A Perfect Copy

More about the book

In this captivating historical mystery set in 19th century Russia, Vienna, and London, a family's concealed history is revealed through a family portrait. At an auction, Daisy Staunton and Ben Tarrant discover they each own identical copies of a Victorian portrait featuring an enigmatic ancestor. The question arises: is one of these portraits a clever forgery? Their journey across Europe—from the poverty of Russian shtetls to the grandeur of Hapsburg Vienna and Victorian London—leads them to the poignant story of two young Jewish sisters, Rosa and Lena Rabinovitch, who faced heart-wrenching decisions in their struggle for survival. Initially at odds, Ben, a primary-school teacher, and Daisy, a marketing executive, reluctantly team up to authenticate the paintings' origins. As they navigate this trail of mystery, their personal struggles emerge. Ben deals with the pressures of an extravagant wedding plan, while Daisy feels overshadowed by her boyfriend's demanding career. In uncovering unsettling family secrets, they are compelled to reassess their own lives, questioning not only their identities but also their aspirations. Praise for the author highlights the gripping nature of the narrative, combining captivating portraits with rich historical themes for an enthralling read.