Artist Colony: A Novel

Sarah Cunningham arrives in Carmel-by-the-Sea to bury her older sister, Ada Belle, who has committed suicide. Sarah, a young Modernist painter, sets out to discover why her sister killed herself despite her fame and upcoming exhibition. She becomes a secret sleuth, navigating misogyny and racism, and celebrates the artistic talents of early women painters, sisterhood, and the determination to uncover the truth.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 328 pages
Publication date: 21 September 2021
Publisher: She Writes Press

From the bustling streets of Paris to the serene shores of Carmel-by-the-Sea, a young Modernist painter named Sarah Cunningham embarks on a poignant journey. Her arrival is marked by a profound shock as she learns of the suspicious death of her older sister, Ada Belle. The question that haunts her mind is why would such a talented artist take her own life? As Sarah delves deeper into the investigation, she uncovers a web of secrets and lies that intertwine with Ada Belle's artistic life.

Her plein air paintings, renowned for their beauty and authenticity, were set to gain even greater recognition with an upcoming exhibition of portraitures. However, Sarah's pursuit of the truth is met with resistance and discrimination, as she encounters misogyny and racism in this seemingly idyllic locale. Undeterred, she embarks on a mission to unravel the mystery surrounding Ada Belle's death, driven by her unwavering commitment to protect her sister's artistic legacy and give her the farewell she truly deserves.

"The Painter's Sister" weaves together elements of mystery, historical fiction, and artistic exploration. It pays tribute to the remarkable talents of early women painters, showcasing their struggles and triumphs against societal expectations. The novel delves into the deep bonds of sisterhood, exploring the unbreakable connection between two sisters who shared a passion for art. It also explores the muse that is beautiful scenery, capturing the essence of nature's beauty and its profound impact on artistic expression.

At its core, "The Painter's Sister" is a story of determination and resilience. Sarah Cunningham refuses to let the circumstances surrounding Ada Belle's death overshadow her sister's artistic achievements. She confronts the challenges head-on, using her own artistic skills to gather evidence and piece together the truth. Through her determination, she not only uncovers the truth but also helps to preserve Ada Belle's legacy, ensuring that her artistic contributions are remembered and celebrated.

In the end, "The Painter's Sister" is a tribute to the power of art, the strength of sisterhood, and the indomitable spirit of a young woman who refuses to let injustice stand in the way of her quest for truth and justice. It is a novel that will captivate readers with its rich narrative, compelling characters, and beautiful prose, reminding us of the importance of honoring the artistic contributions of women and the sacrifices they made to pursue their dreams.

Weight: 436g
Dimension: 139 x 214 x 24 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781647421694