The Lady with the Dark Hair by Erin Bartels is a dual timeline fiction story set in 1879 and present day. It shares the tale of two believed to be family members, one discovering art, and one preserving art from the past. Viviana has lived a difficult life in the late 1800s. She desperately wants to know how to survive as a female in a male dominated world. She wants to express herself despite the difficult past she has been through. Esther, who lives in present day, has struggled through preserving the heritage of art in her family. She also must take care of her mother, who has a mental illness. When their worlds collide and the truth is revealed, Esther realizes her life is not all she thought it was.
This dual timeline story was a bit difficult to follow, but I did enjoy it for the most part. Erin Bartels is in a accomplished author who does share excellent stories. Her style is intriguing and I did enjoy the story. This is a great read, especially for those who enjoy art history.
