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3.97 AVERAGE
3.97 AVERAGE
Very enjoyable.. loved the switch between the past (WWI) and the present. Story was gripping and characters sympathetic. The moral dilemma which the protagonist faces in the present, seems like a no-brainer, but Moyes spins it cleverly and all works out in the end.
All I can really say about this book is that I was so disappointed in the second half. I really enjoyed reading about Sophie but Liv drove me crazy and I couldn't stand how drawn-out her part of the story was. I skim-skipped the last 1/4.
Like most people, I like her first book better. The history in this one definitely intrigued me, but the part of the story set in present day was kind of annoying. Especially due to the use of present tense. But it was still a decent read and held my interest.
I fear this book just couldn't grab my interest. If I'm a third of the way through and you don't have me, it's time to put you down. I was really hoping it would be good but I guess random picks from a free lending library don't always end well.
Beautiful, set in two time periods and tells the story of two women, both affected by a haunting painting. It brought moments of laughter and tears, and is the perfect book for curling up in a blanket with a mug of tea.
emotional
hopeful
lighthearted
sad
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Plot
Strong character development:
No
Loveable characters:
Complicated
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Complicated
dark
reflective
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
This book starts out in France 1916, during World War I, where Sophie's husband has been called to fight, leaving her with her family while they try to stay afloat during the German occupation. Sophie is left with a memento of her husband: a painting which he did of her when they started dating. This striking painting (and Sophie) draws the eye of a German officer, which places Sophie in a dangerous position, and a life altering choice must be made if she ever stands a chance of seeing her husband again.
The book then skips forward to the modern day, where the painting is now in the possession of Liv, whose late husband bought it for her on their honeymoon. The descendants of Sophie's husband are now seeking to reclaim the painting, but Liv feels such a strong connection to it, that she is willing to fight to the end (and lose a lot) to keep it.
I loved the characters in this book, which is always Jojo Moyes' speciality. Even if I don't agree with the choices a character makes, I always find them so endearing that I don't judge them too harshly for it.
Jojo Moyes has crafted an enjoyable story, which spans across the time periods, and which will leave you feeling warm and fuzzy, but also a little melancholy, which I think is her signature writing style. Love this author and always will.
The book then skips forward to the modern day, where the painting is now in the possession of Liv, whose late husband bought it for her on their honeymoon. The descendants of Sophie's husband are now seeking to reclaim the painting, but Liv feels such a strong connection to it, that she is willing to fight to the end (and lose a lot) to keep it.
I loved the characters in this book, which is always Jojo Moyes' speciality. Even if I don't agree with the choices a character makes, I always find them so endearing that I don't judge them too harshly for it.
Jojo Moyes has crafted an enjoyable story, which spans across the time periods, and which will leave you feeling warm and fuzzy, but also a little melancholy, which I think is her signature writing style. Love this author and always will.
Unlike other reviewers, I did not find the modern day half of the story to be lacking. I was just as much drawn in. I'm also fascinated by the topic of stolen art recovery, so this was a great read for me.
Well written tale told from the perspectives of two women - one in German occupied France during WWI and the other in modern London - both connected by a painting. Drama and romance... decent enough read.