ARTIFICE BY SHARON CAMERON
“Artifice” by Sharon Cameron is a historical fiction novel set in World War II, offering perspective on the Dutch resistance and the intricate world of art forgery. The story follows Isa de Smit, a young girl whose family owns an art gallery that has been looted when the Nazis invade Amsterdam. Faced with the impending loss of her home due to unpaid taxes, Isa plans to sell one of her father’s forged paintings to none other than Adolf Hitler himself. Her plan becomes complicated when friends reveal plans to save Jewish children from the Holocaust and a German soldier asks for her help.
Cameron excels in character development, presenting a complex protagonist in Isa de Smit. Raised in the world of art, Isa’s recklessness and determination make her a compelling lead. The relationships, particularly Isa’s dynamic with Michel Lange, an old friend turned German soldier, add layers of tension and uncertainty. The romantic tension is palpable, infused with an ever-present element of danger, keeping readers on edge throughout the narrative.
Cameron’s writing style is prose with attention to historical detail including descriptions of Amsterdam, art forgeries, and general wartime life. The book ends by outlining the real people and historical events that the book used to tell the story. Although the book is considered historical fiction, many aspects of the story are true and add an additional layer of understanding to the time period.
I recommend “Artifice” to historical fiction enthusiasts, particularly those interested in World War II narratives with a focus on art, espionage, and the resilience of individuals in the face of oppression. It’s a story of courage, sacrifice, and the individuals who risked everything to save Jewish children from the horrors of the Holocaust.