The Painter Lib/E

by Tom Lowe, Alex Knox (reader)

Michael Vargas is living the life of a celebrity architect when his world collapses. He walks away from the glamorous career of the star architect and begins a quest that will take him twenty-three years back in time. The challenge his mentor presented at the time is beckoning Michael back to the South—his home, a place he loved and hated.

The road back is a road forward, filled with trials and pain, but the journey eventually leads to an artistic epiphany that Michael discovers in the people and places of the Deep South. And he finds inspiration from a woman who allows him to paint her if he agrees to one mysterious condition. Michael learns that some subjects are worth painting while others are worth pursuing even up against the greatest personal odds of success.

Audio CD

First published September 20, 2020

About the author

Tom Lowe is an American novelist known for writing atmospheric, high-stakes thrillers that blend crime, mystery, and psychological suspense with a strong sense of place. His novels often explore the darker side of human nature—where belief, greed, and obsession collide—and are grounded in authentic investigative detail and morally complex characters.

Tom is the author of more than 30 novels, including the acclaimed Sean O’Brien mystery-thriller series. Also, he writes the Elizabeth Monroe psychological thrillers, and the Paul Marcus books of international suspense. He has written two standalone novels of love and redemption - The Painter and Midnight’s Whisperer, winner of the 2021 Spur Award from the Western Writers of America.

Drawing from a career as a journalist, award-winning screenwriter, and world traveler, Tom writes emotionally rich stories of loss, courage, and second chances. His books span the globe and the human heart, blending suspense, moral complexity, and unforgettable characters.

He lives in Florida with his wife, Keri. To receive the latests updates on his novels, appearances, and writing - please visit Tom's website to subscribe to his quarterly newsletter. tomlowebooks.com

Reviews

[Andrew J · Rating 5 out of 5]

Did not want this book to end.

Have read all T.L. books and can say I have enjoyed this book as one of his best and would recommend it to anyone .

[Kimberly Sparks · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great read...

I love Tom Lowe books! The storytelling is awesome. And the characters in his books are always interesting! I can't wait for the next book

[del tinsley · Rating 4 out of 5]

Beautifully written. Not your usual Tom Lowe novel. Here you can almost see and feel the surroundings Tom is placing you in. Just like you can almost see and feel his art work.

A tragedy pulls him back to his roots and his art mentor, who he now follows through Alzheimer's . Tom gives you a good look at this horrific disease. Imagine being in a prison without bars and not remembering why. And the only crime you've committed is...being.

There' s more. Lots more that fleshes out this extremely good book.

[Sandy Adams · Rating 5 out of 5]

Outstanding!

Perhaps it hit a chord with me as the mother of a gifted artist who had to chose another direction in his life or maybe it was that my wonderful husband suffered with Alzheimer's.... the horrible disease that takes one's life twice. There were so many sections of this book that were inspirational, insightful, and oh so true that I found myself in tears as I relived some good times with my love. I have to wonder who in the author's life led to such compassion and understanding.....

[Jon C. Hooper · Rating 5 out of 5]

After tragedy hits a famous architect decides to change course in his life and becomes a painter traveling throughout the south. This is a nice story and then runs into a troubling situation with a new love interest. I think this part of the story could have been developed more but it still was a good book

[Chris Holdren · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great read

I discovered Tom Lowe through the Sean O'Brien series and have now read all of his books. I didn't know what to expect with this one when I saw it was primarily a romance novel, but I thoroughly enjoyed it. It was an interesting story that included doses of art history and philosophy. Highly recommended.

[Ladell Gaston · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful

This book was one of the most powerful books I have ever read. I though I was a Good painter but I sure learned a lot from it. Thank you Mr Lowe for a great read. Can't wait for Mednight Whisperer to get finished.

[Don Clark · Rating 5 out of 5]

Baby sea turtles head for the sea. Great read...:^)(◍•ᴗ•◍)❤( ˘ ³˘)♥♥╣[-_-

.must read great insight
Great imagery 😍
Tender insightful tender must read must read must read you'll love it honestly

[Kay Salter · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Painter

Such a beautiful book written with poetic descriptions of life and love. Justice wins in this story. A wonderful read.

[Bruce D. Wolfe · Rating 2 out of 5]

Nice , simple love story .

Disappointed in the lack of action earlier books had. Loved his books set in Florida. I hope Lowe returns this former writing.

[Conrad Samayoa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sublime. What a heartbreaking description of Dementia.
The plot is well woven.
The characters are well developed and elicit many emotions.
The hatching of the turtles was so emotive that I felt as if I was there.
All in all, a hard to put down novel. Conrad Samayoa

[Beccam105 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reading this book felt like a canvas was being painted as I read.

[Debra Moore · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is written by an author I really enjoy. His other books are much grittier. This book touched my heart, the characters are likable and you get drawn into their situation. It also deals with people they care about in assisted living and suffering the effects of aging.