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Maestra #3
Ultima
The shockingly audacious conclusion to the international bestselling phenomenon that began with Maestra.If you can't beat them - kill them First there was Maestra. Then there was Domina. Now - there is Ultima. Glamorous international art-dealer Elizabeth Teerlinc knows a thing or two about fakes. After all, she is one herself. Her real identity, Judith Rashleigh, is buried under a layer of lies. Not to mention the corpses of the men foolish enough to get in her way. But now, caught in the murderous crossfire between a Russian Mafia boss and a corrupt Italian police detective, Judith is forced to create an even more daring work of art - a fake masterpiece she must take to the world-famous auction house where she used to be a lowly assistant and sell for $150 million. For Judith the prospect of putting one over her loathsome former employer and the world's art establishment is almost as thrilling as the extreme sex she's addicted to - especially when the price of failure is a bullet in the back of the head. But exposing her new identity to the glare of the spotlight puts her at risk of an even greater danger. Like a beautiful painting stripped of its layers of varnish, something altogether different could be revealed. A truth about her past even Judith might find shocking.
252 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 28, 2018
93 people are currently reading
1320 people want to read
About the author
L.S. Hilton
7 books399 followersLisa's forthcoming history book, 'The Scandal of The Century' will be published by Michael Joseph in May 2024. A retelling of the life of England's first professional woman playwright, Aphra Behn, it reveals the true-life source of the first novel in English literature, based on the story of Lady Harriet Berkeley, whose elopement with her own brother-in-law Lord Grey resulted in one of the most sensational court cases of the seventeenth century.
As L.S Hilton, Lisa is currently releasing 'All My Lovers' Wives,' a wry, raw work of autofiction which is being developed for television by Universal Studios. Lisa authored the 'Maestra' Series (Bonnier Zaffre), consisting of three novels, 'Maestra' (2016), 'Domina' (2017) and 'Ultima' (2018). 'Maestra' was a number one Sunday Times Bestseller, a New York Times bestseller and a number one bestseller in 8 European territories. To date, it is on sale in 43 countries and over 1 million copies have been sold worldwide. 'Maestra' is in development for film with Sony Pictures.
Lisa has often taken inspiration from the lives of women who shaped the world, and has written seven other historical biographies around this theme, including 'Sex and the City of Ladies' (Harper Collins, 2020), which was commissioned by the Times Literary Supplement and casts a revisionist eye over the reputations of influential women throughout history whose deeds and dispositions have been distorted by centuries of misogyny.
Other works include 'Athenais: The Real Queen of France' (Little, Brown, 2002 – shortlisted for the Somerset Maugham Prize), 'Queens Consort' (Little, Brown, 2006), a composite biography of England's medieval queens, the authoritative 'Elizabeth, Renaissance Prince' (Orion, 2014) and 'The Horror of Love' (Orion, 2011) – an account of Nancy Mitford’s influential affair with Gaston Palewski.
Lisa's passion for history extends into historical fantasy with her novels 'Wolves in Winter' (Atlantic, 2012) and 'The Stolen Queen' (Atlantic, 2015). Her third historical novel 'The House with Blue Shutters' (Atlantic, 2010) was shortlisted for the Commonwealth Fiction Prize.
A regular art critic, Lisa has worked on projects for museums including the UK National Portrait Gallery and the Pinacoteca di Brera and is the author of 'The Death of Cleopatra' (Skira, 2017), which sheds light on the beauty and ambiguity of Guido Cagnacci’s portrayal of the legendary queen of Egypt.
On screen, Lisa has presented numerous historical series, including Charles I: Downfall (BBC4, 2019) and Charles I: Killing a King (BBC4, 2020), and served as presenter and script-writer for the BAFTA-nominated Elizabeth I’s Secret Agents (72 Films, 2017). She has appeared as a contributor and advisor on several series of Secrets of the Royal Palaces (Channel 5), Bloody Queens: Elizabeth and Mary (BBC2, 2016), as writer and presenter (in French) of the series Tendres Rivales (Arte, 2012), and as co-author and contributor on Versailles: Dream of a King (Brook Lapping, 2011).
Behind the camera, Lisa has written scripts and provided historical consultation on subjects as diverse as women Impressionist painters, vampires, Versailles, English Restoration monarchs to French Renaissance menus and culinary innovation.
Lisa was delighted to be awarded Glamour Magazine Writer of the Year in 2016, Porter Magazine Incredible Woman of the Year and Red Magazine Writer of the Year.
Lisa is fully tri-lingual and is regularly published in all three languages. In Italian, for Corriere della Sera, Vanity Fair and La Repubblica, in French for Elle, and in English, in features for the Sunday Times Style, the restaurant column for The Critic, and features for the Times, Times Magazine, and Times Literary Supplement.
Lisa grew up in the north of England and read English at New College, Oxford, after which she studied History of Art in Florence and Paris. Since then, Lisa has lived in New York, Paris, Milan and London and is now b
As L.S Hilton, Lisa is currently releasing 'All My Lovers' Wives,' a wry, raw work of autofiction which is being developed for television by Universal Studios. Lisa authored the 'Maestra' Series (Bonnier Zaffre), consisting of three novels, 'Maestra' (2016), 'Domina' (2017) and 'Ultima' (2018). 'Maestra' was a number one Sunday Times Bestseller, a New York Times bestseller and a number one bestseller in 8 European territories. To date, it is on sale in 43 countries and over 1 million copies have been sold worldwide. 'Maestra' is in development for film with Sony Pictures.
Lisa has often taken inspiration from the lives of women who shaped the world, and has written seven other historical biographies around this theme, including 'Sex and the City of Ladies' (Harper Collins, 2020), which was commissioned by the Times Literary Supplement and casts a revisionist eye over the reputations of influential women throughout history whose deeds and dispositions have been distorted by centuries of misogyny.
Other works include 'Athenais: The Real Queen of France' (Little, Brown, 2002 – shortlisted for the Somerset Maugham Prize), 'Queens Consort' (Little, Brown, 2006), a composite biography of England's medieval queens, the authoritative 'Elizabeth, Renaissance Prince' (Orion, 2014) and 'The Horror of Love' (Orion, 2011) – an account of Nancy Mitford’s influential affair with Gaston Palewski.
Lisa's passion for history extends into historical fantasy with her novels 'Wolves in Winter' (Atlantic, 2012) and 'The Stolen Queen' (Atlantic, 2015). Her third historical novel 'The House with Blue Shutters' (Atlantic, 2010) was shortlisted for the Commonwealth Fiction Prize.
A regular art critic, Lisa has worked on projects for museums including the UK National Portrait Gallery and the Pinacoteca di Brera and is the author of 'The Death of Cleopatra' (Skira, 2017), which sheds light on the beauty and ambiguity of Guido Cagnacci’s portrayal of the legendary queen of Egypt.
On screen, Lisa has presented numerous historical series, including Charles I: Downfall (BBC4, 2019) and Charles I: Killing a King (BBC4, 2020), and served as presenter and script-writer for the BAFTA-nominated Elizabeth I’s Secret Agents (72 Films, 2017). She has appeared as a contributor and advisor on several series of Secrets of the Royal Palaces (Channel 5), Bloody Queens: Elizabeth and Mary (BBC2, 2016), as writer and presenter (in French) of the series Tendres Rivales (Arte, 2012), and as co-author and contributor on Versailles: Dream of a King (Brook Lapping, 2011).
Behind the camera, Lisa has written scripts and provided historical consultation on subjects as diverse as women Impressionist painters, vampires, Versailles, English Restoration monarchs to French Renaissance menus and culinary innovation.
Lisa was delighted to be awarded Glamour Magazine Writer of the Year in 2016, Porter Magazine Incredible Woman of the Year and Red Magazine Writer of the Year.
Lisa is fully tri-lingual and is regularly published in all three languages. In Italian, for Corriere della Sera, Vanity Fair and La Repubblica, in French for Elle, and in English, in features for the Sunday Times Style, the restaurant column for The Critic, and features for the Times, Times Magazine, and Times Literary Supplement.
Lisa grew up in the north of England and read English at New College, Oxford, after which she studied History of Art in Florence and Paris. Since then, Lisa has lived in New York, Paris, Milan and London and is now b
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 141 reviews
March 31, 2024
3.5/5
Wow! This was actually quite good as well. I enjoyed the ending for the protagonist and the plot was absolutely MORE entertaining than the first 2 books. This one was actually quite worth it, leaving aside the fact that it was a bit slow at times.
I was scared how the relationship with the protagonist and the rest of the characters was going to go, but man did I end up satisfied regardless of what I expected. By the way. This book made me like the main character even more, I don’t really hate her at all anymore. I admire her intelligence and her strength.
A nice ending for the trilogy and sad that maybe the first book won’t make other readers want to read the rest of the series because that made them miss this one final book, but oh well. Can’t wait to see what I’ll read next.
Also gonna leave a small Spotify playlist link that I made based on the entire trilogy in case anyone is interested on reading this and hearing something that can match off its vibes!
Link: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0uK...
Wow! This was actually quite good as well. I enjoyed the ending for the protagonist and the plot was absolutely MORE entertaining than the first 2 books. This one was actually quite worth it, leaving aside the fact that it was a bit slow at times.
I was scared how the relationship with the protagonist and the rest of the characters was going to go, but man did I end up satisfied regardless of what I expected. By the way. This book made me like the main character even more, I don’t really hate her at all anymore. I admire her intelligence and her strength.
A nice ending for the trilogy and sad that maybe the first book won’t make other readers want to read the rest of the series because that made them miss this one final book, but oh well. Can’t wait to see what I’ll read next.
Also gonna leave a small Spotify playlist link that I made based on the entire trilogy in case anyone is interested on reading this and hearing something that can match off its vibes!
Link: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0uK...
May 6, 2018
Love It. Hate it. Read it.
That’s the marketing for this one and it’s spot on. The entire trilogy has been marmite, I had a few eyebrows raised at me when I ADORED the first one (Maestra) and a few alternative eyebrows raised at me when I really DIDN’T LIKE the second one (Domina) so now you can all get your eyebrows ready again because I’ve just finished Ultima…
It was a whole load of fun. Art, sex and death basically with Judith out to create a masterpiece and get herself out from under the Russian Mafia the Italian Police and a whole plethora of other people who she’s managed to annoy over the course of her erotically charged and murderous journey. Unlike Domina where she became (in my opinion) introspective and dull, Judith is back to her old wisecracking, quick thinking self, with the art underworld coming vividly to life around her once more. Her resolution ultimately (yes I know) is typically Judith, but before that you have a rip roaring journey to go on and it really is fabulously compelling.
I’m a fan of so many levels of writing – what I want really is a banging good story that gets my blood up whether in annoyance or other emotion or one that I can rock right along with smiling all the way. Whilst I won’t forgive really honestly terrible writing I’m ok with it being imperfect IF the story engages me, which in different ways all three of these books did. I loved Judith as a character concept and the execution of her was coolly immersive, I wanted to know where she would end up. Intriguing is what it was. So the writing won’t win huge literary awards, that’s ok with me – I’m not sure Judith would know what to do with one anyway. Or perhaps I do…
The point is that Ultima, like Maestra and for those that did love it, Domina are purely entertaining novels – these are the very definition of beach reads and you really will either simply love them or hate them. Me? I’m on the fence because I loved half and hated half probably in the end. But I was entertained without a doubt. That one you can take to the bank.
Love It. Hate it. Read it.
That’s the marketing for this one and it’s spot on. The entire trilogy has been marmite, I had a few eyebrows raised at me when I ADORED the first one (Maestra) and a few alternative eyebrows raised at me when I really DIDN’T LIKE the second one (Domina) so now you can all get your eyebrows ready again because I’ve just finished Ultima…
It was a whole load of fun. Art, sex and death basically with Judith out to create a masterpiece and get herself out from under the Russian Mafia the Italian Police and a whole plethora of other people who she’s managed to annoy over the course of her erotically charged and murderous journey. Unlike Domina where she became (in my opinion) introspective and dull, Judith is back to her old wisecracking, quick thinking self, with the art underworld coming vividly to life around her once more. Her resolution ultimately (yes I know) is typically Judith, but before that you have a rip roaring journey to go on and it really is fabulously compelling.
I’m a fan of so many levels of writing – what I want really is a banging good story that gets my blood up whether in annoyance or other emotion or one that I can rock right along with smiling all the way. Whilst I won’t forgive really honestly terrible writing I’m ok with it being imperfect IF the story engages me, which in different ways all three of these books did. I loved Judith as a character concept and the execution of her was coolly immersive, I wanted to know where she would end up. Intriguing is what it was. So the writing won’t win huge literary awards, that’s ok with me – I’m not sure Judith would know what to do with one anyway. Or perhaps I do…
The point is that Ultima, like Maestra and for those that did love it, Domina are purely entertaining novels – these are the very definition of beach reads and you really will either simply love them or hate them. Me? I’m on the fence because I loved half and hated half probably in the end. But I was entertained without a doubt. That one you can take to the bank.
Love It. Hate it. Read it.
June 1, 2018
I was one of those people who really liked Maestra when it came out….not many did and much was made of its erotic content and the author rather than the book itself which I felt was very unfair. I tried to recommend to as many as possible to try to reverse the negativity surrounding Maestra as I thought it got a rough deal from other reviewers. But then came the sequel Domina and I really didn’t like it!!! I was gutted!! So when I heard that the trilogy was going to complete with Ultima, I was in two minds as whether to read it or not. But my OCD meant that I had to say yes (if it’s a trilogy, you can’t NOT read the last part!!!) And I can’t express how relieved I am that I did! Because Ultima is THE BEST BOOK OF THE TRILOGY!!!! It’s BRILLIANT!!
Judith now faces her biggest challenge yet in Ultima when she has to return to her past and make the biggest deal of her life by selling a fake Gauguin through her old auction house back in London. Her life is at stake, even if she succeeds, but the thrill of being able to fool those who treated her so badly makes it worth the danger she puts herself in. But being back in the UK means facing her past in more ways than one and there are some shocking revelations along the way!
I just loved everything about Ultima. Judith is a wonderful character creation and the relationship between her and Da Silva was a joy to read. Their complex connection almost set fire to the pages, more so than the erotic and plentiful sex scenes that were scattered throughout this book. Judith is an unashamed purveyor of her own sexuality and isn’t afraid to take her pleasures as and when she needs, no matter what the situation. The other complex relationship she has is with her mother and being back home means that Judith needs to communicate with her parent again with some shocking scenes both in the present and in the distant past when she flashes back to her childhood.
But let’s take a moment to consider the pieces of art and art history that are displayed at the very heart of Ultima. I felt this vivid imagery was missing from Domina but here it’s back with beautifully crafted purpose and lends itself to the stylish narrative thus making it aesthetically pleasing to the reader. I found it fascinating, both the descriptions of the artwork and the snobbery that seems to exist within the artworld. The insights into the auction house politics also made for some interesting reading with its elitism and pretentious staff.
Judith is still such a closed book to me, even now after all three books. I thought I knew what drove her on, I admired her courage and determination even when used for revenge but I realised towards the end of this book that I obviously still didn’t know “the real” Judith at all. I thought I did but I was way off track!! Looks like she will just have to remain a much loved enigma for me but she certainly made these books an unexpected adventure for the both of us.
I’m sad this series has come to an end but really do recommend it!
Judith now faces her biggest challenge yet in Ultima when she has to return to her past and make the biggest deal of her life by selling a fake Gauguin through her old auction house back in London. Her life is at stake, even if she succeeds, but the thrill of being able to fool those who treated her so badly makes it worth the danger she puts herself in. But being back in the UK means facing her past in more ways than one and there are some shocking revelations along the way!
I just loved everything about Ultima. Judith is a wonderful character creation and the relationship between her and Da Silva was a joy to read. Their complex connection almost set fire to the pages, more so than the erotic and plentiful sex scenes that were scattered throughout this book. Judith is an unashamed purveyor of her own sexuality and isn’t afraid to take her pleasures as and when she needs, no matter what the situation. The other complex relationship she has is with her mother and being back home means that Judith needs to communicate with her parent again with some shocking scenes both in the present and in the distant past when she flashes back to her childhood.
But let’s take a moment to consider the pieces of art and art history that are displayed at the very heart of Ultima. I felt this vivid imagery was missing from Domina but here it’s back with beautifully crafted purpose and lends itself to the stylish narrative thus making it aesthetically pleasing to the reader. I found it fascinating, both the descriptions of the artwork and the snobbery that seems to exist within the artworld. The insights into the auction house politics also made for some interesting reading with its elitism and pretentious staff.
Judith is still such a closed book to me, even now after all three books. I thought I knew what drove her on, I admired her courage and determination even when used for revenge but I realised towards the end of this book that I obviously still didn’t know “the real” Judith at all. I thought I did but I was way off track!! Looks like she will just have to remain a much loved enigma for me but she certainly made these books an unexpected adventure for the both of us.
I’m sad this series has come to an end but really do recommend it!
August 4, 2018
One of my favorite trilogies ever written. I bow to the GENIUS of L.S. Hilton. That's all.
December 23, 2021
Sen sajucis līķu skaits un Džūdita kā tēls ir atbaidoša, bet savā ziņā simpātiska. Kopumā šī triloģijas daļa šķita visdinamiskākā un interesantākā.
January 26, 2021
"Užasno je, kad bolje razmislite. Ali niko zaista ne misli o tome. Pogledaju sliku mrtvog deteta na plaži pa skroluju dalje do fotki slatkih mačića i inspirativnih joga poza."Mislim da su, što se ove trilogije tiče, osećanja jasno podeljena: ili je volite od samog početka ili je ne zavolite uopšte. Ako izaberete drugo, neće vam biti ugodno. Srećom, ili kako god to nazvali, ja sam postala jedna od onih kojima su jezive scene zabavne, pa mi se trilogija i više nego dopala. Ovo je jedna veoma, da kažem profesionalno osmišljena priča. Nemoguće je ne primetiti koliko je pažnje posvećeno umetnosti, ali sve ima svoj koren.
Džudit je mozak. Mada, zamisliti nju u stvarnom životu jako je teško - s obzirom na to da joj je autorka dodelila nadrealne sposobnosti, pre svega razmišljanja, onda i postupanja. Ona radi ono o čemu drugi samo razmišljaju. Uči nas da razmišljamo o šolji dok peremo šolju. Volela bih da sam hladna i pametna, pa bar upola kao ona.
Uživala sam, upijajući svaku rečenicu.
A vi, ako ne volite da vas ograničavaju i pritom volite nenormalne ideje, čitajte ovo, uživaćete. 🚀
P.S. Čitala sam je for free u Delfi aplikaciji (ko voli online čitanje - preporuka), tako da fotografija stiže kada kupim knjigu i kompletiram trilogiju.
January 1, 2019
So pleased L S Hilton did not let me down! This really has been the best trilogy I've ever read. I love Judith (Elizabeth) more now than in the previous two books. There's some great humour, there's genuine sadness but Elizabeth deals with it in her own inimitable way! I've convinced myself that the ending is left in such a way that could lead to yet more Judith/Elizabeth escapades and I would certainly drink a glass of something special to celebrate that!
September 8, 2018
Judith Rashleigh is in trouble, she is caught in the middle of the Russian Mafia and a corrupt Italian police inspector. There is only one way for Judith to survive and that is to fake piece of masterpiece and sell it for over $150 million. Judith knows she can do this as her life as Elizabeth Teerlinc international art dealer is all a lie.
The thrill of creating the fake and getting one over on the auction house that fired her years ago are added bonuses to the deal.
The spotlight is on Judith, can her fake identity and fake masterpiece fool the Art world, or will she end up with a bullet in the back of her head.
I haven't read the first two books in this series Maestra and Domina, I think if I have read these two I would have understood Judith world more. Ultima does cover topic/ relationships that have happened in previous book so you can still enjoy the book.
Judith is a not your average leading lady, she is a dark character. She is willing to kill anyone that gets in her way and feels no remorse. She is incredible smart and very good at pretending to be whoever the person what her to be. One of my favourite elements of the book is her figuring out her next step, and how she plays the other characters.
Ultima has some great action sequences that keeps flipping the pages, I did find that in-between the action the story did lagged in places. Although I find the processing of faking the art and the wheeling and dealing of the art world interesting, I felt that it went on a little bit to long or into too much detail.
Thank you to Bonnie Zaffre for sending me a copy of the book for a fair and honest review.
If you enjoyed this post, Id love it if you help by spreading it by email, or sharing it on Twitter or any other social media platform.
Thanks for reading,
Gem x
December 31, 2019
I thought Ultima was great, along with Maestra and Domina. I just finished Ultima and I was sad to see Judith go. Judith was...interesting, unlike any lead character I have ever read. The woman is definitely not someone you want to mess with. You run through a wonderful gamut of feelings for her. I found her incredibly interesting and immensely likeable. She totally surprised me with how she dealt with some of the people she comes in contact with, but that is one of the things I love that LS Hilton did with this character. She forces you to feel all sorts of emotions for Judith. LS Hilton's series is well written and she did a wonderful job detailing the artwork and the art world - if you are an art history buff who loves good fiction, I totally recommend the Maestra series!! I'm a fan of Caravaggio's work and I recently discovered Artemisia Gentileschi, so it was a real treat to see these two artists worked into Judith's story. In addition, the locals, the fashions and the food are wonderful. I think the erotic elements were perfectly spaced and titillating. Judith has certain desires and she wasn't ashamed to go after them. I like that! Very fun read, all three books!!
January 7, 2020
This is the third in this trilogy, and is the best of all. Judith finds herself manoevred to commit art fraud, but she handles this in her own devious manner. The book is really good, full of the nuances of the art world which draw the reader in, even if they (like me) know nothing about art.
We meet old favourite characters like Carlotta, and learn a lot more about art, life and Judith's past.
Really entertaining, I couldn't put it down.
You do need to read the books in order though!
We meet old favourite characters like Carlotta, and learn a lot more about art, life and Judith's past.
Really entertaining, I couldn't put it down.
You do need to read the books in order though!
June 9, 2018
This is a page-turner in the worst possible way! There was a half-decent plot buried in the heart of this book but buried deep. The superficial sex and murder is to the fore with gratuitous detail and pointless emphasis. I read this book because I know the author's works are widely popular. I can understand why they are popular. Unfortunately I am a very different target market.
November 20, 2018
I’m so sad it’s over but this one was so much better than Domina and almost as good as Maestra.
It came to a satisfying conclusion but there seems to be plenty of room for it to continue, fingers xed!
It came to a satisfying conclusion but there seems to be plenty of room for it to continue, fingers xed!
May 13, 2018
if maestro was the blockbuster, this is the straight to video cheap follow up. an enjoyable ride but not in the same league as the first.
June 25, 2020
Wie niet sterk is, moet dodelijk zijn...
Judith Rashleigh's echte identiteit is verborgen onder een flink aantal lagen. Maar nu ze ingesloten is tussen de Russische maffia aan de ene kant en een corrupte Italiaanse agent aan de andere, heeft ze een kunststukje nodig om het er leven van af te brengen. Ze moet ervoor zorgen dat een vals meesterwerk bij het veilinghuis waar ze ooit assistente was verkocht wordt voor 150 miljoen pond. Dit is bijna onmogelijk zonder haar nieuwe identiteit prijs te geven, maar dat doen brengt een nog groter risico met zich mee...
In dit sluitstuk van deze trilogie met Judith Rashleigh in de hoofdrol heb ik haar écht leren kennen. Sinds ik Maestra las is ze uitgegroeid tot een mens van vlees en bloed.
“Nog maar een paar dagen geleden had ik me ingesteld op een langdurige gevangenschap, den nu had er al tweeënzeventig uur niemand op me geschoten. Oké, ik was werkloos, dakloos en er zaten handboeien om mijn polsen, maar dat betekende dat het van nu af aan alleen maar bergop zou gaan. Het is zo belangrijk, positief denken.”
Lees mijn recensie hier verder: https://graaggelezen.blogspot.com/202...
Judith Rashleigh's echte identiteit is verborgen onder een flink aantal lagen. Maar nu ze ingesloten is tussen de Russische maffia aan de ene kant en een corrupte Italiaanse agent aan de andere, heeft ze een kunststukje nodig om het er leven van af te brengen. Ze moet ervoor zorgen dat een vals meesterwerk bij het veilinghuis waar ze ooit assistente was verkocht wordt voor 150 miljoen pond. Dit is bijna onmogelijk zonder haar nieuwe identiteit prijs te geven, maar dat doen brengt een nog groter risico met zich mee...
In dit sluitstuk van deze trilogie met Judith Rashleigh in de hoofdrol heb ik haar écht leren kennen. Sinds ik Maestra las is ze uitgegroeid tot een mens van vlees en bloed.
“Nog maar een paar dagen geleden had ik me ingesteld op een langdurige gevangenschap, den nu had er al tweeënzeventig uur niemand op me geschoten. Oké, ik was werkloos, dakloos en er zaten handboeien om mijn polsen, maar dat betekende dat het van nu af aan alleen maar bergop zou gaan. Het is zo belangrijk, positief denken.”
Lees mijn recensie hier verder: https://graaggelezen.blogspot.com/202...
July 12, 2018
This was the third in an erotic psychological thriller trilogy that I had no idea was even out, until I happened to remember to look for it on my own. I had thoroughly enjoyed book one, Maestro, as did many, many other readers, and I was really looking forward to reading books two and three. Normally, I hate sequels. I can always tell when the author either loses interest, gets writer’s block, or feels pressured by their public and/or publishers. The writing stiffens, gets boring, so then I abandon the author completely. It is so much better if characters are allowed to develop naturally by meeting different people and having different crisises, thereby making each book a stand alone. (Some authors even write books that are completely other genres for other age groups.) In this way they are able to expand their craft which shows in all of their work.
Well, I never even read book two, because the reviews were so bad. I just went to book three because there were no reviews and honestly, it was ridiculously inexpensive. I wanted to see why such a good writer seemed to be abandoned by her publisher and her public.
It took me one day to read. Her writing is still really good. It is fast paced, witty, sarcastic, sexy, and totally ridiculous! But, sometimes, that’s why I read. I don’t read Russian spy novels because I’m invested in becoming or capturing Russian spies. I like the fantasy. It’s the same with LS Hilton’s story about the warped girl who turned the art world on its head. What a great setting, character, context, and evolution. And, as someone who majored in design, minored in art, and then taught history, it was incredibly delicious to have all of the interesting historical tidbits about artists’ lives thrown into the mix of her book. I WILL go back and read book two just for that reason.
So, should you read it? Well, in light of the MeToo movement, feminism, fake news, and revenge acts world wide, you MAY find this series just a tad too violent, too in-your-face, and too full of rage. But, if you’re an adult who understands the word fiction, who loves noticing beauty in form and function, and who can get down and dirty for the fun of it (however you do) then go for it!
Well, I never even read book two, because the reviews were so bad. I just went to book three because there were no reviews and honestly, it was ridiculously inexpensive. I wanted to see why such a good writer seemed to be abandoned by her publisher and her public.
It took me one day to read. Her writing is still really good. It is fast paced, witty, sarcastic, sexy, and totally ridiculous! But, sometimes, that’s why I read. I don’t read Russian spy novels because I’m invested in becoming or capturing Russian spies. I like the fantasy. It’s the same with LS Hilton’s story about the warped girl who turned the art world on its head. What a great setting, character, context, and evolution. And, as someone who majored in design, minored in art, and then taught history, it was incredibly delicious to have all of the interesting historical tidbits about artists’ lives thrown into the mix of her book. I WILL go back and read book two just for that reason.
So, should you read it? Well, in light of the MeToo movement, feminism, fake news, and revenge acts world wide, you MAY find this series just a tad too violent, too in-your-face, and too full of rage. But, if you’re an adult who understands the word fiction, who loves noticing beauty in form and function, and who can get down and dirty for the fun of it (however you do) then go for it!
September 30, 2018
Reading the synopsis on the cover of this book leads you slightly astray. You'd be tempted to think that it sounds like a compelling and interesting thriller. You get half a page in before you're presented with a rather graphic and crude sex scene. While I'm sure there are plenty of people out there that love these books and how they're written, it's the sex scenes that leave so much to be desired. It just feels like Lisa has gone for shock value, rather than trying to add genuine intrigue.
I read Maesta and did actually enjoy the book, yet hated her second - Domina - which even ended with me giving it a poor rating. When I read the synopsis for Ultima, I was intrigued by the storyline and knew that I was going to read it and complete the trilogy.
Ultima combines what I love about Lisa's writing, it's easy to read and she keeps you turning the pages so you can find out what happens to Judith. Lisa's art and culture knowledge is on show throughout the book and leave you feeling like you've learned something throughout the course of reading it. The book would hit the five star mark for me if Lisa had managed to make the sex scenes add not only value, but also write them in that subtle way that leaves the reader to infer what has happened. Having done that, she may have actually made the scenes more powerful and leave me wanting to recommend this book to others. I'd feel like a creep handing it over to someone for them to read the first page and look at me as though I should be locked up!
I read Maesta and did actually enjoy the book, yet hated her second - Domina - which even ended with me giving it a poor rating. When I read the synopsis for Ultima, I was intrigued by the storyline and knew that I was going to read it and complete the trilogy.
Ultima combines what I love about Lisa's writing, it's easy to read and she keeps you turning the pages so you can find out what happens to Judith. Lisa's art and culture knowledge is on show throughout the book and leave you feeling like you've learned something throughout the course of reading it. The book would hit the five star mark for me if Lisa had managed to make the sex scenes add not only value, but also write them in that subtle way that leaves the reader to infer what has happened. Having done that, she may have actually made the scenes more powerful and leave me wanting to recommend this book to others. I'd feel like a creep handing it over to someone for them to read the first page and look at me as though I should be locked up!
Want to read
December 31, 2019I thought Ultima was great, along with Maestra and Domina. I just finished Ultima and I was sad to see Judith go. Judith was...interesting, unlike any lead character I have ever read. The woman is definitely not someone you want to mess with. You run through a wonderful gamut of feelings for her. I found her incredibly interesting and immensely likeable. She totally surprised me with how she dealt with some of the people she comes in contact with, but that is one of the things I love that LS Hilton did with this character. She forces you to feel all sorts of emotions for Judith. LS Hilton's series is well written and she did a wonderful job detailing the artwork and the art world - if you are an art history buff who loves good fiction, I totally recommend the Maestra series!! I'm a fan of Caravaggio's work and I recently discovered Artemisia Gentileschi, so it was a real treat to see these two artists worked into Judith's story. In addition, the locals, the fashions and the food are wonderful. I think the erotic elements were perfectly spaced and titillating. Judith has certain desires and she wasn't ashamed to go after them. I like that! Very fun read, all three books!!
April 11, 2021
Not what I was expecting. The first look promised something exciting but unfortunately fell short by quite a way. The story itself is fairly mediocre, with the main character Judith (or Elisabeth depending on where she is in the world) re-enacting, when she can, her very bizarre and erotic fantasies. From the previous two books in this trilogy, she has got herself mixed up in all sorts of dangerous scenarios with the Mafia and her only way to save herself is to, once again pretend to be someone she isn't. I really did try to finish this book but decided to stop two thirds of the way in. I think my time is better spent reading something a bit more gritty and less pornographic. I'm sure someone else out there will love it,especially if they have read the other two books, but this one is not for me.
May 23, 2019
Just when I thought this series couldn't get more ridiculous - there's Ultima, the last book in the trilogy. And thank God, this story line was going nowhere.
I really enjoyed the first book (despite the over the top sex scenes) because it was refreshing to read about a woman killing indiscriminately in order to change her circumstances. Judith wanted money and a glamorous lifestyle and she knew how to get it. And I get it - she likes sex. But mostly it felt over gratuitous.
The second book I can barely remember, which seems to be the overall consensus. By the time I got to the third and last book I was over it before I even began. But I gave it a go because sequels sometimes aren't great but don't dictate the remainder of a series. Well that one did. Not only was this boring but the sex scenes actually made me sick. Well done L.S. Hilton.
I really enjoyed the first book (despite the over the top sex scenes) because it was refreshing to read about a woman killing indiscriminately in order to change her circumstances. Judith wanted money and a glamorous lifestyle and she knew how to get it. And I get it - she likes sex. But mostly it felt over gratuitous.
The second book I can barely remember, which seems to be the overall consensus. By the time I got to the third and last book I was over it before I even began. But I gave it a go because sequels sometimes aren't great but don't dictate the remainder of a series. Well that one did. Not only was this boring but the sex scenes actually made me sick. Well done L.S. Hilton.
September 24, 2019
It's been an enjoyable series to read, and this was a satisfying ending for me. I was so glad she didn't end up with da Silva and got away with everything, but I didn't really like the suggestion she deliberately killed Katherine, even if it was kind of a messed up mercy killing. I also didn't quite agree with her destroying the pictures of the Colonel's. I thought she had more respect for art, but then she did just flog a fake. But overall I enjoyed it, she's got hints of Hannibal Lecter in a way, and it would make a good film.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 2, 2019
This book, and the trilogy it’s part of, is entirely amazing. To say nothing of the satisfaction of following a protagonist with a dark and sometimes unlikeable side, Judith Rashleigh is a stone cold killer (spoiler!?), badass bitch, female powerhouse who knows what she wants and how to get it. The story(ies) are juicy and exciting, good for a beach read, and also just plain great and clever writing. Five stars for sure.
August 4, 2019
Przez chwilę wydawało mi się, że intryga przedstawiona w zwieńczeniu trylogii o Judith jakiejśtam w końcu będzie miała trochę sensu i przykuje moją uwagę. I miałem rację. Wydawało mi się. Ultima to suma wszystkich błędów z Maestry i Dominy (wspomniane książki tylko z błędów były stworzone, więc...) z małym dodatkiem w postaci nijakiego finału, który totalnie niczym się nie wyróżnia od reszty zdarzeń przedstawionych w tych trzech książkach; nic nie wnosi, nic nie podsumowuje, jakby go w ogóle nie było.
Mimo wszystko tytuł ten ma jedną zaletę. Napis "Koniec".
Mimo wszystko tytuł ten ma jedną zaletę. Napis "Koniec".
November 15, 2021
Мені перші дві частини були набагато цікавішими
August 3, 2023
The final book in the trilogy. It didn't quite live up to previous outing, and lost me for a while during the middle but Lisa brought the finale to a great conclusion.
February 22, 2022
3.5 stars out of 5.
I enjoyed this series - good escapism.
I enjoyed this series - good escapism.
November 22, 2024
Pettymys kahen ekan jälkeen :(
November 27, 2019
Hiltonova je ostala dosledna stilu i napetosti. Sjajan kraj, hladnokrvan i brutalan. Odlicna...
March 6, 2019
This is a combined review for all three books in the Maestra series:
A thriller series set in the world of expensive art and auction houses, heists and forgeries? I was hooked, so much so I was willing to ignore it was also part erotic thriller (though the author denied it). Even so, it took me over a year to get to it because I was waiting for the final installment to be published.
Judith Rashleigh is an assistant at a prestigious London auction house but her dreams of making it into the art world have been dulled by snobbery and corruption. To make ends meet, she moonlights as a hostess in one of the West End's less salubrious bars.
When she stumbles across a conspiracy at her auction house, she is fired before she can expose the fraud. In desperation, she accepts an offer from one of the bar's clients to accompany him to the French Riviera. But when an ill-advised attempt to slip him sedatives has momentous consequences, Judith finds herself fleeing for her life.
Now alone and in danger, all Judith has to rely on is her consummate ability to fake it amongst the rich and famous, and the inside track on the hugely lucrative art fraud that triggered her dismissal.
I found the art thriller premise fairly exciting. Judith, as mysterious and deceptive as she is, knows her art history and uses it to fuel her agenda. Over three books, she shuttles between Paris and Italy, evolving from being a victim of a crime she didn't commit, to a gallerist, an art thief, and a forger. Changing identities is second nature and when pursued, she uses every seductive trick to her advantage. What bothered me, though, was her character unexpectedly turning 180 degrees, leaving many questions unanswered.
Another point of disagreement was the erotica. Besides being fairly graphic, it seemed obligatory. Did it have to get all Fifty Shades of Grey, if only to juxtapose the glamourous lives of shady billionaires with that of a femme fatale?
Then again, the author herself says - Love it, Hate It, Read It. Having finally ticked it off my list, I'll settle for somewhere between love and hate.
A thriller series set in the world of expensive art and auction houses, heists and forgeries? I was hooked, so much so I was willing to ignore it was also part erotic thriller (though the author denied it). Even so, it took me over a year to get to it because I was waiting for the final installment to be published.
Judith Rashleigh is an assistant at a prestigious London auction house but her dreams of making it into the art world have been dulled by snobbery and corruption. To make ends meet, she moonlights as a hostess in one of the West End's less salubrious bars.
When she stumbles across a conspiracy at her auction house, she is fired before she can expose the fraud. In desperation, she accepts an offer from one of the bar's clients to accompany him to the French Riviera. But when an ill-advised attempt to slip him sedatives has momentous consequences, Judith finds herself fleeing for her life.
Now alone and in danger, all Judith has to rely on is her consummate ability to fake it amongst the rich and famous, and the inside track on the hugely lucrative art fraud that triggered her dismissal.
I found the art thriller premise fairly exciting. Judith, as mysterious and deceptive as she is, knows her art history and uses it to fuel her agenda. Over three books, she shuttles between Paris and Italy, evolving from being a victim of a crime she didn't commit, to a gallerist, an art thief, and a forger. Changing identities is second nature and when pursued, she uses every seductive trick to her advantage. What bothered me, though, was her character unexpectedly turning 180 degrees, leaving many questions unanswered.
Another point of disagreement was the erotica. Besides being fairly graphic, it seemed obligatory. Did it have to get all Fifty Shades of Grey, if only to juxtapose the glamourous lives of shady billionaires with that of a femme fatale?
Then again, the author herself says - Love it, Hate It, Read It. Having finally ticked it off my list, I'll settle for somewhere between love and hate.
March 22, 2018
Ultima by L.S. Hilton is the last book in the Maestra series and a thrilling unique read. We follow the daring journey of Elisabeth Teerlinc through a undercover world of fake art and a cross fire between the Russian Mafia and Italian Police.
My favourite character throughout the book was Judith, her independent spirit and interesting insights really made this novel. She always seemed to be surveying the situation instead of actually being there which reminded me of myself. None of the characters felt particularly real to me except Judith's mom and 12 year old Judith. The story kept me guessing to a certain extent but at the same time due to the whole plot being rather unrealistic is was predictable in a certain way. My favorite part of the book was the whole mystery around Judith's backstory. I feel though that is you had read the other books this may not have been so profound and intriguing. The scenes with Elisabeth surveying and talking in her head were definitely the best written scenes in the book. They really interested me and kept me wanting to read on. Although I never felt and emotion for the characters as they were just to abstracted overall I did relate to them in certain scenes.
I did find the salacious aspects way to frequent and very off putting. I felt uncomfortable reading this book in public places. The first page/ the prologue was not needed and very off putting. Overall it was a good read but I was disappointed by the unnecessary descriptions.
My favourite character throughout the book was Judith, her independent spirit and interesting insights really made this novel. She always seemed to be surveying the situation instead of actually being there which reminded me of myself. None of the characters felt particularly real to me except Judith's mom and 12 year old Judith. The story kept me guessing to a certain extent but at the same time due to the whole plot being rather unrealistic is was predictable in a certain way. My favorite part of the book was the whole mystery around Judith's backstory. I feel though that is you had read the other books this may not have been so profound and intriguing. The scenes with Elisabeth surveying and talking in her head were definitely the best written scenes in the book. They really interested me and kept me wanting to read on. Although I never felt and emotion for the characters as they were just to abstracted overall I did relate to them in certain scenes.
I did find the salacious aspects way to frequent and very off putting. I felt uncomfortable reading this book in public places. The first page/ the prologue was not needed and very off putting. Overall it was a good read but I was disappointed by the unnecessary descriptions.
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