What do you think?
Rate this book
Art and Artifice: A Novella
When the nouveau-riche Peterkins invite an artistic couple to live and work in a disused wing of their country home, they unknowingly craft a cocktail of conflict, tension, and deceit.
This delightful social comedy is told from the perspective of Lancaster, the household's rigidly inhibited butler, who is torn between his principles of professional detachment and his love for the Peterkins.
This delightful social comedy is told from the perspective of Lancaster, the household's rigidly inhibited butler, who is torn between his principles of professional detachment and his love for the Peterkins.
239 pages, Paperback
Published March 12, 2025
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
March 23, 2025
A really funny social comedy about a wealthy couple who take a struggling artist into their home, providing a space to live and make art with no other commitments. It’s told from the point of view of their Butler, Lancaster, and some of the scenes made me laugh out loud. The characters are so loveable. I’m giving it 5 stars because it was such an enjoyable read. Not overly long, just a great, hard-to-put-down, feel-good novella.
May 26, 2025
What a wonderful read! Once I started, I found myself unable to stop reading the novella until I was done.
I've known Owen for a few years now and knew that he was a very smart, funny, and well-dressed man. When he announced that he was working on a book, I immediately knew that it would be good and I can easily say that this book reflects Owen as a person in the absolute best ways. I'm very glad to call this amazing author my friend and that he accomplished the incredible feat of writing an amazing book.
I've known Owen for a few years now and knew that he was a very smart, funny, and well-dressed man. When he announced that he was working on a book, I immediately knew that it would be good and I can easily say that this book reflects Owen as a person in the absolute best ways. I'm very glad to call this amazing author my friend and that he accomplished the incredible feat of writing an amazing book.
March 15, 2025
An absolutely delightful read. An easy five stars for me. I’ve never laughed more reading a book. Both the prose and dialogue are clever and witty. Multiple scenes just had me cracking up. But there’s also some heartfelt moments too. Something I was really impressed by was the individual friendships in the book and how real and natural they felt. Each character is highly entertaining, even the “antagonists” read rather fun, especially with everything through Lancaster, the butler’s, perspective.
There’s no chapters, just scene breaks and dates to mark a new day. I’d never read a story like that, but found it only contributed to the ease of picking it up whenever and reading for as long as I wanted at the moment. Each page was a joy to read. and I can see myself returning to this story in the future to read again.
There’s no chapters, just scene breaks and dates to mark a new day. I’d never read a story like that, but found it only contributed to the ease of picking it up whenever and reading for as long as I wanted at the moment. Each page was a joy to read. and I can see myself returning to this story in the future to read again.
April 6, 2025
4.5. First book by the author and an early review so I bumped up to five. 💜 it isn’t perfect, but I truly enjoyed it.
This is a good social conflict story. I like the characters (except the ones I was supposed to hate) and everyone has dimensions. Plus, it had some very funny moments—I actually chuckled out loud a few times. Just an enjoyable light read. Definitely worth my time.
Has Dorothy Sayers or Agatha Christie vibes even though it isn’t a murder mystery.
This is a good social conflict story. I like the characters (except the ones I was supposed to hate) and everyone has dimensions. Plus, it had some very funny moments—I actually chuckled out loud a few times. Just an enjoyable light read. Definitely worth my time.
Has Dorothy Sayers or Agatha Christie vibes even though it isn’t a murder mystery.
March 15, 2025
I read the Kindle ebook but kept hearing all the words in my head in Owen Hebbert's voice from his etymology videos. Entertaining!
Ps. Liam best boy
Ps. Liam best boy
March 24, 2025
My first thoughts when reading this were; the use of language is notable - intelligent and intimidatingly so. Gives the impression of authority from the beginning.
The narrator, Lancaster, seems repressed and tries not to get involved with or connect with people. Is it purely professional distancing or is this person afraid of getting emotionally involved with anyone on any level?
There are aesthetics and gestures (perhaps, merely the idea of Butler / servants) which send me back to the 1920s although there’s the mention of Lancaster arriving in Dudley Peterkins office in 2019. If a literature student wanted a modern parallel to PG Wodehouse’s Jeeves and Wooster or works of Oscar Wilde - this would be it.
The Peterkins are intelligent, successful, professional people, billionaires with a mansion and grounds. They are likeable, fair, genuine, and generous. Dudley Peterkins is so generous he invites virtual strangers- an artist and his wife to live with them, and gives them expansive space to work, an allowance and meals. Not surprisingly, conflict ensues.
There’s a solid narrative with subtlety and hints, surprisingly turns in plot, distinctive characters, outrageous behaviour, amusing jokes, observations on modern life, and social commentary throughout.
The narrator, Lancaster, seems repressed and tries not to get involved with or connect with people. Is it purely professional distancing or is this person afraid of getting emotionally involved with anyone on any level?
There are aesthetics and gestures (perhaps, merely the idea of Butler / servants) which send me back to the 1920s although there’s the mention of Lancaster arriving in Dudley Peterkins office in 2019. If a literature student wanted a modern parallel to PG Wodehouse’s Jeeves and Wooster or works of Oscar Wilde - this would be it.
The Peterkins are intelligent, successful, professional people, billionaires with a mansion and grounds. They are likeable, fair, genuine, and generous. Dudley Peterkins is so generous he invites virtual strangers- an artist and his wife to live with them, and gives them expansive space to work, an allowance and meals. Not surprisingly, conflict ensues.
There’s a solid narrative with subtlety and hints, surprisingly turns in plot, distinctive characters, outrageous behaviour, amusing jokes, observations on modern life, and social commentary throughout.
March 20, 2025
Absolutely captivating!
This charming novella has all the warmth and humour of the fireside book we all dream of having for rainy days. The writing is engaging and vibrant, the characters are vivid and real without being gritty, and the relationships are dynamic.
This book had a lovely understated humour that had me smirking on one page and laughing aloud on the next.
Thoroughly entertaining, and a definite re-read; this isn't a book you'll be donating after you've read it, but rather, a book you'll want to store on your desk or bedside table. Please send my apologies to my shunned bookcase; I'm simply not ready to put this novella down yet.
This charming novella has all the warmth and humour of the fireside book we all dream of having for rainy days. The writing is engaging and vibrant, the characters are vivid and real without being gritty, and the relationships are dynamic.
This book had a lovely understated humour that had me smirking on one page and laughing aloud on the next.
Thoroughly entertaining, and a definite re-read; this isn't a book you'll be donating after you've read it, but rather, a book you'll want to store on your desk or bedside table. Please send my apologies to my shunned bookcase; I'm simply not ready to put this novella down yet.
March 16, 2025
A delightful contemporary novel with just enough drama and humor. The story is told from the view of the butler, Mr Lancaster, who's a very interesting character. 🥰
Great job to the author for a great read!
Great job to the author for a great read!
April 6, 2025
Fantastic Read
I have followed Owen He beet on Instagram for awhile now. His reels on words, their background and where they originated are always well worth the watch. Now, once he began informing us of this book, I knew I needed to obtain my own copy.
Within the first few pages, I was hooked. The flow of character voice and personality was easily grasped. His description of each one allows the reader a perfect picture of who is performing and what is happening. Hold on to your pages...there's a plot twist. Hoping there are other books in you, Owen, and soon available for reading.
I have followed Owen He beet on Instagram for awhile now. His reels on words, their background and where they originated are always well worth the watch. Now, once he began informing us of this book, I knew I needed to obtain my own copy.
Within the first few pages, I was hooked. The flow of character voice and personality was easily grasped. His description of each one allows the reader a perfect picture of who is performing and what is happening. Hold on to your pages...there's a plot twist. Hoping there are other books in you, Owen, and soon available for reading.
March 14, 2025
A charming tale of wit and surprising profundity narrated from the perspective of Lancaster, a butler to a rich patron that sees himself seduced by the world of art.
October 25, 2025
I laughed. I cried. If you have need of a short, clever, quirky work of fiction (you do), this is the book. A true delight.
April 1, 2025
What a great read!
Wholesome wit that made me laugh out loud quite a few times, a nice little plot twist (because who doesn't like a good surprise?), and something else sprinkled in between to make me want to read a book about how to make drinks correctly. And some creative language to expand my vocabulary when trying to describe my distaste about something/someone. Absolutely loved it!
The author has quickly become one of my favourite writers and I certainly look forward to reading more from him.
It's a great length for those who feel slightly intimidated by anything longer than 250 pages, and will make a great gift for friends and family alike.
It's one of those books that will make you smile whenever you think of it.
Wholesome wit that made me laugh out loud quite a few times, a nice little plot twist (because who doesn't like a good surprise?), and something else sprinkled in between to make me want to read a book about how to make drinks correctly. And some creative language to expand my vocabulary when trying to describe my distaste about something/someone. Absolutely loved it!
The author has quickly become one of my favourite writers and I certainly look forward to reading more from him.
It's a great length for those who feel slightly intimidated by anything longer than 250 pages, and will make a great gift for friends and family alike.
It's one of those books that will make you smile whenever you think of it.
May 5, 2025
This book is freakin’ great…sure signs of a good read:
• Laughing out loud in bed several times & waking up my wife.
• A couple of food stains on the pages because I couldn’t put the book down, even during breakfast.
I really enjoyed it! BTW I can see Colin Firth in the role of Lancaster! Cheers.
• Laughing out loud in bed several times & waking up my wife.
• A couple of food stains on the pages because I couldn’t put the book down, even during breakfast.
I really enjoyed it! BTW I can see Colin Firth in the role of Lancaster! Cheers.
May 10, 2025
Such an enjoyable and humorous read! Owen Hebbert has a very compelling writing style. I loved the character of the butler, Lancaster, and enjoyed seeing his character develop over the course of the story.
I'm looking forward to reading more works from this author!
I'm looking forward to reading more works from this author!
April 8, 2025
What Amazing Words! Great Read!
Owen Hebbert brings back a point of view missing since Downton Abbey aired its final episode. Mr. Lancaster is quite a wonderful character, and provides the Peterkins with a firm foundation. As a matter of fact, he provides the reader with the same calm stability one expects from a butler when things go south.
The other characters in the story are familiar to those who spend any time on social media, and Hebbert captures all of their quirks and foibles. Mr. Hoffman has a small role, but significant comedic impact, as well.
All around this fun, well written, well developed story is the element that I was most pleased with: the language. The words make a book, of course. But good words, chosen carefully, and used perfectly make a better book.
Hebbert did not disappoint me in his expertly used perlocution. I could drift to lofty heights of satisfaction simply enjoying the words, before even letting them sink in as a whole combining to move the story along. Which again made me happy I could follow along all the way to the end.
I look forward to Hebbert’s next work, be it the next in a Mr. Lancaster series, or just another opportunity to hear great, unique words used well.
Owen Hebbert brings back a point of view missing since Downton Abbey aired its final episode. Mr. Lancaster is quite a wonderful character, and provides the Peterkins with a firm foundation. As a matter of fact, he provides the reader with the same calm stability one expects from a butler when things go south.
The other characters in the story are familiar to those who spend any time on social media, and Hebbert captures all of their quirks and foibles. Mr. Hoffman has a small role, but significant comedic impact, as well.
All around this fun, well written, well developed story is the element that I was most pleased with: the language. The words make a book, of course. But good words, chosen carefully, and used perfectly make a better book.
Hebbert did not disappoint me in his expertly used perlocution. I could drift to lofty heights of satisfaction simply enjoying the words, before even letting them sink in as a whole combining to move the story along. Which again made me happy I could follow along all the way to the end.
I look forward to Hebbert’s next work, be it the next in a Mr. Lancaster series, or just another opportunity to hear great, unique words used well.
April 16, 2025
Four stars is my standard “I really enjoyed this book and would recommend it” rating and was convinced this book would earn that rating until late last night (or early this morning). I kept telling myself to close the book and go to bed but kept failing to do so. Eventually the book was done and I’d been reading for a solid two hours in bed instead of the 30 minutes I’d planned. I’ve been in a reading slump lately and struggling to read more than a couple pages at a time, much less 100. I can’t remember the last time I stayed up past midnight to finish a book.
The plot was fun and clever and the book left me genuinely smiling after I finished. It’s a fantastic first book and I look forward to seeing what this author brings us next.
The plot was fun and clever and the book left me genuinely smiling after I finished. It’s a fantastic first book and I look forward to seeing what this author brings us next.
May 7, 2025
A highly enjoyable read!
January 18, 2026
I wanted to love this. So that worked out. This was a captivating story where the characters, especially the main, just drew me in. I found myself completely drawn in and invested (the scene with the bath bomb had me visibly angry. Ugh).
Satisfying end, but wouldn’t even be mad about a sequel. Lovely.
Satisfying end, but wouldn’t even be mad about a sequel. Lovely.
August 11, 2025
I really enjoyed this novella as it hit all the right notes. I liked the protagonists and despised the antagonists. A solid entry from one of my favorite word reel makers.
March 19, 2025
Enchanting!
I'm a relative newcomer to the delights of Owen Hebbert and his charming Instagram reels on stories of how words eventuate.
They've been a little sparkle of brain fodder in the otherwise dullness of social media.
Then I found out he wrote a book, a novella, to be precise. Somewhere between a short story and a novel.
It was a pleasure to read, and his gift for prose conjured up obvious comparisons to PG Wodehouse (l could not help but hear Stephen Fry in his character as Jeeves, as the butler Lancaster) and for me Agatha Christie without the detective and murders.
Some have described it as witty, but it didn't have that affect on me (side note. it's extremelv hard to get me to
express emotions whilst reading, I'm almost sociopathic that way, but I digress 😊).
But the pace was quick and I kept expecting a murder at every page turn, but that says more about my interests than the book itself.
I had no preconceptions or any idea where this story was heading, and there was a lovely twist towards the end, which for me, gave a purpose to the book, somewhat of a relief if I'm honest.
I look forward to more output from this charming, erudite Canadian with the engaging voice.
I'm a relative newcomer to the delights of Owen Hebbert and his charming Instagram reels on stories of how words eventuate.
They've been a little sparkle of brain fodder in the otherwise dullness of social media.
Then I found out he wrote a book, a novella, to be precise. Somewhere between a short story and a novel.
It was a pleasure to read, and his gift for prose conjured up obvious comparisons to PG Wodehouse (l could not help but hear Stephen Fry in his character as Jeeves, as the butler Lancaster) and for me Agatha Christie without the detective and murders.
Some have described it as witty, but it didn't have that affect on me (side note. it's extremelv hard to get me to
express emotions whilst reading, I'm almost sociopathic that way, but I digress 😊).
But the pace was quick and I kept expecting a murder at every page turn, but that says more about my interests than the book itself.
I had no preconceptions or any idea where this story was heading, and there was a lovely twist towards the end, which for me, gave a purpose to the book, somewhat of a relief if I'm honest.
I look forward to more output from this charming, erudite Canadian with the engaging voice.
March 21, 2025
Art & Artifice is a story that is unlike anything I’ve read in a while. It reads like literary fiction and satire combined. What surprised me were the modern elements juxtaposed with the traditional behavior and speech of the butler. Definitely made for an interesting read. The butler was well fleshed out, as were the side characters. Some were endearing, others deserved the boot. The author did a wonderful job pacing the story and giving us a glimpse into the Peterkins’ life and momentary woes. I was so glad about the ending because I wasn’t sure how that would play out. I recommend this book to anyone looking for bit of a social commentary, an amusing weekend read, or someone wishing to read something of substance.
March 15, 2025
Owen Hebbert's - Art & Artifice is a gripping novella which explores power, privilege and the chaos it can invite. What begins as a noble gesture, quickly spirals into a dark unsettling tension of psychological manipulation. The atmosphere it creates when you finish around half the book, disrupting the delicate equilibrium of a home and turning generosity into resentment, doesn't let you put the book down. We all love some good old fashioned cheeky drama, don't we !
I thought I guessed the ending but it was a little more thought provoking than what I anticipated, very masterfully blurring the line between Art and Artifice!
I thought I guessed the ending but it was a little more thought provoking than what I anticipated, very masterfully blurring the line between Art and Artifice!
March 22, 2025
A great read! The central characters and their often humorously illustrated idiosyncrasies are both delightfully bizarre and oddly relatable. Despite the fact that the narrative takes place in a modern setting, Owen Hebbert has managed to give his novel the feel of a classic - to me, the greatest accomplishment of this work. As a great sceptic of modern literature, never did I imagine that I'd find myself indulging in a work of fiction that mentions both Instagram influencers and the covid pandemic. Even less did I imagine that I would actually enjoy such a work. And yet, enjoy it I certainly did.
March 23, 2026
Art & Artifice is a delight! This bright & breezy & very entertaining a comedy of manners, Owen Hebbett's first novel is, I hope, the first of many. Beautifully paced, quietly hilarious with a wonderful cast of characters (I especially enjoyed Kandyss!).
It feels a little like being in a PG Wodehouse novel but with more nuance than slapstick! Our narrator, Lancaster, butler to the Peterkins (I wondered if that was a nod to one of my favourite children's books, The Peterson Papers by Lucretia Peabody Hale) has the stateliness of Stevens of Remains of the Day, the savvy of Downtown's Carson and a self-awareness that is Hebbett’s own delightful addition
It feels a little like being in a PG Wodehouse novel but with more nuance than slapstick! Our narrator, Lancaster, butler to the Peterkins (I wondered if that was a nod to one of my favourite children's books, The Peterson Papers by Lucretia Peabody Hale) has the stateliness of Stevens of Remains of the Day, the savvy of Downtown's Carson and a self-awareness that is Hebbett’s own delightful addition
July 25, 2025
This is a delightfully witty, fresh, and sparklingly brilliant novella. Our hero is a butler of the Jeeves variety, and the story centers around a modern millionaire and resident artist. It had me chuckling and on the edge of my seat many times. If you’ve watched Owen’s Instagram videos, you’ll know he has an intuitive grasp of the English language, and that shines forth in this book. 100% clean, which is refreshing!
March 22, 2025
Okay! First off, I loved this story 👌🏼 it’s witty, charming and I would venture to say it has a bit of a classic feel while being totally modern. Lancaster is so lovable and he endears you to the people he cares for. It was a funny read for me as an artist because I’ve met people like “the artist” in the book. I highly recommend reading!
October 25, 2025
I really enjoyed this book. It is hard to find a contemporary, fictional book which does not contain offensive language or dubious morality, so this was a very welcome change, and a book I didn't have to abandon half way through.
October 30, 2025
This book can only be described as delightfully charming! I loved every page and didn't want it to end.
A definite must read, and a certain must read again.
Oh, to be able to read it again for the first time!
A definite must read, and a certain must read again.
Oh, to be able to read it again for the first time!
October 25, 2025
I loved this book and laughed out loud multiple times. Such a refreshingly unique, humorous, and compelling storyline that had me hooked from the beginning. Absolutely recommend!
October 25, 2025
Charmingly witty, well-crafted artifice with a modernized Downton Abbey-esque flavor; refined wine for the reader of taste!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews