The Art Lovers

by Fiona McIntosh

While war rages across the city of Valletta, a local barkeeper's daughter Valentina Camilleri is on the cusp of womanhood when Flight Lieutenant Peter Fox falls out of the sky from his Spitfire and into her world. In that fateful moment, he captures not just her imagination and her dreams, but also her young heart.

As he convalesces, Peter, an art historian, is captivated by Malta's spectacular cathedral and its treasure, the famed artwork of Caravaggio. His passion for the subject ignites Valentina's ambition and sparks the dream of a life far from her dreaded destiny.

A dozen years on, Peter returns to the island as an art expert for newly crowned Queen Elizabeth's forthcoming visit. When he reconnects with Valentina, a woman now, he is horrified to see what has become of her.
Facing a war of her own within her heart, Valentina must find the courage to fight for her son and her future - but will freedom come at a cost?

By the bestselling author of The Soldier's Daughter comes a moving and unforgettable story about the power of love and the beauty of art to illuminate the dark.

Genres: Historical Fiction

Audible Audio

Published October 27, 2026

About the author

Fiona writes best selling historical adventure-romance alongside the heroic-romantic, often brutal, fantasy she built her career upon. She lives in Australia but frequently roams the world meticulously researching the locations and gathering material for her historical novels that have international settings. Her books are published worldwide and in various languages.
Her most recent historical fiction has gathered such a following that she is now hosting a tour in 2014 to Paris and Provence so eager readers can walk in the footsteps of her characters.


Librarian Note: There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.

Reviews

[Karren Sandercock · Rating 5 out of 5]

Valletta, Malta. 1942. Valentina Camilleri is a teenager and her father owns a bar, the family like everyone in the city has been living underground in the tunnels for two years. When the air raid siren goes off one day Leni watches a British spitfire aviator take on a German pilot and Flight Lieutenant Peter Fox’s plane is hit.

He survives, while he is recovering Leni visits him in hospital and discovers he’s an art history teacher, Peter is fascinated by the beautiful medieval cathedral and the artwork of Italian Caravaggio and his huge painting of The Beheading of Saint John the Baptist in the Oratory.

Valentina has a massive crush on Peter, her parents plan is for Leni to marry Lawrenz Falzon when she turns sixteen in a couple of months and combine the family’s bars and she's devastated.

Twelve years later, Peter an art delegate returns to the island as part of Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip’s entourage and the new monarch is to visit the famous cathedral. Peter has always wondered what happened to Valentina, he discovers she did marry, has a son and her marriage is an unhappy one.

I received a copy of The Art Lovers by Fiona McIntosh from NetGalley and Storm Publishing in exchange for an honest review. I’m a huge fan of wartime historical fiction, and it was really interesting reading about what happened to the island Malta and strategically it was very important.

I felt so sorry for Valentina, she was forced into an arranged marriage, women were powerless and she had no choice, and was a victim of domestic violence. Peter was too old for her, but in her heart she always loved him, that, her son and the stunning cathedral kept Leni going and gave her a purpose.

The highlights for me and kept my attention, was the marble floor the knight’s tombs and crypts and the cathedral being one of the best examples of Baroque architecture and the combination of lost and ill-fated love, could they ever be together and how smart Valentina was.

Based on true facts, another impeccable and well researched dual timeline novel by Fiona McIntosh, I highly recommend and five stars.

[Linda · Rating 3.75 out of 5]

Sometimes the world will actually pivot on its axis and bring you the unexpected.

Fiona McIntosh brings us a novel set in the early 1940's during World War II. We'll visit the island of Malta where constant flyovers and bombings have been engaged by the Germans. The islanders have taken to the underground tunnels and caves for safety. Life will never be the same.

Valentina Camilleri is but fifteen years old. She's been promised in marriage to Lawrenz Falzon. Nothing could possibly prepare Valentina for this kind of future. Lawrenz is an angry young man who bullies everyone who looks at him wrong. Escaping this marriage is almost as impossible as escaping the daily onslaught of German bombers.

Valentina leaves the safety of the family cave to watch the skies. It's here that she spots a British Spitfire that was shot out of the sky by the Germans. She follows a parachute that drifts from the sky into the nearby water. Valentina is one of the first individuals at the scene. The pilot, Lieutenant Peter Fox, has been injured. Valentina helps him get medical attention in the village. She visits him every day and finds out that he is an art historian specializing in Caravaggio. Peter lights a fire within Valentina for a love of art.

Fiona McIntosh carries this story twelve years into the future. Peter returns to Malta. Valentina now has a ten year old son, Daniel. Both Peter and Valentina have changed over the years and so have their circumstances. McIntosh creates a tilt into a more romance novel at this juncture. Perhaps that aspect of this novel will find a more welcoming place for you. I'm not into romantic novels especially when that overshadows any other avenue in the storyline. The Art Lovers could have done well with some heavy-handed editing. It was a lengthy undertaking. But the writing faired well in the long run. Perfect for romance lovers and those who enjoy historical novels of this time period.

I received a copy of this book through NetGalley for an honest review. My thanks to Storm Publishing and to Fiona McIntosh for the opportunity.

[Brenda · Rating 3.5 out of 5]

War was heavy over the skies of Malta with the British Spitfires battling the Germans on a daily basis. The day fifteen year old Valentina Camilleri was watching the dogfight overhead (instead of hiding in the tunnels), and saw the Spitfire lose the battle, she also watched as the pilot parachuted to the ocean, hitting with a huge splash. Running flat out to the beach, she could see that already locals were paddling out to retrieve him. Valentina prayed he wasn't dead - and he wasn't; just. Immediately taken to the hospital, he was cared for while he recovered. She learned his name was Flight Lieutenant Peter Fox, and her crush on the handsome, wounded man was immediate.

Peter was an art historian when he wasn't flying Spitfires, and Valentina's dream was to study art and the artist, Caravaggio. But her parents had different ideas for her. Twelve years later, Valentina was married with a ten year old son, Danjel. They were very close, and Danjel was mature for his age, an intelligent young boy who loved art like his mother. When Peter Fox arrived back in Malta for the visit of a young Queen Elizabeth and Prince Phillip, and he bumped into Valentina, twelve years vanished in an instant. But she had changed. She was still beautiful, even more so, but the heavy weight on her shoulders dragged her down and he could see her sadness. What would be the future for Valentina and her son, Danjel?

The Art Lovers by Aussie author Fiona McIntosh is a slow burning novel, set in two time frames, twelve years apart. I felt for Valentina, both during the war years and after when her son was ten. Peter is a kind, caring man, pull of passion for his subject - art - and filled with courage and determination. I always enjoy Fiona's historical novels, but feel this one could have had around 100 pages edited out. A great read but not her best IMHO. Recommended.

With thanks to NetGalley & Storm Publishing for my digital ARC to read and review.

[Cheryl · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is set in two different timelines, the first in 1942 and the latter in 1954. They are mainly set in Valletta, Malta. Valentina ( Leni ) is almost 16 when she sees a Spitfire pilot, Peter Fox, bail out of his plane. She feels an instant connection to him and visits him in hospital. They discover a mutual interest in art, particularly the works of Caravaggio. Peter is married and Leni is finding herself being forced into an unwanted marriage at 16. I can’t imagine how she felt, especially when her family wouldn’t listen to her worries about the marriage to a man she didn’t like. Leni was a very intelligent woman and how galling it must have been not to be able to realise her full potential. Peter was a likeable man but even he admits he is weak at times. This was an engaging read and I was so glad that Leni was able to eventually make her own decisions. I received a copy and have voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Marilyn (not getting notifications) · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Art Lovers by Fiona McIntosh was a beautiful and emotional story centered around love, heartbreak, courage, and second chances. Fiona McIntosh has written a moving historical novel that touched my heart. It was hard for me to put this book down.

The Art Lovers was set in Malta during World War II and the years that followed. The novel introduced Valentina Camilleri, or Lenni as she liked to be called. Lenni was a fifteen year old girl at the beginning of the novel. Her life changed completely after she helped rescue British pilot Peter Fox after his Spitfire was shot down. Their shared love of art, particularly the paintings of Caravaggio, helped create a special connection between Peter and Valentina. Peter Fox helped open Valentina’s eyes to a world beyond the life her family had planned for her. He encouraged Lenni to follow her dreams.

My heart broke for Valentina when she was forced into marriage with the cruel and abusive Lawrenz Falzon. Watching her dreams disappear and seeing what she endured was heartbreaking. Yet her love for her young son and her determination to protect him showed remarkable strength. When Peter returned to Malta twelve years later, Valentina was faced with difficult choices and the possibility of a second chance at happiness.

I especially loved how Fiona McIntosh wove together Malta’s fascinating history, the beauty of art, and an unforgettable love story. Valentina’s courage and resilience stayed with me long after I finished reading. I found myself hoping desperately that she would finally find the happiness she deserved.

The Art Lovers was a touching reminder that even after tremendous heartbreak, it is never too late to find hope, love, and the courage to begin again. The ending was very satisfying for me. I highly recommend this wonderful book to lovers of historical fiction.

Thank you to Storm Publishing and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this beautiful story in exchange for my honest review.

[Kimberly · Rating 4.5 out of 5]

I settled in with my morning coffee and Fiona McIntosh’s The Art Lovers, hoping for a little escape to Malta and finding myself fiercely protective of a woman I’d only just met. Thank you to Storm Publishing for the gifted e-copy. Isn’t it frustrating when everyone has an opinion about a young woman’s future except the young woman herself?

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨

Valentina has dreams bigger than the life her family has arranged for her. When British pilot Peter Fox is shot down near Valletta during WWII, their connection over art opens a window onto possibilities she desperately wants. But he’s older, married, and eventually heading home. She’s facing a marriage she never wanted, and that knowledge made her early hopes especially painful to read.

Valentina was the reason I kept turning pages. Her curiosity, her intelligence, and her determination to hold on to something of herself made me care about far more than whether she and Peter would find each other again. I wanted her to have choices. An education. A life where her wishes actually counted.

Her marriage includes domestic abuse, and those passages are difficult. Her love for her son, Danjel, brings tenderness into that darkness without making what she endures any less awful. Their bond was one of my favorite parts.

And the art! Caravaggio’s paintings and the cathedral give Valentina somewhere to direct her longing and her considerable mind. I loved that beauty still mattered amid the destruction and the daily business of surviving.

I did occasionally want the story to move along, especially when we returned to feelings I already understood. Peter also inspired a few impatient conversations with my Kindle. Apparently, I had appointed myself an adviser.

His return twelve years later drew me back in completely, though. By then, I was invested in the woman Valentina had become and what she might finally claim for herself. The ending left me satisfied and hopeful.

Which historical novel made you care most about a woman finding her own freedom?

[Craig and Phil · Rating 4.5 out of 5]

Big thanks to Penguin for sending us a copy to read and review.
It’s that time of year where Fiona McIntosh, historical fiction royalty, releases her newest book.
A timeless love story that spans a decade plus, a world war, marriage, family, across the seas and beyond.
In the village town of Valletta, Malta, war is in full battle.
Sixteen year old Valentina Camilleri is on the verge of becoming a woman and is very outspoken and honest.
Her parents expect her to follow tradition and marry into an influential family but Leni has other ideas.
During a raid, Flight Lieutenant Peter Fox falls from his spitfire and soon Leni is mesmerised and intrigued and quietly her heart is captured.
While recuperating she finds out that he’s an art historian and they share a love of art.
But expectations step in.
Twelve years pass and life has changed.
Peter returns to the city and this time destiny makes its move…..
A sumptuous tale with vivid descriptions and alluring details.
Fiona has gifted the reader a delightful and beautiful story.
One that will abduct the heart and satisfy the reading mind.
Wonderfully written, tenderly crafted and charmingly executed with a graceful ending.
An author who surely knows how to tell a story.

[Lorraine · Rating 4.25 out of 5]

THE ART LOVERS by Fiona McIntosh is published by Penguin 2026
Review by Lorrane Parker
I looked forward so much to reading McIntosh’s 19th and latest historical novel set in the Village of Valetta, Malta in the WWII. In 1942 Valentina Camilleri is just 15 years old. Her family owns the local village Tavern and like all good Catholic Maltese families had Valentina’s future mapped out for her. At sixteen she was to marry into a well-off family, hence securing financial security for her family.
Valentina dreams of adventure, quite often defying her parents and refusing to head into the underground safety tunnels when the air raid sirens go off, which they constantly do. Her special place is in St. John’s Cathedral with its solid construction, cool interior, fascinating history and an amazing Caravaggio painting. The art work, to Valentina is mesmerising and always her main focus.
The British airbase is tucked not far away, giving the locals some sense of protection. The Sirens scream their warning of invasion by air, most days. A series of tunnels protect and provide shelter for residents. Despite the pleading of her friend, Robertu, Leni as her family and friends call her, Valentina tarries. German fighter planes fly low overhead. Valentina is rivetted, waiting for the English spitfires to appear in chase. She witnesses a small aircraft give chase. It was hit by the enemy and plunges into the seas smoke billowing. The pilot, evacuated just in time. Valentina immediately imagined him as ‘her’ brave pilot. His parachute opens, he lands in a heap, injured, on the beach. All was forgotten as she ran not for shelter but rushing to the stretcher group carrying ‘her’ pilot. Valentina pushed forward and could not resist holding his cold hand. Yes, his hair was “golden, his hips slim”, and he was not dead.
At this point I felt nothing but compulsion to read on, except for one extremely fanciful sentence. “She already knew she was in love, with her handsome pilot, even if he was dead”. Of course, he was not dead and of course I read on, and on and on.
This is but a brief taste of another of Fiona McIntosh beautifully crafted, meticulously researched books. I hope it is enough to inspire either avid followers of the author, or new readers who appreciate historical dramas, with romance, family, culture, loyalty and betrayals all intertwined.
However, for me, as an older reader, it is also the most fanciful of all Fiona McIntosh’ novels, relying too much, in my opinion on coincidence. For just one example; Every time there is a moment of personal conversation between Valentina and her pilot Peter, (that would reveal their truths to each other), they are interrupted and their conversation ended.
Valentina does turn 16 and yes she does marry as arranged by her family, to the brother she does not even like.
A story of loyalties and betrayals, cultural values and traditions, hardship and war, domestic cruelty and mental illness (not identified as such), blind trust, parental judgement and control, nurturing, kindness and so many levels and types of love. My own romantic streak loved that Valentina and Peter did have the opportunity to express their love. All but briefly.
I loved that the story covers another time (12 years later) with a picture-perfect finale.
A must read for lovers of Fiona McIntosh and also as a stand-alone novel for new readers. Of the 12 novels I have already avidly ‘consumed’ I enjoyed many of her earlier works more. In writing this I need to add that I gained so much invaluable knowledge of Caravaggio’s art, cultural traditions, language and Malta as a very strategic and important island in WWII.

[Jan · Rating 3 out of 5]

Interestingly, this is the second book I’ve read this month that begins in wartime Malta. The first, The Translator by Annabel Marx, also to be published this fall, begins at the end of WWI. This book, The Art Lovers, is initially set during the bombardment of Valletta, Malta by the Nazis in the mid 1940s. Learning that Malta played a key role in both wars is one of the reasons I’m drawn to historical fiction.

I found the plot to be too thin. However, despite that I appreciated author Fiona MacIntosh’s research into art and culture gave the book texture and for me, insight into a time and place I was not familiar with.

The story in a nutshell:

Maltese teenager Valentina is a bright, adventurous, intelligent teenager with big dreams. She pushes boundaries as much as she can. Interested in what is happening in the skies during bomb warnings, she defies the order for all villagers go into the tunnels during an air raid. Rather than go underground, she watches an air fight in which British spitfire pilot, Peter Fox, is shot down.

While he recovers from his injuries, Valentina and he become friends. But for her it is more, she falls in love with the possibility of him as he opens the world of artist Caravaggio and art history for her.

Although recovered from his injuries, Peter can no longer fly and is quickly reassigned to train pilots in England. Valentina is crushed when he abruptly leaves Malta. At her young age of 16, although she begs her parents not to force her, they insist she marry a known bully, Lawrenz. He is mentally imbalanced, violent and alcoholic but the union will supposedly benefit the economics of both struggling families.

As the years go by, both Valentina and Peter are unhappy in their lives until an event brings Peter back to Malta and the story fills in. This is when the story takes off but there is much to skim to get there.

The book’s highlight for me was the setting and the detail around the Carraveggio painting in Valletta’s cathedral. The rest contained repetitive pages which led to an inevitable ending.

If you are a fan of romance novels, you will enjoy this.. Not that I'm opposed to romance, I wished there was more about the culture. Or at least more time spent with other villagers and the life. There was potential to deepen characters who played cameo appearances.

Thank you Netgalley and Storm Publishing for the opportunity to read and review this ARC and provide an honest review

[Donna Satterlee · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've read several of this author's previous books and this one does not disappoint. Her writing stye and character development is the best.

This book centers around Malta during the 1940's when the British occupied the country and the German's were bombing it relentlessly. Valenta Camilleri is an "almost" sixteen-year-old girl who witnesses a British spitfire being shot down in the harbor and runs to help. She meets Flight Lieutenant Peter Fox who she falls in love with at first site. The fact Peter is 10+ years older, married does nothing to deter her interest in him and both her love art and his background as art teacher is the beginning of a relationship based on their common love of art.

Valentina dreams of having a future in art but her destiny because of her culture and time dictate that she has an arranged marriage and live life as a wife and mother. Pete eventually goes back to England and Valenta marries and has a son who is the love of her life. Neither one is happy and Valentina especially is trapped in a marriage of physical and emotional brutality at the hands of her husband. Fast forward 10 years, and Peter has an opportunity to return to Malta and reconnects with Valentina. The story of the reconnection is beautiful and not to spoil anything it has a beautiful ending.

As a reader of historical fiction this was my first story set in Malta. I learned so much about how the people survived living in underground tunnels during the raids as well as the beautiful art and building of the country. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and will continue to look for future books by this author.

[Meg Pearson · Rating 3.75 out of 5]

As a fan of Fiona McIntosh’s books, I was very excited to settle down with The Art Lovers, and the historical elements were exactly what I hoped for. I especially loved the focus on Caravaggio, who has been a favourite artist of mine ever since I lived in Valletta as a small child. The setting of wartime Malta and the way art is woven into the story were definite highlights for me.

Unfortunately, I struggled with the first part of the book. The seemingly endless chapters of teenage angst and Peter’s lack of gumption had me skimming in places, and I found it difficult to feel fully invested in the story at that stage. I wanted more of the fascinating history and art that initially drew me in, and less of the repetitive relationship drama.

Thankfully, once Peter returns to Malta, the story really picks up. The characters’ lives become much more compelling, and the historical setting and art history take on greater significance. By the final chapters, I was completely engaged and found myself wanting to keep reading. Those last chapters were almost unputdownable and made up for much of my frustration with the earlier sections.

Ultimately, this was a mixed reading experience for me. I loved the history, the Maltese setting, and the connection to Caravaggio, but the slow start made it harder to connect with the story than I’d hoped. I’m glad I persevered, though, and the stronger finish brought it up to 3.5 stars for me.

Thank you to Fiona McIntosh, Storm Publishing, and NetGalley for the advance copy in exchange for my honest review.

[lara · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you to Netgalley and Storm Publishing for allowing me to review this book. I have enjoyed previous books by Fiona McIntosh, as she writes recent historical fiction well. Her stories are always well researched and include many interesting facts alongside the fiction.. This book is set in Malta during the 2nd World War, and again 12 years later. Valentina is a 15 year old girl who witnesses an aerial dog fight above Valletta, watching as a British pilot Peter Fox, parachutes into the sea. She rushes to him as he is bought ashore. She becomes fascinated by him and visits him in hospital, during his recovery. They share a passionate interest in the artist Caravaggio, who has a painting in the Cathedral. Valentina is in love with him. Peter is posted back to England after he recovers sufficiently from his injuries. Valentina, is forced by her family to marry a local boy when she is 16. She doesn't like him, he is a bully and does not really care for her. Peter returns to the island years later to be an expert on the Caravaggio painting during the new Queens visit. Here the two meet again. Valentina is now a mother, but still interested in art.
The characters are very well written. The story about the island and the painting are very well described and very interesting. I have visited Malta, but didn't know about the painting. I found this to be not only an enjoyable read, but also I learnt a lot about art and Malta. A recommended read.

[Zoë · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Art Lovers by Fiona McIntosh is an immersive WWII Fiction, that begins in Malta during its bombings from Germany, and ends twelve years later.

There was so much emotion and depth to this story, and I loved how it was broken in to parts, beginning with Valentina as a 16 year old.

I loved the passion for art that was prominent throughout the story, and the attention to detail which enriched the atmosphere of Malta, both during war and afterward.

My heart broke over and over again for Valentina, but I loved her character development. Her perseverance and her ability to find beauty in the world, despite the cards she’d be given was inspiring.

Peter Fox was not without his struggles as well, and I could really appreciate the decision he made and the way he approached it, that led him back to Malta. (I’m trying hard not to give the story away!) but suffice it to say, I really enjoyed this book. Not only was it war fiction, but it also touched on women’s rights, and domestic violence. It was rich in History, and filled with emotion.

This is definitely a 5 star read for me. I highly recommend this book for lovers of historical fiction and romance.

Thank you so much to Storm Publishing and Net Galley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Reema’s Reads · Rating 4.5 out of 5]

Netgalley/Storm Publishing ARC Review

Fiona McIntosh delivers an atmospheric historical novel that immerses readers right into the heart of WWII Valletta, Malta. The story follows Valentina, a young woman captivated by art, whose life is irrevocably altered when a wounded British Spitfire pilot, Peter Fox, crashes off the coast.

As an unexpected and intense romance blooms between them amidst the war, what follows is a sweeping narrative filled with art history, passionate love, painful sacrifices, and remarkable resilience.

The book’s standout strengths are its vivid historical detail and atmospheric setting. Learning about Caravaggio’s art amidst the tension of WWII air raids was mesmerizing, and Valentina’s resilience through dark personal hardships—including a violent husband and a forced marriage—makes her journey deeply moving.

I would have loved for the book to dive a few more details about her relationship with her husband. However, as the story unfolds across the years and deepens, it completely makes up for it with a deeply satisfying emotional payoff.

If you enjoy immersive historical fiction packed with art history, dark family drama, wartime secrets, and a rich setting, The Art Lovers is well worth adding to your reading list!

[Lisa Brooke Reads Books · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love Fiona McIntosh, and The Art Lovers did not disappoint! I was hooked from the first chapter and stayed engaged throughout. It is always a pleasure to pick up a book by an author you already enjoy and find yourself drawn straight into another story.

Set against the backdrop of wartime Malta, this novel brings together history, art, and love. It’s a setting where beauty and destruction coexist, and its connection to art adds a distinctive element to the story. Alongside the romance are questions of courage, sacrifice, and the freedom to choose your own future.

What stood out most in my reading experience was how easily the story held my attention. There was no waiting to settle into this one; I was interested from the beginning and wanted to keep reading. That feeling of being caught up in a book is a big part of what makes reading so enjoyable for me.

Overall, The Art Lovers was another thoroughly enjoyable read from Fiona McIntosh. If you enjoy historical fiction with romance and an art connection, this is one worth considering. A solid four stars, and another reminder of why I look forward to her books!

Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for an ARC in exchange for my honest review.

[C.w. Murdock · Rating 5 out of 5]

There are only 2 authors of WW2 fiction whose books I will read these days (burnout), and Fiona McIntosh is one. She has once again crafted an incredible, emotional story. Leni, a Maltese teenager, is involved in rescuing a British pilot who has been shot down by the Germans. She is full of dreams, hoping to become an art historian, and shares these with Peter but is forced to marry another teenager.

Her life, except for her wonderful son, is predictably rough; her husband is an abuser and she suspects him of criminal activities. Leni tries to continue her informal art education as she can, centering on the artist Caravaggio who has a major work displayed in her town.

Ten years later, Peter is back in Malta as an art historian who hopes to meet Queen Elizabeth 2 during her visit to Malta to explain the intricacies of Caravaggio's work.

"The Art Lovers" is an incredible book. I spent all day unable to put it down. Not only for Leni's gritty story, but also learning about Caravaggio and the intricacies of his art as well as learning about Malta. I had no idea that Malta had been heavily involved in World War 2, or that many residents had lived underground because of the bombings.

This book is a masterpiece.

[Caz Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you to Netgalley, Publisher and Author for an advanced copy of this book in return for my honest review.

Please check triggers for this book

5 star read for me! How have I never read a book by this author before? It completely captivated me from the very beginning.

Historical fiction set during ww2 in a little village in Malta, the FMC is Valentina who is just 15 when she witnesses a spitfire bombed and a young pilot parashoot into the water below, she rushes to the pilots aid and ends up becoming friends, unfortunately for Valentina her parents have already shook hands with another family marrying her off at 16 to their eldest son. Valentina has her own hopes and dreams and doesnt wish to be married especially to this cold hearted nasty boy, however her family dont listen. We follow the story of Valentina as she gets older whilst also following the pilot Peters story. I will stop here as I dont want to put any spoilers but I highly recommend reading for yourself it was such a good story! Will be picking up more from this author.

[Justine Jenke · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have read several of Fiona McIntosh’s books, and enjoyed her latest offering “The Art Lovers” immensely.

Fiona has a real knack of blending historical events with an intriguing fictional story. It is obvious that she has done of lot of research. I had no idea of the role that Malta played in WWII – how it was relentlessly bombed by the Germans, and many of its citizens lived in underground tunnels. Themes of domestic violence and the role of women in society were very interesting to read too.

I was also fascinated by the story of the artist Caravaggio, and in particular, his painting “The Beheading of St John The Baptist”. The two protagonists of the story, Leni and Peter, bond over the artist and painting.

I loved the two main characters, both of whom had been dealt some hard knocks in life. The antagonist, Lawrenz, is a real piece of work!

This is 5 stars from me. A well researched novel, with a beautiful love story thrown in.

[Barbara · Rating 2.5 out of 5]

Valentina Camilleri is dreaming of a life away from war-torn Malta when she suddenly witnesses a Spitfire losing a fight against a German plane and falling into the sea. But the pilot, dashing Lieutenant Peter Fox, is still alive, and little do they both know that they will be each other’s destiny…
I really wanted to like this book and it had all the elements that I usually enjoy in a novel: real-life setting in history (bonus points if it’s a country that is featured less often and I can learn more about), double timeline, a dash of romance. This time, however, I felt that the story just felt flat and it was really difficult for me to connect with the characters and to get interested in their story. It was my first time reading anything by this author so I don’t know it this book is an outlier or if it’s just a style that I don’t click with, but the only thing I truly enjoyed were the descriptions and getting to know a little more about Malta, which I know nothing about.

[Maree Gray · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is my third book of Fiona's, with a few more waiting patiently on my tbr pile!
I loved both the other books and was expecting good things from this one and was not disappointed.

Fiona creates such wonderful characters, who are so true to life. I find I can identify with them, laugh and cry with them, hold my breath with anticipation waiting to see what happens next.

I've not read anything about Malta before, but I felt that I was right there with young Valentina, hiding in the tunnels from the bombings. I too fell in love with the daring Spitfire pilot and wished there was something he could do to stop her upcoming wedding when she turned 16.

Not wanting to give anything away, but I absolutely loved the epilogue!

Thank you to NetGalley and Storm Publishing for the digital ARC. All opinions are my own.

[Kelsiesinkandpages · Rating 4 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed this novel and found myself completely drawn into Valentina’s story. Having visited Valletta and learned about the island’s wartime history, I found the setting especially meaningful. Fiona McIntosh brings Malta to life so vividly that I could easily picture the streets, the atmosphere, and the immense challenges faced by the Maltese people during the war.

While I can only begin to imagine the hardships they endured, the author captures both the devastation and the resilience of the people with great sensitivity and authenticity. The story explores several difficult topics, but they are handled with care, respect, and compassion throughout.

A beautifully written and immersive historical novel that balances heartbreak with hope. I was thoroughly engaged from start to finish and would highly recommend it to fans of historical fiction.

[Cecilia Romano · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

I have such a soft spot for historical fiction, especially stories that explore love, courage, and the resilience of the human spirit.

The Art Lovers brings together art, history, and the complexities of life during wartime. I appreciated the exploration of personal freedom, the difficult choices people face, and the importance of holding on to what matters most during uncertain times.

I also loved the way art plays such a meaningful role in the story. There is something beautiful about the idea that creativity and beauty can remain important even during the darkest chapters of history.

A lovely choice for readers who enjoy historical fiction with emotional depth, strong themes, and a memorable setting.

Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this book.

[Paula · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fiona McIntosh’s books always have a time of joy but also a time of sadness and suffering, such is the case with The Art Lovers. The beginning when Valentina Camilleri is living in the mist of WWII happening all around here would be sad and suffering, but it is at very least not the worst which is to come. It is because of WWII that she meets Flight Lieutenant Peter Fox who literally fall out of the sky. He leave then years later after the war he returns to Valletta, Malta. Valentina Camilleri and her son suffered in the following years. I can say that this story does have a happy ending but there are unexpected twists and surprises. Still I was glad to see the personal growth and confidence in the main character while many never recover from domestic violence and abuse. A story that leaves you thinking what would I do in Valentina’s place.

[Sue Hill · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is such a beautiful story, full of history and romance all set to a backdrop of wartime Valletta. It is the story of Valentina, a local girl, and Peter, a spitfire pilot, shot down onto the island of Malta. As Peter recovers he becomes totally enthralled with the wonderful Caravaggio artworks in the cathedral. In civilian life he is an art historian and through his eyes Valentina can see the life she dreams of and the passions of her own. Years later Peter returns to the island and discovers Valentina living a very different reality from the one that she dreamed of.
Fiona has created such wonderful characters and backgrounds. The book is very sensitively written and I found myself totally immersed in their world. I will definitely be reading more from this author

[Carol · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent

This was a great love story. It happens in 2 periods during the war and then in the 1950s . Peter meet Valentina as a 15 year old him a spit fire pilot injured in service she was young and aware that her future was already arranged without her agreement by her parents.
Then the next period in the1950s when she is a mature mother with a young child and an abusive husband. Peter travels back to Malta having separated from his wife meets back with and love blossoms again but she is in an abusive relationship and can not get out.
Thankfully everything rights itself and we have a happy ending
This was a very passionate story not just a love story.
Thanks to Netgalley Storm publishing for my review copy

[Kathleen Riggs · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautiful Story of Art, Love and Secrets
The Art Lovers is an engaging and beautifully written story that combines art, romance and mystery. The characters are interesting, and I enjoyed watching their relationships develop as hidden secrets and unexpected twists came to light. The descriptions of the art world added an extra layer to the story and made it easy to become immersed in the setting. A captivating read with plenty of emotion, intrigue and surprises. A great choice for anyone who enjoys stories where art and relationships come together. Thanks to NetGalley and to the publishers of this book for giving me a free advance copy of the book to preview and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Michelle Wileman · Rating 3.5 out of 5]

As a lover of Fiona McIntosh’s books I was very excited to settle down to read this one. I loved all the history aspects and especially those of Caravaggio who’s always been a favourite artist since I lived in Valletta as a small child.

I did find myself skimming through the, what felt like, endless chapters of teenage angst and Peter’s lack of gumption. Then once he returned to Malta the story picked up and became far more interesting and I’m so glad I preserved. Then finally chapters are quite unputdownable and make up for the lacklustre in the first part of the story - so it’s 3.5* rating rather than any higher.

[Lyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am a big fan of Fiona McIntosh, so I was delighted to be able to read this book. Extra kudos as it was set in Malta, which I recently visited. The depiction of life during the war and the hardships people endured were well done, as was the meeting between Valentina and Paul, and their shared love of art. Then the portrayal of life in a loveless marriage for both of them, especially sad for Valentina, given the mores of the time. The interweaving of the art, the Queen and life in Malta enriched this story. This is a story of following your dreams and making decisions to get that to happen. Thanks to NetGalley and Storm Publishing for sharing this book with me.

[Helen Shackcloth · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a beautiful story of love, loss & hope.
Set in war torn Malta a teenage girl and a spitfire pilot connect through their love of art.

I fell in love with this book & the characters. Fiona McIntosh wove a beautiful story encompassing the scenery in a way that comes alive.

Such strength from the main character Valentina who was forced into an arranged marriage at 16 to survive & overcome the abuse & trauma suffered yet to hold onto the spark that she felt from the love she never forgot.

The handsome, charismatic pilot who endured a loveless marriage was drawn back to Malta to the painting he loved so much where he found the love he never knew he longed for.

5 stars every day

[John · Rating 4.75 out of 5]

Another immersive story from the author! I enjoyed all the information about the artwork of Caravaggio and the emotional arc of the love between the main characters. The author has done extensive research and produced a believable, accurate story-line which will keep you reading late into the night.

I have read several books by the author and have greatly enjoyed them all, even if the plot didn't go the way I expected, or hoped it would.

I highly recommend this book, especially if you are interested in WWII and art.