The Lunar Housewife

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Set in New York City in 1953, this stylish and suspenseful historical thriller follows an ambitious journalist, Louise Leithauser, whose career is taking off at her boyfriend Joe's new literary magazine, Downtown. Writing under a male pseudonym, Louise juggles her rising success with her science fiction romance, "The Lunar Housewife." However, her world is upended when she overhears a heated argument between Joe and his business partner about listening devices and death threats. Intrigued and alarmed, Louise begins to investigate, uncovering a web of powerful influences attempting to silence artists and writers critical of the government. As she navigates this dangerous landscape, Louise is presented with enticing opportunities, including an interview with the renowned Ernest Hemingway. Yet, she grapples with the moral dilemma of advancing her career while witnessing the censorship of her peers. Her suspicions grow, and her novel begins to morph, reflecting her unsettling discoveries. Faced with pivotal choices about her future and trust in Joe, Louise's journey reveals shocking secrets, brutal sexism, and life-altering stakes. Rich in period detail and featuring cameos from literary icons like Truman Capote and James Baldwin, the narrative captures the glamour and tension of 1950s New York while exploring themes that resonate with contemporary readers.