The Birth of Venus

Because I realized it's been such a long while since I've done a book review on here, and because I just recently finished a book that I literally could NOT put down...  it only made sense for me to share it with all of you today. For those of you who are into historical fiction (and even those who are not), The Birth of Venus by Sarah Dunant would be a novel I highly recommend! The perfect mix of suspense, intrigue, history... readers are instantly pulled into 15th century Florence as seen through the eyes of a young, ambitious Florentine girl. The book chronicles the trials and tribulations faced by this otherwise luxurious and thriving city, including the terrifying threat of plague, the downward spiral of the Medici dynasty, and the rise of one highly influential Girolamo Savonarola. This Renaissance-era novel is rich with art history, which may have been one of the principle reasons why it had me so captivated. I also loved the complexity of the novel; so many layers, intriguing characters and side stories come together to create such an elaborate and gripping tale complete with love, drama, and even bits of mystery. Even more than the story itself, I loved Dunant's style... as a lit major, I do notice and appreciate uniquely beautiful prose, and I found Dunant's language to be so appropriately extravagant. I definitely do not want to include spoilers, so I'll keep this already lengthy review short. If you're looking for a good book to curl up with, this one will not disappoint... take my word for it!

Before I go, I wanted to wrap this post up with a photo of Botticelli's  painting, The Birth of Venus, just because. The original is currently located in the Uffizi Gallery in Florence (sadly, photos were not allowed in the gallery when I was there but needless to say it is absolutely beautiful in person)...

And there's your mid-week inspiration... stunning, n'est-ce pas?

images via goodreads.com; botticellibirthofvenus.com

The Places You'll Go...

For those of you who are unable to get away this summer due to financial reasons, or because you’re stuck working or in a classroom… I present to you the next best thing. Grab a copy of Alice Steinbach’s Without Reservations, as well as your drink of choice (whether it be a decadent cappuccino or something fruity with an umbrella in it), throw on some sunglasses and/or a cute floppy hat, and lounge out for what will undoubtedly be a truly enjoyable and thoroughly indulgent read. With a writing style that is effortlessly breezy and familiar, Steinbach pulls you into her story like a girlfriend you’ve known for years, intimately reminiscing about the discoveries she made during her travels. Reflecting on the moments of clarity, the memorable encounters, and the unforgettable sights that can only be found abroad, Steinbach pulls you deeper and deeper into her journey to some of Europe’s most glamorous and intriguing cities. She shares funny anecdotes, sweet rendezvous with eccentric strangers, and her innermost desires: from wanting to get in touch with her inner daredevil, who craves spur of the moment adventures and explorations, to her interest in picking up ballroom dancing. Immerse yourself shamelessly in this brilliant little memoir, starting out in France and making your way to England before wrapping your European adventure up in Italy. Allow yourself to get lost in each city, with Steinbach acting as both your tour guide and trusty companion. An easy read, I am positive you will soon be turning to this book every time you crave that escape from reality. And, in addition to providing you with that beautiful escape, this book will inspire you and prompt you to open up your own mind and heart to the endless possibilities that are out there, if only we are willing and able to take a moment out of our hectic schedules and just… breathe. And observe. And listen. And play. And learn. And laugh.

So, open up to the first page and let your mind wander to Europe… no packing, no pricey (and unbearably long) flights, no jetlag. Just you and Alice Steinbach, discovering the gems and wonders each stunning city has to offer. And be sure to come back here and let me know what you think once you’ve finished reading! Also do not hesitate to leave me your favorite travel memoirs… I love adding book recommendations to my ever growing to-read list.

image via amazon.com