3.75 stars

This is an intriguing mystery because so much of the content gets delivered in an unconventional way: through a mural!

Annora comes in to uncover the mysteries held within the mural and - ideally - that will include solving a crime. Because this crime has an obvious connection to Annora's past experiences, she is even more impacted by this project than the average expert might be. The measured reveals from the mural and ties to Annora's background are accomplished so well here.

While there are thrilling moments, this feels much more squarely like a mystery than a mystery/thriller for me. It's nicely paced regardless of its calmer than the typical thriller vibe.

The romantic inclusion did not totally work for me and was a bit distracting at times, but overall, I enjoyed the listen (I recommend the audiobook) and look forward to reading more from this author.

This was a hit and a miss for me, but I am still very thankful that Crooked Lane Books, Dreamscape Media, and Cyndi MacMillan for sending a physical copy and audiobook access my way before it publishes on April 4, 2023. The concept of an Art History Conservator uncovering evidence and eventually solving a years old cold case is cool in theory, but it's very fictional per se. Still I appreciate the effort.