Wow.....this one was just pure magic to read and is perfect for any art lover/museum goer out there. The concept and the writing are so unique that I read this in one sitting. I could not put it down!

The Art of Vanishing took my breath away. It's been a long time since I read a book in one sitting, but I couldn't stand not knowing what was waiting for me on the next page. Such a unique premise and Morgan Pager absolutely delivered.

The world is going to love this book!

Thank you to NetGalley and to the publisher for the ARC.

The Art of Vanishing by Morgan Pager offers an interesting premise but ultimately feels flat due to its lack of character depth and emotional engagement. The relationship between Jean and Claire, the central focus of the novel, never really comes to life. Instead of diving into their bond with any real depth, the writing skips over crucial moments that could have made their connection feel genuine and emotionally charged. There are hardly any scenes where the characters are deeply honest with each other or vulnerable, which left me feeling detached from their struggles and triumphs. It’s a missed opportunity, as the emotional core of the book could have been much stronger.

That said, the writing itself is strong, and Pager does offer a unique and thoughtful perspective on the imagined lives of subjects in works of art. The way the author weaves this theme throughout the narrative is compelling, providing an intriguing lens through which to view the characters' experiences. While the novel may lack the emotional resonance I hoped for, its intellectual angle on art and its subjects gives it a distinctive voice. Overall, I appreciated the concept, but I wanted more from the characters and their relationships to really make this a memorable read.

I could not put this one down, it was magical. The Art of Vanishing explores a thought plenty of museum goers have probably had - what would happen if we could step into the paintings we are viewing. The sweet and poignant love story that ensues is completely captivating.

As someone who has followed Morgan's journey on Instagram (including the writing process for this novel), I was really excited to read her debut! This book did not disappoint. I loved how original this story felt, with such a perfect blend of magical realism and contemporary fiction. I was rooting for Jean and Claire throughout this story - and found the ending to be so heartwarming!

This was really darling. I absolutely loved the creative plot - a cleaner (and art enthusiast) at a museum discovers she can step into the paintings. One painting by Matisse in particular catches her eye - as does the man in the painting, Matisse’s son Jean.

While I didn’t necessarily understand/feel the connection between Claire and Jean and some of the dialogue was awkward, I was engrossed in their story and concept. Recommended to anyone looking for a love letter to the everlasting power of art.

Thank you to Random House Ballantine and NetGalley for the opportunity to read a copy.

The Art of Vanishing has a very sweet concept and Morgan Pager's joyful love for art and museums shines through. I thought that Pager did an excellent job sweeping us into the world of the art and opening up possibilities of magic in a way that brings the reader happily along. I had some quibbles with plotting and voice,. but this is sure to please many readers who are looking for a romantic book that loves love as much as it loves art.

I thought this was such a fun and unique take on the museum novel. Claire and Jean’s love story is sweet and moving, and I loved the little details of behind the scenes museum life. I would recommend this novel to any art lover, museum goer, or fan of From The Mixed Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler.

If Night at the Museum was a romance - it would be this novel.

I loved how sweet and pure the romance was, but also the growth and development the characters went through. They grew because of their relationship, and their fall was effortless and swoony.

There were multiple times throughout this book I found my self giggling or smiling to my self and at the end I was a little emotional it was over

This novel is a love letter to the arts and museums everywhere