🖼️ Book Review: Vermeer to Eternity by Anthony Horowitz (Kindle Single Edition)
A clever, compact mystery with a satirical edge—Anthony Horowitz delivers a delightful short story that blends art-world intrigue with character-driven comedy and a satisfying twist.
🧠 Overview
Published in May 2015, Vermeer to Eternity is a 23-page Kindle Single by Anthony Horowitz, the bestselling author of Magpie Murders, The House of Silk, and the Alex Rider series. The story follows a widow who inherits a Dutch painting from her late husband and suspects it might be a lost Johannes Vermeer. She enlists the help of a married couple, who in turn consult an old university acquaintance—Goodhart, an imperious art historian and self-proclaimed Vermeer expert.
As the investigation unfolds, egos clash, secrets surface, and the truth behind the painting leads to an unexpected and humorous conclusion.
🎨 Key Themes & Highlights
- 🖌️ Art-world satire: Horowitz pokes fun at the pretensions and rivalries of experts and collectors
- 🧠 Character-driven mystery: The story’s charm lies in its quirky cast, especially the pompous Goodhart and the narrator’s dry wit
- 🔍 Forgery and authenticity: Explores the tension between what is real, what is believed, and what people want to be true
- 💥 Twist ending: True to Horowitz’s style, the final reveal is both clever and satisfying
“Soon expertise and expectations collide—with astonishing results.” — Amazon description
💬 Reader Reception
- ⭐ Goodreads rating: 3.96/5 from over 3,300 ratings
- 📖 Readers praise the story’s witty tone, tight pacing, and engaging narration
- 🧾 Some found it predictable, but most enjoyed the ride and the sharp character sketches
- 💬 “A delightful short story… beautifully told about a woman, down on her luck, who believes she may have an undiscovered Vermeer.” — StoryGraph review
⚠️ Considerations
- 📄 Short format: At 23 pages, it’s a quick read—ideal for a coffee break or commute
- 📚 Standalone story: Not part of a series, but a great introduction to Horowitz’s style for new readers
- 🧾 Light mystery: More character-driven than suspenseful—perfect for fans of cozy or literary mysteries
🏁 Final Verdict
Vermeer to Eternity is a witty and well-crafted short story that showcases Anthony Horowitz’s talent for blending mystery with humor and social observation. Whether you’re an art lover, a fan of clever twists, or just looking for a smart and satisfying read, this Kindle Single delivers a polished gem in under half an hour.
