Friendships should not be hard, yet they were for Marilyn and Ella. Each of them had a rough childhood that effected their ability to open themselves up to others. We see the success they had, but don't stop to think of all the hard work it took for them to get there. It's a fascinating read about strong women who broke barriers, but still struggled to find true happiness. There are numerous revelations that were very thought provoking, some of which I looked up to find more about. Reading this was definitely an emotional roller coaster as the authors do an amazing job of pulling you into the highs and lows of their lives. Their friendship despite everything should be a lesson to us all on being and appreciating our friends.

I love the premise of this - loved both perspectives and just found the story really interesting. I do wish there was a slightly longer portion of the ending and post death.

CAN'T WE BE FRIENDS
BY: DENNY S. BRYCE AND ELIZA KNIGHT

About 4,5 Stars!

"Can't We Be Friends," is a poignant and at times heartbreaking story of a decade of the friendship between Ella Fitzgerald and Marilyn Monroe. It begins with Marilyn Monroe writing to Jazz singer Ella Fitzgerald asking her for singing lessons. Ella declined and said something like 'I'm not a music teacher' to her cousin Georgiana who thinks that etiquette would require a response. Marilyn persists in writing and somehow they became friends. These two iconic women met often in restaurants where they could get an out of the way table that shielded them from the press. They were extremely supportive of one another for most of the period between 1952-1962. The two authors that collaborated together each have an Author's Note at the end of this historical work. One of the things that they both state in their individual Author's Note is that there is much less known about Ella Fitzgerald, as she was a private person, but they have included a bibliography, and they both maintain that this was a massive project to undertake. The scope of which they haven't included everything, as well as everybody that was involved. They have tried to stay as true factually to the historic records they've researched and their idea for this project was gleaned in 2019.

I couldn't help but be emotionally affected by this historical fiction that is beautifully written about these two talented women. They both were drawn together in friendship by showing a genuine interest in how things were progressing for one another both professionally and personally. Ella had a son named Ray, Jr. whom she often felt guilty for spending so much time traveling and performing and not devoting more time to her young son. Marilyn wanted children on a deep level but kept suffering with multiple miscarriages. The mother in me felt sad for both of them knowing how fast children grow up and I understand the inner turmoil and regrets of not spending as much time with my children. I empathized with Ella being torn towards the need to pursue her passion and the innate guilt that we mothers feel for time spent away from our children. Now that mine are out of the house and young adults are doing normal things for their age. It's sad that Marilyn never knew the powerful and all consuming love that a mother feels for her children. Now the tables have turned and I have more time for my children I wish I could go back in time knowing what I know now.

Marilyn was lonely and even though she had three husbands she felt unloved. Both Ella and Marilyn were driven to reach the very top of their professions. Both women had been hurt romantically, but in this narrative Ella Fitzgerald seemed to have an easier time. Marilyn was addicted to prescription medication and often mixed it with alcohol. Ella could see how Marilyn was abusing different prescription pills often mixing them with alcohol, and tried to persuade Marilyn to stop out of a genuine concern for her friend's health. Marilyn couldn't seem to understand the harmful effects and the toll that they were taking on her. It's really sad how little was known during that era about addiction compared to what's known today.

Both Marilyn Monroe and Ella Fitzgerald shared bad early marriages. They both had lost their mothers and had evil stepfathers. They had orphanages in common. They both tried to leave their pain in the past. Marilyn was the Queen of the Silver Screen and Ella was the Queen of Jazz. They were both able to know and enjoy each other's company in a great friendship with mutual respect to celebrate their many commonalities, as well as each other's challenges. Ella always would stick to drinking Shirley Temples while Marilyn would likely be drinking an alcoholic beverage while sharing a hearty meal.

I could go on more about how these women had common obstacles and at the same time they had different challenges. It was written powerfully in a way that felt intimate which I appreciated. However, it was painful at times feeling too closely connected to their hardships. It has made me want to explore each of these two women more using the sources provided in this book. My heart needs to recover first with something lighter. The message is the triumphant bonds and powerful support women can gain from close friendships. I enjoyed that aspect more at least for the time being. One thing is for sure, is that these two authors did a great job researching, writing and have crafted a moving and haunting tribute to two unforgettable women.

Publication Date: March 5th, 2024

Thank you to Net Galley, Denny S. Bryce, Eliza Knight and William Morrow for generously providing me with my eARC in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.

#Can'tWeBeFriends #DennySBryce #ElizaKnight #WilliamMorrow #NetGalley

Thank you Netgalley and the publisher for the ARC copy in exchange for my honest opinion.

If my Grandma Dot (d.o.b. 7/21/1922) was still alive, she would have said this book was "The Cat's Meow."

I enjoyed reading about Marilyn Monroe singing happy birthday to President JFK in DIVA so this was a treat to read a historical fiction book about the Queen of Jazz and the Queen of the Silver Screen's personal friendship. It wasn't until this book that I was even aware of their friendship.

I enjoyed the unfolding of these stars relationship which started through letter writing. These two would have greatly enjoyed the immediacy of emailing each other back and forth!

It's interesting to recognize that throughout history, some things never change for females. "We want it all. Career. Family. Man." Politics is constantly being disputed. Women always need to think of their reputation.

As an aside, I couldn't help but notice many similarities between Marilyn Monroe and today's Queen of music, Taylor Swift. Both these iconic females are known for their classic red lips and have both been tied to fellow big name celebrities, including athletes Joe DiMaggio and Travis Kelce. Marilyn and Taylor both have an association with a cardigan!

I learned a lot and Goggled for additional information.

My biggest drawback was that Thor, Norman, Joe, and Arthur received more coverage than JFK. As I read, I kept wondering when Marilyn would meet JFK. The Kennedy's are not even mentioned until 68% through the book and Marilyn does not have an interaction with Jack or Bobby Kennedy until the last 10%. Yes, the focus is on Ella and Marilyn, but I would have liked the Kennedys to play a larger role.

I can see this being made into a movie.

I wish I could give this book 3.5 stars but since rating is based on full stars I will round up to 4 stars. It's very appropriate that this book is being released in March during Women's History Month and a few times before International Women's Day.

I never knew Ella and Marilyn were friends and I'm delighted to have discovered this unlikely friendship. It was heartwarming to read how their bond of heartaches brought them together, I actually enjoyed reading Ella's part more as we really got under her skin, but with Marilyn the voice was a tad impersonal. And sad.

Unveiling the Depth of Friendship: My Critical Review of "Can't We Be Friends" by Eliza Knight

Instead of falling prey to the gaudy allure of Hollywood biographies, Eliza Knight's "Can't We Be Friends" ventures beyond the surface, offering an Idiosyncratic and thought-provoking exploration of the surprising and profound camaraderie between Marilyn Monroe and Ella Fitzgerald.

Knight's consummate writing goes beyond simply recounting the well-known tales of these iconic figures. She delves into the complexities and contradictions that shaped their lives. Monroe, often placed on a pedestal for her beauty and charismatic presence, battles the stifling expectations of a society that seeks to control her image. Fitzgerald, meanwhile, navigates the frenetic world of entertainment while facing the harsh realities of racial prejudice and discrimination.

Within these struggles, however, is borne an extraordinary friendship. Knight paints an intricate picture of this unique bond, portraying it as a source of solace and strength for both women. Their connection transcends the superficial world they inhabit, offering a genuine sense of understanding and support. In doing so, Knight places a spotlight on the universal power of human connection, especially in the face of adversity.

"Can't We Be Friends" is more than just a historical fiction novel; it's a multifaceted exploration of themes like female empowerment, the resilience of the human spirit, and the transformative power of friendship. Knight's masterful prose not only allows readers to witness the triumphs and challenges faced by these iconic figures but also to experience a genuine emotional connection to their journeys. The novel serves as a refreshing reminder that even within the most glamorous and demanding environments, genuine connections can form in unexpected places, offering warmth and hope amidst the complexities of life.

This captivating read is a valuable addition to the bookshelf of anyone interested in delving into the lives of these legendary figures, understanding the intricacies of the entertainment industry, or simply seeking a story that celebrates the enduring power and beauty of human connection.

I was so excited to received an advance copy of this book! I had never hear the story of their friendship! I enjoyed this story very much! Great flow! Highly recommend

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with this book in exchange for my review! All opinions are my own.

This was a very eye-opening read about the surprising friendship of Marilyn Monroe and Ella Fitzgerald. I do remember seeing a Facebook post about Marilyn standing up for Ella when someone was racist to her at a nightclub. So, when I heard about this book I had to read it.

I liked the banter and back-and-forth between the two women. I don't exactly know how true it is, but I want to believe they had a strong friendship as depicted in the book. If you love Hollywood and celebrities (and music), and you also enjoy historical fiction, I am sure you will love this book like I did. I am definitely going to consider reading more books by these two authors in the future!

–

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Two of the biggest stars of the past share their friendship in the book Can’t We Be Friends. Marilyn Monroe and Ella Fitzgerald have more in common then just being stars. I enjoyed hearing about their pasts while watching them become each other’s sounding boards as Hollywood’s pressures come knocking on their doors. They turn to each other in good times and bad times. It was interesting to see how different their experiences are while both growing up wanting to never be hungry again.

Imagine working alongside Frank Sinatra, being married to Joe DiMaggio, performing at all the iconic halls…I could picture it all as I read the book. I could see the crowds cheering as they performed, the paparazzi with their cameras at every turn forcing Marilyn and Ella to be “on” every time they stepped out of their own houses. The lives they lived were charmed but had many very rough times and these ladies were lucky to have each other.

I love historical fiction but a historical fiction book about characters that I did not know enough about is wonderful. I walked away with so much more knowledge and compassion for the life of a star.

Thank you William Morrow for a copy of the book via NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.

When Marilyn Monroe seeks singing help, she turns to the best: renowned jazz singer Ella Fitzgerald. The two quickly become close friends. Despite their apparent differences, both women defy male expectations. They fight for independence and agency in their careers and personal lives. This novel explores their friendship over a decade, showcasing the power of friendship to overcome obstacles and celebrate successes.

This is an intimate portrait of two twentieth-century icons, weaving their real-life friendship into a vibrant and compelling fictional narrative. While it’s historical fiction, the themes are very much relevant to contemporary culture.

Thanks, NetGalley, for the ARC I received. This is my honest and voluntary review.

This was a quick and enjoyable read. I knew very little about Marilyn Monroe’s background and private life, and even less about Ella Fitzgerald. I was fascinated to read about their mutually supportive friendship. I would recommend this to fans of historical and biographical fiction, especially those with an interest in the entertainment industry.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

If I had to describe this book in one word it would be phenomenal. The story, the writing, the respect they showed Ella and Marilyn. Everything combined for a read I couldn't, and didn't want to, put down.

Since Marilyn lived and died before I was born I really didn't know much about her. Reading this book I felt like I actually got to know Marilyn Monroe as a person and not the way she was portrayed by the media as a blonde bombshell, actress, sex symbol, etc. I felt like I was getting to know Norma Jean, the person behind the persona known as Marilyn Monroe.

I also didn't know much about Ella Fitzgerald but while reading I found her to be someone who was a good friend even when the bonds of friendship were tested. She seemed to be just the type of person Marilyn needed in her life. She is just as interesting of a person as Marilyn Monroe and it was nice to see that the authors gave her equal time in the story.

I could go on and on about this book and these two women. I won't though. Instead I will suggest you read this book yourself. It is a quick read and interesting from beginning to end. This book is definitely going on my keeper shelf!

I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion which I have given.

It was delightful to learn more about the relationship between Marilyn and Ella. It felt like I was dropped inside their lives, able to see what the world never did. Their true friendship made navigating life as superstars just a bit easier. In the end, Ella reminds us that true friendship never dies, and the private moments between women are sacred.

I loved this book and exploring life through their eyes.
Monica Wisdom,
Black Women Amplified Podcast

This was such a beautiful fictional novel about Ella Fitzgerald and Marilyn Monroe. It felt like it belonged in the time period and I got to learn a few things about Marilyn Monroe in this. I really enjoyed the way Ella Fitzgerald was written. Both women's friendship was adorable and I enjoyed how they helped each other out in this book. It was written perfectly and I'm glad I got to read it. The authors did a great job writing this.

I never knew that Ella Fitzgerald and Marilyn Monroe had been friends.. This novel puts both icons of show business in a similar light for different reasons - their looks have challenged their careers. Marilyn was treated like a sex symbol while wanting to be taken seriously as an actress. Ella wanted to play the Mocambo club but she felt her size, not her color was her handicap. These women empowered each other. This is a well written, if not well-known story. I feel any woman can relate to this story of friendship.

Thank you to NetGalley for an Advance Reader’s e-proof courtesy of HarperCollins Publishers of ‘Can’t We Be Friends’ a novel of Ella Fitzgerald and Marilyn Monroe by Denny S. Bryce and Eliza Knight

The timeline culminates from 1952-1962. The memories they shared of lost mothers, evil stepfathers, orphanages, and early marriages gone bad. Meeting because of a song.

Marilyn Monroe grew up in the foster care system and as an adult actress, cynics and people judged her and categorized her. She must match the image that everyone wants. A sex goddess, desired by many. She holds onto a wealth of sadness (All About Eve). Marilyn wanted to be taken seriously and admired for her talent as an actress. No recent actress has had this much power over her career, owning and operating a production company, a pioneer for women in Hollywood. Inspired by her friend Ella who had control and say so over her career.

Ella was filled with guilt of a failing marriage, the time she doesn’t spend with her little boy, and her hectic recording and performance schedule, in which she forged her own path as a jazz artist, that swings, be-bops, and scats, Her voice becomes an instrument, and she rules the stage. Selling out every venue she appears in.

I love how the authors interjected quips in Marilyn’s thoughts, and responses, such as “Oh, boy, does that ever boil her goose,” or “…How about we quit moping and rattle on the dance floor.” Their mutual love of tasty food, bonding their friendship is endearing.

Is the real reason they hadn’t hired Ella to perform at a nightclub on Sunset Boulevard could have been because she had no sex appeal? They were fine with Lena Horne, Dorothy Dandridge, and Eartha Kitt singing and dancing at the Mocambo Sunset Strip stage, wearing sleek, figure-hugging rhinestone-covered dresses with plunging necklines and breath-stealing cinched waists.

Both Ella and Marilyn had big dreams, and that’s what saved them. Ella, fighting bigotry, and racism. Marilyn, a one-woman strike with Fox and her own demands for higher pay and better scripts. They both had lost lovers, marriages and had pains that neither wanted to rehash. Marilyn struggled with addiction and mood disorders. A contrast between her stardom and troubled private life

Georgiana was my favorite character. I liked her frankness, stern demeanor, and loyalty. The author’s descriptions and mannerisms of Marilyn seem convincing, right down to her lipstick brands and color choices. This novel left me with a deep sense of sadness for both ladies, but more so for Marilyn Monroe (Norma Jean). It hurt to read how Ella tried to resuscitate the friendship between her and Marilyn on many occasions, and under many circumstances, but was constantly pushed back.

Grammar or sentence structure was at times a distraction, and some of the scenes were contradictory (People Will Say Were in Love). At times the dialogue became confusing, and I didn’t know who was saying what. Understandably this is an ARC and there was a likely possibility. The epistolary aspect of the novel is ideal, but overall I respectfully appreciate the research of this novel since 2019 between Knight and Bruce, and discovering the connection between Ella and Marilyn. The authors note at the end of the novel explains many of the creative license they chose to incorporate facts and speculation. Such as speculation about Marilyn Monroe’s final moments before she died. I in fact, watched the movie The Misfits while reading this novel and could candidly see the framing of the cruel exposure of Arthur Millers’ view of Marilyn and their marriage. This novel made me more curious and interested in further exploration into both of these legendary and iconic woman’s life stories.

#NetGalley #Can’tWeBeFriends #Onnaday

I started ‘Can’t we be Friends’ with hopes that I would enjoy it and learn more about these two amazing women, unfortunately I didn’t finish the book. The story follows the friend ship of Marilyn and Ella Fitzgerald from it’s unsteady beginning of letters from Marilyn to Ella.
I am sure patrons who are fans of both stars will enjoy it, so I will be buying a copy for the library and recommending it as I am sure many people will enjoy it.

This book is about the wonderful and unexpected friendship of two Hollywood icons, Ella Fitzgerald and Marilyn Monroe.

Until I came across this book I did not know that Marilyn and Ella were friends. I love the way these two authors imagined their friendship. I was drawn in because of Ella but when I finished I felt like a fan of both. Though in any work of fiction it is hard to imagine personal feelings I felt as if I was on the same emotional rollercoaster has the characters. I shared in their happiness and their saddest moments.

Thank you Netgalley and William Morrow for this ARC. I am already recommending this one to all my friends.

The cover sucked me in, but the story kept me around. I’m a huge Marilyn fan, so I knew she was friends with Ella and loved how the friendship was imagined here. Before reading this, I knew almost nothing about Ella, other than her music, so I very much enjoyed reading about her too.

Marilyn and Ella take their problems to each other and support each other while their relationships with men go up and down and men fly in and out.


Am recommending this book to my book club because it is perfect!

Can’t We Be Friends chronicles the friendship of Ella Fitzgerald and Marilyn Monroe. Both women worked hard to become successful stars, and they leaned on one another for strength when situations became difficult for them! This was an interesting glimpse into their lives and their struggles.