Road to Urbino, The
Tearne, RomaOne Tuscan summer, Renaissance artist Piero della Francesca's paintings draw together three disparate men; Lyndon Rasangium (Ras), Charles Boyer and Alex Benson. The works of art set in play events that will dramatically impact on their lives and those of the people they love, as well as highlighting the plight of the Tamil people.
Moving between Sri Lanka, Italy and England, this beautifully crafted story weaves together a complex plot that gradually reveals why Ras is in custody awaiting trail, while inviting the reader to ponder the experience of civil war, immigration and identity and the seductive power of art. [Larger font]
Comments from Groups
We all enjoyed the way the story is related from 3 different viewpoints through the one unseen "investigator'. Tearne's writing and descriptive passages are excellent, managing to create an image of the Italian hills, and even the feeling of the air there. Overall enjoyed by all. We would like to read more by this author. Auckland 196 One person (an artist!) was enraptured and gave the book 9/10; a couple of others had reservations, but most of us enjoyed this book for its accomplished writing and intriguing story. We found the construction confusing rather than clever; using Elizabeth as a counsellor for Ras worked well, but much less well witth Alex. The book generated a good discussion on multi-culturalism and tourism, and we had a good look at the Flagellation and other works by Piero della Francesca, which was enlightening. Apart from the time-line being unclear, most in the group found it a good and worthwhile read. Tairua 001 We found this book difficult to get into. There was a lack of engagement with the characters, most of whom seemed unlikeable and self-centred. The story seemed to have too many strands and seemed rather contrived - too many coincidences to feel true. However, we did enjoy the writing, especially the descriptions of the Italian countryside, we felt we were there. The ending felt a bit "Hollywood", everyone ending up in various relationships, which didn't ring true. The book generated a lot of discussion. Nelson 015 We enjoyed this book on the whole. We were impressed with Roma Tearne's writing, her skill at describing emotions especially. One described the book as "intriguing'. The beginning confused some of us, and a re-read of the beginning might help. We discussed the book for longer than usual, and the book prompted us to discuss world problems. One of the thing we really enjoyed about the book was the happy ending. Christchurch 111 This proved to be a very popular book, although some cavilled at the structure where each of the various characters told their story. It caused much discussion about Sri Lanka and its recent history, and the artist and his works. A very enjoyable evening ensued. Wellington 142 Read and loved by everyone. Beautifully written. A story of "loss' but ends with resolution. Excellent notes. Perhaps the best book we have read this year, and one we would like on our book shelves. Wellington 041 Highly recommended. Wellington 041
Pages
338
338
Year
2012
2012
Reviews
06-11-2023
Various opinions of book! Two people really enjoyed it. Others found the narrative a little trying!
01-06-2022
Most enjoyed Rona Tearne's tale, but some found the protagonist's obsession with his first love, rather over-bearing.
15-10-2021
It was not as popular as I expected. Members felt the plot was too contrived and disliked most of the characters. However, we had a good discussion and began to appreciate the writing, and the greater depth behind the story. Well worth reading.
15-10-2021
Have read several of Roma Tearne's books now - we always enjoy her writing and the totally different storylines. She always has a Sri Lankan component which she manages to weave into her stories.
15-10-2021
Fascinating - once the characters got sorted out! Enjoyed by all but two of our members!!
15-10-2021
Generally well received by the group.
15-10-2021
The group liked this book - encouraged those who hadn't finished to keep it and finish!!
15-10-2021
Most did not enjoy the 'conversational' writing style. Hard to figure out who is thinking/saying what. Did lead to interesting discussion.
15-10-2021
We enjoyed the writing style, the art history and understanding what was going on in the characters' heads. We liked the way she blended history with her own take on the people.
09-06-2020
We all enjoyed this book. Although the subject matter is war, loss, and the crippling of the personality by trauma, it is not a depressing read. Partly this is because of the writer's power to evoke colour and the role of art in giving meaning to life. And there is the comfort of a relatively happy ending. Some of the group were puzzled by the role of Alex Benson, feeling that he didn't add much to the novel, but on the whole the narrative technique of telling the story through interviews was interesting and unusual. Roma Tearne is a writer to read more of.
10-12-2018
We all enjoyed this book. Very entertaining.