First of the Tim Simpson “art mysteries,” all featuring real works of art depicted on the books’ covers

As an art dealer, Tim Simpson doesn’t have the luxury of thinking only about aesthetics; he may have an artist’s heart, but it had better be covered with a businessman’s pinstripes if he’s going to turn a profi t. With that skill-set, Simpson’s new job seems ideal: He’s been hired by a London merchant bank to buy art—as an investment—for its obscenely wealthy clients. The fi rst painting he sees, though, won’t make anyone rich. It has a real appeal, but the artist – a one-time protégée of Walter Sickert’s – has no collectible value. However, it seems somebody wanted the painting; within hours of Simpson’s first viewing, the painting’s been stolen and the dealer killed. Simpson pokes around to little effect – sleuthing is not part of his skill-set – but it isn’t until the bank sends him to Brazil, on apparently unrelated business, that he solves the riddle of A Back Room in Somers Town.

“Of the many mystery writers who base their stories on art, John Malcolm is one of the best”—New York Times

“Intricate plotting, some fascinating art-history…a bang-up premier” — Kirkus