The sun rose in Paris
(Book)

"Jack has been praised all his life for his extraordinary artistic talent and is rarely seen without his sketchpad. However, in Jack's world art is considered a hobby - men are expected to support their families with steady jobs offering solid prospects for advancement. Future responsibilities are far from Jack's thoughts, however, as he departs Australian shores for a six-month holiday visiting relatives in London. On the ocean crossing, Jack meets fellow artist Margaret Bell, who enthusiastically appoints herself his mentor. She introduces Jack to a bohemian world where lives are dictated by passions rather than social conventions, and Jack is persuaded to enroll in Paris' esteemed Academie Julian. Arriving in Paris, Jack meets Andrés, an earnest young Spaniard, and his astute twin sister, Sofia, whose dark eyes and sweet smile captivate Jack's heart. Together, the trio experience Paris at the height of its golden age. Mentoring from Gertrude Stein and Pablo Picasso affirm Jack's talent, and Jack has never felt so happy. When's Jack's talent is recognized by renowned art patron, Gertrude Stein, he is further inspired, whilst an opportune encounter with Picasso elicits unsettling advice. As Jack experiences both the wonder and turmoil of perfect love, he cannot ignore his responsibilities, conceding the life he is leading is but a temporary aberration. Tragedy threatens and Jack wrestles with an agonizing decision: should he follow the well-laid plans for his future in Australia, or pursue a path offering only uncertainty? Can Jack defy the expectations of a lifetime to follow his passion?"--Page 4 of cover.