First published 1985
Roman Grey deals in antiques and carries gypsy blood. The authorities select him for an unusual assignment: protecting the Hungarian royal crown during its display at St. Patrick's Cathedral in New York. Grey expects thieves and troublemakers, but the crown holds more than ceremonial value. As he stands watch over the ancient artifact, Grey discovers that someone has buried secrets within its history for over a hundred years. The crown becomes both treasure and puzzle, drawing Grey into mysteries that stretch back through decades of European upheaval. What began as a straightforward security job transforms into something far more personal. Grey must decide whether to protect the crown's official story or expose the truth hidden in its past. The weight of history presses down on him as heavily as the gold and jewels he guards.
Genres: historical-fiction, 20th-century, adventure, mystery, crime, thriller
Vibes: atmospheric, fast-paced, suspenseful
Tropes: amateur-sleuth, mystery-investigation, secrets-and-lies
Setting: Hungary, New York, St. Patrick's Cathedral
Period: 20th Century
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