I love historical fiction and loved this book. The determination of Johanna Bomber is so inspiring. It's wrapped in with a modern story that also demonstrates what a determined woman can accomp!ish. I encourage you to read this book - you won't be disappointed.

I couldn’t stop thinking about the story. Staid with me for a long time. I have since lent this book out with the readers saying the same thing. The authors writing style is fantastic! Totally engaged me and kept me reading for only a few days. I couldn’t put it down! I have to strongly suggest, NOT to see the movie first. The book provides so much detail, not provided in the movie. The book fills in information not given in the movie. Additionally, the author continued the investigation on his own and provided answers to questions raised in the initial investigation.

I had never heard of Johanna Bonger. I had heard about the sister in law who made him famous. It was wonderful learning more of this story and mixing it with the current characters worked really well. I enjoyed both characters and each chapter left me wanting more. Very quick read. Looking forward to discussing it with my book group.

Wonderful story. Interesting details. Great writing. The historical detail gave such meaning and significance to the story of Van Gogh.

I’m not sure that the facts according to modern research quite line up with those presented in the book. For instance, Vincent Van Gogh may well have been accidentally shot by two boys playing with a gun instead of committing suicide. Theo may have died of syphilis which would have explained his behavior at the end of his life. Nevertheless, the importance of Jo Bonger in preserving and exhibiting the work of Vincent is a story that needs to be told. Her perseverance and commitment to the work is extraordinary. The author interweaves a story of a modern woman and her dead relative that also stresses the theme of not bringing afraid to live your life and not being deterred by the naysayers. I think that Jo’s story could stand on its own , but the more contemporary narrative may appeal to readers who are not art nerds, or who enjoy romantic fantasy.

"The Secret Life of Sunflowers" is a captivating read that stands out for its unique duality between the two main protagonists. Unlike anything I've read before, the intertwining narratives of these characters kept me profoundly engaged and often made me think about them between reads. The way their stories unfold is both compelling and beautifully written. This book has quickly become one of my favorites, and I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a charming and thought-provoking read.

Was very surprised how important Jo was in the success of Vincent’s success. I know that she was very devoted to her Theo, so devoted, that she had his body exhumed and brought to rest near his brother, Vincent at Auvers sur Oise. There is nothing that can compare with the genius and sensitivity that is found in Vincent’s paintings. Jo saw that and brought us to that reality. Enjoyable read and informative.

The Secret Life of Sunflowers came into my life with a glowing recommendation from my aunt, and now I am happy to recommend the book to other people! I will say that I am not the most avid reader of historical fiction, but this book combines a historical fiction narrative about the life Johanna Van Gogh with a present-day fictional narrative about the life of Emsley Wilson, and I found both of these women's lives and journeys to be interesting, often unexpected, and inspiring in their own ways. Both of these women find their own strength, resolve to persevere through losses and obstacles, stay true to their missions in life, push themselves out of their comfort zones, and find confidence and courage that they never imagined for themselves. I really enjoyed the themes of leaning on family and friends in difficult times, choosing to stay hopeful in the face of trials and despair, and doing your best with the circumstances in which you find yourself. Overall, The Secret Life of Sunflowers is easy to read, has excellent flow, strong characters, empowering messages, a sense of wit and humor, and vivid descriptions of settings, characters, and more intangible feelings like grief, joy, and transformation. I would highly recommend this book to anyone looking for a relatively quick read about the importance of hope, perseverance, and inner resilience.