The Art Thief by Michael Finkel
In summary: The Art Thief by Michael Finkel is an excellent, fast-paced historical thriller, and nothing more.
Written from exclusive interviews, police reports, and court documents, as well as over a decade of research, The Art Thief tells the story of Stéphane Breitwieser, the most successful art thief of all time, and his obsession with possessing art. Breitwieser is a fascinating character: he collects art not to sell but to keep in his attic for himself; he believes that art and beauty are the richest forms of currency; and when he sees a piece of art he likes, he is unable to think of anything else. Combine this character with a quick, sharp writing style, and the result is a hit novel. Finkel has an apt intuition for timing and keeps the reader at the edge of their seat until the very last page, making for a fantastic read.
Yet, just as Breitwieser’s character provides for enormous fascination, so he also provides the novel’s weakest point. In constant, brief allusions to Breitwieser’s obsession, the reader is left with a feeling that something is missed. Breitwieser’s obsession is mentioned over and over, and yet, it is never quite explored or delved into fully. Translating this coldness to the other main points of the novel, including Breitwieser’s relationship with his girlfriend and his experience following being imprisoned, the reader has the same disappointment: the relations and reactions are interesting, and yet, there is a wish that Breitwieser’s inner thoughts could be explored more.
All in all, a stunning, quick-moving novel which falls only the slightest bit short from the complex reality of the man it is attempting to capture.
Reviewed by Teen Volunteer, 10/13/25.