"The Swan Thieves" is a novel by Elizabeth Kostova, first published in 2010. The book tells the story of a renowned artist named Robert Oliver, who becomes obsessed with a mysterious woman he meets in a museum. After attempting to attack the woman, Robert is hospitalized and placed under the care of a psychiatrist named Andrew Marlow.
As Marlow attempts to unravel the mystery of Robert's obsession, he discovers that the artist has been painting portraits of a woman named Beatrice de Clerval, who lived in 19th-century France. Marlow becomes fascinated with Beatrice's story and begins to investigate her life and the people who knew her.
The novel weaves together multiple narrative threads, including Robert's present-day struggles with mental illness, Marlow's investigation into Beatrice's life, and flashbacks to Beatrice's own story in 19th-century France. The book also explores themes of love, obsession, art, and the power of the past to shape the present.
Overall, "The Swan Thieves" is a complex and engaging novel that offers a richly textured exploration of human relationships and the enduring power of art. The book has been praised for its evocative prose, intricate plotting, and the depth and complexity of its characters. It is a testament to Kostova's talent as a writer and her ability to craft a deeply immersive and rewarding narrative.
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