THE FRIDAY NIGHT CLUB - Sophia Lundberg, Alyson Richman, and M.J. Rose


Eben Elliot, the associate curator at the Guggenheim Museum, is planning to bring a Hilma af Klint (not Klimt!) show to New York.  Swedish artist Hilma af Klint is recognized as the artist who first produced abstract paintings despite the recognition typically to men by art historians.

In his research, Elliot discovers that Hilma was interested in the occult and, along with some friends, would hold séances in order to bring about spirits that might help them become better artists. Hilma referred to the group as "The Five"  - all women artists who had been mostly forgotten. Until now.

This book goes back and forth between Hilma, in her time (early 1900's), and Eben Elliot's work today.

This transitioning didn't work quite as well as it was intended. We didn't really need to to be told what Eben discovered and then go back in time to relive that discovery.

I did, however, really like getting some background on (to me) a little-known artist. How often have we learned of the accomplishments of women in history and learned right along side that those accomplishments were generally ignored or, worse, ascribed to male contemporaries instead? 

The additional 'oddity' of being interested in occult matters really adds to the mystery and intrigue of Hilma. If the fictional narrative of authors Sophia Lundberg, Alyson Richman, and M.J. Rose is anywhere close to Hilma's real life, this calling upon spirits is quite impactful on her art.  I'm now also interested in the other members of the Friday Night Club.

I definitely would have enjoyed this more purely as historical fiction, without the modern attachment. I recognize that Hilma is generally an unknown but I've read a few historical fiction novels about people that the general population isn't aware of - the book is what brings them to our attention.

Generally enjoyable, this does precisely what I like about historical fiction - brings awareness to someone who should be better known.

Looking for a good book? Art and the occult come together in the historical fiction novel The Friday Night Club by Sophia Lundberg, Alyson Richman, and M.J. Rose.

I received a digital copy of this book from the publisher, through Netgalley, in exchange for an honest review.

3-1/2 stars

* * * * * *

The Friday Night Club

authors: Sophia Lundberg, Alyson Richman, and M.J. Rose

publisher: Berkley

ISBN: 9780593200490

paperback, 336 pages

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