Renowned Author and Academic, Guy Mankowski, Unveils Gripping New Novel
23 November 2023
Written by: Callum Thomas
Guy Mankowski, author of titles such as The Intimates, Letters from Yelena, and How I Left The National Grid, is set to captivate readers once again with his latest literary offering, You Complete the Masterpiece.
Guy Mankowski, author of titles such as The Intimates, Letters from Yelena, and How I Left The National Grid, is set to captivate readers once again with his latest literary offering, You Complete the Masterpiece.
In this thought-provoking novel, Guy – who is also a Lecturer in Creative Writing at the University of Lincoln, UK – delves into the mysterious world of Jude, a Millennial author catapulted from obscurity to the forefront of literary intrigue. The catalyst for Jude’s ascent is an award bestowed by the enigmatic Surrealist Spanish author, Alberto Valdez, whose unsolved disappearance shrouds the gesture in mystery.
You Complete the Masterpiece weaves elements of a jet-setting thriller, a literary puzzle, and a contemporary exploration of corruption in the era of #MeToo; journeying through the inter-generational divide and spanning from Barcelona’s vibrant streets to the sun-drenched souks of Morocco.
As Jude unravels the dark secrets concealed within Valdez’s final masterpiece, he grapples with profound questions about identity, understanding, and the price one pays for achieving life’s deepest desires. The book invites readers to explore the intricacies of human connection, the impact of generational disparities, and the unveiling of hidden truths.
A prolific writer, Guy is known for his diverse literary repertoire, including novels An Honest Deceit and “Dead Rock Stars”, and 2021’s Albion’s Secret History: Snapshots of England’s Pop Rebels and Outsiders which saw him examine the varied cultural figures who have served to define England.
Speaking about Guy’s new novel, bestselling author Ruth Dugdall said: “Perceptive and intimate, you’ll want to savour every line in this timely book.”
In, You Complete the Masterpiece, Guy brings his wealth of literary experience to the fore; addressing pressing issues surrounding the media’s role in exposing corruption, institutional protection of corrupt individuals, and contemporary masculinity, drawing poignant connections to the #MeToo movement.
Mankowski commented: “It’s fascinating how much novels have the room to reflect bigger themes going on in the world. It was curious for me to see some of the subplots and themes in the novel – particularly interrogating men’s roles as allies in the #MeToo movement – come up with the story about Jenny Hermoso in the World Cup final, just as the book was announced.
“I hope people can really connect with the themes and characters in the novel. I want to thank those that helped inspire the story and helped its publication come about.”
Mankowski has also recently signed to The Hamilton Agency, who represent writers such as John Robb, Paul Mason, Julie Burchill, Tim Burgess and Tim Booth, for his book and film rights.
Published by Collective Ink (Roundfire), the novel is scheduled for release in the UK, US, and Canada in June 2024. You Complete the Masterpiece is available to pre-order now.