Thread: COMPETITION! Immodesty Blaize: AMBITION Book Release

Exclusive MoB members competition...

To celebrate the release of Immodesty's 2nd novel, AMBITION, we are thrilled to say that she and her publishers (Ebury) are kindly offering up 5 signed copies of the novel, to Ministry of Burlesque members.

All you need to do to be in with a chance of winning is PM me the answer to the following question.

Ok, the question:

Q. AMBITION is the story of aspiring showgirl Sienna Starr - but what was her famous mother's name?

..... answers in a PM to me please.

On October 31st, 5 winners will be drawn by the publishers. Each will receive a signed copy of the book.

I have already read it, because I am super efficient and thus got my paws on an advance, and can advise you all to get a copy one way or another... http://immodestyblaize.com/books.aspx

If you've been out tonight you may even have seen teams of burlesque girls promoting the book at main line train stations - Go WH Smith!

WARNING

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Here's my review of the book:

AMBITION, the latest novel by Immodesty Blaize is certain to start numerous effervescent discussions - sparkling like a good champagne - in both the book world and in the burlesque world. In fact there was so much champagne sipping in the story that I felt delightfully giddy myself.

Firstly, the plot line is a rocking, rolling stone of a ride ending with what can only be described as an extended climax. Importantly, a number of prickly issues and sticky topics are dealt with by the author in an insightful yet playful fashion. These issues (which I identified as Glamour V Reality, Gain V Loss and Aspiration V Happiness) are woven in to the fast paced action which screens across your mind as you read, like a chick-flick-come-thriller movie.

The characters themselves are burlesques - they are exaggerated personalities encapsulating aspects of the showbiz world: from the naivety of the ingénue to the narcissism of the ever-dissatisfied star, each is well named and often defined by an irony. They are at different times funny, witty and even melancholy - serving in some cases as a warning to others. Poignant and emotionally sophisticated dialogue at various points almost makes for a treatise in Realism for those seeking fame in a world of make-believe and validation.

The theme of glamour and illusion is well observed: that the 'ideal' is merely an idea and not a reality, nor even does it lead to happiness itself. This theme prevails in both the on-stage and off-stage action where the grit of hard work versus the comfort of expectation. The, good, the bad and the ugly are explored and frequently, the mask of glamour slips revealing in some cases something sinister but in others something pure and more beautiful is released - like friendship, courage and the real power of decision. There is also a satisfying pleasure in seeing certain characters being undone by their own short sighted vanity, rapidly unraveling from their glamorous luxury, by device of equally elaborate imaginative drama.

I also felt that there was a distinct theme of 'gaps and spaces'; physical, emotional and even spiritual at times where the characters deal with (often sudden and unexpected) contrast and disappointment in their lives and the growing gaps between each other. Opulent stages dressed with fantasy and illusion sit imposing on the truth of the crowded and vulnerable changing rooms and conditions that the dancers inhabit. Privilege massages the wounds of those spiraling in unfortunate circumstance. Decadent lifestyles highlight the misery of abused power and yet at the same time offer kindness and reward.

The whole novel is an education on Las Vegas of old - where it has come from and how it has come to be what it is today. It is lovingly researched with layers of homage and tribute. Fashion fans will have a feeding frenzy of handbags, gowns and shoes, described in such detail that you can almost feel them in your hands.

The title (Ambition) is well chosen - not only for it's content and it's cautionary tale but also that the author has reached a new height in her own achievements.

Ok last chance to win! I'm sending the winning answers off tomorrow so have a go and PM me with your answer now!

Argh only just seen this!

Be quick to send an answer... there may be one left to win....

sent! *fingers crossed*

any update on this hun?

Yes, winners were contacted for their addresses at the time. The PR company was then sending them out. PM me if you didn't receive it.

Update: They have been recently signed and will be mailed shortly

Oops, sent my entry in after the closing date - doh!