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Customer Reviews for WaterBrook Press The Girl in the Glass - eBook
WaterBrook Press The Girl in the Glass - eBook
Renaissance is a word with hope infused in every letter.
When Sophia, Meg, and Nora's stories intersect, their lives will be indelibly changed as they each answer the question: What if renaissance isn't just a word? What if that's what happens when you dare to believe that what is isn't what has to be?
Average Customer Rating:
(35 Reviews) 35
Rating Snapshot (35 reviews)
5 stars
13
4 stars
18
3 stars
3
2 stars
1
1 star
0
29 out of 3583%customers would recommend this product to a friend.
Customer Reviews for The Girl in the Glass - eBook
Review 1 for The Girl in the Glass - eBook
Overall Rating:
Self-Discovery and a History Lesson
Date:March 12, 2013
mcaldwell
Location:Erie, PA
Age:35-44
Gender:female
Quality:
4
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
Meg, Sophia, and Nora are the main characters of this book. Each woman is from a different generation and each one experienced brokenness in her childhood. It took some time to get into the rhythm of the book with the switches back and forth of which character you are tracking. Once you have the flow figured out, you can anticipate the next chapter of each story. The stories weave together when you consider how each girl was raised. The Nurse in the story deserves a parenting award for her encouragement of the forgotten Nora. Her lessons helped sustain Sophia as well. Meg learns a great deal on her self-discovery trip to Florence and it able to return home with a sense of peace about her father and herself. Not knowing the city of Florence myself, I was intrigued by the abundance of art in one place. I cannot comment on the accuracy of that part, but it made me curious to see the city. The author has written another story of history intwined with the modern day. I enjoy her books because they tell a story and they teach. I would have classified it as historical fiction and not Christian fiction, though.
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Review 2 for The Girl in the Glass - eBook
Overall Rating:
Slow
Date:March 17, 2013
Quality:
3
out of
5
Value:
3
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
2
out of
5
Marguerite (Meg) Pomeroy was promised a trip to Florence, her Nonna’s birthplace, as a high school graduation gift, but she’s now almost thirty and her father still hasn’t taken her. Now she might finally be going, and hopes to connect with Lorenzo and Renata DiSantis, the brother-and-sister pair who write and photograph travel books published by her San Diego employer. And she might also get to meet Sophia, their neighbour, a tour guide and would-be author who claims to be descended from the famous Medici family.
Girl in the Glass is written from three perspectives: Meg’s first-person story, the first-person musings of a betrothed girl named Nora, and Sophia’s memoir. But it took quite a while to work out who Nora was (a long-dead Medici) and what relationship she had with the rest of the story (Sophia claims to hear Nora speak through art works).
This made the story quite hard going at first – in fact, I stopped reading at the 25% mark, because the points of view were confusing, nothing had happened, and I was getting annoyed with Meg moaning about wanting to go to Florence but not doing anything about it (goodness, this is the twenty-first century. Women can travel on their own, even such distances as San Diego to Florence). But I eventually picked it up again—and had to start again from the beginning, to remind myself what I was reading.
At this point I was thinking that Sophia's memoir was fascinating, a book I'd like to read even though I'm not a fan of art or memoir. Nora's short reflections of her childhood were interesting, even though it wasn't clear how these fitted into the larger story. Meg’s story? Uninspiring. Boring, even. The writing was lovely. But there wasn’t enough story for my liking (or perhaps it was just that Meg had yet to prove herself likeable). Anyway, I persevered.
Finally, at the 28% point, something happened, and by the 40% mark, Meg was on her way to Florence, and the story picked up pace. Finally. But now I can’t tell you what happens, because that would be a spoiler. Suffice to say, the second half of the book was much better than the first and the ending was both perfect and unexpected. I’ve visited Florence, and these scenes both brought back memories and made me want to see the city again, this time through Meg’s eyes and with Sophia as a guide.
This book is published by WaterBrook, a Christian publisher, but the book hardly mentioned God or religion at all. If you’re looking for a novel with a strong Christian message, this isn’t it. If you’re looking for inspirational women’s fiction, this may well suit, as long as you can get past the first hundred pages.
Thanks to WaterBrook Multnomah and BloggingforBooks® for providing a free ebook for review.
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Review 3 for The Girl in the Glass - eBook
Overall Rating:
Book Review: THE GIRL IN THE GLASS
Date:March 15, 2013
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
4
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
3
out of
5
Since she was a child, Meg Pomeroy has dreamed of visiting Florence. However, when Meg finally has the chance to take the long-anticipated trip, it turns out to be far different than she has expected.
Anticipating to meet her father there, Meg arrives in Florence and discovers that she is on her own. Hospitable Sofia Borelli welcomes Meg to Florence and to her home, but as Meg gets to know Sofia and the beautiful city, she discovers some surprising truths about both- and about herself.
This book wasn't totally my style, and I felt like the ending was a little strange, but I must say that this book was very well-written! I as the reader felt pulled into the story. The depth of the book was stunning due, I am sure, to the careful and precise research of the author. She did a great job of making her readers feel as if they were actually seeing the story with their own eyes. This book was, overall, a pretty good read.
I appreciated the opprotunity to read this book, thanks to the library! :-)
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Review 4 for The Girl in the Glass - eBook
Overall Rating:
An interesting fantasy
Date:November 29, 2012
HKW7
Location:NC
Age:55-65
Gender:female
Quality:
4
out of
5
Value:
4
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
3
out of
5
This is the first book I’ve read by Ms. Meissner and I found the eBook, which was in PDF form, quite difficult on my iPod. Perhaps it would read better on a larger device. Overall, although I enjoyed the book, I don’t believe I would have persevered in reading it if I didn’t have the obligation to do a review. I was really confused by the double storyline for many chapters, then finally figured out what “Nora” was all about. It appeared that Meissner was using the hook of whether the main character would actually get to Florence, but that was not enough to have held my interest until more plot came along. I am, however, thankful that I had to read the book. Once the mystery about the character’s father appeared, then I was hooked. I really needed to figure out what was up with him, and was a bit disappointed in the end. Perhaps a sequence will unbury his complete story.
I also think I has hoping for more Christianity in the story, but was pleased with the “cleanness” throughout the book. The contrast between real and fantasy was also intriguing. I do believe that an escape to fantasy to survive this life’s sorrows can be very helpful--especially when I escape into a realm that brings glory to God. I believe that’s exactly what my own story writing has helped me to do. When you create your own world, life appears and happens the way you want it to. I take heart at this comment about Nora: “Nora Orsini wanted to imagine that a different life could be hers. So she did. She looked at herself in a mirror and she painted the girl wanted to see.” I can relate.
The imagery throughout the book was very good. I love books that can “talk” you into the scenery. The landscapes and the people came alive for me. I especially like the end where… well, I won’t spoil it for you, but the author knows what I’m talking about. The signature there tells it all and I found it a bit unbelievable how one of my know writers and characters did a very similar thing. I’ve learned a lot from reading this book. After all, reading is the doorway to writing.
I also think I has hoping for more Christianity in the story, but was pleased with the “cleanness” throughout the book. The contrast between real and fantasy was also intriguing. I do believe that an escape to fantasy to survive this life’s sorrows can be very helpful--especially when I escape into a realm that brings glory to God. I believe that’s exactly what my own story writing has helped me to do. When you create your own world, life appears and happens the way you want it to. I take heart at this comment about Nora: “Nora Orsini wanted to imagine that a different life could be hers. So she did. She looked at herself in a mirror and she painted the girl wanted to see.” I can relate.
The imagery throughout the book was very good. I love books that can “talk” you into the scenery. The landscapes and the people came alive for me. I especially like the end where… well, I won’t spoil it for you, but the author knows what I’m talking about. The signature there tells it all and I found it a bit unbelievable how one of my know writers and characters did a very similar thing. I’ve learned a lot from reading this book. After all, reading is the doorway to writing.
I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group for this review.
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Review 5 for The Girl in the Glass - eBook
Overall Rating:
Beautiful, Hopeful & Refreshing!
Date:January 8, 2013
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
As usual, Susan hooked me within the first few pages. Meg’s story begins with a theme of “borrowing” that’s much too prevalent in her life. She’s taken the safe path & made good choices, but a passion & desire for something more lies dormant inside her heart where she keeps it safely tucked away. A cast of interesting & complex characters each contribute to Meg’s journey towards owning her future. Venice has always called to me, but Florence has certainly been added to my bucket list as a result of this beautiful story. I’ll also never look at art the same way again. I absolutely adored Sophia even when her fantasies & flaws surfaced, maybe even more so after I understood her better. Meg would’ve never learned to fly without Sophia’s lovely & gentle “Mary” spirit. I honestly didn’t know which conclusion I was rooting for, but Susan’s wonderful ending eclipsed both of the scenarios I imagined! Need to “get away” - this is the book for you - it's romantic, beautiful, hopeful & refreshing!
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Review 6 for The Girl in the Glass - eBook
Overall Rating:
A nice feel-good story.
Date:December 20, 2012
Quality:
4
out of
5
Value:
4
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
3
out of
5
Author: Susan Meissner
Genre: General Fiction
Publisher: Waterbrook
Pages: 328
Genre: General Fiction
Publisher: Waterbrook
Pages: 328
Having only read one of Susan Meissner's books before this (A Sound Among the Trees, Click Here to read my review), I was already familiar with her writing style, but wasn't sure what to expect from the story itself.
As before, Meissner drew me into her story world completely with descriptions and settings and details so vivid and sensory that it felt like I was actually there. Reading writing that skillful is always refreshing, and I totally want to take a trip to Italy now.
The story itself was somewhat... how shall I put it?... foggy. I don't mean the plot. The plot was very easy to follow. The message of the story, however, not so much. Basically it comes down to some of the characters being people who see the world as black and white with no in-between, and the rest of the characters being people who see the world as a blend of hundreds of shades of gray, and different people making decisions based on their different perceptions. Not that there's anything wrong with that. Personally I tend to lean more towards being a black and white person, but I can still allow room for gray areas where needed. Unfortunately, the theme of this story seemed like it was so gray that there was nothing solid, nothing that you could grab hold of and take away from the story other than a vague, hazy notion.
Definitely a feel-good story, but not one that offers a solid moral to take away, in my opinion. Nothing wrong with that, but if you're looking for a book with a strong, clear message, this might not be the best choice.
As before, Meissner drew me into her story world completely with descriptions and settings and details so vivid and sensory that it felt like I was actually there. Reading writing that skillful is always refreshing, and I totally want to take a trip to Italy now.
The story itself was somewhat... how shall I put it?... foggy. I don't mean the plot. The plot was very easy to follow. The message of the story, however, not so much. Basically it comes down to some of the characters being people who see the world as black and white with no in-between, and the rest of the characters being people who see the world as a blend of hundreds of shades of gray, and different people making decisions based on their different perceptions. Not that there's anything wrong with that. Personally I tend to lean more towards being a black and white person, but I can still allow room for gray areas where needed. Unfortunately, the theme of this story seemed like it was so gray that there was nothing solid, nothing that you could grab hold of and take away from the story other than a vague, hazy notion.
Definitely a feel-good story, but not one that offers a solid moral to take away, in my opinion. Nothing wrong with that, but if you're looking for a book with a strong, clear message, this might not be the best choice.
I received a copy of this book free of charge from the publisher in exchange for my review.
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Review 7 for The Girl in the Glass - eBook
Overall Rating:
Loved this story!
Date:December 19, 2012
Jackie Layton
Location:KY
Age:45-54
Gender:female
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
Loved this book.
Meg has dreamed of taking a trip to Florence, Italy with her father for years. Just as she thinks it's about to happen he disappoints her once again.
Meg finds herself in Florence alone and disappointed in her father again. But she spends a week there, and oh what a week it is.
Susan Meissner paints a beautiful picture of the city and it's history. She weaves it into Meg's story.
I was pulled into this story from the first page and hated to put the book down.
I don't think you'll be disappointed if you choose to read this book.
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Review 8 for The Girl in the Glass - eBook
Overall Rating:
A Richly Woven Story Worth Reading
Date:December 17, 2012
The Bluestocking Belle
Location:the Deep South
Age:35-44
Gender:female
Quality:
4
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
4
out of
5
Deftly weaving together the threads of three women’s lives, Susan Meissner has created a book as rich and evocative as Florence, Italy, itself. The Girl in the Glass gives us Meg Pomeroy, a book editor house-sitting in a cottage in California. Her job is the only solid thing in her life. A fragmented childhood, a broken engagement, and an unfulfilled promise from her father give Meg’s life an untethered quality, and her dream of visiting Florence, Italy, the home of her beloved Nonna, lies always in her heart. It is possible to be homesick for a place one’s never been.
Through her friend and client, Lorenzo, who lives in Florence, Meg receives a manuscript written by Sofia Borelli, another Florentine, who claims to be descended from the Medicis. Sofia makes other eccentric and mysterious assertions, such as the ability to hear the voice of a Medici ancestress, Nora Orsini, through works of art. Though more than a bit dubious of such claims, Meg is drawn into Sofia’s story, and her desire to visit Florence strengthens
Interlaced between Meg’s story and Sofia’s manuscript is Nora herself. A child of the Italian Renaissance, Nora reflects on her short life on the eve of her wedding to a man she barely knows. Despite her precarious childhood, Nora clings to the secret of the “girl in the glass,” a secret her nurse told her years ago. This same secret serves to benefit Meg and Sofia, as well.
Meissner’s plot is well paced, with surprising twists and intriguing developments, and her descriptions are vivid, conveying a strong sense of place. Through her characters’ lives and circumstances, Meissner skillfully and elegantly addresses themes of loss and faith; reality and imagination; instability and perseverance; and the qualities of love. Although the book begins slowly, it quickly gains momentum and pulls readers into Meg’s life. The denouement is fully satisfying, even though some questions remain unanswered – just like in real life.
The Girl in the Glass is one of the better books I've read lately. I thoroughly enjoyed the story. Moreover, Meissner's descriptions are so well written that I found myself daydreaming about Florence! I'm thrilled to discover an author new to me; I'll be reading more from her.
I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group for this review.
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Review 9 for The Girl in the Glass - eBook
Overall Rating:
A magical tale winding about captivating Florence
Date:December 12, 2012
Caitria
Quality:
4
out of
5
Value:
4
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
I was a little skeptical when I picked this book up. I never read anything by Meissner before and the backcover blurp appeared almost a little too simple, cliché, and childish for a young adult/adult book. Not to mention a bit weird. I mean, seriously, no one can talk to someone of the past through paintings and sculptures. You can imagine how surprised and pleased I was to find it a most refreshing read!
Meissner uses fresh phrasing, to-the-point dialogue, a description that enchants as much as it sucks you into her world. Her story, revolving around book editor, Marguerite (Meg) Pomeroy, is one of mystery and history (definitely endearing for me). Meg has had one dream her whole life: to visit the ancient city of Florence. Ever since her Italian grandmother passed away, her father promised to take her as a graduation present. But she has long since passed high school, and then college, and still they have never taken the promised trip, and now she has a life immersed in the publication business. Life goes on day to day, and though she still dreams of going to Florence, reminisces about her past longings and memories of her grandmother,
Probably the thing that singles this novel out the most is Meissner’s powerful way with words. Not only do you believe with every ounce of your being that Meg wants to go to Florence, that she should go to Florence, but you want to go too, to see the things she pictures, the settings she paints, the artwork she describes... Not only do you believe Sophia’s claim of hearing Nora, but you hear her too. And you want to tell the world. There is something almost magical in the way Meissner speaks, like a beautiful lilt of poetry, a last spec of color dancing on the horizon of a dark world. It is captivating.
There was only one drawback to the book. Meg is needy, in many ways, all relatable and understandable, but throughout the books she struggles between “picking” one of three men. By the end of the book, the reader is more or less tired about her wishy-washy desires for love, yet inability to just sit down and choose.
Still, it is a beautiful story about restoration, relationships, and learning to keep your imagination and reality in two places.
"What does one do with a heart that has been broken? One might look for a bonding agent that will fuse all the pieces back together. Or one might learn to live among the shards.
Or one might be tempted to sweep up the bits and toss them and be done with hearts." ~ Nora
Or one might be tempted to sweep up the bits and toss them and be done with hearts." ~ Nora
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Review 10 for The Girl in the Glass - eBook
Overall Rating:
Brings Florence, Italy to Life
Date:December 2, 2012
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
I spent a day in Florence once—and thought it was enough. But, after reading "The Girl in the Glass" by Susan Meissner, I’d like to go back—for about a month—with Meissner as my tour guide! Her book does exactly what her main character, a travel book editor, hopes a potential author’s book will do: it makes you feel you’ve been there if you haven’t and long to go back if you have—with a whole new appreciation for all that is there.
As in Meissner’s other recent works, this book gives the reader two stories in one, alternating between a contemporary story and a fictionalized account of an historical character, in this case Francesca Eleonora (Nora) Orsini, granddaughter of Cosimo I de Medici, who suffered a tragic childhood in Florence during the Renaissance. The contemporary story is shared by two women, Meg Pomeroy and Sophia Borelli, whose lives intersect in Florence and have much in common with Nora of the Renaissance. Together, Meg and Sophia must learn, as Nora did, the true meaning of renaissance.
I was totally drawn into the stories in this book and thought they all ended perfectly. Not only will this book appeal to those who enjoy great novels, but also to art enthusiasts, travelers, and those with an interest in the human mind. I thank Waterbrook Multnomah Publishers for sending a complimentary copy for this honest review.
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Review 11 for The Girl in the Glass - eBook
Overall Rating:
study in character, nothing Christian in content
Date:November 30, 2012
Quality:
2
out of
5
Value:
3
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
1
out of
5
This novel combines the lives of three women of different times and cultures. Meg is a southern California gal, an editor for a publisher of travel books. Sofia is an older woman of Florence who claims to be a descendant of the Medici family. She hears the whisperings of Nora Orsini, granddaughter of the great Cosimo I and living in the sixteenth century.
The lives of these three women cross when Meg travels to Florence, a childhood dream and the promise of her father. Meg is introduced to Sofia through a mutual friend. Throughout Meg's week in Florence, she tries to unravel Sofia's story.
The lives of these three women cross when Meg travels to Florence, a childhood dream and the promise of her father. Meg is introduced to Sofia through a mutual friend. Throughout Meg's week in Florence, she tries to unravel Sofia's story.
Meissner has created an interesting character study of three women. Meg's grandmother had a painting of herself as a child in Florence and that had put the dream to travel there into Meg's heart. While her father had promised to make it happen, Meg's parents had divorced and he had never followed through.
Sofia is convinced she is of the Medici line even though historical records indicate there are no living descendants of that historically important family of Florence. When Sofia is by statues or paintings, she can hear the whispers of Nora Orsini whose mother was killed and father abandoned her in the late 1500s.
Sofia is convinced she is of the Medici line even though historical records indicate there are no living descendants of that historically important family of Florence. When Sofia is by statues or paintings, she can hear the whispers of Nora Orsini whose mother was killed and father abandoned her in the late 1500s.
Meissner skillfully interweaves the lives of these three women. She highlights the similarities in their families. For example, Nora's father abandons her. Meg's father made a promise he has not kept and has essentially abandoned her. Sofia's father is in the deep well of dementia, essentially leaving her.
Most of the novel takes place in Florence and there is a bit of a travel book feel to the novel. Unfortunately, there were not the gripping descriptions of buildings, statues, etc., to make me feel like I was really there. There is a hint of romance throughout the novel as Meg tries to figure out who she really loves.
Mostly the book is about women who are trying to understand who they are in the midst of life happening around them.
Mostly the book is about women who are trying to understand who they are in the midst of life happening around them.
There was actually nothing “Christian” about this novel. This is a descent novel but not captivating nor page turning. There are discussion questions at the end.
I received a complimentary egalley of this book from the publisher for the purpose of this review.
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Review 12 for The Girl in the Glass - eBook
Overall Rating:
Artistic view of Italy
Date:November 26, 2012
Quality:
4
out of
5
Value:
4
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
4
out of
5
This story has so many levels to it. When I started out I struggled to relate Nora's story to Meg's story but once she ended up in Florence it began to come together. Using a third character, Sophia, it really added to the experience. I really enjoyed the development of the character's struggles and the realizations in the end. It did seem quite poetic. I appreciated the artistic value it brought as well. I would recommend this to anyone who enjoys art, Italy, a flavor of romance and mystery as well.
I received this book free from Waterbrook Multnomah in exchange for my review.
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Review 13 for The Girl in the Glass - eBook
Overall Rating:
The closest I'll ever get to Florence, Italy
Date:November 24, 2012
honestvarietybooks
Age:18-24
Gender:female
Quality:
4
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
The Girl in the Glass is written exceptionally well. The book makes you want to jump on the first thing that will get you to Florence, Italy. The stories of Nora, Sofia, and Meg pull on your heart strings more than most book plots I’ve read. There are many quotable lines in the book that make you think about what’s really important in life. The only downfall (like many other reviews have pointed out) it is extremely easy to get confused who’s story your reading, probably because the stories of each woman very closely mirrors the others. Sofia and Nora are similar because their father killed their mother. Meg’s father never killed her mother but he did some other things that were very wrong such as leaving her family when she was young, having an affair while he was still married to her mom, taking money from his second wife and skipping out of town without letting anyone know where he was. I would love to go back and read the book again. I would read the chapters outlined Nora first, then read the plot line. I would reread it a third time reading the plot first and then the Nora chapters to see how chapter organization affects the book. However, I would only do this if I had a paper book to hold. There were definitely lessons to be learned from the book.
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Review 14 for The Girl in the Glass - eBook
Overall Rating:
Loved the book!
Date:November 9, 2012
balboa
Age:Over 65
Gender:female
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
Suspenseful, informative, thought-provoking ---all tied up in one book. I have already passed it on to three of my friends .
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Review 15 for The Girl in the Glass - eBook
Overall Rating:
Great Moral Story
Date:November 2, 2012
mmbear
Location:Dawsonville, GA
Age:45-54
Gender:female
Quality:
4
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
4
out of
5
Meg Pomeroy had always dreamed of Florence, Italy and being able to see the beauty her Nonna had told her about.
At the time of Nonna's death, she and her mother, Elaine, were in San Diego. Her father and mother were divorced when she was young and at her Nonna's death, her dad promised to take her to Florence.
Six years later, she still had not gone. Meg worked for publisher's Crowne & Castillo, where she is the editor. Lorenzo Di Santis and his sister, Renata were friends of Meg's in Florence. Both were a team of writing and photograpy. Finally, Meg's father sent her a plane ticket and a credit card to go to Forence and he would meet her there.
Well, he never showed but she did meet a woman named Sofia Borelli, a writer who claims to hear from a deceased woman named Nora Orsini. Her book was very good and Medg stayed with Sofia for a week.
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Review 16 for The Girl in the Glass - eBook
Overall Rating:
Art of Florence
Date:October 28, 2012
I've never been to Florence before and after reading this book, I feel I had a little taste of it thanks to the detailed descriptions the author gave. Now, some people might not like the minute details that Susan Meissner put into the book. It probably could have been a shorter book...but moving on.
Meg is an adult and is still feeling the effects of her parent's divorce almost 15 years later. Her father promised Meg's gramma that he would take her to Florence. Fast forward many years and Meg still hasn't gone....until one day she has less than half an hour to get ready and head to the airport to get on a plane to head to Florence.
Sofia is writing a memoir about her life as a Medici living in Florence. Meg gets a copy of Sofia's first two chapters and falls immediately in love...yet again....with Florence. In order for Sofia's memoir to be published, Meg's boss' tell her that she needs to find proof of Sofia's family history proving she is a Medici. Sofia does not have proof and cannot understand why people aren't taking her at her word.
When Meg gets to Florence, she realizes that her father is not there and never had been. She is stuck in a foreign country with no where to go...until she remembers that Sofia put her address on her pages for her book. Meg hops in a cab and heads over to where Sofia lives. Meg ends up staying with Sofia and together they experience the art that Florence has to offer.
Going into this book I didn't have high expectations of it being a Christian fiction novel. And those expectations were met. There were a few quick prayers sent up when someone was in trouble, but other than that, nothing. I felt the focus of the book had nothing to do with God, but with finding out who you truly are and following your dreams because you can do anything. That's not necessarily bad, but as a Christian, God should be the center of our lives and a Christian should be getting to know God more, not necessarily themselves. In the process, He will point out the areas that we need to give over to Him. I would recommend this book if you were interested in Florence, Italy, but not other than that.
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Review 17 for The Girl in the Glass - eBook
Overall Rating:
Take a Trip to Florence
Date:October 25, 2012
tickmenot
Location:Kansas City
Gender:female
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
4
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
4
out of
5
This is the story of three women: Meg Pomeroy, Sophia Borelli, and Nora Orsini–and the love they all have in common, Florence, Italy.
Meg Pomeroy lives in San Diego and works as an editor for a publishing house that specializes in travel. The biggest influence in Meg’s life was her much loved Italian grandmother, Nonna. Meg and Nonna planned to go to Florence together after Meg’s high school graduation–Meg dreamed and longed for this trip. Then Meg’s parents divorced and to a certain extent, she lost both her Dad and Nonna. Meg no longer lived close to Nonna, so her frequent visits stopped, and her Dad didn’t spend very much time with Meg anymore. Then sadly, Nonna passed away. But before her death, Nonna made Meg’s Dad swear to make the long promised Florence trip with Meg.
As an adult, Meg has traveled to different parts of the world. But the only place she really wants to go is Florence–that is the desire of her heart. She has held back going, hoping after all these years that her Dad would finally take her. Unfortunately, her Dad hasn’t been reliable in many areas, including taking Meg to Florence. He mentions going from time-to-time, but never actually does it. As the years have passed, the people in Meg’s life have advised her to quit holding out hope for her Dad, and make the trip herself.
Suddenly, Meg’s Dad is promising the trip once again. This time, it really looks like the Florence vacation will happen. But will it really? Her father abruptly disappears. Is this promised trip just another disappointment from her Dad? Should Meg forget about traveling with her Dad, and go after her heart’s desire and make this trip alone?
Sophia Borelli has guided tourists in Florence, Italy, for decades. After all those years, she knows the art and history of the city like the back of her hand. Sophia claims she hears the voice of Nora Orsini when she looks at the great art of Florence, and that is how she knows so much about the city. The Medici family is said to have died out years earlier. However, Sophia says she, like Nora, is a Medici and that is why Sophia can hear Nora’s voice.
Sophia has written a charming book about Florence in which Sophia quotes information she claims comes from the long-dead Nora. Sophia wants Meg to get it published for her. Although Meg really likes Sophia and her writing, she knows her company won’t publish something that contains information from a “voice”. Is Sophia really hearing Nora’s voice, or is she delusional? Can Sophia truly be part of the extinct Medici family? The Medici family tie is the main reason the publishing company would want to publish the book, if that is not true, the publisher might lose interest. If these claims are disproved, will it destroy the fragile Sophia who has already endured so many losses?
Nora Orsini is a member of the Medici family living in 1500′s Florence. This is the Nora that Sophia claims she is related to, and whose voice she hears–and Nora is a real historical figure. Nora’s story weaves in and out of the book with some parallels in the lives of both Sophia and Meg.
I think this book is very appealing. The intertwining of the three women’s stories is interesting. I especially like the parts where the three stories intersect. The book doesn’t really present the Gospel of Christ, but God is mentioned, and the characters have some discussions about God. Florence is described so well that you want to go see this city yourself. This tale has twists and turns, and just when it looks like the ending is apparent, it takes another turn. I applaud the author for writing a wholesome story, and give this book five stars.
The publisher has provided me with a complimentary copy of this book through WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group for the purpose of review. All opinions expressed are my own, and I have not been compensated in any other manner.
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Review 18 for The Girl in the Glass - eBook
Overall Rating:
A fantastic read! Couldn't put it down!
Date:September 10, 2012
PJmacnoid
Location:Ohio
Age:55-65
Gender:female
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
Can't believe I read this book in one day....just couldn't put it down! I actually underlined sentences that were especially beautiful...and I sat and pondered them before I moved on with the story. Well...actually 3 stories...all woven together while winding in and out of present time and past times...actually 2 pasts....
Meg, the main character, has suffered loss and disappointments, especially where her absentee father is concerned. Her beloved Italian grandmother has inspired her with a love for Florence, Italy, and promised to take her there for a HS graduation gift. Sadly, she loses her grandmother before that happens, and her father is less than dependable about following up on his promise to take her there himself.
Now at 30, Meg, an editor for a publishing company, finally makes it to Florence where she meets 2 of her clients, Lorenzo & his sister Renata who write travel books. She also meets Sofia, a potential new client whose memoir was forwarded to her by Lorenzo. Meg was intrigued by Sofia's writing, with the setting in Florence, beautifully written, weaving in her childhood memories and the beauty of Florence, including hearing the voice of one of her Medici ancestors . Sofia is a gentle, somewhat broken person, and her story fascinates and intrigues Meg.
Throughout the story is woven a few pages here and there of what sounds like journal entries of Nora Orsini, a Medici from the 1590s. I loved the beauty of the writing of these entries....savored these pages....so much beauty and wisdom.
These stories gently weave around each other, and through it all, you feel the beauty of Florence, and it makes you want to go there and experience it for yourself! Throw in some unexpected plot twists, and it makes for a great read!
I think I have read all of Susan Meissner's books now. Her characters are memorable, and you feel like you are making the emotional journeys with them. I was hooked after I read her book 'Why the Sky is Blue'; I have since tracked down and read all the others. The Shape of Mercy, another historic novel that flips between the past and the present was fantastic, and this one is just as beautifully written...maybe better!! So I was thrilled to win a book for 'early review' written by Meissner!
Meg, the main character, has suffered loss and disappointments, especially where her absentee father is concerned. Her beloved Italian grandmother has inspired her with a love for Florence, Italy, and promised to take her there for a HS graduation gift. Sadly, she loses her grandmother before that happens, and her father is less than dependable about following up on his promise to take her there himself.
Now at 30, Meg, an editor for a publishing company, finally makes it to Florence where she meets 2 of her clients, Lorenzo & his sister Renata who write travel books. She also meets Sofia, a potential new client whose memoir was forwarded to her by Lorenzo. Meg was intrigued by Sofia's writing, with the setting in Florence, beautifully written, weaving in her childhood memories and the beauty of Florence, including hearing the voice of one of her Medici ancestors . Sofia is a gentle, somewhat broken person, and her story fascinates and intrigues Meg.
Throughout the story is woven a few pages here and there of what sounds like journal entries of Nora Orsini, a Medici from the 1590s. I loved the beauty of the writing of these entries....savored these pages....so much beauty and wisdom.
These stories gently weave around each other, and through it all, you feel the beauty of Florence, and it makes you want to go there and experience it for yourself! Throw in some unexpected plot twists, and it makes for a great read!
I think I have read all of Susan Meissner's books now. Her characters are memorable, and you feel like you are making the emotional journeys with them. I was hooked after I read her book 'Why the Sky is Blue'; I have since tracked down and read all the others. The Shape of Mercy, another historic novel that flips between the past and the present was fantastic, and this one is just as beautifully written...maybe better!! So I was thrilled to win a book for 'early review' written by Meissner!
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are entirely my own.
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Review 19 for The Girl in the Glass - eBook
Overall Rating:
Ah, Florence!
Date:October 22, 2012
Kaye
Location:Arizona
Age:Over 65
Gender:female
I loved this book! Maybe the reason I found it so fascinating was it transported me back to my visit there many years ago. When I was there as a tourist, Florence just grabbed me & wouldn't let go. Yes, I was a willing captive & I didn't want to leave but my husband had to remind me that we had to move on. Regretfully, my time there was too short & I treasure the drawings a sidewalk artist drew of my husband & me, along with the snapshots we took. Such good memories! Not only will you willl enjoy this read, you will want to hop the next plane to Florence!
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Review 20 for The Girl in the Glass - eBook
Overall Rating:
A Tale of Two Women and One City
Date:October 7, 2012
Quality:
4
out of
5
Value:
4
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
4
out of
5
Once again, Susan Meissner carries us away to a past time as we look at the lives of two women, Nora Orsini and Meg Pomeroy who love Florence, Italy. Nora as she is preparing to marry and saying goodbye to her beautiful city. Meg fell in love with Florence through the eyes of her beloved Grandmother. Now her long awaited trip had finally arrived.
This is the third Meissner book I’ve read and overall, I enjoyed this story, it didn’t move me the way The Shape of Mercy did, but there are few books that will do that. I think the best part of the story was watching Meg come into her own. Meg in some ways reminded me of myself as I could relate with her dreams and her disappointment in the people she loved.
Reading about Meg’s time in Florence was also enjoyable as the author did paint a nice picture of what life might be like in the Florence of today as well as the Florence of yesteryear.
The thing that bothers me about Meissner’s books are the lack of a strong spiritual aspect. In this story there’s a reference to Meg’s mom being at a church function and Meg attends Mass with Sophia and says the occasional prayer. I personally enjoy stories that have more emphasis on the spiritual aspect of at least one character.
Recommendations:
If you enjoy stories that blend history with the contemporary you should enjoy this story. If you enjoy books that are not “overly” Christian, but is a “clean” read you’ll enjoy this as well.
Disclaimer: I did receive this advance reader copy from the publishers I was under no obligation other than to give my honest opinion.
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