Rodin's Lover: A Novel | 
so-soThere were many parts of the story I enjoyed, I often paused to research the works mentioned, Claudel had some amazing pieces and what was more impressive was the obstacles she faced being a woman in the male-dominated art world. Where the story fell flat for me was Claudel herself. I don't know if the author took liberties with her character, making her unlikable by other women (and the reader), but it made me limp through the book.
I knew who I'd feature on #womenshistoryreads today as soon as I saw the great (if overdue) news that talented sculptor Camille Claudel finally has a museum dedicated to her work! Heather Webb's novel RODIN'S LOVER is a fascinating look at Claudel with all her strengths & flaws, and how her art was overshadowed & neglected as her mentor & lover Auguste Rodin's star rose. Such a wonderful novel for those who make art or love art of any stripe.
Everyone knows about DEN's blue demon horse, but who knew there was a resident flock of sparrows? Not me--until I looked up from reading my personally signed copy of Rodin's Lover to see them foraging at my feet! And, btw, Heather Webb is a lovely, generous person as well as a fine author.
