The plot moves between present day and Van Gogh’s time, centered around a mysterious painting that may or may not be his. I loved the historical angle. And Jane, the main character, has a rare condition that makes her see the world differently, literally.

What I liked most about the book:
- The love story in the historical timeline is so beautifully written: tender, tragic and totally believable. It made the mystery feel even more human.
- The dual timeline is done really well. Both stories kept me hooked and the way they connect is satisfying without being too neat.
- The book also offers such rich, immersive detail, especially for anyone who loves art or historical fiction. It never feels like info-dumping, it feels like walking through a memory.

If you love art, hidden histories, or quiet but powerful storytelling, I’d absolutely recommend it. It made me want to learn more about Van Gogh and reminded me that love, even when it’s brief or lost to time, always leaves a mark.

Thanks to NetGalley and the author for ARC of this book!

I had to DNF unfortunately, it was too boring for me. The main point was I didn't like the book to begin with smutty things.

Thank you NetGalley and Pilgrim Trout Books for this eCopy to review

I picked up Van Gogh’s Lover expecting a historical mystery, but what I got was something far richer, a layered, emotionally resonant story that bridges centuries through art, trauma, and truth.

The novel follows Jane Ward, a woman whose life was derailed by a tragic high school accident. Twelve years later, she’s offered a second chance when the prestigious Firth Gallery invites her to bring her family’s prized painting: The Lover to Switzerland. Jane is convinced it’s a lost Van Gogh, and this could be her moment of redemption. But the painting vanishes on her first night in Geneva, and what begins as a recovery mission quickly spirals into a deeper mystery.

Jane’s journey takes her to a remote Alpine village and into the orbit of a reclusive man living in a château. There, she uncovers a hidden history of lies, betrayal, and a long-buried injustice tied to Vincent Van Gogh himself. The narrative weaves between Jane’s present and the painter’s past, revealing a haunting love affair that may have inspired one of Van Gogh’s greatest (and most secret) works.

What I loved most was how Hetzer blends fact and fiction so seamlessly. The historical detail feels authentic, and the emotional stakes are high without ever tipping into melodrama. Jane is a compelling character flawed, determined, and deeply human. Her personal growth mirrors the unravelling of the mystery, and by the end, I felt like I’d been on a journey with her.

If you enjoy historical fiction with a strong female lead, a touch of romance, and a mystery that keeps you guessing, Van Gogh’s Lover is well worth your time.

This story takes you on a journey to southern France and is a great way to learn more about Van Gogh.
Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for access to this eARC.

Well written with believable characters. It’s a thriller you will love. A must read. I was given an ARC to read and leave my honest review. These words are mine.

<b>"There is nothing more truly artistic than to love people." -Vincent Van Gogh</b>

When I requested this ARC there were no reviews for it anywhere and I wasn't familiar with the author. Still sometimes novels whisper, "Read me." even when I already have stacks to get to. I was an art teacher for a few years and in my classroom the walls were covered in poster sized prints of famous works. The artists' names weren't visible, and students of all ages visited my room. Without fail Van Gogh's pieces were the biggest draw regardless of student age. I will do my best to explain the rather intricate premise and a bit of character study, sans spoilers of course.

This novel gave me a book hangover because there was so much to take in. I wasn't sure what to expect when I began reading then I started noticing double meanings and imagery and I had to slow my pace because missing something wasn't an option. The layout is told through multiple POVs and a dual timeline the historic section takes place along the years 1888-1924. If you know your Van Gogh, you will note this will be when he was in France and that his suicide occurred during this stretch. While he is in France in the novel, this is historical fiction, and I can tell it is heavily researched. However, if you're looking for a play by play of Vincent's life look elsewhere perhaps to the collections of his letters. He is a supporting character in this novel. The modern timeline takes place in 2012 we meet Jane Ward a librarian who suffered an accident as a teen that left her color blind and face blind with a single exception. There is a mesmerizing painting displayed in her Granny Jo's home that she has adored since childhood, and she can see both color and the woman's face. Doctor's call it "phantom sight".

Jane's friend Ted shows her a portrait done by landscape artist Francis Firth of his wife Caroline. On The woman in the portrait is the same woman in Granny Jo's painting and Jane can see the red poppy in this painting too. Jane is invited to the bring her painting to the Firth Gallery. However, her first night in Geneva ends with her drugged and the painting stolen. Her path to recover the beloved art leads to the Alps where more history and hard truths await to be unraveled.

Sophie the woman in the painting lives life out loud given half a chance. She goes skinny dipping, riding horses with the Shawnee, and spends time as a boat deck girl. She also struggles with her mental health and spent time in various asylums from childhood. Much like the character of Vincent the author took care to show her brilliance and vulnerability.

There was much to discover in these 422 pages never a lull. Both timelines were engaging and the author included other facts about those moments in history to further solidify the timeline. Certain characters were enigmatic I loved feverish moments when they seemed like more than words on a page. Reading this felt like an adventure to far flung corners across time and the globe. Traveling through mysteries, imagination, and thought feels electric. I stayed up last night because I couldn't stop thinking about this novel!

Due to the title and the fact that it contains a romantic thread I will mention that the spicy scenes are tasteful. There is nothing I considered overtly graphic or coarse language.

At its heart this is the story of two women separated by time, connected by a beloved painting. The intricate design of this novel and its fascinating characters held my hand across the pages.

Thank you to NetGalley and Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op for providing an Advance Reading Copy for review. All opinions are my own.

It was lovely to revisit one of my favourite cities in Southern France and read about an artist who fascinates me. This was one of the better Van Gogh stories I’ve read because the plot was so unique! I was pulled in by the mystery, given a chance to be an armchair detective, and was enlightened about all things Van Gogh. I’ll be recommending this to my fellow Van Gogh enthusiasts and telling them that Hetzer breathes life and colour into this painter’s life.

I was gifted this copy by Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op and was under no obligation to provide a review.