
As the two women worked in parallel, not cooperatively but, instead, competitively, they both learned hard lessons about what it means to be a woman in the 30s and 40s, how difficult it is to transcend the social class into which you were born, and what you have to give up to truly achieve success.
Though this novel is a work of historical fiction, it read like fact.
Multiple times I questioned my categorization, venturing back to Amazon to make sure that this was, in fact, a speculative story about two fictional women and not an authentic recounting of actual events. This uncertainty on my part is a testament to the strength of these characters and the seeming authenticity of the world Kirshenbaum built.
As I continued to read, however, I became frustrated. The deeper I got into the novel, the more I began to feel that the narrative was insufficient. Much like the cosmetics that Josephine and Constance so fiercely raced to develop only impacted the outward appearance of the customers who flocked a purchase them, the story only skimmed the surface.
It left me wanting more.
It left me wanting depth.
I left me wanting to truly know who these women really were, outside of the office.
Clearly they were more than just their work. But, in the narrative presented, it didn’t feel that way.
Another challenge: too much tell, not enough show.
Let me back up and explain that in case you’ve never been subjected to a creative writing class.
One of the cardinal rules of narrative fiction — oft repeated by writing professors and all but tattooed on the arms of many passionate writers — is show, don't tell.
Don’t tell me how sad she is, describe the stoop of her shoulders, the moistness of her tear stained face, the shrill pitch of her cry as it finally, painfully, claws its way out of her throat.
While there was some show in this book, there was a literal shit-ton of tell.
Too often the author provided an annotated timeline-esque explanation of the events that occurred as these pioneering women both independently worked to give birth to an industry.
What I wanted were more detailed recountings of specifically poignant scenes that shaped the women's lives. And, while those were peppered in there, they weren’t profuse enough to satisfy me.
In fairness, the author was trying to cover a significant expanse of time, and telling instead of showing invariably allowed him to do so more expeditiously. But with so much tell and so little show I found it harder to really develop an attachment to these characters. This, in turn, made it more difficult to become truly invested in them, which is necessary to authentically care about their triumphs and tragedies.
Throughout the entire novel, tension built… slowly.
It didn’t rumble to a rolling boil but instead simmered.
And simmered.
And simmered.
Until it just… ended.
Ultimately, to me, it felt like we were building to a drama we just never reached.
Waiting for a payoff we never got.
Hoping for an epic confrontation that simply wasn’t to be.
Now, those things said, don’t let this trio of concerns leave you thinking there was nothing satisfying about this novel.
There absolutely was.
The author crafted a distinctive tale and presented it in a clean, creative format. Even if the view wasn’t as all-encompassing as I had hoped it would be, he provided a window into the lives of these brasher-than-was-fashionable women who unapologetically sought to build something larger than themselves.
Fans of historical fiction — and lovers of cosmetics — will absolutely eat this novel up.
From me, however, it earns a relatively tepid 3 out of 5 cocktails.
Probably like most girls, I don't really have a particularly vivid memory of my first time experimenting with makeup.
Instead, my understanding of the event relies mainly on what my mother remembers. And, as she recounts it, I wasn’t what you would call a natural talent.
As far as she can remember, I first took my first awkward, clumsy, baby-giraffee-esque steps into makeup application as she slathered on her face for the day. I was playing around with a compact of almost exhausted blue eye shadow — which was still fashionable in the late eighties when I was coming of age and, I hear, is making a resurgence now, though I can’t for the fucking life of me understand why.
After ten minutes or so, I tugged on her pant leg, eager to show her how pretty I was. I had, rather confidently, rimmed my eyes deep blue, creating what must have looked like an anemic raccoon mask.
Though, fortunately, my skills have improved in the three decades since this initial experimentation, I'm still neither particularly good with, nor excessively interested in, makeup.
That being said, I absolutely recognize the power of cosmetics. Not only do they provide a way for women to transform their physical appearances, they also allow them to bolster their confidence enabling them to enter the world with less trepidation, more certain not just in their appearance, but also in the inevitability of their success
As a child of 1982, I’ve rarely — read: never — thought about the genesis of make-up. Sure, I’ve seen lots of changes — the birth of the Gameboy, the death of the rotary phone — but makeup never seemed to me to be an industry rich in revolution. It’s always just been...there. Constantly and consistently advertised in magazines aimed at women of all ages and available at every drug store in an overwhelming contingent of varieties.
In the world built by author Richard Kirshenbaum, however, the development of makeup as a distinguishable, accessible category of products was dramatic and rivalry-filled.
In Rouge, readers are introduced to two distinctly different yet equally determined women.
The first, Josephine Herz, emigrated from Poland in the early 1920s, landing first in Australia before settling in America by way of Europe — not the most direct route, I know.
Though she brought little with her from Poland — as her family, certainly not well off, had almost nothing to give her before her departure — she did bring some moisturizer and naturally killer sales skills. And with only these things, she managed to almost single handedly not just revolutionize, but actually invent, the beauty industry.
Or, did she?
Unfortunately, because there is another half of this tale, it’s not so clear cut.
As luck would have it, at almost exactly the same time another woman, Constance Gardner, a Canadian, was setting up a life for herself in New York City. Though she didn’t know for sure what she wanted to do, she did know she wanted to break free from her humble roots and leave everything behind — even her name, which she would change to the incredibly similar yet inarguably bougier Constance Gardiner.
Like Josephine, Constance had a keen sense of capitalism and an eye for innovation. And, also like Josephine, she believed that all women should be able to — and would want to — feel more beautiful.
So she set off on her own path, certain that she had the tenacity necessary not just to develop cosmetic products, but to build a whole industry focused on beautification.
As the two women worked in parallel, not cooperatively but, instead, competitively, they both learned hard lessons about what it means to be a woman in the 30s and 40s, how difficult it is to transcend the social class into which you were born, and what you have to give up to truly achieve success.
Though this novel is a work of historical fiction, it read like fact.
Multiple times I questioned my categorization, venturing back to Amazon to make sure that this was, in fact, a speculative story about two fictional women and not an authentic recounting of actual events. This uncertainty on my part is a testament to the strength of these characters and the seeming authenticity of the world Kirshenbaum built.
As I continued to read, however, I became frustrated. The deeper I got into the novel, the more I began to feel that the narrative was insufficient. Much like the cosmetics that Josephine and Constance so fiercely raced to develop only impacted the outward appearance of the customers who flocked a purchase them, the story only skimmed the surface.
It left me wanting more.
It left me wanting depth.
I left me wanting to truly know who these women really were, outside of the office.
Clearly they were more than just their work. But, in the narrative presented, it didn’t feel that way.
Another challenge: too much tell, not enough show.
Let me back up and explain that in case you’ve never been subjected to a creative writing class.
One of the cardinal rules of narrative fiction — oft repeated by writing professors and all but tattooed on the arms of many passionate writers — is show, don't tell.
Don’t tell me how sad she is, describe the stoop of her shoulders, the moistness of her tear stained face, the shrill pitch of her cry as it finally, painfully, claws its way out of her throat.
While there was some show in this book, there was a literal shit-ton of tell.
Too often the author provided an annotated timeline-esque explanation of the events that occurred as these pioneering women both independently worked to give birth to an industry.
What I wanted were more detailed recountings of specifically poignant scenes that shaped the women's lives. And, while those were peppered in there, they weren’t profuse enough to satisfy me.
In fairness, the author was trying to cover a significant expanse of time, and telling instead of showing invariably allowed him to do so more expeditiously. But with so much tell and so little show I found it harder to really develop an attachment to these characters. This, in turn, made it more difficult to become truly invested in them, which is necessary to authentically care about their triumphs and tragedies.
Throughout the entire novel, tension built… slowly.
It didn’t rumble to a rolling boil but instead simmered.
And simmered.
And simmered.
Until it just… ended.
Ultimately, to me, it felt like we were building to a drama we just never reached.
Waiting for a payoff we never got.
Hoping for an epic confrontation that simply wasn’t to be.
Now, those things said, don’t let this trio of concerns leave you thinking there was nothing satisfying about this novel.
There absolutely was.
The author crafted a distinctive tale and presented it in a clean, creative format. Even if the view wasn’t as all-encompassing as I had hoped it would be, he provided a window into the lives of these brasher-than-was-fashionable women who unapologetically sought to build something larger than themselves.
Fans of historical fiction — and lovers of cosmetics — will absolutely eat this novel up.
From me, however, it earns a relatively tepid 3 out of 5 cocktails.
July 7, 2019
A big Thank You to St. Martins and NetGalley for a complimentary copy!
All opinions expressed are my own.
*REVIEW*
Makeup is an essential tool for nearly every woman I know. How did it become so indispensable? Rogue tells the story of the women behind the rise of beauty in a compact and a tube. Josephine Herz and Constance Gardiner (Helena Rubenstein and Elizabeth Arden) are the two driven moguls who sit at the helms of their companies. Their stories are told from the 1920's through the course of their lives. Both were of a singular mindset: make it to the top, and remain there, at any cost. Truly, it's amazing what they did for success and fame. I admire and despise them simultaneously. Diligently each woman worked in a time when women just didn't do what they were doing. It's like they did it for spite, to fling in the face of the naysayers and critics. I do appreciate this fighting spirit, but the methods of achievement leave me speechless and befuddled to say the least. The sprinkling of insider industry tidbits about the entire process was fascinating and informative. Turns out, I'm clueless! But, against the glamorous landscape of the 30's and 40's, what woman wouldn't want an exorbitant amount of fortune and fame? They were wondrous females with illustrious careers in a man's world. I hope that, in some ways, they were regarded as fine examples of success by the women of the time. This story is vivid and remarkable with an exhaustive pace that leaves you wanting more. The characterizations of these deviously fabulous women makes me wonder if the author had close contact with them or was granted all access? It's that impressive, by a man, nonetheless! It's obviously well researched and carefully constructed for maximum impact on the reader. I'm a fan of historical fiction, and this account is unlike anything I have ever read. It's super unique and refreshing with unforgettable characters. I will never look at makeup in the same manner. Neither will you after you read this gem. Don't miss this book!
All opinions expressed are my own.
*REVIEW*
Makeup is an essential tool for nearly every woman I know. How did it become so indispensable? Rogue tells the story of the women behind the rise of beauty in a compact and a tube. Josephine Herz and Constance Gardiner (Helena Rubenstein and Elizabeth Arden) are the two driven moguls who sit at the helms of their companies. Their stories are told from the 1920's through the course of their lives. Both were of a singular mindset: make it to the top, and remain there, at any cost. Truly, it's amazing what they did for success and fame. I admire and despise them simultaneously. Diligently each woman worked in a time when women just didn't do what they were doing. It's like they did it for spite, to fling in the face of the naysayers and critics. I do appreciate this fighting spirit, but the methods of achievement leave me speechless and befuddled to say the least. The sprinkling of insider industry tidbits about the entire process was fascinating and informative. Turns out, I'm clueless! But, against the glamorous landscape of the 30's and 40's, what woman wouldn't want an exorbitant amount of fortune and fame? They were wondrous females with illustrious careers in a man's world. I hope that, in some ways, they were regarded as fine examples of success by the women of the time. This story is vivid and remarkable with an exhaustive pace that leaves you wanting more. The characterizations of these deviously fabulous women makes me wonder if the author had close contact with them or was granted all access? It's that impressive, by a man, nonetheless! It's obviously well researched and carefully constructed for maximum impact on the reader. I'm a fan of historical fiction, and this account is unlike anything I have ever read. It's super unique and refreshing with unforgettable characters. I will never look at makeup in the same manner. Neither will you after you read this gem. Don't miss this book!
June 22, 2019
Lindas Book Obsession Reviews “Rouge A Novel of Beauty and Rivalry” by Richard Kirshenbaum, St. Martins Press, June 25, 2019
Richard Kirshenbaum, Author of “Rouge A Novel of Beauty and Rivalry” has written an intriguing, intense, emotional and captivating novel. The Genres for this Novel are Fiction, Women’s Fiction, with a splash of Suspense. The timeline of the story progresses over the years. The author discusses the earliest cosmetic industry, and how it progresses. The characters are described as complex, complicated, aggressive, obsessed, dysfunctional, greedy and quirky.
Beauty and wealth seem to be always in demand. In this novel, Josephine Herz and Constance Gardiner (both names have been changed) become competitors in the game of beauty and money. One has a door to door beauty business, and one establishes exclusive salons. There are dark secrets, formulas, spies, and even death. This is not a business for the weak of heart.
There are other characters involved in this business as well. The goal is to be the most famous, the wealthiest and to get the patent for the formula first. After all, women want to look their best, no matter what the cost. (and men as well ) I recommend this novel for those readers who enjoy a suspenseful and intriguing read.
Richard Kirshenbaum, Author of “Rouge A Novel of Beauty and Rivalry” has written an intriguing, intense, emotional and captivating novel. The Genres for this Novel are Fiction, Women’s Fiction, with a splash of Suspense. The timeline of the story progresses over the years. The author discusses the earliest cosmetic industry, and how it progresses. The characters are described as complex, complicated, aggressive, obsessed, dysfunctional, greedy and quirky.
Beauty and wealth seem to be always in demand. In this novel, Josephine Herz and Constance Gardiner (both names have been changed) become competitors in the game of beauty and money. One has a door to door beauty business, and one establishes exclusive salons. There are dark secrets, formulas, spies, and even death. This is not a business for the weak of heart.
There are other characters involved in this business as well. The goal is to be the most famous, the wealthiest and to get the patent for the formula first. After all, women want to look their best, no matter what the cost. (and men as well ) I recommend this novel for those readers who enjoy a suspenseful and intriguing read.
August 31, 2022
Художня оповідь про двох жінок, королев і суперниць в косметичній індустрії, яка чи то прикидається завуальованою історією тієї ж самої індустрії, чи просто так написано.
Насправді книжка дуже захоплива, тільки встигай слідкувати - ось Джосайя з Польщі у Австралії перетворюється на Джозефіну, за допомогою маминого крему та пробивного характеру відкриває першу крамничку, а ось вона вже найбагатша жінка у США тридцятих років, коли підприємиць було не те щоб дуже багато. А ось її суперниця Констанс, тільки прибула з Канади шукати кращої долі, придумала ходити з наборами косметики від дверей до дверей, і скоро вже розвернулася на всю країну, і обидві вони намагаються влаштувати революцію, перевернувши уявлення про косметику і самосприйняття жінок. Швидко, динамічно, без усяких фігових листочків, цим мені сподобалося. Але структура книжки видна аж звідси, от прямо бачу, як автор-маркетолог її конструював, щоб цікаво було. Ну й мені не вистачило власне розповіді про перші кроки героїнь, досить швидко вже до розквіту перейшли.
Насправді книжка дуже захоплива, тільки встигай слідкувати - ось Джосайя з Польщі у Австралії перетворюється на Джозефіну, за допомогою маминого крему та пробивного характеру відкриває першу крамничку, а ось вона вже найбагатша жінка у США тридцятих років, коли підприємиць було не те щоб дуже багато. А ось її суперниця Констанс, тільки прибула з Канади шукати кращої долі, придумала ходити з наборами косметики від дверей до дверей, і скоро вже розвернулася на всю країну, і обидві вони намагаються влаштувати революцію, перевернувши уявлення про косметику і самосприйняття жінок. Швидко, динамічно, без усяких фігових листочків, цим мені сподобалося. Але структура книжки видна аж звідси, от прямо бачу, як автор-маркетолог її конструював, щоб цікаво було. Ну й мені не вистачило власне розповіді про перші кроки героїнь, досить швидко вже до розквіту перейшли.
March 8, 2025
This is why I don't read books written by men. This could've been a lot more interesting, but it was... catty, like a man would imagine a woman's feelings to be. He clearly favored Josiah/Josephine (whatever her name was) and she was the true protagonist vs Constance, yet he made them both so unlikeable. Mickey and Ceecee were almost footnotes in their own stories, the coverage wasn't balanced at all. However, for Mickey, it wasn't really a miss: he was a philandering and unrepentant sex fiend who didn't really fit into the story... nor did his cosmetic empire really make sense (it felt redundant). Ceecee was woefully underused, but I suppose it makes sense since he wrote her with the broadest and least subtle strokes of stereotypes, so I guess I'm glad he didn't deign to really write too much about her?
Either way, a lot of exposition, a lot of redundancies, unlikable characters, but it was interesting in it's own way? I wouldn't recommend it though. Read Gil Paul's "A Beautiful Rival" instead, that's actually well written.
Either way, a lot of exposition, a lot of redundancies, unlikable characters, but it was interesting in it's own way? I wouldn't recommend it though. Read Gil Paul's "A Beautiful Rival" instead, that's actually well written.
June 25, 2019
Thank you so much to St. Martins Press and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book for my review.
When I was first offered this book I thought it was only a romance novel which is completely out of my comfort zone. But then as I started reading I was pleasantly surprised to find out it was more than that.
This story is about Josephine, Constance, and CeCe and their history with marriages, love, their lives, and their mistakes.
The writing was so descriptive you felt like you traveled back in time to the ’20s and the ’80s as the book started in the 1980s and then flies back to the 1920s. I loved all of the history in this book and learning more about the three girls and their individual lives.
This was a very fast-paced fascinating read that I really enjoyed. The cover really sucked me in and made me want to read this but the writing style and characters are what kept me hooked.
When I was first offered this book I thought it was only a romance novel which is completely out of my comfort zone. But then as I started reading I was pleasantly surprised to find out it was more than that.
This story is about Josephine, Constance, and CeCe and their history with marriages, love, their lives, and their mistakes.
The writing was so descriptive you felt like you traveled back in time to the ’20s and the ’80s as the book started in the 1980s and then flies back to the 1920s. I loved all of the history in this book and learning more about the three girls and their individual lives.
This was a very fast-paced fascinating read that I really enjoyed. The cover really sucked me in and made me want to read this but the writing style and characters are what kept me hooked.
April 28, 2019
When I was offered this book I thought it was romance, but happily there is much more than that. It's about 3 women really. Josephine and Constance who are friends and rivals. And Cee Cee who is a biracial girl who Constance wants to keep passing as white , and if anyone ask mixed with Latin, or Hawaiian , anything but black. Cee Cee is Constance's assistant, and a mixed girl might not be so good for business. It's a historical memoir of these 3 ladies, there lives, loves, marriages, and mistakes are spilled onto the page.
Josephine is married to Jon who has a wandering eye and hands, whom she takes back into her life for the sake of their child. Jon is no good, a drinker, cheater, and gold digger.
Constance is married to Van who is a house husband, partner, lover, and friend to his wife.
Constance and Josephine are both designers of scents and beauty enhancers, both are willing to go to great lengths to be on top of the game, both admire and fear the others success.
Josephine is married to Jon who has a wandering eye and hands, whom she takes back into her life for the sake of their child. Jon is no good, a drinker, cheater, and gold digger.
Constance is married to Van who is a house husband, partner, lover, and friend to his wife.
Constance and Josephine are both designers of scents and beauty enhancers, both are willing to go to great lengths to be on top of the game, both admire and fear the others success.
February 19, 2019
This is a book I won as an ARC from a a giveaway. The cover is very intriguing and just the perfect image to set the atmosphere for the rest of the novel. I love how the story jumps around to different big cities and shows them in an entirely different light of that of the 30s and 40s. The writing is very sophisticated and describes makeup in a sexy way that adds to the overall swanky feel of the characters and time period.
February 7, 2024
I was not expecting to enjoy this book as much as I did. I really loved the story line of the entrepreneurial women in the beauty business. Fun feud between powerful women striving to be the best in the business mixed with a little history. It was interesting to see how the societal norms during this time period impacted their stories.
February 15, 2019
I won this book in a Goodreads giveaway as an ARC. It reminded me a lot of A Perfect Heritage by Penny Vincenzi.
I really enjoyed the character of Josephine. I wasn't particularly a big fan of Mickey's character and tried to hurry through the pages about him. It was an easy, enjoyable read and I read it in a few days. I would rate it a 3.5.
I really enjoyed the character of Josephine. I wasn't particularly a big fan of Mickey's character and tried to hurry through the pages about him. It was an easy, enjoyable read and I read it in a few days. I would rate it a 3.5.
February 12, 2019
Could not put down. Writing was very exciting. Characters modeled after real life people.
Nothing left to the imagination. Fabulous storyteller. Fun and easy read.
Nothing left to the imagination. Fabulous storyteller. Fun and easy read.
February 6, 2022
🚀Не дивіться на обкладинку
📚Ця книга буде вас дурити на кожному кроці. Спочатку обкладинка прикидатиметься черговою історію про пекельні муки вибору – соболів вдягнути під вечерю з омарами чи чорнобурку? Потім, коли ви прочитаєте книгу до кінця, вам здаватиметься дивною назва – «Рум’яна»? То з оцього всього, що відбувалося на сторінках роману, автор вирішив зупинитися на підсилені саме слова «рум’яна»? І нарешті сама оповідь, що здаватиметься інколи публіцистикою, виявиться художнім романом. І ні, він буде не про рум’яна.
💣Він про те, що Перша Світова війна принесла не тільки жахи й мільйони смертей, але й емансіпацію, вільних жінок та незлічену кількість можливостей для тих, хто справді того хоче. Про те, що вільно жити таким, яким тебе створила природа, це інколи привілей, а не данність, і радій, якщо тобі пощастило втрапити сьогодні у вузькі рамки суспільного схвалення, бо як ні, то стережися. Про те, що навіть якщо ти найбагатша людина у США, твоїх статків все одно не вистачить, аби витягти з розшматованої під час Другої світової війни Польщі молоду дівчинку із єврейським прізвищем.
👉А ще про антисемітизм та комунізм. Про Голівуд та Париж. Про дружбу і зради. Про моду й красу. Про суперництво та пристрасть. Про браки, що укладають гроші, і про шлюби, які трапляються, бо інакше і бути не могло.
💄Дві дуже ділові жіночки, дуже різні зовні, але однаково рішучі та цілеспрямовані, налаштовані збудувати кожна свою імперію краси. І як це буває у імперій – місця для двох одночасно завжди замало. Кожна з них виготовляє свою лінійку товарів для жінок – помади, креми, парфюми, а от маркетинг в них різних. Якщо одна віддає перевагу тому, аби жінки приходили до неї у салон, отримували догляд на вищому рівні і звісно на виході купували б все, чим їх тільки що чистили, фарбували, освіжали та зволожували, то інша муштрує цілу армію дівчат, які буквально приносять красу тобі додому, дають спробувати й на додачі пропонують заробити самостійно, продаючи товар своїм подругам. У проміжках між завоюванням світу своїми рум’янами обидві вони намагаються якось дати раду власним почуттям, знайти хоча б кілька хвилин щастя поруч із коханою людиною (для початку віднайшовши взагалі ту людину!) і звісно що якось дошкулити своїй суперниці.
👠Обидві вони міняють вла��не прізвище: одна, аби звучало більш аристократично і тепер вона не Гарденер, а Гардінер, а друга, аби можна було – банально! – замовити столик у ресторані, адже якщо ти Джосая Герценштайн, то ресторан заповнений вщент і місць немає, а коли ти Джозефіна Герц, то «звісно, мадам, вам зручніше біля вікна чи подалі?»
👒Обидві вони із впертістю носорогів рухаються уперед і вгору, аби про них знав весь світ, і писали всі газети, і жінки всього світу користувалися їх помадою чи ароматом. Обидві вони використовують ідеї, що вітають у повітрі стосовно того, чого ж ще хочуть жінки, і навипередки кидаються то виготовляти. Обидві вони роблять помилки (якими миттєво користується інша) і обидві змінюють індустрію краси.
👑Ну звісно, що це – не буквально роман про відомі косметичні бренди! (хоча одну фірму ви явно впізнали за тим, як саме вона продає свої баночки краси, правда?). І звісно, що це – не документальна хроніка того, як була винайдена форма щіточки туши для вій (хоча виглядає досить правдоподібно). Це захопливий роман про двох сильних впевнених жінок, про їхні здобутки і втрати, про те, як їх суперництво штовхало вперед цілу косметологічну індустрію, і про те, що жодна, навіть найяскравіша й найвеличніша перемога, не минають просто так, як і найпекучіша зрада не завжди виявляється кінцем всього.
👎З недоліків відмічу тільки те, що місцями речення були сформовані настільки незручно для сприйняття, що доводилося їх читати кілька разів, повільно, частинами і знову повністю, аби зрозуміти, що ж автор намагається донести. Не знаю, чий цей факапчик: перекладачки чи редакторів, чи оригінального тексту, але що є, то є
📚Ця книга буде вас дурити на кожному кроці. Спочатку обкладинка прикидатиметься черговою історію про пекельні муки вибору – соболів вдягнути під вечерю з омарами чи чорнобурку? Потім, коли ви прочитаєте книгу до кінця, вам здаватиметься дивною назва – «Рум’яна»? То з оцього всього, що відбувалося на сторінках роману, автор вирішив зупинитися на підсилені саме слова «рум’яна»? І нарешті сама оповідь, що здаватиметься інколи публіцистикою, виявиться художнім романом. І ні, він буде не про рум’яна.
💣Він про те, що Перша Світова війна принесла не тільки жахи й мільйони смертей, але й емансіпацію, вільних жінок та незлічену кількість можливостей для тих, хто справді того хоче. Про те, що вільно жити таким, яким тебе створила природа, це інколи привілей, а не данність, і радій, якщо тобі пощастило втрапити сьогодні у вузькі рамки суспільного схвалення, бо як ні, то стережися. Про те, що навіть якщо ти найбагатша людина у США, твоїх статків все одно не вистачить, аби витягти з розшматованої під час Другої світової війни Польщі молоду дівчинку із єврейським прізвищем.
👉А ще про антисемітизм та комунізм. Про Голівуд та Париж. Про дружбу і зради. Про моду й красу. Про суперництво та пристрасть. Про браки, що укладають гроші, і про шлюби, які трапляються, бо інакше і бути не могло.
💄Дві дуже ділові жіночки, дуже різні зовні, але однаково рішучі та цілеспрямовані, налаштовані збудувати кожна свою імперію краси. І як це буває у імперій – місця для двох одночасно завжди замало. Кожна з них виготовляє свою лінійку товарів для жінок – помади, креми, парфюми, а от маркетинг в них різних. Якщо одна віддає перевагу тому, аби жінки приходили до неї у салон, отримували догляд на вищому рівні і звісно на виході купували б все, чим їх тільки що чистили, фарбували, освіжали та зволожували, то інша муштрує цілу армію дівчат, які буквально приносять красу тобі додому, дають спробувати й на додачі пропонують заробити самостійно, продаючи товар своїм подругам. У проміжках між завоюванням світу своїми рум’янами обидві вони намагаються якось дати раду власним почуттям, знайти хоча б кілька хвилин щастя поруч із коханою людиною (для початку віднайшовши взагалі ту людину!) і звісно що якось дошкулити своїй суперниці.
👠Обидві вони міняють вла��не прізвище: одна, аби звучало більш аристократично і тепер вона не Гарденер, а Гардінер, а друга, аби можна було – банально! – замовити столик у ресторані, адже якщо ти Джосая Герценштайн, то ресторан заповнений вщент і місць немає, а коли ти Джозефіна Герц, то «звісно, мадам, вам зручніше біля вікна чи подалі?»
👒Обидві вони із впертістю носорогів рухаються уперед і вгору, аби про них знав весь світ, і писали всі газети, і жінки всього світу користувалися їх помадою чи ароматом. Обидві вони використовують ідеї, що вітають у повітрі стосовно того, чого ж ще хочуть жінки, і навипередки кидаються то виготовляти. Обидві вони роблять помилки (якими миттєво користується інша) і обидві змінюють індустрію краси.
👑Ну звісно, що це – не буквально роман про відомі косметичні бренди! (хоча одну фірму ви явно впізнали за тим, як саме вона продає свої баночки краси, правда?). І звісно, що це – не документальна хроніка того, як була винайдена форма щіточки туши для вій (хоча виглядає досить правдоподібно). Це захопливий роман про двох сильних впевнених жінок, про їхні здобутки і втрати, про те, як їх суперництво штовхало вперед цілу косметологічну індустрію, і про те, що жодна, навіть найяскравіша й найвеличніша перемога, не минають просто так, як і найпекучіша зрада не завжди виявляється кінцем всього.
👎З недоліків відмічу тільки те, що місцями речення були сформовані настільки незручно для сприйняття, що доводилося їх читати кілька разів, повільно, частинами і знову повністю, аби зрозуміти, що ж автор намагається донести. Не знаю, чий цей факапчик: перекладачки чи редакторів, чи оригінального тексту, але що є, то є
May 12, 2019
Rouge is a delightful and fun historical fiction novel based somewhat loosely on the real life feud between Helena Rubinstein (Josephine Herz) and Elizabeth Arden (Constance Gardiner) during the rise of their respective beauty empires during the mid to the latter parts of the twentieth century. The two are so much more alike in their thinking and creativity than they realize. Both women actually thrive on the retaliatory moves they make in response to one another's business decisions.
There is also an array of supporting characters drawn from the icons of the cosmetic industry, (think Charles Revson, Max Factor, Madame C. J. Walker and Sarah Spencer Washington etc.) to round out the story. The novel is fast paced and once I started it, I couldn't put it down.
There is also an array of supporting characters drawn from the icons of the cosmetic industry, (think Charles Revson, Max Factor, Madame C. J. Walker and Sarah Spencer Washington etc.) to round out the story. The novel is fast paced and once I started it, I couldn't put it down.
September 16, 2019
Rouge is a historical fiction novel that introduces you to two women who are competing against each other in the beauty industry starting in the 1920s. Kirshenbaum delivers an entertaining read that gives us a look at high society, business tactics, betrayal and the power of beauty.
I found that the story was engaging but that the characters lacked a depth that would help me understand them more as people and not just as business rivals. Women running businesses at this time was not common and I would have loved to see more behind the scenes details of this important and powerful topic. Because of this I had trouble really connected with the characters are anything but a more superficial level. I would have loved to hear more of the "real story" and less of the rivalry and antics that took over during the storytelling.
*I was given a copy of this book to review and all opinion are my own.
I found that the story was engaging but that the characters lacked a depth that would help me understand them more as people and not just as business rivals. Women running businesses at this time was not common and I would have loved to see more behind the scenes details of this important and powerful topic. Because of this I had trouble really connected with the characters are anything but a more superficial level. I would have loved to hear more of the "real story" and less of the rivalry and antics that took over during the storytelling.
*I was given a copy of this book to review and all opinion are my own.
May 12, 2019
Rouge is a deep dive into the beginnings of the modern beauty industry where two rivals go head to head to outdo each other, and to get beyond their humble starts. Constance is a Canadian who sees the world for the taking, though she has to often deal with her brother's secrets. Josephine is a Polish immigrant living in Australia, just waiting for her big break when it comes to selling her beauty creams. Throughout the decades they are both faced with successes, marriages, children and failures in all aspects, creating a strange bond, even within a deep professional rivalry.
This book is being compared to The Swans of Fifth Avenue, which I've read and don't think measures up to the same type of historical fiction. For one, this book tries to mask a real story under fictional characters. The Swans of Fifth Avenue used as many real-life figures as possible, making it more interesting and intriguing. This book didn't do the same for me. Instead of wanting to read more of this, I just wanted to find something to read that would tell me the real story of this rivalry instead.
*Book provided by NetGalley
This book is being compared to The Swans of Fifth Avenue, which I've read and don't think measures up to the same type of historical fiction. For one, this book tries to mask a real story under fictional characters. The Swans of Fifth Avenue used as many real-life figures as possible, making it more interesting and intriguing. This book didn't do the same for me. Instead of wanting to read more of this, I just wanted to find something to read that would tell me the real story of this rivalry instead.
*Book provided by NetGalley
April 14, 2019
Won this book in a goodreads giveaway
This is not my typical genre, (I'm usually into crime/thriller books) but wow this really blew my mind!
Very vivid, felt like I traveled in a time machine and had a front row seat to what it was like back in the 20's+. I love how the book started in the 80's and flies back to the 20's and up; experiencing everything alongside makes the reader connect even better with the characters. Four words I wrote down when I was reading Rouge was; fascinating, fast paced, vivid, and unpredictable.
***Spoiler***
It was refreshing when new characters were added and sometimes given their own chapter/perspective. Even now, I am not sure what I think of Mickey. I really wanted to root for Constance but she would sabotage herself at times, there were a couple times where I would say "what the heck, Constance, why did you do that." That's what is so great about the book though, it shows the good, the bad, and the ugly of all of the characters, giving it such an authentic feeling. I lived for the scene where the two ladies finally were forced to confront the other, reminded me of my dramas(pg 200?). They are such savage, strong, independent women who in another world could have possibly gotten along. I really want to know how different things would have gone if Constance A) Got to live free with her sexuality(living in secret would make anyone feel a certain way/bitter)and B) if Constance hadn't uttered bigotry towards Josiah in the beginning. I feel like Constance may have become a nasty woman because she wasn't able to live and love openly.
Both women were so focused on one upping the other, they ended up living miserable lives, not actually enjoying all the success. I really like the epilogue, the cycle continues.
This is not my typical genre, (I'm usually into crime/thriller books) but wow this really blew my mind!
Very vivid, felt like I traveled in a time machine and had a front row seat to what it was like back in the 20's+. I love how the book started in the 80's and flies back to the 20's and up; experiencing everything alongside makes the reader connect even better with the characters. Four words I wrote down when I was reading Rouge was; fascinating, fast paced, vivid, and unpredictable.
***Spoiler***
It was refreshing when new characters were added and sometimes given their own chapter/perspective. Even now, I am not sure what I think of Mickey. I really wanted to root for Constance but she would sabotage herself at times, there were a couple times where I would say "what the heck, Constance, why did you do that." That's what is so great about the book though, it shows the good, the bad, and the ugly of all of the characters, giving it such an authentic feeling. I lived for the scene where the two ladies finally were forced to confront the other, reminded me of my dramas(pg 200?). They are such savage, strong, independent women who in another world could have possibly gotten along. I really want to know how different things would have gone if Constance A) Got to live free with her sexuality(living in secret would make anyone feel a certain way/bitter)and B) if Constance hadn't uttered bigotry towards Josiah in the beginning. I feel like Constance may have become a nasty woman because she wasn't able to live and love openly.
Both women were so focused on one upping the other, they ended up living miserable lives, not actually enjoying all the success. I really like the epilogue, the cycle continues.
June 6, 2019
Rouge: A Novel of Beauty and Rivalry is a captivating historical fiction novel written by Richard Kirshenbaum. A story that mirrors what is happening in the real world with characters that are intriguing, relatable, and realistic. Rouge is a fast-paced read that gives you an inside behind the scenes look at the start to finish of cosmetic industry giants. The setting is the 30's and 40's which tells a story of how this time dictated opportunities and the way people lived. I was drawn in from the beginning and could not stop reading until I found out how the story would end. Rouge tells a true to life representation of what life was like for Americans during this time and the determination it took to achieve the American dream.
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