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The Portrait Artist
One morning in 1890, a painting wrapped in brown paper appears on the steps of the National Gallery and causes a sensation. It's clearly by Timothy Ponden-Hall, an artist whose paintings were celebrated and debated, not just for their beauty, but for the rumours behind them: his masterpieces were believed to immortalise the souls of their subjects.
But the shadowy explorer and artist has been thought dead for the last 50 years - so what does this new portrait mean? The gallery brings in renowned art historian Solomon Oak to investigate the painting as rumours swirl through the streets of London town.
In a bid to uncover the truth, Oak is assisted by an unlikely aid: his daughter Alice. A passionate but sheltered student, Alice has worldly desires which eclipse the life she's expected to lead. Together they discover that exposing Ponden-Hall's legacy will prove more controversial than they could ever have imagined for their family and Victorian society.
Set between London and Oxford, The Portrait Artist is a twisting historical debut exploring race, fame and long-kept secrets.
But the shadowy explorer and artist has been thought dead for the last 50 years - so what does this new portrait mean? The gallery brings in renowned art historian Solomon Oak to investigate the painting as rumours swirl through the streets of London town.
In a bid to uncover the truth, Oak is assisted by an unlikely aid: his daughter Alice. A passionate but sheltered student, Alice has worldly desires which eclipse the life she's expected to lead. Together they discover that exposing Ponden-Hall's legacy will prove more controversial than they could ever have imagined for their family and Victorian society.
Set between London and Oxford, The Portrait Artist is a twisting historical debut exploring race, fame and long-kept secrets.
336 pages, Hardcover
Published February 25, 2025
18 people are currently reading
320 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
November 27, 2024
This may be my favourite read of the year so far! High praise I know, but the topic really captured me. The story centres around a mysterious explorer-painter, Timothy Ponden-Hall, who has not been seen in over 50 years but leaves paintings - considered to be exceptional masterpieces - on the doorsteps of The National Gallery or the Royal Academy of Arts. There are rumours that Ponden-Hall discovered the elixir of life on a sea voyage and now uses it to capture the souls of his sitters, in some kind of deal with the devil, which made him a household name. For 50 years all has been silent, until a new painting is found on the doorstep of the gallery once more, shocking everyone back into a craze of speculation. Art Historian Solomon Oak is called in to authenticate it while the press swirl and clamour, intent on finding the mystery painter once and for all. It’s well written, and to me the mystery of the painter was just an exceptionally intriguing one, and didn’t disappoint as we got deeper into the mystery or the reveal. Watch out for this one early next year!
My thanks to #NetGalley and the publisher, Bloomsbury, for an advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review.
My thanks to #NetGalley and the publisher, Bloomsbury, for an advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review.
February 24, 2025
From the first exquisitely crafted paragraph of The Portrait Artist, I fell in love with the writing
It’s also a great story. The public are in uproar over the work of Timothy Ponden Hall. A mysterious painter whose works are said to immortalise the soul of his subjects. He was thought to be dead but when a painting turns up in 1890 on the steps of the National Gallery, 50 years after his last work, it is unmistakably his. Famous but semi-retired art historian Solomon Oak is tasked with finding out the identity of Ponden-Hall and the mystery behind his paintings. While the public cry witchraft and magic, he is sure there is a more straightforward explanation and with the help of his rather sheltered daughter Alice he sets out to solve the mystery
There are some fabulous characters and relationships. Particularly Solomon and Alice I found their relationship really touching and I thought the depiction of Alice as a young woman just coming into her own and pushing against the bounds of her sex and societal expectation was spot on.
What a pleasure to read. It’s really rich and vivid, packed with intrigue and has almost a gossipy tone to it as interest and rumours about Ponden-Hall grows amongst the general public. Really cleverly constructed and paced too.
Peppered with interesting facts on art techniques and history,I found Ponden-Halls wax painting technique in particular utterly fascinating.
An incredible debut novel. Sign me up for whatever she does next
It’s also a great story. The public are in uproar over the work of Timothy Ponden Hall. A mysterious painter whose works are said to immortalise the soul of his subjects. He was thought to be dead but when a painting turns up in 1890 on the steps of the National Gallery, 50 years after his last work, it is unmistakably his. Famous but semi-retired art historian Solomon Oak is tasked with finding out the identity of Ponden-Hall and the mystery behind his paintings. While the public cry witchraft and magic, he is sure there is a more straightforward explanation and with the help of his rather sheltered daughter Alice he sets out to solve the mystery
There are some fabulous characters and relationships. Particularly Solomon and Alice I found their relationship really touching and I thought the depiction of Alice as a young woman just coming into her own and pushing against the bounds of her sex and societal expectation was spot on.
What a pleasure to read. It’s really rich and vivid, packed with intrigue and has almost a gossipy tone to it as interest and rumours about Ponden-Hall grows amongst the general public. Really cleverly constructed and paced too.
Peppered with interesting facts on art techniques and history,I found Ponden-Halls wax painting technique in particular utterly fascinating.
An incredible debut novel. Sign me up for whatever she does next
January 17, 2025
Dani Heywood-Lonsdale’s debut novel, The Portrait Artist, is an art mystery set in Victorian England with hints of the supernatural reminiscent of Oscar Wilde’s The Picture of Dorian Gray.
When a portrait of a Kunekune pig is left on the steps of the National Gallery in London one morning in 1890, it sends the art world into turmoil. Both the signature and the technique point to the artist being the mysterious Timothy Ponden-Hall, thought to have been dead for the last fifty years. Ponden-Hall, an explorer and painter, caused a sensation earlier in his career, when rumours spread that he had discovered the elixir of life during a sea voyage and was using it to bestow immortality on those who sat for his portraits. Does this new portrait mean the artist is still alive – and why has he started to paint again after so many decades of silence?
Art historian and Ponden-Hall expert Solomon Oak is brought in to investigate, but as he tries to interpret the new painting and its meaning, he makes some discoveries that cause him to question everything he thought he knew about the reclusive artist. Meanwhile Solomon’s daughter Alice has been befriended by Lou, the coachwoman, who gives her a job helping to deliver parcels. But why do their deliveries always take place under cover of darkness – and could Alice’s new job and new friend lead her to solve the mystery of Ponden-Hall before her father gets there first?
I enjoyed The Portrait Artist. My only problem with the book came towards the end, when the truth about Ponden-Hall was revealed. It wasn’t exactly a surprise – I had already at least partly guessed it – but it required a huge suspension of disbelief which was just too difficult for me to accept. Still, the story up to that point had been fascinating to follow. Solomon and Alice Oak are both characters I liked and I thought the complex relationship between them was handled well, with Alice feeling that she can never quite live up to the memory of her late sister Emma, who had been the closest to their father. Solomon, for his part, has to come to terms with Alice growing into a woman and not wanting to follow the path through life he has mapped out for her. Another interesting character is Grace, an artists’ model from a humble background who longs to be part of the world of academia and sees a possible route to that by involving herself in the Ponden-Hall mystery.
Heywood-Lonsdale explores a lot of different issues throughout the novel, including the idea of the dead being immortalised through art, both literally and figuratively; how adding to our knowledge of the artist and the sitter can change the way we view and appreciate a painting; and the difficulties of being of mixed race heritage in Victorian society. The supernatural element involving the question of whether youth can be preserved in a painting is mainly there to explain the level of mystique that has formed around Timothy Ponden-Hall and we can choose how much we want to believe.
Apart from my problems with the ending, I think this is an impressive first novel and I hope Dani Heywood-Lonsdale will write more.
When a portrait of a Kunekune pig is left on the steps of the National Gallery in London one morning in 1890, it sends the art world into turmoil. Both the signature and the technique point to the artist being the mysterious Timothy Ponden-Hall, thought to have been dead for the last fifty years. Ponden-Hall, an explorer and painter, caused a sensation earlier in his career, when rumours spread that he had discovered the elixir of life during a sea voyage and was using it to bestow immortality on those who sat for his portraits. Does this new portrait mean the artist is still alive – and why has he started to paint again after so many decades of silence?
Art historian and Ponden-Hall expert Solomon Oak is brought in to investigate, but as he tries to interpret the new painting and its meaning, he makes some discoveries that cause him to question everything he thought he knew about the reclusive artist. Meanwhile Solomon’s daughter Alice has been befriended by Lou, the coachwoman, who gives her a job helping to deliver parcels. But why do their deliveries always take place under cover of darkness – and could Alice’s new job and new friend lead her to solve the mystery of Ponden-Hall before her father gets there first?
I enjoyed The Portrait Artist. My only problem with the book came towards the end, when the truth about Ponden-Hall was revealed. It wasn’t exactly a surprise – I had already at least partly guessed it – but it required a huge suspension of disbelief which was just too difficult for me to accept. Still, the story up to that point had been fascinating to follow. Solomon and Alice Oak are both characters I liked and I thought the complex relationship between them was handled well, with Alice feeling that she can never quite live up to the memory of her late sister Emma, who had been the closest to their father. Solomon, for his part, has to come to terms with Alice growing into a woman and not wanting to follow the path through life he has mapped out for her. Another interesting character is Grace, an artists’ model from a humble background who longs to be part of the world of academia and sees a possible route to that by involving herself in the Ponden-Hall mystery.
Heywood-Lonsdale explores a lot of different issues throughout the novel, including the idea of the dead being immortalised through art, both literally and figuratively; how adding to our knowledge of the artist and the sitter can change the way we view and appreciate a painting; and the difficulties of being of mixed race heritage in Victorian society. The supernatural element involving the question of whether youth can be preserved in a painting is mainly there to explain the level of mystique that has formed around Timothy Ponden-Hall and we can choose how much we want to believe.
Apart from my problems with the ending, I think this is an impressive first novel and I hope Dani Heywood-Lonsdale will write more.
August 29, 2024
What a beautiful story. I was absolutely hooked from the second page and devoured this tale in a few sittings.
It has everything we might expect from a Victorian-era set tale, with their slightly strange obsession with phrenology, celebrity, mutton-chops, and bizarre leaps of faith about life, death and the afterlife.
Our main characters are Oaks, a professor in hiding following his oldest daughter's tragic death, his surviving daughter, Alice, and also Grace, a portrait sitter at the National Gallery. Oaks is somewhat pompous to begin with, very Victorian in his attitude, whereas Alice and Grace are certainly not. They're a slightly unconventional trio, and this is as much a story of their development as individuals as it is about uncovering Ponden-Hall's identity. And what a tangled web this proves to be. It is beautifully evocative and the ending, I feel, really does stand up to the rest of the tale.
I just really loved it, and I had to stop myself from turning to the back pages to discover the resolution from about 50% through the book. I'm glad I didn't give in and allowed the story to unfold as it was intended.
I don't read a huge number of more 'literary fiction' historical stories (I love a Golden Age cosy crime), but it had a similar 'feel' to Wakenhyrst by Michelle Paver. Enjoy.
It has everything we might expect from a Victorian-era set tale, with their slightly strange obsession with phrenology, celebrity, mutton-chops, and bizarre leaps of faith about life, death and the afterlife.
Our main characters are Oaks, a professor in hiding following his oldest daughter's tragic death, his surviving daughter, Alice, and also Grace, a portrait sitter at the National Gallery. Oaks is somewhat pompous to begin with, very Victorian in his attitude, whereas Alice and Grace are certainly not. They're a slightly unconventional trio, and this is as much a story of their development as individuals as it is about uncovering Ponden-Hall's identity. And what a tangled web this proves to be. It is beautifully evocative and the ending, I feel, really does stand up to the rest of the tale.
I just really loved it, and I had to stop myself from turning to the back pages to discover the resolution from about 50% through the book. I'm glad I didn't give in and allowed the story to unfold as it was intended.
I don't read a huge number of more 'literary fiction' historical stories (I love a Golden Age cosy crime), but it had a similar 'feel' to Wakenhyrst by Michelle Paver. Enjoy.
March 8, 2025
In this novel set in 1890, we follow art historian Solomon Oak as he works to uncover the secrets behind portraits painted by the mysterious Timothy Ponden-Hall. His story is interwoven with that of his daughter Alice, who wants to move beyond her sheltered life and starts to help coachwoman Lou with secret evening deliveries.
The story unfolds slowly, but by the second half I was captivated and didn't want to put the book down. I enjoyed the portrayal of the characters and the deeper exploration of some of the hidden aspects of Victorian society. It is worth pointing out that, although this is historical fiction, some of the characters have quite modern thoughts and reactions and the book very much applies contemporary perspectives to the past. The ending didn't entirely satisfy me, but I did appreciate the way the author hinted at a potential answer without spelling it out, leaving it open to interpretation.
A recommended read for fans of The Portrait of Dorian Gray and historical fiction that delves into societal issues.
Thank you to Netgalley and Bloomsbury Publishing for providing me with a digital copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
The story unfolds slowly, but by the second half I was captivated and didn't want to put the book down. I enjoyed the portrayal of the characters and the deeper exploration of some of the hidden aspects of Victorian society. It is worth pointing out that, although this is historical fiction, some of the characters have quite modern thoughts and reactions and the book very much applies contemporary perspectives to the past. The ending didn't entirely satisfy me, but I did appreciate the way the author hinted at a potential answer without spelling it out, leaving it open to interpretation.
A recommended read for fans of The Portrait of Dorian Gray and historical fiction that delves into societal issues.
Thank you to Netgalley and Bloomsbury Publishing for providing me with a digital copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
May 26, 2025
This mystery was an incredibly fun, fascinating romp through the art world in the 1890s. The story centres around the lauded painter Timothy Ponden-Hall, who is rumoured to hold certain powers when it comes to the subjects of his portraits, but who hasn’t released a new painting in decades. When a new painting of Ponden-Hall’s is left on the steps of the National Gallery, the press turn to the art historian Solomon Oak to aid in tracking the painter down. Oak, with the help of his daughter Alice, set about discovering the whereabouts of the artist, and to learn the secrets of their art.
Incredibly evocative and well-written, I thoroughly enjoyed this work of historical fiction, and would recommend to any fans of a mystery.
My thanks to the author, NetGalley, and the publisher for the arc to review.
Incredibly evocative and well-written, I thoroughly enjoyed this work of historical fiction, and would recommend to any fans of a mystery.
My thanks to the author, NetGalley, and the publisher for the arc to review.
May 4, 2025
The Portrait Artist is a fascinating Victorian story that grips you from the start. The characters are well thought out and the development makes you invested to discover what happens to them. The main characters have their own struggles in life and we're all given the time for the reader to understand and believe in them.
The plot itself is intriguing and leaves you wanting more. It is about art and the preconceptions and prejudice of the 1800s, with a little mystery in there too. The paintings described were described and analysed in a way that you could believe they were real.
This is written with the skill of a well versed writer and doesn't feel like a debut novel.
The plot itself is intriguing and leaves you wanting more. It is about art and the preconceptions and prejudice of the 1800s, with a little mystery in there too. The paintings described were described and analysed in a way that you could believe they were real.
This is written with the skill of a well versed writer and doesn't feel like a debut novel.
April 11, 2025
This book tells an intriguing and fascinating story turning preconceptions and prejudices of the Victorian times upside down. I found it a little slow in the middle (hence one less star) but it had a poignant and beautiful ending. The characters (I particularly loved the unconventional and feisty Grace) were written brilliantly. A great exploration of the difficulties of being a woman in a man’s world and great observations on society’s expectations and assumptions.
A fantastic debut novel. Oh and it was a book that was surely crying out for beautiful spredges and a more sumptuous cover?
A fantastic debut novel. Oh and it was a book that was surely crying out for beautiful spredges and a more sumptuous cover?
October 21, 2025
Great descriptions of artworks but some historical norms definitely fantasy. Enjoyed the mystery of who the Portrait Artist could be.
March 7, 2025
Where should I begin? I want to just say, no notes, and leave it at that, but this deserves a full review.
Let's talk about the characters first, all main characters, Grace, Alice, Mr. Oak and Lou all had thoroughly backstories and had their own trials and tribulations. It was very clear what their motivations were and it all fit their characters.
I am impressed with the way the story progressed, it would have been very easy to take another route, which would have cheapened the outcome a lot. But the way the mystery was handled was done in the best way, I wouldn't have wanted it any other way. Some people will probably be annoyed by a certain aspect of the reveal, so I will say, if you've got grand suspicions while reading, maybe tone them down a bit. But to me, this was the one and only way the story could have unfolded, and it was done stunningly.
I loved the buzz the population created around Ponden-Hall, it all felt very real. What felt even more real were the descriptions of the paintings, I felt like I could see them with my own eyes. I wish this book got a better cover though, because this one is just a bit too plain for the solid story that's in there.
This deserves a lot more readers. It might not be for some people, but you will love this if you want an atmospheric, well-paced historical fiction that has a dash of mystery.
Let's talk about the characters first, all main characters, Grace, Alice, Mr. Oak and Lou all had thoroughly backstories and had their own trials and tribulations. It was very clear what their motivations were and it all fit their characters.
I am impressed with the way the story progressed, it would have been very easy to take another route, which would have cheapened the outcome a lot. But the way the mystery was handled was done in the best way, I wouldn't have wanted it any other way. Some people will probably be annoyed by a certain aspect of the reveal, so I will say, if you've got grand suspicions while reading, maybe tone them down a bit. But to me, this was the one and only way the story could have unfolded, and it was done stunningly.
I loved the buzz the population created around Ponden-Hall, it all felt very real. What felt even more real were the descriptions of the paintings, I felt like I could see them with my own eyes. I wish this book got a better cover though, because this one is just a bit too plain for the solid story that's in there.
This deserves a lot more readers. It might not be for some people, but you will love this if you want an atmospheric, well-paced historical fiction that has a dash of mystery.
November 2, 2024
3.5 stars rounded up
This is a difficult book for me to rate because it hit some good notes but not enough for me to really fall in love, and I wasn’t totally satisfied with the ending. The question of “what happened to famous painter Timothy Ponden-Hall” is the central thread of the book, and while there were some great twists and mysteries there, I also felt let down by certain elements that leaned towards the supernatural. There was some interesting stuff about mixed-race identity that I thought was well handled, and the art history buts in general were cool (as someone who knows less than nothing about art history). It’s an ensemble cast, but the relationships 18 year old Alice has with her father and her new friend were a highlight of the book, however they also weren’t tied up in a wholly satisfying way—Alice and her father spend the book not properly communicating about what they want, and I wish more resolution happened on page, where they actually dealt with the holes in their relationship.
I received a free copy from NetGalley in return for an honest review.
This is a difficult book for me to rate because it hit some good notes but not enough for me to really fall in love, and I wasn’t totally satisfied with the ending. The question of “what happened to famous painter Timothy Ponden-Hall” is the central thread of the book, and while there were some great twists and mysteries there, I also felt let down by certain elements that leaned towards the supernatural. There was some interesting stuff about mixed-race identity that I thought was well handled, and the art history buts in general were cool (as someone who knows less than nothing about art history). It’s an ensemble cast, but the relationships 18 year old Alice has with her father and her new friend were a highlight of the book, however they also weren’t tied up in a wholly satisfying way—Alice and her father spend the book not properly communicating about what they want, and I wish more resolution happened on page, where they actually dealt with the holes in their relationship.
I received a free copy from NetGalley in return for an honest review.
February 28, 2025
Thank you NetGalley and Bloomsbury for this eCopy to review
"The Portrait Artist" by Dani Heywood-Lonsdale is a mesmerizing historical novel set in the Victorian era.
The story begins in 1890, when a mysterious painting wrapped in brown paper appears on the steps of the National Gallery. The painting causes quite a sensation as it's believed to be the work of Timothy Ponden-Hall, a renowned artist thought to have been dead for the last 50 years. Intrigued by this discovery, the National Gallery enlists the expertise of Solomon Oak, a renowned art historian, and his daughter Alice, to investigate the origins and authenticity of the painting.
As Solomon and Alice delve into the mystery, they uncover a series of secrets that challenge not only their own family but also the rigid structures of Victorian society. The plot weaves through themes of art, identity, and social norms, keeping the reader engaged with its intricate and well-paced narrative.
One of the standout features of the novel is the vivid depiction of the Victorian era, with its societal expectations and artistic advancements. Heywood-Lonsdale's attention to detail brings the period to life, making you feel as though you've stepped back in time. The atmospheric setting of the National Gallery and the contrasting world of the Ponden-Hall estate add depth and richness to the story.
The characters are well-crafted, with Solomon and Alice serving as compelling protagonists. Solomon's expertise and dedication to art, combined with Alice's intelligence and curiosity, make for a dynamic investigative duo. Their personal growth and evolving relationship add emotional depth to the narrative, making you care about their journey and the secrets they uncover.
The mystery surrounding the painting and Timothy Ponden-Hall's legacy is skilfully handled, with twists and revelations that keep you guessing until the end. The exploration of the artistic process and the significance of portraiture adds an extra layer of intrigue, making the novel a delightful read for art enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
Overall, "The Portrait Artist" is a beautifully written and engaging novel that will transport you to the Victorian era and keep you captivated with its blend of mystery, art, and family secrets. Dani Heywood-Lonsdale has crafted a compelling tale that lingers in the reader's mind long after the final page is turned.
"The Portrait Artist" by Dani Heywood-Lonsdale is a mesmerizing historical novel set in the Victorian era.
The story begins in 1890, when a mysterious painting wrapped in brown paper appears on the steps of the National Gallery. The painting causes quite a sensation as it's believed to be the work of Timothy Ponden-Hall, a renowned artist thought to have been dead for the last 50 years. Intrigued by this discovery, the National Gallery enlists the expertise of Solomon Oak, a renowned art historian, and his daughter Alice, to investigate the origins and authenticity of the painting.
As Solomon and Alice delve into the mystery, they uncover a series of secrets that challenge not only their own family but also the rigid structures of Victorian society. The plot weaves through themes of art, identity, and social norms, keeping the reader engaged with its intricate and well-paced narrative.
One of the standout features of the novel is the vivid depiction of the Victorian era, with its societal expectations and artistic advancements. Heywood-Lonsdale's attention to detail brings the period to life, making you feel as though you've stepped back in time. The atmospheric setting of the National Gallery and the contrasting world of the Ponden-Hall estate add depth and richness to the story.
The characters are well-crafted, with Solomon and Alice serving as compelling protagonists. Solomon's expertise and dedication to art, combined with Alice's intelligence and curiosity, make for a dynamic investigative duo. Their personal growth and evolving relationship add emotional depth to the narrative, making you care about their journey and the secrets they uncover.
The mystery surrounding the painting and Timothy Ponden-Hall's legacy is skilfully handled, with twists and revelations that keep you guessing until the end. The exploration of the artistic process and the significance of portraiture adds an extra layer of intrigue, making the novel a delightful read for art enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
Overall, "The Portrait Artist" is a beautifully written and engaging novel that will transport you to the Victorian era and keep you captivated with its blend of mystery, art, and family secrets. Dani Heywood-Lonsdale has crafted a compelling tale that lingers in the reader's mind long after the final page is turned.
March 23, 2025
A painting wrapped in brown paper appears on the steps of the National Gallery. The artist? Timothy Ponden-Hall, thought to be dead for the last 50 years.
An explorer and adventurer to far-flung places during the early Victorian period, Ponden-Hall was known for his lifelong quest to find the elixir of life. Could he have found it and kept it a secret, and similarly immortalised all of the subjects painted in commemoration of their lives somehow?
Revered but washed up art historian Solomon Oak thinks not, but his career-defining obsession with Ponden-Hall’s paintings pushes him back into the limelight when the new painting arrives. Can he unravel the mystery with the help of his sheltered, frustrated daughter and an artist’s model called Grace?
I liked the social conscious of the story - Oak’s daughter Alice has led a sheltered life, kept safe from life’s dangers due to her older sister dying horribly young. But she pushes against her restrictions and meets a character determined to do good across Oxford’s working classes. Through this storyline we meet more realistic depictions of Oxford life - those struggling to make ends meet, immigrants facing discrimination and those who can’t afford healthcare - all of whom the mysterious “Lou” supports in what ways she can. How do these disparate threads of the story come together?
The furore surrounding Ponden-Hall’s newest painting and the mania surrounding the elixir of life was well done and totally believable for the Victorian era. I enjoyed the exploration of the character’s relationships, especially between Oak and his daughter. The patriarch of the family trying to do what’s best for his daughter without checking what she’d actually want for her life seems perfectly apt for the period. I absolutely guessed part of the conclusion but that didn’t stop me from enjoying the reveal.
The Portrait Artist by Dani Heywood-Lonsdale is out now! Thanks to @bloomsburypublishing for an advanced copy for review.
An explorer and adventurer to far-flung places during the early Victorian period, Ponden-Hall was known for his lifelong quest to find the elixir of life. Could he have found it and kept it a secret, and similarly immortalised all of the subjects painted in commemoration of their lives somehow?
Revered but washed up art historian Solomon Oak thinks not, but his career-defining obsession with Ponden-Hall’s paintings pushes him back into the limelight when the new painting arrives. Can he unravel the mystery with the help of his sheltered, frustrated daughter and an artist’s model called Grace?
I liked the social conscious of the story - Oak’s daughter Alice has led a sheltered life, kept safe from life’s dangers due to her older sister dying horribly young. But she pushes against her restrictions and meets a character determined to do good across Oxford’s working classes. Through this storyline we meet more realistic depictions of Oxford life - those struggling to make ends meet, immigrants facing discrimination and those who can’t afford healthcare - all of whom the mysterious “Lou” supports in what ways she can. How do these disparate threads of the story come together?
The furore surrounding Ponden-Hall’s newest painting and the mania surrounding the elixir of life was well done and totally believable for the Victorian era. I enjoyed the exploration of the character’s relationships, especially between Oak and his daughter. The patriarch of the family trying to do what’s best for his daughter without checking what she’d actually want for her life seems perfectly apt for the period. I absolutely guessed part of the conclusion but that didn’t stop me from enjoying the reveal.
The Portrait Artist by Dani Heywood-Lonsdale is out now! Thanks to @bloomsburypublishing for an advanced copy for review.
December 16, 2024
"Because what an extraordinary thing to hope for - eternal life for those we love. For those we have lost and things we never had."
A painting wrapped in brown paper appears on the steps of the National Gallery and is about to cause a sensation. The painting is by Timothy Ponden-Hall an artist thought dead for the past 50 years. His paintings are celebrated and debated they are said to immortalize the souls of their subjects.
Renowned art historian Solomon Oak is brought in to investigate. Along with his daughter Alice who can sometimes be a hindrance to Solomon, he races against time to prove the authenticity of the painting and discover the whereabouts of the mysterious painter once and for all.
My review:
I was hooked on this beautifully written novel within the first few chapters. The characters are all likeable, especially the main trio Solomon, Alice, and Grace. The unraveling of the mystery is exceptional and one I won't forget. I would pick this up again within a heartbeat. One to watch out for next year for all historical fiction fans.
A painting wrapped in brown paper appears on the steps of the National Gallery and is about to cause a sensation. The painting is by Timothy Ponden-Hall an artist thought dead for the past 50 years. His paintings are celebrated and debated they are said to immortalize the souls of their subjects.
Renowned art historian Solomon Oak is brought in to investigate. Along with his daughter Alice who can sometimes be a hindrance to Solomon, he races against time to prove the authenticity of the painting and discover the whereabouts of the mysterious painter once and for all.
My review:
I was hooked on this beautifully written novel within the first few chapters. The characters are all likeable, especially the main trio Solomon, Alice, and Grace. The unraveling of the mystery is exceptional and one I won't forget. I would pick this up again within a heartbeat. One to watch out for next year for all historical fiction fans.
March 7, 2025
Thanks to NetGalley and Bloomsbury for an early copy of this novel.
Three stars probably suggests that I didn't enjoy this book, but that would be a wrong assumption; in reality, it would get an extra half star but that isn't possible.
I liked the premise and most of the characters, but it moved too slowly for me, and if it had been an audiobook, I may have played it faster.
The story revolves around an explorer/artist in the early 1830s who left a painting on the steps of an art gallery once in a while to commemorate the life of someone recently passed. Professor Oak has devoted his life to learning more about the man, his life, and his art, and now his daughter, Alice, is pulled into it too, taking a different avenue to do so. The novel mainly follows her story and coming of age in Oxford in the late 1880s.
By the last third of the book, I had sort of guessed where it was going, and whilst I enjoyed it, I would have preferred it had it either been a little shorter or fleshed out more, perhaps with more about some of the other characters lives.
Three stars probably suggests that I didn't enjoy this book, but that would be a wrong assumption; in reality, it would get an extra half star but that isn't possible.
I liked the premise and most of the characters, but it moved too slowly for me, and if it had been an audiobook, I may have played it faster.
The story revolves around an explorer/artist in the early 1830s who left a painting on the steps of an art gallery once in a while to commemorate the life of someone recently passed. Professor Oak has devoted his life to learning more about the man, his life, and his art, and now his daughter, Alice, is pulled into it too, taking a different avenue to do so. The novel mainly follows her story and coming of age in Oxford in the late 1880s.
By the last third of the book, I had sort of guessed where it was going, and whilst I enjoyed it, I would have preferred it had it either been a little shorter or fleshed out more, perhaps with more about some of the other characters lives.
March 17, 2025
This is a story that untangles and reveals its mysteries like a ball of yarn, slowly, slowly then suddenly whilst you hold your breath and attempt to read quickly all is made clear. It is not for the lazy reader as I can be at times, rushing to find out what happens next, no this is to be savoured and to luxuriate in Heywood-Lonsdale’s exquisite descriptions which you will not want to miss.
The Portrait Artist is a carefully constructed narrative of family, given and chosen, of grief and the saving ability of friendship. It tells the story of those unseen and invisible people that are always with us, and the human desire to be seen. The scenes and fascinating characters are portrayed in such a way that the reader believes in them and can connect with them.
I wait in great anticipation for what more is to come from this author.
The Portrait Artist is a carefully constructed narrative of family, given and chosen, of grief and the saving ability of friendship. It tells the story of those unseen and invisible people that are always with us, and the human desire to be seen. The scenes and fascinating characters are portrayed in such a way that the reader believes in them and can connect with them.
I wait in great anticipation for what more is to come from this author.
August 20, 2025
This is a beautifully written and evocative portrait of Victorian London and Oxford. The descriptions of oyster bars, coffee houses, sweet shops, Christmas in Oxfordshire and many other period details were so skilfully drawn it felt like I could taste the potted shrimp and chocolate limes. These passages were comforting and exuded warmth, yet the novel also grapples with bigger themes such as grief, female empowerment and father-daughter relationships in unexpected and moving ways. I loved the characters of Alice and Grace and tracing their journeys against a vividly depicted backdrop of the Victorian patriarchy. Finally, the descriptions of the paintings and the artistic process are incredibly detailed and well-researched - the descriptions of colour and the process the artist deploys, mixing pigments and beeswax, are particularly memorable. An original and intriguing read.
June 14, 2025
A painting wrapped in brown paper appears on the steps of the National Gallery, it’s a portrait of a pig by artist Timothy Ponden-Hall, creating a craze of speculation as he has been thought to have been dead for over 50 years. There were rumours that Ponden-Hall had discovered the elixir of life on a sea voyage and used it to capture the souls of his sitters.
Renowned art historian, Solomon Oak and his daughter, Alice are brought in to investigate and authenticate.
Beautifully written and loved the exploration of how we remember and commemorate the dead in art and also loved how the mystery unravelled
Thanks #daniheywood-lonsdale, @bloomsburypublishing & @netgalley for an incredible debut novel
Renowned art historian, Solomon Oak and his daughter, Alice are brought in to investigate and authenticate.
Beautifully written and loved the exploration of how we remember and commemorate the dead in art and also loved how the mystery unravelled
Thanks #daniheywood-lonsdale, @bloomsburypublishing & @netgalley for an incredible debut novel
October 8, 2025
3.75? it became obvious to me over the course of this that it was a debut - i could see the outline of its outline, and i think there's some awkwardness in its pacing/structure (idt the scattered newspaper articles really did anything for the book). i have more small criticisms that i'm sure would bother other people more but overall i still enjoyed reading this one. there's a density to the prose i don't see often at the moment and the characters are well-drawn, taking good advantage of 3rd person omniscient. i look forward to seeing what the author does next
February 27, 2025
3.5 stars
This seemed to be two stories that are linked. One was the mystery of where was the artist, Ponden-Hall and the other was about Alice Oak, who wanted her father, Solomon, to see her as a young woman and not as a child. As part of Alice’s bid to lead her own life she met up with an unusual person called Lou. There were a few interesting characters, including Grace, an artist’s model but who had academic aspirations. It started out well but then the pace slowed until towards the end when everything was revealed. There are a number of issues such as how grief affects people, women working and racism. This was an interesting story that was well researched, particularly when describing the methods of painting and how paint was produced. I received a copy and have voluntarily reviewed it, All thoughts and opinions are my own.
This seemed to be two stories that are linked. One was the mystery of where was the artist, Ponden-Hall and the other was about Alice Oak, who wanted her father, Solomon, to see her as a young woman and not as a child. As part of Alice’s bid to lead her own life she met up with an unusual person called Lou. There were a few interesting characters, including Grace, an artist’s model but who had academic aspirations. It started out well but then the pace slowed until towards the end when everything was revealed. There are a number of issues such as how grief affects people, women working and racism. This was an interesting story that was well researched, particularly when describing the methods of painting and how paint was produced. I received a copy and have voluntarily reviewed it, All thoughts and opinions are my own.
February 27, 2025
It took me a little while to get into this book and warm to the characters, but once I did I enjoyed the story with the interesting Victorian ideas well described and explained as part of the plot. I particularly enjoyed the descriptions of painting, and I always like books with food of the period included! The mystery was well concluded and I look forward to reading more by this author.
Thank you to netgalley and Bloomsbury for an advance copy of this book.
Thank you to netgalley and Bloomsbury for an advance copy of this book.
September 29, 2024
This book was a slow starter and I very nearly gave up but perseverance paid off and I was rewarded with an interesting and enjoyable book. The story developed with a number of different themes including attitudes towards women and prejudices, not my usual sort of book but I would recommend it. My thanks to Net Galley and the author for an ARC
February 23, 2025
This is an incredibly beautifully written book. More than once I caught myself leaning forward into it, even holding my breath in anticipation of what might happen next. I connected with the characters in a way some authors make it very difficult to do, even in far longer novels than this. I loved it. I love it.
March 6, 2025
Whether you opt to simply excuse or entirely disregard the personal bias I may have for this book, let me just say this: read it. Truly beautiful.
And the ending was absolute master craft. I am so entranced by this story, and the characters who brought it to life. This one will stay with me for many years to come.
And the ending was absolute master craft. I am so entranced by this story, and the characters who brought it to life. This one will stay with me for many years to come.
August 30, 2025
I read this in one sitting, if that tells you how compelling I found the writing. But I did guess The Twist early on (not the reasons for it), and I don’t believe the potential supernatural elements were woven in well at all with the ending. Solid debut that falls prey to a just okay ending. I’m interested in what the author does next, though.
March 11, 2025
Excellent debut novel that reads like a classic! Compelling storytelling that is very thoughtfully researched and rich with nuanced character development. Looking forward to more writing from this author.
June 14, 2025
This novel was very intriguing. I enjoyed reading it immensely. I love a good twist ending and this one did not disappoint! I couldn't put it down. I highly recommend reading this book! Can't wait to see what the author does next.
January 6, 2026
Great debut book with wonderful writing! Some parts were a bit of a slog to get through but I really enjoyed the story and the characters. I was also satisfied with the ending. Looking forward to reading more from this author.
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February 22, 2025A great story in honour of every artist unseen
June 14, 2025
Beautifully written with a twisted plot at the end. Couldn't put it down after reading a few chapters, wanting to know the ending. Amazing!!
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