She’s a master at spotting a forgery . . . and knowing how to create one. But can she solve a decades-old mystery?
The media spotlight is the last thing art thief and forger Sophie Williams needs. But when one of three long-missing royal portraits turns up in Germany at her best friend’s art gallery, the spotlight is exactly what she gets. Since the tragic deaths of Princess Johanna of Neuhansberg and her two children forty years ago, the whereabouts of these portraits have been unknown . . . and the timing of their reappearance—just days before a new prince’s coronation—reignites questions surrounding the infamous accident.
Then Sophie’s best friend vanishes, and a rumor about hidden treasure connected to the paintings surfaces, seemingly confirmed by a cryptic message on the back of the first canvas. Convinced that finding the other two portraits will lead to her friend, Sophie begins a twisty investigation that pits her against other ruthless treasure hunters, a handsome investigator who seems to dog her trail at every turn, and a mysterious group that offers help, wearing an emblem identical to one on the painting.
From Germany’s grand castles and soaring cathedrals through the Alps to the canals of Venice, Sophie must choose her allies carefully if she hopes to find the portraits, rescue her best friend—and perhaps save a throne—before time runs out.
The media spotlight is the last thing art thief and forger Sophie Williams needs. But when one of three long-missing royal portraits turns up in Germany at her best friend’s art gallery, the spotlight is exactly what she gets. Since the tragic deaths of Princess Johanna of Neuhansberg and her two children forty years ago, the whereabouts of these portraits have been unknown . . . and the timing of their reappearance—just days before a new prince’s coronation—reignites questions surrounding the infamous accident.
Then Sophie’s best friend vanishes, and a rumor about hidden treasure connected to the paintings surfaces, seemingly confirmed by a cryptic message on the back of the first canvas. Convinced that finding the other two portraits will lead to her friend, Sophie begins a twisty investigation that pits her against other ruthless treasure hunters, a handsome investigator who seems to dog her trail at every turn, and a mysterious group that offers help, wearing an emblem identical to one on the painting.
From Germany’s grand castles and soaring cathedrals through the Alps to the canals of Venice, Sophie must choose her allies carefully if she hopes to find the portraits, rescue her best friend—and perhaps save a throne—before time runs out.
MY THOUGHTS
Oh my goodness! This book was a thrill ride from start to finish! It’s the very definition of unputdownable. I couldn’t read it fast enough. It has everything I love in a good thriller: intriguing mysteries, nonstop action, great characters, gorgeous settings, a powerful message of faith, and so much more!
I loved the friendship between Sophie and Lise. They were so supportive of each other. I liked how they were both trying to help people and right wrongs. It was so great to read about women supporting other women.
There was a lot going on in this book, but it never felt like too much. I loved all the twists and turns.
I’ve read a lot of great books this year, but this one tops the list so far. I’m so glad it’s the start of a new series. I’m very eager for more adventures with the Speranza team. I’ll be thinking about this story for a while! Needless to say, I highly, highly recommend it!
I received a copy of this book and voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and comments are my honest opinion.
FIVE STARS
That quote is SO good. Love it. :D
ReplyDeleteMe too! It's such a great reminder! :D
DeleteI love a good thriller that combines mystery, action, and compelling characters, and this one seems to tick all the boxes!
ReplyDeleteIt was fantastic! It had so many elements I love, so I was pretty sure I was gonna like it. It blew my expectations out of the water. :D
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