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A Man of Genius
Samuel Grafton-Hall is a man of genius who demands reverence from all. A renowned architect, his point of view is not universally shared by students, critics, and colleagues - but this is of little consequence to Grafton-Hall, for he revels in his misanthropy.
Immune to the barbs of the masses, Grafton-Hall also suffers no qualms about his personal peccadilloes and perversions. An unrepentant womanizer, Grafton-Hall leaves colleagues, friends, and lovers deeply scarred from having known him.
And then there is the murder. The question of guilt is of less consequence than the question of whether the gift of genius makes one irreproachable.
A rich novel that will sweep you into a life of glittering achievement and the core of hubris, A Man of Genius will forever alter your ideas about success and pride. Written in the haunting style of du Maurier's Rebecca, this is a compelling story, told with intelligence and classic style.
Immune to the barbs of the masses, Grafton-Hall also suffers no qualms about his personal peccadilloes and perversions. An unrepentant womanizer, Grafton-Hall leaves colleagues, friends, and lovers deeply scarred from having known him.
And then there is the murder. The question of guilt is of less consequence than the question of whether the gift of genius makes one irreproachable.
A rich novel that will sweep you into a life of glittering achievement and the core of hubris, A Man of Genius will forever alter your ideas about success and pride. Written in the haunting style of du Maurier's Rebecca, this is a compelling story, told with intelligence and classic style.
246 pages, Paperback
First published April 11, 2016
19 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
January 25, 2016
A page turner about long ago events and dramatic secrets that impact the present day of the novel; there is a sense of reality disconnection on occasion as events and modern day (the book's "present" action is in 1996, while the book itself is presumed written as a manuscript by an aging lawyer in 1998) do not quite match, while the novel's timeline is again somewhat blurred; however the book is very engaging and kept my attention from the first page till the last as I read it in essentially one sitting
The story-line is fairly simple - charged with fulfilling an unexpected codicil in the will of famed architect Samuel Grafton-Hall, young lawyer Carlyle Richards (her unusual name actually gets explained at some point!) must convince Elizabeth, the widow of the architect and a landscape architect in her own right to listen to said codicil or else lose the right to famed estate Upuna Rose where she continues the work of her husband and the "Forum" - his school/firm - which seems like a simple thing as it after all in Elizabeth's interest to do it, only of course for things to be much more complicated than that - while the "real" story is put together and told to us by Arthur Dollinger, the architect's friend, lawyer and Carlyle's boss -
However the novel delves into interesting questions of morality and we also see the evolution of society in the second half of the 20th century, as for example Elizabeth has to take a decision that could shake things badly and bring to light shattering secrets or keep the status quo at a price, Carlyle's foremost goal is to become a partner - among the first women such - at the prestigious law firm of Arthur Dollinger, and while this is definitely possible today as is Elisabeth's work as a landscape designer, not the same thing could be said about Samuel's first wife and Arthur's secret infatuation, the regal Catherine, who was an accomplished architect in her own right, highly prized by her professors at university - Samuel met her as he was sitting on a jury at a contest she won - but who could not get a qualified job in the respective years (1950's or so) and basically married Samuel and put up with his ego and affairs just to secretly collaborate on his designs which in large part were due to her as she was the only one who could distill Samuel's architectural insights in real plans to be made in real buildings, with obviously no one being aware of that.
As the story moves between the present and the past, one is drawn into the novel and its fascinating characters and the pages turn by themselves
Highly recommended and one of this surprising novels I saw by chance and then couldn't stop reading it once opened
The story-line is fairly simple - charged with fulfilling an unexpected codicil in the will of famed architect Samuel Grafton-Hall, young lawyer Carlyle Richards (her unusual name actually gets explained at some point!) must convince Elizabeth, the widow of the architect and a landscape architect in her own right to listen to said codicil or else lose the right to famed estate Upuna Rose where she continues the work of her husband and the "Forum" - his school/firm - which seems like a simple thing as it after all in Elizabeth's interest to do it, only of course for things to be much more complicated than that - while the "real" story is put together and told to us by Arthur Dollinger, the architect's friend, lawyer and Carlyle's boss -
However the novel delves into interesting questions of morality and we also see the evolution of society in the second half of the 20th century, as for example Elizabeth has to take a decision that could shake things badly and bring to light shattering secrets or keep the status quo at a price, Carlyle's foremost goal is to become a partner - among the first women such - at the prestigious law firm of Arthur Dollinger, and while this is definitely possible today as is Elisabeth's work as a landscape designer, not the same thing could be said about Samuel's first wife and Arthur's secret infatuation, the regal Catherine, who was an accomplished architect in her own right, highly prized by her professors at university - Samuel met her as he was sitting on a jury at a contest she won - but who could not get a qualified job in the respective years (1950's or so) and basically married Samuel and put up with his ego and affairs just to secretly collaborate on his designs which in large part were due to her as she was the only one who could distill Samuel's architectural insights in real plans to be made in real buildings, with obviously no one being aware of that.
As the story moves between the present and the past, one is drawn into the novel and its fascinating characters and the pages turn by themselves
Highly recommended and one of this surprising novels I saw by chance and then couldn't stop reading it once opened
February 2, 2016
It's hard to review a book like this. This isn't a plot-driven book as much as it is a character-study. The synopsis and the prologue almost make this sound like a murder mystery. There is a murder, but this book isn't really about the murder. If you go into it thinking you are going to get a murder mystery, you are going to be very disappointed. That said, this was a very interesting read. The characters were complex and engrossing, which is exactly what you want of a character-study. And though a lot of the characters are highly unlikable, they are multi-dimensional enough to keep you captivated.
The only thing keeping this from being a 5 star for me was the fact that I thought some sections dragged a bit. The story is set up as a manuscript written by one of the characters and said manuscript is split into "present day" (1990's) and "past" (around 1950's, I believe). The "past" sections are by far the best. I thought the more modern sections felt slightly disconnected and I didn't care for the odd love-story sub-plot. But all in all I enjoyed the manuscript style, especially when the "author" (again, a character in the book) sort of broke the forth wall, to use a TV term, and interjected himself into the writing.
I think fans of thought-provoking character-studies and classic Gothic tales will enjoy this.
**I received this copy via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review**
The only thing keeping this from being a 5 star for me was the fact that I thought some sections dragged a bit. The story is set up as a manuscript written by one of the characters and said manuscript is split into "present day" (1990's) and "past" (around 1950's, I believe). The "past" sections are by far the best. I thought the more modern sections felt slightly disconnected and I didn't care for the odd love-story sub-plot. But all in all I enjoyed the manuscript style, especially when the "author" (again, a character in the book) sort of broke the forth wall, to use a TV term, and interjected himself into the writing.
I think fans of thought-provoking character-studies and classic Gothic tales will enjoy this.
**I received this copy via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review**
May 22, 2018
This is no ordinary novel and is in no way for ordinary readers. Upon reaching the last page, I was stunned wordless as I tried to wrap my head around the entire story, what it all meant (to me) and how the hell I was going to condense the emotion into a review.
But I can't.
What I will say is that the strings of this story are woven together extraordinarily well. From the beautifully worded architectural scenes, and the thoughtfully crafted characters, to the unique storytelling, this novel is a masterpiece.
I'm going to read it again, and hopefully, one day, own it for my own collection of well-crafted literature.
But I can't.
What I will say is that the strings of this story are woven together extraordinarily well. From the beautifully worded architectural scenes, and the thoughtfully crafted characters, to the unique storytelling, this novel is a masterpiece.
I'm going to read it again, and hopefully, one day, own it for my own collection of well-crafted literature.
March 23, 2016
A Man of Genius by Lynn Rosen
An ambiguous tale with two sources, Carlyle Richards and Arthur Dolinger.
Arthur Dolinger, a senior partner in his law firm, assigns Carlyle Richards to convince the widow of a revered architect to have an unexpected codicil to his will read aloud. So far, the widow has refused, asserting that her husband's original will (which leaves his famous home Upuna Rose to her) is all that matters.
Unhappy with her assignment in the first place, Carlyle finds herself enchanted with Upuna Rose and the beauty of its style and surroundings. She is also instantly drawn to the widow, but cannot understand Elizabeth's reluctance to have the codicil read aloud to her. If terms aren't met, Elizabeth will forfeit Upuna Rose.
Some years later, Carlyle finds Arthur Dolinger seated alone at a business retreat and tells him that she is still uneasy about the entire situation that transpired. She tells her story, and intrigued and curious, Arthur decides to delve into his own memories and attempt to solve some of the mysteries surrounding Samuel Grafton-Hall and the codicil to his will. Was a murder actually committed?
The descriptions of the novel refer to moral decisions and whether or not genius should be excused of crime. By genius alone should consideration be granted? While it is true that moral questions concerning excusable genius are called into play and beg deliberation and reflection, I found the most interesting questions to be more in the line of "are things done to us?" or "do we allow (or choose, as Arthur mentions) these things to be done?"
It is a fascinating novel, dealing with the egotistical, but visionary architect Samuel Grafton-Hall, his wives and lover, his hubris and self-inflated personality, his total inability to consider others, except in relation to himself. Help or hindrance? He has no deeper emotional connection to another human being.
The story moves from past to present, focusing on two characters at a time (for the most part) with one character always being the flamboyant, egotistical Samuel.
I think it is inescapable that Rosen drew partly from events in the life of Frank Lloyd Wright, but Samuel Grafton-Hall's story is more Gothic.
I was engrossed from beginning to end. User or used, who lived, who died, status quo or criminal liability?
Scheduled for April 6, 2016. A Garden Carried in the Pocket
NetGalley/Una Publications
Psychological/Mystery. April 15, 2016. Print length: 246 pages.
An ambiguous tale with two sources, Carlyle Richards and Arthur Dolinger.
Arthur Dolinger, a senior partner in his law firm, assigns Carlyle Richards to convince the widow of a revered architect to have an unexpected codicil to his will read aloud. So far, the widow has refused, asserting that her husband's original will (which leaves his famous home Upuna Rose to her) is all that matters.
Unhappy with her assignment in the first place, Carlyle finds herself enchanted with Upuna Rose and the beauty of its style and surroundings. She is also instantly drawn to the widow, but cannot understand Elizabeth's reluctance to have the codicil read aloud to her. If terms aren't met, Elizabeth will forfeit Upuna Rose.
Some years later, Carlyle finds Arthur Dolinger seated alone at a business retreat and tells him that she is still uneasy about the entire situation that transpired. She tells her story, and intrigued and curious, Arthur decides to delve into his own memories and attempt to solve some of the mysteries surrounding Samuel Grafton-Hall and the codicil to his will. Was a murder actually committed?
The descriptions of the novel refer to moral decisions and whether or not genius should be excused of crime. By genius alone should consideration be granted? While it is true that moral questions concerning excusable genius are called into play and beg deliberation and reflection, I found the most interesting questions to be more in the line of "are things done to us?" or "do we allow (or choose, as Arthur mentions) these things to be done?"
It is a fascinating novel, dealing with the egotistical, but visionary architect Samuel Grafton-Hall, his wives and lover, his hubris and self-inflated personality, his total inability to consider others, except in relation to himself. Help or hindrance? He has no deeper emotional connection to another human being.
The story moves from past to present, focusing on two characters at a time (for the most part) with one character always being the flamboyant, egotistical Samuel.
I think it is inescapable that Rosen drew partly from events in the life of Frank Lloyd Wright, but Samuel Grafton-Hall's story is more Gothic.
I was engrossed from beginning to end. User or used, who lived, who died, status quo or criminal liability?
Scheduled for April 6, 2016. A Garden Carried in the Pocket
NetGalley/Una Publications
Psychological/Mystery. April 15, 2016. Print length: 246 pages.
May 4, 2016
I received a copy of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
When the famous but complicated architect Samuel Grafton-Hall dies, his will sets in motion the Machiavellian scheme he has thought out for his second wife Elizabeth. It is up to her to confront his past and decide about a complicated question which he refused to face. Or she could act against his will, after being finally free from living under his thumb. Also wrapped up in this are the aging lawyer Arthur (our narrator after having investigated the truth) and his young, ambitious colleague. As well as, in the past, the architect's first wife and his lover, and a murder.
The plot sounds relatively simple - and it is. But the real strength of this debut novel lays within the characters acting in this plot. It is their strong personalities and their morals that make this novel so ambiguous and complicated to resolve. It is definitely a book to read multiple times or to discuss with a book club. Every reader will probably find their own answer.
Get a dictionary ready, because this novel throws around quite a few three- or four-syllable words that are rarely used. However, that was never presumptuous or arrogant, it just added to the overall voice of the story. I quite enjoyed the unreliable narrator who is himself immersed in the plot. From time to time, he even interrupts and comments on the action: a unique feature that only added to the overall complexity. The same can be said about the open ending. It is not a lazy "getting it over" with from the author, but rather a clever open ended cue for discussion.
The point is not the author teaching us a lesson, it is her challenging us and our believes, as well as asking us: How would you have decided? Therefore, the unapologetic "Nor can I respond to the other clawing question: Who lived and who died...? In the end, does it make any difference? Isn't the more perplexing and consequential question: What should Elizabeth have done? If answered, the response would define its author. Sorry, I'm not yet prepared to commit." from the narrator serves as the perfect ending.
Lynn Rosen presented a brilliant novel with a complex moral and personal issues at the center. It includes characters, scope, and voice that make you forget this is a debut novel. Definite must-read for thoughtful fans of literary fiction and for book clubs!
When the famous but complicated architect Samuel Grafton-Hall dies, his will sets in motion the Machiavellian scheme he has thought out for his second wife Elizabeth. It is up to her to confront his past and decide about a complicated question which he refused to face. Or she could act against his will, after being finally free from living under his thumb. Also wrapped up in this are the aging lawyer Arthur (our narrator after having investigated the truth) and his young, ambitious colleague. As well as, in the past, the architect's first wife and his lover, and a murder.
The plot sounds relatively simple - and it is. But the real strength of this debut novel lays within the characters acting in this plot. It is their strong personalities and their morals that make this novel so ambiguous and complicated to resolve. It is definitely a book to read multiple times or to discuss with a book club. Every reader will probably find their own answer.
Get a dictionary ready, because this novel throws around quite a few three- or four-syllable words that are rarely used. However, that was never presumptuous or arrogant, it just added to the overall voice of the story. I quite enjoyed the unreliable narrator who is himself immersed in the plot. From time to time, he even interrupts and comments on the action: a unique feature that only added to the overall complexity. The same can be said about the open ending. It is not a lazy "getting it over" with from the author, but rather a clever open ended cue for discussion.
The point is not the author teaching us a lesson, it is her challenging us and our believes, as well as asking us: How would you have decided? Therefore, the unapologetic "Nor can I respond to the other clawing question: Who lived and who died...? In the end, does it make any difference? Isn't the more perplexing and consequential question: What should Elizabeth have done? If answered, the response would define its author. Sorry, I'm not yet prepared to commit." from the narrator serves as the perfect ending.
Lynn Rosen presented a brilliant novel with a complex moral and personal issues at the center. It includes characters, scope, and voice that make you forget this is a debut novel. Definite must-read for thoughtful fans of literary fiction and for book clubs!
March 15, 2016
I’ve always loved a good murder mystery so when I stumbled upon the description for Lynn Rosen’s upcoming A Man of Genius, the combination of promised mystery with the exploration of genius and morality proved tempting. What the description didn’t mention was the unusual narrative framing that provides additional fodder for consideration and analysis.
After the death of renowned architect, Samuel Grafton-Hall, his lawyers struggle to execute an unexpected codicil related to his will, the details of which must be read aloud to his widow, Elizabeth, and she must comply with them if she wishes to keep possession of Upuna Rose and the architectural forum of students and employees who live and work on its premises. Getting Elizabeth to cooperate proves more difficult than one would expect. The codicil pertains to another of Grafton-Hall’s properties, Hesperus’s Walk, where decades before his first wife, Catherine, had perished in an unfortunate fire along with two servant girls. As the novel unfolds, the circumstances of Grafton-Hall’s professional and personal life in the years leading up to that fateful fire are presented—through the biased lens of one of the architect’s longtime lawyers—and the tenuous truth of what happened at Hesperus’s Walk is revealed.
For the complete review, please visit my blog:
http://wp.me/pUEx4-Ky
After the death of renowned architect, Samuel Grafton-Hall, his lawyers struggle to execute an unexpected codicil related to his will, the details of which must be read aloud to his widow, Elizabeth, and she must comply with them if she wishes to keep possession of Upuna Rose and the architectural forum of students and employees who live and work on its premises. Getting Elizabeth to cooperate proves more difficult than one would expect. The codicil pertains to another of Grafton-Hall’s properties, Hesperus’s Walk, where decades before his first wife, Catherine, had perished in an unfortunate fire along with two servant girls. As the novel unfolds, the circumstances of Grafton-Hall’s professional and personal life in the years leading up to that fateful fire are presented—through the biased lens of one of the architect’s longtime lawyers—and the tenuous truth of what happened at Hesperus’s Walk is revealed.
For the complete review, please visit my blog:
http://wp.me/pUEx4-Ky
March 29, 2016
A man of genius. I give this book 4 stars for many reasons. The book in my opinion started off slow but once you get in it a little bit of ways it really starts getting interesting.Once it started getting interesting, I couldn't stop reading it. I found this book so enjoyable to read! The story line and plot was excellent. I really enjoyed readingabout the characterand getting to know them as the story progressed. The characters were perfectly explained and were great. I found by reading this story you really need to payattention to the story as it unfolds. Otherwise you will get lost in the story and not understand it as much. This novel in my opinionwas a greatway to inspire woman in the world and to make them realize that need to think before making decisions. The woman it the storymade a lot of decisions that effected their Iives and the way they think of themselves. It's a reminder of everyday life. I reccomend this story to anyone that enjoys a good novel or reading. Yes, it might start off slow but recommend you to stick to reading it. I recommend you give this novel a chance. It would definitely will be worth it.
July 1, 2016
I received a copy of Man of Genius for a honest review
I really enjoyed this novel - read my full review http://sweetlittlepretties.com/a-man-...
I have to admit that this novel was slightly slow in the first instance, but it was only a short while before I was completely enthralled. The story is so unique alongside the way it has been set out for the readers. The novel goes between the Present and the Past, uniting the two eras. The different scenarios were so engaging but written differently to showcase the two different dynamics.
Whilst I do not want to give away spoilers I recommend you read this book as there are not too many books I have come across that are this entailed between two time periods.
This would not be a normal choice of reading for me if I was to see this book in the shop, but I am glad I had the opportunity to read this as it was engaging and an enjoyable read.
I really enjoyed this novel - read my full review http://sweetlittlepretties.com/a-man-...
I have to admit that this novel was slightly slow in the first instance, but it was only a short while before I was completely enthralled. The story is so unique alongside the way it has been set out for the readers. The novel goes between the Present and the Past, uniting the two eras. The different scenarios were so engaging but written differently to showcase the two different dynamics.
Whilst I do not want to give away spoilers I recommend you read this book as there are not too many books I have come across that are this entailed between two time periods.
This would not be a normal choice of reading for me if I was to see this book in the shop, but I am glad I had the opportunity to read this as it was engaging and an enjoyable read.
March 16, 2016
This book will remind many of DuMaurier and Mandalay with the intricate descriptive characterisation of Dickens. It is a well written novel told in the third and first person which carries the reader across the years with the architectural genius that is Samuel Grafton-Hall.
There is a murder, however the way the story progresses that becomes almost secondary. There is also a dark, delicious, creepiness to the settings and atmosphere that have been elegantly created.
My only criticism and it is only a slight one which can be overlooked is that as a reader i loved the historic aspect and felt like it was set in the time of the "classics" whereas the modern day felt so far apart that the narrator, Arthur Dolinger, would have to be well over a hundred years of age ...
A worthy read, thanks to the publisher for the ARC.
There is a murder, however the way the story progresses that becomes almost secondary. There is also a dark, delicious, creepiness to the settings and atmosphere that have been elegantly created.
My only criticism and it is only a slight one which can be overlooked is that as a reader i loved the historic aspect and felt like it was set in the time of the "classics" whereas the modern day felt so far apart that the narrator, Arthur Dolinger, would have to be well over a hundred years of age ...
A worthy read, thanks to the publisher for the ARC.
July 15, 2016
Let's be clear about this. An 84 year old academic writes her first work of fiction, self publishes, and its truly remarkable.
The question posed: what loyalty is owed genius? Samuel Grafton-Hall — a 20th century architect whose work is brilliant and revered while he stands above the fray, unrepentant for his eccentricities and excesses. Upon his death, in the settlement of his estate, his ultimate secret begins to unfold.
I heard Rosen on a local NPR interview. I am only confounded as to why she seemed to distance (to the point of denial) herself from the clear parallel to Frank Lloyd Wright. It's all there, but for the murder plot: the style, the physical appearance, the work, even the Japanese influence. The work stands on its own, that FLW served as a model for SGH by no means diminishes it.
The question posed: what loyalty is owed genius? Samuel Grafton-Hall — a 20th century architect whose work is brilliant and revered while he stands above the fray, unrepentant for his eccentricities and excesses. Upon his death, in the settlement of his estate, his ultimate secret begins to unfold.
I heard Rosen on a local NPR interview. I am only confounded as to why she seemed to distance (to the point of denial) herself from the clear parallel to Frank Lloyd Wright. It's all there, but for the murder plot: the style, the physical appearance, the work, even the Japanese influence. The work stands on its own, that FLW served as a model for SGH by no means diminishes it.
April 26, 2016
Beguiling story of seduction, cruelty, and murder. A mystery is concealed by renowned architect, Samuel Grafton-Hall, who driven by his monstrous ego lives a life of deceit to himself and those around him. While appearing to be a genius to others who strives for simplistic, holistic design, he weaves a complex web of dominance, manipulation, and control entrapping those who have the audacity to love him. The more you read, the more complicit you become; each delicious twist of this story brings us closer to the truth.
January 28, 2016
I loved this book. Wonderful Gothic elements, classical style, and a unique narrative approach. An easy (yet smart and thought-provoking) read.
Read
June 3, 2016Indeed reminiscent of Rebecca. Enjoyable and well written.
April 16, 2016
Let me start out by saying that Samuel is a narcissist, a megalomaniac, an ephebophile and an all-round jerk. He likes to control the people around him and his environment, especially the women.
His wife, Catherine, dances to his tune, despite the fact it is to her own detriment. She lies to herself about the reasons for her complacency. She is the real reason for his success. Without Catherine the world will discover the fraud of his apparent genius.
He does rattle on about what a genius he is, almost to the point of bringing tears to my eyes. I admit I would find it hard to put up with such an elitist attitude, and I certainly wouldn’t bow or cow to it.
The question is whether he really is one, because technically he seems incapable of creating his designs in a visual or written manner. He relies on Catherine to interpret his visions.
He controls her, he controls his mistress and in the end he is still trying to control both of them and his second wife from the grave. All in an attempt to keep up the pretence.
This story is more an analysis of Samuel’s character, his manipulations and how the people around him react to his power games. The plot does involve a murder or two, but in essence it is all about a power hungry ego driven man still trying to drive the car from within his coffin.
I received a copy of this book via NetGalley.
His wife, Catherine, dances to his tune, despite the fact it is to her own detriment. She lies to herself about the reasons for her complacency. She is the real reason for his success. Without Catherine the world will discover the fraud of his apparent genius.
He does rattle on about what a genius he is, almost to the point of bringing tears to my eyes. I admit I would find it hard to put up with such an elitist attitude, and I certainly wouldn’t bow or cow to it.
The question is whether he really is one, because technically he seems incapable of creating his designs in a visual or written manner. He relies on Catherine to interpret his visions.
He controls her, he controls his mistress and in the end he is still trying to control both of them and his second wife from the grave. All in an attempt to keep up the pretence.
This story is more an analysis of Samuel’s character, his manipulations and how the people around him react to his power games. The plot does involve a murder or two, but in essence it is all about a power hungry ego driven man still trying to drive the car from within his coffin.
I received a copy of this book via NetGalley.
July 12, 2016
A Man of Genius
This is the story of a fictional famed architect named Samuel Grafton-Hall, and the relationships he had with numerous women throughout his life. Rosen focuses on each of the women his life – the first wife, Catherine Chardon, whose architectural talents were always belittled by him; Daphne Paul, who seduced him when she was just sixteen and his second wife, Elizabeth, who may or may not get a part of his wealth. When Samuel dies he includes a very strange clause in his will which makes his widow Elizabeth to undertake a journey to Hesperus Walk, a place of secrets.
Writing style: This is more of a character driven book than a plot driven book. Also, do not read it thinking it is a murder mystery. It is more of unraveling the real person Samuel was.
The positives : I loved comparing how different professional opportunities presented itself before the three women. And also to the young lawyer Carlyle. It gives a glimpse of the difficulties in front of a woman to climb up a career ladder.
The neagative : The romance was SO OUT OF PLACE. It didn't feel right and felt as if intentionally put there for the sake of one. Carlyle and Peter need not have ended up together. i couldnt figure out why they did.
Recommended for : Those who love gothic themed stories
This is the story of a fictional famed architect named Samuel Grafton-Hall, and the relationships he had with numerous women throughout his life. Rosen focuses on each of the women his life – the first wife, Catherine Chardon, whose architectural talents were always belittled by him; Daphne Paul, who seduced him when she was just sixteen and his second wife, Elizabeth, who may or may not get a part of his wealth. When Samuel dies he includes a very strange clause in his will which makes his widow Elizabeth to undertake a journey to Hesperus Walk, a place of secrets.
Writing style: This is more of a character driven book than a plot driven book. Also, do not read it thinking it is a murder mystery. It is more of unraveling the real person Samuel was.
The positives : I loved comparing how different professional opportunities presented itself before the three women. And also to the young lawyer Carlyle. It gives a glimpse of the difficulties in front of a woman to climb up a career ladder.
The neagative : The romance was SO OUT OF PLACE. It didn't feel right and felt as if intentionally put there for the sake of one. Carlyle and Peter need not have ended up together. i couldnt figure out why they did.
Recommended for : Those who love gothic themed stories
February 6, 2017
An interesting and compelling story. Does genius absolve one for the lack of morals and humanity? The similarities between the main character, Samuel Grafton-Hall and Frank Lloyd Wright were many; Organic architect, egomaniac, womanizer, fire and murder of a mistress/wife.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 26, 2016
This is a well-written, gothic-feeling novel. If you liked "Rebecca," you'll love this. Read my full review here:
http://readingforsanity.blogspot.com/...
http://readingforsanity.blogspot.com/...
Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews