27th October 2025

Whilst most of the Group thought the book captured 17th century social life and religion, it was felt that the relationship between Griet and Vermeer could have been developed further. Overall it was considered a very readable book but possibly the writing was uneven in its handling of the characters.

This historical novel set in Delft follows Griet, a 16-year-old girl who becomes a maid in the household of renowned artist, Johannes Vermeer, after her father is blinded in an accident and can no longer work.  As she navigates the complexities of her new life she becomes increasingly involved in Vermeer’s artistic world.  Her keen eye for colour and composition catch his eye, leading him to employ her as his assistant and ultimately to pose for him as his model. However, when he gives her his wife’s pearl earrings to wear for a portrait, a scandal erupts that could threaten Griet’s future.