The Secret Life Of Sunflowers: A gripping, inspiring novel based on the true story of Johanna Bonger, Vincent van Gogh’s sister-in-law (Light & Life Series Book 1)
Original price was: $17.24.$14.99Current price is: $14.99.
“This book draws all the emotions out of you. I went from tears to snorting with laughter. It was both lighthearted and heart breaking, yet it inspires me to live my best life! ” Michelle Cox
When Hollywood auctioneer Emsley Wilson finds her famous grandmother’s diary while cleaning out her New York brownstone, the pages are full of surprises. The first surprise is, the diary isn’t her grandmother’s. It belongs to Johanna Bonger, Vincent van Gogh’s sister-in-law.
Johanna inherited Vincent van Gogh’s paintings. They were all she had, and they weren’t worth anything. She was a 28 year old widow with a baby in the 1800s, without any means of supporting herself, living in Paris where she barely spoke the language. Yet she managed to introduce Vincent’s legacy to the world.
The inspiration couldn’t come at a better time for Emsley. With her business failing, an unexpected love turning up in her life, and family secrets unraveling, can she find answers in the past?
“This book was so much more than I had expected, and I had high expectations… one of the most beautiful stories I’ve read in years.” Kaela Stokes
“It touched something in my soul.” Audrey McDonald
From the Publisher
ASIN : B0B5G1KKCZ
Publisher : Marta Molnar (July 19, 2022)
Publication date : July 19, 2022
Language : English
File size : 2.9 MB
Simultaneous device usage : Unlimited
Text-to-Speech : Enabled
Screen Reader : Supported
Enhanced typesetting : Enabled
X-Ray : Enabled
Word Wise : Enabled
Print length : 356 pages
13 reviews for The Secret Life Of Sunflowers: A gripping, inspiring novel based on the true story of Johanna Bonger, Vincent van Gogh’s sister-in-law (Light & Life Series Book 1)
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Original price was: $17.24.$14.99Current price is: $14.99.
Mary P. Morris –
intriguing, fascinating, historical and modern!
The parallel lives of two determined women makes for a great story. Combined with historical perspective of one of the greatest artists of all time, this book is riveting. I loved the modern character and of course, Johanna Van Gogh. Highly recommended.
MELISSA ABERLE-GRASSE –
Fun. Historically intriguing. Uneven
Loved the dual plots and timeliness, and the occasional quotes and reflections about art. And the tragedies and grief are raw and real. The happy parts and other characters seem stilted or hurried at times, just unbelievable. But it’s fun and informative and feminist
imfelinelucky –
A PAGE TURNER
A captivating tale of history weaved in with a modern woman’s triumphs after losing a dearly beloved who secretly possessed the journal of Vincent Van Gogh’s sister’n’law, Jo Bonger. Join Jo, against all odds, as she embarks on a mission to leave Vincent’s undeniable memorable mark on the world of art. Celebrate Em as she braves her own circumstances inspired by the actions and dedication of Jo. Two relations bound together through time demonstrating brilliance, resilience and sheer determination to conquer life’s obstacles on their unique and adventurous journeys of success.A quick read, each page melting into the next. Brilliantly written and researched. Absolutely enjoyable for anyone, art buff or otherwise. An inspiring tribute to amazing women of the past, present and future.
Joan J. Mathews –
Van Gogh’s Savior
The story about van Gogh’s sister-in-law who pushed his work into fame is worth reading. The second story line is of little importance or interest.
FrenchGardenHouse –
absolute Stunning Read!
A compelling book that features two young women with strength, grace, and vision. If you want to read a book that will inspire you to be a better, stronger version of yourself, read this. Based on historical facts, painstakingly researched by the author and very well written, you will cheer for these two heroines like I did. Our whole book club loved this book!
Katrina –
A great historial fiction.
The historical background about Van Gogh’s family was very interesting. Well done. As for the fictional story, it was not written quite as well. A fun story, but not up to the quality of other works by the author.
Maldora –
Two great stories – but no chicken poop!
Beautifully, excitingly written true story of Johanna Van Gogh, quite cleverly intertwined with another, contemporary story also from the world of art and art dealers. It was thrilling and interesting to read.Although the modern story was – unlike the old one – a bit too simplistic (too perfect “good” characters and “bad” ones on the other side). Plus it contained one annoying aspect: a chicken kept inside a house (and even in a hospital!) like adorable pet without any mention of everything being covered in chicken poop!! Has the author never seen a hen yard?! Or believed her readers never had and never will? 😉
Amy Paul –
The stories of 2 strong women (1 real, 1 fictional)
I thoroughly enjoyed this novel and a look at history peripheral to Vincent Van Gogh. This book is based on the true story of Johanna Bonger, married to Vincent’s brother Theo. I enjoyed getting to see him from a different point of view. But what I loved even more, was the parallel story of Emsley, in modern day New York (reading Johanna’s story), dealing with losing her grandmother and deciding what direction her life will take. I adored Emsley and Bram and wanted more of their story. It takes most of the book before you find out how the two stories are related (I won’t spoil it by saying how here) but that curiosity kept me going, and paying attention to Johanna’s story even when I was eager to get back to Emsley. (Other readers might feel just the opposite and be more attracted to Johanna!) All in all, it was a well-researched and well-written book.
Customer Lowe –
Absolutely loved all the characters and the telling of two tales. Beautifully written. Would recommend this book to any book lover
Gemma Wiseman –
If you seek a lively, microscopic view of a real journey to legendary fame and fortune, then this book will walk and sometimes sprint you there. Marta Molnar’s writing style is layered with light and shadow, seriousness and humour; the very ingredients that intrigue readers, keeping them both informed and entertained. It is difficult to summarise the thread of the storyline because it is not linear; it is a timeshifter, a pendulum narrative. The weave between the two narratives slowly tightens in a teasingly artistic way. And the bonus, after reading, is being left with a sense of gratitude and inspiration.Read and enjoy this creative novel.
Sue P –
A very interesting read, 2 stories linking the Van Gogh family to the present day in New York. I learned a lot more about Vincent Van Gogh and his struggle for recognition, whilst being supported by his brother and sister in law.The only thing I wasn’t keen on was the modern love interest between Bram and Emsley, which was too good to be true.
Jill –
A great holiday read. An engaging plot with a very satisfactory outcome!
Leslie Prince –
I enjoyed the way the author married history with present time.