A breathtaking novel full of rich details in the world of art. Tate's Modern Collections, Diana Gilden is having a Picasso exhibit after his passing. Lily is tasked to help and this has been her dream.

During the event Lily makes a discovery which changes everything. She claims one of the paintings is a forgery. Is Diana or any of the arts donor's aware of the authenticity? The papers get a hold of her accusations, and Diana along with others are furious.

Lily has her own troubles, but she also has a couple of allies who believe her claim. A beautiful and vivid novel.

Thank you Harper Muse audio and the author an early ARC for our book club Beyond the Pages. We love her work. I had just finished the ARC. Listened to a bit for the narrators and they are perfect with their accents and inflection.

Katherine Reay delivers a captivating page-turner in The English Masterpiece. Set in the glamorous but cutthroat world of modern art, this story has it all—mystery, ambition, scandal, and heart. When Lily risks everything by declaring a Picasso a fake, the fallout is gripping and full of surprises. The writing is sharp, the pacing perfect, and the characters unforgettable. I also listened to the audiobook and loved the narration—it added so much energy and personality. If you enjoy clever thrillers with a touch of class, this one’s a must-read.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5/5 Stars (Outstanding)
Setting: 1970s London
Genre: Mystery

Katherine Reay’s The Masterpiece is, quite simply, a triumph. Set against the richly atmospheric backdrop of 1970s London, this dazzling novel plunges readers into the glamorous yet cutthroat world of fine art with suspense, elegance, and intelligence. I was captivated in one sitting.

From the very first pages, Reay paints a vivid portrait of ambition and intrigue through the eyes of Lily, a bright and determined assistant curator on the cusp of career-defining success. But when she makes a shocking declaration at the height of a high-profile Picasso exhibition—calling one of the paintings a forgery—everything spirals. What follows is a race against time, full of secrets, betrayals, and unexpected revelations that kept me breathless and awake into the wee hours of the morning.

Lily is a compelling heroine—smart, vulnerable, and unflinchingly brave in the face of professional ruin. Diana Gilden, her mentor, is equally complex: polished, powerful, and potentially compromised. The tension between them is electric, and their intertwined ambitions and loyalties raise high emotional stakes.

Perfect for fans of Kate Quinn and Ariel Lawhon, The Masterpiece blends historical detail, mystery, and heart-pounding drama into an unforgettable read. Reay delivers a story that’s both a love letter to art and a masterclass in storytelling. Do not miss this one. #netgalley #theenglishmasterpiece #booked_this_weekend

Many thanks to NetGalley and Harper Muse Audiobooks for the free audiobook in exchange for my honest review. Fiona Hardingham and Saskia Maarleveld do a fantastic job narrating this story! I was so immersed in the story and found myself not wanting to stop listening!

Its the 1970's and Pablo Picasso has just died. To honor his memory and to help boost the Tate Museum, Lily and her boss, Diana, organize a Picasso exhibition. During the opening, Lily notices something strange about one of the paintings, and before thinking better of it, she exclaims, It’s a forgery! Will Lily and Diana both lose their positions? Is the painting truly a forgery?

I do not want to spoil the story but once the forgery is announced, I found that the pacing and the story picked up. The characters are complex and richly developed. The writing is solid, and this is a well researched historical fiction. The narrators are unreliable and there are several red herrings thrown in which further build the mystery. A fantastic listen and read!!!

I adore Katherine Reay’s books. She is constantly taking me on a journey to different period’s in history and teaching me things in the most fascinating way.

Expect 👉🏼 Historical Fiction, Art (Painting), Mystery, Fast- Paced, FMC with a lesson to learn, a little romance on the side

Told from two perspectives, Diana (art director) and Lily (her assistant) have vastly different views on their current happenings. Both are hard-working and have pulled off a last-minute show to honor Picasso. Everything is going smoothly until Lily blurts out, “it’s a forgery!” And their world of gold and glitz is thrust into chaos. Lily must defend her words to save her job. While Diana must find the truth to secure her job.

I loved this book. The story had me hooked immediately. And even though I know nothing about the art world, I felt like I was there and like I understood the process of acquiring art authenticating its origins. I loved how smart and tenacious the characters were. And I loved uncovering the mysteries surrounding the painting in question.

The audio was narrated by Fiona Hardingham and Saskia Maarleveld and they did a wonderful job.

Thank you Uplit Reads for the gifted alc.

I was intrigued by the premise of this story and was excited to receive an advanced listener copy. The English Masterpiece, a historical fiction/thriller by Katherine Raey is set in London 1973 following the death of Paoblo Picasso. Lily and her boss Diane Gilden, The Tate’s Modern Collection Keeper, are tasked with putting together an exhibit to celebrate the life and work of Picasso. The evening of the event, Lily is bursting with excitement and her biggest concern is whether Diane will approve of her outfit. As Lily takes in the art, she realizes something is very wrong. From here the story takes off and we learn that many more things are not what they seem to be. Lily will need to find the truth in order to protect herself and people who are important to her.

Fiona Hardingham and Saskia Maarleveld’s dual first person narration was well done and helped establish the tonal difference between Lily and Diane. I honestly could not stop listening. I completed many more household chores in order to justify binging the book! There is a cameo in the middle of the story that made me smile. Catherine Raey explains how she came to write that part, which made it even better. This is my first time reading anything by Raey and I will definitely check out her other books. Thanks NetGalley and Harper Muse Audiobooks for the chance to listen to this book in exchange for my honest review!

Leave it to Katherine Reay to bring to life an uncommon era in fiction and a fascinating story of intrigue, deception, and art. The English Masterpiece was fast-paced and well-written. I loved the dual POV and how the tense changed depending on if I was reading Lily or Diana's perspective. I listened to the audiobook version and thought the narration specifically was really good with this as it had two narrators and both captured their character so well. Fiona Hardingham was so impressive, I will be on the lookout for more audiobooks narrated by her.
I loved this look into the art world and the almost "White Collar" vibes with the art forgeries. It was cool too how it connected back to WWII and the effects that war had on art. It kept me guessing on whether the painting was real or not and then how everything was going to turn out as we got more and more revealed particularly in Diana's POV. I really liked the pacing of the story and the characters. The romance is very light, but it was nice in my opinion to have a bit of romance in the story.
I received an advance listening copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. I recommend this book, especially for fans of historical fiction.

A real gem!
Lily adores her job as the assistant keeper at Tate´s. After Picasso´s death in 1973 her boss and mentor Diana wants to put together a hommage to the great painter with his most personal art. After two intense weeks they´ve done it and Lily is looking forward to enjoy the opening with the awed selected guests. But as she takes her time looking at the pictures, she realizes, that the long hidden and only recently found painting "Woman laughing" is a forgery - and that exactly what she blurts out. This simple phrase not only creates chaos for this day, but pulls consequences, that are beyond Lily´s imagination. Soon she needs to find out if what she saw was right, and if so, that she doesn´t get into a focus, she really doesn´t want to be.

This is so much fun! Fantastically researched (with a special cameo you won´t see coming!), beautifully crafted and with very deep characters. It was a joy to not only follow the story but to listen to the talented narrators as well.
Highly recommended for anyone who enjoys stories in an art/crime/heist combination.

"The English Masterpiece" by Katherine Reay is a captivating story; from the very first chapter, I was immersed in the glamorous and tense world of 1970s London’s art scene. The narrative follows Lily, a dedicated assistant at the Tate, who is thrilled to help organise a Picasso exhibition honouring the legendary artist’s passing. However, everything takes a dramatic turn during the opening when Lily suddenly declares a painting a forgery, sending shockwaves through the art world—and threatening her career and reputation.
What really drew me in was the dual narration by Fiona Hardingham and Saskia Maarleveld. Their voices perfectly distinguished Lily and Diana, adding depth and nuance to each character. Fiona Hardingham’s narration was particularly compelling—her tone captured Lily’s youthful enthusiasm and growing anxiety so well that I found myself completely hooked, often listening late into the night. Saskia Maarleveld brought a sophisticated and enigmatic quality to Diana, making her both admirable and mysterious.
The plot is fast-paced and filled with twists, secrets, and red herrings that kept me guessing. The story’s blend of art history, suspense, and a touch of noir vibe feels fresh and exciting. I appreciated how the book explores themes of trust, truth, and integrity within the high-stakes art world, especially in a post-WWII context where the scars of the past still linger. The characters are richly developed, with complex motivations that add layers to the mystery.
I also enjoyed the subtle romantic elements—light but meaningful—and how they complemented the main narrative without overwhelming it. Katherine Reay’s research shines through, and the story feels authentic, weaving real art history into the fictional intrigue seamlessly.
Overall, “The English Masterpiece” is a captivating, well-crafted audiobook that kept me engaged from start to finish. It’s perfect for fans of historical fiction, thrillers, and anyone who loves a good art mystery.

It's 1973, and Lilly has a wonderful job at the Tate Museum. Her supervisor, Diana, is one of the most powerful women in the art world, and Lilly hopes this can help her create art of her own someday. Then Pablo Picasso dies, and Lilly and Diana put together a wonderful exhibition. Lilly is truly on her way until she opens her mouth before one of the paintings and declares it a forgery.

Now, the world is watching the Tate, Diana, and Lilly closely, and someone will stop at nothing to keep their secrets.

This was a fast-paced historical mystery with a fascinating look at the post-WWII art world, and it contained fantastic characters. I can't recommend it enough.

We learn lots of details about the art world museum, where class, gender, ambition, and status all play a role.

At a remarkable exhibit honoring Picasso's recent death, a junior assistant at the London Tate Gallery blurts out her opinion that a work is a forgery. The Times runs a scathing article, and the ramifications are potentially enormous for multiple people. There are lots of secrets and a little romance in this fun, page turning "masterpiece."

Wow! I was sucked into this book set in the 1970s art world in London! It was truly a journey with twists and turns and healing from the past, and trying to discover who you are. I was completely invested and loved it all. I read and listened to the audiobook of this one. The narrator was fantastic. I was completely lost in the story while listening to her.

Whether you're an art aficionado or not, this one will have you turning the pages quickly to reveal all of the past and history of these characters and pieces of art. Stunning, mysterious, insightful, healing, beautiful, intriguing and much more!

Lily is a very intricate character and I loved how the layers of her character was slowly peeled back. Her heart is so sweet but troubled and she doesn't allow herself to fully achieve her dream because of something from her past. I loved her goodness and her torn loyalty to what was right, what she thought was her dream and protecting the people around her.

Things get a little crazy when she's at an exhibit she helped plan and she looks at a piece of art and says out loud, "It's a forgery!" This sends her life on a spiraling trajectory of lots of unknown. Her job. Her family. Her boss. Her dream. Her friends. Her heart. All of these having changing dynamics that feel like they are spinning out of control and she doesn't know how to hold it all together.

I love reading Katherine Reay's books. Every one of them has pulled me in and had me thinking deeply about life and relationships and finding joy. Her writing style is full of life and hope! And she's great at writing suspense! Get ready for an intriguing read that you won't want to set down until you have discovered all the ins and outs of the story and characters' lives!

Content: Some moments of mild peril.

I received a copy from the publisher, Harper Muse and Harper Muse Audiobooks, via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.

Happy Reading and Listening!!!

Wow! Lily, our lovely MC, is so complex and real. She is the real deal and Katherine Reay is too. Being my first KR book, I was so happy to find myself drawn into this story of life and art—which is not something I am normally drawn to. I mean, I like art, but it’s something different for me to read about.

I was completely surprised by the twists in this story, too. It was so fun to read because I just couldn’t wait to see what was going to happen. I highly recommend to anyone who enjoys historical fiction, putting puzzles together, subtle romance, art in general, or London. I listened to the audiobook and it was performed beautifully. As an American who often speaks in a British accent, I love listening to British accents. It makes me so happy.

Please eead this tell me if you like it. And thanks to NetGalley for the ARC!

A delightful piece of historical fiction set in the London art world of the 1970s. This story pits a young and scrappy assistant at the Tate, Lily, against her boss Diana, the first woman keeper at the Tate. The novel has a wonderful sense of place and a tightly-plotted mystery, and Lily has a pretty significant character arc to traverse. Fiona Hardingham and Saskia Maarleveld do a good job with the audiobook narration, except for a somewhat cringey American accent for one of the characters. Thank you to NetGalley and Harper Muse Audiobooks for an audio review copy.

This book was delicious. It hit my love of history, had a compelling dual POV with female leads, tapped into mystery, and was filled with lush artwork. I usually listen at a slightly faster pace, and I slowed down to relish in Reay's voice and storytelling. The narration was also superb, giving me a new standard. Usually, I'm conscious of the narrator. However, Fiona Hardingham and Saskia Maarleveld did such a seamless job with the narration, that I'd forgotten I was listening to an audio book. I'd become completely immersed in the story.

Thank you to Harper Muse for sharing this book with me. It was a pure joy to listen to. I'll be tracking Reay's previous and future books. And I'll be listening to this one again, just for fun.

📚 BOOK REVIEW 📚

THE ENGLISH MASTERPIECE - KATHERINE REAY

Thank you to #netgalley and #harpermuseaudiobooks for a free copy of this audio book in exchange for an honest review.

I really enjoyed this book and found myself completely absorbed in the world of art, duplicity and fraud. Reay's writing is so descriptive and beautiful...she writes with such knowledge and insight so that you feel as though you are seeing the works of art in real life.
I found myself finding excuses to put my headphones on a listen.

I will read this author again!

The English Masterpiece is the kind of book that quietly pulls you in and doesn’t let go. Set against the glittering but high-stakes backdrop of 1970s London’s art scene, it’s equal parts historical intrigue, emotional drama, and personal reckoning.

Lily and Diana, the two main characters, are fascinating and layered—at times relatable, at times frustrating, but always compelling. I loved how their relationship evolved and how each woman grappled with ambition, loyalty, and integrity in different ways. The central mystery surrounding the possibly forged Picasso was gripping, and I couldn’t stop listening as Lily raced to uncover the truth. The payoff was very satisfying.

While the romance is understated and sweet (just the right touch), what really got me were the friendships and family dynamics—messy, emotional, and real. I found myself tearing up more than once. It’s not just about solving an art mystery, it’s about figuring out who you are when the truth costs more than you expected.

This is a beautifully written, emotionally charged, and thoughtful story. Highly recommend on audio!

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.

I think this book is brilliant. I loved every second of listening to it. Lily's character was beautifully written and the story was fantastic. The narrator did a great job. 5 stars

Many thanks to Net Galley and HarperMuse Audio for an audio ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.

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.

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

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.

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.

Thank you Harper Muse and Harper Muse Audiobooks for the ALC and ARC.

This is my first Katherine Reay.
Excellent writing. It allowed me to live the atmosphere of the high society Art scene of the 1970s. Vivid characters, engaging plot, fabulous atmosphere and consistent pacing.
And while I despise Picasso; I enjoyed how his legacy and art were used to drive the plot.

The relationship between Diana and her husband is a lesson for the ages.

Fiona Hardingham and Saskia Maarleveld do an excellent job bringing the story and characters to life.

Lily pulled me right into this story set in London in the 1970’s she tries to prove her worth to her boss, Diana, in the art world. Diana and Lily are from different worlds and when Lily is promoted to Diana’s assistant. They are showing the Picasso exhibit when Lily looks at one of the paintings and says out loud that it is fake…This sends everyone into a tailspin and all of the patrons who have loaned them paintings want them to be tested. Lily is now under the microscope and her own paintings are making it look like she could be behind creating forged copies. Will she be able to not only prove her innocence but who the real forger is?

I love stories about the art world and this one was so engaging. We see Lily grow as a character in her home life and in her work life. I wanted to like Diana because you could tell she was uncomfortable with the arrangement with her husband, but then at the end, her true colors were revealed when she was only cared about his painting. I thought she was going to win me over but the ending sealed her fate with me. The backstory into the way they can test a painting to see if it is a forgery was extremely interesting!

Set in 1970s London, rising Tate Museum assistant Lily jeopardizes her career when she publicly questions the authenticity of a major Picasso piece, sparking a high-stakes mystery in the art world.

I knew within just a few chapters that I was going to love this one. First off, the audiobook narration was impeccably delivered by Fiona Hardingham and Saskia Maarleveld. The decision to use two narrators for the different female characters was such a smart move. Each voice felt distinct and true to the characters Reay so carefully crafted. And craft, she absolutely did. These characters felt real, nuanced, and fully alive.

I fell completely for Lily, flaws and all. Her journey was heartfelt and deeply human. And while I didn’t hate Diana, I was definitely disappointed in her. Watching how she allowed Lily to take the blame, when she idolized her , added such emotional depth and tension. That kind of character development doesn’t come easy, and it shone throughout the entire novel.

This story gave me the same thrill I felt reading The Frozen River by Ariel Lawhon. Like that favorite of mine, The English Masterpiece offers a rich historical backdrop, a compelling mystery, a touch of romance, and just enough family drama to keep you turning the pages without wanting to stop. It’s a polished, genre-bending novel that hits all the right notes for fans of layered historical fiction.

I devoured this book and loved every minute of it. I’m only sad it’s over. I’ll be recommending it to all my historical fiction loving friends the moment it hits shelves.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher Harper Muse Audiobooks for the advance copy in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.

The Tate Gallery plans to hold a world-class exhibit to honor Picasso after his passing. For Diana Gilden, this will be the pinnacle of her career. Her assistant, Lily, is eager to do whatever she can to make the exhibit a success for the supervisor that she so admires. Then everything goes horribly wrong. The night of the opening, as Lily is walking among the guests, looking at all of the paintings, she stops in front of a masterpiece and hears her own voice say, "It's a forgery." The gallery falls silent. The fallout is immediate. Guests rush to leave, when Lily makes her outrageous declaration. Suspicion and scandal threaten everything Diana has achieved, as museums and collectors across Europe, already doubting most post-war acquisitions, fall into chaos and rumors of a world-wide forgery run wild. All Lily has ever wanted is to follow in Diana's footsteps and take the art world by storm in her own right. Yet one comment puts not only her own career at risk but also her mentor's. Eager to put everything right, and no longer sure what she saw, Lily must uncover the truth behind the Picasso before she loses not only the career she's always wanted, but her freedom.

This book was so good. It kept me engaged from start to finish. I adored Lily, and the book felt so real I felt like I was trying to solve the mystery of the painting right alongside her. This is a very fast-paced story that, although not based on real events, felt as if it could have really occurred. The narrator did an excellent job bringing this novel to life. I highly recommend this one!

"The English Masterpiece is a fast-paced read to the end, full of glamour and secrets, tensions, and lies, as one young woman races against the clock to uncover the truth about a Picasso masterpiece. Perfect for fans of Kate Quinn and Ariel Lawhon.

As the recently promoted assistant to the Tate's Modern Collections keeper Diana Gilden, Lily helps plan a world-class Picasso exhibit to honor the passing of the great artist--and she's waited her whole life for this moment. The opening is beyond anyone's expectations--the lighting, the champagne, the glittering crowd, and the international acclaim--until Lily does the unthinkable. She stops in front of a masterpiece and hears her own voice say, "It's a forgery." The gallery falls silent."

This historical mystery had me completely captivated from the very first page! The tension that is created when Lily claims it's a forgery puts herself, her boss, and The Tate in jeopardy. I could not put this down. There is also a family saga combined with 1970's art and fashion in London, and a little romance mixed in. All the elements are seamlessly woven together to create a memorable story with characters that I will remember. Be sure to read the author's note for more background on art, art forgeries, and stolen art as well as the history behind including a famous celebrity in the novel. Grab your bell bottoms, some Abba music, and possibly a disco ball in a room with some paintings, and you've created the perfect setting to immerse yourself into The English Masterpiece! 🎨

The audiobook performance by Saskia Maarleveld and Fiona Hardingham is excellent and added to the depth of enjoyment of the novel.

Many thanks to NetGalley, Harper Muse Books, UpLit Reads, and Katherine Reay for an advance reader's copy and an advance listening copy in exchange for my honest review.

#TheEnglishMasterpiece #KatherineReay #bibliophile #HarperMuseAudiobooks #NetGalley #GiftedByUpLit #ARCreview #HistoricalMystery #5starbooks #2025TBR #BestBooks #bookrecommendations #bookreview #bookstagram #booksofinstagram #readersofinstagram #booklover #bookworm

Katherine Reay’s newest novel is set in London during the 1970s and filled with fashion and art - such a fun setting to be immersed in! I loved the audio narration and was immediately drawn into the art world and the dilemma in which main character Lily found herself. I don’t know much about art history and felt like I learned quite a bit. A true art aficionado would be in their element with all of the discussion of famous artists and their works!

Along with Lily’s dilemma centered around an art forgery is a storyline regarding her family relationships, which are strained due to a past accident. While at first this seemed unrelated to the main idea of the book, it gave depth to Lily’s character. I enjoyed seeing her growth and realizations as the mystery progressed.

While there were some slower moments, the last third of the book really picked up and the ending was both exciting and satisfying! This book is great for anyone that loves art, mysteries, historical fiction, and stories about crime!

Adult fiction, but perfectly appropriate for teens as well. No language. Clean romance. Mild violence.

Let me start by saying- THE DRAMA. I love a book about 'art world' drama. Forgeries??-check. Backstabbing and plotting?-check. Glamour and intrigue of the art world in 1970's London?-check.

Set in 1970's London, surrounding the death of Pablo Picasso and at the Tate Gallery- newly appointed assistant Lily is basking in the reverie of pulling off a commemorative exhibit to celebrate the life and work of Pablo Picasso. Everything is perfect....until Lily realizes that one of the Picasso's is a forgery. And says so out loud. This can ruin everything.


This book will leave you on the edge of your seat. I truly enjoyed this one.


Thanks NetGalley and Harper Muse Audiobooks for advance access to this title in exchange for my honest feedback.

The English Masterpiece is an artful experience, to be savored and appreciated. Lily is a young assistant, far ahead of the professional norm of being a woman, to a woman boss, in a male dominated profession. Lily is creative and talented in her own right and immediately I got the sense she has layers of depth to her character, but has determined to study the masters and learn from her mentor, Diana. She has allowed others to shape her into who she thinks she is supposed to be. I love that this is a story of self-discovery and restoration to what was lost. Lily deeply loves her family and yet, being burdened by many things, feels like she cannot quite connect with them on an intimate level. I love how Katherine Reay uses art and the masters to draw out the characters and their strengths and imperfections. I also learned quite a bit about art along the way. There is a touch of romance, but it is not the center of the story and is just enough to bring an additional layer. There are historical elements woven throughout and the setting of the seventies came through accurately. This is a standalone, but I must confess, my thoughts have lingered on the characters once I finished and I would love another story with them.
The narrators did an excellent job of bringing the various characters to life, capturing the tones, nuances, and personalities of each person.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher via NetGalley, and all opinions expressed are solely my own, freely given.

At a prestigious Picasso exhibit, museum assistant Lily claims a painting is a forgery, jeopardizing her career—and her freedom.

This is an entertaining story with strong characters and a fast-paced plot. I enjoyed the 1970s art world setting. The audiobook narration was well done.

Thanks, NetGalley, for the ARC I received. This is my honest and voluntary review.

The narration was beautifully done.I loved the chatacters and the puzzle overall.
It eas an immersion story all the way through.

Set in 1970's in the UK we follow 27 year old Lily. She was recently promoted to her dream job as assistant keeper at an art museum. Growing up in a working class family she has always felt the burden to pursue a job rather than art. In her free time she spends copying and closely studying art. When Picasso passes away her boss Diana wants to do a tribute exhibit in his honor. On the big day she is poised and admiring the paintings when she gets to one she blurts out "that's a forgery". before she can even stop herself everyone falls silent and the chaos ensues. This leads everything her boss has ever had in possession to attention and questions her reliability. Lily must get to the truth is the painting real or a fake and who can she trust. I LOVED this one. I always love a badass female main character.

The English Masterpiece
By Katherine Reay

Reviewed by Nadya Mercik

The English Masterpiece became the first novel by Katherine Ray that I read, and it swept me off my feet so that now I’m looking forward to discovering other books by her. Most of the time I prefer visual texts, but this book I listened to in audio. Created by Harper Audio and narrated by Fiona Hardingham and Saskia Maarleveld, it turned out to be the audiobook I was tempted to turn on from the very beginning the moment I listened to the final lines. In the story which revolves around two compelling female figures, the narrators did a great job showing their strong characters and determination yet threaded by insecurities and ghosts from the past.
The novel takes us back into the second half of the 20th century. It’s London, 1973. In this male dominated world Diana Gilden has managed to get the position of Tate’s Modern Collections Keeper, and she has recently promoted her secretary, Lily Summers, to the position of assistant. Lily, who paints herself but tells everyone (herself included) it’s just a hobby, loves her job and works hard to prove herself worthy of it.
The story starts on the day of Pablo Picasso’s death. Diana decides they must arrange a small exhibition in the Tate to commemorate the artist. In just a fortnight, she and Lily perform a miracle – they select and bring Picasso’s masterpieces from Europe and States and open the exhibition. The event is supposed to become something special. Lily, who has worked hard to make it happen, perceives it as almost her own achievement.
On the opening day she is giddy with happiness and pride and perhaps a bit of champagne. As she walks around the hall, observing the people (as her boss instructed her to) and the paintings, one of the exhibits strikes her as odd. The Woman Laughing is clearly a masterpiece, but it stands out in the row of other Picasso’s works. The more Lily looks at the painting, the more it dawns on her that this is not the great artist’s work. Shocked with her discovery, she blurts out “It’s a forgery” for everyone, including the owner of the painting and The Times’s journalist, to hear. Troubles follow, and Lily feels really anxious and guilty. With her careless exclamation she has put her boss’s and her own career in danger, and, coming from a working class, she cannot afford losing her job. To add to the troubles, an insurance investigator arrives from New York to sort out the problem.
Ridden with guilt, Lily tries to mitigate the situation. However, something about the circumstances and the behaviour of her boss makes her doubt. Was she really wrong about the painting? In order to protect herself and in spirit of recovering the truth, Lily starts her own sort of investigation, and it takes her on a rather tumultuous journey.
The English Masterpiece combines so many interesting threads and topics, that it simultaneously makes you want to pause and look more closely at every brushstroke and keep on reading to find out how the situation will resolve. Katherine Reay submerges the reader in the atmosphere of the art London, the city which still feels some aftermaths of the Great War and the current economic depression, the city of contrasts and great power – all of it for you to savour in small details. Then there is the world of art and fascinating stories about certain pictures and artists. You can read a great passion and love for art behind every line, and it is very interesting to understand more about how forgers work, what techniques, tools and ways they use to be able to copy a great master.
But the story is much more than the depiction of one heist and an investigation to solve it. There are, of course, two very personal female stories – Lily’s and Diana’s. Lily who suffers from a childhood trauma and denies herself the true expression in art. Lily who tells each and everyone who sees her painting that it’s just a hobby, and at the same time wishes to take part in the new Emerging Artist programme of her boss. Lily who considers herself a forger – not in practice but in her heart.
And Diana, who had to erase her old self. Diana who is in a rather controversial relationship. Diana who fought to occupy the post she has now. An ambitious woman who wants to go further, sometimes regardless of the price to pay.
There is also the family line. I loved the way Katherine Reay describes and portrays Lily’s family. The relationship in it is far from ideal and there are so many things for Lily to understand as she ploughs through this whole conundrum – about herself, about the people around her. I loved a phrase that Conor Walsh, the insurance investigator, says at some point – “Families are complicated, Lily. You can love them and hurt them, want to draw them close while shoving them away. Those two states – the pull and the push – can be true simultaneously.” How do you go on as a family when a disaster hits it? How do you navigate the conflicting desires and keep supporting each other? In the end, despite all of it, Lily’s family feels like a cosy place you want to be part of.
And this story doesn’t shy away from the social background of this time. Can you surpass the borders and limitations of your class? Can you become something bigger? And may be do you need to?
In comparison to all the other threads the love line sometimes feel like it’s been left on the curb, yet it is like a cherry on top of the cake. It gives the protagonist the completion she needs. After all, it may be the story of the forged marsterpiece, of art and artists, but in the first place, it is the story of finding oneself and asserting oneself in this world. Quoting the novel, “After all, that’s what art is as well – a form of self-expression” or “Art is the singular soul – the flaws, the vulnerability and the memory all on display”. And to show it all you need to find it first, together with the courage to open it up to the world and thus proclaim yourself, and become part of the world.
All in all, it’s a wonderful novel. If you love reading about art and people who create it, it’s the novel for you. If you enjoy heists, mysteries and dark pasts, you’ll find a lot in this book. And you will fall in love with these characters, who come as they may from a different era, but are still very much like us. Happy reading!

I love a good historical fiction set in the art world, especially when things take mysterious turn. Told between the points of view Diana the curator and her assistant Lily, the story gets started when during the opening of a tribute to Picasso, Lily blurts out that she has spotted a forgery.. From that point on we get to go along for fun ride. We also get introduced to Diana's husband which brings in another layer.

Looking forward to reading more of Katherine Reay's work. This one gave me hints of Lisa Barr's Woman on Fire, it's been a couple of years since I've read a historical art mystery that good until this one came along.

Katherine Reay's The English Masterpiece is an undeniable triumph, a novel that instantly captivates and holds you in its thrall as it masterfully plunges the reader into the high-stakes world of fine art. Lily, assistant to the Tate's esteemed Diana Gilden, helps orchestrate a monumental Picasso exhibit—the culmination of a lifetime's ambition. But the glittering opening night shatters when Lily, in a moment of shocking conviction, declares, "It's a forgery." This electrifying statement immediately sets the stage for a high-stakes drama that will leave readers breathless.

What unfolds is a meticulously crafted tale of ambition, betrayal, and the perilous pursuit of truth. Diana Gilden, a respected figure in London's art scene, sees her crowning achievement and meticulous career threatened by Lily's audacious claim. The newly discovered Picasso, one she personally vouched for, becomes the epicenter of a swirling scandal, igniting fears of a widespread forgery ring across Europe. The narrative skillfully explores the intricate relationship between mentor and protégé, and the devastating consequences one unexpected statement can unleash.

The author's captivating narrative is a brilliant blend of art historical detail and gripping suspense, keeping readers on the edge of their seats as Lily delves deeper into the shadows of the art world. As someone who appreciates fine art and the collection of such timeless pieces, I found this novel sophisticated, thrilling, and ultimately a deeply satisfying journey. Katherine Reay is a true artisan of intelligent and compelling fiction, and The English Masterpiece isn't just a book; it's a masterpiece in its own right—essential reading for anyone who appreciates truly exceptional storytelling

🎨 The English Masterpiece by Katherine Reay – ★★★★★

This book was everything I love in historical literary fiction, and then some. From the very first chapter, I was completely swept up in the story. The setting, the pacing, the cast of characters… it all felt so rich and layered without ever becoming overwhelming.

The art museum backdrop was such a perfect choice! It added atmosphere, beauty, and a sense of reverence that permeated the entire book. Katherine Reay does such an incredible job painting a world you can step right into. I could see the art, feel the tension in the room, and smell the dusty corners of long-closed archives. The time period was also distinct and immersive, grounding the story in a specific cultural moment while still keeping the pace brisk and engaging.

What stood out most, though, was the emotional depth. Every character had real weight and purpose, flawed, thoughtful, layered, and fully human. There’s a quiet brilliance in how Reay unspools their stories, letting the emotional beats and unraveling mysteries play out in a way that never felt rushed or too drawn out.

The audiobook? Absolutely amazing. The narration made it feel like I was right there alongside the characters! Following clues, uncovering secrets, and wrestling with grief, legacy, and identity. I didn’t want it to end.

If you’re a fan of historical fiction with emotional range, a rich literary atmosphere, and characters that linger long after the final page, The English Masterpiece is a must-read.

Absolutely loved this story! This was so well narrated and the story was intriguing. I loved the dive into the 1970’s museum scene. The forgery angle and all of the characters drew you right in!

To say this book surprised me is an understatement. The English Masterpiece is not something I’d normally pick up, but the moment I saw London and art and the 1970s? I was in!!

I was fully sucked into this world from the words “That’s a forgery”. The way this story wove in real historical events and figures with such an addictive plotline was just so well done. I couldn’t stop flipping pages (or well, listening…because the audiobook? 10/10. Fiona Hardingham and Saskia Maarleveld? Obsessed).

Lily was such a standout for me. So passionate and dedicated, and really just trying to clear her name while everything around her is spiraling. I really felt for her. And Diana? She’s brilliant and calculating and tragic, truly one of those characters that lingers in your mind long after. Her marriage? Let’s just say… yikes. Run, girl.

Also, the whole forgery/museum/exhibition mystery gave this story such energy. I didn’t expect to be so hooked by art crime, but now I’m like… tell me everything about post-war London’s art scene. The details about the Tate, Picasso’s legacy, exhibition logistics, throw in some Warhol, talk about randomly fascinating!

And let’s not forget the romance thread between Lily and Connor because let’s be real, it had to have at least a hint of romance. It was sweet and subtle and exactly what I needed in between all the twists. A perfect little balance.

This book made me feel like I was right there wandering around the Tate, uncovering secrets, and getting lost in a world of art. Katherine Reay has definitely earned a permanent spot on my TBR.

I love a good crime novel and I love how uniquely this one was written.

Lily loves art and is honored to be working at an art museum curating art displays. After many hours of hard work on an exhibit, Lily makes a comment which makes her world spin. She may loose her job. She may put her family at risk. She may realize she’s lost in her own life.

I loved that this novel consisted of so much. In addition to Lily’s story, it followed the lives of white collar criminals. Gray characters that you didn’t fully dislike. It reminded me a little of white collar.

I also enjoyed the personal growth line in the story for Lily. As the novel progressed we see the trauma of her past and how it has affected her life choices. I found myself rooting for her to move forward and overcome her self imposed limitations.

I also loved the show of true friendship and family. How do the people in our lives show up when we need them? Will they show up? I loved watching Lily’s life crumble and then watching her pick up the pieces with the help of those in her life.

I listened to the audio version and really enjoyed the narration. It made the story come alive.