A review by a_chickletz
The Painted Veil by W. Somerset Maugham

4.0

This is one of those cases where I saw the movie before reading the book. If it wasn't for the movie, this book would have never made my reading list. (I'm not certain that's true, I think I'd find it... eventually. Just not as fast if it wasn't for the film.) And I feel as if I'm betraying the literary world if I said I loved the movie more than the book.

HOWEVER, I am able separate the two. And so, the book: I loved it, I devoured it! Kitty's growth through the book was something of a test - reading-wise and story-wise. At times I wanted to shake her due to the treatment she was giving Walter.

I thought the dialogue was sharp, witty, and perfect. I liked the addition of the 'poem' in the case of Walter and his 'feelings for Kitty'. You'd have to read the book to understand what I mean.

SpoilerHOWEVER. I was upset when I read about her giving into Charlie when she returned from Hong Kong... but I guess the burn she gave him afterwords was pretty awesome. Guess you can only hope that the child is Walter's.


Overall: The Painted Veil is a treasure and an easy read. Pick it up, even if you're a fan of the film.