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3.79 AVERAGE
3.79 AVERAGE
informative
lighthearted
mysterious
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:
No
A nice read about women's identity set in two time periods that has a nice air of mystery. Gets tied up nicely by the end. The romances are nothing to focus on, but I enjoyed following Veronica and Lillian on their journey towards self-actualization and growth.
I’ve had this sitting on my shelves forever and finally grabbed it last night. I enjoyed the subtle thread of mystery that ran across both timelines and it propelled me to finish in a day. Lots of art history in this one which I really enjoyed. The fictionalized story of the Frick family from the 1910s was wonderful. Didn’t enjoy the 1960s thread as much and didn’t really find it necessary but it does tie nicely at the end. Would recommend to art history and historical fiction lovers.
The Personal Librarian made me want to visit the JP Morgan Library in NYC. Now I want to visit the Frick Library thanks to this book. Who knew these fantastic places existed ? Not me. And the main character inspired by famous muse Audrey Munson and the scavenger hunt had me googling all the art. Loved it.
This book was a bit of a slog, and tbh the ending wrapped everything up a little too neatly to be entirely enjoyable. But I enjoyed the development of Lillian and Helen and their relationship, especially at the end where Lillian has really become firmer in her identity.
Oh and also the authors note was really nice. Lol.
Oh and also the authors note was really nice. Lol.
informative
mysterious
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Complicated
Loveable characters:
Complicated
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
mysterious
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
I really loved The Spectacular when I read it last year and since it was my introduction to Fiona Davis I thought I’d pick up some of her others. I already owned this one so what’s a better way to start reading her backlog!
It was enjoyable, but just an okay read for me. I caught myself getting bored at points, but because I was listening to the audiobook as well as physically reading I was able to push through those sections and keep going.
The dual timelines each had interesting parts and parts that made me wish the characters would get to the point quicker. The mystery unfolded a bit too slowly for me and I wasn’t able to connect with any of the characters.
One of my favorite parts of Fiona Davis’ books are the author’s notes. She always speaks about the historical landmark and where her inspiration for the narrative comes from. If you’re a historical fiction lover, I’d highly recommend picking up some of her work! And don’t skip the author’s note!
Despite not loving this one, I will continue to read my way through her books and pick up any new ones she comes out with!
mysterious
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Plot
Strong character development:
No
Loveable characters:
Complicated
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
No
informative
mysterious
medium-paced