Eliza Starts a Rumor(85)
For Linda Coppola, thank you for allowing me to fill your commute with the sound of my reading and rereading and reading again. How lucky am I that my husband chose you as his best friend all of those years ago at Camp Roosevelt.
For Phoebe and Valerie Cates, I feel so fortunate to be on the receiving end of those intuitive, confident, and creative Cates genes. Thank you for being there for me from the first draft to the final touches.
There are some difficult topics discussed in this book. A few amazing women shared their stories with me, giving me great insight into the pain and recovery associated with both sexual abuse and infidelity. Thank you for your strength and courage. I hope my readers will benefit from your journeys.
To my own personal sisterhood, many of whom have been by my side for life. I’m afraid if I list you all I will leave someone out, but I think you know who you are and how much I count on your love and laughter and support. I am blessed to have you in my life and hope I am a blessing to you in return. And to all of my family, friends, and readers who showed up for me before and I know will again: Thank you. I loved sharing my last book journey with you and look forward to doing it all again this go-round.
For all of the women throughout the world who have embraced online forums with candor, support, and humor, I salute you. At times it may have seemed like I am making fun, but believe me, I am laughing with you, not at you, and have often benefited from your advice, bravery, humor, and introspection.
A special shout-out to the fabulous collection of Bookstagrammers on Instagram: Your talent, dedication, and selfless love and support of the book community is extraordinary.
And last but certainty most, my family. To my very fit (argh), very loving husband, Warren—you are my heart, soul, and very best friend. To Raechel, your dedication to your art and beliefs inspire me daily. I am so proud of the delightful and beautiful woman you have become. To Talia, courageous, funny, and wise beyond your years, you fill my heart with hope and pride. And to Melodie, your help with this project has been immeasurable. Your editing, insights, and remarkable ability to do just about anything has been invaluable. To me, you are perfect. Collectively, to the whole lot of you: I see you gingerly trying to escape out the porch door in Fire Island before I shout, “Wait, how does this sound?” Or, “Look at this sentence, does it need a comma?” Or the dreaded, “What’s that word that I’m thinking of—you know the one?” Yet you always stop, think, and thoughtfully answer, barely ever rolling your eyes. Thank you for toasting and smiling and congratulating me when I say, “I finished my book today!” even though you know I will make that same enthusiastic announcement a dozen more times. And lastly for the endless love, laughs, encouragement, and most importantly, for all of the dancing!
Eliza Starts a Rumor
Jane L. Rosen
Discussion Questions
The four main characters in Eliza Starts a Rumor are quite different from one another. Which of the women did you connect with the most?
Do you belong to any online women’s groups? What have they given you that you couldn’t find elsewhere? Have you ever posted or commented on something online that you regret?
Jackie freaks out when his daughter, Jana, wants to use a tampon. How did your mother handle this? Was it different from how you would?
Like Eliza, many of us stayed home for a long period of time, but due to COVID-19. What was your quarantine experience like? Do you think the accessibility of the Internet and the aftereffects of COVID-19 will spur more agoraphobia in the world?
This book celebrates the value of community and friendship among women. In what ways do you feel the opportunities to create community have changed over the past ten years? Do you find it easier or harder to sustain friendships?
Do you think Eliza’s actions of posting the rumor came in part because of her feelings of inadequacy surrounding becoming an empty nester? If you have children, do you worry about that time in your life, whether it’s in front of you or behind you?
Do you agree with Alison’s life choices? Why or why not?
Did you find how Olivia went about catching Spencer cheating to be satisfying? Do you think you would have had the strength, courage, and patience to wait it out like she did?
When Olivia’s crisis comes to a head, Amanda points out how she still has time for a do-over. How do you think the current Me Too environment is affecting women’s choices and actions today? Do you think the way Eliza and Amanda originally dealt with their adversities would be different in the current environment?
Do you think that Carson was sincere in his remorse or do you think his apology was a publicity stunt? Do you think men like him are capable of change?
Near the end of the book Eliza’s mother, Birdie, guiltily apologizes for never calling her pretty as a child. Do you understand her guilt? Do you think it’s valid?
Were you surprised by the ending of the book? Were you satisfied with each of the women’s transformations and trajectories?
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Jane L. Rosen is an author and screenwriter whose critically acclaimed first novel, Nine Women, One Dress, has been translated into ten languages. She lives in New York City and Fire Island with her husband and three daughters.