"A complex, vividly drawn tale. The intricate way in which Burton pulls the two plots together is unexpected and impressive, a most original story about creative freedom, finding one's voice, and the quest for artistic redemption." -- Publishers Weekly "[A] smart blend of literary and commercial fiction with intriguing characters and a compelling mystery at its center. Burton creatively infuses historical fiction with mystery in her exploration of the far-reaching consequences of deception, the relationship between art and artist, and the complex trajectory of women's desires. -- Booklist "A simmering historical love story" -- Glamour UK "Like its predecessor, this is a tale with a refreshingly feminist slant, interested in the slipperiness of meaning" -- Daily Mail (UK) "[A] rich palette of ideas and emotions. The novel excellently explores the writing process itself." -- Independent (UK) The Muse is a brilliantly realised story, and the parallel narratives are perfectly balanced, propelling the story forward at break-neck speed. Jessie Burton can expect more awards to soon be coming her way.

-- Sunday Herald, Scotland "If you read and loved The Miniaturist, Burton's enchanting bestseller set in 17th-century Amsterdam, The Muse arrives just in time for the end of summer. Love, war, desire, and art--it's all here." -- Elle "The Muse. asks us to pay close attention, given the unexpected paths that wander variously through time, race, global politics and art history.[A] well crafted tale that draws you in, and in the end, respects you as a reader." -- Minneapolis Star Tribune "Jessie Burton meticulously reconstructs two different worlds. and ruminates on the nature of truth in art. Told with remarkable care and evident research.

A serpentine tale about art, truth and artistic ambition. [A] beautifully constructed story of art, ambition and the sacrifices one makes in the pursuit of both." -- Bookreporter.com.