The Mystery of the Third Lucretia

Kari and her best friend Lucas are traveling in Europe when Kari's photographic memory for art leads her to notice something impossible: three versions of the same rare painting by Rembrandt's pupil, Maria de Grebber. Their curiosity uncovers a massive forgery scheme involving murder and high-level deception. SENSITIVE TOPICS: The book handles murder and criminal threats in a direct, secular manner. While there is peril, the focus remains on the intellectual puzzle and the protagonists' agency. The resolution is realistic and satisfyingly just. EMOTIONAL ARC: The story starts with a sense of wonder and intellectual curiosity, escalating into high-tension suspense. It moves from the safety of a museum gallery to the high stakes of a life-threatening conspiracy, ending with a strong sense of accomplishment and justice. IDEAL READER: A 13-year-old girl who loves 'Sherlock Holmes' or 'Nancy Drew' but wants something more modern and worldly. It is perfect for the teen who feels overlooked but possesses a secret talent, like an incredible memory or a deep knowledge of a niche subject. PARENT TRIGGER: A parent might notice their teen becoming more critical of authority or expressing a desire for more autonomy and adventure. PARENT PREP: Parents should be aware that there are descriptions of a murder victim and moments of genuine physical danger. It is best to read this alongside a child who enjoys discussing ethics and 'what would you do' scenarios. AGE EXPERIENCE: A 12-year-old will focus on the friendship and the 'cool factor' of being an undercover detective, while a 16-year-old will appreciate the nuances of the art world and the complexity of the forgery techniques. DIFFERENTIATOR: This book stands out for its high level of art history detail, treating the reader with intellectual respect rather than talking down to them.