The Muse of Hope Falls

Alan Kane Fraser

Everyone took a piece of Christie. Now she needs something back

As the muse and lover of one of the greatest painters of the late 20th century, Christie McGraw was once a major figure in New York. Now penniless, abandoned and sick, she needs to sell the last thing of any value that she still owns.

It’s a lost masterpiece by her late lover, and she needs the help of Gabriel Viejo, the world expert on the artist, to authenticate it and get into the market. If he can help, she’ll make it well worth his while. Gabriel opens negotiations with a shady Greek tycoon in the hope of saving Christie’s life – and boosting his own fortunes into the bargain. But there are some nasty surprises in store.

Alan Kane Fraser’s devilishly devious debut is a page-turning plunge into the murkier depths of the art world and the age-old relationship between creator and muse.

‘Expert storytelling, clever plotting and convincing characters make this not only an absorbing and highly entertaining tale, but also a thought-provoking reflection on the truths that art can tell...or hide’ Hilary Taylor

‘A glorious caper – full of humour, engaging characters and infatuation. A thoroughly enjoyable read’ Nicky Downes

‘A brilliantly twisting plot with bags of heart and soul’ Tim Ewins

‘An enthralling rollercoaster ride through the duplicity and greed of the art world, where nothing is quite as it seems. An absolute joy to read’ Mark Leggatt

Paperback: 336pp

Published: Lightning (November 2023)

ISBN: 9781785633744