By 
Wow! Christine Nolfi, the Author of “The Museum of Lost Dreams” has written a powerful, captivating, passionate and memorable masterpiece. I am a huge fan of Christine Nolfi’s books, and I loved everything about this book. The Genres for this novel are Historical Fiction, Women’s Fiction, Literary Fiction,Sibling and Family Fiction, Suspense, Mystery and Romance. The setting takes place mostly in Finger Lakes, in the museum like estate that is known as home. The author vividly and visually describes the scenery, the plot, and the dramatic and colorful characters. The characters are complicated, complex, flawed. Each of them seems to have their own set of problems and dreams. There are dark secrets, betrayals, dysfunctional family actions, the use of alcohol and drugs, and mental struggles for some. This antique set home belonged to the grandmother, Valerie, and was bought by a lover for her and referred to “A museum was a place of dreams.” Unfortunately due to tragic circumstances, Valerie never married and had a daughter. Valerie was intelligent and was well know in academic circles, and had a prestigious job. The housekeeper, Raisa seemed to be in charge of bringing up the daughter, Shayla. Shayla was seeking attention, and felt that she was adopted.
Shayla marries and has a daughter, Bess. The grandmother, Valerie adores Bess and sees tremendous potential in her. She leaves Shayla an allowance, but provides a will that everything that Valerie owns, will go to Bess. Bess is 10 years old at the time. Shayla is creative and loves to craft and travel with her husband, leaving Bess alone with Raisa. Then Shayla has twins, Casey and Caleb. Bess often takes care of the young twins. There is a tragic accident where Caleb is hurt.
When Bess is older , she works overseas, and loves her job. She is called home when her parents are both killed in an accident. Raisa has been taking care of the family, and Bess is wary of the reception she will get from the twins, and Luke, her former boyfriend. Bess is aware that she has to uncover the dark secrets to mend the problems of the past, to deal with the present and prepare for the future.
I appreciate how Christine Nolfi describes the importance of charity and giving back, forgiveness, second chances, providing help for emotional and mental problems. The author discusses the importance of family, friends, communication, honesty, inclusion, love and hope. I was deeply and emotionally touched by this amazing novel. I highly recommend this thought-provoking and memorable novel. There are twists and turns and some powerful surprises.
Linda's Book Obsession: 