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Thirteen Perfect Fugitives: The True Story of the Mob, Murder, and the World's Largest Art Heist
The true story of the world's largest art heist, as told by the FBI agent who investigated the case.
On March 18, 1990, thirteen works of art were plucked from the walls of the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum in Boston by two subjects posing as police officers. They rang the night bell, claiming they were responding to a call of a disturbance. After incapacitating the guard and his partner with handcuffs and duct tape, the subjects spent the next eighty-one minutes inside the museum, leisurely removing some of the world's most valuable pieces of artwork from the walls, including a rare Vermeer and Rembrandt's only known seascape. The total loss associated with this robbery has been estimated at over $1 billion.
Based on meticulous investigations conducted to the standards required of an FBI special agent, Thirteen Perfect Fugitives offers author Geoffrey Kelly's insights and theories about the infamous heist.
On March 18, 1990, thirteen works of art were plucked from the walls of the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum in Boston by two subjects posing as police officers. They rang the night bell, claiming they were responding to a call of a disturbance. After incapacitating the guard and his partner with handcuffs and duct tape, the subjects spent the next eighty-one minutes inside the museum, leisurely removing some of the world's most valuable pieces of artwork from the walls, including a rare Vermeer and Rembrandt's only known seascape. The total loss associated with this robbery has been estimated at over $1 billion.
Based on meticulous investigations conducted to the standards required of an FBI special agent, Thirteen Perfect Fugitives offers author Geoffrey Kelly's insights and theories about the infamous heist.
386 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 10, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 75 reviews
July 23, 2026
This was a really interesting read! The Gardner Museum heist has been a fascinating story since it happened decades ago and this book provides incredible insight into the investigation and behind the scenes work of the FBI, as well as always intriguing insight into the mob world. The author is honest about some of the frustrations, fears and heartbreak of inheriting a cold case, working it for 22 years and never locating his 13 “fugitives”. It is a well-told and compelling story and he does a good job of reminding us who all the characters are but I still would’ve benefited from a cheat sheet list in the back of the book to consult from time to time! At first I was concerned his personality and “wit” was going to annoy me but either I got used to it or he won me over. Definitely recommend this book to anyone who has an interest in this crime!
March 16, 2026
Thirteen Perfect Fugitives tells the fascinating true crime story of the art heist of the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum in Boston on March 18,1990. Written by the FBI agent who headed up the case for many years, this narrative nonfiction reads like a gripping true crime podcast in long form. I listened to the audiobook, which is read by the author, and thoroughly enjoyed his insider look at the FBI inner workings and investigations over the years. I was also so intrigued by the mob and the details surrounding their involvement in the heist… it’s truly like it was scripted for a movie!
Heist Society by Ally Carter is a book that I read as a teenager that shaped who I am as a reader & influenced my interest in art heists and true crime today. When visiting art museums, I can’t help but imagine what kind of security and lasers are in place to protect the art and how a thief might plan and execute a heist. I’m also planning on visiting Boston later this year and am definitely adding the Isabella Stewart Garnder Museum to my list of places to visit. All of these factors led to my interest in reading this book & it delivered- it was fascinating!
Although the timeline was confusing at times and all of the different mob criminals were hard to keep track of (so many Bobbys!), the author did a good job of reminding us who was who by referencing back to previous details mentioned about them. The author writes about a massive and convoluted case spanning 36 years with clarity and brevity sprinkled with wry humor and wit.
This book released on March 10, 2026 and the audiobook releases tomorrow, March 17th- perfect timing with the 36th anniversary of the heist on the 18th! Thank you to Net Galley and Highbridge Audio for the ARC of this audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
Heist Society by Ally Carter is a book that I read as a teenager that shaped who I am as a reader & influenced my interest in art heists and true crime today. When visiting art museums, I can’t help but imagine what kind of security and lasers are in place to protect the art and how a thief might plan and execute a heist. I’m also planning on visiting Boston later this year and am definitely adding the Isabella Stewart Garnder Museum to my list of places to visit. All of these factors led to my interest in reading this book & it delivered- it was fascinating!
Although the timeline was confusing at times and all of the different mob criminals were hard to keep track of (so many Bobbys!), the author did a good job of reminding us who was who by referencing back to previous details mentioned about them. The author writes about a massive and convoluted case spanning 36 years with clarity and brevity sprinkled with wry humor and wit.
This book released on March 10, 2026 and the audiobook releases tomorrow, March 17th- perfect timing with the 36th anniversary of the heist on the 18th! Thank you to Net Galley and Highbridge Audio for the ARC of this audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
September 11, 2026
The book was extremely detailed oriented. The writer/FBI agent was very thorough. But still no resolution to the theft. Book tedious.
April 17, 2026
Rounded up from 4.5 ⭐.
This was such an interesting story about the Gardner Museum Heist and how the mob is possibly (probably) tied to it in some way. I cannot imagine what Geoffrey Kelly feels about the whole situation, This was really well written and very informative and in depth. It was super interesting to read it from a retired FBI officer who actually worked the case!
This was such an interesting story about the Gardner Museum Heist and how the mob is possibly (probably) tied to it in some way. I cannot imagine what Geoffrey Kelly feels about the whole situation, This was really well written and very informative and in depth. It was super interesting to read it from a retired FBI officer who actually worked the case!
March 11, 2026
On the night of 18 March 1990, two police officers were admitted to the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum in Boston claiming to be responding to a callout. Both guards were tied up & deposited in separate rooms in the basement & the fake officers then spent almost 90 minutes removing thirteen pieces of artwork from the walls.
The author is one of many FBI agents who have worked on the case over the years, but he has probably worked on it the longest. The probable thieves are believed to have been identified (most are now dead & the statute of limitations ran out years ago anyway) but the works of art have never been found. Yet.
I really enjoyed this one. Having visited the museum in the early 2000s it was a case that has been in the back of my mind for a while. The book is an informative look at the behind-the-scenes of an FBI investigation alongside a snapshot of the author's life in law enforcement. It's written in a conversational style & has a wry (& sometimes irreverent) humour which I much appreciated. If there is a flaw, it's that the timeline is a little chaotic. Overall though, this is an engrossing read & I recommend it to anyone who enjoys true crime books. 4.5 stars (rounded down)
SUMMARY:
Research: Excellent - behind the scenes look at an FBI investigation.
Writing Style: Very Good - conversational in tone with a wry humour I appreciated. Timeline was a little chaotic.
Enjoyment Level: High - Even more entertaining than I envisaged.
My thanks to NetGalley & publishers, Post Hill Press, for the opportunity to read an ARC.
The author is one of many FBI agents who have worked on the case over the years, but he has probably worked on it the longest. The probable thieves are believed to have been identified (most are now dead & the statute of limitations ran out years ago anyway) but the works of art have never been found. Yet.
I really enjoyed this one. Having visited the museum in the early 2000s it was a case that has been in the back of my mind for a while. The book is an informative look at the behind-the-scenes of an FBI investigation alongside a snapshot of the author's life in law enforcement. It's written in a conversational style & has a wry (& sometimes irreverent) humour which I much appreciated. If there is a flaw, it's that the timeline is a little chaotic. Overall though, this is an engrossing read & I recommend it to anyone who enjoys true crime books. 4.5 stars (rounded down)
SUMMARY:
Research: Excellent - behind the scenes look at an FBI investigation.
Writing Style: Very Good - conversational in tone with a wry humour I appreciated. Timeline was a little chaotic.
Enjoyment Level: High - Even more entertaining than I envisaged.
My thanks to NetGalley & publishers, Post Hill Press, for the opportunity to read an ARC.
June 6, 2026
This was a fun read about the Isabella Stewart Gardener Museum heist in March 1990. We happened to live in Boston when it happened which heightened the interest for me. And having followed the periodic updates on the search for the artwork, it was fascinating to follow the process from the inside as Mr. Kelly (the author) was the FBI agent in charge for many years.
This is an amazing story. Some of the mafia / family connections were a little hard for me to follow from time to time, but that was the nature of the situation ... complicated. We visited the museum in 2023 and even without some of the great artworks, it is still a beautiful museum. I'm hopeful that one of Mr. Kelly's successors will eventually uncover the stolen art.
This is an amazing story. Some of the mafia / family connections were a little hard for me to follow from time to time, but that was the nature of the situation ... complicated. We visited the museum in 2023 and even without some of the great artworks, it is still a beautiful museum. I'm hopeful that one of Mr. Kelly's successors will eventually uncover the stolen art.
November 6, 2026
I read a fiction novel earlier this year about the heist at the Gardner museum, so I was so surprised when I chose this book thinking it was going to be about actual fugitives. :) I was so excited that this book was about something that I had so recently read about. It was also nice to get some closure on thoughts I had from just some internet searching. I thought this was well-written and the pace of the book was engaging and I never felt like I was being lectured to. Just so well-done.
March 13, 2026
This true procedural crime novel written by the FBI agent that tackled this case was informative and interesting. The author walks you through the detailed account of the world’s largest art heist that happened in Boston at the Stewart Gardner Museum on March 18, 1990. Thirteen works of art were stolen and have never surfaced. Kelly walks you through his grueling investigation and theories of who committed the heist and where the art could be hidden.
Thank you NetGalley and RBMedia for the advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review. #NetGalley #ThirteenPerfectFugitives #RBMedia @RBMedia
Thank you NetGalley and RBMedia for the advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review. #NetGalley #ThirteenPerfectFugitives #RBMedia @RBMedia
September 19, 2026
A fascinating read concerning the investigation of the Gardner Museum theft. It should serve as the definitive case study.
June 27, 2026
Not very readable (way too many unrelated FBI stories and irrelevant asides!) but good information about how the theft went down and the mob connections can be found in the 350 pages. It's deeply unfortunate that, given the bumbling that occurred among the thieves and their relatively crude attempts to monetize the pieces, the art has never been found. Like the author however, I hold out hope that the pieces are still out there and will turn up unexpectedly, somewhere, sometime...
August 16, 2026
A detailed, thorough novel of the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum heist and the FBI agent who ran the case for a long time. A fantastic read - and it opens the viewers eyes into key details of the case. You gain a newfound perspective on how tough the FBI’s job can be. If you know of this heist and want to learn more, or don’t know about this heist and want to learn about it, I highly recommend this book!
May 9, 2026
This was a fascinating read for me because I recognized so many of the places. At the same time it was a bit scary to realize there is a whole other world around me that I am mostly oblivious to! The timeline was sometimes confusing but that is to be expected in an investigation that branches out so many different directions. There were also a LOT of people to keep track of but the author managed to help follow that pretty well. It was a very interesting look into the FBI and the mob world.
August 14, 2026
Mixed feelings. The subject matter is fascinating and I learned a ton about the case. The writing was overwrought and pretentious and filled with unnecessary self-congratulatory asides.
Example - in the middle of recounting the search of a suspect’s home, the author tells the story of how he once pranked his fellow agents by shouting “BINGO” upon the discovery of a bingo card. This is the kind of mildly amusing anecdote that would get a polite “heh” from his friends but should have been ruthlessly removed by his editor. (If he had one; the book is far too long for the material.)
Example - in the middle of recounting the search of a suspect’s home, the author tells the story of how he once pranked his fellow agents by shouting “BINGO” upon the discovery of a bingo card. This is the kind of mildly amusing anecdote that would get a polite “heh” from his friends but should have been ruthlessly removed by his editor. (If he had one; the book is far too long for the material.)
March 12, 2026
Thirteen Perfect Fugitives offers a fascinating insider perspective on one of the most infamous unsolved art crimes in history: the 1990 Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum heist. Hearing the story from Geoffrey Kelly, the FBI agent who led the investigation, gives the tale an added level of authenticity. The audiobook format works particularly well here since Kelly narrates it himself, and his firsthand experience brings credibility to the twists, turns, and dead ends of the investigation.
Overall, I found the case itself incredibly interesting, especially because the theft remains unsolved to this day. However, the pacing sometimes felt uneven. Certain sections of the book were drawn out more than necessary, and a few moments felt like tangents that pulled the focus away from the central story of the investigation.
Still, for readers interested in true crime, art history, or the Gardner Museum heist specifically, this audiobook provides an engaging behind-the-scenes look at the complexities of investigating a case that continues to puzzle authorities more than thirty years later.
Thank you to Geoffrey Kelly, Highbridge Audio, and NetGalley for an advanced copy of the audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
Overall, I found the case itself incredibly interesting, especially because the theft remains unsolved to this day. However, the pacing sometimes felt uneven. Certain sections of the book were drawn out more than necessary, and a few moments felt like tangents that pulled the focus away from the central story of the investigation.
Still, for readers interested in true crime, art history, or the Gardner Museum heist specifically, this audiobook provides an engaging behind-the-scenes look at the complexities of investigating a case that continues to puzzle authorities more than thirty years later.
Thank you to Geoffrey Kelly, Highbridge Audio, and NetGalley for an advanced copy of the audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
March 13, 2026
Where to Watch: available now, order your copy here: https://amzn.to/40MLyQK
RAVING REVIEW: Few crimes have captured the imagination of investigators, historians, and true crime readers quite like the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum heist. In the early hours of March 18, 1990, two men disguised as police officers walked into the Boston Museum, subdued the guards, and proceeded to remove thirteen priceless works of art. Within eighty-one minutes, they disappeared back into the night, leaving behind empty frames and what would become the largest art theft in modern history. THIRTEEN PERFECT FUGITIVES approaches that story from a perspective rarely offered to the public, the investigator who spent more than two decades trying to solve it.
Geoffrey Kelly isn’t just recounting a famous crime. He lived inside the investigation. As the FBI’s lead agent on the case for twenty-two years, Kelly followed thousands of leads, met with informants, questioned suspected mob associates, and chased rumors that stretched far beyond Boston. That experience gives the book a sense of legitimacy that many true crime titles struggle to achieve. Rather than feeling like a retrospective reconstruction, the story carries the urgency of someone actively trying to crack the case as the clock ticks.
Kelly’s background in law enforcement shapes the book's tone, setting it apart from many crime investigations written by journalists or historians. The details feel procedural but never sterile. Readers see the realities of investigative work that rarely appear in dramatized versions of cases like this. Leads collapse. Informants change their stories. Suspects die before questions can be answered. Entire theories can unravel after months of work. THIRTEEN PERFECT FUGITIVES doesn’t pretend that solving a crime like this follows a perfect arc. Instead, it reads like a pursuit where patience often matters more than breakthroughs.
The book also benefits from Kelly’s willingness to explore the personalities surrounding the case. Over the years, the investigation intersected with organized crime figures, art dealers, museum professionals, and individuals who lived in a gray space between legitimate business and criminal enterprise. Kelly’s access to that world adds a unique view to the story. Readers aren’t simply watching an investigation unfold. They’re entering a network of people whose motivations range from greed to loyalty to curiosity about the missing masterpieces.
Kelly spends time explaining the broader implications of art crime, a subject many readers may not have considered before picking up the book. Stolen artwork often serves as currency within criminal networks. Paintings can be used as collateral for drug deals, leverage in negotiations with law enforcement, or hidden assets waiting to be traded years later. In that sense, the Gardner heist wasn’t just a museum robbery. It was a gateway to a larger ecosystem of criminal activity, where cultural artifacts became bargaining chips in far more complicated operations.
Even readers who already know the basic facts of the Gardner heist will likely find themselves pulled into the story because of Kelly’s perspective. The case has been discussed in documentaries, news reports, and countless articles, yet hearing it from the agent who lived with the mystery for decades adds a different layer of emotional clarity. Kelly doesn’t present himself as a heroic figure. Instead, he often reflects on the frustration of chasing answers that remained just out of reach. That honesty gives the book a grounded tone that works in its favor.
Another element that stands out is the book’s ability to balance investigative detail with readability. The subject matter could easily become dense and overly sterilized, particularly when discussing evidence chains or competing theories about who orchestrated the theft. Kelly avoids that trap by maintaining a conversational style that keeps the narrative moving. Even when the story becomes complex, the writing remains approachable enough for readers who aren’t deeply familiar with the world of art crime.
It becomes clear that the Gardner heist still holds many unanswered questions. Although investigators eventually identified the individuals responsible for the robbery, the stolen artwork itself has never been recovered. That lingering mystery hangs over the entire story, reminding readers that the case is not truly finished. The paintings remain missing, somewhere in the world.
What THIRTEEN PERFECT FUGITIVES ultimately accomplishes is something beyond rare in the true crime genre. It transforms a decades-old investigation into a narrative that feels like it was pulled from the present day, yet somehow grounded. Kelly’s experience gives the story credibility, but it is his persistence that gives the book its emotion. For more than twenty years, he pursued a crime that many people assumed would never be solved. The result is a book that reads like a thriller while still connected to the realities of investigative work. And even after the final page, the question that started the entire investigation remains suspended in the air. Where are the paintings? This search remains one of the most fascinating unsolved chapters in the history of modern art crime.
Please visit https://linktr.ee/overlyhonestr for more reviews.
You can follow me on Letterboxd, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube. My social media accounts can also be found on most platforms by searching for 'Overly Honest Reviews'.
I’m always happy to hear from my readers; please don't hesitate to say hello or send me any questions about movies.
RAVING REVIEW: Few crimes have captured the imagination of investigators, historians, and true crime readers quite like the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum heist. In the early hours of March 18, 1990, two men disguised as police officers walked into the Boston Museum, subdued the guards, and proceeded to remove thirteen priceless works of art. Within eighty-one minutes, they disappeared back into the night, leaving behind empty frames and what would become the largest art theft in modern history. THIRTEEN PERFECT FUGITIVES approaches that story from a perspective rarely offered to the public, the investigator who spent more than two decades trying to solve it.
Geoffrey Kelly isn’t just recounting a famous crime. He lived inside the investigation. As the FBI’s lead agent on the case for twenty-two years, Kelly followed thousands of leads, met with informants, questioned suspected mob associates, and chased rumors that stretched far beyond Boston. That experience gives the book a sense of legitimacy that many true crime titles struggle to achieve. Rather than feeling like a retrospective reconstruction, the story carries the urgency of someone actively trying to crack the case as the clock ticks.
Kelly’s background in law enforcement shapes the book's tone, setting it apart from many crime investigations written by journalists or historians. The details feel procedural but never sterile. Readers see the realities of investigative work that rarely appear in dramatized versions of cases like this. Leads collapse. Informants change their stories. Suspects die before questions can be answered. Entire theories can unravel after months of work. THIRTEEN PERFECT FUGITIVES doesn’t pretend that solving a crime like this follows a perfect arc. Instead, it reads like a pursuit where patience often matters more than breakthroughs.
The book also benefits from Kelly’s willingness to explore the personalities surrounding the case. Over the years, the investigation intersected with organized crime figures, art dealers, museum professionals, and individuals who lived in a gray space between legitimate business and criminal enterprise. Kelly’s access to that world adds a unique view to the story. Readers aren’t simply watching an investigation unfold. They’re entering a network of people whose motivations range from greed to loyalty to curiosity about the missing masterpieces.
Kelly spends time explaining the broader implications of art crime, a subject many readers may not have considered before picking up the book. Stolen artwork often serves as currency within criminal networks. Paintings can be used as collateral for drug deals, leverage in negotiations with law enforcement, or hidden assets waiting to be traded years later. In that sense, the Gardner heist wasn’t just a museum robbery. It was a gateway to a larger ecosystem of criminal activity, where cultural artifacts became bargaining chips in far more complicated operations.
Even readers who already know the basic facts of the Gardner heist will likely find themselves pulled into the story because of Kelly’s perspective. The case has been discussed in documentaries, news reports, and countless articles, yet hearing it from the agent who lived with the mystery for decades adds a different layer of emotional clarity. Kelly doesn’t present himself as a heroic figure. Instead, he often reflects on the frustration of chasing answers that remained just out of reach. That honesty gives the book a grounded tone that works in its favor.
Another element that stands out is the book’s ability to balance investigative detail with readability. The subject matter could easily become dense and overly sterilized, particularly when discussing evidence chains or competing theories about who orchestrated the theft. Kelly avoids that trap by maintaining a conversational style that keeps the narrative moving. Even when the story becomes complex, the writing remains approachable enough for readers who aren’t deeply familiar with the world of art crime.
It becomes clear that the Gardner heist still holds many unanswered questions. Although investigators eventually identified the individuals responsible for the robbery, the stolen artwork itself has never been recovered. That lingering mystery hangs over the entire story, reminding readers that the case is not truly finished. The paintings remain missing, somewhere in the world.
What THIRTEEN PERFECT FUGITIVES ultimately accomplishes is something beyond rare in the true crime genre. It transforms a decades-old investigation into a narrative that feels like it was pulled from the present day, yet somehow grounded. Kelly’s experience gives the story credibility, but it is his persistence that gives the book its emotion. For more than twenty years, he pursued a crime that many people assumed would never be solved. The result is a book that reads like a thriller while still connected to the realities of investigative work. And even after the final page, the question that started the entire investigation remains suspended in the air. Where are the paintings? This search remains one of the most fascinating unsolved chapters in the history of modern art crime.
Please visit https://linktr.ee/overlyhonestr for more reviews.
You can follow me on Letterboxd, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube. My social media accounts can also be found on most platforms by searching for 'Overly Honest Reviews'.
I’m always happy to hear from my readers; please don't hesitate to say hello or send me any questions about movies.
May 31, 2026
Having read everything there is to read about the 1990 robbery at the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum, I say without hesitation that Thirteen Perfect Fugitives is the definitive book on the Gardner Heist investigation. Geoffrey Kelly led the FBI's investigation into the case for two decades. No one is better positioned to separate fact from speculation, and in this book, he sets the record straight on all the theories and rumors. It's an essential read for those who are invested in this case.
One of the book’s most important contributions is its clear distinction between two separate parts of the case: who stole the art, and where the art is now. Kelly states conclusively that the first part has been resolved. We know whodunnit. Sadly, the second part remains unresolved. Kelly walks the reader through the path it is believed the artworks (at least some of them) took after they left the Gardner, moving with various mobsters from Massachusetts to Maine, then to Connecticut and Philadelphia. He discusses the years of questioning Bobby Gentile, who allegedly facilitated the last leg of those movements, but would never give up any details to the FBI. Despite all the dead ends and false leads, he remains convinced the paintings will eventually be recovered, which left me far more optimistic about this than I was before reading the book.
What really makes the book shine, though, is Kelly’s voice. He manages to be authoritative without taking himself too seriously, balancing detailed investigative work with a dry, often hilarious sense of humor. The endless FBI acronyms become part of the fun, and his descriptions of mobsters, informants, amateur sleuths, and conspiracy theorists are frequently withering and laugh out loud funny. At the same time, he never loses sight of the facts or the complexity of the case. I found it almost impossible to put down and appreciated how directly he addresses so many misconceptions that have accumulated around the Gardner heist over the years.
One of the book’s most important contributions is its clear distinction between two separate parts of the case: who stole the art, and where the art is now. Kelly states conclusively that the first part has been resolved. We know whodunnit. Sadly, the second part remains unresolved. Kelly walks the reader through the path it is believed the artworks (at least some of them) took after they left the Gardner, moving with various mobsters from Massachusetts to Maine, then to Connecticut and Philadelphia. He discusses the years of questioning Bobby Gentile, who allegedly facilitated the last leg of those movements, but would never give up any details to the FBI. Despite all the dead ends and false leads, he remains convinced the paintings will eventually be recovered, which left me far more optimistic about this than I was before reading the book.
What really makes the book shine, though, is Kelly’s voice. He manages to be authoritative without taking himself too seriously, balancing detailed investigative work with a dry, often hilarious sense of humor. The endless FBI acronyms become part of the fun, and his descriptions of mobsters, informants, amateur sleuths, and conspiracy theorists are frequently withering and laugh out loud funny. At the same time, he never loses sight of the facts or the complexity of the case. I found it almost impossible to put down and appreciated how directly he addresses so many misconceptions that have accumulated around the Gardner heist over the years.
June 18, 2026
Very much enjoyed, and had few quibbles with this book, having read so *very* many treatments of the Gardner heist. Any deficit was made up for in other ways. Oddly, this review serves as a reminder to write reviews for Anthony Amore’s books, including his latest, which was not specifically about the heist.
One of my favorite things about Kelly’s book is its (necessary) inclusion of Amore—his role, his perspective, and especially at the end, his encouragement to Kelly to start writing, even before Kelly had FBI permission to write and publish. This seems very much like good advice that I expect Amore would make (and is wrapped in a literary epigraph from Fitzgerald that is already ingrained in memory); while having never met Anthony in person, I respect him deeply as an author, investigator, person. Definitely need to get to a high praise review of his latest posted.
All that aside, as the latest treatment that I’m aware of of the Gardner heist, I call it a useful, information-rich, and compelling read, one, that makes me regret, again, not exploring careers outside of academia much earlier; and two, that I’m not still teaching art crimes, cultural property security, etc., though maybe that can be remedied in some future life. Kudos to Kelly for publishing and planting a stake in the timeline, and pins on the maps, of the Gardner heist ongoing investigation.
One of my favorite things about Kelly’s book is its (necessary) inclusion of Amore—his role, his perspective, and especially at the end, his encouragement to Kelly to start writing, even before Kelly had FBI permission to write and publish. This seems very much like good advice that I expect Amore would make (and is wrapped in a literary epigraph from Fitzgerald that is already ingrained in memory); while having never met Anthony in person, I respect him deeply as an author, investigator, person. Definitely need to get to a high praise review of his latest posted.
All that aside, as the latest treatment that I’m aware of of the Gardner heist, I call it a useful, information-rich, and compelling read, one, that makes me regret, again, not exploring careers outside of academia much earlier; and two, that I’m not still teaching art crimes, cultural property security, etc., though maybe that can be remedied in some future life. Kudos to Kelly for publishing and planting a stake in the timeline, and pins on the maps, of the Gardner heist ongoing investigation.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Wow! What a great true crime story. I could hardly put the book down.
This book deals with the 1990 art heist at the Isabella Steward Gardner Museum in Boston in 1990.
Spending eighty-one minutes inside the museum, the two thieves removed 13 of the world’s most valuable pieces of artwork, including a rare Vermeer and Rembrandt’s only known seascape (which appears on the hardcover of this book). The total loss associated with this robbery has been estimated at over $1 billion.
This book is written so well - with touches of humor - and everything is so meticulously explained. That's the first thing that hooked me! The FBI procedural elements and insights make this book even better but the details about the history of the museum and the art works themselves were also included making this a well-rounded book. I loved the tenacity of the author in his desire to solve the crime (which I think he and other did) and obtain the stolen arts (which he didn't).
This truly is a must read for lovers of true crime, art, art heists and just good nonfiction!
Thank you NetGalley and Post Hill Press for allowing me to read this super interesting ARC.
This book deals with the 1990 art heist at the Isabella Steward Gardner Museum in Boston in 1990.
Spending eighty-one minutes inside the museum, the two thieves removed 13 of the world’s most valuable pieces of artwork, including a rare Vermeer and Rembrandt’s only known seascape (which appears on the hardcover of this book). The total loss associated with this robbery has been estimated at over $1 billion.
This book is written so well - with touches of humor - and everything is so meticulously explained. That's the first thing that hooked me! The FBI procedural elements and insights make this book even better but the details about the history of the museum and the art works themselves were also included making this a well-rounded book. I loved the tenacity of the author in his desire to solve the crime (which I think he and other did) and obtain the stolen arts (which he didn't).
This truly is a must read for lovers of true crime, art, art heists and just good nonfiction!
Thank you NetGalley and Post Hill Press for allowing me to read this super interesting ARC.
July 18, 2026
An interesting, detailed, and inclusive account of the Gardner Heist told from the point of view of the FBI agent who for 22 years conducted the investigation into who committed the robbery and where the artwork may be located. With many acronyms and a multitude of police, FBI, and suspects, this account can be challenging to follow. A glossary would be helpful for all readers.
The most interesting part of this nonfiction, true crime book is how the author passionately and honestly writes of his insider experiences as a police officer turned FBI agent. Told from an FBI agent's insider point of view in engaging prose, the author takes the reader along for the frustrating ups and downs into who committed the Garnder Heist and where the priceless artwork may be located. The author makes the FBI agents, suspects, and even the artwork come alive on the page. Part memoir and part true crime investigation, this nonfiction account will keep the reader entertained while taking the reader along for the roller-coaster ride into the search for both suspects and the hunt for the artwork. Buckle up!
The most interesting part of this nonfiction, true crime book is how the author passionately and honestly writes of his insider experiences as a police officer turned FBI agent. Told from an FBI agent's insider point of view in engaging prose, the author takes the reader along for the frustrating ups and downs into who committed the Garnder Heist and where the priceless artwork may be located. The author makes the FBI agents, suspects, and even the artwork come alive on the page. Part memoir and part true crime investigation, this nonfiction account will keep the reader entertained while taking the reader along for the roller-coaster ride into the search for both suspects and the hunt for the artwork. Buckle up!
October 1, 2026
As the jacket cover states, "On March 18, 1990, thirteen works of art were plucked from the walls of the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum in Boston." The crime is unsolved and considered a cold case when Geoffrey Kelly, an FBI agent, gets the assignment. This is the story of the heist and Kelly's effort to recover the lost art. We learn from the outset, that the art is still not recovered - yet.
Still, this is a compelling true crime story as viewed from the man leading the investigation. Kelly introduces us to a group of mobsters out of central casting, None are well educated nor art lovers. Once in their possession, it appears they didn't have a plan of how to profit from it. Eventually, Kelly targets the one made man who he believes was in on it and knows where the art is hidden.
The toughest nut to crack. One who, despite the possibility of receiving a sizable reward for the art's return and no threat of jail time won't give it up.
Told in the voice of detective, but one with a wry sense of humor, self-deprecating attitude, and knowledge of art, this is an excellent read.
And one that will keep the reader on the alert for a story about found works of art.
Still, this is a compelling true crime story as viewed from the man leading the investigation. Kelly introduces us to a group of mobsters out of central casting, None are well educated nor art lovers. Once in their possession, it appears they didn't have a plan of how to profit from it. Eventually, Kelly targets the one made man who he believes was in on it and knows where the art is hidden.
The toughest nut to crack. One who, despite the possibility of receiving a sizable reward for the art's return and no threat of jail time won't give it up.
Told in the voice of detective, but one with a wry sense of humor, self-deprecating attitude, and knowledge of art, this is an excellent read.
And one that will keep the reader on the alert for a story about found works of art.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I’ve long been fascinated by the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum Art Heist, so I was excited to read Thirteen Perfect Fugitives by Geoffrey Kelly after watching the This Is a Robbery: The World's Biggest Art Heist documentary on Netflix and listening to podcasts about the case.
It was fascinating to read a book written by one of the FBI agents who actually investigated the theft. I really enjoyed learning about the immense amount of work that went into trying to solve this decades-old cold case. The fact that investigators have identified who was likely involved is impressive—now if only the paintings could be found. I found Kelly’s optimism compelling when he says he believes the artwork will eventually be recovered.
I also appreciated that Geoffrey Kelly narrates the audiobook himself. Hearing the story in his own voice adds a personal perspective and makes the experience even more engaging. The overall production quality was excellent and made for a compelling listen.
Thank you to NetGalley & HighBridge | HighBridge Audio for letting me read this ARC.
It was fascinating to read a book written by one of the FBI agents who actually investigated the theft. I really enjoyed learning about the immense amount of work that went into trying to solve this decades-old cold case. The fact that investigators have identified who was likely involved is impressive—now if only the paintings could be found. I found Kelly’s optimism compelling when he says he believes the artwork will eventually be recovered.
I also appreciated that Geoffrey Kelly narrates the audiobook himself. Hearing the story in his own voice adds a personal perspective and makes the experience even more engaging. The overall production quality was excellent and made for a compelling listen.
Thank you to NetGalley & HighBridge | HighBridge Audio for letting me read this ARC.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thirty‑five years ago, one of the biggest art heists in history was committed. To this day, the artwork still hasn’t been recovered, no arrests were ever made, several people connected to the case died under unusual circumstances, and the reward for information is still up for grabs.
There are so many strange and puzzling aspects to this heist. For example, it’s mind‑boggling that so many paintings of far greater value were not taken. What was taken had a very mixed monetary value. Was it personal preference? Total lack of knowledge? Or something else entirely?
Either way, the story is fascinating and full of surprises, and this book adds a personal perspective, which is always a plus. However, the author is a retired FBI agent, not a professional writer—and it shows. The writing can feel a bit chaotic, with more digressions than necessary.
But if you’re looking for a true‑crime read, this one might be worth your time.
There are so many strange and puzzling aspects to this heist. For example, it’s mind‑boggling that so many paintings of far greater value were not taken. What was taken had a very mixed monetary value. Was it personal preference? Total lack of knowledge? Or something else entirely?
Either way, the story is fascinating and full of surprises, and this book adds a personal perspective, which is always a plus. However, the author is a retired FBI agent, not a professional writer—and it shows. The writing can feel a bit chaotic, with more digressions than necessary.
But if you’re looking for a true‑crime read, this one might be worth your time.
April 19, 2026
Maybe 3.5 -- Mr. Kelly is not a writer, so from that perspective, this is a solid effort. That said, being of a "certain age," I enjoyed his 80s references and colloquial style. But, at the end of the day, I don't really get much info that hasn't already been put out in the Isabella-sphere.
It is very entertaining though, and Mr. Kelly's personal take on the various characters is interesting. I know he feels that the "pictures" will eventually surface; but, if his theory is correct, I'm not sure how. Obviously the bumblers that knew-not-what-they-were-taking probably didn't know how to re-stretch or store them properly. And now, over 30 years later, I think a $10m reward and an expired statute of limitations should be enough to bring them back if they are out there.... My guess is they are likely destroyed -- but I hope I am wrong and Mr. Kelly is right.
Recommended read for Isabella enthusiasts!
It is very entertaining though, and Mr. Kelly's personal take on the various characters is interesting. I know he feels that the "pictures" will eventually surface; but, if his theory is correct, I'm not sure how. Obviously the bumblers that knew-not-what-they-were-taking probably didn't know how to re-stretch or store them properly. And now, over 30 years later, I think a $10m reward and an expired statute of limitations should be enough to bring them back if they are out there.... My guess is they are likely destroyed -- but I hope I am wrong and Mr. Kelly is right.
Recommended read for Isabella enthusiasts!
June 10, 2026
Thirteen Perfect Fugitives is an absolute page-turner of a true crime tale. Told by Geoffrey Kelly, the FBI Agent formerly in charge of the case, the book recounts the Garnder Museum Heist, history's largest art heist, in which two men disguised in police uniform walked out with 13 priceless works. Kelly's prose is rich and literate and surprisingly wry. His insider knowledge is invaluable; even though the case is still technically open, he's been given latitude to freely discuss the probable culprits and abettors. The text debunks 30 years of conspiracy theories to paint a picture of a guard on the take, of mobsters whose greed outpaced their brains, of Rembrandt paintings so valuable that they immediately became a burden to the web of thieves and mobsters who stole them. Thirteen Perfect Fugitives is highly recommended for anyone interested in art or crime or mobsters or just plain old good stories.
July 15, 2026
I'm not usually a true crime fan, but when it comes to art and the Gardner Heist, I'm all in. Geoffrey Kelly's book gives us the insider's view of decades of work to locate the missing masterpieces that were ripped from the walls of the Gardner in 1990. The people we meet along with way - both FBI agents and organized crime figures are simply unforgettable and I enjoyed Geoff's insights about the serious danger that FBI agents put themselves in to solve cases like this - as well as drug and weapons cases. He leavens the seriousness with a sense of humor and if you happen to live in Boston/Connecticut, you'll enjoy the little local details that give a wonderful sense of place. I share Geoff's optimism that the paintings will resurface and be found one day. In the meantime, this is the definitive book on the investigation of the Gardner heist and well worth the read. And keep your eyes open for those wonderful paintings!
September 23, 2026
We started this as an audiobook, on a road trip to Boston. We gave up on it maybe an hour in.
When we got home, I borrowed the epub format - and I loved this book.
The erroneous news reports.
The life of an undercover agent.
The family members of gangsters.
A recollection of truly good men, in authority.
It was all fascinating.
Dry, boring, audiobook. Fascinating book. An example of listening not always being exactly the same as reading.
Note - the Dutch Room was completely empty, being renovated, when we toured the Gardner. One can't help but hope that this is in anticipation of some of the art returning soon. But it was also a little disappointing to not see the empty frames we anticipated.
Note #2 - we also abandoned Chasing Beauty, as an audiobook, on this trip. May need to see if our library has this one in print.
Note #3 - We Chase Shadows by Richard Osman is what we finally listened to. Excellent audiobook.
When we got home, I borrowed the epub format - and I loved this book.
The erroneous news reports.
The life of an undercover agent.
The family members of gangsters.
A recollection of truly good men, in authority.
It was all fascinating.
Dry, boring, audiobook. Fascinating book. An example of listening not always being exactly the same as reading.
Note - the Dutch Room was completely empty, being renovated, when we toured the Gardner. One can't help but hope that this is in anticipation of some of the art returning soon. But it was also a little disappointing to not see the empty frames we anticipated.
Note #2 - we also abandoned Chasing Beauty, as an audiobook, on this trip. May need to see if our library has this one in print.
Note #3 - We Chase Shadows by Richard Osman is what we finally listened to. Excellent audiobook.
October 31, 2026
An interesting firsthand account of the decades-long investigation into the 1990 Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum art theft.
Geoffrey Kelly does a good job of turning a complicated, unresolved investigation into narrative nonfiction rather than simply recounting facts. His perspective offers a look at organized crime, FBI investigative methods, and the persistence required to pursue leads over many years.
I initially admired his curiosity and tenacity, although as the investigation stretched on, I found myself questioning the diminishing returns on the considerable resources being devoted to the case.
The narrative occasionally became bogged down in procedural details and unnecessary acronyms, and it wasn't compelling enough to keep me consistently engaged. Still, it was a worthwhile account of an extraordinary art theft, told by someone who devoted much of his career to trying to solve it.
Geoffrey Kelly does a good job of turning a complicated, unresolved investigation into narrative nonfiction rather than simply recounting facts. His perspective offers a look at organized crime, FBI investigative methods, and the persistence required to pursue leads over many years.
I initially admired his curiosity and tenacity, although as the investigation stretched on, I found myself questioning the diminishing returns on the considerable resources being devoted to the case.
The narrative occasionally became bogged down in procedural details and unnecessary acronyms, and it wasn't compelling enough to keep me consistently engaged. Still, it was a worthwhile account of an extraordinary art theft, told by someone who devoted much of his career to trying to solve it.
March 10, 2026
As an art history scholar and museum-lover, the Gardner heist is a topic I will always seek out, but seeing the investigation through the lens of the lead FBI case agent was a particularly unique perspective. Though one can easily tell that Kelly is not a professional writer, I found the book incredibly interesting and refreshingly enjoyable. His personality comes through, as does the deep care and passion he has for the recovery of the art work. He also offers a fascinating glimpse into the world of mob families in the Northeast. I would suggest this to any true crime fan, and if anyone asks me for recommendations on how to learn about the Gardner heist, this will be my first suggestion!
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the ARC!
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the ARC!
March 27, 2026
If you are at all interested in heists (I am) or art (I am) or how the FBI handles an art investigation (I am), you’ll enjoy this one. Kelly was the FBI agent in charge of the Gardner investigation for 22 years. Though unable to locate the stolen artwork, he was able to establish people connected to the theft, and appeared to be tantalizingly on the trail. He’s a good author (very good for the average FBI agent, I’d guess) and has a slightly snarky sense of humor that enables him to keep on an even keel during the long years of his search. He’s able to correct a few errors made by the press over his tenure on this case and educate the rest of us about just how the Bureau does its job - at least vis-a-vis some of the less-well-known made men of the Northeast.
March 15, 2026
Thirteen Perfect Fugitives chronicles the 1990 Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum art theft from the night of the heist to the decades long investigation that followed.
I’m not sure what I expected going into this book, but I thoroughly enjoyed it! Geoffrey Kelly was a great narrator and I enjoyed hearing him talking through his experiences investigating the case. While there were lots of names and dates that could get tricky to follow at times, this was an engaging and enjoyable read.
I would recommend this to anybody who enjoys true crime that is explored with care and in detail.
via NetGalley
I’m not sure what I expected going into this book, but I thoroughly enjoyed it! Geoffrey Kelly was a great narrator and I enjoyed hearing him talking through his experiences investigating the case. While there were lots of names and dates that could get tricky to follow at times, this was an engaging and enjoyable read.
I would recommend this to anybody who enjoys true crime that is explored with care and in detail.
via NetGalley
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