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Authors Sofia Lundberg, Alyson Richman, and M.J.Rose of “The Friday Night Club” have written an intriguing and captivating Historical Fiction novel. The wonderful collaboration of these amazing authors has brought to life the abstract paintings of Hilma af Klint of Sweden. The genres for this novel are Historical Fiction, Fiction, and Women’s Fiction. Two distinct timelines for this story are in the early 1900s in Sweden and in the present time at the Guggenheim Museum.
In the early 1900s, men were given credit for many artistic creations and other things, but this novel is a testament that talented and creative women were capable and determined to make their mark on their world. Hilma and four other women, Anna, Cornelia, Sigrid, and Mathilda, met on Friday nights to have a seance to help bring spirits and their creativity in art and writing. These women believed in spiritual connections. This group of women was mysterious. Hilma is often dressed in trousers and a hat. These women were referred to as the “five.” Hilma is painting vividly and in abstract swirls. She feels her work won’t be accepted , and wants it stored until years after her death. Both Hilma and Anna burn early papers, art, and diaries from earlier times.
In the present, Eben Elliott brings the works of Hilma to the Guggenheim Museum. He wants to find answers to questions and mysteries about the relationships and work of these women. Did Hilma work alone? When looking for funding, Eben becomes aware of the political problems that cross an ethical line for him.
I learned many things from this novel, and I appreciate that the authors describe a sisterhood of brave and determined women that made a difference in the art world. I highly recommend this novel.
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