Swans, Rings, and Calling Birds: Book Recs for the Holidays

When it comes to the “12 Days of Christmas,” might you or the readers in your life like some last-minute stocking-stuffers? Or, suggestions for books to read in the New Year? Below are three novels which shift between time periods. So, build a fire, snuggle up, pour some eggnog, and enjoy the season. Cheers!

The Swans of Fifth Avenue by Melanie Benjamin: I confess, although I was vaguely familiar with Truman Capote before reading this novel, I knew almost nothing about his work and life. Benjamin's historical fiction immerses us in the high society scene of 1950s New York City. The story follows Capote’s rise to literary fame, his circle of friends he calls his swans—and his subsequent fall from grace when he crosses them. Setting part of her book in the contemporary 1970s as her characters reflect, the author offers a fascinating take on the socialites’ glamorous lifestyle . . .  but also the expectations that they strive to fulfill and the inner yearnings and even loneliness from which they suffer.

             The Ruby Ring by Diane Haeger: The author imagines the circumstances that surrounded the lives of Italian artist Raphael and the woman he loved. Inspired by the actual discovery of a 500-year-old ring embedded in the dried paint of one of the master’s sensual paintings, the story uncovers Rome's papal climate and the passionate relationship between Raphael and a baker’s daughter who modeled for his most well-known works.

             The Gravity of Birds by Tracy Guzeman: Spanning more than 40 years in the 20^th century, this is another tale of a painter, his past, and the women’s lives he influenced. This mysterious story takes us into the heads and hearts of two sisters who end up missing—a beautifully written story that’s rife with secrets and jealousies. 

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