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)

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.

This book found it's way to my hands at a time that I needed it so much! These strong and courageous women didn't give up, they didn't let fear win, and they kept moving forward even when it was hard! The information I learned about van Gogh was an added bonus! Great read!

Whether you love historical fiction, impressionist painters, strong women, or a combination, this book is for you. Loved it.

Interesting premise, but I think it could have been written better. I wouldn’t call it gripping.

Started off well, but it got kind of boring about half way through. I liked the character Jo a lot, but not so much Emsley. Basically, I thought there wasn't much subtlety there. When the characters were sad, they were WAY over the top crying. Just too much.