Portrait of an Unknown Woman by Daniel Silva

I love a good spy novel. Author Daniel Silva, in my humble opinion, is one of if not the best when it comes to this genre. Portrait of an Unknown Woman is the 22nd in this wonderful series that features Gabriel Allon, the legendary spy. The author once again delivers a fast-paced, complex, fascinating tale of espionage and art forgery with enough twists and turns to more than satisfy. 

Plot summary: Gabriel Allon has retired as the director general of Mossad. H has returned to Venice, the birth city of his much-loved wife, Chiara, and the place where he spent so many years undercover working as the renowned art restorer, Mario Delvcecchio. He spends his days with his wife and his two children, simply enjoying the peace of everyday life and looking forward to once again restoring the Old Master painting he loves. An old friend receives a letter from a mysterious woman who wants to meet and discuss her concerns about his recent sale of a painting, but she then is killed in a suspicious car accident, and he goes to Gabriel for help. Investigating the accident, Gabriel is drawn into the treacherous world of art forgery.
Daniel Silva is a masterful storyteller whose writing style never fails to keep me turning the pages. Portrait of an Unknown Woman delivers on all counts. I was unable to put it down. I read it in two sittings. I can’t wait for his next book. I highly recommend it!