Elizabeth Weiss (1)

Josie and Harriet are identical twins born into a vaudeville family that lives hand to mouth until their parents craft an idea. The girls are put into a harness with a dress that makes them appear to be conjoined twins. During the early part of the 20th century, there apparently was a demand for these unique acts in burlesque and vaudeville. Their popularity flourished, and they toured the country. As they grew into adolescence, one of the girls became increasingly disenchanted with the farce, and revealed it in a very public venue, leaving their parents destitute and humiliated. When Josie immediately left the family to pursue a romantic interest and a need for solo fame, Harriet was devastated, and the family was forced to rely on the charity of a family member, Reverend Eugene Creggs. His daughter, Ruth, figures prominently in Harriet's life.

Throughout the novel, the poignant history of the girls' parents, Maude and Lenny is recounted. Their own dreams of success in the theater are ended abruptly when Maude is severely injured due to Lenny's carelessness as a set designer. When Josie leaves the family, they are left to find a way to make a living, and it comes at a great cost to Harriet.

This is a beautifully told story that is filled with the challenges of disappointing yourself or those you love. The plot is very engaging, and the characters are fully developed. Highly recommended.… (más)

When the Szaszes family falls on hard times, twins Harriet and Josie, are made to pretend that they are conjoined twins and sing and dance in a vaudeville act. Known as the Sweet Sisters, the twins live a restricted and hidden life. Josie decides to expose the lie during a show and then runs off to Hollywood, leaving her sister and parents behind.

This was a quick, fun read. Life in a vaudeville act was fascinating to read about. I enjoyed watching the sisters grow and struggle against their parents and their hidden life. Overall, highly recommended.… (más)