Murdering Van Gogh

by Amy Pais-Richer

A startling take on the life and tragic death of one of the most prolific artists in history, challenging the conventional theory that Van Gogh killed himself but was, in fact, murdered.

Dedicated to revealing the truth behind what really happened to Vincent van Gogh and unraveling the mystery of who killed him.

GAUGUIN
A Colonialist and narcissist, who constantly bragged about his prowess as a painter and a fighter. Was he also capable of murder?

THEO VAN GOGH
Years of resentment simmered between the two brothers, that resulted in a strained relationship that continued up until Van Gogh’s death.

THEODORUS VAN GOGH
Although a man of God, Pastor Theodorus had a violent temper. The novel explores Van Gogh’s tumultuous relationship with the father that he could never please.

SIEN
Van Gogh planned on marrying his prostitute lover, but was forced to break off the union because his family, threatened to cut him off financially. What lengths would a woman go to, to get back at the man that she loved and lost?

Who killed Vincent Van Gogh? Read the novel to find out.

202 pages, Kindle Edition

Published December 17, 2024

About the author

Amy Pais-Richer’s debut novel, “Murdering Van Gogh,” is a work of historical fiction that delves into the compelling possibility that Vincent Van Gogh did not die by suicide but instead may have been murdered.

Parallel Book Reviews had this to say about the novel:

“Murdering Van Gogh" completely captivated me. It's not just another historical fiction novel; it's a vibrant, thought-provoking exploration of a pivotal moment in art history, presented with a fresh, almost shocking perspective.

Released in late December, “Murdering Van Gogh” has captivated readers, quickly reaching the number 10 position in historical biographies on Amazon. It is available internationally on Amazon and through Barnesandnoble.com and Walmart.com

Reviews

[Carisa · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was fascinating. Van Gogh is one of my favorite artists mostly because of his eccentric and tragic life. Even though fiction, I love to see history come to life in fiction like this. I could not put this book down. I knew after the first few sentences that I would want to do little else but finish this story. Heartbreaking and hauntingly beautiful. I found myself rooting for Van Gogh and his lost love in a way I didn’t expect. I love the way the story was told as if a memoir from one of the least of the characters in the book but one who had such compassion and love for the artist. Definitely recommend to anyone who loves art history and historical fiction that brings the past to life.

[Julie Pasinato · Rating 5 out of 5]

Murdering Van Gogh is one of those rare books that hooks you from the very beginning and doesn’t let go. It’s a perfect mix of mystery, history, and emotional depth—smartly written, but also totally immersive and easy to get lost in.
What really stood out to me was how well the characters were developed. The main character is especially compelling—flawed, driven, and totally believable. As the story moves along, you really get pulled into their world and start to understand the weight of their choices. The supporting cast is just as strong, each adding something meaningful to the story rather than just filling space.
The plot itself is layered and intriguing. It weaves together historical elements and a modern-day mystery without ever feeling forced or confusing. Just when I thought I had things figured out, the story took a turn I didn’t see coming—and that twist at the end? Absolutely brilliant. It made me rethink so much of what had come before.
All in all, Murdering Van Gogh is a smart, intense, and deeply satisfying read. Whether you're into art history, psychological thrillers, or just a well-told story with great characters, this one is worth picking up. It’s the kind of book that sticks with you—and might even change the way you look at Van Gogh forever.

[Kathy Woulfe · Rating 5 out of 5]

Enjoyed this book very much. Love Van Gogh

[Philippe Hans · Rating 5 out of 5]

With her pen on paper, the author takes us on a journey into the universe of imagination, knowledge and emotion, just like her subject did with his brush on canvas. MURDERING VAN GOGH delights the reader with its plot, its characters and its writing style. Amy Pais-Richer’s eloquence is striking. Her command over language is evident as her narrative unfolds fluidly, transporting us back into the time of the protagonists in vivid images. This book impacts us beyond its pages.

[Olga Kras · Rating 5 out of 5]

The book is very easy to read and it’s written with the touch of personal artist’s letters that give a unique glimpse into Van Gogh’s relationships and struggles.

[Georgine Brewer · Rating 5 out of 5]

The author masterfully blends historical fiction with modern-day suspense, creating an atmosphere of tension and intrigue. The characters are complex, and the plot is unpredictable, keeping readers hooked until the very last page. A unique, engrossing read for fans of art, mystery, and psychological thrillers.

[Apple Pie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love historical fiction . This book had me from the first page. Well written and a great read.

[Emily Lane · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fascinating and unexpected take on Van Gogh’s life and death. This book made me rethink everything I thought I knew about the “tortured artist” trope. Instead of just accepting the idea that Vincent took his own life, the author lays out evidence that maybe he didn’t—and that maybe we’ve all missed the bigger picture.

What really stuck with me was the look at Van Gogh’s mental illness in the context of his family, especially his father. You can see how trauma and dysfunction got passed down, and it’s heartbreaking. It’s a powerful reminder of how important it is to stop those cycles when we can.

Quick read, thought-provoking, and definitely one that stays with you.

[brettlikesbooks · Rating 1 out of 5]

we spent the last two weeks in france, primarily in the normandy region, which was amazing. one of my favorite villages was charming auvers-sur-oise, where vincent van gogh spent the last two months of his life, producing a whopping 70 paintings there. it’s also where he died and is buried. so i couldn’t resist MURDERING VAN GOGH by amy pais-richter (historical fiction). despite overwhelming evidence of VVG’s despondency and depression, pais-richter, drawing in part on his letters, explores the theory that he was actually murdered and who the culprit could be. even though this is a novel, i just couldn’t get behind any of it. i found her premise extremely implausible for many reasons (not least of which is her circumvention of his devolving mental health), beginning with an inaccurate conjecture regarding his final painting, among other rather bizarre deviations from widely accepted historical facts. so, for the first time, ⭐️

[Mark-Hans Richer · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great read that really puts you in the personal life of Van Gogh and a nice feel for the historical time. Feels like knowing him (and his lover, his brother, his father, his rivals) so much more, and the ending is satisfying. The images stick with me and I look at his paintings with even more appreciation after reading this.

[Mary Ann · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a great read. I didn’t want to put the book down.
Characters so vivid. Van Gogh a tragic figure but I
Found him to be intriguing.

Ms. Pais writes w such poetry. I found the book
Non stop reading.. Ms. Pais writes w great beauty in her words.. a must read!

Lived Murdering Van Gogh! Read it!!!

[Kayla Tornello · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book offers a look into Vincent Van Gogh's life, particularly through the eyes of his friends and family. The author does a great job of capturing all the tension between these relationships. I enjoyed the descriptions of Van Gogh's paintings and processes.

I received this book as a Goodreads giveaway. Yay!

[Matthew · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a fantastic book! Each turn of the page has you wondering what will come next. The author is so skilled at describing every detail, you feel as if you’re there. I hope this author continues writing, and that this is just the first in a long line of great novels for her. Murdering Van Gogh is worth adding to your reading list.

[Patti Talbot · Rating 3 out of 5]

I liked the parts of the book that focused on Van Gogh and his art. But the rest of the book felt like it was missing big parts of the story. From the description I thought the book would play out like a murder mystery. It did not.

[Caroline Rudnick · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this book! A fascinating look into the complicated life one of the most famous artists of all time! Amy-Pais Richer
is a talented author who immerses the reader into the world and time of Van Gogh. I am looking forward to reading her next novel!

[Stewart Dixon · Rating 4 out of 5]

A gripping and masterfully told story of Vincent van Gogh’s tormented artistic life, unraveling a mystery that will leave you questioning everything you thought you knew about his death. A haunting, unmissable read from author Amy Pais-Richer

[Pranathi Sagi · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a very captivating book and offers a unique perspective about the murder of Van Gogh! Highly recommend!!

[Marcia Friesen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Loved this book! Very hard to put down! Deeply emotional. Highly recommend!!!