Hollywood & hardwood

the long version

"The novel, in freestanding chapters, follows actor Renata and playwright Lou from their passionate meeting at summer stock in Vermont through the first struggling years of their marriage and on into their tumultuous experiences on Broadway and in Hollywood. As they strive for recognition and acceptance in the frantic company of theatrical agents and film producers, the gulf widens between them and their working-class families and envious friends from the past. Together they find strength to buffer the setbacks and frustrations that invade their world. But when success finally does beckon, will it draw them even closer - or drive them irreparably apart?"--BOOK JACKET. "In Hollywood & Hardwood Bauer explores, with honesty, compassion and heartfelt humor, the nature of ambition, compromise, and committed love."--BOOK JACKET.