Step into the vibrant, art-soaked world of the Art Lovers’ Mysteries, where San Francisco’s foggy streets and dazzling galleries set the stage for thrilling cozy mysteries! Penned by sisters Juliet Blackwell and Carolyn J. Lawes under the pseudonym Hailey Lind, this delightful series follows Annie Kincaid, a former art forger turned authenticator, as she navigates stolen masterpieces, murderous plots, and her own colorful past. With its blend of humor, heart, and high-stakes art world intrigue, it’s a must-read for mystery lovers and art aficionados alike.
Annie’s journey is as captivating as the paintings she authenticates. Armed with a sharp wit and a knack for spotting fakes, she dives into cases that unravel the Bay Area’s underbelly, from shady dealers to cunning thieves. Whether you’re drawn to cozy mysteries or fascinated by the art world’s secrets, this series promises a page-turning adventure.
How Art Lovers’ Mysteries Began
The Art Lovers’ Mysteries sprang from the creative synergy of two sisters with distinct talents. Juliet Blackwell, an artist with a flair for decorative painting, and Carolyn J. Lawes, a historian with a passion for storytelling, combined their expertise to craft a series steeped in art and intrigue. Inspired by Juliet’s experiences in San Francisco’s art scene and Carolyn’s research into historical narratives, they debuted the series in 2006 with Feint of Art, which earned an Agatha Award nomination for Best First Novel. Their goal? To weave authentic art world details into a fun, accessible mystery series that feels like a love letter to San Francisco.
The Heart of Art Lovers’ Mysteries
The series spans four books, each a standalone adventure packed with Annie’s charm and sleuthing prowess. In Feint of Art (2006), Annie uncovers a fake Caravaggio at the Brock Museum, sparking a whirlwind of murder and deception as she hunts for stolen Old Master drawings. Shooting Gallery (2006) sees her investigating a Chagall theft and a corpse mistaken for modern art, all while juggling her mother’s odd behavior. Brush with Death (2007) takes Annie to a creepy columbarium, where a Raphael painting might be the real deal, and a crypt-robber threatens her grandfather’s legacy. Finally, Arsenic and Old Paint (2010) pairs Annie with a former art thief to recover a stolen masterpiece, blending high jinks with FBI intrigue.
Themes of redemption, loyalty, and the clash between authenticity and deception run deep. Annie’s struggle to leave her forging past behind adds emotional weight, while her humorous inner monologues keep the tone light. The San Francisco Bay Area shines as a character itself, with vivid settings like Nob Hill’s tunnels, Chinatown’s hideouts, and South of Market studios. The series’ blend of art history, local flavor, and cozy mystery conventions creates a unique vibe that’s both educational and entertaining.
Why Art Lovers’ Mysteries Resonates
Despite its niche status, the Art Lovers’ Mysteries series has carved a loyal following among cozy mystery fans and art enthusiasts. Its meticulous research into art forgery and San Francisco’s cultural tapestry offers a refreshing twist on the genre, earning praise for its witty protagonist and unpredictable plots. Reviews highlight Annie’s relatability—she’s flawed, funny, and fiercely independent—making her a standout sleuth. Though the series concluded after four books, its blend of humor, heart, and art world intrigue continues to captivate readers seeking a smart, offbeat mystery.
- Publication Years: 2006–2010
- Number of Books: 4
- Award: Feint of Art nominated for Agatha Award (Best First Novel, 2006)
Grab Feint of Art and dive into the Art Lovers’ Mysteries’ world of fakes, forgers, and fearless sleuthing! Whether you’re a cozy mystery buff or an art lover, Annie Kincaid’s adventures will keep you guessing and grinning.