Plausible Deception

There’s only one Jackson Stradivarius.

Welcome to the arcane world of handcrafted, professional violins. Master luthier Greg Zhu and his husband, Presbyterian minister Dan Randolph, travel to Los Angeles, where Greg’s newest design is competing for recognition from the Violin Society of America. Only a handful of participants know that the Jackson is at the conference, but the owner offers Greg the rare opportunity to examine it—and Greg is the last person in the room before the violin disappears. Greg and Dan team up with the authorities to clear Greg’s name, catch the thief, and recover the priceless violin before it is lost to the arts and antiquities black market.

Testimonials

“A ROLLICKING FUN READ that is equal parts a page-turning whodunnit, a fascinating exposé into the world of rare violins and luthiery, and an endearing portrait of a loving marriage. The writing is thoroughly researched and full of intriguing detail. People, places, and events leap off the page!”

—Gabriel Lefkowitz, concertmaster and resident conductor, Louisville Orchestra

“RIVETING! As an industry insider, I found the setting incredibly realistic, and the characters were so vivid that I could practically see them in front of me. I only wish our actual conventions were this exciting!”

— Christopher Reuning, president, Reuning & Son Violins

“Tender, romantic, and engrossing, this mystery’s tempo will stay with you long after the grand finale.”

—Mary Anna Evans, Benjamin Franklin Award-winning author of The Traitor Beside Her

About the Author

DWAIN LEE is a Presbyterian minister and pastor. Before entering the ministry, he was an architect in private practice in Columbus, Ohio, for many years. He and his husband now live in Louisville, Kentucky, where he works, writes, and is active in social justice advocacy. He has two daughters and enjoys travel, gardening, home repair, camping, and yoga.