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)

This historical fiction was eye-opening. Who knew that Vincent Van Gogh almost died a complete unknown. Were it not for his sister-in-law whose tenacity brought his art to light. So often we judge things and people by the standard de jour instead of opening our eyes and hearts to creativity and ingenuity. The writing was fine. Even the story of Emsley, at first, was intriguing, however this part of the book became irrelevant -- a little too cheap romance novel. Ignoring that, I would recommend this book for the story of Johanna Bonger and to entice one to learn more about the life and works of Vincent Van Gogh.

I loved learning about Vincent Van Gogh. I would have preferred not having the fictional character storyline intertwined with the true story.

Johanna Borger's story was interesting, and the author developed her character. I would have liked more detail about her life and less about the "current day". I really wasn't sure why the author needed the current day story other than the need for as an author in ouor club put it, the "bodice ripper" scene.

Fascinating! Who knew it was a woman that brought Vincent’s work to the world!?

I am an artist and was looking froward to reading this book focusing on Johanna Bonger and the Van Gogh brothers Vincent and Theo. This part of the book was very enjoyable. Joanna's speech and writing for 1887 to me was too modern so lacked some Authenticates, although the author brought her to life. The the other half of the book for me was a poorly plotted 21st century romance novel interwoven with some attempt to create a biographical connection to Emsley and The Van Gogh’s . Johanna was a very interesting woman and Marta did a good job of creating her on paper for the reader. We saw how Johanna was relentless and focused on promoting the work of her brother in law, Vincent. Then there was the other half of the book and I found that part of the book did not mesh with the Bonger part which I thoroughly enjoyed. Disappointing that the important and fascinating story of Johanna Bonger has been paired with such a poorly executed linking of a cringing modern day love drama.