60 pages • 2 hours read
Beautiful Ruins
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Book Brief
337
Novel • Fiction
Italy • 1960s
2012
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
Beautiful Ruins by Jess Walter is a historical fiction romance set across multiple decades and locations, interweaving the lives of several characters affected by the filming of the 1963 movie Cleopatra, including a would-be actress and her infatuated Italian hotelier, as they navigate the complexities and dreams shattered by the film industry.
Bittersweet
Mysterious
Nostalgic
Emotional
Romantic
Reviews & Readership
192,614 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Jess Walter's Beautiful Ruins is praised for its imaginative narrative, captivating characters, and clever interweaving of multiple timelines and perspectives. While some critics highlight its emotional depth and humor, others feel the plot can be overly complex and the pacing inconsistent. Overall, it's a richly crafted read that skillfully blends romance, history, and satire.
Who Should Read Beautiful Ruins?
Readers who enjoy intricate, multi-layered narratives with a blend of humor and poignancy, such as those found in Anthony Doerr's All the Light We Cannot See or Amor Towles's A Gentleman in Moscow, will find themselves captivated by Jess Walter's Beautiful Ruins. It appeals to those who appreciate both historical and contemporary settings interwoven seamlessly.
192,614 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
337
Novel • Fiction
Italy • 1960s
2012
Adult
18+ years
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