{Review} THE GEOMETRY OF LOVE by Jessica Levine

ISBN #: 978-1938314629

Page Count: 292

Copyright: April 8, 2014

Publisher: She Writes Press

Book Summary:

(Taken from Goodreads)

Why is it easier for a woman to be a muse than to have one? Can one be fully creative—in art or life—without the inspiration of erotic love? These are the questions asked in The Geometry of Love, a novel set in New York in the 1980s, then fast-forwarding to Northern California 20 years later.

Julia, an aspiring poet, is living with her British boyfriend Ben, a restrained professor at Princeton, when she has a chance meeting with Michael, a long-ago friend. A charismatic composer, Michael was once a catalyzing muse for her, but now returns as a destabilizing influence. Julia longs to become involved with Michael, but hesitates to give up the security of her relationship with Ben. When Michael signals he is too wounded to make a commitment, Julia turns her triangular situation into a square by setting him up with a cousin. In the process she discovers, as Pascal once said, that "the heart has its reasons which reason does not know." This deeply psychological tale explores the surprising ways we make romantic choices.

Kathy's Review:

First, something that has nothing to do with the writing of the book at all. The cover of this book is so soft, it’s got a suede finish to it. I want to sleep with this book. I mean, like a blanket. As I read along, I would run my fingers over the cover, enjoying its smooth texture.

OK. Enough about the cover. Let’s jump into the good stuff.

Levine’s first novel explores a love triangle that spans decades. It’s written realistically and deeply, as if the author truly understands the pains and struggles Julia goes through as she tries to stay true to Ben, her long time boyfriend who has yet to “put a ring on it.” Levine deftly establishes Ben and Michael as foils to one another, Michael being a more artistic, free spirit, and Ben being a more practical, scholarly, reliable partner.

Whether you are ok with the topic of infidelity or not, this book sweeps you up in the passion felt by Julia when she is with Michael. You will understand her difficulty in deciding which path to take. I’m not 100% satisfied with how it turned out – not with who she ended up with, but rather in the way it didn’t seem like either person was completely happy. I guess that’s love though – it’s not all sunshine and rainbows all the time – it’s more about committing to be with that person through the good and bad.

The Geometry of Love explores the journey of the heart through decades, of wondering “what if”, and of finding that person who truly makes you feel alive. Readers looking for a fast-moving plot will not find it here. This book takes places mostly through Julia’s thoughts, reminiscing of the past, and through dialogue. However, if you let yourself get caught up in this story, you will be in good hands.


*A copy of the book was provided by the publicist in exchange for an honest review.