Title: Love and Ruin
Author: Paula McLain
Genre: Historical FictionOther books I've read by this author: 
Circling the Sun, The Paris Wife
Synopsis: In 1937, twenty-eight-year-old Martha Gellhorn travels alone to Madrid to report on the atrocities of the Spanish Civil War and becomes drawn to the stories of ordinary people caught in the devastating conflict. It’s her chance to prove herself a worthy journalist in a field dominated by men. There she also finds herself unexpectedly—and unwillingly—falling in love with Ernest Hemingway, a man on his way to becoming a legend.
On the eve of World War II, and set against the turbulent backdrops of Madrid and Cuba, Martha and Ernest’s relationship and careers ignite. But when Ernest publishes the biggest literary success of his career, For Whom the Bell Tolls, they are no longer equals, and Martha must forge a path as her own woman and writer. - Back Cover
Circling the Sun, The Paris WifeSynopsis: In 1937, twenty-eight-year-old Martha Gellhorn travels alone to Madrid to report on the atrocities of the Spanish Civil War and becomes drawn to the stories of ordinary people caught in the devastating conflict. It’s her chance to prove herself a worthy journalist in a field dominated by men. There she also finds herself unexpectedly—and unwillingly—falling in love with Ernest Hemingway, a man on his way to becoming a legend.
On the eve of World War II, and set against the turbulent backdrops of Madrid and Cuba, Martha and Ernest’s relationship and careers ignite. But when Ernest publishes the biggest literary success of his career, For Whom the Bell Tolls, they are no longer equals, and Martha must forge a path as her own woman and writer. - Back Cover
My Thoughts
This novel took me a little while to get into. At first, I really didn't like Martha 'Marty' Gellhorn, and when I don't connect with the protagonist right away it makes it difficult for me to enjoy a book. I kept reading, and Marty started to grow on me but I really did not enjoy the portion of the book set in Spain. Again, I hoped it would get better, and it did.
This novel took me a little while to get into. At first, I really didn't like Martha 'Marty' Gellhorn, and when I don't connect with the protagonist right away it makes it difficult for me to enjoy a book. I kept reading, and Marty started to grow on me but I really did not enjoy the portion of the book set in Spain. Again, I hoped it would get better, and it did.
After Marty's first trip to Spain, things really picked up for me. I found her to be more likable and relatable, and I loved learning about Marty's career as a war correspondent and author. Her life with Hemingway in Cuba and her growing relationship with his children was so endearing. I find that my (poor) opinion of Ernest Hemingway has not changed since McLain's depiction of him in The Paris Wife. I love that Martha chose to do what was right for her despite Hemingway's childish and controlling personality.
If this one starts off slowly for you as well, I implore you to keep reading, it is worth it in the end!
Comment below if you have read this book or have suggestions for others like it!
To buy this book from Amazon now, click on the image at the top of the post.
To see more from the author, visit the website linked above.
Comment below if you have read this book or have suggestions for others like it!
To buy this book from Amazon now, click on the image at the top of the post.
To see more from the author, visit the website linked above.
