Jessie Burton's The Miniaturist blends historical and magical realism in 17th century Amsterdam. Reviewers praise its evocative writing and vivid atmosphere, though some critique the plot pacing and character development. Overall, it's acclaimed for intriguing mystery and rich setting, but mixed opinions on depth may affect reader engagement.

A reader who enjoys The Miniaturist by Jessie Burton would likely be captivated by historical fiction with a touch of mystery and magical realism. Fans of works like The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern or The Girl with a Pearl Earring by Tracy Chevalier will appreciate the richly detailed 17th-century Amsterdam setting and complex characters.

Set in 17th-century Amsterdam, Jessie Burton's debut novel The Miniaturist follows 18-year-old Nella Oortman, who marries a wealthy merchant, Johannes Brandt, only to discover a world of secrets and intrigue. As Nella adjusts to her new life, she receives mysterious, prophetic miniatures that unveil hidden truths about her household and compel her towards self-discovery.

Jessie Burton

Adult

Novel

The Miniaturist

Fiction

Guide

Study Guide

title

content

Overview

Get ready to explore The Miniaturist and its meaning. Our full analysis and study guide provides an even deeper dive with character analysis and quotes explained to help you discover the complexity and beauty of this book.

The Miniaturist Summary

Background

The Miniaturist Background

chapter

chapterType

section

Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Prologue

The Miniaturist Prologue Summary & Analysis

Part 1: “Mid-October, 1686: The Herengracht Canal, Amsterdam”

Part 1, Chapters 1-8

The Miniaturist Part 1, Chapters 1-8 Summary & Analysis

Part 1, Chapters 9-17

The Miniaturist Part 1, Chapters 9-17 Summary & Analysis

Part 2: “November, 1686”

Part 2, Chapters 18-26

The Miniaturist Part 2, Chapters 18-26 Summary & Analysis

Part 3: “December, 1686”

Part 3, Chapters 27-35

The Miniaturist Part 3, Chapters 27-35 Summary & Analysis

Part 4: “January, 1687”

Part 4, Chapters 36-44

The Miniaturist Part 4, Chapters 36-44 Summary & Analysis

Part 4: “January, 1687”-Part 5: “The Same Evening, Sunday, 12th January 1687”

The Miniaturist

Before You Read

Reviews & Readership

Review Roundup

Who Should Read The Miniaturist?

Reading Age

Book Details