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A review by book_beat
Manderley Forever by Tatiana de Rosnay
2.0
Tatiana de Rosnay writes the biography as though the book is a fictional story, assuming Daphne’s thoughts throughout her life. Often, I had to question whether Daphne’s thoughts, hates, passions, etc. were assumed or discovered in her personal journals. I disliked the feeling of having to constantly question facts vs. fiction while reading a biography.
I was excited at the premise: a possibly lighter read! A closer glimpse at an author I enjoy; maybe a more emotional connection with this style of writing. But the whole thing read “clunky” to me with its crazy nicknames for characters (trying to keep them all straight), Daphne’s silly made up language, and the somewhat poor French translation. And Daphne didn’t feel very accessible to me.
Things I did enjoy: learning more about her writing process and inspiration. I loved the different places and countries and finding out about her family’s history in the arts. I didn’t enjoy the details about her love/lust life.
All in all ambitious effort, and I am grateful to have learned more about the lady who wrote Rebecca... even if she tired of those who claimed it to be their favorite work.
I was excited at the premise: a possibly lighter read! A closer glimpse at an author I enjoy; maybe a more emotional connection with this style of writing. But the whole thing read “clunky” to me with its crazy nicknames for characters (trying to keep them all straight), Daphne’s silly made up language, and the somewhat poor French translation. And Daphne didn’t feel very accessible to me.
Things I did enjoy: learning more about her writing process and inspiration. I loved the different places and countries and finding out about her family’s history in the arts. I didn’t enjoy the details about her love/lust life.
All in all ambitious effort, and I am grateful to have learned more about the lady who wrote Rebecca... even if she tired of those who claimed it to be their favorite work.