Counterfeit Conspiracies

Counterfeit Conspiracies by Ritter Ames is the first book in A Bodies of Art Mystery series.  Laurel Beacham is an art recovery expert (she reclaims masterpieces for their owners).  Laurel grew up in a life of privilege but her father managed to spend (aka gamble) away the family fortune (and then died while skiing).  Laurel goes to meet up with Simon Babbage (ex-lover) for her new assignment and discovers he is missing.  Laurel must rescue Simon and a King Arthur’s sword and scabbard from a ruthless criminal.  While tracking down Simon, Laurel notices someone following her.  Who is he and why is he following Laurel?  Friend or foe?  Read Counterfeit Conspiracies to find out if Laurel can find Simon and the priceless icon.

I found Counterfeit Conspiracies to be very forced (contrived, exaggerated).  I thought this was a mystery, but more attention was paid to Laurel’s Prada purse (which was mentioned constantly) than the mystery (which was child’s play to solve).  The novel was mostly about running, being chased, and gun fire (and let us not forget the Prada purse).  The novel was fast paced (for the most part), but everything just felt artificial (forced).  For a first book many things are not explained (and I have to admit that after a while I really did not care).  I give Counterfeit Conspiracies 3 out of 5 stars (it was okay).  This book was just not for me. 

The other book in A Bodies of Art Mystery series are Marked Masters (review to follow soon).  I received a complimentary copy of Counterfeit Conspiracies from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

I am off to watch the Downton Abbey finale.  I am looking forward to it and dreading it (I do not want the series to end).  Have a superb Sunday evening and Happy Reading!

Kris
The Avid Reader