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424
Novel • Fiction
Amsterdam • 1680s
2014
Adult
18+ years
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
175,577 ratings
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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.
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.
175,577 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Johannes Brandt
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.
Marin Brandt
Nella’s austere and formidable sister-in-law, who maintains significant control over the household affairs while harboring unexpected depths.
Frans Meermans
An envious former friend of Johannes and a social climber with a strong desire to elevate his status in the Amsterdam hierarchy.
Agnes Meermans
Once a friend of Marin’s, she showcases the societal hypocrisy of Amsterdam and the complexities of personal relationships within a restrictive society.
Cornelia
The loyal maid of the Brandt household, initially perceived by Nella as cheeky, who becomes a source of friendship and support.
Otto
Johannes’s Black manservant, who embodies both dignity and the societal prejudice of Amsterdam, and represents themes of freedom and oppression.
Jack Philips
A young Englishman and former actor whose relationship with Johannes introduces complexity and danger into the narrative.
Pastor Pellicorne
A Calvinist preacher whose sermons against materialism contrast with his own hypocritical indulgences.
The Miniaturist (Petronella Windelbreke)
An enigmatic figure with an uncanny ability to influence the narrative’s events through her intricately crafted miniatures.
Lucas Windelbreke
The miniaturist's father and a clockmaker, who struggles with his daughter’s mysterious abilities.
Arnoud and Hanna Maakvrede
Confectioners who play a critical role in restoring the Brandt family’s fortunes, with Hanna subtly exerting influence in a male-dominated society.
Lysbeth Timmers
An illegal wet nurse whose pragmatic disregard for Amsterdam’s conventions suggests her utility to the Brandt household.
424
Novel • Fiction
Amsterdam • 1680s
2014
Adult
18+ years
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