Which timeline—past or present—did you find most compelling? How did Clara and William’s story enhance the modern narrative?
I don’t think I can choose one as more compelling over the other. The use of both was the compelling feature for me. Clara and William’s story seemed to wrap it all up in an especially touching way.
I think the story of Clara and William added to the violin’s history which made the story more unique and interesting to me I know nothing about instruments ( except that I wanted to take piano lessons as a kid but couldn’t afford it) so learning about the actual history of such a special instrument was fascinating. I guess I never thought about what happens to a violin when the owner is done with it. The other story line was fun and interesting as they were all unique characters, but Clara and William really added to the story.
It is rare that I find both storylines equally compelling, but in this case I did. I would have loved more time with Clara and William at the beginning of the novel.
I felt the two timelines worked well together, and I found the modern narrative most compelling. Clara and William’s romance ended tragically, but the symbol of love continued on and was appreciated by so many who played it or heard the beautiful sounds the violin made.
I enjoyed having the two timelines and the historical references were interesting. The artists and musicians the author brings into the story were fascinating. But I still have to say that I enjoyed reading the current timeline the most.
I think the story needed the pat timeline was needed for the present timeline to work in the story. The life of the violin was tied to the present events.
I liked the present timeline better, however I thought the past gave us the background we needed and it brought the end to lifew.
I thought the story of the past history of the violin was the most valuable aspect of the book.
I liked both the past and present stories: the present one would not have worked without the past, but at times it really seemed a bit much – so many characters, so many secrets and lies, so many places! I found it somewhat overwhelming frankly. It all seemed to split the stories apart so that I didn’t enjoy either at times – and I’m not usually a linear person.
I enjoyed the present timeline much more. I thought that a lot of the past timeline was kind of silly.