First published 2008
Rupert Brigg arrives in Athens during the summer of 1963 with a clear mission: acquire classical art pieces for his Uncle William's collection. The city proves more treacherous than expected. Diplomats speak in riddles, women conceal their true intentions, and authentic artifacts blend seamlessly with clever fakes. Rupert travels to the remote island of Aspros, where artists and aristocrats gather in an exclusive circle. Each harbors private secrets. He locates the exact pieces he seeks, but the discovery comes with complications. Whispers circulate about political rebellion, art forgeries, and possible murder. Rupert carries the weight of a failed marriage that ended in tragedy. As he navigates this world where nothing appears genuine, he must determine what deserves trust and what threatens his safety. The beautiful objects he covets may cost more than money.
Genres: art, historical-fiction, mystery, crime
Vibes: suspenseful, thought-provoking
Tropes: enemies-to-lovers, unreliable-narrator
Setting: Athens, Aspros
Period: 1963
256 pages · Kindle Edition · Grove Press