Lessons in Classical Painting --Juliette Aristides

Here is how the book is described by professionals:

"A companion volume to Lessons in Classical Drawing and an atelier in book form, Lessons in Classical Painting breaks down the foundational skills and techniques of painting in a format that is accessible and manageable for all readers. 

With the same direct, easy-to-follow approach of Juliette Aristides's previous books, Lessons in Classical Painting presents aspiring artists with the fundamental skills and tools needed to master painting in the atelier style. With more than 25 years of experience in ateliers and as an art instructor, Aristides pairs personal examples and insights with theory, assignments and demonstrations for readers, discussions of technical issues, and inspirational quotes. After taking a bird's eye look at painting as a whole, Aristides breaks down painting into big picture topics like grisaille, temperature, and color, demonstrating how these key subjects can be applied by all painters."


I tend to find that the books description is not what I find inside the book, but this is the exception. The instruction is easy to read and understand and introduces painting technique in general before delving into the finer details of creating art. The photography in the book is outstanding; I would buy the book just for the photos. Juliette Aristides is amazing at eloquently describing the techniques necessary for creating masterful artwork in a way that makes it seem approachable and recreate-able. I absolutely recommend this book and her other book Lessons in Classic Drawing.


**I received a complementary copy of the book from Blogging for Books in exchange for my review**

The Divorce Papers. Susan Rieger

I was very looking forward to this book as an easy read and something fun to jump into. I was pleasantly surprised with the storyline. Sophia is a law associate who is charged with handling the surprise and somewhat messy divorce of her firms biggest client's daughter. The format of the novel was very enjoyable. It was told solely in correspondence through memos, emails, passed notes and legal documents. It felt like you were a part of the legal case and helping piece together the clues to win.

I was incredibly turned off the by personality of the character Sophia. She came across as whiney, entitled and a bit pretentious, so it was tough to put that aside and enjoy the storyline. Other than that, it was a pleasant read.

**I received a complementary copy of the book from Blogging for Books in exchange for my review**