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| Final Rating: 2.7/5 |
A simple read briefly featuring the artistry of the Women's Glass Cutting Department of Tiffany Glass and Decorating Company
One glance at an authentic Tiffany Window or Lamp and you will never forget that moment. The artistry is just breathtaking and it is very easy to just stare in wonder at seemingly humble objects that have been transformed into stunning scenes of imagination, nature and biblical themes. It's also easy to see why so many recent fiction novels use the lure of anything featuring "Tiffany" and I am among the many who when the words: Tiffany and stained glass or windows, chapels or jewelry are used in the same breath must pick up that new fiction release. Enter Tiffany Girl, when I read this premise I was hoping to love every moment and experience a step back in history with a vibrant cast of characters. Sadly that did not happen this time.
Tiffany Girl was just a simple read about a young woman trying to find her place and herself outside her sheltered upbringing in late 19th-century America that also happened to have in the pages a sprinkling of descriptions of famous stained glass windows, pieces seen at the 1893 World's Fair, one lamp, tea screen and a hat pin. And usually that may be enough for this reader; a simple read can be sometimes an unexpected joy to find. I'll be the first to admit this type of story is not my usual (I prefer a much different presentation of history) but it's nice to have a change. I did find a few spots of joy with this novel in the nicely presented religious tones and topics. The imagery of the chapel windows did not disappoint and I had fun looking up gorgeous pictures of the windows as they were mentioned in the story. Speaking of pictures there are some lovely drawings in the beginning of the chapters that showcase buildings of interest, everyday objects found in 1893 and even a few interesting fashion plates. I also appreciated the honesty of the author and the mentioning of the creative liberties with facts, accepted notions and dates that were taken and changed in this novel. Further in the back, there is a wonderful list of the names of the real "Tiffany Girls" and their special roles in the creation of the beautiful works of decorative art that can still be seen today displayed in museums, churches and lucky homes.
I think what really disappointed me with Tiffany Girl was the main character- I didn't care for her at all. Her childish, intrusive and combative actions had me cringing and hoping the story would begin following any other character but her. The story does follow at times another personality briefly but then goes back to another: crying, bemoaning, heart squeezed or tantrum filled scene with the focal character. The repetitious phrase of "New Woman" was a little too much to ignore. It seemed to be within every other page and was mentioned at some very odd moments in this story.
Finally I know other readers are wondering if this novel is a strictly clean read and my answer is: I can't honestly say Tiffany Girl is a wholesome read because everyone seems to have their own definition of what that may mean. I can tell you that this story has the expected sugar and niceties but has some surprising spice tossed in. I'm new to this type of fiction but it was certainly unexpected to find two temporary heated scenes in this book. That all aside I wouldn't say Tiffany Girl was a bad book. It may just come down to personal taste, being in the right mood and perhaps frame of mind. So if the reader is looking for a lighthearted skip around the late 19th century with pleasant final messages or a simple read that briefly features the artistry of the Women's Glass Cutting Department of Tiffany Glass and Decorating Company- you found the right book.
* I would like to thank Howard Books and NetGalley for the opportunity to read Tiffany Girl
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