The Swan Thieves by Elizabeth Kostova

Kendra's Comments: A renowned artist is arrested and subsequently committed to a psychiatric hospital after attempting to stab a painting in a museum. This act is what brings Andrew Marlow, a psychiatrist and painter himself, and Robert Oliver to cross paths. Marlow wraps himself into his patient's story and in the process uncovers truths not just about the artist, but himself as well.

This is an engaging story about how the genius in one man has the power to destroy those who love him most. If you enjoyed Loving Frank, and were somewhat fascinated by the train wreck quality of Frank Lloyd Wright's love affairs, you will enjoy this book. Like Kostova's earlier work, The Historian, interesting historical facts are weaved into the plot seamlessly, and with impeccable detail.

I listened to the story, which I highly recommend. Treat Williams and Anne Heche are the readers, who did a phenomenal job. Listening to the story allowed me to know instantly what time frame and who's point of view was being told at any given time. This is a rather long book, but I was dying to discuss the story with someone when I finished, and for this reason I believe this would be an excellent book club selection. Check status at GPL