Oh, honey, you must read this book

⭑⭑⭑⭑⭑  Oh, darling Truheart! How I loved this book about Truman Capote, the colorful character who penned books you may know (In Cold Blood and Breakfast at Tiffany's, to name two). I did not know much about Truman's life beyond the fact that I couldn't think of him without a shiver after reading In Cold Blood during AP English growing up. I knew he was odd, short with a squeaky voice, but had no idea he was such a boozing, drug user genius and so well connected with the social set of New York, and beyond, in the golden era of the 60s and 70s.

Swan Song has a deliciously gossipy, ultra exclusive feel to it that brings the reader into the heart of the social circle as 'the Swans' recount their embracing of Truman, letting him tag along with them as they travel the world, and how their openness regarding the events in their lives lead to them disowning him. Nothing could be more dangerous than an author who feels he needs to craft another bestseller but is short on material. Hey, why not use the secrets shared in confidence by your closest friends? As we come to find out, there is an amazing amount of scandalous material at his finger tips and the temptation is too great.

I didn't know anything about the social movers of this time - Babe Paley, Slim Hayward, Lee Radziwill, CZ Guest, the dreaded Pamela Churchill and many others were quickly googled as I read to see who they were and if the stories held within Swan Song's pages were true. The content on these amazing women was so beautifully delivered it made Truman's treacherous tell-all chapters in Esquire that much more painful. Though Truman acts despicably, the reader cannot help but pity him as his life crumbles post publishing.

This really is heartfelt tribute not just for the bazaar little Truman but for the many women who bared their souls to him during their acquaintance. Swan Song is a glorious triumph I cannot endorse enough. It dazzles, not just from the stunningly described locales and events but from the stern stuff these swans are made of.