Trace of Deceit: A Novel

The author of "A Dangerous Duet" returns with the next book in her Victorian mystery series, following a daring female painter and the Scotland Yard detective investigating her brother's suspicious death. The painter seeks to uncover the truth behind her brother's murder, while the detective navigates a world of deceit and secrets in their search for a valuable French painting.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 416 pages
Publication date: 20 February 2020
Publisher: HarperCollins Publishers Inc

From the acclaimed author of "A Dangerous Duet" comes the thrilling sequel to her Victorian mystery series, delving into the captivating world of a daring female painter and the Scotland Yard detective tasked with investigating her brother's mysterious demise.

Annabel Rowe, a young painter, embarks on a perilous quest to uncover the truth behind her brother's murder, as Inspector Matthew Hallam of Scotland Yard informs her upon discovering him searching her brother's flat for clues. While the news may be unexpected, given Edwin's past as a dissolute risk-taker and art forger, who had sworn to reform, Annabel cannot deny the sense of foreboding that accompanies his demise. After years of attributing their parents' deaths to his reckless behavior, Annabel now confronts the daunting question of who perpetrated this violent and deliberate act.

A valuable French painting, which Edwin had been restoring for an auction house, is missing from his studio. The urgency to find the painting intensifies, as it holds the key to unraveling the mystery. However, the owner of the artwork claims it was destroyed in a warehouse fire years ago. Undeterred, Annabel leverages her position as a painter at the prestigious Slade School of Art and as Edwin's closest relative to argue that she is indispensable to Matthew's investigation.

As they embark on their search for the elusive painting, Matthew and Annabel unearth a web of deceit and viciousness that extends far beyond the opulent confines of the auction house. Their journey takes them into the murky underworld of politics, corruption, and secrets, where they encounter individuals willing to kill to protect their own interests. With each step, they become increasingly aware of the dangerous forces at play, and the stakes rise higher than ever before.

In this captivating tale, the author skillfully weaves together a complex plot, filled with intricate characterizations and suspenseful moments. The reader is transported to the heart of Victorian London, where art, politics, and danger collide in a thrilling and suspenseful dance. The vivid descriptions and atmospheric settings bring the story to life, immersing the reader in the world of the painter and the detective as they navigate through a treacherous landscape.

"The Missing Painting" is a testament to the author's talent for creating compelling mysteries and intricate plots. It is a must-read for fans of historical fiction, mystery, and suspense, as it offers a captivating blend of art, mystery, and intrigue. Prepare to be captivated by the twists and turns of this thrilling sequel and join Annabel and Matthew in their quest for justice and truth.

Weight: 308g
Dimension: 135 x 202 x 34 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780062796622