Though Sarah’s tragic backstory consumes much of the novel’s first half, her journey takes off once she departs to study, first in a Parisian art school, and later through an art scholarship competition in Australia—where she falls deeply in love with fellow art student Hans Schuman. As Sarah changes, so, too, does the world around her: her father dies from complications of pneumonia, her relationship with Hans is haunted by old lovers, and a guided trip to Tanzania, meant to spark her creative juices, alters her in more ways than one. Purtee steers clear of the often-messy emotions that come with young adulthood, focusing instead on Sarah’s evolution as an artist—and the realities of female artists in the 1990s, trying to succeed in a classically male-dominated profession.
Purtee skillfully embeds strong female artists who inspire young Sarah into a narrative that shines most when describing the artistic process: intricate details, the elation of watching animal dynamics on safari, and the energetic explorations Sarah and friends make under the tutelage of Kenneth Patrick stand out—as does the underlying theme of Sarah as a phoenix, rising from the ashes of her tragic childhood. A side plot about political kidnappings slightly distracts, but Purtee rallies with a sweet conclusion that will give fans hope of future adventures with Sarah.
Takeaway: Friendship, love, and art intertwine in this sweet YA story.
Comparable Titles: Sandhya Menon’s From Twinkle, with Love, Kayla Cagan’s Piper Perish.
Production grades
Cover: B+
Design and typography: A
Illustrations: N/A
Editing: A
Marketing copy: A-
Finding Sarah is a fabulous mix of intrigue, adventure, travel, mystery, and romance. This unforgettable and powerful YA novel is well-written. In it, a young artist experiences tragedy, sexual awakening, friendship, love, and heartbreak and learns to forgive and offer second chances. It is the kind of book that breaks your heart and then mends it, and you will finish it with a smile and a long, satisfied sigh.
The characters are believable, relatable, skilled, empathic, and well-developed. Nina Purtee's book teaches the reader that it is possible to go into the future inspired by the past and not be burdened by it. I recommend it to anyone who loves to paint and enjoys coming-of-age stories, romances, and books with fierce female protagonists.
Purtee shares her gift and craft of writing for young women, and there seems to be a strong element of inspiration or timeless message that underpins the plot of this story. By all rights, Sarah could have thrown in the towel given her tragic past. But she doesn't, and this is a beacon to young women who have that spark to recover and reclaim from the darkest of times.
Besides self-exploration, romance, and adventure, you have a character with heart. Purtee is a natural storyteller, with the ability to transport readers into realms of imagination and possibility. Sarah is a character you can identify with; one you can admire and root for. The first-person point of view brings a personal feel to the narrative. But besides character-building, this author has an immense talent for conveying mood, setting, and growth. You feel that you are right there in the same exciting locations with Sarah.
It's nice to see conservation as one of Sarah's passions. This is a character with a cause, with a conscience. I think readers will come to adore and respect her for who she is, and readers will be entertained and informed by her exploits. The author has really brought a fictional character to life for me by creating her as multi-dimensional. One thing that always stands out in a very good character who finds herself, is the opportunity for readers and fans to connect with her on their own journey of finding themselves.
Purtee brings a fresh, meaningful take to the adventure romance genre, and sprinkles in heartwarming moments and a sense of humor. If you are looking for that perfect blend of travel, romance, suspense, and purpose, "Finding Sarah: A Phoenix to Behold" by Nina Purtee, is a must-read.
