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Genevieve Lenard #14

The Becić Connection (Book 14)

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Art restoration. A sinister collector. Internet of Things.

Doctor Genevieve Lenard is woken in the middle of the night with the news that a loved one has been kidnapped and forced to steal a masterpiece. Her world-renowned nonverbal communication skills are of no worth when her autistic mind can barely handle the distress and the mystery behind the kidnapping.

Genevieve uses every tool she has not only to cope, but also investigate, and soon she and her team are on their way to Croatia on a rescue mission. Amongst Roman ruins and olive groves, they learn about an imminent attack by a mysterious art collector that threatens the lives of all the tourists and residents of a popular seaside city.

Fast running out of time, Genevieve has to navigate the many obstacles this collector hurls at her and her team while they try to prevent a catastrophe that could result in the loss of thousands of lives.

343 pages, Paperback

Published March 25, 2020

239 people are currently reading
200 people want to read

About the author

Estelle Ryan

33 books628 followers
Estelle Ryan was born in South Africa and spent her childhood being surrounded by African beauty, nature and diversity of cultures. Her first trip to Europe at the tender age of 16 transformed her world into a much larger place, endless in its possibilities and places to explore. For most of her adulthood she’s travelled all over the world, lived on a few continents, explored numerous cultures and still is insatiable in the quest to still the hunger for more life experiences.

She’s written for numerous international magazines, was the editor of a European lifestyle magazine and has seven romance novels published under a pseudonym. With her interest in international politics, arts, crime, behavioural psychology, criminal psychology and music, she decided to combine all these elements in her writing. And so Genevieve and the team came into being.

She is an unabashed coffeeshopaholic. Good coffee, ambience and music in the perfect combination is all that is required to turn a mundane coffee shop into her 'office'. The appropriate coffee shop is chosen depending on the mood, the weather, the type and amount of work that needs to be done, and of course the craving of the day. All of her books have been written in numerous coffee shops all over the world.

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5 stars
666 (63%)
4 stars
300 (28%)
3 stars
71 (6%)
2 stars
9 (<1%)
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5 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 96 reviews
Profile Image for Roxx Tarantini.
574 reviews4 followers
March 27, 2020
Ryan has done what she does best in this fourteenth entry to her Connection series.  The action starts the minute you open the book and is relentless until the very last sentence.  There is corruption, intrigue, the worst of the sinister underside of the world.  And more than a little veracity in her descriptions of the transactions that abound on the darkweb.  Fiction that comes so close to reality that it will have you looking at everything with a more skeptical, discerning eye.

A great series, each book can be read as a stand alone easily.  But with such engaging characters, vivid descriptions of beautiful places; and more than a few lessons from the world art masterpieces, Ryan's Connection Series is a series you'll want to delve into as you become more and more invested with Genevieve, Colin, Vinny and the rest of this colourful crew.

My name is Roxx, and I am an addict!  I confess to devouring Ryan's books the minute they are live on my Kobo.  And then, much like today, when it sadly ends, I wait impatiently for Estelle to announce that the next installment is ready for pre-order.   I have no doubt you too will become an addict.
Profile Image for Tony Hisgett.
3,010 reviews36 followers
May 8, 2020
As usual this was an interesting and enjoyable read. Although I didn't think it was one of the best in the series, partly because Genevieve seems to spend most of the book on the verge of a blackout and I thought the ending became quite messy.
If possible I would have given 3.5 stars and would probably have made this up to four, but the author just couldn't resist the lure of yet another psychopathic super-villain so I will now have to put up with “The Collector” in the next book.
Profile Image for Jan L.
1,003 reviews21 followers
March 30, 2020
More stars please

A great beginning that just kept leading you through a complex plot. Each character is unique and they fit perfectly into the family tied by respect and love though not by blood. Colin has been a favorite since the first book, so incredibly patient, loving and giving of himself. Some of Francine's skills are hard for me to follow but her personality is a special part of this group. Always well-written, there is also a lot of intense action, some humor, adorable little Eric, a sweet romance and a violent madman - what more could you want? Looking forward to the next adventure finding The Collector!
Profile Image for Judy.
3,381 reviews31 followers
March 28, 2020
I enjoyed this 14th installment of the art related Genevieve Lenard series as much as I expected to. Genevieve and her team are in Croatia this time, rescuing her young art restorer protogé who has been kidnapped along with the father of her baby's child. As usual, the characters are endearing and we get to meet some new ones in Croatia. Genevieve still has issues with emotions making it harder for her to do what she needs to do in the investigation, but once again she overcomes them, and actually seems to becoming a bit more adaptable. The plot is nice and involved, and it looks like the next book will continue the search for the Collector. My only quibble with this series is that they're such a quick read.
Profile Image for Sandee.
967 reviews98 followers
June 10, 2022
Outstanding!!

I just finished this amazing book, and couldn't put it down. Every book in this series has been a joy to read.
I hope they will continue and looking forward to the new series Ms. Ryan is writing. Great mysteries and great characters, even the bad guys!
1 review
March 31, 2020
4.0

The story was rushed the villains weren't fleshed out very much and no clear focus on the main characters. As usual the team came together and did what they do best. Solve the crime.
Profile Image for Pontiki.
2,528 reviews9 followers
November 15, 2023
Genevieve and her team are all in a panic when Nikki goes missing, then see her stealing a painting from her job as an art restorer. They learn that her ex and Eric’s Dad, Martin, is also missing, and track down some information, but not enough to find her.

Cleverly, she sends them a message about her location, and she and Martin are found, in Croatia. There begins an adventure, because the painting she took was part of a set of four with numbers hidden in them, a treasure map of sorts.

They find the treasure, but Florian, who orchestrated Nikki’s kidnapping, did so because his sister’s life is in danger. A client of Martin’s is suspicious, and he turns out to be part of the scheme to find the treasure for The Collector, as well as running a number of troll farms, and he threatened poor Florian.

He’s an unstable man, so he rigs a bomb on a cruise ship, and another at a church nearby. The team put it all together, with help from the Croatian SWAT group, who all race to stop the bombing and catch the criminal. They shoot him just as he’s about to shoot Colin and Jenny.

So much happens in these books, it’s exciting and entertaining, engaging my mind and body to want to run into the fray. It’s very well written and unfolds in such a way that all the pieces come together and make total sense.

This book begins a new chase as well, the pursuit of The Collector. Can’t wait to read the next book.
383 reviews6 followers
November 16, 2020
I really enjoy this series and when the new one comes out, even though it may have been a while, I'm mostly able to catch back up with the characters. If you are not familiar with this series, Genevieve Lenard is a high functioning autistic individual who is talented at being able to read people's reactions and can tell if someone is being honest or withholding information, a skill that comes in handy as she deals with crimes in the art world. During the course of this series she has picked up a number of loved ones. She still has trouble dealing with too many people and sensory overload, although she does have a grounding force in Colin, who has an interesting past. It would take too much space to spell out all the characters, but suffice it to say one of her loved ones has been kidnapped and the team must pull together to pull off a successful recovery and deal with the actual need for the abduction. I'm thankful that the author stays true to the characters that have been built. I think that is one of the things that makes this series enjoyable to read. I just recommend this series and it is even better if you like to learn about art.
Profile Image for Amanda Jane.
1,337 reviews10 followers
February 22, 2022
Couldn't put it down..

When Nikki fails to return from a meeting with Marty and they realise way too late that she's been kidnapped guilt is all Genevieve can see.. Pink the most for not checking sooner. Then hours later when footage of Nikki appears to show her stealing the painting she's working on her boss is just as bad because she entered the alarm code to warn him she was acting under duress and he'd silenced his phone. Now the local police are determined to arrest Nikki for theft after the unanswered alarm call went directly to them.

Marty is also missing and his boss is just as bad feeling guilty for asking Marty to look into a case he was sure wasn't entirely legitimate. But none of the guilty faces are going to help to find Nikki and Marty.. it will take the whole team and a few extra people when the case takes a turn to Croatia.. but they don't know who they can trust to get the warrants they need.. not after Francine uncovers a troll farm and it's client list which includes judges, police and politicians.. this isn't just about Nikki and Marty it's now about a whole Croatian port.. can they get to the bottom of it in time?
Profile Image for Andrea Stoeckel.
3,158 reviews132 followers
July 27, 2024
"How could anyone distinguish between legal borders that were important and ones that were not?"

Dr. Genevieve Lenard, her boyfriend Colin Frey and "ward" Nikki are back along with the rest of the gang as they delve into yet another art related series, this one involving a group of Croatian artists known historically as "The Munich Four". Seems Nikki, now an art restoration specialist, was tasked to work on a rather famous Becic painting but was thwarted by an attempted kidnapping of both she and her son's father Martin in hopes that they would force the solving of a mystery. However Nikki was trained by some of the best and is rescued by the crew.

This simply leads to a nesting doll of puzzles as generations of families build this into a very complex puzzle where the pieces might not fit even if they are there.

Estelle Ryan continues to amaze and astound me with the complexity of this series and these characters. Highly Recommended 5/5
Profile Image for Ann.
1,731 reviews
April 26, 2020
Another favorite series and, again, the newest volume did not disappoint.

Genevieve and Colin are woken in the very early morning to news that one of their close group of friends/investigators is missing. And very shortly after, they learn that she was seen stealing a not particularly valuable painting from the art restoration studio where she works. It's completely obvious to all of them that there's something going on.

The travel takes them to Rovinj, Croatia where they have to deal with stolen art, the potential of buried treasure, and desperate petty criminals under the thumb of a person known only as "The Collector."

Genevieve's unique skill of reading people is less critical in this case, but she is forced to confront her emotions as those nearest to her, and, indeed, she herself, are put in very grave danger.
2 reviews
March 6, 2021
Love! Definitely buy all books

I love all her books, I have the whole series. I wish there were more books in this series available.... I'm impatient and I could binge on her books. I love all characters...I especially love that Genevieve is on the autistic spectrum... my niece is on the spectrum and I appreciate that strong characters are being shown. The only criticism is that 3 characters are -lets say have colorful background and they are investigating the crimes without people specifically certain law enforcement to know their true identity...yet Manny keeps calling colin by his last name (ok, that kinda drives me nuts), but overall an awesome series. I've loved every book. I'll have to start rereading them until a new book gets written.
Profile Image for Serena.
277 reviews3 followers
May 4, 2024
I love the long, sweeping story arcs covering multiple books that Estelle Ryan is able to write. As always there are plots and sub-plots running through each volume of this series. At times she makes the reader's heart race with anxiety for these well-loved characters and then in a few pages the dialogue will have the reader laughing out loud. The team continues to gain friends and respect with each adventure.
This book is a quick read because even with places where it seems like the reader can put the book aside for trivial things like work or sleep, they will want to get back to reading it as quickly as possible.
Profile Image for Creagh Steins.
43 reviews
April 18, 2020
Good but not as great as previous 3.5*

I love Genevieve & her “family”. Can’t wait for each book to be published. The gang is all here but the book was short, less developed and Genevieve was able to do many things that she could never come close to before. Yes- she’s growing with the love & support that surrounds her but ...
Overall, enjoyed the book - read it in a few hours but it could have been so much more. We already have the premise for the next one- hopefully it will be back to five stars!
Profile Image for Virginia.
328 reviews18 followers
April 6, 2020
Art, Abduction, and Autism

This exciting series combines art and crime. Dr. Genevieve Lenard and her motley band of misfits are based in Strasburg, France, although solving the crimes and recovering stolen art take them to other locales. One definitely needs to start with the first book in the series to understand the evolving relationships and how Dr. Lenard's autism influences everyone's behavior.
14 reviews
April 10, 2020
Great characters and situations that make sense logically.

I truly enjoy the Genevieve Lenard as non-neurological person. I find so many of the situations like those that happen in real life. Genevieve's reactions to things are spot on.
Estelle Ryan writes vivid stories that fit current events and her descriptions of the scenery are just lovely.
Thank you Ms Ryan. You have given me hours of pleasure.
70 reviews
April 14, 2020
So happy to see Jenny and crew back in another adventure. Unexpected events thrust them in the middle of another conspiracy of sorts. When I think back to previous books, I continue to be amazed at Jenny’s development while still remaining the core of her character. I love it! The paintings sent me back to my art history books recognizing my lack of knowledge of the group of four. How Ryan is able to weave the arts into a great mystery continues to be amazing! Please keep them coming!
Profile Image for Jane Shibilski.
366 reviews2 followers
April 14, 2020
Perhaps one of the best books of the series. It’s complex plot leads to a thrilling ending. And, the next book in the series is artfully set up by the ending of this book. Once again, one of Genevieve’s team is in danger, and you’re off on a roller coaster ride of intriguing twists and turns. I highly recommend this book, but caution new readers that they may want to start at the beginning to get a better understanding of all the characters involved.
163 reviews1 follower
July 16, 2020
Where will we go next?

This is a fantastic story about understanding how autistic personalities feel And that must actually defend themselves from !many intrusions into their lives. The mysteries of Art thefts and the dark web adding intrigue along with brining different Artists and the intricately written tunes in classical music to our attention. Can't wait for the next book!
Profile Image for Carla.
803 reviews2 followers
February 3, 2021
Rounded down from 3.5** I love art, crime thrillers and plots with interesting and unusual characters. For that reason this is the 14th book I have read in Estelle Ryan’s Genevieve Lenard series. I have to admit that this was probably my least favourite title in the series but I still read it quite quickly although it did not keep me up reading way past midnight the night I started it. The references to troll farms were interesting and timely.
Profile Image for anna.
1,059 reviews11 followers
August 16, 2025
I liked that the book ended on a happy note, but I wished the evil guy had been stopped too.

Colin and Genevieve are so precious together.
“I stared at him until he started looking concerned. His features smoothed when I rested my palm on his cheek. Over the bruise I’d caused. ‘You are the best thing that’s ever happened to me.’
‘Jenny.’ His whisper held a multitude of emotions. He leaned in and kissed me. ‘I love you.’”
Profile Image for William Westmoreland.
28 reviews
March 28, 2020
Another Thrilling Adventure

I don’t know what it is about Estelle Ryan, but her books grab me and hold me until I finish them. This one was a nail-biter with a happy ending. Ryan’s research and character development grab you and pull you in to the story. I can’t wait for the next one and yes I finished it in one day. Lol
Profile Image for Judy Piegza.
13 reviews
March 29, 2020
Standard Excellence

I have learned to look forward to Estelle Ryan’s books. I have pre-ordered the last five and do nothing but read till it is finished. The friendship and trust within this group of misfits is a joy, and while I will not give a moment away of the story, it is well worth the read. If you have enjoyed previous books in the series, do not hesitate. Start now.
Profile Image for Celia Lewis.
203 reviews5 followers
March 31, 2020
Highly recommended!!

I love the menagerie of characters in this series! And the mystery and tension is so well written. The true items crucial to the plot are fascinating to discover as well. And Genevieve's differentness adds an unusual flavour to the story. Throw in an exotic country for background, and this is another winner from Estelle Ryan. Highly recommended!
Profile Image for Jill.
467 reviews
April 2, 2020
Awesome adventure and mystery!

As always, Estelle Ryan has written a fabulous book featuring our favorite non-neurotypical, Dr. Genevieve Lenard. The team travels to Croatia to rescue two of their own and solve an intriguing mystery involving centuries old treasure and valuable art. What troubles await them this time? Buckle up for a great ride!
16 reviews
April 7, 2020
Just ok for me

I had preordered and was waiting to read. But really I think there are too many "key" characters. So just busy with all the characters that it just gets distracting. And I continue to be annoyed by the cutesy nicknames etc.. May be the next one will be better.
8 reviews1 follower
April 27, 2020
The Becić Connection doesn’t disappoint!

I have loved all of books in Estelle Ryan's Genevieve Lenard series. This book continues to give the readers a wonderful look into the lives of Genevieve and her team. The relationships have become so beautifully developed! I enjoyed the plot of this book and it had plenty of excitement and intrigue.
Profile Image for Margo Haydu-Givoni.
46 reviews1 follower
June 16, 2020
The Becic Connection Book 14

With Estelle Ryans words this was a exceptionable interesting and well researched book. Well written. The plot (with in plot) had me on my “tippy toes” waiting each time . This Collector reminded me of some of the other fanatical persons in her previous books.

A must read, though different from the other 13 books.
1,040 reviews
September 14, 2020
Great Series

I greatly enjoined the latest book in the series Doc G, Colin and the rest of the team were entertaining as always and the mystery was intriguing. We have a new villain introduced in this book, the Collector. I look forward to finding out more about the villain and how they best him in future books in the series.
25 reviews
May 29, 2021
Another winner!

I have thoroughly enjoyed reading all of the Doc G books! This one does not disappoint! I catch myself holding my breath at times, even though I know it's going to turn out well! I have followed each book with educating myself on the artists and locations. Looking forward to the next one!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 96 reviews

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