The Mistress by Danielle Steel

"The Mistress" by Danielle Steel. This book was published by Random house in 2017 and has 336 pages. 

Vladimir Stanislas, a filthy rich Russian Steel Barron, lives mostly on his luxury yacht 'Princess Marina' with his mistress of seven years, Natasha Lenova. They have a symbiotic relationship. She, content with all the comfort, luxury and trophy status since she was 19. He, giving her more than her modest expectations for being there for him at all times. Vladimir has a keen eye for art and all things beautiful. Theo, a painter, is son of Lorenzo Luca, a famous painter whose art fetches astronomical price when on sale. Usually it isn't because his widow would not sell it.

Would the stories converge? Would they meet? Is Natasha happy to be a mistress? What kind of a girl is she?

Natasha's character is special. At the age of 19 and destitute, Vladimir had nursed her from near death to life and she had become his mistress willingly. She wants to believe that they love each other and she is happy. She is greatful to Vladimir for saving her life and saving her from poverty. She is drop dead gorgeous and loves art. She wants to go to university. Despite being a mistress she has not lost her innocence or judgement of right and wrong. The character is rich. Theo is also an interesting character. He is a painter like his father. Art comes before relationships. He doesn't want to get married, loves his mother and helps her run a niche and fine dining restaurant. Melisse, Lorenzo's widow, loves Gabriel but is not able to come out of mourning and declare her love. Vladimir, the ruthless businessman, who owns Natasha and showers her with gifts and surprises, is an art connoisseur and has an eye for beauty. He owns Natasha and flaunts her. He is extremely intolerant of insubordination.

The story has a flow. There are time leaps of weeks and months but are easily covered in narrative. Reader knows where the story is headed in first few pages. Thus the destination is known and readers can enjoy the journey. The journey is indeed enjoyable. 

The first question is when will Natasha realize that she lives in a Golden cage? The second is when will Theo acknowledge that he is in love? Third is how difficult the path will be? In due course all the questions are answered. 

Author has avoided dramatizing the story. She has also avoided extreme measures. It would have been tempting to use violence, guns and fights to spice up the story. But she doesn't do it. She should be appreciated for her restraint. She allows the story to take its own course. She stays true to a romantic story. Thus it becomes a light and easy book that captures your attention and does not let the reader digress.

A good story and a good change.

Why did I read this book? Author. 

What I didn't like? Vladimir's sudden decision to back out. 

What did I like? Suggestive, rather than conclusive end. 

Recommend reading.