Portrait of an Unknown Lady

Portrait of an Unknown Lady is a captivating story of art and illusion, secrets and schemes, and the relationships between what is lived, what is told, what is remembered, and what is real. It is a thrilling exploration of the enigmatic genius who forged portraits of the city's elite and disappeared without trace.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 208 pages
Publication date: 03 March 2022
Publisher: Vintage Publishing

In this captivating tale of art and illusion, secrets and schemes, the question arises: who can we trust, and what is truly real? This mesmerizing story, crafted by the internationally acclaimed author of Optic Nerve, delves into the depths of human nature and the complexities of perception.

Upon arriving at a hotel in Buenos Aires, a woman checks in under a pseudonym, adorned in a black fur shawl and carrying no luggage. She stands alone, yet her presence exudes an air of immediate importance. Over the course of the following days and nights, she unfolds a tale that begins with a secret shared in a local bathhouse, unveiling a vast conspiracy of art forgery and fraud on a mesmerizing scale. At the center of this intriguing narrative lies an enigmatic genius who, for years, created masterful portraits of the city's elite, only to vanish without a trace.

This story of influence and intrigue unfolds in a world where nothing is as it seems. The author cautions us not to expect conventional names, numbers, or dates, but rather a more subtle form of reckoning. As we delve deeper into the narrative, we are invited to explore the intricate relationships between what is experienced, what is narrated, what is remembered, and what is deemed authentic.

Portrait of an Unknown Lady is a captivating exploration of the human condition, written in a mordant, irresistible voice that keeps readers hooked from start to finish. With its sharp surprises and unexpected twists, this novel invites us to question the very essence of authenticity in both life and art. It is a thrilling journey that explores the boundaries between reality and illusion, challenging our perceptions and leaving us with a deeper understanding of the human psyche.

Translated from the Spanish by Thomas Bunstead, this masterpiece of literary translation adds another layer of depth and richness to the already captivating story. The seamless translation captures the essence of the original text, allowing readers to fully immerse themselves in the world of the unknown lady and her enigmatic journey.

In conclusion, Portrait of an Unknown Lady is a must-read for anyone who appreciates a well-crafted tale of art and illusion, secrets and schemes. With its captivating narrative, thought-provoking themes, and masterful translation, this novel offers a unique and immersive experience that will leave readers pondering the mysteries of human nature long after the last page is turned.

Weight: 218g
Dimension: 134 x 215 x 19 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781787303249