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Victorian Mystery #2
A Trace of Deceit
From the author of A Dangerous Duet comes the next book in her Victorian mystery series, this time following a daring female painter and the Scotland Yard detective who is investigating her brother’s suspicious death.
A young painter digs beneath the veneer of Victorian London’s art world to learn the truth behind her brother’s murder...
Edwin is dead. That’s what Inspector Matthew Hallam of Scotland Yard tells Annabel Rowe when she discovers him searching her brother’s flat for clues. While the news is shocking, Annabel can’t say it’s wholly unexpected, given Edwin’s past as a dissolute risk-taker and art forger, although he swore he’d reformed. After years spent blaming his reckless behavior for their parents’ deaths, Annabel is now faced with the question of who murdered him—because Edwin’s death was both violent and deliberate. A valuable French painting he’d been restoring for an auction house is missing from his studio: find the painting, find the murderer. But the owner of the artwork claims it was destroyed in a warehouse fire years ago.
As a painter at the prestigious Slade School of Art and as Edwin’s closest relative, Annabel makes the case that she is crucial to Matthew’s investigation. But in their search for the painting, Matthew and Annabel trace a path of deceit and viciousness that reaches far beyond the elegant rooms of the auction house, into an underworld of politics, corruption, and secrets someone will kill to keep.
A young painter digs beneath the veneer of Victorian London’s art world to learn the truth behind her brother’s murder...
Edwin is dead. That’s what Inspector Matthew Hallam of Scotland Yard tells Annabel Rowe when she discovers him searching her brother’s flat for clues. While the news is shocking, Annabel can’t say it’s wholly unexpected, given Edwin’s past as a dissolute risk-taker and art forger, although he swore he’d reformed. After years spent blaming his reckless behavior for their parents’ deaths, Annabel is now faced with the question of who murdered him—because Edwin’s death was both violent and deliberate. A valuable French painting he’d been restoring for an auction house is missing from his studio: find the painting, find the murderer. But the owner of the artwork claims it was destroyed in a warehouse fire years ago.
As a painter at the prestigious Slade School of Art and as Edwin’s closest relative, Annabel makes the case that she is crucial to Matthew’s investigation. But in their search for the painting, Matthew and Annabel trace a path of deceit and viciousness that reaches far beyond the elegant rooms of the auction house, into an underworld of politics, corruption, and secrets someone will kill to keep.
416 pages, Paperback
First published December 17, 2019
251 people are currently reading
4674 people want to read
About the author
Karen Odden
10 books429 followersKaren received her Ph.D. in English literature from New York University and subsequently taught at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. Her first novel, A Lady in the Smoke, was a USA Today bestseller, and A Dangerous Duet and A Trace of Deceit have won awards for historical mystery and historical fiction. Her fourth mystery, Down a Dark River, introduces readers to Michael Corravan, a former thief and bare-knuckles boxer from Whitechapel who has become a Scotland Yard inspector in 1878 London. The sequel, Under a Veiled Moon, is available now in hardback, e-book, and audiobook.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 221 reviews
January 4, 2020
3.5 stars
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Annabel has been working to trust her brother again after he is released from jail for counterfeiting paintings but when she arrives at his flat to find two plainclothes detectives, she knows something is direly wrong.
With her art world knowledge, Annabel could be a tremendous help to Inspector Matthew as he searches for an art thief and murderer but it's getting increasingly hard for him to put her in danger.
Suspects are lining up, plots are thickening, and buried secrets are getting revealed in this Victorian murder mystery.
“I think all our memories have a trace of deceit in them,” Matthew said, his expression regretful.
A Dangerous Duet, first in the Victorian Mystery series, introduced readers to the heroine's brother Matthew. A broody, overworked Inspector who took time and care with his thoughts and actions. I enjoyed watching him think and deduct in this continuation of the series. However, this is very much Annabel's story. Reader's come up on her as she has a sinking feeling about her brother Edwin, but as he has disappointed her in the past about turning his life around, she arrives at his flat annoyed that she is worried about him. This makes the impact of learning he was murdered hit her harder as guilt takes over. As this story is told from Annabel's point of view, readers really get into her head and I found her to be a calm, thoughtful, and intelligent heroine.
The murder mystery plot has Matthew trying to solve who and why murdered Edwin and possibly stole a painting he was cleaning. Was the murder random, was the painting the crux of the murder, or was Edwin targeted because of instances in his past? The author did a good job providing us with red-herrings: Felix is a friend of Annabel and Edwin and he gave the painting to Edwin to clean for his auction house. When it comes out that the painting could be a forgery, his reputation and livelihood are on the line. The seller of the painting, a widow, claims the painting was supposed to be a gift for her anniversary from her late husband but she is also in need of money. The step-son of the man who supposedly sold it to the widow's husband, claims it was burned in a fire and the painting has to be a forgery but if not, he wants it back; his relationship was very contentious with his step-father. Then lastly, possible enemies from Edwin's childhood school days.
I thought the author's strong suit was in providing these possible suspects and developing their reasons, slowly revealing them to the reader. This kept me guessing, involved, and locked into the mystery. Tying in and keeping Annabel involved with the investigation, through her art world knowledge, got a bit too in depth for me at times. I'm not a particular art connoisseur but others that are would maybe enjoy the name dropping and dive into paintings and painters that were popular or emerging during this time period. The author also includes some political background and tied in some real events, the Pantechnicon burning down, that helped set the period feel and gave the story more authenticity for me.
The focus of the story is very much on the art world and wadding through facts, backstories, characters, and revealed secrets to find out who and why Edwin was murdered, the romance between Annabel and Matthew is probably only around 3% of this stories focus. I was surprised, though, that the last 10% was so emotional for me, be prepared to have some of the slow, steady reveals from the murder mystery to hit you hard at the end. With the way the author hit me with this emotional writing, I was a little disappointed I didn't feel it throughout the story; the art world talk eclipsed it. Regardless, if looking for a Victorian murder mystery immersed in the art world, A Trace of Deceit delivers with meaningful red-herrings and an affecting end.
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Annabel has been working to trust her brother again after he is released from jail for counterfeiting paintings but when she arrives at his flat to find two plainclothes detectives, she knows something is direly wrong.
With her art world knowledge, Annabel could be a tremendous help to Inspector Matthew as he searches for an art thief and murderer but it's getting increasingly hard for him to put her in danger.
Suspects are lining up, plots are thickening, and buried secrets are getting revealed in this Victorian murder mystery.
“I think all our memories have a trace of deceit in them,” Matthew said, his expression regretful.
A Dangerous Duet, first in the Victorian Mystery series, introduced readers to the heroine's brother Matthew. A broody, overworked Inspector who took time and care with his thoughts and actions. I enjoyed watching him think and deduct in this continuation of the series. However, this is very much Annabel's story. Reader's come up on her as she has a sinking feeling about her brother Edwin, but as he has disappointed her in the past about turning his life around, she arrives at his flat annoyed that she is worried about him. This makes the impact of learning he was murdered hit her harder as guilt takes over. As this story is told from Annabel's point of view, readers really get into her head and I found her to be a calm, thoughtful, and intelligent heroine.
The murder mystery plot has Matthew trying to solve who and why murdered Edwin and possibly stole a painting he was cleaning. Was the murder random, was the painting the crux of the murder, or was Edwin targeted because of instances in his past? The author did a good job providing us with red-herrings: Felix is a friend of Annabel and Edwin and he gave the painting to Edwin to clean for his auction house. When it comes out that the painting could be a forgery, his reputation and livelihood are on the line. The seller of the painting, a widow, claims the painting was supposed to be a gift for her anniversary from her late husband but she is also in need of money. The step-son of the man who supposedly sold it to the widow's husband, claims it was burned in a fire and the painting has to be a forgery but if not, he wants it back; his relationship was very contentious with his step-father. Then lastly, possible enemies from Edwin's childhood school days.
I thought the author's strong suit was in providing these possible suspects and developing their reasons, slowly revealing them to the reader. This kept me guessing, involved, and locked into the mystery. Tying in and keeping Annabel involved with the investigation, through her art world knowledge, got a bit too in depth for me at times. I'm not a particular art connoisseur but others that are would maybe enjoy the name dropping and dive into paintings and painters that were popular or emerging during this time period. The author also includes some political background and tied in some real events, the Pantechnicon burning down, that helped set the period feel and gave the story more authenticity for me.
The focus of the story is very much on the art world and wadding through facts, backstories, characters, and revealed secrets to find out who and why Edwin was murdered, the romance between Annabel and Matthew is probably only around 3% of this stories focus. I was surprised, though, that the last 10% was so emotional for me, be prepared to have some of the slow, steady reveals from the murder mystery to hit you hard at the end. With the way the author hit me with this emotional writing, I was a little disappointed I didn't feel it throughout the story; the art world talk eclipsed it. Regardless, if looking for a Victorian murder mystery immersed in the art world, A Trace of Deceit delivers with meaningful red-herrings and an affecting end.
January 3, 2020
I probably shouldn't say this, but this is my favorite of my three books. In writing, as with most things, there is no substitute for experience, and as I developed this book, I simply had more tools at hand to create rounded characters. I also had enough faith in the process to let the characters speak back to me and add their own nuance and complexity to my initial plot, and to let myself feel the depth of all of Annabel's emotions--even the most uncomfortable ones--the wistful longing, her resentment, her worry and concern for Edwin, her loneliness, her regret, and her guilt. There are two main plot arcs here: first, the solving of the mystery of Edwin's death; and second, the evolution and progress of Annabel's character. It took many drafts to find the way these two plots twined together and to balance them, and I hope my readers find the result as satisfying as I do.
November 11, 2020
Oh what people do for a work of art. They steal, they connive, and they even commit murder.
While in the hands of Edwin who was restoring a famous painting, Madame de Pompadour by Francois Boucher, was stolen and Edwin was murdered.
We follow Anabele, Edwin's sister, and Mr. Hallam the investigator as they track down clues and the reason the painting may have been stolen.
What they find is quite a bit of information about the selling and trading of paintings and the people who participate in these trades. Some folks are definitely not on the up and up and come from all walks of life.
Will they find the painting and the murderer?
Ms. Odden will have you mesmerized by the workings of the art world and what goes on in auction houses.
Her characters are authentic, and her writing keeps your interest.
There is plenty of tension and good sleuthing along with a bit of romance. 4/5
This book was given to me by the author in exchange for an honest review.
While in the hands of Edwin who was restoring a famous painting, Madame de Pompadour by Francois Boucher, was stolen and Edwin was murdered.
We follow Anabele, Edwin's sister, and Mr. Hallam the investigator as they track down clues and the reason the painting may have been stolen.
What they find is quite a bit of information about the selling and trading of paintings and the people who participate in these trades. Some folks are definitely not on the up and up and come from all walks of life.
Will they find the painting and the murderer?
Ms. Odden will have you mesmerized by the workings of the art world and what goes on in auction houses.
Her characters are authentic, and her writing keeps your interest.
There is plenty of tension and good sleuthing along with a bit of romance. 4/5
This book was given to me by the author in exchange for an honest review.
October 24, 2022
This is the second novel that I read by Karen Odden and I gave both 5 stars; she's a great mystery writer indeed.
"Down a dark river" was better, but even this one was a great read, though with some imperfections.
As usual it was set during the London of the Victorian Era.
The main character is Annabelle Rowe, one of the few women of the time who attended a school of art. She goes to the apartment of her brother Edwin, who is an artist too, and finds there Inspector Matthew Hallam of Scotland Yard.
He tells her that Edwin had been murdered and a valuable painting he was cleaning stolen.
Are the two facts connected? Or maybe the murderer has something to do with Edwin's troubled past?
Annabelle starts to investigate with Hallam in the world of art and they will discover the shocking truth.
I really hope there will be a sequel of this book, as there will be of "Down a dark river".
"Down a dark river" was better, but even this one was a great read, though with some imperfections.
As usual it was set during the London of the Victorian Era.
The main character is Annabelle Rowe, one of the few women of the time who attended a school of art. She goes to the apartment of her brother Edwin, who is an artist too, and finds there Inspector Matthew Hallam of Scotland Yard.
He tells her that Edwin had been murdered and a valuable painting he was cleaning stolen.
Are the two facts connected? Or maybe the murderer has something to do with Edwin's troubled past?
Annabelle starts to investigate with Hallam in the world of art and they will discover the shocking truth.
I really hope there will be a sequel of this book, as there will be of "Down a dark river".
December 23, 2019
A Victorian mystery with everything you could want—a strong leading lady, a murder in London’s art world, a meticulous detective, and a missing painting. A Trace of Deceit is a gripping and complex mystery set in the world of Victorian London’s art scene that historical mystery fans will not want to miss!
Though it’s the second in a series by Karen Odden, A Trace of Deceit definitely works as a stand-alone mystery. The series is based on the time period and our leading detective Matthew Hallam. Though Hallam is the detective here, I felt that this mystery is truly about Annabel Rowe, the mystery of her brother’s murder, and the art world.
I’ve always loved mysteries involving art! Art is rare in a way that a dollar worth can’t quite capture. It is part of history, it is passion, it is intelligence, and it is creation. If there is one thing this mystery shows, it’s that secrets in the art world are worth killing for…
Annabel is an art student and she has spent a long time feeling somewhat estranged from her brother Edwin. Edwin has served time for art forgery in the past, so when Annabel finds Scotland Yard in his apartment one afternoon, she worries he is up to his old tricks again. Edwin has been murdered and the search for clues reveals a famous painting that he was restoring is missing from his flat. To further complicate matters, the painting was alleged to have burned in a fire several years earlier. Was it a forgery or the real painting?
I liked the focus on Annabel and her relationship with her brother. Edwin’s past was very troubled, but there were years in childhood where Annabel and Edwin were close. When they got older and Edwin had troubles with alcohol and ultimately with drugs, he stopped being the same brother she once knew. This added to the complexity of the mystery, because Annabel sought not just to discover who murdered Edwin, but also to understand who he was and what was happening in his life that led to his death.
Not only did I find the mystery to be completely gripping, but I found Annabel herself to be such a great character. I like to see a progressive Victorian woman, and Annabel seems to have that liberal nature that we want, but also authentic to the time.
The book itself is filled with intrigue, tension, and suspense. I didn’t want it to end!
Thank you to TLC Book Tours and William Morrow for my copy. Opinions are my own.
Though it’s the second in a series by Karen Odden, A Trace of Deceit definitely works as a stand-alone mystery. The series is based on the time period and our leading detective Matthew Hallam. Though Hallam is the detective here, I felt that this mystery is truly about Annabel Rowe, the mystery of her brother’s murder, and the art world.
I’ve always loved mysteries involving art! Art is rare in a way that a dollar worth can’t quite capture. It is part of history, it is passion, it is intelligence, and it is creation. If there is one thing this mystery shows, it’s that secrets in the art world are worth killing for…
Annabel is an art student and she has spent a long time feeling somewhat estranged from her brother Edwin. Edwin has served time for art forgery in the past, so when Annabel finds Scotland Yard in his apartment one afternoon, she worries he is up to his old tricks again. Edwin has been murdered and the search for clues reveals a famous painting that he was restoring is missing from his flat. To further complicate matters, the painting was alleged to have burned in a fire several years earlier. Was it a forgery or the real painting?
I liked the focus on Annabel and her relationship with her brother. Edwin’s past was very troubled, but there were years in childhood where Annabel and Edwin were close. When they got older and Edwin had troubles with alcohol and ultimately with drugs, he stopped being the same brother she once knew. This added to the complexity of the mystery, because Annabel sought not just to discover who murdered Edwin, but also to understand who he was and what was happening in his life that led to his death.
Not only did I find the mystery to be completely gripping, but I found Annabel herself to be such a great character. I like to see a progressive Victorian woman, and Annabel seems to have that liberal nature that we want, but also authentic to the time.
The book itself is filled with intrigue, tension, and suspense. I didn’t want it to end!
Thank you to TLC Book Tours and William Morrow for my copy. Opinions are my own.
October 2, 2020
I was so excited to be a part of this blog tour and with another great book from one of my favorite authors, Karen Odden since reading A Dangerous Duet which was unbelievably fantastic read, I highly recommend - check it out if you haven't read it already and then come back and thank me later. Though A Trace of Deceit is the second book in the series, this works as a stand alone mystery novel and a fantastic read full of mysteries to solve and
In Odden's third book, A Trace of Deceit, a Victorian murder mystery set in London's art world, it had everything I loved in a murder mystery. for the daring and strong female lead Annabel Rowe, a painter and whose brother Edwin - once an art forger, was violently murdered while a valuable French painting has now gone missing. leading the investigation is Scotland Yard Inspector, Matthew Hallam who is digging into the bottom of this very suspicious turn of events.
I loved learning about the underground art world and this definitely was well researched providing a rich tapestry of detail during Victorian England, the people at the time and alongside a suspenseful and thrilling plot.
The characters were a delight to read about most especially a strong woman who was well ahead of her time, and a passion to resolve her brothers' death as an amateur sleuth courageous enough to deep dive into the treacherous dark secrets of the London art scene.
I am so delighted to have had the chance to read this amazing book! I highly recommend!
In Odden's third book, A Trace of Deceit, a Victorian murder mystery set in London's art world, it had everything I loved in a murder mystery. for the daring and strong female lead Annabel Rowe, a painter and whose brother Edwin - once an art forger, was violently murdered while a valuable French painting has now gone missing. leading the investigation is Scotland Yard Inspector, Matthew Hallam who is digging into the bottom of this very suspicious turn of events.
I loved learning about the underground art world and this definitely was well researched providing a rich tapestry of detail during Victorian England, the people at the time and alongside a suspenseful and thrilling plot.
The characters were a delight to read about most especially a strong woman who was well ahead of her time, and a passion to resolve her brothers' death as an amateur sleuth courageous enough to deep dive into the treacherous dark secrets of the London art scene.
I am so delighted to have had the chance to read this amazing book! I highly recommend!
December 13, 2019
Annabel Rowe has been slowly working to reconcile with her brother Edwin, but one day she arrives at his flat to discover two detectives there with the news that Edwin is dead. Murdered, with a valuable painting he had been cleaning now missing. Annabel needs to understand what happened to her brother to gain some closure on his death (and life) and she convinces Inspector Matthew Hallam that her knowledge of the art world and Edwin will prove valuable to discovering his murderer. But what they discover is the darkness behind the art world, where secrets fester and can prove worth killing for.
A Trace of Deceit is an engrossing Victorian mystery with a strong central figure in Annabel. A student at the Slade Art School, she is trying to find her place in the masculine world of painting. She sees herself as an observer instead of a participant in the world and holds herself apart from fellow students and her older brother, trying to prevent herself from being hurt. But Annabel is only fooling herself- she's a caring, compassionate woman who feels deeply. Edwin's death hits her hard, but she finds strength in working with Matthew to discover the killer. She doesn't shy away from hard truths, although she might not think of them as automatically as a more cynical person would. And there are plenty of hard truths about Edwin that she has to accept in order to understand his murder.
Where Odden's A Dangerous Duet brought readers into intimate contact with the city of London, A Trace of Deceit focuses on its people. Like Annabel herself, we focus on how they interact, what they show, and what they hide. We see through the eyes of a painter the light and the dark that make up the world around Annabel and Matthew. Odden uses this not only to give the reader brilliant descriptions of the lives around our heroes, but to plant red herrings and clues with equal strength, forcing the reader to continually adjust their view of what seems, at first, to be a simple murder.
Engrossing from start to finish, A Trace of Deceit will keep readers guessing from start to finish, in a book impossible to put down until the last stone is unturned and the last secret is revealed. Full of heart and empathy, Odden explores how individuals deal with personal and family tragedies, betrayals, and secrets. A must read for fans of Sherry Thomas, Anne Perry, and Victorian mystery lovers everywhere.
A Trace of Deceit is an engrossing Victorian mystery with a strong central figure in Annabel. A student at the Slade Art School, she is trying to find her place in the masculine world of painting. She sees herself as an observer instead of a participant in the world and holds herself apart from fellow students and her older brother, trying to prevent herself from being hurt. But Annabel is only fooling herself- she's a caring, compassionate woman who feels deeply. Edwin's death hits her hard, but she finds strength in working with Matthew to discover the killer. She doesn't shy away from hard truths, although she might not think of them as automatically as a more cynical person would. And there are plenty of hard truths about Edwin that she has to accept in order to understand his murder.
Where Odden's A Dangerous Duet brought readers into intimate contact with the city of London, A Trace of Deceit focuses on its people. Like Annabel herself, we focus on how they interact, what they show, and what they hide. We see through the eyes of a painter the light and the dark that make up the world around Annabel and Matthew. Odden uses this not only to give the reader brilliant descriptions of the lives around our heroes, but to plant red herrings and clues with equal strength, forcing the reader to continually adjust their view of what seems, at first, to be a simple murder.
Engrossing from start to finish, A Trace of Deceit will keep readers guessing from start to finish, in a book impossible to put down until the last stone is unturned and the last secret is revealed. Full of heart and empathy, Odden explores how individuals deal with personal and family tragedies, betrayals, and secrets. A must read for fans of Sherry Thomas, Anne Perry, and Victorian mystery lovers everywhere.
September 26, 2020
A young art student in the process of reconciling with a brother who fell into addiction and crime before beginning the process of recovery must now face that brother’s murky past and her knowledge of the art world to help a Scotland Yard detective get to the truth. This exploration into the world of Victorian art, the darkness of addiction and its effect on siblings, a young woman finding her way to understanding, and a sweet background romance all made for a profoundly good second visit with an author I have come to appreciate for her painting of the Victorian world and a clever mystery.
A Trace of Deceit was the standalone sequel to A Dangerous Duet. I didn’t read A Dangerous Duet and did just fine since the only connection was Matthew Hallam as the detective who became the love interest in this one.
First of all, I must tattle on myself. I went into this one thinking it was the sequel to an earlier book the author had written, A Lady in the Smoke. As you can imagine, I was somewhat confused at first to not spot the connection to the earlier book or feel there was a connection, but then got it sorted out when I paused in my reading to do a proper investigation. Once I had that established, I was able to slip back into Annabel Rowe’s story.
Annabel is the sister of the victim and my heart went out to her not long after I learned her history with her brother and her struggles to love and help a sibling who withdrew from her into his addictions before getting himself put away for forgery. In fact, she feels guilt when she learns he was murdered and not just in trouble with the police again. She is vulnerable, but also driven to get to the truth of both the murder and the mystery of her brother’s life. When the truth came out about what drove Edwin to drink and drugs, I saw that coming. Fortunately, she is a strong woman and she has Matthew who has been working her brother’s case all along. She was all Victorian and yet, her artistic side and her own personality make her something more.
Speaking of art, art plays a huge role in this book. I enjoy art history and learning more about paintings and artists so this part was intriguing to me. It does occupy a large portion of the book and the pace slows down as the book delves into this element. I didn’t mind and spent time on the internet looking up artists and paintings as I went. I could tell the author did due diligence with this element as well as the wider Victorian era setting. Description, dialogue, and manners were all in line with the historical setting.
As to the mystery, whew, there were several possibilities in the beginning including was the painting her brother Edwin was working on genuine or fake? Was it the auction owner? Was it the owner? Her Step-son? Or others from Edwin’s dark past and nothing to do with the painting at all? I had an idea, but dismissed it. In truth, I was more interested in seeing Annabel discover the truth behind Edwin’s addictions and make her emotional journey through it all. I loved her and Matthew together and working on Edwin’s murder. Now, I want to go back for A Dangerous Duet to see more of Matthew solving his sister’s story.
All in all, I was emotionally attached and engaged with the characters and mystery. I love the author’s writing style and the Victorian world of her mysteries. I can’t wait to pick up more and can easily recommend this one and her others to other historical mystery fans.
My thanks to the author for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
A Trace of Deceit was the standalone sequel to A Dangerous Duet. I didn’t read A Dangerous Duet and did just fine since the only connection was Matthew Hallam as the detective who became the love interest in this one.
First of all, I must tattle on myself. I went into this one thinking it was the sequel to an earlier book the author had written, A Lady in the Smoke. As you can imagine, I was somewhat confused at first to not spot the connection to the earlier book or feel there was a connection, but then got it sorted out when I paused in my reading to do a proper investigation. Once I had that established, I was able to slip back into Annabel Rowe’s story.
Annabel is the sister of the victim and my heart went out to her not long after I learned her history with her brother and her struggles to love and help a sibling who withdrew from her into his addictions before getting himself put away for forgery. In fact, she feels guilt when she learns he was murdered and not just in trouble with the police again. She is vulnerable, but also driven to get to the truth of both the murder and the mystery of her brother’s life. When the truth came out about what drove Edwin to drink and drugs, I saw that coming. Fortunately, she is a strong woman and she has Matthew who has been working her brother’s case all along. She was all Victorian and yet, her artistic side and her own personality make her something more.
Speaking of art, art plays a huge role in this book. I enjoy art history and learning more about paintings and artists so this part was intriguing to me. It does occupy a large portion of the book and the pace slows down as the book delves into this element. I didn’t mind and spent time on the internet looking up artists and paintings as I went. I could tell the author did due diligence with this element as well as the wider Victorian era setting. Description, dialogue, and manners were all in line with the historical setting.
As to the mystery, whew, there were several possibilities in the beginning including was the painting her brother Edwin was working on genuine or fake? Was it the auction owner? Was it the owner? Her Step-son? Or others from Edwin’s dark past and nothing to do with the painting at all? I had an idea, but dismissed it. In truth, I was more interested in seeing Annabel discover the truth behind Edwin’s addictions and make her emotional journey through it all. I loved her and Matthew together and working on Edwin’s murder. Now, I want to go back for A Dangerous Duet to see more of Matthew solving his sister’s story.
All in all, I was emotionally attached and engaged with the characters and mystery. I love the author’s writing style and the Victorian world of her mysteries. I can’t wait to pick up more and can easily recommend this one and her others to other historical mystery fans.
My thanks to the author for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
February 14, 2020
When painter Annabel Rowe discovers a Scotland Yard Inspector, Matthew Hallam, in her brother’s flat, she knows something is amiss but never thought she’d hear her brother’s been murdered. A valuable painting he’d been restoring is missing and Annabel knows it’s the key to finding her brother’s murderer. Teaming up with Matthew, they enter the underbelly of the art world. As they sift through lies, deception, and evasion, the investigation takes a surprising turn and puts Annabel in the crosshairs of a killer. Can she escape with her life or will she be the next victim?
I’m a huge historical mystery fan and A Trace of Deceit is a delight for the senses. Karen Odden plunges the reader into the past with historically accurate descriptive narration, colourful characters, an independent heroine, and a suspenseful mystery. The plot moves at a good pace with a few twists I didn’t see coming. The mystery itself stimulated my mind and I honestly didn’t figure it out until the very end. Well done. A Trace of Deceit is reminiscent of Anne Perry’s Victorian mysteries. Highly recommend!
My Rating: 5 stars
Reviewed by: Mrs. N
This review first appeared: https://www.nnlightsbookheaven.com/po...
I’m a huge historical mystery fan and A Trace of Deceit is a delight for the senses. Karen Odden plunges the reader into the past with historically accurate descriptive narration, colourful characters, an independent heroine, and a suspenseful mystery. The plot moves at a good pace with a few twists I didn’t see coming. The mystery itself stimulated my mind and I honestly didn’t figure it out until the very end. Well done. A Trace of Deceit is reminiscent of Anne Perry’s Victorian mysteries. Highly recommend!
My Rating: 5 stars
Reviewed by: Mrs. N
This review first appeared: https://www.nnlightsbookheaven.com/po...
January 22, 2020
This story takes me back to high school and the books I loved to lose myself in! Karen Odden has become a favorite author. In its review of this book, Publisher’s Weekly wrote: “Odden keenly evokes the physical as well as cultural milieu of Victorian England, and peoples her setting with fully realized and intriguing characters.”
(clean read)
(clean read)
October 25, 2022
Another good Victorian murder mystery from this author--this time set in the art world of London, 1876.
I jumped into this one right after finishing A Dangerous Duet. I was hoping for this to be from Matthew Hallam's POV but the author had other plans. Annabelle Rowe won me over, with her oh so conflicted feelings for her brother Edwin, who was murdered before they could solidify their reconciliation.
Edwin, an artist, was in the process of cleaning a very valuable painting when he was killed. The painting, slated for auction, is now missing. Was he killed for the artwork? Matthew is heading the murder investigation and Annabelle, also an artist, attaches herself to Matthew as an unofficial guide to the world of art.
To complicate matters, the painting in question was believed destroyed in a major fire several years earlier. The second complication arises over questions of ownership of the now missing painting. There are more twists and turns as the story unfolds and the clues start to make sense. I was very happy with the resolution and the identity of the killer. I also appreciated that there is a romance developing between Annabelle and Matthew by the end of the book.
In the first book the author explored the scars a parent's mental illness can leave on their children. In this one the serious theme involves the bond between sons and fathers and its many manifestations.
The events in this book take place 8 months after those in A Dangerous Duet. One does not need to have read the first. As one who did read the first book, I was disappointed by the lack of follow-on info regarding several characters. To wit, we have mentions of Nell several times, but nary a word of the young man she was in love with; Peggy the housekeeper lives in her own house in the first book, with her daughter Emma, who is ill. In this second book Peggy is living at the Hallam's, with no mention of Emma. This reader wants to know what happened to them, (pout!).
Quibbles aside, I now have her next book, Down a Dark River on reserve at my library. She's jumped forward two years and is introducing a new main character, but I'm okay with that. Maybe we'll see Nell and Matthew in the background...
I jumped into this one right after finishing A Dangerous Duet. I was hoping for this to be from Matthew Hallam's POV but the author had other plans. Annabelle Rowe won me over, with her oh so conflicted feelings for her brother Edwin, who was murdered before they could solidify their reconciliation.
Edwin, an artist, was in the process of cleaning a very valuable painting when he was killed. The painting, slated for auction, is now missing. Was he killed for the artwork? Matthew is heading the murder investigation and Annabelle, also an artist, attaches herself to Matthew as an unofficial guide to the world of art.
To complicate matters, the painting in question was believed destroyed in a major fire several years earlier. The second complication arises over questions of ownership of the now missing painting. There are more twists and turns as the story unfolds and the clues start to make sense. I was very happy with the resolution and the identity of the killer. I also appreciated that there is a romance developing between Annabelle and Matthew by the end of the book.
In the first book the author explored the scars a parent's mental illness can leave on their children. In this one the serious theme involves the bond between sons and fathers and its many manifestations.
The events in this book take place 8 months after those in A Dangerous Duet. One does not need to have read the first. As one who did read the first book, I was disappointed by the lack of follow-on info regarding several characters. To wit, we have mentions of Nell several times, but nary a word of the young man she was in love with; Peggy the housekeeper lives in her own house in the first book, with her daughter Emma, who is ill. In this second book Peggy is living at the Hallam's, with no mention of Emma. This reader wants to know what happened to them, (pout!).
Quibbles aside, I now have her next book, Down a Dark River on reserve at my library. She's jumped forward two years and is introducing a new main character, but I'm okay with that. Maybe we'll see Nell and Matthew in the background...
June 25, 2023
Out of the ball park read for this genre. All the mystery and intrigue one could want. The lead character is at art school. When her brother, a talented artist and forger is found murdered Annabel Rowe joins forces with a Scotland Yard detective to learn the truth. Along the way a fascinating journey through art houses and English law
September 25, 2020
I decided to read the first book in this series before picking this one up. Thinking that as it was a series, I would need to get caught up to speed with the characters before diving into this one.
As there was only one book, I figured it wouldn’t be a bad idea just to check it out. Well come to find out, I didn’t really need to read the first book in the series before this one, but I am still glad that I did as it gave readers a nice introduction to one of the main characters in this book, Matthew.
If you love historical mysteries, then I think this would be a great series to check out. I know I have enjoyed both books in the series so far, for different reasons and I hope you will think about checking out this author!
I have to admit, I liked this book better than the first in this series. This book had a much better mystery in my opinions. The mystery in the first book was just ok for me while this one hit a lot of romantic high notes with the art theft and forgeries. I thought the author did a great job giving the readers a behind the scenes view of the art and collectible world. I loved learning about the auction houses and some of their history.
For me, this one had a lot more history in it than the other book in the series. I learned lots of new things about art and how collectors worked and I enjoyed that probably the most out of this book, though the characters were fun, the history and sensational mystery was my favorite thing about this book.
In the first book, I found Matthew had so much potential so I was glad when he got his own story. But at the same time I thought that maybe Nell would be a repeat character in the series as is the formula for many historical mysteries. But this book takes on the voice of a new heroine in Annabel. At first it was a little disorientating but overall I liked getting to know Annabel and seeing how a little romance developed between her and Matthew.
There were times when I felt like the book needed a little more action or clues spaced out in the plot, as there were a lot of times where the characters were just talking and looking for clues without much really happening. I would have liked to have seen a little more action, but over all it wasn’t boring or slow, just it started off strong and then slowed and then picked up for a few minutes and then slowed and then picked up. While I know that sort of pacing is normal, there were times when it felt a little choppy.
In the end I enjoyed this one much more than the first book and am looking forward to reading more by this author in the future.
See my full review here
As there was only one book, I figured it wouldn’t be a bad idea just to check it out. Well come to find out, I didn’t really need to read the first book in the series before this one, but I am still glad that I did as it gave readers a nice introduction to one of the main characters in this book, Matthew.
If you love historical mysteries, then I think this would be a great series to check out. I know I have enjoyed both books in the series so far, for different reasons and I hope you will think about checking out this author!
I have to admit, I liked this book better than the first in this series. This book had a much better mystery in my opinions. The mystery in the first book was just ok for me while this one hit a lot of romantic high notes with the art theft and forgeries. I thought the author did a great job giving the readers a behind the scenes view of the art and collectible world. I loved learning about the auction houses and some of their history.
For me, this one had a lot more history in it than the other book in the series. I learned lots of new things about art and how collectors worked and I enjoyed that probably the most out of this book, though the characters were fun, the history and sensational mystery was my favorite thing about this book.
In the first book, I found Matthew had so much potential so I was glad when he got his own story. But at the same time I thought that maybe Nell would be a repeat character in the series as is the formula for many historical mysteries. But this book takes on the voice of a new heroine in Annabel. At first it was a little disorientating but overall I liked getting to know Annabel and seeing how a little romance developed between her and Matthew.
There were times when I felt like the book needed a little more action or clues spaced out in the plot, as there were a lot of times where the characters were just talking and looking for clues without much really happening. I would have liked to have seen a little more action, but over all it wasn’t boring or slow, just it started off strong and then slowed and then picked up for a few minutes and then slowed and then picked up. While I know that sort of pacing is normal, there were times when it felt a little choppy.
In the end I enjoyed this one much more than the first book and am looking forward to reading more by this author in the future.
See my full review here
September 29, 2019
“I think all of our memories have a trace of deceit in them.” Trace of Deceit is the second book I’ve read by Karen Odden, and I LOVED everything about it. Annabel and Matthew are delightful characters, not perfect but human and realistic. Ms. Odden has clearly done her research because her descriptions of art, painting and the auction world are detailed and expansive. She doesn’t shy away from the ugliness of human nature, especially when Matthew’s case takes the pair to visit the boarding school Annabel’s brother attended. More than a cozy mystery, everything about this story is enjoyable. So well done!
P.S. Many thanks to Edelweiss for the ARC.
P.S. Many thanks to Edelweiss for the ARC.
July 1, 2019
I just really love these books.
January 3, 2020
My patient anticipation of A Trace of Deceit was sweetly rewarded when I began started reading on New Year's Day, and most of it was spent reading it! It did not disappoint as I have found in the previous novels of Karen Odden.
It was easy to fall into the world of Annabel Rowe as she finds out that her brother Edwin Rowe is dead, and not just that, he's been murdered. But for what and why? Annabel is determined to find out what happened to her older brother? She feels guilty of not feeling that she had forgiven Edwin for what happened at Tennersley, and all the unknown variables that she isn't even aware of before his passing.
The main characters of Annabel Rowe and Matthew Hallam were wonderful to read about. I thought Matthew was the most wonderful fictional gentleman, he was respectful, kind, gentle, strong, courageous, and I could go on forever about Matthew...:) He's the kind of policeman that should populate every police department.
In short, it was wonderfully written. I look forward to the next novel by Ms. Odden!
It was easy to fall into the world of Annabel Rowe as she finds out that her brother Edwin Rowe is dead, and not just that, he's been murdered. But for what and why? Annabel is determined to find out what happened to her older brother? She feels guilty of not feeling that she had forgiven Edwin for what happened at Tennersley, and all the unknown variables that she isn't even aware of before his passing.
The main characters of Annabel Rowe and Matthew Hallam were wonderful to read about. I thought Matthew was the most wonderful fictional gentleman, he was respectful, kind, gentle, strong, courageous, and I could go on forever about Matthew...:) He's the kind of policeman that should populate every police department.
In short, it was wonderfully written. I look forward to the next novel by Ms. Odden!
September 25, 2020
Thank you HFVBT and William Morrow for a complimentary copy. I voluntarily reviewed this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
Trace Of Deceit
By: Karen Odden
REVIEW ☆☆☆☆
I love art history, and any story with art as an important piece of the puzzle is an instant draw for me. Trace of Deceit is my first Karen Odden book, and I am obsessed now with reading more. What's not to love?
A strained sibling relationship. A brother murdered under suspicion circumstances. What? An expensive French painting he was restoring for auction has been stolen. The Inspector and the sister work together to solve this crime. Loved her knowledge of the art world and its use in finding a killer. Very descriptive and immersive into 1870s London and the dark side of art, like forging, etc. Excellent research evident in the development of this story. Informative and educational while maintaining an engaging entertaining story. Mystery was kind of the cozy type. Not cheesy, though. Story is clever, witty, and compelling. Characters have depth and intelligence. Strong and capable heroine. Reconciling brother's troubled past with his untimely death. She grows and is stronger by the end of the story. Possible romance interest with Inspector. Want to know where this goes next! Overall impression is excellent story. Historical mystery at its finest!
Trace Of Deceit
By: Karen Odden
REVIEW ☆☆☆☆
I love art history, and any story with art as an important piece of the puzzle is an instant draw for me. Trace of Deceit is my first Karen Odden book, and I am obsessed now with reading more. What's not to love?
A strained sibling relationship. A brother murdered under suspicion circumstances. What? An expensive French painting he was restoring for auction has been stolen. The Inspector and the sister work together to solve this crime. Loved her knowledge of the art world and its use in finding a killer. Very descriptive and immersive into 1870s London and the dark side of art, like forging, etc. Excellent research evident in the development of this story. Informative and educational while maintaining an engaging entertaining story. Mystery was kind of the cozy type. Not cheesy, though. Story is clever, witty, and compelling. Characters have depth and intelligence. Strong and capable heroine. Reconciling brother's troubled past with his untimely death. She grows and is stronger by the end of the story. Possible romance interest with Inspector. Want to know where this goes next! Overall impression is excellent story. Historical mystery at its finest!
September 9, 2020
Karen Odden's A Trace Of Deceit is in a word...
Unexpected.
From the extremely knowledgeable and emotionally adept heroine readers encounter in Annabelle. To the working understanding that seamless character interaction and dialogue provide about all things art, auctions, the cleaning, restoration, buying, selling, and of course thievery of paintings. All the while integrating the tragedy and mystery surrounding the murder of Annabelle's brother Edwin into things, and managing to give him and his unsung accomplishments a posthumous turn in the spotlight.
Whew!
Please give me a moment to rest my typing fingers after writing all that.
Because if all of the aforementioned points aren't enough to send you hunting for this wondrous read. Here are just a few more.
Miss Odden's treatment of the very real historical significance of Boucher's Madame de Pompadour within a purely fictional context, is exquisite.
It is very apparent that the author has done her research. As well as possessing a personal familiarity with the subject and world in question. With which she is able to imbue all aspects of her story.
Nods should also be given to Annabelle's ability to move about both the art world and her own unimpeded. Given the fact that this story takes place in and era where the rights and beliefs surrounding women as autonomous and free thinking persons. Worthy of their own standing in society. Is still, as yet a new and untried thing.
Last...
Lest I go on all day.
This story is one that offers readers many stars. There are no small parts or small players here.
But many integral parts all working together. To bring this story of love, loss, deception, art, money, and murder to life.
Unexpected.
From the extremely knowledgeable and emotionally adept heroine readers encounter in Annabelle. To the working understanding that seamless character interaction and dialogue provide about all things art, auctions, the cleaning, restoration, buying, selling, and of course thievery of paintings. All the while integrating the tragedy and mystery surrounding the murder of Annabelle's brother Edwin into things, and managing to give him and his unsung accomplishments a posthumous turn in the spotlight.
Whew!
Please give me a moment to rest my typing fingers after writing all that.
Because if all of the aforementioned points aren't enough to send you hunting for this wondrous read. Here are just a few more.
Miss Odden's treatment of the very real historical significance of Boucher's Madame de Pompadour within a purely fictional context, is exquisite.
It is very apparent that the author has done her research. As well as possessing a personal familiarity with the subject and world in question. With which she is able to imbue all aspects of her story.
Nods should also be given to Annabelle's ability to move about both the art world and her own unimpeded. Given the fact that this story takes place in and era where the rights and beliefs surrounding women as autonomous and free thinking persons. Worthy of their own standing in society. Is still, as yet a new and untried thing.
Last...
Lest I go on all day.
This story is one that offers readers many stars. There are no small parts or small players here.
But many integral parts all working together. To bring this story of love, loss, deception, art, money, and murder to life.
March 14, 2022
Annabel Rowe, a rare female student at the prestigious Slade School of Art in Victorian-era London finds two Scotland Yard inspectors searching her brother’s flat. She is greeted with the shocking news that her brother, Edwin, is dead. Further, a valuable French painting is missing from his studio. As much as she loved her brother, this is not wholly unexpected news considering his penchant for getting into trouble with the law and having served time in jail. Annabel teams up with one of the inspectors, Matthew Hallam to get to the bottom of Edwin’s murder. Just how mixed up was he in the world of art forgery, theft, and other assorted mischief?
This is the second novel in Karen Odden’s “Victorian Mystery series” and although related to book one, A Dangerous Duet, it reads perfectly well as a stand-alone. In fact, it is related to book one only through the character of Matthew Hallam, Nell’s brother and the protagonist in the first book. There are a couple of minor references to Nell and what happened in that novel but by and large, this one is independent.
Once again, the author has done a remarkable job in establishing a vivid historical setting and sprinkling it with real characters and institutions. Her own knowledge and research of the art world as well as the intriguing peripheral orbits of auction houses and art forgeries serves her well to add spice and background to the tale. The plot moves along smoothly, well-paced and certainly holding my interest from chapter to chapter. The mystery itself is one of those that requires more than just interviewing suspects and witnesses but rather demands the sleuths take several detours through the backstory to arrive at the proper destination. It’s all very intriguing and includes a fair bit of danger for Annabel as well as a bit of sweet romance.
I’ve read just two books from this author, but I already feel that she has earned my trust as a high-quality go-to-author for historical mysteries. I’ll certainly be reading her other works as well, resting comfortably and assured of a good read.
This is the second novel in Karen Odden’s “Victorian Mystery series” and although related to book one, A Dangerous Duet, it reads perfectly well as a stand-alone. In fact, it is related to book one only through the character of Matthew Hallam, Nell’s brother and the protagonist in the first book. There are a couple of minor references to Nell and what happened in that novel but by and large, this one is independent.
Once again, the author has done a remarkable job in establishing a vivid historical setting and sprinkling it with real characters and institutions. Her own knowledge and research of the art world as well as the intriguing peripheral orbits of auction houses and art forgeries serves her well to add spice and background to the tale. The plot moves along smoothly, well-paced and certainly holding my interest from chapter to chapter. The mystery itself is one of those that requires more than just interviewing suspects and witnesses but rather demands the sleuths take several detours through the backstory to arrive at the proper destination. It’s all very intriguing and includes a fair bit of danger for Annabel as well as a bit of sweet romance.
I’ve read just two books from this author, but I already feel that she has earned my trust as a high-quality go-to-author for historical mysteries. I’ll certainly be reading her other works as well, resting comfortably and assured of a good read.
February 25, 2020
Love this book! A Trace of Deceit is another great read by Karen Odden.
September 22, 2020
"The day I lost Edwin, I think my paintbrush knew before I did."
Annabel Rowe is an art student at the Slade school when she finds out her brother Edwin has been killed in his flat. The siblings aren't close except for a weekly visit and when Annabel shows up one day she discovers a Scotland Yard detective in the flat instead of her brother. Though she is saddened by his death she is not entirely surprised. In their youth he was fond of getting into trouble and did a short stint in jail, so she believes he has lost his way again and was hurt because of that. When Annabel finds out that her brother had indeed been on the road to redemption and working on and restoring a highly valuable 18th century painting - a painting thought to have been lost in a fire - that was commissioned by a family friend and worker at a new Art auction house. Due to her knowledge of art, Inspector Hallam asks Annabel to assist him with the investigation into her brother's death.
I really enjoyed seeing the investigation unfold. The more clues they find, the more we get to know Edwin. Was the painting the reason why Edwin was killed? Or was it connected to something that happened in his past? What did happen at the boarding school he attended when he came back so different.
There were a lot of twists and turns in this book! Just when you thought you had it all figured out Odden rips the rug out from under you. And I love that! It's wholly apparent that the author did extensive research into artists and the world at art and auction houses. It was fascinating!
I cannot wait to go back and read the first book in the series! Odden's writing and way of keeping you guessing is stellar!
Annabel Rowe is an art student at the Slade school when she finds out her brother Edwin has been killed in his flat. The siblings aren't close except for a weekly visit and when Annabel shows up one day she discovers a Scotland Yard detective in the flat instead of her brother. Though she is saddened by his death she is not entirely surprised. In their youth he was fond of getting into trouble and did a short stint in jail, so she believes he has lost his way again and was hurt because of that. When Annabel finds out that her brother had indeed been on the road to redemption and working on and restoring a highly valuable 18th century painting - a painting thought to have been lost in a fire - that was commissioned by a family friend and worker at a new Art auction house. Due to her knowledge of art, Inspector Hallam asks Annabel to assist him with the investigation into her brother's death.
I really enjoyed seeing the investigation unfold. The more clues they find, the more we get to know Edwin. Was the painting the reason why Edwin was killed? Or was it connected to something that happened in his past? What did happen at the boarding school he attended when he came back so different.
There were a lot of twists and turns in this book! Just when you thought you had it all figured out Odden rips the rug out from under you. And I love that! It's wholly apparent that the author did extensive research into artists and the world at art and auction houses. It was fascinating!
I cannot wait to go back and read the first book in the series! Odden's writing and way of keeping you guessing is stellar!
March 8, 2021
A TRACE OF DECEIT is a beautifully written novel by Karen Odden, featuring a strong, appealing heroine and an intriguing mystery, set in the art world of late Victorian London. I was hooked immediately and found the story to be fascinating, compelling, and page-turning. The heroine is an artist, and I like the way Odden often had her viewing the world through her personal artistic lens. There were plenty of excellent twists and turns to the story. The book was rich with historical detail and vibrant images. I enjoyed learning a bit about art history and discovering things along the way as the mystery unfolded. At times the tale was heart-wrenching – when layers were peeled back and the truth behind a character’s back story was revealed; those are the moments, the ones that really tapped into my emotions, that will stay with me for a long time. I highly recommend this novel to readers who enjoy a well-told historical mystery with a touch of light romance.
December 20, 2022
My second read of Odden's work, of whom I was introduced thanks to a book club. She'll go in my regular rotation of good mystery writers, especially as she is wonderfully adept at capturing the feel of Victorian London. In this, we get a missing painting, two artistic siblings, and a peak at counterfeiting in the art world.
November 15, 2019
I received an ARC of this book to read through Edelweiss+ in exchange for a fair review. A Trace of Deceit is the third book in Karen Odden’s Victorian Mystery series. It can be read as a stand-alone. Artist Edwin Rowe has been murdered and his death seems to be tied to a missing painting, one that was supposed to have been destroyed in a fire five years previously. Annabel Rowe also an artist is determined to solve the mystery of her brothers death at a time when he finally seemed to be getting his life back on track after period of trouble and incarceration. With the help of Inspector Matthew Hallam of Scotland Yard she finds that nothing is as it first seemed and finding the truth will change her perceptions of both past and present. I enjoyed reading this book immensely and highly recommend it. Publishing Date December 17, 2019. #Edelweissplus #ATraceOfDeceit #VictorianMysteryNovel #Bookstagram #HistoricalFiction #KarenOdden
June 25, 2021
A Trace of Deceit by Karen Odden brilliantly weaves together adventure, romance, art theft and murder in 19th century London. It’s exactly the type of story I love, filled with characters that gripped my attention, as well as history and crime (art theft) I knew little about, and a rich setting that made me feel as if I’d traveled back in time to the 1870s.
Annabel Rowe is a sympathetic protagonist. A painter and an art student, Annabel learns that her troubled brother Edwin has been murdered and that the valuable Francois Boucher painting he’d been restoring has been stolen. She convinces Scotland Yard inspector Matthew Hallam that she’s crucial to his investigation of Edwin’s murder and the theft. The pair travel from the heights of London society to art auctions, English private schools and into the fraught politics of the day.
Their investigation forces Annabel to question her own memories, to ask why she recalls bad times with her brother so much more clearly than good. In the end, A Trace of Deceit warns, our own not-quite-accurate memories can deceive us – even betray us – in the most unexpected ways.
Annabel Rowe is a sympathetic protagonist. A painter and an art student, Annabel learns that her troubled brother Edwin has been murdered and that the valuable Francois Boucher painting he’d been restoring has been stolen. She convinces Scotland Yard inspector Matthew Hallam that she’s crucial to his investigation of Edwin’s murder and the theft. The pair travel from the heights of London society to art auctions, English private schools and into the fraught politics of the day.
Their investigation forces Annabel to question her own memories, to ask why she recalls bad times with her brother so much more clearly than good. In the end, A Trace of Deceit warns, our own not-quite-accurate memories can deceive us – even betray us – in the most unexpected ways.
May 25, 2020
First I’d like to thank the author for sending me this book to read, it was very nice of her! I really liked Annabelle and how art was integrated into the story. Unfortunately there wasn’t a lot going on and the pacing felt off. The beginning was good, but then all of the clues felt stuffed in at the very end, and the middle was a lot of walking and talking. I also didn’t sense any romantic chemistry between the two main characters. I just wish there had been more stuff happening throughout the book.
October 31, 2019
This second book from the Victorian Mystery series by Karen Odden tells the story of Annabel Rowe and her quest to find the killer who murdered her brother Edwin. Inspector Matthew Hallam from Scotland Yard is sent to investigate Edwin’s murder. Matthew with the help of Annabel uncover deceit and deceptions in the art world. I really enjoyed reading this cozy mystery book. I received this free book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 20, 2019
Originally published at Reading Reality
“I think all our memories have a trace of deceit in them,” at least according to Inspector Matthew Hallam, the hero of our story – and of the previous book in this series, A Dangerous Duet.
He’s not wrong, not in the context of the story, and not in real life, either. It’s been said that looking at a memory is like opening a page in a book, and that every time we do so, we change it just a little bit – blur the edges, smudge a section, make it sound better – or worse – until the original memory has been altered into the memory of the story we tell ourselves – and everyone else.
Sometimes we remember things, situations, people being better or happier than they really were. And sometimes we remember them as worse. It all depends on whatever story we want – or need – to tell ourselves.
Annabel Rowe has spent most of her adult years telling herself the story of how her brother Edwin abandoned her. And he did. Edwin fell into drink and eventually drugs at school, and didn’t quite manage to fall out until after a prison sentence made him rethink his life. It probably helped that the man Edwin was rebelling against, their father, was dead.
But Edwin and Annabel had been best friends and close companions as children. And when Edwin was sent off to boarding school, things changed – and not for the better. He did more than leave her behind – as was inevitable. He stopped communicating. And then, like so many addicts, he started making promises he couldn’t – or wouldn’t – keep.
He seemed to have turned over a new leaf after prison. Now Annabel and Edwin, both artists, both living on their own in London, had begun a tentative friendship. Annabel was beginning to trust again – but just couldn’t let go of her old hurts. Hurts which were real and legion. She feared, reasonably so, that Edwin would slide back into his old habits and abandon her again.
They were both young, there was plenty of time to get back to where they used to be – or at least an adult approximation of it.
Until the day that Annabel went to Edwin’s flat and found the police, in the person of Inspector Matthew Hallam, inspecting the scene of his death.
Time has run out for Annabel and Edwin to repair their relationship. But it has just begun on Annabel’s opportunity to provide justice for the brother she still loved. If she and Hallam can manage to figure out exactly why Edwin was killed.
At the heart of this case lies yet another deceit of memory.
Escape Rating A-: I liked A Trace of Deceit better than its predecessor, A Dangerous Duet. The first story was very plot driven, and it felt like the characters, particularly its central character Nell Hallam (Matthew’s sister) was a vehicle for the plot rather than a fully-fleshed out person. (That all being said, it feels like the link between the two books is fairly loose, and this book can definitely be read as a stand-alone.)
A Trace of Deceit, on the other hand, was very much Annabel’s story. She feels like a more rounded person as we explore not just where she is now, but her childhood, her relationship with her brother, with their parents, and her conflicted feelings about who she is and where she’s been.
While I did figure out what happened to Edwin in the past, what made him change, fairly early in the investigation, this is not after all Edwin’s story. And I understood and empathized with Annabel’s need to finally figure out the person her brother had been and what made him that person – and what led to his death.
The title of the story is ironic in a way. Annabel had remembered her childhood with Edwin as being less bright than it was in order to sustain her caution and mistrust. In her investigation of his murder she reclaims the brighter memories of their childhood. Even as she wonders whether they have only become so bright because she needs them to be, or whether she suppressed them because they only made Edwin’s frequent betrayals sharper.
But Edwin’s death is the result of someone else’s deceitful memories. Someone who has cast Edwin as the villain of their story rather than tarnish the image of someone they held dear.
So, I enjoyed the story and found the mystery fascinating. But what made the book for me was the character of Annabel and the way that she fit into her setting. One of the things that can be difficult about female protagonists in historical fiction is the need for the character to have agency and yet not seem out of her time in either attitudes or opportunities. Annabel feels like she belongs. Her story was set at a time when women could just manage to have an independent life if circumstances aligned. She has just enough income to keep herself, but has to be frugal about her expenses. She lives on her own and that’s accepted and acceptable. She doesn’t expect anyone to rescue her or take care of her – and she’s right not to do so. Nothing is easy for her as a woman alone – but it is possible in a way that feels right.
I read this one in a single day and felt like the story closed properly and yet I was a bit sad to see it end. Not that I wanted Annabel’s travails to go on a moment longer – more that I was hoping there would be an opportunity to visit her again.
“I think all our memories have a trace of deceit in them,” at least according to Inspector Matthew Hallam, the hero of our story – and of the previous book in this series, A Dangerous Duet.
He’s not wrong, not in the context of the story, and not in real life, either. It’s been said that looking at a memory is like opening a page in a book, and that every time we do so, we change it just a little bit – blur the edges, smudge a section, make it sound better – or worse – until the original memory has been altered into the memory of the story we tell ourselves – and everyone else.
Sometimes we remember things, situations, people being better or happier than they really were. And sometimes we remember them as worse. It all depends on whatever story we want – or need – to tell ourselves.
Annabel Rowe has spent most of her adult years telling herself the story of how her brother Edwin abandoned her. And he did. Edwin fell into drink and eventually drugs at school, and didn’t quite manage to fall out until after a prison sentence made him rethink his life. It probably helped that the man Edwin was rebelling against, their father, was dead.
But Edwin and Annabel had been best friends and close companions as children. And when Edwin was sent off to boarding school, things changed – and not for the better. He did more than leave her behind – as was inevitable. He stopped communicating. And then, like so many addicts, he started making promises he couldn’t – or wouldn’t – keep.
He seemed to have turned over a new leaf after prison. Now Annabel and Edwin, both artists, both living on their own in London, had begun a tentative friendship. Annabel was beginning to trust again – but just couldn’t let go of her old hurts. Hurts which were real and legion. She feared, reasonably so, that Edwin would slide back into his old habits and abandon her again.
They were both young, there was plenty of time to get back to where they used to be – or at least an adult approximation of it.
Until the day that Annabel went to Edwin’s flat and found the police, in the person of Inspector Matthew Hallam, inspecting the scene of his death.
Time has run out for Annabel and Edwin to repair their relationship. But it has just begun on Annabel’s opportunity to provide justice for the brother she still loved. If she and Hallam can manage to figure out exactly why Edwin was killed.
At the heart of this case lies yet another deceit of memory.
Escape Rating A-: I liked A Trace of Deceit better than its predecessor, A Dangerous Duet. The first story was very plot driven, and it felt like the characters, particularly its central character Nell Hallam (Matthew’s sister) was a vehicle for the plot rather than a fully-fleshed out person. (That all being said, it feels like the link between the two books is fairly loose, and this book can definitely be read as a stand-alone.)
A Trace of Deceit, on the other hand, was very much Annabel’s story. She feels like a more rounded person as we explore not just where she is now, but her childhood, her relationship with her brother, with their parents, and her conflicted feelings about who she is and where she’s been.
While I did figure out what happened to Edwin in the past, what made him change, fairly early in the investigation, this is not after all Edwin’s story. And I understood and empathized with Annabel’s need to finally figure out the person her brother had been and what made him that person – and what led to his death.
The title of the story is ironic in a way. Annabel had remembered her childhood with Edwin as being less bright than it was in order to sustain her caution and mistrust. In her investigation of his murder she reclaims the brighter memories of their childhood. Even as she wonders whether they have only become so bright because she needs them to be, or whether she suppressed them because they only made Edwin’s frequent betrayals sharper.
But Edwin’s death is the result of someone else’s deceitful memories. Someone who has cast Edwin as the villain of their story rather than tarnish the image of someone they held dear.
So, I enjoyed the story and found the mystery fascinating. But what made the book for me was the character of Annabel and the way that she fit into her setting. One of the things that can be difficult about female protagonists in historical fiction is the need for the character to have agency and yet not seem out of her time in either attitudes or opportunities. Annabel feels like she belongs. Her story was set at a time when women could just manage to have an independent life if circumstances aligned. She has just enough income to keep herself, but has to be frugal about her expenses. She lives on her own and that’s accepted and acceptable. She doesn’t expect anyone to rescue her or take care of her – and she’s right not to do so. Nothing is easy for her as a woman alone – but it is possible in a way that feels right.
I read this one in a single day and felt like the story closed properly and yet I was a bit sad to see it end. Not that I wanted Annabel’s travails to go on a moment longer – more that I was hoping there would be an opportunity to visit her again.
September 29, 2020
My Thoughts:
This is the first book I’ve read by Karen Odden. I’m hoping to read other books she’s written in the near future.
Several reason why I love this story!
~I became quickly apart of the story.
~Annabel Rowe is a painter. She has an artist vision. She describes her environment as an artist because she looks at color and shape through an artist’s discerning eyes.
~When Annabel is told about her brother’s death I felt her reaction believable. Her reaction is not over the top in hysterics. Her reaction is not without emotion. Annabel, in being true to her character and personality, shows a remarkable strength in hearing the news. In the days and weeks after his death, I saw her grieving as important. Grieving is hard work. Grieving takes physical and emotional strength. A great part of her character is in how she handled herself during this event. I consider Annabel a person of high character. She is an admirable person.
~I love the unique blend of this story: Victorian, fine art, mystery, detective, family saga, and romance.
~The romance is gentle and real. I love how the couple grew close as partners and friends.
There is a sad memory that is reflected on but is not developed for the larger part of this story. It is something that happened in the past. I am glad people can read about this character’s sad story of abuse and understand how it affects life. This particular type of abuse causes a soul wound.
Source: I received a complimentary copy from William Morrow, but was not required to write a positive review.
This is the first book I’ve read by Karen Odden. I’m hoping to read other books she’s written in the near future.
Several reason why I love this story!
~I became quickly apart of the story.
~Annabel Rowe is a painter. She has an artist vision. She describes her environment as an artist because she looks at color and shape through an artist’s discerning eyes.
~When Annabel is told about her brother’s death I felt her reaction believable. Her reaction is not over the top in hysterics. Her reaction is not without emotion. Annabel, in being true to her character and personality, shows a remarkable strength in hearing the news. In the days and weeks after his death, I saw her grieving as important. Grieving is hard work. Grieving takes physical and emotional strength. A great part of her character is in how she handled herself during this event. I consider Annabel a person of high character. She is an admirable person.
~I love the unique blend of this story: Victorian, fine art, mystery, detective, family saga, and romance.
~The romance is gentle and real. I love how the couple grew close as partners and friends.
There is a sad memory that is reflected on but is not developed for the larger part of this story. It is something that happened in the past. I am glad people can read about this character’s sad story of abuse and understand how it affects life. This particular type of abuse causes a soul wound.
Source: I received a complimentary copy from William Morrow, but was not required to write a positive review.
July 2, 2020
Victorian era London, murder, mystery, dysfunctional families, a bit of romance and the art world equals a recipe for an interesting read in Karen Odden's book A Trace of Deceit.
A young painter digs beneath the veneer of Victorian London's art world to learn the truth behind her brother's murder. Upon his death, a valuable French painting he'd been restoring for an auction house goes missing from his studio: find the painting, find the murderer. After years of blaming her brother's reckless behavior for their parents' deaths, Annabel bravely traces a path of deceit that reaches far beyond elegant auction houses, into an underworld of politics, corruption and secrets.
This was a compelling mystery with lots of layers that kept me guessing. It was a nice twist to my standard historical fiction, some mystery and intrigue and a great art theme.
A young painter digs beneath the veneer of Victorian London's art world to learn the truth behind her brother's murder. Upon his death, a valuable French painting he'd been restoring for an auction house goes missing from his studio: find the painting, find the murderer. After years of blaming her brother's reckless behavior for their parents' deaths, Annabel bravely traces a path of deceit that reaches far beyond elegant auction houses, into an underworld of politics, corruption and secrets.
This was a compelling mystery with lots of layers that kept me guessing. It was a nice twist to my standard historical fiction, some mystery and intrigue and a great art theme.
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