The Swan Thieves
The Swan Thieves
Book Brief
576
Novel • Fiction
Washington, D.C. • 1990s
2010
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
The Swan Thieves by Elizabeth Kostova follows Dr. Andrew Marlowe, a psychiatrist, as he delves into the psychological and historical intricacies behind his patient Robert Oliver's destructive attack on an Impressionist painting. Through unraveling Robert's obsession with a mysterious woman named Beatrice and the secrets hidden in old letters, Marlowe exposes a deeper tragedy tied to French Impressionist art.
Mysterious
Contemplative
Emotional
Romantic
Melancholic
Reviews & Readership
36,416 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Elizabeth Kostova’s The Swan Thieves blends art and mystery, earning praise for its evocative prose and intricate narrative. Readers laud its rich historical detail and complex characters, yet some criticize its slow pacing and occasional convolutions in plot. Overall, it's a compelling read for fans of deep, atmospheric storytelling.
Who Should Read The Swan Thieves?
A reader who enjoys intricate historical mysteries, psychological suspense, and richly detailed art narratives will appreciate The Swan Thieves by Elizabeth Kostova. Comparable to those who favor Dan Brown's The Da Vinci Code and A.S. Byatt's Possession, this book appeals to lovers of art history and complex plotlines.
36,416 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
The Swan Thieves weaves art history and narrative fiction, showcasing Kostova's deep appreciation and research in art, which adds a layer of authenticity to the book's fictional elements.
Elizabeth Kostova received the largest advance ever paid to a first-time novelist at the time for her debut novel, The Historian, which demonstrated the anticipation and confidence in her subsequent work, including The Swan Thieves.
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The themes of obsession and creativity in The Swan Thieves are partly inspired by real-life art history and mental health, probing the complex interplay between artistic passion and personal struggles.
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576
Novel • Fiction
Washington, D.C. • 1990s
2010
Adult
18+ years
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