“Rich Men’s Children”

is a gripping novel by renowned American author Geraldine Bonner. The book was first published in 1927 and has since become a classic of American literature. The novel explores the themes of class, wealth, love, and betrayal through the lives of two women from very different backgrounds.

The story revolves around the lives of two women, Virginia Page and Kate Kemble. Virginia is the daughter of a wealthy businessman, while Kate is a struggling actress who dreams of making it big on Broadway. Despite their vastly different upbringings, the two women become fast friends and confidantes.

As the novel unfolds, we see Virginia and Kate navigating their respective worlds. Virginia is expected to marry into a wealthy family and live a life of luxury, while Kate works hard to make ends meet and achieve her dreams. However, their friendship is tested when they both fall in love with the same man, the handsome and charming Richard Kendrick.

Richard is a wealthy and successful businessman who becomes enamored with both Virginia and Kate. However, he is unable to choose between them and ultimately leaves both women heartbroken. As Virginia and Kate try to pick up the pieces of their shattered lives, they must confront the harsh realities of their different social statuses and the limits that wealth and privilege place on their lives.

Throughout the novel, Bonner does an excellent job of exploring the complexities of class and wealth in early 20th-century America. She shows how money can buy privilege and opportunity, but also how it can create a sense of entitlement and remove individuals from the struggles and challenges of everyday life. At the same time, she also depicts the struggles of those without wealth, and the difficult choices they must make in order to survive and achieve their dreams.

The characters in “Rich Men’s Children” are complex and well-developed. Virginia is portrayed as a privileged young woman who struggles to break free from the expectations of her family and social class. Kate, on the other hand, is shown as a determined and resilient woman who is willing to fight for what she wants, even in the face of adversity.

The novel also offers a fascinating glimpse into the world of theater and entertainment in early 20th-century America. Bonner’s vivid descriptions of the hustle and bustle of Broadway, the glitz and glamour of Hollywood, and the struggles of aspiring actors and actresses are all compelling and engaging.

Overall, “Rich Men’s Children” is a beautifully written novel that explores the complexities of love, friendship, class, and wealth in early 20th-century America. Bonner’s keen eye for detail and her ability to capture the nuances of human emotion make this book a timeless classic that is still relevant today. If you’re a fan of classic American literature, this is definitely a book worth reading.