A stunning depiction of the life of Gustave Flaubert
5 stars If you are looking for a gorgeously sumptuous historical novel to fall into, In One Brief Moment All Eternity may well be the book you're after. The life of Gustave Flaubert, from young boy through to the end of his of days, is imagined and crafted with such love and care I cannot help but be drawn to him, even if it is just a fictional concoction. I have not read Madame Bovary, or any other works by Flaubert, but plan to after reading this. Salammbo looks especially good to me. In One Brief Moment All Eternity showcases Elif Shafak's artistry in a way I have long appreciated. Her kindness and loving heart is reflected in not just Gustave but the many characters he encounters in his lifetime. The poetic attention to all aspects of this tale sings with generosity of spirit. A real balm for our modern times. I love the narration from a number of unexpected sources and their canny eye on Gustave through the years. They bring the story full circle in the most tantalising ...
