The Art Forger

How did you like The Art Forger and why did you like or not like it? Did you enjoy the way it was written? Did you enjoy the way the historical aspects were woven into the fictional account?

In the beginning of the book, Claire Roth is persona non grata in the art world. Does she deserve this treatment because of her involvement with 4D? Do you think she shares any blame for Isaac Cullion’s death? What did you think about this situation?

What other books have we read in book club that relate to this story?

Do you think that Degas was an impressionist painter or do you agree with the opinion expressed by some that since Degas didn’t paint outdoors, plein air, or didn’t boldly splash thick pigments on canvas that he wasn’t really an impressionist?

What about Isabella Stewart Gardner’s relationship with Degas? Does she have the same problem as Claire in that she will do just about anything for the art she wants?

Can you put yourself in Claire’s position – wanting a gallery show so badly that you would be willing to do just about anything – even something illegal – to get it? Is she doing the wrong thing for the right reason – again? Do you have sympathy for her?

How does deceit play a part in all the story lines in the book?

Discuss Claire’s relationships with the men in her life – Isaac Cullion, Aiden Markel, Rik Gramont? Is she similar to other characters we have read about in the past? Does she subjugate her art for her man?

What character in the book did you like the most? The least? Where the characters real to you?

In the end, do you think that Claire’s work is recognized for her talent or her notoriety?