Dodge and Burn by Ellen Crosby

 

First Line: When Monica Yablonski asked me if I'd drive out to Dulles Airport on what we both knew might be a wild goose chase, I said I'd go because she didn't ask me that often these days, and when she did, it was because she knew the story would be right up my alley: edgy, a bit risky, a challenge.

 

Thinking it's going to be a simple photography job, Sophie Medina agrees to work for billionaire philanthropist and art collector Robson Blake. However, when she goes to his house, she finds an open door, a state-of-the-art security system turned off... and her client dead. At first glance, it would appear to be a burglary gone wrong except for the fact that the alarm system was off. And why-- in a house filled with priceless Old Masters-- is the only thing missing a beautiful but insignificant Ukrainian religious icon?

 

Sophie soon finds herself to be the prime suspect, and as she works to clear her name, the plot thickens. She learns that she has a half-brother who might also be an international art thief... and he's very interested in Blake's collection.

 

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I always enjoy Ellen Crosby's books for their strong female lead characters, their mysteries, and their intelligent writing. In Dodge and Burn, the characters shine once again. From Sophie herself to her newfound half-brother to her basketcase of a mother to the friends in her circle, I enjoy the time I spend with each and every one. (Well, maybe not so much Sophie's mother...)  

I don't know why, but I've always enjoyed plots that revolve around jewelry and art thefts, so I was wired to like this book from the start. The information Crosby shares on stolen art is fascinating. I rely on this author to teach me many new things without making me feel as though I'm sitting in a classroom, and she does it once again in Dodge and Burn.

As strong as the characters are and as fascinating as the world of stolen art is, I did feel as though the plotting in this latest book in the Sophie Medina series was a bit of a letdown, and I found the ending to be predictable. Is this going to stop me from reading future books in the series? Absolutely not, and it shouldn't stop you from becoming acquainted with Sophie. I suggest you begin with the first book in the series, Multiple Exposure.

Dodge and Burn by Ellen Crosby

eISBN: 9781448311606

Severn House © 2024

eBook, 299 pages

 

Investigative Journalist, #4 Sophie Medina

Rating: B+

Source: Net Galley