One Sentence Summary
Loving Frank tells the captivating story of the controversial affair between famed architect Frank Lloyd Wright and Mamah Cheney, and the sacrifices they both made for their love.
Book Genre
Historical Fiction, Romance
Main Topic of the Book
The book explores the scandalous love affair between Frank Lloyd Wright and Mamah Cheney in the early 1900s, as well as the challenges and sacrifices they faced in pursuing their love in a society that frowned upon divorce and extramarital affairs.
Key Ideas
- The power of love in overcoming societal expectations and conventions
- The sacrifices and consequences of pursuing an unconventional relationship
- The bond between art and love, as both Frank and Mamah were artists in their own right
- The influence of feminism and the changing roles of women in the early 20th century
Main Parts of the Book and a Short Summary
- Part One: Frank and Mamah’s First Meeting – This section introduces the two main characters, Frank Lloyd Wright and Mamah Cheney, and how they forge a strong connection despite both being married to others.
- Part Two: The Affair Begins – Frank and Mamah begin their affair while Frank is commissioned to build Mamah’s home, leading to the disintegration of both of their marriages.
- Part Three: The Scandal Unfolds – The affair becomes public, causing a scandal and putting both Frank and Mamah’s personal and professional lives at risk.
- Part Four: A New Beginning – Frank and Mamah move to Europe to escape the scandal, but their relationship is put to the test as they face challenges and their past catches up with them.
- Part Five: Tragedy Strikes – Despite their efforts to start anew, tragedy strikes and Frank and Mamah are forced to face the consequences of their choices.
- Part Six: The Aftermath – The final part of the book explores the lasting impact of Frank and Mamah’s relationship and how their loved ones cope with their loss.
Key Takeaways
- The power of love to defy societal conventions and expectations
- The sacrifices and consequences of pursuing an unconventional relationship
- The role of feminism in shaping the lives of women in the early 20th century
- The lasting impact of Frank Lloyd Wright and Mamah Cheney’s relationship on the individuals involved and society as a whole
Author’s Background And Qualifications
Nancy Horan is an American author best known for her debut novel, Loving Frank. She holds a degree in English and Journalism from the University of Illinois, and has worked as a freelance journalist and editor for various publications. Her research and interest in Frank Lloyd Wright led her to write this historical fiction novel based on the architect’s real-life affair.
Target Audience
Loving Frank is a captivating read for anyone interested in historical fiction, romance, or the life of Frank Lloyd Wright. It also appeals to readers who enjoy exploring themes of love, societal expectations, and feminism.
Publisher And First Publication Date
Published by Ballantine Books, an imprint of Random House, Loving Frank was first released in August 2007.