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karentipsy's review
3.0
It's an interesting story but the characters are at best two dimensional. The art aspects are well researched but that's about it.
mschrock8's review
5.0
I read "The Muralist" first, & I really liked both of them.
This seems to be the summer of reading about artists.
This seems to be the summer of reading about artists.
stitchingirl908's review against another edition
4.0
Very good. Learned a lot about the art world and art forgery while enjoying
an entertaining tale.
an entertaining tale.
alimo711's review
2.0
I really wanted to love this book. I went to art school in Boston, love the MFA and the Gardner, and like the rest of the world was sickened (and fascinated) by the thefts and subsequent investigation. Unfortunately, this book was so populated with unlikeable characters and plot "twists" you could see coming from a mile away, I just couldn't enjoy it. Claire was so wishy-washy, and Markel too smooth. I would have liked more of the Belle story mixed in, maybe shifting between time periods instead of the letters. (side note: where did they come from? If all her letters were burned, how were we reading them??) Overall a disappointment.
vtb's review
3.0
Part of my goal to be more imaginative is to read a book a week to expand my knowledge and make me take time to think. I'm doing this because I have become lazy in my reading and want to make an effort to change this. I finished "The Art Forger" by B. A. Shapiro. This is her first book and it has received many rave reviews and made best sellers lists. But I have to admit I didn't love this book. I was very excited about the concept as I love the mystery of art thefts and am fascinated by forgers.
I have always been intrigued about the real life theft in 1990 at the Isabella Gardner Museum in Boston. Shapiro has created a great plot with a creative theme but I thought the story could have been edited to a shorter story. It seemed to drag on and on with the main character Claire Roth's never-ending whining about the unfairness of her life which took away from the suspense. I got it the first five times it was written and didn't need it 20 times more. I gave the book *** despite many others that have given it four or even five.
But despite my feelings about this book it has made me think and I'm interested in learning more about Isabella Gardner, the art theft and the world of art forgery. So I guess it did work on that level.[bc:The Art Forger|14568987|The Art Forger|Barbara Shapiro|http://d.gr-assets.com/books/1348518546s/14568987.jpg|20211722]
I have always been intrigued about the real life theft in 1990 at the Isabella Gardner Museum in Boston. Shapiro has created a great plot with a creative theme but I thought the story could have been edited to a shorter story. It seemed to drag on and on with the main character Claire Roth's never-ending whining about the unfairness of her life which took away from the suspense. I got it the first five times it was written and didn't need it 20 times more. I gave the book *** despite many others that have given it four or even five.
But despite my feelings about this book it has made me think and I'm interested in learning more about Isabella Gardner, the art theft and the world of art forgery. So I guess it did work on that level.[bc:The Art Forger|14568987|The Art Forger|Barbara Shapiro|http://d.gr-assets.com/books/1348518546s/14568987.jpg|20211722]
tigerknitting's review
5.0
I read a number of blogs about books, and often get suggestions for titles that way. Sometimes, by the time I get to the book, I forget why I wanted to read it (I keep my list on Goodreads). Luckily, I have yet to be disappointed.
My most recent "forgot why I wanted to read it" title was The Art Forger by Barbara A. Shapiro. The basic premise is that a young artist is so successful in her "reproductions" that they are taken for the real thing. We come into the story a few years after Claire Roth, an art student, did her first forgery. She was in love with her teacher and he was in a slump. He had been asked to do a show but couldn't come up with a painting. Claire copied his style so well everyone in the art world was fooled. When she insisted that it was her painting, he refused to admit it and the museum that had bought it claimed it was not hers. As a result, she was blackballed in the art world. To make ends meet, she took a job with Reproductions.com copying paintings to sell, becoming an expert on Degas. When the story opens, Claire is visited by an art gallery owner with an interesting job...to copy a Degas which had been stolen many years ago from a local musuem. His plan is to sell the copy and return the original to the museum. At first, Claire is hesitant, but it is not a crime to copy a painting (only to pass is off as the original), so she thinks she'll be safe. While in her studio, he looks over her original works and offers her a show. How can she pass this opportunity up? Of course, nothing goes according to plan and Claire finds herself in the middle of an FBI hunt.
Part art history, part romance, part detective story, part art techniques, all well written. I enjoyed reading this book and had trouble putting it down.
pipsy's review against another edition
adventurous
challenging
emotional
funny
informative
inspiring
lighthearted
mysterious
reflective
relaxing
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.75
If you're a fan of art, mystery, and historical fiction, then you're in for a real treat with "The Art Forger" by B. A. Shapiro. This expertly crafted novel takes us on a captivating journey into the shady world of art forgery, seamlessly blending art, history, and suspense into an unforgettable story.
One of the standout features of "The Art Forger" is its protagonist, Claire Roth. She's a complex and relatable character whose dive into art forgery is fascinating and thought-provoking. As we follow Claire's compelling story, we find ourselves grappling with ethical dilemmas, contemplating the value of art, and witnessing the lengths people will go to pursue their passions. This novel is a thought-provoking and emotionally resonant read.
Shapiro's writing style is elegant and accessible, effortlessly merging art history with fiction. Her descriptive language brings the art world to life, making it feel tangible and vibrant. The development of supporting characters adds depth and richness to the story, making their interactions and dynamics feel incredibly authentic. This attention to detail creates an immersive reading experience that will keep you hooked from start to finish.
The pacing of the narrative is expertly executed, keeping you engaged without compromising the depth of the story. The exploration of the notorious art heist at the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum adds an extra layer of intrigue and historical significance, further enhancing the overall reading experience.
For art enthusiasts and lovers of gripping fiction, this book is an absolute must-read. Whether we're drawn to the art world or simply crave a captivating and intellectually stimulating read, this novel delivers on all fronts. It's a powerful and lightweight choice for your next literary adventure.
In summary, "The Art Forger" is a beautifully crafted novel that seamlessly blends art, history, and suspense. B. A. Shapiro's expertise shines through, making this a highly recommended read for anyone seeking a captivating and thought-provoking journey into the world of art and intrigue.
So, if you're ready to immerse yourself in a world of art, mystery, and ethical dilemmas, "The Art Forger" is eagerly waiting to transport you into its captivating embrace. Happy reading!
One of the standout features of "The Art Forger" is its protagonist, Claire Roth. She's a complex and relatable character whose dive into art forgery is fascinating and thought-provoking. As we follow Claire's compelling story, we find ourselves grappling with ethical dilemmas, contemplating the value of art, and witnessing the lengths people will go to pursue their passions. This novel is a thought-provoking and emotionally resonant read.
Shapiro's writing style is elegant and accessible, effortlessly merging art history with fiction. Her descriptive language brings the art world to life, making it feel tangible and vibrant. The development of supporting characters adds depth and richness to the story, making their interactions and dynamics feel incredibly authentic. This attention to detail creates an immersive reading experience that will keep you hooked from start to finish.
The pacing of the narrative is expertly executed, keeping you engaged without compromising the depth of the story. The exploration of the notorious art heist at the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum adds an extra layer of intrigue and historical significance, further enhancing the overall reading experience.
For art enthusiasts and lovers of gripping fiction, this book is an absolute must-read. Whether we're drawn to the art world or simply crave a captivating and intellectually stimulating read, this novel delivers on all fronts. It's a powerful and lightweight choice for your next literary adventure.
In summary, "The Art Forger" is a beautifully crafted novel that seamlessly blends art, history, and suspense. B. A. Shapiro's expertise shines through, making this a highly recommended read for anyone seeking a captivating and thought-provoking journey into the world of art and intrigue.
So, if you're ready to immerse yourself in a world of art, mystery, and ethical dilemmas, "The Art Forger" is eagerly waiting to transport you into its captivating embrace. Happy reading!
livinglikelauren's review
3.0
2.75 maybe? i’m not sure honestly. the research behind the art techniques discussed in this book is amazing. the story itself fell kinda flat for me.
mkaybaker07's review
3.0
I fluctuated between loving and hating this book. The beginning dragged, as did the end, but I really enjoyed the middle.