One-line summary:

Beautiful Ruins is a captivating novel that weaves together multiple storylines and spans decades, exploring themes of love, regret, and the pursuit of dreams.

The Story:

Beautiful Ruins, written by Jess Walter, takes readers on a journey through time and across continents, blending fact and fiction to create a rich tapestry of interconnected lives. The story begins in 1962, in a small Italian coastal village called Porto Vergogna, where Pasquale Tursi runs a dilapidated hotel called the Hotel Adequate View. One day, a beautiful American actress named Dee Moray arrives, seeking refuge from the set of Cleopatra, which is being filmed nearby. Their encounter sparks a brief but intense romance that alters the course of both their lives.

Fast forward to present-day Hollywood, where a jaded and disillusioned film producer named Michael Deane is desperately searching for his next big hit. When he receives a mysterious phone call from an elderly man named Pasquale, claiming to have a connection to the past, Michael’s curiosity is piqued. This sets in motion a series of events that will bring together a cast of characters from different eras, including a failed musician-turned-restaurant owner, a struggling writer, and a young actress trying to make it big.

As the narrative unfolds, the story jumps back and forth in time, exploring the lives of these characters and the choices they’ve made. From the glamorous world of 1960s Hollywood to the rugged beauty of the Italian coastline, Walter paints vivid and evocative scenes that transport readers to different places and eras. Along the way, he delves into themes of love, regret, and the pursuit of dreams, examining the impact our choices have on our lives and the lives of those around us.

The Themes:

Love and Sacrifice: Beautiful Ruins explores the complexities of love and the sacrifices we make for it. From Pasquale’s unwavering devotion to Dee, to the sacrifices made by other characters in pursuit of their dreams, the novel highlights the lengths people will go to for love.

Regret and Redemption: The characters in Beautiful Ruins grapple with regret and seek redemption for past mistakes. Whether it’s Michael’s remorse for his ruthless career choices or Dee’s longing for a different life, the novel examines the power of forgiveness and second chances.

Illusion vs. Reality: The book also explores the contrast between the illusion of Hollywood glamour and the harsh realities of life. Walter exposes the underbelly of the entertainment industry, revealing the sacrifices and compromises that often lie behind the glitz and glamour.

Key Takeaways:

• Love can be both transformative and destructive, leading us to make choices that shape our lives.
• Regret is a universal human experience, but it’s never too late to seek redemption and make amends.
• The pursuit of dreams often comes with sacrifices, and success may not always bring the fulfillment we expect.

A Memorable Quote:

“You have to learn to choose your own happiness.” – Jess Walter, Beautiful Ruins

In conclusion, Beautiful Ruins is a captivating novel that takes readers on a journey through time and space, exploring themes of love, regret, and the pursuit of dreams. With its richly drawn characters and evocative settings, Jess Walter’s storytelling shines, reminding us of the power of human connection and the enduring nature of hope.