A review by kendramichele
The Blue by Nancy Bilyeau

adventurous informative mysterious fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Plot
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.75

I'd been searching for a read that satisfied a specific craving, for a fast-paced story with drama and intrigue, that felt original and entertaining ... and this novel filled that appetite nicely. 

Set in eighteenth century London, amid a war with France, Genevieve Planché is desperate to fulfill her dreams of becoming an artist, not a mere decorator, the usual position allocated to a woman. 

As her desire is denied, and arrangements are made for her to work at a porcelain manufactory, she crosses paths with a man who offers her the opportunity to achieve her ambitions, if first she succeeds at a special task: uncovering the mystery behind the color blue.  

This novel is fascinating, and also very informative. Amid espionage, competing factories, and stolen formulas, I was riveted by the obsession, envy, and success surrounding porcelain. 

It's clear that care and research went into this novel. I really enjoyed the exploration of pigments, the value of blue, and emphasis on the craftsmanship and dedication behind the discovery. 

Plus, this story is simply a lot of fun. I appreciate how unexpected and original it was.