The Last Judgement (Art History Mystery) Paperback – December 3, 2002

I nearly missed this book as a result of the overwhelming negative reviews from other readers. I'd read the first of this mystery series and liked it, ordered a few others to have on hand, but relying on the negative reviews, did not immediately order this one. However, after I'd gotten thoroughly hooked on a series which features a wonderful cast of characters (who begin to feel like family), colorfully described European locations (which become as familiar as home), most engrossingly complex plots, excellent depth of description in art history and the superbly subtle and witty writing talents of Mr. Pears, I decided I couldn't miss this one, and I'm so glad for that decision. While it does deviate a bit from the genre conventions previously established in that it is more political than art history...I found its exploration of moral complexities and struggles of conscience, highlighted against a WWII background, quite absorbing. It has left thoughts that stay with me, given me some bones to chew on after I've finished reading. For that I enjoyed the book tremendously. And, for those who have become fans of the series, it develops and grows the characters--Flavia, Argyle and some of the lesser characters as well--in ways you won't want to miss. I'm glad that the author feels free to vary his efforts rather than writing endless versions of the same thing. Ian Pears marries an educated mind with a great wit and emerges with some of the best books I've found. His is a rare talent in these superficial times. I look forward to reading whatever he writes.

(Spoiler alert)The book was fun to read, slower in parts but surprised me at the end. However, it was unsatisfying to see deceptions about war crimes revealed and then buried again. I don't think it helps anyone to have public myths perpetuated. Whatever the upheaval or pain caused by revealing old secrets, I think it's always worse not to learn from the truth.

Fourth in the series of Jonathan Argyll and Flavia di Stefano mysteries based in Rome's Art Theft Squad. People are murdered and the only thing that links them is a painting looted during the Nazi occupation of Paris. But after several examinations, nothing about the painting suggests a reason why someone is killing to get hold of it. As expected with this series, the plot is complex and hinges on understanding not just human nature but also the way a paintings travels through time and the hands of many owners. Highly recommended for those who like an intricate plot and engaging sleuths.

I've read up to now four of the six "art thrillers" by Iain Pears and this is the deepest and the most meaningful. We have a second-rate picture in an art gallery in Paris, where our friend Jonathan Argyll has gone to buy some drawings to send to a museum in the States. He stops wandering to observe this picture, showing the death of Socrates: although not a masterpiece, the scene enthralles him. The gallery owner approaches him and explaines the picture has been bought by a client living in Rome. Jonathan is due back to Italy, so he offers to take the parcel to its buyer, while the gallery owner sends the drawings to the U.S.A. museum. But no good action goes unpunished: first somebody tries to steal the parcel from Argyll, then the buyer is murdered, while the French police inform Jonathan the picture had been stolen and, as a consequence, its removal from France illegal. Up to now the tone is light. But as the carabinieri and the art police go on inquiring about the murder and the picture, other disquieting connections pop up, leading to the dark past of war times and war crimes. Why is this second-rate picture so important to so many people? What secret is hidden in it? Neither Argyll nor the crime scientists can find an answer. But when Flavia and Jonathan join their efforts... the solution can be found.

I've been trying to read or reread the Pears books featuring these art theft investigators. Lots of intrigue, a sprinkling of murders, but a satisfying outcome every time. And this title is no exception. An amazing amount of information about art theft in these pages. A good read.

Another great art history mystery in the series from Iain Pears!

Not his best work but OK

one of a series of art mysteries. extremely enjoyable. like rome background and all the quirky characters. can recommend them to anyone.