Shadowed by Grace

Readers looking for a glimpse into an unusual facet of World War II will especially enjoy Putman’s newest tale of love and history—about the Monuments Men, who crossed Europe seeking to preserve its artistic heritage in the wake of war’s devastation. Photographer Rachel Justice finagles an assignment to Italy, but her real motive is to find her long-lost father, whom she hopes can pay for medical treatment for her ailing mother. Her only clue to his location is a sketchbook with mysterious initials. Rachel is assigned to the care of Lt. Scott Lindstrom, a Monuments Man dedicated to preserving Italy’s priceless art after the German retreat. While Putman’s premise is unique, the book suffers from choppy writing and a few too many chance meetings and coincidences to make it plausible. But those who love Italian art won’t mind. Agent: Karen Solem, Spencerhill Associates. (Jan.)