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3.79 AVERAGE
3.79 AVERAGE
From its description, I had hoped it was quixotic drama, but, no. The first half is somewhat intense, though not as much as the The Goldfinch by Donna Tartt which it somewhat evokes, and which is a better book. I enjoyed the characters as the scenes shifted between the 50s and the 1630s and back. I missed some of the minor character's motivations but I still enjoyed their interactions. The power of guilt and the weakness of love mix into the glory of art that creates as much life as it reflects. The ending seemed thin, ok, but as if I missed something.
I just realized how inadequate my knowledge of history of art is. Need to read more about it.
challenging
dark
emotional
mysterious
reflective
slow-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Yes
informative
reflective
medium-paced
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. The author did an excellent job of switching between time periods.
I think that the story of an artist/painting from long ago that flips to the 21st century where the painting is featured in a current drama is quickly becoming its own genre. Despite having a structure that isn't new, this novel is outstanding. I was totally hooked and loved the parallel structures that are all over the place. I read it is an audio book which is a good thing because 1) the reader was outstanding and 2) if I had read this in paperback my weekend would have come to a halt so I could finish it. I've been plugged in all weekend because I was so engrossed in it and sad when the story had to end.
Set across three time periods, the book explores the power of art to effect and change the course of people's lives throughout the ages. The novel is written in stylish prose and has been well researched by the author who provides rich, detailed portrayals of the art of forgery and 17th century Dutch life. I would recommend this if you enjoyed Donna Tartt's The Goldfinch, Tracy Chevalier's The Girl with a Peal Earring, and/or historical fiction.
Read my full review and let me know your thoughts here: http://wp.me/p6dHAE-bg
Read my full review and let me know your thoughts here: http://wp.me/p6dHAE-bg
I really enjoyed it but I thought the ending was too predictable
4.5 stars for me. Smith captures grimy 1950s Brooklyn and 17th century Dutch bleak winters and the harsh beauty of both equally vividly. Betrayal, love, lots and lots of art, loss, fear of discovery, and exquisitely detailed restoration and forgery processes form a backdrop to two women's linked journeys, separated by 300 years. I was totally taken in by the winding paths of their expectations and limitations, and their ultimate breaks from the traps they find themselves in.
Beautifully written book in 3 time frames. A bit of mystery, art and self reflection.