The Fugitive Colors by Nancy Bilyeau

Title: The Fugitive Colors

Author: Nancy Bilyeau

Publication date: May 12, 2022 by Lume Books

Genre: Historical Fiction

Rating: 4 glasses of wine 🍷🍷🍷🍷

Summary:

The highly anticipated follow-up to the sweeping historical thriller The Blue is a story of silkweavers, painters...and spies.

As Genevieve Sturbridge struggles to keep her silk design business afloat, she must face the fact that London in 1764 is very much a man’s world. Men control the arts and sciences, men control politics and law. And men definitely control women.

A Huguenot living in Spitalfields, Genevieve one day receives a surprise invitation from an important artist. Grasping at the promise of a better life, she dares to hope her luck is about to change and readies herself for an entry into the world of serious art.

She soon learns that for the portrait painters ruling over the wealthy in London society, fame and fortune are there for the taking. But such high stakes spur rivalries that darken to sabotage and blackmail—and even murder.

Genevieve begins to suspect that her own secret past, when she was caught up in conspiracy and betrayal, has more to do with her entrée into London society than her talent. One wrong move could cost her not just her artistic dreams but the love of those she holds dear.

It’s a delicate dance, and a dangerous situation. And not just for Genevieve and her loved ones. . . because all the while there are ruthless spies who wish harm to England itself watching from the shadows.

My opinion:

A successful artist in 1760s London exhibited talent, was accepted by society, had connections and patrons, and most importantly had secrets. While Genevieve had a moderately successful silk designing business she struggled to be recognized as a true artist. Not only was she a woman but her past and her lack of connections made it nearly impossible to compete in the male dominated art scene. In her attempts to take advantage of every opportunity to further her business and career she realizes that rivalries spur deceit and blackmail. Genevieve soon began to question her husband's actions in addition to those in her household. Bilyeau weaves a story that includes an intricate look at the London art scene and a deftly created mystery that will keep the reader thoroughly engaged. Although this is the second book in the series it can be read as a standalone. A very enriching and insightful look into life in 1760s London.

I received a copy of this book via NetGalley.