Books matching: art scandal
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- #1
Save:A smart, twisty mystery full of codes, art, and quirky coincidences - ideal for young sleuths and puzzle lovers, but less satisfying if you prefer straightforward, logic-driven mysteries.
Three unidentified people get a mysterious letter one night, and soon after strange things start to happen to Petra Andalee and Calder Pillay. Seemingly unrelated events connect, and an invaluable Vermeer painting disappears. Soon after, the two new friends find themselves in the middle of an international art scandal. Petra and Calder befriend one another to track down a missing painting and its thief. Along the way, they both realize they share a love for art, museums, and even M&M's. With the help of a set of a mysterious book about unexplained phenomena, Calder and Petra race against the clock to chase down the painting and catch a thief.
2003•279 pages - #2
Save:A meticulously researched, entertaining history for classic Hollywood and LA buffs - less sizzle than some might hope for, but a true treat for lovers of film lore and legendary hotels.
'The Castle on Sunset: Love, Fame, Death and Scandal at Hollywood's Chateau Marmont' by Shawn Levy is a detailed exploration of the history and evolution of the Chateau Marmont, from its beginnings as an apartment tower attracting California's elite to its transformation into a famous hotel frequented by celebrities. The author blends the history of the Chateau with the stories of the residents and famous personalities who stayed there, providing a comprehensive look at the iconic Hollywood landmark. The writing style of Levy is described as approachable, well-researched, and easy to follow, making the book an interesting and informative read for those interested in classic Hollywood and old L.A.
Fred Horowitz had worked out nearly everything about his dream castle, down to the last table lamp and water glass. But, like almost everyone else, he hadn’t seen the Great Depression coming, and he h...May 2019•388 pages An addictive, candid behind-the-scenes look at the art world’s power plays and personalities - fun, gossipy, and eye-opening for art lovers and museum buffs alike.
Making the Mummies Dance: Inside the Metropolitan Museum of Art by Thomas Hoving is a captivating memoir that delves into the behind-the-scenes workings of the Metropolitan Museum of Art during the 1960s and 70s. Hoving's writing style is described as candid, exhilarating, and unapologetic, providing readers with a glimpse into the intrigue, gossip, and dubious methods of acquiring art that characterized his tenure as the museum's director. The book offers insight into the evolution of museum ethics and the professionalization of museums over the last half-century, while also highlighting the fascinating and progressive character of Hoving himself.
1993•448 pages- #4
Save:A fun, witty, and sometimes outrageous Regency romance with plenty of heart - especially for fans of strong heroines, stubborn heroes, and a little historical scandal. Not perfect, but a memorable, binge-worthy read for historical romance lovers.
That Scandalous Evening by Christina Dodd is a historical romance set in Regency London, where Miss Jane Higgenbothem, a chaperone to her debutante niece, encounters her past scandal involving a nude sculpture of Ransom Quincy, the Marquess of Blackburn. The book explores the rekindling of attraction between Jane and Ransom, intertwined with espionage subplots. Dodd's writing style is described as witty, engaging, and filled with human behavior, making the characters relatable and the setting vibrant.
“Let us hope no one remembers the scandal.” Eleazer Morant stared down his quivering, rabbitlike nose at his sister-in-law. “I will not have my daughter’s good name tainted by the tincture of your dis...1998•386 pages - #5
Save:A smart, emotional, and trope-laden historical romance that dives deeper than expected - great for fans of character-driven stories and Victorian-era grit, but may feel a bit heavy or predictable if you prefer lighter fare.
The Duke Undone by Joanna Lowell follows the story of Anthony Philby, the Duke of Weston, who is struggling with the aftermath of war, family pressure, and internal conflicts. When aspiring artist Lucy Coover stumbles upon Anthony and paints his scandalous likeness, their paths collide in passionate and dangerous ways. The book delves into themes of alcoholism, emotional abuse, PTSD, and societal issues, all set against a backdrop of Victorian England. The writing style is described as involving complex characters, intricate plotlines, and a dark exploration of the depths of the soul.
Perry Forbes was as notorious for his blathering as for his dodgy business ventures. He invested in companies that sold everything from patent medicines to threshing machines and bored his acquaintanc...April 2021•384 pages - #6
Save:A thought-provoking, unconventional historical romance packed with diversity, depth, and daring. If you want your love stories fresh and boundary-pushing, it’s worth picking up - just be ready for themes that challenge the genre’s usual comforts.
The Portrait of a Duchess by Scarlett Peckham is the second book in the Society of Sirens series, focusing on artist Cornelia's story. The novel explores a second chance romance between Cornelia and Rafe Goodwood, a duke, who eloped 20 years ago to help Cornelia escape her uncle. As they are reunited, they decide to present Cornelia as the duchess and host her scandalous art show at a masquerade ball, all while navigating their deep attraction and aversion to marriage. Peckham's writing style is praised for its uniqueness, nuanced characters, and exploration of different expressions of love, making the book a refreshing read in the historical romance genre.
March 2023•383 pages
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Society of Sirens ) - #7
Save:Empowering, witty, and heartfelt - The Suffragette Scandal is historical romance at its smartest. If you crave heroines with backbone and heroes who truly appreciate them, add this to your must-read list!
The Suffragette Scandal by Courtney Milan is a historical romance novel set in 1877, focusing on the characters of Free Marshall and Edward. Free is a suffragette and a newspaper owner, fighting for women's rights and social justice. Edward, a reluctant hero with a dark past, joins forces with Free to protect her from her adversary James Delacey. As they work together, Edward's secrets unravel, revealing his tortured past and the complexities of his character. The book explores themes of loyalty, love, and resilience against societal norms, with a backdrop of suffragette movements and personal struggles.
The story of The Suffragette Scandal is a blend of romance, historical context, and character development. Courtney Milan intricately weaves a tale of two individuals navigating a world that challenges their beliefs and identities. Through witty banter, steamy encounters, and unexpected revelations, Free and Edward's journey unfolds against a backdrop of societal expectations and personal growth, culminating in a poignant exploration of love and self-discovery.
It was one thing to do a man a favor. It was another entirely to take it this far—for Edward to shoulder his way through the shouting crowd on the banks of the river, jostling with other men for posit...July 2014•332 pages
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Brothers Sinister ) - #8
Save:Dramatic, trope-packed, and angsty - The Madness of Viscount Atherbourne is a bold start to the Rescued from Ruin series. If you can handle a truly flawed hero and some emotional turmoil, it’s a juicy pick (but the series shines even more as it goes on!).
The Madness of Viscount Atherbourne by Elisa Braden is a historical romance novel that follows a forced marriage with a revenge plot. The book delves into family dynamics, intense love, and features a talented portrait painter as the female main character. The plot includes themes of rescue from ruin, marriage of convenience, and a balance between slow burn and sexual attraction.
“Bah! The London season has become little more than an exhibition of vapidness. One may choose to tolerate such a display, but only a halfwit enjoys it.” —The Dowager Marchioness of Wallingham at her...January 2015•330 pages - #9
Save:A bold, biting campus drama with a deliciously messy narrator; not for everyone, but a must for fans of unflinching, character-driven literary fiction.
Vladimir by Julia May Jonas is a riveting and darkly humorous novel set in a small liberal arts college, focusing on the scandal surrounding a married professor named John and the repercussions of his reported predatory behaviors towards former female students. However, the main character is John's wife, an unnamed English professor at the same college, who navigates issues of personal agency, vanity, and obsession. The narrative delves into themes of power dynamics between men and women, changing mores post-MeToo, and the struggles of a middle-aged woman facing insecurities and desires.
The writing style of Vladimir is described as bold, propulsive, and razor-sharp, with a narrative that combines insouciance with disquiet. The novel features jaw-dropping plot twists, nuanced character development, and a subversive tone that challenges societal norms and perceptions. The protagonist's wry and observant voice adds depth to the story, exploring themes of personal agency, female power, and the complexities of relationships in a campus comedy of manners.
Although I had seen and heard Vladimir speak during the master class, the candidates luncheon, and the faculty retreat, I had not had the chance to say more than a few words directly to him until the...February 2022•256 pages - #10
Save:A sharply written Regency romance with equal parts charm, wit, and heart - perfect for fans of clever heroines (and a dash of scandal), but not for those allergic to love triangles or progressive twists.
Widowed at the age of twenty eight, Eliza Lady Somerset finds herself in control of her own future for the first time. With money and a title at her disposal, she heads to Bath with her cousin Margaret and finds unexpected opportunities amidst a circle of new acquaintances, including the new Lord Somerset, whom she had refused years ago. The book explores themes of autonomy, betrayal, being true to oneself, and forgiveness, all while navigating gender roles and societal expectations in the Regency period.
The story is a mix of romance and high stakes, set in a time where characters act in line with societal norms, resulting in only stolen kisses and subtle gestures of affection. The writing is praised for being better than other romance novels, with strong, well-developed characters and surprising plot twists that keep the reader engaged throughout.
July 2023•381 pages
