Still Life by Sarah Winman

Still Life by Sarah Winman is a love letter to Florence, Italy. An easy five stars. No review of mine could do this book justice. 

Synopsis

In Tuscany, during World War II, Evelyn Skinner, a 64-year-old art historian, meets Ulysses Temper, a young British soldier. Their chance encounter forms an enduring bond of friendship that leaves a lasting impression on Ulysses and helps shape the rest of his life. Meanwhile, Evelyn is in Florence trying to rescue paintings from the war and reminisce on her first visit to Florence when she fell in love with a beautiful maid named Livia. 

Fast forward to after the war, Massimo, an Italian lawyer, presents Ulysses with the opportunity to return to Florence and see where it takes him. 

Thoughts on Still Life by Sarah Winman

Still Life sweeps across four decades and into the lives of characters that will steal your heart. I can’t even choose a favourite character; they are all to-die-for. We have Claude, a talking parrot full of wisdom and one-liners; old Cressy, a loving father figure to everyone; Pete, a goofy but talented piano player. And so many more. 

This story is the kind of historical fiction I love. It’s full of art, love, friendships, and mouth-watering descriptions of Italian food. I may or may not have shed a few tears while reading it. 

This remarkable tale will make you want to hop on a plane and visit the beauty that is Florence. 

My Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Expected Publication: 16 November 2021

Thank you to Viking for the arc via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. 

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