Published by Penguin Group, Viking Genres: Historical Fiction, Literary Fiction
Format: ARC, eBook
The Glassmaker is a captivating work of historical fiction that depicts one family of glassmakers living on Murano. It is a glimpse into the life of a women, Orsola, who has a passion for glass in a time where it is looked down upon. Readers are shown her triumphs, her losses, her successes, her love, her passion, and her drive throughout time.
1486- Murano, Italy
Venice is the center for trade. The Rosso family are glassmakers living on Murano, who have recently lost their patriarch. Orsola is the eldest daughter who aspires for more in her life, as her brother Marco takes over as glassmaker. He is young, stubborn, cocky and lacks the experience, expertise and skill that his father possessed. The family struggles and Orsola learns to make glass beads from a female mentor and does her best to make money for her beads. She experiences scorn, jesting, and insults from her brother Marco, but is determined and keeps making them.
This book takes place during the times of Renaissance-era Italy to the present day. It follows one family who age slowly during this time. It was a very clever touch, and readers are shown how the characters grow, adapt, struggle, triumph, and survive. During this time, they will fall in love, endure heartbreak, grow, marry, become parents, and survive the many changes that Venice will experience through time.
Who knew I would be so invested in a tale about glassmakers? Years ago, I took a Vaporetto from Venice to Murano. I visited a touristy glass shop and had to smile as Orsola discusses the tourist shops vs. the other glass shops on Murano.
I enjoyed how the book transcended time and the family endured through time, experiencing all the changes and challenges of each decade.
Tracy Chevalier discusses her extensive research and visits with glassmakers that were made prior to writing this book. Her research paid off and the result was this beautifully written book. I enjoyed the vivid descriptions, the writing, the family dynamics, and the well thought out plot.
Beautifully written, well thought out, and gripping.
Thank you to PENGUIN GROUP Viking | Viking and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.