The Parisian Heist, Jo Piazza (Review by Kristin Kurek)

The Parisian Heist by Jo Piazza might just be my “Book of the Summer!” The story is compellingly written in dual POV style, telling the tales of 1990’s Emma and 1800’s Jo van Gogh as they discover and work to define the value of art.

Emma is an art student, studying in Paris. To support herself, she works as a housekeeper for Stella Swanson, the widow of a prolific art dealer.  She learns that Stella is fighting for control of the family fortune. By helping Stella to battle for her inheritance, Emma becomes embroiled in a world of wealth, secrets, and art heists.

Jo van Gough has recently been widowed and inherited hundreds of pieces authored by her brother-in-law, Vincent. She is devoted to convincing the art world that Vincent van Gogh’s pieces are not worthless. As one piece goes missing, Jo questions her choices and devotion.

Emma and Jo, though over 100 years apart, seek to answer the difficult questions surrounding artistic provenance and the determination of value in a piece. They are unapologetic, interesting, and tireless in their beliefs. Both women experienced heart-stopping moments that had me turning the pages voraciously.

Jo Piazza delivers vibrant prose that leaves the reader with the ability to see, taste, smell, and feel Paris. I could see the glittering chandeliers behind my closed eyes. I could smell the dry, sanitized air of the Musee D’Orsay. I could hear the Seine as it trickles by. The art is described with stellar precision. Specifically, Jo Piazza does justice to van Gogh’s every brushstroke.  This book is a love letter to art, Paris, and fearless female ingenuity. While reading, I found myself yearning to learn more about impressionism and the valuation of art. If you’re looking for me this weekend, I’ll be standing in front of van Gogh’s sunflowers at the Philadelphia Museum of Art. 5 stars!