The Marriage of Opposites by

The Marriage of Opposites is a richly imagined novel that brings to life the extraordinary story of Rachel Pomie, a woman ahead of her time. Set against the lush backdrop of St. Thomas in the early 19th century, the narrative explores themes of love, freedom, and the power of artistic expression. Rachel's journey is one of defiance and passion, as she navigates the constraints of her society and forges her own path. The novel also delves into the life of her son, Camille Pissarro, who would go on to become the Father of Impressionism, adding a layer of historical significance to the story. Alice Hoffman weaves a compelling tale that blends historical fact with vivid imagination, creating a world that is both enchanting and deeply human. The novel is a testament to the enduring power of love and the transformative nature of art, making it a must-read for fans of historical fiction and romance.

Reviews

Toby A. Smith · Toby A. Smith · 2018-10-04

mixed 3.50

While the reviewer generally enjoys Alice Hoffman's work, they find this novel somewhat disappointing, noting that it came close to not meeting their expectations. They still acknowledge its strengths, particularly the beautiful storytelling and historical context.

Toby A. Smith, a usual fan of Alice Hoffman's books, finds The Marriage of Opposites to be a bit of a letdown compared to her other works. They appreciate the beautiful storytelling and the rich historical context but feel that the novel falls short of Hoffman's usual brilliance. Smith acknowledges the strengths of the book, such as its vivid setting and compelling characters, but ultimately finds it lacking in some areas. Despite this, they still recommend it to fans of historical fiction and Hoffman's previous works.

Quick quotes

I have never been disappointed in an Alice Hoffman book – though The Marriage of Opposites came close.

The novel is a beautifully written exploration of love, family, and the power of art.

Hoffman's ability to blend historical facts with fictional elements is evident, creating a rich and immersive narrative.

The Guardian · Lucasta Miller · 2016-08-28

engaging 4.00

The reviewer admires Hoffman's ability to balance the protagonist's strong-willed nature with her internal conflicts, creating a nuanced portrayal of a woman navigating a patriarchal society. The historical setting is richly detailed, adding depth to the narrative.

Lucasta Miller praises Alice Hoffman for her skillful handling of the protagonist's complex character, who is both unyielding and vulnerable. The reviewer finds the exploration of patriarchal constraints and the protagonist's fight against them particularly compelling. Miller also highlights the novel's vivid historical setting, which enhances the story's emotional and thematic depth. They appreciate how Hoffman blends historical facts with fictional elements to create a rich and engaging narrative that resonates with contemporary readers.

Quick quotes

Throughout the novel, Hoffman strikes a sympathetic balance between Rachel's uncompromising nature and her struggle against patriarchal constraints.

The novel is a rich tapestry of history and fiction, blending the real and the imagined to create a compelling narrative.

Hoffman's prose is lush and evocative, drawing the reader into the vibrant world of 19th-century St. Thomas.

Jewish Women's Archive · 2015-12-21

insightful 4.00

The novel delves into the complexities of family dynamics and the constraints of societal expectations, highlighting the protagonist's resilience and the rich cultural backdrop of her life. The reviewer appreciates the depth of characterization and the vivid portrayal of historical context.

This review explores how Alice Hoffman masterfully weaves together historical fiction with personal drama, creating a compelling narrative that resonates with modern readers. The reviewer is particularly impressed by the way Hoffman brings to life the struggles and triumphs of the protagonist, set against the vibrant backdrop of 19th-century St. Thomas. They find the exploration of themes like love, duty, and self-discovery to be both poignant and thought-provoking, making it a standout read.

Quick quotes

Hoffman takes that intriguing bit of gossip and cracks it open to reveal a whole, complex world of family squabbles, painful secrets, rigid gender norms, and the passionate, transcendent power of art.

Rachel's story is one of resilience and defiance, a testament to the strength of women in a time when their voices were often silenced.

The novel is a rich tapestry of history and fiction, blending the real and the imagined to create a compelling narrative.

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