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Speranza Team
The Crown Conspiracy
She’s a master at spotting a forgery . . . and knowing how to create one. But can she solve a decades-old mystery?
The media spotlight is the last thing art thief and forger Sophie Williams needs. But when one of three long-missing royal portraits turns up in Germany at her best friend’s art gallery, the spotlight is exactly what she gets. Since the tragic deaths of Princess Johanna of Neuhansberg and her two children forty years ago, the whereabouts of these portraits have been unknown . . . and the timing of their reappearance―just days before a new prince’s coronation―reignites questions surrounding the infamous accident.
Then Sophie’s best friend vanishes, and a rumor about hidden treasure connected to the paintings surfaces, seemingly confirmed by a cryptic message on the back of the first canvas. Convinced that finding the other two portraits will lead to her friend, Sophie begins a twisty investigation that pits her against other ruthless treasure hunters, a handsome who seems to dog her trail at every turn, and a mysterious group that offers help, wearing an emblem identical to one on the painting.
From Germany’s grand castles and soaring cathedrals through the Alps to the canals of Venice, Sophie must choose her allies carefully if she hopes to find the portraits, rescue her best friend―and perhaps save a throne―before time runs out.
The media spotlight is the last thing art thief and forger Sophie Williams needs. But when one of three long-missing royal portraits turns up in Germany at her best friend’s art gallery, the spotlight is exactly what she gets. Since the tragic deaths of Princess Johanna of Neuhansberg and her two children forty years ago, the whereabouts of these portraits have been unknown . . . and the timing of their reappearance―just days before a new prince’s coronation―reignites questions surrounding the infamous accident.
Then Sophie’s best friend vanishes, and a rumor about hidden treasure connected to the paintings surfaces, seemingly confirmed by a cryptic message on the back of the first canvas. Convinced that finding the other two portraits will lead to her friend, Sophie begins a twisty investigation that pits her against other ruthless treasure hunters, a handsome who seems to dog her trail at every turn, and a mysterious group that offers help, wearing an emblem identical to one on the painting.
From Germany’s grand castles and soaring cathedrals through the Alps to the canals of Venice, Sophie must choose her allies carefully if she hopes to find the portraits, rescue her best friend―and perhaps save a throne―before time runs out.
352 pages, Hardcover
Published June 4, 2024
22 people are currently reading
1557 people want to read
About the author
Connie Mann
14 books222 followersConnie Mann loves taking readers on heart-pounding, suspense-filled adventures featuring strong, determined women who fight for what they believe – and for those they love. When those stories take place in exciting locales and include a tempting hero, so much the better. She is the author of the upcoming The Crown Conspiracy, an adrenaline-fueled adventure where an expert art forger must team up with a mysterious women-only secret society in order to rescue her best friend – and save a country. Connie’s other titles include the Florida Wildlife Warriors series, the Safe Harbor series, Angel Falls and Trapped. She has won several writing awards and Amazon declared Beyond Risk an Editor’s Pick.
Connie is also a USCG-licensed boat captain, and when she’s not writing, “Captain Connie” gets to introduce Florida visitors and students to dolphins, manatees and other coastal creatures, which is as much fun as it sounds. She is also passionate about helping women and children in developing countries break the poverty cycle and build a better future for themselves and their families.
She and her husband love spending time with family and friends and heading off to explore new places, especially those involving water and boats. Visit Connie online at www.conniemann.com and sign up for her newsletter for all the latest news.
Connie is also a USCG-licensed boat captain, and when she’s not writing, “Captain Connie” gets to introduce Florida visitors and students to dolphins, manatees and other coastal creatures, which is as much fun as it sounds. She is also passionate about helping women and children in developing countries break the poverty cycle and build a better future for themselves and their families.
She and her husband love spending time with family and friends and heading off to explore new places, especially those involving water and boats. Visit Connie online at www.conniemann.com and sign up for her newsletter for all the latest news.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 100 reviews
May 12, 2024
I believe in God even when He is silent.
What a fun nonstop adventure we are taken on! This is a story about women supporting women. Sophie, a secret modern-day Robin Hood returning stolen artwork with a great copy, works with her best friend Lise, owner of an art gallery and supporter of homeless women. We also meet a group of women of a secret society, Speranza (means hope), who work to help women and has for centuries. Handsome, hunky Mac McKenzie is an art specialist who works to recover stolen artwork. Oh, and is following Sophie around. When Lise is taken, Sophie sets out to find her, not knowing if her disappearance is tied to her work with women or a valuable missing portrait of the royal family that showed up at the gallery. This story starts in Munich then on to Cologne and Venice with so much going on with a great picture of the different settings. I really liked the characters. The women in Speranza are a group from all walks of life with unique characters and are so fun to watch work together with some humorous moments. This is a jam-packed story that was non stopping with a lot of mystery, intrigue, suspense, danger, light romance, and a satisfying ending. I am excited that this will be a series and am looking forward to the next adventure.
I received a copy for the purpose of an honest review. These are my thoughts.
What a fun nonstop adventure we are taken on! This is a story about women supporting women. Sophie, a secret modern-day Robin Hood returning stolen artwork with a great copy, works with her best friend Lise, owner of an art gallery and supporter of homeless women. We also meet a group of women of a secret society, Speranza (means hope), who work to help women and has for centuries. Handsome, hunky Mac McKenzie is an art specialist who works to recover stolen artwork. Oh, and is following Sophie around. When Lise is taken, Sophie sets out to find her, not knowing if her disappearance is tied to her work with women or a valuable missing portrait of the royal family that showed up at the gallery. This story starts in Munich then on to Cologne and Venice with so much going on with a great picture of the different settings. I really liked the characters. The women in Speranza are a group from all walks of life with unique characters and are so fun to watch work together with some humorous moments. This is a jam-packed story that was non stopping with a lot of mystery, intrigue, suspense, danger, light romance, and a satisfying ending. I am excited that this will be a series and am looking forward to the next adventure.
I received a copy for the purpose of an honest review. These are my thoughts.
June 4, 2024
I received a copy for review purposes; all opinions are honest and mine alone.
After a frenetic start, THE CROWN CONSPIRACY, by Connie Mann, becomes a thrillystery with strong women, exciting European locations and very subtle religious tones.
It was difficult to get started in the story: prologue begins in 1750 Italy; chapter 1 is current day Munich - high intensity event and meeting main character Sophie; chapter 2 we meet Lise and Mac, the other two MC’s and begin to learn what precipitated the chapter 1 event; Chapters 3 continues the frenzy and introduces more characters but doesn’t give them any biographical information. I was grasping for purchase.
Chapter 4 starts the nonstop action of racing around Munich, chasing artwork, looking for clues, solving puzzles, heading to Cologne and Venice, meeting a new contingency of characters and finally getting a grip on who all the players are by the end of chapter 22 - 40% thru the storyline.
If you’re a fan of fast paced, clean fiction, this book will be perfect for you. Castles, royalty, mysteries, art, history, potential romance and a boatload of competent women for a series to be written about📚
Read and reviewed from a NetGalley eARC, with thanks
After a frenetic start, THE CROWN CONSPIRACY, by Connie Mann, becomes a thrillystery with strong women, exciting European locations and very subtle religious tones.
It was difficult to get started in the story: prologue begins in 1750 Italy; chapter 1 is current day Munich - high intensity event and meeting main character Sophie; chapter 2 we meet Lise and Mac, the other two MC’s and begin to learn what precipitated the chapter 1 event; Chapters 3 continues the frenzy and introduces more characters but doesn’t give them any biographical information. I was grasping for purchase.
Chapter 4 starts the nonstop action of racing around Munich, chasing artwork, looking for clues, solving puzzles, heading to Cologne and Venice, meeting a new contingency of characters and finally getting a grip on who all the players are by the end of chapter 22 - 40% thru the storyline.
If you’re a fan of fast paced, clean fiction, this book will be perfect for you. Castles, royalty, mysteries, art, history, potential romance and a boatload of competent women for a series to be written about📚
Read and reviewed from a NetGalley eARC, with thanks
June 4, 2024
She’s a master at spotting a forgery . . . and knowing how to create one. But can she solve a decades-old mystery?
This new-to-me author impressed me with this pacey, high-stakes treasure hunt with roots in art, truth, and friendship.
The Crown Conspiracy is the first in a new series featuring a female art expert and a secret society of women. Sophie Wiliams and the Speranza Team use clues from missing portraits and cryptic messages to aid them in solving a 40-year-old case, keep the rightful heir safe, recover stolen artwork, and chase down ruthless treasure hunters across Europe.
I was caught up in the armchair travel through castles and cathedrals, the puzzling connection between the group and the paintings, and the race against time. There’s something about secret societies that intrigues me and I loved reading about the formation of this, albeit fictional, society’s roots in the 1500s, their connection to the Italian word for ‘hope’, and how it manifests itself as an anchor.
I chose this book simply for the cover and the words ‘art world’. I got more than I bargained for and can’t wait to read The Liar’s Treasure, the upcoming sequel.
United we can make a difference.
I was gifted this copy by Tyndale House Publishers and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
This new-to-me author impressed me with this pacey, high-stakes treasure hunt with roots in art, truth, and friendship.
The Crown Conspiracy is the first in a new series featuring a female art expert and a secret society of women. Sophie Wiliams and the Speranza Team use clues from missing portraits and cryptic messages to aid them in solving a 40-year-old case, keep the rightful heir safe, recover stolen artwork, and chase down ruthless treasure hunters across Europe.
I was caught up in the armchair travel through castles and cathedrals, the puzzling connection between the group and the paintings, and the race against time. There’s something about secret societies that intrigues me and I loved reading about the formation of this, albeit fictional, society’s roots in the 1500s, their connection to the Italian word for ‘hope’, and how it manifests itself as an anchor.
I chose this book simply for the cover and the words ‘art world’. I got more than I bargained for and can’t wait to read The Liar’s Treasure, the upcoming sequel.
United we can make a difference.
I was gifted this copy by Tyndale House Publishers and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
June 4, 2024
A good start to a new series!
Sophie and Mac both had intriguing occupations. While I never truly connected to them as characters, I liked following along on their adventures. The cast of side characters was well-developed.
As far as the plot went, The Crown Conspiracy had plenty of high stakes, adventure, and suspenseful moments. I appreciated that the author kept the hints of romance between Sophie and Mac clean and that Sophie grew in her faith over the course of the novel.
While The Crown Conspiracy contained a lot of the elements I enjoy in novels (action/adventure, a little romance, cool characters, and treasure hunts), I never really felt that engaged by the story. I did read it over a longer period of time, so that might've been a contributing factor.
Overall, I found The Crown Conspiracy to be an interesting read that I'd recommend to those who enjoy Christian fiction and suspense novels.
Disclosure: I received this book free from Tyndale House Publishers through Interviews & Reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own, and I was not required to write a positive review. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
Sophie and Mac both had intriguing occupations. While I never truly connected to them as characters, I liked following along on their adventures. The cast of side characters was well-developed.
As far as the plot went, The Crown Conspiracy had plenty of high stakes, adventure, and suspenseful moments. I appreciated that the author kept the hints of romance between Sophie and Mac clean and that Sophie grew in her faith over the course of the novel.
While The Crown Conspiracy contained a lot of the elements I enjoy in novels (action/adventure, a little romance, cool characters, and treasure hunts), I never really felt that engaged by the story. I did read it over a longer period of time, so that might've been a contributing factor.
Overall, I found The Crown Conspiracy to be an interesting read that I'd recommend to those who enjoy Christian fiction and suspense novels.
Disclosure: I received this book free from Tyndale House Publishers through Interviews & Reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own, and I was not required to write a positive review. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
May 22, 2024
This book reads like a movie! Non-stop action, art forgery, heists, treasure hunts, chase scenes, and corruption.
Mann did a great job writing this book and creating a unique band of characters that I can also picture portrayed in a blockbuster movie. This book is part of a series and I’m excited to see what comes next!
The plot of this book revolves around two friends— Sophie and Lise— who together run an art gallery and a side, secret business where Sophie acts as an artist version of Robin Hood:
“She wasn’t a thief. Thieves stole things for their own gain. She replaced previously stolen artwork with expertly forged copies and returned the originals to their rightful owners.”
All of that comes to a halt when Lise’s late mother sends her a painting (1 of 3) that had been missing for 40 years. The painting was of a queen and her twin children, all three of which had died in a car accident around the same time the paintings disappeared. (Reminiscent of Princess Diana and her popularity in the public and then her tragic car accident)
The surprising appearance of the painting and the clues it supposedly holds to a treasure brings out all kinds of people out of the woodwork trying to get their hands on the priceless paintings:
including-
- Laszlo who is forced to recover the paintings for an unknown employer in order to save his family’s lives.
- Mac who is hired by the royal Prince himself to recover the portraits of his wife and children and find out more about the supposed accidental car accident. He becomes intrigued, enamored, and suspicious of Sophie and she becomes his little project as he deduces she must be at the center of everything.
The second plot thread revolves around Lise’s work for an organization who helps women and children. She spends a lot of time aiding the homeless encampments nearby and discovers that men are raiding these camps periodically and taking away specific looking women never to be seen again. She is determined to find out what is going on and rescue these girls from potential human trafficking.
Lise ends up getting kidnapped and Sophie is left to figure out what is going on, if the two threads are related, and to try and save her friend before the worst happens.
This book is labeled a ‘Speranza novel.’ Speranza means ‘hope,’ and is the name of a group of people with special skills who have committed to helping women and children in need.
I thought this was a really cool idea. The book begins with a prologue that takes place in 1750 showing a woman helping some captive girls escape. So this group functions a little like the historic freemasons ‘club’ in that it is widespread and secret; this particular group could also be related to the teams of people in the Oceans movies.
Members (mostly women) are identified by the speranza emblem of an anchor and a feather (“hope is an anchor for the soul”) and are willing to sacrifice to help the vulnerable— women and children— who are too often taken advantage of.
While this particular book focuses on Sophie and Lise and their encounter with the Speranza group, the series could easily focus on the ‘origin story’ of any of its core members. It provides this series with a lot of depth and avenues to take in the future.
So I liked the ‘historic group of women helping women’ aspect. I also liked the setting of this book. Mann moves the characters from Munich and Cologne, Germany to Venice. The European scenes fit nicely with the art theme and allowed for the conspiracy revolving around the royal family of Neuhansberg (fictional).
I’ve wanted to visit Venice and watch people paint, and this book re-affirmed that for me!
The art theme was fun for me (an art major). Sophie’s character reminded me a bit of Neil on White Collar as he is also a painter with forging capabilities and a loose loyalty to the law.
My main critique of this book was of the things that got a little lost:
The beginning scene draws you into the story immediately and sets the mood, but then it is pretty inconsequential to the story as a whole and not revisited in any capacity. I was hoping for a deeper connection to that night later in the book but didn’t get it.
In the end when everything culminates and the confrontations occur, I felt like we didn’t get enough explanation for everything that happened. The bad guys get caught and then we get an epilogue that takes place two months later. I would have liked more understanding on what was going on with the taken girls and for what purpose.
I wanted more info on the car accident years ago. Mac is evidently looking into that, and when he finds the car he takes lots of pictures, but then we never go back to that night to know what exactly happened or what he was supposed to have discovered about the hidden car wreckage.
This book read fast and I would have easily read 20 or more pages to get some more information.
One more tiny critique: the Speranza group really relies on secrecy and confidentiality. When Sophie demands information and they need to swear her to secrecy they say ‘Do you swear on Lise’s life?’ and she says yes. And then they divulge everything…
For one—that was too easy! For two— why would she swear on Lise’s life if the Speranza group is also trying to help Lise? Swearing on someone’s life is a silly way to assure confidentiality plus what does it even mean?! There should have been a better process for vetting people and bringing them in then saying- promise? Okay we believe you.
So where is this series headed?
I’m not sure, but like I mentioned before, there are a lot of options.
The romance in this book was pretty light. Some flirting/kissing between Mac and Sophie with hints that their relationship is just beginning, but they can’t really trust each other right now. That could be developed in future books.
I also think that Sophie’s parents’ death could become another part of a future story. They were CIA agents and Sophie wishes she knew more about their lives and their death. I think it would be cool if a future book had a mission connected to that history that brings Sophie more closure about them.
And I think we will find out more about the other Speranza members’ histories and backgrounds and what brought them into the secret group.
One last comment. Lise’s mother’s name is Irmgard. And I could not read that name in my head without picturing Jimmy Fallon saying ‘Ermahgerd!’ Every time. I think Mann should have found a different name.
Okay, I just looked it up and the name means ‘universal protection’ so I guess it’s a fitting name but it’s literally impossible for me not to say it the Fallon way.
Recommendation:
I would definitely recommend this book! There’s nothing boring about it. It’s got action, variety of good characters, cool setting, mystery, and a heart for helping the vulnerable and disadvantaged.
It is a Christian fiction, but I wouldn’t let that keep you away if you’re not used to reading that genre. Other than a clue on the painting and the overall message of hope, there really isn’t much overt ‘Christian’-stuff/talk to the book.
It’s a clean book with moral characters. It is a book people of all walks of life can enjoy even if they don’t ascribe to the Christian faith.
This is a series I plan to continue to read and I think you should too!
[Content Advisory: no swearing or sexual content]
**Received an ARC via Tyndale House Publishing in exchange for an honest review**
Book Review Blog | Facebook | Pinterest | StoryGraph
Mann did a great job writing this book and creating a unique band of characters that I can also picture portrayed in a blockbuster movie. This book is part of a series and I’m excited to see what comes next!
The plot of this book revolves around two friends— Sophie and Lise— who together run an art gallery and a side, secret business where Sophie acts as an artist version of Robin Hood:
“She wasn’t a thief. Thieves stole things for their own gain. She replaced previously stolen artwork with expertly forged copies and returned the originals to their rightful owners.”
All of that comes to a halt when Lise’s late mother sends her a painting (1 of 3) that had been missing for 40 years. The painting was of a queen and her twin children, all three of which had died in a car accident around the same time the paintings disappeared. (Reminiscent of Princess Diana and her popularity in the public and then her tragic car accident)
The surprising appearance of the painting and the clues it supposedly holds to a treasure brings out all kinds of people out of the woodwork trying to get their hands on the priceless paintings:
including-
- Laszlo who is forced to recover the paintings for an unknown employer in order to save his family’s lives.
- Mac who is hired by the royal Prince himself to recover the portraits of his wife and children and find out more about the supposed accidental car accident. He becomes intrigued, enamored, and suspicious of Sophie and she becomes his little project as he deduces she must be at the center of everything.
The second plot thread revolves around Lise’s work for an organization who helps women and children. She spends a lot of time aiding the homeless encampments nearby and discovers that men are raiding these camps periodically and taking away specific looking women never to be seen again. She is determined to find out what is going on and rescue these girls from potential human trafficking.
Lise ends up getting kidnapped and Sophie is left to figure out what is going on, if the two threads are related, and to try and save her friend before the worst happens.
This book is labeled a ‘Speranza novel.’ Speranza means ‘hope,’ and is the name of a group of people with special skills who have committed to helping women and children in need.
I thought this was a really cool idea. The book begins with a prologue that takes place in 1750 showing a woman helping some captive girls escape. So this group functions a little like the historic freemasons ‘club’ in that it is widespread and secret; this particular group could also be related to the teams of people in the Oceans movies.
Members (mostly women) are identified by the speranza emblem of an anchor and a feather (“hope is an anchor for the soul”) and are willing to sacrifice to help the vulnerable— women and children— who are too often taken advantage of.
While this particular book focuses on Sophie and Lise and their encounter with the Speranza group, the series could easily focus on the ‘origin story’ of any of its core members. It provides this series with a lot of depth and avenues to take in the future.
So I liked the ‘historic group of women helping women’ aspect. I also liked the setting of this book. Mann moves the characters from Munich and Cologne, Germany to Venice. The European scenes fit nicely with the art theme and allowed for the conspiracy revolving around the royal family of Neuhansberg (fictional).
I’ve wanted to visit Venice and watch people paint, and this book re-affirmed that for me!
The art theme was fun for me (an art major). Sophie’s character reminded me a bit of Neil on White Collar as he is also a painter with forging capabilities and a loose loyalty to the law.
My main critique of this book was of the things that got a little lost:
The beginning scene draws you into the story immediately and sets the mood, but then it is pretty inconsequential to the story as a whole and not revisited in any capacity. I was hoping for a deeper connection to that night later in the book but didn’t get it.
In the end when everything culminates and the confrontations occur, I felt like we didn’t get enough explanation for everything that happened. The bad guys get caught and then we get an epilogue that takes place two months later. I would have liked more understanding on what was going on with the taken girls and for what purpose.
I wanted more info on the car accident years ago. Mac is evidently looking into that, and when he finds the car he takes lots of pictures, but then we never go back to that night to know what exactly happened or what he was supposed to have discovered about the hidden car wreckage.
This book read fast and I would have easily read 20 or more pages to get some more information.
One more tiny critique: the Speranza group really relies on secrecy and confidentiality. When Sophie demands information and they need to swear her to secrecy they say ‘Do you swear on Lise’s life?’ and she says yes. And then they divulge everything…
For one—that was too easy! For two— why would she swear on Lise’s life if the Speranza group is also trying to help Lise? Swearing on someone’s life is a silly way to assure confidentiality plus what does it even mean?! There should have been a better process for vetting people and bringing them in then saying- promise? Okay we believe you.
So where is this series headed?
I’m not sure, but like I mentioned before, there are a lot of options.
The romance in this book was pretty light. Some flirting/kissing between Mac and Sophie with hints that their relationship is just beginning, but they can’t really trust each other right now. That could be developed in future books.
I also think that Sophie’s parents’ death could become another part of a future story. They were CIA agents and Sophie wishes she knew more about their lives and their death. I think it would be cool if a future book had a mission connected to that history that brings Sophie more closure about them.
And I think we will find out more about the other Speranza members’ histories and backgrounds and what brought them into the secret group.
One last comment. Lise’s mother’s name is Irmgard. And I could not read that name in my head without picturing Jimmy Fallon saying ‘Ermahgerd!’ Every time. I think Mann should have found a different name.
Okay, I just looked it up and the name means ‘universal protection’ so I guess it’s a fitting name but it’s literally impossible for me not to say it the Fallon way.
Recommendation:
I would definitely recommend this book! There’s nothing boring about it. It’s got action, variety of good characters, cool setting, mystery, and a heart for helping the vulnerable and disadvantaged.
It is a Christian fiction, but I wouldn’t let that keep you away if you’re not used to reading that genre. Other than a clue on the painting and the overall message of hope, there really isn’t much overt ‘Christian’-stuff/talk to the book.
It’s a clean book with moral characters. It is a book people of all walks of life can enjoy even if they don’t ascribe to the Christian faith.
This is a series I plan to continue to read and I think you should too!
[Content Advisory: no swearing or sexual content]
**Received an ARC via Tyndale House Publishing in exchange for an honest review**
Book Review Blog | Facebook | Pinterest | StoryGraph
September 28, 2025
This Christy Award Finalist pulled me in right away with the historical background of Speranza and kept my interest most of the novel. Toward the end, events started to stretch plausibility for me. Overall, a good book and a worthy mission.
July 7, 2025
I thoroughly enjoyed this novel. It starts as a caper and turns into a team like Oceans 8. There’s even a hint of romance. Definitely recommend.
April 17, 2024
An exciting, fast-paced, suspenseful mystery! Friendship, family ties, and faith inspired action fill the pages of this thrilling story. It has the feel of a spy novel with the covert disguises, world travel, art theft and dangerous criminals chasing a band of women bent on righting wrongs.
The writing is well done, full of colorful characters, some with questionable motives. It kept me reading late into the night as the action picks up later and the pieces come together. A quick back and forth between scenes required some extra focus, but it worked well as the danger escalated and lives were at stake.
"...I believe in God even when He is silent."
The theme of protecting vulnerable women and children from human traffickers is sadly a realistic struggle across the globe. I loved the depth of devotion Sophie shows to find her missing friend. She learns to trust others to help her out, and turn back to her faith. A little romantic interest added a sliver of danger in spots, but wasn't the focus.
Recommend! 4.5 stars
( An ebook was provided by the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions expressed are my own.)
The writing is well done, full of colorful characters, some with questionable motives. It kept me reading late into the night as the action picks up later and the pieces come together. A quick back and forth between scenes required some extra focus, but it worked well as the danger escalated and lives were at stake.
"...I believe in God even when He is silent."
The theme of protecting vulnerable women and children from human traffickers is sadly a realistic struggle across the globe. I loved the depth of devotion Sophie shows to find her missing friend. She learns to trust others to help her out, and turn back to her faith. A little romantic interest added a sliver of danger in spots, but wasn't the focus.
Recommend! 4.5 stars
( An ebook was provided by the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions expressed are my own.)
March 30, 2025
As forger and art thief Sophie Williams steals a small painting during an elite art showing, she encounters art investigator Brody "Mac" McKenzie who has been hired by Interpol to find the Robin Hood art thief who steals art to return to its rightful owner. Shortly thereafter, Lise, Sophie's best friend, boss, and art gallery owner, receives the famous painting of Princess Johanna and her two children from her dead mother. Another gallery employee opens the painting that has been missing for over thirty years, revealing it to those attending Lise's art exhibit. Lise has Sophie paint a duplicate while she stores the original in a bank vault. Lise disappears after trying to determine what is happening to beautiful young girls who are kidnapped from refugee camps, and an employee steals the replica painting but is murdered.
This is an exciting and fun read. I never imagined a book about human trafficking could be fun, but this one is because of Sophie's mischievous courage and flamboyance. (Think of a female Scarlet Pimpernel.) Also, she encounters a group of equally dedicated women who help other women in trouble, a group called Speranza, and Mac, while trying to chase down the missing painting is constantly chasing her. As Sophie romps around Europe seeking the clues from the missing paintings to find Lise, Mac puts together the pieces and recognizes that Sophie may be in more danger than he and Interpol present. Though three paintings are at risk, at greater risk are a crown and several lives.
This is an exciting and fun read. I never imagined a book about human trafficking could be fun, but this one is because of Sophie's mischievous courage and flamboyance. (Think of a female Scarlet Pimpernel.) Also, she encounters a group of equally dedicated women who help other women in trouble, a group called Speranza, and Mac, while trying to chase down the missing painting is constantly chasing her. As Sophie romps around Europe seeking the clues from the missing paintings to find Lise, Mac puts together the pieces and recognizes that Sophie may be in more danger than he and Interpol present. Though three paintings are at risk, at greater risk are a crown and several lives.
May 28, 2024
Oh my goodness! This book was a thrill ride from start to finish! It’s the very definition of unputdownable. I couldn’t read it fast enough. It has everything I love in a good thriller: intriguing mysteries, nonstop action, great characters, gorgeous settings, a powerful message of faith, and so much more!
I loved the friendship between Sophie and Lise. They were so supportive of each other. I liked how they were both trying to help people and right wrongs. It was so great to read about women supporting other women.
There was a lot going on in this book, but it never felt like too much. I loved all the twists and turns.
I’ve read a lot of great books this year, but this one tops the list so far. I’m so glad it’s the start of a new series. I’m very eager for more adventures with the Speranza team. I’ll be thinking about this story for a while! Needless to say, I highly, highly recommend it!
I received a copy of this book and voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and comments are my honest opinion.
I loved the friendship between Sophie and Lise. They were so supportive of each other. I liked how they were both trying to help people and right wrongs. It was so great to read about women supporting other women.
There was a lot going on in this book, but it never felt like too much. I loved all the twists and turns.
I’ve read a lot of great books this year, but this one tops the list so far. I’m so glad it’s the start of a new series. I’m very eager for more adventures with the Speranza team. I’ll be thinking about this story for a while! Needless to say, I highly, highly recommend it!
I received a copy of this book and voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and comments are my honest opinion.
June 3, 2024
*Speranza = Hope*
Sophie Williams is on a dangerous search for a missing painting that was gifted to her friend Lise who has also disappeared. What mysteries does the decades old royal portrait hold? Sophie, an expert art forger, embarks on a seemingly wild goose chase from Germany to Italy for amswers. She is pursued by an art recovery agent Mac McKenzie and others. Just how many are anxious to find this painting and for what purpose?
Spectacular suspense and excitement are non-stop as Sophie encounters a troupe of women called Speranza, a secret group who champions women in need. More action than a James Bond film and reminiscent of a heist movie, this excellently plotted book has a spiritual lesson included. “I believe in God, even when He is silent.”
This first in a series hints at more adventures for Sophie, Mac and the gang and some room for characters to grow in their faith,
I am extremely eager for follow-up books.
*I received an ARC copy from Tyndale Publishing via NetGalley. All opinions are mine alone.*
Sophie Williams is on a dangerous search for a missing painting that was gifted to her friend Lise who has also disappeared. What mysteries does the decades old royal portrait hold? Sophie, an expert art forger, embarks on a seemingly wild goose chase from Germany to Italy for amswers. She is pursued by an art recovery agent Mac McKenzie and others. Just how many are anxious to find this painting and for what purpose?
Spectacular suspense and excitement are non-stop as Sophie encounters a troupe of women called Speranza, a secret group who champions women in need. More action than a James Bond film and reminiscent of a heist movie, this excellently plotted book has a spiritual lesson included. “I believe in God, even when He is silent.”
This first in a series hints at more adventures for Sophie, Mac and the gang and some room for characters to grow in their faith,
I am extremely eager for follow-up books.
*I received an ARC copy from Tyndale Publishing via NetGalley. All opinions are mine alone.*
June 29, 2024
4.5 stars
“I believe in God even when He is silent.“
If you are a fan of the movie The Italian Job or the TV show Leverage, then you absolutely must read The Crown Conspiracy by Connie Mann. This fast-paced treasure hunt across Europe combines intrigue, adventure, suspense, and romance with a decades-old royal mystery, and it all had me glued to the pages.
Sophie Williams may seem like a highly skilled art forger and thief at first glance but the layers to her character are much more complex. I loved the many fascinating aspects of her backstory, her mastery of disguises, her kickbutt defensive instincts, and her reasons for painting copies of valuable art or stealing back paintings that had been stolen. I even thought her stubborn determination served her well in this story… though Mac would undoubtedly disagree with me. Ah yes, Mac. The swoony investigator who dogs her steps, his interest captured from their first encounter and heightened every time their paths cross afterward. The sparks between them (and his growing respect for her) complicate his own assignment and lead to some very delicious kisses that I hope will continue in the next book, too.
The thing that makes The Crown Conspiracy screen-worthy, though, is the secret network of women – the Speranza team – who step in to help Sophie when the stakes get even higher than some missing paintings. This colorful group of Hope-makers made me want to stand up and cheer, their seemingly endless array of contacts and effective teamwork proving invaluable to Sophie whether they are helping her track down paintings, making sure she stays alive (not an easy task) or trying to find her missing friend Lise. I cannot wait to go on more adventures with these fun and resourceful personalities, and it totally made me want to be part of a team like this! Well… ok…. maybe minus the ‘run for your life’ danger and harrowing escapes lol.
Bottom Line: The Crown Conspiracy by Connie Mann is a riveting and multi-layered story that I didn’t want to put down. The author masterfully weaves several high-stakes plot threads into a cohesive flow, putting readers in the middle of the action as she reveals just enough at one time to ensure that your attention stays riveted to the book & your mind stays whirring with possibilities. With engaging characters and their compelling backstories – and some really swoony kisses – this novel perfectly sets up the series as a whole, and I am eagerly waiting for the next book! I thoroughly enjoyed The Crown Conspiracy and easily recommend it.
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first reviewed (with full disclosure) at Reading Is My SuperPower
“I believe in God even when He is silent.“
If you are a fan of the movie The Italian Job or the TV show Leverage, then you absolutely must read The Crown Conspiracy by Connie Mann. This fast-paced treasure hunt across Europe combines intrigue, adventure, suspense, and romance with a decades-old royal mystery, and it all had me glued to the pages.
Sophie Williams may seem like a highly skilled art forger and thief at first glance but the layers to her character are much more complex. I loved the many fascinating aspects of her backstory, her mastery of disguises, her kickbutt defensive instincts, and her reasons for painting copies of valuable art or stealing back paintings that had been stolen. I even thought her stubborn determination served her well in this story… though Mac would undoubtedly disagree with me. Ah yes, Mac. The swoony investigator who dogs her steps, his interest captured from their first encounter and heightened every time their paths cross afterward. The sparks between them (and his growing respect for her) complicate his own assignment and lead to some very delicious kisses that I hope will continue in the next book, too.
The thing that makes The Crown Conspiracy screen-worthy, though, is the secret network of women – the Speranza team – who step in to help Sophie when the stakes get even higher than some missing paintings. This colorful group of Hope-makers made me want to stand up and cheer, their seemingly endless array of contacts and effective teamwork proving invaluable to Sophie whether they are helping her track down paintings, making sure she stays alive (not an easy task) or trying to find her missing friend Lise. I cannot wait to go on more adventures with these fun and resourceful personalities, and it totally made me want to be part of a team like this! Well… ok…. maybe minus the ‘run for your life’ danger and harrowing escapes lol.
Bottom Line: The Crown Conspiracy by Connie Mann is a riveting and multi-layered story that I didn’t want to put down. The author masterfully weaves several high-stakes plot threads into a cohesive flow, putting readers in the middle of the action as she reveals just enough at one time to ensure that your attention stays riveted to the book & your mind stays whirring with possibilities. With engaging characters and their compelling backstories – and some really swoony kisses – this novel perfectly sets up the series as a whole, and I am eagerly waiting for the next book! I thoroughly enjoyed The Crown Conspiracy and easily recommend it.
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first reviewed (with full disclosure) at Reading Is My SuperPower
May 19, 2024
Wow! What a fast-paced, action filled adventure! This book will have the reader on the edge of their seat the entire time! There's intrigue, suspense, a mystery, kidnapping, and a hint of romance!
There are so many wonderful characters! Sophie is a butt kicking, puzzle solving woman! She's also compassionate and extremely loyal! I love the crime solving team comprised of women! They each have their own special skills and they work well together!
There are some difficult issues that come up in the book. Women are abducted from camps who are homeless or refugees. There are also some pretty intense fight scenes. But there is also hope! "I believe in God, even when He is silent." That says it all.
I was provided a complimentary copy of the book from Tyndale via Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
There are so many wonderful characters! Sophie is a butt kicking, puzzle solving woman! She's also compassionate and extremely loyal! I love the crime solving team comprised of women! They each have their own special skills and they work well together!
There are some difficult issues that come up in the book. Women are abducted from camps who are homeless or refugees. There are also some pretty intense fight scenes. But there is also hope! "I believe in God, even when He is silent." That says it all.
I was provided a complimentary copy of the book from Tyndale via Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
May 29, 2024
Oh my word!! Talk about girl power. The Crown Conspiracy by Connie Mann is the kick-off of Team Speranza and endless possibilities. A team of women, each specializing in one skill or another, but all coming together to help other women, and children, in need. They travel all over the world and have you on the edge of your seat from the get go. James Bond step aside. I absolutely can’t wait for the next book!! Bravo!!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. The opinions expressed are completely my own.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. The opinions expressed are completely my own.
March 3, 2024
The Crown Conspiracy is N excellent thrill/mystery. The plot is well written and fast paced. I highly recommend this book. I received an advance copy of the book from the publisher and Netgalley. This is my unbiased review.
June 3, 2024
This exciting romantic suspense thriller had me captivated from the beginning when Sophie begins her adventures as a Robin Hood type figure. She isn’t stealing from the rich to give to the poor, but rather she is in the business of restoring art treasures to their rightful owners. Skilled at swordsmanship as well as hand-to-hand fighting, Sophie has to call on all of her talents to escape the villains around her that are determined that she not find royal painting about a missing heir. I loved the non-stop action and the characters who were so dynamic and heroic, but I especially enjoyed getting to know the Speranza Team that showed up almost like magic whenever Sophie needed their assistance. With a symbol of hope for the downtrodden and innocent tattooed to show their allegiance, this all-women squad of super heroines tackles some really bad guys and make some harrowing narrow escapes. With exotic settings and a little romance going on, too, this book was everything I would ever want to read in a romantic suspense thriller along with more than a few surprises added in. Twists abounded in this compelling story of fighting for justice in this tale of escalating tension as the women raced down canals in Venice and streets in Munich, ever searching for the elusive paintings as well as for a missing friend. Breathtakingly complex and addictive, this is sure to be one of my favorite books of the year!
Disclaimer
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley. I was not required to write a positive review and all opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16th CFR, Part 255, “Guidelines Concerning the Use of Testimonials and Endorsements in Advertising.”
Disclaimer
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley. I was not required to write a positive review and all opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16th CFR, Part 255, “Guidelines Concerning the Use of Testimonials and Endorsements in Advertising.”
July 6, 2024
This was my first book by this author and I really enjoyed it. It is definitely a high paced book and immediately captures you in the beginning pages and sets you off in a course of adventure, action and high stakes journey that keeps you engaged in the story. However, the beginning of the story while it introduces you to what some key elements in the story are doesn't evolve right away which was a bit frustrating because I wanted to return to that storyline a bit more.
That being said the characters are good. It is definitely centered around women and their ability to do whatever it takes. Sophie and Lise are great friends and they help each other out at all costs. They are supportive of each other and both trying to do the right thing for other people. There is a male character in the story which is intended to provide some light romance in the story. There are no deep elements of faith except for the one line " I believe in God even when He is silent" It was the basis for the storyline.
Overall I thought the story was well written and enjoyable. If you enjoy shows like White Collar, Robin Hood type movies/books or a "Girl Power" type books then you will enjoy this story.
I received a copy of this book for review. I was not required to post a positive review. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
That being said the characters are good. It is definitely centered around women and their ability to do whatever it takes. Sophie and Lise are great friends and they help each other out at all costs. They are supportive of each other and both trying to do the right thing for other people. There is a male character in the story which is intended to provide some light romance in the story. There are no deep elements of faith except for the one line " I believe in God even when He is silent" It was the basis for the storyline.
Overall I thought the story was well written and enjoyable. If you enjoy shows like White Collar, Robin Hood type movies/books or a "Girl Power" type books then you will enjoy this story.
I received a copy of this book for review. I was not required to post a positive review. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
June 24, 2024
The Crown Conspiracy by Connie Mann thrills a non-stop chase with a number of paintings through Europe. This is the first book by Mann that I have ever read, and I was delighted to read all the non-stop action without any romance. I enjoyed how the story kept having the characters run from one place to another. I do enjoy the mystery clues written on the back of the pictures. Suspenseful novels are a great way to pass time as readers flip through the pages. Mann does a wonderful job at having a handful of villains chasing the women who are the heroes of the novels. I enjoy how Mann takes a group of women, some who are nuns, and have them helping chasing and fighting the bad guys. I love the scenery of being in Europe. Since I have never been, it was nice to have the characters running through churches and canals in Venice as they run for their lives. If readers love stories that feature characters that will return in upcoming novels and love plenty of non-stop action, then this is a good book to enjoy.
I received a complimentary copy of The Crown Conspiracy by Connie Mann from Tyndale Publishing, but the opinions stated are all my own.
I received a complimentary copy of The Crown Conspiracy by Connie Mann from Tyndale Publishing, but the opinions stated are all my own.
May 19, 2024
The Speranza team are taken on an adventure of their lives. When girls from the encampments are missing, Lise and Sophie look into what happened. The Crown Conspiracy has wonderfully developed characters, non-stop action, art thefts, trips to many different places, and all while being chased by the bad guys.
The non-stop action has lots of twists and turns that have you puzzled one instance after another. Friend or Foe? Robin Hood thief, art investigator, and the police are all involved. A set of characters that will have your head swimming in delight trying to figure it all out.
Everything wraps up nicely in the end with surprises that will make you smile and go, "A-hah!" I can't wait for the next in the series. I highly recommend it.
I received an ARC from the author; a positive review is not required. All opinions are my own.
The non-stop action has lots of twists and turns that have you puzzled one instance after another. Friend or Foe? Robin Hood thief, art investigator, and the police are all involved. A set of characters that will have your head swimming in delight trying to figure it all out.
Everything wraps up nicely in the end with surprises that will make you smile and go, "A-hah!" I can't wait for the next in the series. I highly recommend it.
I received an ARC from the author; a positive review is not required. All opinions are my own.
June 5, 2024
“National Treasure” style story. She’s a master at spotting a forgery . . . and knowing how to create one. But can she solve a decades-old mystery?
I absolutely loved all the POVs. I know a lot of people get somewhat overwhelmed, but they did a great job with the fast pace of the story. It literally never dragged.
The story itself is written in such an engaging, heart pounding way. It made me think of the epic chases in the Bourne series, while having that National Treasure feel as multiple different groups are all chasing each other down for the paintings.
It was so fun to watch this story unfold! As it goes, more characters get screen time and different characters drop off into oblivion as the missions go south.
I absolutely loved all the POVs. I know a lot of people get somewhat overwhelmed, but they did a great job with the fast pace of the story. It literally never dragged.
The story itself is written in such an engaging, heart pounding way. It made me think of the epic chases in the Bourne series, while having that National Treasure feel as multiple different groups are all chasing each other down for the paintings.
It was so fun to watch this story unfold! As it goes, more characters get screen time and different characters drop off into oblivion as the missions go south.
November 23, 2023
Sophie network of women helping other women bring us a mystery of art thief.
Sophia is a master at recognizing art and the history behind them. Then her
friend disappears from her art gallery. Brings us a captivating story of adventure
to find the missing items and her friend. Interesting era in history to read.
Given arc by Net Galley and Tyndale for my voluntary review
June 4, 2034
Sophia is a master at recognizing art and the history behind them. Then her
friend disappears from her art gallery. Brings us a captivating story of adventure
to find the missing items and her friend. Interesting era in history to read.
Given arc by Net Galley and Tyndale for my voluntary review
June 4, 2034
June 4, 2024
This book is like a jigsaw puzzle, whose pieces have been flung near and afar. Many characters, with no apparent connection are slowly brought together. However, some of the pieces are deliberately hidden from the reader, once revealed to one or more of the characters.
Sophie Williams is an amazing artist, but instead of advancing her career, she manages her best friend's art gallery, while her friend is busy with a none profit charity that helps women. Lise was Sophie's camp counselor and when Sophie's parents were killed when she was 16, Lise came to take care of her. Sophie has another persona, that of the Robin Hood Art Thief. She is an art forger, who copies stolen paintings, steals the stolen painting from the thief and returns the original to the owner.
Lise's mother recently died of cancer and had been desperate to talk to Lise before she died. She had a secret and when part of that secret is reveal, a hidden portrait of a murdered princess, one of three portraits, both Lise's and Sophies' lives are in jeopardy. Many treasure hunters come calling, many quite dangerous, but Lise's mother was also part of a secret women's organization, Speranza, and after Lise vanishes the woman come to help Sophie find Lise and the other portraits. Meanwhile, homeless woman are been taken at a homeless camp. Lise had been investigating before she disappeared. Is there a connection? While the story starts in Germany, Sophie ends up traveling all over Europe on her quest. None stop action and intriguing characters make this page turner hard to put down.
I was gifted with an ARC of this book from the publisher, via NetGalley.com. This is my unbiased, honest and voluntary review.
Sophie Williams is an amazing artist, but instead of advancing her career, she manages her best friend's art gallery, while her friend is busy with a none profit charity that helps women. Lise was Sophie's camp counselor and when Sophie's parents were killed when she was 16, Lise came to take care of her. Sophie has another persona, that of the Robin Hood Art Thief. She is an art forger, who copies stolen paintings, steals the stolen painting from the thief and returns the original to the owner.
Lise's mother recently died of cancer and had been desperate to talk to Lise before she died. She had a secret and when part of that secret is reveal, a hidden portrait of a murdered princess, one of three portraits, both Lise's and Sophies' lives are in jeopardy. Many treasure hunters come calling, many quite dangerous, but Lise's mother was also part of a secret women's organization, Speranza, and after Lise vanishes the woman come to help Sophie find Lise and the other portraits. Meanwhile, homeless woman are been taken at a homeless camp. Lise had been investigating before she disappeared. Is there a connection? While the story starts in Germany, Sophie ends up traveling all over Europe on her quest. None stop action and intriguing characters make this page turner hard to put down.
I was gifted with an ARC of this book from the publisher, via NetGalley.com. This is my unbiased, honest and voluntary review.
April 23, 2024
Thank you to Netgalley and TyndaleT House Publishers for providing me the opportunity to read and review an ARC of this novel.
By night, Sophie is an art thief and forger- but not the normal kind. She steals paintings from people who have stolen them from their original owners, paints a copy and leaves the copy in place of the original, and then returns the real painting to its rightful owner. By day, Sophie is the manager of her friend's art gallery. Lise, the owner of the art gallery, suddenly receives a painting that turns out to be the missing painting of a princess that died in a car accident years before. It suddenly becomes a race to keep the painting hidden and safe and find the other missing painting after Lise suddenly goes missing. Can Sophie find her friend, and stay ahead of the authorities? Can a covert sisterhood of ladies help Sophie? Can Mac (an art investigator) figure out the truth of these paintings and help keep Sophie safe in the meantime?
This book was an unusual take on a suspense story. I thoroughly enjoyed it. It was a bit slow to get off the ground but once it got moving it really got moving. It was full of adventure and intrigue. The faith element was there, but in a very light way. There were several twists that I did not see coming. It took awhile for me to see how everything would tie together. I was thoroughly invested until the end. Sometimes the multiple viewpoints became a bit hard to follow as there were many within the story.
I would recommend this book to people looking for clean, suspense stories where romance is a minor part and action is a major part. I would not recommend this book for anyone who likes faith elements to be of a heavier variety.
By night, Sophie is an art thief and forger- but not the normal kind. She steals paintings from people who have stolen them from their original owners, paints a copy and leaves the copy in place of the original, and then returns the real painting to its rightful owner. By day, Sophie is the manager of her friend's art gallery. Lise, the owner of the art gallery, suddenly receives a painting that turns out to be the missing painting of a princess that died in a car accident years before. It suddenly becomes a race to keep the painting hidden and safe and find the other missing painting after Lise suddenly goes missing. Can Sophie find her friend, and stay ahead of the authorities? Can a covert sisterhood of ladies help Sophie? Can Mac (an art investigator) figure out the truth of these paintings and help keep Sophie safe in the meantime?
This book was an unusual take on a suspense story. I thoroughly enjoyed it. It was a bit slow to get off the ground but once it got moving it really got moving. It was full of adventure and intrigue. The faith element was there, but in a very light way. There were several twists that I did not see coming. It took awhile for me to see how everything would tie together. I was thoroughly invested until the end. Sometimes the multiple viewpoints became a bit hard to follow as there were many within the story.
I would recommend this book to people looking for clean, suspense stories where romance is a minor part and action is a major part. I would not recommend this book for anyone who likes faith elements to be of a heavier variety.
June 2, 2024
This new-to-me author had me hooked from page one! Sophie Williams, a master at art theft and forgery, works at her best friend's art gallery in Germany. When a decades-old missing portrait of the royal family of Neuhansberg shows up at the gallery unfortunately it throws the spotlight on Sophie. A tragic accident killed Princess Johanna and her children years ago and at that time three family portraits went missing. Why suddenly has one portrait appeared? A mystery to be sure. Then suddenly Sophie's best friend, Lise, goes missing and there are rumors that hidden treasure is tied to the other missing portraits. Convinced that finding the other portraits will lead her to her friend, Sophie begins a quest that takes her into dangerous territory. Can she trust those she doesn't know who come to her aid? And what about handsome Mac McKenzie, who is also after the paintings for a client? As he dogs her steps, they try to outwit each other at every turn. But will they have to work together eventually to solve this mystery and try and save Lise before it's too late? This novel is extremely intriguing and had me turning pages long after bedtime. With numerous twists and turns, I couldn't put it down!
Thanks to NetGalley and Tyndale House Publishers for a complimentary copy of this novel. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
Thanks to NetGalley and Tyndale House Publishers for a complimentary copy of this novel. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
July 6, 2024
Wow - I got this book as an ARC and I'm glad I did. The story of "Speranza". A group of unaffiliated(?) women world wide who assist other women. Yet the story was more than that. It was about a missing painting, kidnapped vulnerable women, and the Prince of Neuhansberg and his deceased (murdered?) wife and children. There were two stories working interconnected while involving some of the same characters. The flow of both stories was seemless, the action was continous and there were enough plot twists to keep the reader from anticipating the ending. This is a book and an author I was not familiar with but I am thrilled to have gotten the opportunity to read Connie's work. I am already looking to see whats next. As a side note the hero's of the story are actually heroines, several of them. While this may be one of the main focuses of the story I personally didn't pay alot of attention to it, the characters and the story were so good the fact that they were women wasn't relevant to my reading of the the story. That's not exactly the point I'm trying to make. I guess what I'm trying to say is that while being aware the story was about women I wan't feeling as if they were an oddity, I guess I accepted them as true heroes without label.
June 14, 2024
The Crown Conspiracy is an exciting start to the new Speranza series, blending action, suspense, and a touch of romance. The story is centered around two friends, Sophie and Lise, who run an art gallery while secretly engaging in art forgery to return stolen artwork to its rightful owners. Their world is upended when Lise receives a painting linked to a long-lost royal family and a treasure hunt ensues, attracting dangerous adversaries.
This is a fast-paced story filled with heists, chases, and international intrigue, traveling between places like Munich, Cologne, and Venice. The European settings enrich the art-themed plot and underscore the high-stakes adventure. It is like watching a great action movie! Think, National Treasure or Indiana Jones, but in book form!
I recommend this book for fans of action-packed romantic suspense with a clean, faith-based approach. The book sets up an intriguing series that promises to explore more of the Speranza group's missions and the characters' personal growth.
This is a fast-paced story filled with heists, chases, and international intrigue, traveling between places like Munich, Cologne, and Venice. The European settings enrich the art-themed plot and underscore the high-stakes adventure. It is like watching a great action movie! Think, National Treasure or Indiana Jones, but in book form!
I recommend this book for fans of action-packed romantic suspense with a clean, faith-based approach. The book sets up an intriguing series that promises to explore more of the Speranza group's missions and the characters' personal growth.
June 4, 2024
Wow! What a fantastic start to a new series. Fast paced, action packed from beginning to end. Secret society that mostly consists of women helping women band together to solve several mysteries. Missing paintings, missing young women, hidden treasure and throw in some Royalties. Once I started reading I was addicted and couldn’t stop reading. There are quite a few characters, but written so well that I had no problems keeping everyone straight. The main character Sophie Williams leads a double life and depends only on herself or her BBF who has disappeared. So when the Speranza Team shows up to help she has trust issues. Till they prove themselves to be in her corner. This definitely needs to be made into a movie!
Thank you #NetGalley and #ConnieMann for this ARC. I can’t wait to read the next book in this series. All opinions expressed are my own and my alone. #TheCrownConspiracy #romanticsuspense #ChristianThriller
Thank you #NetGalley and #ConnieMann for this ARC. I can’t wait to read the next book in this series. All opinions expressed are my own and my alone. #TheCrownConspiracy #romanticsuspense #ChristianThriller
May 3, 2024
Wow! This book has everything! I loved the intrigue and the treasure hunt! Add in a modern day Robin Hood and a fabulous group of eccentric women who support other women. On top of that there is the mystery of a dead princess and her children, a coronation and missing women. Not much romance, but it wasn't needed for the story to be complete. I do look forward to more stories in the Speranza Team novels to come. This was the first book I have read by Connie Mann and she will be on my list of authors to buy in the future!
When you get a copy of this book set aside some time to really savor it. Then brew a pot of tea and curl up for an edge of your seat adventure.
I was given a copy of this book with no expectations. All thought's are my own.
When you get a copy of this book set aside some time to really savor it. Then brew a pot of tea and curl up for an edge of your seat adventure.
I was given a copy of this book with no expectations. All thought's are my own.
June 4, 2024
Sophie Williams is an art thief and a forger. When a long-missing portrait of three art pieces turns up in Germany at an art gallery days before the new prince’s coronation, questions arise with respect to the theft of the pie. When a rumor begins with respect to the stolen paintings and her best friend disappears, Sophie is convinced that if she can locate the other two paintings they will lead her to her friend.
I really enjoyed this book. Lots of intrigue and mystery with great settings in Germany and Venice, Italy. There is a great story line of women supporting women and there is just the right tinge of romance in the story.
Thank you to NetGalley and Tynedale House Publishers for a copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
I really enjoyed this book. Lots of intrigue and mystery with great settings in Germany and Venice, Italy. There is a great story line of women supporting women and there is just the right tinge of romance in the story.
Thank you to NetGalley and Tynedale House Publishers for a copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
June 4, 2024
A thrilling mystery about a fantastic artist who works like Robin Hood to restore what was stolen from others. Add to this electrifying venture further intrigue internationally, and you have an exciting suspense novel that will keep you riveted and racing through the drama to see what happens next. The story also contains royalty and clues found on the back of paintings of members of the family no longer present. If you enjoy rousing (and clean) suspense, you will find it here. And did I mention there’s a secret organization of women that has continued for generations involved in the tale with its many surprises and twists? The relatable characters and intriguing plot make this a winner. I received a copy from the publisher through NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
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