Sunflowers

(Paperback)

Publishing Details

Classifications

Physical Properties

Description

In July 1888, when Rachel Courteau first meets Vincent van Gogh in a summery garden of Arles, France, she sees what everyone else sees: a strange foreigner who paints for hours in the hot sun for no good reason. At most, she thinks hell be just another customer to help her earn the money she needs to leave her life as a prostitute.

But with each visit Vincent makes to her brothel and she makes to his studio, Rachel finds herself drawn more deeply into the artists world. For Vincent, too, their growing attachment brings joy and inspiration. His canvases sing with bright colors, and his yellow house becomes a safe haven from gossip and loneliness.

Until autumn comes, and Vincent and Rachel face challenges from every side: Vincents insecurities and obsessions about his work, the likely disapproval of the van Gogh family, and Rachels own fears that their happiness cannot last. As Vincent struggles with his painting and his inner demons, Rachel must summon the strength to stand beside him; Vincent, the courage to seek the sun even in the midst of darkness.

Reviews

"In a knockout debut novel...Bundrick brings Vincent VanGogh's paintings and personal story to vibrant life...an impressive volume of suspense, delight and heartbreak." -- Publishers Weekly (starred review)

"Bundrick's well-executed historical-fiction debut will appeal to readers interested in artists and the dark forces that shape their fates." -- Booklist

Sheramy Bundrick, an art historian writing her first novel, is up to the task. She conjures a poignant but ill-fated romance in 1888 Arles, France, between the mentally fragile painter and an obscure historical figure, a prostitute named Rachel. Fans of Girl With a Pearl Earring, take note. -- USA Today

Author Bio

Sheramy Bundrick is an art historian who teaches at the University of South Florida, St. Petersburg.