Freda Stark by Dianne Haworth; Diane Miller

Freda Stark was an Auckland celebrity who hit the headlines in the 1930's as a key witness in the trial of well-known conductor, Eric Mareo. Mareo was accused of murdering his wife Thelma, Freda's alleged lover. In the 1940's Freda became even more famous when she danced (in little more than gold paint) at the Civic Theatre before an admiring audience of American servicemen. After the war she lived in London for may years before returning to New Zealand. An icon to the gay community and a familiar figure around town, this book tells the story of her amazing life. Filled with anecdotes from her many friends, it also includes superb photographs. Freda died in 1999 and her remains were buried with Thelma.