The Artist

The Artist by Lucy Steeds has to be one of the best books that I have read so far this year. The novel is set in 1920 when Joseph, a young writer, has the chance to spend time with and interview the reclusive artist Edouard Tarttuffe at his studio in Provence. This is Joseph's chance to make his name as a journalist.

Joseph lives with his family in England but relishes the chance to escape from a family environment where his father constantly shows his displeasure that his son chose not to enlist to serve in the British Army during World War One. His older brother, who did serve, is still in hospital struggling to return to 'normal life'.

In Provence he meets not only Tartuffe but also Tartuffe's niece, Ettie, who lives with her uncle as his housekeeper and general dogsbody. Ettie wants to be an artist but receives no encouragement from her uncle or from his agent who appears when a painting is ready for sale. Ettie desperately wants to escape her present existence.

Joseph soon discovers many secrets concerning the artist and his chosen life in seclusion. He and Ettie also gradually share their own secrets and concerns as they plan life when Joseph has to leave Provence.

The novel is beautifully written and at times the writing flows like a poem as we gradually learn more about the three main characters, their lives and inspiration. The power of Art is constantly felt throughout the novel.