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The Miniaturist

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2014

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Book Brief

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Jessie Burton

The Miniaturist

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2014
Book Details
Pages

424

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Amsterdam • 1680s

Publication Year

2014

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

Set in 17th-century Amsterdam, Jessie Burton's debut novel The Miniaturist follows 18-year-old Nella Oortman, who marries a wealthy merchant, Johannes Brandt, only to discover a world of secrets and intrigue. As Nella adjusts to her new life, she receives mysterious, prophetic miniatures that unveil hidden truths about her household and compel her towards self-discovery.

Mysterious

Dark

Melancholic

Contemplative

Bittersweet

Reviews & Readership

3.8

175,577 ratings

60%

Loved it

28%

Mixed feelings

12%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Jessie Burton's The Miniaturist blends historical and magical realism in 17th century Amsterdam. Reviewers praise its evocative writing and vivid atmosphere, though some critique the plot pacing and character development. Overall, it's acclaimed for intriguing mystery and rich setting, but mixed opinions on depth may affect reader engagement.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Miniaturist?

A reader who enjoys The Miniaturist by Jessie Burton would likely be captivated by historical fiction with a touch of mystery and magical realism. Fans of works like The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern or The Girl with a Pearl Earring by Tracy Chevalier will appreciate the richly detailed 17th-century Amsterdam setting and complex characters.

3.8

175,577 ratings

60%

Loved it

28%

Mixed feelings

12%

Not a fan

Character List

Nella Oortman/Brandt

Eighteen-year-old Nella, a sheltered country girl, arrives in Amsterdam eager to become a woman and navigates her unexpected circumstances with courage and intelligence.

Nella’s husband, a wealthy Dutch merchant, faces the challenges of societal expectations in a marriage not based on romantic love, forming a deep platonic relationship with Nella.

Nella’s austere and formidable sister-in-law, who maintains significant control over the household affairs while harboring unexpected depths.

An envious former friend of Johannes and a social climber with a strong desire to elevate his status in the Amsterdam hierarchy.

Once a friend of Marin’s, she showcases the societal hypocrisy of Amsterdam and the complexities of personal relationships within a restrictive society.

The loyal maid of the Brandt household, initially perceived by Nella as cheeky, who becomes a source of friendship and support.

Johannes’s Black manservant, who embodies both dignity and the societal prejudice of Amsterdam, and represents themes of freedom and oppression.

A young Englishman and former actor whose relationship with Johannes introduces complexity and danger into the narrative.

A Calvinist preacher whose sermons against materialism contrast with his own hypocritical indulgences.

An enigmatic figure with an uncanny ability to influence the narrative’s events through her intricately crafted miniatures.

The miniaturist's father and a clockmaker, who struggles with his daughter’s mysterious abilities.

Confectioners who play a critical role in restoring the Brandt family’s fortunes, with Hanna subtly exerting influence in a male-dominated society.

An illegal wet nurse whose pragmatic disregard for Amsterdam’s conventions suggests her utility to the Brandt household.

Book Details
Pages

424

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Amsterdam • 1680s

Publication Year

2014

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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