The exciting life of Alice Marble
Not many people may have heard of Alice Marble, which is a shame. Before Venus Williams, before Billie Jean King, there was Alice. A tennis prodigy in the 1930’s Alice’s entire life was tennis. After being taken under the wing of her coach she moved away from her family to completely devote her time to the game. But even with an undeniable talent and drive, Alice’s rise was not easy. Being a poor child in a sport typically dominated by the rich elite, Marble often had to prove herself several times over to be allowed to compete. With every new obstacle or challenge, she rose to the occasion with grit and determination which led to a decorated career including 18 Grand Slam Championships. But Alice’s contributions did not stop at tennis. During the war, Alice was tapped to be part of a Presidential program to highlight the importance of exercise. Later she also wrote articles featuring real “Wonder Women” – those who, like her, accomplished great things in a so-called “man’s world” and this amazing woman even did a stint as a spy on assignment in Switzerland.
Ace, Marvel, Spy is the newest novel by author Jenni L. Walsh. Based mainly on the life of tennis dynamo Alice Marble, Walsh takes the reader through her life from early childhood, through the ups and downs of her decorated tennis career, her romantic encounters and eventual spy activities. Written more in the form of a novel than biography, Walsh has woven in a narrative story that brings Marble’s history, accomplishments and exploits alive to the enjoyment of all readers. Not being a huge fan of tennis, I was a bit nervous going into this book that there would be technical jargon that would make the story difficult to understand. This was not the case as Walsh’s vivid descriptions of the tennis matches were engaging and easy to follow to the point where the words melted away and my imagination took over placing me courtside for the action. It’s not just the tennis piece however, Walsh also vividly captures Marble’s escapades as a spy and her time as a journalist writing the “Wonder Women” articles with lively scenes and intriguing narratives that further educate the reader regarding contributions of women in history.
I was first introduced to Jenni L. Walsh with last year’s release of Unsinkable which chronicles the life of Violet Jessop in a very similar manner. Imagine my surprise when Jessop cameos as a ship steward during one of Marble’s transatlantic passages. Whether this event occurred or was just artistic license taken by Walsh still served as a pleasant surprise that warmed my “all things Titanic” heart. Jessop in her own right was a strong female who did not bend to opposition. Walsh’s inclusion of having these two ladies meet, even in passing was a nice addition to a story that is already chock full of strong, influential females carving their legacy in a male dominated society.
If you like historically based novels featuring real persons, love books with strong female characters, or are a tennis fan looking to learn about one of the legends of the sport Ace, Marvel, Spy will pull you I and have you rooting for Alice Marble through all stages of her life.
Full disclosure – I was provided an advanced reader’s copy of this book by the author or their representative but have voluntarily provided a review. All opinions are my own. Ace, Marvel, Spy is set for a January 14, 2025 release
Jennly Reads 