The Gallery Assistant by Kate Belli
A Masterclass in Tension and Authenticity
I’ve had such a fantastic two days lost in this book. As a self-proclaimed “thriller snob” of 2025, it’s rare for me to hand out a 5-star rating, but this story earned it on every level.
While the pacing starts as a slow burn, the build-up is intentional and masterful. The tension is layered with clever red herrings and twists that kept me guessing until the very end—I’ll openly admit I didn’t see the perpetrator coming!
What truly set this book apart for me was the authenticity of the setting, particularly the post-9/11 landscape of New York City. I remember vividly where I was on that day—waking up in the hospital to the sound of nurses crying—so Chloe’s PTSD resonated with me on a deeply personal level. The author handled this with incredible respect, ensuring the trauma wasn’t just a plot device, but a representative and honest portrayal of the NYC community.
Beyond the mystery, the love of art permeates every page. Kate’s writing is knowledgeable and respectful, making the art world setting a complete delight to inhabit. This was my introduction to this author, and I am beyond pleasantly surprised. It’s a unique, respectful, and gripping read that I won’t soon forget.
