The Masterpiece

by Belinda Alexandra

A wartime betrayal, a race against time ... and a secret hidden in a painting. The must-read new novel from the author of The French Agent and White Gardenia.


Paris 1946: A young woman, Eve Archer, has come to Paris to find the father she never knew. She is soon caught up in a desperate race to prove her father's innocence against the accusation that he sold a French national treasure to Hitler during the war, and murdered the original owner to obtain it. Her efforts uncover the complicated friendship between two art dealers and the woman they both loved, a Russian artist named Kristina Belova.

Genres: Historical Fiction, Fiction, France, Audiobook, Historical, World War II

432 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 4, 2024

About the author

Belinda Alexandra has been published to wide acclaim in Australia and internationally. She is the daughter of a Russian mother and an Australian father and has been an intrepid traveller since her youth. Her love of other cultures is matched by her passion for her home country, Australia, where she is a volunteer carer for the NSW Wildlife Information Rescue and Education Service (WIRES).
Belinda is also an ambassador for the World League for the Protection of Animals (Australia) and lives in Sydney with a menagerie of adored pets.
Join Belinda's community of readers at facebook.com/BelindaAlexandraAuthor

Reviews

[Gloria (Ms. G's Bookshelf) · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️5 Stars⭐️
Wow The Masterpiece was absolutely just that! What an epic tale, I was mesmerised by this highly engaging work of historical fiction.

I loved the art world component the author has weaved into the storyline it was so intriguing. I think this is Belinda Alexandra's best book yet!

1946 Eve Archer, aged 21 has arrived in Paris to meet her father for the first time. Her father finds himself accused of selling a famous painting to Hitler during the war and murdering it’s owners. Eve tries desperately to help prove his innocence and the only person that can help her is Kristina Belova, an artist who is suffering from amnesia.

A love triangle, glamour, World War II, resistance fighters, art forgeries, art dealers, trauma, deception and rabbits are some of the themes in this vividly imagiginable Parisian landscape. I was not expecting the surprising twists!

Written with elegance and glamour, this is a great escape from reality and a book you won’t be able to put it down. I cannot imagine the amount of meticulous research that must of gone into this story, it blows my mind! Even if you’re not a historical fiction fan you’ll enjoy this one!

A must read!

Publication Date 04 September 2024
Publisher Harper Collins AU

Thank you to the fabulous team Harper Collins Australia for sending me a copy of this gorgeous book

[Brooke - Brooke's Reading Life · Rating 4 out of 5]

**Thank you to HarperCollins Australia for sending me a free copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review; published 4 September 2024**

I highly enjoyed this extremely well-written historical fiction novel that is set in pre to post WWII times. The art industry is not something I'm very knowledgeable in but I felt like all aspects of it included in the story were put simply enough that I could follow along. Eve has come to Paris to find her father, Serge. Through a turn of events, Serge is accused of a serious crime. Kristina is the last chance to save Serge but is suffering amnesia after the horrors of the war. The perspectives alternate primarily between Eve and Kristina with both point-of-views being utterly captivating.
Highly recommend!

[Des · Rating 2 out of 5]

Struggled to get into this book due to the slow beginning.
Just OK for me.

[Anna Loder · Rating 5 out of 5]

Masterpiece by name Masterpiece in actuality. I loved the latest Belinda Alexandra novel, thank you SO much Harper Collins for letting me read an early copy!!!! It is a novel with multiple timelines and I loved every single one of them. It is a book concerned with art forgeries and resistance fighters in WW2 Paris, but it always felt cohesive and gosh it was so captivating! I loved Eve, Kristina, Georges and Serge..I completely loved Flora!!! I absolutely loved everything about it and do I have a new favourite Belinda Alexandra novel? It’s (The)Masterpiece!!!

[Sue Gerhardt Griffiths · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 ⭐️s

Unbelievably good.


Listened to the audiobook via BorrowBox
Published by Bolinda/HarperCollins
Read by Annabelle Tudor
Duration: 12 hrs, 37 min. 1.25x Speed

[Craig and Phil · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you Belinda and Harper Collins for sending us a copy to read and review.
Historical fiction royalty Belinda Alexandra has created a timeless masterpiece, see what I did there!
A tale of epic proportions, a dynamic narrative, a cautionary atmosphere and a sensational finale.
It’s 1946 and Eve Archer is in Paris to find her father.
But Serge is in prison accused of murder and valuable art racketeering.
The one person who can help his case is Kristina Belova, a Russian artist beauty.
However Kristina is suffering from amnesia.
With the help of Eve and friends, they uncover a secret and a romantic love triangle.
Will the truth win………
A lavish and sweeping saga that will get the heart pumping.
Belinda is a first rate storyteller who always seems to get it right.
Giving the reader it all, history, mystery, passion, intrigue, glamour, treachery, wrath, surprises and affairs of the heart.
I’m awarding this gem five glowing stars.
Belinda has done it again with a magnificent visionary performance.

[Maree · Rating 2 out of 5]

Sadly I can’t give a decent rating for the latest book of Belinda Alexandra. I pre ordered this in anticipation of another excellent read but after 2.5 weeks of picking it up each morning with my coffee ☕️ I simply can’t finish it . Perhaps it will sit in the bookshelf now and be revisited at some point.

[Helen - Great Reads & Tea Leaves · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5*

Eve Archer, has come to Paris to find the father she never knew only to discover he is accused of not only selling art to Hitler but murdering the original owners in order to do so. In Eve’s effort to prove her father’s innocence, she must not only take on Parisian society but also uncover the world of art pre and post war and an artist talented enough to defy them all. A betrayal of the highest order and the race again time to deliver justice.

'It's a masterpiece, I said.
'It certainly deserves to be considered as one,' sighed Madame Bonne. 'Unfortunately, "masterpiece" is a title that seems reserved for works by male painters.’

With so many WWII stories out there for readers, it is essential that there is a key component that sets it apart from others. The focus and detail of the art world certainly ticks that criteria with the overall focus mainly on art from the 1920s through to the end of WWII. It gets especially engaging with art forgeries and resistance fighters in Paris during the Nazi invasion which makes for fascinating reading. Belinda has really done her homework in that department and it’s fascinating. Her attention to detail and accuracy is remarkable as the story delves into everything from aspiring artists pre world war, espionage and resistance during the occupation and then life and rebuilding post war, Belinda has done an amazing job in weaving storyline’s, plots and characters into a highly engaging story. It’s complex, it’s intriguing that all comes to a riveting and satisfying conclusion.

‘It was then that she decided she would give each forgery a ‘time bomb'. She would make a tiny mark - a personal signature of her own - on all the forgeries so they could be identified as fake after the war.’

I have loved all Belinda’s books and she just seems to get better and better with each one. The Masterpiece being such a well rounded novel with love and loyalty, secrets and spies and a story that will sit with you long after turning the final page. I highly recommend this to not only historical fiction lovers but anyone who wants to get lost in a great story.






This review is based on a complimentary copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. The quoted material may have changed in the final release.

[Carolyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Masterpiece by Belinda Alexandra is a masterpiece of well-crafted writing and expertise.

It's a new, beautiful Spring read set in Paris, 1946.

There's beautiful bell-like flowers such as Lily of The Valley, Sterling Silver roses and more delights ~ you may even see a rabbit hop by between the pages and paintings!

A Secret is hidden in the paintings ~ can you find it?

The Masterpiece is mainly about art dealers and forgery set during the war with the Nazis invading the shadows of time.

I really enjoyed this new story The Mastperpiece by Belinda Alexandra ~ it's a must for all lovers of art.

[Wendy Kendall · Rating 3 out of 5]

As I read this book. I realised 2 things. Firstly was how very well this book has been researched. The second realisation that became more obvious was it was a subject that personally didn’t interest me. This was a disappointment as had been really looking forward to reading the book. I have continued with reading, and indeed have finished it.

I score this book 3.5 🌟. This score reflects my lack of interest in the subject, personally. I can appreciate why other readers have rated far higher than myself.

[Lisa Shaune · Rating 3 out of 5]

I have given this book 3 stars, only because I am a Belinda Alexandra fan. Normally that is. Not with this book. I found it very slow most of the way through, it was hard to keep going, then most interesting at end. I am an Artist I so enjoyed the subject matter - interesting about the forgeries and the German connections there but I do not like to read about the war (distressing!) and she has a big interest in that area in some of her books.

[Isabella Sammour · Rating 2 out of 5]

Sooooo slowwww. And it only speeds up in the last 10 pages!

I seriously considered stopping every-time there was a new chapter because I was so bored.

This author has been one of my favourites for so long but her more recent books are not good at all.

[Jeanette · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Masterpiece is a captivating novel set in post-war France with events during and after the war impacting on the main characters, delivering a surprise ending. The read explores the themes of art, love, and resilience. The author’s vivid descriptions bring the Parisian landscape to life, immersing readers in the vibrant art scene of the time.

Pre-war Paris, Kristina is a talented young artist who is navigating the complexities of forging a life as a female artist. Little respect is given to such endeavours by women, however meeting partners Max and Serge, art dealers, gives Kristina recognition for her talent. She marries Max, war intervenes for which finds her in the south of France with her two daughters.

1946 Eve from Australia, in Paris holds a letter from her mother to Serge, for whom on meeting him is reluctant to reveal that she is his daughter. Obtaining work, sees her as a paid companion for a rich Parisian recluse, Lucile. Eve creates a fictional background for herself in order to be accepted by Lucile and the Parisian social elite snobs. She is able to create wonders for Lucile but with her real background being discovered she is tossed out. Fortunately, Lucile's nephew, Georges is still supportive of her and steps in to assist her.

The Nazis reach the south of France and in discovering hidden Jewish children Kristina is held responsible. Losing everything and traumatised by the treatment she receives, she suffers from memory loss and becomes a recluse. Meanwhile Serge's enemies frame him for the murder of two of his friends and he is taken into custody. Eve, desperate to help him, makes her way to see Kristina. All seems lost for Eve, her mother gone through suicide and now the real possibility that Serge could be given the death sentence. Initially Kristina is unable to help but finally with determination she goes to Paris to see Serge in prison. Eventually memories begin to resurface and in doing so, the true murderers are identified along with former Nazi collaborators.

[Rhoda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you to HarperCollins Australia for sending me a copy of this book to review!

In Paris 1946, Eve arrives in Paris to find the father she never knew, but is soon racing to prove his innocence as he has been accused of selling a famous painting to Hitler during the war and murdering the original owner.

The only person who knows the truth and may be able save him is his best friend’s wife Kristina, who has only recently returned from a concentration camp and is suffering from amnesia. Eve desperately hopes that Kristina will recall what happened during the war, but it seems there is too much that Kristina would rather not recall.

Told across two timelines, this story is masterfully woven and for me, captured everything I enjoy in a story. Interesting and relatable characters, elegant prose and a twisty mystery that I was completely engrossed in. And it wouldn’t be a Belinda Alexandra book without an endearing animal character 🐰

Having read many WWII stories, I always feel that it takes something special to stand out and this book did for me with its inclusion of art and art history which I found really interesting. This was quite an exciting story that had devastatingly sad elements, yet also had some wonderful moments of joy, love and a satisfying serve of karma. Loved it. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5.

[Clare · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another Masterpiece by Belinda Alexandra!

The Masterpiece is an intriguing tale set in 1946 Paris, where it follows the paths of female heroines Eve Archer and Kristina Belova, flicking between their personal accounts of the past and then their intersectional meeting in the present day. I personally love this style of writing where each chapter intensifies the anticipation of the storyline and draws you into the character development that little bit more.
I always feel as though I’ve been transported to another era when I read one of Belinda’s novels. The effortless grace in which she describes historical details, her female heroines’ fashion, their homes, viewpoints, relationships, beliefs and values and just getting a sense and feeling for what was going on in the world at that moment in time.
A lot of the themes presented in the book were fascinating and I found myself saying “ just one more page”.. on more than one occasion!

Highly recommend the Masterpiece to anyone looking for that page-turner you simply can’t put down or any Belinda Alexandra fan. Pure escapism!

[Sandra Yeo · Rating 5 out of 5]

'The Masterpiece' - not just by name, but Belinda Alexandra has produced a literary Masterpiece as well. Her Plot and Characters are fully fledged 'Oil Portraits' showing beyond their physical likeness to their character, social status, historical significance and geographical location - far more than mere 'pencil sketches'. Because of her extensive knowledge and research down to the minutest details, the Reader is enthralled from Page One.
Mental pictures are painted from early twentieth century Paris and Nice, especially in the Art World; to drastic changes in the Characters' lives due to World Events, Disasters, Betrayals and the eternal struggles between Good and Evil.
Art Copies and Forgeries play a large part in the evolving, spell-binding mystery.

[Kyra Geddes · Rating 5 out of 5]

As the 11th novel of master storyteller, Belinda Alexandra, The Masterpiece really does live up to its title! Against the stunning backdrop of France (the artistic circles of Paris and Nice), and a dual timeline (1920s modernism vs the dark years of WWII), Belinda Alexandra presents a sweeping tale of two women - connected by an intriguing art mystery - who are searching for themselves and the truth. Having read several of Belinda Alexandra's novels, I feel she has truly outdone herself with this one, delivering a riveting page-turning story underpinned by a complex interweaving of plot, POV, timeline and a richly depicted historical setting (including politics, prevailing rules of society and the world of art, complete with cameo mentions). Add to this several layers of symbolism (watch out for mirrors and rabbits!) and a judicious sprinkling of hard-earned wisdom and philosophy, and you're in for a very satisfying read!

[Sheridan · Rating 4 out of 5]

I very much enjoyed this WWII historical novel on audible. The plot bounces around from 1946, the early 1920s and during the war. There's quite a bit to remember and could be confusing but it never feels that way. This is an epic tale set in France, and is mainly about the art world and the theft of masterpieces from galleries and private collections by the Nazi's, about collaborators, the French resistance and all those who are caught up in the maelstrom of war.

In 1946 Eve comes to France to look for the father she has never known. From there follows a very intriguing and heartrending story of love and loss, a fight for justice and the uncovering of her own dramatic family history.

[Carolyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Masterpiece by Belinda Alexandra is a masterpiece of well-crafted writing and expertise.

It's a new, beautiful Spring read set in Paris, 1946.

There's beautiful bell-like flowers such as Lily of the Valley, Sterling Silver roses and more delights ~ you may even see a rabbit or two 🐇 🐰 hop by in between the pages and paintings!

A Secret is hidden in the painting. Can you find it?

The Masterpiece is mainly about art dealers and forgery set during the war with the Nazis invading the shadows of time.

I really enjoyed this new story, The Masterpiece by Belinda Alexandra ~ it's a must for all lovers of art 🎨.

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love, friendship,betrayal,fashion, art and the tragedies of war all combine in this story that keeps the reader hooked until the very end. Another brilliant historical narrative from Belinda Alexandra that challenges you to think about the untold stories of so many women who used their intelligence, skills and bravery to support the war on the home fronts and who endured unimaginable evils to protect their families and their country. A narrative that cleverly entwines generations forever impacted by the war but united by the search for truth and justice.

[Tracy · Rating 3 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book but I found the references to art a little tedious at times. Did it have to be so detailed? Would it matter if it wasn’t?
I also at times found references to characters confusing as to who was related to who, or how a character fitted in.
Some information just didn’t stick. Mayne my fault for taking too long to read the book

I’ve enjoyed many of this authors books just not this one so much
It certainly wasn’t terrible as it’s a good story I’ve just liked the others more

[Mary · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really did enjoy listening to this book. It helped that it had Russian characters and I really appreciated the historical context for the book.

Yes it was a saga and perhaps some of the outcomes were a little bit predictable. But I do think he knew that in a romantic historical piece.

Having listened to several of Belinda Alexandra‘s books previously , I did appreciate that this was a little less gory than some of the other books. I have listened to. You can’t soften the realities of World War Two but this book managed to make it a softer landing for me which I appreciated.

[Rita Chapman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another masterpiece from Belinda Alexandra! In two settings, WW11 and the present, it is based in the art world and the fate of masterpieces during and after the war. A very talented, female artist struggles to be seen amongst her male counterparts. To survive the war, she copies some famous paintings and sells them to art dealers and rich collectors alike. The outcome of the war for her personally is so traumatic that she suffers from amnesia. Can the missing daughter of her greatest friend bring her back in time to save her father from being sentenced to death?

[Julie Jane · Rating 5 out of 5]

.
‘The Masterpiece’ is a must read for all lovers of historical fiction.
Belinda’s attention to detail and accuracy of historical fact is second to none. A truly remarkable insight into the political and social struggles of 20th century Europe.
The storyline is captivating throughout.
The characters, and their stories, are complex and intriguing. I enjoyed following their journeys through the book.
I couldn’t put the book down. Highly recommended!

[Lily Testa · Rating 5 out of 5]

'I have devoured each page of the The Masterpiece'!
Such an amazing author!
Belinda creates a vivid painting of the scenes in her book with every word.
Her storyline is sensational.
Her settings stimulating.
H
er characters captivating.
A story filled with intriguing life situations of love,family and dedication, all whilst teasing us with secrets revealed as we read on.

[Aryani Siti · Rating 5 out of 5]

The story highlights the importance of forgiveness, bravery, and inner strength. As Eve searches for the truth about her father, she also learns about her own past.

This shows that understanding where we come from can change us for the better. It also reminds us that love and loyalty can overcome even the toughest challenges.

[Karen Murphy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was more than a story about an artistic Masterpiece it was a masterpiece. Belinda Alexandra had me hooked from the first page. A beautiful story of friendship, love and survival. Belinda weaves the atrocities of WW2 the treatment of the Jews as well the stealing of magnificent artworks from France. Highly recommend to readers who love historical fiction.

[Danielle · Rating 3 out of 5]

Always impressed by this author's historical fiction with fashion / design woven in, and of course at least one Australian connection, this time Eve, searching for her father in Paris. This novel has two main times. Christina, a Parisian artist in pre and during WW2, the other follows Eve in 1946. Their link is an art dealer. Nice read.

[Liliana Anderson · Rating 4 out of 5]

*A gripping tale of love, betrayal, and secrets hidden in art.* *The Masterpiece* takes readers on a journey through post-war Paris, where a young woman uncovers shocking truths about her past. With rich storytelling and unforgettable characters, this novel is both thrilling and emotional. A must-read for historical fiction lovers!

[Anne Harley · Rating 3 out of 5]

Not one of Belinda Alexandra’s best. Her books I have read previously have grabbed me from the start but this one didn’t. It did improve as it went and by the end I realised that maybe the off putting start was a deliberate lesson for the main character who pleasingly realises her initial errors. I would have liked a more definitive conclusion for Lucille.