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The Parisian Heist: A Novel
Not yet published
Expected 14 Jul 26From the bestselling author of The Sicilian Inheritance and Everyone Is Lying to You comes a propulsive dual-timeline mystery drenched in art-world intrigue and brimming with family secrets, betrayal, and the intoxicating lure of power.
Emma, a struggling American artist in Paris, thought she had left her dreams behind when she took a job cleaning for the city’s wealthy elite. Then she meets Stella Swanson, the widow of one of the most notorious art dealers in the business. The Swansons move in a world where billionaires, oligarchs, and heads of state pay fortunes for masterpieces. Drawn in by their dazzling wealth and the pull of a dangerously charming grandson, Emma becomes both a player and a pawn in a family battle to protect their empire and conceal its crimes.
In the late 1800s, the young widow Jo van Gogh inherits hundreds of paintings from her brother-in-law Vincent that the art world deems worthless. Determined to prove their genius, and to secure a future for herself and her young son, she becomes consumed by Vincent’s legacy. As her devotion deepens, a vanished painting and a thwarted love affair leave her unsure who she can trust and how much of herself she’s willing to lose in the process.
From glittering auction houses to the idyllic canals of Amsterdam and the grand museums of Paris, the lives of these two women converge as Emma uncovers the Swanson family’s darkest secrets and agrees to mastermind a daring heist inside the Musée d’Orsay. The stakes have never been higher, and these women refuse to be written out of history, no matter the cost.
Emma, a struggling American artist in Paris, thought she had left her dreams behind when she took a job cleaning for the city’s wealthy elite. Then she meets Stella Swanson, the widow of one of the most notorious art dealers in the business. The Swansons move in a world where billionaires, oligarchs, and heads of state pay fortunes for masterpieces. Drawn in by their dazzling wealth and the pull of a dangerously charming grandson, Emma becomes both a player and a pawn in a family battle to protect their empire and conceal its crimes.
In the late 1800s, the young widow Jo van Gogh inherits hundreds of paintings from her brother-in-law Vincent that the art world deems worthless. Determined to prove their genius, and to secure a future for herself and her young son, she becomes consumed by Vincent’s legacy. As her devotion deepens, a vanished painting and a thwarted love affair leave her unsure who she can trust and how much of herself she’s willing to lose in the process.
From glittering auction houses to the idyllic canals of Amsterdam and the grand museums of Paris, the lives of these two women converge as Emma uncovers the Swanson family’s darkest secrets and agrees to mastermind a daring heist inside the Musée d’Orsay. The stakes have never been higher, and these women refuse to be written out of history, no matter the cost.
Kindle Edition
Expected publication July 14, 2026
About the author
Jo Piazza
14 books1,705 followersI write books about strong women defying the odds. I love an adventure and a book that both sweeps you away and starts a conversation with your friends.
Book club visits are one of my favorite things to do and I zoomed into hundreds of them for my Good Morning America Book Club pick You Were Always Mine. I'm a former travel editor who has gotten to visit 47 countries and I met my husband Nick in the Galapagos islands on a reporting trip. After living in NYC and San Francisco I have settled into Philadelphia (the greatest city on Earth) to raise my three feral children.)
Book club visits are one of my favorite things to do and I zoomed into hundreds of them for my Good Morning America Book Club pick You Were Always Mine. I'm a former travel editor who has gotten to visit 47 countries and I met my husband Nick in the Galapagos islands on a reporting trip. After living in NYC and San Francisco I have settled into Philadelphia (the greatest city on Earth) to raise my three feral children.)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The Parisian Heist is a dual timeline story that centers around the art world. In the past is the story of Jo Van Gogh, the widowed sister-in- law to Vincent who inherited all of his paintings which were completely worthless at the time. Jo takes it upon herself to make Vincent a star in the art world. She talks up his paintings--entering a male dominated world and using her wits to make sure that Vincent's art is a hot commodity. She is helped on her journey by Claire Donadieu, a strong, savvy woman who helps Jo with her campaign to elevate Vincent.
In the alternate timeline, we are in 1996 with Emma, a former art student in Paris who is now working as a housekeeper since the funding for her scholarship was pulled. She works for the fabulous Stella Swanson, the widow of the head of the largest art dealing company. Stella was promised she would head the company when her husband passed but instead she has been completely cut out of the business and the family. Emma quickly becomes fond of Stella and Stella brings her and her two roommates into her confidence and ultimately the three young women agree to stage an art heist to bring down the Swanson family's business.
Piazza has quickly become one of my favorite authors and I am excited to add The Parisian Heist to her list of outstanding books. One of the strongest underlying currents in the story is the treatment (or mistreatments of women, the importance (and often erasure) of women's labor, and of them taking back their power--pushing back at the patriarchy to better their lives. As a side note: if you aren't following Piazza on instagram, you should be.
The Parisian Heist is a completely unputdownable story and one of my favorite new reads of the year. 4.5 stars.
I received this advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley and am voluntarily leaving a review.
In the alternate timeline, we are in 1996 with Emma, a former art student in Paris who is now working as a housekeeper since the funding for her scholarship was pulled. She works for the fabulous Stella Swanson, the widow of the head of the largest art dealing company. Stella was promised she would head the company when her husband passed but instead she has been completely cut out of the business and the family. Emma quickly becomes fond of Stella and Stella brings her and her two roommates into her confidence and ultimately the three young women agree to stage an art heist to bring down the Swanson family's business.
Piazza has quickly become one of my favorite authors and I am excited to add The Parisian Heist to her list of outstanding books. One of the strongest underlying currents in the story is the treatment (or mistreatments of women, the importance (and often erasure) of women's labor, and of them taking back their power--pushing back at the patriarchy to better their lives. As a side note: if you aren't following Piazza on instagram, you should be.
The Parisian Heist is a completely unputdownable story and one of my favorite new reads of the year. 4.5 stars.
I received this advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
True to Jo Piazza’s brand, this is the story of several strong women who are shadow’s behind the men they love, yet end up making a name for themselves and shine in the highly competitive (and sometimes shady) art world.
I enjoyed both stories that slowly intertwined - the current day (ish) story of Stella, a recent widow who loses everything in a battle over inheritance and has to fight to earn her rightful spot at the family company, and the story of Jo and Claire from a century ago, who are striving to survive as they combine forces to bring van Gogh’s work the recognition it deserves.
There are several things I enjoyed about this book starting with the historical elements. Jo clearly did a lot of research in the art world, especially about Jo Van Gogh, to tell her story and it really is worth telling on its own, especially if you think about what was expected of women back in the 1800s.
I loved the parallels and commentary that comes through in both of the main plot lines - the strength of women to overcome their circumstances and fight for themselves, the importance of women relying and trusting their friends, and the tendency for history to forget women’s contributions unless they loudly advocate for their own stories.
While some of the twists and turns were a little over the top for my liking, I did for it all captivating and intriguing. Even when I didn’t always agree with or like the characters, I still couldn’t help but want to read on and learn more about what they were doing or see how it would play out.
All in all, 4.5 stars rounded up.
Thanks to Jo Piazza, Dutton, and NetGalley for providing me with an advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review.
I enjoyed both stories that slowly intertwined - the current day (ish) story of Stella, a recent widow who loses everything in a battle over inheritance and has to fight to earn her rightful spot at the family company, and the story of Jo and Claire from a century ago, who are striving to survive as they combine forces to bring van Gogh’s work the recognition it deserves.
There are several things I enjoyed about this book starting with the historical elements. Jo clearly did a lot of research in the art world, especially about Jo Van Gogh, to tell her story and it really is worth telling on its own, especially if you think about what was expected of women back in the 1800s.
I loved the parallels and commentary that comes through in both of the main plot lines - the strength of women to overcome their circumstances and fight for themselves, the importance of women relying and trusting their friends, and the tendency for history to forget women’s contributions unless they loudly advocate for their own stories.
While some of the twists and turns were a little over the top for my liking, I did for it all captivating and intriguing. Even when I didn’t always agree with or like the characters, I still couldn’t help but want to read on and learn more about what they were doing or see how it would play out.
All in all, 4.5 stars rounded up.
Thanks to Jo Piazza, Dutton, and NetGalley for providing me with an advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This novel is a blend of historical fiction and modern-day suspense, alternating between two perspectives and storylines. In the late 1800s, Jo Van Gogh, widow of Theo Van Gogh and sister-in-law to the late Vincent Van Gogh, struggles to make ends meet and to elevate the status of Vincent’s paintings in the male-dominated, shady dealings of the art world. Her devoted friend, Claire, supports her in this work and helps her run a boarding house. Together, they support themselves and work tirelessly to secure Van Gogh’s legacy.
In modern-day Paris, Emma cleans and cares for Stella Swanson, the widow of a wealthy art dealer. Emma befriends Stella, unwittingly being drawn into the swirl of schemes and intrigue in the Swanson family’s endless lust for power and wealth.
I really enjoyed reading the Van Gogh storyline in this novel. It was refreshing to look at the events from Jo and Claire’s perspective and appreciate their struggle to be heard and taken seriously at a time when men owned and ran absolutely everything. I also appreciated the portrayal of the strength and courage of the women in this story. While they are supposedly the “weaker sex”, it is the men who die young in this story, leaving the women to provide for themselves and others, securing the family legacy and providing for the next generation.
The modern storyline, told from Emma’s perspective, is set in a glittery world of art intrigue in Paris and Amsterdam. Stella Swanson presents as fragile and easily manipulated, and Emma feels compelled to protect her. This storyline reaches varying heights of drama with some unbelievable twists. The art heist itself was rather underwhelming and I had some difficulty taking the ending seriously, but it was a fun read overall.
In modern-day Paris, Emma cleans and cares for Stella Swanson, the widow of a wealthy art dealer. Emma befriends Stella, unwittingly being drawn into the swirl of schemes and intrigue in the Swanson family’s endless lust for power and wealth.
I really enjoyed reading the Van Gogh storyline in this novel. It was refreshing to look at the events from Jo and Claire’s perspective and appreciate their struggle to be heard and taken seriously at a time when men owned and ran absolutely everything. I also appreciated the portrayal of the strength and courage of the women in this story. While they are supposedly the “weaker sex”, it is the men who die young in this story, leaving the women to provide for themselves and others, securing the family legacy and providing for the next generation.
The modern storyline, told from Emma’s perspective, is set in a glittery world of art intrigue in Paris and Amsterdam. Stella Swanson presents as fragile and easily manipulated, and Emma feels compelled to protect her. This storyline reaches varying heights of drama with some unbelievable twists. The art heist itself was rather underwhelming and I had some difficulty taking the ending seriously, but it was a fun read overall.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The Parisian Heist is one of those books that pulls you in with the setting first—and then keeps you there with the drama.
You get two timelines: one following Emma, a struggling artist in present-day Paris who gets pulled into this very elite, very shady art world… and the other following Jo van Gogh in the late 1800s, trying to prove Vincent’s work actually matters (which we obviously know it does, but watching her fight for that recognition is so interesting).
Emma’s storyline is definitely the more fast-paced, almost addictive one. There’s wealth, power, manipulation, and just enough tension to make you feel like something is always about to go wrong. The whole “cleaner turned insider turned accomplice” arc is fun, messy, and a little chaotic in a good way. And yes—there’s a heist element that adds a nice layer of excitement without turning it into a full-on thriller.
Jo’s timeline is slower, but it adds depth. It leans more emotional and historical, and I actually appreciated how it showed the struggle behind building a legacy—especially as a woman trying to be taken seriously in that time.
The art world backdrop is what really makes this stand out. It feels glamorous but also a little corrupt, and the contrast between beauty and greed is done really well.
My only slight issue is that the pacing between timelines isn’t always even—Emma’s story had me way more hooked, so I found myself rushing a bit to get back to her chapters.
Overall, this is a solid, immersive read. If you like dual timelines, strong female leads, and a mix of history, art, and quiet suspense, this one is definitely worth picking up.
You get two timelines: one following Emma, a struggling artist in present-day Paris who gets pulled into this very elite, very shady art world… and the other following Jo van Gogh in the late 1800s, trying to prove Vincent’s work actually matters (which we obviously know it does, but watching her fight for that recognition is so interesting).
Emma’s storyline is definitely the more fast-paced, almost addictive one. There’s wealth, power, manipulation, and just enough tension to make you feel like something is always about to go wrong. The whole “cleaner turned insider turned accomplice” arc is fun, messy, and a little chaotic in a good way. And yes—there’s a heist element that adds a nice layer of excitement without turning it into a full-on thriller.
Jo’s timeline is slower, but it adds depth. It leans more emotional and historical, and I actually appreciated how it showed the struggle behind building a legacy—especially as a woman trying to be taken seriously in that time.
The art world backdrop is what really makes this stand out. It feels glamorous but also a little corrupt, and the contrast between beauty and greed is done really well.
My only slight issue is that the pacing between timelines isn’t always even—Emma’s story had me way more hooked, so I found myself rushing a bit to get back to her chapters.
Overall, this is a solid, immersive read. If you like dual timelines, strong female leads, and a mix of history, art, and quiet suspense, this one is definitely worth picking up.
April 19, 2026
Review of advance copy received by NetGalley
Summary: The Parisian Heist is a dual timeline story featuring women with parallel and connected lives. The story is told from the perspectives of Emma, a struggling American artist in Paris in the 1990s who’s drawn into the world of art dealing to the wealthy, and Claire, an employee and friend of Jo van Gogh in the late nineteenth/early twentieth century. Jo has inherited her brother-in-law Vincent’s hundreds of paintings and is determined to prove their genius and sell them. These women’s lives intersect when Emma agrees to execute a heist inside the Musée d’Orsay.
What I liked: The book contains adventure, romance, crime, betrayal, history, class struggles, family drama, and female friendship — and weaves it together brilliantly.
It’s clear Piazza did an incredible amount of research in writing this novel. Her detailed descriptions of Paris and Amsterdam as well as the artwork mentioned make us feel as though we are strolling the streets of these cities or gazing at a piece of art alongside the characters. Vincent van Gogh and his brother Theo come to life for us through their letters. She provides an in-depth look at the “dark” art market in a way that engages and intrigues the reader. The heist is nuanced and clever, and the characters complex.
As always, Piazza’s story is full of strong women who refuse to accept the limitations of their circumstances and who recognize the exponential power of women coming together to achieve a common goal. It’s a powerful reminder of the invisible — but impactful — work done by women throughout time.
Lastly, the story is full of twists, leaving readers surprised and impressed with the cunning minds of several characters.
What didn’t work for me: Nothing. (Seriously!)
TL;DR: This may be Jo Piazza’s best novel yet, and I’ll be shocked if it’s not one of the summer’s most popular releases.
Summary: The Parisian Heist is a dual timeline story featuring women with parallel and connected lives. The story is told from the perspectives of Emma, a struggling American artist in Paris in the 1990s who’s drawn into the world of art dealing to the wealthy, and Claire, an employee and friend of Jo van Gogh in the late nineteenth/early twentieth century. Jo has inherited her brother-in-law Vincent’s hundreds of paintings and is determined to prove their genius and sell them. These women’s lives intersect when Emma agrees to execute a heist inside the Musée d’Orsay.
What I liked: The book contains adventure, romance, crime, betrayal, history, class struggles, family drama, and female friendship — and weaves it together brilliantly.
It’s clear Piazza did an incredible amount of research in writing this novel. Her detailed descriptions of Paris and Amsterdam as well as the artwork mentioned make us feel as though we are strolling the streets of these cities or gazing at a piece of art alongside the characters. Vincent van Gogh and his brother Theo come to life for us through their letters. She provides an in-depth look at the “dark” art market in a way that engages and intrigues the reader. The heist is nuanced and clever, and the characters complex.
As always, Piazza’s story is full of strong women who refuse to accept the limitations of their circumstances and who recognize the exponential power of women coming together to achieve a common goal. It’s a powerful reminder of the invisible — but impactful — work done by women throughout time.
Lastly, the story is full of twists, leaving readers surprised and impressed with the cunning minds of several characters.
What didn’t work for me: Nothing. (Seriously!)
TL;DR: This may be Jo Piazza’s best novel yet, and I’ll be shocked if it’s not one of the summer’s most popular releases.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
One of the best books I've read so far this year.
In 1990s Paris, Emma is a struggling American art student who has traded her dreams for a job cleaning the apartments of the city’s wealthy elite. When she’s drawn into the orbit of one of her clients, she finds herself pulled deep into the glittering, ruthless world of high-end art dealing, where nothing and no one is quite what they seem.
A century earlier, the young widow Jo van Gogh has inherited hundreds of her brother-in-law Vincent’s paintings, which the art world has dismissed as worthless. Determined to prove his genius and secure a future for herself and her young son, she risks everything to cement his legacy.
This book has everything: intrigue, art, history, and even a little bit of romance. Both timelines genuinely work, and Piazza weaves the two together with real skill. I found myself just as invested in the story of Claire and Jo van Gogh as I was in Emma’s. The art history and politics of the art market threaded throughout add a rich layer of texture, while the pacing kept me turning pages well past my bedtime.
This was a fantastic read that I would recommend to anyone who loves art-themed books, as well as to anyone who loves thrilling stories that combine history and intrigue. A perfect pick for fans of dual timeline historical fiction with a propulsive edge.
Thank you to NetGalley and Dutton for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
In 1990s Paris, Emma is a struggling American art student who has traded her dreams for a job cleaning the apartments of the city’s wealthy elite. When she’s drawn into the orbit of one of her clients, she finds herself pulled deep into the glittering, ruthless world of high-end art dealing, where nothing and no one is quite what they seem.
A century earlier, the young widow Jo van Gogh has inherited hundreds of her brother-in-law Vincent’s paintings, which the art world has dismissed as worthless. Determined to prove his genius and secure a future for herself and her young son, she risks everything to cement his legacy.
This book has everything: intrigue, art, history, and even a little bit of romance. Both timelines genuinely work, and Piazza weaves the two together with real skill. I found myself just as invested in the story of Claire and Jo van Gogh as I was in Emma’s. The art history and politics of the art market threaded throughout add a rich layer of texture, while the pacing kept me turning pages well past my bedtime.
This was a fantastic read that I would recommend to anyone who loves art-themed books, as well as to anyone who loves thrilling stories that combine history and intrigue. A perfect pick for fans of dual timeline historical fiction with a propulsive edge.
Thank you to NetGalley and Dutton for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
There’s something about this story and Jo Piazza’s writing that tugs at your soul in a unique way, especially if you’re an art lover. It fills it with new layers of enhancement that you never thought possible.
It’s not that it’s addictive, which it is. It’s that it’s intoxicating in ways that instantly make you realize you’re diving deeper and deeper into this world’s artistic beauty and intrigue with every next chapter.
Both timelines lead you into such well-crafted realities that to call this literary entertainment feels like an understatement. It’s more of a dialogue with your own creative inner side.
The Parisian Heist a beautifully delivered story about the power of female friendships and importance of believing in yourself. And it’s a well of inspiration and thrill.
Big thank you to Netgalley and Dutton for the ARC inn exchange for my honest thoughts. I can't wait to read Jo Piazza's next book.
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It’s not that it’s addictive, which it is. It’s that it’s intoxicating in ways that instantly make you realize you’re diving deeper and deeper into this world’s artistic beauty and intrigue with every next chapter.
Both timelines lead you into such well-crafted realities that to call this literary entertainment feels like an understatement. It’s more of a dialogue with your own creative inner side.
The Parisian Heist a beautifully delivered story about the power of female friendships and importance of believing in yourself. And it’s a well of inspiration and thrill.
Big thank you to Netgalley and Dutton for the ARC inn exchange for my honest thoughts. I can't wait to read Jo Piazza's next book.
----------
Follow for more of my reviews:
TikTok
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
What I love about books by Jo Piazza is that they are always different; she doesn't just find a genre or a trope and write the same story in multiple ways. She is so talented and so committed to writing about women, showing strong women, telling the story of women who might otherwise be forgotten in history. She does this with this novel. It is a dual timeline novel that tells the story of Jo VanGogh, wife of Theo and sister-in-law to Vincent, a historical figure, and counters it with the modern-day tale of Emma and Stella.
All the women in this novel are strong and independent, even the ones that you might not like, and are not bowing to the whims of men. Piazza writes in the back of the book that she learned about Jo VanGogh and all she did to make Vincent famous and his paintings known, as a blip in history. And that is when she knew that she had to do the research and write Jo's story. Connecting it to today's art world is a wonderful twist, and the characters Emma and Stella are well-developed and genuine as well. Thanks to NetGalley and Dutton for the e-arc in exchange for an honest review.
All the women in this novel are strong and independent, even the ones that you might not like, and are not bowing to the whims of men. Piazza writes in the back of the book that she learned about Jo VanGogh and all she did to make Vincent famous and his paintings known, as a blip in history. And that is when she knew that she had to do the research and write Jo's story. Connecting it to today's art world is a wonderful twist, and the characters Emma and Stella are well-developed and genuine as well. Thanks to NetGalley and Dutton for the e-arc in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Paris. High-end art. Lies stacked on lies. Heist. Plot twist.
Emma's an artist, in the city on scholarship—but her side hustle cleaning luxury apartments drops her straight into a world that’s anything but pristine. One apartment belongs to Stella Swanson, widow of a notoriously powerful art dealers and behind those polished walls secrets waiting to detonate.
What starts as a routine job quickly unravels into a dangerous game of cons, shifting loyalties, and buried truths. Trust is currency—and no one’s playing fair. And when a family fails to protect their own, the least suspected person in the room—the cleaner—becomes the one who changes everything.
Twisty, suspenseful, and layered with deception, this story kept me side-eyeing every character until that final, jaw-dropping reveal. I didn’t just question everything—I trusted nothing. Great read!
Thank you Jo Piazza, Dutton Publishing, and Netgalley for this immersive fun read!
Pick up your copy- release date is
Pub Date: July 14, 2026
Emma's an artist, in the city on scholarship—but her side hustle cleaning luxury apartments drops her straight into a world that’s anything but pristine. One apartment belongs to Stella Swanson, widow of a notoriously powerful art dealers and behind those polished walls secrets waiting to detonate.
What starts as a routine job quickly unravels into a dangerous game of cons, shifting loyalties, and buried truths. Trust is currency—and no one’s playing fair. And when a family fails to protect their own, the least suspected person in the room—the cleaner—becomes the one who changes everything.
Twisty, suspenseful, and layered with deception, this story kept me side-eyeing every character until that final, jaw-dropping reveal. I didn’t just question everything—I trusted nothing. Great read!
Thank you Jo Piazza, Dutton Publishing, and Netgalley for this immersive fun read!
Pick up your copy- release date is
Pub Date: July 14, 2026
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
* thanks to Dutton for the NetGalley review copy (pub date: July 14, 2026)
Dual timelines tell the entwined stories of Claire, a former sex worker who befriends Jo van Gogh, the widow of Theo (Vincent’s brother) and helps her make Vincent’s work famous, and Emma, a broke American art student living in 1990s Paris who works as a cleaner for an old woman with a huge secret.
As the title implies there is an eventual art heist (fun!), but the bulk of the book is about female friendships and women trying to make their way in the male-dominated art world. I overall enjoyed this very much! I thought it was a little slow in the middle for my taste, but I really liked learning about (the formerly unknown to me, real-life art hero) Jo van Gogh and loved the Parisian setting. I’ll definitely be recommending this one @ the bookshop!
And I kind of love that this publishes on Bastille Day (by accident? on purpose? either way: cute)
Dual timelines tell the entwined stories of Claire, a former sex worker who befriends Jo van Gogh, the widow of Theo (Vincent’s brother) and helps her make Vincent’s work famous, and Emma, a broke American art student living in 1990s Paris who works as a cleaner for an old woman with a huge secret.
As the title implies there is an eventual art heist (fun!), but the bulk of the book is about female friendships and women trying to make their way in the male-dominated art world. I overall enjoyed this very much! I thought it was a little slow in the middle for my taste, but I really liked learning about (the formerly unknown to me, real-life art hero) Jo van Gogh and loved the Parisian setting. I’ll definitely be recommending this one @ the bookshop!
And I kind of love that this publishes on Bastille Day (by accident? on purpose? either way: cute)
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The Parisian Heist was an entertaining, easy read, even when i wasn't fully bought into the plot. i loved learning more about Jo van Gogh and her role in helping secure Vincent's legacy – honestly, that part was so compelling that i almost wished the book had leaned more heavily into her story instead of the familiar dual-timeline structure trope, which works well enough here.
the modern storyline was a little harder for me to take seriously. Emma's arc had some fun moments, but it also veered into far-fetched territory – the "heist" arrives later than expected and wraps up pretty quickly. some of the characters and twists felt predictable, and the ending asks for a pretty generous suspension of disbelief. still, it's a well-paced, interesting read with enough art world intrigue and historical detail to keep me engaged. a solid 3.5 stars.
thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
the modern storyline was a little harder for me to take seriously. Emma's arc had some fun moments, but it also veered into far-fetched territory – the "heist" arrives later than expected and wraps up pretty quickly. some of the characters and twists felt predictable, and the ending asks for a pretty generous suspension of disbelief. still, it's a well-paced, interesting read with enough art world intrigue and historical detail to keep me engaged. a solid 3.5 stars.
thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
May 12, 2026
Get this book in your travel bag this summer, because you’ll want to be transported to Paris and Amsterdam and the art world in this fantastic mystery. The book follows two timelines, starting in the late nineteenth century with Jo van Gogh and leading to the 1990s in Paris with Emma. Combining historical figures and events with realistic fictional intrigue, Jo Piazza takes the reader on a wild ride through lavish parties, art studios, and art auctions. For anyone who’s enjoyed the work of Vincent van Gogh, you need to read this deeper look into the life of Jo van Gogh, his surviving sister-in-law who doesn’t get nearly enough credit in the annals of history for her influence on the art world.
This book is fun and fast-paced, with deeper themes of feminism, friendship, and who gets to determine what qualifies as “great art.” I loved every page. Thanks to NetGalley and Dutton for the early read of one of my favorite, must-read authors!
This book is fun and fast-paced, with deeper themes of feminism, friendship, and who gets to determine what qualifies as “great art.” I loved every page. Thanks to NetGalley and Dutton for the early read of one of my favorite, must-read authors!
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
I received a review copy. The Parisian Heist is one of the best books I've read in the past year! I love the dual timelines, one of which is based on the true story of Johanna (Jo) van Gogh, Vincent van Gogh's sister-in-law, who after the deaths of her husband, Theo, and his brother Vincent, makes it her life's mission to ensure the world can experience the painter's works and to establish Vincent as the great artist he was. But Jo's story also documents her strength as a female, especially as an art dealer in a man's world.
In the present-day timeline, we meet other strong and vibrant women, including Stella, who holds a secret and legacy, and the young women who she manages to help her with a dangerous scheme. Meanwhile, there is the hint of romance, a mysterious painting, and notorious men determined to thwart their plans. And Paris!
I highly recommend this book.
In the present-day timeline, we meet other strong and vibrant women, including Stella, who holds a secret and legacy, and the young women who she manages to help her with a dangerous scheme. Meanwhile, there is the hint of romance, a mysterious painting, and notorious men determined to thwart their plans. And Paris!
I highly recommend this book.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I am writing this from a houseboat in the shadow of the Musee de l’Orangerie and across the Seine from the Musee d’Orsay and there is a wee bit of a chance reading this delightful book in this setting may have colored my experience. I tell you this for full disclosure before I tell you to buy this book immediately. Thanks to NetGalley I had the pleasure of reading an advanced copy and forgot buying it- pre-order! I promise you will not regret it!
First of all, like all of Jo Piazza’s books this is a stand-alone gem. Told in two voices. We get to inhabit the world of Paris in 1996 and 1891. Through the first-person narration of Emma and Claire we glimpse how art, power, money, and female friendships have evolved (or not). I especially loved the ending- which I will not spoil, but let you know that it is perfectly balanced. Enjoy the journey!
First of all, like all of Jo Piazza’s books this is a stand-alone gem. Told in two voices. We get to inhabit the world of Paris in 1996 and 1891. Through the first-person narration of Emma and Claire we glimpse how art, power, money, and female friendships have evolved (or not). I especially loved the ending- which I will not spoil, but let you know that it is perfectly balanced. Enjoy the journey!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
“The Parisian Heist” by Jo Piazza is a delightfully smart and engaging novel that blends intrigue, ambition, and heart against the backdrop of a vividly drawn Paris. The novel told in dual timelines follows a daring scheme around a Van Gogh painting that is both entertaining and emotionally rich. What really elevates this story is the extraordinary presence of Vincent van Gogh’s overlooked sister-in-law Jo van Gogh-Bonger, whose quiet determination and unwavering belief in him creates his legacy and makes him a world wide success.
Piazza crafts a narrative that is not only enjoyable and informative, but one that also highlights the power and strength of women, friendship, and the determination to succeed. This is a memorable and satisfying read.
Thank you NetGalley and Dutton for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Piazza crafts a narrative that is not only enjoyable and informative, but one that also highlights the power and strength of women, friendship, and the determination to succeed. This is a memorable and satisfying read.
Thank you NetGalley and Dutton for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
May 2, 2026
Thank you to NetGalley for the advanced copy of this book.
The Parisian Heist, like most of Jo Piazza’s books, was an entertaining & engaging read!
This story was told in dual timelines, both set in the art world. The first storyline is about Emma, a struggling present-day art student in Paris. While trying to earn money to pay for her tuition, she gets involved in the life of a powerful family of international art dealers. The second timeline is set in the late 1880's where Claire befriends Jo Van Gogh, widow of Theo, who has focused her entire life on having the world see the genius of Vincent's paintings.
Both timelines focus on strong women succeeding in a man's world. The present-day story leads up to an art heist was interesting, However I enjoyed the historical aspect of Jo Van Gogh's storyline more.
If you love art world with a touch of mystery, you will enjoy this book!
The Parisian Heist, like most of Jo Piazza’s books, was an entertaining & engaging read!
This story was told in dual timelines, both set in the art world. The first storyline is about Emma, a struggling present-day art student in Paris. While trying to earn money to pay for her tuition, she gets involved in the life of a powerful family of international art dealers. The second timeline is set in the late 1880's where Claire befriends Jo Van Gogh, widow of Theo, who has focused her entire life on having the world see the genius of Vincent's paintings.
Both timelines focus on strong women succeeding in a man's world. The present-day story leads up to an art heist was interesting, However I enjoyed the historical aspect of Jo Van Gogh's storyline more.
If you love art world with a touch of mystery, you will enjoy this book!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you to NetGalley for the advanced copy.
The Parisian Heist tells the story of Vincent Van Gogh's widowed sister-in-law and simultaneously the story of an art heist that takes place in the 90s. While the plot is about art and the system of galleries and auctions and the ways that art is given or loses its value, the real story is about friendship. The friendship between Jo Van Gogh and Claire and the friendship in the modern day between Emma, Colette and Lucie. I was gripped until the very end to see how the conflict resolved and what the resolution would be for the three friends as well as for Jo and Claire in the past. I loved the characters and I loved that (yet again) Jo Piazza points a spotlight on women in history and their unrecognized accomplishments. I will be recommending this one as soon as it's released.
The Parisian Heist tells the story of Vincent Van Gogh's widowed sister-in-law and simultaneously the story of an art heist that takes place in the 90s. While the plot is about art and the system of galleries and auctions and the ways that art is given or loses its value, the real story is about friendship. The friendship between Jo Van Gogh and Claire and the friendship in the modern day between Emma, Colette and Lucie. I was gripped until the very end to see how the conflict resolved and what the resolution would be for the three friends as well as for Jo and Claire in the past. I loved the characters and I loved that (yet again) Jo Piazza points a spotlight on women in history and their unrecognized accomplishments. I will be recommending this one as soon as it's released.
April 18, 2026
I received an advanced reader copy from the publisher through NetGalley.
The woman behind the scenes making things happen for others (especially men) just to be forgotten by history is a tale as old as time. One of my favorite explorations of this follows Zelda Fitzgerald. I think this is a very strong and very real backbone to the story. I love a heist, and I get consumed by an art heist. Ever since the Paris jewelry heist a couple months ago I’ve been itching for a good heist novel. Piazza has delivered that! As someone who has spent some time in the art world, I thought this was an interesting take on it. It definitely can get dark and weird and it is very isolating, but always interesting to read about. A great read!
The woman behind the scenes making things happen for others (especially men) just to be forgotten by history is a tale as old as time. One of my favorite explorations of this follows Zelda Fitzgerald. I think this is a very strong and very real backbone to the story. I love a heist, and I get consumed by an art heist. Ever since the Paris jewelry heist a couple months ago I’ve been itching for a good heist novel. Piazza has delivered that! As someone who has spent some time in the art world, I thought this was an interesting take on it. It definitely can get dark and weird and it is very isolating, but always interesting to read about. A great read!
Read
April 30, 2026"The Parisian Heist" captivates with its vivid setting and engaging storytelling. It features two timelines: Emma, a struggling contemporary artist drawn into the shady art world, and Jo van Gogh in the late 1800s, fighting for Vincent's recognition.
Emma’s fast-paced story explores themes of wealth and power, following her transformation from a cleaner to an accomplice in a thrilling heist. In contrast, Jo’s timeline delves into her struggles for recognition in a male-dominated era, highlighting the corrupt art world.
Although the pacing between the two stories is uneven—Emma's narrative is more captivating—the book remains a compelling read. If you enjoy dual timelines, strong female leads, and a blend of history and art, it's worth picking up.
Emma’s fast-paced story explores themes of wealth and power, following her transformation from a cleaner to an accomplice in a thrilling heist. In contrast, Jo’s timeline delves into her struggles for recognition in a male-dominated era, highlighting the corrupt art world.
Although the pacing between the two stories is uneven—Emma's narrative is more captivating—the book remains a compelling read. If you enjoy dual timelines, strong female leads, and a blend of history and art, it's worth picking up.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you NetGalley for the advance copy of this book.
I love novels with strong female characters and this one definitely did not disappoint. This novel focused on these strong, tenacious women following the story of Jo van Gogh and her drive to make Vincent van Gogh a famous artist.
The story weaved seamlessly from the past to the present day art dealers. The author description of historical events was vivid, and brought the past events to life.
The story had many twists and turns that was a great mix of thriller and historical fiction. I also enjoyed seeing how the different female friendships over came various struggles in their life.
Overall, this was a really enjoyable and engaging read, especially if you like historical fiction with a bit of intrigue.
I love novels with strong female characters and this one definitely did not disappoint. This novel focused on these strong, tenacious women following the story of Jo van Gogh and her drive to make Vincent van Gogh a famous artist.
The story weaved seamlessly from the past to the present day art dealers. The author description of historical events was vivid, and brought the past events to life.
The story had many twists and turns that was a great mix of thriller and historical fiction. I also enjoyed seeing how the different female friendships over came various struggles in their life.
Overall, this was a really enjoyable and engaging read, especially if you like historical fiction with a bit of intrigue.
May 15, 2026
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an advanced copy of Parisian Heist. This one had me hooked at Paris, but it’s so much more than that. The dual timeline and pacing work really well. I remember reading an article about Jo van Gogh in The New York Times magazine a few years ago and finding her incredibly fascinating, so I was thrilled to learn this book told more of her story. And it tells it in a beautiful way through the lens of friendship.
You know it’s a good book when you get a satisfying chill or a tingle at the end. This book hit me at the right time in the right headspace and I thoroughly enjoyed it.
Pick this up if you love art, if you love mysteries, if you love stories of women’s friendships.
You know it’s a good book when you get a satisfying chill or a tingle at the end. This book hit me at the right time in the right headspace and I thoroughly enjoyed it.
Pick this up if you love art, if you love mysteries, if you love stories of women’s friendships.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This was such a fun and addictive read! The Parisian Heist had me hooked pretty much right away…art, secrets, a little romance, and a heist? Say less. I also loved the dual timeline. I was really into Emma’s story in modern day Paris. It felt glamorous but also a little dangerous as she got pulled into the shady art world. But I was just as invested in Jo van Gogh’s story. Hers moved a bit slower, but it added depth and really grounded the whole book. The book overall is very immersive and feels a little escapist and easy to get lost in. If you like art world drama with strong women and a bit of mystery, definitely pick this one up!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The perfect novel to read whether you are in Paris or not. Although it took me a while to get into the novel, once I pieced some of the parallels and clues together, the novel started to click for me. I loved all the references to the real life painting and sculptures and it was fun to change up the setting to an art museum. I enjoyed the dual timeline between the two main characters. The novel has strong female protagonists that fight the patriarchy. It also deals with the issues of who has power in society.
Thank you Dutton for the ARC in exchange for an honest review. The Parisian Heist will publish on July 14, 2026.
Thank you Dutton for the ARC in exchange for an honest review. The Parisian Heist will publish on July 14, 2026.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Dual timelines set in the art world. Emma, a present-day struggling art student in Paris gets involved in the lives of a powerful family of international art dealers. In the late 1880's Clair befriends Jo Van Gogh, widow of Theo, who has made having the world see the genius of Vincent's paintings her life's work.
This is a story of strong women succeeding in a man's world. The present-day story that let up to and included art heist was interesting and somewhat suspenseful, but I was completely caught up in Jo Van Gogh's story.
Thank you, Dutton and Net Galley for this ARC. This was my first Jo Piazza book. I look forward to reading more of her books.
This is a story of strong women succeeding in a man's world. The present-day story that let up to and included art heist was interesting and somewhat suspenseful, but I was completely caught up in Jo Van Gogh's story.
Thank you, Dutton and Net Galley for this ARC. This was my first Jo Piazza book. I look forward to reading more of her books.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Loved, loved, loved Jo Piazza’s latest, The Parisian Heist! This was my first novel by Piazza, but certainly will not be my last. Set in the late 19th century and the 1990s, both storylines are intoxicating, immersive, propulsive, intriguing, fresh, imaginative and feminist, brought to life by superb, intelligent writing, a wealth of research and expert plotting and pacing. My overall impression is of a brightly colorful, chaotic painting by Van Gogh. Truly, this will be one of my favorite books of the year.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Dutton for the privilege of a complimentary ARC. Opinions are my own.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Dutton for the privilege of a complimentary ARC. Opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Shelf Awareness Pro
Having recently been to Paris where I toured the Louvre and the Musee d'Orsay, I very much enjoyed the descriptions of both the city and the galleries. Also I've seen many of the paintings described in the book, so it brought back many happy memories to read about them. The story was interesting, and I was curious to find out what happened, however I thought the characters and some of the plot points were a little predictable, and sometmes far-fetched.
I wasn't familiar with the story of Jo Van Gogh, so was pleased to learn of it. I think I might have enjoyed the book more if it was written as a biography rather than a novel.
Thank you to Shelf Awareness for providing the advance readers copy.
I wasn't familiar with the story of Jo Van Gogh, so was pleased to learn of it. I think I might have enjoyed the book more if it was written as a biography rather than a novel.
Thank you to Shelf Awareness for providing the advance readers copy.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
A fantastic story centered around strong female characters, the novel features dual timelines. In the first, we learn about present-day struggling art student Emma, who is cleaning houses to help pay her tuition, who discovers that her client is part of one of the world's most powerful art dealers. The second timeline takes us to the 1880s, where Jo Van Gogh - widow of Theo, Vincent's brother - who has dedicated her life to making sure that the world comes to see Vincent's paintings as the works of genius that she believes and knows they are. Very fast-paced and suspenseful, but also a very thoughtful exploration of female friendships, and a great glimpse into the art world.
May 14, 2026
Messy rich families, strong female protagonists, and fighting the patriarchy are three of my favorite things and the Parisian Heist delivers on all three!
Set in a dual timeline of 1800’s Paris, Holland, and NY and 1990’s Paris and Amsterdam, the intertwined story of Van Gogh, art, and the effects of the weaknesses of men propelled this story forward at an unputdownable pace. I rooted for all the women, even the complicated ones.
The beautiful descriptions of the scenery and artwork were a wonderful added bonus.
I’d follow Jo Piazza anywhere.
Thank you, NetGalley, for the ARC.
Set in a dual timeline of 1800’s Paris, Holland, and NY and 1990’s Paris and Amsterdam, the intertwined story of Van Gogh, art, and the effects of the weaknesses of men propelled this story forward at an unputdownable pace. I rooted for all the women, even the complicated ones.
The beautiful descriptions of the scenery and artwork were a wonderful added bonus.
I’d follow Jo Piazza anywhere.
Thank you, NetGalley, for the ARC.
May 17, 2026
3.5⭐️
This had all the elements of a book that I would love— dual timelines, an art heist, and a whole lot of deception. Yet something about this one didn’t beckon me to the pages in quite the way Piazza’s other novels had. It’s very possible I just wasn’t in the mood for something of this caliber, at this time. I anticipate this one to be pretty well received, and I really enjoyed the author’s note and seeing how much work she put in to making it historically as accurate as possible.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
This had all the elements of a book that I would love— dual timelines, an art heist, and a whole lot of deception. Yet something about this one didn’t beckon me to the pages in quite the way Piazza’s other novels had. It’s very possible I just wasn’t in the mood for something of this caliber, at this time. I anticipate this one to be pretty well received, and I really enjoyed the author’s note and seeing how much work she put in to making it historically as accurate as possible.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
It is a 5 for the research, strong female characters and information about Van Goghs, however, I have to agree with other reviewers the heist was worthy of skimming and the ending needs a strong suspension of disbelief.
With that said I am a fan of the author. It is great to dive into the art world, quick read and a visit to Paris and Amsterdam. Some good twists and turns and friendships.
A special thanks to Net galley and the publisher for sending me an advanced copy .
With that said I am a fan of the author. It is great to dive into the art world, quick read and a visit to Paris and Amsterdam. Some good twists and turns and friendships.
A special thanks to Net galley and the publisher for sending me an advanced copy .
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