When a bloodstained note reveals a series of art forgeries, Doctor Genevieve Lenard and her team are thrust into a case that’s anything but straightforward.
What starts as an investigation into priceless paintings being replaced by flawless copies soon spirals into a complex conspiracy. The deeper they dig, the more perilous the case becomes—until Genevieve realises that the stakes are far higher than stolen art.
Dozens of innocent lives are in danger and they are running out of time. With too many questions and not enough answers, Genevieve is pushed to her limit to break through the labyrinth of secrets and clues before it’s too late.
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.
Another enjoyable entry in the series. Though neither in libraries nor Kindle Unlimited, these books are well priced and she writes fast with a new one coming out every 6-8 months it seems. Each features artwork by a particular artist that has been stolen, or damaged, or otherwise draws the attention of this international team of investigators.
As always, it's refreshing for the good guys to be positive without constant worry that one or the other of them is going to turn out to be a bad egg. Genevieve's ability to read microexpressions really comes into play in this one as they have to convince a terrified victim to trust them. As usual, the themes of taking down corporate bullies is core and the conclusion satisfying.
Jenny and Colin travel to Sweden to help a cop who was demoted in pursuing a powerful dirty politician. There are paintings that have been stolen and replaced depicting Viking mythological scenes, and a manga about a female warrior, Sigrid, getting revenge on an ex.
Vinnie loves Viking mythology and history, and Pink joins the gang with his manga knowledge. A woman who was badly beaten has the stolen paintings listed on paper, and her boss, Pernilla, has them hanging in her house.
It turns out Pernilka was mentally ill, changed her name to Sigrid, and built an empire to ruin her ex, the crooked politician. She’s killed by him, but with the help of the injured woman they rescue people who were trafficked from a shipping container and have enough to put the politician and his corrupt people in the police away.
I loved the story of Sigrid, gruesome as it was, and how the legend ties in with both a mad woman and a mad man. It was great to have Pink back in a story, I’ve been seeking him in the last few books. Next I hope Roxy returns to play a part.
“You are everything that is wrong with the world. You've been getting away with crimes, with vicious crimes. And it ends here. It ends today.”
In this, the 25th book of this marvelous series, the paintings and their artist are not the main focus as Genevieve and her team head for Sweden to find out why several of the works from the artist Mårten Eskil Winge have been expertly copied and substituted for the originals.
During this investigation we run into revenge and bitterness that has tainted people seeking revenge. It all happens at breakneck speed as lives are at stake. I wasn't so sure I would like this one as the story is kind of "out there" but, as usual author Estelle Ryan reels you in on a wing and a prayer and Mozart ..always Mozart. Highly Recommended 5/5
I'm a long time fan of this series, and it's always fun to see them investigating art theft in different European countries. In this one they are Sweden investigating the theft of several paintings which were then replaced by excellent copies. In some senses the books in this series may be a bit similar, but I always enjoy catching up with the gang. I do think this is a series that works better if you start at the beginning. Also, if you are in need of a quick read, the books in this series will be right up your alley.
The Winge Connection is a smart and compelling mystery that blends art, intrigue, and high-stakes suspense.
Estelle Ryan weaves a complex investigation filled with layered clues and rising tension, where the threat extends far beyond forged paintings. Genevieve Lenard’s sharp intellect anchors the story, making each discovery both engaging and rewarding.
A strong pick for readers who enjoy intelligent, puzzle-driven thrillers with depth and intrigue.
Estelle Ryan never disappoints, each and every book grabs you and doesn't let go. True page turners. Literally books that you can't put down. I especially enjoyed the Viking history and Norse Mythology in this book, I find it fascinating. Kudos on a great new book!
The Winge Connection is an excellent read! Estelle Ryan is back to adding more details in her books, and it was great. You heard about Vinnie's cooking and Francine's hacking (though not in a lot of detail), Genevieve's melt-downs and shut-downs (instead of glossing them over with a mere mention), and Colin's art info. Definitely recommend!
When real life imitates Norse legends and famous Norse paintings are forged, the team are called upon to investigate. Travelling to Sweden and Norway embroils them in combating high level corruption and organised crime.
Full of action, suspense and the humour we've come to expect 😄
Ryan’s characters and plots are intricately drawn, with details that have them jump from the pages. It’s no wonder I wait for each new adventure with bated breath. I promise, you will too!
Always happy to connect with this interesting constant cast of main characters. Also appreciate the introduction to new artists and new places. Cleverly resolved.