A Novel Marjorie Post: A Life of Wealth, Power, and Philanthropy

he Magnificent Lives of Marjorie Post: A Novel SUMMARY

The Magnificent Lives of Marjorie Post: A Novel is a biographical novel by Allison Pataki that tells the story of Marjorie Merriweather Post, the real-life philanthropist, host, businessperson, and political actor. The novel chronicles Post’s life from her earliest beginnings through her death in 1973, and explores her four marriages, her business acumen, and her philanthropic work.

The novel begins with Post’s childhood in Battle Creek, Michigan. She is the only child of Charles William Post, the founder of the Post Cereal Company, and Ella Merriweather Post. Post is a precocious child who is eager to learn and to help her father in his business. When her father falls ill, Post takes over the company and helps to turn it into a success.

Post marries four times, each marriage ending in divorce. Her first husband is Edward Close, a blue-blooded party boy who cannot outrun his demons. Her second husband is Ned Hutton, a charismatic financier whose charm turns to betrayal. Her third husband is Joseph Davies, an international diplomat with a dark side. Her fourth husband is Herbert May, a bon vivant whose shocking secrets would shake Post and all of society.

Throughout her marriages, Post continues to build her business empire. She acquires several companies, including General Foods, the Washington Post, and the Palm Beach Polo Club. She also becomes a major philanthropist, donating millions of dollars to charities and causes.

The novel ends with Post’s death in 1973. She is a wealthy and powerful woman, but she is also a lonely one. She has never found true love, and she has lost touch with her children. Nevertheless, she is remembered as a woman who lived life on her own terms and who achieved great things.==

The Magnificent Lives of Marjorie Post is a fascinating and inspiring novel about a woman who overcame many challenges to become a successful businesswoman, philanthropist, and social icon. The novel is well-researched and well-written, and it provides a unique glimpse into the life of a remarkable woman.