The Last Nude by Ellis Avery flips the script on the traditional (and misogynistic) notion of the relationship between an artist and their muse.  In some ways, it plays into the seemingly patriarchal trope of the famous artist passionately and erotically obsessed with a beautiful young woman in need of some perceived rescuing, whether physically or financially.  This story deviates from the expected routine in that both the famous artist and the muse are women and that their relationship is anything but typical, expected, or traditional.

Set in 1920’s Paris, the story is told from the perspective of the muse, Rafaela.  She recounts her relationship with artist Tamara de Lempicka while explaining the tragic events of her own personal story.  Avery’s writing is quick, intelligent and thoughtful, enabling the reader to experience Rafaela’s feelings of uncertainty and many heartbreaks.  That said, I personally don’t see Rafaela as a so-called tragic character despite the traumas she survived.  Rafaela has a strength and resiliency about her that shines out even in her darkest moments.

Heads up… sex plays a major role in the telling of this story.  In fact, one could say that the idea of sex itself is another character.  Keep in mind that the book is set in the roaring twenties in Paris, France – that means lots of sex and drug use.