Thursday, March 03, 2016

Book Beginnings: The Muralist


The Muralist, by B.A. Shapiro (Algonquin Books, November 2015). This is the book's opening paragraph:
It was there when I arrived that morning, sitting to the right of my desk, ostensibly no different from the other half-dozen cartons on the floor, flaps bent back, paintings haphazardly poking out. As soon as I saw it, I ripped off my gloves, dropped to my knees, and pawed through the contents. I didn't realize I wasn't breathing until my chest began to ache and little black dots jumped around the edges of my vision.
Initial Thoughts:

I like it. I'm always attracted to fiction about the art world. And how wonderful to be so excited about anything that you forget to breathe. Lovely. I've heard a lot of good things about this book, and I'm anxious to get started on it. (A little late, but you know how that is.)

But, what d'you think? Would this first paragraph pull you in, keep you reading? Or if you've read the book, did you like it?




Rose City Reader hosts Book Beginnings on Fridays. As she says, the idea is to post the first sentence (or so) of the book you're currently reading, along with any first impressions or thoughts you have about the book, the author, etc.  It's a wonderful way of adding new books to your must-read list, and a chance to connect with other readers and bloggers.


6 comments:

  1. I haven't even heard of this one, but with that opening I definitely want to keep going! I'm familiar with that feeling - what did she see! Happy reading! :)

    Check out my Friday 56 (With Book Beginnings).

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  2. Oh, I found myself holding MY breath as I read those opening lines, so now I am very curious. Thanks for sharing and enjoy; and thanks for visiting my blog.

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  3. I read The Art Forger by Shapiro several years ago and really liked it! Will definitely look for this one. :)

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  4. I read "The Art Forger" and liked it. I didn't realize she had another one out. Definitely adding this to my wish list!

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  5. This sounds really good! I love books about the art world as well in spite of (or maybe because of) the fact I'm not artistic at all!

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  6. I was intrigued by the first lines too and read about 100 pages or so and couldn't get interested. I hope it works out better for you.

    Have a great weekend.

    Elizabeth
    Silver's Reviews
    My Book Beginnings

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Welcome and thanks for leaving me a comment. I love to hear from visitors.

Also, please note that while I appreciate the thought, I don't play the blog awards game. I think you all deserve awards! But you might think about becoming a follower of my blog -- that would really be the best award.