Valley of the dolls

Much like Valley of the Dolls, this classic explores the dark, scandalous underbelly of seemingly respectable society. It focuses on the hidden lives, sexual desires, and social pressures faced by women in a mid-century setting.

Often cited as the 'working girl's' precursor to Susann's work, this novel follows young women navigating the competitive and often predatory world of New York City publishing. It captures the same blend of ambition, heartbreak, and mid-century glamour.

This novel follows eight Vassar graduates as they navigate life, sex, and career in 1930s New York. It shares Susann's unflinching look at women's health, relationships, and the harsh realities of female independence.

If you enjoyed the high-fashion glamour and the 'glitz' factor of Valley of the Dolls, this 'bonkbuster' classic delivers a similar fast-paced look at the world of luxury retail and Hollywood stardom. It mirrors the rags-to-riches trajectory and the cutthroat nature of fame.

This novel captures the same bleak, pill-popping disillusionment of the 1960s Hollywood scene found in the later chapters of Susann's book. It is a more literary but equally devastating look at the emotional void behind the silver screen.

Written by Hollywood royalty, this semi-autobiographical novel deals directly with drug addiction, the pressures of fame, and the complex mother-daughter dynamics of the entertainment industry. It echoes the 'dolls' (pills) theme with modern wit.

This modern bestseller captures the epic scope of a Hollywood starlet's life, spanning decades of scandal, hidden love, and the price of fame. It shares the same addictive, 'tell-all' narrative style that made Susann a household name.

Set in the 1940s New York theater world, this book mirrors the early 'Anne Welles' chapters of Valley of the Dolls. It celebrates female sexuality and the vibrant, often messy life of showgirls and socialites.

While more concise, Capote’s novella shares the same fascination with the New York social climber and the melancholy reality behind a glamorous facade. Holly Golightly is a character Susann's protagonists would have certainly recognized.

Jackie Collins is the spiritual successor to Jacqueline Susann. This book provides a high-octane, scandalous, and satirical look at the power dynamics and sexual politics of the film industry, perfect for those who loved the 'Gill Sanford' era of Valley.