Hoodwinked

by R.J. Kaiser

Two paintings of sunflowers wind up on a Caribbean island -- one a priceless original Van Gogh, the other a clever fake.

Zoe Marton is positive the painting her grandfather brought her back to the States after World War I is the authentic Van Gogh. Bill Blue is equally sure that the one his grandmother bought from the World War II veteran who liberated it is the real thing. And the art expert who knew which was which has been brutally murdered.

With both paintings in the possession of mogul Simon Van Biers, Zoe and Billy don't know what story to believe or who to trust -- including each other. Should Billy listen to the old voodoo priestess who warns him of treachery? Can Zoe risk trusting her heart to the charming rodeo start, knowing that Billy might be romancing her just to hedge his bet? Or should they band together, hoping to find safety -- and success -- in numbers?

With the risk of danger escalating and the prize slipping from their grasp, only one thing is certain -- nobody gives up a Van Gogh without a fight.

448 pages, Mass Market Paperback

First published January 1, 2001

About the author

The marriage writing-team formed by Ronn Kaiser and Janice Kaiser have been writing full-time for 18 years as R.J. Kaiser, sharing their personal and professional lives. They wrote more than a dozen mystery-thriller and general-interest-fiction titles. Most of their books have been critically acclaimed and published around the globe. His relationship mysteries are somewhat unique in the field and have won a wide following among both female and male readers.

Reviews

[PK McCann]

Interesting premise. Likeable and Detestable characters. I found the progression of the story a little erratic, and the actions of our primary protagonists a little abrupt and illogical. Our antagonists escalated the conflict VERY abruptly, with little insight into the actual pressures that cause them to take such drastic measures. The action scenes were quite vibrant and well described, even if a little "over the top". The final outcome wrapped things up almost a little TOO neatly... but still, a fairly satisfying end.

Overall, not a bad read, but a rushed progression of the character connection(s) and slightly unplausible decision making by the characters. Quick pace, and easy read. Not a bad weekend time-killer.

[Teena]

Fast moving with some twists, maybe fake Van Goghs, and eclectic characters.

[Elena Mora]

Tre e mezzo