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On the Run #6
Treacherous
Zoe loves working as a consultant for a company that specializes in art theft recovery. Her only complaint is that the jobs are few and far between, so when she meets an eccentric collector who is on the hunt for a painting of a blue butterfly that might—or might not—exist, she jumps at the chance to look for it. She comes across shady dealers and a confusion of clues as her search for the elusive painting takes her from tropical destinations to the cobblestone streets of Madrid. Treacherous is the sixth installment of the lighthearted On The Run series from USA Today best-selling author Sara Rosett, which features globetrotting art heists and international intrigue.
266 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2017
About the author
Sara Rosett
48 books1,741 followersUSA Today bestselling author Sara Rosett writes lighthearted mysteries for readers who enjoy atmospheric settings, fun characters, and puzzling whodunits.
She is the author of the High Society Lady Detective historical mystery series as well as three contemporary cozy series, the Murder on Location series, the On the Run series, and the Ellie Avery series. Sara also teaches an online course, How to Outline A Cozy Mystery.
Publishers Weekly called Sara's books, “satisfying,” “well-executed,” and “sparkling.” Sara loves to get new stamps in her passport and considers dark chocolate a daily requirement. Find out more at SaraRosett.com.
She is the author of the High Society Lady Detective historical mystery series as well as three contemporary cozy series, the Murder on Location series, the On the Run series, and the Ellie Avery series. Sara also teaches an online course, How to Outline A Cozy Mystery.
Publishers Weekly called Sara's books, “satisfying,” “well-executed,” and “sparkling.” Sara loves to get new stamps in her passport and considers dark chocolate a daily requirement. Find out more at SaraRosett.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
December 27, 2017
Treacherous is a fun, fast-paced cozy mystery featuring Zoe Andrews as an art recovery consultant. She and her cybersecurity expert husband, Jack, live in Dallas but each travel frequently for their respective careers, which is something different than a "traditional" cozy. She accepts a job to try--try being the operative word-to find a rare blue butterfly painting from the mid-1800's. Her travels take her to Denver, Tampa, the bayous of Louisiana and to Madrid. With each new destination, the pace intensifies and so does the danger. Crosses and double-crosses all combine for an exciting and surprising conclusion.
Zoe is a very likeable protagonist and I felt like I had a front-row seat in the book as an active participant on her quest for the painting. Although I usually read more "traditional" cozies, I really enjoyed this book. At the end, the author details some factual basis for the story in a mini-bibliography with sources on butterflies, art theft, cybersecurity and her travels. I was very impressed with her knowledge of the subject matter, about which I knew nothing, before reading this book. I plan on reading the prior books in the series since this is the first one I read.
** Thanks to the author for a complimentary copy.. My review is voluntary..
Zoe is a very likeable protagonist and I felt like I had a front-row seat in the book as an active participant on her quest for the painting. Although I usually read more "traditional" cozies, I really enjoyed this book. At the end, the author details some factual basis for the story in a mini-bibliography with sources on butterflies, art theft, cybersecurity and her travels. I was very impressed with her knowledge of the subject matter, about which I knew nothing, before reading this book. I plan on reading the prior books in the series since this is the first one I read.
** Thanks to the author for a complimentary copy.. My review is voluntary..
January 10, 2018
From Dallas to Vail to Grand Isle to Madrid, Zoe Hunter is on the job looking for a painting that may or may not exist. The more she finds out about it, the more intense, dangerous and complicated her task becomes. Zoe, an art recovery specialist, is a strong woman who is out to prove herself and enhance her reputation after being turned down for a high profile job in Dallas. While her employer has complete confidence in her, apparently episodes from her past cause others to doubt her professionalism. Consequently, Zoe will do almost anything to prove herself by tracking down the existence of a painting she has been solicited to locate by a very wealthy businessman.
I really enjoyed this book. It was fast-paced, set in multiple interesting locations, and I especially enjoyed reading about Madrid, where most of the book takes place. Treacherous is the sixth book in Sara Rosett's On the Run series but can be read as a standalone, although there were some hints to other intriguing escapades in which Zoe has been involved and which have me wanting to start the series at the beginning.
I received a copy of this book from the author. All thoughts and opinions are solely my own.
I really enjoyed this book. It was fast-paced, set in multiple interesting locations, and I especially enjoyed reading about Madrid, where most of the book takes place. Treacherous is the sixth book in Sara Rosett's On the Run series but can be read as a standalone, although there were some hints to other intriguing escapades in which Zoe has been involved and which have me wanting to start the series at the beginning.
I received a copy of this book from the author. All thoughts and opinions are solely my own.
December 31, 2017
Treacherous by Sara Rosett is book six in her On The Run series and is a cozy mystery without a murder in it and can be read without having read the other five books. Ms. Rosett does a very good job introducing her characters to first time readers.
For me the book started a little slow and it took me a little while to get into the story but once I did I loved it.
I can't wait to read the other five book in her series.
For me the book started a little slow and it took me a little while to get into the story but once I did I loved it.
I can't wait to read the other five book in her series.
January 15, 2018
I spent a cold Sunday afternoon with Zoe Andrews as she traveled from her Dallas home to various places around the country and finally to Madrid is search of a painting for her new client.
Zoe has struggled to establish herself in the art community as a legitimate art recovery specialist. First, she is viewed by many as Harrington Throckmorton’s assistant, a role she has happily held, but now she wants to have her own business and clients. Secondly, there is the matter of some rather unfortunate incidents in the past that left her with a cloud of doubt hovering over her, even though she was cleared of any wrong doing.
Now she has a client of her own who is desperate to acquire a paining of a blue butterfly painted in the mid 1800s. The first problem with this mission is that no one is even sure the paining actually exists. The second issue is the basis for both the name of the series and this title Treacherous is the sixth book in Rosett’s On the Run series. On the run pretty much describes what Zoe’s job entails. Running around the world in pursuit of elusive works of art , dealing with often less than honest characters in the art community and often ending up in treacherous situations. In this case, treachery is the best word to describe Zoe’s time in Madrid, hence the name of the book.
This is the second book in the series I have read and the first since Zoe and her partner Jack married. Jack runs a cyber-security firm, and while he does have a role in this book, his character is not as involved as in the first book I read. There are a few other reoccurring characters-FBI agents, Harrington Throckmorton and various art contacts, but for the most part, this series is all about Zoe and Jack.
One thing that is a bit interesting about this series is that it is hard to buttonhole. While Rosett’s other tow series are decidedly “cozy,” there is nothing cozy about the On the Run series. It is fast paced like a thriller, it doesn’t really qualify as such because readers are really only following Zoe. We don’t know follow the bad guys throughout the book as in a true thriller, has no graphic violence, sex nor a huge body count.
However you want to categorize Treacherous, it made for a great Sunday afternoon read.
Zoe has struggled to establish herself in the art community as a legitimate art recovery specialist. First, she is viewed by many as Harrington Throckmorton’s assistant, a role she has happily held, but now she wants to have her own business and clients. Secondly, there is the matter of some rather unfortunate incidents in the past that left her with a cloud of doubt hovering over her, even though she was cleared of any wrong doing.
Now she has a client of her own who is desperate to acquire a paining of a blue butterfly painted in the mid 1800s. The first problem with this mission is that no one is even sure the paining actually exists. The second issue is the basis for both the name of the series and this title Treacherous is the sixth book in Rosett’s On the Run series. On the run pretty much describes what Zoe’s job entails. Running around the world in pursuit of elusive works of art , dealing with often less than honest characters in the art community and often ending up in treacherous situations. In this case, treachery is the best word to describe Zoe’s time in Madrid, hence the name of the book.
This is the second book in the series I have read and the first since Zoe and her partner Jack married. Jack runs a cyber-security firm, and while he does have a role in this book, his character is not as involved as in the first book I read. There are a few other reoccurring characters-FBI agents, Harrington Throckmorton and various art contacts, but for the most part, this series is all about Zoe and Jack.
One thing that is a bit interesting about this series is that it is hard to buttonhole. While Rosett’s other tow series are decidedly “cozy,” there is nothing cozy about the On the Run series. It is fast paced like a thriller, it doesn’t really qualify as such because readers are really only following Zoe. We don’t know follow the bad guys throughout the book as in a true thriller, has no graphic violence, sex nor a huge body count.
However you want to categorize Treacherous, it made for a great Sunday afternoon read.
January 19, 2018
Treacherous by Sara Rosett was a nice change of pace for my taste. I was sent this book for free in exchange for a fair and honest review of it. I am happy to say that I loved this book. It was an easy read, and I had a hard time putting it down. I just wanted to sit and figure out what happened. This was a very fast paced book that made it easy to just keep turning the pages. Rosett’s writing is easy to follow, and there weren’t so many characters that I got lost trying to figure out who belonged with whom, or what their connections were in the story. It was all very believable, and I am thankful that I had a chance to read this book. Once I finish the pile of books waiting for me to read here at home, I will definitely be heading to the library to find the rest of this series.
I don’t want to give a plot summary, because that’s easily readable on the back of the book, as well as on other people’s reviews. However, I must say that I do like the characters Zoe and Jack and how well they work together. Having never read any other books by Rosett, I did not really have a good back story on these two, so it would be nice to go back and know the real story of these two. I promise if you read this book, you will not regret it!
I don’t want to give a plot summary, because that’s easily readable on the back of the book, as well as on other people’s reviews. However, I must say that I do like the characters Zoe and Jack and how well they work together. Having never read any other books by Rosett, I did not really have a good back story on these two, so it would be nice to go back and know the real story of these two. I promise if you read this book, you will not regret it!
January 5, 2018
Although I enjoy all of Ms. Rosett's series, I will admit that "On The Run" with Zoe and Jack is my favorite. There is mystery, action and we always get to 'travel' to new locations. The descriptions of Madrid made me 'see' myself there and I know that the descriptions of Tampa and Louisiana were accurate. I love learning more about Zoe's profession as a recovery specialist.
The writing style is easy to read with great characters that are continuing to develop. This book had my interest in the few couple of pages and then kept it. I didn't even want to put this book away when my flight landed and it was time to change planes. I can't wait for the next one in the series! This series just gets better and better!
Note: I received an advance copy.
The writing style is easy to read with great characters that are continuing to develop. This book had my interest in the few couple of pages and then kept it. I didn't even want to put this book away when my flight landed and it was time to change planes. I can't wait for the next one in the series! This series just gets better and better!
Note: I received an advance copy.
January 20, 2018
Talk about International Intrigue!! What a great book. I really enjoyed reading this one. I will have to go back and read the other On The Run novels!
The characters were quite interesting especially Mr. Thacker, the art enthusiast and collector. I really liked Zoe even though there were a couple times where I thought she was getting herself too far into a project without better information. But I guess that's what happens when you are looking for a piece of art that may or may not have ever been created!! And Zoe and her husband Jack have a great relationship and definitely help each other out of crazy situations!!
All in all the story was a great read and each chapter made you want to continue on to the next!
It will be interesting to see what the next piece of art Zoe is in the process of finding!
The characters were quite interesting especially Mr. Thacker, the art enthusiast and collector. I really liked Zoe even though there were a couple times where I thought she was getting herself too far into a project without better information. But I guess that's what happens when you are looking for a piece of art that may or may not have ever been created!! And Zoe and her husband Jack have a great relationship and definitely help each other out of crazy situations!!
All in all the story was a great read and each chapter made you want to continue on to the next!
It will be interesting to see what the next piece of art Zoe is in the process of finding!
January 3, 2018
An interesting mystery. I didn't expect the ending. Zoe is going around the US looking for a painting, when a lead takes her to Spain. After she finally finds the painting, several things happen and now she isn't sure who she can trust. She isn't even sure if the guy who wants the painting can be trusted. All she wants is to establish her reputation in art theft recovery, but that may not be happening now. I really liked this story. I want to read more of her other adventures.
January 19, 2018
Fun fast-paced mystery that kept me entertained and intrigued with great characters and well-crafted plot with globetrotting, twists and turns. As soon as I started reading, I knew I wouldn't be able to put the book down until I got to the end. Even though it's the sixth book in the On the Run series, it is the first I have read by Sara Rosett and I had no issue reading it as a standalone. I enjoyed it so much, I want to read all of the books in this series. If you enjoy a good mystery that will keep you on your toes, you should read Treacherous. I voluntarily read an advance reader copy of this book and purchased a copy for my Kindle.
July 15, 2019
This is such a fun series! These are all great reads for those who enjoy an little art-related adventure in their cozy mystery. Zoe Hunter is a great lead character.
November 15, 2017
Another spellbinding adventure for Zoe. Jack is involved but this is really Zoe’s adventure. She wants to be known on her own as an art theft consultant and an opportunity arises when she gets a statue in the mail and it turns out that this was a way to get her involved with finding a rare butterfly painting for a rabid collector. But of course it is not just about the painting. There are cyber security issues and Zoe travels to Florida and to to Europe to find the painting and there is a murder and Zoe is in the thick of it. Zoe and Jack eventually figure things out with the help of the police and the perpetrator of the actual potential cyber crime is revealed at the end. It is a well thought out plot, takes you traveling with Zoe, and keeps you guessing. Totally a book that I could not put down. A wonderful addition to the series. I received it as an
April 4, 2018
The last of the On the Run books (as far as I know.) This one was slightly more interesting even than its predecessors. Zoe is trying to make a name for herself as an 'art detective', since Throckmorton's clients would rather work with him than with an unknown woman. A wealthy man hires her to find a stolen statue. When she returns it, he invites her to his home in Vail, Colorado, where he shows her a blue butterfly painting. He thinks there is a companion piece and wants her to track it down. She ends up in Madrid, among a welter of people who may or may not be who they claim they are. For once, she isn't in immediate danger of being thrown into some European jail, but she comes close. Her husband Jack is learning about cybersecurity, and when some rogue code enters the picture he joins in to help. Another good read, with several twists and turns.
February 25, 2021
Edited to correct Ms. Rosett's misspelled last name. Sincere apologies, Sara Rosette!
Sara Rosett’s sixth book in the “On the Run” series was fun and interesting. I’ve just finished “Treacherous,” having read the previous books in the series chronologically. This book earned a solid 4 stars for entertainment, adventure, and an interesting plot line.
In addition to the art theft theme that has been featured in the last few books, computer hacking and cyber security are also prominent themes in this story.
Zoe is solo for the majority of the story, although Jack does appear and play a significant role near the end. Beautiful locations artfully described in this book include Vail and Breckinridge, Colorado, southern Louisiana, and Madrid, Spain. I have no doubt that if Sara Rosett had not become a fiction writer, she would be happily creating the most effective travel brochures in existence.
Aside from the hunt for a painting that might not exist, I can’t say much about the plot without sharing spoilers. So, just know this is a fun read, consistent with previous books in the series. I recommend this book to anyone want thriller-lite or cozy mystery genre reading, or anyone who is interested in travel to amazing locations.
Looks like there’s one book left in this series, “Duplicity.” I’m looking forward to reading it and simultaneously bummed to reach the end of the series.
Sara Rosett’s sixth book in the “On the Run” series was fun and interesting. I’ve just finished “Treacherous,” having read the previous books in the series chronologically. This book earned a solid 4 stars for entertainment, adventure, and an interesting plot line.
In addition to the art theft theme that has been featured in the last few books, computer hacking and cyber security are also prominent themes in this story.
Zoe is solo for the majority of the story, although Jack does appear and play a significant role near the end. Beautiful locations artfully described in this book include Vail and Breckinridge, Colorado, southern Louisiana, and Madrid, Spain. I have no doubt that if Sara Rosett had not become a fiction writer, she would be happily creating the most effective travel brochures in existence.
Aside from the hunt for a painting that might not exist, I can’t say much about the plot without sharing spoilers. So, just know this is a fun read, consistent with previous books in the series. I recommend this book to anyone want thriller-lite or cozy mystery genre reading, or anyone who is interested in travel to amazing locations.
Looks like there’s one book left in this series, “Duplicity.” I’m looking forward to reading it and simultaneously bummed to reach the end of the series.
November 16, 2017
Since this is one of my favorite series, I was thrilled to see there was another adventure with Zoe and Jack. Zoe is now working to establish herself as stolen-art detective. This case brings back the thrill and excitement of being "on the run" that made this series so addictive. While pursuing an elusive painting of a blue butterfly, Zoe is also being pursued by someone determined to get to the painting first. The unpredictable twists and turns of the plot are enhanced by the Madrid setting. A very intriguing cozy thriller!
November 16, 2018
Like the other books in the "On the run" series, I loved accompanying Zoe & Jack on their latest adventure.
I loved the way Madrid and some of its attractions / popular spots were described - it led me to google some more about them and add to my travel bucket list :-)
I am sad that it is the last in the series as of now and have my fingers crossed that we get to tag along with Zoe on more of her adventures in her journey to establish herself as The Art Recovery Specialist!!
I loved the way Madrid and some of its attractions / popular spots were described - it led me to google some more about them and add to my travel bucket list :-)
I am sad that it is the last in the series as of now and have my fingers crossed that we get to tag along with Zoe on more of her adventures in her journey to establish herself as The Art Recovery Specialist!!
April 29, 2019
Another great read from the On the Run series by Sara Rosett. Zoe finds herself in Madrid to locate a painting for a new client. Jack shows up after his conference in Germany is over, and the two try to decide who is trustworthy, and who to stay away from. Tensions rise when cybercrime shows up.
Again, I enjoyed the characters Zoe and Jack, as well as the other well-defined players in this twisting plot. Well done, Ms Rosett.
Again, I enjoyed the characters Zoe and Jack, as well as the other well-defined players in this twisting plot. Well done, Ms Rosett.
April 29, 2021
This light mystery is set at least partially in Spain, fulfilling one of the prompts for a reading challenge I am working on. I like but don't love this series, but they are fun and quick reads featuring a art recovery expert and her husband which allows them to do quite a bit of travel, probably my favorite part of their stories. This one took them to Madrid, which I know fairly well having lived in Toledo for the past 5+ years, and the author does a pretty good job of describing it. 3.5 stars
February 2, 2018
Sara Rosett is one of my favorite cozy mystery writers. I've read each of her main series, with the characters in the On the Run series being my favorite. I love the banter between Zoe and her husband, and the impossible situations that they find themselves in. Treacherous is an enjoyable read, and if you are a fan of the series you won't want to miss it!
May 19, 2020
Typical cozy mystery, moving along in the series. After a few, it gets to be a little formulaic, but the main characters are progressing in their respective careers and it is always better when she keeps Zoe and Jack working together. Mostly enjoyed the descriptions of the locations that they travel to.
August 24, 2019
A terrific series that continues to let characters develop as challenges arise. As with previous books, the a plot-driven story that includes wonderful locations. While this could be a stand-alone, treat yourself to the entire series - they are that good!
April 17, 2020
Enjoyed the descriptions of Madrid. Hope Zoey matures out of her headstrong actions. She has more experience now and it’s becoming harder to take her seriously. I prefer plots where Jack is more actively involved.
June 1, 2022
I like Zoe trying to get started and make a name for herself in stolen art recovery. She getting a little better at her craft with a few less blunders except those imposed by others. I like the relationship she has with her husband too.
September 7, 2022
#6 International Mystery with Zoe and Jack. This time on the search for an elusive butterfly painting that may or may not exist coupled with a computer virus that could have catastrophic implications. Currently seven books in the series.
March 11, 2025
I've always loved the Blue Morpho butterfly. Franklin Park conservatory in Columbus Ohio releases some during their spring blooms and butterflies 🦋 event. It took a long time to get a picture of one because as soon as they land they close their wings and they are brown camouflage under the wings.
November 26, 2017
Great
Another fun mystery in this series. I love reading about the places that Zoe and Jack visit and I love how their minds work. Can't wait for the next book.
Another fun mystery in this series. I love reading about the places that Zoe and Jack visit and I love how their minds work. Can't wait for the next book.
January 13, 2019
An interesting addition to the On the Run series. A quick read but a little too predictable.
December 22, 2019
Fun! Spain was wonderful to read about. I'll never look at my chap stick the same again.
December 26, 2019
Really liked the “under story” in this one in addition to art theft story line. Also can’t beat traipsing around Madrid as the setting!
November 27, 2022
The 6th book in the On the Run series. Light and fun mystery.
July 26, 2023
Sara Rosetta never disappoints!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews