Anyone who is a fan of Alfred Hitchcock’s films will recognize the characters, the plot and the tragic ending, but, unlike the film, this book outlines Judy’s life before we meet her on the silver screen.
The Testament to Judith Barton begins as a coming of age story . Two sisters, Judy and Maggie Barton could not be more opposite in their approach to life. Judy, a tomboy is interested in geology, gemstones, and spending precious time in her father’s jewelry shop. Maggie, the more glamorous sister, has her sights set on a career as a Hollywood actress.
Coming from a small rural town in Kansas, their lives are idyllic until the death of their father. Old enough, they decide on a move to California where they can each follow their dreams. Judy quickly settles in San Francisco, hoping to establish a jewelry business much like her father, while Maggie moves on to Los Angles to pursue her acting career.
Finding a job in a quaint jewelry shop, Judy befriends her eccentric boss. But slightly bored with her daily life, she enrolls in an acting class as a way to fill her evenings. With the sudden death of her boss, Judy is soon left jobless. Galvin Elster, a previous jewelry client, offers her money and persuades her to take on what becomes the acting opportunity of her life time. Disturbed by his wife’s recent odd behavior, Galvin has hired an old friend, Scottie, a retired detective to follow her and report on her activities. Judy’s job is to assume the role of Madeleine, Galvin’s wife. Aware that someone will be following her, Judy must play her role to perfection both physically and emotionally.
To a fan of Alfred Hitchcock’s “Vertigo”, The Testament of Judith Barton –with all its twists and turns, romance and tragedy–will be familiar and intriguing. To a reader who is unfamiliar with “Vertigo”, the story stands alone as a fast-paced thriller.
Reviewed by Peggy la Vake For IndieReader