You guessed it, released yesterday!
Thanks to Dutton Books #PRHPartner for the free advanced copy in exchange for my honest review.
THE MASTERPIECE – Fiona Davis (out now!)
Check back for the #CJSReads2018 reviews – YES, we’re back!
My Thoughts: 4.5/5 stars!
I’m so sad to say that this was my first time reading anything from Fiona Davis. Why did no one make me pick up her books sooner?? THE MASTERPIECE was just what I needed. I loved the history, the small dose of mystery, and the writing is incredible.
If you’ve followed my reviews at all, you’ll know that I love historical fiction. Give me any time period or event and I’ll be completely absorbed. Davis made these characters and this story come to life. I’ve never been to New York or Grand Central Terminal, but I felt like I was there.
We follow two stories and two timelines. During the Prohibition era of the 1920s, we follow Clara Darden, a talented artist that has taken a position to teach at Grand Central School of Art. Then we follow Virginia Clay, a woman struggling to help save Grand Central Terminal in the 1970s.
Both Virginia and Clara had such strong and unique voices. I loved both timelines. I learned a lot about the history of Grand Central – I had no idea there was a threat to tear it down. Davis does a wonderful job weaving these stories and I was impressed with how she was able to connect these two women.
Overall, if you’re looking for some great historical fiction, then this is the next book you need! If you want to dip into historical fiction, then THE MASTERPIECE will be the perfect way to do this. It’s not too technical in it’s history and has a compelling narrative to go along with it.
What Fiona Davis novel should I pick up next?
–Jess
Jessicamap Reviews 
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