Josh Haven’s “Fake Money, Blue Smoke” is an adrenaline-fueled novel that plunges readers into the shadowy corners of the art world, where deception and betrayal lurk behind every canvas. The story is centered around Matt Kubelsky, a man recently released from prison, who is pulled back into a life of crime by his enigmatic ex-girlfriend, Kelly Haggerty. What begins as a seemingly simple proposition quickly spirals into a labyrinth of lies and danger.
The novel wastes no time in setting up its premise: Kelly needs a bodyguard for a business trip to Qatar and wants Matt to assemble a team of armed robbers for a high-stakes art heist. However, as readers dive deeper into the story, it becomes clear that nothing is as it seems. Haven masterfully crafts a narrative where every character has hidden motives, and trust is a rare commodity. The twists and turns keep readers guessing, adding layers of complexity to what might initially seem like a straightforward heist tale.
One of the novel’s standout features is its characters, particularly the morally ambiguous Matt and the manipulative Kelly. Matt, fresh out of prison and haunted by his past, is a reluctant anti-hero who finds himself drawn back into a world he desperately wanted to leave behind. His complex relationship with Kelly adds an emotional depth to the story, as he grapples with his lingering feelings for her and his growing distrust of her intentions. Kelly, on the other hand, is a classic femme fatale—cunning, seductive, and always one step ahead. The dynamic between these two characters is electric, driving much of the novel’s tension and intrigue.
The heist at the heart of “Fake Money, Blue Smoke” involves six original Gustav Klimt sketches, a detail that adds a layer of sophistication to the gritty world of con artists and thieves. The art world, with its blend of high culture and shady dealings, serves as the perfect backdrop for this tale of deception. Haven’s vivid descriptions and attention to detail bring the heist to life, making readers feel as though they are part of the action. The suspense builds with every page, keeping readers on the edge of their seats as they wonder whether the team will pull off the job—or if they will be betrayed before they even have the chance.
But what truly sets “Fake Money, Blue Smoke” apart is Haven’s ability to blend action with psychological depth. While the novel is filled with pulse-pounding moments and thrilling twists, it also explores the characters’ inner turmoil and the moral gray areas they inhabit. Matt’s struggle with his conscience, his desire for redemption, and his complicated feelings for Kelly make him a compelling protagonist, while Kelly’s manipulative nature keeps readers guessing about her true motives.
“Fake Money, Blue Smoke” is a gripping and well-crafted thriller that delves into the murky world of art theft and con artists. Josh Haven’s skillful storytelling, complex characters, and suspenseful plot make for an engaging read that will keep readers hooked from start to finish. Whether you’re a fan of heist novels, psychological thrillers, or simply enjoy a good story about deception and betrayal, “Fake Money, Blue Smoke” is a book that should not be missed.
