"Mickelwait's prose feels both personal and historically rich, moving between sensual details and cultural snapshots . . . At its core, this debut is about choosing a life deliberately and with devotion. . . Mickelwait champions this with a soft lyricism that never shies from sorrow."-BookLife Reviews "Fans of Paula McLain and Marie Benedict will enjoy this insightful novel."-Kirkus Reviews "Kirsten Mickelwait writes down to the very bone of the Lost Generation's artists, writers, and families, revealing a past that was not archaic but a glittering guide to today. Weaving stunningly intricate details with a grand sweep, Mickelwait provides a jewel box of a book illustrating that none of us invented the fight for a singularly creative life. . . I loved this book."-Randy Susan Meyers, internationally bestselling author of The Many Mothers of Ivy Puddingstone "The Ashtrays Are Full and the Glasses Are Empty transports readers back to the Paris and Côte d'Azur of the 1920s, slipping us into the luxury- and adventure-filled life of Sara and Gerald Murphy. Both quickly become dear to us, but it is Sara-channeling her creativity into making life beautiful for others-who captures our hearts. When personal tragedy and history bring an end to this charmed life, we grieve along with Sara and Gerald as they struggle to find acceptance and peace. This novel will inspire, entertain, and move you in equal measure."-Anne Matlack Evans, author of The Light Through the Branches "Every scene in this well-researched novel is thick with authenticity, and Mickelwait's exquisite attention to detail makes this Jazz Age novel come alive." -Iris Jamahl Dunkle, author of Riding Like the Wind: The Life of Sanora Babb "Sara Wiborg Murphy may have once been a footnote, but thanks to Mickelwait's meticulous research, creative daring and uncanny personal connections, she emerges fully realized. The Ashtrays Are Full and the Glasses Are Empty isn't just a historical novel-it's a recla...

https://www.netgalley.com/catalog/book/587918

Natalie Lukas - Reviewer Last updated on Apr 06 2025 This is an extraordinary novel about a couple that has long been associated with the lions of the post-WWI era in the arts. They are Sara and Gerald Murphy. Books have been written about them, many books have mentioned them and they served as inspiration for one of Scott Fitzgerald’s novels. Mickelwaite has done a great job of thorough research, honing in on the more intimate aspects of the Murphy marriage. Sara is the narrator and brings the reader into the fascinating life the storied Murphy family. There is also a very timely glance into the ultimate sadness that she faced. I loved this book, from the Hamptons to the Riviera. I was captivated by the relationships with so many of the people who defined the art world of the 20th century. I really appreciated having the opportunity to read and delve into a unique era in cultural history. Thank you Netgalley. Jill Fra...