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Bodies of Art #5
Bronzed Betrayals
Here comes the fifth globetrotting adventure in the fast-paced Bodies of Art Mystery series from USA TODAY bestselling author Ritter Ames.
A masterpiece swapped for a forgery, a murder victim left behind, and a relentless game of hide and seek keeps Laurel Beacham and Jack Hawkes on the run. They are racing to find answers despite roadblocks at every turn.
The chase crisscrosses the Atlantic as they pursue threads to murders and thefts that extend from the current day and back several decades.
A startling forgery points toward an unexpected new nemesis, and the team pursues a Paris forger for additional clues.
When evidence starts falling into place, Laurel must use her connections and engage an unconventional resource to help bring an arrogant murderer to justice for crimes both contemporary and long past.
Crimes that tie both personally and professionally to the Beacham name.
While the ruthless criminal’s acts include art history ties, the threat to Laurel is a clear and present danger. It will take every trick and technique she and Jack can conjure to gain the evidence necessary to nab their enemy and start pulling down his empire—before he takes them down instead.
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BRONZED BETRAYALS by Ritter Ames | A Henery Press Mystery. If you like one, you’ll probably like them all.
A masterpiece swapped for a forgery, a murder victim left behind, and a relentless game of hide and seek keeps Laurel Beacham and Jack Hawkes on the run. They are racing to find answers despite roadblocks at every turn.
The chase crisscrosses the Atlantic as they pursue threads to murders and thefts that extend from the current day and back several decades.
A startling forgery points toward an unexpected new nemesis, and the team pursues a Paris forger for additional clues.
When evidence starts falling into place, Laurel must use her connections and engage an unconventional resource to help bring an arrogant murderer to justice for crimes both contemporary and long past.
Crimes that tie both personally and professionally to the Beacham name.
While the ruthless criminal’s acts include art history ties, the threat to Laurel is a clear and present danger. It will take every trick and technique she and Jack can conjure to gain the evidence necessary to nab their enemy and start pulling down his empire—before he takes them down instead.
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BRONZED BETRAYALS by Ritter Ames | A Henery Press Mystery. If you like one, you’ll probably like them all.
258 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 26, 2018
About the author
Ritter Ames
23 books677 followersRitter Ames is the USA Today Bestselling author of the Organized Mysteries series and the Bodies of Art Mysteries series. When she's not writing or brainstorming new mysteries Ritter is usually trying to get her favorite yellow Lab to stay out of the pond, or keep her grouchy black cat from trying to give the dog away on Freecycle. Ritter would love to live on a boat and write from far flung locations around the globe, but the dog would constantly have to be fished from the water, and her husband and cat would just complain endlessly about the dog's smell, so staying on land seems to be the only good option to keep her sanity and not get sidetracked from writing.
Ritter tries to blog regularly at http://ritterames.com/ and subscribe there to get the latest news about upcoming releases, and inside scoops on her characters and series. She uses her Pinterest boards at http://www.pinterest.com/ritterames/ to capture great places and ideas she wants to use in both series. Go to her website to subscribe to her newsletter and get the first alert about new books in her series.
Ritter tries to blog regularly at http://ritterames.com/ and subscribe there to get the latest news about upcoming releases, and inside scoops on her characters and series. She uses her Pinterest boards at http://www.pinterest.com/ritterames/ to capture great places and ideas she wants to use in both series. Go to her website to subscribe to her newsletter and get the first alert about new books in her series.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews
February 12, 2021
Laurel Beacham and Jack Hawkes are enjoying a night out together. Well, that might be an exaggeration since they are at a party they aren’t enjoying. However, it provides the perfect cover for an art recovery that the two have planned. That recovery doesn’t go as planned, but the night really spins out of control when Laurel returns to her hotel room to find a dead body. She knows the victim, but who killed the person? Are they trying to frame Laurel?
As always with this series, I have to warn you not to jump in here. There are so many ongoing plot threads that you won’t fully appreciate what happens here if you do – not to mention the twists that will be spoiled from earlier books. Fans of the series will be very happy with this book. There is plenty of action to keep them glued to the page, and the advancement we get on the ongoing stories is satisfying. All this while providing us with a beginning, middle, and end to the story told here. I went into the book thinking that this was the final book of the series, but clearly that won’t be the case with the plot threads that were left open and the cliffhanger we get. Meanwhile, the characters are showing some maturity, which I enjoyed. When you are in the mood for a cozy caper, I highly recommend this series. If you are already a fan, you’ll enjoy this chapter in Laurel’s story.
Read my full review at Carstairs Considers.
As always with this series, I have to warn you not to jump in here. There are so many ongoing plot threads that you won’t fully appreciate what happens here if you do – not to mention the twists that will be spoiled from earlier books. Fans of the series will be very happy with this book. There is plenty of action to keep them glued to the page, and the advancement we get on the ongoing stories is satisfying. All this while providing us with a beginning, middle, and end to the story told here. I went into the book thinking that this was the final book of the series, but clearly that won’t be the case with the plot threads that were left open and the cliffhanger we get. Meanwhile, the characters are showing some maturity, which I enjoyed. When you are in the mood for a cozy caper, I highly recommend this series. If you are already a fan, you’ll enjoy this chapter in Laurel’s story.
Read my full review at Carstairs Considers.
April 15, 2018
Bronzed Betrayals by Ritter Ames was another amazing adventure with Laurel, Jack, Cassie and Nino. I have never been disappointed by Ms. Ames and she definitely has a home run with this one.
The story grabbed me from the first page and moved so quickly that I couldn't put it down, until real life called. So many twists and turns (the redheaded Amazon is supposed to be a bodyguard?), new and old suspects, and a continued investigation into the untimely death of Laurel's mother. These characters are so well developed; and Ms. Ames has given them a rich background to intrigue each reader as this series progresses. I loved every second while reading this book and want the next one in the series now. Oh, and that little cliffhanger at the end? Well played, Ms. Ames, well played
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book from Henery Press via NetGalley. All of the above opinions are my own.
The story grabbed me from the first page and moved so quickly that I couldn't put it down, until real life called. So many twists and turns (the redheaded Amazon is supposed to be a bodyguard?), new and old suspects, and a continued investigation into the untimely death of Laurel's mother. These characters are so well developed; and Ms. Ames has given them a rich background to intrigue each reader as this series progresses. I loved every second while reading this book and want the next one in the series now. Oh, and that little cliffhanger at the end? Well played, Ms. Ames, well played
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book from Henery Press via NetGalley. All of the above opinions are my own.
March 27, 2018
Bronzed Betrayals was an outstanding read! It has it all; murder, mystery, intrigue, and, of course, forgery. The dynamics between the main characters, Laurel and Jack, add zest to the whodunit. The ending left me wanting the next book....NOW! This series is a must read (and re-read).
I received a free copy from NetGalley for an honest review.
I received a free copy from NetGalley for an honest review.
May 23, 2018
Bronzed Betrayals is the fifth book in Ritter Ames’ Bodies of Art Mystery series. The storyline is well thought out, the characters are well rounded and affable, and the plot is full of surprising twists and turns. The story moves along at a quick pace, the dialogue is smart and witty, and the plot is full of twists and turns. Once again, Ms. Ames has skillfully written an intricate story of deception, intrigue, and suspense that kept me engaged. The descriptive writing made me feel like I was in the thick of things. I’m never disappointed when I read one of Ms. Ames’ books. I highly recommend this series to anyone who enjoys reading clean, well-crafted mysteries.
Laurel Beacham, who holds the head position over the London branch of Beacham Foundation, has always loved art and works hard to recover lost, stolen, or forged art. She continues to work with Jack Hawkes, the dashing man who always has her back, and their relationship has recently turned personal. Laurel likes to describe some of her activities in the art world as robbery reversals rather than thefts. Laurel and Jack are attending a birthday bash for a rich Russian and Cassie Dean, her best friend, assistant, and art restoration genius, takes her place, disguised as Laurel, so no one will realize she left the party. Laurel’s mission is to recover a small Rodin bronze bust from the birthday boy’s residence. She successfully enters his home, unlocks the safe with a techno gadget her trusted research wizard, tech genius, and resourceful co-worker, Nico provided for her, only to discover the bronze has a forger’s mark on the bottom. She decides to leave it in the safe, but before she can exit the house, another person enters and not only steals the Rodin but also sets off the alarm system. When she returns to the hotel where she’s currently living, she discovers the body of Melanie Weems, the former museum director of The Browning who had ties to the art crime scene. Laurel fears she’ll become Detective Inspector Timms’ prime suspect because of her history with Melanie. Laurel, once again, loses her luggage; however, this time it’s stolen from her hotel room. Lincoln Ferguson, an up and coming investigative reporter, continues to hound Laurel. Laurel, with the help and support of her team, is narrowing in on the identities of her father and the person responsible for the untimely death of her mother.
I received an Advance Reader Copy of this book from NetGalley and voluntarily reviewed it.
Laurel Beacham, who holds the head position over the London branch of Beacham Foundation, has always loved art and works hard to recover lost, stolen, or forged art. She continues to work with Jack Hawkes, the dashing man who always has her back, and their relationship has recently turned personal. Laurel likes to describe some of her activities in the art world as robbery reversals rather than thefts. Laurel and Jack are attending a birthday bash for a rich Russian and Cassie Dean, her best friend, assistant, and art restoration genius, takes her place, disguised as Laurel, so no one will realize she left the party. Laurel’s mission is to recover a small Rodin bronze bust from the birthday boy’s residence. She successfully enters his home, unlocks the safe with a techno gadget her trusted research wizard, tech genius, and resourceful co-worker, Nico provided for her, only to discover the bronze has a forger’s mark on the bottom. She decides to leave it in the safe, but before she can exit the house, another person enters and not only steals the Rodin but also sets off the alarm system. When she returns to the hotel where she’s currently living, she discovers the body of Melanie Weems, the former museum director of The Browning who had ties to the art crime scene. Laurel fears she’ll become Detective Inspector Timms’ prime suspect because of her history with Melanie. Laurel, once again, loses her luggage; however, this time it’s stolen from her hotel room. Lincoln Ferguson, an up and coming investigative reporter, continues to hound Laurel. Laurel, with the help and support of her team, is narrowing in on the identities of her father and the person responsible for the untimely death of her mother.
I received an Advance Reader Copy of this book from NetGalley and voluntarily reviewed it.
March 30, 2018
[N.B: GoodReads says I’ve read this twice. I read it once]
“Anytime something is worth a great deal, and desired by unscrupulous people, risk and danger can go hand in hand,” Jack said. “Art is no different than any other field in that regard. I once heard someone say, where there’s a sea, there are always pirates.”
Laurel and Jack, Cassie and Nico; toss in the usual suspects, Shake well; add drugs and a gun or two, maybe a knife for good measure, and you get the latest Bodies of Art story by Ritter Ames. This time, Laurel is seeking a bronze figure, but is our heroine actually motivated? And just who is after her?
Bumped, bruised and almost killed might make you think twice about a relationship, familial or otherwise. Will she and Jack make a commitment? Will Laurel spend her life recovering art or will something better come along? And if it does, will she recognize it?
A lot of attempts at “adulting” here give us glimpses we hadn’t seen into Laurel’s history, her mother’s death and her questionable connections to nefarious criminals. Will the answers be what she wants. Will she stop living out of luggage that keeps getting stolen? Can she a Jack have a quiet meal alone together? For this and other questions, tune into this five star completely captivating read. Highly recommended. 5/5
[disclaimer: I received this from #NetGalley and chose to review it]
“Anytime something is worth a great deal, and desired by unscrupulous people, risk and danger can go hand in hand,” Jack said. “Art is no different than any other field in that regard. I once heard someone say, where there’s a sea, there are always pirates.”
Laurel and Jack, Cassie and Nico; toss in the usual suspects, Shake well; add drugs and a gun or two, maybe a knife for good measure, and you get the latest Bodies of Art story by Ritter Ames. This time, Laurel is seeking a bronze figure, but is our heroine actually motivated? And just who is after her?
Bumped, bruised and almost killed might make you think twice about a relationship, familial or otherwise. Will she and Jack make a commitment? Will Laurel spend her life recovering art or will something better come along? And if it does, will she recognize it?
A lot of attempts at “adulting” here give us glimpses we hadn’t seen into Laurel’s history, her mother’s death and her questionable connections to nefarious criminals. Will the answers be what she wants. Will she stop living out of luggage that keeps getting stolen? Can she a Jack have a quiet meal alone together? For this and other questions, tune into this five star completely captivating read. Highly recommended. 5/5
[disclaimer: I received this from #NetGalley and chose to review it]
June 6, 2018
Book 5 in the series is as exciting and interesting as the former books in the series. I do love this series for the protagonist Laurel Beacham and her ability to steal back stolen art and return it to the right owners. It is a noble pursuit she often pursues with her friend Jack . This book can be read as a stand alone. I do recommend the entire series.
In this next in series they are at a birthday party for a Russian wealthy businessman. The party is a cover for Laurel, who will break into the home to recover a stolen Rodin bronze to return it to it's rightful owner. But once Laurel is in the home the bust wasn't what she thought. Laurel is about to leave when she discovers another thief in the house. When there is an attempt to kidnap Laurel, and a dead body is found in her room, Laurel has to go into hiding to find out who is behind it.
With such well rounded characters, action and the addition of many well placed clues this sleuth kept me guessing throughout the book. I love the addition of new locations from London to Paris to the U.S.. The author writes with a well crafted style that moves at a fast pace throughout the story. The next book in this series I anticipate eagerly ! . What a fun mystery, great sleuth and interesting art subjects in each book. Thank you for the ARC which does not influence my review.
In this next in series they are at a birthday party for a Russian wealthy businessman. The party is a cover for Laurel, who will break into the home to recover a stolen Rodin bronze to return it to it's rightful owner. But once Laurel is in the home the bust wasn't what she thought. Laurel is about to leave when she discovers another thief in the house. When there is an attempt to kidnap Laurel, and a dead body is found in her room, Laurel has to go into hiding to find out who is behind it.
With such well rounded characters, action and the addition of many well placed clues this sleuth kept me guessing throughout the book. I love the addition of new locations from London to Paris to the U.S.. The author writes with a well crafted style that moves at a fast pace throughout the story. The next book in this series I anticipate eagerly ! . What a fun mystery, great sleuth and interesting art subjects in each book. Thank you for the ARC which does not influence my review.
June 6, 2018
Jack and Laurel are back from more fast-paced action and adventure in Bronzed Betrayals. This story picks up at a party where Laurel is setting the stage of her alibi. Once the coast is clear, she's off to break into a safe in order to reclaim a stolen piece of art. Trouble is, the art's a forgery, another thief is on her heels, and the lifeless body of an enemy awaits her in her hotel room. And that's just the first few chapters.
Bronzed Betrayals, like the rest of the books in this series, is filled with punches of action and peppered with pinches of humor and romance. Jack and Laurel are savvy, sophisticated, and street-wise, often so simultaneously. The plot unfolds quickly and keeps a brisk pace until the final page. If you're not reading this series, you're missing something special.
Bronzed Betrayals, like the rest of the books in this series, is filled with punches of action and peppered with pinches of humor and romance. Jack and Laurel are savvy, sophisticated, and street-wise, often so simultaneously. The plot unfolds quickly and keeps a brisk pace until the final page. If you're not reading this series, you're missing something special.
April 21, 2018
I love the Bodies of Art Mystery Series by Ritter Ames and I always say the same thing: I love the action, I love the suspense, I love the “gadgets”, and I love Laurel and Jack…and Nico and Cassie, too. While there is a great mystery to solve in this story, I think the heart of it is really all about Laurel and her own, let’s call them demons. She spends time in her own head – trying to navigate all that has happened to her, both when she was young, when she was a teen, and now that she works as a…Ms. Ames writes her as an “art world socialite representing the Beacham Foundation.” But oh, she is so much more.
There are car chases, dangling from buildings, explosives, great gadgets (although Nico doesn’t have a huge part in this book. Trust that it puts his nose a bit out of joint, too!) and heartwarming scenes between Jack and Laurel. And once again, Laurel loses her luggage, however un-typical the situation is. Considering she almost loses her life, too, well, the luggage is the least of her worries.
Whenever I read one of the stories in this series, I know that I will be carried away to whatever faraway place Laurel and Jack end up. This time, they even make it to New Jersey. Seriously, the descriptions by Ms. Ames always blow me away because it truly feels like I’m right in the thick of things, in whatever country these two take their work, and I sometimes feel like I’m hanging from a ledge, just as Laurel would.
No spoilers. Just know that the action is fast and incredible, but you’ll have to experience it yourself by reading. There was one jaw-dropping moment, at least for me, right at the end of the book…not a cliffhanger but Laurel had one of those outta-left-field events that left me speechless. From the comfort of my couch, I will have to cross my fingers and hope a new story will be on the horizon next year. Once again, I highly recommend this book and series. I received a free, advance copy of this book from the publisher. This is my unbiased and voluntary review.
There are car chases, dangling from buildings, explosives, great gadgets (although Nico doesn’t have a huge part in this book. Trust that it puts his nose a bit out of joint, too!) and heartwarming scenes between Jack and Laurel. And once again, Laurel loses her luggage, however un-typical the situation is. Considering she almost loses her life, too, well, the luggage is the least of her worries.
Whenever I read one of the stories in this series, I know that I will be carried away to whatever faraway place Laurel and Jack end up. This time, they even make it to New Jersey. Seriously, the descriptions by Ms. Ames always blow me away because it truly feels like I’m right in the thick of things, in whatever country these two take their work, and I sometimes feel like I’m hanging from a ledge, just as Laurel would.
No spoilers. Just know that the action is fast and incredible, but you’ll have to experience it yourself by reading. There was one jaw-dropping moment, at least for me, right at the end of the book…not a cliffhanger but Laurel had one of those outta-left-field events that left me speechless. From the comfort of my couch, I will have to cross my fingers and hope a new story will be on the horizon next year. Once again, I highly recommend this book and series. I received a free, advance copy of this book from the publisher. This is my unbiased and voluntary review.
June 17, 2018
Bronzed Betrayals is the 5th book in the Bodies of Art Mystery Series. As we continue the journey to find the Forgery Syndicate, we come across new players as well as old. Bronzed Betrayals answer some questions from the beginning of the series, but leaves us with much more. I really enjoy all the fast-paced action of this series, however I'm afraid the author cannot write the next book fast enough for me. I would recommend reading the first four books before enjoying this one.
April 3, 2018
The author's love of London & Paris is evident when you read Laurel & Jack's latest adventure in their art fraud & recovery world.
Humor intersperses with grave situations as the Beacham Foundations' London staff are out to recover a Rodin bust and stay ahead of Ermo Colle and the Moran family crime organizations.
Laurel's personal quest to solve her mother's death and her father's disappearance take big steps forward in book 5. I think book 6 just might bring the truth to light and see justice attained.
Plot twists and quirky characters' antics are all set in well described settings leaving the reader feeling involved in the situation and scenery.
I would recommend this be read as a series not a stand alone to get maximum enjoyment.
I volunteered to read an ARC through Net Galley
Humor intersperses with grave situations as the Beacham Foundations' London staff are out to recover a Rodin bust and stay ahead of Ermo Colle and the Moran family crime organizations.
Laurel's personal quest to solve her mother's death and her father's disappearance take big steps forward in book 5. I think book 6 just might bring the truth to light and see justice attained.
Plot twists and quirky characters' antics are all set in well described settings leaving the reader feeling involved in the situation and scenery.
I would recommend this be read as a series not a stand alone to get maximum enjoyment.
I volunteered to read an ARC through Net Galley
June 27, 2018
Bronzed Betrayal is the fifth book in the Bodies of Art Mysteries Series by Ritter Ames. Ms. Ames brings the reader on a vicarious, action packed vacation from London to Paris to New York and back. Laurel’s mission is to recover a stolen Rodin bronze bust (which holds it’s own secrets). The four main characters, Laurel, Cassie, Nico and Jack are well developed and bring a superbly crafted plot, filled with wild twists and turns to life. Museum worthy art, suspense, thriller, mystery, crime, mystery, secrets, the chill and thrills of the chase, light hearted humor and romance make this book hard to put down.
Every book I have read from this series reminds me of the Remington Steele television series filled with international intrigue and an atypical art history education (only the art history education within this book is clearly researched and informative). This book is well written and can be read as a stand-alone. The cliff hanger ending leaves the reader craving more, immediately! This book and series are a must read for everyone who loves a great, clean mystery.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book from #Henery Press via #NetGalley. All of the opinions expressed are are my own.
Every book I have read from this series reminds me of the Remington Steele television series filled with international intrigue and an atypical art history education (only the art history education within this book is clearly researched and informative). This book is well written and can be read as a stand-alone. The cliff hanger ending leaves the reader craving more, immediately! This book and series are a must read for everyone who loves a great, clean mystery.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book from #Henery Press via #NetGalley. All of the opinions expressed are are my own.
August 13, 2018
“Bronzed Betrayals” earns 5+/5 Statuettes…Real? Fake? Great Fun!
Recoveries come in all shapes and personal peril. Some are easy…just walk in, take possession of the stolen artwork, and walk out. However others require a bit more finesse and planning. Laurel and Jack’s mission is made complicated by the surprise appearance of nemesis Melanie Weems, a surprise in the safe, connections to a long sought after key criminal figure, and a dead body that could land Laurel in jail or worse. Buckle up! It's gonna be a bumpy ride…
Ritter Ames has brought fans the exciting fifth book in the continuing Bodies of Art Mystery adventure reminiscent of the television show White Collar for the artistic intrigue, but move over James Bond…Laurel can “kick it” too! I started the series with book one, Counterfeit Conspiracies, totally engaged as the series steadily revealed many connections and secrets of a professional and personal nature. Bronzed Betrayals is “edge of your seat” exciting, well worth reading, but if you are just learning about this series, you’ll benefit greatly by reading from the beginning. Each book has an engaging story to tell with some satisfying conclusions, but in Bronzed Betrayals you may find references and details from the previous books that might be considered “spoilers.” This series is like a well-crafted mini-series as each subsequent episode builds on the previous adventure. Newbies, don't shy away!
For this fifth book, Ritter’s well-written narrative provides excellent descriptions of the various settings, object d’art, and predicaments leaving you awed. However, she doesn't rely just on the first-person narrative, her dialogue is clever when the art world and criminal enterprises are discussed and endearing when Laurel and Jack discuss their budding romance. The suspense has been heating up over the series with more kidnapping/murder attempts, electrifying perils, and marvelous “Oh my!” revelations. The characters have shown growth in skill and working better as a team, and the added romantic entanglement between Laurel and Jack is a nice respite from the action.
"Disclosure: I received a NetGalley ARC. My review is voluntary with honest insights and comments."
Recoveries come in all shapes and personal peril. Some are easy…just walk in, take possession of the stolen artwork, and walk out. However others require a bit more finesse and planning. Laurel and Jack’s mission is made complicated by the surprise appearance of nemesis Melanie Weems, a surprise in the safe, connections to a long sought after key criminal figure, and a dead body that could land Laurel in jail or worse. Buckle up! It's gonna be a bumpy ride…
Ritter Ames has brought fans the exciting fifth book in the continuing Bodies of Art Mystery adventure reminiscent of the television show White Collar for the artistic intrigue, but move over James Bond…Laurel can “kick it” too! I started the series with book one, Counterfeit Conspiracies, totally engaged as the series steadily revealed many connections and secrets of a professional and personal nature. Bronzed Betrayals is “edge of your seat” exciting, well worth reading, but if you are just learning about this series, you’ll benefit greatly by reading from the beginning. Each book has an engaging story to tell with some satisfying conclusions, but in Bronzed Betrayals you may find references and details from the previous books that might be considered “spoilers.” This series is like a well-crafted mini-series as each subsequent episode builds on the previous adventure. Newbies, don't shy away!
For this fifth book, Ritter’s well-written narrative provides excellent descriptions of the various settings, object d’art, and predicaments leaving you awed. However, she doesn't rely just on the first-person narrative, her dialogue is clever when the art world and criminal enterprises are discussed and endearing when Laurel and Jack discuss their budding romance. The suspense has been heating up over the series with more kidnapping/murder attempts, electrifying perils, and marvelous “Oh my!” revelations. The characters have shown growth in skill and working better as a team, and the added romantic entanglement between Laurel and Jack is a nice respite from the action.
"Disclosure: I received a NetGalley ARC. My review is voluntary with honest insights and comments."
July 5, 2018
Confession #1: I love the Ocean’s 11 films.
Confession #2: I love non-fiction books about art heists.
Confession #3: I’ve been meaning to start the Bodies of Art series for a while now. I read a review of the first book that sounded like the perfect marriage of Ocean’s-style capers while recovering priceless works of art. Spoiler? They are right.
I really enjoyed meeting Laurel Beacham. She’s funny, strong, and compassionate. And one heck of a thief. This outing begins with a mission to recover stolen art, but quickly takes a personal turn for Laurel when someone is murdered in her hotel room.
Laurel and her boyfriend (and partner) Jack have the opportunity to travel to a few different locations as they chase down leads, trying to determine who killed the woman, and who is trying to frame Laurel for her murder. I loved the different settings throughout the book (the breakfast Laurel experiences in Paris sounds heavenly!), and the art history facts that Ms. Ames effortlessly weaves into the story. It was especially fun to read a passage that centered around Arles, France the very evening that I arrived there. Such a great coincidence!
I planned on starting with the first book, Counterfeit Conspiracies. Instead, I ended up beginning at the end, with the latest release in the Bodies of Art mysteries, Bronzed Betrayals. I had no problem jumping in at this point, although I think some plot twists from previous books were revealed, as they were relevant to this storyline. If you really don’t want to be spoiled, I would start at the beginning with this series.
Overall, Bronzed Betrayals is a fun cozy with great characters that centers around recovering stolen art. I’m looking forward to catching up with the first four books in the series and spending more time with Laurel Beacham.
From my review at Hidden Staircase.
Confession #2: I love non-fiction books about art heists.
Confession #3: I’ve been meaning to start the Bodies of Art series for a while now. I read a review of the first book that sounded like the perfect marriage of Ocean’s-style capers while recovering priceless works of art. Spoiler? They are right.
I really enjoyed meeting Laurel Beacham. She’s funny, strong, and compassionate. And one heck of a thief. This outing begins with a mission to recover stolen art, but quickly takes a personal turn for Laurel when someone is murdered in her hotel room.
Laurel and her boyfriend (and partner) Jack have the opportunity to travel to a few different locations as they chase down leads, trying to determine who killed the woman, and who is trying to frame Laurel for her murder. I loved the different settings throughout the book (the breakfast Laurel experiences in Paris sounds heavenly!), and the art history facts that Ms. Ames effortlessly weaves into the story. It was especially fun to read a passage that centered around Arles, France the very evening that I arrived there. Such a great coincidence!
I planned on starting with the first book, Counterfeit Conspiracies. Instead, I ended up beginning at the end, with the latest release in the Bodies of Art mysteries, Bronzed Betrayals. I had no problem jumping in at this point, although I think some plot twists from previous books were revealed, as they were relevant to this storyline. If you really don’t want to be spoiled, I would start at the beginning with this series.
Overall, Bronzed Betrayals is a fun cozy with great characters that centers around recovering stolen art. I’m looking forward to catching up with the first four books in the series and spending more time with Laurel Beacham.
From my review at Hidden Staircase.
June 6, 2018
Bronzed Betrayals is the fifth book in Ritter Ames’ Bodies of Art Mystery series. Laurel Beacham is an art recovery expert and head of the London office of the Beacham Foundation, a group dedicated to the recovery of stolen works of art. This story begins as Laurel works to reclaim a Rodin sculpture which turns out to be a forgery, a fact which seems to elude the representative of a major art heist group run by the elusive Moran.
The inability to reclaim the objet d’art is not the worst thing to happen to Laurel that evening, however. When she returns to her hotel suite later that night, she finds the body of a known enemy killed in the living area. Why was she there and who killed her? And, is Laurel’s life in danger once more?
Follow Laurel and Jack Hawkes, British agent and her love interest, from London to Paris to New York and back as they collaborate to shut down a major art forgery ring, determine who is threatening her life, and put together a body of evidence to prove the murder of Laurel’s mother more than twenty years earlier. During this journey, Laurel finds people from her past that want to help her as well as new things about her own changing feelings that will help to establish her future.
As with each of the books in this series, Bronzed Betrayals is a fast paced mystery with dynamic characters and alluring locales. This series is hard to put down. It will grab you and take you for a wild ride just like dragon tattoo. I have enjoyed this series greatly and wholeheartedly recommend this book!
June 1, 2018
Laurel and Jack have it all planned out to retrieve the stolen bronze bust during a gala party, but everyone knows about the best laid plans of mice and men. Not only was the artifact a forgery, but then someone else also has their own plans to steal the bronze bust and sets off all the alarms. And if this is not enough, Laurel makes it back to her hotel suite to find a dead body. This is the 5th story in the Bodies of Art Mystery and as with the other 4 books in this series, provides nonstop action and adventure for a daring duo. I love Laurel's indomitable spirit, as well as her relationship between not only Jack, but her associates Cassie and Niko. As they try to unravel this latest mystery, they are also working on solving the mystery of Laurel's mother's fatal car accident. Was this truly an accident? And then there is Laurel's mysterious father! Great series, better enjoyed if read in sequence to pick up all the nuances of the action. Can't wait for the next book, especially with the latest tease at the end of this book. Disclosure: I am voluntarily reviewing an advance reading copy of this book from Net Galley.
June 19, 2018
Fast-paced page turner really comes to mind to describe this book. Even though I'm jumping in at this particular book, having been sent an ARC ebook which I volunteered to review, I feel like I'm fairly well-caught up in knowing what was going on with the major story points.
This book is super well-written and has some very likable characters. Despite some of the serious nature of their adventures and how this reads like a thriller at times, I loved the sometimes comic or light-hearted banter between Laurel and Jack as well as the other characters. I could really tell they have grown to care about each other over the course of this series. I would, of course, like to go back to the beginning and see how this has played out from there. Anyone who is already a fan should love this latest installment!
This book is super well-written and has some very likable characters. Despite some of the serious nature of their adventures and how this reads like a thriller at times, I loved the sometimes comic or light-hearted banter between Laurel and Jack as well as the other characters. I could really tell they have grown to care about each other over the course of this series. I would, of course, like to go back to the beginning and see how this has played out from there. Anyone who is already a fan should love this latest installment!
July 4, 2018
Laurel Beacham, head of the Beacham Foundation's London office. She is a stolen arts recovery specialist who now has a target on her back, and even the best technology has to offer may not be able to keep her safe. Between attempted kidnappings, assignation attemts, and haveing a source of information killed while sitting across from them (all while traveling through thee different countries on different contenants.) This is definately the most dangerous case she has ever had.
Ritter Ames brings characters to life in a way that is extrememly believable, and complex. Her stories filled with action, adventure, and locations with descriptions vivid enough that it is easy to visualize the areas described. There are also many twist and surprizes in these stories. This is definately one of my favorite series.
Ritter Ames brings characters to life in a way that is extrememly believable, and complex. Her stories filled with action, adventure, and locations with descriptions vivid enough that it is easy to visualize the areas described. There are also many twist and surprizes in these stories. This is definately one of my favorite series.
June 17, 2018
This is a series of book that art loves and mystery loves will not be able to get enough of. Ritter Ames transport reader around the world following two characters that will remind you of the classic movies of Cat and Mouse. Laurel and Jack come alive as readers chase along side them in an adventure that end with perfect amount of action, mystery and sexual tension to keep reader dying for more.
This is the perfect action, adventure mystery that will give reader what they have been missing. Twist of James bond, add a dash of Oceans Movies, and shake of Remington Steele and you have The Bodies Of Art Series.
Thank you to the publisher Henery Press and author for the advance copy of Ritter Ames Bronzed Betrayals.
This is the perfect action, adventure mystery that will give reader what they have been missing. Twist of James bond, add a dash of Oceans Movies, and shake of Remington Steele and you have The Bodies Of Art Series.
Thank you to the publisher Henery Press and author for the advance copy of Ritter Ames Bronzed Betrayals.
June 19, 2018
This is the fifth book in the series and every one a pleasure to read, Best read in order to get the most out over every page. Art, crime, mystery, secrets, thrills and more, Ritter Ames packs it all into a great mystery. Laurel and Jack are back and the object of their attention is a bronze bust by Rodin waiting to be stolen. Too bad, on closer examination, it's a fake. Then, when Laurel gets back to her hotel she finds a body. Part mystery, part thriller, part chase, add some romantic tension and some unanswered questions about Laurel's father, well this is one great read. More, please.
My thanks to Ritter Ames for creating this series and to the publisher Henery Press and NetGalley for giving me an advance copy in exchange for my honest review.
My thanks to Ritter Ames for creating this series and to the publisher Henery Press and NetGalley for giving me an advance copy in exchange for my honest review.
May 8, 2018
Another terrific adventure for Laurel and Jack. While trying to “steal” back a stolen bronze Rodin, Laurel isn’t the only one after the statute. What she does discover is it is a fake complete with forger mark. While Nico is in Paris trying to track down another forger, Laurel discovers a body in her hotel room and has to flee the “Amazon” who has been tracking her. Twists, turns and false identities make this another exciting caper.
June 29, 2018
It was fun "visiting" the various locations in this book. The main character is interesting. I'd be curious to see if there are bad consequences to some of the choices she made in this story. I liked the best friend/assistant a lot. The main character's boyfriend seemed too protective until it became clear just how often his girlfriend finds herself in dangerous situations. The descriptions of art pieces were good, and the author did a nice job of giving some sense of them without over-explaining.
I feel like this really wasn't the best place to start this kind of series. It took me a while to understand the main character's background and several people who are important to the continuing story didn't even make an appearance, which made it a little tough to stay really interested as they were mentioned again and again. The ending was a little less than satisfying, but it was alright.
Though I did enjoy the story overall, I would really recommend starting from book one in a series like this.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
I feel like this really wasn't the best place to start this kind of series. It took me a while to understand the main character's background and several people who are important to the continuing story didn't even make an appearance, which made it a little tough to stay really interested as they were mentioned again and again. The ending was a little less than satisfying, but it was alright.
Though I did enjoy the story overall, I would really recommend starting from book one in a series like this.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
June 30, 2018
I’ve read all of the books in this series and recommend that you do the same rather than read them out of order. The reason being that the true plot of the story is on-going. There is action and murders throughout but not anything that specifically needs to have a whodunnit type solution.
You are generally presented with a crime that one or more individuals from Laurel Beacham’s past (our sleuth) and have to figure out which may be responsible.
The story comes across more as action than mystery, which is okay with me as I like action. If you are looking for a straight-forward mystery, this may not be the book or series for you.
There are definitely more books in the future as a surprising twist happens on the last page of the book. I look forward to where this action style book is heading but I won’t be putting on my Sherlock Holmes hat to solve it.
I was provided a digital advance reader copy of this book by the publisher via Netgalley.
You are generally presented with a crime that one or more individuals from Laurel Beacham’s past (our sleuth) and have to figure out which may be responsible.
The story comes across more as action than mystery, which is okay with me as I like action. If you are looking for a straight-forward mystery, this may not be the book or series for you.
There are definitely more books in the future as a surprising twist happens on the last page of the book. I look forward to where this action style book is heading but I won’t be putting on my Sherlock Holmes hat to solve it.
I was provided a digital advance reader copy of this book by the publisher via Netgalley.
June 25, 2018
Laurel and Jack are flitting from England to the continent to the United States while encountering bad guys and gals galore. Exciting and entertaining look at the art recovery world. More of Laurel's family back story plus a hint of more to come. A cliff hanger...oh no! Obviously I am eager to read the next one in this engaging series. The publisher provided a copy via NetGalley.
June 26, 2018
Book 5 begins with Laurel Beacham and Jack Hawkes attending a birthday party for a Russian wealthy businessman. The party was a cover for Laurel, who will later break into the businessman's home to recover a stolen Rodin bronze bust to return it to it's rightful owner. But once Laurel is in the residence, it becomes clear the bust wasn't what it was suppose to be and what she does find proves it could be even more valuable. Just when Laurel is about to leave, she hears someone else enter the home and hides only to discover it's a thief. When there is an attempt to kidnap Laurel, and a dead body is found in an unlikely place, Laurel has to go into hiding to find out who is behind it.
In addition to this, Laurel and Jack delve into the death of her mother many years before and makes a few startling discoveries.
This is another well written book in this wonderful series by Ritter Ames. With engaging characters, non stop action, well placed clues and traveling from London to Paris to the U.S. and back to London, this book will grab your attention until the last page. The next book in this series can't come soon enough for me.
In addition to this, Laurel and Jack delve into the death of her mother many years before and makes a few startling discoveries.
This is another well written book in this wonderful series by Ritter Ames. With engaging characters, non stop action, well placed clues and traveling from London to Paris to the U.S. and back to London, this book will grab your attention until the last page. The next book in this series can't come soon enough for me.
July 17, 2018
When I started reading this story I thought it was another cozy centered in the art world. Wrong! This is book 5 in the Bodies of Art series and is the first I've read. I had no problems figuring out the relations. This book has lots of kidnappers, murder and bad guys in general. I love the characters of Jack and Laurel who are very involved in the international art world with forgery and thefts. With their "friends" and colleagues they are investigating a Russian collector with ties to stolen goods. Great action and lots of tidbits about the underside of the art world. Will be getting the previous 4 books to add to my collection. I received a copy of this ARC in exchange for a fair and honest review.
May 3, 2018
I honestly can’t get enough of this series. I fell in love with the first book and haven’t been disappointed since. I think the thing I like most about them besides the mystery of course is the art. I love the fact that this series is about recovering stolen art. The characters work so well together. I wish I was Laurel she has the most exciting adventures.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book
August 7, 2018
Another great book in the race for art and knowledge. There's action, intrigue and and the pages practically turn themselves! I really like Laurel and Jack. The chemistry between them is good and I love how they are growing closer as they prove to each other that they are trustworthy. One of my favorite characters is Nico and although we didn't see much of him in this book, I'm hopeful he'll keep showing up, saving the day with his underground contacts and computer prowess. The ending left me wanting more and I'll be watching for the next installment!
June 26, 2018
Bronzed Betrayals is the fifth in the Bodies of Art Mystery series and is not the first I have read.
I enjoyed this book and this series even though I have not read all of them, yet. The character interactions are great, the topics of forgery, murder and theft are intriguing. My only regret is that I have to wait for the next one to be published to continue. So , instead, I’ll read the ones I haven’t had the time to in order to catch up.
What I liked about this story is:
It is well written, flows smoothly and has a delightful cast of characters.
It grabbed me at the start.
Can be read as a standalone.
Dealt with a current robbery & murder as well as past indiscretions.
I received an Advanced Reader’s Copy from Henery Press via Netgalley and these are my own opinions.
I enjoyed this book and this series even though I have not read all of them, yet. The character interactions are great, the topics of forgery, murder and theft are intriguing. My only regret is that I have to wait for the next one to be published to continue. So , instead, I’ll read the ones I haven’t had the time to in order to catch up.
What I liked about this story is:
It is well written, flows smoothly and has a delightful cast of characters.
It grabbed me at the start.
Can be read as a standalone.
Dealt with a current robbery & murder as well as past indiscretions.
I received an Advanced Reader’s Copy from Henery Press via Netgalley and these are my own opinions.
June 30, 2018
Oh my Gosh! That was awesome! Now I have to wait HOW LONG for the next book? That is so unfair. Love, love, love this series! Can't wait for more!
June 29, 2018
Excellent reas
I thoroughly emjoyed this book and the others in this series. I can't wait for the next one. I read this book in one sitting!
I thoroughly emjoyed this book and the others in this series. I can't wait for the next one. I read this book in one sitting!
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