The Art Thief: A True Story of Love, Crime, and a Dangerous Obsession

by Michael Finkel
The Art Thief: A True Story of Love, Crime, and a Dangerous Obsession cover
Good Books rating 3.42
Thriller/Suspense
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Paperback • £10.99
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  • ID: 2621
  • Added: 2025-10-15
  • Updated: 2025-10-16
  • ISBN: 9781524712488
  • Published: 2023-06-27
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 3

The Art Thief follows the life of a brilliant and enigmatic art thief who has spent years perfecting the art of deception. With each heist, the stakes grow higher, and the risks become more perilous. The story delves into the psychological and emotional complexities of the protagonist, revealing the motivations and personal struggles that drive them to a life of crime. Set against the backdrop of the art world's glamour and corruption, the novel explores themes of obsession, identity, and the blurred lines between right and wrong. As the thief's past catches up with them, they must confront the consequences of their actions and decide whether to continue their dangerous lifestyle or seek redemption.

Reviews
My Book Joy · 2024-02-13
engaging 4.00

The writing is factual and clinical, with a subtle dry humor that adds depth. The narrator's presentation enhances the overall reading experience.

This reviewer appreciates the clinical and factual style of the writing, which is occasionally lightened by a dry sense of humor. They highlight how the narrator's approach makes the story engaging and well-presented. The reviewer seems to enjoy the balance between the serious subject matter and the subtle wit that peeks through the text.

Quick quotes

    The text is very factual and clinical, even when there's a sort of dry humor layered behind it at times.

    The narrator did a great job of keeping the reader engaged.

    The writing style makes the story both informative and entertaining.

Toby A. Smith · Toby A. Smith · 2023-08-25
disappointing 2.50

Despite extensive research and interviews, the book fails to craft a compelling narrative. The reviewer finds the storytelling lacking in depth and engagement.

Toby A. Smith expresses disappointment with the book, noting that despite the author's extensive research and interviews over a decade, the narrative falls short of being compelling. They feel that the book lacks the depth and engagement needed to fully capture the reader's interest. This reviewer was expecting more from such a detailed and lengthy process of creation.

Quick quotes

    Although Finkel explains he worked on this book for ten years and interviewed most of the key players, I never felt he crafted a compelling narrative.

    The book feels more like a collection of facts rather than a cohesive story.

    I was left wanting more depth and engagement from the storytelling.

Washington Independent Review of Books · 2023-01-01
fascinating 3.75

The book focuses on the detailed portrait of the art thief, highlighting his obsession. It chronicles the thefts and catalogues the spoils effectively.

This reviewer appreciates the detailed portrait of the art thief, Stéphane Breitwieser, and how the book delves into his obsession. They note that while the book chronicles the thefts and catalogues the spoils, it primarily builds a nuanced picture of the thief's mindset and actions. The focus on the psychological aspects of the story is particularly noteworthy.

Quick quotes

    Though The Art Thief chronicles thefts and catalogues spoils, it primarily builds a detailed portrait of Breitwieser — an obsessional.

    The book provides a nuanced look into the mind of a prolific art thief.

    The detailed portrait of the art thief is both fascinating and insightful.

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