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Sunflowers: A Historical Romance of Vincent van Gogh, A Tormented Artist, and the Woman Who Loved Him
"I'd heard about him but had never seen him, the foreigner with the funny name who wandered the countryside painting pictures."
From a talented new author comes a poignant and haunting novel of creation and desire, passion and madness, art and love.
A young prostitute seeking temporary refuge from the brothel, Rachel awakens in a beautiful garden in Arles to discover she is being sketched by a red-haired man in a yellow straw hat. This is no ordinary artist but the eccentric painter Vincent van Gogh—and their meeting marks the beginning of a remarkable relationship. He arrives at their first assignation at No. 1, Rue du Bout d'Arles, with a bouquet of wildflowers and a request to paint her—and before long, a deep, intense attachment grows between Rachel and the gifted, tormented soul.
But the sanctuary Rachel seeks from her own troubled past cannot be found here, for demons war within Vincent's heart and mind. And one shocking act will expose the harsh, inescapable truth about the artist she has grown to love more than life.
394 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2009
190 people are currently reading
4788 people want to read
About the author
Sheramy Bundrick
4 books50 followersI am an art historian and professor at a state university in Florida, where I have lived since 2001. I grew up just outside Atlanta and earned my BA, MA, and PhD in art history at Emory University. My academic specialty is ancient art; my book "Music and Image in Classical Athens" is loosely based on my dissertation. "Sunflowers" is my first novel and was an opportunity for me to explore more deeply the art and life of my favorite painter, Vincent van Gogh. I blog about Vincent online at vangoghschair.blogspot.com .
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 328 reviews
October 28, 2009
Oooh, what I'd give to see one in real life. First time author and art historian Sheramy Bundrick takes a character who is a mere footnote in history - a prostitute by the name of Rachel was presented with Vincent Van Gogh's severed ear by the artist himself - and spins an artful (pun intended) tale around what-might-have-been. Told from the first person POV, Rachel awakes from a nap in a city garden to find a odd gentleman sketching her - and a new friendship begins that quickly turns to love - although Rachel's love is strongly tested when Vincent begins displaying bouts of madness and he is hospitalized and eventually taken away from Arles and Rachel. Can their love survive? Can Vincent overcome his madness and marry her? If you don't want to know the answers before reading the book stay off the internet.
Outside of a few minor quibbles, I found this was a very entertaining, albeit a quick and light read (heh, after Wolf Hall anything would be light and easy). I'm not terribly fond of the first person narrative, although it did work well here, especially seeing Rachel's reactions to Vincent's madness as well as to his paintings (nicely done), but it did box the author in when she had to use *letters* between Rachel and Vincent later in the book. There was more black and white in some characters than I care to see (argh! the prostitutes with the heart of gold), and perhaps some of the language (especially the cursing) was a bit too modern. Although I haven't a clue how any Frenchman (in this century or the last) swears so what do I know? Rachel seemed to have a touch too much freedom, both coming and going from the brothel as well as when Vincent was in the asylum - but those are all minor nits on an otherwise engaging tale.
A big thumbs up on the author's notes telling us what is known and what was not as well as when she *fudged* a date or two to make her story work. I like to see that - now if Ms. "historical entertainment" could learn to do that. This is a solid first entry into the historical fiction field and I look forward to who or what she'll write about next - love the art angle and want to see more.
February 11, 2016
Art historian Sheramy Bundrick wrote an engaging novel about the last two years of Vincent van Gogh's life. The book is narrated by Rachel, an orphaned prostitute he met in Arles in 1888 who fell in love with van Gogh. From a newspaper report, historians know that van Gogh presented his severed ear to a real Rachel during a bout of madness. The author has imagined the details of their relationship in this romantic story. For the sake of the story, Rachel seems to have quite a bit more free time to spend with van Gogh than one would expect for a woman working in a brothel. Through Rachel's eyes we see the sad plight of women with no means of support at that time in history.
The book has wonderful descriptions of van Gogh's colorful paintings, as well as the cafes, churches, and countryside of Arles and Auvers-sur-Oise. The arrogant Paul Gauguin and the kind Theo van Gogh are also brought to life. Vincent van Gogh is presented as a very caring, but troubled, man of great talent. Unfortunately, medical science had no cure for van Gogh's episodes of madness. (Bipolar disorder, epilepsy, syphilis, absinthe poisoning, and lead poisoning from his paints have later been suggested as possible diagnoses.) Letters were written by van Gogh and Rachel to communicate during times he was in the asylums and Auvers so that we could read about his life when the two lovers were apart.
Over sixty works of art are mentioned in the story, and the author has a list of the paintings and the museums that own them in the back of the book. The author has created an entertaining story with a good sense of place, backed up by lots of research.
3.5 stars
The book has wonderful descriptions of van Gogh's colorful paintings, as well as the cafes, churches, and countryside of Arles and Auvers-sur-Oise. The arrogant Paul Gauguin and the kind Theo van Gogh are also brought to life. Vincent van Gogh is presented as a very caring, but troubled, man of great talent. Unfortunately, medical science had no cure for van Gogh's episodes of madness. (Bipolar disorder, epilepsy, syphilis, absinthe poisoning, and lead poisoning from his paints have later been suggested as possible diagnoses.) Letters were written by van Gogh and Rachel to communicate during times he was in the asylums and Auvers so that we could read about his life when the two lovers were apart.
Over sixty works of art are mentioned in the story, and the author has a list of the paintings and the museums that own them in the back of the book. The author has created an entertaining story with a good sense of place, backed up by lots of research.
3.5 stars
January 22, 2010
I liked this book. The author has done impeccable research on the artist and his paintings, searching through all the letters and documents available. I believe the character of Vincent Van Gogh is accurately portrayed. It is very possible that he could have had such a relationship with a woman portrayed as Rachel, and her emotions were poignantly depicted. I love the vibrancy of Van Gogh's art, and that too helped me enjoy this book, but still only three stars. I debated between three and four stars but have chosen three. For me this book wasn't enough. I wanted to know more about his life. So, very well done, but just not enough. It is about the last two years of his life.
Through page 201: I KNOW I am childish and naive and sentimental but I am really annoyed at "the world"! Why do things have to be this way? Rachel and Vincent have themselves in a corner - no money, no hope and now Vincent's illnes. And Rachel's predicament isn't much better! The whole thing pisses me off. The book is good in that you feel their frustration, crziness, hopelessness. It isn't over-done. There are kind people trying to help. It isn't ALL black, but still you feel like punching someone. I am about half-way through the book, when books usually sag; this book isn't sagging at all.
Through page 164: Van Gogh's mental instability, his "craziness", is well portrayed, along with Rachel's emotions on how to deal with this. Vincent's confusion feels very real. If you are an artist working to get your emotions down on the paper is it so strange that your emotions carry you away? When does it become insanity? I guess simply when you can no longer function in the world around you. You understand Van Gogh's fears. Isn't it quite normal to wonder about your inadequacies when your art isn't selling and your friends claim you are doing it "all wrong". I am talking about Gauguin. However there is no right and wrong in art. Van Gogh's life ARE his paintings. If you are collapsing and can perhaps no longer do what you MUST do in life, wouldn't that be enough to make you crazy. Rather circular reasoning but still very true. The dialogue is sometimes excellent, but not always.
Through page 106: The text is sometimes excellent and sometimes mediocre. More often it is the dialogs that lack originality. I think if you know a bit of French you will enjoy the French terms frequently thrown into the text. I like this. If you know French you understand how these terms would be used and they give more than just what the term specifically means. I also like how the customs and festivities of the Provencal life are incorporated into the novel - the Christmas pageants, the bullfights, the superstitions. But I don't like Gaughin. Well that is how he was! A group of three rarely works - this is well depicted! Rachael's emotions are what you would expect. Is that good or is it bad? I don't know; you don't get terribly surprised.....
Just beginning: page 10. It was the writing style that immediately attracted me to this book when I read the snippet that was available before purchase. That is what my "text-checked" shelf means. Several reviewers have NOT highly recommended the book, calling it a light quick read. That is fine as long as it is enjoyable. I do hope I will get into Van Gogh's head. We'll see. The tone is NOTpretentious. Here follows a few examples of the writing style:
"The pair of ladies in their high collared-dresses looked like blackbirds and squawked like hens."
Arles is pretty run down now, but here you see it at the earlier time period of the 1880s. Ages ago it was a great, prosperous city of Roman Gaul. Today, as in the 1880s, it has different faces depending on who you are and and where you are looking:
"When I(Rachel) finally did step off the train at the Arles station years later, Papa was not beside me. I'd lost him a few months before, Mama before that when I was eleven, and I'd come to the city to begin again, best as I could. An unexpected snowfall had blanketed the buildings in sugary white and like any touriste I gaped at the Roman amphitheater and medieval bell towers, wishing Papa had been there to see them with me. I gaped at the tourists themselves as they promenaded down the Boulevard des Lices in greatcoats and furs;I gazed in shop windoxs around the Place du Forum at things I couldn't afford and wondered how long it would take to find a new life."
"But the days and weeks slipped by and the fistful of francs in my valise melted with the snow. I learned that Mama and Papa had been right about Arles. The city had two faces: the one travelers and rich people saw and the one everyone else saw, with dingy cafés and tatty backstreets in sore need of sweeping...."
The countryside around Arles remains beautiful. Both Rachel and I escaped to get happy there, outside the city limits. This is where Rachel first met Vincent. If possible try and get some pictures of what Arles and the surrounding countryside look like. I remember Arles itself as being quite run-down, except at some picturesque spots.
I am stuck on books about artists.....this one is about Van Gogh.
Through page 201: I KNOW I am childish and naive and sentimental but I am really annoyed at "the world"! Why do things have to be this way? Rachel and Vincent have themselves in a corner - no money, no hope and now Vincent's illnes. And Rachel's predicament isn't much better! The whole thing pisses me off. The book is good in that you feel their frustration, crziness, hopelessness. It isn't over-done. There are kind people trying to help. It isn't ALL black, but still you feel like punching someone. I am about half-way through the book, when books usually sag; this book isn't sagging at all.
Through page 164: Van Gogh's mental instability, his "craziness", is well portrayed, along with Rachel's emotions on how to deal with this. Vincent's confusion feels very real. If you are an artist working to get your emotions down on the paper is it so strange that your emotions carry you away? When does it become insanity? I guess simply when you can no longer function in the world around you. You understand Van Gogh's fears. Isn't it quite normal to wonder about your inadequacies when your art isn't selling and your friends claim you are doing it "all wrong". I am talking about Gauguin. However there is no right and wrong in art. Van Gogh's life ARE his paintings. If you are collapsing and can perhaps no longer do what you MUST do in life, wouldn't that be enough to make you crazy. Rather circular reasoning but still very true. The dialogue is sometimes excellent, but not always.
Through page 106: The text is sometimes excellent and sometimes mediocre. More often it is the dialogs that lack originality. I think if you know a bit of French you will enjoy the French terms frequently thrown into the text. I like this. If you know French you understand how these terms would be used and they give more than just what the term specifically means. I also like how the customs and festivities of the Provencal life are incorporated into the novel - the Christmas pageants, the bullfights, the superstitions. But I don't like Gaughin. Well that is how he was! A group of three rarely works - this is well depicted! Rachael's emotions are what you would expect. Is that good or is it bad? I don't know; you don't get terribly surprised.....
Just beginning: page 10. It was the writing style that immediately attracted me to this book when I read the snippet that was available before purchase. That is what my "text-checked" shelf means. Several reviewers have NOT highly recommended the book, calling it a light quick read. That is fine as long as it is enjoyable. I do hope I will get into Van Gogh's head. We'll see. The tone is NOTpretentious. Here follows a few examples of the writing style:
"The pair of ladies in their high collared-dresses looked like blackbirds and squawked like hens."
Arles is pretty run down now, but here you see it at the earlier time period of the 1880s. Ages ago it was a great, prosperous city of Roman Gaul. Today, as in the 1880s, it has different faces depending on who you are and and where you are looking:
"When I(Rachel) finally did step off the train at the Arles station years later, Papa was not beside me. I'd lost him a few months before, Mama before that when I was eleven, and I'd come to the city to begin again, best as I could. An unexpected snowfall had blanketed the buildings in sugary white and like any touriste I gaped at the Roman amphitheater and medieval bell towers, wishing Papa had been there to see them with me. I gaped at the tourists themselves as they promenaded down the Boulevard des Lices in greatcoats and furs;I gazed in shop windoxs around the Place du Forum at things I couldn't afford and wondered how long it would take to find a new life."
"But the days and weeks slipped by and the fistful of francs in my valise melted with the snow. I learned that Mama and Papa had been right about Arles. The city had two faces: the one travelers and rich people saw and the one everyone else saw, with dingy cafés and tatty backstreets in sore need of sweeping...."
The countryside around Arles remains beautiful. Both Rachel and I escaped to get happy there, outside the city limits. This is where Rachel first met Vincent. If possible try and get some pictures of what Arles and the surrounding countryside look like. I remember Arles itself as being quite run-down, except at some picturesque spots.
I am stuck on books about artists.....this one is about Van Gogh.
July 30, 2020
This story is an emotional, artistic journey through the life of a troubled artist. It makes a more human image of Vincent Van Gogh and gives life also to those who influenced him and loved him. Full review coming soon on my blog: https://poetryofreading.blogspot.com/...
January 23, 2010
I am particularly fond of liminal characters.(Liminality is a term for anthropology which means caught betwixt and between.) Liminal characters are outside the normal social structure. They can only bond with each other. This describes the relationship between Vincent and Rachel. Their liminal status gives them insights into each other's hearts and souls. Rachel can understand Vincent far better than Theo, Vincent's brother. Though the events described are tragic, I am uplifted by the fact that they were able to find each other and connect. For me, this was a powerful book.
February 12, 2018
Vincent van Gogh, 1853-1890, was a Dutch Post-Impressionist painter who is among the most famous and influential figures in the history of Western art. His suicide at 37 followed years of mental illness and poverty.
This novel beautifully weaves a story of his personal struggle and artistic talent.
This novel beautifully weaves a story of his personal struggle and artistic talent.
September 2, 2010
On reading this book, I remembered why I never, ever, ever read romance novels anymore; even if said romance novel is historical...The love, the sex, oh spare me. So completely unlikely. Sorry, but somehow I doubt Vincent would be so understanding to a woman he was in love with who's been sleeping with his doctor. And the prostitute with a heart of gold who's like a big sister to our dear protagonist, Rachel? OK, maybe I'm a bit synical, but the whole thing seemed unlikely.
So, the dear protagonist forced by circumstance alone to work as a prostitute meets the painter Vincent Van Gogh. And the one thing I liked about this book begins: The descriptions of Vincent's works. Ms. Bundrick did a masterful job describing his works, I concede this. And, it was rather historically accurate. Well, accurate except for a mostly fictional prostitute that he falls in love with.
Actually, the only reason I originally picked up this book was that I LOVE Dr. Who, and Vincent Van Gogh featured prominently in series five, so. lol
So, the dear protagonist forced by circumstance alone to work as a prostitute meets the painter Vincent Van Gogh. And the one thing I liked about this book begins: The descriptions of Vincent's works. Ms. Bundrick did a masterful job describing his works, I concede this. And, it was rather historically accurate. Well, accurate except for a mostly fictional prostitute that he falls in love with.
Actually, the only reason I originally picked up this book was that I LOVE Dr. Who, and Vincent Van Gogh featured prominently in series five, so. lol
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 10, 2016
How to explain this book? It's basically a historical account of Van Gogh 's life from a fictional perspective. Although Rachel did exist, nothing is known about her. This book really hit home for me as I too suffer from bipolar disorder. It was so easy to diagnose him after reading about his "crise". So unfortunate that no therapy or even valid diagnosis was available in his lifetime. Makes me realize what my gate would have been had I been born during another era.
March 6, 2019
Bundrick parte dalla figura di Rachel, storicamente nota come Gaby, la prostituta a cui Van Gogh fece recapitare il lobo del suo orecchio sinistro dopo la lite con Paul Gauguin e la mutilazione del 23 dicembre 1888, per ricostruire e sviluppare gli ultimi due anni di vita del pittore tramite il racconto della giovane prostituta provenzale. Intesse tra i due una storia d'amore con un presunto fidanzamento, inventando anche una storia plausibile su come mai - malgrado Van Gogh amasse dipingere quasi ogni persona con cui entrava in contatto - non siano pervenuti ritratti di Rachel.
La figura di Rachel, tuttavia, è poco convincente; è troppo perfetta per essere reale, o forse è troppo innamorata di Vincent, che pure sembra essere troppo perfetto.
L'atmosfera che si respira in questo romanzo, però, è impreziosita dai quadri di Van Gogh, soprattutto da quelli che dipinse ad Arles, tra cui i suoi magnifici girasoli, caldi come il sole che racchiudono, e la magica notte stellata sul Rodano.
La figura di Rachel, tuttavia, è poco convincente; è troppo perfetta per essere reale, o forse è troppo innamorata di Vincent, che pure sembra essere troppo perfetto.
L'atmosfera che si respira in questo romanzo, però, è impreziosita dai quadri di Van Gogh, soprattutto da quelli che dipinse ad Arles, tra cui i suoi magnifici girasoli, caldi come il sole che racchiudono, e la magica notte stellata sul Rodano.
July 8, 2022
We recently saw the Van Gogh immersive exhibit, so this was a timely read. Though, a slow descent into mental illness is tough for the person, the people they love, and the reader (I'm assuming that this isn't a spoiler.)
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September 30, 2011To be more accurate, it’s a novel about the love between him and Rachel Courteau. And it’s basically doomed love. What do you get when you pair a down-on-her-luck prostitute with a down-on-his-luck artist? And in 19th century France? Doomed love, I tell you.
We know all about the mythos of Van Gogh—how troubled he was; how plagued by a disorder that’s still under debate by scholars these days (hell, even I tried to diagnose him while reading this book); how (and this is something that strikes fear into the hearts of many an artist) he lived in genteel poverty and artistic obscurity, his work receiving recognition only after he’d died. It’s a myth difficult to shake off: Vincent Van Gogh is, essentially, a tragic character. Very bohemian, in the romanticized connotation of the word. Idealized in some circles—dude is an icon for the struggling artist, a consolation to those who just can’t get a break. How many times have I heard, “It doesn’t matter much—I could be a Van Gogh for all they know”? [Which is sad. Just saying, friends.]
What was admirable about Bundrick’s novel was that she was able to create a Van Gogh that added to our usual perceptions of the artist—and, dare I say, effectively veered off from them. Sunflowers’ Vincent is disarmingly shy, charming and awkward. He had me going Aww several times, to the consternation of my boyfriend who kept asking, “But aren’t you reading about Van Gogh?” He’s a sweetie, that Vincent. Yes, he was unbalanced, he had problems, yes he eventually cut his ear off—but they were more tragic in light of what a great man he was whenever he wasn’t in one of his crises. It was unexpected, how Vincent was written—I had expected Angsty McAngst, and so I commend Bundrick for not laying it on thick (given how heartbreaking his fate already actually was).
And Rachel. Not much is known about Rachel, factually—and what we do know, according to the Author’s Note at the end of the book, are vague, even contradicting. The novel is in Rachel’s POV, and it’s Rachel life tangled in those two years with Vincent. She’s this odd mix of naïve and stubborn, with a seemingly infinite well of love and patience that could only come from lurve.
You detect some cynicism? Sorry. I mean, that was my tiny complaint about the book: because Rachel was so in love with Van Gogh, so hopelessly devoted to him, that their whole relationship was romanticized and idealized. Children: poverty—even artistic poverty—isn’t a very nice thing. Trust me: terrible times when you’re not selling paintings, and you find yourself looking around the apartment for something to sell or pawn just to feed yourself. Trust me. Huh. Yes, I know it’s supposed to be romantic, that it was a fact that Van Gogh was the way he was, that this is what’s supposed to happen in 19th century France between these two star-crossed lovers. But it often took on the quality of a dark fairy tale seen through hazy, lovestruck lens.
That’s why I very much appreciated that “ear incident”—which was sweet, haha, sorry!—and Van Gogh’s stints in the asylum, and all the other difficult episodes in this couple’s life. I would have wanted Rachel to look up—even just once—from scrubbing the floor and think, “Hell, I love this man, but my life kinda sucks right now.” I’m all for love, but I like reality too.
[And, since we’re confessing, other terrible things I will admit to: 1) I giggled whenever it was mentioned that Van Gogh ate his paints—I know this is a serious thing, but I can’t help but imagine my own boyfriend (he’s an artist) with paint tubes stuck in his mouth. Sorry! 2) If said boyfriend ever got those “artist’s fits”—as Vincent placatingly describes his crise to Rachel—I would hit him on the side of the head and say, “Suck it up.” But I have a black heart. Again, sorry.]
But I’m just bitching. I liked the novel, loved this new Vincent, liked Rachel well enough, loved the secondary characters that littered it—in particular, Van Gogh’s brother Theo, and Gauguin was such an asshole I had to put the book down and fume. I admired how I could feel that the research the author underwent was put to good use—never stuffily academic, with enough creative liberties taken in it to produce an enjoyable historical novel. I look forward to reading more of Sheramy Bundrick’s novels (this is her first!)
Yes, I enjoyed reading Sunflowers. But you know what I longed for? Pictures, haha. But I did enjoy digging through my boyfriend’s art books, and looking up the paintings talked about in the novel. However, P. isn’t much of a fan of Van Gogh, so I had little to go on—but I’ll definitely read more of Van Gogh’s life. Some fact-checking, yes, but really, just to assuage the fascination sparked by this novel. (Van Gogh’s letters, here I come.)
And, these comments are for us odd booklovers: 1) That cover is amazing. Not only the image (yes, that’s gorgeous), but my copy was matte, and I love them matte-surface books. 2) The pages smelled good. I don’t know if my book smells the same as all of yours, but when I got this book, it smelled good. Just saying.
Okay, now I’m just babbling. Happy weekend!
We know all about the mythos of Van Gogh—how troubled he was; how plagued by a disorder that’s still under debate by scholars these days (hell, even I tried to diagnose him while reading this book); how (and this is something that strikes fear into the hearts of many an artist) he lived in genteel poverty and artistic obscurity, his work receiving recognition only after he’d died. It’s a myth difficult to shake off: Vincent Van Gogh is, essentially, a tragic character. Very bohemian, in the romanticized connotation of the word. Idealized in some circles—dude is an icon for the struggling artist, a consolation to those who just can’t get a break. How many times have I heard, “It doesn’t matter much—I could be a Van Gogh for all they know”? [Which is sad. Just saying, friends.]
What was admirable about Bundrick’s novel was that she was able to create a Van Gogh that added to our usual perceptions of the artist—and, dare I say, effectively veered off from them. Sunflowers’ Vincent is disarmingly shy, charming and awkward. He had me going Aww several times, to the consternation of my boyfriend who kept asking, “But aren’t you reading about Van Gogh?” He’s a sweetie, that Vincent. Yes, he was unbalanced, he had problems, yes he eventually cut his ear off—but they were more tragic in light of what a great man he was whenever he wasn’t in one of his crises. It was unexpected, how Vincent was written—I had expected Angsty McAngst, and so I commend Bundrick for not laying it on thick (given how heartbreaking his fate already actually was).
And Rachel. Not much is known about Rachel, factually—and what we do know, according to the Author’s Note at the end of the book, are vague, even contradicting. The novel is in Rachel’s POV, and it’s Rachel life tangled in those two years with Vincent. She’s this odd mix of naïve and stubborn, with a seemingly infinite well of love and patience that could only come from lurve.
You detect some cynicism? Sorry. I mean, that was my tiny complaint about the book: because Rachel was so in love with Van Gogh, so hopelessly devoted to him, that their whole relationship was romanticized and idealized. Children: poverty—even artistic poverty—isn’t a very nice thing. Trust me: terrible times when you’re not selling paintings, and you find yourself looking around the apartment for something to sell or pawn just to feed yourself. Trust me. Huh. Yes, I know it’s supposed to be romantic, that it was a fact that Van Gogh was the way he was, that this is what’s supposed to happen in 19th century France between these two star-crossed lovers. But it often took on the quality of a dark fairy tale seen through hazy, lovestruck lens.
That’s why I very much appreciated that “ear incident”—which was sweet, haha, sorry!—and Van Gogh’s stints in the asylum, and all the other difficult episodes in this couple’s life. I would have wanted Rachel to look up—even just once—from scrubbing the floor and think, “Hell, I love this man, but my life kinda sucks right now.” I’m all for love, but I like reality too.
[And, since we’re confessing, other terrible things I will admit to: 1) I giggled whenever it was mentioned that Van Gogh ate his paints—I know this is a serious thing, but I can’t help but imagine my own boyfriend (he’s an artist) with paint tubes stuck in his mouth. Sorry! 2) If said boyfriend ever got those “artist’s fits”—as Vincent placatingly describes his crise to Rachel—I would hit him on the side of the head and say, “Suck it up.” But I have a black heart. Again, sorry.]
But I’m just bitching. I liked the novel, loved this new Vincent, liked Rachel well enough, loved the secondary characters that littered it—in particular, Van Gogh’s brother Theo, and Gauguin was such an asshole I had to put the book down and fume. I admired how I could feel that the research the author underwent was put to good use—never stuffily academic, with enough creative liberties taken in it to produce an enjoyable historical novel. I look forward to reading more of Sheramy Bundrick’s novels (this is her first!)
Yes, I enjoyed reading Sunflowers. But you know what I longed for? Pictures, haha. But I did enjoy digging through my boyfriend’s art books, and looking up the paintings talked about in the novel. However, P. isn’t much of a fan of Van Gogh, so I had little to go on—but I’ll definitely read more of Van Gogh’s life. Some fact-checking, yes, but really, just to assuage the fascination sparked by this novel. (Van Gogh’s letters, here I come.)
And, these comments are for us odd booklovers: 1) That cover is amazing. Not only the image (yes, that’s gorgeous), but my copy was matte, and I love them matte-surface books. 2) The pages smelled good. I don’t know if my book smells the same as all of yours, but when I got this book, it smelled good. Just saying.
Okay, now I’m just babbling. Happy weekend!
March 16, 2013
This book is full of simplistic/implausible dialogue and cringe-inducing overt sentimentality. It's, like, woman-spinning-around-in-a-field-of-wheat-for-no-reason kind of bad. Oh the colors...my heart flutters... *choking sounds* get a room! Oh. They did. And the reader is dragged in with them, heaving bosoms and all.
Also, I found the portrayals of Van Gogh's mental illness to be super unrealistic, like they were just a pastiche of bad cinematic portrayals of "things insane people do" (rocking on the floor in fetal position, singing to oneself... That kind of thing).
The only two redeeming qualities were the author's descriptions of the paintings, which were beautifully enlivened without ruining their mystery (except in the few cases where she got too carried away with trying to write something sensational/cinematic...in which cases not so much) and Paul Gauguin. That dude was awesome. I would like to have read more about his shenanigans. Yeah, sure, he was an ass hat, but he pretty much ruled. I mean, this dude went on to subjugate an entire community of Tahitians, declaring himself god (!!!) and yet he just played a bit role here.
Overall... meh.
Also, I found the portrayals of Van Gogh's mental illness to be super unrealistic, like they were just a pastiche of bad cinematic portrayals of "things insane people do" (rocking on the floor in fetal position, singing to oneself... That kind of thing).
The only two redeeming qualities were the author's descriptions of the paintings, which were beautifully enlivened without ruining their mystery (except in the few cases where she got too carried away with trying to write something sensational/cinematic...in which cases not so much) and Paul Gauguin. That dude was awesome. I would like to have read more about his shenanigans. Yeah, sure, he was an ass hat, but he pretty much ruled. I mean, this dude went on to subjugate an entire community of Tahitians, declaring himself god (!!!) and yet he just played a bit role here.
Overall... meh.
August 13, 2016
I have always been intrigued by the story of Van Gogh cutting off his own ear and delivering it to a prostitute whom he was supposedly in love with. This book tells that story from the perspective of Rachel, the prostitute herself.
I was impressed with the historic detail, interwoven with time periods and speculations about the paintings. The author researched this book by using documents and actual letters written by Vincent and his brother Theo. Great attention is paid to that historical accuracy. Because most of us know how the story ends, it is really an exploration of character -- that of Vincent, Rachel, Theo and others they encounter. The psychological aspects of Van Gogh's illness are sad and gripping. From a modern day perspective, he seems to have suffered bipolar disease.
My one small complaint is the 'pretty woman' aspect -- the author has left out much of the gritty details of the 'trade' and painted Rachel as very clean and naive (This disappointed me a bit. I like dark side close-ups.) But overall it is a good book and a fascinating story, I would recommend this to anyone interested in art, historical fiction and mental illness.
I was impressed with the historic detail, interwoven with time periods and speculations about the paintings. The author researched this book by using documents and actual letters written by Vincent and his brother Theo. Great attention is paid to that historical accuracy. Because most of us know how the story ends, it is really an exploration of character -- that of Vincent, Rachel, Theo and others they encounter. The psychological aspects of Van Gogh's illness are sad and gripping. From a modern day perspective, he seems to have suffered bipolar disease.
My one small complaint is the 'pretty woman' aspect -- the author has left out much of the gritty details of the 'trade' and painted Rachel as very clean and naive (This disappointed me a bit. I like dark side close-ups.) But overall it is a good book and a fascinating story, I would recommend this to anyone interested in art, historical fiction and mental illness.
January 14, 2010
This book tells the story of Rachel, a woman who was the lover of Vincent Van Gogh, the painter. Rachel was a prostitute in Arles, France where Vincent spent several years painting. They fall for each other and have a very tumultuous relationship. Rachel struggles with coming to terms with Vincent's brilliance as well as his madness (this is the woman that he supposedly gave his ear to). I really like the character of Rachel and the character of Vincent. You can see how Rachel fell so hard for him. This is definitely a good read.
November 30, 2009
This was an amazing work of historical fiction. This author took bits and pieces of real history and wrote an incredible work of fiction. There are very few books that I have read that have touched me so that they have made me cry. This one did it throughout the telling of a very sad fictional love story involving Vincent Van Gogh in the last two years of his life.
June 10, 2021
My feeling about VanGogh was neutral, until I read this book so it turned negative.
His excessive fear and anxiety, his weak personality in taking many decisions, his unclear love,I even questioned his love for Rachel.
I believe that weakness is what made him end his life with this way, totally not courage.
I have to admit that “sunflower” novel is a historical novel, most characters are inspired by real people, the dates of letters, the masterpieces, the places and also the streets.
I do like Van Gogh’s art, but not the artist.
His excessive fear and anxiety, his weak personality in taking many decisions, his unclear love,I even questioned his love for Rachel.
I believe that weakness is what made him end his life with this way, totally not courage.
I have to admit that “sunflower” novel is a historical novel, most characters are inspired by real people, the dates of letters, the masterpieces, the places and also the streets.
I do like Van Gogh’s art, but not the artist.
June 15, 2021
This was a great read. I thought I knew a lot about Van Gogh but found out more of struggles he had in his short life.
September 22, 2025
This novel is such a beautiful and curious historical fiction on Van Gogh's life with this elusive lover, Rachel. This brings a fun interpretation to art and how one experiences it.
August 29, 2017
I wanted to learn more about painters in the south of France and my friend recommended this book. It is fictional but weaves in facts about the troubled last couple of years of Vincent Van Gogh.
April 28, 2019
I read this book because my mom picked it out for one of my former students who likes Van Gogh (@aileen!) and I had to do a little research before giving it to her. I didn’t know much about Van Gogh and his story is tragic. The book is written through the lens of his relationship with a prostitute, Rachel. I’m sad for Van Gogh and the hard life he lived.
November 22, 2018
A wonderful biographical novel of Van Gogh's last two years. Thank you, Sheramy!!!
October 3, 2020
Just marvelous. I love art, historic novels and compelling stories - and this one had it all.
I loved how the story was narrated by Rachel, an allegedly insignificant character in Van Gogh's official biography, who became the main character in this outstanding novel.
I loved how the story was narrated by Rachel, an allegedly insignificant character in Van Gogh's official biography, who became the main character in this outstanding novel.
August 23, 2012
Art & Agony:
Sunflowers by Sheramy Bundrick
As I began reading this, it reminded me of Girl With a Pearl Earring by Tracy Chevalier. Sunflowers also explores one of the ‘what if’ theories behind a classic artist - in this case, Vincent van Gogh. However, as I read on, the chasm between the two books grew ever wider. Having finished Sunflowers, I would not equate it with Girl With A Pearl Earring, and at the risk of sounding nasty - Tracy Chevalier is a highly skilled novelist, Sheramy Bundrick, in my opinion, is not.
There were elements of merit - the story was meticulously researched and plotted out and the subject matter had a good range, but there were too many things that made me stumble over them as I read, one example being the language. While historical fiction need not always be written in terms of ‘thee’ and ‘thou’, to me, the dialogue - and sometimes, the prose - was far too modern, and you could easily mistake the events to be taking place in a more contemporary setting.
As well as being extremely colloquial, the language was also overly Americanised. Yes, the author is American, but I have read many works of historical fiction by American writers who have succeeded in neutralising their vocabulary to be more universally-friendly. Bundrick uses modern American slang words, along with phrases such as ‘write me’ (instead of ‘write to me’), which I found quite off-putting for a story that is set in both the 19th Century and Europe.
On a positive note, readers will most likely invest in the emotions of Rachel, the protagonist, from the very start. The romance between Rachel and Vincent develops very subtly through descriptions of mannerisms, smiles and thoughts, and I quite liked the sentence that described Rachel’s reaction to the novel’s namesake painting: “This was no ordinary vase of flowers. The sunflowers were his voice, and for the first time since the day we met, I started to truly listen.”
Overall, there are some positive aspects to the novel, and it is certainly interesting to ponder Vincent’s relationship with Rachel and his work, but I would have enjoyed it much more had the language been more universal.
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Review published in: What The Dickens? magazine, Issue 5, August 2012; Page 91
http://www.wtd-magazine.com
Sunflowers by Sheramy Bundrick
As I began reading this, it reminded me of Girl With a Pearl Earring by Tracy Chevalier. Sunflowers also explores one of the ‘what if’ theories behind a classic artist - in this case, Vincent van Gogh. However, as I read on, the chasm between the two books grew ever wider. Having finished Sunflowers, I would not equate it with Girl With A Pearl Earring, and at the risk of sounding nasty - Tracy Chevalier is a highly skilled novelist, Sheramy Bundrick, in my opinion, is not.
There were elements of merit - the story was meticulously researched and plotted out and the subject matter had a good range, but there were too many things that made me stumble over them as I read, one example being the language. While historical fiction need not always be written in terms of ‘thee’ and ‘thou’, to me, the dialogue - and sometimes, the prose - was far too modern, and you could easily mistake the events to be taking place in a more contemporary setting.
As well as being extremely colloquial, the language was also overly Americanised. Yes, the author is American, but I have read many works of historical fiction by American writers who have succeeded in neutralising their vocabulary to be more universally-friendly. Bundrick uses modern American slang words, along with phrases such as ‘write me’ (instead of ‘write to me’), which I found quite off-putting for a story that is set in both the 19th Century and Europe.
On a positive note, readers will most likely invest in the emotions of Rachel, the protagonist, from the very start. The romance between Rachel and Vincent develops very subtly through descriptions of mannerisms, smiles and thoughts, and I quite liked the sentence that described Rachel’s reaction to the novel’s namesake painting: “This was no ordinary vase of flowers. The sunflowers were his voice, and for the first time since the day we met, I started to truly listen.”
Overall, there are some positive aspects to the novel, and it is certainly interesting to ponder Vincent’s relationship with Rachel and his work, but I would have enjoyed it much more had the language been more universal.
-----
Review published in: What The Dickens? magazine, Issue 5, August 2012; Page 91
http://www.wtd-magazine.com
July 3, 2011
This historical fiction of the painter Vincent Van Gogh is told from the perspective of Rachel, the prostitute to whom Vincent gifted the lobe of his ear in a fit of madness. Although very little is factually known about this woman, Bundrick has created an amazing love story that makes you want it to be true.
Van Gogh left his soul and spirit in the beauty and vividness of his paintings, and Bundrick builds her story around them and the many letters he wrote to his beloved brother Theo. Most chapters begin with quotes from these letters and whole chapters are composed of both real correspondence between Vincent and his brother and imaginary letters between Vincent and his lover. And, being a fan of the epistolary format, I loved these parts of the novel.
The painter Paul Gauguin figures in the story and is depicted as arrogant and rude. The suggestion is made that he copied his ideas from other artists. Both he and Van Gogh imbibed heavily in the highly intoxicating drink Absinthe and one theory proposes this contributed to Vincent’s madness, though the author suggests in her afterward that most psychiatrists believe he was bi-polar.
Vincent tells Rachel in Bundrick’s story, that painting is the only thing that does him good—it drives away the abnormal ideas that fill his head.
Though “Sunflowers” and “Starry Night” are imprinted in my brain, I was motivated to look up some of Van Gogh’s more obscure work on the internet. He was a tortured soul, but he left a magnificent body of work to be enjoyed by the world.
Van Gogh left his soul and spirit in the beauty and vividness of his paintings, and Bundrick builds her story around them and the many letters he wrote to his beloved brother Theo. Most chapters begin with quotes from these letters and whole chapters are composed of both real correspondence between Vincent and his brother and imaginary letters between Vincent and his lover. And, being a fan of the epistolary format, I loved these parts of the novel.
The painter Paul Gauguin figures in the story and is depicted as arrogant and rude. The suggestion is made that he copied his ideas from other artists. Both he and Van Gogh imbibed heavily in the highly intoxicating drink Absinthe and one theory proposes this contributed to Vincent’s madness, though the author suggests in her afterward that most psychiatrists believe he was bi-polar.
Vincent tells Rachel in Bundrick’s story, that painting is the only thing that does him good—it drives away the abnormal ideas that fill his head.
Though “Sunflowers” and “Starry Night” are imprinted in my brain, I was motivated to look up some of Van Gogh’s more obscure work on the internet. He was a tortured soul, but he left a magnificent body of work to be enjoyed by the world.
January 11, 2010
Rachel is the prostitute to whom Vincent gives his ear when he cuts it off. That is the only historical fact known about her. So the author took this seemingly minor person and spun a story about her relationship with Vincent during his time in Arles, France. Why would Vincent specifically ask for Rachel when he stumbles into the brothel that night? A good question, which the author answers with creativity and imagination.
The novel is littered with imagery of Vincent's paintings, especially my favorite, "Cafe Terrace at Night". The descriptions are so well written that I could vividly see his paintings in my head and feel emotions that he meant to convey through his art. I no longer have to go to the museum to get lost in his work; I only have to open this book and choose a paragraph.
This story is an emotional, artistic, whimsical journey through the life of a troubled artist. It makes Vincent a person instead of just a historical figure and gives life also to those who influenced him and loved him. It turns Rachel into something more than just a fille de maison, into a woman who held the heart of the artist. Reading this book was like following the swirls and brushstrokes of Vincent's own art.
The novel is littered with imagery of Vincent's paintings, especially my favorite, "Cafe Terrace at Night". The descriptions are so well written that I could vividly see his paintings in my head and feel emotions that he meant to convey through his art. I no longer have to go to the museum to get lost in his work; I only have to open this book and choose a paragraph.
This story is an emotional, artistic, whimsical journey through the life of a troubled artist. It makes Vincent a person instead of just a historical figure and gives life also to those who influenced him and loved him. It turns Rachel into something more than just a fille de maison, into a woman who held the heart of the artist. Reading this book was like following the swirls and brushstrokes of Vincent's own art.
January 8, 2011
This is a historical novel, loosely based on the life of Vincent Van Gogh - as told by his fictional lover, Rachel. I enjoyed the history part of the story, learning about Van Gogh, his paintings, depression, and lifestyle. Rachel, the narrator and Vincent's lover, is a prostitute in a brothel. Vincent and her meet in a local park, and he requests permission to visit her at the brothel. A romance strikes up, and the two are obsessively in love for the next two years. At times, I felt like this book dragged on like some movies - the two in love, but never quite managing to be together freely. Also, in the beginning, I found the love romantic, but by the end, codependent and disturbing. Rachel is unconditionally committed to Vincent, despite his mental instability, his deceptions, and inability to provide her with the love she so desperately seeks in return. I felt a little like I did when I read Twilight and was so perturbed by the codependent relationship of Bella and her vampire boyfriend who was literally sucking the life out of her. I enjoyed this book, read it quickly, but just really would have liked a stronger female character!
April 9, 2011
I fully expected to struggle with this book as I'd just emerged from a prolonged journey through a thicket of fantasy novels and still had the fog of magic hazing my eyes. Instead, I fell headlong into Arles and the (partially) fictionalized history of Van Gogh's final two years of life.
I found the book a fascinating and very easy read. The author wrote in a way that took me past the written word and deposited me as a spectator into the scenes. She vividly painted, with words, the gardens and wheatfields to the brothels and cafes of Arles, France.
Also, I admired the way in which she brought the historic, 'two-dimensional' Van Gogh to life and presented us with the flesh-and-blood man. I'd always imagined Van Gogh as a tortured, dark individual, but with the help of Bundrick and her knowledge of the artist (and his letters), we are introduced to a more richly dimensioned man with passions, hopes and sense of humor.
I found the book a fascinating and very easy read. The author wrote in a way that took me past the written word and deposited me as a spectator into the scenes. She vividly painted, with words, the gardens and wheatfields to the brothels and cafes of Arles, France.
Also, I admired the way in which she brought the historic, 'two-dimensional' Van Gogh to life and presented us with the flesh-and-blood man. I'd always imagined Van Gogh as a tortured, dark individual, but with the help of Bundrick and her knowledge of the artist (and his letters), we are introduced to a more richly dimensioned man with passions, hopes and sense of humor.
December 12, 2021
I read this book for the love of Vincent Van Gogh, and I loved this book for the love of Vincent Van Gogh. I’ve always loved his work, and the highlight of it was when I visited his museum in Amsterdam. His story though is so sad and embodies the struggle of the poor artist.
This books presents his final couple of years through the eyes of his possible lover. The author did a great job in reimagining what might be their relationship and love story, through the known historical facts of the stories he painted, the place he lived at, documented incidents (like the ear one) and episodes of his illness, letters and other accounts. This story can be as close to or as far from the truth as possible, but I think it does convey some of the spirit of this genius who gave all of us so much by his everlasting art.
This books presents his final couple of years through the eyes of his possible lover. The author did a great job in reimagining what might be their relationship and love story, through the known historical facts of the stories he painted, the place he lived at, documented incidents (like the ear one) and episodes of his illness, letters and other accounts. This story can be as close to or as far from the truth as possible, but I think it does convey some of the spirit of this genius who gave all of us so much by his everlasting art.
December 16, 2019
DNF'ed it..
I just couldn't with the writing. Maybe it is as bad as I think, maybe it is just not my taste, but I couldn't get through it. I liked the way Van Gogh and the protagonist are written and the plot as far as I got (though very predictable).
The point where I lost it (SPOILERS AHEAD), and I mean physically slammed the book and exclaimed aloud, was when the protagonist says she loves Van Gogh SUPER QUICK (I'm talking like 60 some pages?), they have spent a total of like 5 days together? and then van gogh is so predictable-dark-tortured-artist-sad-boi and doesn't answer her so she thinks he doesn't love her back and then he shows her that he painted the two of them in his landscape (eye roll-cringe-combo). and it is so poorly written and simplistic )-;
I just couldn't with the writing. Maybe it is as bad as I think, maybe it is just not my taste, but I couldn't get through it. I liked the way Van Gogh and the protagonist are written and the plot as far as I got (though very predictable).
The point where I lost it (SPOILERS AHEAD), and I mean physically slammed the book and exclaimed aloud, was when the protagonist says she loves Van Gogh SUPER QUICK (I'm talking like 60 some pages?), they have spent a total of like 5 days together? and then van gogh is so predictable-dark-tortured-artist-sad-boi and doesn't answer her so she thinks he doesn't love her back and then he shows her that he painted the two of them in his landscape (eye roll-cringe-combo). and it is so poorly written and simplistic )-;
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