Jess Walter's Beautiful Ruins is praised for its imaginative narrative, captivating characters, and clever interweaving of multiple timelines and perspectives. While some critics highlight its emotional depth and humor, others feel the plot can be overly complex and the pacing inconsistent. Overall, it's a richly crafted read that skillfully blends romance, history, and satire.

Readers who enjoy intricate, multi-layered narratives with a blend of humor and poignancy, such as those found in Anthony Doerr's All the Light We Cannot See or Amor Towles's A Gentleman in Moscow, will find themselves captivated by Jess Walter's Beautiful Ruins. It appeals to those who appreciate both historical and contemporary settings interwoven seamlessly.

Beautiful Ruins by Jess Walter is a historical fiction romance set across multiple decades and locations, interweaving the lives of several characters affected by the filming of the 1963 movie Cleopatra, including a would-be actress and her infatuated Italian hotelier, as they navigate the complexities and dreams shattered by the film industry.

Bittersweet / Mysterious / Nostalgic / Emotional / Romantic

- Beautiful Ruins was inspired by Jess Walter's trip to the Italian Cinque Terre region, where he imagined a cinematic love story unfolding in the picturesque coastal setting.
- The novel explores multiple timelines and features real-life historical characters such as the iconic actress Elizabeth Taylor, blending fiction with elements of cinematic history.
- Jess Walter spent more than a decade working on Beautiful Ruins, dedicating extensive research and many years of writing to bring the intricate plot and multidimensional characters to life.

**Pasquale Tursi**  
A hardworking hotelier from Porto Vergogna, Italy, who strives to fulfill his and his father's dream of transforming their town into a tourist destination. He is characterized by his blue eyes and dedication to his work.

**Dee Moray/Debra Moore-Bender**  
An actress from Seattle, Washington, involved in a major Hollywood production, who navigates personal transformations and contemplations about life and identity. She becomes a high school drama teacher after leaving her acting career.

**Michael Deane**  
A film producer known for his manipulative and self-serving tactics in the industry, who rises to fame and seeks to maintain his relevance in Hollywood. His character plays a pivotal role in the unfolding events through his deceit and ambition.

**Claire Silver**  
Michael Deane's chief development assistant, who aspires to create meaningful films while grappling with her professional and personal dilemmas. She undergoes significant personal growth as she makes pivotal life decisions.

**Shane Wheeler**  
A struggling screenwriter from Oregon seeking success in Hollywood, whose journey involves confronting personal failures and rediscovering his creative and personal aspirations. His character development is marked by moments of self-realization.

**Pasquale “Pat” Bender**  
The rebellious son of Dee/Debra and Richard Burton, who initially seeks fame as a musician but ultimately re-evaluates his priorities. He shares noticeable traits with his biological father while striving to forge his path.

**Alvis Bender**  
A war veteran and car salesman who becomes a mentor to Pasquale and husband to Dee/Debra, balancing his writing ambitions with the realities of life. His character presents deep compassion and wit amidst personal struggles.

**Richard Burton**  
The charismatic and troubled leading man of the film Cleopatra, embroiled in the glitz and complications of Hollywood life. His presence underscores the tensions and allure of transient stardom and personal relationships.

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