Seconds - Hardcover

A new entry in the chronicles of the moneyed elite, this novel focuses on three "seconds," the second wives of rich and powerful men. Under the guidance of a socially influentual and wise society matron, herself a second, the three young women have learned to create their own styles and have gained personal and financial prominence. Friends since adolescence, they are bound by a tragic secret. The sudden reappearance in their lives of someone who shares that secret threatens everything they have gained, as well as the happiness of their beloved mentor. The message that a woman's position is defined by her husband's power and that "marrying up" is the way to gain status will offend some; but many readers will enjoy another glimpse of what often seems to be a fantasy world. Previewed in Prepub Alert, LJ 1/1/90.
- Barbara E. Kemp, Columbia Univ. Libs.
Copyright 1990 Reed Business Information, Inc.