THIS MUST BE THE PLACE (BOOK REVIEW AND AN EARLY SPRING OUTFIT)

The arrival of spring has been bittersweet. On one hand, it is always beautiful to watch the rebirth of nature, but on the other there is so much anxiety, fear and suffering in the world right now. Perhaps the outfit I'm wearing today is a good metaphor for that. An all black look with some colourful accents. Sometimes I look around me and marvel at all the beauty and yet at the same time I'm aware that dark times might well be ahead of us. Darkness and Light. I suppose that's life. 

Dolazak proljeća je bio gorko sladak. S jedne strane uvijek je prekrasno vidjeti ponovo rađanje prirode, s druge strane ima puno nesigurnosti, straha i patnje u svijetu sada. Možda je odjevna kombinacija koju nosim danas dobra metafora za to. Crna kombinacija s nekim dodacima u boji. Ponekad gledam oko sebe i divim se ljepoti a opet u isto vrijeme dobro znam kako nam se vjerojatno spremaju teška vremena. Tama i svijetlo. Takav je život. 
“What redemption there is in being loved: we are always our best selves when loved by another. Nothing can replace this.”  This Must Be the Place, Maggie O' Farrell. 

MY LIFE LATELY
I already explained in this post why I went off the radar. Nothing dramatic, I've just been working longer hours due to the fact that I'm employed in the education sector. For me personally, this situation meant less free time, not more. I could always rely on my posts drafts to keep up with blogging, but somehow that didn't seem appropriate. I actually have many posts scheduled and many pre-corona outfits captured, but I didn't feel like posting any of it. I did manage to put together a few posts such as 20 fun fashion things to do in corona lockdown and 30 plus ways to wear a pair of jeans. However, writing those posts took away time when I was so short on it, so I decided to just blog less frequently for the time being. Besides, I don't like posting if I know that I won't have time to read other blogs. For me blogging was never a solitary activity, it was more of a social thing. It might be because I'm not that active on other social media. Blogging always felt like a more genuine way to connect with people. Plus, I'm really a writer at heart so blogging is a better fit for me. I've been blogging for 8 years and I have no regrets. However, somehow I'm not sure how to go about blogging in these times. Pretend that nothing is happening doesn't make sense. However, I also don't think it is healthy to become completely obsessed with what is going on right now. There is only as much as we can do and control. Stay inside, practice social distancing and keep our eyes open. Don't believe everything you hear in the news. Anyhow, with the Easter weekend approaching, I decided to finally publish a post. After some thinking, I decided to post a book review plus an outfit post today. 
THIS MUST BE THE PLACE, A NOVEL BY MAGGIE O'FARRELL 5/5
Today I'll share a book review. This Must Be the Place is a complex novel about life, marriage and loss, written by an English author Maggie O'Farrell. I read this book a month or so ago, but only now found the time to blog about it. As you can see above, I decided to score this novel quite highly. When I finished This Must be the Place, I thought to myself: 'I'm going to give this novel five stars because it absolutely enchanted me. It held my interest completely while I was reading it.' Indeed, a novel that can keep one's interest in this day and time must be something special, right? How to describe this novel? It tells a story of Daniel, an American who lives in Ireland with a recluse ex-movie super star, but it is not a linear sort of story. Well, I watched a YouTube interview  with Maggie O'Farrell in which the author herself described it as a novel that explores many themes but is perhaps mainly about 'marriage and the forces that keep it together and tear it apart.' Would I agree with that? I just might, especially towards the end, when their marriage really gets tested. 

What is the novel like? What's the writing style like?
 A part of the novel is written in almost an experimental way, with time switches and digressions. Generally speaking, I found the writing in this to be rather on the brilliant side, really.  So in that sense I liked the novel from the start. As for the experimental bits I found them interesting. I felt they add a bit of freshness to the story. I read the afterword and the author said she wanted to experiment with a novel and break some rules. I'd say she didn't get carried away, she kept the right balance.
What is so wonderful about this novel?
This was actually my first novel by Maggie O'Farrell but I'm sure it won't be the last. This novel is wonderful in that it deals with some difficult topics such as loss and grief in a respectful and a realistic way. Moreover, I enjoyed the way family relationships were portrayed in this one. The challenges of parenthood and marriage, the special link between siblings and family members, now these subjects were described so well I'm sure they will always stay with me. Maggie O'Farrell knows how to write about the subtle parts of human relationships, about things that sometimes go unnoticed. I was really impressed with her writing style, the way she crafted characters and drew me into the story. I loved every single minute of reading this book.

“He thinks of his grief over his sister as an entity that is horribly and painfully attached to him, the way a jellyfish might adhere to your skin or a goitre or an abscess. He pictures it as viscid, amorphous, spiked, hideous to behold. He finds it unbelievable that no one else can see it. Don’t mind that, he would say, it’s just my grief. Please ignore it and carry on with what you were saying.”
― Maggie O'Farrell, This Must Be the Place
Was there anything I didn't like about this novel? 
Once I had finished reading This Must Be the Place and thought about it for a while, I could think of a few things that I didn't like- but only if I really thought about it- if you know what I mean. Honestly, I don't see the point in splitting hairs when you really enjoyed reading a certain novel, but if I had to point out something I didn't like it would be inconsistency in Daniel's character (and in connection with that the ending). 

Daniel is basically a protagonist of this novel so any inconsistencies in his characters are bound to show up. To be honest, some things were not so much a fault of his characters but just illogical actions on his side employed for plot purposes. For example, there is this whole drama situation that could have been avoided with one phone call. That was a weakness in a plot that reflected on Daniel's characters as well. That being said, I liked how this novel didn't put all the blame on the guy protagonist, as some modern novels do. 

Daniel is showed to be a complex character. He can really be a jerk sometimes (especially when some things start to show from his past and one really starts to wonder at them) but there are many layers to him. He seems to genuinely care about his kids and people in his life.  However, I still felt Daniel's behaviour was a bit inconsistent. That he would be willing to change so drastically for the sake of Claudette, it both makes and doesn't make sense. 
What are the characters in this novel like? 
Daniel and Claudette are at the center of this novel. Sometimes that is a good thing because you really get to know them, sometimes it isn't because the other minor characters seem just as interesting. Generally speaking, Claudette was my favourite characters perhaps just because she was so strong willed and stubborn. I felt that there was something very honest about her and even though some of her life choices were quite questionable, I still liked her. As I mentioned, I would have enjoyed the chance to learn about the other characters, at times the novel felt too focused on Daniel and Claudette. I know they're the protagonists of it, but I would have personally enjoyed learning more about their kids. Their kids had such distinct and interesting personalities. Not that I'm complaining too much, this was a lovely read. 

What are my final thoughts about this novel? 
This is a fascinating and a well written novel. It managed to fully keep my mind off work that was unbelievably stressful lately (I'm sure you all can relate with me- teaching and working in the time of an epidemic virus is quite a feat). To conclude, I loved this novel even if it might contained me minor flaws. I would recommend it to everyone!

“Claudette looks down at the thing in her hand. She turns it one way and the other. It is a packet of Italian coffee, half used, left behind. Innocuous enough in itself but in Claudette’s hands, this particular morning, it is as dangerous as cyanide.

She isn’t going to sniff it, no, she isn’t. She wouldn’t be stupid enough to attempt such a thing. Just a whiff of those smoky, dark, aromatic granules – heated up they always were, at length, lovingly, every morning in this kitchen, for all the years he lived here, the way he would stand waiting for them to brew, looking out of that window, that robe of his loose over his pyjamas, a child, usually, on his shoulder or his arm – would be enough to tip her over the edge. She isn’t going to do it.

Certainly not.
Then she does, of course. She removes the clip, she places it on the counter, she parts the top of the silver-and-red packet and she brings it to her face and she inhales, she inhales, she inhales.”
― Maggie O'Farrell, This Must Be the Place

THE STORY OF AN OUTFIT- LILAC SOCKS AND BLOCK HEELS
Now, a few words about this outfit.  As I said, it's an all black styling with some colored touches. I had an idea of going with the ugly statement shoes and opted for a pair of block heels. To emphasize them even more, I wore a pair of lilac socks with them. How do you feel about the ugly heel trend?
The pink, beige and white tartan scarf- My husband bought me this scarf a few months ago. You can see how I styled it previously here and here.
The black coat- I actually devoted a special post to this black coat where I showed you plus 30 ways to wear it. Since then I also wore it here. I'll probably hit 100 documented wears with this one. 
The black flare jeans.- I bought this pair in a Mango outlet a few years ago. You can see how I styled them previously here, here and here
The block heels.- These heels are second hand in the sense they were sent to me by someone who presumably didn't like them. I previously wore them only once or twice because they aren't comfy- for example see how I styled them here

I'm currently in Jelsa, a small port village on island Hvar. I've lived here for the past six months or so for work reasons. I like it on island Hvar and I actually have roots here, but naturally I'm sad about not being able to visit my family. This is a beautiful island, though. I wouldn't be able to leave Jelsa even if I wanted to with the quarantine measures and everything.  If you want to see more of Jelsa or/and island Hvar, feel free to visit my old post about it. You can find them bellow. 



LINKS TO MY PREVIOUS POSTS ABOUT JELSA AND ISLAND HVAR

As always, thank you for reading, visiting and commenting. Stay safe!

Comments

  1. Thanks for your sharing 😊 have a lovely day 😊 have

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  2. Hi dear Ivana, hope you're doing good despite all the crazy days we have been through. I'd say this is a strange season too, sunny days are here and looking the streets from the balcony is kinda strange, but well I'm enjoying time as home as much as I can.

    First of all I've heard a lot of comments about this book on booktube and on GoodReads, the cover caught my eye in the first instance and now that you told us a bit about the plot I'd like to read it.... I think I'll get it after the lockdown to support a local bookshop :)

    And this outfit is magnifique, it gives me all the 70s vibes with the shape of your pants and the story behind that lilac socks is cool. I have a similar ones from Uniqlo and I'm thinking of getting more lilac garments for summer, this is the most unexpected color of the season.

    Love the good vibes you gave us with your pictures, this places looks so calmy and I can't wait to enjoy some promenades again.

    All the best and good vibes from Barcelona!
    Pablo
    www.heyfungi.com

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. thani you so much. Sending good vibes to you as well.

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  3. This sounds like an interesting book! With the self isolation one of the neighbours has started a book club that we all join online from our homes so that's kind of fun - this would be a good book for me to suggest for next month I think (we picked this month's book last week).

    I like the addition of the scarf to your outfit too, nice and colourful!

    Hope that you are having a nice week :) We are enjoying the Easter break, at home of course.

    Away From Blue

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  4. Love your outfit! =) Nice pics
    https://antonellabasile.blogspot.com/

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  5. You look fabulous in this outfit, I really love the color who brings the scarf. Thank you for this book review, I'm enjoying this days reading more than I usually do. Have a nice weekend! :)

    www.luciagallegoblog.com

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  6. Che bel look Ivana! Ma non ci hanno fatto anche un film su questo libro? La storia e il titolo mi dicono qualcosa!
    Don't Call Me Fashion Blogger
    Facebook
    Bloglovin'

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  7. Love the drama of your black outfit against that wonderful honey-coloured stone.
    I'm with you on the blogging, I don't post unless I've got time to visit all my virtual friends, it's all about community, isn't it?
    Stay safe and healthy and keep being fabulous. xxx

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. yes and it is a nice community too, I found.

      Delete
  8. You looks honey really lovely:**Regards!

    ReplyDelete
  9. Word bittersweet is the best description for this time.
    You look absolutely stunning, love your scarf and these pictures are so beautiful!
    Happy Easter dear Ivana!

    ReplyDelete
  10. hvala Alek. Za uređenje slika koristimo Paint 3D. Imam ga na laptopu pa mi je nekako najlakše. Prije sam koristila online programe pa sam odustala jer bi mi se često izgubila slika kada bi veza bila loša.

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  11. That sounds like a fabulous book! I appreciate your in-depth commentary and criticism of it - I think it would very much appeal to me. Some of your comments made me think of Jennifer Egan's writing - have you heard of her? I started with "A Visit from the Goon Squad" which I loved, and have since read everything by her.

    No! Ugly heels are a thing?? I can't bear it! I won't wear ugly heels (although my husband would disagree, ha ha). I am not a fan of those early 00s square-toes shoes - I wasn't a fan at the time when they were in style either - but I adore that you wore lilac socks with them!

    Blog how you want to blog, Ivana. Whatever works for you. I've found that the social connection has been really beneficial and important to me in the absence of seeing/talking to my "real life" friends.

    A very Happy Easter to you!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I'm not a fan of square toes shoes either, especially when it is too square. I do like the subtle versions of it, though. This pair is literally second hand in the sense that it was sent to me by my husband's aunt (I guess she bought it) and changed her mind. It has kind of grown on me, plus it is the only pair of heels that I have right now. My 'real' closet is in another country and I haven't moved properly before the quarantine.

      Delete
    2. btw I haven't heard of her. I need to check her out.

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  12. Amei a postagem ,super interessante.😉😘

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  13. I just love the lilac socks with this Ivana. It adds such a creativeness to the outfit. And you are so creative. I feel the same way about blogging. It's a social activity and a way to connect with others.
    XOXO
    Jodie
    www.jtouchofstyle.com

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    Replies
    1. Thank you Jodie. Lilac socks will add fun to any outfit.

      Delete
  14. Cute outfit Ivana! I love the scarf! Have a wonderful weekend!

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  15. Nice look dear!
    HAPPY WEEKEND AT HOME
    xoxo
    http://stylishpatterns.blogspot.com

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  16. Love your outfit, and this sounds like a great novel! I love the writing style of the extracts you shared - it really makes me want to read it!
    Have a lovely Easter weekend
    Julia x
    https://www.thevelvetrunway.com/

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  17. Nice outfit and great photos. I don't know the book.

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  18. I'm completely with you on blogging, and often feel guilty if I do not read and comment on my fellow bloggers' posts immediately. Forgive me if sometimes my comment comes late, but you are one of the bloggers whose posts are so interesting that I want to take my time to read them properly. Then there's also the question on how to approach blogging in these trying times. As my wardrobe is one of the things that keep me sane, I continue dressing up as usual, often taken more time than before, and show my outfits on my blog, mixed with my feelings on the whole situation, and the things I've been filling my days with. I appreciate that you have been very busy - quite the opposite of a lot of other people - and blogging has had to fall by the wayside. If I wouldn't be able to take proper time for it, my posts would be less frequent too. Your outfit is indeed a metaphor for these times. As for your review, I have to say that I just skimmed it. Not that I'm not interested in it, quite the opposite. I'm a big fan of Maggie 'O Farrell, but this is one I haven't read yet, and I want to avoid spoilers :-) Glad to see you are giving it 5 stars. I'll return to your review once I have read the book myself. Do take care and stay safe, my friend. xxx

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  19. Wonderful post hun, what better time to read than now. Loving your spring outfit, the scarf ties in beautifully.


    xoxo
    Lovely
    www.mynameislovely.com

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  20. Awesome blog I have ever seen. Thanks for this Wonderful read. You shared great content. Keep up the good work. Thanks for sharing.

    Nahid | https://bestclicknow.com

    ReplyDelete

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All your comments mean a lot to me, even the criticism. Naravno da mi puno znači što ste uzeli vrijeme da nešto napišete, pa makar to bila i kritika. Per me le vostre parole sono sempre preziose anche quando si tratta di critiche.

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