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Gabriel Allon #23
The Collector
Legendary art restorer and spy Gabriel Allon joins forces with a brilliant and beautiful master-thief to track down the world’s most valuable missing painting but soon finds himself in a desperate race to prevent an unthinkable conflict between Russia and the West.
Silva's powerhouse novel showcases his outstanding skill and brilliant imagination, destined to be a must-read for both his multitudes of fans and growing legions of converts.
Silva's powerhouse novel showcases his outstanding skill and brilliant imagination, destined to be a must-read for both his multitudes of fans and growing legions of converts.
464 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published July 18, 2023
4643 people are currently reading
9091 people want to read
About the author
Daniel Silva
185 books9,480 followersDaniel Silva was born in Michigan in 1960 and raised in California where he received his BA from Fresno State. Silva began his writing career as a journalist for United Press International (UPI), traveling in the Middle East and covering the Iran-Iraq war, terrorism and political conflicts. From UPI he moved to CNN, where he eventually became executive producer of its Washington-based public policy programming. In 1994 he began work on his first novel, The Unlikely Spy, a surprise best seller that won critical acclaim. He turned to writing full time in 1997 and all of his books have been New York Times/national best sellers, translated into 25 languages and published across Europe and the world. He lives in Washington, D.C.
Series:
* Michael Osbourne
* Gabriel Allon
Series:
* Michael Osbourne
* Gabriel Allon
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,482 reviews
July 7, 2023
I just read the final page of "The Collector" by Daniel Silva. When I finish one of Silva's books, I experience a now very familiar sensation. One of unbridled awe. This book, one of the best in the Gabriel Allon series, gives the reader the full Daniel Silva treatment. We are reacquainted with many old friends from "The Office" including Eli, Mikhail, Natalie, Dina, and Ari. Chiara and the two Allon children frame both ends of the story in a delightful manner.
The story of art theft, murder, international intrigue is presented with snappy, sometimes humorous dialog, breathtaking views of exotic European locations, and brilliant plot twists and subtle nuances. The new character, Ingrid is a formidable femme fatale who will capture and hold the reader's interest. I hope to see more of her in the future.
The reader will also be able to continue his/her education in fine art and music. For this reviewer, one of the most enjoyable exercises while reading one of Silva's books, is taking time to look up and view the paintings and sculptures described and listening to the pieces of music Gabriel and Chiara enjoy.
Five stars are not enough to accurately rate this masterpiece.
I highly recommend it to lovers of all literary genres.
The story of art theft, murder, international intrigue is presented with snappy, sometimes humorous dialog, breathtaking views of exotic European locations, and brilliant plot twists and subtle nuances. The new character, Ingrid is a formidable femme fatale who will capture and hold the reader's interest. I hope to see more of her in the future.
The reader will also be able to continue his/her education in fine art and music. For this reviewer, one of the most enjoyable exercises while reading one of Silva's books, is taking time to look up and view the paintings and sculptures described and listening to the pieces of music Gabriel and Chiara enjoy.
Five stars are not enough to accurately rate this masterpiece.
I highly recommend it to lovers of all literary genres.
August 14, 2023
3.5 / 5
Sadly, this book does not have the same punch of plot as Silva's previous book the Portrait of an Unknown woman. If I can describe the plot I would say its like the Fast and Furious Series - from when it was just Dom and his team racing cars to now saving the world, driving cars out of space doing the most ridiculous things. This plot is exactly that.
Essentially what was meant to be a routine job tracking down a lost painting which had gone through several hands from Italy to Denmark ended up being a mission to save the world? A drop off gone wrong turned rogue - ended up being linked back to Russia and the Kremlin. I have to admit there was alot of politics discussed in this book - alot more than the previous books which is a little disappointing. It takes away from the original plot. I love art, restoration of art is something I love to watch - but that was pushed to the side to make room for 'saving the world plot from nuclear war'. Yes, nuclear war from a missing painting to nuclear war.
Although the team is back, and the whitty comments are there - there wasnt as much as compared to his previous book. I missed the casual art talk. Discussions on the restoration methods - I missed the commentary. But we were subject to Allon's past as an assassin. Overall, the main plot is pushed aside in this book, there is much less artistic commentary and more about Russia and the politics surrounding the Ukraine and Russia which I felt ruined the missing artwork plot. Dont get me wrong what is happening is horrific and my heart goes out to those suffering in Ukraine - but when its discussed in the book it reduces it down. I found the plot extreme at points. Just hoping if Silva makes a new one to steer away from politics on this one.
Sadly, this book does not have the same punch of plot as Silva's previous book the Portrait of an Unknown woman. If I can describe the plot I would say its like the Fast and Furious Series - from when it was just Dom and his team racing cars to now saving the world, driving cars out of space doing the most ridiculous things. This plot is exactly that.
Essentially what was meant to be a routine job tracking down a lost painting which had gone through several hands from Italy to Denmark ended up being a mission to save the world? A drop off gone wrong turned rogue - ended up being linked back to Russia and the Kremlin. I have to admit there was alot of politics discussed in this book - alot more than the previous books which is a little disappointing. It takes away from the original plot. I love art, restoration of art is something I love to watch - but that was pushed to the side to make room for 'saving the world plot from nuclear war'. Yes, nuclear war from a missing painting to nuclear war.
Although the team is back, and the whitty comments are there - there wasnt as much as compared to his previous book. I missed the casual art talk. Discussions on the restoration methods - I missed the commentary. But we were subject to Allon's past as an assassin. Overall, the main plot is pushed aside in this book, there is much less artistic commentary and more about Russia and the politics surrounding the Ukraine and Russia which I felt ruined the missing artwork plot. Dont get me wrong what is happening is horrific and my heart goes out to those suffering in Ukraine - but when its discussed in the book it reduces it down. I found the plot extreme at points. Just hoping if Silva makes a new one to steer away from politics on this one.
July 19, 2023
Silva still letting his leftist politics leech into his writing. Not quite as bad as the last 2, but still there. Know your audience.
September 14, 2023
Everyone has a slightly different style, but Silva’s storytelling is special. As an old guy, I highly appreciate his usage of Names with character attributes. Repetition makes it easier to track them in an ever-moving plot. Repeating titles, events, and actions, along with the name, when the character is reintroduced is truly helpful, especially in The Collector, which has a large cast of characters.
Ditto for descriptions of locales, which are not only colorful but feel personal, providing more color to the reader. Add these nice touches to the plot, which starts with a simple robbery and explodes into international intrigue with everyone’s favorite villain, Vlad Putin.
The book is a wonderful intrigue that is a great read for anyone.
-Tom L.
Ditto for descriptions of locales, which are not only colorful but feel personal, providing more color to the reader. Add these nice touches to the plot, which starts with a simple robbery and explodes into international intrigue with everyone’s favorite villain, Vlad Putin.
The book is a wonderful intrigue that is a great read for anyone.
-Tom L.
September 29, 2023
A decent plot interwoven between fiction and reality of the Russian government and the dictator likely to utilize any means to stay in power. 7 of 10 stars
October 6, 2023
And remember: you must never, under any circumstances,----Boris Pasternak, Doctor Zhivahgo
despair. To hope and to act, these are our duties in misfortune.
And so begins the most recent book in the Gabriel Allon series by Daniel Silva. Gabriel Allon has retired from the Office and is making his home in Venice, Italy with his wife Chiara and their two children, Irene and Raphael where he is now able to devote his time to his beloved art restoration. It is on the island of Murano at his favorite coffee bar that the legendary spy Gabriel Allon is summoned by General Cesare Ferrari, the commander of the art squad, to travel to the Amalfi coast villa of a murdered shipping tycoon from South Africa. It is in this man's vault that a painting that had been involved in yet unsolved heist from the Isabella Stewart Gardner's remarkable art collection, The Concert by Johannes Vermeer was stolen in 1990. Gabriel Allon is dispatched immediately to the Amalfi Coast to quietly track down the art work before the trail once again grows cold. It is quickly learned by Allon and his unlikely ally, a beautiful Danish computer hacker and professional thief, that the painting has changed hands in an illicit billion dollar business deal involving a man with the code name, The Collector. It is quickly determined that the missing masterpiece is the linchpin of a conspiracy that could plunge the world into a conflict of apocalyptic proportions. The novel takes place during a span of several weeks during the autumn of 2022 with the backdrop being the battlefield situation in Ukraine, the sanctions and travel bans, the flight of Western oil companies from Putin's Russia. Needless to say Allon's former colleagues from the Office are once again working together as time is of the essence. Another great book in this series by Daniel Silva. I find myself eagerly anticipating the next book.
July 15, 2023
It begins with no expectations; I don’t even read the book cover. I know where I left Gabriel Allon, home in Venice with his beautiful wife and children. He’s found peace doing what he loves with the people he loves but that’s what I thought with every book after he left the office. (Silly me) The peace doesn’t last long and he’s back doing what he does best, investigating an art crime that is so much more than an art crime. When the old team comes back into the story one by one, I actually feel like it’s old home week and the gang is coming back together and all will be right with the world. It’s like feeling that you’re home with friends. There are a few new characters who had more spice and interest to the story and contributed to the narrative. You wonder which one Gabriel is destined to save. He has to save someone, it’s in his nature.
Then the roller coaster of espionage begins and the surprises mount because I always am surprised by the twists and turns the turn of an art theft and murder into espionage that relates to our current world situation. An art collector is working undercover? Where did that come from? That’s not really a spoiler is it?
But the best part for me has always been the repetition which starts from the very first chapter. The repetition of phrasing by the old gang. “I’m not one for the rough stuff”, I laughed out loud. The repetition that relates specifically to the character and the past that they share. I kept laughing out loud until I actually snorted coffee out of my mouth.
The first two sections are like designing a dress and cutting a pattern. The last two sections are when you get to see it all come together and you’re holding your breath because the suspense is mounting, and you’re terrified for them. When you finally do catch your breath it’s like coming down from a cold mountain climb and you’re numb.
I always say you can read this book alone and that you don’t have to have read the previous books. If you do that Daniel Silva always puts enough background into the writing which itself is masterful so that you won’t have any problem catching up. You don’t feel left out. However, this time I have to amend that. When you read this and hopefully love it and want to know more about the people in the story (they’re people, not characters on a page) please go back ten books and get to know our friends so that next year the only things you’re looking up on your phone are artists and their paintings or methods of restoration. These books are an education in art history and world history. You’ll learn about the lives that they’ve lived, and you’ll understand the history of the repetitions and the ‘inside jokes’ that will make you smile and even laugh and snort what you’re drinking.
Then the roller coaster of espionage begins and the surprises mount because I always am surprised by the twists and turns the turn of an art theft and murder into espionage that relates to our current world situation. An art collector is working undercover? Where did that come from? That’s not really a spoiler is it?
But the best part for me has always been the repetition which starts from the very first chapter. The repetition of phrasing by the old gang. “I’m not one for the rough stuff”, I laughed out loud. The repetition that relates specifically to the character and the past that they share. I kept laughing out loud until I actually snorted coffee out of my mouth.
The first two sections are like designing a dress and cutting a pattern. The last two sections are when you get to see it all come together and you’re holding your breath because the suspense is mounting, and you’re terrified for them. When you finally do catch your breath it’s like coming down from a cold mountain climb and you’re numb.
I always say you can read this book alone and that you don’t have to have read the previous books. If you do that Daniel Silva always puts enough background into the writing which itself is masterful so that you won’t have any problem catching up. You don’t feel left out. However, this time I have to amend that. When you read this and hopefully love it and want to know more about the people in the story (they’re people, not characters on a page) please go back ten books and get to know our friends so that next year the only things you’re looking up on your phone are artists and their paintings or methods of restoration. These books are an education in art history and world history. You’ll learn about the lives that they’ve lived, and you’ll understand the history of the repetitions and the ‘inside jokes’ that will make you smile and even laugh and snort what you’re drinking.
September 23, 2023
5+ Stars
Legendary spy and art restorer Gabriel Allon now retired from Israeli intelligence is residing quietly with his wife and children in Venice. Allon is now engaged in art restoration for the Tiepolo Restoration Company of which his wife is the manager and now his boss.
This is the second in the series since Gabriel has left Israeli intelligence looking forward to some peace and quiet.
Says who???
The story begins in Amalfi with a stolen priceless Vermeer painting and a murdered South African millionaire.
Allon is requested by the commander of the Art Squad to assist in finding the painting.
It doesn’t take long for Gabriel to realize that nothing is as it seems – this is not just a matter of a stolen painting.
Fortunately Gabriel is no stranger to this kind of intrigue says he: “I find it comforting to prepare myself for a calamity and to be pleasantly surprised if it turns out to be a garden-variety disaster instead.”
Enter a professional thief of the female persuasion by the name of Ingrid and now Gabriel must find out who hired her. Except the person who she handed over the painting to is now dead. Now what?
Point is the painting has changed hands and leads directly to The Collector – an oil and energy millionaire executive with connections to the highest levels in Russia. And that’s just the half of it. A sinister plot is revealed that could force world powers into atomic conflict.
Gabriel and those of his old team from the Office and a professional female thief must stop it before it can be enacted. It’s a heart-pounding race to the finish through Russia, Denmark and Finland and some very dead bodies.
I try to pace myself when reading an Allon novel because I wait all year for it to arrive, but I can’t help myself, once started I can’t stop. It’s like an addict needing the next fix.
It is an incredible accomplishment when an author can incorporate current events seamlessly into a fictional novel. Only a brilliant mind and a brilliant pen could pull this off. Daniel Silva has done it more than once and he does it brilliantly. Other authors have tried but none have done it better.
A thousand words would not be enough to tell you how much I love this series!
Legendary spy and art restorer Gabriel Allon now retired from Israeli intelligence is residing quietly with his wife and children in Venice. Allon is now engaged in art restoration for the Tiepolo Restoration Company of which his wife is the manager and now his boss.
This is the second in the series since Gabriel has left Israeli intelligence looking forward to some peace and quiet.
Says who???
The story begins in Amalfi with a stolen priceless Vermeer painting and a murdered South African millionaire.
Allon is requested by the commander of the Art Squad to assist in finding the painting.
It doesn’t take long for Gabriel to realize that nothing is as it seems – this is not just a matter of a stolen painting.
Fortunately Gabriel is no stranger to this kind of intrigue says he: “I find it comforting to prepare myself for a calamity and to be pleasantly surprised if it turns out to be a garden-variety disaster instead.”
Enter a professional thief of the female persuasion by the name of Ingrid and now Gabriel must find out who hired her. Except the person who she handed over the painting to is now dead. Now what?
Point is the painting has changed hands and leads directly to The Collector – an oil and energy millionaire executive with connections to the highest levels in Russia. And that’s just the half of it. A sinister plot is revealed that could force world powers into atomic conflict.
Gabriel and those of his old team from the Office and a professional female thief must stop it before it can be enacted. It’s a heart-pounding race to the finish through Russia, Denmark and Finland and some very dead bodies.
I try to pace myself when reading an Allon novel because I wait all year for it to arrive, but I can’t help myself, once started I can’t stop. It’s like an addict needing the next fix.
It is an incredible accomplishment when an author can incorporate current events seamlessly into a fictional novel. Only a brilliant mind and a brilliant pen could pull this off. Daniel Silva has done it more than once and he does it brilliantly. Other authors have tried but none have done it better.
A thousand words would not be enough to tell you how much I love this series!
April 28, 2024
Es increíble como el autor consigue que una trama que empieza con el robo de un cuadro termine salvando el mundo de una guerra nuclear 🤯.
No quiero decir mucho de sinopsis porque creo que esta ya rebela suficiente. Forma parte de la saga Gabriel Allon pero puede leerse independientemente sin problema, aunque recomiendo mucho leerlos en orden.
En este caso, nos encontramos con una ladrona profesional, es un personaje que me ha gustado, y que es un personaje fuerte y que me ha sorprendido mucho en cuanto a habilidades y personalidad. Además consigue que lo que parece un simple robo, termina siendo una conspiración que involucra Rusia y la actual guerra con Ucrania.
Nunca decepciona y esta vez me ha vuelto a enganchar de principio a fin. Gabriel Allon es uno de mis personajes favoritos en cuanto a thriller de espionaje.
No quiero decir mucho de sinopsis porque creo que esta ya rebela suficiente. Forma parte de la saga Gabriel Allon pero puede leerse independientemente sin problema, aunque recomiendo mucho leerlos en orden.
En este caso, nos encontramos con una ladrona profesional, es un personaje que me ha gustado, y que es un personaje fuerte y que me ha sorprendido mucho en cuanto a habilidades y personalidad. Además consigue que lo que parece un simple robo, termina siendo una conspiración que involucra Rusia y la actual guerra con Ucrania.
Nunca decepciona y esta vez me ha vuelto a enganchar de principio a fin. Gabriel Allon es uno de mis personajes favoritos en cuanto a thriller de espionaje.
August 20, 2023
In the song "Hotel California" by The Eagles there is a line "You can check out any time you like But you can never leave". I am not much for interpreting rock lyrics but I thought of this song as I was reading this latest installment in the series. Gabriel Allon retired from "the Office" of the Israeli secet service and is now living in Venice under an assumed identity with the permission of the Italian government. He works as the art restorer for the Tiepolo Restoration Company which his wife, Chiara, is the manager and his boss. He gets to spend time with his children, taking them to school in the morning and picking them up in the afternoon.
As the story opens Gabriel encounters General Cesare Ferrari, the commander of the Carabinieri's Art Squad, at his favorite coffee bar. Ferrari wants Gabriel's help finding a painting. The painting he wants Gabriel to track down is The Concert by Johannes Vermeer, one of thirteen works of art stolen from Boston’s Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum in 1990. If Gabriel wants to continue living in Venice he must keep Ferrari and the Italian government happy.
In the Amalfi villa of a murdered South African shipping tycoon the Carabinieri found a secret vault containing an empty frame and stretcher. The dimensions match those of The Concert. The thief is a woman who Gabriel tracks down. A beautiful Danish computer hacker and professional thief.
The person who commisioned the theft is an energy company executive, code named The Collector, with close ties to Russia. Suddenly the mission turns from tracking down a painting to preventing a Russian plot that could start a nuclear war. To stop the Russian plot Gabriel returns to "the Office" where obtains permission to recruit members of his old team, Eli, Mikhail, Natalie and Dina.
It was good to see the team back together and I liked the new character ... a Danish computer hacker and thief. Of course beautiful. Will she make a return appearance? Will Gabriel ever really get to retire? This was a page turning thriller and very timely as it centers around Russia's invasion of Ukraine.
As the story opens Gabriel encounters General Cesare Ferrari, the commander of the Carabinieri's Art Squad, at his favorite coffee bar. Ferrari wants Gabriel's help finding a painting. The painting he wants Gabriel to track down is The Concert by Johannes Vermeer, one of thirteen works of art stolen from Boston’s Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum in 1990. If Gabriel wants to continue living in Venice he must keep Ferrari and the Italian government happy.
In the Amalfi villa of a murdered South African shipping tycoon the Carabinieri found a secret vault containing an empty frame and stretcher. The dimensions match those of The Concert. The thief is a woman who Gabriel tracks down. A beautiful Danish computer hacker and professional thief.
The person who commisioned the theft is an energy company executive, code named The Collector, with close ties to Russia. Suddenly the mission turns from tracking down a painting to preventing a Russian plot that could start a nuclear war. To stop the Russian plot Gabriel returns to "the Office" where obtains permission to recruit members of his old team, Eli, Mikhail, Natalie and Dina.
It was good to see the team back together and I liked the new character ... a Danish computer hacker and thief. Of course beautiful. Will she make a return appearance? Will Gabriel ever really get to retire? This was a page turning thriller and very timely as it centers around Russia's invasion of Ukraine.
April 12, 2024
Another great addition to Gabriel Allon's storied career as an Israeli spy. Silva has made the art world more approachable and interesting by having Allon save the world through art. Which is bananas if you think about it. A bananas premise he has parlayed into my favorite author and arguably the best ever in the genre. Banana-land I tell you.
August 2, 2023
I love this series, it only seems to get better. The combination of espionage, art and art restoration, and exotic locales make for me an exciting page-turning experience!
July 26, 2023
such a surprise
I have been a series-long fan of Gabriel & Co. since book one. The one thing I never expected was to be bored. I think Daniel Silva is truly ready to retire Mr.Allon. Such a lackluster piece of writing. For the first time, I had to force myself to finish the book.
I have been a series-long fan of Gabriel & Co. since book one. The one thing I never expected was to be bored. I think Daniel Silva is truly ready to retire Mr.Allon. Such a lackluster piece of writing. For the first time, I had to force myself to finish the book.
July 24, 2023
Guilty pleasure. Plot is partially based on current events in the Ukraine/Russian War.
July 31, 2023
More of the personal politics. Probably the last of his books I will read. I want to be entertained, not preached to. He certainly has his right to his opinion, but leave it out of the books
January 28, 2024
It all starts with the treft of a painting which had been stolen before. But most of the attention went to the fact that the thief also murdered the owner.
Enter the Italian art brigade and its commander just knows a person currently living in Venice who loves restoring old paintings.
So Gabriel Allon is asked to re-aquire stolen art as that is another thing hé is good at. When Allon finds the thief the whole story seems to have altered and hé is up against a whole different story altoghter.
Its starts with art and music and then we get the real life politics and the current global wars we are in. Mr. Silva on more than one occasion has used real incident to entertainment his tales like the treft from the Gardner museum in Boston and the current war in Ukraine.
Hé uses the current state of affairs to tell this enjoyable story of theft, spycraft and war . In the end you realise hé has done it once again and delivered a splendid Adventure that is difficult to put down once you started to read.
I am always amazed at the critism of an authors politics, Gabriel Allon is an Israëli spy so that already sets the tone. I am sure his books do not sell well in the middle-east for that reason alone.
Again mr Silva has not failed me in delivering and entertaining read that delivers all I want and expect from his books.
Enter the Italian art brigade and its commander just knows a person currently living in Venice who loves restoring old paintings.
So Gabriel Allon is asked to re-aquire stolen art as that is another thing hé is good at. When Allon finds the thief the whole story seems to have altered and hé is up against a whole different story altoghter.
Its starts with art and music and then we get the real life politics and the current global wars we are in. Mr. Silva on more than one occasion has used real incident to entertainment his tales like the treft from the Gardner museum in Boston and the current war in Ukraine.
Hé uses the current state of affairs to tell this enjoyable story of theft, spycraft and war . In the end you realise hé has done it once again and delivered a splendid Adventure that is difficult to put down once you started to read.
I am always amazed at the critism of an authors politics, Gabriel Allon is an Israëli spy so that already sets the tone. I am sure his books do not sell well in the middle-east for that reason alone.
Again mr Silva has not failed me in delivering and entertaining read that delivers all I want and expect from his books.
July 21, 2023
3 stars
Excellent narration as usual.
However, the book is repetitive. Very much so. It’s a nine hour narration, and not very interesting for the first six hours.
Leftist, of course. And now throw in global warming nonsense.
I used to love Silva’s quirks, how he would repeat the dimensions of a painting many times. The prose description of restaurants, food, wines, and endless street routes. Now, it’s just filler to make a four hour book into a nine hour book.
Gabriel Allon and I have had a long run and I enjoyed his books until the last two. And now this one. I think I’m done now.
Excellent narration as usual.
However, the book is repetitive. Very much so. It’s a nine hour narration, and not very interesting for the first six hours.
Leftist, of course. And now throw in global warming nonsense.
I used to love Silva’s quirks, how he would repeat the dimensions of a painting many times. The prose description of restaurants, food, wines, and endless street routes. Now, it’s just filler to make a four hour book into a nine hour book.
Gabriel Allon and I have had a long run and I enjoyed his books until the last two. And now this one. I think I’m done now.
July 25, 2023
THIS IS THE LAST DANIEL SILVA BOOK THAT I WILL EVER WASTE MY TIME READING. THERE’S NO SUSPENSE, NO TWISTS, NO INTRIGUE, BUT A WHOLE LOT OF MINUTELY DETAILED NONSENSE.
July 26, 2023
not engaging at all
I look forward to his books and preorder. This was the book when it became obvious he is writing solely for money. Boring book. Uninspired characters, plodding prose.
I look forward to his books and preorder. This was the book when it became obvious he is writing solely for money. Boring book. Uninspired characters, plodding prose.
August 3, 2023
Book Review
The Collector
Daniel Silva
reviewed by Lou Jacobs
readersremains.com | Goodreads
Another mesmerizing thriller features the world’s most renowned “retired” spymaster, Gabriel Allon. Gabriel is desperately trying to lead a normal life as an art restorer in Venice with his beautiful wife Chiara and his two children, Irene and Rafaele. He has retired as the chief of the Israeli secret intelligence service. In a typical day, he strides from his beautiful palazzo overlooking the Grand Canal.
On his way to this month’s job, he frequently stops for a coffee or light snack at a delightful canal-side cafe. He skillfully maneuvers his way through a maze of winding narrow streets, covered passageways, and hidden alleys, traipsing over cobblestone streets. Along the way, he passes galleries and museums nestled among the Gothic architecture. He may occasionally pause for a scoop of gelato or a respite of cicchetti and wine, near the famous Rialto Bridge.
Although this is the twenty-third novel in the Gabriel Allon series, featuring the spy that makes James Bond look like a novice, fear not. Daniel Silva seamlessly provides any necessary backstory in this immersive tale of espionage and international intrigue. Beloved recurring characters are introduced with aplomb, allowing any new reader to devour it as a standalone.
The endearing commander of the Italian Art Squad, General Cesare Ferrari, casually awaits the arrival of the unsuspecting Gabriel at a table along the canal. He expertly entices Gabriel to enter the fray and investigate a missing painting that will eventually have worldwide consequences. The Carabinieri have discovered in a villa along the Amalfi Coast, not only the murder of a South African shipping tycoon and art collector named Lukas Van Damme, but also a missing canvas from his once sealed art vault. Once Gabriel takes up the investigation, he soon learns the missing painting is none other than “The Concert” by Johannes Vermeer. It was one of thirteen works of art stolen from the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum of Boston in March 1990, being the largest art heist in history. Allon must track down the whereabouts of this iconic painting before the trail goes cold again. The trail leads to a remote village in northern Denmark. There he comes face-to-face with the engaging Ingrid Johansen, a professional IT and cybersecurity expert, who also happens to be a supreme hacker and master thief – usually of jewelry, cash, or rare books. Ingrid is the complete package: not only smart, but gorgeous, funny, and adept at weapon usage. She will admit to the theft, but not the murder. A team will need to be assembled to carry out a heist of epic proportions, with the safety of the world at stake.
Award-winning Daniel Silva proves to be a masterful storyteller as he weaves an intricately plotted, twisted narrative with interlaced humor that combines fact and fiction in a marvelous mélange riddled with present-day problems and politics. Utilizing a cast of unforgettable, colorful characters, he ratchets up the tension and intrigue in this page-turner, to an almost unbearable crescendo of resolution. There will be multiple microaggressions, along with climate activists and environmentalists taking part in this tour de force, in addition to considerations of the gravity of the unjust Ukraine war, and the frightful possible outcomes and consequences. Thanks to NetGalley and HarperCollins Publishers for providing an Advance Finished Copy in exchange for an honest review. I anxiously await the further travails of the “retired” master spy, Gabriel Allon.
Published at MysteryAndSuspense.com .....
July 18, 2024
An Okay Read But Far From Being A Sterling Silva Book!
I’ve been a faithful reader of the Gabriel Allon series for over 20 years, as well as of the author’s other books, but The Collector marks the third consecutive book in which I’ve felt Silva’s series has been considerably tarnished. As such, my interest in reading future books featuring Gabriel Allon will need some thought.
That being said, it’s not that The Collector isn’t an okay read. In fact, it served to provide a decent enough plot to maintain my interest fairly well, albeit without the high level of excitement and surprises I’ve come to expect from books featuring Gabriel Allon. For me, it’s time for Silva to let Allon REALLY retire and for himself to step outside of the Comfort Zone he’s been in for much too long and create a new series with new, fresh characters and new, fresh plots. Having read all 23 books featuring Gabriel Allon, it seems like each subsequent book follows the same too familiar formula to the degree that the plots and characters seem repetitive, predictable and, said to say, somewhat stale.
I’ve been a faithful reader of the Gabriel Allon series for over 20 years, as well as of the author’s other books, but The Collector marks the third consecutive book in which I’ve felt Silva’s series has been considerably tarnished. As such, my interest in reading future books featuring Gabriel Allon will need some thought.
That being said, it’s not that The Collector isn’t an okay read. In fact, it served to provide a decent enough plot to maintain my interest fairly well, albeit without the high level of excitement and surprises I’ve come to expect from books featuring Gabriel Allon. For me, it’s time for Silva to let Allon REALLY retire and for himself to step outside of the Comfort Zone he’s been in for much too long and create a new series with new, fresh characters and new, fresh plots. Having read all 23 books featuring Gabriel Allon, it seems like each subsequent book follows the same too familiar formula to the degree that the plots and characters seem repetitive, predictable and, said to say, somewhat stale.
August 29, 2023
I await Silva's character Gabrial every summer. We got together a bit later than normal this year, but the time spent together was well worth the wait.
Silva's writing and story telling are simple, and to the point. However, no matter how hard I try, the final outcome is never what I expected. I appreciated the more then cameo appearence of some of his "Office"mates and I always appreciarte Chiara's forked tongue. She is a woman/wife we strong women can apprecaite.
This episode included the stolen paintings from the Isabella Stewert Gardner Musuem. The past year I had read a non-ficiton and a ficiton book about this robbery and so I was happy to have some knowledge of it and the impact it had on the Art Community.
An annual thriller I enjoy and would recommend this series to others who also enjoy that genre.
Silva's writing and story telling are simple, and to the point. However, no matter how hard I try, the final outcome is never what I expected. I appreciated the more then cameo appearence of some of his "Office"mates and I always appreciarte Chiara's forked tongue. She is a woman/wife we strong women can apprecaite.
This episode included the stolen paintings from the Isabella Stewert Gardner Musuem. The past year I had read a non-ficiton and a ficiton book about this robbery and so I was happy to have some knowledge of it and the impact it had on the Art Community.
An annual thriller I enjoy and would recommend this series to others who also enjoy that genre.
July 29, 2023
woke treatise...does your "daughter" the ecolo terrorist like you taking all these "ice" private jets, powerful cars, saltpeter, sulfur and charcoal black powder plus, weapons footprint. Russia is kicking more corrupt Ukraine, Biden admin grifters and losers, and examples twisted like US propaganda machine...ie you obfuscate US cannon fodder Ukraine war crimes and blame Russia. Don't read unless you are a self righteous virtue signaling social democrat neo-lib, logic fail, pretentious, cabal member. IMAO
tried to return...
tried to return...
August 11, 2023
First, let me compliment the narrator Eduardo Ballerini. His smooth accent and pronounciation of various European cities, locales, attractions, food, drink, etc. are far more pleasing than if I were to attempt to translate the writing in my head. As usual with a Silva book, this one comes with a large dose of culture, particularly with regard to art, music and history - always a welcome addition to a story.
Story moves along as it should, ties into current world events and features some great characters. Interesting story and some nerve fraying situations makes for a great summer read.
Story moves along as it should, ties into current world events and features some great characters. Interesting story and some nerve fraying situations makes for a great summer read.
August 21, 2023
I totally agree with other reviews. I wish Silva would leave his “left leeching politics” out of his books. Totally unnecessary and quite frankly a distraction. I read to get away from the everyday political world we live in. Give it up Mr. Silva!
I also agree that Gabriel would not have these same views. I vowed I would never read another Silva book, but as many of you mentioned, I have a hard time saying goodbye to Gabriel. I wish Silva would read these reviews and respond. I may have to go cold turkey!
I also agree that Gabriel would not have these same views. I vowed I would never read another Silva book, but as many of you mentioned, I have a hard time saying goodbye to Gabriel. I wish Silva would read these reviews and respond. I may have to go cold turkey!
August 24, 2023
the last third of The Collector was vintage Silva ... fast paced, important action, characters of interest ... the first 2/3, not so much
August 2, 2024
Having loved Portrait of an Unknown Woman which was my introduction to Gabriel Allon, I felt it important to continue. Allon is by far one of the most unique 'investigator' characters I've encountered; former head of Israeli intelligence who with his wife, runs a Venice art restoration company along with client work. Loyal husband, father of twins he's able to beat devious criminals at their own game.
When Gabriel meets with General Ferrari, commander of the Italian Art Squad, he's told of the discovery of a secret vault in the home of a South African shipping tycoon containing an empty frame and stretcher matching the dimensions of 'The Concert' by Johannes Vermeer, one of thirteen paintings stolen from an art museum. Having collaboratored in the past, the General asks him to assist with the investigation. But when Allon learns the tycoon was murdered, it sends him into a labyrinth of uncanny danger. Not long after, he discovers the painting has exchanged hands as part of a billion dollar business deal involving a Dutch Oil magnate whose been given the code name Collector by Russian counterparts.
As he calls in favors from Israeli, Dutch and American intelligence pros, we learn of his early years as head of Israeli intelligence. During a dinner engagement at the home of Gilah Shamron, he encounters Ingrid Johansen, a beautiful woman claiming to be an IT specialist. As the former Israeli intelligence colleagues reminisce, Allon learns Ingrid is actually a thief, pick pocket and cat burglar who's expanded her repertoire to fine art. Realizing a valuable role she could play, Gabriel sets a trap to recruit her.
This being the days of the Ukraine invasion, we learn of the inroads the Dutch magnate has with Russians courtesy of his partnership with an oil company. As the plot unfolds, we're taken to Russia, Israel, Amsterdam and Langley, VA amongst other stops where we're immersed into the world of Russian oligarchs. In the process, we learn of the theft of an unknown South African 'nuclear gun' stolen by Russians having contrived a devious plan for its use.
Complex, immersive and packed with plot twists, the story moves from pursuit of a missing painting to nuclear danger. Silva's knowledge of the the extreme affluence of Russian oligarchs and how they 'run' the government is astounding as is their greed and careless attitude toward human life.
Rather than spoil this remarkable story with characters, plot points and outcome, suffice it to say that if you're a fan of suspense, intrigue and the unusual, you'll benefit by adding this to your list.
When Gabriel meets with General Ferrari, commander of the Italian Art Squad, he's told of the discovery of a secret vault in the home of a South African shipping tycoon containing an empty frame and stretcher matching the dimensions of 'The Concert' by Johannes Vermeer, one of thirteen paintings stolen from an art museum. Having collaboratored in the past, the General asks him to assist with the investigation. But when Allon learns the tycoon was murdered, it sends him into a labyrinth of uncanny danger. Not long after, he discovers the painting has exchanged hands as part of a billion dollar business deal involving a Dutch Oil magnate whose been given the code name Collector by Russian counterparts.
As he calls in favors from Israeli, Dutch and American intelligence pros, we learn of his early years as head of Israeli intelligence. During a dinner engagement at the home of Gilah Shamron, he encounters Ingrid Johansen, a beautiful woman claiming to be an IT specialist. As the former Israeli intelligence colleagues reminisce, Allon learns Ingrid is actually a thief, pick pocket and cat burglar who's expanded her repertoire to fine art. Realizing a valuable role she could play, Gabriel sets a trap to recruit her.
This being the days of the Ukraine invasion, we learn of the inroads the Dutch magnate has with Russians courtesy of his partnership with an oil company. As the plot unfolds, we're taken to Russia, Israel, Amsterdam and Langley, VA amongst other stops where we're immersed into the world of Russian oligarchs. In the process, we learn of the theft of an unknown South African 'nuclear gun' stolen by Russians having contrived a devious plan for its use.
Complex, immersive and packed with plot twists, the story moves from pursuit of a missing painting to nuclear danger. Silva's knowledge of the the extreme affluence of Russian oligarchs and how they 'run' the government is astounding as is their greed and careless attitude toward human life.
Rather than spoil this remarkable story with characters, plot points and outcome, suffice it to say that if you're a fan of suspense, intrigue and the unusual, you'll benefit by adding this to your list.
August 18, 2023
I was initially lamenting how this book would not be the same as previous ones as Gabriel was retired and focusing on restoration and just stolen art cases as payback to the Italians. That lament quickly went away once the stolen art was traced to Russians and real world events in Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. It transformed into the ultimate spy thriller with shades of nuclear Armageddon.
January 5, 2024
Daniel Silva's Gabriel Allon series of books is another one of those where I have read each one. After all this time, I still truly enjoy it. Poor Gabriel though. Even retired, he is still pulled back into finding ways to save the world. This time, he's asked to find a famous stolen painting and this inevitably leads to intrigues with the Russia-Ukraine war. Isn't that always the case though for a retired spymaster? Anyways, good, enjoyable read as expected from this author.
July 18, 2023
The latest release in the Gabriel Allon series, “The Collector”, proves once again the flexibility of the author’s plot lines. Daniel Silva masters the arts of both character development and attention to detail. The book revisits favorite characters and introduces some fascinating new ones. It gives us the opportunity to explore Denmark while making some quick stops in Italy, France, Israel, the U.S. and, finally, Russia. With typical Silva flare, he provides several tongue-in-cheek, laugh out loud moments through his protagonist, Gabriel Allon, as well as the supporting cast.
What initially appears to be the plot quickly evolves into a different story altogether (another Silva trademark.) The suspenseful build-up through the first three-quarters of the book ascends to dizzying height then yields to a steep and breathtaking plunge to the conclusion. It is a beautifully written steppingstone in the journey of the Gabriel Allon series, and yet the book itself is an exciting, standalone suspense novel. This is truly one of Silva’s best in years and will leave his loyal fans eagerly awaiting the next release.
What initially appears to be the plot quickly evolves into a different story altogether (another Silva trademark.) The suspenseful build-up through the first three-quarters of the book ascends to dizzying height then yields to a steep and breathtaking plunge to the conclusion. It is a beautifully written steppingstone in the journey of the Gabriel Allon series, and yet the book itself is an exciting, standalone suspense novel. This is truly one of Silva’s best in years and will leave his loyal fans eagerly awaiting the next release.
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