Vita and the Birds

by Polly Crosby
Vita and the Birds cover
Good Books rating 3.67
Mystery
Buy online
Waterstones
Paperback • £9.99 Hardback • £16.99
Amazon
Format/Price Check
Technical
  • ID: 4476
  • Added: 2025-10-21
  • Updated: 2025-10-21
  • ISBN: 9780008550660
  • Publisher: HarperCollins UK
  • Published: 2023-05-25
  • Formats: 2
  • Reviews: 3

Vita and the Birds is a captivating mystery that has been praised for its poignant storytelling and beautiful writing. The novel has been compared to the works of Eve Chase, Dinah Jefferies, and Kate Mosse, suggesting a richly atmospheric and emotionally resonant narrative. The story's haunting quality draws readers in, making it a page-turner that lingers in the mind long after the last page is turned. The author's evocative prose brings the setting and characters to life, creating a vivid and immersive experience. /n/n The book's appeal lies in its ability to blend mystery with historical elements, creating a compelling and engaging read. The praise from authors like Leonora Nattrass and Anna Mazzola highlights the novel's strengths in both storytelling and atmosphere, making it a standout in the genre.

Reviews
Amazon · 2023-11-23
adequate 2.50

The book is well-written but not outstanding, with characters that are not completely engaging or believable. The themes of art and birds are enjoyable.

This novel is well-written but falls short of being outstanding. The characters are not completely engaging or believable, which can make it difficult to fully connect with the story. However, the themes of art and birds add a unique and enjoyable element to the narrative. The dual timelines and intricate plot keep the reader engaged, but the lack of depth in the characters can be a drawback. The atmosphere is rich and immersive, but the story could benefit from more development in the character department. Overall, it is a enjoyable read but not a standout.

Quick quotes

    It's well written but not outstanding.

    I didn't find any of the characters completely engaging or believable.

    I enjoyed the art and birds, although both themes are not fully explored.

Emma's Library Treasures · 2023-09-05
engrossing 4.50

The book combines a compelling mystery with a poignant love story, all wrapped in beautifully lyrical writing. It is a vivid and engaging read.

This novel is a beautifully crafted blend of mystery and romance, with a writing style that is both poetic and engaging. The dual timelines and intricate plot keep the reader hooked, while the lyrical prose adds a layer of depth and beauty. The themes of love, loss, and secrets are explored with sensitivity, making it a poignant and memorable read. The characters are well-developed, and their stories are told with a level of detail that makes them feel real and relatable. The book's atmosphere is rich and immersive, drawing the reader in and making it hard to put down.

Quick quotes

    A thoroughly compelling mystery meets a poignant love story, all wrapped up in beautifully lyrical writing.

    The vivid, mysterious and compelling read filled with intrigue.

    I was engrossed in Polly Crosby's third novel from the very beginning.

More About Books · 2023-05-07
captivating 4.00

The book has a wonderful gothic feel, with mysteries surrounding the women that keep the pages turning. The atmosphere and mood are captivating.

This novel has a gothic feel that adds a layer of intrigue and mystery. The story is filled with secrets and hidden truths that keep the reader engaged and eager to uncover more. The atmosphere is rich and immersive, creating a mood that is both haunting and captivating. The characters are complex and their stories are told with a level of detail that makes them feel real and relatable. The dual timelines add a layer of depth to the narrative, making it a compelling and memorable read. The themes of love, loss, and secrets are explored with sensitivity, making it a poignant and thoughtful book.

Quick quotes

    There's a wonderful gothic feel to the book.

    The mysteries surrounding the women kept me turning the pages, lost in the mood and atmosphere, with all the action.

    The book is a beautifully delivered story with exquisite lyrical language and dream-inspired images.

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