As"The Devil Wears Prada"demystified the world of high fashion, this funny and insightful debut novel dishes the crazy and captivating Manhattan art scene. When painter Jeffrey Finelli is run over by a cab, the art world clamors for the instantly in-demand work by the late emerging artist especially an enormous painting called"Lulu Meets God and Doubts Him." Gallery receptionist and aspiring artist Mia McMurray fi nds herself at the center of the hype. She is an amused witness as a Birkin-toting collector, a well-muscled Irish artist, a real estate baron, and Lulu herself, the artist s niece and muse, battle over the brand-new masterpiece. In the midst of the madness, Mia finds her own creative expression and artistic identity, not to mention love."
It is very easy for me to put a book down and never pick it up again. This is not one of those books. I'm not sure what other reviewers were looking for, but Ganek did a fabulous job of telling a story based on a single incident, and a specific community. I loved getting an inside glimpse of the art world. Mia is a wonderful self depriciating character who manages to cheer for a woman who is accomplishing "her" dreams while Mia is not. Many times I found the story and the writing quite engaging and snappy. Ganek wove in great character points throughout the story. Very consistent and smart. If the reader is looking for high drama, trashy sex, blood and guts, this is not the book. If the reader is looking for an engaging, interesting tale of the NY art scene told by solid characters with a fun love story, this is the book. Mia is a classy American Bridget Jones. Well done, Ms. Ganek!
Excellent First Novel
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 17 years ago
This novel is both well written and engaging. Danielle Ganek develops her characters and weaves a story that is at the same time believable, and introduces the reader to a new world of art and gallery owners and collectors.
first read
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 17 years ago
Excellent first novel. One expects author to write more, as well. Characters are real, pace of story is fast and suspenseful, thougtful where that is needed. Good look into Gallery and auction world of Art Collectors, pop artists, and assorted professional "Artsys"... recommend it heartily.
Enchanting debut
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 17 years ago
What a gem this novel is! The protagonist, Mia, is both thoughtful and wry, aware yet naive - the perfect narrator to a story that teaches us (at least those of us who know nothing about the art world) the machinations of the industry that creates and commercializes creativity. (Alliteration not intended.) What sustains Mia - and what propels her through this inventive story - is her own passion for art, and her quest for how she will be able to manifest this in her own life. The fact that there's a love story woven in adds to the charm, and the host of characters Ganek depicts gives the reader a true bird's eye view to the sparkling (and not-so-sparkling) personalities that move about this high-stakes world. Ganek is a terrific writer... I can't wait for her next book.
Declicious Story of Intrigue in the Art World
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 17 years ago
What really goes on behind the scenes of the Art World? Mix art and murder in the delicious story of intrigue by first time novelist and artist Ganek and the result is one of the most talked about books of the year. Read this book and then anticipate the movie.
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