Love Makers — Judith Gould

The world's most luxurious hotel empire is a monument to the ruthless determination of four powerful women, counting no cost in the drive of their ambition.

This family saga portrays the four women who succeed one another as head of the Hale hotel empire. Elizabeth-Anne Hale, the founder, manages to amass a fortune during the Depression. The focus then shifts to her children, particularly daughter Charlotte-Anne. But Charlotte-Anne's existence seems to serve merely to introduce a daughter, Anna. Anna's appearance is just as fleeting. She has only enough time to give birth to Dorothy-Anne. Gould throws in romance and intrigue at various intervals but almost as an afterthought. Although there are some entertaining moments, any real substance is missing.