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A Beautiful Rival: A Novel of Helena Rubinstein and Elizabeth Arden
In this stunning new novel, bestselling author Gill Paul reveals the unknown history of cosmetic titans Elizabeth Arden and Helena Rubinstein and their infamous rivalry that spanned not only decades, but also broken marriages, personal tragedies, and a world that was changing dramatically for women—perfect for fans of Fiona Davis, Marie Benedict, and Beatriz Williams.
Who would have guessed that the business of making women beautiful was so cutthroat?
They could have been allies: two self-made millionaires who invented a global industry, in an era when wife and mother were supposed to be the highest goals for their sex. Elizabeth Arden and Helena Rubinstein each founded empires built on grit and determination…and yet they became locked in a feud spanning three continents, two world wars, and the Great Depression.
Brought up in poverty, Canadian-born Elizabeth Arden changed popular opinion, persuading women from all walks of life to buy skincare products that promised them youth and beauty. Helena Rubenstein left her native Poland, and launched her company with scientific claims about her miracle creams made with anti-ageing herbs.
And when it came to business, nothing was off-limits: poaching each other’s employees, copying each other’s products, planting spies, hiring ex-husbands, and one-upping each other every chance they had. This was a rivalry from which there was no surrender! And through it all were two women, bold, brazen, and determined to succeed—no matter the personal cost.
In this sweeping novel from the bestselling author of Jackie and Maria and The Manhattan Girls, two larger-than life fashion icons come alive with all their passion, bitterness, and ambition as they each try to live the American dream.
Who would have guessed that the business of making women beautiful was so cutthroat?
They could have been allies: two self-made millionaires who invented a global industry, in an era when wife and mother were supposed to be the highest goals for their sex. Elizabeth Arden and Helena Rubinstein each founded empires built on grit and determination…and yet they became locked in a feud spanning three continents, two world wars, and the Great Depression.
Brought up in poverty, Canadian-born Elizabeth Arden changed popular opinion, persuading women from all walks of life to buy skincare products that promised them youth and beauty. Helena Rubenstein left her native Poland, and launched her company with scientific claims about her miracle creams made with anti-ageing herbs.
And when it came to business, nothing was off-limits: poaching each other’s employees, copying each other’s products, planting spies, hiring ex-husbands, and one-upping each other every chance they had. This was a rivalry from which there was no surrender! And through it all were two women, bold, brazen, and determined to succeed—no matter the personal cost.
In this sweeping novel from the bestselling author of Jackie and Maria and The Manhattan Girls, two larger-than life fashion icons come alive with all their passion, bitterness, and ambition as they each try to live the American dream.
384 pages, Paperback
First published September 5, 2023
651 people are currently reading
14139 people want to read
About the author
Gill Paul
52 books1,826 followersGill Paul is the international bestselling author of thirteen novels, many of them reevaluating extraordinary twentieth-century women whom she believes have been marginalized or misjudged. Her novels have reached the top of the USA Today, Wall Street Journal, and Toronto Globe & Mail charts, and have been translated into twenty-three languages.
Her latest novel, Scandalous Women (2024), is about trailblazing authors Jackie Collins and Jacqueline Susann battling their way to the top in the misogynous boys' club of 1960s publishing. A Beautiful Rival (2023) is about the infamous feud between beauty tycoons Elizabeth Arden and Helena Rubinstein. Jackie and Maria (2020) was longlisted for the Historical Writers’ Association Gold Crown. The Collector’s Daughter (2021) was named a Times ‘historical novel of the month’ and The Manhattan Girls (2022), was reviewed in The Sun as a “sweeping, evocative tale” and in The Book List as “Witty, emotional and intelligent”.
Gill also writes historical non-fiction, including A History of Medicine in 50 Objects and a series of Love Stories. Published around the world, this series includes Royal Love Stories, World War I Love Stories and Titanic Love Stories.
Gill lives in London where she swims year round in a wild pond, and speaks at libraries and literary festivals on topics ranging from Tutankhamun to the Romanovs.
Her latest novel, Scandalous Women (2024), is about trailblazing authors Jackie Collins and Jacqueline Susann battling their way to the top in the misogynous boys' club of 1960s publishing. A Beautiful Rival (2023) is about the infamous feud between beauty tycoons Elizabeth Arden and Helena Rubinstein. Jackie and Maria (2020) was longlisted for the Historical Writers’ Association Gold Crown. The Collector’s Daughter (2021) was named a Times ‘historical novel of the month’ and The Manhattan Girls (2022), was reviewed in The Sun as a “sweeping, evocative tale” and in The Book List as “Witty, emotional and intelligent”.
Gill also writes historical non-fiction, including A History of Medicine in 50 Objects and a series of Love Stories. Published around the world, this series includes Royal Love Stories, World War I Love Stories and Titanic Love Stories.
Gill lives in London where she swims year round in a wild pond, and speaks at libraries and literary festivals on topics ranging from Tutankhamun to the Romanovs.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 488 reviews
July 27, 2023
If you’re interested in historical fiction, Gill Paul is a safe bet. In this novel Paul writes about Elizabeth Arden and Helena Rubenstein. You’re dragged into a world of competition, rivalry and passion. I loved reading about the two ladies, and liked that we followed them over a longer period of time, until they both died. We got to know them during two wars, and there was a lot of interesting facts interspersed through the plot. I love how naturally the story flowed, alternating between Helena and Elisabeth’s perspective. It was well-written and thoroughly researched. Even if the ladies lived long ago, I felt like I was with them in the here and now.
If you look for an entertaining read about two fascinating women who were important figures in the beauty industry this will be to your liking.
Thanks to netgalley and Avon books UK for the arc in exchange for my honest review.
If you look for an entertaining read about two fascinating women who were important figures in the beauty industry this will be to your liking.
Thanks to netgalley and Avon books UK for the arc in exchange for my honest review.
June 19, 2023
A Beautiful Rival imagines the story of two incredibly driven women, who achieved extraordinary success given their time and paved the way for a new category of beauty. They were rivals, but at the same time they had so much in common.
NYC, 1915. When we meet Helena Rubinstein and Elizabeth Arden, they are already successful, and rivals. Through their stories we get to know the historical background of how they had to convince women that make up was something that they needed, rather than view it as vulgar.
In both cases, they allow us into their personal world, which doesn’t look as strong as what they achieved career and money wise. For Helena, it’s her questionable marriage and suspicion of her husband being unfaithful. For Elizabeth, it’s her giving herself a chance at love and getting married even if it misses that passion she wishes for. Especially, when pre-naps are good option, if marriage fails, he walks away without a penny.
With success come some cravings. For Elizabeth, it’s the invitation of influential women of NYC. Them being her clients is one thing. Them inviting her to their world, that’s another thing. For Helena, it seems to be more personal, having that successful relationship with her husband. She just needs to complete her expansion plans in NYC, as the US market is the biggest in the world, in order to return to Europe.
This fascinating story is vividly presented through showing feelings, and told with crisp prose and sprinkled with humor. The two rivals while revealing their stories, they pull the reader engagingly into the world of success and passion.
The infamous rivalry, which included stealing employees, copying each other’s products, planting spies, and more, is well-pronounced in this story. Their bitterness and ambitions are alive, and with their honest feelings, it makes this story feel very real.
Source: ARC was provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
NYC, 1915. When we meet Helena Rubinstein and Elizabeth Arden, they are already successful, and rivals. Through their stories we get to know the historical background of how they had to convince women that make up was something that they needed, rather than view it as vulgar.
In both cases, they allow us into their personal world, which doesn’t look as strong as what they achieved career and money wise. For Helena, it’s her questionable marriage and suspicion of her husband being unfaithful. For Elizabeth, it’s her giving herself a chance at love and getting married even if it misses that passion she wishes for. Especially, when pre-naps are good option, if marriage fails, he walks away without a penny.
With success come some cravings. For Elizabeth, it’s the invitation of influential women of NYC. Them being her clients is one thing. Them inviting her to their world, that’s another thing. For Helena, it seems to be more personal, having that successful relationship with her husband. She just needs to complete her expansion plans in NYC, as the US market is the biggest in the world, in order to return to Europe.
This fascinating story is vividly presented through showing feelings, and told with crisp prose and sprinkled with humor. The two rivals while revealing their stories, they pull the reader engagingly into the world of success and passion.
The infamous rivalry, which included stealing employees, copying each other’s products, planting spies, and more, is well-pronounced in this story. Their bitterness and ambitions are alive, and with their honest feelings, it makes this story feel very real.
Source: ARC was provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
August 19, 2023
Elizabeth Arden or Florence Nightingale Graham was born in Canada, her eldest brother encouraged her to move to Manhattan in the late 1880's and she worked as a waitress and at a beauty salon. Elizabeth opened her first Red Door Salon in 1910, by 1915 she expanded her business overseas and in 1934 she opened her day spa in Maine. Elizabeth wanted women to understand that make up was proper and appropriate and not just for floozies. She was the sole owner of her company Elizabeth Arden Inc. and at the time she was one of the wealthiest and most successful women in the world.
Helena Chaja Rubenstein was born in Kraków Poland, her parents were Jewish and she was the eldest of eight daughters. Banished to Australia by her father when she refused an arranged marriage to an older man and she lived with an uncle. Helena Rubenstein opened her first beauty salon in Melbourne in the late 1880's, followed by Sydney, London, Paris and finally in the shadows of The Great War she moved to New York. Helena Rubenstein liked to promote her "scientific" knowledge, her creams were made with “herbs” from the Carpathian Mountains and I guess she needed something to hide the smell of lanolin. Helena was the first in the industry to promote women having different skin types and she employed beauticians and members of her own family to work at her company Helena Rubinstein Inc.
Both ladies were ruthless, competed against each other and tried to get the upper hand in marketing and packaging, having a larger and better range of products, celebrity endorsements, giving out samples and a gift with purchase, planting spies and stealing staff and one employed the others ex-husband. Two women who were pioneers of the beauty industry, both managed to stay in business during two world wars and weathered America’s Great depression.
I received a digital copy of A Beautiful Rival by Gill Paul from the publisher in exchange for an honest review, it was a really fascinating and engrossing narrative and I enjoy reading about ambitious women. Ms. Paul looks at the rivalry between cosmetic queens, each changed the beauty industry in their own way, with their creams and lotions, sold the promise of youthfulness and the subtle use of cosmetics to enhance a ladies best features.
Did they hate each other who really knows, they did see the other as a rival, a competitor in the way of their successes and both altered the truth about some aspects of their childhoods and lives. Gill Paul is one of my favourite historical fiction authors, her research is thorough and she chooses influential women who have paved the way for future generations and five stars from me.
Helena Chaja Rubenstein was born in Kraków Poland, her parents were Jewish and she was the eldest of eight daughters. Banished to Australia by her father when she refused an arranged marriage to an older man and she lived with an uncle. Helena Rubenstein opened her first beauty salon in Melbourne in the late 1880's, followed by Sydney, London, Paris and finally in the shadows of The Great War she moved to New York. Helena Rubenstein liked to promote her "scientific" knowledge, her creams were made with “herbs” from the Carpathian Mountains and I guess she needed something to hide the smell of lanolin. Helena was the first in the industry to promote women having different skin types and she employed beauticians and members of her own family to work at her company Helena Rubinstein Inc.
Both ladies were ruthless, competed against each other and tried to get the upper hand in marketing and packaging, having a larger and better range of products, celebrity endorsements, giving out samples and a gift with purchase, planting spies and stealing staff and one employed the others ex-husband. Two women who were pioneers of the beauty industry, both managed to stay in business during two world wars and weathered America’s Great depression.
I received a digital copy of A Beautiful Rival by Gill Paul from the publisher in exchange for an honest review, it was a really fascinating and engrossing narrative and I enjoy reading about ambitious women. Ms. Paul looks at the rivalry between cosmetic queens, each changed the beauty industry in their own way, with their creams and lotions, sold the promise of youthfulness and the subtle use of cosmetics to enhance a ladies best features.
Did they hate each other who really knows, they did see the other as a rival, a competitor in the way of their successes and both altered the truth about some aspects of their childhoods and lives. Gill Paul is one of my favourite historical fiction authors, her research is thorough and she chooses influential women who have paved the way for future generations and five stars from me.
July 23, 2023
This was a fascinating exploration of the battle of Fifth Avenue’s beauty bosses - Elizabeth Arden and Helena Rubinstein.
I’d never heard of Rubinstein before and knew little of Arden, but was certain that their story was in the capable hands of author Gill Paul. I couldn’t wait to read it.
Elizabeth Arden, a Canadian entrepreneur, and Helena Rubinstein, a poor Polish Jew now business owner, both chose the same stretch of Fifth Avenue in Midtown Manhattan to establish their beauty business. The vicious rivalry that ensued lasted fifty years.
Paul examines the two parallel empires and the inner drive of these female business titans who never met. She raises questions about how women who took on traditionally male roles were treated by a world on the brink of war, how they managed to stay in business during the war years, and what it cost them personally to invent anti-aging creams, red lipstick, and waterproof mascara. She paves the way for discussions about the progression of attitudes towards makeup and skincare and highlights the lengths they went to in order to stay on top of their game.
I was instantly caught up in the epic catfights between these cosmetic legends and, more than once, discovered I was yelling at one of them to be more cautious.I giggled and I laughed. I thoroughly enjoyed this examination of the women and the businesses that laid the foundation for today’s beauty industry. Paul’s masterful writing allowed me to see both sides of the figurative fence and I was emotionally invested in each woman’s success.
This is one you’ll want on your reading list!
I was gifted this copy by Avon Books UK and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
I’d never heard of Rubinstein before and knew little of Arden, but was certain that their story was in the capable hands of author Gill Paul. I couldn’t wait to read it.
Elizabeth Arden, a Canadian entrepreneur, and Helena Rubinstein, a poor Polish Jew now business owner, both chose the same stretch of Fifth Avenue in Midtown Manhattan to establish their beauty business. The vicious rivalry that ensued lasted fifty years.
Paul examines the two parallel empires and the inner drive of these female business titans who never met. She raises questions about how women who took on traditionally male roles were treated by a world on the brink of war, how they managed to stay in business during the war years, and what it cost them personally to invent anti-aging creams, red lipstick, and waterproof mascara. She paves the way for discussions about the progression of attitudes towards makeup and skincare and highlights the lengths they went to in order to stay on top of their game.
I was instantly caught up in the epic catfights between these cosmetic legends and, more than once, discovered I was yelling at one of them to be more cautious.I giggled and I laughed. I thoroughly enjoyed this examination of the women and the businesses that laid the foundation for today’s beauty industry. Paul’s masterful writing allowed me to see both sides of the figurative fence and I was emotionally invested in each woman’s success.
This is one you’ll want on your reading list!
I was gifted this copy by Avon Books UK and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
September 17, 2023
This book is a fictional account of the rivalry between Elizabeth Arden and Helena Rubinstein, queens of the cosmetic and beauty industry in the 1920s and 30s. They are both fascinating women.
The story is told in alternating chapters from the viewpoints of both women and spans a number of years from 1915 to 1946 with a nice little epilogue at the end. The chapters are short and easy to read but sometimes the story skips forward a number of years at a time and I think I might have enjoyed more depth to some parts of their lives. Still, it's an enjoyable read and I learned a lot, including the fact that there was a broadway musical entitled "War Paint" based on another book about the pair. I'm more interested than ever in reading past books by this author. 4.5 Stars rounded up!
I'm off to read Rouge by Mona Awad now, a whole different take on the world of beauty I imagine!
TW: Animal deaths (horses).
I won this book in a Goodreads giveaway so thanks to them and to William Morrow Paperbacks for an opportunity to read an uncorrected proof of this novel. I didn't find any mistakes! All opinions expressed are my own.
Published: September 5, 2023
The story is told in alternating chapters from the viewpoints of both women and spans a number of years from 1915 to 1946 with a nice little epilogue at the end. The chapters are short and easy to read but sometimes the story skips forward a number of years at a time and I think I might have enjoyed more depth to some parts of their lives. Still, it's an enjoyable read and I learned a lot, including the fact that there was a broadway musical entitled "War Paint" based on another book about the pair. I'm more interested than ever in reading past books by this author. 4.5 Stars rounded up!
I'm off to read Rouge by Mona Awad now, a whole different take on the world of beauty I imagine!
TW: Animal deaths (horses).
I won this book in a Goodreads giveaway so thanks to them and to William Morrow Paperbacks for an opportunity to read an uncorrected proof of this novel. I didn't find any mistakes! All opinions expressed are my own.
Published: September 5, 2023
September 29, 2023
Una historia de ficción sobre la rivalidad entre Elizabeth Arden and Helena Rubinstein, y sobre cómo cambiaron el mundo de la cosmética y la belleza.
September 21, 2023
DIDN'T REALLY THRILL OR EXCITE ME
Actual rating: 2.5 ⭐
I don't know what it is. I have previously been a great fan of Paul and her writing. But lately it is as if something just isn't connecting for me.
What I Disliked
Telling: One thing that definitely made this book less connected for me was the telling as opposed to showing. The story felt very much like "and then this happened and then this happened" in stead of actually showing us those things. It made it hard to get into the story.
Internal dialogue: Usually I don't mind internal dialogue. It can really help you get into the mindset of a character. But when you have pretty much nothing more than internal dialogue, it just becomes tiresome and drawn out. It lacked some dialogue, some interactions and some actual action of some kind.
Characters: Both Elizabeth and Helena felt like mere surface characters. I wanted something more, something to explain their actions, their motivations and their personalities. It made it hard to like both of them, when I just fundamentally couldn't understand them.
ARC provided by the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
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Actual rating: 2.5 ⭐
I don't know what it is. I have previously been a great fan of Paul and her writing. But lately it is as if something just isn't connecting for me.
What I Disliked
Telling: One thing that definitely made this book less connected for me was the telling as opposed to showing. The story felt very much like "and then this happened and then this happened" in stead of actually showing us those things. It made it hard to get into the story.
Internal dialogue: Usually I don't mind internal dialogue. It can really help you get into the mindset of a character. But when you have pretty much nothing more than internal dialogue, it just becomes tiresome and drawn out. It lacked some dialogue, some interactions and some actual action of some kind.
Characters: Both Elizabeth and Helena felt like mere surface characters. I wanted something more, something to explain their actions, their motivations and their personalities. It made it hard to like both of them, when I just fundamentally couldn't understand them.
ARC provided by the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
Follow me for more book loving content!
Blog ✨ Facebook ✨ Instagram ✨ Twitter
Blog Post: Which Book Should you read next based on your favourite Jane Austen Heroine
August 23, 2023
A compelling histfic telling of the fierce competition between cosmetic industry queens Elizabeth Arden and Helena Rubinstein, their triumphs and tragedies. Gracefully written with such authentic character development that you feel you are wearing their lipsticks, and a glorious narrative that grips from start to end. Highly recommended!
October 15, 2023
I don't know what I have been doing with my life that I am just now reading a historical fiction novel by Gill Paul! A Beautiful Rival: A Novel of Helena Rubinstein and Elizabeth Arden sucked me in immediately, and I was instantly drawn into this story of two very different but also eerily alike women who knew exactly what meant to work hard for what you have. I knew absolutely nothing about Rubinstein OR Arden heading into this book, and I feel like I learned so much about both of them. Even with the liberties Paul took with the storyline, so much of it was based on real-life that it still all felt very real. Paul's writing is fantastic and so engrossing that I literally started the audiobook and listened to it all the way to the end in one sitting.
This isn't a movie that I know of, but it should be and if this got optioned, I would definitely watch it in any capacity be it film or TV. Some parts broke my heart and left me with tears in my eyes, while others made my mouth drop open with the lengths these women would go to while they were competing with each other. If you are going to read A Beautiful Rival, I would recommend the audiobook if you enjoy them because it is done so well. Even though the viewpoints alternate between both Rubinstein and Arden, there is only one narrator, and somehow Lisa Flanagan managed to make herself sound like two people! It is seriously impressive, and she did a fantastic job. If you have ever wondered about either of these women or the empires they built, I highly recommend picking up this insightful and compelling novel and getting lost in the drama.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
This isn't a movie that I know of, but it should be and if this got optioned, I would definitely watch it in any capacity be it film or TV. Some parts broke my heart and left me with tears in my eyes, while others made my mouth drop open with the lengths these women would go to while they were competing with each other. If you are going to read A Beautiful Rival, I would recommend the audiobook if you enjoy them because it is done so well. Even though the viewpoints alternate between both Rubinstein and Arden, there is only one narrator, and somehow Lisa Flanagan managed to make herself sound like two people! It is seriously impressive, and she did a fantastic job. If you have ever wondered about either of these women or the empires they built, I highly recommend picking up this insightful and compelling novel and getting lost in the drama.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
August 10, 2023
Such an interesting novel of the two first women of beauty products...Helena Rubenstein and Elizabeth Arden,
Through out their lives they were fierce rivals. Trying to steal each others secret ingredients as well as managers and workers. They were two women who would go to great lengths to succeed in the beauty business.
I want to thank Willian Morrow and Company for sending me this interesting book.
Through out their lives they were fierce rivals. Trying to steal each others secret ingredients as well as managers and workers. They were two women who would go to great lengths to succeed in the beauty business.
I want to thank Willian Morrow and Company for sending me this interesting book.
January 31, 2025
This is the story of two ambitious, competitive women in the same field: Elizabeth Arden and Helena Rubenstein. Each created a cosmetic and beauty empire. Each was supremely jealous of the other’s success. Both came from humble beginnings and made their own fortunes. Neither could stand the thought of the other, or anyone else, becoming more successful than they were. Helena was more openly competitive and worked hard to sabotage Elizabeth. Neither had a happy home life, though Helena did manage to find happiness later in life. Elizabeth appeared to be the more insecure of the two, although she was never one to back away from a fight when it came to business. Helena had a fight antisemitism all her life.
Ironically, the two women were very much alike in some ways and had they not been rivals, they might have been friends.
The writing is good and the story keeps keeps your interest. The chapters alternate between each woman’s point of view so you sometimes get to see how each woman reacts to the same situation. One thing that stood out for me was how vapid and shallow the wealthy were, especially during the 20s and 30s. People might be starving, wars might be waging, but they still had to have their beauty creams, fine dresses and extravagant lifestyles. Pretty much like the 1% are today.
An interesting look into the business of beauty and how two women came to represent the industry.
Ironically, the two women were very much alike in some ways and had they not been rivals, they might have been friends.
The writing is good and the story keeps keeps your interest. The chapters alternate between each woman’s point of view so you sometimes get to see how each woman reacts to the same situation. One thing that stood out for me was how vapid and shallow the wealthy were, especially during the 20s and 30s. People might be starving, wars might be waging, but they still had to have their beauty creams, fine dresses and extravagant lifestyles. Pretty much like the 1% are today.
An interesting look into the business of beauty and how two women came to represent the industry.
October 10, 2023
4.5
Illusion, social climber, titans…
The color of money…
Elizabeth Arden and Helena Rubinstein were two giants in the American cosmetics industry, circa 1915-1947. Two women ahead of the times - both owned NYC salons, the forerunners of their national chains. Each was an entrepreneur and innovator, in a time when men were considered more proficient in “creating, growing, and coaching a business to success.”
A vicious, long term rivalry existed between the two. Although they had different backgrounds, there were many similarities. Both were business savvy, relentless, ambitious, a ruthless business personality, and wanting to outshine. Especially outshine each other. As Helena Rubinstein once said, “ with her packaging and my product, we could have ruled the world!”
A tale of backgrounds including coming to America, establishing a business, successes and failures, personal life, and legacies. And throughout their stories, a rivalry seemingly neverending.
* Seems a shame that these two with their marketing skills and business acumen couldn’t have worked together in some way. Both were a powerhouse figure.
*Lots of available info online about both women. Fascinating reading!
*Well researched. Very descriptive. Made the two women come “vividly to life!”
* To the author - you spiked my interest with the numerous photos posted of the 2 women, leading up to the publication date!
Historical fiction.
Illusion, social climber, titans…
The color of money…
Elizabeth Arden and Helena Rubinstein were two giants in the American cosmetics industry, circa 1915-1947. Two women ahead of the times - both owned NYC salons, the forerunners of their national chains. Each was an entrepreneur and innovator, in a time when men were considered more proficient in “creating, growing, and coaching a business to success.”
A vicious, long term rivalry existed between the two. Although they had different backgrounds, there were many similarities. Both were business savvy, relentless, ambitious, a ruthless business personality, and wanting to outshine. Especially outshine each other. As Helena Rubinstein once said, “ with her packaging and my product, we could have ruled the world!”
A tale of backgrounds including coming to America, establishing a business, successes and failures, personal life, and legacies. And throughout their stories, a rivalry seemingly neverending.
* Seems a shame that these two with their marketing skills and business acumen couldn’t have worked together in some way. Both were a powerhouse figure.
*Lots of available info online about both women. Fascinating reading!
*Well researched. Very descriptive. Made the two women come “vividly to life!”
* To the author - you spiked my interest with the numerous photos posted of the 2 women, leading up to the publication date!
Historical fiction.
August 28, 2023
A Beautiful Rival left me somewhat disappointed. While it could have been fascinating look at two powerful business women who built empires in a time where most women didn't have that opportunity, this book was simply superficial. But I suppose that's fitting for a book about two women with competing beauty lines.
Everything was spelled out in this book. So much more telling than showing. No mystery, nothing compelled me to keep turning pages, and everything in the plot seemed rather obvious. A swing and a miss in historical fiction for me.
Everything was spelled out in this book. So much more telling than showing. No mystery, nothing compelled me to keep turning pages, and everything in the plot seemed rather obvious. A swing and a miss in historical fiction for me.
September 2, 2023
Two highly intelligent, driven woman become bitter rivals for the top spot in the beauty business. Story follows Elizabeth Arden and Helena Rubinstein from 1915 to 1964.
I admire authors in general, but with historical fiction, the author must mix the truth with fiction convincingly and make a compelling story by merging the two. Paul does this extremely well. Chapters alternate between Elizabeth and Helena, showing off their ability to ‘one up’ each other whether it’s product, packaging or personnel. One character comes off more likable than the other, but they are both brilliant, innovative ruthless women, with so much in common. Their person lives showed what the gave up to succeed. The first half was slow for me, then things seemed to take off. The back and forth was a little bit repetitive.
Thanks to NetGalley and William Morrow for this ARC. This is my honest opinion.
I admire authors in general, but with historical fiction, the author must mix the truth with fiction convincingly and make a compelling story by merging the two. Paul does this extremely well. Chapters alternate between Elizabeth and Helena, showing off their ability to ‘one up’ each other whether it’s product, packaging or personnel. One character comes off more likable than the other, but they are both brilliant, innovative ruthless women, with so much in common. Their person lives showed what the gave up to succeed. The first half was slow for me, then things seemed to take off. The back and forth was a little bit repetitive.
Thanks to NetGalley and William Morrow for this ARC. This is my honest opinion.
February 10, 2024
The book felt to me like a little window unto a time past, right at the beginning of some modern era beauty product creators. I especially appreciated the insight into the bigger world surrounding the ww1, real life people make an appearance, Tom Smith, the horse trainer of Seabiscuit fame, Goring, or Marc Chagall and they all have their little part to play in Helena Rubinstein's and Elizabeth Arden's stories. It makes one think when even businesswomen as famous as them had their self-doubts and darker moments they wanted to forget. I especially appreciated the audiobook narrated by Lisa Flanagan. An absolute treat for historical fiction lovers and not only.
September 1, 2023
Disappointed.
It was really superficial. And I was disappointed they were portrayed as petty and unlikable.
Rubinstein and Arden built empires. They created an industry. They must have been strong and brilliant. I wish that was demonstrated in the novel.
It was really superficial. And I was disappointed they were portrayed as petty and unlikable.
Rubinstein and Arden built empires. They created an industry. They must have been strong and brilliant. I wish that was demonstrated in the novel.
September 11, 2023
Докато всеки от нас използва различни козметични продукти, има любими марки и се глези с процедури, то не винаги се интересуваме от лицата и съдбата на хората, които са ги създали и са оставили имената си като запазена марка. С A Beautiful Rival Gill Paul е създала страхотен автобиографичен роман едновременно на двете водещи жени в козметичната индустрия в началото на двадесети век - Елизабет Арден и Хелена Рубинщайн. Започнали от нулата, едната идваща от крайно бедно фермерско семейство в Канада, а другата взела живота си в ръце след като е прогонена от бащиния си дом в Полша, днес имената им са свързани с най - висококачествените продукти в грижа за кожата. И двете са имали много твърд характер и силно желание да се докажат в постоянно променящия се свят. Преминават през Първата и Втората Световни войни, през сухия режим в САЩ, през Голяма депресия и през личните си драми с мисъл за бизнеса.Постоянният стремеж да бъдат първи в бранша ги кара да държат под око успехите на другата, да търсят подробности от кухнята на съперницата и да омаят журналистите и пресата със собствените си успехи. Цялото това съревновавие продължава през целия им живот. То създава кошмари в ума им, трови дните им и ги кара постоянно да надничат зад рамо със страх да не срещнат другата сред кръга си на общуване. Светът печели от тази необявена война между козметичните гиганти. Конкуренцията изисква да се създават нови продукти, да се наемат най - добрите химици и ботаници, за да се открият нови формули за вечно млада кожа, използват се най - интелигентни търговски директори и се измислят най - фантастични рекламни и пазарни трикове за надмощието на едната марка пред другата. Страхотно написана книга! Аз сякаш наистина присъствах в обществото, в което се движеха Хелена Рубинщайн и Елизабет Арден. И не харесах нито една от двете жени! В желанието си да се защитят от света те се превръщат в комплексирани, озлобени, подозрителни снобки. Не търпят противоречие и критика и не приемат съвети.Обкръжени от приятели, семейство, ухажори и фенове,и двете най - богати жени в Америка за своето време изпитват всепоглъщаща самота и неудовлетвореност.
Моята любима козметична марка е Guerlain!
Моята любима козметична марка е Guerlain!
September 23, 2023
Gill Paul is going to be one of those writers I have to start rationing reading in case I finish all her back catalogue too quickly! Another five star read from her. Fascinating story (i know a lot is fictional but I really can imagine some of this stuff happening!) quirky, sumptuous and downright gorgeous descriptions of fashion and beauty!!
August 17, 2023
This was such an interesting book. I found out things I didn't know about Helena Rubinstein and Elizath Arden. How they tried to outdo each other in every way. I enjoyed reading about all the cosmetics they made and the people involved plus their home lives. My thanks to netgalley and the publishers for giving me the opportunity to read this book in return for an honest review.
November 6, 2023
Here is the story of the rivalry between Elizabeth Arden and Helena Rubinstein, both giants in the women's cosmetic field and pioneers in their own right. Interesting telling of the lives of these dynamic women, as they try to knock each other off the pedestal and prove that they are the queen of women's skin care in a time when women were discovering that it was okay to wear makeup to take care of themselves. However, in their quest to be the best, they both lose sight of what truly makes life fulfilling and lasting, that of having loving relationships with family. Amazing, they were very much alike.Both were from poor backgrounds that drove them to succeed and yet, they tried to erase their past. They often neglected friends and families in their search for greed. I found it rather sad and did not find either women admirable, although they were both successful business women. But it was just okay, I thought it was a bit slow. The characters were hard to care about, only that at the end, they find a truce where they feel they can coexist and realize they made each other better and who they were. I have like other Gill Paul stories much better, this was just okay. Many thanks to #netgalley, #abeautfiulrival #gillpaul for the opportunity to read and review this book.
January 29, 2024
I’ve read previous books by author Gill Paul, but I have to say, this is her best yet! Her writing was so good, and I found myself immediately swept away into the luxury and glamour of the cosmetic and skincare world, and loved learning more about these powerful women.
I love reading Historical Fiction, and it was so refreshing to read a story about two self-made women in the cosmetics and skincare line who built their companies from nothing, into the beauty empires they became. I enjoyed the alternating POVs of both Elizabeth Arden and Helena Rubenstein, and found them each to be so captivating, and loved how each chapter ended with somewhat of a cliffhanger to keep me engaged as to what would happen next.
Both women were passionate about giving their customers the very best products and making them feel good about themselves in a time when women had limited options. I was so fascinated to learn more about the rivalry between them, as they each tried to steal one another’s beauty secret ingredients, and the irony of it all was what two powerhouse women like these could’ve created had they supported one another.
*many thanks to William Morrow for the gifted copy for review
I love reading Historical Fiction, and it was so refreshing to read a story about two self-made women in the cosmetics and skincare line who built their companies from nothing, into the beauty empires they became. I enjoyed the alternating POVs of both Elizabeth Arden and Helena Rubenstein, and found them each to be so captivating, and loved how each chapter ended with somewhat of a cliffhanger to keep me engaged as to what would happen next.
Both women were passionate about giving their customers the very best products and making them feel good about themselves in a time when women had limited options. I was so fascinated to learn more about the rivalry between them, as they each tried to steal one another’s beauty secret ingredients, and the irony of it all was what two powerhouse women like these could’ve created had they supported one another.
*many thanks to William Morrow for the gifted copy for review
September 13, 2023
I received an advance reader copy of this book to read in exchange for an honest review as part of the book tour hosted by Random Things Tours.
A Beautiful Rival is the second book by Gill Paul that I've had the pleasure of reading and won't be the last. In this book, we follow two of the queens of the beauty industry; Elizabeth Arden and Helena Rubinstein. The book begins in 1915 at the start of WW1, and we follow both women across the book with chapters dedicated to both of them. These women would have made a formidable team if they'd have become friends or business partners instead of rivals of their trade. I loved learning more about both women (who were both ruthless, strong, and determined), and although I didn't particularly like them, I loved learning about their businesses, personal lives, and careers. They are both inspirational women for their times and broke the glass ceiling of the beauty empire, so to speak. Gill Paul has done another fabulous job of blending fact with fiction and had me hooked from the first few chapters.
A Beautiful Rival is the second book by Gill Paul that I've had the pleasure of reading and won't be the last. In this book, we follow two of the queens of the beauty industry; Elizabeth Arden and Helena Rubinstein. The book begins in 1915 at the start of WW1, and we follow both women across the book with chapters dedicated to both of them. These women would have made a formidable team if they'd have become friends or business partners instead of rivals of their trade. I loved learning more about both women (who were both ruthless, strong, and determined), and although I didn't particularly like them, I loved learning about their businesses, personal lives, and careers. They are both inspirational women for their times and broke the glass ceiling of the beauty empire, so to speak. Gill Paul has done another fabulous job of blending fact with fiction and had me hooked from the first few chapters.
July 14, 2024
This was a very interesting book, love historical fiction about real people.
September 11, 2023
Embarking on a Gill Paul read is always a treat and this time around she gives her readers a wonderfully famous rivalry from history. Most women over a certain age (*cough *splutter) have heard of Elizabeth Arden and Helena Rubinstein. Gill details a wonderful fact/fiction tale of these two highly intelligent women from around 1915-1965 and how they were bitter rivals in their quest for supremacy in the beauty business.
‘Helena rubbed her hands in glee. Nothing cheered her so much as hearing that her rival’s business was in trouble. When she arrived in America in 1915, it had been her goal to beat Elizabeth Arden and, for now at least, she was in the lead.’
I knew little about the inception of the beauty industry and nothing about the lives of the women behind these iconic products so it was such an interesting revelation with Gill including so much detailed research. Elizabeth Arden comes across as a rather cold person always desperate to reach the upper echelons. Helena comes across as the more personable and astute businesswoman. This is a story of their life journeys and the crazy lengths they would go to in competing against one another.
“I see Madame Rubinstein wormed her way in,” she said, with an arched eyebrow. “You two should talk,” Edna said. “You have a lot in common.” “I doubt it somehow,” Elizabeth said. “She doesn’t look my type at all.”
What is most enlightening is the time period - two world wars and a Great Depression - along with the role of women in business. It is eye opening. There is also so much to be learnt about the introduction of the cosmetics industry and how it withstood the test of time with both their names and products continuing to be viewed with respect.
“Ah, but we came first,” Helena said. “We invented an industry that didn’t exist before. They should all be thanking us.”
If books about women pioneering in a man’s world and becoming a business success appeals to you, then A Beautiful Rival is sure to please. If stories about the introduction of cosmetics and the beauty industry tweaks your curiosity, look no further. Gill has undertaken an extensive amount of research about two women whose personal backgrounds could not have foresaw the great success they would achieve. Told from alternating chapters of both Elizabeth and Helena’s perspectives this is a highly interesting and entertaining read.
This review is based on a complimentary copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. The quoted material may have changed in the final release.
‘Helena rubbed her hands in glee. Nothing cheered her so much as hearing that her rival’s business was in trouble. When she arrived in America in 1915, it had been her goal to beat Elizabeth Arden and, for now at least, she was in the lead.’
I knew little about the inception of the beauty industry and nothing about the lives of the women behind these iconic products so it was such an interesting revelation with Gill including so much detailed research. Elizabeth Arden comes across as a rather cold person always desperate to reach the upper echelons. Helena comes across as the more personable and astute businesswoman. This is a story of their life journeys and the crazy lengths they would go to in competing against one another.
“I see Madame Rubinstein wormed her way in,” she said, with an arched eyebrow. “You two should talk,” Edna said. “You have a lot in common.” “I doubt it somehow,” Elizabeth said. “She doesn’t look my type at all.”
What is most enlightening is the time period - two world wars and a Great Depression - along with the role of women in business. It is eye opening. There is also so much to be learnt about the introduction of the cosmetics industry and how it withstood the test of time with both their names and products continuing to be viewed with respect.
“Ah, but we came first,” Helena said. “We invented an industry that didn’t exist before. They should all be thanking us.”
If books about women pioneering in a man’s world and becoming a business success appeals to you, then A Beautiful Rival is sure to please. If stories about the introduction of cosmetics and the beauty industry tweaks your curiosity, look no further. Gill has undertaken an extensive amount of research about two women whose personal backgrounds could not have foresaw the great success they would achieve. Told from alternating chapters of both Elizabeth and Helena’s perspectives this is a highly interesting and entertaining read.
This review is based on a complimentary copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. The quoted material may have changed in the final release.
May 19, 2023
This was a fascinating and enjoyable novel about 2 giants in the cosmetics industry, Helena Rubinstein and Elizabeth Arden, and American culture during the first half of the 20th century. Personally, I’ve long been interested in their story. Going to college, I spent time staring at Rubinstein’s magnificent penthouse, but never knew the full backstory until now.
As we learn about these women, we are also exploring the societal changes during that period of time. Both women lived through the 2 great wars and we witness the effects via their stories. Rubinstein, as a Jew, was affected by the vitriol of Antisemitism that was very much a part of America during her life.
The author also explored their passions, Rubinstein as a great art collector and Arden as a passionate horse owner. The author also explored women’s issues, especially concerning business and relationships with men.
I will remind all my readers that this is a very compelling novel that can be enjoyed and discussed by book groups. Thank you Netgalley for this book I really loved!
As we learn about these women, we are also exploring the societal changes during that period of time. Both women lived through the 2 great wars and we witness the effects via their stories. Rubinstein, as a Jew, was affected by the vitriol of Antisemitism that was very much a part of America during her life.
The author also explored their passions, Rubinstein as a great art collector and Arden as a passionate horse owner. The author also explored women’s issues, especially concerning business and relationships with men.
I will remind all my readers that this is a very compelling novel that can be enjoyed and discussed by book groups. Thank you Netgalley for this book I really loved!
September 6, 2023
Two very familiar names – and with a few memories, as I vividly remember my mother’s devotion to Elizabeth Arden’s legendary eight hour cream. Helena Rubinstein? Yes, I remember seeing her products on mum’s dressing table too. But I knew absolutely nothing about the lives of the women behind those iconic products – in fact, to my shame, I’ll even admit I didn’t even know they were real people, or about the fierce competition between them. But, as she always does so wonderfully, Gill Paul has taken the known facts about their lives (her research is as meticulous as ever), added a dash of her extraordinary imagination, and woven a wonderful story – breathing life into her characters, transporting the reader into their fascinating world.
We join their stories in 1915, as they both seek to open salons in prime locations on Manhattan’s Fifth Avenue, the fierce competition between them immediately clear. Elizabeth Arden came from a life of poverty with a farming family in Canada, moving to Manhattan and clawing her way in the world of beauty before opening her first Red Door salon in 1910. Overseas expansion followed, made considerably more challenging by the war in Europe – followed by the opening of her day spa in Maine and her involvement in the world of horse racing. Helena Rubinstein came from a humble background too, a Polish Jew from a large family, banished by her father over her romantic involvement with a gentile, first establishing her beauty credentials in Australia – based on her “scientific” approach, and her use of secret herbs from the Carpathians – then expanding into Europe and the US in direct competition with her powerful rival.
The insights into their business worlds make entirely compelling reading – the insights into product development, the marketing and packaging decisions, the practical and financial impacts of a world in turmoil, the dirty tricks, the espionage and poaching of key staff (even a former husband). But their personal lives are every bit as fascinating.
Elizabeth cuts a sometimes sad and solitary figure, a little cold and self-contained, sometimes remarkably naive in her personal life decisions when so astute in the business world, but always – perhaps because of her humble beginnings – desperately trying to increase her foothold in society. Helena is a wife and largely absent mother, her own acceptance in society hampered by rampant anti-semitism, but gaining a reputation as a particularly astute art collector. And as we share their lives and separate journeys, there’s the constant competition between them for their share of the lucrative cosmetics market – bitter rivals, often ruthless – alongside the challenges of continuing to build their separate empires through two world wars and the Great Depression.
Their stories are told in alternating chapters – a structure that, in less skilled hands, could easily have become repetitive, but that worked extremely well to emphasise the tos and fros of their separate lives and fortunes. And as we follow their lives – their triumphs and setbacks, their fears and uncertainties, their private moments – it also, and really effectively, draws out their many similarities and the common ground between them. It’s not really known whether they hated each other to the extent the story explores – but that’s what makes this a novel rather than a perhaps drier historical record.
The story-telling is quite superb, and both women really are wonderfully drawn – both formidable women but surprisingly sympathetic, their different passions and life experiences so well explored, and all with the most perfect emotional touch. And the book’s sense of both time and place is remarkable – this is a totally immersive read, making you feel entirely part of their lives.
I loved every moment – a wonderful blend of history and fiction, emotionally engaging, an engrossing story beautifully told. Just perfect, a five star read in every possible way, and I’d recommend it really highly.
We join their stories in 1915, as they both seek to open salons in prime locations on Manhattan’s Fifth Avenue, the fierce competition between them immediately clear. Elizabeth Arden came from a life of poverty with a farming family in Canada, moving to Manhattan and clawing her way in the world of beauty before opening her first Red Door salon in 1910. Overseas expansion followed, made considerably more challenging by the war in Europe – followed by the opening of her day spa in Maine and her involvement in the world of horse racing. Helena Rubinstein came from a humble background too, a Polish Jew from a large family, banished by her father over her romantic involvement with a gentile, first establishing her beauty credentials in Australia – based on her “scientific” approach, and her use of secret herbs from the Carpathians – then expanding into Europe and the US in direct competition with her powerful rival.
The insights into their business worlds make entirely compelling reading – the insights into product development, the marketing and packaging decisions, the practical and financial impacts of a world in turmoil, the dirty tricks, the espionage and poaching of key staff (even a former husband). But their personal lives are every bit as fascinating.
Elizabeth cuts a sometimes sad and solitary figure, a little cold and self-contained, sometimes remarkably naive in her personal life decisions when so astute in the business world, but always – perhaps because of her humble beginnings – desperately trying to increase her foothold in society. Helena is a wife and largely absent mother, her own acceptance in society hampered by rampant anti-semitism, but gaining a reputation as a particularly astute art collector. And as we share their lives and separate journeys, there’s the constant competition between them for their share of the lucrative cosmetics market – bitter rivals, often ruthless – alongside the challenges of continuing to build their separate empires through two world wars and the Great Depression.
Their stories are told in alternating chapters – a structure that, in less skilled hands, could easily have become repetitive, but that worked extremely well to emphasise the tos and fros of their separate lives and fortunes. And as we follow their lives – their triumphs and setbacks, their fears and uncertainties, their private moments – it also, and really effectively, draws out their many similarities and the common ground between them. It’s not really known whether they hated each other to the extent the story explores – but that’s what makes this a novel rather than a perhaps drier historical record.
The story-telling is quite superb, and both women really are wonderfully drawn – both formidable women but surprisingly sympathetic, their different passions and life experiences so well explored, and all with the most perfect emotional touch. And the book’s sense of both time and place is remarkable – this is a totally immersive read, making you feel entirely part of their lives.
I loved every moment – a wonderful blend of history and fiction, emotionally engaging, an engrossing story beautifully told. Just perfect, a five star read in every possible way, and I’d recommend it really highly.
September 4, 2023
Anyone who thinks that women are the gentler sex obviously never met a ruthless woman. This meticulously researched tale of two bitter rivals blends fact and fiction bringing both their stories to life.
I have to admit that although I had heard of Elizabeth Arden, Helen Rubinstein was unknown to me. So I jumped at the chance to discover more about her.
Told via dual narration in alternating chapters we see just how far these two women are willing to go and how much they give up in their drive to succeed. The secrets they keep and the lies they tell all to persuade other women to part with money.
This could have been such a different story if the old adage of women are stronger together had been applied and I find it incredibly sad and frustrating that two female pioneers pitted themselves against each other. However this made it such a such a compelling read as I was shocked at the levels they both stooped to.
Did I have a favourite? Was I willing one to fail? Am I shocked that over a century later women are still spending money on the quest for eternal youth? To answer I leave you with a quote from Elizabeth Arden herself.
“It is remarkable what a woman can accomplish with just a little ambition.”
I have to admit that although I had heard of Elizabeth Arden, Helen Rubinstein was unknown to me. So I jumped at the chance to discover more about her.
Told via dual narration in alternating chapters we see just how far these two women are willing to go and how much they give up in their drive to succeed. The secrets they keep and the lies they tell all to persuade other women to part with money.
This could have been such a different story if the old adage of women are stronger together had been applied and I find it incredibly sad and frustrating that two female pioneers pitted themselves against each other. However this made it such a such a compelling read as I was shocked at the levels they both stooped to.
Did I have a favourite? Was I willing one to fail? Am I shocked that over a century later women are still spending money on the quest for eternal youth? To answer I leave you with a quote from Elizabeth Arden herself.
“It is remarkable what a woman can accomplish with just a little ambition.”
August 31, 2023
Discover the locations in the novel here
Arden and Rubenstein are two names everyone knows. They were the two most iconic beauty empires in the 1900s and have paved the way for those that follow today. I love stories based on or inspired by real people, so even having no real interest in the beauty industry, I was very keen to read this.
Great idea to have alternating POVS. We meet Arden and Rubenstein via the same events and thought processes. When one launches a product, we see the other’s reaction. When one goes into a store to look at the other’s beauty range, we see both of their work behind the scenes to how the produts got on the shelves. It’s a great way of getting in both their heads and learning about the two very different personalities.
Thesory of how they developed their businesses, stole ideas, spied on each other and reacted to events was so vividly drawn. I felt like I was in their offices, a fly on the wall, getting all the best gossip from them both.
The book flowed well and the pacing was such that it was fast and slow depending on the world event, the product launch or something of note. During the quiet moments, the look back at their lives and inner turmoil really helped the next big moment to really hit home.
I got so much from this novel – it’s jammed pack with world events, a peek behind the scenes of the beauty industry and more. What I really loved was how the author took these two icon women, gave them a voice, a place on the beauty stage and made them come alive again.
October 15, 2023
A Beautiful Rivel by Gil Paul spans from 1915 to 1946. It's an epic story of determination, will, and fortitude.
This story alternates chapters about the history of cosmetic titans Elizabeth Arden and Helena Rubinstein and their infamous rivalry that spanned decades. At a time when wife and mother were supposed to be the highest goals for women, these two ladies created products and used the latest scientific technology to bring skincare to women.
I did not know anything of the rivalry of Elizabeth Arden and Helen Rubenstein prior to this book. Once I started reading, I could not get enough of the history and these two women. They worked hard and made difficult choices. As women, they were not always respected, especially Helen as a Jewish woman.
It also never occurred to me how vicious the skincare industry could be. I was fascinated reading about sabotage, spies, and possible copy-cat products.
Despite their triumphs and setbacks, fears, and uncertainties, I am left with the thought of how similar they truly were. You would have thought that being women in a man’s world, they would have supported each other, but instead, the focus on product and being the best divided them.
Many thanks to Netgalley and Avon Books for this beautifully researched and written story by Gil Paul, an always must-read author for me.
This story alternates chapters about the history of cosmetic titans Elizabeth Arden and Helena Rubinstein and their infamous rivalry that spanned decades. At a time when wife and mother were supposed to be the highest goals for women, these two ladies created products and used the latest scientific technology to bring skincare to women.
I did not know anything of the rivalry of Elizabeth Arden and Helen Rubenstein prior to this book. Once I started reading, I could not get enough of the history and these two women. They worked hard and made difficult choices. As women, they were not always respected, especially Helen as a Jewish woman.
It also never occurred to me how vicious the skincare industry could be. I was fascinated reading about sabotage, spies, and possible copy-cat products.
Despite their triumphs and setbacks, fears, and uncertainties, I am left with the thought of how similar they truly were. You would have thought that being women in a man’s world, they would have supported each other, but instead, the focus on product and being the best divided them.
Many thanks to Netgalley and Avon Books for this beautifully researched and written story by Gil Paul, an always must-read author for me.
June 27, 2023
What a fascinating riveting read based on two beauty industry giants, Elizabeth Arden and Helena Rubinstein. There was so much history to cover on these two ladies, their backgrounds, their day to day battles and Gill does a wonderful job of giving us a comprehensive view of both their personal and business lives, which so often flowed from one to the other. She paints a vivid picture of their territorial behaviours: all the war tactics and profound rivalry between them. The poaching of employees, the planted spies, copying products and leaking of information to the press that sometimes was not correct. This story kept me enthralled and I could not put it down. I felt rejuvenated by the magnitude of their business accomplishments but also saddened by their personal stories: the lessons they learned, the lonely paths they walked. There was so much to embrace and draw out of these women’s lives in a time when the World Wars and the Great Depression were very real. But for these two, the events were merely obstacles on their paths to success that challenged them to find new ways to overcome the issues that arose.
Each of them had monumental ambition and a passion to succeed. This drive took them on some high flying adventures. In many ways they were not so different from each other, though they would have fiercely denied it. Yet Gill gives us a moment (her creative license) to allow a brief meeting between the two. I think deep down, in the end, they would have seen their similarities. If nothing else, their love of business was equal between them. Their beauty companies were their true babies. They gave them their all—but at the risk of losing important relationships.
But like a proud parent, they were determined to see their ‘baby’ at number one spot by knocking down their rival. They became so focused on the task, they missed signs of betrayal and spies in their camp, until later on. They were surrounded by changeable people, who were more loyal to the dollar. But did their treatment of others create this lack of devotion? Particularly true for Elizabeth Arden.
These women led a life of illusion. Elizabeth fought hard to remove herself from her poverty past. Her humble beginnings were a thorn in her side. She went to great lengths to erase any trace of her lower class upbringing. For Helena, it was the fact she was born Jewish and had a poor relationship with her father. She disobeyed him by not marrying the man he chose for her. When given the choice to obey or be ex-communicated, she chose the latter.
These two women made many sacrifices but did they reap any rewards (besides wealth and fame) for choosing their independence or did they lose out in other areas? Helena ended up with a wandering husband. And from Gill’s pen, we learn the pain she endured. And Elizabeth had no sound relationships to speak of: her husbands were great disappointments.
Helena had two boys that she saw very little as her business took precedence. Her husband was the true parent in the driver’s seat. The boys were sent to private schools and top universities thanks to Helena’s money, so she felt she had done her part, at least by providing financial security for them. As we all know, money is not enough for raising children. They need personal nurturing to develop emotionally and mentally and it did seem these boys suffered in those areas. Their harsh attitudes, reckless actions and sad outcomes were partly a result of this deficit.
Elizabeth was born and raised in Canada. She single-handedly changed the attitudes of women in her time on the topic of beauty care. She helped them see that no matter their background or status, they deserved to be pampered, to feel beautiful, to treat themselves to skincare products. She did not have any children but her race horses became a strong substitute. They made her money but she loved them more for the beautiful animals they were. When trouble struck, and attacks were made upon her stables, some of her horses suffered the consequences. She was devastated by her loss and the ugliness of such acts. Though she never gave up or yielded to threats, she remained strong and fought back through hard earned success. Tactics she learned from her beauty business.
If these two self-made millionaires had worked side by side, would their lives have turned out differently? It is hard to say as it was their rivalry that forced them to go deeper and higher to achieve success. In many ways, they spurred each other on. But the nastiness that developed between them at times also made them blind.
So many topics are covered: including the political views of the 1930s. Although Elizabeth was not a very political person, she was accused of being sympathetic to Fascism (or at least her relative) and Helena being Jewish was affected deeply by Holocaust ignorance. There is a sensitive scene when Elizabeth makes a very unbalanced comparison to Helena’s sister with her own. Laney, her assistant, pulls her up on it which is a positive nod to Holocaust survivors.
There is so much that could be said about this novel, that it would fill another book! It is well written and researched and moves along at a rapid pace. You feel as though you are watching a movie with the clear descriptions Gill has drawn. I have read a number of her novels and she has a real talent for writing about strong important women in history who have battled the odds and led fascinating lives. She allows us to enter their worlds, see through their eyes and have a taste of the tumultuous experiences they had. And what better shoes to step into but those of Elizabeth Arden and Helena Rubinstein!
This novel for me is Gill’s best yet! I highly recommend A Beautiful Rival and give it a much-deserved 5 Stars. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thanks to publisher, author and Netgalley for a review copy.
Each of them had monumental ambition and a passion to succeed. This drive took them on some high flying adventures. In many ways they were not so different from each other, though they would have fiercely denied it. Yet Gill gives us a moment (her creative license) to allow a brief meeting between the two. I think deep down, in the end, they would have seen their similarities. If nothing else, their love of business was equal between them. Their beauty companies were their true babies. They gave them their all—but at the risk of losing important relationships.
But like a proud parent, they were determined to see their ‘baby’ at number one spot by knocking down their rival. They became so focused on the task, they missed signs of betrayal and spies in their camp, until later on. They were surrounded by changeable people, who were more loyal to the dollar. But did their treatment of others create this lack of devotion? Particularly true for Elizabeth Arden.
These women led a life of illusion. Elizabeth fought hard to remove herself from her poverty past. Her humble beginnings were a thorn in her side. She went to great lengths to erase any trace of her lower class upbringing. For Helena, it was the fact she was born Jewish and had a poor relationship with her father. She disobeyed him by not marrying the man he chose for her. When given the choice to obey or be ex-communicated, she chose the latter.
These two women made many sacrifices but did they reap any rewards (besides wealth and fame) for choosing their independence or did they lose out in other areas? Helena ended up with a wandering husband. And from Gill’s pen, we learn the pain she endured. And Elizabeth had no sound relationships to speak of: her husbands were great disappointments.
Helena had two boys that she saw very little as her business took precedence. Her husband was the true parent in the driver’s seat. The boys were sent to private schools and top universities thanks to Helena’s money, so she felt she had done her part, at least by providing financial security for them. As we all know, money is not enough for raising children. They need personal nurturing to develop emotionally and mentally and it did seem these boys suffered in those areas. Their harsh attitudes, reckless actions and sad outcomes were partly a result of this deficit.
Elizabeth was born and raised in Canada. She single-handedly changed the attitudes of women in her time on the topic of beauty care. She helped them see that no matter their background or status, they deserved to be pampered, to feel beautiful, to treat themselves to skincare products. She did not have any children but her race horses became a strong substitute. They made her money but she loved them more for the beautiful animals they were. When trouble struck, and attacks were made upon her stables, some of her horses suffered the consequences. She was devastated by her loss and the ugliness of such acts. Though she never gave up or yielded to threats, she remained strong and fought back through hard earned success. Tactics she learned from her beauty business.
If these two self-made millionaires had worked side by side, would their lives have turned out differently? It is hard to say as it was their rivalry that forced them to go deeper and higher to achieve success. In many ways, they spurred each other on. But the nastiness that developed between them at times also made them blind.
So many topics are covered: including the political views of the 1930s. Although Elizabeth was not a very political person, she was accused of being sympathetic to Fascism (or at least her relative) and Helena being Jewish was affected deeply by Holocaust ignorance. There is a sensitive scene when Elizabeth makes a very unbalanced comparison to Helena’s sister with her own. Laney, her assistant, pulls her up on it which is a positive nod to Holocaust survivors.
There is so much that could be said about this novel, that it would fill another book! It is well written and researched and moves along at a rapid pace. You feel as though you are watching a movie with the clear descriptions Gill has drawn. I have read a number of her novels and she has a real talent for writing about strong important women in history who have battled the odds and led fascinating lives. She allows us to enter their worlds, see through their eyes and have a taste of the tumultuous experiences they had. And what better shoes to step into but those of Elizabeth Arden and Helena Rubinstein!
This novel for me is Gill’s best yet! I highly recommend A Beautiful Rival and give it a much-deserved 5 Stars. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thanks to publisher, author and Netgalley for a review copy.
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