Community Reviews

Rating(3.9 / 5.0, 50 votes)
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50 reviews
July 14,2025
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I truly liked The Paris Wife to a much greater extent!

Had I not had the opportunity to read it first, I would have been extremely confused.

As it stands, it was just okay.

The Paris Wife offered a more engaging and immersive experience for me.

It had a certain charm and depth that this other work seemed to lack.

Perhaps it was the way the story was told or the characters that were developed.

Whatever the reason, it left a lasting impression on me.

In contrast, this other piece didn't quite capture my attention in the same way.

It felt a bit平淡 and lacking in excitement.

However, it wasn't a complete disappointment.

There were still some aspects that I could appreciate.

But overall, my preference clearly lies with The Paris Wife.

July 14,2025
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The best book I have ever read about Hemingway and his growth as a writer truly amazed me.

It was an absolute delight from start to finish. The author's in-depth exploration of Hemingway's life and the evolution of his writing style was both fascinating and engaging.

Every page was filled with interesting anecdotes and insights that provided a unique perspective on this literary giant.

I found myself completely immersed in the story, eagerly turning the pages to discover more about Hemingway's journey.

Now, I am excitedly looking forward to delving into the next installment of Hemingway's life as presented by Michael S. Reynolds.

I have no doubt that it will be just as captivating and informative as the first.

This book has not only deepened my appreciation for Hemingway's work but has also inspired me to explore the world of literature further.

I highly recommend it to anyone who has an interest in Hemingway or in the art of writing itself.

July 14,2025
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Michael Reynolds has truly done an outstanding job in filling in the missing links of Hemingway's Paris Years.

His work is so vivid and detailed that it makes the reader feel as if they are actually living those 7 years right alongside Hadley and Hemingway.

One can almost envision the bustling streets of Paris, the cafes where they would gather, and the experiences that shaped Hemingway's early life and career.

The way Reynolds weaves together the story is captivating and engaging, leaving the reader eager to learn more.

I, for one, am looking forward to reading more of his works, as I am confident that he will continue to provide such rich and fascinating insights into the lives of great literary figures.

His ability to bring history to life through his writing is truly remarkable and makes his books a must-read for any Hemingway enthusiast or lover of literature in general.

July 14,2025
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One of those Hemingway biographies that the reader savors like a fine wine. This particular volume is truly superb. It delves deep into the life and times of Ernest Hemingway, painting a vivid and detailed picture of his experiences, his loves, and his literary journey. The author has done an excellent job of researching and presenting the material in a way that is both engaging and informative. From his early days as a journalist to his later years as a renowned novelist, every aspect of Hemingway's life is explored. The reader is taken on a fascinating adventure, learning about the people and events that shaped this literary giant. This biography is not just a book, but a work of art that will be cherished by Hemingway fans and literary enthusiasts alike.

July 14,2025
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Thorough and captivating, this work by Reynolds is truly remarkable.

Although it is nearly impossible for anyone to write completely accurate biographical material, Reynolds does an outstanding job at 'connecting the dots'.

His in-depth study of Hemingway, with an expertise that is evident, allows him to make inferences about Hemingway's (and others') mood and demeanor that are both plausible and engaging.

As someone who has also studied Hemingway, I find myself in complete agreement with Reynolds' interpretations.

I still have two more books in this series of five to finish, and I am eagerly looking forward to delving deeper into the world of Hemingway through Reynolds' eyes.

His work has provided me with a new perspective and a greater appreciation for the complex and fascinating life of this literary giant.

I highly recommend this series to anyone interested in Hemingway or in the art of biography.

It is a must-read for anyone who wants to gain a deeper understanding of one of the most important and influential writers of the 20th century.
July 14,2025
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This biography is surprisingly satisfying.

It offers a great deal of insight, particularly into Hemingway's mindset during specific moments or situations.

It delves as much into his craft as his love life, which is always captivating.

I truly found it enjoyable to read this biography in chronological order along with his short stories.

The author has done an excellent job of presenting a comprehensive and engaging portrait of Hemingway.

The detailed accounts of his life and work provide a deeper understanding of this literary giant.

Whether you are a fan of Hemingway or simply interested in learning more about his life and writing, this biography is definitely worth reading.

It offers a unique perspective and is sure to keep you entertained from start to finish.
July 14,2025
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Fabulous.

The peak of Hemingway's life was truly a remarkable period.

During this time, he achieved great acclaim and success in his writing career.

His works were highly regarded for their vivid descriptions, powerful themes, and unique writing style.

Hemingway's experiences as a journalist and his participation in World War I also influenced his writing, giving it a sense of authenticity and depth.

He was not only a talented writer but also a larger-than-life figure, known for his adventurous spirit and love of the outdoors.

At the peak of his life, Hemingway seemed to have it all - fame, fortune, and a beautiful family.

However, as with many great artists, his personal life was not without its challenges and tragedies.

Despite these difficulties, Hemingway continued to write and create, leaving behind a body of work that would inspire generations to come.

His legacy as one of the greatest American writers of the 20th century remains firmly intact.
July 14,2025
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A truly fabulous piece of biography!

It is a work that I would strongly recommend to anyone who has a passion for Hemingway or a love for travel writing, or simply appreciates plain good writing. The author has crafted a sympathetic, yet clear-eyed portrayal of Hemingway. The research that went into this biography is thorough, leaving no stone unturned. It delves deep into Hemingway's life, his loves, his struggles, and his triumphs. Through vivid descriptions and engaging storytelling, the reader is transported into Hemingway's world, experiencing his adventures and misadventures along with him. This biography is not only a fascinating look at the life of a literary giant, but also a testament to the power of good writing. It is a must-read for anyone who wants to understand Hemingway and his impact on the literary world.
July 14,2025
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This is the ideal companion volume to A Moveable Feast. It arranges Hemingway's memoir in chronological sequence, interprets his numerous jibes and casual remarks, and rectifies where Hemingway either exaggerated the story or fabricated things. What surfaces is the account of a budding writer. A man eager to break free from his upbringing yet also longing to impress those back home. A man prone to hurling insults, but even quicker to take umbrage.

Upon arriving in Paris, Hemingway was a mediocre writer of sentimental tales. However, within just a few intense years, he transformed himself into one of the finest writers during a highly productive era in American literature. Of course, he received assistance along the way, in the form of friendship and support from figures like Gertrude Stein, Ezra Pound, and even Ford Madox Ford, who supported Hemingway despite Hemingway's derision and his own penchant for traditional 19th-century writing. Hemingway required help, even as he aspired to be self-made, leading him to form intense friendships that seldom endured - Hemingway was not disposed to gratitude and preferred to sever ties once he had utilized them.

Reynolds delves into Hemingway's writing during that period in great detail. I was intrigued to discover that my favorite among Hemingway's many short stories were penned during his years in Paris. He labored tirelessly at his craft, and when he was on a roll, he wrote with great speed. He was also capable of pruning his stories, eliminating everything that was superfluous, leaving no unnecessary scenes or even words. A disastrous trip to Pamplona to witness the running of the bulls served as the inspiration for The Sun Also Rises.

Reynolds also situates Hemingway within his specific time and place, elucidating the events of the era and presenting a vivid portrayal of Paris in the 1920s.

It was thrilling to read that when Hemingway journeyed to New York to negotiate the publishing contract for The Sun Also Rises, he hung out at the Algonquin, spending time with Robert Benchley and Dorothy Parker, both of whom would accompany him on the ship back to Paris. I would have loved to have been on that boat.
July 14,2025
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Wonderful!

After all, it's all too easy to let yourself get completely absorbed and deeply involved in those days.

It doesn't take much effort to imagine oneself in Paris, perhaps having a drink at the famous Les Deux Magots on the Left Bank.

I find myself sinking into that enchanting world far too easily, and I thoroughly enjoy every moment of it, especially when I am actually in Paris.

It's like being on a wonderful and emotional roller-coaster ride.

The atmosphere, the people, the architecture - everything combines to create an experience that is truly unforgettable.

You should definitely give it a try!

Immerse yourself in the beauty and charm of Paris, and let it take you on a journey you'll never forget.

Whether it's sipping coffee at a sidewalk café, exploring the museums and galleries, or simply strolling along the Seine River, Paris has something for everyone.

So don't hesitate, pack your bags, and head to the City of Light!

July 14,2025
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Reynolds' form of biography stands out as being distinct.

There seems to be a great deal of speculation regarding what Hemingway was thinking. But the question remains, how could Reynolds possibly know this?

One of the truly fascinating aspects of this series is that it precisely details what Hemingway was engaged in working on, his location, and the other events unfolding in his life.

This offers valuable insights into the symbolism and significance of his books and stories.

I highly recommend that you read or reread what he is writing while you are reading about his writing process.

This is especially straightforward with the Paris Years as a significant portion of what he was working on consisted of short stories.

By doing so, you can gain a deeper understanding of Hemingway's creative mind and the context in which his works were produced.

It allows you to see the connections between his life experiences and the themes and motifs that emerged in his writing.

Overall, this approach enriches the reading experience and provides a more comprehensive view of Hemingway as a writer and a person.

July 14,2025
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Hemingway in Paris is not just a companion to Shakespeare and Company and A Moveable Feast; it is almost the essential Hemingway book. Reynold's work amazes with its detailed exploration and understanding of those years of writing that can be regarded as his apprenticeship.

It delves into the difficulties the writer faced in finding his voice and getting his work published. The book is also insightful in diagnosing both writing and the writer himself. Hemingway was a complex mix of a good-time companion and a vicious antagonist. He went through friends without hesitation and rarely recognized the assistance given to him by the Lost Generation Parisians. In fact, he used their help and then, due to his own strained sense of identity, turned against them. He didn't just end friendships; he burned them.

His wife was extremely supportive, but the new life, like the new book, would demand a new wife - lover. It is appalling to witness how Hemingway's psychosis could transform him into a brute. It's hard to like him, yet it's evident that there was a mental condition he couldn't control. Like a contemporary, Edith Piaf, he was self-destructive, but it was the people around him who suffered. Also like Edith, he rose from the ashes, but neither of them could truly understand what was true and worthy of gratitude as they dedicated themselves to their art.

The love of war, bullfights, boxing, and drinking are all present here. So is his process of writing and rewriting, the help he received from Fitzgerald on two primary works, and the bitterness he harbored towards Ford Madox Ford for reasons unknown. He was a key figure in the Lost Generation - Pound, Stein, Joyce, Dos Passos, Fitzgerald, MacLeish, Eliot, and all the characters of the Paris scene pass through the chapters. They appear and disappear as they are used up.

Insights into writing are liberally scattered throughout the text, and those who wish to write would do well to observe what they are and how they were applied to Hemingway's work. The text showcases his short stories and then transitions to his novels, which mark a turning point in his career. However, even through events that should have been happy, there is a demon that haunts his mind and mood, threatening to eventually overtake Ernest - something that will take decades but is inevitable.

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