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A review by thathappyreader
Half-Blown Rose by Leesa Cross-Smith
4.0
Half-Blown Rose by Leesa Cross-Smith is a thought-provoking novel built on the concept of betrayal. It is raw, honest and full of passion. It is a love affair not only between a woman and a man, but also one with Paris. I enjoyed it.
This is a book that feels like it requires the reader to experience what Vincent is experiencing. At times, a single line will come from what the author refers to as ”the narrator”. I feel the depth of Vincent’s despair, learning her husband Cillian has a son from a relationship at the age of 15 after he revealed it all in his latest book. This is not the way one wants to find out about this secret that he has been holding onto for decades.
Vincent’s love affair with Paris is felt in every part of this book. . Even her music playlists which are provided throughout the book exemplify this passion. Those of us who share this sentiment about the city will enjoy this aspect of the book.
The attraction between Vincent and Loup is undeniable. Despite there being a twenty-year age difference, the push and pull of this relationship are palpable. There is no question that the author knows how to write about passion.
What bothers me about this book is the laissez-faire manner in which Vincent holds the hearts of both her husband and Loup. While the conclusion of the book is left to interpretation, I wanted something more cohesive. What a great novel this would make for a book club or buddy read!
I listened to the audiobook version of Half-Blown Rose which was narrated by Mela Lee and Tim Campbell. I appreciated both of their performances which felt natural and easy to listen to. I loved Tim’s Irish accent and Mela’s ability to speak French. I have no hesitation to recommend the audiobook to those that enjoy this format.
Thank you to Hachette Audio and Libro.fm for the ALC of this book in exchange for the honest review provided here.
This is a book that feels like it requires the reader to experience what Vincent is experiencing. At times, a single line will come from what the author refers to as ”the narrator”. I feel the depth of Vincent’s despair, learning her husband Cillian has a son from a relationship at the age of 15 after he revealed it all in his latest book. This is not the way one wants to find out about this secret that he has been holding onto for decades.
Vincent’s love affair with Paris is felt in every part of this book. . Even her music playlists which are provided throughout the book exemplify this passion. Those of us who share this sentiment about the city will enjoy this aspect of the book.
The attraction between Vincent and Loup is undeniable. Despite there being a twenty-year age difference, the push and pull of this relationship are palpable. There is no question that the author knows how to write about passion.
What bothers me about this book is the laissez-faire manner in which Vincent holds the hearts of both her husband and Loup. While the conclusion of the book is left to interpretation, I wanted something more cohesive. What a great novel this would make for a book club or buddy read!
I listened to the audiobook version of Half-Blown Rose which was narrated by Mela Lee and Tim Campbell. I appreciated both of their performances which felt natural and easy to listen to. I loved Tim’s Irish accent and Mela’s ability to speak French. I have no hesitation to recommend the audiobook to those that enjoy this format.
Thank you to Hachette Audio and Libro.fm for the ALC of this book in exchange for the honest review provided here.