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malaika_astre's review against another edition
1.0
I liked the beginning and the ending, but not the in-between part. I just didn't really get where this book wanted to go and it drifts in different directions, never choosing. The characters and plot feel very modern, but the characters never really get much depth.
grxce_grxce's review against another edition
emotional
reflective
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
xeyra1's review against another edition
5.0
I loved The Birth of Venus. I truly did. I think this may be one of my favorite reads this year, so far.
I loved the setting, I loved the writing but mostly I loved the main character, Alessandra, who carried the story, who told us of life from her perspective, who showed us a glimpse of life in the Florence of the 15th century, the conventions, the conflicts, the culture, the religious fanatism, and the art. It was an amazing read that made me breathe in the airs of Florence and cringe as its beauty was tainted by an over-zealous priest.
Beautifully and richly written, this book is certainly a must read for those who enjoy historical fiction. I must go search for some more Sarah Dunant books.
I loved the setting, I loved the writing but mostly I loved the main character, Alessandra, who carried the story, who told us of life from her perspective, who showed us a glimpse of life in the Florence of the 15th century, the conventions, the conflicts, the culture, the religious fanatism, and the art. It was an amazing read that made me breathe in the airs of Florence and cringe as its beauty was tainted by an over-zealous priest.
Beautifully and richly written, this book is certainly a must read for those who enjoy historical fiction. I must go search for some more Sarah Dunant books.
byp's review against another edition
3.0
I enjoyed reading it, because I'm pretty much a sucker for both historical fiction and nearly anything set in Italy (this has both). However, I felt very unsatisfied by the ending, and actually kind of squeamish during a few scenes.
catbrigand's review against another edition
3.0
I actually enjoyed 80% of this book more than the stars indicate--it was an enjoyable book, if not particularly memorable. Now it is memorable for the way the last 20% simultaneously irritated me and seemed to make no sense.
sm29's review against another edition
dark
emotional
reflective
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.0
aliaspaine's review against another edition
2.0
I loved Sarah Dunant's writing but I couldn't help but be extremely disappointed with this book. The ending felt so rushed to me and it left me quite depressed as I felt there were too many loose ends left. And one big issue is that Alessandra is supposed to be a nun, but she seemed to have no desire to act as such, mend bridges or even confess her sins. And her way of death? It boggles my mind that she were able to stay in the convent, in nun clothing, when it was pretty clear that she had no desire to be one. Despite all of that, my main issue is the fact that we are left without any answers about what became of the other characters - especially her daughter and the painter. I came to love or loath every character but to not have their fates given is a huge punch in the gut!