Plot summary, “The Art Forger” by B A. Shapiro in 4 Minutes - Book Review
0"The Art Forger" is a gripping mystery novel written by B. A. Shapiro. Published in 2012, the book weaves together elements of art history, crime, and deception, creating a compelling story that keeps readers on the edge of their seats.
The novel centers around the character Claire Roth, a talented but struggling artist in contemporary Boston. Claire has a tainted reputation due to a scandal involving her former lover, Isaac Cullion, a prominent art gallery owner. She is accused of copying a famous painting and passing it off as her own, damaging her credibility in the art world.
One day, Claire is approached by Aiden Markel, a wealthy art dealer, with an intriguing proposition. He offers her a deal she can't refuse—to forge a famous painting by Edgar Degas, the Impressionist master, that was stolen from the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum decades ago. In exchange for her forgery, Markel promises Claire an exhibition of her original artwork and a way to restore her reputation.
As Claire delves deeper into the world of forgery, she becomes consumed by the project and the secrets behind the stolen Degas painting. Throughout the novel, the story switches between Claire's present-day experiences and flashbacks to the time when the stolen painting disappeared, providing historical context and additional layers of intrigue.
As Claire progresses with her forgery, she begins to uncover clues and hints about the true story behind the stolen Degas painting. The more she learns, the more dangerous and complex the situation becomes. She must navigate through a web of deceit, betrayal, and art world politics to discover the truth.
"The Art Forger" is a well-researched and beautifully written novel that artfully combines real art history with fictional elements. B. A. Shapiro skillfully captures the nuances of the art world and the complexities of art forgery, making the book a fascinating read for both mystery enthusiasts and art lovers alike. The novel keeps readers engaged with its twists and turns, as Claire's journey leads her to unexpected revelations and decisions with far-reaching consequences.