An Object of Beauty: A Novel Audiobook

" An interesting look at the rise and fall of America and, specifically, New York over the last 25 years or so, as seen through the eyes (indirectly) of a self-absorbed socialite and art expert, Lacey Yager. Well and concisely written, though I had a hard time feeling any empathy for any of the characters in the story, save perhaps for the narrator. But I think maybe that was one point of the book. It gives the art scene an air of something I'd always assumed it was: a farce. "

" With a touch of Gatsby, this was an introduction to the world of art and collecting. Very interesting. Steve Martin is a special talent. "

" Love Steve Martin. this wasn't his best, but deffinately worth readiing. "

" I picked this up before getting on a plane and read 2/3 of it. I used to work in art galleries and so I think this book would appeal most to folks who have "a thing" for art, even if you don't own anything "valuable." But by the time the plane landed, there wasn't one character in the book that I cared a wit about. I totally lost interest and am unable to finish it. I do very much like Martin's style of writing but the character development was just 'meh'..... "

" I love how astute Steve Martin is, especially when it comes to his observations about human nature/character. The way he builds his phrases, it just seems so effortless (and so you know it really wasn't). I did have a bit of a "Moffat!!" moment (and if you're a Whovian or Sherlockian, you'll understand that reference) at the very end. No spoilers, but a bit of fist shaking did ensue :) "

" An enjoyable read. I learned a bit about the world of art, which I am completely in the dark about. I was pleasantly surprised by Steve Martin's writing skills. "

" A mix of narrative and history of the world of art collection. Melancholy, interesting. Meh. "

" Great book! Others, not as interested in art history, would probably be less interested. I would give this one a 4.5 if I had the option, just because I am the type that likes to be moved by a book. Very intellectually stimulating though. "

" Detested this book. Enough said! "

" Loved this book. (Also loved Martin's memoir Born Standing Up.) The close observation of the art scene, a subject I find fascinating, was wonderful. "

" Almost no plot, a main character who's a pretty despicable, and waaaaay too much technical info on modern art. A book club book that for me was a real snooze. I do have to say, though, that Steve Martin has a nice way of putting words together. I like his writing, just didn't like this book. "

" I will admit to not even finishing this book. I got about halfway through, all the while forcing myself. "

" ok in terms of learning about the art world; didn't like the main character. worth reading. "

" An insider's look into the sub-culture that is the art world. Not too fond of Martin's style of writing but it kept my interest. "

" Though I enjoyed the art thumbnails throughout the book and learning a bit more about the art world, I did not care for the writing style and found it too slow-paced for my liking. "

" 3 1/2. Would definitely read more by Martin. "

" A fun read. Steve Martin made the art world very real. "

" Qui socially and quasi suspenseful. "

" On top of wanting to read / watch Shopgirl, this was a really cool book. Very full of observational humor. Steve Martin's a very surprising writer. "

" His light, readable style + a discussion of art and economy of art + full-color plates = very enjoyable "

" Interesting fiction introducing the art world and the intrigue of buying and evaluating art against the backdrop of an ambitious New York woman. Nice observations about various works and contrasting contemporary art vs. masters. "

" fun light read. Not completely filled in story but mostly very enjoyable, especially if you're an artist. They even had photos of the famous painting referenced in the book! "

" Once again, Martin paints a picture with words that all who see it will talk about. "

" Interesting, learned a lot about the art world. A little slow at times. "

" I appreciated thw world of art and the intrigue involved. The society reminded me of the Price She Paid, but 150 years later. "

" I was truly surprised by this book. I read Born Standing up but this is a fiction novel, and a damn good one at that. It kept my attention but the real treat was the characters. Steve Martin did a wonderful job of developing interesting characters. Great read. "

" Interesting book about art dealing in NYC. Interesting reveal later in the book. Great photos of referenced art work thoughout the novel. "

" A highly savory treat. I enjoy Martin as a performer, but his written voice here is refreshing and unexpected, based on my previous impressions of him as actor/comedian. Intelligent, interesting writing. "