Portrait of a Mirror: A Novel

A. Natasha Joukovsky's novel "The Portrait of a Mirror" is a modern retelling of the Narcissus myth, following two privileged New York couples and their intertwined lives over the course of a summer. The book explores themes of narcissism, desire, self-delusion, and love, crafting an absorbing portrait of modern romance with flawed characters that evoke real sympathy.

\n Format: Hardback
\n Length: 320 pages
\n Publication date: 08 July 2021
\n Publisher: Abrams
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A captivating reimagining of the timeless myth of Narcissus, Natasha Joukovsky weaves a modern tale of manners that intertwines the lives of two young, affluent couples over the course of a summer. Wes and Diana, hailing from privileged backgrounds, exude an air of self-involvement and sophistication, yet there is an undeniable allure to their charm. With his youthful good looks, aristocratic lineage, and recent successful venture in technology, Wes effortlessly captivates women, except for his wife, Diana. She is a formidable opponent, equally brilliant and cunning, who wields her own set of charms against him in their ongoing battles of will and rhetorical sparring.

Vivien and Dale, residing in Philadelphia, share similarities with Wes and Diana, including ties to prestigious prep schools and management consulting firms. They present a perfect picture of coupledom on social media, with a wedding date set in the near future. However, their lives intersect when Vivien becomes a visiting curator at The Metropolitan Museum of Art, just as Diana embarks on a new consulting project in Philadelphia. As the summer unfolds, the two couples become enmeshed in a web of desire, unable to discern their true intentions despite their apparent sophistication.

In this wickedly entertaining debut, Natasha Joukovsky paints a vivid portrait of modern romance, eliciting genuine empathy for these flawed characters while simultaneously offering sharp critiques. The novel is meticulously observed, displaying a keen wit and a delightful sense of humor. It delves into the complex realm of narcissism, desire, self-delusion, and the enduring mythology of love, offering a thought-provoking exploration of these themes.

Through the alternating perspectives of Wes, Diana, Vivien, and Dale, Joukovsky skillfully weaves a intricate narrative that keeps readers engaged and intrigued. The characters are well-developed, with their strengths, weaknesses, and hidden motivations revealed gradually. The dialogue is sharp and witty, reflecting the characters' intelligence and quick-wittedness. The settings, from the opulent streets of New York to the cultural landmarks of Philadelphia, add depth and richness to the story.

The Portrait of a Mirror is a captivating debut that showcases Natasha Joukovsky's talent for storytelling. It offers a fresh perspective on the myth of Narcissus, reminding us that even in the modern world, the complexities of love, desire, and self-identity continue to captivate and challenge us. This novel is a must-read for anyone who enjoys witty banter, insightful observations, and a captivating exploration of the human condition.

\n Weight: 562g\n
Dimension: 159 x 237 x 31 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9781419752162\n \n