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The Arnolfini Art Mysteries
Follow the charismatic and clever private eye Armand Arnolfini as he investigates a variety of suspenseful art crimes and confronts a dazzling array of thieves, forgers and even ruthless murderers.
Each short story is a stand-alone episode, yet are arranged chronologically, thereby creating a harmonious and sweeping narrative from Armand’s first riveting case to his last.
The Phantom Forger, The Russian Link, The Mark Twain Mystery, The P.T. Barnum Mystery, The Yoko, Oh No! Mystery and the Ghent Mystery.
Each short story is a stand-alone episode, yet are arranged chronologically, thereby creating a harmonious and sweeping narrative from Armand’s first riveting case to his last.
The Phantom Forger, The Russian Link, The Mark Twain Mystery, The P.T. Barnum Mystery, The Yoko, Oh No! Mystery and the Ghent Mystery.
213 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 28, 2019
About the author
Rich DiSilvio
28 books1,728 followersRich DiSilvio is an award-winning author of thrillers/mysteries, sci-fi/fantasy, historical fiction, nonfiction and children's books. He is a scholar of history with a lifetime of interests in ancient civilizations, European & American histories, biographies, architecture, art, music, science, and science fiction.
Throughout his professional life Rich has engaged several fields; having been an architectural designer, remodeler, artist, illustrator, new media developer, educational software programmer and writer.
He has provided creative services for films, cable TV shows and documentaries, such as James Cameron's "The Lost Tomb of Jesus," "Operation Valkyrie," "Blood Ties," "Monty Python," "Killing Hitler," and for music artists, such as Pink Floyd, Yes, Moody Blues, Elton John, Cher, Sheryl Crow, Queen, the Rolling Stones, Alice Cooper and many more.
Throughout his professional life Rich has engaged several fields; having been an architectural designer, remodeler, artist, illustrator, new media developer, educational software programmer and writer.
He has provided creative services for films, cable TV shows and documentaries, such as James Cameron's "The Lost Tomb of Jesus," "Operation Valkyrie," "Blood Ties," "Monty Python," "Killing Hitler," and for music artists, such as Pink Floyd, Yes, Moody Blues, Elton John, Cher, Sheryl Crow, Queen, the Rolling Stones, Alice Cooper and many more.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews
March 16, 2023
The Arnolfini Art Mysteries series is a delightful read for art lovers and mystery enthusiasts alike. The addition of Armand's children adds a new layer of excitement to the story, as they embark on thrilling adventures alongside their father. The cases they investigate are intriguing, ranging from oddities such as the Georgia Guidestones to works by famous artists like Michelangelo and Caspar David Friedrich. The inclusion of works by women artists, such as Rosa Bonheur, is also a refreshing touch. Overall, this third installment of the series is a must-read for those who enjoy a good mystery and appreciate the beauty and intrigue of the art world.
June 29, 2019
Stepping into the art world with a detective as guide!
New York author Rich DiSilvio, a man as committed to music, art, philosophy and sociology as informed by the fine arts, has previously taken periods of history—with all of the fascinating changes, discoveries, triumphs and failures—and introduced fictional enhancements within the stage setting of those eras, thereby making it far more credible. And in DiSilvio's handling of the parallel or concurrent unraveling of historical events with those of the textbook rigidity of his main Tales of Titans books, he provided not only keen insight but also paused for the inclusion of the arts, so often ignored by other historical writers.
Yet his talents don’t pause there – his other books include MY NAZI NEMESIS, A BLAZING GILDED AGE, LISZT’S DANTE SYMPHONY, MEET MY FAMOUS FRIENDS: INSPIRING KIDS WITH HUMOR, THE WINDS OF TIME, DANNY AND THE DREAMWEAVER, and his short story series, such as this rather splendid THE ARNOLFINI ART MYSTERIES. Of particular interest to Rich’s large audience of readers is that as a software designer/developer, Rich pioneered the first interactive CD-ROM for educating staff and parents about Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA) for training individuals with autism.
Rich has created a charismatic character, private eye Armand Arnolfi, whose forte is investigating art crimes, uncovering a variety of forgers and thieves and the outer zone of criminals. Each story is accompanied by the author/artist’s illustrations that enhance the credibility of each adventure. To offer an idea of how varied Rich’s select is, the titles in this collection are as follows: The Phantom Forger (of the Messina Madonna), The Russian Link (with a nod to Tchaikovsky), The Mark Twain Mystery, The P.T. Barnum Mystery, The Yoko, Oh No! Mystery, and the Ghent Mystery (the Ghent Altarpiece).
Not only are the mysteries well written and involving, but Rich ads enough actual historical information (as is his style) to make each story as educational about the arts as well as pure entertainment for mystery buffs. For those not acquainted with DiSilvio’s larger works, this edition makes a fine introduction to the mysterious, historical, and thrilling mind of the author.
Impressive as his credentials are there is no comparison to becoming immersed in his brilliant stories – tales that transports into other worlds – whether in timeframe or intrigue. Rich is a gifted artist on many levels and his talent continues to grow. Highly recommended!
New York author Rich DiSilvio, a man as committed to music, art, philosophy and sociology as informed by the fine arts, has previously taken periods of history—with all of the fascinating changes, discoveries, triumphs and failures—and introduced fictional enhancements within the stage setting of those eras, thereby making it far more credible. And in DiSilvio's handling of the parallel or concurrent unraveling of historical events with those of the textbook rigidity of his main Tales of Titans books, he provided not only keen insight but also paused for the inclusion of the arts, so often ignored by other historical writers.
Yet his talents don’t pause there – his other books include MY NAZI NEMESIS, A BLAZING GILDED AGE, LISZT’S DANTE SYMPHONY, MEET MY FAMOUS FRIENDS: INSPIRING KIDS WITH HUMOR, THE WINDS OF TIME, DANNY AND THE DREAMWEAVER, and his short story series, such as this rather splendid THE ARNOLFINI ART MYSTERIES. Of particular interest to Rich’s large audience of readers is that as a software designer/developer, Rich pioneered the first interactive CD-ROM for educating staff and parents about Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA) for training individuals with autism.
Rich has created a charismatic character, private eye Armand Arnolfi, whose forte is investigating art crimes, uncovering a variety of forgers and thieves and the outer zone of criminals. Each story is accompanied by the author/artist’s illustrations that enhance the credibility of each adventure. To offer an idea of how varied Rich’s select is, the titles in this collection are as follows: The Phantom Forger (of the Messina Madonna), The Russian Link (with a nod to Tchaikovsky), The Mark Twain Mystery, The P.T. Barnum Mystery, The Yoko, Oh No! Mystery, and the Ghent Mystery (the Ghent Altarpiece).
Not only are the mysteries well written and involving, but Rich ads enough actual historical information (as is his style) to make each story as educational about the arts as well as pure entertainment for mystery buffs. For those not acquainted with DiSilvio’s larger works, this edition makes a fine introduction to the mysterious, historical, and thrilling mind of the author.
Impressive as his credentials are there is no comparison to becoming immersed in his brilliant stories – tales that transports into other worlds – whether in timeframe or intrigue. Rich is a gifted artist on many levels and his talent continues to grow. Highly recommended!
July 24, 2019
Within this collection of short stories, author Rich DiSilvio has created smart, energetic characters that make his readers want more. Armand Arnolfini and his extensive knowledge of classic works of art, coupled with his thirst for justice, make this collection worth reading. As a novice art lover, I learned much in each story, and as soon as I was finished reading one, I found myself wanting to read the next! If you are a mystery lover, then this book should definitely be added to your “to be read” pile. I am now a fan!
May 7, 2020
Can a mystery book that can read almost like an art history book be fun? This one was. Although I loved the references to art there is often an underlying humor in these stories that seem to make them flow well.
Speaking of flowing…this is a set of short stories and I am not a short stories person. They often seem to lack depth or seem incomplete. None of that is true in this DiSilvio book. Somehow the stories seem to flow as if they were a novel. As if each one was just another art fraud or theft case solved by Arnolfini. Of course making the characters seem real and adding a little romantic feel did nothing but help make these enjoyable stories.
In doing a little research, I found DiSilvio is published in more than one genre and everything I could find had good reviews. This is Book 1 of “The Arnolfini Art Mysteries”. Hope Book 2 is just as good.
Speaking of flowing…this is a set of short stories and I am not a short stories person. They often seem to lack depth or seem incomplete. None of that is true in this DiSilvio book. Somehow the stories seem to flow as if they were a novel. As if each one was just another art fraud or theft case solved by Arnolfini. Of course making the characters seem real and adding a little romantic feel did nothing but help make these enjoyable stories.
In doing a little research, I found DiSilvio is published in more than one genre and everything I could find had good reviews. This is Book 1 of “The Arnolfini Art Mysteries”. Hope Book 2 is just as good.
April 13, 2020
“The Arnolfini Art Mysteries” is a book written by Rich DiSilvio. It is a mystery and action book with lots of works of arts of famous artists. This fiction book is written for a general audience. The first thing that called my attention in this book was its cover; it is full of paintings and a luxurious car.
This book is organized in short stories. Each case is a stand-alone episode, but my piece of advice is to read it in order because all the stories are arranged chronologically. There are six stories, each one better and more exciting than the previous one. The chapters are narrated in third person and the protagonist in every story is Armand Arnolfini, a private investigator of pieces of art.
Each chapter is great, but if I have to choose one I would say The Yoko, Oh No! Mystery.
This book is amazing down to the last page. I had an amazing time reading it. You will be simply delighted with it. I highly recommend it.
This book is organized in short stories. Each case is a stand-alone episode, but my piece of advice is to read it in order because all the stories are arranged chronologically. There are six stories, each one better and more exciting than the previous one. The chapters are narrated in third person and the protagonist in every story is Armand Arnolfini, a private investigator of pieces of art.
Each chapter is great, but if I have to choose one I would say The Yoko, Oh No! Mystery.
This book is amazing down to the last page. I had an amazing time reading it. You will be simply delighted with it. I highly recommend it.
July 8, 2019
The arnolfini art mysteries by rich disilvio is one of the best books that dvbooks ever published. He is an artist in himself as the pictures help bring the story to life. He keeps you reading from begining to end. I would not only reccommend this book but put it in my “thats show business hall of fame.” Jackie jones founder of the rose theatrical agency and the rose society foundation.and special thanks to dvbooks for making this book review possible. Thank you
July 18, 2019
A mystery that jumps off the pages
The Arnolfini Art Mystery by Rich Disalvo was an excellent read! I personally adore mystery novels, this story brought details and imagery with it that made the book impossible to put down. The Arnolfini Art Mystery surrounded a private investigator named Armand Arnolfini. Armand is bright, charming , witty,and has several other novels in this series that you can read together; or like myself discover one at a time. I enjoyed this novel so much that I will have to read the others that have been written about this wonderfully witty character. If you enjoy a good detailed book or just a cozy mystery this would be a great one to read!
The Arnolfini Art Mystery by Rich Disalvo was an excellent read! I personally adore mystery novels, this story brought details and imagery with it that made the book impossible to put down. The Arnolfini Art Mystery surrounded a private investigator named Armand Arnolfini. Armand is bright, charming , witty,and has several other novels in this series that you can read together; or like myself discover one at a time. I enjoyed this novel so much that I will have to read the others that have been written about this wonderfully witty character. If you enjoy a good detailed book or just a cozy mystery this would be a great one to read!
February 25, 2026
The Arnolfini Art Mysteries by Rich DiSilvio is an engaging collection of mystery- and action-oriented art stories. I loved its colourful, art-filled cover page.
The book comprises six short stories that blend with mystery. Each story involves Armand Arnolfini, a charismatic private investigator specialised in art-related crimes. Although each story works as a standalone case, they serve best connectivity if you read them in the given order. The gradual unfolding and increasing suspense make each story uniquely gripping and engaging.
The prime character, Armand Arnolfini, is a well-crafted and memorable figure who embodies a person whose expertise lies in uncovering art forgeries, thefts, and complex criminal networks. The author has enriched each story with real historical and artistic details, blending fact with fiction in a way that feels entertaining and informative. I am learning more about art while enjoying a well-crafted world around me.
This book will be a good fit for mystery lovers and art enthusiasts alike. I picked it based on a recommendation, and it turned out really well. Looking forward to reading more stories like this.
The book comprises six short stories that blend with mystery. Each story involves Armand Arnolfini, a charismatic private investigator specialised in art-related crimes. Although each story works as a standalone case, they serve best connectivity if you read them in the given order. The gradual unfolding and increasing suspense make each story uniquely gripping and engaging.
The prime character, Armand Arnolfini, is a well-crafted and memorable figure who embodies a person whose expertise lies in uncovering art forgeries, thefts, and complex criminal networks. The author has enriched each story with real historical and artistic details, blending fact with fiction in a way that feels entertaining and informative. I am learning more about art while enjoying a well-crafted world around me.
This book will be a good fit for mystery lovers and art enthusiasts alike. I picked it based on a recommendation, and it turned out really well. Looking forward to reading more stories like this.
March 11, 2026
The Anolfini Mysteries are a wonderful collection of short mysteries. The book follows our art-pro sleuth, Armand, in a series of episodic short mysteries. The whole book is a quick read, one you can finish in an afternoon, but it is well-written and jam-packed with art history.
The writing is good and engaging. DeSilvo uses fluid, descriptive POVs to paint (heh) a full picture of scenes and characters in the brief space afforded by the short story medium. He also does a great job of creating threads and subplots within the larger mystery, all tied up neatly. If you love mysteries and love art (or even the show White Collar), you’ll love this collection!
The writing is good and engaging. DeSilvo uses fluid, descriptive POVs to paint (heh) a full picture of scenes and characters in the brief space afforded by the short story medium. He also does a great job of creating threads and subplots within the larger mystery, all tied up neatly. If you love mysteries and love art (or even the show White Collar), you’ll love this collection!
March 31, 2026
The Arnolfini Mysteries by Rich DiSilvio is a collection of short mystery stories that revolve around art crime, including stolen masterpieces, art forgeries, and international smuggling rings. The main character, Armand, is a former FBI agent, now serving as a private investigator focused specifically on solving art-related crimes. The book follows him as he tries to solve various art mysteries that are sometimes connected.
What really made the book interesting besides the art mysteries themselves, was learning about real art history, famous figures, and iconic artworks. I didn’t realize that DiSilvio’s background includes being both an artist and historian, which adds to the educational and richness of the novel.
The writing was strong, and I enjoyed the character development of Armand. I enjoyed all six of the short stories, my favorite was the Yoko, Oh No! Mystery. It was so interesting following a case about John Lennon and Yoko Ono and the people connected to them. Overall this was an interesting, educational, and entertaining read.
What really made the book interesting besides the art mysteries themselves, was learning about real art history, famous figures, and iconic artworks. I didn’t realize that DiSilvio’s background includes being both an artist and historian, which adds to the educational and richness of the novel.
The writing was strong, and I enjoyed the character development of Armand. I enjoyed all six of the short stories, my favorite was the Yoko, Oh No! Mystery. It was so interesting following a case about John Lennon and Yoko Ono and the people connected to them. Overall this was an interesting, educational, and entertaining read.
May 14, 2026
Armand Arnolfi is a mystery solver like no other. With his incredible knowledge of the art world, he solves crimes too odd for the police to handle. He has FBI training, and now, as a private eye, he puts his skill set to use in ways that are a little eccentric, but effective. They are also a lot of fun to read about.
Join Arnolfi as he tests his skills against master criminals of every description. If there's an art-related crime taking place, have no doubt that this one-of-a-kind sleuth will be hot on the case. Like the Sherlock Holmes of art crimes, many marvel at what he can do, and we as readers are privileged to be a part of the action.
Join Arnolfi as he tests his skills against master criminals of every description. If there's an art-related crime taking place, have no doubt that this one-of-a-kind sleuth will be hot on the case. Like the Sherlock Holmes of art crimes, many marvel at what he can do, and we as readers are privileged to be a part of the action.
April 11, 2020
A great Mystery book
I liked this book very much. It is called “The Arnolfi Art Mysteries” written by Rich DiSilvio. He is the author of different genres, such as thrillers, mysteries, historical fiction, sci-fi, fantasy, non-fiction and children's books.
This is an interesting and compelling selection of short stories related to mysteries. The protagonist of those stories is a private detective called Armand Arnolfini. He is in charge of all kinds of investigations connected to art crimes, particularly, forgery. Together with his acquaintances he strives to discover the truth about the cases. Will he be able to solve them?
This book is well-written and has a simple and detailed narrative. There are several chapters in this book where you find different crimes to solve. They are so intriguing that hold your attention throughout the reading. I really enjoyed it and I definitely recommend it!
I liked this book very much. It is called “The Arnolfi Art Mysteries” written by Rich DiSilvio. He is the author of different genres, such as thrillers, mysteries, historical fiction, sci-fi, fantasy, non-fiction and children's books.
This is an interesting and compelling selection of short stories related to mysteries. The protagonist of those stories is a private detective called Armand Arnolfini. He is in charge of all kinds of investigations connected to art crimes, particularly, forgery. Together with his acquaintances he strives to discover the truth about the cases. Will he be able to solve them?
This book is well-written and has a simple and detailed narrative. There are several chapters in this book where you find different crimes to solve. They are so intriguing that hold your attention throughout the reading. I really enjoyed it and I definitely recommend it!
March 11, 2026
A clever start to a series featuring an art detective/private eye who solves many cases of art forgeries and stolen art. In one case, he is asked to help determine who forged art layered over more recent art. To solve the mystery, he must travel to Europe where he encounters people still believing Nazi propaganda.Other cases involve him finding forgeries or stolen art, and he travels to Italy and Belgium. Along the way, he finds a companion and falls in love. I loved seeing the art throughout the book and I enjoyed hearing the history of some of the work, and the collectors, namely P. T. Barnum!
February 16, 2026
The Arnolfini Art Mysteries focuses on two of Rich DiSilvio's strong points; art and thinking outside the box. Six mysteries that will put Armand Arnolfini's art knowledge and detective skills to the test. The Phantom Forger features an artist that not only forges famous lost art, but paints over modern art as an insult to art lovers. Sometimes the world is cruel and harsh on artist and they never realize the artists' greatness until they are dead, so history repeats itself.
March 21, 2021
DNF. I didn't read too much of it because it was just a little too light for my reading at the moment. I may come back to it at another time.
March 30, 2026
Rich DiSilvio’s The Arnolfini Art Mysteries is a collection of short stories that are all centred around the same investigator, Armand Arnolfini. The book contains six stand-alone mysteries that are still connected through the main character and the overall focus on crime and investigation. This structure makes the book appealing to readers who enjoy shorter stories but still want a sense of continuity. Another feature that makes the book stand out, and I absolutely loved, is the inclusion of illustrations, which added an interesting visual layer to the reading experience and helped make it feel more unique.
One of the most interesting parts of this book is the way it blends art and mystery together. The stories are not just about solving crimes, but also about learning more about famous works of art, artefacts, and the culture that surrounds them. That makes the book feel a little richer than a standard mystery collection. It gives readers something to think about beyond the plot itself. I also think the writing feels approachable, which is important because not every reader will have a strong background in art history or cultural topics. The stories seem to make those subjects more accessible and enjoyable.
Overall, I would highly recommend this book to mystery lovers, especially those who enjoy shorter stories instead of one long novel. It also seems like a great choice for readers who like learning while being entertained. The mix of mystery, art, and culture makes it an engaging and worthwhile read.
One of the most interesting parts of this book is the way it blends art and mystery together. The stories are not just about solving crimes, but also about learning more about famous works of art, artefacts, and the culture that surrounds them. That makes the book feel a little richer than a standard mystery collection. It gives readers something to think about beyond the plot itself. I also think the writing feels approachable, which is important because not every reader will have a strong background in art history or cultural topics. The stories seem to make those subjects more accessible and enjoyable.
Overall, I would highly recommend this book to mystery lovers, especially those who enjoy shorter stories instead of one long novel. It also seems like a great choice for readers who like learning while being entertained. The mix of mystery, art, and culture makes it an engaging and worthwhile read.
July 29, 2019
Rich DiSilvio introduces to Armand Arnolfini in his latest mystery The Arnolfini Art Mysteries. Arnolfini is a mixture of Sherlock Holmes meets Nero Wolfe. Armand is an art expert not only from his personal experience but also what he learned from his father a long time curator of the Uffizi Museum. He uses that knowledge for solving mysteries of the Art World in which he will stop at nothing to do to stop everyone from Forgers, Nazi's and even a feejee mermaid. This was my first Rich DiSilvio tale and I was honestly glad to be introduced to him. He is a wonderful storyteller and for those who would rather enjoy smaller tales put together in one book, this is the one for you. You get to go on multiple adventures of Arnolfini from Italy, New York, and even Germany. The beautiful sketches that go along with the stories for those who enjoy illustrated tales. This will not be my last Rich DiSilvo book and I really recommend it for those who love art or even a good mystery. This is one of those books you will enjoy reading again and again. Here are a few things to consider when getting this book. It is pack full of multiple mysteries. They are all complete and solved but if you are looking for one single tale this is not for you, don't dismiss it for that reason. The only other thing that everyone should know is there not enough, you will finish this book and want more from the tales of Armand Arnolfini.
October 23, 2019
The Arnolfini Art Mysteries focuses on two of Rich DiSilvio's strong points; art and thinking outside the box. Six mysteries that will put Armand Arnolfini's art knowledge and detective skills to the test. The Phantom Forger features an artist that not only forges famous lost art, but paints over modern art as an insult to art lovers. Sometimes the world is cruel and harsh on artist and they never realize the artists' greatness until they are dead, so history repeats itself.
If you follow Rich DiSilvio's writings you will find a writer, whom is also an artist, that has a unique view on life and isn't afraid to add his own twist. The Arnolfini Art Mysteries takes Armand Arnolfini as an art investigator and has him solving mysteries around the world. My favorite was the first story, The Phantom Forger, though I enjoyed all six. I never finish a book by DiSilvio without smiling. I hope you enjoy!
If you follow Rich DiSilvio's writings you will find a writer, whom is also an artist, that has a unique view on life and isn't afraid to add his own twist. The Arnolfini Art Mysteries takes Armand Arnolfini as an art investigator and has him solving mysteries around the world. My favorite was the first story, The Phantom Forger, though I enjoyed all six. I never finish a book by DiSilvio without smiling. I hope you enjoy!
February 16, 2026
The Arnolfini Art Mysteries” is a book written by Rich DiSilvio. It is a mystery and action book with lots of works of arts of famous artists. This fiction book is written for a general audience. The first thing that called my attention in this book was its cover; it is full of paintings and a luxurious car.
This book is organized in short stories. Each case is a stand-alone episode, but my piece of advice is to read it in order because all the stories are arranged chronologically. There are six stories, each one better and more exciting than the previous one. The chapters are narrated in third person and the protagonist in every story is Armand Arnolfini, a private investigator of pieces of art.
Each chapter is great, but if I have to choose one I would say The Yoko, Oh No! Mystery.
This book is amazing down to the last page. I had an amazing time reading it. You will be simply delighted with it. I highly recommend it.
This book is organized in short stories. Each case is a stand-alone episode, but my piece of advice is to read it in order because all the stories are arranged chronologically. There are six stories, each one better and more exciting than the previous one. The chapters are narrated in third person and the protagonist in every story is Armand Arnolfini, a private investigator of pieces of art.
Each chapter is great, but if I have to choose one I would say The Yoko, Oh No! Mystery.
This book is amazing down to the last page. I had an amazing time reading it. You will be simply delighted with it. I highly recommend it.
August 8, 2019
Another fantastical book by Rich Disilvio. As with his other books, we get a collection of short stories that takes our imagination to the next plane. The stories in this book are: The Phantom Forger, the Russian link, the Mark Twain mystery and more. Armand Arnolfini is an art detective and has a long background of apprehending criminals in the shadowy underbelly of the art world. The stories are all connected, building upon each other as they move along. The mysteries are all concerning the art world, but they do not feel repetitive. There are enough new twists in each story that in a way it could be a continuous story line.
This is not my first book by Rich, but it is my first from the Arnolfini storyline. I think he did a great job again, some authors at one point end up retelling old plots in new ways but Rich seems to be able to keep things fresh and unique in each book.
This is not my first book by Rich, but it is my first from the Arnolfini storyline. I think he did a great job again, some authors at one point end up retelling old plots in new ways but Rich seems to be able to keep things fresh and unique in each book.
August 7, 2019
A great mystery investigation for Arnolfini
The Arnolfini art mystery is a great series of adventures as we follow Arnolfini as he begins his investigation into a fake masterpiece found painted over another unknown artists works. This is the first of the short stories and they all flow together so well that it seems to be one continuous story. I found the style and technique to be fun and descriptive as well as entertaining. The characters are developed and the journey will keep you on your toes from the first page to the last. I found the characters to be relatable and a joy to get to know through the stories. Check this one out folks it is a must read.
The Arnolfini art mystery is a great series of adventures as we follow Arnolfini as he begins his investigation into a fake masterpiece found painted over another unknown artists works. This is the first of the short stories and they all flow together so well that it seems to be one continuous story. I found the style and technique to be fun and descriptive as well as entertaining. The characters are developed and the journey will keep you on your toes from the first page to the last. I found the characters to be relatable and a joy to get to know through the stories. Check this one out folks it is a must read.
February 16, 2026
The Arnolfini art mystery is a great series of adventures as we follow Arnolfini as he begins his investigation into a fake masterpiece found painted over another unknown artists works. This is the first of the short stories and they all flow together so well that it seems to be one continuous story. I found the style and technique to be fun and descriptive as well as entertaining. The characters are developed and the journey will keep you on your toes from the first page to the last. I found the characters to be relatable and a joy to get to know through the stories. Check this one out folks it is a must read.
February 16, 2026
The prime character, Armand Arnolfini, is a well-crafted and memorable figure who embodies a person whose expertise lies in uncovering art forgeries, thefts, and complex criminal networks. The author has enriched each story with real historical and artistic details, blending fact with fiction in a way that feels entertaining and informative. I am learning more about art while enjoying a well-crafted world around me.
This book will be a good fit for mystery lovers and art enthusiasts alike. I picked it based on a recommendation, and it turned out really well. Looking forward to reading more stories like this.
This book will be a good fit for mystery lovers and art enthusiasts alike. I picked it based on a recommendation, and it turned out really well. Looking forward to reading more stories like this.
February 16, 2026
This was a really great set of short stories. What i loved most about it was that all the stories were tied together by the main character, Arnolfini and his girlfriend/side kick. Normally I am not particularly fond of short stories but because this one had some continuing aspects through out all the stories, it made for a fun read! In these short stories, you dive head first into the world of art and all its nuances. Each story is jam packed with mystery and suspense! I seriously loved reading these. Highly recommend.
November 3, 2019
Another good one
I’ve read a lot of this author’s stories and his short story novels are my favorite. He packs a lot into one short story and I often find that it feels like I was reading full length novels. No detail is left out. My favorite story in this novel was “The Yoko, Oh No! Mystery.” So good! It seems that with each novel I read from this author that he keeps getting better. I definitely recommend this book.
I’ve read a lot of this author’s stories and his short story novels are my favorite. He packs a lot into one short story and I often find that it feels like I was reading full length novels. No detail is left out. My favorite story in this novel was “The Yoko, Oh No! Mystery.” So good! It seems that with each novel I read from this author that he keeps getting better. I definitely recommend this book.
February 16, 2026
I’ve read a lot of this author’s stories and his short story novels are my favorite. He packs a lot into one short story and I often find that it feels like I was reading full length novels. No detail is left out. My favorite story in this novel was “The Yoko, Oh No! Mystery.” So good! It seems that with each novel I read from this author that he keeps getting better. I definitely recommend this book.
October 30, 2019
Rich DiSilvio's books are always a history lesson even when fiction. If you like twist endings, romance and not wanting to put the book down until finished this is the storyline for you. It is also a learning experience with increasing ones' vocabulary. I find this author's books very educational, and his artwork quite imaginative.
March 7, 2020
DiSilvio has a knack for writing gripping stories with great characters, exciting plots, and creating a visual presence of his settings or, in this case, while explaining the fine art that Armand is viewing or hunting down.
This was clearly the best way to be entertained and introduced to some great pieces of artwork. Looking forward to reading the next book in the series!
This was clearly the best way to be entertained and introduced to some great pieces of artwork. Looking forward to reading the next book in the series!
February 8, 2023
A Grand Read!
Rich DiSilvio writes a collection of art mysteries to be solved by Armand Arnolfini with The Arnolfini Art Mysteries. I haven't read anything by this author before, and what a hidden gem. I enjoyed it so much, that I have now followed the author and look for more books to read. This book is part of the Arnolfini Art Mysteries series, and this is volume one. This volume has a series of Art cases that Arnolfini must solve. Arnolfini travels the world to solve crimes of theft and forgery of fine art, and sometimes art that has never been heard of or seemed to be lost forever. In this first iteration of the mystery series, the reader is introduced to charismatic and intelligent PI Armand Arnolfini. The reader gets a feel for the character as we embark on his first case, The Phantom Forger. As each case is presented, (there are six cases in this collection), Arnolfini develops and grows, as he learns and solves cases. In his business, he has to always be on his toes, and it shows with how DiSilvio shows the story. The connection that Arnolfini has with curators and other characters, both shady and helpful, brings the stories to life. I just became a fan of this author, and of course, Arnolfini. I look forward to reading the next books in this series. This book captures the reader's attention at chapter 1. I like the unique way the stories are told, and how the reader learns about the characters. Masterfully written! Rich DiSilvio not only tells the story but shows it with words as well. The Arnolfini Art Mysteries is a definite recommendation by Amy's Bookshelf Reviews. I read this book to give my unbiased and honest review. Amy's Bookshelf Reviews recommends that anyone who reads this book, to also write a review.
Rich DiSilvio writes a collection of art mysteries to be solved by Armand Arnolfini with The Arnolfini Art Mysteries. I haven't read anything by this author before, and what a hidden gem. I enjoyed it so much, that I have now followed the author and look for more books to read. This book is part of the Arnolfini Art Mysteries series, and this is volume one. This volume has a series of Art cases that Arnolfini must solve. Arnolfini travels the world to solve crimes of theft and forgery of fine art, and sometimes art that has never been heard of or seemed to be lost forever. In this first iteration of the mystery series, the reader is introduced to charismatic and intelligent PI Armand Arnolfini. The reader gets a feel for the character as we embark on his first case, The Phantom Forger. As each case is presented, (there are six cases in this collection), Arnolfini develops and grows, as he learns and solves cases. In his business, he has to always be on his toes, and it shows with how DiSilvio shows the story. The connection that Arnolfini has with curators and other characters, both shady and helpful, brings the stories to life. I just became a fan of this author, and of course, Arnolfini. I look forward to reading the next books in this series. This book captures the reader's attention at chapter 1. I like the unique way the stories are told, and how the reader learns about the characters. Masterfully written! Rich DiSilvio not only tells the story but shows it with words as well. The Arnolfini Art Mysteries is a definite recommendation by Amy's Bookshelf Reviews. I read this book to give my unbiased and honest review. Amy's Bookshelf Reviews recommends that anyone who reads this book, to also write a review.
June 1, 2026
The first story tells you exactly how this book intends to work. A tiny physical detail becomes the hinge for a much larger mechanism, and DiSilvio trusts that hinge enough not to over explain it. The opening image in “The Phantom Forger” does a lot of load bearing work. It launches the mystery, establishes Armand Arnolfini’s method, and sets the book’s contract with the reader: art history will matter, but it will always be made to serve the case.
What impressed me most is the architecture. These are stand alone mysteries arranged in sequence, which sounds simple until you notice how carefully the accumulation is managed. Each case closes cleanly, but the book keeps building Armand by repetition with variation. His expertise never feels like a character note pasted on afterward. It shapes the dialogue, the deductions, even the way scenes enter and leave.
The exposition is also unusually controlled. A lesser version of this book would stop dead every time it had something interesting to say about painters, provenance, theft, or forgery. DiSilvio rarely does that. The background is folded into movement. It serves double duty. “The P.T. Barnum Mystery” is a good example, not least because it also begins threading Andrea St. John into the structure in a way that expands the series without distorting it.
I also liked the tonal discipline. Titles like “The Yoko, Oh No! Mystery” suggest a broader hand than the book actually uses, but the scenes stay clean and purposeful.
Technically accomplished. Knows how to pace a collection. Doesn’t waste a case.
What impressed me most is the architecture. These are stand alone mysteries arranged in sequence, which sounds simple until you notice how carefully the accumulation is managed. Each case closes cleanly, but the book keeps building Armand by repetition with variation. His expertise never feels like a character note pasted on afterward. It shapes the dialogue, the deductions, even the way scenes enter and leave.
The exposition is also unusually controlled. A lesser version of this book would stop dead every time it had something interesting to say about painters, provenance, theft, or forgery. DiSilvio rarely does that. The background is folded into movement. It serves double duty. “The P.T. Barnum Mystery” is a good example, not least because it also begins threading Andrea St. John into the structure in a way that expands the series without distorting it.
I also liked the tonal discipline. Titles like “The Yoko, Oh No! Mystery” suggest a broader hand than the book actually uses, but the scenes stay clean and purposeful.
Technically accomplished. Knows how to pace a collection. Doesn’t waste a case.
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