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Beautiful Ruins

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2012

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Book Brief

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Jess Walter

Beautiful Ruins

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2012
Book Details
Pages

337

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Italy • 1960s

Theme
Publication Year

2012

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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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

3.8

192,614 ratings

61%

Loved it

29%

Mixed feelings

10%

Not a fan

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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 this

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.

3.8

192,614 ratings

61%

Loved it

29%

Mixed feelings

10%

Not a fan

Character List

Pasquale Tursi

A hardworking hotelier from Porto Vergogna, Italy, who strives to fulfill his and his father's dream of transforming their town into a tourist destination. He is characterized by his blue eyes and dedication to his work.

An actress from Seattle, Washington, involved in a major Hollywood production, who navigates personal transformations and contemplations about life and identity. She becomes a high school drama teacher after leaving her acting career.

A film producer known for his manipulative and self-serving tactics in the industry, who rises to fame and seeks to maintain his relevance in Hollywood. His character plays a pivotal role in the unfolding events through his deceit and ambition.

Michael Deane's chief development assistant, who aspires to create meaningful films while grappling with her professional and personal dilemmas. She undergoes significant personal growth as she makes pivotal life decisions.

A struggling screenwriter from Oregon seeking success in Hollywood, whose journey involves confronting personal failures and rediscovering his creative and personal aspirations. His character development is marked by moments of self-realization.

The rebellious son of Dee/Debra and Richard Burton, who initially seeks fame as a musician but ultimately re-evaluates his priorities. He shares noticeable traits with his biological father while striving to forge his path.

A war veteran and car salesman who becomes a mentor to Pasquale and husband to Dee/Debra, balancing his writing ambitions with the realities of life. His character presents deep compassion and wit amidst personal struggles.

The charismatic and troubled leading man of the film Cleopatra, embroiled in the glitz and complications of Hollywood life. His presence underscores the tensions and allure of transient stardom and personal relationships.

Book Details
Pages

337

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Italy • 1960s

Theme
Publication Year

2012

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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