Helpful Score: 2
hmmm...not what I was thought it would be. With praise from Sophie Kinsella ("I love this book!") on the back cover, I was expecting something light and fun. This book, however, was a bit dark. The main character is odd, but not in an acceptable "Ugly Betty" kind of way. She's weird in an almost disturbing way. (She referred to some pictures of birds as being so realistic because they were drawn using dead birds as models. The fact that they were based on dead birds made them look more lifelike in her opinion. huh???) And the story drags on until you are relieved by some dialogue. Bottom line...if you are expecting some light, easy chick lit, this ain't it!!!
Although she would be happier continuing her scientific research, Alice takes a job in the book department of a lesser London auction house so that she can look after her mother. The auction house is filled with an odd assortment of British characters who basically ignore Alice, except for Andrew, another academic expert who doesn't quite fit in. He truly sees Alice as a beautiful person, and tries to attract her on a social level and succeeds until she suddenly becomes even more withdrawn. All Andrew's hopes may come to nothing as he and Alice meet Edward Lynden, the owner of a rare Audubon folio. The dramatic Edward tries to sweep Alice off her feet and she seems amenable until she finds out that she has some serious competition. Campbell has created a gothic tale filled with dark overtones and overly dramatic characters who are balanced by fey Alice and her very modern friends in their search for love.
A quick-paced story about a book of birds, a girl and 2 men in love with her.
This book was difficult for me to read. I just couldn't get into it. The story seemed absurd, and writing didn't help. Maybe it's lots better for others.
It seemed like the "heroes" in this book weren't worth the effort. Then Again I didn't like the heroine either so maybe it's a good match after all.
