A Fine Imitation by Amber Brock

It is the roaring twenties in America, a time of social change and speakeasies.  In 1920 women earned the right to vote and enjoyed more freedoms than ever before. Yet, for the wives of the elite high society these freedoms do not seem to exist. They are still stuck in the 19^th century traditions and customs. For Vera this life is unrewarding. While she has plenty of money for all the trappings of high society:  fine clothes, jewelry, art, etc., the endless teas, charities and a weekly luncheon with her mother have left her empty and wanting more.

Vera went to Vassar College and studied art history but she never has been able to put that knowledge to use since she married.  Being the only person that understands fine art, she is asked to review the work of a French artist, Emil Hallan, whom is being considered to paint a mural for the luxury apartment complex her husband owns and they live in. She finds his work inspiring and makes the recommendation to hire him.

Once Emil arrives from France, Vera’s world is turned on its end.  He is like a spring breeze to Vera in the depth of winter and it is not long before their mutual love of art leads to friendship and romance. Vera begins to see the world through Emil’s eyes and begins to question all she has ever known. In the end Vera may have to give up the security and known for the unknown in order to achieve a sense of self and purpose in her life. The big question is, will she have the strength to break free from the chains that society, her family and husband have all used to bind her to a meaningless life?

This is a well written debut novel. Ms. Brock did an outstanding job setting the scene of Vera’s life and showing how hard it is to shake off the binds of tradition and obligation. My only quam, and it is minor, I wished that Emil’s character had been a little more developed.

This book will appeal to those who love historical fiction and women’s stories. Since the story has an element of romance it will appeal to those readers also.

I received a free copy of A Fine Imitation by Amber Brock from Crown Publishing, via the Library Thing Early Reviews program, in exchange for my honest review.