The Fortunate Ones by Ellen Umansky follows the trail of, and lives of those touched by, a piece of Nazi-looted art.
The characters are strong, especially Lizzie and Rose. Most of the supporting characters are obviously weaker – Lizzie’s sister Sarah and her friend Max are more fully developed than Rose’s brother Gerhard. Umansky really shines in fleshing out the relationship between Rose and Lizzie – from tentative to a strong bond.
The plot is intriguing with the premise of Lizzie and Rose trying to determine the fate of Soutine’s painting. The plot is especially intriguing as Rose looks at the painting as a link to her past and Lizzie looks at it as a comforting reminder of gentler times.
A decent and quick read.
