Diagonal

by Andrew M. Buckley

She fought for justice. Her country killed her.

July 1936. On the eve of the Spanish Civil War, British artist Alicia Green travels to Barcelona to attend the People’s Olympiad. When violence erupts and the games are cancelled, Alicia joins the Republican cause, only to be killed in the crossfire. Her death is dismissed as a tragic accident.

Ninety years later, disgraced gallery owner Rick Gabriel stumbles upon a sketchbook he believes once belonged to Alicia, drawing him into a dangerous web of secrets and betrayal.

As Rick follows the trail, he uncovers evidence of a cover-up that refuses to stay buried. Hunted by forces determined to keep the past hidden, Rick must decide how much the truth is worth…

324 pages, Kindle Edition

Published June 28, 2026

Reviews

[Cool · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC, in exchange for an unbiased review.

I live in Barcelona, so I will read any novel about my city!

Synopsis: Based loosely on a real British person who came down to Barcelona to fight the fascists in the Spanish Civil War, the story takes place in alternating time periods. A modern-day London art gallery owner discovers a lesser-known British artist's sketchbook at Encants Flea Market in Barcelona, and tries to unravel the mystery of her death; the artist's life and death is recounted in alternating chapters. It's akin to George Orwell's classic memoir "Homage to Catalonia," but fiction.

I give props to Buckley for having such an extensively researched novel- for example, in the first chapter, he wrote very correct walking directions from the Cathedral to the (now Movistar) building on Portal de l'Àngel. Additionally, he incorporated real Catalan Civil War heroes into the narrative- Buenaventura Durruti and Lluis Companys, for example. These are not people I've ever seen novelized in English-language fiction. And it's a welcome change to see a novel about the Spanish Civil War, rather than YET ANOTHER WWII historical fiction novel, from the perspective of a British person (though this book is ALSO from a British person's perspective, oh well).

What didn't work for me: The pacing of this novel was very, very off. Frankly, the British white male drug addict/pathetic gallery owner protagonist was almost a distraction from the narrative, and made the story drag. IMHO a fictionalized novel about Alicia, the artist, would have been far superior. And with the dueling timelines, there are just too many characters to keep track of: In modern-day London, we have the gallery owner, his ex-wife, his gallery partner, his gallery partner's niece and brother, and all of the gallery owner's acquaintances he encounters as he unravels Alicia's story. And the climax was just too pat for me.

I enjoyed this book, but I'm not sure I would have enjoyed it as much if I weren't a Barcelona resident. Regardless, it's a good debut effort.

[Lynsey · Rating 4 out of 5]

‘Diagonal’ is a brilliant debut filled with rich and vibrant fictionalised stories of historical figures associated with the Spanish Civil War. Historical fiction is a favourite of mine, and this one did not disappoint. This is an area of history I didn’t know much about, but that is why I picked it up. There is nothing more satisfying than reading an entertaining book but also learning new things at the same time!

Alicia Green is an artist and furniture maker who ends up dying in the opening days of the Spanish Civil War in 1936. Ninety years later, Rick Gabriel finds one of her sketchbooks in a flea market in Barcelona. He begins to unpick her life around that time, whilst the reader hears also from Alicia and her growth into a passionate young woman. It soon becomes apparent that there is a mystery around her death, one that Rick is determined to solve…

Alicia (or Felicia Brown) is a figure that I could become obsessed with. The interwar period was my speciality at university, and it was pioneers like her that piqued my interest. The author has done a fabulous job in bringing Alicia to life, and it is clear that he has done a lot of research on the topic. Due to this, there is such a sense of authenticity and as if you are reading an account of ‘actual’ history, rather than a fictionalised narrative. I would have liked a tad more reasoning for why Alicia decided this was her path, as it was very unusual that a woman of her station would be involved in the communist/anti fascist movement.

This was an excellent debut, and the historical aspects were amazing, the characters especially well formed, and the story was very engaging. I flew through this in a day and could have read on happily if the book was longer. I have now become a tad interested in Alicia’s home in London, the ‘Lawn Road flats’, and might even start researching into it!

This is a book which deserves to get noticed. Let me know if you pick it up!

[Jo Williams · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love a good dual timeline in a story and find they often have particular tropes of having an unreliable narrator or being more cosy. Diagonal takes those elements and throws paint stripper all over them, which is apparent from the very first chapter. Nope, actually it’s clear from the very first paragraph which had me hooked.

Alicia’s experience of boarding school is the polar opposite of how I imagined it would be as a child when I remember thinking I would love to go for the midnight snacks and whispered telling of ghost stories. I liked how she grew from the negative experiences and was not afraid to stand up for herself. Her s3xual experiences are liberating for the time period where relationships with other women or spending the night with a man who was not your husband was considered taboo. I enjoyed seeing her character grow in confidence, opinions and fervour as the story progressed, as well as the snapshots of how her art was inspired.

Rick isn’t a typical protagonist for this genre; in fact, I would describe him as an anti-hero initially but I couldn’t help it, I was rooting for him. From discovering Alicia’s sketchbook, trying to follow its providence and realising the stakes at play, he had no option but to take control in his life and sharpen up to survive.

But my favourite part of this novel, a debut by the way (no, I couldn’t believe it either!), is that it’s based on actual historical events and figures, albeit with their identities reimagined to a degree.

Whether you’re an art buff or not, if you enjoy quick paced character-driven plots, and dips into history, this book is for you.
I’m giving it 🎨 🎨🎨🎨 as an alternative to stars and am off to research Felicia Browne and Edith Bone!

[Helen · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was kindly sent a free copy of this book as part of a book tour in exchange for an honest review. I really became invested in this story and I was really impressed with how well Buckley has interwoven the two timelines between modern day and the 1930s so that they fit seamlessly together and keep the reader caught up in the history as it’s unfolding one minute and then desperate to solve the unresolved mysteries of what happened when back with the art shop owner in the present. The narration was interesting and really worked for the novel, I really felt like I was right there in the thick of it all with Alicia and this made it all so much more engaging and relatable and turned it into a proper page turner that I struggled to put down. Admittedly, I didn’t like the art gallery owner as much to begin with but he grew on me as the story progressed and I was rooting for him every step of the way in his quest to uncover the mysteries of what truly happened to Alicia and why it was still being covered up and protected. His passion for her story really drove the narrative and helped his character grow at the same time. Buckley clearly has a passion for the English language and he demonstrates this throughout the book with his rich choice of words that I often found myself having to Google the meaning of. This was so much better than I was expecting it to be and I will definitely be keeping my eye out for more books by this author in future. 4 stars

[Fatguyreading · Rating 4 out of 5]

First of all, huge apologies for not posting this yesterday, entirely my mistake.

Now onto the review.

Historical fiction is one of my favourite genres, so this looked right up my street and it certainly did not disappoint.

Told via dual timelines, in 1930's civil war era Spain, and 90 years later in London, we first heard the tale of Alicia Green, a British artist who finds herself tangled up in the war and pays with her life. Then Gallery owner, Rick Gabriel, who discovers one of Alicia's old sketchbook s, which leads him down a rabbit hole of secrets, treachery and deception.

Want to know more? Be sure to pick your copy up to find out.

So all in all, a well rounded tale with an throughly intriguing storyline and lots of interesting characters to meet along the way.

I'd say it's moderately paced which suits this novel and writing style quite well.

4 🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟 's from me.

[Kelly Hollingworth · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoy a historical novel and also a dual time line perspective. This book gave me both of those. Set in 1936 in Barcelona and present day London the paths of artist Alice Green and art gallery owner Rick Gabriel cross. The plot depicts the build up and start of the Spanish Civil War and the wider European unrest and unease. I enjoyed the setting of the beautiful city of Barcelona and the acknowledgements of the art influences. It felt very apt that, whilst reading the book, the Basilica of the Sagrada Familia was finally completed. I also enjoyed and appreciated the blend of fiction with elements of real people and events. Look closely at the cover, there are many hidden illustrations within. I will certainly look for more books by this debut author in the future.

[Nicola Doyle · Rating 4 out of 5]

Diagonal was a good book. I loved the story and thought the concept was excellent. The cover is nice and I love the colours. The silhouette of the building was stunning - it was a beautiful example of Spanish architecture. The writing was strong and I thought the story. The historical aspects of the book were really good and you can tell Andrew put a lot of work into research. The setting was good and I liked the Spanish elements. The characters were strong. Alicia's story was so heartbreaking. I enjoyed Rick's story too and how it all unfolded. This was a solid effort for a debut novel and I definitely recommend it.

[Faye Morris · Rating 4 out of 5]

Diagonal by Andrew M. Buckley
🌟🌟🌟🌟

Wow! Such an interesting book
Duel timeline following Alicia in the 1930s and Rick in the present day

Alicia, an artist who is killed way before her time, and Rick, a gallery owner who stubbles across Alicia's sketchbook in a flea market

What follows is a story of love, survival, betrayal and secrets

I devoured this book and couldn't wait to see what happened next and it did not disappoint

[Lisa reads alot Hamer · Rating 4 out of 5]

A historical fiction that sees a dual timeline, present day and back to the Spanish Civil War.
This book had a great flow to it and was well written, it also kept me guessing as to what was going to happen and how the book would conclude, I was not disappointed this was an excellent read.
Details were clear and believable and well described it really brought the emotion of the past to life.

[Jane B · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was really gripped by this book as it wove the storylines of present day and past events into a flowing narrative. The start point was arresting and then gradually, the author takes the reader through the events and circumstances leading to that outcome, making the reader wonder about people, motives and true allegiances at times, until you reach the end with all resolved. In addition to a skilful, complex plot, the historical context is detailed and neatly dovetailed in with the action. A thoroughly good read.

[alisdiscovers · Rating 5 out of 5]

Diagonal by Andrew M Buckley is an historical novel set between the 1930s and the present day, weaving together two timelines that gradually reveal the secrets connecting the past and present.
The book is written in the second person in the historical timeline, which was a fascinating choice and made me feel as though I was walking alongside the characters and experiencing events as they unfolded. This made the story feel incredibly powerful and immersive. In contrast, the present-day sections are written in the first person, allowing me to get inside the character’s thoughts and emotions. Surprisingly, I really enjoyed this duality of storytelling, as both perspectives brought something different to the novel.
The switching between timelines was expertly handled. The past didn’t just sit separately from the present; instead, it breathed life into it, gradually uncovering connections and adding depth to the story. Although I didn’t immediately connect with Rick Gabriel’s character, this was not a negative reflection on the writing. In fact, as Rick became more determined and got the bit between his teeth, his character began to develop, and I found myself becoming more invested in his journey. This, for me, was a testament to Buckley’s ability to create characters that grow and evolve throughout the story.
I became completely invested in Rick’s quest and found myself feeling frustrated alongside him at every obstacle he faced. The pacing of the timeline changes was perfectly judged, keeping me intrigued as each new clue was revealed. Buckley’s descriptions brought the settings vividly to life, making the story feel atmospheric and real.
As I continued reading, I became more fascinated by the mystery unfolding. The historical storyline carried a sense of drama and tension through the events of the past, while the present-day investigation slowly uncovered the secrets and hidden truths that had remained buried for so long.
One thing I particularly enjoyed was Buckley’s use of language. Words such as egregious, insouciance, and pedagogical added richness to the writing and showed a real appreciation for the power of words. One of my favourite sentences was:
“ You hear stories of tourists travelling between stations on the London Underground, changing lines three or four times during the course of their journey – only to discover as they emerge blinking from the subterranean depths of their final destination a little more than 100 yards from their point of departure.”
This beautifully captures the idea of journeys, connections, and the unexpected paths we take, something that feels very fitting for a story built around uncovering hidden links between past and present, although it did make me smile as I have done this very thing myself.
Overall, Diagonal was a thoughtful and intriguing historical mystery that surprised me with its storytelling style. The combination of timelines, the gradual character development, and the unfolding secrets kept me turning the pages. While Rick was a character I needed time to warm to, watching his determination grow made his journey all the more rewarding.
Andrew M Buckley has created a story that reminds us how the past can continue to shape the present, and how the smallest clues can lead us towards discoveries we never expected. A fascinating read for anyone who enjoys historical fiction with mystery, atmosphere, and a clever narrative structure.

[Karolyn · Rating 4 out of 5]

Here is my review for Diagonal by Andrew M Buckley

I thoroughly enjoyed reading this gripping historical thriller where Rick Gabriel, part owner of Diagonal Art Gallery, went searching for art pictures to buy in Barcelona, only to find all his usual sources have sold up and moved on. Disheartened, over a cup of coffee, he remembers a market that used to have a range of different stalls that might be worth a look but when he gets there, even that has changed for the worse. Still, he takes a hunt around the rag tag stalls, some were just laid out on the pavement, some had clothes that were threadbare but then he came across an art stall. After much hunting he thought he had found a sketchbook by Alicia Green, who was killed in July 1936, her 4th book maybe? What could it be worth? What happened to her? Rick wants to find out, not realising he could be putting himself into danger.

This was a terrific read and a superbly gripping, suspenseful story. It was a ‘now’ and ‘then’ story but also told you location. The story was told from the povs of Alicia and Rick. It was quite an intriguing plot and well thought out. Alicia had a very unique style of painting and was brilliant at drawing.

Blurb :

She fought for justice. Her country killed her.
July 1936. On the eve of the Spanish Civil War, British artist Alicia Green travels to Barcelona to attend the People’s Olympiad. When violence erupts and the games are cancelled, Alicia joins the Republican cause, only to be killed in the crossfire. Her death is dismissed as a tragic accident.
Ninety years later, disgraced gallery owner Rick Gabriel stumbles upon a sketchbook he believes once belonged to Alicia, drawing him into a dangerous web of secrets and betrayal.
As Rick follows the trail, he uncovers evidence of a cover-up that refuses to stay buried. Hunted by forces determined to keep the past hidden, Rick must decide how much the truth is worth…

[Kelly · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm reviewing this as part of a tour with Zooloo's Book Tours.

In 1936, Alicia's life came to a tragic and premature end. In the present day, Rick, the owner of Diagonal Art Gallery, has discovered a sketchpad. What does it have to tell him?

From the very beginning, the author wrote in a way that made me feel as though I was there. Maybe if you read it yourself, you'll see what I mean. That remained throughout the whole book, and I was grateful to follow Alicia's journey alongside Rick's. Alicia was a strong heroine too; a fabulous female lead.

This was complex, fascinating and absorbing. In addition to being a powerful story, it was also a very interesting book in a historical and political context.

Thank you to Zooloo's Book Tours, and to the author and publisher, for the opportunity to read and review this.