Etiquette for Runaways: A Novel by Liza Nash Taylor: A Book Review
Genre: Historical Fiction
Taylor writes an intriguing coming-of-age story of a woman finding her way in the 1920s. Caught between trying to find her own terms of success and the reality of the world, Taylor’s main character, May, seems to be fighting the world. In the beginning, I felt that I was certainly on May’s side. I wanted her to accomplish everything. As the story progressed, however, rather than like May, I more or less pitied her.
The story was certainly not what I expected. I thought reading about a prohibition story would be unique and daring. May was on the run. But it was more or less from herself and the truth rather than an major prohibition scandal. I was not expecting Taylor’s story of a girl running on dreams only to be caught in fishing nets. Would I change anything if I wrote the story? Honestly, I do not know.
Taylor confronts life in a straightforward manner. It’s messy. It’s dirty. People do a lot of things that they regret. Thinking of the 1920s, I supposed I came into the story with the illusion of the 20s being a glorious place with flappers and civil rights, not realizing how challenging the world was for people.
That said, I wish Part 3 was longer. Part 1 seemed to be the longest, giving the most detail and backstory. Part 2 showcased Taylor’s writing ability neatly. Part 3, however, was lacking. It felt too rushed and almost unnatural as Taylor tried to tie up loose ends. I guess if I had to change anything in the story, I would change this. The ending is too neat. Life can be awful with how it leaves loose ends untied and stories unfulfilled. I suppose that is what I wish the ending was like. As messy as the life is described, but just as joyous and desperate as any other.
If you enjoy F. Scott Fitzgerald, especially The Great Gatsby, this story is for you.
Plot: 10/10
Characters: 08/10
Writing: 08/10
Editor: 09/10
Total: 35/40
Title: Etiquette for Runaways: A Novel
Author: Liza Nash Taylor
Edition: Hardback; first
Published: August 18, 2020
Publisher: Blackstone Publishing
ISBN: 9781982603946
If you want to get it: Amazon; Barnes&Noble
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