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love and murder:
the last days of vincent van gogh
sofia martins
january 29, 2024
If you’re a fan of Vincent Van Gogh or just curious about the mysterious circumstances surrounding his death, then Love and Murder is the book for you. In this non-fiction masterpiece, it explores the facts and theories surrounding Van Gogh’s death and how it may be related to his tumultuous love life.
I am confident in saying that Love and Murder deserves a clean 5-star rating. The book’s writing is absolutely flawless and rich, with not a single grammar or unintentional typo to be found, and the editing is clearly professional. The book is organized in a clear and logical manner, with everything carefully explained and the arguments almost irrefutable. The pace of the book is just perfect, with everything explained in great detail. While some readers may find the chapter lengths to be “too long,” I believe they are ideal for this particular book. The author takes great care to explain everything in detail: the inclusion of paintings, sketches, and photographs is a wonderful addition to the beauty of the book and enhances the analysis of the facts.
What really sets Love and Murder apart from other books on Van Gogh is Dr. Arenberg’s passion for the subject matter. He’s not just a writer, but an investigator, an arguer, a photographer, and the justice that wasn’t served for Van Gogh. His deep love for Van Gogh as a person and as an artist is evident throughout the book, and his own website with research and experimental material is also a great addition to the book itself.
This book to be perfect in every aspect. I must emphasize how incredibly well-written this book is.
In summary, Love and Murder is a must-read for anyone interested in art, biographies, investigations of death, or Vincent Van Gogh himself. The book is a masterpiece of non-fiction writing, with great detail, add-ons, explanations, and dissecting theories. I wholeheartedly recommend this book to anyone who wants to unravel the truth behind Van Gogh’s death.
Neetesh Kumar
january 11, 2024
Dr. Irv Arenberg’s “Love and Murder” is an enthralling investigation of the mystery circumstances surrounding Vincent van Gogh’s death, contradicting the widely accepted narrative of suicide. Dr. Arenberg’s painstaking study and impassioned investigation provide readers with a new perspective on the legendary artist’s dying days, revealing a complicated web of love, betrayal, and possibly homicide.
The author’s background as a famous ear surgeon and neurotologist adds a unique blend of medical expertise to the story, particularly in exposing Vincent’s misdiagnosis a century after his death. Dr. Arenberg’s professional training lends legitimacy to the forensic investigation in the book and provides a captivating junction between the realms of art and medicine.
intriguing, flawlessly mixing historical facts with suspense and mystery. Dr. Irv Arenberg’s dedication to solving the riddles surrounding Vincent van Gogh’s life and death, along with the book’s fascinating writing, make it a must-read for art enthusiasts, history buffs, and true crime fans. 5 stars out of 5
chizuruoke amaefule
november 20, 2023
An adept narrative that skillfully enhances the emotional depth of Vincent’s life, highlighting the scarcity of love and comprehension woven into his experiences. Meticulous work in gathering facts and conducting thorough research to challenge the long-held belief that Van Gogh committed suicide, instead proposing that he died from a gunshot inflicted by a close acquaintance. A deep dive into Van Gogh’s life and art and a compelling reconsideration of his death. It’s an thorough exploration and compelling insights into Van Gogh’s life and death.
Jonathan Olorunititomi Alemede
november 17, 2023
Dr. Irv Arenberg authored the compelling and stimulating book Love and Murder, which ventures into the contentious subject of van Gogh’s demise. The narrative challenges the commonly embraced belief in his suicide, offering compelling evidence to propose an alternative theory of murder. Commencing with an extensive exploration of Van Gogh’s life, the book delves into his hardships, creative accomplishments, and the tumultuous connections that moulded his being. Progressing through its pages, the book rigorously scrutinizes the events surrounding van Gogh’s death, casting doubt on eyewitness reliability and underscoring inconsistencies within the prevailing suicide narrative.
What captivated me about the book was its thorough examination of the key personalities involved. Dr. Arenberg skillfully presents intricate depictions of figures like Dr. Paul-Ferdinand Gachet, Marguerite Clementine Gachet, and Adeline Ravoux, illuminating their motivations and plausible involvements in the events preceding van Gogh’s death. The book delves into various plotlines, including the alleged presence of an art forgery ring, unraveling the intricate complexities and ethical dilemmas inherent in deceitful practices within the art world.
Drawing from diverse sources such as Madame Liberge and Marguerite’s half-sister, Louise-Josephine Chevalier, indications are suggesting a romantic entanglement between Vincent and Marguerite. While the precise nature and depth of their relationship remain speculative, the book meticulously presents evidence and testimonies supporting the notion of a secretive romantic connection between the two. This clandestine affair adds a further stratum of intricacy to the narrative, spotlighting potential motivations and conflicts that might have contributed to Vincent’s tragic demise.
Its comprehensive exploration of van Gogh’s life and death, the thought-provoking alternative theories presented, and the detailed analysis of key characters.
Ogunleke Stephen Ibukun
november 15, 2023
A compelling and captivating narrative that challenges the conventional tale encircling the demise of the revered artist Vincent van Gogh. Through thorough investigation, this meticulously crafted piece unveils a persuasive argument suggesting that van Gogh’s passing wasn’t a self-inflicted act but a premeditated murder.
The author intertwines historical exploration, forensic evaluation, and personal anecdotes to compose a comprehensive portrayal of van Gogh’s ultimate phase.
What captivates me about this book is the author’s remarkable talent for breathing life into the characters. Vincent van Gogh presented as a multifaceted and fervent artist, is portrayed with profound intricacy and compassion. I found myself fully engrossed in Van Gogh’s world—his challenges, artistic odyssey, and interpersonal bonds—allowing someone like me to genuinely comprehend the person behind those remarkable masterpieces. Another compelling figure within the narrative is Marguerite Clementine Gachet. Marguerite is depicted as Dr. Gachet’s daughter, the physician and confidant of Vincent. She is portrayed as a young woman ensnared in a stifling and dominating environment. I resonated with her yearning for liberation, her quest for love and companionship, and her profound connection with Vincent. Marguerite’s resilience and unwavering commitment to preserving Vincent’s legacy are truly admirable qualities worth acknowledging.
This gripping book suggests a meticulously researched murder theory rather than van Gogh’s assumed suicide.
Chukwuebuka Enyiazu
november 14, 2023
Dr. Irv Arenberg’s Love and Murder stands as a remarkable and captivating literary work that uncovers the enigmatic circumstances surrounding the death of the renowned artist, Vincent Van Gogh. This book meticulously probes the mysteries enveloping Van Gogh’s demise, challenging the established suicide narrative with the possibility of it being a murder. I appreciated the structured and methodical approach used in the book’s organization, systematically breaking down the intricate and mysterious life of Vincent Van Gogh, who emerged as an unconventional yet captivating figure.
lumie blazrr
november 13, 2023
Love and Murder by Dr. Irving Arenberg provides an in-depth exploration of the last chapter in the life of the renowned artist Vincent Van Gogh. Contrary to the widely accepted belief that Van Gogh took his own life, Dr. Irving Arenberg challenges this perspective and posits the theory that the artist was murdered. He substantiates his argument by meticulously examining Van Gogh’s final seventy days in Auvers-Sur-Oise, France.
The book was not only factual but also immensely engaging. The author skillfully weaved Vincent Van Gogh’s narrative, ensuring that each new piece of information was as captivating and educational as it was intriguing.
The book’s strengths in storytelling, depth of research, and ability to captivate the reader’s interest earn it a solid 4-star rating.
Maureen opute
november 12, 2023
“Love and Murder” by Irv Arenberg presents an intriguing exploration of the life and mysterious death of one of the art world’s most iconic figures, Vincent van Gogh. The book takes readers on a compelling journey into the past, shedding light on the circumstances surrounding Vincent’s final days in Auvers-sur-Oise, France. At the core of the narrative is the profound question: Was Vincent van Gogh’s death truly a suicide, as widely believed, or could it have been a homicide?
In order to create a sense of curiosity and excitement from the outset, Arenberg expertly establishes the framework for this true mystery. Leaving no stone unturned in the pursuit of the truth, the author’s methodology is firmly based on a careful and exhaustive inquiry. Arenberg makes strong arguments, and the narrative is distinguished by its depth of historical detail, expert perspectives, and careful investigation.
Esther Omelihu okwuchi
november 12, 2023
I genuinely appreciate the writer’s analytical and probing writing skills; the book felt akin to a documentary. It proved highly engaging and easily comprehensible right from the beginning. I found Vincent’s character compelling—despite life’s hardships, he remained productive and remarkably resilient. The book stirred my emotions and exhibited a sensitivity that brought tears to my eyes, knowing the narrative is grounded in real-life experiences. The author skillfully intertwined suspense, crime, and a compelling death mystery, earning my applause. I wholeheartedly recommend this book to enthusiasts of both art and crime mystery narratives.
The commendable aspects include the engaging narrative, emotional impact, and adept weaving of suspense and crime elements. The skilful writing and impeccable editing contribute to the positive rating.
Meshach Ojonoma Idoko
november 12, 2023
I gave this book a rating of 5 out of 5 stars due to its compelling challenge to the prevailing narrative of Vincent’s suicide, presenting a convincing case for murder. The accessible writing style, devoid of complex jargon, makes it inclusive of a wider audience. The narrative’s exploration of Vincent’s final days, relationships, health struggles, and artistic passion, along with the intriguing portrayal of his art, adds significant depth. The critical examination of characters, like Dr. Paul Ferdinard Gachet, contributes to a nuanced understanding. Arenberg’s unwavering commitment to truth and the adept use of modern forensic techniques enhance the book’s credibility, making it an exceptionally engaging, informative, and well-executed work.
Bose Iyokowa
november 11, 2023
I admire the author’s investigative approach, which is characterized by thorough and detailed research. The book captivates with its entertaining and engaging narrative, skillfully establishing the story’s foundation. The author’s use of simple and comprehensible vocabulary enhances the reading experience.
Given the extensive research, engaging narrative, and thought-provoking exploration of Vincent Van Gogh’s life and controversies, coupled with the author’s adept investigative style, I gave this book a rating of 5 out of 5 stars. The book not only provides deep insights into Van Gogh’s character but also challenges historical narratives, creating a compelling and emotionally resonant reading experience. Despite expressing a dislike for certain aspects, these elements contribute to the book’s complexity and depth, elevating its impact. The exceptional writing, thorough editing, and absence of errors further solidify the book’s merit. Overall, it stands out as an outstanding and enriching read for those fascinated by art history and the enigmatic life of Vincent Van Gogh.
Stephen Pokoo
november 10, 2023
“Love and Murder” by Irv Arenberg is an intriguing investigation of the life and death of Vincent van Gogh, one of history’s most known artists. My excitement rose as I read this book from the beginning. Arenberg brilliantly sets the scene for the story, revealing prospective culprits and throwing doubt on the widely held notion that van Gogh committed suicide. This exhilarating idea sets the setting for a genuine mystery based on true occurrences, resulting in a story that is both captivating and emotionally powerful.
I thought Arenberg’s method of research and reasoning was compelling, and his findings were unbiased and extremely thorough. Expert statements provide insightful explanations of the technical details of the story, showcasing the book’s truly astounding breadth of research. “Love and Murder” provides readers with an in-depth analysis of the case study, showcasing a range of viewpoints from academics and experts so they can draw their own conclusions.
Arenberg’s storytelling is both interesting and thought-provoking, frequently piquing my interest and asking concerns that had me turning the pages. The story, told through the prism of Vincent van Gogh’s life and death, combines entertainment with profound insights into the artist’s world, work, and possible riddles surrounding him. In the narrative, Vincent van Gogh shows himself to be a really fascinating individual, displaying a volatile and restless nature. Many readers, myself included, may identify with his journey of self-discovery and resilience in the face of personal failures.
“Love and Murder” is an entertaining and enlightening book. It will definitely attract the curiosity of art lovers, history buffs, and mystery fans. The book is a deserving five-star read since it takes us on a captivating trip into the life and potential mysteries of one of history’s most acclaimed artists.
tara starr
november 8, 2023
The writer is very credible. It was enjoyable to look at the photos and paintings and relate them to what was happening in that point of time. It was also great to read the quotes straight from Vincent.
I think that it would make an excellent true crime podcast, all the information out there but short and to the point.
salome ndichu
november 5, 2023
Normally, when people get to learn the truth, they leave out the misinformation that they had acquired there before and rush to present their truth. Dr. Irv here takes us through his journey of acquiring information for us to be the judges, which is quite a storytelling perspective. I like that about this book because you’ll get to dissect the misinformation piece by piece until you land on the conclusion that indeed, there was a lot of negligence and overlooking of critical loopholes that led to the assumptions around Vincent’s death.
There’s more to this book than the mystery surrounding Vincent’s death, so I give it a full rating of 5 out of 5 stars. I would recommend this book to people who love investigative journalism and are art enthusiasts. It is a good read.
Meagan McCluskey
november 5, 2023
Love and Murder – The Last Days of Vincent Van Gogh, is the second book in the “Killing Vincent” trilogy by Dr. Irv Arenberg. As a lifelong art lover and physician, Dr. Arenberg has had a vested interest in Vincent Van Gogh and the circumstances surrounding his death for quite some time. In this book, Arenberg disrupts the over 100 year old narrative of one of the world’s most beloved artists, offering new facts, theories and forensic analysis to prove that Vincent Van Gogh was in fact murdered.
Arenberg provides an important historical background of the artist’s short but prolific life, setting the scene for what he believes truly happened to Vincent in those last 70 days.
As the story goes, Vincent Van Gogh attempted to take his own life in a wheat field during his time in Auvers-sur-Oise, later succumbing to his fatal abdomen wound 30 hours later. This has been the accepted truth for nearly 100 years. More recent studies and writings about the artist have begun to dispute this, bringing to light the many discrepancies in the existing first-hand accounts, documents and an apparent cover-up. Arenberg forces us to question, why, if Vincent was intent on taking his own life, would shoot himself in the abdomen? Why would the wounded artist then walk all the way back to his lodgings only to die 30 hours later? These are the million dollar questions.
In this book, Dr. Arenberg goes toe – to – toe with the old guard who claim that anything other than the traditional story of Van Gogh’s final days is a “blasphemy” on the artist’s legend, almost challenging them to prove otherwise.
If you love art history, true crime and mystery, this book is for you! Dr. Arenberg thoughtfully navigates historical facts with modern forensic science as well as recently revealed documents, to shed new light on this over 100 year old cold case.
lama agsam
november 4, 2023
So what if you were told that he didn’t, in fact, commit suicide as a martyr for his art? This is exactly what the Killing Vincent series and this book, Love and Murder, endeavors to solidify. As ambitious as this book was, it certainly didn’t have much of a shock factor; everything was presented very logically and progressively. Every theory was given its fair chance and viewed from every angle possible; with the twist that the story being relayed really is, somewhat, new. It definitely helped that everything was neutral yet engaging enough and even gentle in introducing theories.
mohammad iqbal
october 30, 2023
More than a century after Vincent’s passing, this book takes a bold stance, erasing the flawed suicide legacy surrounding the iconic artist.
The book meticulously examines the last 70 days of Vincent’s life, presenting a compelling argument against the suicide theory. Arenberg diligently dismantles the existing narrative, highlighting the absence of typical signs of suicide, such as a gunshot wound, and delves into Vincent’s character, fears, and the unusual circumstances of his death. The dedication to scientific inquiry, coupled with detailed forensic analysis, sets this book apart. The narrative weaves together seamlessly, challenging and ultimately disproving the suicide theory, providing a fresh perspective on the artist’s demise. Arenberg’s extensive research shines through.
In conclusion, “Love and Murder” challenges conventional wisdom, offering an alternative perspective on one of history’s most celebrated artists. Whether you’re an art enthusiast, a history buff, or a true crime aficionado, this book is a captivating exploration that will leave you questioning the mysteries surrounding Vincent’s untimely demise.
Dreamcatcher_783
october 27, 2023
His personal life was punctuated by a succession of romantic involvements that ultimately failed to evolve into enduring partnerships. As the investigation unfolds, discrepancies surface in the testimonies of witnesses, underscoring the intricacy of comprehending Van Gogh’s life and the enigmatic circumstances surrounding his demise.
So what if you were told that he didn’t, in fact, commit suicide as a martyr for his art? This is exactly what the Killing Vincent series and this book, Love and Murder, endeavors to solidify. As ambitious as this book was, it certainly didn’t have much of a shock factor; everything was presented very logically and progressively. Every theory was given its fair chance and viewed from every angle possible; with the twist that the story being relayed really is, somewhat, new. It definitely helped that everything was neutral yet engaging enough and even gentle in introducing theory.
priyankan nayak
october 26, 2023
What I really like about this book is that the author has shown his dedication to find out the truth behind van Gogh’s death
constance9
october 26, 2023
What if Vincent van Gogh did not commit suicide as legend has it but was murdered? This is the premise of Love and Murder, Being an avid fan of van Gogh’s paintings myself and holding from a young age a strange fascination for this iconic historical figure (the myth of the mad genius who cut his own ear borders on the incomprehensible, particularly to a young teenager), I was especially intrigued by the premise of this book. I had certainly not expected the author to paint such a realistic and detailed yet human and touching portrayal of the man behind the world-renowned masterpieces. It felt as if I was personally learning so much about van Gogh as a human being, which made me understand his feelings and worldview better.
So, not only does the author do a magnificent job at making the readers understand van Gogh’s strange character, but Dr. Irv Arenberg suggests interesting theories about the painter’s mysterious death. At first, I must admit that I was a bit skeptical because the suicide theory is a narrative so ingrained in our society that it even seems ridiculous to challenge it. However, so many questions remain unanswered: there were no suicide note, crime scene, weapon, autopsy, and witnesses to the act. Didn’t we come to the suicide conclusion a bit too hastily?
any attempt to resolve this real-life famous murder mystery while being presented with all the evidence, the potential suspects and their motives, the witnesses’ accounts, etc., made it entertaining to read. Besides, the author wrote in a very accessible and engaging way and provided an informative, well-researched, and immensely detailed account of van Gogh’s last days. The editing of the book was well done and professional.
In the end, it is definitely a must-read for people who, like me, are curious about the tragic demise of the world-famous painter’s life, which remains one of the biggest mysteries in the art world.
Maryam Newman
october 25, 2023
In 1990, Dr Irv Arenberg, a distinguished ear surgeon and neurotologist, made news headlines internationally when he asserted that world-famous 19th-century artist Vincent van Gogh, long believed to have suffered from epilepsy, had been misdiagnosed and had most likely suffered from a debilitating inner ear disorder. Now, 30 years later, he has released the Killing Vincent Trilogy, which explores the theory that van Gogh’s apparent suicide was, in fact, murder. Love and Murder is the second book in the trilogy. It focuses on the people that van Gogh interacted with during his last 70 days and how his relationships may have influenced his fate.
Arenberg presents a brilliant and insightful exposition of this final, brief period of the artist’s life, detailing what he believes actually happened the day van Gogh was wounded and during the 30 hours thereafter that saw his gradual decline and eventual death. Arenberg demonstrates how incongruent the commonly accepted narrative of van Gogh’s notorious suicide is when compared to his own deductions based on his research team’s carefully compiled body of information and evidence. By the end of the book, I was absolutely convinced that his conclusions were correct.
I was familiar with the suicide story and was fascinated by Arenberg’s allegations and interpretation of events. Parts of the book were wholly absorbing and compelling, particularly his description of van Gogh’s last love affair as well as his version of how events unfolded on the day van Gogh was wounded.
Overall, Love and Murder reads like a cinematic masterpiece waiting to happen.
Love and Murder was, certainly, a rewarding book to read. In 1890 (the year van Gogh died), suicide was both illegal in France and considered irredeemably immoral by the Dutch Reformed Church (to which van Gogh belonged). I hope that Dr Arenberg achieves his dream of erasing this beloved artist’s spiritual and legal criminality and proving, beyond any doubt, who was ultimately responsible for his untimely demise.
francis kapola
october 3, 2023
The author unravels the compelling love story of Vincent and sheds light on the circumstances surrounding his tragic end. What sets this book apart is the author’s dedication to substantiating these claims with concrete evidence.
Given Van Gogh’s status as a renowned artist, his life has been depicted in various films. Dr. Irv Arenberg takes it upon himself to critique nearly all of these films, scrutinizing their portrayal of Van Gogh’s life and events. His mission is to challenge the narratives presented in these cinematic interpretations, adding an intriguing layer to the discussion surrounding Van Gogh’s demise.
Francesco Vetrulli
october 4, 2023
The book is incredibly catchy: it supports the theory that Van Gogh was murdered by clearly giving proofs, quotes, examples and scientific data and not by just talking about it like most books do. The idea that Van Gogh was actually murdered is really interesting and I had never heard about it before and I can say this book convinced me on the matter. The amount of research and data collection that is behind this book is astonishing, not one phrase is said by the author without a source or a study to back it up. It is also worth mentioning how the author uses modern scientific knowledge to shine light on Van Gogh’s life, mind and relationships, without making theories up or spreading rumors but bringing to the table many proofs, letters, paintings, interviews and so much more material you actually might start thinking Van Gogh himself wrote the book.
Love and Murder is a catchy read about Van Gogh’s death that aims to do justice to the Dutch painter and I advise everyone to read it.
kirkus reviews
august 1, 2023
“A feast of analysis to satiate fans of the artist and others who enjoy true crime and fine art.”
Arenberg offers a comprehensive look at the last days of the brilliant artist Vincent VanGogh’s life, with new insights into the possibility that he was murdered.
The author, a retired surgeon, returns to his passion project in the second volume of a trilogy that began with Killing Vincent: The Man, the Myth, and the Murder(2019). He again tackles the untimely 1890 death of Van Gogh at age 37, bringing a physician’s exacting standards to his unified theory of the artist’s death by gunshot (generally accepted as a suicide). The work is far from a biography, although the early chapters are devoted to various phases of the artist’s life before shifting to its main focus: his last 70 days. Readers of narrative-based true crime will find pleasure in the early chapters, where the author takes ample time to settle into the geography and history of his subject matter, but the book really gains momentum when the author sits down with the “accepted facts” of Van Gogh’s death and works to dismantle any scientific basis for the notion of suicide, beginning with the artist’s state of mind; he makes his arguments with sound forensics. Such an assertion is a significant one on its own; some in the art world, he notes repeatedly, consider it “blasphemy.” The author pushes forward nonetheless, setting the stage for his theory that Van Gogh was shot and killed by a man he once trusted. He provides a list of suspects before delving into their relationships to the artist, their potential motives, and their alibis (or lack thereof).
The book has some fun contextual detours along the way, such as an account of how the alleged murder weapon was found decades after the crime, just as a major motion picture about Van Gogh—Lust for Life(1956)—was coming out. After a thorough examination of several competing theories, the author follows with a blow-by-blow account of the day of the alleged crime. The book follows a traditional academic structure, which is comforting, if sometimes a bit staid. Arenberg’s commitment to this research-based style is admirable and engaging, though occasionally repetitive. A few surprising sources of intrigue, such as the complicated relationship between Van Gogh and his personal doctor, may remind readers of the fabled rivalry between Antonio Salieri and Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. The book’s portrayal of the heart-wrenching love between Vincent and his equally ill-fated brother, Theo, is also compelling. As the author works to refute several theories of Van Gogh’s death, however, one may wonder about such exclamatory, single-minded sentences as “Suicide… No! Murder… YES!” Nevertheless, the case he presents is deeply researched, utterly compelling, and often convincing. Some wonderfully cinematic passages depict the beauty of rural France decades before the Great War, an illicit love affair, and, of course, Van Gogh’s inimitable artistic genius. It all makes for a deeper, richer read than many other research-based texts offer.
alexander c schmoock
may 17, 2023
My rating for this book is 5 out of 5 stars. Great pacing, brilliant storytelling, and strategic placement of pictures are the qualities that earned it a perfect rating. I also have to add the fact that it was professionally edited. It’s a mark of a good writer to make the reader feel as though he is a part of the character’s life. Dr. Irv Arenberg did precisely that and helped open my eyes to different theories of what actually went down on that fateful day in July, the day of Van Gogh’s death.
The life of Vincent van Gogh was nothing short of exceptional.