VINCENT’S WOMEN:
The Untold Story of the Loves of Vincent van Gogh
Donna Russo's VINCENT’S WOMEN is the untold story of Vincent's loves: how they shaped his life, his art, and his death. It writes against the ‘myths,’ exploring the possibility that none of them are true. It is the only novel to bring into question his sexuality, how he lost his ear, who he lost it for, and how he might have died, all through the eyes of a woman. We learn of Her; we learn all of it through Her.
The story is guided by Johanna van Gogh Bonger, Vincent's sister-in-law, as she decides to reveal the truth about Vincent to her son. We are then taken on a journey through Vincent's life, each section bringing a pivotal moment of Vincent's life alive while showing us the part she played in bringing it about. Between each woman, our guide, Johanna, gives us the transitional periods, right up to his death, which is now in question.
Hundreds of the nearly thousand letters between Vincent van Gogh and his brother Theo, now considered one of the greatest documents of the human experience, were used to help construct this novel, its narrative, and dialogue, especially the dialogue of Vincent himself.
Vincent van Gogh is one of the most well-known artists of all time. The world knows of his madness, traumas, and suicide. But what if all that we know isn’t true? What if this knowledge is based on rumors and nothing more? What if his true story is vastly different when based on factual material and forensic information? What if the truth of Vincent’s life—his madness and his genius—is defined by his never-ending search for love?
Advance Praise
“Arresting…masterful… a provocative and compelling look at one of history’s most enigmatic artists.”
-Publishers Weekly
“A symphonic novel that sheds new light on an elusive genius.”
-Kirkus Reviews
“Vincent’s Women represents historical fiction at its best…astute, thought-provoking, and revealing.”
-Midwest Book Review
“One of the most wonderful books about an artist I have ever read."
-Stephanie Cowell, Author of Claude and Camille: a novel of Monet, and Marrying Mozart. Recipient American Book Award.
“A powerful and satisfying read."
-Lynn Cullen, Bestselling Author of The Woman with the Cure and Mrs. Poe
“The writing and dialogue are all so well done, and the use of a fictional narrative makes it all feel authentic. Very highly recommended.”
-Readers' Favorite 5-star Review
“This novel is not just a book; it is a masterful painting in itself, portraying the vibrant, volatile, and often tragic life of one of history's most renowned artists.”
-5-Star Amazon Review
“This is historical fiction at its best…a tour de force!”
-5-Star Goodreads Review
“This is easily the best book I’ve read this year!”
-5-star NetGalley Review
A Foreword Reviews Editorial Selection
FINALIST Next Generation Indie Book Awards
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