A Secret Society of Women? Yes, Please

I am so excited about my new book, THE CROWN CONSPIRACY. Here’s a bit about the story:

She’s a master at spotting a forgery . . . and knowing how to create one. But can she solve a decades-old mystery?

The media spotlight is the last thing art thief and forger Sophie Williams needs. But when one of three long-missing royal portraits turns up in Germany at her best friend’s art gallery, the spotlight is exactly what she gets. Since the tragic deaths of Princess Johanna of Neuhansberg and her two children forty years ago, the whereabouts of these portraits have been unknown . . . and the timing of their reappearance—just days before a new prince’s coronation—reignites questions surrounding the infamous accident.

Then Sophie’s best friend vanishes, and a rumor about hidden treasure connected to the paintings surfaces, seemingly confirmed by a cryptic message on the back of the first canvas. Convinced that finding the other two portraits will lead to her friend, Sophie begins a twisty investigation that pits her against other ruthless treasure hunters, a handsome investigator who seems to dog her trail at every turn, and a mysterious group that offers help, wearing an emblem identical to one on the painting.

From Germany’s grand castles and soaring cathedrals through the Alps to the canals of Venice, Sophie must choose her allies carefully if she hopes to find the portraits, rescue her best friend—and perhaps save a throne—before time runs out.

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People often ask how I come up with my story ideas. THE CROWN CONSPIRACY was inspired by my love of adventure stories, especially those involving treasure hunts and secret societies. Add in a castle or two, and I’m hooked.

But a few years ago, I realized that too often, women were mainly supporting cast in these stories. They weren’t the ones saving the day and changing the world. So I started dreaming and imagining.

What if there was a team of strong, flawed, compassionate, determined women who make a difference in this world, especially by helping other women? What if they were part of a centuries-old, women-only secret society whose symbol and name meant hope? All those what-ifs became THE CROWN CONSPIRACY and the Speranza team, a present-day adventure story.

Though the Speranza team is fictional, I believe it exists in spirit. Women have always banded together around common causes and helped each other make a difference in this world. These informal teams have always been about hope and shining light in the darkness. I want this book to encourage women to keep working together, and even more, to have the courage to step out and use their specific gifts and talents to change the world for the better.

Connie is giving away a print copy of THE CROWN CONSPIRACY to one lucky commenter. (US Only) Answer one of these questions for your chance to win: Who’s on your ride-or-die team? Or, what’s your favorite way to make a difference?

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