Publishers Weekly
As narrator of her sexually explicit work of fiction, Vanderbilt draws heavily on her polished, almost aristocratic annunciation. This approach seems fitting, given the story line centered on a fabulously wealthy architect's widow named Priscilla, who discovers her late husband's secret relationship with Bee, a kept woman specially trained in the art of erotic pleasure. The text consists mostly of Priscilla's simultaneously indignant and inquisitive reading of the steamy letters between the principals. Vanderbilt's narration keeps the initial plot elements moving efficiently, but once Priscilla takes the step of pursuing a meeting with Bee, it becomes difficult for listeners to distinguish among the characters. An Ecco hardcover (Reviews, Apr. 20). (July)
Library Journal
The plot is barely evident in this brief but dragged-out exploration of eroticism, revenge, grief, and boastfulness by octogenarian Vanderbilt, who has previously written four memoirs and two novels. Architect Talbot Bingham has left behind steamy letters from his mistress, Queen Bee, for his widow to discover, but what some might call erotic imagery could be considered repetitive soft porn by others. The author's reputation as a member of the prominent Vanderbilt family and the mother of CNN correspondent Anderson Cooper may draw readers to the print edition, but this audio version suffers from Vanderbilt's nonprofessional reading. Not recommended.—Joyce Kessel, Villa Maria Coll., Buffalo
From the Publisher
In her new novel, Gloria Vanderbilt has created a remarkable tapestry of human passion—an interior world of highly charged erotic mysteries that teasingly suggest, but ever elude, decoding. OBSESSION is a poetic tale on the nature of possession and obsession.” — Joyce Carol Oates
“Warmth and zest and cheekiness...OBSESSION is erotica even your grandmother can love.” — The Daily Beast
“Leave it to Gloria Vanderbilt to design a sensual novel for the material girl...” — USA Today
“‘Obsession’...evolves into a clever psychological puzzle...great fun — Buffalo News
“Bee’s letters are carnal, kinky, pulpy, lewd...they’re threatening but enthralling...” — Arizona Republic
Arizona Republic
Bee’s letters are carnal, kinky, pulpy, lewd...they’re threatening but enthralling...
The Daily Beast
Warmth and zest and cheekiness...OBSESSION is erotica even your grandmother can love.
Buffalo News
‘Obsession’...evolves into a clever psychological puzzle...great fun
Joyce Carol Oates
In her new novel, Gloria Vanderbilt has created a remarkable tapestry of human passion—an interior world of highly charged erotic mysteries that teasingly suggest, but ever elude, decoding. OBSESSION is a poetic tale on the nature of possession and obsession.
USA Today
Leave it to Gloria Vanderbilt to design a sensual novel for the material girl...
USA Today
Leave it to Gloria Vanderbilt to design a sensual novel for the material girl...
