Linda Moore’s experience as an art historian and gallery owner who exhibited in Bogotá sets the stage for this fast paced thriller in the art world. The book is filled with intrigue, twists and turns and gets your adrenaline pumping as Ally Blake from California, the main character, participates in a Bogotá Art Fair. As a widow with 2 young children, her mysterious past catches up with her and she’s thrust into a world of high level espionage involving the U.S. Government, Pablo Escobar and drug cartels. Throughout the dangerous exploits, Ally struggles with whom she can trust. You have to wait until the unpredictable ending to find out!11 s SuanneAuthor 13 books1,012

Linda Moore has given readers another art heist thriller. As in her debut novel, Attribution, the art world becomes a dangerous place despite the supposed calm of museums and art galleries. This is a pulsating thriller within the world of art, yet the plot and the setting, Bogotá, Columbia, are more intense.

Ally Blake, a forty-year-old mother of two, is a recent widow. Her husband died in 1990 leaving her with daunting financial responsibilities. The owner of an art gallery, she takes a big chance in going to an international art expo in Bogotá. The city is full of drug kingpins, kidnappers, murders, and crooked government officials. There’s also a young man she had an affair with when she was younger and worked for the US government. He tries to rope her into an illicit auction of high-priced art to get under-the-table funds for an undercover operation.

Five Days in Bogotá is an original, well-researched novel blending art dealers with drug dealers and diplomats, all hoping for over-the-top profits from art collectors. It also demonstrates some of the techniques art dealers use to get sales.adventure-thriller art women-s-fiction10 s Linda HenleyAuthor 4 books178

An exciting story in an unusual location. It was easy to identify with Ally in her desperate attempt to save her young family as she entered the unexpectedly hostile environment of the art world. I couldn't wait for those five action-packed days to end as I hoped for a good outcome for the plucky protagonist. Highly recommended!9 s Jackie Sunday561 31

Expertly written, Linda Moore has done it again with a book that pulls you into a pulsating thriller within the world of art. “Attribution,” it is fiction yet it feels more a true story with an intense plot.

Forty-year-old Ally Blake is a mother of two young children. Her husband, Nick, just died in 1990 which complicates her life as she is now responsible for the financial obligations of her kids and the home mortgage in San Diego. As an owner of an art gallery, she has plans to go to Bogotá for an international art fair which she hopes will be successful.

When she gets there, the two crates that she sent containing art to sell are now missing. Most pieces were valued around $10,000 which she was planning to hang in her booth. She is a female in the large city of Bogotá known for its violence, kidnapping and murders. This isn’t going to be easy for her without a lot of cash to bribe the officials. She needs to find her contacts and other art dealers she knows that will help navigate this situation or she will return home with nothing.

What Ally doesn’t expect to see is someone she had an affair with years ago in her days of working for the government – a life that was a hidden secret that she no longer wants to relive. This could cause problems for her knowing that she is in a city of corrupt officials with the US involvement. She hears gun shots and feels the stress of lost crates. What is she doing here?

The book has a series of twists that make you feel whatever pain Ally has in her path. It gives the reader a realistic view of the poor conditions and dangers in Columbia. It’s no wonder immigrants are now desperate to get into the US.

It's an original story of dealers selling art hoping for big profits from collectors. The book shows some of the complications and high energy involved to get the sales. Ally wonders if it would be better to have some other type of job without the CIA, DOD, DEA and FARC in the back of her mind. It’s one of those fast-paced, well-researched, unforgettable stories which leaves the reader with a lot to think about. Anyone who picks up this book will not be disappointed. I can’t wait to read whatever is next.

I was pleased to read an advanced reader’s copy with an expected release date of May 14, 2024.7 s3 comments Laurie BuchananAuthor 5 books324

“From its explosive first chapter, Five Days in Bogotá is an intelligent, brilliantly imagined page-turner that captivated me until the suspenseful end! Ingeniously plotted and expertly written with gut-wrenching twists and turns, Linda Moore has crafted an irresistible white-knuckle thriller!” —Laurie Buchanan, author of the Sean McPherson crime thriller novels7 s1 comment Suzanne Parry14 3

After the death of her husband, art gallery owner Allison Blake heads to an international art fair in Colombia to sell paintings and regain her financial footing. Surrounded by scoundrels and saviors a, she soon finds it impossible to figure out whom she can trust and is swept deeper and deeper into an international smuggling plot. Escaping more than one attempt on her life, she devises a plan to ensure both her financial future and the physical safety of her young children in California. The plan includes punishing those involved in the drug-dealing, death-wielding world of Colombian drug cartels.
The propulsive plot snaps and crackles. The characters are bright, the dialogue true, and the action vivid. Prepare to be swept into this fast-moving, supremely entertaining read.6 s Gina CarrollAuthor 3 books10

Linda Moore’s Five Days in Bogotá is a joy ride not un the best amusement park roller coaster. Her detail of character and place is a slow and steady ride to the top- a meticulous clack, clack, clack of a build that fully immerses you in the colorful, moody, cultural soup that is Bogotá, Columbia. Once the story reaches the top of its first peak, the ride is fast, full of twists and turns, and tenaciously intelligent.

Allyson Blake, a San Diego, California art gallerist, is almost at the end of her rope. Recently widowed and financially strapped, she decides against all caution to travel to an art fair in Bogotá. She risks danger and intrigue to attract high-end art collectors in hope of earning much needed money to support her family and her business. Blake is a smart, experienced salesperson and, we learn, as wily and creative a problem-solver as she is a gifted finder of artistic talent. As she struggles with the challenges of her surroundings, a shadowy figure from her past brings a proposition that could end her financial problems. But in return, the opportunity may require a sacrifice of the stellar reputation she has built as an art dealer and the safety of her family. She soon finds herself in a complicated web not at all of her choosing, and she must use every ounce of her experience, salesmanship, and resources to figure a way out.

Linda Moore weaves a breathless tale, a page-turner, rich with colorful, layered characters and a sumptuous portrayal of the dangerous but irrepressible, irresistible Bogotá.
5 s Meredith Gallagher2

Five Days in Bogota--what a wonderful title!! Immediately I pictured dark, rain-streaked streets, palm trees etched against the moonlight, Robert Mitchum in his trench coat and fedora, lighting a cigarette. I grew up in the 50s and fell in love with film noir, grainy black and white scenes, solitary trumpet in the background, and laconic, cynical dialogue, and brought to you regularly by RKO. It also sums up the plot of Linda Moore's latest novel, a political thriller built around stolen art, US meddling in South America, and many shady characters trying to change the five-day trajectory of the plot and stay one step ahead of disaster. As in her first novel, "Attribution," Ms. Moore includes very real knowledge of the business of selling paintings, bringing new artists out of obscurity, and the dark side of art acquisition. Political thrillers are often complicated but Ms. Moore keeps a steady hand and an eye on all the subplots to bring the story to a logical and satisfactory conclusion.

Meredith Gallagher5 s Sarah36 1 follower

A HUGE fan of Linda Moore's debut novel, Attribution, I was thrilled to get my hands on an ARC of her second book. Adding to my anticipation was my almost five-years (1992-1996) of living near Bogotá, which provided me a wide range of visual memories to apply to Moore's descriptions of the city and countryside. I especially appreciate the care she took to give readers the beauty with the violence, the lovely people juxtaposed with the criminals. Colombia is so much more than cocaine trafficking!

The 5-day timeline grips the reader by the throat beginning in protagonist Ally Blake's first tedious wait in line at the customs desk upon arrival at the airport to the soul-crushing detention forced upon her when she thought she was finally departing on her last day. The tension builds with every sunrise as she maneuvers through professional, criminal, artistic, psychological, and financial problems--none of which she would've dared attempt if her life, reputation and children's welfare hadn't also been on the line.

Moore's personal experience as a gallery owner and observer of other cultures shine in this interesting glimpse into the rarely-publicized world of international art wheeling and dealing. I knew to have my laptop handy to look up all the references to actual artists and their works, and you won't want to miss that layer of the story, either.

Ally Blake is brave we all hope we would be when faced with life or death choices, and is as canny as she is desperate in her covert plotting against the CIA, a former lover (or two?), Pablo Escobar's goons and unethical art dealers. The supporting characters are more than stereotypes, adding color, authenticity, humor, deceit and heartbreak to their interactions with her and each other.

Readers will be transported by the story, its setting and the stakes, and Moore will not disappoint!4 s MGL1 review

Five Days in Bogota, by Linda Moore, is the second exciting novel by this author (her debut novel was Attribution which I loved). I was lucky to receive an ARC (advanced reader copy) and I was so happy to see author, Linda Moore, knock it out of the park again!!!

Linda's real life background as an art dealer, art historian, and member of art museum boards ensures that her art-based thrillers are not only exciting and interesting, but also informed and believable ... wow! The main character, Ally, is a hardworking art dealer, widowed mom, with two young children. We know her and become her as she navigates, for five days, the very shady, scary, art world in beautiful Bogota, Columbia. The young woman is just trying to make a living and get back to the states to take care of her children. Instead she ends up involved in some high level drama, and ultimately sabatoge, which is really tough to handle especially as the lines between "friends" she thinks she can trust and "friends" she doesn't really think she can trust become blurred ... all of the well developed characters and juxtapositions make this novel! Honestly, it's a great book and if it's anything what she did for her first novel, Attribution, Linda Moore will probably be traveling to a town near you and available to speak to your book club once the book is out (in May or so ... available for pre-order now, I think) ... She's fun, knowledgeable and a great storyteller ... I'm impressed!4 s Arlene L110 9

Pack your bags, buckle your seatbelt and prepare to spend five days amidst the streets of Bogatá and the ugliness of crime and corruption.

Young and widowed gallery owner Ally Blake must find a way to provide for herself and two young children in San Diego. Despite the rampant crime occurring in Bogatá, Columbia, Ally packs her bags and several pieces of her pricey Latin American art and heads to Bogotá to participate in an international art fair which is sure to attract collectors from throughout the world. What she’s not prepared for is the five days of greed, corruption and danger she will experience in order to save herself and her livelihood.

Set in the 1990’s, Ms. Moore paints a clear picture of the art world during those years and the crime that was transpiring in that part of the world. As a former gallery owner herself who has traveled the world in her continuous quest to learn and share her knowledge about Latin American and Spanish art, Ms. Moore has given the reader a vivid depiction of Bogatá while weaving a story filled with intrigue and mystery that a will make you believe you are right beside Ally during these five days. 1 Jean Stillman899 9

Unputdownable is a great word for this book! I could barely tear myself away to sleep. Five Days in Bogota, new from Linda Moore, is a book I won from a Goodreads Giveaway, and I am I very excited to share my honest review here!

Ally is a recent widow and mother who has more to cope with than just her family. As the deep-in-debt owner of an art gallery, she ends up in Bogota in an international art epo. This is where the real drama begins because poor Ally hasn't had enough! Ally's life becomes more and more complicated as she is forced to deal Bogota's underbelly, filled with shady people.

I loved everything about this story! There's a wonderfully delivered plot. There is the air of mystery, then the suspense and twists, all of which will keep you flipping the pages! The writing style is original, edgy, and gripping, all around the world of art and some enthralling characters.
Although this is my first read from Ms. Moore, I know it won't be my last. I highly recommend it!1 Ann Bancroft1 review

As a fan of suspense and unexpected plot twists, Five Days in Bogota had me staying up late to follow the heart-stopping adventure of Ally Blake, a recently widowed mother of two who must take a risky trip to a violence-ridden city in order to support her children. What unfolds is a fascinating and often heart-stopping tale of colorful characters and vivid glimpses into Colombian culture, sometimes endearing, sometimes terrifying. I was riveted by the plot twists, but Linda Moore's inside look into the world of art dealers and Latin American art was equally fascinating. Together with her earlier book, Attribution, Linda Moore offers an engrossing education through the eyes of a collector and purveyor of fine art. Lovers of mystery and suspense will thrill to this tale, as will anyone interested in the art world.1 J.C. BurnhamAuthor 1 book183

Five Days in Bogota is a thrilling venture for a grieving art dealer risking everything for her family. Ally Blake has recently lost her husband and sets upon a desperate journey to Bogota with hopes that selling the works of upcoming artists will provide for her family's future. Fighting corrupt custom officials is only the beginning of her problems. Ally soon finds herself coerced into a shady art deal that turns deadly when a nefarious connection to Columbia's drug world is exposed. With a delightful appearance by Gabriel García Márquez, Linda Moore deftly alludes to the magic of Columbia's beautiful culture while honestly portraying the deadly nature of its underworld. Five Days in Bogota is a gripping tale that takes the reader deep into the international art world where dark shadows are cast by governments and criminals a.1 Meredith WaltersAuthor 1 book5

A thrilling peek into the art world that showcases the beauty and danger of 1990s Bogota. I enjoyed the strong sense of place, the vulnerable-but-strong heroine, and the contrasts and complexities of Colombia. The story was well-paced and kept me guessing, but it was the characters that kept me turning pages. There are a lot of interesting threads here (Latin American art, Pre-Columbian culture, drug lords, underhanded American interventionism) woven into a unique and enjoyable tapestry.1 Kelley HollandAuthor 2 books8

Thank you to the author for sharing an advance copy of the book in exchange for an unbiased review. It's an easy task - Linda Moore did it again! Five Days is hard to put down and Ally, the main character, is easy to admire. I especially appreciated having a window on the world of art fairs and the business of art. And while I've never been to Bogota, I certainly now feel I could recognize it on sight. What a great read!creative fast-paced plot-twists1 Sally Cole-MischAuthor 1 book23

An art gallery owner desperate to support her family after her husband's death risks it all by exhibiting at an art fair in Bogota, Columbia -- a dangerous place in 1990. We follow her through danger after danger as she fights to come out alive and with the best art deal of her life, which makes it a quick read! If you are intrigued by the art dealing world and female-centered thrillers, this book is for you.1 D.J. GreenAuthor 1 book5

I was lucky to get an Advanced Reader Copy of this nail-biting thriller. The author's deep knowledge of art, and the business of art, showed in every page. But this book is so much more than that, there is intrigue and love. Though not a traditional love story, love shines through—in why Ally went to turbulent Bogota in the first place, and how she got back out. The characters are engaging, and you'll want to go along on their ride!1 Cheryl Jones2

An intoxicating mixture of art and intrigue in a world in which everyone is your friend, but no one can be trusted... or maybe that isn't true either. Be careful in assuming you have the game figured out, because the next page is ly to prove you wrong. But you WILL turn that page! And the one after that
1 Suzanne MoyersAuthor 3 books44

Combined with an intriguing plot, flawed but lovable main character, vivid depictions of South American’s complex politics and culture, and fascinating glimpses of the art world’s inner workings, this is a satisfying read you don’t want to miss! Highly recommend!1 TD3 1 follower

The author immerses the reader into the setting of Bogota and the art world and the main character, we feel this world is as fascinating as it is dangerous. The story draws you in so that you are compelled to find out what happens. Does Ally escape the criminals including her friends and make it home safe? What happens to the artworks? A very entertaining and educational read.1 Joan40

While this felt fast paced for 5 days, I did not feel rushed, and it was an easy read. The characters were developed well, and the author did a nice job setting up the scenes especially in relationship to the art. A reader could very well tell that the author has experience in this field. I felt the use of the deceased spouse was a little overdone, accept condolences and move on, he's gone. Readers will enjoy this novel if they are art connoisseurs. 1 Lindsey SalatkaAuthor 2 books28

Five Days in Bogota is fast-paced, fun, and fabulous! As a person who loves to read and travel with a great appreciation for art, I loved the intersection of all of these things in one page-turning thriller. The setting was well-drawn, and I loved learning about Columbia’s antiquities and the behind the scenes transactions that happen in the art world. I hope this author gives us more great art thrillers. I loved her first book, Attribution too.1 Adrienne Wetmore1 review1 follower

Amazing thriller! Couldn’t put it down. 1 Landon Atson1 review

Ally Blake, a widowed mother of two and owner of a financially strapped art gallery in San Diego, risks everything to exhibit at a Bogotá art fair and hopefully make it big. Specializing in Latin American art, she’s joined by Uruguayan artist Mateo Lugano, who’s also hoping to get his big break at the fair. After struggling to get her crates full of valuable art—on which her livelihood depends—free from customs, Ally notices additional paintings have been added to her collection. To her astonishment, the two mystery paintings are by Ponce Goméz, one of the most recognizable painters in the world, whose pieces go for millions. It’s revealed that David Martinez, an ex-boyfriend of Ally’s working in the U.S. State Department, is in Bogotá, conveniently at the same time that she discovers the Gomézes. After some prodding, David reveals that the American government has involved her in an off-the-books operation whose details are revealed later. Another shocking twist, which increases the tension of the already high-stakes narrative, involves none other than the notorious drug trafficker Pablo Escobar. Moore’s previous book, Attribution (2022), also involved stolen art, but this book presents a detailed, behind-the-scenes look at those who deal in paintings of a different era, while also offering all the elements of a nail-biting thriller. The author drives the narrative with the fact that Ally ultimately has no desire to add fuel to revolutionary fire in yet another South American country. It results in a pulse-pounding game of cat-and-mouse as she tries to avoid operatives of the U.S. government and the deadly cartel, as well as seedy art dealers trying to get their hands on the paintings.Ally Blake, a widowed mother of two and owner of a financially strapped art gallery in San Diego, risks everything to exhibit at a Bogotá art fair and hopefully make it big. Specializing in Latin American art, she’s joined by Uruguayan artist Mateo Lugano, who’s also hoping to get his big break at the fair. After struggling to get her crates full of valuable art—on which her livelihood depends—free from customs, Ally notices additional paintings have been added to her collection. To her astonishment, the two mystery paintings are by Ponce Goméz, one of the most recognizable painters in the world, whose pieces go for millions. It’s revealed that David Martinez, an ex-boyfriend of Ally’s working in the U.S. State Department, is in Bogotá, conveniently at the same time that she discovers the Gomézes. After some prodding, David reveals that the American government has involved her in an off-the-books operation whose details are revealed later. Another shocking twist, which increases the tension of the already high-stakes narrative, involves none other than the notorious drug trafficker Pablo Escobar. Moore’s previous book, Attribution (2022), also involved stolen art, but this book presents a detailed, behind-the-scenes look at those who deal in paintings of a different era, while also offering all the elements of a nail-biting thriller. The author drives the narrative with the fact that Ally ultimately has no desire to add fuel to revolutionary fire in yet another South American country. It results in a pulse-pounding game of cat-and-mouse as she tries to avoid operatives of the U.S. government and the deadly cartel, as well as seedy art dealers trying to get their hands on the paintings. Violet Springs159 4

It is a fast-paced art thriller that plunges readers into the vibrant and perilous world of the Bogotá art scene in 1990. Ally Blake, an art gallery owner, travels to Bogotá with the hope of boosting her gallery’s sales and rescuing her family from the brink of bankruptcy. However, her plans are thrown into disarray when she discovers that her art crates have been tampered with, and two invaluable paintings, which do not belong to her gallery, have been placed inside.

To complicate matters, Ally encounters David Martinez, a former boyfriend and US Political Attaché, who tries to rope her into a dangerous scheme. Martinez's plan involves selling paintings seized from drug lords at an art auction to fund a war that Congress will not approve. Ally resolutely refuses to participate, but as she devises her own strategy to expose the fraud, protect her children, and secure her family's future, she realizes she must make the art deal of a lifetime.

Review
It is an exhilarating blend of art, suspense, and political intrigue. The novel’s vivid depiction of Bogotá in the 1990s sets a rich backdrop for a story brimming with tension and unexpected twists. Ally Blake is a compelling protagonist, characterized by her resourcefulness, determination, and deep sense of responsibility toward her family.

The narrative deftly intertwines elements of art history and market dynamics with the high-stakes world of international politics and espionage. Moore's writing is both detailed and fast-paced, keeping you engaged as Ally navigates a labyrinth of deception and danger.

The relationship between Ally and David adds a layer of complexity to the plot, blending personal history with professional conflicts. Their interactions are charged with past grievances and unresolved emotions, contributing to the novel's tension.

Moore's skilful storytelling ensures that the stakes remain high throughout, with well-timed reveals and a plot that maintains momentum from start to finish.

Tropes
- Art and Intrigue
- Political Thriller
- Personal Stakes
- Ex-Lovers with History

It is a thrilling journey through the art world and the shadowy realms of political intrigue. The writer crafts a narrative that is both intellectually stimulating and viscerally exciting, making it a must-read for fans of art thrillers and suspense novels.1 Mary1 review

Despite the warnings about violence, assault, and kidnappings, Allison Blake leaves for the international art expo in Bogota where in five days she needs to sell enough work to save her family and her art gallery from financial ruin. Her husband, Nick, passed away unexpectedly and without his high income and delayed insurance settlement, she faces financial ruin. She has two small children, a mortgage, and many expenses related to her art gallery in New York. She has no choice but to pack up two crates of high-priced paintings and head to Columbia.

With the help of a couple of trusted friends, she sets out for Bogota. When her crates are finally delivered to her she realizes they have been tampered with her plans unravel. This discovery sets off a whirlwind of intrigue and one dilemma after another. With each unsettling situation, Ally makes a plan staying close to a legal course of action, but not always. Author, Linda Moore, clearly has intimate knowledge of the art world. She takes us on a journey into its inner workings, to the manner in which deals are made, and how money is paid for high-ticket items. She also paints a picture of the seedier side of Columbia and some of the unsavory characters lurking in darkened doorways.

As you follow Ally from one challenge to the next, you see a strong, determined woman desperate to save her family. After sealing her last deal, the one that will save her children, home and gallery, she faces yet more challenges to make it to the Bogota airport ahead of the men who are pursuing her.

This book is a page-turner you won’t want to let go!6 s1 comment Deborah Kevin48 5

Five Days in Bogotá by Linda Moore is a riveting suspense novel that masterfully intertwines the themes of family, danger, and resilience. Set against the vibrant and perilous backdrop of the Bogatá Art Fair, the story follows a young widow who finds herself in a treacherous situation, trying to protect her family amidst a world infiltrated by cartels.

Moore's storytelling is exceptional, crafting a heart-racing and emotionally resonant narrative. The portrayal of the Bogatá Art Fair is vivid and immersive, allowing readers to feel as if they are navigating the bustling streets of Columbia and the undercurrents of danger alongside the protagonist. The inclusion of the cartels adds a layer of authenticity and intensity to the story, presenting a realistic depiction of the challenges faced in such environments.

The protagonist's journey is one of courage and determination, making her an engaging and sympathetic character. Her struggles and the lengths she goes to in order to safeguard her family are both compelling and heart-wrenching. Moore's ability to create such a strong, relatable character is a testament to her skill as a writer.

The novel's pace is relentless, making it a true page-turner. Each chapter raises the stakes, keeping the reader hooked until the very end. The suspense is skillfully built, with twists and turns that are both surprising and satisfying.

Five Days in Bogotá is a gripping and well-crafted novel that offers more than just thrills. It's a story of resilience and the power of the human spirit in the face of danger. Linda Moore has delivered a book that is hard to put down and leaves a lasting impression on its readers.1 Nursebookie2,419 370


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