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False Impression
Why was an elegant lady brutally murdered the night before 9/11? Why was a successful New York banker not surprised to receive a woman's left ear in the morning mail? Why did a top Manhattan lawyer work only for one client, but never charge a fee? Why did a young woman with a bright career steal a priceless Van Gogh painting? Why was an Olympic gymnast paid a million dollars an assignment when she didn't have a bank account? Why was an honors graduate working as a temporary secretary after inheriting a fortune? Why was an English Countess ready to kill the banker, the lawyer and the gymnast even if it meant spending the rest of her life in jail? Why was a Japanese steel magnate happy to hand over $50,000,000 to a woman he had only met once? Why was a senior FBI agent trying to work out the connection between these eight apparently innocent individuals? All these questions are answered in Jeffrey Archer'
464 pages, Library Binding
First published December 1, 2005
About the author
Jeffrey Archer
510 books11.7k followersJeffrey is published in 114 countries and more than 47 languages, with more than 750,000 5* reviews with international sales passing 275 million copies.
He is the only author ever to have been a number one bestseller in fiction (nineteen times), short stories (four times) and non-fiction (The Prison Diaries).
Jeffrey has been married for 53 years to Dame Mary Archer DBE. They have two sons, William and James, three grandsons and two granddaughters, and divide their time between homes in London, Cambridge and Mallorca.
He is the only author ever to have been a number one bestseller in fiction (nineteen times), short stories (four times) and non-fiction (The Prison Diaries).
Jeffrey has been married for 53 years to Dame Mary Archer DBE. They have two sons, William and James, three grandsons and two granddaughters, and divide their time between homes in London, Cambridge and Mallorca.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,179 reviews
December 4, 2020
A stand alone novel by Jeffrey Archer published 2005.
3.5 watery stars.
A moderately entertaining farce featuring a lovely, of course she was lovely, young art expert, Dr. Anna Petrescu, a handsome FBI agent and a ruthless morally bereft, stop at nothing, million heir banker.
The prize was none other that Van Gogh’s Self portrait with Bandaged Ear.
When it came to the said painting the ruthless banker had OCD and to satisfy his obsession he was quite prepared to kill anyone and everyone that got in the way of him of owning the painting.
The book starts with the destruction of the twin towers in New York which got my interest going right from page one but things went a bit down hill from there.
When Anna found out the lengths to which our lustful banker was prepared to go she made it her mission to make sure that he never got his hands on the painting.
At the same time the FBI are trying everything them can to bring this villainous banker to justice.
What ensues is a cat and mouse chase all over Europe and America with no one, except Anna, really knowing just what the hell is going on.
As I said at the start this was a moderately entertaining tale but not one of Jeffrey Archers best
3.5 watery stars.
A moderately entertaining farce featuring a lovely, of course she was lovely, young art expert, Dr. Anna Petrescu, a handsome FBI agent and a ruthless morally bereft, stop at nothing, million heir banker.
The prize was none other that Van Gogh’s Self portrait with Bandaged Ear.
When it came to the said painting the ruthless banker had OCD and to satisfy his obsession he was quite prepared to kill anyone and everyone that got in the way of him of owning the painting.
The book starts with the destruction of the twin towers in New York which got my interest going right from page one but things went a bit down hill from there.
When Anna found out the lengths to which our lustful banker was prepared to go she made it her mission to make sure that he never got his hands on the painting.
At the same time the FBI are trying everything them can to bring this villainous banker to justice.
What ensues is a cat and mouse chase all over Europe and America with no one, except Anna, really knowing just what the hell is going on.
As I said at the start this was a moderately entertaining tale but not one of Jeffrey Archers best
May 1, 2024
Este es el segundo libro que leo de Jeffrey Archer, y debo decir que es tan bueno como el que leí anteriormente ("El cuarto poder"). Desde la primera página me atrapó. El primer capítulo es solamente un par de páginas, pero necesario para engancharte en esta historia y ver por donde va la trama. Me gusta mucho también el hecho que al final de cada capítulo todo queda como abierto, como en suspenso y como que algo va a pasar. Y sí, muchas cosas pasan, hay "plot twist" varias veces y en más de una ocasión dije "Oh!!!". También quiero destacar el detalle con el que se contó toda la historia, por todo lo que tuvo que pasar Anna cuando ocurrió el atentado y cómo eso tuvo un impacto en la historia completa, ya que debido a ese atentado se cancelaron vuelos y... bueno, no haré "spoilers".
También le doy 5 estrellas a la descripción de cada personaje, tales como Anna, Tina, Fenston, Jack, Victoria, Krantz, Sergei, Leapman o el mismo Andrew. Archer les dio mucha vida con muchas descripciones y no fue difícil para mí sentirme involucrado con ellos. Sin duda es una novela muy atrapadora y llena de misterio hasta el final. No es uno de los mejores libros que he leído en mi vida ni mucho menos, pero es una muy buena lectura que disfruté todo el tiempo y la recomiendo absolutamente.
También le doy 5 estrellas a la descripción de cada personaje, tales como Anna, Tina, Fenston, Jack, Victoria, Krantz, Sergei, Leapman o el mismo Andrew. Archer les dio mucha vida con muchas descripciones y no fue difícil para mí sentirme involucrado con ellos. Sin duda es una novela muy atrapadora y llena de misterio hasta el final. No es uno de los mejores libros que he leído en mi vida ni mucho menos, pero es una muy buena lectura que disfruté todo el tiempo y la recomiendo absolutamente.
August 9, 2022
I steer clear of books rated below 3.7 on GR. I tend to trust the masses. So when I saw this book by one of my faves and it had a lower rating than I like, I was intrigued to give it a go. I can't say I was too surprised when this started out as a solid 1 star and all I could think was, "How am I going to give one of my favorite authors a 1 star rating?" Thankfully it picks up. I ended up liking this. I love how his mind works and how he translates that on to a page.
I enjoy the characters that he creates. They are vivid and full of life. I also like the way the plot often shifts and it does so unexpectedly. Okay, some of this was predictable, but I don't have qualms over that when I like the characters. In some way, the predictability draws me closer to them.
I enjoy the characters that he creates. They are vivid and full of life. I also like the way the plot often shifts and it does so unexpectedly. Okay, some of this was predictable, but I don't have qualms over that when I like the characters. In some way, the predictability draws me closer to them.
March 12, 2018
JA at his best. I loved this book and completed it in a record less time. I was completely hooked and it was unputdownable. Looking forward to reading more of JA.
June 3, 2024
A delightfully over-the-top parody of THE DA VINCI CODE!
What do you get if you cross the 2013 comedy film AMERICAN HUSTLE, Dan Brown’s THE DA VINCI CODE, Daniel Silva’s THE REMBRANDT AFFAIR, David Baldacci’s THE COLLECTOR, with special thanks to the 2018 action thriller THE SPY WHO DUMPED ME?
If that sounds like an unlikely combination of ideas that might produce a global chase thriller predicated on a nasty corporate con designed to swindle a priceless van Gogh painting from the estate of an elderly British matriarch, I’d say you were right! BUT I’d also tell you this. FALSE IMPRESSION isn’t going to win any literary awards and it isn’t intended to pass on any subliminal moral nuggets but it certainly works. Entertaining from first page to last, FALSE IMPRESSION is a wonderfully diverting and surprisingly gripping story that will put a smile on the face of any reader that enjoys the thriller genre.
Definitely recommended. It’s a long, long way from the vintage generational family story-telling that one might expect from a more typical Jeffrey Archer novel, but it’s great fun!
Paul Weiss
What do you get if you cross the 2013 comedy film AMERICAN HUSTLE, Dan Brown’s THE DA VINCI CODE, Daniel Silva’s THE REMBRANDT AFFAIR, David Baldacci’s THE COLLECTOR, with special thanks to the 2018 action thriller THE SPY WHO DUMPED ME?
If that sounds like an unlikely combination of ideas that might produce a global chase thriller predicated on a nasty corporate con designed to swindle a priceless van Gogh painting from the estate of an elderly British matriarch, I’d say you were right! BUT I’d also tell you this. FALSE IMPRESSION isn’t going to win any literary awards and it isn’t intended to pass on any subliminal moral nuggets but it certainly works. Entertaining from first page to last, FALSE IMPRESSION is a wonderfully diverting and surprisingly gripping story that will put a smile on the face of any reader that enjoys the thriller genre.
Definitely recommended. It’s a long, long way from the vintage generational family story-telling that one might expect from a more typical Jeffrey Archer novel, but it’s great fun!
Paul Weiss
August 20, 2019
Anna Petrescu is a fine art historian and expert in the field of art auctions and brokering. But when an old lady who also happens to own a priceless Van Gogh is murdered in her London estate, Anna’s boss, a banker with a questionable reputation, demands she acquire the painting for him. But history interferes in a big way as the murder takes place on the night before 9/11. What follows is a complex cat-and-mouse story filled with cons, double-crosses, and intrigue galore.
Yes, I managed to find a Jeffrey Archer novel I hadn’t read yet and when that sort of thing happens, I move it right to the top of my list. I’ve long known that the author is a connoisseur of fine art and often includes elements of this in his work. But this time around, it is the central theme, and an enjoyable thriller is the result.
This book also represents a bit of a departure from most of Archer's novels. For one thing, it takes place over just a couple of weeks. The fact that the story begins on the eve of 9/11/2001 provides a horrific backdrop, as well as plenty of plot impact, and yet the book is not about that. It’s about the lengths to which people will go to acquire high-value art. Archer manages to maintain a fast-paced narrative throughout the novel which kept me turning the pages past my allotted reading times. And, as usual, he brings a story-telling mastery to it all that keeps us readers wondering if we really know what’s going on like we think we do.
As much as I enjoyed reading this novel, I wouldn’t rank it among my favorite of Jeffrey Archer’s output. Perhaps this is partly due to the subject matter. I’ve never really understood the fascination some people have for certain pieces of art when I can see amateur paintings which I enjoy much more. And I thought the 9/11 sequences, while well written, (and the scenes with Anna trying to escape down the stairwells of the north tower were amazing) had less of an impact on the plot and the characters’ thoughts than it would have in real life.
But those are minor quibbles. My main reason for not including it among Archer’s top-tier work is that the novel is a bit too main-stream. It’s similar in many respects to a thousand other novels out there. I prefer his novels that are more “Jeffrey Archer-like” if that makes any sense.
Yes, I managed to find a Jeffrey Archer novel I hadn’t read yet and when that sort of thing happens, I move it right to the top of my list. I’ve long known that the author is a connoisseur of fine art and often includes elements of this in his work. But this time around, it is the central theme, and an enjoyable thriller is the result.
This book also represents a bit of a departure from most of Archer's novels. For one thing, it takes place over just a couple of weeks. The fact that the story begins on the eve of 9/11/2001 provides a horrific backdrop, as well as plenty of plot impact, and yet the book is not about that. It’s about the lengths to which people will go to acquire high-value art. Archer manages to maintain a fast-paced narrative throughout the novel which kept me turning the pages past my allotted reading times. And, as usual, he brings a story-telling mastery to it all that keeps us readers wondering if we really know what’s going on like we think we do.
As much as I enjoyed reading this novel, I wouldn’t rank it among my favorite of Jeffrey Archer’s output. Perhaps this is partly due to the subject matter. I’ve never really understood the fascination some people have for certain pieces of art when I can see amateur paintings which I enjoy much more. And I thought the 9/11 sequences, while well written, (and the scenes with Anna trying to escape down the stairwells of the north tower were amazing) had less of an impact on the plot and the characters’ thoughts than it would have in real life.
But those are minor quibbles. My main reason for not including it among Archer’s top-tier work is that the novel is a bit too main-stream. It’s similar in many respects to a thousand other novels out there. I prefer his novels that are more “Jeffrey Archer-like” if that makes any sense.
October 2, 2017
I usually enjoy Jeffrey Archer's books (a lot actually), but this one wasn't like his other, more well-written works. This book's writing was nothing like the writing of Sir Archer I've come to adore. So it was a lost cause for me on the writing front. The story, well to begin, it was too linear and predictable.
I had a hard time connecting to the characters; they were good and well-built, but not relatable, especially the protagonist.
As I said, the book was very, very predictable, so the only redeeming element I was looking for in this book - the mystery - was lost the minute it started. And whatever parts did manage to take me off guard were totally eye-roll-worthy due to the nonsensicality of it all.
I liked the sections about Van Gogh's details and history, but apart from that I really didn't like this book. Overall, it was just okay. And if you haven't yet read any of Sir Archer's books, then I'd suggest that you leave this one alone and try one of his masterpieces like The Cliffton Chronicles.
I had a hard time connecting to the characters; they were good and well-built, but not relatable, especially the protagonist.
As I said, the book was very, very predictable, so the only redeeming element I was looking for in this book - the mystery - was lost the minute it started. And whatever parts did manage to take me off guard were totally eye-roll-worthy due to the nonsensicality of it all.
I liked the sections about Van Gogh's details and history, but apart from that I really didn't like this book. Overall, it was just okay. And if you haven't yet read any of Sir Archer's books, then I'd suggest that you leave this one alone and try one of his masterpieces like The Cliffton Chronicles.
May 19, 2023
Безценна книга на Ван Гог е на прицел: http://knigolandia.info/book-review/a...
Действието се движи от безскрупулен богаташ с мрачно минало в съседна Румъния, който е изградил образ на високопрофилен заемодател, приемащ като залог знакови произведения на изкуството – но целта му всъщност е да придобие именно тях, а не да печели пари. За тази цел той прави всичко възможно заемите да не бъдат връщани, като прибягва дори до ликвидиране на клиентитте си, за която цел използва безмилостен убиец. Неговите действия са открити за читателите, но не и за служителката му Анна Петреску, която всъщност се опитва да върши добре работата си – да знае къде се намира всяка ценна картина на планетата и колко точно струва. И когато започва да се досеща какво се случва всъщност, Световният търговски център е ударен от самолет – и това парадоксално спасява живота ѝ.
Издателска къща БАРД
http://knigolandia.info/book-review/a...
Действието се движи от безскрупулен богаташ с мрачно минало в съседна Румъния, който е изградил образ на високопрофилен заемодател, приемащ като залог знакови произведения на изкуството – но целта му всъщност е да придобие именно тях, а не да печели пари. За тази цел той прави всичко възможно заемите да не бъдат връщани, като прибягва дори до ликвидиране на клиентитте си, за която цел използва безмилостен убиец. Неговите действия са открити за читателите, но не и за служителката му Анна Петреску, която всъщност се опитва да върши добре работата си – да знае къде се намира всяка ценна картина на планетата и колко точно струва. И когато започва да се досеща какво се случва всъщност, Световният търговски център е ударен от самолет – и това парадоксално спасява живота ѝ.
Издателска къща БАРД
http://knigolandia.info/book-review/a...
September 2, 2021
Just like other Archer books I have read False Impression was quite good but dotted with some implausible situations. For example an assassin is following a woman around the world looking for an opportunity to kill her (this is revealed on the back cover so is not a spoiler). It turns out this assassin decades earlier killed her father! But one thing I did like about the book was the way it weaved in the 9/11 twin towers attack. But alas I think it will be my last Jeffrey Archer novel.
October 26, 2010
Full of suspense, mystery, thrill, with pinches of romance and humor, False Impression by Jeffrey Archer is definitely a book that one could waste an entire afternoon reading. This novel is exceptionally well written, the language is clear, the plot is concise, and the characters are very well developed. I would definitely recommend this book to a friend or relative for a variety of reasons.
This book takes off when a young, successful spotter is fired from her job by her boss, Bryce Fenston, the owner of Fenston Finances, whose offices are in the Twin Towers. She finds out that Fenston is an experienced con artist, and is deceiving Lady Victoria in order to possess one of the most valuable Van Gogh paintings in the world in her Impressionist collection. This takes place right before the two airplanes crash into the towers, sending the entire tower in to frenzy. Anna escapes off radar, and determined to serve justice, she forms a plan to stop Fenston and help Victoria. She leaves for England, and upon reaching, she finds out that Victoria has been murdered, and that her sister Arabella, is willing to do anything for revenge. Asking for her help, Anna travels to London, Bucharest, Tokyo, and back to New York City in order to secure the painting, make sure it does not fall into the wrong hands, and selling it to a reliable customer in order to clear Victoria’s debts. On her tail, she has Jack, a FBI agent who is investigating the connection between Fenston, the murders of high profile people, and the numerous, high-valued, Impressionist paintings in Fenston’s possession. Her other stalker is more dangerous. Olga Krantz is a low-profile killer whose orders from Fenston are to make sure Anna is murdered and to deliver the Van Gogh back to him.
First, the author’s style is very smooth, drawing the reader in. Jeffery Archer’s transitions from sentence to sentence, page to page, chapter to chapter, are seamless. There is no hesitance, no choppiness, and he manages to leave out enough information to keep the reader guessing, but not enough to confuse the reader. In addition, Archer writes in a third person, omniscient narrative voice. He is constantly switching between telling the story through the different characters, and telling the story in its entirety. As he switches between the different points of view, The reader is all-knowing when concerning the ability to know the all the characters feelings in the book. Despite the different points of view throughout the story, the actual tale is easy to follow.
The vocabulary is tough, but not impossible, and the definition can certainly be inferred through the context. However, some of the language and scenes, which includes profanity, is inappropriate for audiences who are not mature enough to handle such content. About fourteen to fifteen years old and above is an appropriate age group for this book. The author uses realistic dialogue, though the language is more sophisticated, giving a more adult vibe to the reader. It also helps convey the emotions that the characters are feeling to a greater extent.
This book would fall under the murder mystery genre. It is full of page turning suspense, hints of romance, and a sprinkle of humor. The author’s foreshadowing throughout the book reveals certain details that seem irrelevant to the situation at hand. This adds a certain air of mystery, and further entices the reader.
The plot is very carefully crafted and intricately interconnects each main character. The best way to look at it is like a complicated spider web, where every strand leads from one to the next, but until you come to the middle, you don’t know can’t see how each strand is connected to next, and how precariously each strand upholds the hold web. Similarly, Jeffrey Archer manages to move the story from one part the next, without giving clear directions to where everything leads. Every little detail falls into place by the time the reader turns the last page. Other people may find this to be distracting, and if not written correctly, it can even discourage a reader by losing their attention. However, Archer skillfully manages craft it in a way where every little situations connects with next. In addition, just like the web, even if a little part of the story is taken out, the whole balance upon which this plot sits on will collapse. For the most part, the author manages to avoid stereotypes and clichés in the form of unexpected situations, characters, and conclusions. Jeffrey Archer does, however, divert from reality. This happens to be the part where the whole fictional side of the story comes into play. Some of the impossibly dangerous situations, even though some of the saviors are very unlikely, seem less dangerous than it really is. In addition, there is inaccuracy in describing how Anna manages to take the painting from one country to the next without any trouble, despite its high profile. Despite these faults, the rest of the book’s fast action makes up for them.
The different, abundant characters are very thoroughly developed. There are multiple main characters that have significant importance on the plot of the book. Of course, the character, Anna, who the story is mainly focused on, has a very leading role, even when the story is not told through her point of view. Every little twist in the story somehow is connected with or impacts Anna’s sticky situation. Of course, she has plenty of friends to help her through tough times – her close friend and ex-love in Bucharest, her best friend and ex-coworker, her dead client’s sister, and the handsome FBI agent. In addition, she has bountiful enemies – From her overbearing, ex-boss, to a serial murderer, to the nosy, suspicious ex-coworker. These characters are what keep the story alive, what keeps it moving. Unfortunately, some of the characters do have clichés. For instance, Anne is described as a head turning, gorgeous, "slim, blonde, American," (page 197). She ends up with snagging the ultimate guy, the typical, tall, dark, handsome, secretive, stalkerish but-I’m-only-trying-to-protecting-you FBI agent, named Jack. Their blooming relationship was very predictable, from their jogs in Central Park, when they don’t know each other, to when Jack is tailing Anna, to his subsequent arrest, to Anna’s apology, and then finally, their flirty conversations as they team up to incriminate Fenston. Krantz is portrayed as some serial, emotionless, stoic killer who has the ability to skillfully killing someone without attracting attention to herself or Fenston. She is definitely one of the more important characters, and her actions really give you an insight to how cold and unfeeling she really is.
All in all, False Impression by Jeffrey Archer has been one of my most favorite books up to date. Not only has he managed to capture the perfect blend of mystery, thrill, suspense, romance with a side of humor, Archer completely holds the readers' attentions with twists, turns, ups and downs as the story progresses. The characters are the perfect puppets in this play. The plot is an impeccable, intricate maze, the vital component in this wonderfully complicated but clear cut tale. This book is a must-read, and a wonderful addition to anyone’s bookshelf.
Merged review:
Full of suspense, mystery, thrill, with pinches of romance and humor, False Impression by Jeffrey Archer is definitely a book that one could waste an entire afternoon reading. This novel is exceptionally well written, the language is clear, the plot is concise, and the characters are very well developed. I would definitely recommend this book to a friend or relative for a variety of reasons.
This book takes off when a young, successful spotter is fired from her job by her boss, Bryce Fenston, the owner of Fenston Finances, whose offices are in the Twin Towers. She finds out that Fenston is an experienced con artist, and is deceiving Lady Victoria in order to possess one of the most valuable Van Gogh paintings in the world in her Impressionist collection. This takes place right before the two airplanes crash into the towers, sending the entire tower in to frenzy. Anna escapes off radar, and determined to serve justice, she forms a plan to stop Fenston and help Victoria. She leaves for England, and upon reaching, she finds out that Victoria has been murdered, and that her sister Arabella, is willing to do anything for revenge. Asking for her help, Anna travels to London, Bucharest, Tokyo, and back to New York City in order to secure the painting, make sure it does not fall into the wrong hands, and selling it to a reliable customer in order to clear Victoria’s debts. On her tail, she has Jack, a FBI agent who is investigating the connection between Fenston, the murders of high profile people, and the numerous, high-valued, Impressionist paintings in Fenston’s possession. Her other stalker is more dangerous. Olga Krantz is a low-profile killer whose orders from Fenston are to make sure Anna is murdered and to deliver the Van Gogh back to him.
First, the author’s style is very smooth, drawing the reader in. Jeffery Archer’s transitions from sentence to sentence, page to page, chapter to chapter, are seamless. There is no hesitance, no choppiness, and he manages to leave out enough information to keep the reader guessing, but not enough to confuse the reader. In addition, Archer writes in a third person, omniscient narrative voice. He is constantly switching between telling the story through the different characters, and telling the story in its entirety. As he switches between the different points of view, The reader is all-knowing when concerning the ability to know the all the characters feelings in the book. Despite the different points of view throughout the story, the actual tale is easy to follow.
The vocabulary is tough, but not impossible, and the definition can certainly be inferred through the context. However, some of the language and scenes, which includes profanity, is inappropriate for audiences who are not mature enough to handle such content. About fourteen to fifteen years old and above is an appropriate age group for this book. The author uses realistic dialogue, though the language is more sophisticated, giving a more adult vibe to the reader. It also helps convey the emotions that the characters are feeling to a greater extent.
This book would fall under the murder mystery genre. It is full of page turning suspense, hints of romance, and a sprinkle of humor. The author’s foreshadowing throughout the book reveals certain details that seem irrelevant to the situation at hand. This adds a certain air of mystery, and further entices the reader.
The plot is very carefully crafted and intricately interconnects each main character. The best way to look at it is like a complicated spider web, where every strand leads from one to the next, but until you come to the middle, you don’t know can’t see how each strand is connected to next, and how precariously each strand upholds the hold web. Similarly, Jeffrey Archer manages to move the story from one part the next, without giving clear directions to where everything leads. Every little detail falls into place by the time the reader turns the last page. Other people may find this to be distracting, and if not written correctly, it can even discourage a reader by losing their attention. However, Archer skillfully manages craft it in a way where every little situations connects with next. In addition, just like the web, even if a little part of the story is taken out, the whole balance upon which this plot sits on will collapse. For the most part, the author manages to avoid stereotypes and clichés in the form of unexpected situations, characters, and conclusions. Jeffrey Archer does, however, divert from reality. This happens to be the part where the whole fictional side of the story comes into play. Some of the impossibly dangerous situations, even though some of the saviors are very unlikely, seem less dangerous than it really is. In addition, there is inaccuracy in describing how Anna manages to take the painting from one country to the next without any trouble, despite its high profile. Despite these faults, the rest of the book’s fast action makes up for them.
The different, abundant characters are very thoroughly developed. There are multiple main characters that have significant importance on the plot of the book. Of course, the character, Anna, who the story is mainly focused on, has a very leading role, even when the story is not told through her point of view. Every little twist in the story somehow is connected with or impacts Anna’s sticky situation. Of course, she has plenty of friends to help her through tough times – her close friend and ex-love in Bucharest, her best friend and ex-coworker, her dead client’s sister, and the handsome FBI agent. In addition, she has bountiful enemies – From her overbearing, ex-boss, to a serial murderer, to the nosy, suspicious ex-coworker. These characters are what keep the story alive, what keeps it moving. Unfortunately, some of the characters do have clichés. For instance, Anne is described as a head turning, gorgeous, "slim, blonde, American," (page 197). She ends up with snagging the ultimate guy, the typical, tall, dark, handsome, secretive, stalkerish but-I’m-only-trying-to-protecting-you FBI agent, named Jack. Their blooming relationship was very predictable, from their jogs in Central Park, when they don’t know each other, to when Jack is tailing Anna, to his subsequent arrest, to Anna’s apology, and then finally, their flirty conversations as they team up to incriminate Fenston. Krantz is portrayed as some serial, emotionless, stoic killer who has the ability to skillfully killing someone without attracting attention to herself or Fenston. She is definitely one of the more important characters, and her actions really give you an insight to how cold and unfeeling she really is.
All in all, False Impression by Jeffrey Archer has been one of my most favorite books up to date. Not only has he managed to capture the perfect blend of mystery, thrill, suspense, romance with a side of humor, Archer completely holds the readers' attentions with twists, turns, ups and downs as the story progresses. The characters are the perfect puppets in this play. The plot is an impeccable, intricate maze, the vital component in this wonderfully complicated but clear cut tale. This book is a must-read, and a wonderful addition to anyone’s bookshelf.
This book takes off when a young, successful spotter is fired from her job by her boss, Bryce Fenston, the owner of Fenston Finances, whose offices are in the Twin Towers. She finds out that Fenston is an experienced con artist, and is deceiving Lady Victoria in order to possess one of the most valuable Van Gogh paintings in the world in her Impressionist collection. This takes place right before the two airplanes crash into the towers, sending the entire tower in to frenzy. Anna escapes off radar, and determined to serve justice, she forms a plan to stop Fenston and help Victoria. She leaves for England, and upon reaching, she finds out that Victoria has been murdered, and that her sister Arabella, is willing to do anything for revenge. Asking for her help, Anna travels to London, Bucharest, Tokyo, and back to New York City in order to secure the painting, make sure it does not fall into the wrong hands, and selling it to a reliable customer in order to clear Victoria’s debts. On her tail, she has Jack, a FBI agent who is investigating the connection between Fenston, the murders of high profile people, and the numerous, high-valued, Impressionist paintings in Fenston’s possession. Her other stalker is more dangerous. Olga Krantz is a low-profile killer whose orders from Fenston are to make sure Anna is murdered and to deliver the Van Gogh back to him.
First, the author’s style is very smooth, drawing the reader in. Jeffery Archer’s transitions from sentence to sentence, page to page, chapter to chapter, are seamless. There is no hesitance, no choppiness, and he manages to leave out enough information to keep the reader guessing, but not enough to confuse the reader. In addition, Archer writes in a third person, omniscient narrative voice. He is constantly switching between telling the story through the different characters, and telling the story in its entirety. As he switches between the different points of view, The reader is all-knowing when concerning the ability to know the all the characters feelings in the book. Despite the different points of view throughout the story, the actual tale is easy to follow.
The vocabulary is tough, but not impossible, and the definition can certainly be inferred through the context. However, some of the language and scenes, which includes profanity, is inappropriate for audiences who are not mature enough to handle such content. About fourteen to fifteen years old and above is an appropriate age group for this book. The author uses realistic dialogue, though the language is more sophisticated, giving a more adult vibe to the reader. It also helps convey the emotions that the characters are feeling to a greater extent.
This book would fall under the murder mystery genre. It is full of page turning suspense, hints of romance, and a sprinkle of humor. The author’s foreshadowing throughout the book reveals certain details that seem irrelevant to the situation at hand. This adds a certain air of mystery, and further entices the reader.
The plot is very carefully crafted and intricately interconnects each main character. The best way to look at it is like a complicated spider web, where every strand leads from one to the next, but until you come to the middle, you don’t know can’t see how each strand is connected to next, and how precariously each strand upholds the hold web. Similarly, Jeffrey Archer manages to move the story from one part the next, without giving clear directions to where everything leads. Every little detail falls into place by the time the reader turns the last page. Other people may find this to be distracting, and if not written correctly, it can even discourage a reader by losing their attention. However, Archer skillfully manages craft it in a way where every little situations connects with next. In addition, just like the web, even if a little part of the story is taken out, the whole balance upon which this plot sits on will collapse. For the most part, the author manages to avoid stereotypes and clichés in the form of unexpected situations, characters, and conclusions. Jeffrey Archer does, however, divert from reality. This happens to be the part where the whole fictional side of the story comes into play. Some of the impossibly dangerous situations, even though some of the saviors are very unlikely, seem less dangerous than it really is. In addition, there is inaccuracy in describing how Anna manages to take the painting from one country to the next without any trouble, despite its high profile. Despite these faults, the rest of the book’s fast action makes up for them.
The different, abundant characters are very thoroughly developed. There are multiple main characters that have significant importance on the plot of the book. Of course, the character, Anna, who the story is mainly focused on, has a very leading role, even when the story is not told through her point of view. Every little twist in the story somehow is connected with or impacts Anna’s sticky situation. Of course, she has plenty of friends to help her through tough times – her close friend and ex-love in Bucharest, her best friend and ex-coworker, her dead client’s sister, and the handsome FBI agent. In addition, she has bountiful enemies – From her overbearing, ex-boss, to a serial murderer, to the nosy, suspicious ex-coworker. These characters are what keep the story alive, what keeps it moving. Unfortunately, some of the characters do have clichés. For instance, Anne is described as a head turning, gorgeous, "slim, blonde, American," (page 197). She ends up with snagging the ultimate guy, the typical, tall, dark, handsome, secretive, stalkerish but-I’m-only-trying-to-protecting-you FBI agent, named Jack. Their blooming relationship was very predictable, from their jogs in Central Park, when they don’t know each other, to when Jack is tailing Anna, to his subsequent arrest, to Anna’s apology, and then finally, their flirty conversations as they team up to incriminate Fenston. Krantz is portrayed as some serial, emotionless, stoic killer who has the ability to skillfully killing someone without attracting attention to herself or Fenston. She is definitely one of the more important characters, and her actions really give you an insight to how cold and unfeeling she really is.
All in all, False Impression by Jeffrey Archer has been one of my most favorite books up to date. Not only has he managed to capture the perfect blend of mystery, thrill, suspense, romance with a side of humor, Archer completely holds the readers' attentions with twists, turns, ups and downs as the story progresses. The characters are the perfect puppets in this play. The plot is an impeccable, intricate maze, the vital component in this wonderfully complicated but clear cut tale. This book is a must-read, and a wonderful addition to anyone’s bookshelf.
Merged review:
Full of suspense, mystery, thrill, with pinches of romance and humor, False Impression by Jeffrey Archer is definitely a book that one could waste an entire afternoon reading. This novel is exceptionally well written, the language is clear, the plot is concise, and the characters are very well developed. I would definitely recommend this book to a friend or relative for a variety of reasons.
This book takes off when a young, successful spotter is fired from her job by her boss, Bryce Fenston, the owner of Fenston Finances, whose offices are in the Twin Towers. She finds out that Fenston is an experienced con artist, and is deceiving Lady Victoria in order to possess one of the most valuable Van Gogh paintings in the world in her Impressionist collection. This takes place right before the two airplanes crash into the towers, sending the entire tower in to frenzy. Anna escapes off radar, and determined to serve justice, she forms a plan to stop Fenston and help Victoria. She leaves for England, and upon reaching, she finds out that Victoria has been murdered, and that her sister Arabella, is willing to do anything for revenge. Asking for her help, Anna travels to London, Bucharest, Tokyo, and back to New York City in order to secure the painting, make sure it does not fall into the wrong hands, and selling it to a reliable customer in order to clear Victoria’s debts. On her tail, she has Jack, a FBI agent who is investigating the connection between Fenston, the murders of high profile people, and the numerous, high-valued, Impressionist paintings in Fenston’s possession. Her other stalker is more dangerous. Olga Krantz is a low-profile killer whose orders from Fenston are to make sure Anna is murdered and to deliver the Van Gogh back to him.
First, the author’s style is very smooth, drawing the reader in. Jeffery Archer’s transitions from sentence to sentence, page to page, chapter to chapter, are seamless. There is no hesitance, no choppiness, and he manages to leave out enough information to keep the reader guessing, but not enough to confuse the reader. In addition, Archer writes in a third person, omniscient narrative voice. He is constantly switching between telling the story through the different characters, and telling the story in its entirety. As he switches between the different points of view, The reader is all-knowing when concerning the ability to know the all the characters feelings in the book. Despite the different points of view throughout the story, the actual tale is easy to follow.
The vocabulary is tough, but not impossible, and the definition can certainly be inferred through the context. However, some of the language and scenes, which includes profanity, is inappropriate for audiences who are not mature enough to handle such content. About fourteen to fifteen years old and above is an appropriate age group for this book. The author uses realistic dialogue, though the language is more sophisticated, giving a more adult vibe to the reader. It also helps convey the emotions that the characters are feeling to a greater extent.
This book would fall under the murder mystery genre. It is full of page turning suspense, hints of romance, and a sprinkle of humor. The author’s foreshadowing throughout the book reveals certain details that seem irrelevant to the situation at hand. This adds a certain air of mystery, and further entices the reader.
The plot is very carefully crafted and intricately interconnects each main character. The best way to look at it is like a complicated spider web, where every strand leads from one to the next, but until you come to the middle, you don’t know can’t see how each strand is connected to next, and how precariously each strand upholds the hold web. Similarly, Jeffrey Archer manages to move the story from one part the next, without giving clear directions to where everything leads. Every little detail falls into place by the time the reader turns the last page. Other people may find this to be distracting, and if not written correctly, it can even discourage a reader by losing their attention. However, Archer skillfully manages craft it in a way where every little situations connects with next. In addition, just like the web, even if a little part of the story is taken out, the whole balance upon which this plot sits on will collapse. For the most part, the author manages to avoid stereotypes and clichés in the form of unexpected situations, characters, and conclusions. Jeffrey Archer does, however, divert from reality. This happens to be the part where the whole fictional side of the story comes into play. Some of the impossibly dangerous situations, even though some of the saviors are very unlikely, seem less dangerous than it really is. In addition, there is inaccuracy in describing how Anna manages to take the painting from one country to the next without any trouble, despite its high profile. Despite these faults, the rest of the book’s fast action makes up for them.
The different, abundant characters are very thoroughly developed. There are multiple main characters that have significant importance on the plot of the book. Of course, the character, Anna, who the story is mainly focused on, has a very leading role, even when the story is not told through her point of view. Every little twist in the story somehow is connected with or impacts Anna’s sticky situation. Of course, she has plenty of friends to help her through tough times – her close friend and ex-love in Bucharest, her best friend and ex-coworker, her dead client’s sister, and the handsome FBI agent. In addition, she has bountiful enemies – From her overbearing, ex-boss, to a serial murderer, to the nosy, suspicious ex-coworker. These characters are what keep the story alive, what keeps it moving. Unfortunately, some of the characters do have clichés. For instance, Anne is described as a head turning, gorgeous, "slim, blonde, American," (page 197). She ends up with snagging the ultimate guy, the typical, tall, dark, handsome, secretive, stalkerish but-I’m-only-trying-to-protecting-you FBI agent, named Jack. Their blooming relationship was very predictable, from their jogs in Central Park, when they don’t know each other, to when Jack is tailing Anna, to his subsequent arrest, to Anna’s apology, and then finally, their flirty conversations as they team up to incriminate Fenston. Krantz is portrayed as some serial, emotionless, stoic killer who has the ability to skillfully killing someone without attracting attention to herself or Fenston. She is definitely one of the more important characters, and her actions really give you an insight to how cold and unfeeling she really is.
All in all, False Impression by Jeffrey Archer has been one of my most favorite books up to date. Not only has he managed to capture the perfect blend of mystery, thrill, suspense, romance with a side of humor, Archer completely holds the readers' attentions with twists, turns, ups and downs as the story progresses. The characters are the perfect puppets in this play. The plot is an impeccable, intricate maze, the vital component in this wonderfully complicated but clear cut tale. This book is a must-read, and a wonderful addition to anyone’s bookshelf.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 28, 2022
Jeffrey Archer never disappoints.
March 25, 2009
False Impression is written by Jeffrey Archer. It uses the 9/11 tragedy to capture the reader’s interest, but it is mainly about conspiracies in the art world – or, if you want it in simpler terms, it’s a murder mystery.
This book didn’t compare to the other book I’ve read by the same author – As The Crow Flies – but it is still a good story, set in the real world, with believable characters. At first, I felt a bit confused with all the characters (not to mention the head hopping), but the confusion settled after about six chapters. Luckily, the chapters in this book are quite short, so it isn’t as bad as it sounds.
The fact that I read the first six chapters and then put the book aside for two months didn’t help either. However, chapter seven saw the action really begin so I was drawn back into the story quickly once I started reading again.
Although I don’t know for sure if the facts stated in the book about the art world are true or not, it sounded true to me. As a reader, that’s important. However, I suspect that the author did do the necessary research and if I were to check up on any of the facts I think I’ll discover that they are correct. Unfortunately, I didn’t learn anything from these facts except Van Gogh painted a self portrait with a bandaged ear; however, it was actually the left ear which was really bandaged, not the right ear as shown in the portrait. Van Gogh used a mirror when doing the painting. I also learned that Van Gogh died by suicide.
Recommendation: If you have an opportunity to read the book, do it. I don’t think you’ll be sorry.
This book didn’t compare to the other book I’ve read by the same author – As The Crow Flies – but it is still a good story, set in the real world, with believable characters. At first, I felt a bit confused with all the characters (not to mention the head hopping), but the confusion settled after about six chapters. Luckily, the chapters in this book are quite short, so it isn’t as bad as it sounds.
The fact that I read the first six chapters and then put the book aside for two months didn’t help either. However, chapter seven saw the action really begin so I was drawn back into the story quickly once I started reading again.
Although I don’t know for sure if the facts stated in the book about the art world are true or not, it sounded true to me. As a reader, that’s important. However, I suspect that the author did do the necessary research and if I were to check up on any of the facts I think I’ll discover that they are correct. Unfortunately, I didn’t learn anything from these facts except Van Gogh painted a self portrait with a bandaged ear; however, it was actually the left ear which was really bandaged, not the right ear as shown in the portrait. Van Gogh used a mirror when doing the painting. I also learned that Van Gogh died by suicide.
Recommendation: If you have an opportunity to read the book, do it. I don’t think you’ll be sorry.
May 17, 2011
The first third of the book is terribly predictable. The second third picks up with more of a thriller feel as the story progresses, but unfortunately the final third reverts to its predictable ways, and the ending leaves the reader unsatisfied. The plot devices are tired and over-used, a romance is wedged forcefully into the story and the brief swearing is one-off and absolutely pointless. All in all, False Impression is a cheesy thriller whose only offering is a novelty theme, and even that was deemed not interesting enough by the author given that it needed to be spiced up with an unrelated secondary plot about the events of 9/11.
November 14, 2022
Entertaining from start to finish. It might not be the best Jeffrey Archer book, but it served its purpose.
I loved every character here, from Dr. Petrescu to ‘Crew Cut.’
It gave me a little POV on what probably must've been going on inside the North Tower of the World Trade Center after the first plane crashed into it on 9/11. Scary experience for anyone involved that day.
My favourite quote was one Arabella made close to the end: ‘I can promise you a slow, painful death, and I will not be calling for an ambulance until I’m convinced there’s nothing they can do to help you.’
So where did the van go?—get it? van Gogh?—lol.
My 8th Jeffery Archer book this year, man's too good.
I loved every character here, from Dr. Petrescu to ‘Crew Cut.’
It gave me a little POV on what probably must've been going on inside the North Tower of the World Trade Center after the first plane crashed into it on 9/11. Scary experience for anyone involved that day.
My favourite quote was one Arabella made close to the end: ‘I can promise you a slow, painful death, and I will not be calling for an ambulance until I’m convinced there’s nothing they can do to help you.’
So where did the van go?—get it? van Gogh?—lol.
My 8th Jeffery Archer book this year, man's too good.
December 16, 2017
This was an enjoyable thriller, taking us on a tour across Europe and will be perfect for anyone interested in Van Gough or painters. It is also set against the backdrop of the 9/11 attacks. Jeffrey Archer does know how to tell a good story and the tension was kept up from beginning to end. Although fair to say I’ve enjoyed others of his more.
April 4, 2019
Entretenido y típico libro que parece ideal para que hagan una película de acción. Con el añadido de tratar sobre una obra de mi pintor favorito.
Con un ritmo trepidante, me ha atrapado desde las primeras páginas, solo para saber que va a pasar.
No se puede decir que sea una obra maestra, pero ha cumplido con mi expectativa principal cuando lo empecé: pasar unas horas muy entretenidas.
La trama tiene lugar en diversos países del mundo, entre ellos Estados Unidos, Reino Unido, Japón, Rumania... a lo largo del día 11 de septiembre de 2001 (el 11-S) y los días posteriores.
Básicamente consiste en el intento de varios compradores para obtener un cuadro de Vincent Van Gogh que ha salido a la venta. Algunos de los métodos usados implican el cometer los crímenes más abyectos; otros, tienen por medio alguna falsificación,...
Me han gustado bastante los protagonistas. Una experta en arte, que trabaja para un banquero; y un agente del FBI que está realizando una investigación sobre tácticas bancarias fraudulentas. Entre ambos hay una buena química y se complementan a la perfección.
De la mano de ellos y de algunos buenos secundarios, nos adentramos en los entresijos del mundo financiero y en los motivos que mueven a algunas personas o corporaciones a querer poseer una obra de arte, no para disfrutarla, sino únicamente como una inversión más.
Lo que he encontrado demasiado exagerado ha sido al villano de la historia. Como ya he visto últimamente en otros libros de otros autores, parecen más los villanos de un comic; en el sentido de que su maldad no conoce límites, totalmente desproporcionados con el resto de personajes, que son más normales.
Destaco que hay una buena descripción del caos en la torre Norte cuando chocó el avión. Sin caer en el morbo, el autor logra transmitir las sensaciones de aquellos que lograron salir de allí.
Resumiendo, ideal para pasar un buen rato, sin tener que pensar demasiado.
Con un ritmo trepidante, me ha atrapado desde las primeras páginas, solo para saber que va a pasar.
No se puede decir que sea una obra maestra, pero ha cumplido con mi expectativa principal cuando lo empecé: pasar unas horas muy entretenidas.
La trama tiene lugar en diversos países del mundo, entre ellos Estados Unidos, Reino Unido, Japón, Rumania... a lo largo del día 11 de septiembre de 2001 (el 11-S) y los días posteriores.
Básicamente consiste en el intento de varios compradores para obtener un cuadro de Vincent Van Gogh que ha salido a la venta. Algunos de los métodos usados implican el cometer los crímenes más abyectos; otros, tienen por medio alguna falsificación,...
Me han gustado bastante los protagonistas. Una experta en arte, que trabaja para un banquero; y un agente del FBI que está realizando una investigación sobre tácticas bancarias fraudulentas. Entre ambos hay una buena química y se complementan a la perfección.
De la mano de ellos y de algunos buenos secundarios, nos adentramos en los entresijos del mundo financiero y en los motivos que mueven a algunas personas o corporaciones a querer poseer una obra de arte, no para disfrutarla, sino únicamente como una inversión más.
Lo que he encontrado demasiado exagerado ha sido al villano de la historia. Como ya he visto últimamente en otros libros de otros autores, parecen más los villanos de un comic; en el sentido de que su maldad no conoce límites, totalmente desproporcionados con el resto de personajes, que son más normales.
Destaco que hay una buena descripción del caos en la torre Norte cuando chocó el avión. Sin caer en el morbo, el autor logra transmitir las sensaciones de aquellos que lograron salir de allí.
Resumiendo, ideal para pasar un buen rato, sin tener que pensar demasiado.
March 11, 2016
To αίνιγμα του Βαν Γκογκ...
Ο τίτλος του βιβλίου είναι παραπλανητικός: Περίμενα ότι έχει να κάνει με κάποιο κρυμμένο μήνυμα ή γρίφο στον πίνακα του Ολλανδού ζωγράφου. Το ότι ο συγγραφέας τοποθέτησε την τρομακτική επίθεση της 11ης Σεπτεμβρίου στην Νέα Υόρκη ήταν περιττό χωρίς να υπάρχει ιδιαίτερος λόγος. Απλά με αυτό, ήθελε να κεντρίσει το ενδιαφέρον του αναγνώστη στην αρχή του βιβλίου. Πάντως, όλο το βιβλίο είχε να κάνει με ανθρωποκυνηγητό μεταξύ των πρωταγωνιστών για το ποιος θα προλάβει τον πίνακα.... τόσες σελίδες που κάλυψαν το μεγαλύτερο μέρος της πλοκής. Όσο για το τέλος, ήταν απότομο και άφηνε ορισμένα ερωτηματικά στον αναγνώστη για την κατάληξη ορισμένων ήρωων. Σαν σύνολο, δε μου άρεσε: ήταν αρκετά προβλέψιμο σε πολλά σημεία, κουραστικό με τόσες λεπτόμερειες που υπήρχαν.
Ο τίτλος του βιβλίου είναι παραπλανητικός: Περίμενα ότι έχει να κάνει με κάποιο κρυμμένο μήνυμα ή γρίφο στον πίνακα του Ολλανδού ζωγράφου. Το ότι ο συγγραφέας τοποθέτησε την τρομακτική επίθεση της 11ης Σεπτεμβρίου στην Νέα Υόρκη ήταν περιττό χωρίς να υπάρχει ιδιαίτερος λόγος. Απλά με αυτό, ήθελε να κεντρίσει το ενδιαφέρον του αναγνώστη στην αρχή του βιβλίου. Πάντως, όλο το βιβλίο είχε να κάνει με ανθρωποκυνηγητό μεταξύ των πρωταγωνιστών για το ποιος θα προλάβει τον πίνακα.... τόσες σελίδες που κάλυψαν το μεγαλύτερο μέρος της πλοκής. Όσο για το τέλος, ήταν απότομο και άφηνε ορισμένα ερωτηματικά στον αναγνώστη για την κατάληξη ορισμένων ήρωων. Σαν σύνολο, δε μου άρεσε: ήταν αρκετά προβλέψιμο σε πολλά σημεία, κουραστικό με τόσες λεπτόμερειες που υπήρχαν.
July 10, 2016
Compelling
June 25, 2023
3.75 ⭐️
The first half of this book was a 5 ⭐️. It was so action packed and such a page turner. So cool that it was based around the twin towers and the main character getting out just before the north tower crumbled down. Anna is such a determined character and kept me loving the book. I loved constantly jumping between different countries even though the whole book is set over a fortnight. I think the end was just slightly predictable and not as exciting as the first half of the book.
The first half of this book was a 5 ⭐️. It was so action packed and such a page turner. So cool that it was based around the twin towers and the main character getting out just before the north tower crumbled down. Anna is such a determined character and kept me loving the book. I loved constantly jumping between different countries even though the whole book is set over a fortnight. I think the end was just slightly predictable and not as exciting as the first half of the book.
October 4, 2021
Jeffrey Archer is a great spinner of tales. Lots of intrigue, a lot of art info & good to the end.
April 6, 2022
3.5-4 stars
June 22, 2022
สิ่งทีทำให้อ่านจบ คือ สำนวนการแปล
คุณ สุวิทย์ เหมาะกับการแปล แนวนี้ที่สุด
และ เล่มนี้ สอดแทรก งานศิลปะ ภาพวาด ดังๆ ที่เราไม่รู่จักมาเยอะ อ่านไป search รูปไป เพลินอยู่ครับ
คุณ สุวิทย์ เหมาะกับการแปล แนวนี้ที่สุด
และ เล่มนี้ สอดแทรก งานศิลปะ ภาพวาด ดังๆ ที่เราไม่รู่จักมาเยอะ อ่านไป search รูปไป เพลินอยู่ครับ
April 17, 2023
Πολύ καλό. Καμία σχέση με τα κουραστικά επαναλαμβανόμενα από τη σειρά των Κλίφτον.
June 24, 2020
A typical Archer story. A good read for a winter's night.
August 5, 2012
A very interesting thriller, somewhat slow to build but with great characters, both on the good-guys side and on the villain side.
About an art historian specializing in attribution, Victoria Petrescu, whose best friend works as a secretary to a repulsive crook banker named Bryce Fenston, who specializes in extending multi-million-dollar loans to people who have fallen on hard times but have a masterpiece of art in their possession. There's an odd coincidence that many of these owners have their throats slit before they can get out of hock to Mr. Fenston.
Tch, Tch, such bad luck they have, hunh?
The story starts the day before 9/11, and go thru roughly two weeks of the calendar. Not sure if choosing that date is just a gimmick, but it does explain that the paperwork and other artworks have been vaporized in the destruction of the Twin Towers.
The setting is New York and London and Tokyo and Bucharest with a brief visit to Russia. The Romanian connection is key, as is explained in more than one thread of the plot as more than one character has roots there. Possibly the best one is the hit man, or hit lady, I should say, a former Romanian gymnast names Olga Krantz, who IMHO is a worthy successor to the memorable Russian hit-woman in From Russian With Love -- Rosa Klebb.
Many supporting characters, most of whom have full histories provided. Giving it four stars.
About an art historian specializing in attribution, Victoria Petrescu, whose best friend works as a secretary to a repulsive crook banker named Bryce Fenston, who specializes in extending multi-million-dollar loans to people who have fallen on hard times but have a masterpiece of art in their possession. There's an odd coincidence that many of these owners have their throats slit before they can get out of hock to Mr. Fenston.
Tch, Tch, such bad luck they have, hunh?
The story starts the day before 9/11, and go thru roughly two weeks of the calendar. Not sure if choosing that date is just a gimmick, but it does explain that the paperwork and other artworks have been vaporized in the destruction of the Twin Towers.
The setting is New York and London and Tokyo and Bucharest with a brief visit to Russia. The Romanian connection is key, as is explained in more than one thread of the plot as more than one character has roots there. Possibly the best one is the hit man, or hit lady, I should say, a former Romanian gymnast names Olga Krantz, who IMHO is a worthy successor to the memorable Russian hit-woman in From Russian With Love -- Rosa Klebb.
Many supporting characters, most of whom have full histories provided. Giving it four stars.
January 5, 2018
I read many different kinds of books for different reasons. Reading this book was a lot like finding myself eating an entire bowl of pistachios during the holidays because they are sitting there in front of me and I’m trapped while talking to a bunch of relatives I don’t know very well. I didn’t really intend to eat all the pistachios, but I also didn’t find them totally disgusting.
So, it isn’t an awful, awful book, but it isn’t spectacular either... I enjoyed reading it for the most part (kinda), although it is very predictable. Also the beginning irked me excessively. I find it entirely unbelievable that a woman who just barely made it out of the North Tower before it collapsed on 9/11 would be able to so coherently conspire with a friend (an hour later) to hatch a brilliant plan and foil the evil bad boss. I don’t really mind an author using the backdrop of that event to tell their story, but at least try to honestly depict the shock and horror that Americans felt that day. I just can’t believe that someone’s precious Van Gogh would seem that important in the immediate wake of seeing thousands of people die in a terrorist attack... Blah.
So, it isn’t an awful, awful book, but it isn’t spectacular either... I enjoyed reading it for the most part (kinda), although it is very predictable. Also the beginning irked me excessively. I find it entirely unbelievable that a woman who just barely made it out of the North Tower before it collapsed on 9/11 would be able to so coherently conspire with a friend (an hour later) to hatch a brilliant plan and foil the evil bad boss. I don’t really mind an author using the backdrop of that event to tell their story, but at least try to honestly depict the shock and horror that Americans felt that day. I just can’t believe that someone’s precious Van Gogh would seem that important in the immediate wake of seeing thousands of people die in a terrorist attack... Blah.
August 10, 2009
An interesting story, relatively well-told. But I always have trouble with books that throw in details that seem like anachronisms but turn out to be merely implausibilities - did people casually snap cell phone pix or use google in 2001? - I really don't want to have to pull myself out of the story to look stuff like that up on the internet; I want to trust the author. I also have trouble with British authors attempting to write American dialog - sometimes, they just don't "get" it, again pulling me out of the story.
And what is the deal with the cover flap basically giving away every single major plot point?!?! I want to have an idea what a book is about, but if it's a mystery, don't reveal the ending on the flap, for goodness sake!!
And what is the deal with the cover flap basically giving away every single major plot point?!?! I want to have an idea what a book is about, but if it's a mystery, don't reveal the ending on the flap, for goodness sake!!
August 10, 2015
Jeffrey Archer writes the best soaps. This one, a stand-alone, involves a painting by Van Gogh, the family that owns the painting, an evil banker, and an art expert who, at first, seems out of her milieu in dealing with dastardly banker. Throw in 9-11 and you’ve got a roller coaster ride that takes you from New York to the UK to Europe and Japan. The novel starts with evil banker firing the art expert because she advised the Van Gogh owner against the banker’s interest. Just as she is leaving her office (in the World Trade Center), a plane slams into the tower. Go!
May 27, 2020
It is finely written thriller novel. However, I found the plot too simple.
Th most admirable thing about the novel is the day wise division of the book which makes it reader friendly. However, more punch could have been added to the book.
Th most admirable thing about the novel is the day wise division of the book which makes it reader friendly. However, more punch could have been added to the book.
January 28, 2022
This thriller revolved around art. Or specifically, the Self Portrait with Bandaged by Van Gogh. I'm never a painting connoisseur. In fact, I'm easily bored with it. So, I have a low expectation and started my benchmark (before reading) at 2 stars, and this review reflecting my perception as a mere layman toward an art-centred fiction.
First of all, I'm glad that Archer's writing on this theme, able to sustain my interest. I'm not lost inside those webbing of plots. I considered that as the author's accomplishment to hold me (who bored with the subject of painting) captivated, however predictable the plots and outcome.
The more I pondered upon these characters and setting, the more I realised its have a good dose of realism, inspired by history. I believed Archer didn't randomly pick-up any setting, premise and the general outlook of characters. Let me elaborate that.
- The World Trade Centre.
*It used to house lots of stockbroking firms and finance companies.
Here, the office of Fenston Finance fit nicely with WTC tenant profile. 9/11 conveniently (or tastelessly) used by Archer as means of escape for Petrescue, and her acquired status as assumed death thereafter.
- Victoria, Countess of Wentworth.
A fictional representation of British aristocrats, who were in dire financial situation.
*After WWII, lots of them were in that situation due to higher income tax and inheritant tax. It's a common occurence to see those historical heirloom went under hammer from time to time.
It's not strange at all for Archer to use a fictionalized peeress as a debtor, using valuable art as a loan collateral.
- Romania. (Fictional)
I put it under fictional because it's 'Jeffrey Archer's Romania' of this story. Remember when the Nazi began their invasion, they looted a lot of arts especially from France? Most probably, Archer probably used that as 'the inspiration for his Romania', which was a former socialist country. That explained Bryce Fenston obsession with art in this thriller.
- Bryce Fenston (fictional)
The main crooks who owned Fenston Finance. A former Romanian thug who change his name once he stepped his sole in US. Loaning huge sum of money to potential debtor who own historical piece of art. Using a dubious modus operandi to eventually own that pieces. That's where Olga Krantz came to the picture.
- Olga Krantz (fictional).
A Romanian former gymnast. Former personal bodyguard of Nicholas Caucescu and turned to an assassin after the fall of communism.
* In 70s, 80s, Romania was an artistic gymnastic superpower beside USSR.
- Vincent van Gogh
Another painter extraordinaire that saw the value of his painting dramatically increased posthumously.
Lady Wentworth left ear had been slit. It's signified job's done by Olga Krantz. Why left? In Self Portrait with Bandaged Ear; it was the right ear. But that due to van Gogh painting his own reflection on the mirror.
- Nakamura
A Japanese steel magnate who agreed to buy the painting at 50 million.
Representing the new generation of art buyer/owner at price inaccessible to the most of people in the planet.
On the whole, it's a fast paced thriller with chasing done around the globe. Some of the twist eventhough interesting, were quite improbable. If anybody want to read an above average fiction just to enjoy the actions or to pass the time, then this one for you. It's exciting and entertaining. But, if you want a story to ponder, to think about with literature value, then choose others.
First of all, I'm glad that Archer's writing on this theme, able to sustain my interest. I'm not lost inside those webbing of plots. I considered that as the author's accomplishment to hold me (who bored with the subject of painting) captivated, however predictable the plots and outcome.
The more I pondered upon these characters and setting, the more I realised its have a good dose of realism, inspired by history. I believed Archer didn't randomly pick-up any setting, premise and the general outlook of characters. Let me elaborate that.
- The World Trade Centre.
*It used to house lots of stockbroking firms and finance companies.
Here, the office of Fenston Finance fit nicely with WTC tenant profile. 9/11 conveniently (or tastelessly) used by Archer as means of escape for Petrescue, and her acquired status as assumed death thereafter.
- Victoria, Countess of Wentworth.
A fictional representation of British aristocrats, who were in dire financial situation.
*After WWII, lots of them were in that situation due to higher income tax and inheritant tax. It's a common occurence to see those historical heirloom went under hammer from time to time.
It's not strange at all for Archer to use a fictionalized peeress as a debtor, using valuable art as a loan collateral.
- Romania. (Fictional)
I put it under fictional because it's 'Jeffrey Archer's Romania' of this story. Remember when the Nazi began their invasion, they looted a lot of arts especially from France? Most probably, Archer probably used that as 'the inspiration for his Romania', which was a former socialist country. That explained Bryce Fenston obsession with art in this thriller.
- Bryce Fenston (fictional)
The main crooks who owned Fenston Finance. A former Romanian thug who change his name once he stepped his sole in US. Loaning huge sum of money to potential debtor who own historical piece of art. Using a dubious modus operandi to eventually own that pieces. That's where Olga Krantz came to the picture.
- Olga Krantz (fictional).
A Romanian former gymnast. Former personal bodyguard of Nicholas Caucescu and turned to an assassin after the fall of communism.
* In 70s, 80s, Romania was an artistic gymnastic superpower beside USSR.
- Vincent van Gogh
Another painter extraordinaire that saw the value of his painting dramatically increased posthumously.
Lady Wentworth left ear had been slit. It's signified job's done by Olga Krantz. Why left? In Self Portrait with Bandaged Ear; it was the right ear. But that due to van Gogh painting his own reflection on the mirror.
- Nakamura
A Japanese steel magnate who agreed to buy the painting at 50 million.
Representing the new generation of art buyer/owner at price inaccessible to the most of people in the planet.
On the whole, it's a fast paced thriller with chasing done around the globe. Some of the twist eventhough interesting, were quite improbable. If anybody want to read an above average fiction just to enjoy the actions or to pass the time, then this one for you. It's exciting and entertaining. But, if you want a story to ponder, to think about with literature value, then choose others.
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