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The Parisian Heist: A Novel
From 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.
406 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 14, 2026
About the author
Jo Piazza
14 books1,938 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 486 reviews
July 19, 2026
4 stars - A "Historical Mystery Heist" that worked for me - set in the 1880's and 1980's and full of strong women who give no F's. I enjoyed learning more about Jo Van Gogh-Bonger, who worked so tirelessly to promote and create the lasting legacy & fame of her late brother-in-law, Vincent. Lots of Paris and the art world here too, and while a bit longer, this one never felt boring!
July 16, 2026
One of my absolute favorite genres is art historical fiction, especially when it uncovers the unsung women who acted as the primary inspirations, anchors, or champions behind some of the world's most volatile, difficult, abusive, and revered male artists. Jo Piazza's The Parisian Heist delivers exactly that.
The story unfolds across two woven timelines:
Late 1800s: We follow Claire as she befriends Jo van Gogh (Vincent van Gogh’s sister in law). Together, they dedicate their lives to ensuring Vincent’s art finds its audience, brave the cutthroat art market, and fight to secure their own financial independence, ultimately transforming an obscure painter into a global legend.
1996: Emma, an aspiring art student on a scholarship in Paris, befriends Stella, a billionaire who secretly possesses an uncatalogued Van Gogh Sunflowers painting. Emma quickly finds herself caught in a high stakes mission to take down international art thieves and the oligarchs who seek to maintain art for themselves, instead of showcasing it to the world.
While I deeply appreciated the historical focus on the Van Gogh legacy, I actually found Emma’s fast paced, suspenseful escapades even more compelling. The two narrative threads are intricately connected, making for a fun, page turning read.
Though the book has a few minor pacing issues, and some of the plot points stretch plausibility, the overall premise was fun. I only wish Piazza had anchored the timelines with clearer year markers on Jo and Claire's story. I also wish there was more descriptions of the conversations Jo had with buyers in order to truly make Van Gogh's art a financial and worldwide success.
If you love art history and resilient women, this is was a fun read!
The story unfolds across two woven timelines:
Late 1800s: We follow Claire as she befriends Jo van Gogh (Vincent van Gogh’s sister in law). Together, they dedicate their lives to ensuring Vincent’s art finds its audience, brave the cutthroat art market, and fight to secure their own financial independence, ultimately transforming an obscure painter into a global legend.
1996: Emma, an aspiring art student on a scholarship in Paris, befriends Stella, a billionaire who secretly possesses an uncatalogued Van Gogh Sunflowers painting. Emma quickly finds herself caught in a high stakes mission to take down international art thieves and the oligarchs who seek to maintain art for themselves, instead of showcasing it to the world.
While I deeply appreciated the historical focus on the Van Gogh legacy, I actually found Emma’s fast paced, suspenseful escapades even more compelling. The two narrative threads are intricately connected, making for a fun, page turning read.
Though the book has a few minor pacing issues, and some of the plot points stretch plausibility, the overall premise was fun. I only wish Piazza had anchored the timelines with clearer year markers on Jo and Claire's story. I also wish there was more descriptions of the conversations Jo had with buyers in order to truly make Van Gogh's art a financial and worldwide success.
If you love art history and resilient women, this is was a fun read!
July 17, 2026
3.5 rounded up to a 4
I was really looking forward to The Parisian Heist since I've enjoyed Jo Piazza's books in the past, but this one didn't quite live up to my expectations.
The story starts off pretty slowly, and while it was entertaining enough to keep me reading, it took quite a while to really find its footing. The dual timelines worked well, and I appreciated learning more about Van Gogh and his life, which added an interesting historical element to the story.
That said, I felt parts of the plot were a bit rushed by the end, and I would have loved more depth and detail in certain areas. Overall, it was a good read—just a slower-paced one that never fully grabbed me the way I'd hoped. If you enjoy historical fiction with art history woven throughout, it's still worth picking up.
Thank you to Net Galley and Dutton for giving me this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
I was really looking forward to The Parisian Heist since I've enjoyed Jo Piazza's books in the past, but this one didn't quite live up to my expectations.
The story starts off pretty slowly, and while it was entertaining enough to keep me reading, it took quite a while to really find its footing. The dual timelines worked well, and I appreciated learning more about Van Gogh and his life, which added an interesting historical element to the story.
That said, I felt parts of the plot were a bit rushed by the end, and I would have loved more depth and detail in certain areas. Overall, it was a good read—just a slower-paced one that never fully grabbed me the way I'd hoped. If you enjoy historical fiction with art history woven throughout, it's still worth picking up.
Thank you to Net Galley and Dutton for giving me this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
July 16, 2026
Early thoughts: I really like Jo Piazzo's work. This books is also a historical fiction about an art heist, so I was all in!
Feeling: Sassy art lovers steal my heart!
I’m curious about: ...whether or not I'll like the alternating timelines here.
"Mother was never very warm to me, not that I remember, but I still cried and cried when she left. A boy loves his mother even when the feeling is not reciprocated. Caroline took it much better." p203
Final thoughts:
I enjoyed the women in this book, and I think that dual timelines was the way to go for this story. That's not a technique I always favor, but it works here. I absolutely love a queer woman's coming of age story and I got those vibes from this one. And the mystery was fascinating, a high-stakes journey to discover the truth about one of history's greatest artists.
This simultaneously felt like a romp, a coming of age tale, and a feminist story about women's love and friendship. I think this will be appealing to many readers!
What worked:
🏛️ Spectacular art history in this one, dressed up in modern ideas about access. "“Did you know that when Renzo Piano designed it, he insisted that this was so much more than a museum, that it would be not just a building, but a town where you find everything—lunch, great art, a library, great music,” she says with awe. “It revolutionized the idea of a museum...”" p54
What didn’t:
🌶️ I don't like reading a book in which I am expecting no spice and I still somehow fall face-first in some paper people's genitals.
Who this is for: Fans of art, history, and heists seriously should grab this one!
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Content Notes:
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
divorce, lying spouse, coercion,
Feeling: Sassy art lovers steal my heart!
I’m curious about: ...whether or not I'll like the alternating timelines here.
"Mother was never very warm to me, not that I remember, but I still cried and cried when she left. A boy loves his mother even when the feeling is not reciprocated. Caroline took it much better." p203
Final thoughts:
I enjoyed the women in this book, and I think that dual timelines was the way to go for this story. That's not a technique I always favor, but it works here. I absolutely love a queer woman's coming of age story and I got those vibes from this one. And the mystery was fascinating, a high-stakes journey to discover the truth about one of history's greatest artists.
This simultaneously felt like a romp, a coming of age tale, and a feminist story about women's love and friendship. I think this will be appealing to many readers!
What worked:
🏛️ Spectacular art history in this one, dressed up in modern ideas about access. "“Did you know that when Renzo Piano designed it, he insisted that this was so much more than a museum, that it would be not just a building, but a town where you find everything—lunch, great art, a library, great music,” she says with awe. “It revolutionized the idea of a museum...”" p54
What didn’t:
🌶️ I don't like reading a book in which I am expecting no spice and I still somehow fall face-first in some paper people's genitals.
Who this is for: Fans of art, history, and heists seriously should grab this one!
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Content Notes:
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
divorce, lying spouse, coercion,
May 18, 2026
The Parisian Heist was my first introduction to Jo Piazza’s writing. Going into it, I was incredibly hyped—especially with it coming right on the heels of the real-life Louvre heist. While it didn't completely wow me, it certainly had its moments and could be the right fit for a different type of reader.
As a huge fan of Impressionism and Van Gogh, I loved the focus on art. It was genuinely interesting to hear the stories behind his work (even if I was wondering how much was actually true). There is also a really great twist later in the book that temporarily saved me from my boredom.
Unfortunately, for a high-stakes heist novel, both the plot and the character development felt very surface-level. I never quite felt fully invested in the characters' fates or the deeper mechanics of the crime.
Who would like this? If you are an art lover looking for a breezy, plot-driven caper and you don't mind sacrificing deep character development for a good twist, you'll likely enjoy this one.
As a huge fan of Impressionism and Van Gogh, I loved the focus on art. It was genuinely interesting to hear the stories behind his work (even if I was wondering how much was actually true). There is also a really great twist later in the book that temporarily saved me from my boredom.
Unfortunately, for a high-stakes heist novel, both the plot and the character development felt very surface-level. I never quite felt fully invested in the characters' fates or the deeper mechanics of the crime.
Who would like this? If you are an art lover looking for a breezy, plot-driven caper and you don't mind sacrificing deep character development for a good twist, you'll likely enjoy this one.
May 26, 2026
Oh my god! Loved, loved, LOVED! Jo Piazza is one of my favorite authors and this novel only serves to further cement it. I loved the story. Claire and Emma as main characters were so compelling. I loved going along the journey of succeeding in a world built to be against them. Stella's cunning knew no bounds! I think that sharing the history of Jo and Claire really helped to invest my interest in van Gogh's art. I felt like there was an underlying theme of the power of female friendships and what women can achieve when they work together to remove boundaries and those are always some of my favorites. Hats off, Jo! I will be recommending this to EVERYONE!
August 3, 2026
The Parisian Heist is a beautifully woven story that brings together two timelines in a way that feels both seamless and satisfying. The dual perspectives add depth, and I loved how everything tied together so well by the end.
One of the standout elements for me was the historical fiction aspect, especially the focus on Vincent van Gogh, his brother Theo, and Theo’s wife’s dedication to preserving and promoting his work after his death. It added such a rich and fascinating layer to the novel.
While both storylines were engaging, I found myself especially drawn to Jo and Claire’s story—it was compelling, emotional, and ultimately my favorite part of the book.
Overall, this was a great read with strong historical elements and a well-executed dual narrative. Definitely worth picking up!
One of the standout elements for me was the historical fiction aspect, especially the focus on Vincent van Gogh, his brother Theo, and Theo’s wife’s dedication to preserving and promoting his work after his death. It added such a rich and fascinating layer to the novel.
While both storylines were engaging, I found myself especially drawn to Jo and Claire’s story—it was compelling, emotional, and ultimately my favorite part of the book.
Overall, this was a great read with strong historical elements and a well-executed dual narrative. Definitely worth picking up!
July 22, 2026
Jo Piazza has written far more than a heist novel. The Parisian Heist is a brilliant blend of historical fiction, art history, mystery, and unforgettable characters that kept me turning pages long past bedtime.
The dual timeline is expertly crafted, weaving together the extraordinary story of Jo van Gogh, the woman who fought to preserve Vincent van Gogh's legacy, with a modern-day art heist full of twists, secrets, and suspense. I learned so much about a fascinating piece of history that I had never known, which made the story all the more rewarding.
The writing is vivid and immersive, and every character feels authentic and fully realized. The emotional stakes are just as compelling as the mystery itself, making this much more than a fast-paced thriller. It's a story about art, legacy, courage, and the determination of women whose contributions have too often been overlooked.
My only disappointment was reaching the last page. I wasn't ready for the story to end and found myself wanting more time with these characters and this world. That's the mark of a truly exceptional novel.
I highly recommend The Parisian Heist to anyone who loves historical fiction, art, and stories that are as thought-provoking as they are impossible to put down.
The dual timeline is expertly crafted, weaving together the extraordinary story of Jo van Gogh, the woman who fought to preserve Vincent van Gogh's legacy, with a modern-day art heist full of twists, secrets, and suspense. I learned so much about a fascinating piece of history that I had never known, which made the story all the more rewarding.
The writing is vivid and immersive, and every character feels authentic and fully realized. The emotional stakes are just as compelling as the mystery itself, making this much more than a fast-paced thriller. It's a story about art, legacy, courage, and the determination of women whose contributions have too often been overlooked.
My only disappointment was reaching the last page. I wasn't ready for the story to end and found myself wanting more time with these characters and this world. That's the mark of a truly exceptional novel.
I highly recommend The Parisian Heist to anyone who loves historical fiction, art, and stories that are as thought-provoking as they are impossible to put down.
August 22, 2026
This was my first Jo Piazza book, and it will definitely not be my last. I was honored enough to get to go to her signing for it.
It is clear that she did extensive research for this book, of which she weaves effortlessly into a fictional story. It felt mostly plausible and kept me engaged about 85% of the time. It is told in dual POV, Emma’s story (set in the 90s) and Claire (set in the time of Van Gogh). There were parts that dragged a bit for me, and I occasionally had to refresh myself on all the familial intertwinings. I love that this highlighted female friendship in a male dominated society, as well as a love of art. I found it very poignant that Jo realized her friendship with Claire was even more deeper for her than her marriage! I wondered if it was going to turn into something more, but would have been happy either way.
The world of art and finances are deeply explored in both the modern telling and the past. Ownership, theft, fraud, and art forgery are all major themes, especially in Emma’s story.
This book captured a lot of emotion including forgiveness, laughter, and love.
Now I’m just hoping Jo Piazza may take a dive into the world of Lempicka!
3.5 stars!
July 20, 2026
This book was fantastic! Enjoyed so much, kept me very engaged and while I always prefer more present-day over the flashback, I looked forward to both!
This is true historic fiction, there are a lot of details, a lot of art talk - I think you’d enjoy even if you don’t understand all of the references but likely would help gauge the gravity of some references.
If you haven’t read “Woman on Fire” by Lisa Barr, that was equally great and needs more attention!
This is true historic fiction, there are a lot of details, a lot of art talk - I think you’d enjoy even if you don’t understand all of the references but likely would help gauge the gravity of some references.
If you haven’t read “Woman on Fire” by Lisa Barr, that was equally great and needs more attention!
July 30, 2026
This read was really good. It was interesting and kept you on the edge of your seat!
July 14, 2026
Really enjoyed this dual timeline historical novel. In the late 1800s, it’s told from the perspective of a woman named Claire, who ends up becoming close friends with Jo Van Gogh, who is the late Vincent Van Gogh’s sister-in-law, and has taken up her late husband’s mission to try to promote Vincent’s art work, which at that time is worthless and not famous. And in the 1990s, it’s the perspective of Emma, who is an American art student in Paris. One of her jobs to make ends meet is cleaning the apartment of Stella Swanson, a rich old woman who is part of a famous art dealing family, and eventually enlists Emma to help protect her from certain members of the family. And yes, eventually there is a heist though I’d say this book is not primarily a mystery or thriller though character secrets abound.
There was so much to love about this one! I had never heard of Jo Van Gogh so I really enjoyed learning about her. But unlike some dual timelines, the present day story was just as good. I also loved being immersed in the art world in both stories and the descriptions of Van Gogh’s artwork. And of course the Paris setting (plus several places in the Netherlands) was great.
I’m a big fan of Jo Piazza’s, and one of the things that impress me so much about her books is that unlike some authors who just churn out books that follow the same formula, each of her books is so different! The biggest throughline is they always focus on strong woman, but she hops from genre to genre with ease. This one is most similar to The Sicilian Inheritance but also gives me vibes of books from other authors like The Girl You Left Behind by Jojo Moyes, Woman on Fire by Lisa Barr, and By Any Other Name by Jodi Picoult. So if you enjoyed any of those you might like this one, and vice versa.
Thanks to Dutton for my e-ARC; all opinions are my own.
There was so much to love about this one! I had never heard of Jo Van Gogh so I really enjoyed learning about her. But unlike some dual timelines, the present day story was just as good. I also loved being immersed in the art world in both stories and the descriptions of Van Gogh’s artwork. And of course the Paris setting (plus several places in the Netherlands) was great.
I’m a big fan of Jo Piazza’s, and one of the things that impress me so much about her books is that unlike some authors who just churn out books that follow the same formula, each of her books is so different! The biggest throughline is they always focus on strong woman, but she hops from genre to genre with ease. This one is most similar to The Sicilian Inheritance but also gives me vibes of books from other authors like The Girl You Left Behind by Jojo Moyes, Woman on Fire by Lisa Barr, and By Any Other Name by Jodi Picoult. So if you enjoyed any of those you might like this one, and vice versa.
Thanks to Dutton for my e-ARC; all opinions are my own.
July 29, 2026
maybe 3.5 - very much van gogh x oceans11. i discovered two things reading this. 1) i don’t love historical fiction that tries to recreate real people and 2) pedestrian is a very underrated insult
July 22, 2026
I wonder if I would’ve liked this book more had I read it. I just really struggled with the whiny voices of the readers for the audiobook making the ladies sound rather insufferable.
August 7, 2026
4.25 ⭐️
The Parisian Heist was one of my most anticipated books of the summer, especially after loving Jo Piazza’s Everyone Is Lying to You and The Sicilian Inheritance, and this one officially sealed the deal for me. I just really enjoy the way she tells a story.
This is a dual-timeline historical fiction/mystery set deep in the art world. The historical timeline centers around Jo Van Gogh, Vincent Van Gogh’s sister-in-law, who was left a young widow after the deaths of both Vincent and her husband, Theo. With hundreds of Vincent’s paintings largely dismissed by the art world, she made it her mission to establish his legacy. We all know Vincent van Gogh, but I knew very little about the woman who played such an important role in making sure the world knew his work. This was easily one of my favorite aspects of the book.
The other timeline follows Emma, a struggling American artist in Paris who finds herself pulled into the world of an incredibly wealthy and powerful art-dealing family. This side brings in the mystery, family secrets, money and intrigue.
I know very little about art or art history, and I still found all of this fascinating. You definitely have to suspend disbelief at times, particularly in the contemporary storyline, but when I’m invested in a story and it’s being told well, I’m happy to roll with it.
I tandem read this using the signed physical copy I picked up when I saw Jo Piazza at Thunder Road Books and the audiobook from Libro.fm. The audio, with two narrators, was excellent, although I surprisingly found myself preferring print for this one.
One little tidbit from Jo’s author talk was learning why the “present-day” storyline is set in 1996. She wanted it to take place before everyone had a smartphone in their pocket because watching a character simply Google the answers to everything wouldn’t make for a particularly interesting mystery. Such a smart choice, and one I appreciated even more after hearing her explain it.
Historical fiction, mystery, art-world intrigue and a fascinating piece of real history I knew very little about. This was a win for me and one I’d definitely recommend.
Thank you to NetGalley for the early digital copy.
The Parisian Heist was one of my most anticipated books of the summer, especially after loving Jo Piazza’s Everyone Is Lying to You and The Sicilian Inheritance, and this one officially sealed the deal for me. I just really enjoy the way she tells a story.
This is a dual-timeline historical fiction/mystery set deep in the art world. The historical timeline centers around Jo Van Gogh, Vincent Van Gogh’s sister-in-law, who was left a young widow after the deaths of both Vincent and her husband, Theo. With hundreds of Vincent’s paintings largely dismissed by the art world, she made it her mission to establish his legacy. We all know Vincent van Gogh, but I knew very little about the woman who played such an important role in making sure the world knew his work. This was easily one of my favorite aspects of the book.
The other timeline follows Emma, a struggling American artist in Paris who finds herself pulled into the world of an incredibly wealthy and powerful art-dealing family. This side brings in the mystery, family secrets, money and intrigue.
I know very little about art or art history, and I still found all of this fascinating. You definitely have to suspend disbelief at times, particularly in the contemporary storyline, but when I’m invested in a story and it’s being told well, I’m happy to roll with it.
I tandem read this using the signed physical copy I picked up when I saw Jo Piazza at Thunder Road Books and the audiobook from Libro.fm. The audio, with two narrators, was excellent, although I surprisingly found myself preferring print for this one.
One little tidbit from Jo’s author talk was learning why the “present-day” storyline is set in 1996. She wanted it to take place before everyone had a smartphone in their pocket because watching a character simply Google the answers to everything wouldn’t make for a particularly interesting mystery. Such a smart choice, and one I appreciated even more after hearing her explain it.
Historical fiction, mystery, art-world intrigue and a fascinating piece of real history I knew very little about. This was a win for me and one I’d definitely recommend.
Thank you to NetGalley for the early digital copy.
August 20, 2026
The Parisian Heist is an enjoyable, fast-paced mystery weaving together art, forgery, power, and greed across two timelines with strong female leads and a few unexpected twists. I especially enjoyed the historical storyline and would have loved more depth around Jo Van Gogh and her role in shaping Vincent’s legacy.
August 6, 2026
3.5 stars rounded up..........This is a dual time-line book of intrigue, betrayal, friendship and art, all on the magical streets of Paris. Vincent Van Gogh's Sunflower painting weave together 1891 and 1996 Emma and Claire both battling male-centric art standards of their time. I listened to this on audio and had a dazzling and daring time. Read this if you like art history, family secrets and Parisian ambience with an Ocean's Eleven type caper. It is captivating and entertaining.
July 20, 2026
The Parisian Heist 🖼️
Thank you, Dutton Books & PRH Audio, for the #gifted copy of this book { #prhaudiopartner }
Genre: Historical
Format: 🎧📖
Pub Date: 7.14.2026
Pages: 416
Star Rating: ☆☆☆
I think I’m going to be in the minority on The Parisian Heist but that’s okay because not every book is for every reader 🤪
Unfortunately, the biggest issue I had with the book is the dual timeline. I really did not get anything out of the chapters told from Claire’s perspective. Based on the synopsis of this book, I was expecting the past chapters to be told from the perspective of Jo Van Gogh but instead we hear from a character there felt very one dimensional and I truly dreaded having to read those chapters for that reason.
Then the art heist didn’t actually feel like an art heist? Sure, there is one particular chapter where they do steal the paintings but it felt very quick and glossed over. I was expecting something similar to Oceans 11 where there was a lot more intrigue to that part of the story.
I also felt like the characters from the current time were also one dimensional and that there would’ve been a lot more added to the story and we also heard from Emma’s two closest friends as well.
Audiobook Review: ☆☆☆
The audiobook is narrater by Brittany Pressley (who narrates Emma’s POV) and Allyson Ryan (who narrates Claire’s POV). Pressley, as expected, did a wonderful job bringing her character’s perspective to live but Ryan’s narration style grated on my nerves. It added to the already slow nature of the story and I felt like I constantly needed to adjust my volume to hear what she was saying.
Read if you enjoy:
✌🏼 Dual timeline & POV
🐌 Slow pacing
🎨 Art history
😳 Complicated family dynamics
I recommend reading The Parisian Heist if you’re looking for a slow paced storyline that is rich with art history.
_____
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Thank you, Dutton Books & PRH Audio, for the #gifted copy of this book { #prhaudiopartner }
Genre: Historical
Format: 🎧📖
Pub Date: 7.14.2026
Pages: 416
Star Rating: ☆☆☆
I think I’m going to be in the minority on The Parisian Heist but that’s okay because not every book is for every reader 🤪
Unfortunately, the biggest issue I had with the book is the dual timeline. I really did not get anything out of the chapters told from Claire’s perspective. Based on the synopsis of this book, I was expecting the past chapters to be told from the perspective of Jo Van Gogh but instead we hear from a character there felt very one dimensional and I truly dreaded having to read those chapters for that reason.
Then the art heist didn’t actually feel like an art heist? Sure, there is one particular chapter where they do steal the paintings but it felt very quick and glossed over. I was expecting something similar to Oceans 11 where there was a lot more intrigue to that part of the story.
I also felt like the characters from the current time were also one dimensional and that there would’ve been a lot more added to the story and we also heard from Emma’s two closest friends as well.
Audiobook Review: ☆☆☆
The audiobook is narrater by Brittany Pressley (who narrates Emma’s POV) and Allyson Ryan (who narrates Claire’s POV). Pressley, as expected, did a wonderful job bringing her character’s perspective to live but Ryan’s narration style grated on my nerves. It added to the already slow nature of the story and I felt like I constantly needed to adjust my volume to hear what she was saying.
Read if you enjoy:
✌🏼 Dual timeline & POV
🐌 Slow pacing
🎨 Art history
😳 Complicated family dynamics
I recommend reading The Parisian Heist if you’re looking for a slow paced storyline that is rich with art history.
_____
Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chaptersofc...
Follow me on Goodreads:https://www.goodreads.com/chaptersofc...
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July 31, 2026
I'm frustrated by book reviews that complain about a book for being what it is. For example, "This book was too YA." (Well, it's a YA story, so that's not the book's problem.) "I don't like poetry." (Well, this is a book a poetry, so maybe you shouldn't have read it.) I preface my thoughts this way because I often go into a book with very little details about the story, because I have had too many books spoiled by a summary that gives details from halfway through the book! So for The Parisian Heist I was expecting: an Oceans-11 type heist, a glitzy Paris setting, and some historic details about Van Gogh.
Yes, this is a book set in Paris, and yes, stolen art is in the story, but I think my biggest struggle was expecting this to be a HEIST. Ultimately, I found the title to be misleading. There is family political maneuvering, but I think DECEPTION would have been a better word than HEIST. From a brief glance at the summary it seemed like the historical timeline would be from Jo Van Gogh's perspective, and while it followed her, the narrator was not a historical figure. Yes, I know this is often used in historical fiction books, but again, I was surprised. And finally, aside from being told "1996" once on the very first page (and since I was listening, I was unable to flip back and check), it was not at all obvious that this world was set in the 90s. There were a few references to wealthy people with giant flip phones, but because of the nature of the characters and their positions, the "modern day" timeline didn't feel dramatically different from present day.
So all that to say, this wasn't my favorite book, and yet I was engaged enough to keep listening. In part I kept hoping for a big twist that I didn't see coming, but on the whole I found the twists relatively predicable and perhaps a little too coincidental.
Yes, this is a book set in Paris, and yes, stolen art is in the story, but I think my biggest struggle was expecting this to be a HEIST. Ultimately, I found the title to be misleading. There is family political maneuvering, but I think DECEPTION would have been a better word than HEIST. From a brief glance at the summary it seemed like the historical timeline would be from Jo Van Gogh's perspective, and while it followed her, the narrator was not a historical figure. Yes, I know this is often used in historical fiction books, but again, I was surprised. And finally, aside from being told "1996" once on the very first page (and since I was listening, I was unable to flip back and check), it was not at all obvious that this world was set in the 90s. There were a few references to wealthy people with giant flip phones, but because of the nature of the characters and their positions, the "modern day" timeline didn't feel dramatically different from present day.
So all that to say, this wasn't my favorite book, and yet I was engaged enough to keep listening. In part I kept hoping for a big twist that I didn't see coming, but on the whole I found the twists relatively predicable and perhaps a little too coincidental.
July 6, 2026
The Parisian Heist by Jo Piazza is a dual timeline story of “the art world, family secrets, betrayal, power, and the legacy of art”. In the 1800’s, Jo Van Gogh, the sister-in-law of Vincent Van Gogh, tells the fascinating forgotten story of her work to cement his legacy after his death. And in 1996, Emma is a struggling American art student who takes a job cleaning the house of a billionaire art-dealing family with dark secrets connected to the Van Gogh family.
I really like the concept of this novel. I am a huge fan of historical fiction, especially books that highlight forgotten women in history who attempt to make it in a man’s world. I enjoyed reading about the incredible efforts of Jo Van Gogh in securing Vincent Van Gogh’s legacy. I also enjoy a clever art heist story. However I felt that the novel was too ambitious in trying to weave those two storylines together. I thought the author relied on too many improbable twists of fate to connect the past and present storylines. Overall the novel itself may not have resonated with me, but I really enjoyed reading the author’s note, especially the extensive research she did on Jo Van Gogh, and the fantastic travel in support of her story 2.75/5 ⭐️
Thank you to NetGalley and Dutton Books for an advanced reader copy in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.
I really like the concept of this novel. I am a huge fan of historical fiction, especially books that highlight forgotten women in history who attempt to make it in a man’s world. I enjoyed reading about the incredible efforts of Jo Van Gogh in securing Vincent Van Gogh’s legacy. I also enjoy a clever art heist story. However I felt that the novel was too ambitious in trying to weave those two storylines together. I thought the author relied on too many improbable twists of fate to connect the past and present storylines. Overall the novel itself may not have resonated with me, but I really enjoyed reading the author’s note, especially the extensive research she did on Jo Van Gogh, and the fantastic travel in support of her story 2.75/5 ⭐️
Thank you to NetGalley and Dutton Books for an advanced reader copy in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.
June 5, 2026
Giveaway winner! Fantastic book and will probably listen on audio book when it comes out to listen to the proper pronunciation and French accents.
July 21, 2026
The Parisian Heist is a dual-timeline mystery set in the art world, and it is an absolute masterpiece that I will thinking about for a long time. In the present day, Emma is a struggling artist studying in Paris. When she loses her scholarship, she begins cleaning houses, and one just happened to belong to Stella Swanson, the widow of a notorious art dealer. As she gets drawn deep into Stella’s world and all of the power and luxury it comes with, it becomes unclear whether she is a player in the family’s power game, or just a pawn.
Back in the 1800s, we meet Jo van Gogh, the sister-in-law of the late Vincent Van Gogh, who has inherited hundreds of his paintings before anyone knew who he was. As a widow with a young son struggling to survive, she takes up the mantle of her late husband Theo, striving to finally give Vincent and his art the recognition deserved. But are the people she relies on most hiding something from her?
As both storylines converge, Jo becomes unnaturally obsessed with Vincent’s work, and Emma continues to uncover the dark secrets of the Swanson family, leading to a daring art heist inside the Musée de Orsay. Both women, living years apart, refuse to stand by and accept what life has handed them, no matter the cost.
This was one of the most fascinating novels I’ve read this year. I find art, and the history behind it, fascinating but have never really taken a deep dive into that world. I knew a bit about Vincent van Gogh’s work and life, but this book made history come rushing to life, while also bringing to light the captivating new-to-me story of Jo van Gogh, who is now someone I’ll never forget.
The art and the history in this novel were so well researched, it made me interested to learn more on my own. And the dual mysteries in dual timelines were woven together exquisitely. Rather than being drawn more to one story than the other, I was equally mesmerized by them both.
Mystery, betrayal, art, luxury, history, secrecy, romance, and brave women across centuries who you can’t help rooting for? Say less! There’s something in it for everyone, and if that wasn’t enticing enough, it also made Paris come alive in a way that was unreal, especially considering I have never been in real life.
While this was my first novel by Jo Piazza, it definitely won’t be my last. You can find me diving into her backlist while I eagerly await whatever she writes next!
Thank you to Dutton Books, Jo Piazza, and NetGalley for the ARC of this luxurious summer adventure. I already want to go back and read it again!
Back in the 1800s, we meet Jo van Gogh, the sister-in-law of the late Vincent Van Gogh, who has inherited hundreds of his paintings before anyone knew who he was. As a widow with a young son struggling to survive, she takes up the mantle of her late husband Theo, striving to finally give Vincent and his art the recognition deserved. But are the people she relies on most hiding something from her?
As both storylines converge, Jo becomes unnaturally obsessed with Vincent’s work, and Emma continues to uncover the dark secrets of the Swanson family, leading to a daring art heist inside the Musée de Orsay. Both women, living years apart, refuse to stand by and accept what life has handed them, no matter the cost.
This was one of the most fascinating novels I’ve read this year. I find art, and the history behind it, fascinating but have never really taken a deep dive into that world. I knew a bit about Vincent van Gogh’s work and life, but this book made history come rushing to life, while also bringing to light the captivating new-to-me story of Jo van Gogh, who is now someone I’ll never forget.
The art and the history in this novel were so well researched, it made me interested to learn more on my own. And the dual mysteries in dual timelines were woven together exquisitely. Rather than being drawn more to one story than the other, I was equally mesmerized by them both.
Mystery, betrayal, art, luxury, history, secrecy, romance, and brave women across centuries who you can’t help rooting for? Say less! There’s something in it for everyone, and if that wasn’t enticing enough, it also made Paris come alive in a way that was unreal, especially considering I have never been in real life.
While this was my first novel by Jo Piazza, it definitely won’t be my last. You can find me diving into her backlist while I eagerly await whatever she writes next!
Thank you to Dutton Books, Jo Piazza, and NetGalley for the ARC of this luxurious summer adventure. I already want to go back and read it again!
July 11, 2026
The Parisian Heist is the perfect pick for any lover of post-impressionist art looking for a hint of mystery and adventure in their next read. This dual timeline, alternating POV novel revolves around the stories of our two female leading ladies. We have Emma, a young American (from Philly!!) who is studying art at the most renowned Parisian institute. However, when her scholarship suddenly falls through, she’s left unmoored. But.. all is not lost as she forms a friendship with the stunning Stella Swanson. Stella has a plan requiring Emma’s commitment to ensure its success, with the hope that each of these women can obtain her happy ending. Our other historical timeline follows Claire, a young woman in non-ideal circumstances who befriends Jo van Gogh. Claire aides Jo in promoting and displaying the genius of Vincent van Gogh, her late brother-in-law. However, the circumstances around Claire’s involvement aren’t entirely selfless or happenstance. You’ll have to buy the book on July 14 to find out the rest!!
Things I absolutely loved about this novel: the philly references (shout out to the Philadelphia Museum of Art - my favorite art institute in the country), the various women’s persistence to achieve and help one another to accomplish their dreams, the entire narrative about Jo Van Gogh who I sadly never knew existed. You can easily tell how much research and time Jo Piazza put into constructing this novel, from the dual plot developments and intersections to the historical facts around Jo van Gogh’s dedication to achieve post-humorous recognition for Vincent’s works. My only knock is the progression; the plot developments was a tad slow for me at times. I wanted more action, more quickly.
Overall, a very enjoyable, intelligently constructed read. You’ll learn a lot while having fun!!
Things I absolutely loved about this novel: the philly references (shout out to the Philadelphia Museum of Art - my favorite art institute in the country), the various women’s persistence to achieve and help one another to accomplish their dreams, the entire narrative about Jo Van Gogh who I sadly never knew existed. You can easily tell how much research and time Jo Piazza put into constructing this novel, from the dual plot developments and intersections to the historical facts around Jo van Gogh’s dedication to achieve post-humorous recognition for Vincent’s works. My only knock is the progression; the plot developments was a tad slow for me at times. I wanted more action, more quickly.
Overall, a very enjoyable, intelligently constructed read. You’ll learn a lot while having fun!!
July 16, 2026
4.5🎨🖼️
Well, this one was just fun!
The story moves between 1990s Paris, where struggling artist Emma gets pulled into the powerful and very complicated Swanson art empire, and the late 1800s, where Jo van Gogh is fighting to convince the world that her brother-in-law Vincent’s paintings have value. I knew very little about Jo van Gogh and the huge role she played in preserving Vincent’s legacy, so I found that entire storyline fascinating.
I loved how the two stories gradually connected. There is greed, betrayal, forgery, friendship, and a group of determined women who refuse to let powerful people erase them from the story. It is smart and suspenseful, but it also has plenty of heart. Once the actual heist began, I was completely invested.
I wanted just a little more development from a couple of the relationships, which is the only thing keeping this from a full five stars. But this was such an entertaining read, and getting to meet Jo Piazza at her book launch made the whole experience even more fun. Definitely one I’ll be recommending.
Well, this one was just fun!
The story moves between 1990s Paris, where struggling artist Emma gets pulled into the powerful and very complicated Swanson art empire, and the late 1800s, where Jo van Gogh is fighting to convince the world that her brother-in-law Vincent’s paintings have value. I knew very little about Jo van Gogh and the huge role she played in preserving Vincent’s legacy, so I found that entire storyline fascinating.
I loved how the two stories gradually connected. There is greed, betrayal, forgery, friendship, and a group of determined women who refuse to let powerful people erase them from the story. It is smart and suspenseful, but it also has plenty of heart. Once the actual heist began, I was completely invested.
I wanted just a little more development from a couple of the relationships, which is the only thing keeping this from a full five stars. But this was such an entertaining read, and getting to meet Jo Piazza at her book launch made the whole experience even more fun. Definitely one I’ll be recommending.
July 17, 2026
Dual timelines always seem to draw me in, and The Parisian Heist does this well, moving between Paris in the mid-1990s and the late 1800s. Add in strong female characters—particularly historical women who were so overlooked in their time—and I was more than ready to dive in.
The novel follows a group of starving artists in Paris who are attending art school on scholarship until their funding mysteriously ends without notice. As they scramble to find odd jobs and figure out how to pay for another year of school, Emma begins cleaning the apartment of Stella Swanson, a member of one of the world’s most powerful art-dealing families. The alternating timeline takes us back to the late 1800s and follows Claire, a prostitute turned friend and assistant to Jo van Gogh, Vincent van Gogh’s sister-in-law, who was left with his then-worthless art collection after his death.
Moving between Paris, the Netherlands, and America—and from castles, islands, and museums to brothels and beyond—The Parisian Heist kept me up late reading “one more chapter,” eager to see how everything unfolded. The first half may have been a touch too long, but the story still kept me hooked. I loved the art, the stories behind Vincent, and the connection to the modern art world. 4.5 stars.
The novel follows a group of starving artists in Paris who are attending art school on scholarship until their funding mysteriously ends without notice. As they scramble to find odd jobs and figure out how to pay for another year of school, Emma begins cleaning the apartment of Stella Swanson, a member of one of the world’s most powerful art-dealing families. The alternating timeline takes us back to the late 1800s and follows Claire, a prostitute turned friend and assistant to Jo van Gogh, Vincent van Gogh’s sister-in-law, who was left with his then-worthless art collection after his death.
Moving between Paris, the Netherlands, and America—and from castles, islands, and museums to brothels and beyond—The Parisian Heist kept me up late reading “one more chapter,” eager to see how everything unfolded. The first half may have been a touch too long, but the story still kept me hooked. I loved the art, the stories behind Vincent, and the connection to the modern art world. 4.5 stars.
July 19, 2026
Jo Piazza's "The Parisian Heist" stands out as a captivating fusion of historical fiction and art mystery, a truly compelling read that prompts reflection on the enduring power of resilience and creative spirit. Piazza expertly weaves a dual timeline narrative, drawing readers into the lives of Emma, a daring artist unafraid to confront the darker corners of the art world, and Jo Van Gogh, a lesser-known pioneer credited with illuminating Van Gogh’s masterpieces. The novel masterfully balances intrigue and complexity, with each chapter ending in a cliffhanger that beckons continued exploration.
What makes this book particularly thought-provoking is its portrayal of strong female characters navigating and reshaping the art landscape, demonstrating resilience and ingenuity. The mystery itself is layered and meticulously crafted, encouraging readers to consider the intersections of history, artistry, and identity. As I raced through its pages, I found myself pondering the enduring impact of art and the stories behind it.
"The Parisian Heist" is more than just an engaging story—it is a reflection on the transformative power of creativity and courage. It's a book that challenges readers to think deeply about the legacies we leave behind and the unseen efforts of those who shape our cultural history. Without hesitation, I can say this is one of my top ten reads of the year—an achievement that speaks volumes about its lasting impression and the provocative questions it raises.
What makes this book particularly thought-provoking is its portrayal of strong female characters navigating and reshaping the art landscape, demonstrating resilience and ingenuity. The mystery itself is layered and meticulously crafted, encouraging readers to consider the intersections of history, artistry, and identity. As I raced through its pages, I found myself pondering the enduring impact of art and the stories behind it.
"The Parisian Heist" is more than just an engaging story—it is a reflection on the transformative power of creativity and courage. It's a book that challenges readers to think deeply about the legacies we leave behind and the unseen efforts of those who shape our cultural history. Without hesitation, I can say this is one of my top ten reads of the year—an achievement that speaks volumes about its lasting impression and the provocative questions it raises.
July 31, 2026
I think the thing I loved the most was learning about Van Gogh’s real life, and especially about Jo Van Gogh. Jo Piazza did an incredible amount of research into the art world at that time. Her journalistic side absolutely shows. As does her feminist side. She is a champion of women and of telling the u told stories of women who were otherwise marginalized or diminished because of circumstance or history.
July 17, 2026
Interesting premise and setting, but the novel itself was lackluster. The random f-words and explicit spice vignettes were sparse but jarring. Not what I expect in normal historical fiction novels. I finished this book because I wanted to know how it ended, but wouldn’t rave about it.
July 20, 2026
Likely somewhere in the mid 4's for me but inflating this rating a bit because I've met Jo Piazza and she's like really cool.
Overall this book was a win. The book follows a similar formula to Sicilian Inheritance and I love the peek into history combined with a twisty modern conflict to digest.
I loved so many of the characters in this book and it truly has inspired me to set off on a Jo Van Gogh awareness tour.
Overall this book was a win. The book follows a similar formula to Sicilian Inheritance and I love the peek into history combined with a twisty modern conflict to digest.
I loved so many of the characters in this book and it truly has inspired me to set off on a Jo Van Gogh awareness tour.
August 4, 2026
If you are a fan of Jo Piazza, impressionist art, Paris, the Philly MoA, girl power, good vs evil you will love this book. It was a page turner. The build up was long but not boring or drawn out. The heist and bust happened quickly in the end but I was happy with the ending.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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