Historical fiction with a mystery and a hint of romance— how could it not be enjoyable

The character journeys, the twist and turns, complex family dynamic and as someone with not a lot of art knowledge it was interesting to learn about art forgery and how nazi propaganda had an impact on the art world.

I listened to the audiobook version and thoughts the narrators did a great job making the story come to life.

Highly recommend to art lovers and historical fiction readers!

Thank you to NetGalley, Harper Muse Audio & the author for an advance listener copy

After a very long month recovering from surgery, I was so excited to get back to reading. You would think being off work and home healing from surgery would give me a lot of time to read, but unfortunately that wasn't the case between doctor visits and whatnot. Anyway...this was my first time reading Katherine Reay's work, and what a wonderful story! If you've read any of my reviews, then you already know that I'm a huge fan of historical fiction, especially when I have the opportunity to learn something new, and I really enjoyed the interesting facts about the art world that Reay sprinkled in throughout this book. The plot was very intriguing and kept me guessing the entire time. There's mystery, romance, drama...you get a little bit of everything with this story. The fact that it was narrated by one of my favorite narrators, Saskia Maarleveld, was an added bonus. Fiona Hardingham is quite incredible too. It was my first time listening to her, and I adored her soothing British accent. Between her and Saskia, I was thoroughly enraptured in this book from beginning to end. I would highly recommend it to everyone, and I can't wait to read more of Katherine Reay's work.

I really enjoyed this book, and the narration was fantastic. The character of Lily was well developed, and her relationships were also. Even though the book centered on art forgery, the reader was able to learn about Lily and her family and their family history, and it all connected to the main plot. You also learned a bit about art forgery, as well as Nazi propaganda around degenerate art. The plot moved along well and kept the listener entertained throughout. The suspense around who would get caught and how it would happen also kept the listener involved. And, personally, I loved the cameo of Pierce Brosnan and the nod to The Thomas Crown Affair in the use of similar dresses in the art gallery. I love it when authors are clever like this. I highly recommend this book and thank NetGalley and Harper Muse Audio for the e-arc.

Katherine Reay’s The English Masterpiece is a delightful tapestry of intrigue, beauty, and wit that kept me hooked from start to finish. Lily, an ambitious assistant helping to orchestrate a dazzling Picasso exhibit, finds herself caught in a whirlwind of scandal when she boldly declares a masterpiece a forgery right at the height of the event. Talk about a moment that could make or break a career! Reay masterfully weaves a story that plunges readers into the glamorous yet cutthroat art world, with vivid descriptions that make London’s museums sparkle and the paintings seem almost alive. The characters are richly drawn—Diana, the polished and enigmatic curator, and Lily, ambitious yet vulnerable, are both compelling and relatable. What truly shines is the way the novel balances suspense and heart. Just when you think you have it all figured out, Reay throws in a twist that makes you reconsider everything. It’s a love letter to art lovers and anyone who enjoys a good mystery wrapped in emotional depth. Whether you're a mystery enthusiast or an art aficionado, The English Masterpiece is an entertaining and thought-provoking read that will leave you eager to see what Katherine Reay comes up with next.

It’s a slow read, and the mystery feels muddled. Is the mystery supposed to be: Is it a real Picasso? What made Lily think it was a fake? Or how did this happen? It’s unclear.

Lily and Diana are unlikeable main characters, so I dont care about them. Learning about Lily's past was interesting, but it's not the conflict that I was expecting. The twist is kinda obvious that Diana is a bad guy, especially with her point of view. The romance is rushed and unbelievable. No spice either. Overall disappointing.

Rating: 4.5/5 Stars

Imagine... You're the assistant to the keeper of the Tate Modern's modern art collection. It is the 1970's, and you are in an admirable position for a woman at the time. You have helped to arrange a Picasso exhibit including some pieces that your employer has authenticated herself. Suddenly, at the opening gala, you hear your own voice exclaim "It's a forgery!" You're ruined! Your boss is ruined! Such is the plight of Lily, this book's main character.
Lily must race against the clock to prove that she has correctly identified a Picasso forgery though she does not know how she knows. She must also prove that she is not responsible for placing the forgery into circulation. Everyone she knows comes under suspicion. And, her boss, Diana, is one of the primary foci of the investigation. Both Lily and Diana's careers and relationships may be in jeopardy.
The English Masterpiece deftly weaves heart-pounding mystery with immersive 1970's historical fiction. Additionally, Reay provides context of the art industry, art heists, and the impact of World War II on art history. I found the novel equally captivating and informative. It was obviously well-researched. I especially loved the focus on professional women in the 1970's. Gender norms and art politics are discussed thoroughly. I love art-focused books. I love historical fiction. I love suspense. And, I highly recommend this book.

First of all, I wanted to express how amazing the narrators are in this audiobook. They are perfect for the parts they narrated. Great job to both ladies!

And now for the novel...
The English Masterpiece is just that...a masterpiece. The protagonist, Lilly, is the assistant to the director of the Tate Museum in 1973, London, England. Picasso has just died, and Diana, the director of the Tate, honors him by having an exhibit of his art. Lilly, while looking at one of the paintings, blurts out, "This is a forgery." And thus, this is where all the action begins. It is a spellbinding book that kept me captivated until the very end. This novel has mystery, family issues, and a bit of romance, all culminating in an exciting read. I thoroughly enjoyed it.
*I was given a copy of this book by the publisher, and this is my honest opinion.

The English Masterpiece is a thoughtful and engaging story about art, family, and finding your place in the world. Katherine Reay blends mystery, history, and personal discovery in a way that feels both smart and heartfelt.

The book takes you through beautiful English settings—like the countryside and old libraries—while following a main character who is trying to uncover secrets from the past. It’s not a fast-paced thriller, but more of a quiet, reflective journey with emotional depth.

Reay’s writing is elegant but easy to read, and she brings in references to classic literature and art that make the story feel rich without being confusing.

If you enjoy books about self-discovery, hidden histories, and the beauty of art and words, this is a great choice. It’s a gentle, meaningful read that stays with you.

I really enjoyed this one! The blend of art, history, and mystery made for an engaging read, and I loved the setting and character dynamics. Smart, thoughtful, and immersive—I was hooked from the start. A great pick for fans of literary fiction with a twist of intrigue.

Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC!

Great story about art, forgery, betrayal in the 1970s London. Diana and Lily are running an exhibition of Picasso’s art shortly after he died at the Tate Museum which will either make or break their careers. Everything turns quickly chaotic at the opening and it’s a race to figure out who is responsible. Loved the narrators! Another compelling story by Katherine Reay.

Thanks NetGalley for the ARC of The English Masterpiece by Katherine Reay, published by Harper Muse Audiobooks
Narrated by Fiona Hardingham and Saskia Maarleveld

Excellent novel about art, people, love, deceit, underlying motives, trusting in yourself and abilities and more. I listened to the audiobook. The descriptions that the author uses in this book are outstanding, you can envision everything that is described to a T. The author has used so much thought and imagination.  Great characters and plot,  the two main characters Lily and Diana were very interesting and had dynamic personalities. I love how the story unfolds and true personalities shine. Great twists throughout the novel.
This is the first novel I've read by this author, it won't be the last

Absolutely loved it! This was such a smart and intricately woven mystery. The writing was exceptional, which is no surprise coming from Katherine Reay. The plot and the pacing were perfect., and the research was obviously meticulously done.

I loved the gentle romance, complex family dynamics, all the references to artists and artworks, and the theme of becoming your own masterpiece instead of hiding or being an imitation of who you were meant to be.

I read this via audiobook and thought both narrators did an outstanding job. Saskia Maarleveld Is one of my favorite narrators, and she was exceptional in this role.

I highly recommending this story for art lovers, historical fiction fans, and anyone that enjoys a beautifully told story.

Many thanks to UpLit Reads, Katherine Reay, Harper Muse Audiobooks, and NetGalley for an ALC. All opinions expressed are completely my own.

This book was such a blissful genre bender, blending a mystery with an art exploration with a historical novel with family drama. It's not my first book by Reay, having listened to The Berlin Letters when it came out, and it's definitely not gonna be my last one.

So if you like historical fiction as much as I do, and would like your books to delve into the world of art and its preservation, then this book is for you.

Thank yo Netgalley and Katherine Reay for this ALC.

Colleen Chi-Girl
Goodreads 4.5 STARS ROUNDED UP: 5 STARS

I listened to this suspenseful, unputdownable audiobook, which is my first novel by author, Katherine Reay. It was so enjoyable that immediately following this novel, I read The Berlin Letters by Reay (which I also loved)....completely different than this one.

The English Masterpiece features two professional women in the art world of NYC in 1973. First, we meet a young woman, Lily, who works relentlessly for her busy and glamorous boss, Diana Gilden, who is having a Picasso art exhibit following his recent death. The posh opening is being held at the Tate Modern, which as you can imagine is a big, big deal in the art field and in both Diana and Lily's lives. A dream come true for both women.

As Lily is checking the exhibit once again, and walking by a particular, new-to-them painting, something jars Lily and, in her shock, she shouts out that it's a forgery. People freak out, the exhibit is immediately shut down, and the papers get news of it. DISASTER! Lily can't believe her huge faux pas and her apologies do nothing to help assuage her guilt and Diana's fury. It could have been such a glamorous and memorable event...

Reay created deep, interesting, and flawed characters that you love to hate and just plain love. You'll meet them along the way in this fast-paced thriller narrated brilliantly by both Fiona Hardingham and one of my very favorites: Saskia Maarleveld.

There's a slight romantic interest, some unscrupulous people, and Reay keeps you guessing until the end. Don't miss this one.

My thanks to NetGalley, Harper Muse Audio and Reay for this ARC and opportunity. The release date is June 10, 2025!

The English Masterpiece by Katherine Reay
Narrated by Fiona Hardingham & Saskia Maarleveld
Publisher: Harper Muse

Katherine Reay’s The English Masterpiece captured me from the moment Picasso was mentioned. With the backdrop of the Tate Gallery & the intrigue of a forged masterpiece set against the vibrant art scene of the early '70s, it presents a stunning canvas, pun intended, for an incredible story. Once you start listening, it’s nearly impossible to press pause—exactly what a great audiobook should achieve.

Set in London, England, in 1973, the art world is mourning the loss of one of its icons: Picasso. This pivotal event kicks off a whirlwind of excitement, especially when Lily, the assistant curator, daringly exclaims, “It’s a forgery” during the retrospective that she and her boss, Diana, have meticulously curated. From this moment, the narrative accelerates into high gear.

The novel unfolds through the contrasting perspectives of two extraordinary women: Diana Gilden, the first female keeper of the Tate's modern collection, & her assistant, Lily. The talented narrators, Fiona Hardingham and Saskia Maarleveld, breathe life into each character, their voices perfectly complementing the personalities they portray. The alternating chapters allow listeners to relish the evolving story from these two viewpoints, enhancing the overall flow of the narrative.

With a masterful blend of exceptional writing & engaging narration, the suspense intensifies with each chapter. As we uncover more about Diana & Lily, our curiosity as listeners deepens. I especially appreciated how the world of forged masterpieces in the 1970s resonated with the historical chaos of the art world, marked by the theft of masterpieces during the rise of the Nazi regime—a tumultuous period that left ownership in disarray, paving the way for forgers. While it may be the '70s, the societal structures of previous decades continue to cast their shadow over the art world.

This is my first encounter with Katherine Reay’s work, & it has sparked a desire to explore her other novels. Spending time immersed in the vibrant art scene of 1970s London is a journey you won't regret. I was also delighted by the references to past artists and those culturally significant during the '70s, including the iconic Andy Warhol. This audiobook is truly a gem.

Beautiful example of fighting for what you believe in and taking the risk! Beautiful description if the love for art.

Absolutely! Here’s the revised review with your updates:

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Audiobook Review: The English Masterpiece by Katherine Reay, narrated by Saskia Maarleveld and Fiona Hardingham

I really liked The English Masterpiece! Katherine Reay continues to prove that she’s an author who deserves a lot more attention. I absolutely loved her first two books—The Berlin Letters and especially A Shadow in Moscow, which I still think about over a year later—and this one, while a bit different in tone and setting, was just as compelling in its own right.

The 1970s London art world is such a fascinating and glamorous backdrop, and Reay uses it to great effect, weaving a mystery full of suspense, secrets, and high-stakes tension. I was instantly drawn into the story. The mystery surrounding the Picasso painting had me hooked, and the pacing never let up. It felt fresh and different from her earlier books but still carried the strong emotional core I’ve come to expect from her work.

The characters are another standout. Lily, the main character, is so endearing—intelligent, passionate, and full of integrity. Her voice felt real and relatable, and I loved how the story explored her dynamic with Diana, her mentor. Both women are strong in their own ways, and their complexities added a lot of emotional depth to the story.

As for the audiobook, the narration was excellent. Saskia Maarleveld is my all-time favorite narrator, and she did not disappoint here. Her performance is always pitch-perfect, and I’d honestly listen to anything she narrates. This was my first time hearing Fiona Hardingham, and I was pleasantly surprised—she brought great nuance and energy to her sections, and together, the two narrators made the story even more immersive.

The English Masterpiece is a great blend of art, intrigue, and character-driven storytelling. If you enjoy historical suspense with smart, layered female leads—and especially if you’re a fan of authors like Kate Quinn or Ariel Lawhon—you’ll definitely want to give this a listen. Highly recommended!

The English Masterpiece is set in the art world of 1970s London with a mystery at its heart - a combination I was very excited to dive into. While mysteries are one of my favorite genres, it was learning more about this art scene that was, for me, the strongest component of the book and highly enjoyable. I found the mystery to be only ok - maybe because so often there were so many details in superfluous directions that created a loss of momentum and intrigue. I would read Katherine Reay again as her diligent research and passion really did shine through her writing, I just think some additional editing would have made this particular book a lot stronger in the area of building suspense.

I thank NetGalley, Harper Muse Audiobooks, and the author Katherine Reay for the audiobook ARC. This is my honest review.

Interesting premise and time period for post-WWII museums. However the story moves too slowly for me and often dragged in places with backstory and description. Lily's vast knowledge seems a little far-fetched for her age and experience. The second half of the book picks up though, and makes a good read for those interested in museums, art forgery, Picasso and women in the 1970s.

Thank you NetGalley for an advanced audiobook to review. All opinions are my own.

Museums, art crimes, self-discovery, and London! This story had all of my favorite things and made for an enjoyable read.

This book reminded me a lot of Kate Quinn’s work. Katherine Reay really set the stage for the reader to enter 1970s London and brought these characters to life. I loved how the characters developed throughout the book, and reading from different perspectives kept the story interesting and made for a great read. I also felt like Lily, who seemed naive and silly at the beginning of the book, really got her stride and gained confidence throughout the book. Also, the characters’ backstories were well-developed and interesting! I’ll definitely keep an eye out for more books by this author.

The audiobook narrator did a great job tapping into each character.

Thank you to #NetGalley and #HarperMuseAudiobooks for an ALC in exchange for an honest review.