The Glittering Art of Falling Apart
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By Ilana Fox
avg rating
4 reviews
1980s Soho is electric. For Eliza, the heady pull of its nightclubs and free-spirited people leads her into the life she has craved – all glamour, late nights and excitement. But it comes at a heavy cost.
Cassie is fascinated by her family’s history and the abandoned Beaufont Hall. Why won’t her mother talk about it? Offered the chance to restore Beaufont to its former glory, Cassie jumps at the opportunity to learn more about her past.
Separated by a generation, but linked by a forgotten diary, these two women have more in common than they know . . .
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Great story, great characters, great writing. Highly recommended
Did not enjoy this book. Rather than 'sparkling...enchanting' I found it slow, unimaginative and dull. I particularly did not enjoy the interweaving of plot lines chapter by chapter from past to present. Is this a book aimed at young people or teenagers? If it is and that had been made clear then I would view it differently. In my opinion is is not a book I would recommend to adult readers.
I'm afraid I didn't enjoy this book. I found the storyline unbelievable and the characters two dimensional and stereotyped. Cassie's attempts to restore Beaufont Hall seem improbable - from the conveniently discovered rare books in perfect condition in the water damaged library to the scheme (wildly successful naturally) for a literary festival in the gardens not to mention the irritatingly attentive efforts on her behalf from the love interest. There were no surprises in the book, even Cassie's discovery of her past was signalled a mile off.
I really loved this book. The title and précis at the back of the book does not do it justice. It is a wonderful exciting tale of a young girl finding her family. Cassie explores the ruin that is her family home and finds a whole lot more than she bargained for. Her courage and determination is amazing and inspiring.
For Eliza, the story is heartbreaking and immensely fascinating. I found it difficult to put this book down and I would definitely recommend it.
