Crestmont

Genre: Fiction
Title: Crestmont
Author: Holly Weiss

William Warner was a seasoned banker, in need of a new challenge. While conducting business in Eagles Mere, PA 1899, he became mesmerized by the potential of a cyclone devastated hill, at the bottom of which was a small lake. He imagined and then implemented his plan, to build a grand Victorian Inn. He had no doubt that many people would enjoy this piece of nature’s beauty. The Inn would provide a place where people could come to relax, take respite from their own reality, and where their every need would be met. He envisioned many amenities and activities, laughter and love. That was the conception of the real Crestmont Inn, PA that opened in June, 1911.
The main character of this fictional story is Gracie. She has fled her family home wordlessly to escape her parents’ obvious displeasure of her goals, and to avoid a morally wrong temptation. She has her own aspirations. She is determined to work her way to the big city where she would become a famous singer. She has confidence from years of hymn singing at their Moravian Church, that she has a voice to be heard. Her first job is as a housemaid at the Crestmont Inn.
Allow yourself to be transported back in time, to the 1920’s. This was a time of prohibition, bootleggers and speakeasies, to a time when a length of a hemline mattered. Enjoy the dynamics of many characters composed of guests, owners, staff and a cat. Travel along with Gracie as she learns many of life’s most important lessons. Feel the emotion pouring out as hard work, successes and failures lead her and others, to a new life.
Mentored by the Inn’s owners, she grew in mind and spirit. Reading and searching the dictionary, gave her knowledge. Befriended by a famous opera singer star, Gracie is guided to the soul of music. Through PT, she is introduced to jazz and the experience of vulnerability in her first infatuation.
Feeling remorse for the way she left home she corresponds with her sister, for a while. She is heartbroken as she wonders why her parents have not even asked about her. With all of her hard work, will she achieve her dream? Does she make amends with her family?
The author Holly Weiss has a fluid, descriptive talent that allows you to become absorbed in the story. She has shown considerable skill in her debut novel. Holly and her husband stayed at the Crestmont Inn, in 2006. As if the walls could talk she was inspired to write this story, returning to the Inn several times to research its history. Her endnotes show you just how much research she accomplished. Holly Weiss is a vocal instructor, retired professional singer and a polio survivor. She and her husband live in upstate New York.
Settle in a cozy spot, allow your mind freedom and be prepared to be swept away by this excellent novel that I have the pleasure to Highly Recommend.
Reviewer: Cheryl Heinrichs, Allbooks Review @ www.allbookreviews.com
Available at www.amazon.com and www.barnesandnoble.com
Title: CrestmontAuthor: Holly Weiss
Publisher: A Star Publish LLC ISBN-13: 978-1-935188-10-0
Pages: 316
Price: $18.95 USD
http://www.hollyweiss.com Sept. 2010