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The Final Act of Juliette Willoughby
10 hours, 59 minutes
The gripping follow up to the “smart, stylish, and savage” (People) New York Times bestseller and Reese’s Book Club pick The Club—a twisty mystery involving a cursed wealthy family and a Surrealist painting which holds the key to three suspicious deaths over the course of a century.
Some women won't be painted out of history . . .
Everybody knows that in 1938, runaway heiress artist Juliette Willoughby perished in an accidental studio fire in Paris, alongside her masterpiece Self Portrait As Sphinx.
Fifty years later, two Cambridge art history students are confounded when they stumble across proof that the fire was no accident but something more sinister. What they uncover threatens the very foundation of Juliette’s aristocratic family and revives rumors of the infamous curse that has haunted the Willoughbys for generations.
But what does their discovery mean? And how is it connected to a brutal murder in present-day Dubai?
A tale of love and madness, obsession and revenge, The Final Act of Juliette Willoughby unravels the riddle posed by a Sphinx who refuses to reveal her secrets . . .
The gripping follow up to the “smart, stylish, and savage” (People) New York Times bestseller and Reese’s Book Club pick The Club—a twisty mystery involving a cursed wealthy family and a Surrealist painting which holds the key to three suspicious deaths over the course of a century.
Some women won't be painted out of history . . .
Everybody knows that in 1938, runaway heiress artist Juliette Willoughby perished in an accidental studio fire in Paris, alongside her masterpiece Self Portrait As Sphinx.
Fifty years later, two Cambridge art history students are confounded when they stumble across proof that the fire was no accident but something more sinister. What they uncover threatens the very foundation of Juliette’s aristocratic family and revives rumors of the infamous curse that has haunted the Willoughbys for generations.
But what does their discovery mean? And how is it connected to a brutal murder in present-day Dubai?
A tale of love and madness, obsession and revenge, The Final Act of Juliette Willoughby unravels the riddle posed by a Sphinx who refuses to reveal her secrets . . .
11 pages, Audiobook
First published June 11, 2024
759 people are currently reading
29640 people want to read
About the author
Ellery Lloyd
11 books1,200 followersEllery Lloyd is the pseudonym for New York Times Bestselling husband-and-wife writing team Collette Lyons and Paul Vlitos.
Collette is a journalist and editor, the former content director of Elle (UK) and editorial director at Soho House. She has written for The Guardian, The Telegraph, and the Sunday Times.
Paul is the author of two previous novels, Welcome to the Working Week and Every Day is Like Sunday. He is Professor of Creative Writing at the University of Greenwich.
Collette is a journalist and editor, the former content director of Elle (UK) and editorial director at Soho House. She has written for The Guardian, The Telegraph, and the Sunday Times.
Paul is the author of two previous novels, Welcome to the Working Week and Every Day is Like Sunday. He is Professor of Creative Writing at the University of Greenwich.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,211 reviews
July 30, 2025
Please take note of this book and don't just add it to your ever-growing to-be-read list, where it might get lost among the towering shelves like Mount Everest. Instead, dive into it as soon as you get the chance! This gem stands out as one of the best books of the year, and I want to make sure it's on your radar!
Let's give a round of applause! This book is truly extraordinary, featuring flawless execution across different timelines. It explores various themes through well-developed characters, while its ongoing mysteries keep you on the edge of your seat, delivering a reading experience that is both unique and immensely enjoyable. It seamlessly blends historical fiction with mystery, offering a gripping saga of a dysfunctional family filled with backstabbing, scheming, betrayal, lies, and secrets. At its heart is the captivating story of a woman artist fighting to survive and leave her mark on the world, her battle against insanity, and an epic love story that spans generations.
The narrative unfolds through different timelines, including the exploration of Juliette Willoughby by Cambridge art students in the early '90s, Juliette's escape to Paris with her lover Oskar in 1938 as documented in her diary, and the present time where the discovery of Juliette's famous portrait becomes entangled in scandalous events surrounding art dealer Patrick Lambert's arrest.
The book is rife with mysteries, such as the whereabouts of two missing individuals—one maid who disappeared during Juliette's childhood and Freddy, the black sheep of the Willoughby family who vanished into thin air in 1991. There's also the intriguing backstory of Juliette Willoughby herself, her tumultuous childhood, her escape from her controlling family to pursue her artistic dreams, and her ill-fated romance with Oskar. Erlich And let's not forget the dark secrets lurking within the Willoughby clan, all of which are masterfully woven together to reach a satisfying conclusion, with the help of main narrators Caroline Cooper and Patrick Lambert.
The story kicks off in a Dubai gallery showcasing Juliette Willoughby's masterpiece, "Self Portrait as Sphinx," miraculously found after being presumed lost in the fire that claimed the painter's life. Before we know it, we're transported back to 1991 Cambridge, where Caroline and Patrick embark on a journey to uncover the secrets behind Juliette Willoughby's tragic fate, aided by Caroline's discovery of Juliette's secret diary.
What happened to the missing people in the Willoughby family estate? Why was Patrick convicted? What truly happened to Juliette, and how did her famous painting survive the fire? All these questions are answered satisfactorily, leading to a thrilling conclusion that will leave you at the edge of your seat.
Overall, I give this book a glowing rating of 5+ stars. It's a truly exceptional read that you won't want to miss!
A heartfelt thank you to NetGalley and Harper for providing me with a digital review copy of this addictive book in exchange for my honest thoughts.
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Let's give a round of applause! This book is truly extraordinary, featuring flawless execution across different timelines. It explores various themes through well-developed characters, while its ongoing mysteries keep you on the edge of your seat, delivering a reading experience that is both unique and immensely enjoyable. It seamlessly blends historical fiction with mystery, offering a gripping saga of a dysfunctional family filled with backstabbing, scheming, betrayal, lies, and secrets. At its heart is the captivating story of a woman artist fighting to survive and leave her mark on the world, her battle against insanity, and an epic love story that spans generations.
The narrative unfolds through different timelines, including the exploration of Juliette Willoughby by Cambridge art students in the early '90s, Juliette's escape to Paris with her lover Oskar in 1938 as documented in her diary, and the present time where the discovery of Juliette's famous portrait becomes entangled in scandalous events surrounding art dealer Patrick Lambert's arrest.
The book is rife with mysteries, such as the whereabouts of two missing individuals—one maid who disappeared during Juliette's childhood and Freddy, the black sheep of the Willoughby family who vanished into thin air in 1991. There's also the intriguing backstory of Juliette Willoughby herself, her tumultuous childhood, her escape from her controlling family to pursue her artistic dreams, and her ill-fated romance with Oskar. Erlich And let's not forget the dark secrets lurking within the Willoughby clan, all of which are masterfully woven together to reach a satisfying conclusion, with the help of main narrators Caroline Cooper and Patrick Lambert.
The story kicks off in a Dubai gallery showcasing Juliette Willoughby's masterpiece, "Self Portrait as Sphinx," miraculously found after being presumed lost in the fire that claimed the painter's life. Before we know it, we're transported back to 1991 Cambridge, where Caroline and Patrick embark on a journey to uncover the secrets behind Juliette Willoughby's tragic fate, aided by Caroline's discovery of Juliette's secret diary.
What happened to the missing people in the Willoughby family estate? Why was Patrick convicted? What truly happened to Juliette, and how did her famous painting survive the fire? All these questions are answered satisfactorily, leading to a thrilling conclusion that will leave you at the edge of your seat.
Overall, I give this book a glowing rating of 5+ stars. It's a truly exceptional read that you won't want to miss!
A heartfelt thank you to NetGalley and Harper for providing me with a digital review copy of this addictive book in exchange for my honest thoughts.
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April 3, 2024
4.5 rounded up
This complex and clever novel starts in Paris of 1937/8 with the tragic love affair between two surrealist artists, the heiress Juliette Willoughby and her married lover, Oskar Erlich. The pair perish in a studio fire along with their work, including Juliette’s “Self Portrait as a Sphinx”. Moving on to 1991 in Cambridge and two art history students, Caroline Cooper and Patrick Lambert who are about to undertake their final year dissertation. They are encouraged to focus on Surrealism especially to explore Juliette’s story via her aristocratic family’s ancient Egyptian collection known as The Willoughby Bequest. This leads Caroline to making several startling discoveries. In the present day, Caroline is a Professor of Modern Art at Cambridge University, an expert on surrealist female artists particularly Juliette. Patrick is an art dealer based in Dubai which is where the story begins and ends. Three timelines, nefarious deeds, is Juliette’s painting the key to understanding and unlocking more than one mystery?
Wow - I love this novel which is my favourite by this author duo by a country mile! It’s part mystery thriller, part art history and the world of art, part love affair and tragedy, there’s a domestic and family history element , a strong driving force of obsession and also examines how women are painted out of a significant art movement. Sounds busy? It’s actually woven together into one well integrated whole, making for compelling and riveting reading and I for one can barely lift my eyes from the pages. What has been created here is exactly the kind of story that would indeed capture people’s imagination in real life, although of course, being fiction there’s inevitably dramatic license but nothing I can’t wholeheartedly buy into.
The novel is fast paced, it has vivid, colourful and cinematic scenes starring many larger than life characters. It’s richly atmospheric with great locations (Paris, Cambridge and Dubai) and the tone varies from excitement to fear and/or anxiety and on more than one occasion a strong sense of paranoia. To say there are twists and turns doesn’t do it justice as there are multiple pull you up sharp moments if not jaw droppers. It’s a fascinating enigmatic puzzle. What is the riddle Juliette is trying to impart? How to interpret her clues? This takes the storyline into Egyptology - yet another terrific element!
Although I do guess part of it, it’s just great to prove myself right (!) and it certainly doesn’t spoil the exciting outcome. Fantastic!
Overall, an exhilarating, cracking, belter of a read and one I can highly recommend.
Great cover too!
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to Pan Macmillan for the much appreciated arc in return for an honest review.
This complex and clever novel starts in Paris of 1937/8 with the tragic love affair between two surrealist artists, the heiress Juliette Willoughby and her married lover, Oskar Erlich. The pair perish in a studio fire along with their work, including Juliette’s “Self Portrait as a Sphinx”. Moving on to 1991 in Cambridge and two art history students, Caroline Cooper and Patrick Lambert who are about to undertake their final year dissertation. They are encouraged to focus on Surrealism especially to explore Juliette’s story via her aristocratic family’s ancient Egyptian collection known as The Willoughby Bequest. This leads Caroline to making several startling discoveries. In the present day, Caroline is a Professor of Modern Art at Cambridge University, an expert on surrealist female artists particularly Juliette. Patrick is an art dealer based in Dubai which is where the story begins and ends. Three timelines, nefarious deeds, is Juliette’s painting the key to understanding and unlocking more than one mystery?
Wow - I love this novel which is my favourite by this author duo by a country mile! It’s part mystery thriller, part art history and the world of art, part love affair and tragedy, there’s a domestic and family history element , a strong driving force of obsession and also examines how women are painted out of a significant art movement. Sounds busy? It’s actually woven together into one well integrated whole, making for compelling and riveting reading and I for one can barely lift my eyes from the pages. What has been created here is exactly the kind of story that would indeed capture people’s imagination in real life, although of course, being fiction there’s inevitably dramatic license but nothing I can’t wholeheartedly buy into.
The novel is fast paced, it has vivid, colourful and cinematic scenes starring many larger than life characters. It’s richly atmospheric with great locations (Paris, Cambridge and Dubai) and the tone varies from excitement to fear and/or anxiety and on more than one occasion a strong sense of paranoia. To say there are twists and turns doesn’t do it justice as there are multiple pull you up sharp moments if not jaw droppers. It’s a fascinating enigmatic puzzle. What is the riddle Juliette is trying to impart? How to interpret her clues? This takes the storyline into Egyptology - yet another terrific element!
Although I do guess part of it, it’s just great to prove myself right (!) and it certainly doesn’t spoil the exciting outcome. Fantastic!
Overall, an exhilarating, cracking, belter of a read and one I can highly recommend.
Great cover too!
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to Pan Macmillan for the much appreciated arc in return for an honest review.
August 4, 2024
Some women won't be painted out of history…
Everybody knows that in 1938, runaway heiress artist Juliette Willoughby perished in an accidental studio fire in Paris, alongside her masterpiece Self-Portrait As Sphinx.
Fifty years later, two Cambridge art history students are confounded when they stumble across proof that the fire was no accident but something more sinister. What they uncover threatens the very foundation of Juliette’s aristocratic family and revives rumors of the infamous curse that has haunted the Willoughbys for generations.
But what does their discovery mean? And how is it connected to a brutal murder in present-day Dubai? Sometimes the truth really is stranger than fiction.
Holy cow! On all counts, The Final Act of Juliette Willoughby was quite an elegant tale and also wholly original. Starting off as a slow burn mystery, it quickly shifted into a captivating historical thriller. Told via three timelines and multiple POVs over four parts, the plot ducked and weaved as an onion-like storyline came into view. Was it complex? Most definitely, but thanks to this fiction writing duo, it couldn’t have been clearer. Not once was I lost in the details and instead found myself spellbound to the pages as a story with a ripped-from-the-headlines feel came together in this altogether enigmatic puzzle.
Between the characters and the settings, this book simply came alive on the page. With a character-driven first half, the fully fleshed out personas were both true-to-life and authentic. Granted, there was a bit of dramatic license used here and there, but what would a fictional novel be without that? Boring, to be sure. Add in the locales of Cambridge, Paris, and Dubai, and the atmospheric feel hit all the right chords. That, however, wasn’t the best bit by a mile. Held within these pages were literal jaw-dropping twists. The kind, to be frank, that had me smiling with glee.
All things considered, I am simply gobsmacked by this book. In a completely different style than this duo’s last thriller, The Club, it is quite clear that they’re beyond talented. Capable of showing their brilliance over not just one subgenre but two, I was enraptured throughout this thought-provoking yet suspense-laden plot. From its well-developed characters and dysfunctional family dynamics to its multiple subplots and mysteries, there wasn’t a thing not to love. After all, it was gripping, addictive, binge-worthy, and utterly satisfying in the extreme. Rating of 4.5 stars.
Thank you to Ellery Lloyd and Harper Books for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
PUB DATE: June 11, 2024
Trigger warning: blackmail, infidelity, mention of: domestic violence
Everybody knows that in 1938, runaway heiress artist Juliette Willoughby perished in an accidental studio fire in Paris, alongside her masterpiece Self-Portrait As Sphinx.
Fifty years later, two Cambridge art history students are confounded when they stumble across proof that the fire was no accident but something more sinister. What they uncover threatens the very foundation of Juliette’s aristocratic family and revives rumors of the infamous curse that has haunted the Willoughbys for generations.
But what does their discovery mean? And how is it connected to a brutal murder in present-day Dubai? Sometimes the truth really is stranger than fiction.
Holy cow! On all counts, The Final Act of Juliette Willoughby was quite an elegant tale and also wholly original. Starting off as a slow burn mystery, it quickly shifted into a captivating historical thriller. Told via three timelines and multiple POVs over four parts, the plot ducked and weaved as an onion-like storyline came into view. Was it complex? Most definitely, but thanks to this fiction writing duo, it couldn’t have been clearer. Not once was I lost in the details and instead found myself spellbound to the pages as a story with a ripped-from-the-headlines feel came together in this altogether enigmatic puzzle.
Between the characters and the settings, this book simply came alive on the page. With a character-driven first half, the fully fleshed out personas were both true-to-life and authentic. Granted, there was a bit of dramatic license used here and there, but what would a fictional novel be without that? Boring, to be sure. Add in the locales of Cambridge, Paris, and Dubai, and the atmospheric feel hit all the right chords. That, however, wasn’t the best bit by a mile. Held within these pages were literal jaw-dropping twists. The kind, to be frank, that had me smiling with glee.
All things considered, I am simply gobsmacked by this book. In a completely different style than this duo’s last thriller, The Club, it is quite clear that they’re beyond talented. Capable of showing their brilliance over not just one subgenre but two, I was enraptured throughout this thought-provoking yet suspense-laden plot. From its well-developed characters and dysfunctional family dynamics to its multiple subplots and mysteries, there wasn’t a thing not to love. After all, it was gripping, addictive, binge-worthy, and utterly satisfying in the extreme. Rating of 4.5 stars.
Thank you to Ellery Lloyd and Harper Books for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
PUB DATE: June 11, 2024
Trigger warning: blackmail, infidelity, mention of: domestic violence
March 10, 2025
reading vlog: https://youtu.be/LyJ76T2cmA8
BEST fiction book I've read so far this year by a COUNTRY MILE!! I adored everything about this book - such complex characters, so many little mysteries that are all resolved in a wonderful way by the end of the book, immaculate vibes! cannot recommend this enough!!
BEST fiction book I've read so far this year by a COUNTRY MILE!! I adored everything about this book - such complex characters, so many little mysteries that are all resolved in a wonderful way by the end of the book, immaculate vibes! cannot recommend this enough!!
November 25, 2024
So much better than the club. This was very enjoyable, even more so since I couldn’t imagine how a plot about art could draw me in the way it did.
May 8, 2024
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐
Genre: Mystery Thriller + Historical Fiction
I’m not going to say much about the book’s synopsis because it consists of three stories in three timelines that eventually intertwine. This book revolves heavily around the mystery of the Willoughby family, so it is better that you explore the whole thing yourself.
I was interested in reading it because the premise seemed like it would be about something that would be really interesting. It is possible that I am one of the few people who did not believe that the execution did justice to the intriguing case that was presented. Having to deal with three timelines was simply too much for me. Add to it multiple points of view narrated in first person style. Furthermore, even the present time period is constantly shifting between "before Harry's death" and "certain hours after Harry's death" and so on in a manner that is completely non-linear in terms of time. All these back-and-forth shifts didn’t work for me.
From my point of view, this had the potential to be a five-star book, and I sincerely believe that it would have been a very beautiful historical fiction story. The authors, unfortunately, made the decision to stick more with the mystery thriller genre side, giving it the cliche structure of today's mystery thrillers by alternating between different timeframes unnecessarily because they wanted to build a mystery. I wouldn’t go on to say this was a bad book because it isn't, but it was the wrong book for me.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC of this book.
Genre: Mystery Thriller + Historical Fiction
I’m not going to say much about the book’s synopsis because it consists of three stories in three timelines that eventually intertwine. This book revolves heavily around the mystery of the Willoughby family, so it is better that you explore the whole thing yourself.
I was interested in reading it because the premise seemed like it would be about something that would be really interesting. It is possible that I am one of the few people who did not believe that the execution did justice to the intriguing case that was presented. Having to deal with three timelines was simply too much for me. Add to it multiple points of view narrated in first person style. Furthermore, even the present time period is constantly shifting between "before Harry's death" and "certain hours after Harry's death" and so on in a manner that is completely non-linear in terms of time. All these back-and-forth shifts didn’t work for me.
From my point of view, this had the potential to be a five-star book, and I sincerely believe that it would have been a very beautiful historical fiction story. The authors, unfortunately, made the decision to stick more with the mystery thriller genre side, giving it the cliche structure of today's mystery thrillers by alternating between different timeframes unnecessarily because they wanted to build a mystery. I wouldn’t go on to say this was a bad book because it isn't, but it was the wrong book for me.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC of this book.
September 14, 2024
This book was an unexpected pleasure. Didn’t know much about it before I started listening to the audio, but I soon found myself captivated. A woman artist and her famous painting is brought to life by Caroline, who has spent her life becoming an expert on this painter. Women and their artistic works so often lost to the male centric past. A mystery, a clue like hunt, a secret society and some dysfunctional families, as well as relationship that seemed doomed. The world of art collectors, dealers, galleries and the competitive world of buying.
I enjoyed this novel immensely, and I loved the audio.
I enjoyed this novel immensely, and I loved the audio.
June 10, 2024
I was pleasantly surprised how much I enjoyed The Final Act of Juliette Willoughby. It’s set in the art world, and art was not a subject I excelled at in school. But the story hooked me from the beginning and held my interest throughout.
In 1938, Juliette Willoughby and her married lover die in a fire alongside her Surrealist masterpiece, Self-Portrait as Sphinx. In 1991 two Cambridge art history students become interested in learning about Juliette and start to believe the fire might not have been accidental. Fast forward to the present day and Juliette’s name is popping up in the headlines again.
Not sure if this book technically qualifies as historical fiction or not. The main artists featured are fictional characters but others mentioned are real figures. Regardless, it’s a fascinating story and has a nice balance of info about the Surrealist movement and a plot revolving around more than one mystery. Now I wouldn’t say all the mystery elements were shocking but there was just something about the writing that made me want to see everything play out. That’s a sign of good storytelling right there.
Don’t sleep on this one, it’s a worthwhile read!
Thank you Harper for sending me a free advance copy! All thoughts expressed are my honest opinion.
In 1938, Juliette Willoughby and her married lover die in a fire alongside her Surrealist masterpiece, Self-Portrait as Sphinx. In 1991 two Cambridge art history students become interested in learning about Juliette and start to believe the fire might not have been accidental. Fast forward to the present day and Juliette’s name is popping up in the headlines again.
Not sure if this book technically qualifies as historical fiction or not. The main artists featured are fictional characters but others mentioned are real figures. Regardless, it’s a fascinating story and has a nice balance of info about the Surrealist movement and a plot revolving around more than one mystery. Now I wouldn’t say all the mystery elements were shocking but there was just something about the writing that made me want to see everything play out. That’s a sign of good storytelling right there.
Don’t sleep on this one, it’s a worthwhile read!
Thank you Harper for sending me a free advance copy! All thoughts expressed are my honest opinion.
July 6, 2024
What a story!! I was completely absorbed in this story from the beginning. Right until the very last word. It is complicated but easy to follow story of love, art, money, family and murder. So much going on you are never bored.
Triple timelines!! Yep, 3. First of all we have the point of view of Juliette, through her journal entries for, 1937/38. Juliette and her older lover, Oscar, perish in a fire in Paris’s along with their art work. Then we have 1991 in Cambridge. We met Caroline and Patrick, art students who fall in love whilst studying the life and art of Juliette Willoughby amongst others. Fast forward to the present day Dubai, and Patrick runs his own gallery and Caroline is the world expert on Juliette.
This is hard book to talk about the story as there is so many overlapping storylines and events and to do so would spoil things. There are so,e jaw dropping twists and ai did applaud these authors when they happened. They got me good!! a although the story is fictional, it was interesting to spend some time in the art world
Part historical mystery, part love story, there is something For everyone here.
Thanks so much to Macmillan Australia for sending me a copy of this clever book.
Triple timelines!! Yep, 3. First of all we have the point of view of Juliette, through her journal entries for, 1937/38. Juliette and her older lover, Oscar, perish in a fire in Paris’s along with their art work. Then we have 1991 in Cambridge. We met Caroline and Patrick, art students who fall in love whilst studying the life and art of Juliette Willoughby amongst others. Fast forward to the present day Dubai, and Patrick runs his own gallery and Caroline is the world expert on Juliette.
This is hard book to talk about the story as there is so many overlapping storylines and events and to do so would spoil things. There are so,e jaw dropping twists and ai did applaud these authors when they happened. They got me good!! a although the story is fictional, it was interesting to spend some time in the art world
Part historical mystery, part love story, there is something For everyone here.
Thanks so much to Macmillan Australia for sending me a copy of this clever book.
August 11, 2024
An intriguing mystery with triple timelines and multiple POVs. Excellently plotted, absorbing and clever, I loved it, 5 stars.
July 14, 2024
I recently wrote a newsletter about what I look for in summer reading, and this is a perfect example of EXACTLY the sort of book I was thinking about. Final Act is soapy, fun and easy to read, but it is also extremely well-written and expertly plotted. It follows a ‘lost’, and later rediscovered, painting by the forgotten surrealist painter of the title. The work, ‘Self-Portrait as Sphinx’, is a sensation in the 1930s and later believed to have been destroyed by Juliette Willoughby’s estranged family. In 1991, a student thinks she’s found it, only to have her research derailed by a conspiracy that will span decades. It’s a juicy, absorbing story,
Fake Like Me
but with a bigger historical angle, and I ate it up.
Given the book’s title and its central focus, it’s perhaps odd that Juliette’s narrative is the weakest of the three. We start with journal entries and then jump into her perspective – I didn’t think this quite worked, the way we’re at a remove from Juliette’s actual experience and then suddenly not, for reasons of narrative convenience. On the other hand, I couldn’t get enough of Caroline and Patrick’s story. Their world feels so rich (perhaps demonstrating the strengths of Ellery Lloyd as a husband-and-wife writing team) and everything is drawn together with surprising poignancy in the book’s concluding chapters.
Given the book’s title and its central focus, it’s perhaps odd that Juliette’s narrative is the weakest of the three. We start with journal entries and then jump into her perspective – I didn’t think this quite worked, the way we’re at a remove from Juliette’s actual experience and then suddenly not, for reasons of narrative convenience. On the other hand, I couldn’t get enough of Caroline and Patrick’s story. Their world feels so rich (perhaps demonstrating the strengths of Ellery Lloyd as a husband-and-wife writing team) and everything is drawn together with surprising poignancy in the book’s concluding chapters.
August 8, 2024
I love Ellery Lloyd but I have to say I was a little hesitant going into The Final Act of Juliette Willoughby. I heard there were a lot of characters on top of time jumps, and I was very worried I would get confused especially since I was listening to the audio. It turns out I had absolutely nothing to worry about and I loved this captivating tale full of dirty laundry and revenge. I love when art takes center stage in a novel even though I know nothing about it, and that is certainly what happened here. I wish it had been an even larger part of the storyline, but as it was, I still loved it.
Nneka Okoye, Joshua Akehurst & Eleanor Jackson narrate the audiobook and I have to say I enjoyed each one immensely. I loved that Juliette, Caroline, and Patrick all got a voice in this book, and I would say I actually enjoyed Juliette's POV the most. I also loved how they each tied together, and this is a complex plot with lots of moving parts. This author duo never disappoints, and I felt like The Final Act of Juliette Willoughby was different from their other work but just as well executed. I heard this was a follow-up to The Club but honestly, I have zero idea how. I would say you definitely don't need to read that first to get this one.
I received a complimentary copy of this book via NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Nneka Okoye, Joshua Akehurst & Eleanor Jackson narrate the audiobook and I have to say I enjoyed each one immensely. I loved that Juliette, Caroline, and Patrick all got a voice in this book, and I would say I actually enjoyed Juliette's POV the most. I also loved how they each tied together, and this is a complex plot with lots of moving parts. This author duo never disappoints, and I felt like The Final Act of Juliette Willoughby was different from their other work but just as well executed. I heard this was a follow-up to The Club but honestly, I have zero idea how. I would say you definitely don't need to read that first to get this one.
I received a complimentary copy of this book via NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
June 15, 2024
THE FINAL ACT OF JULIETTE WILLOUGHBY is the third book from Ellery Lloyd, a pseudonym for the London-based husband-and-wife writing team of Collette Lyons and Paul Vlitos. A compelling conflation of several genres including mystery, suspense, romance, and history with hints of mythology woven throughout, the story catapults readers back in time to find themselves entwined in a dark, century old family drama steeped in ugly secrets, manic obsession, and revenge. Readers are challenged with determining if the answers to three mysterious deaths are hidden in a once lost painting by deceased surrealist artist Juliette Willoughby.
THE FINAL ACT OF JULIETTE WILLOUGHBY is an epic, richly atmospheric, often sordid, dark family saga spanning more than a decade. The story unfolds through dual points of view beginning with the tragic love affair between surrealist artists Juliette Willoughby and her married lover, Oskar Erlich, who perish in a suspicious fire in 1938 Paris. The couple's story surfaces again in 1991 Cambridge when two university students in possession of Juliette's diary and long-lost painting, "Self-Portrait As Spinx", raise significant questions concerning the death of Juliette that threatens to divulge long buried secrets of the famous Willoughby family. The story continues in the current time with a scandal surrounding the arrest of art dealer Patrick Lambert for the murder of the last remaining descendant of the Willoughby family in Dubai.
Flawlessly executed through brilliant characterizations, THE FINAL ACT OF JULIETTE WILLOUGHBY accentuates the fascinating world of historical art and women's struggle for recognition within it, a sordid illicit love affair, a highly dy sfunctional family drama, and an intriguing murder and missing person mystery. The duo's mesmerizing writing style draws readers in, holding them in the palm of their hands until the final page. This book is a highly entertaining, fast paced, scandalous murder mystery I recommend to art history buffs, and mystery and suspense readers.
Special thanks to The Big Thrill Magazine, publisher and author for an arc of this title. All opinions expressed are my own. Review first published in The Big Thrill Magazine and is now available on my blog Cross My Heart Reviews.
THE FINAL ACT OF JULIETTE WILLOUGHBY is an epic, richly atmospheric, often sordid, dark family saga spanning more than a decade. The story unfolds through dual points of view beginning with the tragic love affair between surrealist artists Juliette Willoughby and her married lover, Oskar Erlich, who perish in a suspicious fire in 1938 Paris. The couple's story surfaces again in 1991 Cambridge when two university students in possession of Juliette's diary and long-lost painting, "Self-Portrait As Spinx", raise significant questions concerning the death of Juliette that threatens to divulge long buried secrets of the famous Willoughby family. The story continues in the current time with a scandal surrounding the arrest of art dealer Patrick Lambert for the murder of the last remaining descendant of the Willoughby family in Dubai.
Flawlessly executed through brilliant characterizations, THE FINAL ACT OF JULIETTE WILLOUGHBY accentuates the fascinating world of historical art and women's struggle for recognition within it, a sordid illicit love affair, a highly dy sfunctional family drama, and an intriguing murder and missing person mystery. The duo's mesmerizing writing style draws readers in, holding them in the palm of their hands until the final page. This book is a highly entertaining, fast paced, scandalous murder mystery I recommend to art history buffs, and mystery and suspense readers.
Special thanks to The Big Thrill Magazine, publisher and author for an arc of this title. All opinions expressed are my own. Review first published in The Big Thrill Magazine and is now available on my blog Cross My Heart Reviews.
June 11, 2024
This is the first book I've read by Lloyd. I requested this book after seeing a few fantastic reviews for it. I did not know that it's a follow up to Lloyd's previous book, THE CLUB. I went into this one anyway because I was intrigued by the plot. For me, this one started out on the slow side, but once I was about a third of the way in, I was definitely into it. It was a blend of thriller, mystery and historical fiction, and takes place through three different timelines. In 1938, runaway heiress and artist Juliette Willoughby and her married lover perished in a studio fire, along with her art piece “Self Portrait As Sphinx”.
Fifty years later, In the 90’s, Cambridge art history students come across evidence that the fire was no accident. It could potentially threaten the legacy of the aristocratic Willoughby family, and could also be connected to a murder that has happened in Dubai. I did figure out a small part early on, but I still enjoyed the story and had a few more surprises that I was not expecting. This is a fun read that would be a great movie and I would recommend it.
Thank you to the publisher and netgalley for the gifted copy in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own!
Fifty years later, In the 90’s, Cambridge art history students come across evidence that the fire was no accident. It could potentially threaten the legacy of the aristocratic Willoughby family, and could also be connected to a murder that has happened in Dubai. I did figure out a small part early on, but I still enjoyed the story and had a few more surprises that I was not expecting. This is a fun read that would be a great movie and I would recommend it.
Thank you to the publisher and netgalley for the gifted copy in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own!
June 3, 2024
4.5 stars - This is a twisty mystery involving a cursed wealthy family and a Surrealist painting which holds the key to three suspicious deaths over the course of a century. I thoroughly enjoyed the focus on an artist whose one famous work went missing as well as the strong characters and numerous engaging mysteries. For fans of multiple timelines and art.
This is one of my 2024 Summer Reading Guide Preview selections. Check out the preview for more great summer reads: https://www.thoughtsfromapage.com/blo....
This is one of my 2024 Summer Reading Guide Preview selections. Check out the preview for more great summer reads: https://www.thoughtsfromapage.com/blo....
December 27, 2024
OH MAN! How are people not raving about this seemingly underrated gem??? That is the true mystery but an even better one is in this dual timeline story about missing paintings, family secrets and art heists. I am unable to resist a good archival mystery and anyone who enjoyed Possession by A.S. Byatt will NOT want to skip this one!! It was great on audio and thoroughly entertaining. I honestly cannot recommend this book enough!! ALL.THE.STARS!!!
January 2, 2025
While the layered mystery kept me engaged, reading this felt a bit like playing a disjointed game of leapfrog. Yes, it’s a 3 character POV book, across a wide timespan, and all that is fine. I just felt like “where did I land?” when I jumped decades within the same character’s POV, and over milestone moments in their life.
I really liked the premise of this book… an artist and her solitary acclaimed work perished in a fire shortly after being displayed only once. Or did they?
But some of the clues and circumstances seemed delivered to mystery-solving characters like breakfast in bed. So many dominoes had to line up just so for things to work out the way the did. It felt a little too convenient. Every character has secrets, and most show little remorse and brush off the impact of their actions.
Reading is subjective, and I’m an obvious outlier. I just wanted to like the story and the characters more than I did.
I really liked the premise of this book… an artist and her solitary acclaimed work perished in a fire shortly after being displayed only once. Or did they?
But some of the clues and circumstances seemed delivered to mystery-solving characters like breakfast in bed. So many dominoes had to line up just so for things to work out the way the did. It felt a little too convenient. Every character has secrets, and most show little remorse and brush off the impact of their actions.
Reading is subjective, and I’m an obvious outlier. I just wanted to like the story and the characters more than I did.
April 17, 2024
ARC for review. To be published June 11, 2024.
In 1938, British heiress and Surrealist artist Juliette Willoughby died in a fire at her studio in Paris along with her lover, a famous artist. Her most famous painting, “Self Portrait As Sphinx” also went up in flames.
Fifty years later Caroline Cooper and Patrick Lambert, two art students at Cambridge discover that the fire wasn’t an accident and they delve into the history of Willoughby’s famous family and its legendary curse…and the way it might be connected to a present day murder in Dubai.
A fun little mystery with lots of great references to the art world of the 1930s. Nothing too shocking happens, but I enjoyed it all, especially the way the “middle time” story works out…things aren’t always so rosy. Recommended, especially for those who enjoy the Surrealists.
In 1938, British heiress and Surrealist artist Juliette Willoughby died in a fire at her studio in Paris along with her lover, a famous artist. Her most famous painting, “Self Portrait As Sphinx” also went up in flames.
Fifty years later Caroline Cooper and Patrick Lambert, two art students at Cambridge discover that the fire wasn’t an accident and they delve into the history of Willoughby’s famous family and its legendary curse…and the way it might be connected to a present day murder in Dubai.
A fun little mystery with lots of great references to the art world of the 1930s. Nothing too shocking happens, but I enjoyed it all, especially the way the “middle time” story works out…things aren’t always so rosy. Recommended, especially for those who enjoy the Surrealists.
January 7, 2025
This is a very compelling and propulsive novel that immerses you into the world of art, academia, and art galleries. The aristocratic Willoughby family is extremely wealthy, and Juliette is a talented artist that mysteriously dies in the late 1930s with her lover. The story is told in three time periods: 1930s from Juliette's journal entries studied by a Cambridge scholar and her colleague Patrick in 1991. When one of Juliette's paintings is discovered in 2023 Dubai, the Cambridge scholars are drawn back in to decide if it is an authentic work of Juliette Willoughby since the painting was thought to be destroyed in a fire decades earlier. This is an intriguing tale of greed, ambition, power, wealth, and murder. I was riveted from start to finish and highly recommend!
June 18, 2024
4.5* --> 5*
First of all, I'd like to congratulate whomever wrote this book description on a job well done. This is exactly how you hook a reader like me. A nice dose of intrigue without giving anything away, and I knew from the minute I saw this that I wanted to read this book and find out more about Juliette and her family.
'The Final Act of Juliette Willoughby' is somewhat of a slow burner, but it's most definitely worth sticking with it. Most of the story initially takes place in the nineties when two art students, Patrick and Caroline, are working on a project featuring Juliette and her lover, Oscar. In doing so, Caroline discovers Juliette's diary, a pendant, and proof that a painting - that should have burnt to ash along with Juliette in the thirties - was still around many years later.
The Willoughby family are no strangers to Patrick. Their son Harry is one of his best friends. Their fathers are connected as well. But just like so many other wealthy families, the Willoughby clan hides a multitude of dark secrets and dirty scandals that they'd protect with all their might. What was it that Juliette knew and wanted the world to know as well? Her surrealist painting Self-Portrait as Sphinx seems to be trying to tell a story, or are the answers in her journal? Was her death an accident? Was she killed? And how does all of this link up to Patrick being arrested for murder in present day Dubai? So many questions, such an absolute joy trying to figure out the answers.
There is a variety of things going on in this story. There is a certain level of madness and obsession, and the cruelty of men; there is the way women are erased from history; there is this sense of not quite fitting in, which I'm sure many of us can relate to, and there is also the complicated relationships between parents and children. Juliette wasn't the only one with a dark secrets in her past. Caroline too has been impacted by an event in her past, and it is this that spurs her on to find out the truth about Juliette.
I very much enjoyed 'The Final Act of Juliette Willoughby'. Even with the slower start, which is something I've been struggling with lately, there was more than enough on the pages to captivate me and entice me to keep reading. There are plenty of opportunities for the reader to uncover some truths themselves and, as always, I was delighted to answers some of the questions myself before they were revealed to me. When those reveals start coming, you also realise how brilliantly plotted this story is. It is very much an intricate and intriguing puzzle full of mystery and suspense. I don't think you'll regret adding it to your TBR.
First of all, I'd like to congratulate whomever wrote this book description on a job well done. This is exactly how you hook a reader like me. A nice dose of intrigue without giving anything away, and I knew from the minute I saw this that I wanted to read this book and find out more about Juliette and her family.
'The Final Act of Juliette Willoughby' is somewhat of a slow burner, but it's most definitely worth sticking with it. Most of the story initially takes place in the nineties when two art students, Patrick and Caroline, are working on a project featuring Juliette and her lover, Oscar. In doing so, Caroline discovers Juliette's diary, a pendant, and proof that a painting - that should have burnt to ash along with Juliette in the thirties - was still around many years later.
The Willoughby family are no strangers to Patrick. Their son Harry is one of his best friends. Their fathers are connected as well. But just like so many other wealthy families, the Willoughby clan hides a multitude of dark secrets and dirty scandals that they'd protect with all their might. What was it that Juliette knew and wanted the world to know as well? Her surrealist painting Self-Portrait as Sphinx seems to be trying to tell a story, or are the answers in her journal? Was her death an accident? Was she killed? And how does all of this link up to Patrick being arrested for murder in present day Dubai? So many questions, such an absolute joy trying to figure out the answers.
There is a variety of things going on in this story. There is a certain level of madness and obsession, and the cruelty of men; there is the way women are erased from history; there is this sense of not quite fitting in, which I'm sure many of us can relate to, and there is also the complicated relationships between parents and children. Juliette wasn't the only one with a dark secrets in her past. Caroline too has been impacted by an event in her past, and it is this that spurs her on to find out the truth about Juliette.
I very much enjoyed 'The Final Act of Juliette Willoughby'. Even with the slower start, which is something I've been struggling with lately, there was more than enough on the pages to captivate me and entice me to keep reading. There are plenty of opportunities for the reader to uncover some truths themselves and, as always, I was delighted to answers some of the questions myself before they were revealed to me. When those reveals start coming, you also realise how brilliantly plotted this story is. It is very much an intricate and intriguing puzzle full of mystery and suspense. I don't think you'll regret adding it to your TBR.
July 26, 2024
it was an easy, light read. a bit shallow maybe, but flowing writing and ok mystery/thriller, though it really was not my type. not once i wanted to stop reading, or not finish it but i would also not really recommend it, as there are way more better and interesting books out there for me. still if you think you just want to read it, it's an on ok book.
September 5, 2024
4.5 stars.
July 16, 2025
How did this book end up on my shelf? I haven't a clue at this point, but I'm glad I found it.
Having picked it up, I started (relatively) cold, so I was disoriented by the opening gambit, and then I found myself marginally disoriented as the various storylines started to take root. But I remained curious throughout, and ... even if I may have seen some of the twists coming ... was highly amused as the various puzzle pieces began to fall into place.
Much as I enjoyed the whole, at times it felt like a lot to juggle (although, to be fair, I finished the book on an a transatlantic flight, so I might not have been firing on all cylinders). It wasn't that many characters, but no less than ten were significant, ... and, for many of the characters, they played pivotal parts in dramatically different temporal bands (and, yes, places).... And I did find it helpful to refer back to certain passages (and, in some cases, re-read entire chapters). But it was a fun read, a nicely constructed novel (in the truest sense of the word), and it kept my attention throughout.
Bonus discovery: having come to the book rather (nah, completely) clueless, I did not realize, until I finished the book and was confused by the voice in the Acknowledgements, that the author is (depending upon your perspective) either them or we, but in either event, plural. That made me smile.
Having picked it up, I started (relatively) cold, so I was disoriented by the opening gambit, and then I found myself marginally disoriented as the various storylines started to take root. But I remained curious throughout, and ... even if I may have seen some of the twists coming ... was highly amused as the various puzzle pieces began to fall into place.
Much as I enjoyed the whole, at times it felt like a lot to juggle (although, to be fair, I finished the book on an a transatlantic flight, so I might not have been firing on all cylinders). It wasn't that many characters, but no less than ten were significant, ... and, for many of the characters, they played pivotal parts in dramatically different temporal bands (and, yes, places).... And I did find it helpful to refer back to certain passages (and, in some cases, re-read entire chapters). But it was a fun read, a nicely constructed novel (in the truest sense of the word), and it kept my attention throughout.
Bonus discovery: having come to the book rather (nah, completely) clueless, I did not realize, until I finished the book and was confused by the voice in the Acknowledgements, that the author is (depending upon your perspective) either them or we, but in either event, plural. That made me smile.
July 12, 2025
This was a gripping and complex story that involved three timelines and a mystery surrounding a painting created by the heiress Juliette Willoughby. I really didn't know what to expect going in, but it didn't take long before I was completely consumed. The timelines were seamlessly interwoven and came together brilliantly at the end.
June 15, 2024
★ 4.5 Stars ★
I was thrilled when Harper offered me an advanced copy of "The Final Act of Juliette Willoughby." This gripping historical tale of love, obsession, power, and revenge spans over a century, beginning in 1938 and continuing to the present day with various points of view.
Juliette Willoughby, a renowned surrealist artist and heiress, met a tragic end in a fire at her Paris apartment, along with her enigmatic Self-Portrait as Sphinx. However, some doubt that the painting was truly lost in the flames, adding to the mystery and intrigue of the story.
Art students Caroline Cooper and Patrick Lambert from Cambridge set out to uncover the truth behind the painting. Their journey starts in Cambridge in 1991 and concludes in Dubai today. During that time, they encounter more betrayal, cunning fraud than they could have imagined, and long-buried secrets about the Willoughby family. What makes this painting so unique?
This intricately woven narrative was a true page-turner! The themes of art, love, obsession, power, and revenge are masterfully explored, drawing the reader into a world of intrigue and deception among the wealthy and privileged.
Special thanks to the author and publisher for providing an advanced copy of this novel through NetGalley. All opinions are my own and provided voluntarily.
#TheFinalActofJulietteWilloughby #ElleryLloyd #Harper #ARC
I was thrilled when Harper offered me an advanced copy of "The Final Act of Juliette Willoughby." This gripping historical tale of love, obsession, power, and revenge spans over a century, beginning in 1938 and continuing to the present day with various points of view.
Juliette Willoughby, a renowned surrealist artist and heiress, met a tragic end in a fire at her Paris apartment, along with her enigmatic Self-Portrait as Sphinx. However, some doubt that the painting was truly lost in the flames, adding to the mystery and intrigue of the story.
Art students Caroline Cooper and Patrick Lambert from Cambridge set out to uncover the truth behind the painting. Their journey starts in Cambridge in 1991 and concludes in Dubai today. During that time, they encounter more betrayal, cunning fraud than they could have imagined, and long-buried secrets about the Willoughby family. What makes this painting so unique?
This intricately woven narrative was a true page-turner! The themes of art, love, obsession, power, and revenge are masterfully explored, drawing the reader into a world of intrigue and deception among the wealthy and privileged.
Special thanks to the author and publisher for providing an advanced copy of this novel through NetGalley. All opinions are my own and provided voluntarily.
#TheFinalActofJulietteWilloughby #ElleryLloyd #Harper #ARC
April 23, 2025
Strong 4.5 ⭐
Thoroughly enjoyed The Final Act Of Juliette Willoughby, however I do feel the first few chapters had me thinking it wasn't going to be for me, I'm so glad I stuck with it though as it ended up being unputdownable.
Atmospheric, full of twists and turns with a few jaw dropping moments here and there.
Told via 3 timelines and multiple POVS.
Great well developed and complex characters.
Ending of chapters ended in ways which had you wanting to read on, despite my shaky start I actually finished this in 2days.
Would recommend 💕
Thoroughly enjoyed The Final Act Of Juliette Willoughby, however I do feel the first few chapters had me thinking it wasn't going to be for me, I'm so glad I stuck with it though as it ended up being unputdownable.
Atmospheric, full of twists and turns with a few jaw dropping moments here and there.
Told via 3 timelines and multiple POVS.
Great well developed and complex characters.
Ending of chapters ended in ways which had you wanting to read on, despite my shaky start I actually finished this in 2days.
Would recommend 💕
April 21, 2025
This book took me a few chapters to get in to. For some reason, it just wasn’t grabbing me. However I persevered and really became invested in this clever mystery. The timelines worked well and I loved the twist. A solid 4.5 star.
April 13, 2025
I had a fun time with The Final Act of Juliette Willoughby. It's kinda schlocky and convoluted and has far too many characters and moving parts. But it's also a vibe.
This book is giving dark academia, except instead of college, it's the high-end historical art scene. It was cool. Also, I really appreciated that the characters all acted like grown up, rational adults. I don't read a lot of thriller books where the characters aren't "unhinged" or murderous or mentally ill and I kinda liked it.
I have very little tolerance for romance and there is romance here. However, it was refreshing to have the duo communicate appropriately and work together and accept the consequences of their actions.
I will also say that this book was a bit overlong. The end kind of went on and on and on. But I liked it overall.
3.5 out of 5 stars.
If you liked Brendan Slocumb's The Violin Conspiracy, you might like this one.
This book is giving dark academia, except instead of college, it's the high-end historical art scene. It was cool. Also, I really appreciated that the characters all acted like grown up, rational adults. I don't read a lot of thriller books where the characters aren't "unhinged" or murderous or mentally ill and I kinda liked it.
I have very little tolerance for romance and there is romance here. However, it was refreshing to have the duo communicate appropriately and work together and accept the consequences of their actions.
I will also say that this book was a bit overlong. The end kind of went on and on and on. But I liked it overall.
3.5 out of 5 stars.
If you liked Brendan Slocumb's The Violin Conspiracy, you might like this one.
April 13, 2025
I’m on such a good run with my April reads 😅 I thoroughly enjoyed The Final Act of Juliette Willoughby! The writing flowed really well and I thought the multiple timelines and perspectives were woven together effortlessly. It was also quick paced read with many of the chapters ending on a cliffhanger so I simply had to know what was going to happen.
It reminded me a bit of Evelyn Hugo but set in the art world. I found the whole thing really fascinating and the setting of Cambridge university added to the atmosphere of the story. The Osiris society was the perfect setup for the murky secrets sprinkled throughout the book. I truly didn’t see the ending coming and I appreciated how the authors spotlighted female artists and their work that is often forgotten.
It reminded me a bit of Evelyn Hugo but set in the art world. I found the whole thing really fascinating and the setting of Cambridge university added to the atmosphere of the story. The Osiris society was the perfect setup for the murky secrets sprinkled throughout the book. I truly didn’t see the ending coming and I appreciated how the authors spotlighted female artists and their work that is often forgotten.
February 26, 2025
Truly one of the more creative and wholly original books I may have ever read! It was part art heist, part deeply-held family secret, part compelling mystery, part historical fiction, part revenge plot, and altogether entertaining from first page to last. Loved all the POVs, the short chapters, and the change in both location & time from 1990s Oxford to 1930s Paris as Juliet's journal entries are interwoven into the overall narrative.
Fascinating to read that Ellery Lloyd is a husband and wife writing duo and they will certainly be one to keep my eye on when in the mood for a good compelling mystery/thriller in future with great characterization and compelling writing.
Fascinating to read that Ellery Lloyd is a husband and wife writing duo and they will certainly be one to keep my eye on when in the mood for a good compelling mystery/thriller in future with great characterization and compelling writing.
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