Enough - An Inspiring Memoir about a Broken Dream that led to a Reimagined LifeEnough is a memoir of an American writer, who, in her 60s, moved to Giverny, France – famously known as Claude Monet's corner of paradise – in what promised to be a wonderful love affair with a Frenchman who lived there. But instead, she found herself facing daunting challenges that became almost insurmountable, forcing her to reassess everything she knew to be true.
This is a story of the missteps of love, the painful consequences of misplaced trust and unmet expectations, and ultimately the resilience that comes with the realization of undeniable truths.
In a rich literary tapestry, Rebecca Bricker weaves her personal experience with the threads of Giverny's story as an art colony in the time of Monet that continues today. But it is another legendary artist – Vincent Van Gogh – whose footsteps, in the end, lead her to a new life.
This inspiring story urges women to let go of expectations, face hard truths and find the courage to make changes in their lives.
Rebecca Bricker began her writing career as a journalist and was a features writer and entertainment columnist for People magazine. In that job, she appeared on The Oprah Winfrey Show and was a frequent guest on People’s talk radio show in New York. In recent years, she has written several screenplays that have been recognized in major screenwriting competitions and has published three children’s books, as well as photo journals of her travels.
We learn right away that this is a story about a relationship that did not go as hoped. Throughout the book, we see the arc of a love story - from the early incredible stages of infatuation to deep love to conflict. It would be easy for readers to wonder why they stayed together, why someone would stay with a partner who no longer makes their heart soar. Well, such is love, eh? Many of us have overstayed relationships, thinking things will work out if we give it one more try. And, usually, they do - perhaps not in the way we had expected or hoped. Such is this story. This is not always an easy read due to the conflict between the author and her partner, Henri (a pseudonym). We are told the story from the author’s point of view, so we do not know how Henri felt about the relationship. It seems both were looking for something they eventually found, just not with each other. I visited Giverny in May 2023 and was thrilled to read about this lovely little town. The descriptions are spot on. They brought me right back to the sights of this beautiful place. I also enjoyed learning more about Monet, the artists’ colony, and the many people who have called Giverny home. Later in the story, Ms. Bricker writes about the early days of COVID and the resulting lockdowns. The writing is brilliant. I was touched by her description of Andrea Bocelli’s concert on Easter Sunday, 2020. We, too, watched that concert. We were equally touched by his effort to bring the world together in our isolation. The description of that Sunday morning is a vivid reminder of what we experienced in 2020. In the book's final part, we hear from the author as she realizes it is time for a change, time for her to reclaim her life. She begins anew in Bruges. I’m certain another book awaits.
I never would have thought this book would be so sad. Now I need to find another one. I don't know Rebecca but we grew up in the same town. I have never met her but I be known her through friends. She endured so much during her time in Giverny.
I thoroughly enjoyed the book. I took it with me to a doctor's appointment and a nail appointment. I just couldn't put it down. Know I know Enough is Enough. Great song - FABULOUS book! And thank you for the Goat Girls and Do Doo.
I like to read books set in places I want to visit, and Giverny is at the top of the list. Talented writer Rebecca Bricker evokes the beauty and day-to-day life of Giverny while brilliantly describing the village and Claude Monet's house and gardens. You can tell she's lived there...and what riveting stories she has to tell. I'll leave the drama for you to discover.
A very personal account of a shattered dream. One of the most intimate books I’ve ever read. It hooked me without being manipulative. I’m reading more of her work!