5.0

This collection of short stories takes its inspiration from famous artworks throughout history. While the stories all have different settings, time periods, and sometimes genres, they are thematically linked.

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I really enjoyed this approach to a short story collection. From many different angles the author examined the titular themes of art and obsession. It was an unusual approach but I thought it worked brilliantly! It leant into the strengths of the book’s structure, and made for a very cohesive collection.

There was a really good variety between the stories, both in genre and in length. I particularly liked the multi-part Vanitas, with its renaissance Italy setting. Composition #5 was also a favourite of mine, in the way it explored the darker side of the muse-artist relationship.

Overall this is an excellent collection of stories, unlike any other!

I received a free copy for an honest review.